Your Story. Your Bank.

What does it take to turn a simple business idea into a growing company with a vision for statewide impact? In this episode, J.R. Crowell, founder of Steady Home Maintenance, shares how he transitioned from banking into entrepreneurship and built a business focused on solving everyday homeowner challenges. From creating a proactive approach to home maintenance to expanding into remodeling and futu...

Who has shaped the way you lead—and who are you shaping in return? In part two of this live panel from the Women Who Lead event, the conversation turns to mentorship, influence, and the responsibility of pouring into others. From lessons learned from mothers and mentors to practical advice on overcoming self-doubt and building meaningful relationships, this episode offers encouragement for women n...

What does it take to carry a family business into the next generation while staying true to its roots? In this episode, Mims McLennan shares the story of Ward Mechanical Equipment, a Mississippi-based company serving contractors across the state since 1965. From a recent ownership transition to a continued commitment to service, community, and quality, Mims reflects on what it means to lead a loca...

What truly sets one bank apart from another? In this episode, leaders and associates from Story Financial Partners share how relationships, trust, and accessibility define the client experience. From meeting clients wherever they are—even in unexpected moments—to offering honest guidance as trusted advisors, this conversation highlights the value of putting people first. You'll hear how strong int...

What makes a banking experience truly stand out? In this episode, leaders and associates from Story Financial Partners share how a commitment to personal service, trust, and genuine care has shaped their client relationships for decades. From calling clients by name to going beyond the transaction in moments that matter most, this conversation highlights how meaningful connections create lasting l...

What does strong leadership really look like in today's world? Recorded live at the Women Who Lead event and hosted by the Madison County, Mississippi Professional Women's Group, this episode features Pam Gordon, Leanne Stamper, Tina Lakey, and Lauren McGraw sharing honest stories about business, family, faith, and community. From building a business without confidence to leading with conviction a...

What happens when entrepreneurship meets community impact? In this episode, Heather Wright, founder of The Southern Gem, shares how a passion for furnishings, mentorship, and local investment led her to create a mission-driven business serving North Alabama. Heather explains how The Southern Gem supports design students, keeps economic activity local, and gives back by providing furniture to famil...

How do you turn a passion for helping children into a thriving care facility? In this episode of  YOUR STORY. YOUR BANK PODCAST , co-founders MariGrace Clarke and CJ Young share the inspiring journey behind Pediatric Place, a specialized care center serving medically complex children. From therapy dogs and seasonal celebrations to deeply personal stories of foster care and adoption, their mission...

What happens when honesty becomes the foundation of both legal counsel and banking relationships? In this episode, Robert Gibbs and Jamie Travis of Gibbs Travis PLLC share why clear communication, putting clients first, and telling the truth—good, bad, or otherwise—are essential in high-stakes decision-making. The business partners reflect on building a boutique litigation firm with big-firm capab...

What does a decades-long banking relationship really look like when it's rooted in trust and understanding? In this episode, Paul Moak shares his experience in the automotive industry and his long history with Story Financial Partners—from serving on the board to navigating major business moments that required thoughtful financial solutions. Paul reflects on the value of having banking partners wh...

What does it take to support the people who protect us—both on the ground and behind the scenes? In this episode, Ben shares the story of Expeditionary Communications, a family-built business providing power and communication solutions for military operations around the world. From serving warfighters with rapid, mobile technology to scaling internationally in a highly competitive space, Ben expla...

What does it really look like when a bank chooses partnership over transactions? In this episode, Matthew Schmitz, president and owner of Reynolds Brothers Logistics, shares his journey into the FedEx last-mile delivery space and reflects on the moments that have defined his business—both professionally and personally. From navigating a highly specialized, often misunderstood industry to experienc...

What happens when passion meets opportunity? In this episode, we hear how Neil and Travis turned an unexpected chance into a thriving local restaurant—Logan Farms. With help from Story Financial Partners, they transformed a beloved neighborhood spot into a community favorite. Their story reminds us that taking a leap of faith, backed by trusted financial guidance, can lead to remarkable growth bot...

What happens when a bank grows with purpose—investing not only in markets but in people. In this episode, Chief Banking Officer Brian Rippee and Huntsville Market President Chris Allen share how Story Financial Partners is expanding into Ridgeland & Huntsville. Hear about the vision, talent, and community-driven mindset shaping this exciting chapter of growth. From personal service to local invest...

Story Financial Partners is expanding into Rankin County—and it's more than a new location. In this episode, Freddie Rowell and  Tonya Leach share why this move matters, how it reflects the bank's client-first culture, and what it means for both long-time clients and new relationships. As the team continues to grow in the communities they serve, this expansion reinforces the heart of Story's missi...

How prepared are you for life's unexpected expenses? In this episode, board member Candie Simmons from CL Simmons Consulting shares practical strategies for saving, budgeting, and planning ahead. From the simple "20% rule" to preparing early for holiday spending, Candie explains how intentional financial habits can bring freedom and reduce stress. By the end of the episode, we hope every listener...

What does it mean to truly invest in people? In this episode, Ciara Weatherspoon , Ernie Turner, and Jamie Chustz share how community service shapes their lives and work at Story Financial Partners. From mentoring youth and supporting families in crisis to leading nonprofits like Make-A-Wish and Canopy Children's Solutions, they reveal why showing up for others builds stronger futures—not just for...

What happens when a medical practice and a financial partner grow side by side? In this episode, Creed Cannon, practice administrator of Mississippi Asthma and Allergy Clinic, and Nathan Best of Story Financial Partners share how their collaboration has expanded care across Mississippi. From opening new clinics and adding infusion suites to guiding major renovations, they reveal how trust, accessi...

Jeff Good has become a Jackson, Mississippi icon thanks to beloved spots like Bravo!, Broad Street Baking Company, and Sal & Mookie's. But his journey didn't start with deep pockets or big connections—it started with a setback, a phone call to a friend, and a dream. In this episode of YOUR STORY. YOUR BANK PODCAST, Jeff shares how entrepreneurial grit and long-standing relationships—including with...

What's in a name? For Story Financial Partners, everything. In this episode, the leadership team shares the heart behind the name change—from honoring 25 years of legacy to boldly stepping into a future defined by relationships, community, and a people-first culture. You'll hear how the transition impacts clients, what remains unchanged, and why this next chapter is more than a rebrand—it's an inv...

Jeremy Jones believes financial advising isn't just about portfolios—it's about people. In this episode, he shares the heart behind Shoemaker Financial's client-first philosophy, the legacy of its founder Jim Shoemaker, and why trust matters more than any product. With Kera Cooper offering the banking partner's perspective, you'll discover how strong relationships and a people-first culture have k...

What happens when a lawyer trades courtroom conflict for real estate closings? In this episode of YOUR STORY. YOUR BANK PODCAST , we meet Ryan Byrne and John Westmoreland—founders of Byrne Westmoreland, PLLC, a thriving real estate and estate planning firm with five offices across Mississippi and Tennessee. From helping first-time buyers navigate closings to wiring funds with precision, they share...

Behind every small business is a story—and Ford Plumbing and Air's is one of grit, growth, and great partnerships. In this episode, owner Patton Ford shares how a commitment to training, customer care, and team development turned his residential service business into a thriving company. Joined by Elisa Phillips of Story Financial Partners, the two reflect on the power of banking relationships, str...

Buying a home is more than a transaction—it's a life milestone. In this episode, First Commercial Bank's mortgage lending team shares how they guide clients with transparency, education, and care. From setting budgets and improving credit to navigating life changes and building future goals, hear how First Commercial Bank supports not just loans, but long-term success. You'll also learn how the ba...

At  First   Commercial   Bank , the people behind the desk make the difference. In this special episode, hear from associates across the organization—from  commercial  lenders to client service advisors—who share what it means to serve clients with dedication, empathy, and personal connection. Through stories of career journeys, community ties, and meaningful client relationships, this episode ref...