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Connect & Collect Podcast - Season 2, Episode 10
In this episode of Connect & Collect, we're joined by Lilly Megia and Janie Soto, Senior Vice President and Lending Manager at South Texas Federal Credit Union. We discuss their career growth and evolution, the perspective women bring to the credit union industry internally and externally with members, and the importance of having a supportive network to lean on.
The conversation also highlights their commitment to professional development, inspirational female figures that have shaped their life and careers, and the value of communication and support systems in fostering career growth and work-life balance.
What we're talking about in this episode:
- The impact of mentorship and support to uplift women in your network
- The unique strengths women bring to the industry
- How to become better allies for women in the workplace
- Advice for aspiring women leaders
Our natural empathy and strong inspirational skills aid to a positive relationship with not only debtors but also the employees, especially if you have a manager position - Lilly Megias
Guest Profile:
Lilly Megias - Connect with Lilly on LinkedIn
Janie Soto - Connect with Janie on LinkedIn
Read the Transcript:
[00:00:00] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Welcome to the Connect and Collect podcast brought to you by Lexop. Connect and Collect is a podcast created with the credit union professional in mind. Our goal is to bring you the latest innovations and trends in the industry by speaking with incredible credit union leaders so you can hear what's happening at the ground level.
[00:00:20] Here's your host, Michael Pupil, Vice President of Sales at Lexop.
[00:00:27] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Hello, everybody. Welcome back, and good morning, good afternoon, good evening to the listeners. We've got a really special show today and excited about this because it comes off the heels of International Women's Day. And as you see, I am joined by three wonderful people that are going to be engaged in the conversation today.
[00:00:46] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: My name is Michael Pupil, host of Connect and collect here at Lexop. You'll notice that I'm joined by my partner, Sasha Bordonaro, who you may remember from our first podcast series this year about some tips and trends in 2024. [00:01:00] But, bringing in two wonderful guests that I am excited to introduce today.
[00:01:05] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: First person that you might be looking at is Lilly Megias, who is the SVP at South Texas Federal Credit Union, boasting a commendable tenure of almost 10 years with the organization, and infused with a deep commitment to the people helping people philosophy. Lilly actively champions community service initiatives and constantly seeks opportunities to contribute positively to the community that she's in.
[00:01:27] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: In addition to her role at STFCU, Lilly is also deeply engaged in the Southwest CUNA Management School, a comprehensive three year program tailored for credit union professionals. Having recently concluded a two year commitment as a YP advisor for the Cornerstone League, Lilly continues to advocate for the involvement of young professionals in the industry.
[00:01:47] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Beyond her professional pursuits, Lilly finds fulfillment in quality moments spent with her family. And her 12 nieces and nephews and shares a passion for exploration through her travel with her husband, Fernando. Lilly, welcome to the show. It is [00:02:00] wonderful to have you here.
[00:02:01] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: I am also joined by her partner in crime, Janie Soto, who is the lending manager at STFCU, bringing nine years of commitment and invaluable experience to the financial industry.
[00:02:11] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Over this period, her career has evolved within the credit union and initially spending the first six years in the collections department. And now it's going on her third year as a lending manager. This role has not only honed her skills as a collector, but also instilled her ability to make a positive impact on others financial well being.
[00:02:28] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Janie also serves as a YP advisor for Cornerstone, actively engaging in the younger community to foster involvement and connection. Janie's role as an advisor demonstrates a dedication of empowering and shaping the future of the community. Beyond her professional career, Janie finds joy in her role as a mother of two beautiful children, as well as a wife.
[00:02:46] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: And so, ladies, it is wonderful to have all three of you on today. Good morning.
[00:02:51] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: Good morning.
[00:02:52] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: Good morning. Thank you so much for having us here today with you.
[00:02:55] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Ah, it's amazing. Well, I want to jump right into it. I know that we normally read [00:03:00] bios and the professional kind of involvements, but you know, let's get a little bit more personal in terms of your journey. And so Lilly, I'll, I'll start with you and I'll, I'll point at you. Talk to us about your personal journey that led you to the current role that you have at South Texas Federal Credit Union.
[00:03:16] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: Thank you, Mike. And first and foremost, I wanted to thank you know, the Lexop team for having us here today for giving us this opportunity for international women's month. So, thank you so much for thinking of me and Janie. So I appreciate you all. , if I start from, like, my roots, I always wanted to be a teacher, a doctor, a lawyer, or anything that revolved in wanting to be the solution rather than the problem.
[00:03:42] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: That was always my mentality growing up. But I guess when my professional journey started at 21, the opportunity to work at South Texas Federal Credit Union like fell in my lap. I was almost 10 years ago, as you mentioned. So I started being as a part time teller. My now CEO, Gerardo, saw [00:04:00] something in me that maybe at that time I didn't see in myself.
[00:04:02] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: So he provided me with the opportunity to become a full time receptionist that kind of led into them being a collections, and then a collections manager. To now senior vice president. Now I overlook the operations of the Tetherline, the collections department, and a little bit of like the credit union operations in general.
[00:04:19] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: I would love to sit here and say ever since I was born I had a calling to be in the financial industry, but I would be totally lying to you all. Because it wasn't, you know, something that I was so passionate about, but then I guess when that opportunity fell in my lap and I saw an opportunity to change the world and being the solution to the problem from a financial industry aspect, then I fell in love with the commitment. I fell in love with the drive. I fell in love with the community. I fell in love with the helping people philosophy that again, ties into my wanting to be part of the solution to the world or to the industry in [00:05:00] general.
[00:05:00] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: So, everything that I've done, it gives me an understanding of the teller operations, collections operations, and that's where I learned today being a senior vice president here for almost 10 years.
[00:05:11] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Yeah, I think as and Lilly, we got the opportunity to meet face to face once, and we've had more than just 1 or 2 conversations over the last couple of months. And I think for the listeners that are meeting you for the 1st time, you are all going to see the deep commitment that Lilly brings, not only to her role, but a deep sense of pride to helping others in her community or otherwise.
[00:05:33] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Janie, I have a feeling that you're going to have a very similar answer to this as, as well as the development. But Janie, same question to you. Talk to us about, you know, your journey into STFCU.
[00:05:45] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: Well, yes, like Lilly said, coming into this industry, I mean, I didn't have a background, no prior experience in the financial industry. So starting with that was a challenge, but to where I am now as a lending manager is a great [00:06:00] accomplishment that I've been able to over the nine years working here with the credit union.
[00:06:05] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: And six years of that I did work in the collections department and it has played an invaluable learning experience and as well like a crucial role in shaping me in my current position that I am in today. So it has been a great journey, challenges, barriers, but it's been fantastic being able as well to work with Lilly in this industry, which has helped us both, I believe, grow together and for our credit union as well.
[00:06:33] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: I love it. I love the 2 sides of the scale both on the collection side, as well as the lending side. I think it makes for a greater understanding of the members needs. A greater understanding of some of the struggles, the trials and tribulations that they go through. Also, the goals that they want to get to.
[00:06:49] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Both of you had mentioned, and as well as in your bios, but also part of what you're talking about people helping people and sometimes, borrowing too much. The member may think that [00:07:00] that is what is helpful, but it may not necessarily be the right financial advice.
[00:07:04] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: And so the financial literacy side I know is very deeply ingrained in both of you. What I find amazing is that there is a synergy between the three. Because I have known Sasha for 10 years as well. And so, Sasha, I'm going to ask you the same question too. Yeah, I know I'm putting you on the spot.
[00:07:21] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Talk to us about your, your 10 years of, you know, your evolution of your career, because I've been lucky enough to be a spectator, a participant in that journey as well.
[00:07:33] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: Yeah. So basically in the last 10 years, I had originally gone into sales. But more in the fashion industry before I started in the tech industry, I ended up in customer service in the tech industry.
[00:07:46] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: And I don't know, Mike, correct me if I'm wrong, within the first couple of months, I walked up to Mike's desk and I was like, "I will not babysit people anymore. I need to sell, I need to sell. It's in my blood. Put me on your team." And he was like, "That's adorable. But, thank you, but no, [00:08:00] thank you. You have no experience, you know, try again soon." And I was persistent and I kept trying and I kept trying and he gave me the worst territory on the planet. I had to do Europe.
[00:08:08] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: I had to wake up early. I had to be at the office for 05:00 and I was like, I don't care. I'll do it. I have three months to prove myself and I did, and I loved it. And I've been in sales ever since. I have a true passion for helping people find, you know, kind of what you said, Lillian, kind of helping them find the solution in problems that they're going through. And in sales and especially in software sales, it really is that and helping see the issues that they're having and how technology can help that particular pain point that they have. So within that, I've stayed in tech now for the last 10 years. I've had the pleasure of having Mike as my direct in two different jobs that I've had. And really happy to be here and happy to hear all of your stories and you know, how it's evolved to this point.
[00:08:52] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: And that's what triggered the question, Lilly, your, your comment about somebody seeing something in you and giving you the opportunity. Every [00:09:00] person that I have interviewed to go into sales, one of the, and hopefully nobody is listening to this, but I always throw a roadblock to somebody asking to go into sales because sales is difficult, right?
[00:09:10] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Working with the public can sometimes be hard. And so what do you do in the face of adversity and do you just fold or do you keep pressing? And so to Sasha's credit, she kept pressing. And so that was the piece that I saw in her that said, all right, let's see. Let's see how tough you can be and go into it.
[00:09:28] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: And to her credit, she knocked down those walls and it was great, which is why we are standing here 10 years later. And so much like you, Lilly and Janie, that the evolution of tackling the first project and really finding a love for what it is that you do and being able to translate that to help the people that you're speaking with. And whether it's service, whether it's financial literacy, whether it's sales, whether it's collections or lending, I think that is a skill that hopefully is not lost in today's digital world as much as possible, but very cool.
[00:09:59] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Lilly, [00:10:00] Janie, I want to touch on a little bit about the associations that you guys are part of.
[00:10:03] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: There are a few things that I think both of you have in common, that I would love for you guys to champion and talk passionately about. I know that we've spoken about some of these things offline. Janie, I'm going to start with you you know, talk to us a little bit about, you know, your current enrollment in the association, your experience at YP or being a YP advisor.
[00:10:22] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Talk to us a little bit about what you're currently part of.
[00:10:25] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: Yes. So currently I'm a YP advisor. We had the turnover in December. So it's my first year serving as a YP advisor and I'm excited to take on this new project. Seeing how effective, like the changes I made to Lilly's career path, it has driven me to be part of this group. It's also, I've seen that it's a great opportunity for, like, young adults starting in this industry.
[00:10:48] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: Especially, like how I mentioned where I come with the background of no financial industry. So, I saw this as a great opportunity and not only working for a credit union, but to embrace like that [00:11:00] wealth knowledge on gains from it as not only as a career, but your personal growth. So I did see that a lot within the, within those two years.
[00:11:08] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: So, when they offered me this position, not only by her, but as well, my CEO, I knew it would be a challenge because besides our regular job duties and roles at the credit union, I also saw how much she invested her time in this and it helped her growth personally. And I would like to see that as well within these next two years.
[00:11:28] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Very, very kind words for you, Lilly. I think that's a wonderful comment with compliment, but it's so well earned. And so Lilly, same thing. You know, I think you had a little bit of a head start on some of the associations and talk to us about your experience with them.
[00:11:41] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: Yes, thank you. Thank you, Janie. I feel flattered. So, I am currently enrolled in Southwest Kingdom Management School. Which as you stated in my bio, it's a 3-year program at TCU, which is Texas Christian University. This comprehensive program teaches you every aspect of the credit union operations, anything from [00:12:00] basically tailoring to the financials, how to become a future CEO, how to become a future CFO, if you're not in that role yet.
[00:12:06] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: So again, when I took that opportunity, when it fell on my lap, again, I talked to him out on, he was very supportive about me attending the program.
[00:12:16] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: It's a three year course that it's intensive. I've stayed here at the credit union sometimes past like 7 PM, 8 PM working on my final submissions and stuff. Because obviously I still have to do my, you know, during business hours, job, and then also attend that program. That's very intensive. It's a challenge. But again, coming from the young professional advisor, which I just served my 2 year term, and I gave the turnover to Janie, that opportunity of being an advisor was tremendous opportunity to get involved with the Cornerstone league and having a lot of people guide me and lead me to the right path.
[00:12:56] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: How I was, I guess, pushing to [00:13:00] SCMS. So those are the 2, I guess, associations that I would say Cornerstone and SCMS. If we're talking about other type of associations, we're also part of the United Way, which is a non for profit company.
[00:13:14] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: It's an umbrella company, we call it, it helps the community, it's a network opportunity. And we're very invested in that not for profit organization. It's an organization that helps raise funds for the Boys and Girls Club, Silver Raven Community, the Blue Cross, Red Shield and many more.
[00:13:32] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: So being part of that, it reflects on the commitment that we have for the people helping people and my personal philosophy as well.
[00:13:39] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: I want to transition it a little bit here because I want Sasha to get involved because I think that there is a unique perspective, Lillian, you touched on it in terms of balancing work-life, especially grinding to get to the next level to have that career perspective. Sasha, I know that this is a topic that is deeply interesting to you and [00:14:00] something that you're passionate about. What are your thoughts and where would you like to steer the conversation today?
[00:14:05] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: So I think for me, it's really kind of looking at, especially in that work life balance, it's difficult to really say when you're truly passionate and doing it every day. We have this bad habit, especially kind of like for me, when COVID hit working from home to shut the computer off and not keep going all night.
[00:14:23] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: For me, it would be really interesting to kind of understand from both your perspectives. What unique perspective and strength do you guys feel as women, you know, bring to the credit union, especially in the collections roles.
[00:14:36] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: I feel like women bring a unique perspective to the role of the credit union industry. Our natural empathy and strong inspirational skills aid to a positive relationship with not only debtors, but also the employees, especially if you have a manager position. We have a lot of empathy for the people. We tend to have all those emotions that help us empathize with, again, not only debtors, [00:15:00] but also our employees, coworkers.
[00:15:02] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: So, being able to help and have a positive impact when our members have challenging financial setbacks, I think that really strength, the credit union industry. So our attention to detail and organizations skills are also very valuable to the industry. And I guess having a woman in a manager position also contributes with the credit union philosophy and vision and mission statements by bringing inclusivity, diversity into the industry.
[00:15:35] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: And then we lead by example. Having managers that are women and empowered other women and are advocates for the young professionals, then that's how I believe we have an impact in the industry.
[00:15:50] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: I love that.
[00:15:51] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Janie, I'd love to hear your thoughts.
[00:15:53] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: Yeah, and I agree. I think women bring a diverse perspective. it's more inclusive and balanced [00:16:00] decision making environment and collections. I've learned so much in being empathetic with great communication skills. It helps build that relationship with that one on one with the member that you want to have.
[00:16:12] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: And I think women itself have that, and bring that to the table. Which, you know, helps develop great strategies for debt resolution and member support, having those great listening skills, I think you're well rounded and finance like well-rounded itself.
[00:16:29] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: I love that. And I love that you, you guys both touched on also, you know, being leaders in your space as well and how that impacts other women within the credit union space. So what would you guys say, what can others do to become, let's say, a better ally to women in the workspace? So what can others do to contribute to that?
[00:16:47] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: I, feel that becoming a better allies to women in the workplace, people should educate themselves on gender equality, and actively listening to women's perspectives and amplifying their voices by [00:17:00] acknowledging and celebrating our contributions, advocate for Equal Opportunities and, you know, stop the stereotypes. Supporting inclusive policies, promoting the work life balance, as we've been mentioning it, it's very important, you know, addressing harassment and discrimination when the time being. And it is very important, I believe, to be open for feedback and recognition, ongoing nature. Just because, you know, we're women, it doesn't mean that we cannot be heard and we should have a workplace that cultures and values diversity and supports women in all aspects.
[00:17:36] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: I completely agree with you. I agree. And I think that it's something that's like we would think in 2024 is no longer, you know, things that we have to deal with, especially depending the industry that you're in. So I'll touch on a part that and how it's affected me in my industry. But Jamie, I'd love to hear kind of from you what you think others can do to be allies.
[00:17:55] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: Yeah, I think establishing an open communication can contribute to more like [00:18:00] equal workplace for everyone, as well giving like credit for their contributions. As far as sharing your work, your accomplishments, I think that brings like by sharing this can create a more like visible and recognition to their contribution in the personal and like in a professional network as well.
[00:18:18] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: Yeah, and I think sometimes it's, it's not even done maliciously. I think it's just because we don't think that these things are still happening. Like, you know, others will not necessarily pay attention to it, you know, and I'll give you guys a great example for me was, I being in tech, have often been the only woman on my team in sales. And, you know, having to then present, I've often been in situations where people don't understand why it's a woman who's presenting.
[00:18:43] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: And I've been very lucky to have Michael by my side and always making sure that the conversation was redirected to me. To make me feel like I was still in charge of that conversation, regardless of the fact that I was a woman. And bringing that conversation to Michael was always something that he [00:19:00] made sure was very important within my career building as well and saying anything that he can do to help make sure that those situations are avoided at all cost. You know, he's always been a huge ally for me in making sure that my career development has just been an easy process.
[00:19:17] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Sometimes that's not easy. Actually, our team, you know, at Lexop is 60 percent women, 40 percent men, which is a little strange for technology. Janie and Lilly, you both mentioned the word in terms of communication. I think communication is probably the most important facet. It's also the hardest because to have empathy, you have to be able to feel and understand what the other person is going through.
[00:19:41] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: And it is incredibly difficult for a man to understand some of the things that a woman goes through. And I think the same vice versa. It's incredibly difficult for a woman to understand what a man goes through. And so having that communication helps break down the contextual feeling of the other [00:20:00] person. And unless you have that really great communication, you then start to build that relationship and that trust.
[00:20:06] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: So that when there is something that happens, I would love to believe that Sasha feels very comfortable in telling me, "You know, hey, here's what's happening or here's what's going on." And I won't claim perfection on any person's part, in any company that we've ever worked with. But as long as you are able to talk about it, I think teams can always work through it and work together to get to the next step.
[00:20:31] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: And that to me is the most important as long as there's respect, you know, at the end of the day, because we love to poke fun of each other. And I love it when Sasha pokes fun at me and sometimes people turn their head and I, I love it because I know it comes from a really good place.
[00:20:44] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: For us, best thing that, you know, I love about the Lexop culture is that we over communicate. You know, we're always telling each other how we feel and we're always letting each other know, like, "Hey, I love that you did this." Or like, "Hey, I maybe don't love that you did this." But, you know, [00:21:00] we'll always communicate on that.
[00:21:01] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: So kind of just touching on that point, if you can give a woman, you know, who's aspiring to be in a leadership role, a piece of advice. You know, especially on International Women's Day, , what piece of advice would you give a woman who is aspiring to be in a leadership role?
[00:21:17] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: I think embracing your unique strengths to help you continue breaking barriers. I know at times we may be shy or intimidated, you know, but I think if you continue being yourself and, you know, show your skills and your strengths, you know, it's going to get you to where you want to accomplish your goals.
[00:21:35] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: Also empowerment woman, like, I do say a lot with Lilly because even though we have like an age gap difference, I mean, I do see how where she started to where she's now and I do see that that's a big accomplishment. And empowering each other, like working in this industry, I think has helped us both in our career paths. So I think empowerment to each other and within women.
[00:21:57] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: You're very blessed to have each other. I'll tell you [00:22:00] that much.
[00:22:00] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: I resonate a lot with Jamie because when I read this question beforehand, I could think about how we both empower each other and how we always go back to each other and I say, "I wouldn't be here without you." And then she'll say like, "I wouldn't be here without you." So having a support system that really motivates you, empowers you to do great things and says, "Hey, do it. Like, don't be afraid. Just push through it. I know you have it in you."
[00:22:27] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: I really want to make sure that women in the industry, or just in general, period, whatever career it is of your choice, have a really good support system that empowers you to become the better person of yourself. So embrace your unique skills. Recognize the contributions that you have that you bring to the table.
[00:22:47] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: Recognize all the work that you've put in. Don't be afraid to step into like that leadership position, trust your ability to make a positive impact to the world. And then don't [00:23:00] forget that your journey may inspire others. Don't forget that smaller, big steps, you're getting somewhere, and it's important to lift other other people along with you.
[00:23:10] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: So, like I said, it's having that support system where, yeah, you're picking up yourself, but at the same time, you're picking up someone else with you. That really makes what we're all about. Womanship, leadership. And especially on International Women's Month.
[00:23:26] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: And I love that you said that because I know sometimes a lot of women feel like they don't have that support system and they don't have that those people that are around and they feel like they need to like, wait for that woman to like come in place and be like, "Hey, you should do this." And sometimes. It's really you within yourself of saying, "Let me reach out to somebody else. Let me build that community of support and of women around you."
[00:23:48] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: Within your credit union, go speak to other women who are looking at also having leadership roles and constantly be encouraging them. And it's something within yourself that once you have, you've slowly built that [00:24:00] confidence.
[00:24:00] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: Once you're doing it with somebody else, it just kind of makes that process, I wouldn't say easier, but more enjoyable. I'm a strong believer in, you know, going to the gym, being a confident, you know, woman in that aspect and having that gym buddy always kind of makes it better. And we never look at it the same way when it comes to our career and having that career buddy, and having somebody that really motivates us and pushes us to be our best self. I really love that you said that.
[00:24:24] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: Lastly, my question for you guys is, who is a woman or multiple women who have, I would say, influenced you in your career, inspired you within your career, and in your personal journey as well? Janie.
[00:24:38] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: I didn't come from a background from this financial industry. So starting here with the credit union was already a challenge for me. Not knowing how this was going to go, I went from a receptionist to where I am at now today. So I am going to put this on Lilly has been a great inspiration to me.
[00:24:59] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: How I [00:25:00] mentioned our age gap difference didn't make a difference to me. But seeing how, like witnessing her growth, determination, and some barriers that she had along the way, like made me want to excel. And, you know, be able to reach my goals in my career path. Not knowing where exactly I was going to be at within the credit union.
[00:25:20] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: So I think she did put like an impact into my journey, being here with the credit union. And I commend you Lilly for, you know, doing so much within the credit union and being where you're at now today.
[00:25:33] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: Wow. I need a moment from that. I didn't know I was such an impact on her life until right now. So just that, like, blows my mind and gives me a different perspective. So thank you. Thank you for this interview now.
[00:25:47] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: In my perspective, or my personal life, there is two women that stand out the most to me. One being my maternal grandmother. She had a tremendous strength [00:26:00] and independence. So growing up, I saw how much she struggled through life and still, you know, would show up with a smile on her face and dance a life away.
[00:26:11] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: So her strength and determination just continues to guide me through this day although she's no longer with us. She raised my mother, but then inherited those traits. And she's passionate, she's strong, she's kind hearted. And she's basically, or both of them are basically the bedrock of my character shaping into the person that I am today.
[00:26:33] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: And then in the credit union industry, I would say Caroline Willard, she's the CEO for Cornerstone League. And she stands out as a source of inspiration to me ever since she's, she became the CEO of Cornerstone. Her vision and her leadership are just amazing, and she's very inspiring to me. And every time I see her, I'm like, girl fanning on her.
[00:26:56] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: And I, I even get shaky because she's [00:27:00] just amazing.
[00:27:01] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: I love that you said that because I have four people in my life being my grandmother, you know, who immigrated here from Italy, my mother, my sister, and within the credit union space, Caroline Willard was somebody who had a huge impact on me, not being in the credit union space. The first event that I went to being Cornerstone Impact last year, I came back and I, you know, I had seen her and, you know, I saw people going up to her and I'm like, I'm not in a credit union, but I'm still going to go see this woman.
[00:27:30] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: She had such an impact on, you know, women in the workplace. And seeing everything she's accomplished and how many credit unions are impacted by her and the amount of things she's gone to bat for, for the credit union industry, made me believe truly in my career, there's nothing I can't do. You know, the amount of efforts that this woman has gone through and the minute that I saw when Cornerstone was happening this year, I told Michael, you have to come to this event. You know, she'll just wow you.
[00:27:58] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: So, I, I completely, [00:28:00] I echo that in terms of saying that she had a huge impact on me as well.
[00:28:04] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: And we'll be there.
[00:28:05] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: If I had to choose, I've got two of course. And so the first one is always mom. Mom is always the best role model. Not only that, my mother was a librarian for close to 40 years. And so, if anybody has known me for more than five minutes, I'm the complete opposite of a librarian.
[00:28:21] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: I am loud. I'm all over the place. But the greatest strength that mom always provided was consistency. And that's probably the greatest quality that you can have in a role like mine. That helps keep me pointed. But the whole reason as to why I am who I am today is actually accredited to what I will qualify as my first boss and my mentor.
[00:28:42] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Who is a person by the name of Melissa Morrissey. Unfortunately, she passed away a number of years ago, but she set my path when I was in my early twenties. Where I moved away from Montreal and my first move away from home was Barbados and it was because of her, I helped start a company to move to New York, it was because of [00:29:00] her.
[00:29:00] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: I'd moved to Dallas, Texas shortly afterwards because of her. And she was my mentor right up until her last day. And to this day, I celebrate her day of passing by sending her a message saying, "Hello boss." And every day I hope that I continue to make her proud because she was the biggest influence on my life from a professional standpoint.
[00:29:20] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Which is probably why I have such a soft spot for finding strong, passionate, you know, individuals on the team, not just women, but strong, passionate individuals on the team, that help point in the direction that most remind me of Melissa Morrissey. So hopefully boss, if you're watching this as a ghost, you still stay with me to this day.
[00:29:42] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: Love that.
[00:29:43] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Lilly, Janie, I know that Sasha and I got to meet both of you guys when we had that South Texas event that took place last year around Halloween, which was a lot of fun. it was really great. Are you guys doing anything in 2024? And what are you guys doing? Are you guys [00:30:00] engaged in anything? Are you staying local? Are you going out into the road? What, what are you guys signed up for?
[00:30:04] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: For this year, what we have, well, I'm going to the YP conference that there is in May. We're having a YP conference and we're getting that together. Elevate. We're going in September, going to elevate. I'm not sure yet, it will be having that conference again. I don't know, Lilly, any news on it. We'll be having it?
[00:30:24] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: This year, the conference, the South Texas Expo in Corpus Christi. So, it turns with the RJV and Corpus Christi. So, both the chapters take turns 1 year and 1 year. Hopefully, Lexop can be part of it this year again. And then I'm attending a CMS this year, which my physical or in person classes are in July. And it's a one week intensive course for partial of the term. And then also attending Elevate with the Cornerstone in September, I believe it is. And we're going to be part of SING, which is [00:31:00] the performance act where we raise funds for the Cornerstone Foundation.
[00:31:04] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: So hopefully, y'all can be part of Elevate as well.
[00:31:08] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Well, we're definitely going to be a part of a couple. I think the, the Corpus Christi chapter that you're talking about is actually being hosted with Mark Avelar from Texas Bridge, who we also had in the podcast earlier this year. So yeah, there's a deep commitment with Lexop to a lot of the activities that you guys do.
[00:31:24] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: And I love how tied you are into the community, especially with charitable work and trying to help elevate the company, no pun intended to that, that event, but certainly something that is, that is wild.
[00:31:37] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Ladies, I think as, as just a wrap up, I just want to thank all three of you for the contributions that you have, the decade insight of growth for yourselves. Lilly, you made the comment of, your journey will help empower, you know, somebody else.
[00:31:52] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: And hopefully for the listeners that are here, I think it speaks a testament to, if you are strong, if you are [00:32:00] dedicated, if you're intelligent, if you are passionate and fall in love with what it is that you do, there are always steps within the career. Never think that you're always at your peak, always keep taking the next step forward and finding those that you can share your journey with and look for associations, organizations, conferences, and buddies. To turn around and look at your mentors, your mentees, and know that you have such a positive impact to somebody's life, even if you find out for the first time on a podcast.
[00:32:29] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: So guys, thank you so much for joining us. Sasha, thank you for co-hosting, this was a lot of fun. Lilly and Janie, thank you so much for carving time out of your incredibly busy days to spend some time with us to share your story with the audience.
[00:32:43] Sasha Bordonaro - Account Executive, Lexop: Thank you, guys.
[00:32:45] Janie Soto - Lending Manager, South Texas Federal Credit Union: Thank you for having me.
[00:32:46] Lilly Megias - Senior VP, South Texas Federal Credit Union: Thank you so much.
[00:32:47] Michael Pupil - VP of Sales, Lexop: Alright. And see you guys next time on the next Connect and Collect podcast. It was a pleasure to have you guys. And hopefully we see you guys soon.
[00:32:55] Thank you for listening to the Connect and Collect podcast. Find [00:33:00] show notes and other resources for this episode at LexOp com And if you enjoyed the episode, make sure to subscribe, like, share, and comment.
