Advertise on podcast: Equipment Finance Matters

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sGsut-a-xjs  In this episode of Equipment Finance Matters, ELFA's Senior Vice President, Industry Advancement and Executive Director of the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation Kelli Nienaber sits down with Tim Mahedy, ELFA's Chief Economist, and James Cress, ELFA Acting President & CEO, for a timely conversation about the economic landscape and what it means for the equipment finance industry. Drawing on their expertise, the conversation explores persistent inflation, interest rates, market volatility, and evolving Fed policy, along with the continued demand for equipment finance and the growing impact of AI investment. Get their perspectives on navigating uncertainty, staying disciplined, and focusing on the fundamentals while positioning your company for resilience and long-term growth. Find the Economic Outlook here: https://www.elfaonline.org/research/economic-outlook-q3-2026

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nGpC8de498k  In this special episode of Equipment Finance Matters, Kelli Nienaber, ELFA Senior Vice President of Industry Advancement, sits down with industry leaders Jerilyn Nicholsen, Managing Director, Business Development at Pathward; Camtu Vo, Manager of Product Development at DLL; and Deb Reuben, CLFP, Founder of TomorrowZone, for an honest conversation about work-life balance and what it takes to build a sustainable career in the equipment finance industry. Drawing on their experiences, the panel explores how the definition of balance has evolved and what it looks like in practice. Get their perspectives on creating healthier boundaries, advocating for yourself, and finding a more sustainable approach to work and life at every stage of your career, with practical insights and real-world examples from three accomplished women in the industry.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ij2vm2IhqMU  Forklifts play a vital yet often underappreciated role in diverse industries, and in this episode of Equipment Finance Matters, hosts Kelli Nienaber, Equipment Leasing & Finance Association Senior Vice President of Industry Advancement & Executive Director of the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation, and Will Teftt, Senior Vice President, Asset Manager at EverBank, sit down with Joe Joyce, Executive Vice President at Russell Equipment Inc., to explore the evolving forklift market and what equipment finance professionals need to know about this $10 billion North American sector. Joe explains how customization, such as mast height, fuel type, or battery configuration, impacts both primary and secondary market value. They also discuss the importance of understanding brand reliability, leasing terms, and market trends when setting residuals and managing portfolio risk. The discussion explored post-pandemic supply chain effects, tariff implications, and the complexities of recycling batteries and embracing new technologies such as autonomous forklifts. This episode delivers practical insights for lessors, lenders, and anyone navigating the future of forklift financing.  The Equipment Leasing & Finance Association offers members a monthly U.S. Equipment & Software Investment Momentum Monitor, tracking seven equipment and software verticals and identifying potential turning points in their investment cycles three to six months in advance. Explore the latest outlook and what it could signal for investment in the months ahead: https://www.elfaonline.org/research/investment-momentum-monitor  https://elfaonline.org

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/avyRGY-n9xY  In this episode of Equipment Finance Matters, Daryl Muller, ELFA Chief Operating Officer and Corporate Secretary, sits down with Quentin Cote, Managing Director, Commercial at Concord, for an in-depth look at where capital meets equipment finance, exploring what makes the sector both investable and scalable in today's evolving landscape. Quentin draws on 30 years of experience across lending, investing, operations, and servicing to share a comprehensive perspective on market shifts, from the rise of private credit to the increasing complexity of risk and infrastructure needs. They dive into timely topics like data center opportunities, the critical "trust layer" behind scalable investment, and the pivotal role operational discipline plays alongside technology and fraud mitigation. Get Quentin Cote's take on how platforms must evolve to provide deeper transparency, institutional-grade infrastructure, and resilience in the face of AI and fraud risks.

In this episode of Equipment Finance Matters, ELFA's Senior Vice President, Industry Advancement and Executive Director of the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation Kelli Nienaber sits down with Tim Mahedy, ELFA's Chief Economist, to discuss the association's new Economic Outlook product and the critical economic trends shaping the equipment finance industry. Drawing on his experience, Tim breaks down the forces driving today's economic environment—from persistent inflation pressures and interest rate uncertainty to shifting trade policies and the evolving role of the U.S. dollar in the global economy. The conversation also explores why the equipment finance industry has remained remarkably resilient despite economic volatility and geopolitical challenges, and how ELFA members can use the economic outlook, a quarterly presentation and executive summary available to download, to support strategic planning, improve decision-making, and foster more informed discussions across their organizations. Find the Economic Outlook here: https://www.elfaonline.org/research/2026-equipment-leasing-finance-u-s-economic-outlook-2026-update

This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/t7qTnsGL3ps  Equipment finance plays a foundational role in powering the real economy, despite being often overlooked. In this episode of Equipment Finance Matters, Equipment Leasing & Finance Association President and CEO Leigh Lytle speaks with Eric Miller, President and CEO of Ansley Park Capital, about the industry's power and sweeping impact.  Find out about Eric's career journey, from the lasting impact of his rigorous training at GE Capital to how he and his team launched one of the fastest inaugural ABS transactions on record. Discover the critical distinctions between small, middle, and large-ticket financing, the risks and rewards of non-bank lending, and the importance of adaptability amid macroeconomic shifts. In addition, this don't-miss discussion includes the impact of culture, creativity, and deep industry expertise on lasting success in equipment finance, as well as the rich career opportunities the sector offers. https://elfaonline.org

Hybrid work can make culture feel hard to see, but leaders have the power to bring it to life. Creating connection, trust, and belonging across distance is not accidental. It is a skill. In this episode, consultant Thomas Barnette, Senior Consultant with InQUEST Consulting, is joined by Kinna Pattani, Chair of ELFA's Inclusion subcommittee, and Jim Wall, Incoming Chair, to share energizing and practical approaches leaders can use to strengthen culture across remote and in-office teams. Hear how clear communication, intentional check-ins, and simple habits can spark collaboration, build psychological safety, and support employee well-being across remote and in-office teams. If you want tools to keep your team engaged and create a culture people can feel no matter where they work, this conversation will inspire your next steps. This episode was created in collaboration with ELFA's Inclusion Engagement and Resources Subcommittee as part of their ongoing work to strengthen connection and belonging across the industry. If you would like to learn more about the committee and its initiatives, visit: https://www.elfaonline.org/membership/people-power.

As part of ELFA's Innovation Experience, host Kelli Nienaber sits down with Deb Reuben, CEO of TomorrowZone, and Andrew Cotter, EVP & CIO of Somerset Capital Group, Ltd., for a continuing conversation on trend-scanning. Together, they explore why this practice is essential for identifying weak signals, emerging trends, and hidden patterns that are shaping the future of equipment finance.

As part of ELFA's Innovation Experience, host Alexa Carnibella introduces a conversation between Deborah Reuben, CEO of TomorrowZone, and Moto Tohda, VP of Information Systems at Tokyo Century USA. Moto reflects on 17 years with one company and how asking better questions, building cross-team alignment, and championing hands-on learning became the foundation for continuous transformation. The discussion explores advancing technology, navigating the hype vs. reality of AI, and balancing curiosity with business needs. Moto also shares candid insights on ERP projects, strategies for overcoming resistance, and how to make change a true team effort. Tune in for practical ideas on leading with humility, curiosity, and a focus on human connection. Want to dive deeper into innovation in equipment finance? Join us at the Innovation Lab Conference & Exhibition, September 8–10 in Denver, CO. Learn more and register: https://www.elfaonline.org/events-new/event-detail/innovation-lab-conference---exhibition  Subscribe to Equipment Finance Matters on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/equipment-finance-matters/id1500464877  or Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/43fGGQcByxbRTRKhbBfyJk?si=244H1nvDQ4Os5aw6PzmJug&nd=1&dlsi=22b930df245e44cd

As part of ELFA's Innovation Experience – a year-round initiative to turn innovative thinking into action – this episode of Equipment Finance Matters features an insightful conversation between Deborah Reuben, CEO and founder of TomorrowZone and Mark Blais, Chief Information Officer at Channel Partners LLC. They dive into Mark's fascinating cross-industry journey—from lasers and 3D imaging to financial services—and uncover how a diversity of experience fuels true innovation. Mark shares candid insights and practical patterns for leading innovation in equipment finance, emphasizing the critical roles of "dot collectors" and "dot connectors." Discover why asking, "Is there another way?" can spark your team's creative potential, and why true transformation isn't just about new technology, but about connecting people and ideas. Mark also unpacks responsible AI adoption, how to balance experimentation and risk, and ways to embed innovation into company culture. You're guaranteed to walk away inspired and ready to shape a more awesome future. For more information and to register for the Innovation Lab Conference & Exhibition, September 8-10 in Denver, CO – https://www.elfaonline.org/events-new/event-detail/innovation-lab-conference---exhibition  Subscribe to Equipment Finance Matters on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/equipment-finance-matters/id1500464877 or Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/43fGGQcByxbRTRKhbBfyJk?si=244H1nvDQ4Os5aw6PzmJug&nd=1&dlsi=22b930df245e44cd

In this episode of Equipment Finance Matters, host Kelli Nienaber is joined by Deborah Reuben, CEO and founder of TomorrowZone, and Andrew Cotter, Executive Vice President and CIO at Somerset Capital Group. Together, they dive into the ELFA Innovation Experience, a dynamic new initiative blending the expertise of multiple committees to accelerate digital transformation across the industry. Kelli, Deb, and Andrew unpack the concept of trend scanning, discussing how identifying and understanding emerging signals, especially human readiness for AI, can help companies prepare for the changes ahead. They explore the intersection of technology and people, the evolving role of AI in equipment finance, and the need for collaboration across generations, roles, and companies. Get a preview of the upcoming Innovation Lab Conference & Exhibition in Denver and learn how you can get involved, from webinars to Innovation Awards.

Welcome to another episode of the Equipment Vertical Deep Dive series! Listen as Tom Walther, founder and president of Nationwide Equipment, takes us on an insider's journey through the world of over-the-road trailers. Hosted by Kelli Nienaber, with co-host Will Tefft, this episode covers a range of topics, including trailer market fundamentals, asset remarketing challenges, the impact of tariffs, and supply chain disruptions following the COVID-19 pandemic.  Tom shares revealing anecdotes from decades in the industry, gives practical advice on asset management and breaks down what makes trailers unique compared to other financed equipment. Discover why understanding your equipment is crucial, how specialized assets impact resale value, and what current market conditions mean for lenders and lessors.

Let's talk about Juneteenth! In this episode of Equipment Finance Matters, Alexa Carnibella welcomes Beverly Brinkley, Vice President and Senior Business Systems Administrator at First Commonwealth Bank. They unpack the significance of Juneteenth as a national holiday and its meaning for the industry and beyond. Beverly shares her journey into inclusion work and the impactful formation of the BEST (Black Employee Supporting Talent) Employee Resource Group.  Hear Beverly's firsthand account of learning about Juneteenth, how celebrations have grown from intimate cookouts to citywide events, and why the day is both bittersweet and hopeful. The episode invites listeners to reflect on emancipation and the righteous pursuit of freedom, while highlighting how individuals and organizations can get involved to make inclusive progress.  Subscribe to Equipment Finance Matters on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/equipment-finance-matters/id1500464877 or Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/43fGGQcByxbRTRKhbBfyJk?si=244H1nvDQ4Os5aw6PzmJug&nd=1&dlsi=22b930df245e44cd

As part of ELFA's Innovation Experience – a year-round initiative to turn innovative thinking into action – this episode of Equipment Finance Matters features a powerful conversation between Deborah Reuben, CEO and founder of TomorrowZone and Jen Martin, Chief Product Officer at LTi Technology Solutions. Jen shares her unique leadership journey, shaped by her experience as a child of deaf adults, and how it fostered the communication, empathy, and curiosity that fuel her bold approach to innovation. Listeners will gain insights into how Jen embraces experimentation, reframes failure, and makes space for emerging talent in the industry. You'll also hear how she evolved from a tactical doer to a strategic leader—and why "innovation bacon" is more than just a catchy phrase. Packed with relatable stories and actionable ideas, this episode will inspire you to lead with both vision and vulnerability. This conversation kicks off ELFA's special Innovation Series, spotlighting bold ideas and forward-thinking leaders driving meaningful change across equipment finance. Up next: Mark Blais, Chief Information Officer at Channel Partners LLC, explores how leaders can foster sustainable innovation in the finance industry, balancing experimentation with strategic business goals and ensuring security along the way. P.S. Don't miss the Innovation Lab Conference and Exhibition, taking place September 8-10 in Denver! It's your chance to explore what's next in equipment finance and connect with forward-thinking leaders driving innovation across the industry. Subscribe to Equipment Finance Matters on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/equipment-finance-matters/id1500464877 or Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/43fGGQcByxbRTRKhbBfyJk?si=244H1nvDQ4Os5aw6PzmJug&nd=1&dlsi=22b930df245e44cd

Join Kelli Nienaber in conversation with Kroll Bond Rating Agency (KBRA) experts Van Hesser, Joanne DeSimone, and Mike Dodge, as they unpack the latest trends and challenges shaping the $1 trillion equipment finance industry. Hear expert perspectives on how KBRA evaluates credit ratings for independent, captive, and bank-owned platforms—plus, why diversification and experienced management are crucial for weathering economic shifts and volatility.