News & Insights
Strategic Summit 2025: A Can’t-Miss Lineup of Visionary Speakers
By: Joel Antonini VP Marketing, Catalyst
Apr 15, 2025

The Catalyst Strategic Summit 2025 is bringing inspiration, imagination and innovation to the credit union industry with a premier speaker lineup focused on today’s most relevant topics. Taking place October 21-23, at the Lost Pines Resort and Spa in Austin, Texas, this year’s conference is not to be missed.

Stellar lineup of speakers and topics

Strategic Summit will bring together a diverse range of leading speakers and luminaries with backgrounds in payments, finance, business, economics, cybersecurity and more. Sessions will cover the most pressing trends and challenges facing credit unions today. The selection of marque speakers include:

  • Kevin O’Leary: ABC’s Shark Tank “Mr. Wonderful" and a globally connected financial industry expert, Kevin O’Leary will share insights on his success in business alongside his trademark analysis of today’s economic environment.
  • Jim Marous: Co-publisher of The Financial Brand and one of the industry’s most followed thought leaders, Jim Marous will provide strategies and opportunities for credit unions to thrive in a hyper-competitive banking industry.
  • Jon Dorenbos: Retired NFL Pro-Bowler and America's Got Talent runner-up, Jon Dorenbos will inspire attendees with his magical story of resilience and transformation.
  • Mary Kelly: Renowned economist Mary Kelly will provide a deep dive into the economic landscape and its implications for credit unions.
  • Jim McKelvey: Co-founder of Square and former chair of the St. Louis Fed, Jim McKelvey will discuss innovation in payments and financial technology.
  • Rachel Wilson: Former NSA leader and cybersecurity expert, Rachel Wilson will offer valuable insights into the evolving world of cybersecurity and its impact on the financial sector.
  • Lamont Black: Professor Black, a specialist deeply invested in the intersection of finance and technology, will explore practical impacts of AI, blockchain and emerging technologies on credit unions and their members.

Additional sessions will provide action-oriented deep dives into membership and deposit growth, the future of payment innovation, the current and future state of the credit union movement, the impact of AI and digital assets on credit unions and much more.

Not just head smart

While Strategic Summit is sure to expand your knowledge and broaden your horizons, there is much more to the event than keynotes and learning sessions. Attendees will have an opportunity to expand their networks, learn from peers and  forge new connections – all while enjoying golf, dinners, fun and games under the beautiful Texas Hill Country sky. 

Focused on action, driven for sucess

Strategic Summit is designed specifically for credit unions, addressing the key topics and opportunities that will drive the success of the industry and individual credit unions. Attendees will leave Summit with strategies, tactics and insights that can be put to use right away for their credit unions and their members.

Don't miss out

The Catalyst Strategic Summit promises to be one of the most impactful events of the year. Whether you're looking to gain new perspectives, learn from industry leaders or network with peers, the Strategic Summit will deliver. Register now to secure your spot and be part of this transformative experience.