Podcasts have revolutionized the way we learn by offering a dynamic, convenient and accessible platform. The conversational style makes complicated subjects easy to grasp and offers a way for you to learn at your own pace. That is why NACM created the Extra Credit podcast, so credit professionals have another option for learning and to reach the next generation of credit leaders. “The podcast team does an excellent job,” said Nathan Hutton, CICP, global credit manager at Donaldson Company, Inc. (Minneapolis, MN). “The production quality is top notch, and the intro music always gets me excited to be educated. Hands down, if credit professionals only have five-10 minutes to spare each week and learn something new, make Extra Credit the number one priority!”
Extra Credit has a global audience with listeners from the U.K., Mexico, India, China, Canada, France and more. It makes it convenient to learn on the go. Even those who have the busiest of schedules are still able to tune in weekly, said Jill Burns, regional credit analyst at ABC Supply Co. (Beloit, WI). Being a full-time credit professional and part-time chauffer to her three kids, Burns said she appreciates the convenience of the podcast being right at her fingertips.
“When I listen to the podcast, I’m in my car and I’m able to get what I need in those short times,” she said. “It’s helpful for me to get the information I need right away. That way I’m able to stay regularly informed whether it is an episode on economy trends or even how to use best practices in the day-today workplace.”
You also can join the podcast hosts on the other side of your headphones by becoming a guest on Extra Credit. Being a guest on a podcast is a powerful way to establish yourself as a subject matter expert in the credit field. When you share your insights, experiences and expertise with a podcast audience, you not only showcase your knowledge but also demonstrate your passion and credibility. Listeners perceive you as a trusted source of information, someone who can provide valuable guidance and perspectives.
Burns was featured on Episode 71: How to Speak the Language of Sales. Whether a listener or participator, Extra Credit was created to educate. “My experience being featured on the podcast was amazing,” she said. “I didn’t expect the reception of being featured on the podcast at all. Several colleagues commented and reached out with insightful thoughts and questions, further continuing the topic afterwards and it connected me with new people in the industry.”
Extra Credit provides many different perspectives from credit professionals and allows those listening to learn from the experiences shared. “The podcast has become a number one resource for me,” said Justin Cowart, credit supervisor at Nucor Yamato Steel Co. (Armorel, AR). “It was a new experience for me being featured on the podcast as well because I find it hard to look at myself as an expert on the topic. But I recommend all credit professionals to tune in because it’s a great tool to use!”
Some credit professionals use Extra Credit as a resource to share with those who are moving up in the industry. The podcast can be especially helpful to the next generation of credit professionals coming in. “Anything I can do to help those who are coming up behind me, I’m all in favor of it,” said Martin Smith, CCE, CICP, credit manager at Suwannee American Cement Company (Bradenton, FL). Smith just began listening to podcasts a few years ago. Once Smith discovered Extra Credit, he made sure to add it to his regular line up playlist. “If I have five minutes to get a little bit smarter, I take advantage of that time. For the person I would like to see succeed me at some point, I encouraged them to get a little bit smarter and tune in when they can.”
Extra Credit is available on Amazon Music, Spotify and the NACM website. Be sure to tune in every Friday morning for a new episode and subscribe so you never miss out! If you have any questions about how to become a guest on Extra Credit, please email Annacaroline Caruso, NACM editor in chief, at annacarolinec@nacm.org.
by Kendall Payton, NACM National