Credit Union Exam Solutions Presents With Flying Colors

This is a special Archive Thursday episode of With Flying Colors. In this conversation with Steve Farrar and Todd Miller, we explore what it really means when a credit union is downgraded to a CAMEL Code 4.We discuss the implications for NCUA supervision, administrative actions, and how examiners begin building a formal record. You’ll learn about the added burden of frequent exams, the role of letters of understanding and agreements, and how Code 4 status impacts liquidity options, board responsibilities, and long-term viability.Packed with hard-earned insights from decades inside NCUA, this archive episode helps credit unions understand both the risks and the pathways to recovery when facing a Code 4 downgrade

www.marktreichel.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-treichel/In this episode of With Flying Colors, Mark Treichel sits down with David Reed of Reed & Jolly to dive deep into the NCUA’s new succession planning rule and what it means for credit unions across the country.Too often, boards and executives focus on writing a policy—but not on the real-world practice of finding and preparing leaders for the future. David explains why succession planning can’t stop with “golden handcuffs” or executive retention packages and why the real challenge is board and volunteer succession.Key Topics CoveredThe January 2026 effective date of the NCUA succession planning ruleWhy smaller credit unions face unique challenges when CEOs retire or leave suddenlyThe risks of relying only on the “hit by a bus” plan for executive successionBoard succession struggles: aging volunteers, shrinking social networks, and limited recruitment poolsThe role of advisory boards, director emeritus programs, and board expansion in keeping knowledge while bringing in fresh voicesThe importance of diversity of thought—beyond demographics—to strengthen governancePractical tips for creating a process to identify, recruit, and onboard new volunteersHow nominations policies and ongoing outreach can build a pipeline of future board membersDavid also shares stories from his work with credit unions nationwide, highlighting what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid common pitfalls.Why Listen?If you’re a credit union leader, board member, or volunteer, this episode offers realistic, actionable advice on turning succession planning from a compliance checklist into a strategic advantage.📧 To reach David Reed: david@reedandjolly.com

In this archive episode of With Flying Colors, host Mark Treichel welcomes Vin Vitton, retired NCUA Senior Credit Specialist and longtime commercial banker, for an insightful discussion on credit culture—what it is, why it matters, and how it shapes a credit union’s lending success.Vin draws on his unique experience working on all three sides of the desk—as a lender, borrower, and regulator—to explain how a strong credit culture begins with board values, flows through management, and guides every credit decision. Together, Mark and Vin unpack key takeaways including:The definition and purpose of credit culture within a credit union.How board values and management philosophy shape consistent lending practices.The importance of reading regulatory preambles to understand NCUA’s intent.Why every policy, system, and training program should reinforce a consistent credit approach.How examiners and credit unions can align on “the art” of evaluating risk rather than relying on “paint-by-number” regulation.The role of appropriate structuring, documentation, and open dialogue with examiners.Whether you’re a CEO, board member, or senior lender, this episode provides valuable insight into balancing safe and sound lending with member-focused service.

www.marktreichel.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-treichel/In this solo episode, Mark Treichel breaks down a hot topic out of Washington: a Senate proposal to raise FDIC deposit insurance coverage from $250,000 to $10 million. Backed by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Senator Elizabeth Warren, the idea is gaining traction — but what would it mean for credit unions?Mark explores:Why big banks are fighting the proposal — and why they might have a pointHow a $10 million FDIC cap could drain the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF)The political ripple effects for NCUA premiums and restoration plansWhy credit unions risk losing business accounts if insurance coverage doesn’t keep pace with banksAlternatives, like inflation-based adjustments, that could make more sense than a massive jumpIn the end, Mark explains why raising the cap might look like protection, but could really be lipstick on a pig for credit unions and their members.

This Archive Thursday episode of With Flying Colors revisits a timely and important topic: corporate governance. Mark is joined by former NCUA colleagues Todd Miller and Steve Farrar  to explore why governance issues are at the heart of many troubled credit unions.They cover:How poor governance can sink an institution — and how strong governance can turn it around.The importance of tone at the top, ethics, and board oversight.Why diversity of skills, demographics, and perspectives matters for boards.The regulatory framework: NCUA’s limited guidance versus FDIC’s more robust tools.Resources for directors, including FDIC pocket guides, training, and self-assessments.Real-world stories from examinations, conservatorships, and boardrooms.Whether you’re a director, executive, or examiner, this episode highlights why governance is more than compliance — it’s culture, accountability, and the foundation of credit union safety and soundness.

www.marktreichel.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-treichel/In this episode of With Flying Colors, I sit down with Elizabeth Eurgubian, Partner at Atlas Advocacy and former Director of External Affairs and Communications at the NCUA. Elizabeth brings a wealth of experience spanning the Federal Reserve, CFPB, Sallie Mae, ICBA, CUNA, and her time inside the regulator’s office.We discuss:Her unique career path from attorney at the Fed to trade association leadership to NCUA’s front officeThe critical role of the Office of External Affairs and Communications (OAC) in shaping policy and messagingInsights into working for Chairman Todd Harper and navigating political appointee rolesThe art of preparing NCUA leadership for congressional testimony (“murder boards”)How credit union comment letters really influence regulationWhy relationships and follow-up are the currency of Washington advocacyHer current work with Atlas Advocacy and DCUCWhether you’re a credit union leader, policy professional, or industry observer, this episode gives you an insider’s perspective on how advocacy and regulation intersect at the highest levels.

This is a special Archive Thursday episode of With Flying Colors. In this conversation with Todd Miller and Steve Farrar, we dive into what happens when a credit union is downgraded to a CAMEL Code 3.We explore how NCUA approaches Code 3 institutions, what extra exams and follow-ups to expect, the impact of documents of resolution and regional director letters, and why boards and management must act decisively to restore stability.Packed with decades of insider perspective, this episode is a must-listen for anyone wanting to understand the practical realities of moving from a 1 or 2 to a 3.

www.marktreichel.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-treichel/In this solo episode of With Flying Colors, Mark Treichel breaks down the NCUA’s proposed rule to eliminate reputation risk from its supervisory program — and the political spotlight surrounding it.Mark explains:Why the N C U A is codifying the removal of reputation risk into regulation.How codification makes the change harder to reverse in the future.The subjectivity of “reputation risk” and why examiners are no longer allowed to use it.The proposal’s explicit ban on examiners acting “for political reasons.”Connections to President Trump’s Executive Order 14331 and allegations of politically motivated account closures.Examples of industries and groups often caught in the crossfire, from firearms to advocacy organizations.What this means for state regulators, joint exams, and your next exam.Why the NCUA claims there are no new compliance costs.The expected benefits for exam consistency, predictability, and objectivity.Whether you buy into the political narrative or not, this rule is designed to keep examiners out of politically driven decisions.

This week we’re bringing back an archive episode of With Flying Colors that remains just as relevant today as when it was first recorded.I’m joined by Steve Farrar and Todd Miller, both longtime NCUA veterans and now part of my team at Credit Union Exam Solutions. Together, we break down what it means if NCUA directs your credit union to conduct an organizational review—and why this is one of the most serious signals an examiner can send.In this episode, we cover:Why an organizational review is almost always tied to serious management or governance weaknesses.How CAMELS codes connect to “unwilling or unable” management findings.The difference between NCUA’s approach and how the FDIC structures its organizational review requirements.The role of third-party consultants, approval requirements, and pitfalls boards must avoid.Why humility and proactive planning are key if your credit union receives this directive.War stories from our years at NCUA—including conservatorship cases and tough appraisal calls—that illustrate the real-world consequences.If you’ve ever wondered what this type of supervisory action means for a board, a CEO, or an examiner, this conversation will give you candid insight from those who have lived it.👉 Note: This is an archive episode—we’re resurfacing it because the lessons are timeless and many credit unions will benefit from a refresher.

www.marktreichel.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-treichel/ In this episode of With Flying Colors, host Mark Treichel sits down with Scott Gladden and Kenny Ray Mitchell of Innovations Credit Union to preview the CUES Florida Council Cruise happening January 16–20, 2026. This unique event combines professional development, networking, and a Caribbean getaway—all tailored for credit union leaders, board members, and supervisory committees.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The origins of the CUES Council Cruise and how it became a 20-year tradition of education and collaboration.Event details: sailing on Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale to Grand Bahama Island and Nassau.Why the cruise is open to all credit union professionals across the country—not just Florida.The speaker lineup, including:John DeLoach, credit union attorney (compliance, BSA, OFAC updates)Trey Rudder, Corporate America (financial training for boards and committees)Mike Mola, Olden Lane (industry consolidation, subordinated debt)Mark Treichel, Steve Farrar, and Todd Miller of CU Exam Solutions (strategies to pass your NCUA exam with flying colors)Perks of the cruise: deluxe beverage package, included Wi-Fi, networking receptions each evening, and a relaxed but focused learning environment.How the informal conversations—over coffee, dinner, or a glass of wine—often prove just as valuable as the sessions themselves.Why Attend? If you’re looking to combine professional development with a January getaway, the CUES Council Cruise is an affordable, high-impact option. You’ll return with new insights, stronger connections, and renewed energy to lead your credit union.Event Info 📅 Dates: January 16–20, 2026 (Friday–Tuesday) 🚢 Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean Radiance of the Seas 📍 Ports: Fort Lauderdale → Grand Bahama Island → Nassau 🎓 Audience: Credit union executives, board members, and supervisory committees 📞 For questions and booking: Contact Kenny Ray Mitchell at (850) 832-3872