ELFA’s Innovation Experience - Leading the Digital Future of Equipment Finance

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.

Trailer Trends: An Outlook on Today and Tomorrow

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.

Honoring Juneteenth: Stories of Progress and Inclusion in Finance with Beverly Brinkley

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. 

Innovation Bacon: Jen Martin's Recipe for Bold Leadership

 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.

Rated for Success: KBRA’s Outlook for Equipment Finance

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.

Construction Equipment: Market Insights and Practical Solutions

In this Vertical Series episode of Equipment Finance Matters, co-hosts Kelli Nienaber, Foundation Executive Director and Will Tefft, Asset Manager at EverBank Commercial Asset Finance sit down with Wade Whitenburg, Strategic Accounts Manager at Ritchie Brothers. They explore the expansive construction equipment market, valued over $90 billion.

Learn about the unique challenges and opportunities in construction finance, including the importance of equipment classification, market stability post-COVID, and industry trends like emissions regulation. Wade shares invaluable advice for lenders, emphasizing the crucial role of understanding asset details and return provisions.

New Horizons: James Cress on Leadership, Industry Momentum, and Fun Firsts

Welcome to the first episode of Equipment Finance Matters in 2025 – it’s bursting with optimism and excitement as Alexa welcomes ELFA Board Chair and Vice President and General Manager at Flex Financial, Stryker, James Cress. Hear about James’ journey through ELFA, from attending events like Capitol Connections to helping form initiatives like the Emerging Talent Advisory Council and the Women’s Council. James shares insights on the industry’s momentum and how new CEO Leigh Lytle's vision is pushing boundaries. Plus, you’ll enjoy fun, personal tidbits like the first piece of equipment James ever financed and his dream skill to master.

For questions or comments: acarnibella@elfaonline.org

To read James' interview in the January/February issue of the Equipment Leasing & Finance magazine, go to:
https://www.elfaonline.org/news-and-publications/magazine/issue/article/jan-feb-2025/paying-it-forward.