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How Elements Financial Fuels Communities and Small Businesses

Elements Financial CEO John Huesing talks credit unions vs banks, small business lending, and investing in Indiana communities.

Podcast Summary

On today’s show I sat down with an experienced finance professional, John Huesing, CEO of Elements Financial.

John shares both his personal and professional journey, from humble beginnings at Pike High School in Indianapolis to leading an influential credit union. He provides insights on the evolution of Elements Financial, originally Eli Lilly Federal Credit Union, and the benefits of credit unions over traditional banks.

A variety of topics are covered, including the challenges of financing small businesses, the importance of community-focused banking, and the impact of local investments.

John also reflects on his international experience in Switzerland and the importance of taking professional risks.

If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast

You are going to learn about:

  • The Benefits of Credit Unions Over Traditional Banks

  • How Elements Financial Supports Local Communities and Small Businesses

  • Elements’ Pitch Fest Initiative

Thank you to our partners:
Cowpokes
Huse Culinary

Check out these great clips from the show:
01:10 Guest Introduction: John Huesing, Elements Financial
02:03 John's Early Life and Education
03:02 Cycling Passion and College Years
05:43 Career Beginnings and Family Life
11:44 International Experience in Switzerland
18:39 Return to Indianapolis and Career Growth
19:48 Transition to IU Health and Leadership Aspirations
21:46 Elements Financial: History and Evolution
32:21 Credit Unions vs. Traditional Banks
40:41 Becoming a Member: The Simple Process
41:13 Accessing Loans and Financial Products
42:27 The Importance of Community in Banking
43:43 Challenges for Small Business Owners
44:20 Evaluating Small Business Loan Applications
48:48 Transitioning to a New Career Challenge
54:13 The Role of Governance in Organizations
58:14 Commitment to Community and Nonprofits
01:04:40 Personal Insights and Reflections

Guest(s)

John Huesing

Date Published

December 3, 2025

This podcast is sponsored by

Sweetwater

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

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Podcast

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Know someone with a great Indiana story? Nominate them as a guest for the Get IN podcast and help us share real Hoosier voices.

Podcast

Share Your Indiana Podcast Guest

Know someone with a great Indiana story? Nominate them as a guest for the Get IN podcast and help us share real Hoosier voices.

A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.
A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.