What happens when a CPA discovers his greatest strength isn’t crunching numbers? In this powerful interview, Catalyst Bank CEO Joe Zanco reveals how a mop, a moment of humility, and a mindset of ownership shaped his rise through the banking world to leading a NASDAQ-listed bank.

Joe shares hard-earned lessons from 10+ M&A deals, the real reason banks sell, how employee ownership changes culture, and what most people get wrong about public company leadership.

If you’re in dealmaking, banking, or leadership, this episode is for you.

Key topics:

• The “mutual-to-stock conversion” process explained
• Why giving away 8% of your company to employees might be the best thing you ever do
• How to go from employee mindset to ownership mindset
• Joe’s take on AI, crypto, and the future of community banks
• Why most private banks are acquired and what to look for in a seller
• The ONE thing all successful deals require (spoiler: it’s not the numbers)

Joe’s career arc proves one thing: when you give your best, no matter the task, someone is always watching.

Guest Info:

Joe Zanco: LinkedIn

Location: Lafayette, Louisiana

Connect with the Hosts & The Deal Podcast:

Joshua Wilson – LinkedIn

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@dealpodcast

Website – https://www.thedealpodcast.com