Beyond the Balance Sheet: Lisa Fajardo Faust on Strategic Partnerships for Business Growth

Is your banker just a transaction provider, or are they a strategic partner in your success? In this episode of Women's Million Dollar Conversations, Alice Tang sits down with Lisa Fajardo Faust, Senior Vice President at Pacific West Bank. Lisa shares her passion for commercial banking and explains why the best bankers are those who deeply understand a business owner's vision, challenges, and long-term goals. Lisa reveals why "Relationship Banking" is the key to sustainable growth and discusses how she helps entrepreneurs navigate the complex world of commercial lending to reach the million-dollar mark and beyond. If you want to learn how to leverage your banking relationships to scale your impact, Lisa's insights on advocacy and financial stewardship are essential. In this episode, you'll learn: -The difference between transactional banking and a true strategic partnership. -How Lisa reached the $1M milestone in her career by focusing on community impact. -Why Lisa views money as a tool for creating opportunities and strengthening local economies. -Tactical advice for business owners on how to present their "story" to a lender. Key Moments: 01:05 – Background: Her evolution from a "Banker" to a "Strategic Community Partner." 03:15 – The Value of Money: Creating a ripple effect of wealth in the local economy. 05:50 – The $1M Milestone: Managing high-value commercial portfolios and the responsibility of capital. 08:45 – Relationship Banking: Why your banker should be your first call, not your last. 12:10 – Leading with Integrity: Navigating the ethical complexities of commercial lending. 15:35 – Advice: "Don't just look for a loan; look for an advocate."