Small Business is Big Business with Mark L. Madrid - Episode 13: Banking on Community: Stephen Lee on Rural Growth and Financial Inclusion

In this episode of Self Fueling Excellence, host Mark L. Madrid, sits down with Stephen Lee, President and CEO of First National Bank of Bastrop, to explore the vital role community banks play in strengthening rural America. Stephen shares how community banking fuels local economies by supporting entrepreneurs, small businesses, and families, often in ways larger institutions can’t replicate. They also discuss the bank’s innovative Contigo initiative, designed to expand financial literacy and access for underserved Hispanic communities, and discuss leadership lessons inspired by icons like Horst Schultze and Elon Musk. This conversation is a powerful look at purpose-driven banking, inclusive growth, and the kind of leadership that builds lasting impact.