Connect.Vegas

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In this episode of Connect.Vegas, host Ben Laifsky interviews David Navarro, Nevada Regional President of Enterprise Bank & Trust. They explore David’s career, banking insights, and his deep connection to the Las Vegas community. Here are the key highlights from their conversation:

  1. David’s Role and Banking Expertise:
    • David explains the different types of banks (community, regional, and money center banks), emphasizing Enterprise Bank’s niche in helping small and mid-sized businesses, real estate investors, and developers in Las Vegas.
    • He highlights the importance of building personal relationships and providing value through strategic connections within the community.
  2. David’s Background and Connection to Las Vegas:
    • David shares his experiences growing up in Las Vegas, his love for the city, and his hobbies, including basketball, weightlifting, and a passion for heavy metal music.
    • He reflects on the city’s growth since his childhood, from the development of Red Rock Casino to the expansion of Summerlin and Henderson, and his excitement for Las Vegas potentially acquiring an NBA team.
  3. Enterprise Bank’s Community Engagement:
    • The bank is highly active in local charitable work, with David serving on the boards of nonprofits like Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada, Special Olympics Nevada, and UNLV Alumni Association. He believes in the value of giving back, both personally and professionally.
    • He describes Enterprise Bank’s Enterprise University, offering free educational courses for the community, covering business topics like HR, leadership, and exit strategies for business owners.
  4. Insights on Banking and Professional Growth:
    • David shares his journey from working in entry-level jobs (such as a busser and a gym membership salesman) to becoming a banking executive.
    • He emphasizes the importance of finding the right fit between businesses and their banks and explains how Enterprise Bank adds value by not only offering products but also helping businesses grow through strategic introductions.
  5. Personal and Professional Philosophy:
    • David discusses his proactive mindset, with a motto of “the sooner, the better,” urging people to take action rather than procrastinate to avoid future complications.
    • He shares his favorite books, “The 48 Laws of Power” and “The Alchemist”, which have influenced his professional and personal journey.

Significant Quotes:

  1. On Different Types of Banks:
    “For small businesses and commercial banking, it’s often navigating between community and regional banks. Sometimes clients are too small for the big institutions, or they’ve outgrown their current bank and need a partner for future growth.”
  2. On Growing Up in Las Vegas:
    “I’ve had opportunities to expand my career into other markets, but I’ve always chosen Vegas. To me, it’s the best city on earth, and it keeps getting better.”
  3. On the City’s Growth:
    “Everything is just aligning right for us. We get sports teams, industry, and now I’m excited about the studio industry coming out here. One day, I hope we have an NBA team here.”
  4. On Banking Philosophy:
    “Make it as easy as possible to do business with you. If there are pain points for your clients, find ways to avoid or limit them. Banking should be effortless and enjoyable.”
  5. On Giving Back to the Community:
    “We’re able to add a lot of value through our skill sets and time. I feel more fulfilled by giving back, and I believe people want to do business with us because of our commitment to the community.”
  6. On Taking Action:
    “The sooner, the better. When we allow things to just happen, we open ourselves up to infinite possibilities for things to go wrong. If you can take care of something now, do it. It gives you peace of mind.”
  7. On Personal Development:
    “I got my start in banking as a teller, but I knew I wanted more. I worked on the commercial side, found where I could add value, and that’s where I stayed.”
  8. On Favorite Books:
    “The 48 Laws of Power is interesting for navigating the corporate world. Some laws are timeless, though others are quite Machiavellian. And The Alchemist, for understanding that comfort can hold us back from pursuing our true goals.”

This episode highlights David’s passion for both his banking career and his dedication to the Las Vegas community, offering listeners an insightful look at both business and personal growth.