# Inside Fortuna Bank’s Mission to Support Community and Small Business

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/looking-forward-our-way-1114795/inside-fortuna-bank-s-mission-to-support-community-and-small-business
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/looking-forward-our-way-1114795/inside-fortuna-bank-s-mission-to-support-community-and-small-business.md
Podcast: [Looking Forward Our Way](https://stenobird.com/podcast/looking-forward-our-way-1114795)
Published: 2026-02-16T10:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://lookingforwardourway.com
Audio file: https://op3.dev/e/episodes.captivate.fm/episode/b9ba1e7d-08a3-4083-8965-f2534d6d3436.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/looking-forward-our-way-1114795/episodes/inside-fortuna-bank-s-mission-to-support-community-and-small-business
Duration seconds: 2554

## Resource

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply interested in how local banking can catalyze growth, this conversation is packed with real-world insight and actionable advice for anyone looking to bring their financial story to life. Hosts Brett Johnson and Carol Ventresca sit down with Ashley Dick, Chief Retail and Community Development Officer at Fortuna Bank. Based in Columbus, Fortuna is a women-owned institution reshaping how entrepreneurs and communities access financial resources and support. Together, they discuss Fortuna's inspiring origin story, the challenges and triumphs of building a women-led bank, and the unique services that set Fortuna apart—from mentorship and financial literacy events to hands-on support for small businesses and nonprofits. If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast! Episode Highlights Building Fortuna Bank: A Story of Resilience and Purpose Ashley Dick shares how founder Lisa Berger’s dream to create meaningful change became a reality after discovering just how underserved women were in banking—not just as customers, but as leaders and investors. Empowering Women and Entrepreneurs Fortuna isn’t just a bank; it’s a community. Monthly events, mentorship, and hands-on financial literacy programs are central to empowering clients—especially women business owners. Safe Spaces and Real Support One standout moment? A client, burdened by debt, found immediate empathy and guidance from the Fortuna team—no judgment, just support. Fortuna is intentional about creating a safe space, where asking questions and seeking help is always encouraged. Practical Solutions for Modern Banking Switching banks can be a hassle, but Fortuna…

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## Transcript

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