Catalysts for Change
Catalysts for Change is a podcast about leaders who drive meaningful impact by balancing strategy, purpose, and action. Hosted by Adam Lister, each episode dives into the pivotal moments, values, and lessons that shape how change really happens in business, government, education, and beyond.
Catalysts for Change
Leading with Purpose: Harry Allen on Banking, Belmont, and Building Trust
In this episode of Catalysts for Change, host Adam Lister welcomes Harry Allen—sixth-generation Nashvillian, co-founder of Studio Bank, and now Chief Financial Officer at Belmont University. Known for his values-based leadership and belief in building relationship capital, Harry shares how intentionality, service, and clarity of mission have guided every step of his unconventional journey. From launching a billion-dollar bank during a time of uncertainty to helping reimagine higher education, Harry opens up about risk, resilience, and the quiet power of staying true to your purpose.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
- How relationship capital compounds like financial capital—and how to build it authentically
- The founding story of Studio Bank and what it taught Harry about risk, service, and purpose
- What leadership looks like when you prioritize impact over recognition