At Southern Bank, we believe banking is personal — built on real conversations, not just transactions. Over time, these conversations grow into trust, and that trust helps small businesses thrive. We invited a few clients and bankers to share what makes these partnerships so meaningful — and we’re excited to give you a peek.
Paul Capps and Mike Brown were mid-conversation, swapping vacation stories and laughing about family updates, completely at ease under bright studio lights. It looked like the cameras in front of them had been rolling for hours. But they hadn’t.
Even though casual conversation is typical for the pair, that morning wasn’t exactly business as usual. Paul, president of The Capps Group, Inc. and Mike, a Southern Bank commercial lending officer and senior vice president, were filming a discussion about their long-standing working relationship — and what it means for their business lives, personal lives, and everything in between.
Paul first worked with Southern on a small loan request for his real estate business. The pair have since navigated shifting interest rates and celebrated the growth of The Capps Group.
“Your staff, your team, everything just seems to fit,” Paul explained. “That makes a difference, the family atmosphere. We always talk about our kids. You know, money is secondary. A lot of times you can go to any bank, but it’s different here, when you come in and you can talk about family.”
The not-so-secret formula to their successful relationship? Not merely completing transactions, but establishing a partnership.
“From the first time you walked in the door, I think we had an immediate bond,” Mike said. “We share the same professional skill set and work habits.”
“And we think alike. I mean, even dressing alike,” Paul joked, referring to the fact that, yes, they did indeed show up to set in matching attire.
Even when the cameras paused for adjustments, Paul and Mike kept talking. What could be written off as casual conversation underscores a much more important component of their relationship: communication.
Their constant rapport over the years allowed Mike to truly understand the business needs of The Capps Group and to customize Southern’s solutions to suit them. It also helped him advocate for Paul when speaking to other members of the Southern team.
“It’s that consistency that you’ve offered Southern Bank,” Mike said. “So when I’m with my credit team, then they’re familiar with your operation, your character, and how you go about your business.”
As the conversation wound down, talk turned toward what’s next — for The Capps Group as well as Paul and Mike’s partnership.
“Mike, we feel really good about things as we move forward,” Paul said. “And having worked together and knowing each other a little bit over the last few years, we feel like that relationship is helping us [move] into the future.”
Your success is our business — and you deserve a partner that provides local support and comprehensive options. No matter what you or your business needs, Southern will be by your side. Explore Southern’s business banking options today.
