You Don’t Need Easy, You Need a Reason with Manny Hochheimer 


What does it look like to lead with heart, bounce back from failure, and stay grounded through it all?

Today, I sit down with Manny Hochheimer—banker, father, and leader—whose journey from Germany to Spokane, Washington, is anything but ordinary. As Assistant Vice President of Washington State branches at Idaho Central Credit Union, Manny brings more than business savvy to the table—he brings grit, grace, and a refreshing outlook on turning adversity into opportunity.

Manny shares the hard-won lessons that shaped him as a leader, a partner, and a parent—and why showing up authentically is the key to real success.

Whether you’re navigating your own “no” or searching for what’s next, this conversation will leave you with a bit more optimism, a few laughs, and a reminder that resilience isn’t about never falling—it’s about how you decide to get back up, here on Navigating No. 

00:00 Overcoming Academic Challenges

00:41 Introduction to Manny Hochheimer

02:53 Manny’s Early Life in Germany

03:34 Immigrating to America

05:30 Adjusting to Life in Fort Collins

08:46 Lessons in Resilience and Authenticity

21:26 Navigating Adversity in College

41:04 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Resilience

41:38 The Power of Currency in Motivation

42:07 Lessons from Business Mentors

43:44 Raising Kids with Tough Love

44:47 The Importance of Authentic Relationships

48:31 Breaking into the Spokane Market

56:25 The Value of Mentorship and Community

01:02:25 Self-Care and Mental Health

01:05:57 The Influence of Music and Movies

01:12:36 Final Thoughts