Behind the Scenes with Comply-YES!: Melissa Osborn Talks Compliance, Culture, and Change

Earlier this month, our very own Melissa Osborn, Chief Operating Officer at Comply-YES!, was featured on the YouTube show Expert Connexions. The episode is a must-watch for anyone navigating compliance in the credit union space, especially during times of rapid regulatory change and increasing pressure to do more with less.

But if you don’t have time to watch the full interview just yet (though we highly recommend it!), here’s a quick recap of what Melissa shared, packed with valuable takeaways for credit unions, CUSOs, and anyone in the compliance hot seat.

Want to catch the full interview? Watch now on YouTube!

The Story Behind Comply-YES!

Melissa kicks off the interview with a powerful origin story: Comply-YES! was born out of a very real need. As a credit union professional herself, she’d experienced firsthand the stress of preparing for exams and audits with limited resources and inconsistent support. That frustration led to a big idea: What if there were a better way to help credit unions manage compliance, without the panic?

That idea became Comply-YES!, a CUSO built by credit union people, for credit union people. And that deep understanding of the industry still drives everything the team does today.

“I sat in your seat,” Melissa shares. “I know how it feels.”

What Makes Comply-YES! Different

Melissa dives into what sets Comply-YES! apart from traditional compliance support. It’s not about handing you a binder of rules and walking away. It’s about becoming a true partner; someone who’s in it with you, every step of the way.

From real-time answers through the compliance helpline to tailored audits and strategic planning, Comply-YES! offers a full suite of services to help credit unions stay ahead of regulatory expectations. And because the team is made up of seasoned professionals (many with decades of credit union experience), you’re getting insights that are both practical and relevant.

The Heart of the Work: Empowering Credit Unions

Whether it’s guiding staff through training, helping boards understand risk, or navigating new NCUA priorities, our goal is always to make compliance less overwhelming and more actionable.

“We want to give you tools that fit your credit union,” she says. “Not one-size-fits-all checklists.”

That mindset translates into custom solutions, ongoing education, and strategic foresight that helps clients not just meet requirements but build stronger, more resilient institutions.

Why Now Matters More Than Ever

With sweeping regulatory updates, shifting economic pressures, and increasing cybersecurity concerns, the timing couldn’t be more critical. Melissa talks about how many credit unions are trying to do more with fewer people and how the right support can make a huge difference, especially when you’re stretched thin.

She also offers tips on what to look for in a compliance partner:

  • Real-world experience in the credit union industry
  • Flexible, customizable services
  • Responsive communication and true collaboration
  • A strong understanding of upcoming trends and priorities

Looking Ahead: What Credit Unions Should Focus On

Toward the end of the conversation, Melissa offers insight into what’s coming down the compliance pipeline:

  • Keeping pace with AI-driven risk assessments
  • Addressing cybersecurity gaps
  • Building out Board education and engagement
  • Responding to changing member demographics and expectations

Melissa encourages leaders to start thinking long-term, not just reactively, and to tap into resources like Comply-YES! for support that’s both strategic and hands-on.

Through the interview, the message is clear: Compliance doesn’t have to be a burden. With the right support, it can be a strength; one that helps your credit union thrive in a changing world.

So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, understaffed, or unsure of what’s next, take heart. You’re not alone. And you don’t have to go it alone either.

Ready to rethink your approach to compliance? Let’s talk.

And don’t forget to watch Melissa’s full interview now on YouTube: Expert Connexions.

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