Leighton Media Finds a True Partner in Deerwood Bank 

For more than 65 years, Leighton Media has been a cornerstone in communities across Minnesota. From its beginnings in radio broadcasting to its evolution into a full-service media company spanning six markets with 150 full-time employees, Leighton has built its reputation on connection, communication, and trust. When it came time to re-evaluate their banking relationship, those same values guided their decision. 

The process began when one of Leighton Media’s loans came due. It felt like the right moment to step back and assess whether their long-standing relationship with a large national bank was still the best fit. At the same time, the company was exploring the possibility of becoming a 100% employee-owned ESOP—a significant transition that required confidence and flexibility from their financial partners. 

“We needed to know our bank could handle that kind of structure and commitment,” said Bob Leighton, CEO. “With our previous bank, there was hesitation—we weren’t sure how comfortable they were with the 100% ESOP model.” 

That uncertainty prompted Leighton to take a closer look at their options. 

A Familiar Face and a Fresh Perspective 

As the company reviewed its options, it received proposals from four banks: their current one and three new contenders. One of those new contenders was Deerwood Bank—and one of the first calls came from a familiar face. Mike Markman, CRO at Deerwood, had previously worked with Leighton at their former bank and understood the company’s operations and structure. 

“There’s a certain amount of comfort that comes when someone truly knows your business,” Leighton explained. “Mike didn’t just know our numbers; he understood our people and our plans. We also had several conversations with Deerwood’s president, John Ohlin, their Central Market President, Jacki Templin, and many other members of their team, which proved competence and gave us comfort.” 

But the decision wasn’t based on relationships alone. Deerwood stood out for its thoroughness and insight. While other banks were more transactional, Deerwood took the time to dive deeper—examining the company’s ESOP goals, potential acquisitions, and long-term strategy. 

“They showed complete competence in what the next steps could look like,” said Leighton. “That level of understanding gave us confidence that Deerwood could handle everything we needed.” 

A Smooth Transition 

Changing banks is rarely simple—especially for a company with multiple locations, dozens of accounts, and complex cash management needs. Leighton Media maintains multiple checking and savings accounts, a line of credit, two term notes, and a suite of Treasury Management services including Positive Pay, ACH services, and remote deposit across markets. 

“Once we decided to move, we knew it would be a big project,” Leighton recalled. “But it wasn’t painful—it was just a process. Deerwood guided us through every step.” 

That process included setting up automated deposits, accounts payable systems, and security features across all divisions, including their subsidiaries. 

Financial Benefits and Personalized Support 

Beyond exceptional service, the numbers made sense too. Deerwood’s team conducted a detailed review of Leighton’s accounts and identified ways to save significantly on both loans and monthly fees that had previously been incurred. 

“At the national bank, we were getting nickel-and-dimed—fees for writing over a certain number of checks or more than a set number of deposits,” Leighton noted. “Those and other fees were considerable when looking at them on an annual basis.”

With Deerwood, Leighton Media not only reduced costs but also enhanced security. Their Positive Pay system matches both payee and check number, reducing liability for check fraud. “It’s easier for me to approve payments, and Deerwood reaches out proactively if anything looks off,” Leighton said. 

Banking with Shared Values 

For Leighton, banking locally wasn’t just about convenience—it was about partnership. “As an organization active in our communities, it’s important that our bank is, too,” he said. Deerwood’s commitment to Minnesota communities resonated deeply with Leighton’s culture of local engagement and giving back. 

The relationship is grounded in accessibility and trust. “If we ever have questions, we get answers right away,” Leighton said. “The communication is constant, and the support is phenomenal. I can’t imagine trying to navigate something like this with a large national bank.” 

Looking Ahead with Confidence 

Today, Leighton Media continues to grow and innovate—supported by a banking partner that understands their business, their values, and their vision for the future. 

“Deerwood gave us confidence that they could handle our needs now and as we continue to expand,” Leighton said. “They’ve been nimble, responsive, and genuinely invested in our success.”