Leaders In Payments

Unlock the future of transactions with Ingenico's Tony Walsh in our latest episode, where we explore the revolutionary SoftPOS technology. This innovation is reshaping how merchants interact with customers, shedding the shackles of conventional payment hardware. By leveraging NFC-enabled Android and iOS devices, SoftPOS is not just a glimpse into the future of digital payments, but a stride into a world where mobile and contactless transactions seamlessly integrate into our daily commerce.

During our conversation, Tony illustrates the practicality and versatility of SoftPOS, painting a picture of a business landscape that's both agile and cost-effective. From bustling cafes to expansive enterprise retailers, this technology tailors to the unique needs of any business. Learn how SoftPOS is transforming the restaurant industry by simplifying pay-at-table services, reducing hardware attrition, and envision a retail environment where line busting becomes the norm. 

By embracing Ingenico's SoftPOS, we are unlocking payment freedom and taking a significant leap towards the future of commerce. This episode not only educates but also inspires a rethinking of how we engage in transactions, both as consumers and businesses.

Joining me this week in the first of a four-part series on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is Monica Eaton, the CEO of Chargebacks911. Monica's start-up story in the fintech space serves as a beacon for aspiring women in technology and finance. As a pioneer in the payments industry, Monica shares her trajectory from being a merchant grappling with chargebacks to helming a company with global reach. Her story isn't just a personal triumph; it's a roadmap for other women who aim to shatter the proverbial glass ceiling in a sector traditionally dominated by men.

Monica's commitment to empowerment isn't confined to her corporate achievements. Her initiative, LIFT, is a testament to the potential mentorship holds in elevating women within the fintech space. LIFT connects female professionals with C-suite executives, fostering an environment where wisdom, experience, and guidance flow freely, thus nurturing the next generation of female leaders.

Through mentorship, education reform, and a commitment to DE&I, Monica is forging a path for inclusive growth and empowerment in fintech and beyond.

Brazil's financial sector is experiencing an unprecedented digital transformation, a subject which Carlos Netto, the Co-Founder and CEO of Matera, tackles with keen insight in our latest podcast episode. This revolution is centered around Pix, Brazil's instant payment system that has flipped traditional banking on its head with its user-friendly interface and cost-effective transaction model. As we explore this phenomenon, it's evident that Pix has not only altered how transactions are conducted but also democratized financial services, fostering inclusion for those who were previously marginalized from the banking system.

In discussing the intricacies of Pix, Carlos provides an analysis that is both comprehensive and insightful. Pix's integration into everyday life in Brazil, from street vendors to e-commerce, signals a profound cultural shift. Its omnipresence has not only simplified transactions but has also encouraged the banking sector to innovate and remain competitive. The "Pix by the Numbers" report, as dissected in the podcast, underscores the system's sweeping success and its potential to inspire similar transformations globally.

In summary, the podcast episode featuring Matera Co-Founder and CEO Carlos Netto is not just a conversation about the current state of digital banking in Brazil but a deep dive into the possibilities that fintech holds for the future. It is a story of innovation, inclusion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the dynamic interplay between technology and finance and the transformative power it holds.

As we navigate through an ever-evolving financial landscape, it's leaders like Kirk Coleman, President of Q2, who are at the forefront of revolutionizing how banks and credit unions serve us. This episode is a treasure trove of insights, from the seamless integration of digital banking experiences to the resilience of checks in an age of instantaneous payments. Kirk's journey from Ohio to the helm of Q2 in Austin is as compelling as the innovative solutions he champions, bringing a personal touch to the complex world of banking technology.

Kirk and I delve into the current state of play in the payment industry, where challenges abound but so do opportunities for those willing to adapt and innovate. We explore the intrigue of mergers and acquisitions, the quiet before the storm of 2024, and how banks are finding value in efficiency over expansion. The episode peels back the layers on the scalability of new payment systems and the shifting generational talent within the banking sector, offering a clear view of what it takes to succeed in this rapidly changing environment.

Topping off our conversation, Kirk shares pearls of wisdom on achieving a balance between a demanding career and a fulfilling family life, emphasizing mentorship and the adaptability required within the payments and financial services sectors. He also encourages us to chip away at the complexities that often muddle the financial services industry, advocating for collaboration towards simplicity, security, and improved customer service. Join us for this enlightening discussion that's as much about the heartbeat of financial innovation as it is about the human stories that drive it.

The digital payments landscape is rapidly evolving, driven by innovative technologies and a pressing need for more personalized customer experiences. In episode 301 of the Leaders in Payments podcast, we had the privilege of diving deep into these developments with PayPal's Mudita Tawari, who heads the company's developer experiences.

The episode provides a glimpse into how PayPal continues to shape the future of transactions. With over 400 million consumer accounts and 35 million merchants worldwide, PayPal's influence on the market is undeniable. Tawari’s discussion about PayPal's commitment to enhancing checkout experiences and supporting a global developer community underscores the company's focus on continuous innovation.

Mudita’s experience working on early IoT applications for hospital beds, to engaging in transformative app development, and eventually making strategic partnerships at eBay and PayPal, illustrates a journey characterized by growth, versatility, and a deep-seated desire to make a meaningful impact.

On our 300th episode, we have the privilege of hosting Carey O’Connor Kolaja, the CEO of Versapay, who illuminated the path toward a digital-first B2B payment landscape. The episode offers a comprehensive examination of how technology, specifically AI and ERP integration, is reinventing how businesses manage transactions and achieve financial efficiency.

Carey's journey from PayPal and Citi to AU10TIX has bestowed her with invaluable insights into the evolution of financial inclusion and the indelible impact of technology on back-office operations. 

Carey and I muse over the generational shift that's reshaping expectations—a world where our children's innate digital fluency is only a microcosm of the hunger for seamless transactions. Together, we scrutinize how AI and ML are not only combating fraud but also empowering companies to leapfrog into the future with smarter, faster, and safer financial practices.

As the episode unfolds, Carey shares her vision for Versapay, focusing on solving genuine problems with a passion for building a more inclusive financial world and a future where financial decisions are autonomous, technology-driven, and secure.

Join me as I sit down with Tal Clark, the CEO of Instant and trace his remarkable path from Marine Corps helicopter pilot to fintech innovator. In this episode, Tal shares the ethos behind Instant's mission to revamp the way American workers receive their wages. As we peel back the layers of the earned wage access (EWA) market, you'll discover how Instant stands at the vanguard, offering employees fee-free access to wages that could very well redefine financial stability for many.
 
Dive into the heart of innovation with our discussion on the transformative nature of EWA and how Instant is leading the charge by integrating payment cards, tipping services, and wage access into one seamless employer solution. Tal gives us an insider's look at how their platform is not just a tool but a movement, setting itself apart from traditional payday loans and altering the financial landscape for employees nationwide. With an eye on the future, we predict the rise of EWA as an employee benefit standard and consider the evolving regulatory environment that's shaping this dynamic industry.
 
Wrapping up, Tal offers a personal glimpse into his life post-military service, his corporate experiences, and his fervent commitment to service and opportunity. He illuminates the leadership lessons he's garnered from commanding large teams and how building a culture of success yields the greatest rewards. 

Unlock the potential of SoftPOS technology with Jason Stanchfield from Ingenico, and ride the wave of the future in merchant payment solutions. Imagine the convenience of turning any NFC-enabled device into a secure, flexible payment terminal—this is the reality we discuss with Jason, whose unique background from the streets of Los Angeles to life in the Navy, and finally to the innovative realm of merchant services, brings us an unparalleled perspective on the evolution of payment systems. Learn how SoftPOS is revolutionizing transactions, offering businesses an adaptable and sleek way to handle sales with ease, while also delving into the seamless integration with existing POS systems.

This episode peels back the layers of SoftPOS's applications, demonstrating its utility in a diverse range of business environments, from the corner store to the most dynamic pop-up events. Jason walks us through the minimal training required for staff, the customization options available for branding, and the heightened security measures that set this platform apart. We scrutinize every angle, from the merchant's initial selection process to the comprehensive sales tracking capabilities. Discover the transformative power of SoftPOS as we explore its role in meeting the ever-evolving demands of modern commerce with Jason's expertise guiding us every step of the way.

Join me as I sit down with Rob Straathof, the visionary CEO of Liberis. Rob Straathof's journey from an aspiring astronaut to a fintech trailblazer is a narrative of determination and ingenuity. Tune in to discover how Liberis is transforming the financial landscape for small businesses by seamlessly embedding pre-approved funding within payment ecosystems. Delving into Liberis's partnerships with behemoths like Worldpay, Klarna, and Barclays, we'll unwrap how their platform is not only accelerating growth for startups but also reinventing the approach to merchant financing.
 
The discussion delves into the core of embedded finance, tracing Liberis's evolution from its nascent stages to the powerhouse digital platform it is today. The episode doesn't shy away from discussing the hurdles faced, particularly during the pandemic. As the conversation unfolds, we gain an understanding of the strategies driving merchant adoption and the essential role of omnichannel platforms in the finance sector.

CEO of Stax, Paulette Rowe’s journey through the dynamic world of payments is an inspiring story of opportunities and passion. From her role at Facebook to leading PaySafe through a public offering and embracing the culture and vision of Stax, Paulette’s dedication to the payments industry is clear.

Stax is distinguished by its software-first ethos and comprehensive white-labeling capabilities, highlighting its intent to expand internationally. The conversation illuminates how Stax is redefining industry standards with its agile and precise strategies, challenging larger, less flexible entities. The company's unique position in the payments industry stems from disrupting traditional payment models with subscription-based services. Paulette shares insights into Stax's disruption, its focus on key verticals, and the company's evolution into integrated payments, compliance, surcharging, recurring billing, and becoming a fully-fledged acquirer-processor.

Moreover, the podcast delves into the transformative trends impacting the payments and financial services industry, including embedded finance and the impact of artificial intelligence on customer engagement.

Discover the cutting-edge intersection of technology and security as we welcome Sunil Madhu, the visionary founder and CEO of Instnt, to unveil the transformative power of fraud insurance technology in the payments industry. By providing real-time insurance coverage during the pivotal moment of customer onboarding, Sunil's company is reshaping how businesses defend against fraud-related financial losses. In this episode, you'll hear how Instnt's sophisticated tech—laden with biometrics and behavioral analytics—melds with existing systems to insure transactions in the blink of an eye. Sunil's insights extend beyond the tech, as he recounts his global journey from Scotland to New York, and the leaps from Fortune 500 boardrooms to the thrilling unpredictability of startup life.

To further understand the implications of Instnt's innovation, the podcast discusses how the company's fraud insurance technology integrates with various financial institutions, including fintech companies, credit unions, and banks. By mitigating fraud losses and ensuring compliance, Instnt not only fosters trust in digital transactions but also enables these institutions to focus on their core operations without the overhanging concern of fraud.

Monica Eaton, CEO of Chargebacks911 joins us to share her remarkable transition from interior design to leading a company that stands at the vanguard of dispute resolution. Her tale is not just about success; it's about the innovation and dedication that underpin it, and this episode promises a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone looking to disrupt their field.

Monica’s narrative is punctuated by reflections on her experience with chargebacks—a persistent problem that once threatened the sustainability of her online marketplace. Her personal campaign to understand the causes of chargebacks led to the founding of Chargebacks911.

Monica’s view on the joy of business building, her affinity for numbers, and the power of turning challenges into opportunities are the key elements propelling the flow of this episode's narrative. From her $76,000 project triumph to scaling businesses with savvy tech implementations, her journey underscores that the true rewards of entrepreneurship are not just in the victories, but in the exhilarating process of reaching them.

This episode is a rare look behind the curtains of Chargebacks911's expansion into new territories and the pursuit of innovative solutions in a changing regulatory landscape. 

Explore the cutting-edge universe of financial transactions with Max Neukirchen, JP Morgan's visionary Head of Payments and Commerce Solutions. Venture behind the scenes of a business unit that has a massive global footprint, with a workforce spanning 120 countries dedicated to servicing a diverse clientele, from neighborhood shops to large corporate entities.

In our discussion, Max demystifies the competitive advantages of JP Morgan Payments over both traditional banks and nimble fintech competitors, and he provides a panoramic view of services that encompass everything from treasury management to merchant services to trade finance.

His personal narrative, stretching from his roots in Germany to steering a major division of a financial titan, provides a rare glimpse into the inner workings of JP Morgan and the diverse interests that propel a leader in the payments space. Further enriching the dialogue, Max shares personal anecdotes highlighting how his travels and extracurricular passions have enhanced his professional perspective. 

Join me and Andrew Brown, CEO of Check as we discuss the innovative world of embedded payroll. The conversation goes beyond the basics and provides a glimpse into Andrew's path from a tech-enthused Duke student to a pioneer in payroll technology. Discover the unique connection between payroll intricacies and payment technologies, and how this synergy is crafting a new era for financial services and especially software platform.  Plus, don't miss out on Andrew's passion for Duke basketball—an energy that exemplifies his leadership. 

As we discuss the competitive landscapes of the payroll industry, we uncover the unique challenges and advantages faced by early market entrants against the backdrop of legacy providers struggling to adapt to the embedded payroll niche.  Andrew's narrative from coder to industry leader also offers invaluable career insights for those eager to make their mark in fintech. 

Ready to revolutionize your financial savvy with a former NFL player turned fintech guru? Parker Graham, the founder of Finotta, joins us to unveil how his company is reinventing the digital banking game. With Finotta's innovative technology seamlessly integrated into banking apps, Parker is leading the charge in delivering not just personalized financial management, but also actionable, real-time advice that empowers users to make smarter financial decisions. He shares his journey from the gridiron to pioneering the future of digital banking, and why understanding customer needs is the game-changer in driving both engagement and revenue for financial institutions.

Finotta's fresh, proactive platform developed in the last couple of years is challenging the status quo of financial technology. Hear how automation and artificial intelligence are poised to further refine user experiences and why the capacity to take immediate in-app actions, like adjusting credit card payments or opening new accounts, is just the tip of the iceberg. For those eager to know what sets Finotta apart from the competition, Parker's insights into their modern solutions are enlightening and indicative of where fintech is headed.

Our latest podcast episode features Jane Podbelskaya, Principal at Information Venture Partners and Nick Beique, Founder and CEO of Helcim. They provide an insightful look into the rapid evolution of financial technology and payment solutions.

The episode also casts a spotlight on Helcim's transformation, particularly its strategic pivot from an ISO MSP partner of Elavon to an independent provider of transparent and honest payment solutions – with a mission to create the world’s most loved payments company.

Venture capital's role in fueling fintech innovation cannot be overstated, and the episode also provides valuable insights into the thought process behind Information Venture Partners's investment in Helcim’s Series A round. It explores the due diligence and the strategic alignment between investor and startup, highlighting the importance of shared visions for long-term growth and navigating the challenges that come with scaling up a business in a volatile market.

In an era where digital identity and security are paramount, our latest podcast episode features a figure who has carved a niche in the identity intelligence domain. Ron Atzmon, the Founder and Chairman of AU10TIX, provides an in-depth look into the company's strategies for combating fraud and ensuring compliance. His personal narrative, spanning from military service to tech entrepreneurship, paints a picture of a man whose career is as diverse as it is accomplished.

As AU10TIX evolved from its 2012 product launch to a Software as a Service (SaaS) frontrunner, it leveraged strategic meetings, swift decision-making, and a transition to cloud computing to drive growth. The importance of customer service and word-of-mouth recommendations has played a significant role in expanding the company's reach. AU10TIX now enjoys the trust of tech titans like Google and PayPal, a testament to the company's strategic vision and commitment to innovation.

Get ready to tackle the complexities of financial negotiations with the keen insights of Vinodh Swaminathan, the President and CEO of Cybersettle. In this episode, we discuss the revolutionary shift from managed services to a SaaS model, promising to redefine the resolution of financial disputes. Vinodh's philosophy of simplicity is a testament to Cybersettle's approach in embedding a digital negotiation button into claims management systems, which is reshaping sectors by fostering efficiency and cutting down costs.

Vinod also discusses the market opportunity in transactions that require financial negotiation and settlement. The sheer volume of these transactions highlights the potential for CyberSettle to revolutionize various sectors. The company's focus on the financial negotiation and settlement space sets it apart, specializing exclusively in providing a win-win solution for all parties involved.

Picture a world where borders dissolve within the payment sphere, where each transaction caters to the local customs and preferences of its users. Motie Bring, the CEO of PPRO, takes us on a journey through Europe's diverse payment ecosystem and beyond.  From the popularity of Bancontact in Belgium to the widespread use of Sofort in Germany, Motie underscores the necessity to embrace regional variations to truly connect with different consumer bases.

Motie Bring's passion for diversity and inclusion, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, adds another layer to the discussion. He shares PPRO's dedication to creating an environment where every individual's contribution is valued and where diversity is not just recognized but celebrated. This stance is crucial, not only for fostering a progressive corporate culture but also for inspiring the next generation of fintech leaders.

Join me, your guide Greg Myers, as I sit down with the visionary Joe McLean, the CEO and Co-Founder of Quavo. Discover how Joe's journey from a computer science enthusiast to a fintech innovator is transforming the landscape of fraud and disputes management in the banking industry. In our extensive dialogue, we traverse the inception and growth of Quavo, illuminating the innovative products like QFD, ARIA, and DRE, which are redefining efficiency and automation in handling post-fraud processes for financial institutions.

Joe emphasizes that while fraud is an inevitable part of the banking sector, the implementation of refined systems is vital in aiding institutions to effectively manage it. The discussion on the future of payments and fraud paints a picture of an industry in the midst of significant transformation, driven by automation and technological advancement.

Joe's journey is a testament to the power of passion and innovation in shaping a career that not only challenges the status quo but also nurtures personal growth. So tune in and be part of the conversation that's charting the future of banking, fraud management, and payment technologies.