Financial Forward: The Future of Consumer Finance & Banking

Send us a text“AI Governance & Change Management in Financial Services” Guest: Parijat Banerjee, Global Head of Financial Services at LatentView Analytics🔗 Episode SummaryIn this episode of Financial Forward, host Jim McCarthy sits down with Parijat Banerjee, a leading expert in financial data analytics and the Global Head of Financial Services at LatentView Analytics. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities financial institutions face in implementing AI-driven transformation, with a special focus on AI governance, data integrity, risk alignment, and change management.Drawing from nearly two decades of experience in data-first consulting, Parijat shares how financial organizations can adapt to the rapidly evolving AI landscape while maintaining compliance, trust, and operational resilience. This is a must-listen for leaders navigating digital modernization, regulatory scrutiny, and cultural shifts inside banks and financial service providers.💡 Topics CoveredThe current state and future trajectory of AI adoption in bankingGovernance models that support responsible AI useThe importance of cross-functional collaboration between compliance, risk, and ITHow to translate AI strategy into execution without disrupting core operationsThe cultural and organizational shifts needed for successful change managementLessons from working with global Fortune 500 clients👤 About Our GuestParijat Banerjee is the Global Head of Financial Services at LatentView Analytics, a data-native consulting firm helping some of the world’s most respected organizations harness the power of data for decision-making. With over 20 years of experience, Parijat leads transformation initiatives across analytics, AI, and digital strategy. 🔗 Connect with Parijat on LinkedIn☕ Sponsor SpotlightThis episode is proudly supported by BoulevardCoffee.co — a Women-Owned Small Business delivering handcrafted blends with heart. Support small business and grab your next cup of meaning at BoulevardCoffee.co.🎙️ Tune InSubscribe to Financial Forward wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes drop regularly featuring deep conversations at the intersection of finance, technology, and regulation.👉 Know a guest we should feature or a topic you'd like us to explore? Reach out to Jim McCarthy or follow us on LinkedIn.More from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Send us a textEpisode Title: Behind the Credit Curtain: Understanding Consumer Reporting with NCRA’s Eric Ellman Guest: Eric Ellman, President of the National Consumer Reporting Association (NCRA) Host: Jim McCarthy🎙️ Episode Summary:In this episode of Financial Forward, host Jim McCarthy sits down with Eric Ellman, the newly appointed president of the National Consumer Reporting Association (NCRA), to explore the often-overlooked yet critically important world of consumer reporting agencies.With more than 25 years of experience at the forefront of data policy and financial services—most recently with the Consumer Data Industry Association (CDIA)—Eric brings a unique lens to the complex network of companies that help banks, lenders, and employers make informed decisions. Now at the helm of NCRA, Eric is working to amplify the role of smaller, specialized consumer reporting agencies, particularly in the mortgage and tenant screening sectors.Whether you're a banker, a compliance executive, or a consumer navigating your financial journey, this episode demystifies how consumer data flows, what powers credit decisions, and how industry players are responding to growing regulatory scrutiny.📌 Topics Covered:What is the NCRA and who are its members?The difference between the “Big Three” credit bureaus and resellers/specialty agenciesHow consumer reports are created and used in the mortgage and employment industriesThe role of trade associations in shaping data policy and consumer protectionThe impact of CFPB regulations and evolving expectations around data accuracy and consumer rightsWhat bankers and consumer finance leaders need to understand about the data supply chainWhat consumers should know about how their credit and tenant reports are built and used👤 About Our Guest:Eric Ellman is the President of the National Consumer Reporting Association (NCRA). He previously served as Senior Vice President for Public Policy and Legal Affairs at the Consumer Data Industry Association (CDIA), where he led government affairs and served twice as Acting CEO. He is a veteran of the consumer reporting space and one of the country’s leading voices on data use, accuracy, and policy.🧠 Who Should Listen:Bankers and mortgage professionals seeking a deeper understanding of the consumer data pipelineCompliance and risk executives monitoring third-party data useFintech leaders building tools that rely on credit or background checksConsumers interested in understanding how their financial data is collected and used🔗 Resources Mentioned:National Consumer Reporting Association (NCRA)Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)Consumer Data Industry Association (CDIA)📣 Subscribe & Follow:If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow Financial Forward on your favorite podcast platform. Leave us a review and share this episode with colleagues and friends in the financial services industry.More from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Send us a text🔍 Episode Summary:In this unforgettable episode of Financial Forward, host Jim McCarthy reconnects with Jacob, the breakout analyst from McCarthy Hatch whose debut podcast went viral. But Jacob's talents go far beyond financial risk modeling — turns out, he was hired as Luka Dončić’s body double in the buzzy new Jordan Brand ad, ‘The Trial of Luka Dončić’.We dive into Jacob’s unexpected journey from spreadsheets to spotlights — how he landed the role, what it was like on set, and how he balances regulatory risk work with a little celebrity on the side. It’s a conversation that proves opportunity can strike anywhere — on a Zoom call or a sound stage.☕ Sponsored by:BoulevardCoffee.co We’re proudly sponsored today by Boulevard Coffee, a woman-owned coffee shop committed to bold brews and strong communities. Whether you’re building financial models or building your dream, Boulevard Coffee is here to fuel your journey. Shop online or visit in person — and tell them Financial Forward sent you.💡 Featured Topics:How Jacob's first Financial Forward episode went viralThe story behind The Trial of Luka Dončić commercialBehind the scenes of working as a body doubleBalancing analyst life and unexpected fameWhat we can learn about opportunity — in finance and beyond🎙️ About the Host:Jim McCarthy is the Chairman of McCarthy Hatch and a founding executive of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. He brings 30+ years of regulatory and consumer finance experience — and a belief that the best stories in finance are often the ones you never see coming.📢 Free Ad Space Campaign:Financial Forward offers free ad space to women-owned and protected businesses. If that’s you — or someone you know — we’d love to feature your story on a future episode. Reach out at Jim@McCarthy-Hatch.com.🔗 Episode Links:🎥 Watch The Trial of Luka Dončić commercial☕ Support today’s sponsor: Boulevard Coffee📲 Follow Us:LinkedInMcCarthy-Hatch.comMore Episodes of Financial ForwardMore from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Ian Moloney, Head of Policy & Regulatory Affairs at the American Fintech Council, discusses the vital role of fintech in consumer finance. He emphasizes the need for responsible innovation amid regulatory challenges. Ian highlights the importance of transparency and fairness to build consumer trust, particularly as the industry evolves. He also outlines key policy trends to watch for in 2025 and calls for fintech leaders to engage actively in policy discussions, ensuring the future benefits both innovators and consumers.

Send us a textIn this episode of Financial Forward, Jim McCarthy sits down with Steve Bishop, one of the leading voices in Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) and founder of Ambassador. If you're in banking, fintech, or regulatory circles—you’ve heard Steve’s name. And if you haven’t yet, you will.From humble beginnings on a gravel road in Missouri to becoming the go-to source for how BaaS should really work, Steve walks us through his unconventional career path, the transformation he led at OMB Bank, and what inspired him to launch Ambassador, a firm that’s quietly (and now loudly) reshaping the embedded finance ecosystem.This episode is a deep dive into what BaaS is, what it isn’t, and where the industry must go to stay aligned with compliance, innovation, and customer needs.🔍 What We Cover:Steve’s early roots and rise from Jack Henry to fintech founderThe hard truths about BaaS, compliance, and regulatory expectationsWhy “infrastructure” is the real story behind successful embedded financeHow Ambassador partners with banks to modernize without losing their core identityWhat’s coming next for community banks and fintech relationshipsWhy compliance must be embedded from Day One👤 About Steve BishopSteve is the founder and CEO of Ambassador, a financial technology platform purpose-built to help banks offer embedded financial services the right way. Prior to founding Ambassador, he was Chief Digital Officer at OMB Bank, where he led a full tech stack modernization and built their embedded finance division from the ground up. He’s a seasoned operator, programmer, and respected strategist in the rapidly evolving BaaS landscape.Connect with Steve on LinkedIn.🙌 Special ThanksThis episode features an ad from Mavin Communications, a woman-owned public relations firm led by Angela Nibbs. Mavin helps companies—from startups to industry giants—elevate their message and own their story. Learn more at maven-pr.com.🔗 Resources MentionedAmbassador – Banking-as-a-Service InfrastructureMavin Communications – PR with Impact🎧 Listen + SubscribeSubscribe to Financial Forward wherever you get your podcasts and never miss a conversation at the intersection of regulation, innovation, and financial fairness.More from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Send us a textIn this special Financial Forward rebroadcast, we’re sharing an essential panel discussion originally produced by The Bates Group, examining how the return of the Trump administration may reshape consumer financial protection, fintech regulation, and compliance strategies across the industry.Recorded live, this expert panel dives into the shifting regulatory landscape and what financial institutions, money services businesses, fintech firms, and crypto players should expect in the months ahead.🗣️ Featured Panelists:Eric Goldberg, Partner, Akerman LLPKathryn Tomasofsky, Executive Director, MSBABrandi Reynolds, CAMS-Audit, CCAS, Senior Managing Director, The Bates Group (Moderator)Jim McCarthy, Founder & Chair, McCarthy Hatch🔍 Key Topics:The future of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) under new political leadershipLikely regulatory rollbacks, changes to enforcement posture, and funding implicationsCompliance challenges for money transmitters, MSBs, and fintech platformsThe evolving framework for cryptocurrency and stablecoin oversightBest practices to remain compliant amid uncertainty🧁 Sponsored by:This episode is brought to you by The Blue Eyed Bakery, a woman-owned small business crafting handmade baked goods with heart. Support women-owned businesses.💡 About Financial Forward:Financial Forward is the podcast where consumer finance meets the marketplace, hosted by Jim McCarthy, Founder and Chair of McCarthy Hatch and a former founding member of the CFPB. Each episode features leading voices, real-time insights, and a shared commitment to fairness, transparency, and innovation in financial services.More from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Send us a textIn This Episode: In a departure from our usual finance and regulation discussions, this special episode of Financial Forward focuses on the emotional, financial, and personal challenges of caregiving. Whether you're a parent of a child with special needs, caring for an aging family member, or supporting a loved one through difficult times, today’s conversation is about giving yourself grace and understanding the importance of self-care.Our Guests:Mario – A devoted father and advocate who found his voice through social media while navigating the healthcare system for his son with special needs. His journey has inspired thousands to rethink the role of caregivers and fight for financial and medical transparency.Linda Straub Jones – A financial compliance expert who understands both the professional and personal sides of caregiving. Linda brings insights into how financial planning, risk management, and emotional well-being intersect for caregivers.Key Topics: ✅ The mental, emotional, and financial impact of being a caregiver ✅ Learning to advocate for your loved ones—and yourself ✅ Why self-care isn’t selfish: burnout, balance, and boundaries ✅ Financial strategies for navigating healthcare costs and support systems ✅ How financial institutions can better support caregivers and those facing medical or personal hardshipA Special Shoutout: Today’s free ad for a woman-owned business features BoulevardCoffee.co. Because sometimes, the best way to take care of yourself is to take a break, sip a great cup of coffee, and recharge.Where to Listen: 📌 Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | All Major PlatformsJoin the Conversation: If this episode spoke to you, please subscribe, share, and leave a review. And if you have a story to tell, we’d love to hear from you—reach out to continue the discussion.➡️ Let’s remember: caregiving starts with caring for ourselves, too.#CaregiverConversations#FamilyCaregivers#AutismAwareness#TouretteSyndrome#BrainTumorSupport#CaregiverSupport#MentalHealthMatters#CaringForCaregivers#ResilientFamilies #EmpowerCaregivers#NavigatingDisabilities#LivingWithAutism#TouretteTalk#BrainTumorWarriors#SupportForCaregiversMore from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Send us a textFinding Financial Success in the New Regulatory-Mandated Open BankingEpisode Description: In this special episode, we rebroadcast a panel discussion from Bank Automation Summit 2025, where industry leaders explore the evolution of embedded finance, how financial institutions can ensure modern, compliant, and seamless payment processing, and the current state of open banking compliance.This episode is brought to you in collaboration with Bank Automation News, the go-to publication for financial institutions and executives looking to stay ahead in the evolving world of banking technology.Panelists:Steve Bishop, EVP & Chief Innovation Officer, Old Missouri BankWebsite: OMB BankAnaLiza Grandner, Chief Payments Officer, First Bank of the LakeWebsite: First Bank of the LakeJim McCarthy, Founder & Chairman, McCarthy HatchWebsite: McCarthy HatchEthan Geiling, Strategic Financial Institution Partnerships Lead, PlaidWebsite: PlaidModerator:Phil Goldfeder, Chief Executive Officer, American Fintech Council Website: American Fintech CouncilTopics Covered:The evolution of embedded financeHow financial institutions can provide modern, compliant, and seamless payment processingThe current state of open banking complianceAdditional Resources:Bank Automation Summit 2025 – Learn more about the event: Bank Automation NewsBank Automation News – Stay up to date with the latest in banking technology and automation: Bank Automation NewsSponsor Message:Financial Forward and McCarthy Hatch are offering free one-minute advertising slots to women-owned and disadvantaged-owned small businesses. If you’re interested, reach out to us at [contact information].Subscribe & Stay Connected:Website: Financial Forward PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle PodcastsThank you for tuning in to Financial Forward. Stay ahead, stay informed, and we’ll see you next time!More from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Send us a text At McCarthy Hatch, we believe in lifting up voices that deserve to be heard. That’s why we’re offering free ad space on our Financial Forward podcast for women-owned and disadvantaged businesses—because supporting diverse entrepreneurs isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s the smart thing to do. This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight Boulevard Coffee, a woman-owned small business with a rich history and a passion for artisan-roasted, specialty-grade coffee. Founded by sisters Carie and Julie, Boulevard Coffee serves up smooth, clean-tasting coffee using the original Sivetz fluid bed air roaster, delivering fresh beans nationwide. We’re proud to share their story—and if you’re a woman-owned or disadvantaged business, reach out to us to share yours too! 🎙 Host: Jim McCarthy🎙 Guest: George Cook, Co-Founder & CEO of Honeycomb CreditEpisode OverviewIn this episode of Financial Forward, we sit down with George Cook, co-founder and CEO of Honeycomb Credit, a groundbreaking crowdfunding platform that enables small businesses to access capital directly from their communities. Honeycomb Credit is redefining the way small businesses raise funds by leveraging community-sourced financing, allowing everyday people to invest in local businesses they believe in.George shares his journey in launching Honeycomb Credit, the inspiration behind this community-driven lending model, and how it bridges the financing gap for small businesses. We discuss transparency, fairness, and the regulatory landscape of crowdfunding, as well as success stories of businesses that have thrived using the platform.Key Topics Discussed✔ What inspired the creation of Honeycomb Credit✔ How Honeycomb Credit differs from traditional lending and other crowdfunding platforms✔ The role of transparency and fairness in crowdfunding✔ How small businesses can leverage Honeycomb for growth✔ Challenges and regulatory hurdles in the crowdfunding industry✔ Success stories of businesses that found funding through the platform✔ The future of crowdfunding and community-based lendingWhy This Episode MattersFor Small Business Owners: If you're struggling to secure funding through traditional banks, Honeycomb Credit offers a new pathway to raise capital while strengthening your community ties.For Investors & Supporters: Learn how you can directly invest in local businesses and help them thrive while earning a return.For Financial Professionals & Regulators: Gain insights into how crowdfunding is shaping the financial landscape, including challenges and regulatory considerations.Resources & Links🔗 Learn more about Honeycomb Credit📌 Connect with George Cook on https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-cook-honeycomb/📌 Follow Financial Forward for more insights on consumer finance, innovation, and regulationListen & Subscribe🔊 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms!📢 Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to rate & review Financial Forward to help others discover the show!More from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Send us a textEpisode Summary:The Trump Administration wants to shut down the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)—a move that has divided the financial industry. Is it a necessary rollback of overreach or a dangerous erosion of consumer protections? To unpack this, Jim McCarthy sits down with Ron Shevlin, a nationally recognized expert on banking and credit unions, and Chief Research Officer at Cornerstone Advisors. Ron has spent years analyzing financial services trends, regulatory impacts, and the evolution of consumer finance. While he supports efforts to dismantle the CFPB, Jim does not—and yet, they found themselves in agreement on some surprising points.This is not your typical debate. It’s a thought-provoking conversation about how financial regulation should evolve, the role of banks and credit unions, and what this means for the future of consumer finance.What You’ll Learn:✔️ Why the Trump Administration wants to shut down the CFPB✔️ The biggest criticisms and defenses of the CFPB’s role✔️ Ron Shevlin’s expert take on how regulation impacts banks and credit unions✔️ Why Jim and Ron—despite differing views—agreed on key issues✔️ What this means for the future of financial regulationAbout Our Guest:🔹 Ron Shevlin is a nationally recognized expert in banking and credit unions, the Chief Research Officer at Cornerstone Advisors, and a frequent contributor to Forbes, where he covers the intersection of financial services, technology, and consumer behavior. Follow him on LinkedIn and Twitter (@rshevlin).Resources & Mentions:🔹 The CFPB’s enforcement history🔹 Recent regulatory challenges in banking and credit unions🔹 Ron Shevlin’s latest insights from ForbesStay Connected:💬 Follow Jim McCarthy on LinkedIn🎙️ Subscribe to Financial Forward on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more📩 Want to be featured? Contact us for free ad space for small, women-owned, and protected businessesMore from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/