
Financial Forward: The Future of Consumer Finance & Banking
The Financial Forward podcast dives deep into the world of consumer finance, banking regulation, and financial technology. Hosted by Jim McCarthy, a founding member of the CFPB and a leading expert in financial regulation and risk management, this podcast unpacks the latest trends shaping the financial industry.Each episode features insightful conversations with top industry leaders, breaking down credit card policies, fintech innovations, CFPB regulations, banking compliance, and financial consumer protection. Whether you're a banking executive, fintech entrepreneur, compliance officer, or consumer advocate, Financial Forward keeps you ahead of the curve.🔹 Topics We Cover:✅ Consumer Finance & Banking Trends✅ CFPB Regulations & Enforcement Actions✅ Financial Technology (FinTech) & Innovation✅ Credit Cards, Loans, & Consumer Protection✅ Compliance, Risk Management & AI in Finance🔔 Subscribe now and stay informed on the future of consumer finance! Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.👉 Follow Jim McCarthy on LinkedIn for exclusive insights and updates!
Latest episodes

Dec 6, 2024 • 30min
Behind the Vault - Rebroadcast
Send us a textShow Notes: Financial Forward – Rebroadcast of Behind the VaultEpisode Title: The Future of Banking: Listening to Customers, Leveraging Data, and Ensuring StabilityEpisode Description: In this special rebroadcast of Behind the Vault, Jim McCarthy dives into a powerful conversation about the state of the financial industry and where it’s headed. The discussion explores:How large banks have lost their ability to truly listen to customers.The critical role real-time data plays in understanding and responding to customer needs.Why the stability and strength of traditional banking will become even more important as the fintech industry evolves.Packed with insights for anyone curious about the intersection of technology, customer experience, and banking stability, this episode is a must-listen for industry professionals, banking leaders, and consumers alike.Key Takeaways:Real-time customer data is essential for staying responsive and relevant in the financial industry.Large banks must re-establish their focus on listening to their customers to regain trust.As fintech continues to grow, traditional banking’s stability will remain a reliable foundation for customers seeking security.Resources Mentioned:Behind the Vault Podcast – Explore more episodes highlighting the voices of community banking leaders.Subscribe and Connect: Don’t forget to subscribe to Financial Forward for more episodes exploring the latest trends in consumer finance. Follow us on LinkedIn or visit our website at FinancialForwardPodcast.com to stay updated.Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Share your feedback or connect with us on social media to keep the discussion going.Thank you for listening, and let’s keep moving financial forward!More from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Nov 28, 2024 • 42min
Bridging Financial Health and Innovation: A Conversation with Keshava Dasarathy
Send us a textIn this episode of Financial Forward, host Jim McCarthy talks with Keshava Dasarathy, Founder of Finvizia, about the consumer journey in financial services and how firms can go beyond providing products to fostering financial health. Keshava shares his extensive experience in leadership roles at Fannie Mae, Capital One, and Boston Consulting Group to offer actionable insights into customer success, digital transformation, and strategy.Together, they discuss how organizations can build trust, drive customer engagement, and transform the way financial products and services are delivered, creating lasting value for consumers.Key Topics Covered:The challenges consumers face in achieving financial health.Strategies financial firms can adopt to enhance customer success.Innovations in digital transformation and customer engagement.The importance of addressing consumers' broader financial needs.Real-world examples of consumer-centric financial solutions.Guest: Keshava Dasarathy Founder of Finvizia, Adjunct Professor at NYU Stern School of Business, and former leader at Fannie Mae and Capital One.More from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Nov 19, 2024 • 31min
The Future of Financial Risk Management with FSAi (Part 2)
Send us a textIn Part 2 of this special series, Jim McCarthy, Asaf Buchner, and JP continue the conversation on the transformative power of real-time data in financial regulation. They discuss how the regulatory landscape is shifting, and what this means for banks looking to stay compliant while managing risk effectively. This episode goes deeper into the strategies financial institutions can use to navigate the evolving landscape with confidence. Episode Highlights:- [00:00 - 02:00] Recap and Introduction Jim provides a brief recap of Episode 1 and sets the stage for a more in-depth discussion in Part 2. - [02:01 - 10:00] Real-Time Signals from the CFPB Asaf and JP dive into how the CFPB's use of real-time data is changing the dynamics of regulatory oversight, and what this means for banks. - [10:01 - 18:00] How FSAi Helps Banks Stay Ahead The team discusses specific case studies and examples of how the FSAi model has predicted regulatory risks before they became enforcement issues. - [18:01 - 21:00] The Role of Transparency in Risk Management JP highlights the importance of transparency and how tools like FSAi support clearer communication between banks and regulators. - [21:01 - 23:00] Final Takeaways and Next Steps Jim wraps up the series with a summary of key points and encourages listeners to implement real-time compliance strategies. Thank you for joining us on this journey through the future of financial risk management. If you enjoyed this series, please leave us a review and share it with your network. Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, and all major platforms for more episodes exploring the cutting edge of financial services.More from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Nov 18, 2024 • 30min
The Future of Financial Risk Management with FSAi (Part 1)
Send us a textIn this episode of Financial Forward, Jim McCarthy sits down with Asaf Buchner, CEO of McCarthy Hatch, and JP, lead strategist, to explore how financial institutions are embracing 21st-century regulatory technology. They dive into the groundbreaking FSAi model and how real-time data analysis is helping banks stay ahead of regulatory risks. If you want to know how the game is changing in compliance, this episode is a must-listen! Episode Highlights:- [00:00 - 04:00] Welcome to Financial Forward Jim introduces the podcast and sets the stage for a deep dive into real-time risk management with the FSAi model. - [04:01 - 07:30] The Shift to Real-Time Data Discussion on how regulatory agencies like the CFPB are evolving, using real-time data instead of relying on outdated historical information. - [07:31 - 15:00] Introducing FSAi: A New Approach to Compliance Asaf Buchner shares how the FSAi model provides proactive insights, predicting regulatory risks before they escalate. - [15:01 - 20:00] Bridging the Gap Between Regulators and Financial Institutions JP explains how McCarthy Hatch is helping banks adapt to the new expectations of a 21st-century regulator. - [20:01 - 23:00] Closing Thoughts & Teaser for Episode 2 Jim wraps up the episode and teases the deeper dive into regulatory strategies in Part 2. Subscribe to Financial Forward on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to catch Episode 2, where we continue the conversation with even more insights!More from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Nov 7, 2024 • 35min
The Evolution of Consumer Protection in Debt Collection with Abbas Kazerounian
Send us a textIn this episode of Financial Forward, host Jim McCarthy is joined by Abbas Kazerounian Esquire, a leading attorney in consumer protection and co-founder of Kazerouni Law Group. They discuss the challenges, stories, and recent developments in consumer finance, focusing on the impact of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) on the debt collection industry. Abbas shares his insights on the CFPB's role in cleaning up bad practices, the importance of data in consumer protection litigation, and ongoing issues in consumer finance such as identity theft and peer-to-peer payment fraud. The conversation provides a comprehensive look at the intersection of regulation, legal practice, and consumer advocacy.00:00 Introduction to Financial Forward01:02 Meet Abbas Kazerounian: Consumer Protection Attorney02:35 The Role of Data in Consumer Protection04:13 Impact of CFPB on Debt Collection08:43 Regulation F and Enforcement Timelines12:36 The Future of Debt Collection16:56 Subprime Credit Cards: A Deep Dive20:37 Credit Lawsuits in California21:01 Default Judgments and Debt Collection21:47 Consumer Finance Focus Areas23:14 Credit Reporting and Identity Theft23:48 Data Breaches and Identity Theft Epidemic25:02 Legal Actions and Consumer Rights27:52 Peer-to-Peer Payments and Regulation32:23 Advice for Identity Theft Victims33:56 Conclusion and Contact InformationMore from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Oct 31, 2024 • 42min
A Legacy of Advocacy: Mira Marshall's Impact on Financial Regulation
Send us a textIn this episode of Financial Forward, host Jim welcomes Mira Marshall, a distinguished attorney and founding member of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Mira shares her journey from her formative years to her significant role in establishing the CFPB's Supervision Division. The discussion touches on her achievements in consumer financial protection, the challenges she faced, and the vital role of supervision and examination in ensuring consumer fairness. They also delve into the importance of consumer complaints in shaping regulatory actions and the evolution of financial protections in today's marketplace.00:00 Introduction to Financial Forward01:21 Mira Marshall's Formative Years02:06 Early Career and Education04:00 Joining the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau05:47 Challenges and Achievements at the CFPB09:11 Supervision and Examination Insights27:01 The Importance of Consumer Complaints30:37 Advice for First-Time Examinees39:18 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsMore from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Oct 24, 2024 • 55min
MOCAFI’s Vision for Financial Justice: Wole Coaxum on Empowering Underbanked Communities
Send us a textIn this episode of Financial Forward, we explore the transformative efforts of Wole Coaxum, founder of Mobility Capital Finance (MOCAFI), in tackling financial exclusion among underbanked and unbanked Americans. Motivated by events like Ferguson, Missouri, Coaxum embarked on a mission to create a digital banking platform that champions economic equity and fights racial wealth disparity. We discuss innovative solutions like municipal ID cards, the evolving role of technology in banking, and the support provided to asylum seekers in New York. The episode covers partnerships with values-driven banks, overcoming regulatory challenges, and promoting community education and small business support. With insights into fintech-bank collaborations and ethical business practices, this conversation underscores the push towards a more inclusive and equitable financial system.00:00 Introduction to Wole Coaxum and MOCAFI01:59 Wole Coaxum's Early Career and Motivation07:20 The Birth of MOCAFI and Its Mission11:41 Challenges and Innovations in Serving the Underbanked21:21 MOCAFI's Strategic Partnerships and Community Impact26:31 Future Plans and Expansion Strategies30:33 Addressing Fraud and Disputes in Financial Services33:57 The Role of Sunrise Bank in Our Operations36:46 Challenges and Opportunities in Small Business Lending38:56 Scaling and Expanding Our Services41:54 The Importance of Compliance and Consumer Protection48:17 Reflections on Leaving JPMorgan Chase50:43 Envisioning Ethical Financial Services52:55 Closing Remarks and Future OutlookMore from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Oct 17, 2024 • 25min
Financial Watchdog: A Dive into CFPB’s Complaint Mechanism [LinkedIn Live: Part 1]
Send us a textIn this comprehensive episode of Financial Forward, host Jim is joined by Camie Keilen, a senior executive with extensive compliance risk management experience, to explore the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's (CFPB) Complaints Enterprise. The discussion traces the program's origins following the 2008 mortgage crisis, addresses the evolution of consumer complaint handling, and examines the practical challenges faced by financial institutions in meeting strict CFPB regulations. Key topics include the introduction of a public complaints portal, response and tracking expectations, and policy changes that foster better consumer complaint management. The episode provides listeners with a deep dive into the cultural shifts and collaborations essential for navigating the complexities of the CFPB's complaint process.00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement02:17 Cammie Kylan's Background and Experience04:13 The Importance of Consumer Complaints05:58 The Birth of the CFPB Complaint System07:49 Challenges and Reactions from Financial Institutions10:21 Implementing Effective Complaint Management11:16 Defining Complaints: A Cultural Shift13:21 CFPB's Impact on Complaint Handling15:36 The 15-Day Response Challenge16:52 Interim Responses: A Necessary Compromise20:33 Publicizing Complaint Data22:10 Evolving Relief Categories24:26 Conclusion and Teaser for Part 2More from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Oct 17, 2024 • 35min
From Complaints to Compliance: How Data Shapes Financial Institutions & CFPB Power [LinkedIn Live Part 2]
Send us a textIn this episode of Financial Forward, hosts Camie Keilen and Jim delve into the evolution and impact of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's (CFPB) data-driven complaints enterprise. They discuss the transformation of regulatory practices through complaint data, the role of evolving taxonomies, and the proactive use of data to tackle regulatory challenges. The episode also covers the differences in enforcement approaches, highlighting how AI and technologies aid in real-time complaint analysis, and the importance of timely, independent data analysis for banks. Reflecting on the early days of the CFPB, the hosts share insights on the serious approach towards complaint investigations and the integration of customer complaints into compliance programs, emphasizing strategies for regulatory compliance and customer satisfaction.00:00 Introduction to CFPB's Complaints Enterprise01:05 The Role of Data in Financial Complaints04:20 CFPB's Impact on Financial Institutions06:45 Regulatory Change Management Insights11:39 Challenges in Complaint Response17:47 The Value of Real-Time Data Analysis18:16 AI in Financial Institutions: Opportunities and Challenges19:54 Outsourcing Data Analysis: A Strategic Move21:33 The Lag in Complaint Analysis24:45 The Role of Customer Inquiries26:16 Special Handling Channels and Crossover Rates27:32 The CFPB's Investigation Process33:26 Reflections and Takeaways34:30 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsMore from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/

Sep 26, 2024 • 33min
Overcoming Obstacles: Jacob's Neurodivergent Employment Journey
Send us a textIn this special episode of Financial Forward, Jim McCarthy is joined by family-friend Jacob to discuss their individual experiences navigating employment and the workplace with as someone with Autism.Jim reflects on his own experiences trying to fit into a corporate world as someone with autism, and Jacob shares stories of employment challenges he's faced. Jim highlights the importance of creating work environments that are optimal for neurodivergent individuals.Key Topics Discussed:00:00 Introduction to Autism in the Workplace01:26 Meet Jacob: A Personal Journey04:46 Early Life and School Experiences12:55 Navigating the Workplace25:11 Pursuing a Passion for Acting29:51 Final Thoughts and EncouragementMore from Jim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccarthyhatch/https://www.mccarthy-hatch.com/
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