

Fraud Forward
Hailey Windham
Fraud Forward is a banking-focused podcast bringing together fraud fighters, risk leaders, and financial crime experts to explore how fraud is evolving, and how financial institutions must adapt.
Each episode features practical, candid conversations with teams in the trenches, covering strategy, governance, prevention, and recovery. Rather than chasing headlines, Fraud Forward focuses on what’s working, what’s changing, and what fraud leaders need to prepare for as financial crime accelerates.
This is where banking comes together to challenge assumptions, pressure-test controls, and move fraud forward.
Each episode features practical, candid conversations with teams in the trenches, covering strategy, governance, prevention, and recovery. Rather than chasing headlines, Fraud Forward focuses on what’s working, what’s changing, and what fraud leaders need to prepare for as financial crime accelerates.
This is where banking comes together to challenge assumptions, pressure-test controls, and move fraud forward.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 27, 2025 • 41min
Passion, People, and Prevention: My Fraud-Fighting Chat with Stephanie Macrafic
In this engaging discussion, fraud prevention expert Stephanie Macrafic shares her journey from bank teller to industry speaker. She emphasizes using behavioral science to disrupt scammer tactics, focusing on emotional vulnerability. Stephanie offers practical strategies like creating moments of pause for potential victims and honing active listening skills to build trust. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration and empathy in combating fraud, providing listeners with new insights into the human element of fraud prevention.

Aug 20, 2025 • 59min
Inside the Ring: PJ Rohall on Fraud Fight Club’s Biggest Hits & What’s Next
Fraud Forward is powered by Sardine In this electrifying episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham sits down with PJ Rohall, co-founder of About Fraud & Fraud Fight Club , to unpack the knockout success of their recent "Round Two" conference. PJ gives listeners an insider's look at what it takes to organize a fraud-fighting event that breaks the mold of typical industry gatherings. From curating diverse speaker lineups to crafting an atmosphere that feels more like a high-energy boxing match than a stuffy conference, PJ reveals the strategy behind Fraud Fight Club's unique approach.Listeners will gain valuable insights into the challenges of building authentic community in the fraud prevention space, balancing serious professional content with a fun, engaging atmosphere, and empowering voices that might not typically take center stage at industry events. PJ shares candid reflections on unexpected emotional moments, logistical hurdles overcome, and lessons learned that will shape "Round Three."The conversation also dives into broader themes around burnout in fraud-fighting careers, the need for more public awareness around scams, and PJ's vision for enlisting celebrity voices as "scamfluencers" to amplify fraud prevention messages. Whether you're a fraud-fighting veteran or new to the field, this episode offers an inspiring look at how passion, creativity and community can breathe new life into the battle against financial crime. Don't miss PJ's call for speaker and music suggestions for the next Fraud Fight Club - this is your chance to help shape the future of fraud prevention gatherings!PJ ROHALL About Hailey Windham:As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees. Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size. Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/ https://www.fraudfightclub.com/https://www.about-fraud.com/

Aug 13, 2025 • 23min
From $70K Heists to Fake IDs: Fraud Fighter Takeaways You Can Use Today
Dive into the shocking world of fraud with real-life stories, including a $70,000 malware heist. Hear from victims of identity theft and learn essential strategies for protecting customers. The episode emphasizes the critical need for layered security and effective communication among financial teams. It also discusses the importance of collaboration with law enforcement and regulators in combating fraud. Gain practical tips to enhance your institution's defenses and immediately implement effective fraud prevention measures.

16 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 56min
Part 2 - Ask Us Anything: Fraud-Fighter Telethon w/ Frank Mckenna
Frank McKenna, a renowned fraud expert known as "Frank on Fraud," joins host Hailey Windham to discuss pressing topics in fraud prevention. They delve into the challenges of fostering collaboration across industries and the rising threat of personalized scam texts. Highlighting the need for a supportive culture, they share innovative ways to motivate employees in fraud prevention, including fun recognition awards. The duo also offers insights for newcomers, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and building connections in the fraud-fighting community.

Jul 30, 2025 • 12min
From Karaoke to Comments: Your Chance to Shape Fraud Policy
Fraud Forward is powered by SardineIn this eye-opening episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham dives into a critical development in the financial fraud prevention landscape. Fresh off a cruise where she performed her fraud-prevention parody of Meghan Trainor's "No," Hailey shifts gears to discuss a major opportunity for fraud professionals to shape future policy. The CFPB, NCUA, FDIC, OCC, and the Fed have issued a joint request for information, seeking input from industry experts on how to address rising threats in digital payments fraud.Hailey breaks down the key areas regulators are focusing on, including effective fraud prevention tools, barriers to data sharing, industry collaboration, consumer education, and regulatory gaps. She emphasizes the importance of credit unions and regional banks participating in this conversation, as their unique perspectives and challenges need representation. The host provides actionable advice for listeners, encouraging them to read the summary, discuss it with their teams, and submit comments before the September 18 deadline.This episode serves as a rallying cry for fraud fighters to seize this rare opportunity to influence regulatory policy directly. Hailey's passion for the subject shines through as she urges listeners to elevate each other's voices and show up "smart and aligned." Don't miss this chance to make your experience count in shaping the future of fraud prevention. Listen now and prepare to make your voice heard in this crucial industry conversation.https://americascus.widen.net/view/pdf/e03c71f0-112b-4e61-a57b-b6f8bffb6911/Interagency[…]&_hsmi=368732194&utm_content=368732194&utm_source=hs_emailAbout Hailey Windham:As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees. Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size. Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

9 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 60min
$1.2 million related to fraud with Erin O'Loughlin & Brian Svoboda-Kindle
Join Erin O'Loughlin, a Senior Director at ACFCS with extensive hands-on experience in financial crime prevention, and Brian Svoboda-Kindle, Senior VP at ACFCS, as they highlight the critical need for ongoing education and collaboration among financial crime professionals. They discuss breaking down silos between fraud and AML, the value of the Certified Financial Crime Specialist credential, and the upcoming FinCrime Virtual Week. Listeners will gain insights on innovative training methods, community involvement in combating trafficking, and evolving strategies to stay ahead of emerging threats.

Jul 16, 2025 • 39min
Part 1 - Ask Us Anything: Fraud-Fighter Telethon w/ Justin Davis and Frank Mckenna
Fraud Forward is powered by SardineIn this special Telethon episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham is joined by fraud-fighting heavyweights Frank McKenna and Justin Davis for a lively Q&A session tackling the biggest questions in fraud prevention. The episode kicks off with a surprise appearance by Karisse Hendrick, setting the tone for an informative yet entertaining discussion.Guests call in with hard-hitting questions, including how to detect synthetic identities without advanced technology, what industry pressure is being applied to P2P payment apps, and what keeps these fraud experts up at night. Frank McKenna shares his deep concerns about human trafficking in Cambodia tied to fraud operations, while Justin Davis highlights the growing threat of first-party fraud. The experts also provide practical advice on presenting fraud data effectively to stakeholders and executives.Throughout the episode, the hosts blend humor with serious insights, even fielding some prank calls along the way. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on emerging fraud trends, detection techniques, and communication strategies. Whether you're a seasoned fraud fighter or new to the field, this episode offers something for everyone.https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-davis-cfe/https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankmckenna/About Hailey Windham:As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees. Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size. Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

Jul 9, 2025 • 35min
Defending Financial Freedom with Kenny Aycock
Fraud Forward is powered by SardineIn this special 4th of July episode of Banking on Fraudology, host Hailey Windham sits down with Kenny Aycock, a trusted risk professional and manager of risk management at All South Federal Credit Union. With over two decades of experience on federal task forces investigating violent crime and gang activity, Kenny brings a unique perspective to the world of financial fraud prevention.The conversation explores Kenny's journey from law enforcement to credit union risk management, highlighting how his investigative skills translate to protecting members' financial freedom. Kenny shares insights on the biggest fraud threats facing credit unions today, including impersonation scams, online account takeovers, and elder financial abuse. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration within the industry and with law enforcement to stay ahead of evolving fraud tactics.Listeners will gain valuable advice on defending against scams, educating the community, and leading fraud-fighting teams. Kenny's passion for protecting people shines through as he discusses using cutting-edge technology alongside old-school investigative techniques. Whether you're a fraud professional or simply interested in safeguarding your finances, this episode offers an inspiring look at the critical work being done behind the scenes to preserve financial freedom. Kenny AycockAbout Hailey Windham:As a 2023 CU Rockstar Recipient, Hailey Windham, CFCS (Certified Financial Crimes Specialist) demonstrated unbounding passion for educating her community, organization and credit union membership on scams in the market and best practices to avoid them. She has implemented several programs within her previous organizations that aim at holistically learning about how to prevent and detect fraud targeted at membership and employees. Windham’s initiatives to build strong relationships and partnerships throughout the credit union community and industry experts have led to countless success stories. Her applied knowledge of payments system programs combined with her experience in fraud investigations offers practical concepts that are transferable, no matter the organization’s size. Connect with Hailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-windham/

7 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 41min
From Cannabis Banking to Cyber Risk: Inside CU Risk Ops with Bryan Watkinson
Bryan Watkinson, a risk management expert from Affinity Federal Credit Union, dives into the world of fraud prevention and cannabis banking. He shares insights from his engaging 'Fraud Friday' social media posts, designed to simplify complex fraud topics. The conversation highlights the challenges of managing various risks, including cybersecurity and check fraud, while maintaining a calm, steady approach. Bryan emphasizes the importance of community involvement and transparency in fostering a strong risk culture, even sharing his hands-on leadership philosophy of connecting with team members over donuts.

6 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 55min
Banking on Fraudology E56 - WTF, Seriously — Why the U.S. is Falling Behind in the Fight Against Fraud - with Matt O’Neill
In this engaging discussion, Matt O'Neill, a 25-year veteran of the U.S. Secret Service and cybercrime expert, reveals America’s shortcomings in combating fraud. He emphasizes the urgent need for better information sharing and collaboration between law enforcement and financial institutions. O'Neill critiques outdated systems like 314A and 314B while highlighting how other countries are innovating faster in fraud prevention. He advocates for a national anti-scam center and calls for increased funding for training local law enforcement to tackle the growing threat of financial crime.


