Episode Topic: In this episode, Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Danielle Hayden, founder of Kickstart Accounting, to discuss how entrepreneurs can achieve financial confidence. Having spent a decade as a CFO, Danielle recognized the gap in financial literacy among small business owners and established Kickstart Accounting to provide comprehensive bookkeeping and accounting services with a personal touch. The conversation delves into the importance of understanding your business finances beyond tax benefits, instead focusing on sustainable growth and goal achievement. Danielle sheds light on how small business owners can use their financial data to make impactful decisions that drive their companies forward. With a unique approach, Danielle empowers entrepreneurs, particularly women, by helping them harness financial tools to grow and succeed. Listeners will discover how a proactive stance on financial management can help them reach milestones and avoid common pitfalls. This episode is essential for business owners looking to elevate their financial strategy with insights from someone who has transformed small business finances. Lessons You’ll Learn Danielle shares her approach to financial management, highlighting why viewing your business finances holistically is vital to sustainable growth. Listeners will learn why simply treating business expenses as tax deductions limits potential and how making informed financial decisions is key to achieving business goals. Danielle’s insights into how small businesses can use financial reviews and metrics to make better choices underscore the value of ongoing financial education. You'll also learn why Danielle is passionate about helping women entrepreneurs thrive in a historically male-dominated field. She emphasizes the importance of having a “money team” and creating an environment where business owners can confidently celebrate financial wins and navigate challenges. Through her experience, Danielle teaches entrepreneurs to manage their finances with confidence and clarity. About Our Guest Danielle Hayden is a former CFO and the founder of Kickstart Accounting, a bookkeeping firm that goes beyond traditional accounting services. Danielle and her team at Kickstart Accounting support entrepreneurs in understanding and managing their finances from a holistic standpoint. As the host of the "Business by the Books" podcast, she provides practical financial insights to her listeners, equipping them with the tools needed to succeed. With over a decade of experience, Danielle has helped countless business owners gain clarity on their financial goals and build sustainable businesses. Passionate about financial education, Danielle particularly enjoys helping women entrepreneurs overcome common barriers in finance. She advocates for a judgment-free approach, creating a supportive environment where clients feel empowered to ask questions and celebrate their successes. Her work at Kickstart Accounting reflects her dedication to transforming the way business owners engage with their financial health. Topics Covered In this episode, Danielle and Kevin discuss the various ways small business owners can enhance their financial literacy and make decisions that align with their long-term goals. Topics include the difference between tax-centric spending and growth-driven spending, as well as the challenges entrepreneurs face when navigating their finances. Danielle explains how understanding and analyzing financial data can lead to informed decision-making, helping entrepreneurs grow their businesses responsibly. The conversation also covers the importance of building a trustworthy financial team and why an environment of open communication is essential for success. Danielle shares her hiring insights, her philosophy on mentorship, and how Kickstart Accounting creates a unique culture centered on passion and client success. By the end of the episode, listeners will have a deeper appreciation for how financial knowledge can lead to empowered entrepreneurship.  

Episode Topic: In this episode of Pay Pod, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Vignan Velivela, CEO and co-founder of A to B, a company transforming the trucking and transportation industry through modern payment solutions. They discuss how outdated financial systems in trucking—dating back to the 1980s—have created inefficiencies that impact drivers, fleet operators, and ultimately, the consumer. A to B’s mission is to enable immediate payments, fuel rewards, and fraud prevention solutions for drivers and delivery companies. Vignan shares insights into the trucking sector’s challenges and its heavy reliance on outdated financial systems. By modernizing payments and providing same-day options, A to B aims to streamline operations in the logistics industry, making it more efficient and cost-effective. Tune in to learn how innovations in fleet technology are driving positive change in a vital sector of the economy.     Lessons You’ll Learn Listeners will discover how modernizing financial systems in trucking can benefit everyone involved, from truck drivers to fleet operators. Vignan dives into the core issues, including delayed payments and the significant cost of fuel, and how A to B’s technology addresses these challenges. He explains how introducing same-day payments can save trucking companies money and eliminate inefficiencies. Vignan also discusses fraud prevention and how A to B uses advanced technologies to ensure that fuel purchases are secure and aligned with business needs. The episode provides valuable insights for anyone interested in fintech, logistics, or the future of payments in the transportation industry.     About Our Guest Vignan Velivela is the CEO and co-founder of A to B, a fintech company dedicated to transforming the financial landscape for trucking and transportation. With a background in electronic engineering and economics from India, Vignan moved to the U.S. to further his studies in autonomous vehicles at Carnegie Mellon University. He gained experience at Cruise Automation, working on self-driving car technology, before launching A to B in 2019. His vision for A to B focuses on improving the trucking industry by providing faster payment solutions and fraud prevention tools. Vignan’s expertise spans payment systems, fuel optimization, and logistics. He is passionate about creating innovative financial services that help small businesses in the transportation sector thrive.     Topics Covered In this episode, Kevin and Vignan explore a variety of topics, including the challenges of modernizing trucking payments, the importance of fuel efficiency, and how A to B prevents fraud in fuel transactions. Vignan shares his journey from launching a fintech company in India to working on NASA’s lunar rover project at Carnegie Mellon, illustrating his deep commitment to solving complex technological problems. Listeners will also hear about the logistics industry’s future, with insights into autonomous trucking, electric vehicles, and the potential for fleet electrification. With Vignan’s expertise in payments and fleet management, this episode provides a comprehensive look at how technology is reshaping the trucking and transportation industry.  

Episode Topic: In this episode of Paypod, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Marshall Greenwald, the founder and CEO of Ionia, to discuss how he's transforming the payments industry by cutting out middlemen and speeding up merchant transactions. Marshall shares his journey from working in banking to becoming a fintech entrepreneur, and how Ionia is disrupting the traditional payments process that has remained largely unchanged for decades. The conversation dives deep into how businesses can benefit from faster payments, reduced fraud risks, and more direct connections with consumers. With a focus on eliminating the barriers between merchants and customers, this episode explores the future of fintech. By leveraging AI and advanced technology, Marshall Greenwald is not only changing the way payments are processed but also solving critical issues like merchant cash shortfalls. His insights on the future of payments highlight how innovation is reshaping the landscape, especially for small and medium-sized businesses facing inflationary pressures and delayed settlements.     Lessons You’ll Learn Listeners will gain valuable insights into how fintech innovations are addressing long-standing issues in the payments industry. Marshall explains the challenges merchants face with delayed payments and fraud and how Ionia's platform offers a solution by providing instant, secure transactions with no risk of fraud. You'll learn how cutting out middlemen and reducing transaction complexity can significantly benefit businesses by improving cash flow and reducing costs. Moreover, Marshall offers a unique perspective on the evolving fintech landscape, showing how technology like AI is being used to prevent fraud in real-time. He emphasizes the importance of adopting cutting-edge payment systems, particularly in an era where consumers demand fast, seamless, and secure transaction experiences.     About Our Guest Marshall Greenwald is the founder and CEO of Ionia, a fintech company revolutionizing the payments industry by simplifying the transaction process between merchants and consumers. With over 20 years of experience in the payments sector, Marshall initially started his career in banking before pursuing entrepreneurship. His passion for helping small businesses and his dissatisfaction with the inefficiencies he observed in traditional payment systems led him to create Ionia nearly a decade ago. Under his leadership, Ionia has grown from a small startup to a platform processing over $10 million monthly in its beta phase. Marshall’s innovative approach leverages AI and advanced technology to address long-standing issues like payment delays, fraud, and the high costs associated with multiple intermediaries. His vision for the future of payments is focused on creating faster, more secure, and more direct connections between merchants and consumers.     Topics Covered How Marshall Greenwald’s journey from banking led to the founding of Ionia The inefficiencies of traditional payment systems and how Ionia is disrupting the industry The role of AI in preventing fraud and enhancing transaction security The impact of cutting out middlemen and speeding up payments on businesses The importance of cash flow for small and medium-sized enterprises, especially in times of inflation Predictions for the future of fintech, including innovations in payment processing and consumer financing The rise of "Buy Now, Pay Later" options and how they are reshaping consumer behavior  

Episode Topic In this episode of Pay Pod, host Kevin Rosenqvist chats with Jay Sanderson, Senior Manager of Digital Experience and Product Marketing at Progress. With over two decades of experience in the tech world, Jay offers deep insights into how businesses can transform their digital experiences to meet evolving user expectations. The conversation dives into how Progress has stayed relevant for 40 years, its role in shaping user interfaces, and the importance of creating seamless digital experiences for customers. Jay also shares his perspective on how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the way we interact with technology, with a particular focus on improving user experience (UX) across platforms. Lessons You’ll Learn Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of the difference between user experience (UX) and digital experience (DX) and why both are critical in today's tech landscape. Jay shares how businesses can leverage AI to create hyper-personalized, intuitive interfaces that streamline customer interactions. You’ll also learn how legacy companies can modernize their systems to stay competitive, and how AI-powered decision-making tools are changing customer service. Whether you're a developer, marketer, or business leader, Jay’s insights will equip you with practical strategies to enhance your company’s digital transformation efforts. About Our Guest Jay Sanderson is the Senior Manager of Digital Experience and Product Marketing at Progress, a company that has been at the forefront of database technology and digital transformation for over 40 years. With a background in AI and tech development, Jay has a passion for improving user experiences across various digital platforms. His career has spanned decades of innovations in user interfaces, digital commerce, and application development, and he is particularly interested in how AI can be leveraged to create more personalized and efficient digital experiences. Before joining Progress, Jay worked as a developer, honing his expertise in crafting seamless, intuitive user interactions. Topics Covered Throughout this engaging episode, Jay and Kevin discuss a wide range of topics, starting with the history of Progress and its evolution from a database technology company into a leader in digital transformation. They also delve into the crucial role that AI plays in modernizing the digital experience, covering AI chatbots, generative AI, and decision automation. Jay explains the importance of hyper-personalization in UX, providing real-world examples of how businesses can integrate these technologies to create smoother, more effective customer journeys. Finally, they touch on the future of AI in the fintech space, comparing it to revolutionary technologies like the internet and smartphones.  

Episode Topic In this episode of PayPod, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Arnold Hsu, the CEO and co-founder of G Reminders, a scheduling and automation platform designed to help financial advisors and fintech companies optimize their workflow. Arnold shares his journey from electrical engineering to becoming a serial entrepreneur and discusses the growing role of automation in fintech. With over two decades of experience in the payments and tech industries, Arnold offers insights into how businesses can save time and boost productivity through automated scheduling, meeting follow-ups, and CRM integrations. This episode dives deep into how G Reminders is reshaping the way financial professionals handle day-to-day operations, offering valuable tools for efficiency. Lessons You’ll Learn Listeners will learn about the power of automation and how it can streamline business operations, particularly for financial advisors and fintech professionals. Arnold Hsu explains the advantages of using G Reminders to reduce time spent on administrative tasks such as scheduling meetings, client correspondence, and follow-ups. You’ll also hear about how automation technology can enhance customer experience and increase business efficiency. This episode provides practical advice on how to leverage automation for business growth, including insights into the role of AI in optimizing workflows and creating seamless user experiences. About Our Guest Arnold Hsu is the CEO and co-founder of G Reminders, a scheduling and automation platform that integrates with existing calendars and CRMs to help financial advisors save time and improve efficiency. With a background in electrical engineering and a passion for problem-solving, Arnold has founded four companies and established himself as a serial entrepreneur in the tech industry. G Reminders is his latest venture, aimed at streamlining processes for financial teams. Arnold’s deep understanding of both technology and business allows him to create tools that offer real, actionable results for clients, particularly in the fintech and financial services space. Topics Covered In this episode, Kevin and Arnold explore a range of topics, starting with Arnold’s entrepreneurial journey and how he transitioned from engineering to tech startups. They dive into the importance of customer experience in fintech, and how G Reminders focuses on automating workflows for financial advisors. The conversation also covers the evolution of software as a service (SaaS), the growing need for integration between systems, and the impact of artificial intelligence on business productivity. Additionally, Arnold shares insights into the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, offering valuable advice for those looking to streamline their business operations through automation.  

Episode Topic: In this episode of Pay Pod, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Eitan Koter, founder of Vimmi, to discuss the future of e-commerce through the lens of video. Eitan shares how Vimmi has transformed the way businesses engage with their customers by creating shoppable video experiences. From live shopping events to seamless integration with social platforms like TikTok, Eitan dives into how video is revolutionizing the digital commerce landscape. As the use of video becomes essential in driving sales and boosting brand loyalty, this episode uncovers the strategies businesses need to stay ahead in the evolving e-commerce space. The conversation covers how video is poised to take over e-commerce and why it’s becoming a must-have tool for brands. With insights on AI, short-form videos, and live shopping, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways for marketers looking to harness the power of video in the digital age. Lessons You’ll Learn In this episode, you'll learn how video is reshaping the world of e-commerce and why it’s key to driving customer engagement and loyalty. Eitan explains how shoppable videos increase conversions by allowing customers to interact with products directly within the video. He also discusses the importance of authenticity, especially during live shopping events, and why having the right host can make or break an event. You'll also gain insights into how AI is simplifying video content creation, making it more accessible for brands of all sizes. From enhancing customer support with video to leveraging platforms like TikTok and Instagram for social commerce, this episode provides valuable lessons on how to effectively integrate video into your marketing strategy. About Our Guest Eitan Koter is the founder of Vimmi, a cutting-edge platform that helps businesses create shoppable video experiences. With over a decade of experience in video technology, Eitan has been at the forefront of the video e-commerce revolution. He recognized early on the potential of video in driving engagement and sales and has since helped numerous brands connect with their audiences through interactive video content. Vimmi’s platform has been a game-changer for brands looking to leverage video in their marketing and sales strategies. Eitan’s deep knowledge of video technology, combined with his innovative approach to e-commerce, makes him a thought leader in the industry. His vision for the future of e-commerce is rooted in the belief that video will continue to drive customer interactions and fuel the growth of online retail. Topics Covered This episode covers a wide range of topics related to video in e-commerce. Eitan and Kevin explore how video is becoming a central part of social commerce, particularly on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. They discuss the rise of live shopping events and how brands can use these events to build loyalty and drive sales. The importance of authenticity in video content, especially in live streams, is also highlighted, as is the role of AI in streamlining video creation. The conversation also touches on generational trends, revealing how Millennials and Gen X dominate video-based e-commerce spending. Eitan shares insights on how shoppable videos are transforming consumer behavior, the future of live shopping, and why video is a must-have tool for marketers today.  

Episode Topic In this episode of Pay Pad, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Andre F., CEO and co-founder of Incognia, to explore the future of mobile identity solutions and digital security. The conversation dives deep into the concept of location intelligence, a cutting-edge method for enhancing user security without compromising on user experience. Andre explains how analyzing device behavior and location patterns can help distinguish legitimate users from fraudsters, offering a seamless yet secure experience for app users. This discussion also touches on the limitations of traditional security measures, like two-factor authentication (2FA), and highlights the potential of real-time user recognition to improve both safety and usability. The episode further explores the challenges and opportunities in the evolving landscape of fintech and digital payments. Andre shares his insights on the need for innovation in security measures, especially as real-time payments become more prevalent. He also discusses the importance of transparency and user education in building trust in new technologies. Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of how companies can strike the delicate balance between robust security protocols and maintaining a smooth user experience in today’s fast-paced digital environment. Lessons You’ll Learn Listeners of this episode will learn about the innovative strategies employed by Incognia to enhance mobile security and reduce fraud. Andre F. explains the importance of location intelligence in the fintech sector, providing insights into how this technology can identify suspicious activities and prevent unauthorized access without creating friction for the user. You will discover why traditional methods like SMS-based two-factor authentication are increasingly viewed as inadequate and how modern solutions can provide superior protection. Additionally, Andre shares valuable lessons for entrepreneurs in the tech space, discussing the critical importance of resilience and adaptability in business. He emphasizes that while technology and innovation are essential, understanding customer behavior and maintaining a transparent relationship are equally important for success. This episode is packed with actionable advice for both fintech professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs who want to stay ahead in a competitive market. About Our Guest Andre F. is the CEO and co-founder of Incognia, a leading provider of mobile identity solutions designed to enhance security and streamline user experience. With a background in computer science and extensive experience in the tech industry, Andre initially started as a tech enthusiast but found his niche in bridging the gap between technology and business. His expertise lies in translating complex business problems into tech solutions, making him a key figure in the fintech community. Andre's innovative approach to leveraging location intelligence for fraud prevention has positioned Incognia at the forefront of mobile security technology. Apart from his professional endeavors, Andre is also a mentor with Endeavor, a nonprofit organization that supports high-impact entrepreneurs. Having benefited from mentorship early in his career, he now dedicates time to guiding the next generation of tech entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of resilience, creativity, and strategic thinking in overcoming business challenges. His unique blend of technical know-how and business acumen makes him a compelling voice in discussions around digital security and entrepreneurship. Topics Covered This episode covers a range of topics centered around digital security, fraud prevention, and fintech innovation. Key topics include the limitations of traditional security measures, such as SMS-based two-factor authentication, and the advantages of using more advanced techniques like zero-factor authentication. Andre F. explains how location intelligence and device recognition can create a seamless, secure user experience, highlighting the critical role of these technologies in protecting sensitive information without adding unnecessary complexity for the user.    

Episode Topic In this episode of Paypod, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with John Tucker, a seasoned expert in the payments and fintech industry with over 17 years of experience. Currently with National Secure Transport (NST), John discusses the complex world of cash management, armored transportation, and the unique challenges of serving high-risk industries like cannabis. The episode dives deep into the logistics of moving large sums of cash securely and efficiently, highlighting the importance of innovative solutions like smart safes and cashless ATMs. As the cannabis industry grows, John explains how NST helps businesses navigate regulatory complexities, ensuring both safety and compliance. Lessons You’ll Learn Listeners will gain valuable insights into the intricacies of cash management in high-risk sectors, such as cannabis retail, where traditional banking options are limited. John Tucker shares his expertise on the benefits of smart safes and cashless ATMs, which streamline cash handling and reduce risks of theft. Additionally, you'll learn about the importance of compliance and how innovative financial technologies can create safer, more efficient cash transport systems. The episode also touches on the broader trends in fintech, such as embedded payments and the evolving landscape of digital transactions, providing a comprehensive understanding of modern cash management solutions. About Our Guest John Tucker is a veteran of the payments and fintech industry, boasting over 17 years of experience in various roles, from managing high-risk merchant accounts to providing secure transportation for high-value cargo. As a leading figure at National Secure Transport (NST), John plays a pivotal role in developing strategies for secure cash transportation and innovative payment solutions. His background in merchant services and his work with cannabis-related businesses make him a unique authority on navigating the complexities of high-risk sectors. John's passion for fintech and commitment to innovation have been instrumental in helping NST become a significant player in the armored transportation market. Topics Covered This episode covers a range of topics essential for anyone interested in the fintech and payments landscape. Key discussions include the logistics of armored cash transport, especially in the cannabis industry, where federal regulations pose unique challenges. John Tucker explains the different levels of cash management, from basic cash-in-transit services to advanced smart safe solutions that automate the cash handling process. Other topics include the use of cashless ATMs in dispensaries, the impact of the Safe Banking Act on cannabis businesses, and the broader implications of fintech innovations on cash management and security. Whether you’re a retailer, a financial professional, or a fintech enthusiast, this episode provides valuable insights into secure cash handling and payment technologies  

EpisodeTopic                                                                                                    In this episode of Pay Pod, host Kevin Rosenqvist sits down with Will Sealy, co-founder and CEO of Summer, to explore the complexities of the student loan crisis in the United States. With a staggering $1.7 trillion in student debt affecting 45 million Americans, Sealy shares insights on how his company is tackling this issue head-on. The discussion delves into the broken systems that have led to skyrocketing college costs, the impact of student debt on individuals and families, and how Summer is providing innovative solutions through employer partnerships and government programs. If you're grappling with student loans or concerned about future education costs, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice. Lessons You’ll Learn Listeners will gain a deep understanding of the current state of the student loan system and why it's considered one of the most broken financial systems in America. Will Sealy shares actionable insights on how borrowers can navigate this challenging landscape, including tips on accessing government loan forgiveness programs, understanding income-driven repayment plans, and leveraging employer benefits to reduce debt. The episode also highlights the importance of preventative measures, such as early financial planning for college costs, and how these strategies can alleviate the long-term burden of student loans. Whether you're a student, parent, or employer, the lessons from this episode will equip you with the tools to manage and mitigate the impact of student debt. About Our Guest Will Sealy is a seasoned expert in student loan policy with extensive experience working in government and the private sector. Before founding Summer, Sealy served in the Obama White House and worked alongside Senator Elizabeth Warren, gaining firsthand experience in tackling financial crises and advocating for student loan reform. His passion for social entrepreneurship and helping others has been a driving force throughout his career, from creating safe ride programs in college to co-founding a young professionals board for the DC Central Kitchen. As the CEO of Summer, Sealy is dedicated to simplifying the student loan repayment process and making higher education more accessible for everyone. Topics Covered This episode covers a wide range of topics related to student loans and the broader financial system. Kevin Rosenqvist and Will Sealy discuss the root causes of the student debt crisis, including the rising costs of college education and the impact of state budget cuts on tuition. They also explore the role of government programs in providing relief to borrowers, the benefits of employer-sponsored student loan assistance, and the future of higher education costs. Additionally, Sealy shares his personal journey into social entrepreneurship and how his experiences have shaped his approach to solving complex financial issues. Whether you're interested in student loans, public policy, or fintech innovations, this episode has something for everyone.  

Episode Topic In this episode of Pay Pod, host Kevin Rosenquist welcomes Bentzi Aviv, the Global Head of Fintech Solutions at Amdocs. With over 20 years of experience, Bentzi shares his journey from a software engineer to his current leadership role. The conversation delves into his insights on work-life balance, the evolving role of technology in financial services, and the importance of a personalized approach in banking. Bentzi highlights the need for financial institutions to adapt to technological advancements and regulatory changes to remain competitive and meet customer expectations. Lessons You’ll Learn Listeners will gain valuable insights into the significance of personalization in financial services and how it can create a trusted advisor relationship between banks and their customers. Bentzi discusses the importance of understanding customer needs and leveraging technology to provide tailored solutions. He also emphasizes the role of AI in enhancing decision-making processes and improving customer experiences. Additionally, Bentzi shares his personal strategies for achieving work-life balance, underscoring the importance of having a supportive partner and engaging in activities that allow for mental rejuvenation. About Our Guest Bentzi Aviv is the Global Head of Fintech Solutions at Amdocs, a leading software and services provider to communications and media companies. With a career spanning over two decades, Bentzi has held various roles within Amdocs, from software engineering to project management and sales. His diverse experience across different sectors has equipped him with a unique perspective on the financial services industry. Bentzi's passion for technology and commitment to continuous learning have been pivotal in his professional growth, making him a key player in driving Amdocs' fintech innovations. Topics Covered This episode covers a wide range of topics, including the evolution of Bentzi Aviv's career at Amdocs, the challenges faced by financial institutions in adopting new technologies, and the critical role of personalization in banking. Bentzi explains how regulatory changes, such as the introduction of open banking APIs, are reshaping the financial landscape. He also discusses the potential of AI to revolutionize various aspects of banking, from customer service to risk management. The conversation provides practical advice for professionals looking to advance their careers and achieve a healthy work-life balance.