PayPod: The Payments and Fintech Podcast

Episode Topic In this compelling episode, host Kevin Rosenquist dives into the challenges and triumphs of immigrant integration in the United States with guest Raul Lomeli-Azoubel, co-founder of Welcome Tech. The discussion centers on the organization's innovative approach to providing immigrants with critical tools and resources, including financial education, healthcare access, and career guidance. Welcome Tech has been described as a “digital Ellis Island,” helping individuals navigate life in the U.S. while addressing misinformation and systemic barriers. Together, they explore the need for reform and the potential of fintech and education to drive inclusion and opportunity for millions of immigrant families.   Lessons You’ll Learn The critical role fintech can play in empowering immigrant communities, from establishing bank accounts to improving credit scores.Insights into Welcome Tech’s three-layer approach to support financial literacy and healthcare savings, including a unique membership program that bypasses traditional Social Security requirements.How targeted education and behavioral change can enable immigrants to become more active participants in American society.The broader societal benefits of addressing systemic challenges, like misinformation and healthcare inequities, through innovative platforms and resources. About Our Guest Raul Lomeli-Azoubel is an entrepreneur, advocate, and visionary leader dedicated to enhancing the lives of immigrant communities in the United States. As co-founder of Welcome Tech, Raul has leveraged his experience at Wells Fargo and his entrepreneurial ventures like Saber Es Poder to create a platform addressing financial and social inclusion. With over 4 million registered users, Welcome Tech provides immigrants with vital resources to navigate complex systems, from healthcare to financial services. Raul’s passion for ed Topics Covered This episode explores the transformative work of Welcome Tech, a platform likened to a “digital Ellis Island” for immigrants in the United States. The conversation addresses the challenges immigrants face, such as navigating financial systems, accessing healthcare, and combating misinformation. Raul Lomeli-Azoubel shares insights on how Welcome Tech provides tools like financial education, health savings programs, and job resources, enabling immigrants to integrate and thrive. The discussion also delves into the broader narrative of immigration, touching on historical shifts in U.S. immigration policy and the pressing need for reform. Topics include the potential of fintech solutions, like stablecoins, to revolutionize the remittance industry, and how education can empower immigrants to become active participants in society. Raul emphasizes the importance of breaking down barriers through targeted education and innovation to create a more inclusive future.  

Episode Topic In this episode of Pay Pod, Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Robert Bueninck, CEO of Unzer, to explore the cutting-edge world of unified commerce and its transformative impact on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). From its roots as a German payment processor, Unzer has evolved into a European fintech leader, offering modular solutions tailored to modern commerce needs. The discussion highlights how real-time data integration across channels redefines customer experiences, making it easier for businesses to adapt and grow. Key insights also include the slow shift towards cashless payments in Germany and the company’s innovative POS Go solution designed for SMEs. Whether you're a fintech enthusiast or a business owner, this episode offers a fascinating dive into the future of payments. Lessons You’ll Learn Discover why unified commerce goes beyond omnichannel strategies by ensuring seamless, real-time integration of data across online and offline platforms. Robert shares practical examples, such as inventory synchronization and enhanced customer experiences, that demonstrate the advantages of this approach. Learn about the challenges and benefits of building versus buying capabilities, particularly in the rapidly evolving fintech landscape. Additionally, uncover why fostering customer relationships through white-label solutions for buy now, pay later (BNPL) can be a game-changer for merchants. Finally, the episode emphasizes the importance of blending in-office collaboration with hybrid work models to foster innovation, team building, and efficient problem-solving. About Our Guest Robert Bueninck is the visionary CEO of Unzer, a European fintech innovator committed to empowering SMEs with modular payment and commerce solutions. Under his leadership, Unzer has expanded from a German-centric payment processor to a European powerhouse, introducing groundbreaking products like the unified commerce platform and POS Go. With years of experience in the BNPL space and a keen understanding of Germany’s unique market dynamics, Robert has a deep passion for equipping businesses with tools to compete in the digital age. Based in Berlin, he combines strategic insight with a collaborative leadership style, championing technology’s role in simplifying commerce. Topics Covered This episode delves into the difference between omnichannel and unified commerce, emphasizing real-time data integration and the rising demand among SMEs for seamless online and offline customer experiences. It also explores Unzer’s approach to BNPL, which prioritizes merchant branding and customer relationships, and examines Germany’s slow adoption of cashless payments, highlighting how POS Go addresses this gap. Furthermore, the discussion touches on the role of hybrid work models in fostering collaboration and innovation, as well as insights on the future of fintech, from modular ecosystems to leveraging data for innovative merchant solutions. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in payments, fintech innovations, and the strategies driving business transformation  

Episode Topic In this episode of PayPod, we explore how Tim Bentley, founder of Giftly, is transforming the gifting experience. Traditional gift cards often feel impersonal, placing merchants at the center of the transaction. Giftly flips the script by allowing consumers to create personalized, meaningful gifting experiences that build stronger connections between givers and recipients. Whether it’s for birthdays, holidays, or corporate rewards, Giftly provides a flexible and customizable approach, empowering recipients to use their gifts wherever they prefer. Tune in to discover how Tim’s innovative platform is redefining how we give and receive gifts in the modern era. Lessons You’ll Learn Tim Bentley shares invaluable lessons on creating a product that puts people first. You’ll learn how personalization in gifting fosters deeper relationships and how Giftly balances customization with recipient flexibility. Tim also provides insights into entrepreneurial perseverance, highlighting the importance of setting long-term goals, embracing challenges, and leveraging early career experiences for future success. For those in business, this episode offers a unique perspective on consumer-centric innovation and strategies for improving customer satisfaction. About Our Guest Tim Bentley is the visionary founder of Giftly, a platform revolutionizing the gifting experience through personalization and recipient flexibility. With a background in engineering, physics, and business, Tim’s career journey has been one of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. From his fascination with cutting-edge technologies as a child to his pivot into finance and eventual business leadership, Tim has consistently pursued meaningful ways to connect people. His experience spans starting and selling businesses, including his current venture, Giftly, which empowers users to send personalized, thoughtful gifts that recipients can redeem in countless ways. Topics Covered This episode covers the evolution of gift cards, exploring how they have transitioned from merchant-centric tools to personalized gifting solutions that strengthen relationships. Tim Bentley explains how Giftly balances customization with flexibility, allowing recipients to use their gifts in ways that suit their preferences. The conversation delves into the effects of the pandemic on gifting trends, highlighting how the desire for connection and thoughtfulness has shaped consumer behavior. Additionally, Tim shares his entrepreneurial journey, from his early passion for theoretical physics to founding Giftly, offering insights into the role of empathy and personalization in building meaningful businesses and fostering a culture of innovation.  

Episode Topic In this episode, we dive into the groundbreaking world of cryptocurrency and banking, featuring Gabriel Campa from TowerBank. Gabriel introduces Ikigii, a revolutionary product combining a crypto wallet with a fiat bank account, poised to reshape the financial landscape in Latin America. This product offers users the ability to manage both cryptocurrencies and traditional currency seamlessly, all within the same platform. Tower Bank's innovative approach to integrating crypto into traditional banking infrastructure stands out as a bold move, highlighting the potential for digital currencies to drive financial inclusion. Gabriel shares the challenges, insights, and opportunities involved in launching Ikigii, making this an insightful episode for anyone interested in the intersection of fintech and crypto. Lessons You’ll Learn Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how crypto and traditional banking systems can coexist in a compliant, secure environment. Gabriel explains how crypto’s volatility is managed, offering users access to both fiat and crypto without the complexities that often arise with these financial products. You’ll learn about the regulatory challenges that Tower Bank faced, how they navigated these issues, and the strategic decisions that allowed them to develop their crypto product in a regulated environment. Additionally, the episode offers valuable insights on building a product from the ground up and understanding the technical and business aspects of fintech and crypto. About Our Guest Gabriel Campa is a visionary leader in the fintech and crypto space, currently spearheading Ikigii at Tower Bank. Gabriel's journey from architecture to technology and banking has been marked by his ability to think outside the box and solve complex problems. Before joining Tower Bank, he led global sales and operations in the shipbuilding industry. With a strong background in technology and a deep understanding of the crypto world, Gabriel brings a unique perspective to the intersection of finance and technology. His work on Ikigii demonstrates his commitment to creating innovative financial solutions that serve the underbanked and unbanked populations in Latin America. Topics Covered In this episode, Gabriel Campa covers various topics, including the growing importance of cryptocurrency in Latin America, the unique features of, and how TowerBank is bridging the gap between traditional finance and the crypto world. He discusses how the crypto product is designed to help people in countries like Argentina, Colombia, and Brazil access crypto in a safe, easy, and efficient manner. The conversation also delves into the challenges faced by banks and fintech companies in adopting crypto, as well as the need for regulatory compliance in the development of crypto financial products. Furthermore, Gabriel shares his thoughts on the future of cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin-backed loans, and how technology is transforming financial services in the region.  

Episode Topic Automation and AI are reshaping how businesses operate, streamlining workflows, and enabling employees to focus on high-value tasks. In this episode, Nintex CFO Eric Emans explores how automation empowers businesses to optimize their processes and reduce inefficiencies. From the increasing adoption of automation in finance and HR to its transformative impact on cross-functional collaboration, Eric delves into actionable strategies for integrating automation tools. He also highlights how AI is evolving as an essential driver of efficiency, enhancing decision-making and workflow orchestration for organizations worldwide.   Lessons You’ll Learn Discover how to harness automation to reduce mundane tasks and boost team productivity. Eric shares why aligning technology with people and processes is the key to successful implementation. Learn how automation improves employee satisfaction, helps attract and retain talent, and ensures cost-efficient operations. Gain insight into AI’s role in making automation accessible, from creating workflows to orchestrating processes across multiple systems. Eric also emphasizes the importance of being intentional with AI adoption, focusing on security, compliance, and data integrity.   About Our Guest Eric Emans is the Chief Financial Officer of Nintex, a leading company in workflow automation and process management. With a background in sociology and business administration, Eric brings a unique perspective to leadership, emphasizing people-centric strategies for organizational success. Having extensive experience in finance, IT, and data analytics, Eric is passionate about leveraging technology to create meaningful outcomes for businesses. At Nintex, he plays a pivotal role in integrating automation and AI to drive innovation and streamline operations.   Topics Covered This episode dives deep into how automation is transforming workflows across various business functions, including finance, HR, and operations. Eric Emans explains the critical role of automation in streamlining complex processes, such as onboarding, employee management, and cross-functional collaboration, to achieve greater efficiency. He shares insights into the increasing adoption of AI in workflow orchestration, where technology enhances decision-making, data integration, and business intelligence. By aligning automation tools with specific business needs, companies can reduce inefficiencies, foster better collaboration, and drive higher productivity.  

Episode Topic In this episode, we dive into a thought-provoking conversation with Emmanuel Daniel, a visionary in global finance and founder of Tabb Global. Known for his insights into fintech and banking, Emmanuel shares his perspectives on the evolving landscape of finance, from the role of central banks to the impact of decentralized finance (DeFi). Key topics include central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), the personalization of finance, and the growing influence of decentralized platforms. Emmanuel addresses how shifts in financial technology may disrupt traditional banking, particularly through blockchain and AI advancements, reshaping the global economy. Lessons You’ll Learn This episode delivers invaluable lessons on the forces reshaping finance and what they mean for consumers, financial institutions, and innovators. Emmanuel discusses why central banks are increasingly focusing on digital currencies and how they’re trying to keep up with rapid crypto and DeFi innovations. You'll gain insights into the balance between regulation and decentralization, as well as the essential role of AI in personalizing financial services. Additionally, Emmanuel emphasizes understanding these trends for anyone involved in fintech, showing how foresight and adaptability can shape future success.   About Our Guest Emmanuel Daniel, the founder of Tabb Global and author of The Great Transition: The Personalization of Finance Is Here, is recognized globally for his thought leadership in finance. With a deep understanding of fintech, banking, and decentralization, Emmanuel brings a unique perspective on financial evolution. His experience includes advising on digital banking trends and studying shifts in financial models worldwide, making him a sought-after voice in the industry. His work highlights the pivotal moments when economic and technological forces converge to create transformational change in global finance. Topics Covered This episode unpacks critical topics in modern finance, from central bank digital currencies to blockchain innovations. Emmanuel delves into the Bank for International Settlements' role in guiding CBDCs, the growing appeal of decentralized finance, and the implications of Gen Z’s evolving financial habits. Additional topics include the challenges of regulating digital currencies, the significance of tokenized deposits, and how shifts in technology and trust affect banking. Whether you’re a fintech professional or curious about the future of money, this discussion offers an in-depth look at what lies ahead for financial systems worldwide.  

Episode Topic In this episode, we explore the transformative power of Bitcoin with Evander Smart, a former Wall Street banker who left the traditional finance world to pioneer Bitcoin education. Evander dives into his journey from banking on Wall Street to discovering Bitcoin as a solution for financial independence and decentralization. With a deep understanding of both traditional finance and cryptocurrency, Evander shares why he believes Bitcoin is the best investment of the 21st century, comparing its decentralization and potential to revolutionize finance on a global scale. Lessons You’ll Learn Tune in to learn why Bitcoin, as opposed to other cryptocurrencies, offers unparalleled security, decentralization, and investment potential. Evander discusses key financial concepts like supply and demand, scarcity, and Bitcoin's capped limit of 21 million coins. Gain insights on how Bitcoin differs from other digital assets, the value of investing early, and why understanding Bitcoin could be life-changing. This episode equips listeners with the knowledge needed to navigate the evolving crypto landscape with confidence. About Our Guest Evander Smart is the founder of Bitcoin University, an educational platform aimed at simplifying Bitcoin for new and experienced investors alike. With years of experience in finance, including time on Wall Street, Evander leverages his unique background to offer practical insights into the benefits and nuances of Bitcoin. A passionate advocate, Evander’s mission is to empower individuals to make informed decisions and embrace the future of decentralized finance. Topics Covered In this episode, we cover a range of essential Bitcoin topics, including Bitcoin vs. crypto, Bitcoin’s capped supply, Wall Street’s influence on Bitcoin’s growth, and the ethical concerns surrounding other digital assets. Evander explains the fundamental differences between centralized and decentralized finance, providing actionable advice for those considering investing in Bitcoin. Whether you're curious about blockchain technology, Bitcoin’s economic implications, or simply interested in financial security, this episode offers a thorough overview.  

Episode Topic This episode of the PayPod podcast explores the dynamic fintech landscape in Asia, featuring insights from Dwight Willis, CEO of DSGPay. As a leader in payments innovation, Dwight dives into topics like embedded finance, open banking, and the challenges of financial inclusion across Asia’s varied economies. Based in Thailand, DSGPay serves a wide range of clients with services such as real-time payments and multi-currency virtual accounts, offering unique solutions for cross-border payments. Dwight contrasts the regulatory landscape in Asia with that of the West, emphasizing the distinct hurdles and opportunities faced by fintech companies operating in diverse markets such as Southeast Asia. For listeners interested in fintech, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the unique dynamics of payments and regulatory challenges in Asia. Lessons You’ll Learn In this episode, Dwight shares invaluable lessons on balancing innovation with regulatory compliance in cross-border payments. You’ll learn how DSGPay navigates challenges in emerging markets, emphasizing the importance of working with regulated partners to maintain compliance while driving financial inclusion. Dwight highlights the benefits and risks of real-time payments and embedded finance, especially within the context of Asia’s unique regulatory environment. He also shares insights on managing multi-currency accounts to streamline international transactions. This episode provides a robust learning experience for anyone interested in fintech, payments innovation, and the opportunities for financial inclusion in Asia’s evolving markets. About Our Guest Dwight Willis is the co-founder and CEO of DSGPay, a pioneering fintech company specializing in real-time payments and multi-currency virtual accounts. With a background in banking and tech, Dwight’s journey to fintech entrepreneurship was fueled by his desire to tackle the high costs and limited options for cross-border payments in Asia. Based in Thailand, he and his team at DSGPay have grown the company organically, focusing on providing innovative payment solutions across Asia. Dwight’s vast experience working with regulatory frameworks and his unique perspective on embedded finance make him an influential figure in the Asian fintech space. Topics Covered This episode covers a range of critical topics in the fintech industry, including embedded finance, open banking, and financial inclusion. Dwight discusses the importance of real-time payments for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Asia, shedding light on how these solutions can drive financial inclusion while also presenting challenges. Other key topics include the cultural and regulatory diversity across Asian economies, the role of multi-currency accounts in facilitating cross-border transactions, and the complexities of managing compliance in emerging markets. This in-depth conversation offers a valuable perspective on navigating the fintech landscape in Asia.

Episode Topic In this episode of Pay Pod, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Qin En Looi, partner at Saison Capital, to explore the transformative world of Web3, blockchain, and tokenization in fintech. Qin En shares his insights on how Web3 is more than just a trend—it's an avenue with the potential to reshape financial services by increasing transparency, reducing intermediaries, and making global transactions more efficient. This conversation dives deep into the benefits and challenges of Web3, exploring its role in creating new financial products and offering global market access. Whether you're new to blockchain or a seasoned fintech enthusiast, Qin En's experience-driven insights shed light on the power of intuitive decision-making in investment. Lessons You’ll Learn Listeners will gain invaluable insights into the nuances of early-stage investing, especially in high-potential areas like Web3 and tokenization. Qin En discusses why balancing data with instinct is key when backing startups and explains the importance of thinking about "what could go right" rather than solely focusing on potential risks. This episode also provides a unique look into how blockchain technology can democratize asset access, especially in emerging markets. Qin En's take on how real estate and financial services are being revolutionized through blockchain offers an in-depth understanding of future fintech possibilities and how companies can leverage Web3 for secure, scalable growth. About Our Guest Qin En Looi is a seasoned investor and partner at Saison Capital, focusing on early-stage investments in Web3 and blockchain startups. Known for his hands-on approach, Qin En leverages both his instinct and data-driven strategies to spot transformative potential in emerging technologies. A Stanford graduate and a founder himself, Qin En’s experiences in the tech and venture capital space provide him with a unique perspective on fintech, blockchain, and tokenization. Since joining Saison Capital, he has led over 50 investments in Web3 startups, advocating for the technology’s power to bring transparency and efficiency to financial systems globally. Topics Covered This episode covers a wide range of topics, from Qin En’s investment philosophy to the broader implications of blockchain on financial markets. Listeners will hear about how Web3 technology can reduce the need for intermediaries, improve transparency, and lower transaction costs, making global financial services more accessible. Qin En also shares his thoughts on tokenization’s impact on real estate and how trusted financial institutions could drive mass adoption of blockchain. With discussions on risk, market readiness, and the future of fintech, this episode is a must-listen for those interested in the intersection of finance, technology, and global market access.  

Episode Topic In this episode of Pay Pod, Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Toby Donovan, an executive recruiter at Spencer Stuart specializing in high-level placements within the fintech and payments sectors. Toby sheds light on how executive search firms like Spencer Stuart operate, particularly in the dynamic world of payments and financial technology. As companies in the payments space seek specialized talent to drive growth, Toby shares his experience matching top-notch candidates with companies looking to expand their teams. If you're curious about the inner workings of executive recruitment and how it impacts the fintech industry, this episode provides a unique look behind the scenes. Listen in to understand how recruitment trends are evolving in the payments industry. Learn what makes a strong candidate stand out in today’s competitive fintech landscape, and discover how companies are increasingly valuing diverse experience within their teams. Whether you're seeking new career insights or looking to strengthen your company’s recruitment strategy, Toby Donovan offers valuable takeaways for professionals at all levels.   Lessons You’ll Learn Toby Donovan reveals the secrets behind successful executive placements and shares what companies really look for in top candidates. You’ll learn why experience across different parts of the payments ecosystem can be a game-changer and how "sideways moves" can broaden your career opportunities. Toby explains how executive recruiters evaluate candidates, what traits are essential for cultural fit, and how companies can minimize the risk of hiring mismatches. Discover the importance of storytelling in interviews, as Toby emphasizes how a well-articulated career journey can make or break a candidate's chances. By the end of the episode, you’ll understand the value of long-term recruiter relationships and how they can benefit your career progression. If you’re aiming to climb the corporate ladder in fintech or payments, these insights will equip you with practical steps to achieve your career goals.   About Our Guest Toby Donovan is an executive recruiter at Spencer Stuart, a leading global search firm known for its expertise in executive placements within the financial services and payments sectors. With over a decade of experience, Toby has helped countless companies find top-level talent to lead critical initiatives in the payments and fintech spaces. Before his current role, Toby spent years as a conference producer, immersing himself in the financial technology world before fintech even became a buzzword. At Spencer Stuart, Toby leads senior-level searches for companies across the globe, particularly in North America, leveraging his broad network and deep industry insights. Specializing in consumer financial services and payments, he matches executives with organizations ready to make transformative changes. His unique career path and experiences in London, Australia, and the United States provide him with a global perspective on recruitment, helping businesses find the right leaders for strategic growth.   Topics Covered This episode dives into the intricacies of executive search within the fintech and payments industries. Toby discusses the importance of payment diversity, which refers to having experience in multiple areas of the payments ecosystem. He outlines how Spencer Stuart approaches executive recruitment, from understanding client needs to matching candidates with specific skill sets. The conversation covers how the right cultural fit plays a crucial role in long-term placement success and the importance of flexibility around traditional education requirements for certain roles. Listeners will also hear about the changing landscape of career moves in fintech, with an emphasis on "sideways moves" that broaden one's experience without necessarily being a promotion. Finally, Toby shares advice for executives on building valuable relationships with recruiters, making them a long-term career asset. If you’re interested in the mechanics of high-level recruitment or looking to make strategic moves within fintech, this episode provides actionable insights.