PayPod: The Payments and Fintech Podcast

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.

Episode Topic: In this episode of Pay Pod, host Kevin Rosenquist interviews Laurent Charpentier, the CEO of Yooz, a leading provider of cloud-based accounts payable automation solutions. With a background in electrical engineering and computer science from MIT, and experience as a competitive swimmer, Laurent brings a unique perspective to the intersection of technology and leadership. The conversation delves into the role of AI and machine learning in automating accounting tasks, the future of fintech, and the qualities that make a great leader. Laurent shares his journey from his academic beginnings in France to becoming a CEO, highlighting the lessons learned along the way. Lessons You’ll Learn Listeners will gain insights into the impact of AI and automation on the fintech industry, particularly in accounts payable processes. Laurent explains how AI is revolutionizing document capture, data extraction, and fraud detection, making these processes more efficient and accurate. He also discusses the importance of leadership, emphasizing the value of having a clear vision, building a strong team, and fostering a positive work culture. Additionally, Laurent offers advice on how small and medium-sized businesses can benefit from automation, debunking the myth that automation is only for large enterprises. About Our Guest Laurent Charpentier is a visionary leader and the current CEO of Yooz, a company at the forefront of cloud-based accounts payable automation. With a degree in electrical engineering and computer science from MIT, Laurent’s academic and professional journey is marked by a blend of technical expertise and leadership acumen. Born and raised in the south of France, Laurent’s early passion for swimming led him to the varsity swim team at MIT, where he not only excelled academically but also embraced the competitive spirit of sports. His professional career began at Accenture, where he honed his skills in IT transformation and ERP implementations, setting the stage for his future role as a leader in the fintech industry. Topics Covered The episode covers a wide range of topics, including the application of AI and machine learning in fintech, the evolution of accounts payable automation, and the future of fraud detection in the digital age. Laurent discusses the importance of staying on top of technological advancements while maintaining a strong ethical foundation in AI development. He also touches on the challenges and rewards of leading a growing company, emphasizing the importance of team building, promoting from within, and fostering innovation. The conversation also explores Laurent’s personal journey, from his academic achievements to his rise as a CEO, offering listeners valuable insights into the intersection of technology, leadership, and sports.

Episode Topic: In this episode of Pay Pod, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Cole Riccardi, founder of Authentic, a company revolutionizing the insurance industry through captive insurance programs. Captive insurance allows businesses, especially small ones, to pool resources and create tailored insurance solutions that can return profits to the group if claims are low. Cole shares his journey from being inspired by a horse stable’s insurance program to launching Authentic, which is now helping various businesses, from gyms to salons, build their own insurance programs. This episode offers valuable insights into a lesser-known aspect of the insurance industry and how it can benefit small businesses. Lessons You’ll Learn Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of captive insurance, a concept that allows businesses to take control of their insurance needs, potentially saving money and creating more aligned incentives. Cole Riccardi explains how Authentic simplifies the complex process of setting up these programs, making it accessible to small businesses and affinity groups. The episode also touches on the challenges of entrepreneurship, including the importance of timing and passion when starting a business. Additionally, listeners will learn about the potential for captive insurance to expand into areas like health insurance, offering even more benefits to small businesses. About Our Guest Cole Riccardi is the founder of Authentic, a company that helps businesses build and manage captive insurance programs. Originally from Madison, New Jersey, Cole played lacrosse at Notre Dame before embarking on a career in finance. He worked at Aquiline Capital, where he gained deep insights into the insurance sector. Inspired by a family member's success with a horse stable’s captive insurance program, Cole left his stable job to start Authentic in 2022. His passion for the idea and his expertise in insurance have driven Authentic’s success, with the company now serving over ten platforms and continuing to grow. Topics Covered The conversation covers the basics of captive insurance, including how it works and why it’s beneficial for small businesses. Cole Riccardi explains the process of setting up a captive insurance program, the challenges involved, and how Authentic has streamlined this process to make it accessible to a wider audience. The episode also explores the potential for expanding captive insurance into health insurance, offering even more value to small businesses. Cole shares his journey as an entrepreneur, discussing the risks and rewards of leaving a stable job to pursue a passion-driven idea  

Episode Topic In this episode of Pay Pod, Kevin Rosenquist chats with Nic Beique, founder of Helcim, a Canadian fintech company revolutionizing payment processing for small to medium-sized businesses. Nic shares his journey of building Helcim, starting from its early days in 2006 as a traditional payments reseller to its transformation in 2020 into a full-fledged payment processing powerhouse. The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities in the fintech space, the importance of fair pricing in payment processing, and how Helcim is positioning itself against industry giants like Square and Stripe by targeting more established businesses in the mid-market. Lessons You’ll Learn Listeners will gain insights into the evolution of payment processing and how Helcim is disrupting the market by offering more affordable and transparent pricing structures. Nic Beique emphasizes the importance of building technology in-house to maintain competitive margins and avoid the industry-standard 2.9% transaction fee. He also discusses the challenges of hardware development for point-of-sale systems and how Helcim overcame these obstacles to provide a seamless experience for its customers. Additionally, Nic touches on the unique hurdles faced by Canadian fintech companies due to monopolistic market structures and the importance of fostering domestic innovation. About Our Guest Nic Beique is the founder and CEO of Helcim, a Calgary-based fintech company that offers payment processing solutions tailored to the needs of small and medium-sized businesses. With a background in technology, Nic has led Helcim through significant growth and transformation, focusing on delivering better rates and exceptional service to businesses often overlooked by larger payment processors. His passion for innovation and his dedication to leveling the playing field for Canadian businesses make him a prominent figure in the fintech industry. Outside of his professional endeavors, Nic is a proud new father, balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with the joys of fatherhood. Topics Covered This episode covers a range of topics essential for anyone interested in fintech and payment processing. Nic Beique discusses the competitive landscape of payment processors, including how Helcim differentiates itself by targeting mid-sized businesses. The conversation delves into the intricacies of payment technology, the importance of owning the entire technology stack, and the challenges of hardware development for point-of-sale systems. Nic also shares his thoughts on the Canadian fintech market, the impact of monopolies on innovation, and his experiences with raising venture capital. Additionally, listeners will learn about the leadership lessons Nic has gathered throughout his journey, particularly the value of networking and mentorship in the startup ecosystem

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.

Episode Topic: Welcome to an insightful episode of PayPod. We get into a fascinating conversation with Chen Amit, the CEO and co-founder of Tipalti, a leading fintech company. He dives deep into the world of AI in fintech automation, exploring how Tipalti leverages advanced technologies to streamline accounts payable processes. From discussing the company's founding in 2010 to the present day, Amit shares insights into how automation and artificial intelligence have revolutionized the payment processing industry. He highlights the journey of Tipalti in enhancing efficiency and compliance for businesses globally through innovative AI-driven solutions. Lessons You’ll Learn: Listeners will gain valuable insights into the transformative power of AI in fintech automation. Chen Amit explains how Tipalti's automation solutions reduce the labor and costs associated with financial operations, allowing companies to focus on growth and innovation. You'll learn about the importance of putting the right tasks in the right hands and optimizing both human and machine efforts. Additionally, Amit discusses the advancements in optical character recognition (OCR) and large language models (LLMs), demonstrating how these technologies significantly improve accuracy and efficiency in financial processes. By the end of the episode, you'll have a clear picture of how AI-driven invoice matching and compliance solutions can drastically enhance your business operations. About Our Guest: Chen Amit, CEO and co-founder of Tipalti, is a prominent figure in the fintech industry with a rich background in technology and entrepreneurship. With a passion for AI in fintech automation, Amit has led Tipalti to become a key player in the accounts payable automation space. His diverse interests include piloting small planes, playing semi-professional poker, and programming on classic computers like the Commodore 64. Amit’s extensive experience and innovative mindset have been instrumental in Tipalti's success, driving the company to continuously push the boundaries of what is possible with fintech automation. Topics Covered: The episode covers a wide range of topics centered around AI in fintech automation. Chen Amit discusses the evolution of Tipalti from its inception to its current position as a leader in payment processing automation. Key topics include the role of AI and machine learning in enhancing OCR technology, the impact of large language models on financial operations, and the future of fintech automation. Amit shares compelling use cases, such as AI-driven invoice matching and compliance automation, showcasing Tipalti's ability to significantly reduce manual labor and improve accuracy. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of AI in fintech, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the industry's future. Checkout our website-  https://www.soarpay.com/

Episode Topic: Welcome to an insightful episode of PayPod. We get into the fascinating journey of Richie Serna, the CEO and co-founder of Finix, a payment technology. Richie Serna's story is one of resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to social impact. Growing up in a rough part of Southern California, Richie witnessed the struggles of youth gang involvement firsthand. This experience fueled his passion for gang prevention and youth development, leading him to work in the LA mayor's office on programs aimed at reducing gang activity through community engagement. Eventually, Richie transitioned into the fintech space, founding Finix payment technology to democratize access to advanced payment solutions. In this episode, Richie shares his insights on the challenges and opportunities in the payment technology sector and how his background has shaped his approach to business and leadership. Lessons You’ll Learn: Listeners of this episode will gain valuable lessons from Richie Serna’s unique career path and the innovative strategies he employs at Finix payment technology. One key takeaway is the importance of leveraging personal experiences to drive professional impact. Richie’s work in gang prevention and youth development has profoundly influenced his leadership style and commitment to social responsibility. Additionally, you’ll learn about the intricacies of the payment processing industry and the significant role technology plays in transforming it. Richie discusses the barriers that many companies face when trying to innovate in this space and how Finix payment technology is breaking down these barriers to provide more inclusive and efficient payment solutions. About Our Guest: Richie Serna is an inspiring entrepreneur and the driving force behind Finix payment technology. With a background that includes graduating from Harvard and working in the LA mayor’s office on gang prevention, Richie has always been dedicated to making a positive impact. His transition into fintech was fueled by a desire to address systemic issues within the payment processing industry, particularly the lack of accessible and advanced technology for smaller businesses and diverse founders. At Finix, Richie is committed to democratizing access to payment technology, ensuring that businesses of all sizes can benefit from the latest innovations. His leadership is characterized by a deep sense of purpose, a commitment to diversity, and a relentless drive for excellence. Topics Covered: This episode covers a wide range of topics that provide deep insights into both Richie Serna’s personal journey and the broader fintech industry. Topics include Richie’s early life and the impact of his upbringing on his career choices, his work in the LA mayor’s office on youth gang prevention programs, and his transition to the fintech sector. The conversation delves into the founding of Finix payment technology and the company's mission to democratize access to payment solutions. Additionally, Richie discusses the technical and regulatory challenges in the payment processing industry, the importance of diverse leadership, and the innovative programs Finix has implemented to support minority founders. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, social impact, and the future of fintech.

Episode Topic: Welcome to an insightful episode of PayPod. We get into the transformative potential of blockchain technology in the African finance system with Elizabeth Rossiello, the CEO and founder of AZA Finance. She shares how her company focuses on bridging the gap between African economies and the global financial system. As a leading provider of cross-border payment solutions, leveraging blockchain technology, her company aims to facilitate smoother, more secure transactions, enabling small and medium-sized businesses to thrive while conducting business in local currencies. Elizabeth shares her deep insights on how blockchain is poised to revolutionize the financial landscape across the continent. Lessons You’ll Learn: Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of how blockchain technology is reshaping the way businesses operate. Elizabeth Rossiello discusses the initial excitement and subsequent skepticism surrounding blockchain, illustrating how the technology has evolved beyond its hype phase. You’ll learn about the practical applications of blockchain in streamlining transactions, enhancing transparency, and reducing costs. Elizabeth also sheds light on the role of smart contracts and their potential to enforce agreements automatically. This episode provides valuable lessons on the importance of adapting to technological advancements and the need for regulatory frameworks that support innovation. About Our Guest: Elizabeth Rossiello, the CEO and founder of AZA Finance, is a trailblazer in the realm of blockchain technology in the African finance system. With a master's degree in International Business and Finance, Elizabeth has lived and worked in Germany, Kenya, and now London. Her extensive experience in global finance and her passion for leveraging technology to solve real-world problems has positioned her as a leading voice in fintech. At AZA Finance, she has been instrumental in developing innovative solutions that facilitate cross-border payments and promote economic growth in African markets. Her unique perspective and expertise make her an invaluable guest, offering deep insights into the future of blockchain in Africa. Topics Covered: This episode covers a broad range of topics centered around the impact of blockchain technology on the African finance system. Key areas of discussion include the initial hype and ongoing evolution of blockchain, its practical applications, and its potential to drive significant changes in the financial sector. Elizabeth Rossiello also delves into the concept of smart contracts and their ability to enforce agreements without human intervention. The conversation also highlights the challenges and opportunities of implementing blockchain technology in Africa, including regulatory hurdles and the need for technological infrastructure. Additionally, Elizabeth shares her vision for the future, emphasizing the importance of innovation and the role of the next generation in shaping the financial landscape. Check out our website- https://www.soarpay.com/

Episode Topic: Welcome to an insightful episode of PayPod. We get into the intricacies of ERP System Integration with Keith Reardon, the co-founder of Commonwealth Consulting Group. Keith brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights into how ERP system integration can revolutionize business operations. This conversation highlights the importance of seamless payment processing solutions and how integrating these systems into your ERP can significantly streamline your financial management. Keith also discusses the ongoing relevance of cash in today's digital age and how his company is adapting to meet the needs of businesses that still rely on cash transactions. Tune in to learn about the latest trends in payment processing and how ERP system integration can benefit your business. Lessons You’ll Learn: Listeners will gain valuable insights into the world of ERP System Integration. Keith Reardon shares his expertise on how integrating ERP systems can enhance business efficiency by automating processes and reducing manual errors. You'll learn about the challenges and solutions associated with payment processing, the benefits of cash discount programs, and the importance of fraud prevention tools. Keith also discusses the significance of providing personalized service to clients and how this approach differentiates Commonwealth Consulting Group from other faceless payment processors. This episode is packed with practical advice for businesses looking to optimize their payment systems and integrate them seamlessly into their existing ERP frameworks. About Our Guest: Keith Reardon is the co-founder of Commonwealth Consulting Group, a firm specializing in payment processing solutions and ERP System Integration. With a background in both education and financial services, Keith brings a unique perspective to the payments industry. After a brief stint as a high school chemistry teacher, Keith transitioned into financial advising and eventually co-founded Commonwealth Consulting Group in 2010 during the financial recession. His company's approach focuses on providing personalized service and tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of each client. Keith's expertise and dedication have positioned Commonwealth Consulting Group as a trusted partner for businesses seeking effective and efficient payment processing solutions. Topics Covered: This episode covers a wide range of topics related to payment processing and ERP System Integration. Keith Reardon discusses the benefits of integrating ERP systems to streamline business operations and improve efficiency. He also delves into the relevance of cash in today's economy, the challenges faced by businesses with credit card fees, and the rise of cash discount programs. Other key topics include fraud prevention tools, the importance of tailored solutions for clients, and the future of payment processing technology. Keith shares his insights on how small businesses can leverage these integrations to enhance their financial management and overall operational efficiency. This comprehensive discussion provides listeners with a deep understanding of the current trends and best practices in the payments industry. Checkout our website- https://www.soarpay.com/