Fintech Confidential

In this episode of "Accrued: A Fintech Confidential Series," presented by LoanPro, Host Tedd Huff and Co-Host Sarah Howell sit down with Robert Keil, the Chief Fintech Officer at FinWise Bank, to discuss the evolving world of sponsor banking. Robert shares insights from his rich banking background, shedding light on the pivotal changes and dynamic interplay between fintechs and traditional banking. They discuss the challenges associated with sponsor banking and how FinWise Bank manages to stay ahead of the curve. Robert discusses the bank's unique approach to banking solutions, emphasizing technology's critical role in enhancing compliance and operational efficiency. They also uncover the importance of the collaborative landscape between fintechs and banks, highlighting the shift in perspective towards viewing fintechs as vendors and the importance of aligning philosophies for successful partnerships. It's an insightful session filled with firsthand experiences and practical strategies from one of the industry's seasoned professionals.They also peek into the Crystal Ball of the future, offering a glimpse of emerging trends and potential shifts in the sponsor banking arena. Robert's commentary on the importance of B2B opportunities and the potential for embedding financial products in various sectors hints at exciting developments on the horizon. For anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of fintech and banking collaboration, this episode is not just a conversation but a view into the future of Sponsor Banking. It's an essential listen for innovators, thinkers, and anyone curious about the transformative power of technology in finance.Watch on YouTube. Key HighlightsUnlock the Secrets of Sponsor Banking with FinWise's Chief Fintech Officer: With his extensive banking experience, Robert Keil breaks down the complexities of sponsor banking, shedding light on the synergy between fintech innovations and traditional financial systems. Learn about the importance of embedded banking products and how they transform the finance landscape.The Future of Transactions: Beyond Deposits and Payments: The emerging trends in digital payments, from seamless transactions to cutting-edge banking solutions, find out how FinWise Bank is leading the charge in redefining how we think about Sponsor bankingFintech Compliance and Innovation: Robert Keil shares insights on how FinWise is fostering innovation while maintaining a critical balance between compliance and innovation, ensuring a safe and forward-thinking banking environment.Tech-Driven Banking: See how FinWise Bank leverages the latest tech to enhance operational efficiency and offer unparalleled banking experiences.The Power of Fintech and Bank Collaborations: Learn how collaborations between fintech companies and traditional banks reshape the financial ecosystem and offer consumers more personalized and efficient services.B2B Innovations in Fintech: Discover how FinWise Bank is pioneering solutions that address businesses' unique needs, streamlining operations, and facilitating corporate growth.Overcoming Challenges in the Fintech Space: Robert Keil discusses the significant hurdles facing the fintech industry today, from regulatory challenges to technological barriers, and how FinWise Bank navigates these issues to stay ahead of the curve.Empowering Fintechs with Cutting-Edge Banking Solutions: Find out how FinWise Bank empowers fintech startups with robust banking platforms. These platforms enable them to innovate and disrupt the traditional banking model while ensuring compliance and security.The Evolving Landscape of Digital Banking: Shifts in consumer behavior and how banks adapt to meet these new demands.FinWise's Unique Approach to Sponsor Banking: Discover how Finwise has redefined the sponsor bank model by integrating technology and compliance to create a seamless and efficient banking experience.TakeawaysFintechs as Catalysts for Banking Innovation: Gain insight into how fintech companies are not just partners but catalysts, pushing banks like FinWise to explore new horizons in banking services, ensuring that the sector remains at the forefront of technological advancement and customer service excellence.The Role of Compliance in Fintech Growth: Discover the intricate balance of trust between maintaining rigorous compliance and nurturing growth in the fintech sector. FinWise Bank shares how adhering to regulatory standards is compatible with and essential for the innovative development of banking solutions.Redefining Customer Experiences: Learn about the transformation in customer banking experiences, where personalization and efficiency are key. The Sponsor banking sector is shifting towards services that are not only secure but also custom designed to fit the Fintech needs.Strategic Fintech Partnerships and Their Impact: Unpack the strategic importance of selecting the right fintech partnerships, as discussed by Robert Keil. These collaborations are pivotal for banks aiming to enhance their service offerings and stay relevant in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.Anticipating the Future of Financial Services: Get a glimpse into Robert's vision of potential trends in Sponsor banking and fintech. He advocates a more integrated, technology-driven approach to financial services, highlighting the ongoing need for innovation and adaptability.Links:Finwise:Website: https://www.finwise.bank/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/finwise-bank/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/FinWiseBankRobert’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.finwise.bank/news/robert-keil-svp-chief-fintech-officer/Fintech Confidential YouTube: https://fintechconfidential.com/watch  Podcast: https://fintechconfidential.com/listen Notifications: https://fintechconfidential.com/access LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintechconfidential X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/FTconfidentia lInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fintechconfidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fintechconfidential Support Provided by:LoanPro - As default rates continue to rise and margins compress in lending, financial organizations are searching for solutions that combine operational efficiency with innovation. Look no further, as LoanPro allows lenders to enhance their origination, servicing, collections, and payments using the foundation of a modern lending core. Check out loanpro.io to learn more about how 600+ financial organizations have modernized their tech stack with LoanPro.HAWK:AI - HAWK:AI's game-changing approach to compliance. With real-time monitoring, adaptive learning, and advanced AI, it cuts false positives, simplifying your compliance efforts. Upgrade your surveillance with ease. Visit https://gethawkai.com for more intelligent, more effective compliance.Under: Transform Your Merchant Applications with Under. The Under platform revolutionizes the way ISOs handle merchant applications, offering a seamless transition to digital forms. Say goodbye to outdated processes and hello to efficiency. Discover the future of financial applications at https://under.io/ftc Time Stamps:00:47 Introduction to Accrued a Fintech Confidential Series presented by LoanPro04:20 Robert's Journey in the Banking and Fintech World08:54 The Importance of Embedded Banking and Regulatory Compliance12:42 FinWise's Unique Approach to Banking Solutions13:47 The Benefits of FinWise's Technology-Driven Compliance18:05 Navigating the Changing Landscape of Fintech Collaborations21:50 The Power Shift in Bank-Fintech Relationships22:19 The Evolution and Future of Fintech Collaborations23:52 The Future of FinTech Ecosystems24:28 Challenges Facing Sponsor Banks25:10 The FinTech Philosophy vs. Banking Goals26:34 Navigating Regulatory Challenges and Risk Management29:37 Leveraging Technology for Compliance and Efficiency31:18 The Role of AI in Banking and Its Limitations34:25 Building and Integrating Custom Technology Solutions41:37 Exploring B2B Opportunities and Embedded Financial Products45:09 The Role of Sponsor Banks in Supporting Tech Integration45:25 Predictions for Banking as a Service45:54 Closing Remarks and ResourcesThis is a Production of Diamond D3, Media ABOUT: Robert Keil: Working with people and problem-solving are two of Robert Keil's passions. It is gratifying to manage a team of extremely talented sales professionals and assist them in reaching their goals. At the same time, it is a pleasure to work with hundreds of FI clients and provide them with the Payment processing solutions they need to meet the account holders' expectations. Over the years, Robert has been responsible for sales, relationship management, sales support, product development, and marketing. He has personally grown and managed a national sales organization with over 70 team members, driving hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue growth. He knows what it takes to build a successful team, from hiring the right talent to training them, organizing them, and inspiring them to achieve great results. His career began in Germany, where he grew up with Dresdner Bank AG and developed his knowledge of the financial services industry. When he moved to the United States, he became an entrepreneur and operated a commercial cleaning franchise that he successfully sold three years later. Eventually, he returned to the corporate financial services world where he is today the Chief Fintech Officer at FinWise Bank.Finwise Bank: FinWise is reshaping the Banking value chain through Fintech enablement. The Company is at a key expansion point as it incorporates BIN Sponsorship and Payments HUB offerings into its current platforms, creating an integrated Fintech banking solutions provider. Its existing Strategic Program Lending business, done through scalable API-driven infrastructure, powers deposit, lending and payments programs for leading Fintech brands. FinWise also manages other Lending programs such as SBA 7(a), Real Estate, and Leasing, which provide optionality for disciplined balance sheet growth. FinWise is well positioned to help Fintechs through its compliance oversight and risk management-first culture.Tedd Huff: Tedd Huff is the Co-Founder of Voalyre, and the President & Founder of Diamond D3, a professional services consulting firm focused on global payments and marketing. He is also a video podcast host and producer of Fintech Confidential.Over the past 24 years, he has contributed to FinTech startups as an Advisory Board Member, Co-Founder, and Chief Experience Officer, providing strategic and tactical direction for Global Payments OpenEdge, Heartland Payments, Nuvei, and TSYS, among others, focusing on growth while delivering innovation, process improvements and user experience-driven value to simplify the complexity of payments.Sarah Howell:  Sarah Howell, a seasoned expert in banking and fintech, joins the LoanPro leadership team as the Vice President of Partnerships, aiming further to enhance the growth strategies of financial institutions and fintechs while also bolstering bank-fintech partnerships. 

With her extensive background in fostering collaboration between financial institutions and fintechs, Sarah is set to drive growth through innovative partnership strategies for LoanPro. Sarah’s unparalleled expertise in leading partner programs across traditional business models and banking-as-a-service models at Visa and Infinant has equipped her for strong success in this new role at LoanPro.

Sarah’s role in leading partnerships for LoanPro involves building a partner ecosystem designed to advance the growth goals of fintechs, financial institutions, and brands to meet evolving consumer and commercial demands for personalized financial services. Using her deep industry knowledge of embedded finance, credit card processing, and banking technology, Sarah will play an instrumental role in reinventing the collaboration between the entire financial ecosystem, providing strong partnerships and seamless integrations.Diamond D3, Media: A media creation, management, and production company delivering engaging content globally

In this dynamic episode of Accrued, a Fintech Confidential series presented by LoanPro,  hosted by Tedd Huff and co-host Colton Pond, They explore the cutting-edge solutions Column is bringing to sponsor banking. Brian Fishbein, Column's Head of Investing and Treasury, joins the discussion, providing an insider's perspective on how Column is challenging traditional banking norms. By focusing on enabling developers and builders to create novel financial products, Column is uniquely positioned as a nationally chartered bank dedicated to sponsor banking initiatives.The episode covers Column's commitment to increasing visibility and control within credit programs, their deep understanding of compliance activities, and the ability to address and resolve issues promptly. These aspects are vital for fintech partners and a testament to Column's innovative and responsible approach to financial services.Further, the conversation highlights Column's unique value proposition. It distinguishes itself from traditional sponsor banks by prioritizing developer needs and allowing for rapid innovation within the regulatory framework. Brian Fishbein's diverse background, from his engineering degree from Princeton University to his significant experience in the financial sector, provides valuable insights into Column's strategies and operations.As the discussion unfolds, it becomes clear that Column's vision extends beyond merely offering new banking services. It's about creating a more inclusive, efficient, and responsive financial ecosystem, leveraging technologies like blockchain for enhanced security and transparency. The episode concludes on a reflective note, considering the broader societal impacts of fintech innovations, including making financial services more accessible and fostering economic growth.This episode of Accrued features engaging dialogue with Brian Fishbein and insightful commentary from hosts Tedd Huff and Colton Pond. It illuminates the transformative role of Column in the sponsor banking industry and sets new benchmarks for what's possible in fintech.Watch on YouTubeKey HighlightsRevolutionizing Banking Infrastructure: How Column's innovative platform is setting new standards for real-time financial transactions and service delivery.The Founders' Journey: Annie and Eddie's inspirational path from identifying market needs to launching a groundbreaking fintech solution.A New Era of Financial Transactions: Column's contribution to making instant payments and streamlined lending a reality for consumers and businesses.Building on Trust and Security: Insights into Column's rigorous regulatory and compliance measures that ensure user data protection and trust.Overcoming Regulatory Hurdles: The strategic approaches Column used to navigate the complex financial regulatory environment during its early stages.Fostering Innovation through Open APIs: How Column empowers developers to create customized financial services and applications.The Future of Inclusive Banking: Column's vision for a financial ecosystem that caters to underserved markets and promotes economic inclusion.Blockchain's Role in Banking: Exploring the potential impacts of blockchain technology on the future of secure and transparent banking services.Challenges and Triumphs: A candid look at the obstacles Column faced and overcame in its mission to redefine banking.Beyond Fintech: The broader societal implications of Column's work in promoting financial equality and fostering economic growth.TakeawaysInnovation as a Catalyst for Change: Column's story underscores the transformative power of fintech in reshaping the banking industry and addressing long-standing inefficiencies.Security and Compliance as Cornerstones: The episode highlights the critical importance of building financial services on a foundation of trust, security, and regulatory compliance.The Importance of Flexibility: Column's success illustrates the need for adaptable financial solutions that meet the evolving needs of a digital economy.The Potential of Technology to Democratize Finance: Column's initiatives reveal the potential of emerging technologies to make financial services more accessible and equitable.A Vision for the Future: The episode conveys a compelling vision for a future where banking is more inclusive, efficient, and responsive to global needs.Column:Website: https://column.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/column-bank/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/column?lang=enBrian’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-fishbein/Fintech Confidential:YouTube: https://fintechconfidential.com/watch Podcast: https://fintechconfidential.com/listenNotifications: https://fintechconfidential.com/accessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintechconfidentialX (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/FTconfidentialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fintechconfidentialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/fintechconfidentialSupport Provided by:LoanPro - As default rates continue to rise and margins compress in lending, financial organizations are searching for solutions that combine operational efficiency with innovation. Look no further, as LoanPro allows lenders to enhance their origination, servicing, collections, and payments using the foundation of a modern lending core. Check out loanpro.io to learn more about how 600+ financial organizations have modernized their tech stack with LoanPro.HAWK:AI - HAWK:AI's game-changing approach to compliance. With real-time monitoring, adaptive learning, and advanced AI, it cuts false positives, simplifying your compliance efforts. Upgrade your surveillance with ease. Visit https://gethawkai.com for more intelligent, more effective compliance.Time Stamps:01:25 The Founders' Journey: From Plaid to Column01:48 Column's Mission: Blending FinTech Agility with Banking Solidity02:02 Exploring Column's Impact and Brian Fishbein's Role02:32 Brian Fishbein: A Personal Introduction02:49 Column's Approach to Banking as a Service  04:06 The Evolution of Sponsor Banking04:20 Column's Unique Position in the Sponsor Banking Industry06:44 The Future of FinTech Banking with Column07:43 Column's Technology and Compliance Strategy14:56 Real-Time Data: The Backbone of Column's Innovation15:34 Leveraging Technology for Credit Program Innovation18:41 Column's Differentiation Strategy in FinTech21:38 Navigating Innovation and Compliance in FinTech30:09 Column's Approach to Sponsor Banking Partnerships32:56 Column's Strategic Direction and Industry Trends33:04 The Future of Lending and Technology in FinTech37:02 Sponsor Banking: A Look into the Future40:27 Closing Thoughts from Brian Fishbein41:40 Reflections and Key TakeawaysThis is a Production of Diamond D3, MediaABOUT:Brian Fishbein: Brian Fishbein has diverse and extensive work experience in the financial industry, currently serving as the Head of Investing & Treasury at Column. He is an alumnus of Princeton University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. His role at Column emphasizes his significant contributions to the company, focusing on investing and treasury management, underlining his profound impact on the fintech sector through his expertise and leadership.Column: Column is distinguished as the only nationally chartered bank dedicated to empowering developers and builders with the ability to create new financial products. The company's mission is centered around sponsor banking initiatives, offering increased control and visibility for fintech partners over their credit programs. Column's approach is unique, providing a framework that supports rapid and compliant innovation within the regulated environment of a financial entity.Tedd Huff: Tedd Huff is the Co-Founder of Voalyre and the President and founder of Diamond D3, a professional services consulting firm focused on global payments and marketing. He is also a video podcast host and producer of Fintech Confidential.Over the past 24 years, he has contributed to FinTech startups as an Advisory Board Member, Co-Founder, and Chief Experience Officer, providing strategic and tactical direction for Global Payments OpenEdge, Heartland Payments, Nuvei, and TSYS, among others, focusing on growth while delivering innovation, process improvements and user experience-driven value to simplify the complexity of payments.Colton Pond: Colton Pond is a seasoned marketing executive with a strong fintech and financial services background. In his latest role, Colton is the CMO for LoanPro's API-first lending platform, aiming to meet the increasing market demands. His track record includes a significant tenure at Truv, where he led the marketing team to achieve a 300% growth in year-over-year revenue. Colton has also held key marketing and sales positions at MX, Lucid, and HealthEquity, demonstrating his ability to drive success and innovation within the fintech sector.Diamond D3, Media: A media creation, management, and production company delivering engaging content globally

Tedd Huff, co-host Matt Vanhouten, and special guest Dean Nolan, the Managing Director of Commercial Payments at SRM, deeply dive into Pay by Bank and its uncertain future in the US. Dean brings to the show an extensive background with the US payments ecosystem from the US Faster Payments Council, executive director of PayCLT, payments patent owner, and more, which provides a unique lens through which we explore the intricacies of Pay by Bank systems.The episode’s journey through the concept of Pay by Bank is a novel approach to financial transactions that circumvents traditional payment methods, allowing consumers to directly transfer funds from their bank accounts to merchants or service providers. This method promises to streamline the payment process, potentially reducing costs and enhancing security for all parties involved. However, as they clarify, the path toward widespread adoption of Pay by Bank in the U.S. is fraught with challenges, including regulatory hurdles, the critical need for real-time fraud prevention measures, and the required paradigm shift in consumer and merchant acceptance.Much of this discussion expresses the technological advancements propelling Pay by Bank into the spotlight. Innovations such as APIs, Instant Payments, FedNow, and RTP are dissected, revealing how they contribute to the efficiency and security of real-time transactions. These technologies are being touted as the next great thing in payment transactions, but they also introduce complexities in implementation and adoption for everyone.We explore the pivotal role of intermediaries in the Pay by Bank ecosystem, including banks and payment processors. These intermediaries' influence on transaction costs and the overall user experience cannot be overstated, as they could make or break Pay by Bank's success. Not only that, but we explore the strategic considerations facing financial institutions as they weigh the benefits of innovation against the potential risks and competitive pressures within the banking sector.From the consumer’s vantage point, the episode examines the market dynamics and behavioral trends that influence the adoption of Pay by Bank. The psychological barriers and practical considerations that sway consumer preferences are thoroughly analyzed, providing a nuanced understanding of the factors driving consumer behavior in the financial services market.Speculating on the future of Pay by Bank, the episode offers forward-looking insights into emerging use cases, their impact on merchant-consumer transactions, and how the regulatory framework might adapt to support this innovation. It discusses the potential for Pay by Bank to revolutionize low-value transactions, such as micropayments, highlighting the conditions necessary for consumers to embrace this method for everyday transactions.This episode of "UNCUT by Fintech Confidential" discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by Pay by Bank and instant payments in the U.S. Key Highlights:Exploring 'Pay by Bank' Solutions: Unveil the simplicity of Pay by Bank, a game-changer in financial transactions that links consumer bank accounts directly to merchants, moving away from traditional card dependencies. Discover how this approach is streamlining purchases.Revolutionizing Payments with Technology: Dive into how APIs, Instant Payments, FedNow, and RTP are transforming the banking sector, making transactions quicker and more secure, and setting a new standard for the future of commerce.Overcoming Adoption Barriers: Delve into the challenges blocking the widespread acceptance of Pay by Bank, from regulatory hurdles to the necessity for universal consumer and merchant approval, and explore strategies to navigate these obstacles.Intermediaries' Critical Influence: Examine the complex role of banks and payment processors in the Pay by Bank ecosystem, highlighting their impact on transaction costs and the customer experience and their dual function as both enablers and obstacles.Consumer Adoption Factors: Analyze consumer behavior and market trends affecting Pay by Bank's integration into daily financial transactions, providing insights into what drives consumer choices and the method's potential to alter payment habits.Strategic Banking Perspectives: Look into how banks and financial institutions strategically approach Pay by Bank, assessing the competitive environment, risk management considerations, and the benefits of adopting such innovations.Predicting Pay by Bank's Future: Offer foresight into Pay by Bank and instant payment methods in the U.S., from potential applications to evolving regulations, predicting how these advancements could redefine the convenience, efficiency, and security of financial transactions.Takeaways:Evolution of Pay by Bank: A Modern Twist on Traditional Banking - Highlight how Pay by Bank innovates on the timeless concept of money movement, transitioning from checks to digital transactions. Stress the continuous evolution and the blend of tradition with cutting-edge technology.The Essence of Real-Time Payments: Beyond the Hype - Focus on the broader implications of Pay by Bank beyond just real-time transactions, emphasizing direct, secure money transfers that benefit consumers directly.Banks and Real-Time Payment Adoption: Navigating Challenges - Explore the reasons behind banks' hesitation to fully embrace real-time Pay by Bank solutions, discussing the balance of fraud prevention, regulatory compliance, and cost-benefit analysis.Consumer Benefits of Pay by Bank: Why Make the Switch? - Discuss what's at stake for consumers with Pay by Bank, underscoring the incentives like cost savings and convenience that could drive widespread adoption.Zelle's Role in Pay by Bank: Simplicity Meets Complexity - Analyze Zelle as a case study in Pay by Bank's potential and challenges, including the ease of use versus the limitations in transaction reversal and fraud protection.Watch on YouTubeLinks:Fintech Confidential YouTube: https://fintechconfidential.com/watchPodcast: https://fintechconfidential.com/listenNotifications: https://fintechconfidential.com/accessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintechconfidentialTwitter: https://twitter.com/FTconfidentialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fintechconfidentialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/fintechconfidentialSupportersMPC the Digital Commerce Event: Why MPC24? As a leader in the fintech space, whether you're a C-suite executive, a technologist, a startup innovator, or a government official, MPC24 offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the latest trends, technologies and thought leaders shaping the future of money. Register now and Save https://mpcevent.com/register-now-payment/Under: Transform Your Merchant Applications with Under. The Under platform revolutionizes the way ISOs handle merchant applications, offering a seamless transition to digital forms. Say goodbye to outdated processes and hello to efficiency. Discover the future of financial applications at https://under.io/ftcHAWK:AI - A game-changing approach to compliance. With real-time monitoring, adaptive learning, and advanced AI, it cuts false positives, simplifying your compliance efforts. Upgrade your surveillance with ease. Visit https://gethawkai.com for more intelligent, more effective compliance.LoanPro: As default rates continue to rise and margins compress in lending, financial organizations are searching for solutions that combine operational efficiency with innovation. Look no further, as LoanPro allows lenders to enhance their origination, servicing, collections, and payments using the foundation of a modern lending core. Check out loanpro.io to learn how 600+ financial organizations have modernized their tech stack with LoanPro.Time Stamps:00:32 Introducing Dean Nolan: A Payments Industry Veteran01:42 Defining 'Pay by Bank': Experts Weigh In03:34 The Evolution and Technologies Behind Pay by Bank04:39 Exploring the Real-Time Aspect of Pay by Bank05:42 The U.S. Focus: Analyzing Pay by Bank in America07:08 Debating the Inclusion of Card-Based Transactions21:19 Consumer Protection and Dispute Resolution in Pay by Bank27:00 The Future of Pay by Bank: Opportunities and Challenges34:08 Navigating Fraud and Security in Real-Time Payments35:59 Exploring the Incentives for Banks and Merchants in Payment Innovations36:35 Community Banking: A Strategy for Growth and Differentiation37:38 The Merchant Perspective: Costs, Incentives, and Payment Options39:00 Instant Payments and the Gaming Industry: A Case Study40:35 Consumer Behavior and the Adoption of New Payment Methods01:00:58 The Future of Pay by Bank: Predictions and PossibilitiesThis is a Production of Diamond D3, Media ABOUT The Guest:Dean Nolan: Dean Nolan is Managing Director of commercial Payments at SRM (Strategic Resource Management), an independent advisory firm serving financial institutions through strategic consulting, vendor sourcing, and vendor contract optimization.Dean has 25+ years of experience in payments and financial services, having held leadership positions in payments strategy, innovation, product management, product sales, and software development. Before joining SRM, Dean was Vice President in Treasury Management at Fifth Third Bank, overseeing Faster Payments, Commercial Card, Bank as a Biller, and Merchant Services. In prior roles, Dean was a Senior Payments Product Sales Leader at MasterCard and First Data, Product Leader for Consumer and Small Business Debit, Prepaid, and HSA solutions at Fifth Third Bank, SVP for Card Innovation at Wells Fargo Bank, and SVP for Emerging Debit Solutions at Bank of America.A self-proclaimed “payments geek,” he is a frequent speaker at industry conferences, workgroup chair at the US Faster Payments Council, executive director of PayCLT, and payments patent owner. He has participated in multiple TCH and FedNow Instant Payment and Request for Payment workgroups. Dean earned an MBA from Marquette University and an MA in Marketing & Information Systems from UW Milwaukee. About the Hosts:Tedd Huff is the Co-Founder of Voalyre and the President & Founder of Diamond D3, a consultancy renowned for its expertise in global payments and marketing. With over two decades of experience in FinTech, Huff has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry through his contributions to various startups and established companies, focusing on growth, innovation, process improvements, and enhancing user experience in the complexity of payments.Matt Vanhouten is a contributor to Fintech Confidential and has been developing and launching payments products for over 20 years. He led Digital Payables and Receivables for North America at J.P. Morgan and Global Visa Direct Product at Visa and had senior leadership roles within multiple payments startups. Matt frequently speaks at industry conferences such as AFP and publishes payments and fintech content on LinkedIn and Medium. He currently leads Product at VGS.Diamond D3, Media: A media creation, management, and production company delivering engaging content globally

In this engaging episode of FinTech Confidential, hosts Tedd Huff and Colton Pond, along with Rafael Reznek (Chief Technology Officer) and Sam Pause (Chief Innovation and Brand Officer), share insights into Mascoma Bank's distinctive approach in the banking sector. Known for its unique mutual ownership model and focus on community and environmental sustainability, the bank shines as a model of innovation and customer-first services in the digital banking era.The conversation opens up about how Mascoma Bank prioritizes its community, highlighting its strides in technology to push the boundaries of innovation, including its noteworthy achievement as a certified B Corporation. It casts a spotlight on the bank's significant tech upgrades, designed to redefine banking for the digital customer by emphasizing proactive, tailored financial services.The discussion moves to the strategic shift towards more personal, community-based banking experiences, emphasizing Mascoma Bank's effective use of technology to enhance customer service. Rafael and Sam explore the bank's deployment of Core Switch technology for efficient account transfers, addressing challenges in lending with innovative solutions, and setting benchmarks for banking evolution. Looking ahead, they share thoughts on the future of banking and lending tech, focusing on utilizing data, artificial intelligence, and crafting individualized customer journeys.This episode is an essential listen for those keen on how traditional banking can adapt and thrive by focusing on technology, community engagement, and sustainability, showcasing Mascoma Bank as a pioneer in the financial landscape.Key Highlights:Mutual Ownership and Sustainability: Mascoma Bank stands out for its mutual ownership model, which emphasizes community and environmental sustainability, distinguishing it in the banking industry.Positive Use of Technology: The bank leverages technology not just for efficiency but also to improve customer experiences and make a positive impact on the community.B Corp Certification: Achieving B Corp status enables Mascoma Bank to focus on its social and environmental impact, ensuring accountability and higher standards.Tech Transformation: Mascoma Bank is updating its technology infrastructure to become more proactive and customer-focused, shifting from traditional practices.Community Banks' Rise: The popularity of community banks like Mascoma is growing because of their attentive customer service and smart use of technology to meet current needs.Core Switch Technology: This technology offers a way to move away from outdated systems, providing more adaptable and friendly banking solutions.Simplifying Lending Platforms: By automating and tailoring their processes, the bank addresses the complexities of lending platforms, boosting efficiency and customer service.Takeaways:Community and Tech Commitment: Mascoma Bank exemplifies the balance between prioritizing community values and using technology to enhance services and impacts.Customer-Centric Focus: The bank's shift towards prioritizing customer needs through technology shows the potential for community banks to stand out.Unique Position with B Corp: Being a B Corp distinguishes Mascoma Bank by underscoring its commitment to ethical and responsible banking.Forward-Looking Tech Approach: Mascoma Bank's move to update its technology and focus on customer needs underlines its approach to tackling future banking challenges.Clear Success Indicators: Enhanced customer satisfaction, streamlined processes, and reduced costs are the benchmarks for Mascoma Bank's modernization efforts, showing a strategic approach to improvement.Also, watch the entire episode on YouTube. Links:Mascoma BankWebsite: https://www.mascomabank.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mascoma-bank/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mascomabank?lang=enFacebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/MascomaBankInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mascoma_bank/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MascomaBankRaphael Reznek LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raphael-reznek/Samantha Pause LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-pause-42b87646/Fintech Confidential YouTube: https://fintechconfidential.com/watch Podcast: https://fintechconfidential.com/listen Notifications: https://fintechconfidential.com/accessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintechconfidentialTwitter: https://twitter.com/FTconfidential Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fintechconfidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fintechconfidentialSupport Provided by:LoanPro - As default rates continue to rise and margins compress in lending, financial organizations are searching for solutions that combine operational efficiency with innovation. Look no further, as LoanPro allows lenders to enhance their origination, servicing, collections, and payments using the foundation of a modern lending core. Check out loanpro.io to learn more about how 600+ financial organizations have modernized their tech stack with LoanPro.HAWK:AI - HAWK:AI's game-changing approach to compliance. With real-time monitoring, adaptive learning, and advanced AI, it cuts false positives, simplifying your compliance efforts. Upgrade your surveillance with ease. Visit https://gethawkai.com for more intelligent, more effective compliance.Time Stamps:00:00 Introduction to the Modernization Journey of Mascoma Bank01:33 Spotlight on Mascoma Bank: A Standout in the Banking Sector02:37 Personal Experiences and Insights into Mascoma Bank05:12 Rafael Reznek's journey into banking and insights application.05:12 The Unique Journey into Banking: A Conversation with Rafael and Sam06:50 Sam Pause's diverse experience and innovation drive.09:22 Raphael's approach to banking technology11:17 The Role of B Corp Certification in Mascoma Bank's Mission11:44 B Corp certification impact on Mascoma Bank.14:01 The Start of Mascoma Bank's Modernization Journey15:56 The Challenges and Solutions in Modernizing Mascoma Bank19:44 The Impact of Technology on Customer Experience22:42 The Power of Community Banks and Technology22:52 Prioritizing Technology in Banking23:32 Sponsored Message: LoanPro24:12 Challenges and Solutions in Prioritizing Technology25:44 Introducing Core Switch: A Game Changer for Mascoma Bank28:38 The Impact of Core Switch on Customers30:18 Addressing Pain Points in Lending with Technology41:44 The Role of Data and AI in Future Banking42:41 The Transformation of Roles in Banking44:01 The Future of Banking: Implicit Interaction and PersonalizationThis is a Production of Diamond D3, Media ABOUT: Raphael Reznek: As Chief Information Officer of Mascoma Bank, Raphael Reznek focuses on reintroducing the question ‘Why?’ into community banking. At a time when small banks face greater competition than ever, Raphael is on a mission to reinvent how community banks can thrive in an increasingly digital world. When he overhears a partner or potential partner saying “banks don’t do that,” he knows he’s on the right path. Raphael has decades of successful experience building and leading technology and product teams. From his own startup to financial services firms, Raphael’s goal has always been to build customer-facing enterprise applications that improve the customer experience and strengthen brand loyalty. He is focused on using technology strategy as an integral part of business development in the 21st century economy.Samantha Pause: As the Chief Innovation and Brand Officer at Mascoma Bank where she has spent her entire career of over 32 years. Samantha started as a teller at the bank in 1991 and has held several positioning over her 32 years in a variety of functions. Samantha uses this breadth of experience on a day-to-day basis to drive forward innovation that truly makes and impact for Mascoma Bank with their team members and customers. Samantha is always driving forward the brand and has been the largest advocate in getting Mascoma Bank to be a Certified B-Corp. This certification strengthens Mascoma Bank's mission to give back and truly serve their community. Mascoma Bank : Mascoma Bank is a mutually owned bank and not for sale. With no shareholders to please, the bank is committed to remaining independent and to re-investing profits in the community. The first priority of Mascoma Bank has always been its customers, providing them with the security of a long-term relationship. The bank ensures that customers can get things done locally with people who make decisions on their behalf. With 25 locations throughout the Connecticut River Valley in New Hampshire and Vermont, and having been incorporated in 1899, Mascoma Bank strives to provide exceptional customer service while improving the lives of its customers and the community. It is a full-service bank offering a wide array of financial services, including deposit products, loans, commercial banking, insurance, and wealth management. Mascoma Bank also offers a range of automated services to provide access to accounts 24/7, including internet banking, person-to-person payments, mobile deposits, and cash management products.Tedd Huff: Tedd Huff is the Co-Founder of Voalyre, and the President & Founder of Diamond D3, a professional services consulting firm focused on global payments and marketing. He is also a video podcast host and producer of Fintech Confidential.Over the past 24 years, he has contributed to FinTech startups as an Advisory Board Member, Co-Founder, and Chief Experience Officer, providing strategic and tactical direction for Global Payments OpenEdge, Heartland Payments, Nuvei, and TSYS, among others, focusing on growth while delivering innovation, process improvements and user experience-driven value to simplify the complexity of payments.Colton Pond: Colton Pond is a seasoned marketing executive with a strong fintech and financial services background. In his latest role, Colton is the CMO for LoanPro's API-first lending platform, aiming to meet the increasing market demands. His track record includes a significant tenure at Truv, where he led the marketing team to achieve a 300% growth in year-over-year revenue. Colton has also held key marketing and sales positions at MX, Lucid, and HealthEquity, demonstrating his ability to drive success and innovation within the fintech sector.Diamond D3, Media: A media creation, management, and production company delivering engaging content globally

In Episode Three of 'Accrued: The FinTech Confidential Series' presented by LoanPro, host Tedd Huff and co-host Colton Pond engage with Brent Beardall, the President and CEO of WaFd Bank. Brent shares his journey of resilience and its impact on his leadership, emphasizing the importance of passion and making a difference. He discusses the transformation of WaFd Bank into a digital-first institution and the pivotal role of technology in maintaining relevance as a regional bank. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities in the lending landscape, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to banking, the significance of personalizing lending products, and the strategic importance of deposits. Brent also explores the potential of technology to enhance customer relationships and drive continuous improvement.Key Highlights:Leadership and Resilience: Brent's personal journey of resilience has profoundly shaped his leadership style, emphasizing passion and the desire to make a difference.Digital Transformation: The transition of WaFd Bank into a digital-first bank underlines the critical role of technology in staying competitive and relevant.Holistic Banking Approach: Emphasizing a comprehensive view of banking that integrates various aspects impacting lending, including a focus on personalized lending products.Strategic Prioritization: The importance of effective prioritization, understanding the significance of deposits, and addressing strategic challenges in banking.Commercial Real Estate Insights: Insights into the commercial real estate sector, assessing credit risk, and understanding different market segments.Innovation in Lending: Opportunities for innovation in lending services, leveraging data analytics, and enhancing customer service.Customer Feedback: The value of gathering and acting on customer feedback to drive continuous improvement in banking services.Future of Banking and Lending: Brent's perspective on the future, including the potential risks and benefits of artificial intelligence in the banking sector.Takeaways:Adopt a holistic approach to banking, considering all aspects that impact lending.Personalize lending products and services using data to meet customer needs effectively.Prioritize strategic challenges and understand the critical role of deposits in banking.Gain insights into commercial real estate to navigate credit risks and market dynamics.Embrace innovation in lending services, focusing on problem-solving and enhancing customer relationships.Collect and utilize customer feedback to drive continuous improvement and adapt to changing needs.Balance innovation with compliance and be cautious about the evolving role of artificial intelligence in banking.Also, watch the entire episode on YouTube. Links:WaFd BankWebsite: https://www.wafdbank.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wafd-bank/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/WAFDbankFacebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/WAFDbankInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wafdbank/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WAFDBankBrent BeardallLinkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brent-beardall-2b413bb/Fintech Confidential YouTube: https://fintechconfidential.com/watch Podcast: https://fintechconfidential.com/listen Notifications: https://fintechconfidential.com/accessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintechconfidentialTwitter: https://twitter.com/FTconfidential Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fintechconfidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fintechconfidentialSupport is provided by: LoanPro - As default rates continue to rise and margins compress in lending, financial organizations are searching for solutions that combine operational efficiency with innovation. Look no further, as LoanPro allows lenders to enhance their origination, servicing, collections, and payments using the foundation of a modern lending core. Check out loanpro.io to learn more about how 600+ financial organizations have modernized their tech stack with LoanPro.HAWK:AI - HAWK:AI's game-changing approach to compliance. With real-time monitoring, adaptive learning, and advanced AI, it cuts false positives, simplifying your compliance efforts. Upgrade your surveillance with ease. Visit https://gethawkai.com for more intelligent, more effective compliance.Time Stamps:00:00 Introduction01:23 Brent Beardall's Leadership Journey04:52 Brent's Personal Tragedy and Resilience07:48 Lessons Learned from Personal Tragedy09:39 Passion and Making a Difference11:03 Creating a Culture of Caring12:45 Brent's Leadership Style15:10 Transforming Wafed Bank into a Digital-First Bank17:13 Empowering Team Members17:59 Staying Relevant as a Regional Bank18:38 Avoiding Hubris in Banking23:23 Leveraging Technology for Differentiation and Growth28:06 Prioritizing Technology in Financial Institutions33:33 Innovation at Wafed Bank38:28 Challenges in the Lending Landscape40:43 The Role of Technology in Lending41:55 Taking a Holistic Approach to Banking42:35 Personalizing Lending Products43:27 Prioritizing Strategic Challenges44:20 The Importance of Deposits45:45 Understanding Commercial Real Estate47:09 Opportunities in Lending Services47:37 Flexibility in Loan Servicing49:13 Gathering Feedback from Customers51:23 Prioritizing and Acting on Feedback55:46 The Future of Banking and LendingThis is a Production of Diamond D3, Media ABOUT: Brent Beardall: Brent Beardall is the President & Chief Executive Officer of WaFd Bank, a national bank headquartered in Seattle, Washington (NASDAQ: WAFD). WaFd Bank is the largest bank headquartered in Washington State with over $22 billion in assets and 215 offices located in eight western states. In 2021 WaFd Bank was recognized as the best bank in four of its eight states (Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and New Mexico) by Newsweek. Mr. Beardall joined WaFd Bank in 2001 as Vice President & Controller. In 2003 he was promoted to Chief Financial Officer, a position he served in for eleven years. Prior to this he served as Chief Banking Officer where he was responsible for all client-facing activities of the bank. He was awarded the title of President & CEO in 2017, becoming only the sixth CEO in the bank’s 104-year history. In 2018 WaFd undertook a bold initiative “Vision 2025” to transform into a “digital first bank,” with the vision of having a real time understanding of clients’ financial health, anticipating their needs, and helping them make better financial decisions. His simple ask of all employees is to “love what they do and make a difference.” Mr. Beardall received a master’s degree in Professional Accounting from Brigham Young University and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in Washington State.  He completed Stanford University’s Executive Program in August 2013. In 2012 he was recognized as “CFO of the year” by the Puget Sound Business Journal and currently serves on the boards of the YMCA of Greater Seattle, United Way King County, Pacific Coast Banking School, and the Washington Bankers Association.About the Hosts:Tedd Huff is the Co-Founder of Voalyre and the President & Founder of Diamond D3, a consultancy renowned for its expertise in global payments and marketing. With over two decades of experience in FinTech, Huff has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry through his contributions to various startups and established companies, focusing on growth, innovation, process improvements, and enhancing user experience in the complexity of payments.Colton Pond is a seasoned marketing executive with a strong fintech and financial services background. In his latest role, Colton is the CMO for LoanPro's API-first lending platform, aiming to meet the increasing market demands. His track record includes a significant tenure at Truv, where he led the marketing team to achieve a 300% growth in year-over-year revenue. Colton has also held key marketing and sales positions at MX, Lucid, and HealthEquity, demonstrating his ability to drive success and innovation within the fintech sector.Diamond D3, Media: A media creation, management, and production company delivering engaging content globally

In this compelling episode of Fintech Confidential's 'Accrued' series on LendTech, host Tedd Huff and co-host Colton Pond sit down with John Maxfield, the insightful founder of Maxfield on Banks. This conversation explores the intricate dynamics of LendTech, the critical importance of understanding the decision-making context in banking, and the transformative role of technology within the industry. John shares his unique approach to studying banking history and its impact on today's banking strategies, offering a deep dive into the challenges and triumphs of banks navigating through crises. Key Highlights:The Essence of Decision-Making in Banking: Unpacking how personal experiences and a deep understanding of historical context influence banking decisions.Technology's Role in Banking Evolution: A look at how technological advancements are crucial for banks' growth, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.Navigating Compliance in the Banking Sector: Insights into the balancing act between innovation, growth, and the non-negotiable pillar of compliance.The Perennial Pitfall of Chasing Yield: Discussion on the common banking hazard of pursuing yield at the expense of stability, with a nod to recent banking challenges.Learning from Banking History: John emphasizes the value of historical knowledge in shaping banking's future, debunking the myth of a current tech revolution.The Future of Banking: Predictions on digital transformation in banking, emphasizing the ongoing evolution of distribution methods and the critical margin for error in banking decisions.Fintech and Banks: A Synergistic Approach: Encouraging a collaborative rather than competitive approach between fintech and traditional banking to foster innovation and customer-centric services.Takeaways:A nuanced understanding of decision-making contexts is vital for banking success.Technological integration is key to navigating the complexities of modern banking.The banking industry's future hinges on digital adaptation, with a keen eye on maintaining the delicate balance between risk, innovation, and compliance.Historical insights offer invaluable lessons for anticipating and shaping the future of banking.Also, watch the entire episode on YouTube. Links:John Maxfield Maxfield on Banks: https://www.maxfieldonbanks.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/maxfield-on-banks/Twitter: https://twitter.com/MaxfieldOnBanksFintech Confidential YouTube: https://fintechconfidential.com/watch Podcast: https://fintechconfidential.com/listen Notifications: https://fintechconfidential.com/accessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintechconfidentialTwitter: https://twitter.com/FTconfidential Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fintechconfidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fintechconfidentialSupportersSupport is provided by: LoanPro - As default rates continue to rise and margins compress in lending, financial organizations are searching for solutions that combine operational efficiency with innovation. Look no further, as LoanPro allows lenders to enhance their origination, servicing, collections, and payments using the foundation of a modern lending core. Check out loanpro.io to learn more about how 600+ financial organizations have modernized their tech stack with LoanPro.HAWK:AI - HAWK:AI's game-changing approach to compliance. With real-time monitoring, adaptive learning, and advanced AI, it cuts false positives, simplifying your compliance efforts. Upgrade your surveillance with ease. Visit https://gethawkai.com for more intelligent, more effective compliance.Time Stamps:00:00 Introduction: Kickoff with an insightful dive into LendTech's future with Tedd Huff and Colton Pond.01:15 Meet John Maxfield: Introduction to the visionary behind Maxfield on Banks.03:10 Life Lessons & Banking: A personal anecdote highlighting the influence of life experiences on banking.06:00 Impact of Experience: Discussing how personal backgrounds shape banking decisions.08:10 Decision-Making in Banking: Exploring the significance of context in banking strategies.09:27 Passion for Learning: John Maxfield shares his journey into the depths of banking history.11:27 Banking History Deep Dive: Insights into Maxfield's unique approach to understanding banking.14:52 Crisis Navigation: Success stories from banks that triumphed over crises.19:03 CEO Conversations: The value of direct dialogue with banking leaders.22:07 Tech in Banking: How technology is revolutionizing the banking sector.23:31 Growth & Compliance: Striking the perfect balance between innovation and regulatory compliance.29:50 Compliance's Role: Why compliance is a cornerstone of banking success.32:34 Growth Strategies: Integrating compliance with growth for banking success.36:30 Banking Commandments: A look at the foundational principles of banking.37:11 Common Pitfalls: Identifying the most violated banking commandment.38:42 Tech Solutions: Leveraging technology to mitigate banking risks.39:31 Banking's Digital Future: Predictions for the digital transformation in banking.40:11 Distribution Evolution: The changing face of banking distribution methods.42:06 Margin for Error: Understanding the criticality of precision in banking.43:23 Risk & Innovation: Balancing innovation with risk management in banking.45:05 Fintech Collaboration: Promoting synergy between fintech and traditional banking.46:33 Tech Revolution Myth: Challenging misconceptions about the current state of banking innovation.50:50 Customer-Centric Banking: Reflecting on the historical focus on customer service in banking.55:41 Personalized Services: The future of customized banking solutions.56:04 Learning from History: How past lessons shape the future of banking.57:17 Genealogy in Due Diligence: The unexpected tool in banking analysis.This is a Production of Diamond D3, Media ABOUT: John Maxfield: John Maxfield, the founder of Maxfield on Banks, brings two decades of banking history exploration to the table, offering a blend of historical analysis and contemporary insights. Through his platform, John aims to equip readers with a competitive edge in understanding banking, from its challenges to its success stories.About the Hosts:Tedd Huff is the Co-Founder of Voalyre and the President & Founder of Diamond D3, a consultancy renowned for its expertise in global payments and marketing. With over two decades of experience in FinTech, Huff has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry through his contributions to various startups and established companies, focusing on growth, innovation, process improvements, and enhancing user experience in the complexity of payments.Colton Pond is a seasoned marketing executive with a strong fintech and financial services background. In his latest role, Colton is the CMO for LoanPro's API-first lending platform, aiming to meet the increasing market demands. His track record includes a significant tenure at Truv, where he led the marketing team to achieve a 300% growth in year-over-year revenue. Colton has also held key marketing and sales positions at MX, Lucid, and HealthEquity, demonstrating his ability to drive success and innovation within the fintech sector.Diamond D3, Media: A media creation, management, and production company delivering engaging content globally

In the inaugural episode of Fintech Confidential's 'Accrued' series on LendTech, hosts Tedd Huff and Colton Pond engage in an exciting conversation with Rhett Roberts, the visionary co-founder and CEO of LoanPro, a company at the forefront of lending technology innovation. This discussion winds through the historical evolution of lending, the indispensable role of compliance in the financial sector, and the transformative impact of technology on the lending landscape.Key Highlights:The Evolution of Lending: Journey through the millennia-long history of lending, understanding its origins and how it has been shaped by regulatory and technological advancements.Compliance as the Backbone of Trust: Digging deep into the critical role of compliance in lending, ensuring consumer protection and fostering industry trust.The Revolution of Lending Technology: Explore how technology is pivotal in navigating the complexities of compliance and enhancing lending processes.Challenges and Opportunities in Modernization: Discuss the imperative of modernization within financial services to achieve operational efficiency and cater to evolving customer needs.The Shift Towards Outsourcing Security: Examine the trend of financial institutions outsourcing security to protect sensitive data more effectively.Cloud Technology as a Catalyst for Innovation: Discover how cloud adoption is driving modernization and personalization in financial services.Personalization in Lending: Uncover the potential of personalized data and transaction-level credit in creating customized financial products for improved customer experiences.Takeaways:The lending industry's complexity necessitates a deep understanding of both compliance and technology.Modernization, driven by technology, is essential for operational efficiency and fulfilling customer demands.Personalized lending solutions, enabled by modern technology, offer a pathway to more tailored and effective financial products.A Lending Core, like LoanPro, provides a starting point for financial organizations to grow their business at scale. Also, watch on YouTube. Links:LoanProWebsite: https://loanpro.io Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanpro-software/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/loanprosoftwareInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/loanpro.io/Twitter: https://twitter.com/loanproioYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@loanprovideo6316/Fintech Confidential YouTube: https://fintechconfidential.com/watch Podcast: https://fintechconfidential.com/listen Notifications: https://fintechconfidential.com/accessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintechconfidentialTwitter: https://twitter.com/FTconfidential Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fintechconfidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fintechconfidentialSupportersSupport is provided by: LoanPro - As default rates continue to rise and margins compress in lending, financial organizations are searching for solutions that combine operational efficiency with innovation. Look no further, as LoanPro allows lenders to enhance their origination, servicing, collections, and payments using the foundation of a modern lending core. Check out loanpro.io to learn more about how 600+ financial organizations have modernized their tech stack with LoanPro.HAWK:AI - HAWK:AI's game-changing approach to compliance. With real-time monitoring, adaptive learning, and advanced AI, it cuts false positives, simplifying your compliance efforts. Upgrade your surveillance with ease. Visit https://gethawkai.com for more intelligent, more effective compliance.Time Stamps:00:00: Introduction to Fintech and Lending09:26: The History of Lending18:35: The Role of Compliance in Lending24:44: The Importance of Lending Technology28:22: Optimization and Efficiency in Lending35:02: Modernization Challenges in Financial Services35:32: Legacy Infrastructure as a Challenge36:21: Importance of Ease of Integrations and Conversion36:41: Shift towards Outsourcing Security37:01: Cloud Adoption and Modernization39:09: Personalization as a Result of Modernization39:59: The Potential of Personalized Data40:08: Transaction Level Credit and Personalization40:32: Exciting Future of Financial ServicesThis is a Production of Diamond D3, Media ABOUT The Guest: Rhett Roberts: With an education in Investment Finance, Rhett was bound for Wall Street, but instead decided to take his unique skills to the software world. With nearly 20 years of experience building businesses, Rhett co-founded LoanPro, a modern lending platform for lenders to manage their loan accounts. An avid swimmer, entrepreneur, and problem solver, Rhett also serves as a board member of the FinTech Committee at the University of Utah.LoanPro: LoanPro is a core lending software specializing in servicing loans. It powers financial innovation by giving users the tech they need to bring their lending innovations to life. Built on its API, LoanPro unites with its users' existing software while encouraging powerful integrations and unifying all aspects of the loan lifecycle in a single source of truth.About the Hosts:Tedd Huff is the Co-Founder of Voalyre and the President & Founder of Diamond D3, a consultancy renowned for its expertise in global payments and marketing. With over two decades of experience in FinTech, Huff has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry through his contributions to various startups and established companies, focusing on growth, innovation, process improvements, and enhancing user experience in the complexity of payments.Colton Pond is a seasoned marketing executive with a strong fintech and financial services background. In his latest role, Colton is the CMO for LoanPro's API-first lending platform, aiming to meet the increasing market demands. His track record includes a significant tenure at Truv, where he led the marketing team to achieve a 300% growth in year-over-year revenue. Colton has also held key marketing and sales positions at MX, Lucid, and HealthEquity, demonstrating his ability to drive success and innovation within the fintech sector.Diamond D3, Media: A media creation, management, and production company delivering engaging content globally

Join host Tedd Huff, co-host Matt Vanhouten, and guest Theo Lau in a thought-provoking episode of UNCUT by Fintech Confidential, where we dive deep into the multifaceted world of Artificial Intelligence in Fintech. This episode covers a broad spectrum of topics, including the responsible use of AI, its impact on jobs, financial inclusion, and the ethical considerations surrounding technology.Key Discussion Points:Defining AI and Its Overuse: Understand AI beyond the hype as a technology grounded in mathematics and algorithms. Tedd leads the conversation on how language and terminology influence our perception of AI.The Ethical Use of AI: Matt, Theo, and Tedd discuss the importance of accountability and addressing biases in AI development, emphasizing the need for responsible decision-making.AI's Role in Financial Inclusion and Services: Explore how AI revolutionizes financial services, from enhancing customer support to improving risk assessment and lending practices. The guests highlight innovative FinTech products leveraging AI for better access to financial resources.Government and AI Regulation: The trio delves into the necessity of government intervention in AI decision-making, aiming for a balance to avoid bias and ensure transparency.The Potential of Web3 and Digital Identity: Theo sheds light on how Web3 and self-sovereign identity can democratize access to technology and data, offering a more equitable digital future.Addressing the Digital Divide: Discussions extend to bridging the digital divide, ensuring affordable internet access, and the role of AI in education and learning.The Future of AI in FinTech: The conversation concludes with insights into the future trends of generative AI in FinTech, highlighting the enduring importance of human interaction and relationship-building in the digital age.Takeaways:AI, a powerful tool based on math, holds the potential to transform industries, including financial services, by automating tasks and providing insights.The responsible use of AI necessitates carefully considering ethical implications, biases, and the impact on society.Bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to technology are critical for harnessing the full potential of AI.The future of AI in FinTech will likely focus on enhancing customer experiences, streamlining operations, and supporting personalized financial planning.This episode with Tedd, Matt, and Theo offers a comprehensive overview of AI's current state and future possibilities in FinTech. By addressing AI's challenges and opportunities, we can navigate toward a more inclusive, efficient, and ethically responsible future in financial technology.Also, watch the entire episode on YouTubeLinks:Fintech Confidential YouTube: https://fintechconfidential.com/watch Podcast: https://fintechconfidential.com/listen Notifications: https://fintechconfidential.com/accessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintechconfidentialTwitter: https://twitter.com/FTconfidential Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fintechconfidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fintechconfidentialSupportersThis episode of UNCUT by Fintech Confidential is brought to you by:Under, Transform Your Merchant Applications with Under. The Under platform revolutionizes the way ISOs handle merchant applications, offering a seamless transition to digital forms. Say goodbye to outdated processes and hello to efficiency. Discover the future of financial applications at https://under.io/ftcSkyflow, the leading data privacy platform trusted by top financial institutions. Protect your customers' data with Skyflow's innovative solutions. Get started at https://skyflowsecure.comAnd Don't miss HAWK:AI's game-changing approach to compliance. With real-time monitoring, adaptive learning, and advanced AI, it cuts false positives, simplifying your compliance efforts. Upgrade your surveillance with ease. Visit https://gethawkai.com for more intelligent, more effective compliance.Time Stamps:AI Fundamentals and Perception[00:03:00] Theodora Lau emphasizes AI as a mathematical tool with a rich history.[00:04:11] Matt Vanhouten discusses the impact of terminology on our understanding of AI.Societal Implications of AI[00:07:02] Discussion on AI's decentralizing effects and societal impacts.[00:30:57] Lau addresses the complexities and transformative potential of AI and big tech.AI's Role in Natural and Financial Worlds[00:10:26] AI's application in understanding plant communication.[00:37:05] Lau explains AI's role in enabling microloans, showcasing financial inclusion.Ethical Use and Future Impact of AI[00:13:21] Lau reflects on AI for good, focusing on ethical usage for solving real-world problems.[00:32:02] Lau and Vanhouten debate the nuanced future impacts of AI on work and life.Work Dynamics and Financial Services Innovations[00:34:38] Discussion on how AI reshapes work dynamics and extends careers.[01:37:27] Vanhouten talks about AI's potential to improve financial services like sanction screening.Bias, Ethics, and Regulation in AI[00:41:12] Necessity of addressing AI biases, especially in financial decisioning, and the role of regulation.[01:10:05] Importance of prompt engineering to mitigate biases and achieve useful AI outputs.AI in Creativity, Research, and Representation[01:02:46] Huff shares how AI enhances research and breaks conventional thought patterns.[01:09:01] Lau highlights biases in AI-generated images, stressing the need for diversity.AI's Practical Applications and Skepticism[01:17:00] Vanhouten expresses skepticism about generative AI in payments, advocating for machine learning.[01:32:15] Ethical considerations in AI's future, with a vision of enhancing human creativity.Changing Perceptions of Value and Financial Planning[01:34:57] Huff on how AI might change our perception of value and mediums of exchange.[01:42:10] Lau discusses the need for adaptive financial planning tools for changing life stages.AI's Future in FinTech and Society[01:47:09] Reflections on generative AI's future role in FinTech, emphasizing personalized services and human interaction.[01:35:59] Lau shares her vision of the future of money, focusing on access to essential resources as forms of value.This is a Production of Diamond D3, Media ABOUT: Tedd Huff: Tedd Huff is the Founder of Volayre, a FinTech-focused management consulting firm, providing expertise in Banking-as-a-Service, Payment Facilitation, and a range of services for banks, merchants, and tech companies in areas like partnership strategy, product management, and digital asset transfer. He is also the Founder of DD3 Media & executive producer and host of Fintech Confidential, a DD3 media production.Over the past 24 years, he has contributed to FinTech startups as an Advisory Board Member, Co-Founder, and Chief Experience Officer, providing strategic and tactical direction for Global Payments OpenEdge, Heartland Payments, Nuvei, and TSYS, among others, focusing on growth while delivering innovation, process improvements and user experience-driven value to simplify the complexity of payments.DD3, Media: A multimedia creation, management, production & marketing firm delivering engaging content primarily serving Fintech and technology companies globally.

Join host Tedd Huff in an enlightening episode of UNCUT by FinTech Confidential, featuring special guests Ashley Eisenberg and Alena Smith. Together, they provide a comprehensive analysis of the payment facilitation landscape. The episode concludes that key factors for success in this field include a seamless user experience, understanding the different types of payment facilitators, the importance of verticalization, robust fraud, and risk management strategies, and the necessity of strong customer support systems. This discussion is a must-listen for anyone in the FinTech industry, offering invaluable insights into the complexities of payment facilitation.In-Depth Discussion:Exploring Types of Payment Facilitators: Tedd Huff, along with Ashley Eisenberg and Alena Smith, dive into retail, wholesale, and hybrid models in payment facilitation.Challenges and Alternatives: The team discusses the hurdles in payment facilitation and explores alternative models like managed payback or traditional ISOs.User Experience in Payment Facilitation: Emphasizing the critical role of user experience in ensuring efficient payment processes.The Importance of Verticalization: The guests highlight how specializing in specific industries can lead to more effective PayFac solutions.Confronting Fraud and Risk Management: Strategies for combating fraud in payment systems, including the use of AI and machine learning, are thoroughly examined.AI's Role in Enhancing Risk Management: The transformative impact of AI technologies in risk management within the payment industry is a key focus.Improving Customer Support: The importance of customer support in maintaining positive merchant relationships and smooth payment experiences is discussed.Key Considerations for PayFac Adoption: The episode provides insights into the infrastructure, tools, and expertise needed for effective payment management.Conclusion:This episode of UNCUT by FinTech Confidential with Tedd Huff, featuring Ashley Eisenberg and Alena Smith, is essential listening for understanding the dynamic and intricate world of payment facilitation. It offers valuable perspectives and strategies for anyone looking to navigate this crucial aspect of the FinTech industry.WATCH ON YOUTUBELinks:Secure Bancard Website: https://securebancard.com/Secure Bancard Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/secure-bancard-llc-/Eliana Smith LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elainademezasmith/Ashley Isenberg LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-isenberg/ Tedd Huff Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teddhuff/Fintech Confidential YouTube: https://fintechconfidential.com/watch Podcast: https://fintechconfidential.com/listen Notifications: https://fintechconfidential.com/accessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintechconfidentialTwitter: https://twitter.com/FTconfidential Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fintechconfidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fintechconfidentialSupportersThis episode of UNCUT by Fintech Confidential is brought to you by:Under, Transform Your Merchant Applications with Under. The Under platform revolutionizes the way ISOs handle merchant applications, offering a seamless transition to digital forms. Say goodbye to outdated processes and hello to efficiency. Discover the future of financial applications at https://under.io/ftcSkyflow, the leading data privacy platform trusted by top financial institutions. Protect your customers' data with Skyflow's innovative solutions. Get started at https://skyflowsecure.comAnd don't forget to check out Chargebacks 911, the industry leader in chargeback management and prevention. Say goodbye to revenue loss and hello to seamless transactions with Chargebacks 911. Get started at https://cb911.infoTime Stamps:00:02:12 | Payment Facilitation Demystified!Discover what payment facilitation really means and why it's all about keeping users happy and risks low!00:03:46 | The Real Deal on Payment Facilitation!Dive into the tough stuff and sweet perks of payment facilitation – it's all about balancing risks and owning it!00:09:57 | Payment Facilitation: What's Your Style?Retail, wholesale, or hybrid? Get the scoop on different payment facilitation models and the role of big money players!00:13:11 | Niche Pay Solutions Taking Over!Check out how pay-as-a-service is getting all vertical and why industries need their own financial swag!00:15:00 | Payment Facilitation 3.0: Total Takeover!The future is now with end-to-end payment control – but hey, with great power comes great responsibility!00:19:14 | New Kids on the Payment Block!The market's shifting gears towards fresh processors – find out how they're changing the payment game!00:19:47 | ISOs vs. PayFacs: Who's Who?Get the lowdown on ISOs and payment facilitators – what's the diff and how do they run the show?00:20:09 | Grab the Reins on Payment Experience!Why settle for less control? Learn why peeps are ditching external processors for a hands-on payment vibe!00:21:31 | Outage Meltdown? Keep It Cool!How to handle payment outages like a boss – it's all about being clear, quick, and keeping customers in the loop!00:22:53 | Why Payment Facilitation Rocks!Uncover the top reasons businesses are jumping on the payment facilitation bandwagon – hello, better user experience!00:25:06 | Pick Your Payment Facilitator Flavor!Managed payback or full stack pull risk? We're breaking down payment facilitator models to find your perfect match!00:27:03 | To Be or Not to Be a PayFac?Is payment facilitation your destiny? We're weighing in on when it makes sense to jump in, based on your biz's size and focus!00:33:07 | Control Freaks Win in Payment Facilitation!More control in payment facilitation means you're the boss of funding, reconciling, and keeping customers smiling!00:35:28 | Customer is King!Why a customer-centric approach in payment facilitation is the secret ingredient to success, no matter your model!00:36:33 | Going Vertical in Payments!Is specializing the way to go in the payment world? We're tackling the pros and cons of verticalization!00:39:32 | Niche It Up in Payment Facilitation!Why zeroing in on niche markets could be your golden ticket in the world of payment facilitation!00:39:50 | Software Devs Get UX Better Than Payment Pros?Find out why software developers might just have the upper hand in understanding what users really want!00:40:14 | Payment Facilitation Models Unpacked!We're exploring all the ways payment facilitation can be tailored to give merchants more than just a way to get paid!00:42:07 | The Verticalization Vortex!Is there enough dough in specialized markets? We're discussing the risks and rewards of going all-in on a niche!00:43:28 | Selling to Vertical Markets: A Wild Ride!Strategies, challenges, and how one bad apple merchant can spoil the bunch – it's a vertical market showdown!00:45:34 | Fraud Busters in Action!The skinny on how fraud prevention and risk management are saving the day and keeping your cash safe!00:50:40 | Risky Business: Stories from the Trenches!Hear jaw-dropping tales from the risk management frontlines and why staying proactive is your best defense!00:56:00 | AI: The New Risk Management Superhero?Get excited about how AI and machine learning are changing the game in spotting trends and dodging risks!00:56:50 | AI to the Customer Support Rescue!Imagine customer support that's faster and smarter, thanks to AI – we're discussing the future of help!00:58:41 | The Real-Time Communication Conundrum!Tackling the tough stuff about real-time chats, customer expectations, and how it all affects your rep!00:59:36 | Controlling the Payment Facilitation Message!The importance of nailing real-time communication and picking partners wisely in the payment facilitation dance!01:00:16 | Start Small or Go Big in Payment Facilitation?The debate is on: is it better to kick things off early or scale up big-time when it comes to payment facilitation?01:01:34 | Marketing as a Service: The Next Big Thing?"Everything as a service" is taking over, and we're diving into what this means in the payment facilitation world!01:03:59 | To PayFac or Not to PayFac?Breaking down the big question: should your biz jump on the payment facilitation train or pump the brakes?This is a Production of Diamond D3, Media ABOUT: Tedd Huff: Tedd Huff is the Founder of Volayre, a FinTech-focused management consulting firm, providing expertise in Banking-as-a-Service, Payment Facilitation, and a range of services for banks, merchants, and tech companies in areas like partnership strategy, product management, and digital asset transfer. He is also the Founder of DD3 Media & executive producer and host of Fintech Confidential, a DD3 media production.Over the past 24 years, he has contributed to FinTech startups as an Advisory Board Member, Co-Founder, and Chief Experience Officer, providing strategic and tactical direction for Global Payments OpenEdge, Heartland Payments, Nuvei, and TSYS, among others, focusing on growth while delivering innovation, process improvements and user experience-driven value to simplify the complexity of payments.DD3, Media: A multimedia creation, management, production & marketing firm delivering engaging content primarily serving Fintech and technology companies globally.

Walt Levengood, VP of Strategy and Revenue of Nav, a groundbreaking financial technology company, shares his profound insights on navigating small businesses' financial health. Throughout the discussion, Walt highlights the critical role of fintech in equipping businesses with crucial financial tools they need for growth. He covers how the acquisition of TillFul and Nuula drives Nav's mission further and addresses numerous small business owners' challenges in the rapidly evolving fintech landscape. Moreover, he underscores the importance of data-driven solutions in enhancing business financing decisions and discusses Nav's unique data strategies in building customer credit files.Here are three key takeaways from this episode that you won't want to miss:1️⃣ Secret to Financial Success with Data-Driven Solutions for Small Businesses2️⃣ The Game-Changing Acquisitions of Nuula and Tilllful That Sets Nav Apart from the Competition3️⃣ Stopping the Death Rate of Small BusinessesJoin us as we dive deep into the world of fintech and uncover the strategies that are helping small businesses thrive.Watch the entire episode on YouTube. Links:Nav - https://www.nav.com/Nav's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/navsmb/Nav's Twitter - https://twitter.com/navsmb Nav's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/navsmb/Nav's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/navsmb/ Nav's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@NavsmbWalt Levengood's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wlevengoodFintech Confidential YouTube: https://fintechconfidential.com/watch Podcast: https://fintechconfidential.com/listen Notifications: https://fintechconfidential.com/accessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintechconfidentialTwitter: https://twitter.com/FTconfidential Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fintechconfidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fintechconfidentialSupportersThis episode of Fintech Confidential 1:1 is brought to you by Skyflow, the leading data privacy platform trusted by top financial institutions. Protect your customers' data with Skyflow's innovative solutions. Get started at www.skyflowsecure.comAnd don't forget to check out Chargebacks 911, the industry leader in chargeback management and prevention. Say goodbye to revenue loss and hello to seamless transactions with Chargebacks 911. Get started at www.cb911.infoTime Stamps:01:17 Introduction to FinTech Confidential01:34 Guest Introduction: Walt Levengood from Nav02:07 Walt's Journey into FinTech03:34 Walt's Experience with Nav04:37 Nav's Mission and Vision05:55 Nav's Recent Acquisitions: TillFul and Nuula07:07 Nav's Unique Position in the FinTech Landscape08:21 Nav's Role in Building Credit Files for Small Businesses13:36 Nav's No-Touch Environment24:19 Future of FinTech for Small Businesses25:40 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThis is a Production of DD3, Media ABOUT: Walt Levengood: Walt is the VP of Sales and Business Development at Nav. He has a proven track record in new market penetration, new product development, profit expansion, and raising capital from venture firms and Wall Street. Walt has an entrepreneurial mentality and a work ethic guided by metrics and teamwork. At Nav, Walt is responsible for leveraging a data-driven, personalized, consistent user experience across all touchpoints. He facilitates the connection between Nav’s customers and lenders/credit providers across multiple fulfillment channels and focuses on Nav’s continued business development, strategic relationships, and experience innovations. Walt has been with Nav for five years. Before Nav, he was an Advisor at Talech and FinXTech and the Chief Strategy Officer at Bizfi, where he helped launch the first aggregation platform for small businesses. He holds a BS in Marketing from West Chester University of Pennsylvania.Nav : Nav is the leading financial health platform for small businesses. Using real business data and proprietary scoring, Nav gives small-business owners transparency in finding the right loan, credit card, banking, and other business service options. Nav’s unique financial health platform shows cash flow, credit insights, and suggested financing options. It is the only place small business owners can see what financing they may qualify for before they apply. Nav’s platform seamlessly integrates with other software and websites, making it the leading embedded finance solution for SMBs.Tedd Huff: Tedd Huff is the Founder of Volayre, a FinTech-focused management consulting firm, providing expertise in Banking-as-a-Service, Payment Facilitation, and a range of services for banks, merchants, and tech companies in areas like partnership strategy, product management, and digital asset transfer. He is also the President & Founder of DD3 Media. He is also the executive producer and host of Fintech Confidential, a DD3 media production.Over the past 24 years, he has contributed to FinTech startups as an Advisory Board Member, Co-Founder, and Chief Experience Officer, providing strategic and tactical direction for Global Payments OpenEdge, Heartland Payments, Nuvei, and TSYS, among others, focusing on growth while delivering innovation, process improvements and user experience-driven value to simplify the complexity of payments.DD3, Media: A multimedia creation, management, production & marketing firm delivering engaging content primarily serving Fintech and technology companies globally.