Fintech Hustle

Fintech’s Next Frontier: Trust, AI, and the Power of Partnership

AI may be reshaping financial services, but turning new technology into real progress takes more than speed. Sam Kilmer and co-host Kelli Schultz are joined by Melissa Cullen of FIS, Andres Klaric of Fuse Finance, and Tom Davis of Canapi Ventures for an unscripted conversation about what it really takes to move AI from experimentation into everyday banking. From agentic customer service and faster product development to regulatory responsibility, customer adoption, data protection, and the growing importance of fintech partnerships, the group explores where AI is already creating real value and where financial institutions still need to move carefully. The conversation also digs into why distribution alone is not enough, how poor implementation can quickly erode trust, and why the strongest fintech companies will be the ones willing to stand behind outcomes, support their customers, and build experiences people actually want to use. Guests Include: Melissa Cullen - President of Regional & Community Banking and PayTech Women Board Member, FIS Andres Klaric - Co-Founder & Co-CEO, Fuse Finance Tom Davis - General Partner, Canapi Ventures Kelli Schultz (Co-Host) - Managing Director, Cornerstone Advisors Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g Chapters: [00:00] – Meet the Fintech Leaders [02:01] – Melissa Cullen’s Day in the Life at FIS [06:43] – Building and Scaling Fuse Finance [10:19] – Why Listening Matters More Than Ever [12:06] – Inside the Fintech Investor’s Day [15:12] – Separating AI Signal from the Hype [18:03] – Faster Sales Cycles and Outcome-Based AI [20:48] – Moving AI Beyond Experimentation [23:09] – Trust, Distribution, and Responsibility [26:25] – Why AI Adoption Requires Customer Support [27:41] – The Growing Fintech Partnership Ecosystem [29:01] – When Agentic AI Creates a Bad Experience [35:12] – Why Banks and Fintechs Need Each Other Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

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Risks, Relationships, Data, and The Fluid Future of AI and Digital

Fintech is moving fast, but this conversation makes one thing clear: the future will not be won by technology alone. Sam Kilmer and Kelli Schultz are joined by three founders -- Mike Duncan of Bankjoy, Nima Ghamsari of Blend, and Paul Danola of Bridgeport Partners — for a lively, unscripted look at the next chapter of financial services. AI is the headline, but the real story is bigger…what happens when critical data, smarter digital experiences, trusted relationships, and old-fashioned curiosity all collide. From community banks and credit unions and private equity firms to core systems, fraud prevention, lending, and the changing role of the branch, the group explores where fintech is getting more fluid, where it still feels too fragmented, and why staying open may be the most important leadership trait of all. Guests include: Paul Danola - Founding Partner, Bridgeport Partners Nima Ghamsari - Founder and Head of Blend Mike Duncan - CEO & Co-Founder of Bankjoy Kelli Schultz (Co-Host) - Managing Director, Cornerstone Advisors Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g Chapters [0:00] Welcome to Fintech Hustle [0:32] Meet the co-host and guests [2:47] Mike Duncan on the mission behind Bankjoy [4:20] How Bankjoy keeps teams aligned around OKRs [5:50] Getting back in front of clients and partners [7:47] Paul Danola on life after FIS and building Bridgeport Partners [10:38] Why investing still comes down to clients and employees [11:10] Relationships, trust and curiosity in fintech [14:55] Nima Ghamsari on Blend, AI transformation and building again [18:15] What’s making fintech leaders optimistic right now [20:36] AI as both opportunity and competitive threat for community FIs [24:09] The next chapter of customer engagement [28:05] Kelli Schultz on the integration problem across fintech stacks [34:26] AI agents as the future users of banking software [37:15] What the future digital banking interface could look like [40:56] Hyper-personalized financial guidance in real time [43:38] Using data and AI for real-time fraud prevention [45:50] Final thoughts and wrap-up Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

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AI in Banking, Core Systems & Fintech Trust: Insights from AFT Spring Summit

Live from the AFT Spring Summit, Sam Kilmer (Managing Director, Cornerstone Advisors) is joined by fintech leaders to discuss what’s really happening in banking and financial services right now. Guests include: Laura Kornhauser (CEO & Co-Founder, Stratyfy) David Eads (CEO & Co-Founder, Vine Financial) Kirsten Longnecker (Executive Vice President, York Public Relations) Tim Hamilton (Founder & CEO, Praxent) This unscripted “in the hall” conversation covers: The real impact of AI in banking (beyond the hype) Why trust between fintechs and banks is critical Core system challenges still holding banks back The future of software development with generative AI Risks of AI hallucinations and regulatory implications Why entry-level talent may drive the next wave of innovation What’s working — and what’s still broken — in fintech From customer-centricity to infrastructure challenges, this discussion captures the current state of fintech innovation and where the industry is heading next. Click to watch more Fintech Hustle! 🔗 https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/fintech-hustle/ Connect with Sam on LinkedIn: 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/samkilmer/ Connect with Laura on LinkedIn: 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-kornhauser/ Connect with David on LinkedIn: 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstenlongnecker/ Connect with Kirsten on LinkedIn: 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstenlongnecker/ Connect with Tim on LinkedIn: 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/timham/ Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

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The Future of Credit Unions: AI, Innovation & Member Strategy

Recorded live from GAC, Sam Kilmer (Managing Director, Cornerstone Advisors and host of Fintech Hustle) sits down with a powerhouse panel of credit union and fintech leaders for an unscripted hallway conversation. Joining the discussion: Brandi Gregory (Managing Director, Cornerstone Advisors) Ned Tobey (CEO, Circuit) JB Orecchia (CEO, SavvyMoney) Nicole Haverly (VP Credit Unions, nCino) Rob Landis (CEO, Correlation) Topics include AI, member primacy, financial wellness, fraud risks, speed of innovation, and what credit unions must rethink in 2026. Click to watch more Fintech Hustle! 🔗 https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/fintech-hustle/ Connect with Sam on LinkedIn: 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/samkilmer/ Watch the Video Episodes on Youtube! 🔗https://youtu.be/LQOMuzfwl84 Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

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AOBA 2026 Takeaways: AI, Deposits, Data, and What’s Breaking

Recorded at a location near AOBA 2026, this Fintech Hustle episode brings guests Aleda DeMaria (EVP & Chief Operating Officer, PeoplesBank), Mac Thompson (Founder & CEO, White Clay) & Christina Miller (VP, Alkami) for an unscripted hallway conversation on what’s changing right now. Key topics include: Deposit retention after massive outflows and why “acquisition” is not the finish line AI everywhere, including fraud, and why banks must fight AI with AI Vendor consolidation and the reality of fragmented tech stacks Data strategy as a growth engine, not just a compliance tool Why the branch still matters and how to modernize the in-branch experience The talent challenge for community banks trying to innovate A clear warning: community banks should stop trying to build what mega-banks build, and focus on partnerships and execution Let us know what theme you’re hearing most in your institution right now. Click to watch more Fintech Hustle! 🔗 https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/fintech-hustle/ Connect with Sam on LinkedIn: 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/samkilmer/ Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

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Fintech Hustle 2026 Kickoff: AI, Stablecoins, and the New “Community”

Kicking off 2026 with a strategy-focused episode of Fintech Hustle. Sam Kilmer (Managing Director, Cornerstone Advisors) and co-host Kelli Schultz (Principal, Cornerstone Advisors) are joined by Erica Pilon (Head of Strategy, Jack Henry) and Scott Hildenbrand (Chief Balance Sheet Strategist, Piper Sandler) to discuss what’s changing in banking and fintech, and what winners will do differently. Topics include: vendor strategy and fintech partnerships, stablecoin and payments, customer-first balance sheet thinking, redefining “community,” why bank valuations aren’t reflecting performance, and the missed marketing opportunities banks keep repeating. What’s your top strategic priority for 2026? 00:00 Intro + 2026 kickoff 01:00 Erica Pilon intro + strategy shifts 05:00 Jack Henry priorities, fintech alliances, ecosystem 09:30 Scott Hildenbrand: ALCO, balance sheet, M&A 12:00 Deposit chaos and customer-first ALCO 14:00 Redefining “community” and loyalty vs trust 17:30 What’s “broken”: integration + standards 24:00 What’s “broken”: marketing and telling the story 29:45 What’s “jazzing” them: stablecoin + opportunity 32:30 Wrap Click to watch more! https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/fintech-hustle/ Connect with Sam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samkilmer/ Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

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2025 in Fintech: The Best Insights from Fintech Hustle Podcast

Host Sam Kilmer looks back at the year’s most quoted hallway moments—packed with real-world takes on AI (purposeful, not buzzwordy), stablecoins (watch the fiat on/off-ramps), data activation (from “we have it” to “we use it”), and go-to-market alignment. Highlights include an AI reality check from a startup CEO, pragmatic stablecoin guidance from an investing leader, compliance and fraud implications for the AI era, organizing sales + marketing around bookings, and why community FIs must aim for personalization beyond product silos. Plus a few road-warrior stories (Grace Potter sighting, sun-safe merch) to cap a big year. Links Sam Kilmer (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/samkilmer/ Fintech Hustle (Cornerstone site): https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/fintech-hustle/ Key Moments 00:04 Flashback setup: a “greatest-hits-ish” reel—AI, stablecoin, data, GTM 01:23 AI culture shift: a CEO’s take on leaders who hoped to “retire before it hits” 03:06 Stablecoin sanity check (rooftop chat): focus on fiat ↔ stablecoin conversions now 05:07 AI’s compounding edge: “It’s the dumbest it will ever be today”—early adopters win on efficiency, profitability, M&A leverage 07:18 Purposeful AI: define the outcome first (ops efficiency, intimacy, personalization), then pick the tech 08:25 GTM org design: marketing + sales co-own accounts and bookings; content ≠ handoff forms 10:48 Data to action: banks have data—now align strategy, frontline, and offers to actually use it 12:03 Sign-off: community, road notes, and gearing up for 2026’s guest slate Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

Purposeful AI, Tokenized Mortgages, and What Community Banks Must Do Next

Host Sam Kilmer gathers Reva Rao (Head of Digital Transformation, Blend), David Ladic (SVP, Zafin), Adam Aspes (Partner, FINTOP), and co-host Kelli Schultz for a candid hallway conversation. They trade “day-in-the-life” views (and nonstop event planning), argue for purposeful AI over buzzwords, and unpack regulator-ready AI governance (from “know your agent” to vendor disclosures). The group debates blockchain/tokenization in mortgages, smart-contract enforcement, fraud realities, and whether consumers even care about the rails—so long as pricing and trust improve. It closes with a challenge to community FIs: get entrepreneurial, use your data, personalize beyond product silos, and solve for outcomes—not tech for tech’s sake. Key Moments 00:11 Guest lineup and setup from the halls of fintech to real operator stories 08:45 Events as strategy why orchestration and education matter as much as product 13:22 Purposeful AI prioritize problems, outcomes, and ROI rather than buzzwords 20:36 Governance and exams “know your agent,” vendor AI disclosures, anonymization, and risk 28:32 Tokenization debate on chain home equity, cost dynamics, smart contract enforcement, and whether consumers care 42:10 What’s broken and what wins data driven personalization and a call for FI entrepreneurship 47:03 Wrap and takeaways solve outcomes first and let tech follow Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

Data, Trust & The Death of Product-Centric Banking | FinovateFall 2025

Recording “in the hall” at FinovateFall, host Sam Kilmer is joined by Wayne Miller ( SVP Innovation at ICBA & GP at BankTech Ventures), Tiffani Montez (Principal Analyst, EMARKETER), and Har Rai Khalsa (CEO & Co-Founder, Swaystack). They discuss what a fintech leader’s day really looks like, the urgency of AI adoption, the shaky logic of bank-issued stablecoins, and why personalization and life-stage experiences must replace product silos. Key Moments 00:04 Live from FinovateFall, NYC — Sam introduces Wayne, Tiffani, and Har Rhai. 01:10 Day-in-the-life: matchmaking fintech + banks, research for clients, go-to-market hustle. 04:24 Hallway buzz: AI and stablecoin — time to focus on how, not why. 07:25 Industry pain points: inactive accounts, lack of engagement, and missing 360° customer views. 12:16 Positive outlook: AI as augmentation, personalization at scale, and shifting from products to customer life-stage journeys. Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

From the Rooftop of JAM Fintop 2025 // Steve Soukup, Todd Clark, Erin Simpson, Karan Kashyap

Host Sam Kilmer records live from Hyatt Nashville with Steve Soukup (DefenseStorm), Todd Clark (Investifi), Erin Simpson (Encore Bank), and Karan Kashyap (Posh). They swap “day-in-the-life” notes, why AI went from “go slow” to “why aren’t we live,” practical stablecoin prep, real-time payments use cases, ERP integrations, deposit outflows to wealth apps, and why “seamless integration” usually isn’t. Rooftop vibes included. Timestamps: 00:04 Scene-set + guest lineup (DefenseStorm, Invest Defi, Encore Bank, Posh). 03:29 “Day in the life”: small-company stretch roles, startup rhythms, running bank ops, CEO still coding. 09:00 AI mood shift: boards from cautious to urgent; “web-banking déjà vu.” 10:36 Stablecoins: watch, don’t leap; near-term priority is fiat↔stable on/off-ramps. 12:41 Bank priorities: real-time payments and ERP integrations for commercial clients. 15:07 Integration reality: solving treasury onboarding with true end-to-end partners (docs + core push). 17:23 Deposit defense: 5–10% outflows to investment platforms—be the investing on-ramp. 18:02 Cyber angle: pace of change ⇒ more risk; move from whac-a-mole to proactive controls. 22:38 Live AI wins: disclosure review pipeline; measuring AI ROI (tokens, accuracy) and loan-doc diffs. 26:00–30:26 What’s working now: banks leaning in, co-building with fintechs, deposit/treasury innovation, optimistic tone; wrap. Top Takeaways AI urgency: Boards and execs moved from “slow down” to “why aren’t we live?”—time to graduate from licenses to application-layer outcomes. Stablecoin stance: For banks today, focus on compliant on/off-ramps and multi-currency readiness rather than speculative use cases. Payments & ERP: RTP adoption and deep ERP integrations are must-win commercial banking battlegrounds. Integration reality: “Seamless” is oversold—pick partners who’ll do the unglamorous workflow plumbing end-to-end. Deposit defense: Mind the wealth leakage to investing apps; offer native pathways before funds walk. Security ≈ survival: Rapid change expands the attack surface—proactive cyber risk management is table stakes. Prove AI ROI: Track tokens, accuracy, and cycle-time reduction; start with auditable, high-impact workflows (e.g., disclosures, credit-memo vs. docs diffs). Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

Deals, Data & the Digital Shift with Kelley Michalik & Stephen Baker

In this episode of Fintech Hustle, host Sam Kilmer engages with guests Kelley Michalik, Kelli Schultz, and Stephen Baker to discuss the evolving landscape of fintech, focusing on investment trends, the integration of marketing and sales, and the competitive dynamics between community banks and megabanks. The conversation highlights the importance of trust, the challenges of integration, and the potential of AI to transform the industry. The episode concludes with a tribute to Barb McLean, a notable figure in the fintech community. Takeaways: The fintech landscape is seeing increased investor interest and momentum. Community banks are gaining traction against megabanks by focusing on personalized service. Integration challenges remain a significant hurdle in the fintech industry. AI has the potential to level the playing field for smaller financial institutions. The shift from marketing to sales is crucial for creating a seamless customer experience. Trust is eroding in big banks, creating opportunities for community institutions. The importance of storytelling in marketing to attract younger customers. Collaboration between marketing and sales teams is essential for success. The need for integration standards in fintech is still pressing. Fresh perspectives from new entrants can drive innovation in the industry. Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

Off the Stage at Finovate Spring 2025 // Maya Mikhailov, Jason Henrichs & Andy Ivankovich

Forget the keynote fluff and polished demo, this episode of Fintech Hustle drops you straight onto a sun-drenched San Diego balcony with the real players of Finovate Spring 2025. Host Sam Kilmer is joined by fintech rockstars Maya Mikhailov (SAVVI AI), Jason Henrichs (Alloy Labs), and Andy Ivankovich (Baker Hill) for a breakdown of what’s actually happening behind the scenes of the industry’s flashiest conference. If you’re tired of hearing "AI for X" without substance, wondering what bankers are really doing with data, and curious whether fintech is facing a vibe shift—this is your episode. What You'll Learn: AI Hype vs. Reality: Why everyone’s claiming to be “AI-powered”—and why that’s a problem From Vibes to Value: The dangers of “vibe-based banking” and the shift to data-backed decision-making Data Ponds vs. Oceans: A practical new take on building usable data systems without drowning in complexity Fintech Frustrations: The biggest annoyances of the show—and what needs to be fixed, fast What’s Actually Working: Real use cases where small banks are doing big things with automation and AI Inside Jokes & Honest Talk: Classic rock, Torrey Pines trivia, and bucket-list podcast moments Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

Exploring Fintech Trends at AFT Conference // Alex McLeod, Ben Metz & Will Bryant

In this episode of the Fintech Hustle podcast, host Sam Kilmer sits down live at the AFT Spring Conference with Alex McLeod (CEO, Parlay Finance), Ben Metz (CTO/CDO, Jack Henry), and Will Bryant (COO, Quantalytix) for a high-energy conversation about the future of financial services. The panel dives into key fintech trends, including the real-world impact of AI in banking, how institutions are rethinking efficiency ratios, and why consumer empowerment is reshaping the market. Beyond tech, they explore the cultural side of fintech – highlighting how music, creativity, and community fuel innovation. Whether you're a bank or credit union leader, fintech founder, or just love the hustle of financial innovation, this episode delivers strategic insights and fresh perspective straight from the field. 🎧 In this episode: Why AI is more than just a buzzword in fintech (and how leaders are applying it) How collaboration and culture can solve banking’s toughest challenges Why efficiency doesn’t always require AI, and what to prioritize instead The increasing importance of human-centered digital experiences How events like AFT spark real industry transformation 🔑 Keywords: Fintech podcast, financial services, banking technology, AI in banking, fintech innovation, efficiency ratios, consumer empowerment, AFT conference, credit union trends, financial collaboration, future of fintech Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

Insights from the Acquire or Be Acquired Conference // Margaret Hartigan, Nikhil Lakhanpal & Todd Schell

The Acquire or Be Acquired conference was buzzing with optimism, big ideas, and strategic conversations about the future of banking. In this episode of Fintech Hustle, host Sam Kilmer and co-host Al Dominick sit down for an unscripted discussion with Margaret Hartigan (Founder & CEO, Marstone), Nikhil Lakhanpal (Co-founder, Narmi), and Todd Schell (Managing Director, Warburg Pincus) to break down what’s ahead for the financial services industry in 2025. This candid conversation covers: The push for growth and scalability in an evolving market Why fraud concerns are rising across the industry The challenge of integration pain and how banks can overcome it The shift toward open APIs and stronger fintech partnerships How banks can move beyond pricing strategies to drive real innovation The importance of understanding customer needs and forecasting effectively Like every episode of Fintech Hustle, this one is completely unscripted—just real insights from leaders who are shaping the future of financial services. Whether you're running a bank, credit union, or fintech firm, this is a conversation worth tuning into. Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

Kicking off 2025 with Lee Farabaugh, Brendan Tansill and Hank Seale

The first Fintech Hustle episode of the year kicks off with host Sam Kilmer and co-host Stacy Bryant joined by industry leaders Lee Farabaugh (Monarch), Brendan Tansill (Candescent), and Hank Seale (Hapax). This lively discussion dives into the dynamic world of fintech, covering the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the industry today. The conversation shines a light on the vital role of community banks, cutting-edge fraud prevention strategies, and how technology is transforming customer experiences. The guests also share their perspectives on the growing impact of AI in banking, the challenges of system integration, and the regulatory landscape influencing financial institutions. With a focus on innovation and strategy, this episode offers fresh insights into the evolving fintech space. Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

Fintech Hustle Flashback: Key Insights from 2024

In this episode of Fintech Hustle, Sam gathers his team of co-hosts (Ron Shevlin, Stacey Bryant, Al Dominick and Mary Wisniewski) to reflect on the key themes and highlights from the past year in the fintech industry, by looking back at memorable moments from the podcast over the last 12 months. They discuss the significance of deposits, the role of data in community financial institutions, the importance of predictive analytics, strategies for competing with larger banks, the challenge of staying focused amidst distractions, and the rising concern of fraud in the financial sector. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration and innovative thinking to navigate the evolving landscape of fintech, and the team delves into the pressing issues of fraud in community banking, the potential of AI in fraud prevention, and the challenges of talent acquisition in the banking sector. Also highlighted: the marketing challenges faced by financial institutions and the importance of effective communication and pitching in the Fintech space. The discussion wraps up with a light-hearted note on the fun aspects of the financial industry. Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

The Future of Security in Fintech with Parilee Wang, Charles Potts & Joe Cody

In this episode of the Fintech Hustle podcast, host Sam Kilmer and co-host Mary Wisniewski sit down with guests Parilee Wang (Alloy), Charles Potts (ICBA, BankTech Ventures), and Joe Cody (Q2) to chat about the exciting world of fintech. They dive into what a typical day looks like for fintech pros, how banking and tech are blending, and why responsible innovation matters. They focus on the changing landscape of fraud and security, highlighting just how important consumer trust is for fintech solutions, exploring the many tools out there to fight fraud and emphasizing the balance between growth and risk. They also discuss how community banks are bouncing back from recent challenges and the fresh strategies they’re using to stand out in a crowded market. Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

Insights from the AFT Fall Summit // Sarah Fankhauser, Melissa Kopp, Jacob Bouer

In this episode of the FinTech Hustle podcast, host Sam Kilmer and co-host Al Dominick engage with industry leaders Melissa Kopp (Neural Payments), Sarah Fankhauser (DCI), and Jacob Bouer (Array) at the AFT Fall Summit. The conversation explores their daily experiences in the FinTech sector, insights gained from the conference, especially from April Dunford, and the challenges faced in the industry. The guests emphasize the importance of relationships, transparency, and collaboration in navigating the evolving landscape of financial technology. Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

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Barb MacLean, Danny Payne and Nick Evens at Finovate Fall 2024

In this episode of the Fintech Hustle podcast, host Sam Kilmer and co-host Stacey Bryant chat with Barb MacLean (Coastal Community Bank), Danny Payne (Jack Henry), and Nick Evens (Curql Collective) at the Finovate Fall conference about their roles in the fintech industry. They discuss topics such as enabling community banks through technology, modernizing tech stacks, the importance of being a platform company, and the need for consolidation in the industry. They also share their thoughts on the demos and presentations at the Finovate conference. Takeaways Enabling community banks through technology is a key focus for Coastal Community Bank. Modernizing tech stacks is essential for banks to keep up with customer expectations. Being a platform company and offering broader solutions is important for fintech companies. Consolidation in the industry is needed to streamline operations and improve collaboration. Demos and presentations at conferences should focus on solving real problems and providing valuable solutions. Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g

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Allison Cerra, Laura Broderick, Sam Das & Brian Bauer

In this episode of Fintech Hustle, host Sam Kilmer and co-host Mary Wisniewski are joined by a panel of guests including Allison Cerra (Alkami), Laura Broderick (Abrigo), Sam Das (TruStage Ventures), and Brian Bauer (Revio), where they discuss the impact of generational shifts on financial institutions, the need for data strategy and AI implementation, the importance of customer insights and talent acquisition, and the potential ripple effect of large banks charging more for accounts. The guests also highlight the role of regional and community banks in providing financial education and personalized experiences to attract younger generations. The conversation covers various topics related to the future of banking, including the use of technology, the gig economy, customer experience, fraud prevention, and the importance of a sales culture. The participants discuss how megabanks are leveraging technology to replicate the personalized customer experience offered by community financial institutions (CFIs). They also highlight the need for CFIs to invest in business model innovation and adapt to the changing banking landscape. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the challenges and opportunities in the industry, including the importance of employee experience, the prevalence of fraud, and the need for a mindset shift in the boardroom. Takeaways The fintech industry is experiencing exponential change, driven by generational shifts, new technologies, inflationary rate environments, and uncertain government regulations. Financial institutions are focusing on data strategy and AI implementation to improve efficiency, streamline operations, and meet customer needs. Regional and community banks face challenges in talent acquisition and customer acquisition costs, but they can leverage their ability to provide financial education and personalized experiences to attract younger generations. The potential ripple effect of large banks charging more for accounts could impact the competitive landscape and drive customers towards regional and community banks. Customer insights and talent are key pillars for financial institutions to navigate the evolving fintech landscape and drive secure growth. Megabanks are using technology to replicate the personalized customer experience offered by community financial institutions (CFIs). CFIs need to invest in business model innovation and adapt to the changing banking landscape. The gig economy and the preferences of Gen Z customers, such as freedom and flexibility, are important considerations for CFIs. Fraud prevention is a significant concern for FIs, and there is a need for increased investment in this area. A sales culture that focuses on serving the customer's best interests is crucial for success in the industry. CFIs should prioritize employee experience and embrace a mindset of continuous improvement. The boardroom mentality needs to evolve to be more inclusive and forward-thinking. Subscribe to the Fintech Hustle podcast here: https://qrco.de/bgfV6g