Episodes
Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
In this episode of the Operate Podcast, we explored the transformation of the banking sector through technology, leadership, and community engagement. Our guest, Marc Rehberger, delves into his journey from technology companies to leading tech-enabled banking at Customers Bank. We discussed cutting-edge advancements in real-time payments, the strategic adoption of technologies like RTP and FedNow, and their long-term impacts on financial institutions. The discussion highlighted how banks have adapted to unprecedented times, emphasizing agility, decision-making, and the integration of modern FinTech solutions with traditional banking practices. We also touched on the invaluable role of community banks in the U.S. financial system, their unique understanding of local markets, and the collaborative ecosystem they foster. Throughout the episode, we emphasized the balance between technological adoption, regulatory compliance, and maintaining personal customer relationships, which we both believe will persist in banking. Marc shared his insights on leadership, the power of mentorship, and the importance of investing in people, concluding with practical advice for professionals eager to innovate in their banking careers. Tune in to discover how combining traditional banking strengths with modern technology creates a dynamic and exciting environment for both customers and employees.
Thanks to show sponsor, BankTech Ventures!
CHAPTER MARKERS:
00:00 Preview
00:37 Intro
00:54 Sponsor
01:28 Guest Introduction: Marc Rehberger
02:40 Marc's Career Journey
05:17 Transition to Customers Bank
07:56 Role and Responsibilities at Customers Bank
15:14 Challenges and Successes in Banking
24:37 The Importance of Community Banks
27:28 Challenges Facing Community Banks
29:04 The Importance of Technology Partnerships
31:31 Advice for Bankers on Tech Integration
36:43 The Role of Core Technology in Banking
38:47 The Future of Banking: Open Banking and Portability
47:55 Core Values and Personal Reflections
50:53 Advice for Early Career Professionals
52:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Thursday Sep 05, 2024
Thursday Sep 05, 2024
In this episode of the Operate Podcast, we take a behind-the-scenes look at the birth of fintech P2P and marketplace lending with Peter Renton, one of its pioneers. Peter shared his extensive background, starting from his early days as a self-directed investor to founding key fintech companies like Lend Academy and LendIt, which later became Fintech Nexus. We discussed his journey into peer-to-peer lending and its evolution as institutional investors entered the space. The conversation spans the rise of fintech innovation, the challenges of scaling peer-to-peer platforms, and the role of community banks in the future of financial services. Peter recounted the bubble in the fintech lending space around 2015 and how the industry adapted following the Lending Club debacle in 2016. He also shared his advice for fintech founders, emphasizing the importance of diversification in funding sources and customer acquisition strategies.
We delved into notable companies like Upstart and their pivots in the fintech landscape. Additionally, Peter reflected on the transition from LendIt to FinTech Nexus to encompass a broader range of fintech innovations for their content and events. We touched on the increasing interest of banks in fintech events from 2016 onwards and the changing landscape post-pandemic. Peter discussed emerging trends in fintech, such as embedded lending, mobile wallets, and new payment rails. He highlighted the necessity for community banks to adopt technology and attract younger customers. Lastly, Peter introduced his new consulting venture, Renton & Co, aimed at guiding fintech companies through content strategy, marketing, and market analysis. Enjoy this comprehensive look at the past, present, and future of fintech.
CHAPTER MARKERS:
00:00 Preview
00:34 Intro
00:47 Sponsor
01:19 Meet Peter Renton: A Fintech Pioneer
02:50 Peter's Early Fascination with Finance
04:04 Discovering Peer-to-Peer Lending
05:36 Building Lend Academy and LendIt
09:21 The Evolution of Marketplace Lending
18:39 Reflections on the Fintech Lending Boom
27:19 Kudos to Dave Girard (UpStart) and Team
28:04 The Shift to FinTech Nexus
29:04 Expanding Beyond Lending
32:16 Challenges and Stress of the Events Business
32:48 The Impact of the Pandemic
33:54 Future of FinTech and Embedded Lending
37:47 The Role of Community Banks
42:38 Advice for Community Bank CEOs
49:18 Peter's New Venture: Renton & Co
Wednesday Jul 31, 2024
Wednesday Jul 31, 2024
In this episode, we get an insider look into the financial technology landscape with Jason Mikula. Jason shares his journey, from his unexpected entry into financial services and digital marketing to launching the publication Fintech Business Weekly. He emphasizes the importance of understanding customer acquisition metrics and analyzes the evolution of fintech innovations like online lending, BNPL, Banking as a Service, etc.
We delve into the mechanics of Banking as a Service (BaaS) and the complex relationships between fintechs, middleware platforms, and banks. Jason is currently in the middle of reporting on news as it breaks around Synapse, Evolve and several fintechs, as well as the thousands of customers caught in the middle of it. He highlights the regulatory challenges and the balancing act between risk and growth. Our discussion also addresses the current regulatory landscape and the future of partner banking, stressing the need for sustainable and economically sound practices. Tune in for a comprehensive conversation that explores the intricacies of fintech and digital banking services.
CHAPTER MARKERS:
00:00 Preview
00:45 Intro
00:58 Sponsor
01:31 Meet Jason Mikula, Analyst and Writer of FinTech Business Weekly
03:23 Jason's Background in Financial Services
04:27 Joining Enova and Learning Subprime Lending
05:22 Marketing Metrics and Customer Acquisition
07:05 Challenges in Digital Financial Services
09:09 The Importance of Digital Marketing in FinTech
14:29 Starting FinTech Business Weekly
17:38 Analyzing the FinTech Landscape
20:10 Insights on BNPL and Market Valuations
23:32 Banking as a Service and Middleware Companies
31:49 Regulatory Challenges and Partner Banking
40:23 Regulatory Priorities and Market Impact
44:46 Systemic Risks and Community Banks
48:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Wednesday Jul 17, 2024
Wednesday Jul 17, 2024
In this episode of the Operate Podcast, we give you a behind-the-scenes look at company building with Isabella Sun, Founder and CEO of Short Story, a subscription e-commerce company serving petite women. The discussion sheds light on Isabella's journey from a structured finance career to becoming a successful e-commerce entrepreneur catering to a niche market. We explore how a personal pain point sparked the idea for Short Story and how comprehensive market research highlighted the need for better-fitting apparel for petite women.
Isabella shares her unconventional path to e-commerce, including her participation in Y Combinator and the early days of building Short Story from her apartment. We discuss the challenges and milestones of growing the company, the importance of understanding customer needs through data, and the nuances of creating products that foster loyalty and excitement among customers.
The conversation also covers how Short Story has managed to achieve profitability without heavy reliance on marketing, leveraging organic growth and customer satisfaction. Isabella highlights her strategies for financing the company creatively and the role of technology and data in scaling operations. This episode provides valuable insights into staying ahead in a competitive market through continuous innovation and an unwavering focus on customer experience.
Towards the end, we dive into Isabella’s personal routines, the mental toughness required for entrepreneurship, and her advice to budding entrepreneurs. This episode offers an inspiring look at how a strong vision and an obsessive customer-centric approach can lead to extraordinary results.
Thank you to episode sponsor, BankTech Ventures.
CHAPTER MARKERS:
00:00 Preview
01:00 Intro
01:13 Sponsor
01:45 Meet Isabella Sun, Founder of Short Story
03:22 Identifying a Market Need
05:07 Early Challenges and Growth
08:35 Customer Connection and Proud Moments
11:14 Navigating E-commerce and Apparel Industry
14:39 Leveraging Data and Technology
23:41 Future Opportunities and Competitor Insights
28:32 Biggest Misconceptions
31:20 Personal Insights, Rituals, & Entrepreneurial Journey
37:53 Closing Thoughts
Tuesday Jun 25, 2024
Tuesday Jun 25, 2024
In this episode of the Operate Podcast, we got a behind-the-scenes look at company building from Tiffany Haynes, COO at Fingercheck. Tiffany discussed her transition from a 19-year career at Jack Henry to her role at Fingercheck, a startup focused on payroll and HR services for small businesses. She highlighted the challenges and learning curves she faced and the importance of establishing foundational structures for growth. Tiffany emphasized the need to slow down before speeding up and building a solid organizational core.
Tiffany also reflected on her various roles at Jack Henry, including Chief People Officer and General Manager of a business unit that supported over 100 banks and credit unions. She shared her passion for transformational work and the importance of growth and resilience. These experiences provided her with deep insights into the banking industry's inner workings and maintaining strong customer relationships, which have been invaluable in her current role at Fingercheck.
The discussion included Fingercheck's market differentiation by offering enterprise-level capabilities, tailored for small businesses. Tiffany talked about the company's mission to automate administrative tasks, allowing small business owners to focus on what truly matters. She shared her excitement about the company's growth potential and the team's unity, describing the joy of achieving their goals together.
She provided strategic insights into the future of banking, emphasizing the need for regulatory clarity and collaboration among traditional banks, fintechs, and other stakeholders. She stressed the importance of a customer-centric approach, balancing personal relationships with digital convenience. Finally, Tiffany offered advice for early career professionals, encouraging them to take risks, stay resilient, and deliver meaningful work that improves lives.
Thanks to show sponsor, BankTech Ventures.
CHAPTER MARKERS:
00:00 Preview
00:46 Intro
00:55 Sponsor
01:28 Meet Tiffany Haynes: COO at Fingercheck
02:39 Transitioning from Corporate to Startup
04:13 Challenges and Surprises in a Startup Environment
08:47 Fingercheck's Unique Market Position
13:49 Reflections on Jack Henry and Career Highlights
27:37 Challenges in Banking Sales and Marketing
29:45 Understanding Consumer Needs
32:17 Adapting to Digital Transformation
34:09 Innovative Ideas for Banking Industry
39:52 Personal Journey in Banking Tech
44:04 Balancing Work and Personal Life
47:24 Role and Success as a
49:16 Current Challenges in Sales and Marketing
50:35 Advice for Early Career Professionals
52:12 Closing Remarks
Friday Jun 07, 2024
Friday Jun 07, 2024
In this episode of the Operate Podcast, we dive deep into the evolution of 'Banking as a Service' (BaaS) and its complexities. My guest, Rafael DeLeon, the SVP of Industry Engagement at NContracts, shares his extensive insights on the partnership dynamics between community banks and fintech companies. We explored how these relationships started, the operational challenges they faced, and how they've matured over time. Rafael discussed the importance of trust, risk management, and regulatory compliance in these partnerships, highlighting the transition from what he calls the 'Wild West' of BaaS to a more structured environment today.
We also talked about the broader regulatory environment in the banking industry, focusing on how regulators are handling the rapid pace of change, interest rates, and macroeconomic challenges. Rafael provided his perspective on recent enforcement actions and what they signal to the industry, emphasizing the need for transparency, strong risk management systems, and strategic planning.
From there we addressed the impact of technology on smaller banks and how it can enable them to be more efficient and competitive. Rafael shared his optimistic outlook on the future of community banking, particularly how fintech partnerships and regulatory guidelines will shape the industry's landscape.
Towards the end of our conversation, Rafael reflected on his career transition from a long tenure at the OCC to his current role at Ncontracts. He discussed how his new position allows him to leverage his regulatory expertise and passion for the banking industry to foster innovation and compliance. This episode provided a comprehensive look at the current and future state of community banking, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in financial services, fintech, and regulatory affairs.
Thank you to show sponsor, BankTech Ventures.
EPISODE CHAPTER MARKERS:
00:00 Preview
00:36 Intro
00:49 Sponsor
01:21 Meet Rafael DeLeon: SVP of Industry Engagement at Ncontracts
02:27 Banking as a Service: Challenges and Evolution
05:58 Regulatory Oversight and Compliance
10:56 Risk Management in Banking Partnerships
19:46 Future of Banking and Regulatory Environment
35:36 Technology's Role in Small Banks
38:09 Bridging the Tech-Bank Language Gap
41:27 Journey to Becoming a Bank Regulator
47:20 Transition to NContracts
50:19 NContracts' Growth and Innovations
53:38 Rafael's Superpower: Connecting People
56:23 Future of Banking: AI and Payments
57:50 Regulatory Vigilance and Risk Management
59:47 Accountability in Regulatory Agencies
01:01:05 Final Thoughts and Farewell
Saturday May 18, 2024
Upgrading Commercial Real Estate Banking - Shayne Skaff, Co-founder & CEO of Blooma
Saturday May 18, 2024
Saturday May 18, 2024
In this episode of the Operate Podcast, we delve into the use of AI & Machine Learning within the commercial real estate lending industry. My guest is Shayne Skaff, co-founder and CEO of Blooma, a SaaS company revolutionizing commercial real estate lending and portfolio management.
Our discussion outlines Shane's entrepreneurial journey, the origins of Blooma, and the challenges and opportunities within the commercial real estate market. Shane shares insights into the impact of technology on underwriting and portfolio management, the adaptability of the workforce to technological advancements, and the significance of community banks to the economy. The conversation also touches on the future of machine learning and AI in banking, the importance of data quality, and the vision for Blooma to facilitate lender and borrower connections and streamline the syndication process within commercial real estate.
Thanks to show sponsor, BankTech Ventures.
CHAPTER MARKERS:
00:00 Preview
00:33 Intro
00:46 Sponsor
01:16 Meet Shayne Skaff: Co-Founder & CEO of Blooma
02:26 Navigating the Complex Landscape of Commercial Real Estate Loans
07:16 The Evolution of Blooma: From Idea to Industry Innovation
10:08 Bridging the Gap: Technology Adoption Across Generations
17:55 The Future of Commercial Real Estate: A Vision for Innovation
20:18 Harnessing AI and ML: The Backbone of Blooma's Technology
25:40 The Challenge of Data Management in Banking
27:42 The Entrepreneurial Journey: Insights from Shane Scaff
38:47 Mentorship and Continuous Learning: A Founder's Perspective
43:53 Looking Ahead: Family, Business, and the Future
Friday May 03, 2024
Friday May 03, 2024
In this episode, we delve into cybersecurity and the importance of making it relevant to each individual, beyond just their organization. My guest is David Shipley, Co-founder and CEO of Beauceron Security. David shares his journey from a career-altering cybersecurity incident at the University of New Brunswick to leading a cloud-based platform designed to enhance personal and organizational cybersecurity practices by empowering people to be in control of technology. The discussion explores current cybercrime trends in the banking industry, as well as the impact of geopolitical instability and technological advancements on cyber risk, the role of AI in both aiding and complicating cybersecurity efforts, and strategies for building positive security cultures within organizations. He also reflects on the challenges and rewards of growing a startup in Canada, emphasizing the importance of team resiliency, continuous learning, and embracing failure as a pathway to innovation.
Thanks to show sponsor, BankTech Ventures.
CHAPTER MARKERS:
00:00 Introduction
01:14 Meet David Shipley: From Military to Cybersecurity CEO
02:28 Current Cybersecurity Challenges and Trends
07:36 Strategies for Banks to Combat Cyber Threats
17:23 The Beauceron Inception Story: A Cybersecurity Journey
26:05 Evolving Security Awareness Training
26:59 Customer Success Stories: Phishing Defense and Employee Training
30:13 Reflections on the Startup Journey
33:27 The Impact of Cybersecurity Work
35:45 Operating a Canadian Startup
41:14 Looking Ahead: Growth, AI, and the Future of Cybersecurity
46:34 David's Rituals & Disciplines
50:24 Closing Remarks
Saturday Mar 16, 2024
Data-Driven Banking Strategies & Competitive Edge - Brian Bauer, CEO of Revio
Saturday Mar 16, 2024
Saturday Mar 16, 2024
In this episode of the Operate Podcast, we delve into the essential role that technology and data analytics play in the banking industry's future. My guest was Brian Bauer, CEO of Revio, a promising banking and analytics technology startup that's making waves by assisting banks in leveraging their core banking transaction data to foster growth. Brian shares his journey from a 10-year military career to becoming a leader in the FinTech and banking sectors, emphasizing his participation in a FinTech accelerator and his experience co-founding a banking startup in the cannabis sector.
Our discussion includes the significant impact of technology on banks' competitiveness, the shift towards a practical approach to innovation within community banks, and how data analytics can aid banks in understanding their customers better. Brian elaborates on how Revio empowers banks to not only identify but act on business opportunities through insightful analytics of customers' external financial activities. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of banking technology and how banks' ability to make timely decisions significantly influences their readiness for future challenges.
Highlighting the importance of culture, team building, and the role of entrepreneurship in driving change, this episode provides a comprehensive look at how banks can navigate the volatile financial world by embracing innovation and data-driven strategies.
CHAPTER MARKERS:
00:00 Preview
00:33 Intro
00:45 Sponsor
01:17 Brian Bauer, CEO at Revio
02:48 Banking in a Year of Change: Insights and Adaptations
07:35 The Shift Towards Practical Innovation in Banking
10:03 Revio's Mission: Deepening Bank-Customer Relationships Through Data
20:45 Real-World Impact: How Revio Empowers Banks with Data-Driven Insights
26:35 Competitive Analysis: A New Perspective for Banks
27:51 The Roadmap Ahead: Enhancing Bank Insights
30:57 Data Literacy and Infrastructure in Banking
37:21 The Entrepreneurial Journey: Lessons from a Fintech Accelerator
45:02 Cultivating High Performance and Looking Forward
And thanks to show sponsor, BankTech Ventures!
Sunday Mar 10, 2024
Sunday Mar 10, 2024
Given all that is going on in partner banking between community banks and fintechs, it was good timing to have Adam Shapiro on from Klaros Group.
We took a deep dive into the evolving landscape of the financial industry, particularly at the intersection of banking, innovation, and regulation. Adam shared his extensive experience in it. Our discussion focused on 'banking as a service' (BaaS), diving into the regulatory scrutiny it is facing and the importance of understanding the changing regulatory landscape for banks and fintechs. Adam provided insights into compliance, risk management, and the potential of technology to address these challenges effectively.
He also touched on the impact of recent regulatory actions, the importance of banks investing in lines of business like BaaS, and strategies for fintechs in partnering with banks. Looking forward, Adam shared his optimistic view on the future of finance, highlighting the roles of embedded finance and technology in shaping a compliant, innovative, and consumer-friendly financial ecosystem.
This episode offers invaluable insights for financial industry professionals, regulators, and anyone interested in the future of banking and fintech partnerships.
CHAPTER MARKERS:
00:00 Highlight
00:16 Intro
00:28 Sponsor
00:59 Adam Shapiro, Partner/Co-founder of Klaros Group
02:03 Banking as a Service (BaaS): Navigating Regulatory Waters
03:54 The Importance of Compliance and Risk Management in BaaS
08:52 Advising Fintechs in a Tightening Regulatory Environment
18:33 The Future of Banking and Fintech Collaboration
21:48 The Genesis of Klaros Group
23:56 Reflecting on Four Years at Klaros
34:43 Predictions for Banking, Regulation, and Fintech in 2024
38:14 Adam Shapiro's Personal Insights and Rituals
43:02 Looking Ahead with Klaros Group
Thanks to show sponsor, BankTech Ventures.