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In this episode of the Georgia FinTech Academy podcast, Laura Gibson-Lamothe hosts a discussion with UGA/Fintech Academy Alumni Empress Roberson and industry leaders Kathy Kmiotek and Genevieve Dozier about the importance of resilience in the FinTech/Payments sector. They share personal stories and insights on navigating challenges, the significance of community and networking, and the lessons learned from failures. The conversation emphasizes the need for a growth mindset, the value of building relationships, and the importance of being open to various career paths in the ever-evolving FinTech landscape.

Connect with this group on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-kmiotek/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/genevievedozier/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/empressroberson/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauragibsonlamothe/

Takeaways

• Resilience is about staying in the ring despite challenges.
• Personal experiences shape our understanding of resilience.
• Building a supportive community is crucial for career growth.
• Failure should be viewed as a learning opportunity.
• Networking is essential for career advancement in FinTech.
• Curiosity drives personal and professional development.
• Authenticity in relationships fosters genuine connections.
• Embracing change is vital in a dynamic industry.
• Reflecting on experiences helps in personal growth.
• A growth mindset is key to overcoming obstacles.

Georgia Fintech Academy
https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/

LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

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In this engaging episode of the Georgia Fintech Academy podcast, Executive Director Laura Gibson-Lamothe is joined by Kenny Kim, a senior finance major at Georgia State University Robinson College of Business, to co-host an insightful conversation with Pari Sawant, Chief Product Officer at Elavon. The discussion dives into Elavon’s innovative new payment gateway and explores how it is revolutionizing the payments landscape by streamlining processes and enhancing user experience. Listeners will also gain valuable insights into the strategic vision behind product development and its dynamic role in fintech. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear firsthand from a leading fintech executive. 

Georgia Fintech Academy
https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/

LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

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Welcome to another exciting Georgia Fintech Academy Podcast! In this episode, Executive Director Laura Gibson-Lamothe and student co-host Clarissa Guzman from Kennesaw State University sit down with Hailey Hunt, Account Executive Team Lead at HumansDoing. Hailey shares expert insights and practical tips for students and early-career professionals to successfully navigate the job search journey. From building a standout resume and optimizing your LinkedIn presence to leveraging networking events and handling job rejections, Hailey offers a wealth of advice to help you secure that next opportunity. Whether you're looking to land your first internship or transition to a full-time role, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways!

Resource mentioned in the podcast: https://resumeworded.com/ 

Georgia Fintech Academy
https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/

LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

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In this engaging episode of the Georgia Fintech Academy Podcast, Executive Director Laura Gibson-Lamothe and guest co-host Didier Lopez-Presiga, a recent graduate of Kennesaw State University and current Acuity Brands intern, are joined by Cyrus Taheri, Chief Growth Officer at True North. Together, they explore the dynamic world of fintech, delving into Cyrus's professional journey, the innovative strategies driving growth at True North, and the key industry trends. From market expansion to customer-centric growth, this episode is packed with insights for aspiring fintech professionals and industry veterans alike. Tune in for a deep dive into the future of fintech and the leadership that propels it forward.

Georgia Fintech Academy
https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/

LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

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Join us in this episode of the Georgia Fintech Academy Podcast as we delve into the dynamic world of fintech with Terra Wallace-Hearn, Head of Sales Education and Engagement at Elavon. Hosted by Laura Gibson-Lamothe, Executive Director of the Georgia Fintech Academy, and Empress Roberson, a recent graduate from the University of Georgia, this episode explores Terra's inspiring career journey, the latest industry trends, and innovative practices at U.S. Bank/Elavon.

Discover how Terra is shaping the future of fintech through transformational sales enablement, culture and onboarding programs, and her leadership in diversity and inclusion as the ATL Black Leadership Council Chair. Additionally, learn about her engagement with the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurship (RICE) and its impact on fostering entrepreneurship.

Tune in for valuable insights, career advice, and a closer look at how diversity and innovation are driving the fintech industry forward.

Georgia Fintech Academy
https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/

LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

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This special edition turns the tables, with Georgia State University seniors Scott Thompson and Gharam Mansour, co-founders of the student organization FTO (Financial Technology Organization) at GSU, taking the lead as hosts. 

In this episode, they sit down with fintech leaders Ben Jackson, COO of the Innovative Payments Association (IPA), and Laura Gibson-Lamothe, Executive Director of the Georgia Fintech Academy, to explore the critical importance of financial literacy in today's fast-paced Fintech landscape. Why does it matter? Because understanding finance is more than just making ends meet; it's about establishing financial wellness, sustainability, and generational wealth. It is also a pre-requisite for those pursuing careers in the Fintech industry or developing innovative solutions as entrepreneurs. From payment solutions to cutting-edge Fintech educational programs, this episode dives into how fintech tools are not just enhancing financial education and empowerment but revolutionizing it.

Get ready for a deep dive into the real-world impact of fintech innovations, personal anecdotes, and a discussion on what the future holds for the industry. This dynamic exchange of ideas, where education meets innovation at the intersection of financial wellness and technology, is a must-listen for students, professionals, and entrepreneurs interested in Fintech, financial literacy, and innovation. Discover how fintech sets the stage for a financially literate world.

Links:

Financial Technology Organization (student org) at GSU
https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-technology-organization-at-gsu/about/

Innovative Payments Association (IPA)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovativepaymentsassociation/about/

Georgia Fintech Academy
https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/

LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

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Join us on a captivating discussion with Systems and Methods, Inc. (SMI), a family-owned trailblazer in government payment services with over 50 years of innovation and commitment to improving lives. In this must-listen episode, we sit down with Bo Stone, Chief Strategy Officer at SMI, and Wesley Stone Director of Government Affairs at SMI, alongside graduating senior Astrid Cuellar Benitez from Kennesaw State University, and Laura Gibson-Lamothe, Executive Director at the Georgia Fintech Academy.

Founded in 1971 in Carrollton, Ga., SMI began as a modest computer consulting service and has since grown to operate robust State Disbursement Units (SDUs) across 16 states, managing the smiONE™ Visa® Prepaid Card for over two million cardholders. This episode delves into the heart of SMI’s innovative spirit and its role in facilitating secure, efficient government payments that significantly enhance the quality of everyday life for millions.

We'll uncover the features and benefits of Kudzu, SMI’s latest endeavor in financial education and management tools, designed to empower users with the knowledge and means to manage their finances effectively. Our guests share personal insights and stories that highlight and complement SMI's relationship-based approach, blending cutting-edge technology with genuine care to craft tailored solutions that meet the  needs of their customers.

Tune in to discover how SMI's dedication to innovation and service is shaping the future of financial literacy and access. Whether you're interested in fintech, innovative solutions, or stories of impact, this episode offers invaluable perspectives on creating meaningful and lasting change in the financial landscape.

Georgia Fintech Academy
https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/

LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

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Navigating Fintech Frontiers: A Deep Dive into Product Management with Naomi Donaldson

 Join Executive Director, Laura Gibson-Lamothe and KSU Senior, Julianie Ferguson in this insightful episode of the Georgia Fintech Academy podcast as we unravel the intricacies of product management in the dynamic realm of Fintech. Our special guest, Naomi Donaldson, shares her invaluable experience and career journey, offering a profound understanding of the strategic and innovative landscape of product management. Tune in to gain exclusive insights that will empower your journey in the ever-evolving world of Fintech.

Georgia Fintech Academy
https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/

LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

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Welcome to the Georgia Fintech Academy Podcast, where innovation meets insight! In our latest episode, we're thrilled to have Steven Nigri, Co-founder of Nxt-Moves, and Yagazie Anyanwu, international MBA student at Georgia State University - Robinson College of Business and entrepreneur.

Join us as we embark on a captivating conversation, exploring the dynamic realm of entrepreneurship in fintech. Steven Nigri, with his wealth of experience as a co-founder, brings invaluable perspectives on navigating the fintech landscape. Meanwhile, Yagazie Anyanwu, an international MBA student and entrepreneur, adds a unique global viewpoint and questions to our discussion.

Get ready for an engaging dialogue that delves into the challenges, triumphs, and the evolving landscape of fintech entrepreneurship. Whether you're a student, seasoned professional or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with insights to inspire and inform.

Georgia Fintech Academy
https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/

LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

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We are thrilled to bring you an exclusive episode of the Georgia FinTech Academy Podcast, featuring Momnt President and Co-founder, Brian Lanehart! Join us as we embark on a deep dive into the dynamic world of Embedded Payments.

Episode Highlights:

• 🌐 Exploring Embedded Payments: Unravel the mysteries behind Embedded Payments and understand how this transformative technology is reshaping the landscape of financial services.
• 🚀 Innovation Unveiled: Discover the cutting-edge solutions and innovations that Embedded Payments bring to the fintech table, revolutionizing the way transactions are conducted and financial services are delivered.
• 💡 Impact on Customers: Gain insights into how Embedded Payments enhance the customer experience, making transactions seamless, secure, and more convenient than ever.
• 🔄 Ecosystem Dynamics: Delve into the intricate web of relationships between multiple parties involved in the Embedded Payments process. From businesses to customers and financial institutions, understand how everyone stands to benefit.

Special Thanks to Arketi Group: A heartfelt thank you to Arketi, our valued partner, for making this connection possible and for their unwavering support of the Georgia Fintech Academy. 

Georgia Fintech Academy
https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/

LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/