In this episode, James Shepherd sits down with Blake Wilson for a behind-the-scenes conversation on a rare evolution in merchant services - an ISO scaling the traditional agent channel while simultaneously transforming into a SaaS and technology company. They dig into what it really takes to choose a vertical, build or buy software the right way, and execute integrated partnerships without losing the compensation structures and economics that agents rely on.

This is a practical, honest look at vertical focus, tech ownership, and building leverage at scale, without treating either path like a one-size-fits-all answer.