Carlos Vega, Co-Founder & CEO of Tesorio, joins us to share his remarkable journey from Panama to the U.S. and back, offering a fresh perspective on revolutionizing financial operations. Discover how Tesorio is transforming the post-sales processes for industries like B2B SaaS, manufacturing, and professional services by enhancing cash flow predictability. With a fully distributed team across the Americas, Tesorio is addressing inefficiencies head-on, replacing outdated methods with innovative solutions. Gain insights into Carlos's vision and how his experiences have shaped Tesorio's mission, including its seamless integration with financial and CRM systems.

The episode takes an intriguing turn as we explore future trends in the payment industry, focusing on the concept of "convergent evolution" in software development. We delve into how increased competition is shifting focus from traditional competitive advantages to data-driven strategies and brand reputation. Carlos sheds light on how reimagining cash flow as a data problem can optimize forecasts through network thinking and data connectivity. Uncover the challenges of extended payment terms in B2B transactions and the potential transformation of accounts receivable and payable for enhanced efficiency.

Join us as Amanda Crocker, the dynamic COO of SWIVEL, shares her captivating journey from the sun-soaked shores of Southern California to the heart of Texas, with academic stops in Reno along the way. Discover how Amanda is steering SWIVEL's innovative payment platform to serve financial institutions, credit unions, and the K through 12 market across the U.S. Her insights into targeting mid-market credit unions and smaller community banks with a blend of direct sales and strategic partnerships reveal the company's unique competitive advantage, all under the trusted SWBC umbrella. Amanda's passion for integration capabilities stands out, making Swivel a name to watch in the competitive payments landscape.

Our conversation then takes a fascinating turn as Amanda recounts her diverse career path, spanning industries like mortgage servicing, non-profit, manufacturing, and tech giants such as Microsoft and Facebook. Her experiences offer valuable lessons on the evolution of digital advertising and payment systems, and the importance of building strong company cultures. She also shares personal anecdotes about her love for outdoor adventures with her family and her adventurous pets. Aspiring professionals in the payments industry will find Amanda's advice inspiring, as she emphasizes creativity and the power of teamwork.

Artie Minson, President and CEO of LeafLink, takes center stage, sharing his journey from New York to the forefront of the cannabis tech industry. As a leader in B2B technology, Artie guides us through LeafLink's innovative ecosystem, connecting licensed cannabis brands and retailers with groundbreaking solutions to industry challenges. Discover how LeafLink is transforming the commerce landscape through its unique "pay on sell-through" tool, easing working capital pressures and ensuring secure payments. Artie's insights into LeafLink's strategic banking innovations reveal a commitment to tackling the underbanked nature of cannabis businesses, promising streamlined operations and efficiency gains in key states like Michigan, Colorado, and Mississippi.

Setting the stage for a revolution in cannabis payments, we explore the complexities and cash-dependent nature of this emerging market against the backdrop of federal legalization. Our conversation with Artie highlights LeafLink's all-in-one technology strategy, designed to integrate payment systems and deliver an e-commerce experience tailored for cannabis providers. Artie's career trajectory, from media and tech CFO roles to leadership at WeWork and LeafLink, reflects a passionate drive to redefine commerce in this dynamic space.

Join us as we chat with Alek Koenig, the visionary CEO and founder of Settle, who shares his journey from the streets of Poland and Texas to leading a groundbreaking company that is redefining backend software for CPG businesses. Alek dives into how his experiences at Capital One and various fintech startups equipped him with the skills to launch Settle, a platform that seamlessly integrates accounts payable, procurement, inventory management, and working capital solutions. Discover why Settle has shifted its focus from early-stage founders to finance executives as it scales, and how it leverages innovative go-to-market strategies like direct sales and partnerships with accounting firms.

Alek also offers a glimpse into the future of fintech, highlighting the industry's move towards integrated solutions that combine payments, accounting, and financing, while maintaining a cautious stance on blockchain due to regulatory challenges. He reflects on the entrepreneurial spirit that runs through his family, sharing insights on tackling meaningful challenges and maintaining a balance between work and family life. Aspiring fintech entrepreneurs will find Alek's advice invaluable - emphasizing the importance of gaining experience at successful companies to identify the problems worth solving. Tune in to learn how Settle is on a mission to revolutionize finance and operations for CPG companies and beyond and find out how you can become part of this exciting journey.

Unlock the secrets of e-commerce success for small businesses in the UK with insights from industry leaders Chintan Gandhi and Rob Ward of Worldpay. Discover how small and medium-sized businesses in the UK can transform their digital strategies by embracing innovative payment solutions. As Director of Strategic Planning and Go-to-Market, Chintan shares his expertise on navigating the UK e-commerce landscape, while Rob Ward, Product Director for eCommerce, provides a roadmap for integrating Worldpay's cutting-edge solutions into any business model. Learn to tackle common merchant challenges and elevate your online presence by implementing actionable strategies and best practices that are essential in today’s digital economy.

Join us as we explore the future trends that will redefine the e-commerce arena for SMBs in the UK. From digital wallets to cryptocurrencies, find out why diversifying your payment options is more crucial than ever. Hear from Chintan and Rob about the transformative role of AI and blockchain in enhancing customer experiences and securing transactions. You'll also get an exclusive peek into Worldpay's product roadmap, highlighting the innovations that promise seamless onboarding and robust support. Worldpay's commitment to empowering small businesses in the UK with tailored solutions is clear, and this episode is your ticket to staying ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of e-commerce.

Curious about how fintech companies are reshaping the landscape for high-risk industries? Our latest episode of the Leaders in Payments podcast features an engaging conversation with Ben Haguel, CEO of TCB Pay, who provides a firsthand account of his journey from Paris to becoming a prominent figure in the US payments sector. Ben’s insights promise to enrich your understanding of the complex world of high-risk payment solutions, highlighting how TCB Pay’s pioneering technology sets them apart. Learn how this innovative company tackles challenging sectors like telemedicine and crypto exchanges, ensuring compliance and security while driving growth across the US and European markets.

Join us as Ben shares TCB Pay's distinctive approach to creating and managing their own technology solutions, discussing the strategic emphasis on the issuance of prepaid corporate credit cards and efficient payment processing. With a focus on reducing risk through technology and legal compliance, Ben provides a deep dive into how TCB Pay caters to high-volume clients and the rigorous measures employed to uphold integrity. Get ready for compelling insights into the future of payments and discover how TCB Pay is strategically positioning itself to be a leading player in the evolving fintech landscape.

Unlock the strategies that make Worldpay a leader in the UK e-commerce scene with insights from our distinguished guests, Chintan, Richard, and Sarah. Discover the art of transforming prospects into loyal customers through innovative payment solutions and a focus on the merchant lifecycle. Chintan reveals the secrets behind WorldPay's go-to-market strategy, emphasizing the power of targeted outreach and consultative sales. Meanwhile, Richard sheds light on how his team empowers small to medium-sized businesses with tailored e-commerce solutions and technical expertise. With Sarah at the helm of customer experience, learn how operational strategies differentiate Worldpay in a competitive industry.

 Explore how WorldPay's bespoke approach aids SMBs in selecting and implementing the most effective payment solutions. From solution consultation to seamless integration, uncover how Worldpay's implementation team collaborates with businesses to optimize their payment systems. Sarah discusses the unmatched importance of exceptional customer support, featuring a multi-channel approach that includes 24/7 service and an interactive online portal. Learn how WorldPay assists new customers in mastering their portal experience, ensuring they manage their accounts efficiently from day one. This episode is packed with actionable insights to enhance your e-commerce operations and deliver unparalleled customer experiences.

Scarlett Sieber, the dynamic Chief Strategy and Growth Officer at Money 2020, takes us through the fascinating transformation of the event from its humble beginnings in Las Vegas to becoming a global powerhouse in the fintech ecosystem. She shares her journey from the scenic landscapes of Durango, Colorado, to the energetic cityscape of New York City, detailing how her diverse experiences have shaped her professional path. Listeners will gain a unique perspective on Money 2020's strategic pivot towards a fintech-centric approach and its role in fostering the complexity and collaboration that define today’s financial services industry. As we prepare for the next Money 2020 event in the US, Scarlett offers an insider's peek into the innovative themes and engaging experiences that await attendees.

Beyond the evolution of Money 2020, Scarlett recounts her professional growth, emphasizing the importance of networking and diverse professional experiences, whether through co-founding a startup or advising NASA on cross-industry innovation. She provides practical advice for making the most of fintech conferences, underscoring the importance of strategic preparation and the power of personalized follow-ups. Discover the varied session formats at Money 2020, such as the interactive briefing stage and Off the Record sessions, designed to cater to all learning levels and promote community building. Whether you're new to fintech or a seasoned veteran, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration on navigating the future of financial technology.

Unlock the secrets to thriving in the UK's competitive e-commerce landscape with insights from WorldPay's very own Chintan Gandhi and Rob Ward. Join us, along with these industry leaders, as we explore how WorldPay is revolutionizing payment solutions to help merchants face modern challenges head-on. With Chintan's strategic know-how in payments and Rob's unique transition from law to a decade of experience at WorldPay, we promise a comprehensive look at how businesses can enhance their payment processing efficiency. From simplifying onboarding to crafting bespoke checkout experiences, our discussion unravels WorldPay's dedication to offering seamless, digital-first solutions tailored for businesses large and small.

Immerse yourself in a conversation about the crucial elements of payment security and management. Discover how WorldPay's 3DS Flex and tokenization can fortify your transactions while maintaining a smooth customer experience. You'll also gain insights into the powerful analytics and real-time data offered by the WorldPay dashboard, all designed to empower merchants with better control and understanding of their sales trends. Whether you're looking to streamline compliance checks or explore alternative payment methods like pay-by-link and pay-by-phone, this episode equips you with actionable strategies to ensure your e-commerce venture not only survives but thrives.

In episode 358 of the Leaders in Payments podcast, I interview Henry Helgeson, the recently appointed CEO of BlueSnap. Helgeson shares his journey from founding Merchant Warehouse to leading BlueSnap, a global payment facilitator specializing in B2B payments and payment orchestration. He explains BlueSnap’s focus on providing payment solutions in 47 regions, helping businesses with complex global payment needs.

BlueSnap excels in offering local acquiring and reducing cross-border fees, making transactions smoother for businesses with multinational operations. Helgeson also discusses the importance of partnerships with ISVs and ERP systems, highlighting BlueSnap’s ability to cater to mid-market businesses. Looking ahead, he predicts continued growth in card-not-present payments, increased use of AI, and challenges related to fraud as AI tools become more accessible to malicious actors. Helgeson expresses excitement about BlueSnap’s future growth and his decision to come out of retirement to lead the company.