The Payments Podium

Hosted by The Payments Professor

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112

Latest episode

Apr 2026

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About the show

Looking to understand why we do what we do in electronic payments? The Payments Podium is the podcast that takes the world of electronic payments and simplifies it into a language everyone can understand. Join the Payments Professor Kevin Olsen as he invites industry experts to voice their views and expertise on multiple areas of the electronic payments industry. We will explore the Professor's three P’s: The past, the present, and the possibilities in the payment industry. If you are looking to learn even more, then visit www.PaymentsProfessor.com

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60 recent

April 23, 202625 min

Agentic AI + ACH Transforming Healthcare Payments

Healthcare payments have been stuck in the past… but not any longer In this episode of the Payments Podium, Kevin “Payments Professor” Olsen sits down with Ryan Tennyson from SolutionReach to break down what’s really happening behind the scenes in healthcare payments—and why things are finally starting to change. From agentic AI transforming revenue cycle management to ACH becoming a core payment strategy, this conversation dives into the real gaps, real challenges, and real opportunities shaping the future. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why healthcare payments have lagged behind retail and fintech How AI is improving billing transparency and patient experience The role of ACH, cards, and digital wallets in modern healthcare Why communication (text + payment links) is becoming the new payment hub What the future looks like for stablecoins, automation, and patient payments If you’ve ever wondered why healthcare billing feels so complicated—and what’s finally being done about it—this is a must-watch. Featuring: Ryan Tennyson, SolutionReach Hosted by: Kevin “Payments Professor” Olsen

January 29, 202630 min

2026 Payments Predictions

The payments world is heading into uncharted territory. In this episode, we explore what’s next for banking and treasury, from the rise of digital-asset-focused bank charters to AI agents executing payments on behalf of humans. We dig into identity, programmability, smart contract risk, and why immutability still makes treasurers nervous. The conversation also tackles regulatory clarity, quantum computing as a “Y2K redux,” and the growing gap between institutions that can afford innovation and those that can’t. A candid look at why 2026 and beyond may force hard choices, consolidation, and a redefinition of how financial institutions survive and compete.

January 8, 202634 min

2025 Year in Payments

2025 was a whirlwind for electronic payments, and this episode breaks it all down. The Payments Professor is joined by industry voices from treasury and fintech to unpack the biggest developments of the year, from explosive M&A in treasury management systems to AI-driven cash forecasting, fintech compliance concerns, stablecoins, instant payments, and the stubborn persistence of checks. We explore what’s hype, what’s real, and what treasurers, banks, and fintechs should actually be paying attention to as the industry evolves. This is your year-in-review of payments, with clear insights and candid perspectives you won’t hear anywhere else.

June 6, 202529 min

Who is the ICBA? Discover the Independent Community Bankers of America.

In this conversation, Payments Professor and Kari Mitchum discuss the role of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) in supporting community banks and the electronic payments industry. Kari shares her personal journey into the field, the importance of community banks in local economies, and the advocacy efforts ICBA undertakes to represent these institutions. The discussion also covers ICBA's educational initiatives, innovation in banking, and the future of community banking.

March 27, 202526 min

AAP (Accredited ACH Professional) Accreditation, what you need to know!

In this episode, the Payments Professor, Kevin Olsen, speaks with Ashley Mustico from Nacha about the AAP (Accredited ACH Professional) accreditation. They discuss the importance of the AAP in the electronic payments industry, the journey into electronic payments, the benefits of obtaining the AAP for both individuals and organizations, the format and preparation for the AAP exam, and what to do after passing the exam, including maintaining the accreditation. The conversation emphasizes the value of education and professional development in the payments industry. Takeaways: Nacha governs the ACH network and offers accreditations. The AAP accreditation signifies expertise in the ACH network. Individuals should pursue AAP after gaining at least two years of payment experience. Getting an AAP can enhance career prospects and salary. Organizations benefit from having AAPs on staff for compliance and risk management. The AAP exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions, with 100 scored. Candidates can find out if they passed the exam on the same day. Preparation through Payments Associations significantly increases the chances of passing. Continuing education is required to maintain AAP accreditation every five years. Celebrating the achievement of AAP is essential for personal and professional growth. Learn more from the Payments Professor "We make learning about payments rules and regulations fun and easy!" www.PaymentsProfessor.com

March 21, 202521 min

Electronic Payments in Africa

In this eye-opening episode of The Payments Podium, the Payments Professor welcomes a special guest from Nairobi, Kenya — Patrick Tanui, a seasoned expert in risk, compliance, and governance across banking, telecom, and fintech sectors in Africa. Patrick shares invaluable insights on how the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated digital transformation in Africa’s financial landscape. From the rise of mobile wallets and fintech collaborations to the increasing role of AI in fraud detection, Patrick unpacks how innovation is reshaping financial access, especially for the unbanked. Topics covered include: The merging of telecom and banking through digital wallets The impact of blockchain and crypto on cross-border payments How Africa is leapfrogging traditional banking models The real-time risks of digital finance — and how to combat them Regulatory challenges and the need for robust compliance tools The future of a unified digital ecosystem in Africa Advice for fintech startups and young professionals entering the space Whether you’re in fintech, banking, or just curious about how payments are evolving globally, this conversation offers a rare and real-time look into Africa’s rapidly advancing digital economy. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more global fintech insights. Connect with us or suggest a future guest via LinkedIn! Class dismissed

March 6, 202528 min

The Truth About Checks: Why They Still Matter in a Digital World!

Are checks becoming obsolete? Not so fast! In this conversation, Payments Professor Kevin Olson and Steve Cree explore the surprising resilience of checks in today's electronic payments landscape. They discuss the history, misconceptions, and ongoing importance of checks for key transactions like rent and utilities. Learn why checks still hold significant dollar value, how millennials are using them more than expected, and why expertise in check processing remains a valuable skill in the industry. 🔹 The hidden power of checks in payments 🔹 Why checks are still used for high-value transactions 🔹 The role of checks in a digital world 🔹 Career opportunities in check processing

February 20, 202528 min

What is UDAAP? (Unfair, Deceptive, or Abusive Acts and Practices)

In this episode of the Payments Podium Podcast, the Payments Professor, Kevin Olsen, sits down with special guest Karen Sylvester to unravel the complexities of UDAP (Unfair, Deceptive, or Abusive Acts and Practices) and its impact on electronic payments and financial institutions. Discover how Karen’s journey from part-time teller to industry expert has shaped her perspective on consumer protection, compliance, and regulations. Learn about the two versions of UDAP – one overseen by the FTC and the other by the CFPB – and how they govern business and financial institution practices. 📌 Key Takeaways: The four Ps of UDAP: Prominent, Presented, Placement, and Proximity. The critical role of clear disclosures for compliance. How evolving regulations, like those on fees, impact financial institutions. The importance of consumer responsibility and financial literacy. Practical career advice: Embrace challenges and learn from every opportunity. Learn more from the Payments Professor "We make learning about payments rules and regulations fun and easy!" www.PaymentsProfessor.com

January 23, 202530 min

The Role and Importance of the CFPB

In this Payments Podium episode, Gary Stein discusses the role and importance of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) in the payments industry. He shares insights into the regulatory landscape, including the significance of various regulations and the recent developments in open banking and fintech. The discussion also touches on the challenges and opportunities in the payments sector, emphasizing the need for consumer protection and the evolving nature of financial services.

December 12, 202431 min

2024 A Review of The Year In Payments

In this episode of the Payments Podium Podcast with our host, the Payments Professor, with special guest Tedd Huff from Fintech Confidential, Joe Casali from Wrestling Payments, and Peter Tapping from PTap Advisory, we dive into the complex and ever-evolving world of payments, innovation, and technology. From the intricate "digital maze" of systems, rules, and regulations to the fascinating intersection of risk, faster payments, and open banking, this episode is packed with insights and revelations. Key Topics Covered: 🔹 The rise of faster payments and their exponential growth. 🔹 Bridging the gap between financial institutions and technology companies through effective "technology translation." 🔹 A closer look at Cash App, Venmo, and Zelle in small business transactions. 🔹 Challenges in cross-border payments and the role of AI in streamlining processes. 🔹 Open banking and the regulatory hurdles shaping its implementation. 🔹 The parallels between professional wrestling and the payments industry—because sometimes, opinions need to be wrestled with! Join the Payments Professor as he deciphers the latest trends, tackles tough industry questions, and provides actionable insights to help you navigate the complex world of payments and technology.