Instant Payments

Tal Clark

The Instant Payments Podcast is your go-to source for conversations at the intersection of innovation, payroll, and financial wellness. Hosted by payments industry veteran Tal Clark, the show explores how real-time disbursements, earned wage access, digital tipping, and modern payment technology are reshaping the way America gets paid. Each episode features thought leaders, operators, and innovators who are advancing how workers access and manage their money. Whether you're a business leader, payroll provider, or fintech pro, this show delivers valuable perspectives on the future of payments.

  1. 4 FEB

    Ep 09 Part 1: Managing Instant Pay While Scaling Operations with Stephanie Callihan of Cotton Patch Café

    In this episode of the Instant Payments Podcast, host Tal Clark talks with Stephanie Callihan, finance leader at Cotton Patch Café, about navigating payroll, compliance, and retention in a large hourly workforce. Stephanie shares her career path through restaurant finance, Cotton Patch’s people-first culture, and how digital tipping helped the brand preserve daily pay while reducing operational risk. The conversation highlights why listening to employees, simplifying manager workflows, and modernizing pay systems are critical to retention and guest experience. 00:00 Welcome and Stephanie’s career journey in restaurant finance 03:28 Cotton Patch Café culture, awards, and growth focus 06:31 Payroll compliance and the realities of an hourly workforce 09:05 Retention strategies and strengthening management coverage 12:03 The decline of cash and the challenge of daily tip payouts 14:30 Preserving daily pay through digital tipping 17:01 Operational efficiency, security, and auditing benefits Instant Financial: instant.co Cotton Patch Cafe: https://cottonpatch.com/ Connect with Tal Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/ Connect with Stephanie Callihan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniecallihan/

    20 min

  2. 20 JAN

    BONUS Ep 08: Breaking Down the CFPB's New Advisory Opinion on Earned Wage Access

    In this bonus episode of the Instant Payments Podcast, host Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, and Heather Heebner, head of compliance at Instant Financial, discuss the CFPB advisory opinion released December 23, 2025. The conversation delves into the current regulatory environment of earned wage access (EWA) at both the federal and state levels, the history of advisory opinions from the CFPB, and the implications for employers and EWA providers. They also explore how this new ruling affects compliance, the differences between previous advisory opinions and the current one, and what it means for the overall industry. The episode provides valuable insights for employers considering offering EWA as a benefit to their employees. 00:00 Welcome to the Instant Payments Podcast 00:33 Introducing Heather Heebner and Today's Topic 01:02 Understanding Earned Wage Access (EWA) 03:18 The CFPB's Advisory Opinions on EWA 08:44 Implications for Employers and Providers 10:40 State-Level Legislation and Its Impact 13:56 Final Thoughts and Industry Outlook 16:49 Conclusion and Contact Information CFPB Advisory Opinion: https://files.consumerfinance.gov/f/documents/cfpb_earned-wage-access-advisory-opinion_2025-12.pdf Instant Financial: instant.co Connect with Tal Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/ Connect with Heather Heebner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-heebner-8b59615/ Get in touch with Instant: marketing@instant.co

    17 min

  3. 10/12/2025

    Ep 07 Part 2: More HR Trends with Britt Landrum: AI, Benefits, and Personal Passions

    In this episode of the Instant Payments podcast, host Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, continues the conversation with Britt Landrum, CEO of Landrum, Inc. They discuss the impact of AI on staffing, including Landrum's AI, 'Abby,' for recruiting. The conversation extends to the evaluation of tools like payroll cards and earned wage access for worker impact and business ROI. Britt touches on Landrum, Inc.'s industry reach, recent acquisitions, and new office openings. The discussion also delves into Britt's personal interests, including his journey in music and triathlons, and the integration of physical and mental health. Britt shares advice for HR and business leaders about being adaptable and flexible, emphasizing the importance of communication and creativity. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions about Britt's recommendations and future expectations for AI and automation in HR. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:26 Impact of AI on Staffing 01:56 Evaluating Payroll Solutions 03:27 Industries Served by Landrum 05:10 Expansion and Acquisitions 08:02 Musical Talents and Early Influences 14:09 Triathlon Journey and Fitness 20:10 Advice for HR and Business Leaders 23:07 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion Instant Financial: instant.co Landrum, Inc: https://landruminc.com/  Connect with Tal Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/  Connect with Britt Landrum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittlandrum/ Pensacola Business Community: https://www.pensacolachamber.com/

    26 min

  4. 26/11/2025

    Ep 07 Part 1: Navigating Growth in the Staffing and PEO Industry with the CEO of Landrum, Inc.

    In this episode of the Instant Payments podcast, host Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, interviews Britt Landrum, CEO of Landrum, Inc — two companies based in Pensacola, Fla. Britt shares insights on the history of his family staffing and PEO business, the technological advancements in staffing and HR, and the importance of earned wage access for hourly workers. They explore the impact of AI on employment, the adaptability required for future growth, and the significance of maintaining personal relationships and trust in business. Tune in to hear about Landrum's journey from a local staffing firm to a major player in the HR industry. 00:00 Introduction to the Instant Payments Podcast 00:35 Meet Britt Landrum: CEO of Landrum, Inc. 02:03 The History of Landrum, Inc. 07:25 Adapting and Thriving in the Staffing Industry 12:27 The Role of Technology in Modern HR 18:45 The Impact of AI on Employment 20:45 Conclusion and Future Discussions Instant Financial: instant.co Landrum, Inc: https://landruminc.com/ Connect with Tal Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/ Connect with Britt Landrum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittlandrum/ Pensacola Business Community: https://www.pensacolachamber.com/

    21 min

  5. 12/11/2025

    Ep 06 Part 2 Driving Labor Efficiency and Employee Development in the Restaurant Industry

    In this episode of the Instant Payments Podcast, Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, continues the conversation with Matt Umholtz, President of AllianceHCM, delving into the labor challenges faced by the restaurant industry. The discussion navigates the importance of an 'hourly first mindset,' career advancement opportunities, and the role of training in reducing turnover rates among young workers. They explore the benefits of earned wage access as an incentive for employees, dispelling misconceptions about it being akin to payday loans. The episode also highlights the significance of cutting-edge HR technologies and AI for improving operations and profitability. Lastly, tips for budding restaurant operators and the importance of leadership understanding their employees' experiences are shared, emphasizing the need for empathy and innovative solutions in the industry. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:20 Labor Challenges in the Industry 00:47 Understanding the Hourly First Mindset 03:10 Earned Wage Access and Its Misconceptions 09:42 Technology and Innovation in the Restaurant Industry 13:34 AllianceHCM's Role and Innovations 19:10 Rapid Fire Questions and Insights 24:48 Conclusion and Farewell Workforce Warriors Award: https://www.instant.co/workforce-warrior/ Instant Financial: instant.co AllianceHCM: alliancehcm.com Connect with Tal Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/ Connect with Matt Umholtz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattumholtz/

    26 min

  6. 29/10/2025

    Ep 06 Part 1 QSR and Multi-Unit Restaurant Trends with Matt Umholtz of AllianceHCM

    In this episode of the Instant Payments podcast, CEO Tal Clark interviews Matt Umholtz, President and CRO of AllianceHCM. They discuss Matt's journey from working in high-end kitchens to becoming a leader in payroll and HR technology. The conversation highlights key industry challenges such as labor and food costs, turnover rates, and the importance of specialization in multi-unit restaurant operations. Matt shares insights on how technology can improve operational efficiency and employee engagement. The episode also spotlights the Workforce Warriors Award, an initiative to recognize exceptional hourly workers. 00:00 Welcome to the Instant Payments Podcast 00:41 Introducing Workforce Warriors Awards 01:05 Meet Matt Umholtz: Payroll and HR Technology Expert 02:15 Matt's Journey: From Kitchens to Payroll 05:12 Merging Companies and Specializing in Payroll Solutions 08:27 Challenges and Opportunities in the Restaurant Industry 13:35 Labor and Food Costs: Managing Restaurant Operations 20:16 Success Stories: Building for Growth Without Losing Culture 21:44 Conclusion and What's Next Workforce Warriors Award: https://www.instant.co/workforce-warrior/ Instant Financial: instant.co AllianceHCM: alliancehcm.com Connect with Tal Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/  Connect with Matt Umholtz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattumholtz/

    22 min

  7. 15/10/2025

    Ep 05 Part 2 Restaurant Industry Trends, Common Pitfalls, and the Potential of AI with Kep Sweeney, CEO of PDQ Restaurants

    In this episode of the Instant Payments Podcast, host Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, continues the conversation with Kep Sweeney, CEO of PDQ Restaurants. They delve into the business environment of the quick-service restaurant (QSR) space, discussing the handling and implications of tips, employee compensation, the free market, and industry trends. Kep and Tal also explore the challenges distressed restaurant brands face, common pitfalls, and the evolving role of AI in enhancing operations and financial forecasting. The discussion wraps up with advice for emerging restaurant leaders on gaining diverse experiences and taking advantage of educational opportunities. To learn more, visit instant.co/podcast. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:19 Discussing Employee Tips in QSR 07:22 Employee Well-being and Management 11:38 Challenges in Distressed Restaurant Brands 14:48 AI in the Restaurant Industry 20:07 Final Advice for Future Leaders 23:05 Conclusion and Farewell To learn more about PDQ: eatpdq.com Connect with Kep: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kep-sweeney-a19a3b5/ Connect with Tal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/

    24 min

  8. 08/10/2025

    Ep 05 Part 1 Restaurant Industry Insights with Kep Sweeney, CEO of PDQ and Former Wall Street Analyst

    In this episode of the Instant Payments podcast, host Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, interviews Kep Sweeney, the CEO of PDQ Restaurants. Kep shares his extensive background in the restaurant industry, from working in kitchens as an executive chef to transitioning to an analyst role on Wall Street and ultimately leading PDQ restaurants. The discussion covers PDQ's business model, its focus on quality, workforce management, and current challenges in the restaurant industry. Kep also provides insights into the quick-service restaurant (QSR) space and how businesses can navigate market pressures. Tune in for part two, where Tal and Kep will discuss tipping etiquette, restaurant trends, and AI applications in the industry. To learn more, visit instant.co/podcast. 00:00 Welcome to the Instant Payments Podcast 00:39 Introducing Today's Guest: Kep Sweeney 01:40 Kep Sweeney's Journey in the Restaurant Industry 04:00 Transition to Wall Street and Analytics 07:56 Joining PDQ Restaurants 10:15 PDQ's Business Model and Employee Focus 15:07 Current Challenges in the Restaurant Industry 20:51 Conclusion and What's Next Learn more at www.instant.co/podcast. Check out www.eatpdq.com.

    21 min
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About

The Instant Payments Podcast is your go-to source for conversations at the intersection of innovation, payroll, and financial wellness. Hosted by payments industry veteran Tal Clark, the show explores how real-time disbursements, earned wage access, digital tipping, and modern payment technology are reshaping the way America gets paid. Each episode features thought leaders, operators, and innovators who are advancing how workers access and manage their money. Whether you're a business leader, payroll provider, or fintech pro, this show delivers valuable perspectives on the future of payments.

Information

  • Creator
    Tal Clark
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Instant Payments
  • Show Website
    Instant Payments