Fintech Talks (a Georgia Fintech Academy podcast)

Georgia Fintech Academy
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Welcome to Fintech Talks, the official podcast of the Georgia Fintech Academy, where we dive into the dynamic world of financial technology. Join us as we explore the latest trends, innovations, and challenges shaping the fintech landscape. Hosted by industry expert Laura Gibson-Lamothe, each episode features insightful conversations with fintech leaders, alumni, and visionaries who are driving change and fostering innovation. Whether you're a student, professional, or enthusiast, "Fintech Talks" offers a unique platform to gain valuable insights into the intersection of finance and technology. Discover how the Georgia Fintech Academy is building a diverse and skilled talent pipeline, connecting academia with industry, and preparing the next generation of fintech leaders. Tune in for engaging discussions on topics ranging from blockchain and AI to cybersecurity and regulatory compliance. With "Fintech Talks," you're not just listening to a podcast—you're joining a community of #FutureFintechLeaders committed to shaping the future of finance.www.georgiafintechacademy.org

  1. 🎙️Fintech Talks: Connecting Fintech Frontiers — Lithuania’s Rise as a Global Innovation Hub

    11/24/2025

    🎙️Fintech Talks: Connecting Fintech Frontiers — Lithuania’s Rise as a Global Innovation Hub

    What can a small Baltic nation teach the world about resilience, innovation, and digital transformation?  In this episode of Fintech Talks, Georgia Fintech Academy Executive Director Laura Gibson-Lamothe explores Lithuania’s incredible fintech journey, from rebuilding after Soviet occupation to becoming one of Europe’s fastest-growing innovation centers.  Joining the conversation are Grant Wainscott, international trade and cross-border advisor, and Dovydas Špokauskas, Consul General of Lithuania in New York, who share how Lithuania built one of the world’s most digital-first economies and why it’s an ideal partner for Georgia’s fintech ecosystem.  💡 Key Topics:  - How Lithuania leapfrogged legacy systems to lead in digital finance - The country’s rise as a fintech, IT, and software powerhouse  - Cultural and economic synergies between Lithuania and Georgia  - Lessons in grit, adaptability, and the power of global collaboration  - Opportunities for cross-border startups, talent exchange, and education partnerships  🌍 Global collaboration starts with conversation. Discover how Lithuania and Georgia are shaping the next chapter of fintech innovation.  🔗 Connect with us: Visit www.GeorgiaFintechAcademy.org for more content and events. Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest updates from the Georgia Fintech Academy.  🎧 Fintech Talks — powered by the Georgia Fintech Academy. Send us a text Support the show Georgia Fintech Academy https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/ LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy) https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

    28 min
  2. 🎙️ Fintech Talks: Larry Anderson – Cracking the Resume Code and Navigating AI in Recruiting

    08/22/2025

    🎙️ Fintech Talks: Larry Anderson – Cracking the Resume Code and Navigating AI in Recruiting

    In this episode of Fintech Talks, we sit down with Larry Anderson, a seasoned recruiter who has worked with Fortune 500s, startups, and everything in between. Larry shares insider advice on what makes a resume stand out, common pitfalls students should avoid, and how to translate experiences—from class projects to part-time jobs—into measurable value. We also dive into how AI is reshaping recruiting, from chatbots to tailored resumes, and what this means for early-career professionals. Larry’s candid take on cover letters, networking, and maintaining balance during the job search offers both practical tools and encouragement for students navigating today’s competitive market. 🔗 Connect with Larry on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larryandersonatl/ 🌐 Learn more about the Georgia Fintech Academy events like the one mentioned during this episode: https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/ Send us a text Support the show Georgia Fintech Academy https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/ LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy) https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

    48 min
  3. 🎙️From Gimmick to Gamechanger: Why Crypto's Time Has Finally Come with Greg Johnson (Rubicon Crypto)

    08/12/2025

    🎙️From Gimmick to Gamechanger: Why Crypto's Time Has Finally Come with Greg Johnson (Rubicon Crypto)

    Is crypto just hype — or is it finally becoming fintech’s next big frontier? In this episode of Fintech Talks, Laura Gibson-Lamothe is joined by Greg Johnson, Co-founder & CEO of Rubicon Crypto, and Tyler Acree, Fintech Academy-UGA alum and rising fintech professional. Together, they unpack why crypto and stablecoins are no longer optional knowledge for anyone serious about finance, tech, or innovation. 🔍 Topics we cover: - Why the Genius Act may be the most important finance law in decades - How stablecoins are quietly revolutionizing payments - Why Atlanta is globally recognized as a fintech hub (even if we forget it!) - Advice for students and early-career pros to stand out in the digital finance era - Real resources to sharpen your crypto fluency 🎓 Learn more about the Georgia Fintech Academy: https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org 📢 Connect with our guests: Greg Johnson — https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregory-c-johnson/ Tyler Acree — https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyleracree/ 📅 Catch Greg live at Fintech South, August 19–20, 2025. https://www.fintechsouth.com Subscribe for more episodes and next-gen fintech insights. Send us a text Support the show Georgia Fintech Academy https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/ LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy) https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

    36 min
  4. 🎙️ Fintech Talks: Agentic AI & the Future of Work - Fintech Talks w/ Billy Harbinson from Go Studio

    08/07/2025

    🎙️ Fintech Talks: Agentic AI & the Future of Work - Fintech Talks w/ Billy Harbinson from Go Studio

    Think AI is just another tech trend? Think again. In this episode of Fintech Talks, Laura Gibson-Lamothe sits down with Billy Harbinson of Go Studio (InComm Payments) to break down the AI concepts that are reshaping how we work, learn, and innovate. We unpack: ✔️ What agentic AI actually means ✔️ How Large Action Models (LAMs) are changing automation ✔️ What today’s students and professionals really need to know ✔️ Why curiosity is your best strategy for learning AI This isn’t your typical AI discussion — it’s a candid, practical, and forward-looking conversation for anyone trying to stay ahead of the curve. 🔗 Connect with Billy Harbinson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billyharbinson/ Go Studio: https://www.incomm.com/go-studio 🎓 About the Georgia Fintech Academy: https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org 💌 Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/newsletter *Special Opportunity: Looking for more AI insights? Billy and the Go Studio team are hosting "AI 10 Years into the Future" from 1 - 3 pm EST on September 10, 2025. The hybrid event will feature a panel of emerging tech experts discussing how AI will impact businesses and industries over the next decade. Register now to attend in person at The Hatchery, Emory University's innovation center, or online via livestream: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ai-10-years-into-the-future-hybrid-event-tickets-1411149268449 Send us a text Support the show Georgia Fintech Academy https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/ LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy) https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

    42 min
  5. 🎙️ Fintech Talks: Bridging Digital Assets & Traditional Finance – Insights from Annelise Osborne (Kadena)

    07/30/2025

    🎙️ Fintech Talks: Bridging Digital Assets & Traditional Finance – Insights from Annelise Osborne (Kadena)

    In this episode of Fintech Talks, we explore how digital assets are converging with traditional finance through the lens of Annelise Osborne, Chief Business Officer at Kadena and author of From Hoodies to Suits: Innovating Digital Assets for Traditional Finance. Co-hosted by Laura Gibson-Lamothe, Executive Director of the Georgia Fintech Academy, and Christian Samuel, a recent Georgia State University graduate and former leader of GSU’s Fintech Student Organization, the episode covers: Annelise’s career path Key insights from From Hoodies to SuitsTrends in institutional blockchain adoptionAdvice for students and professionals entering the fintech space📘 From Hoodies to Suits – https://a.co/d/2F8btOV 🔗 Kadena – https://www.kadena.io 📍 Annelise Osborne – https://www.linkedin.com/in/annelise-osborne-7611176/ 🎓 Christian Samuel – https://www.linkedin.com/in/cguap/ Send us a text Support the show Georgia Fintech Academy https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/ LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy) https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

    56 min
  6. 🎙️ Fintech Talks: Atlanta Runs on Fintech

    05/29/2025

    🎙️ Fintech Talks: Atlanta Runs on Fintech

    In this episode, we explore how Georgia’s fintech ecosystem is making global waves—powered by innovation, collaboration, and a deep investment in talent. Hosted by Laura Gibson-Lamothe, Executive Director of the Georgia Fintech Academy, the conversation features two leaders shaping the region’s fintech landscape: Ania Lackey, Executive Director of Fintech Atlanta (LinkedIn), and Grant Wainscott, Partner at ABF Consulting (LinkedIn). We discuss: Why Atlanta’s culture is a powerful magnet for fintech talentHow public-private partnerships are creating scalable workforce solutionsGeorgia’s role in processing over 70% of U.S. card transactions—and what that means globallyWhat these Georgia’s fintech leaders are bringing to the international stage at Money20/20 EuropeThis episode kicks off with fast facts that prove why Georgia is more than a fintech hub—it’s a launchpad. From student pipelines to startup growth, tune in to hear how Georgia is helping shape the future of fintech worldwide. Send us a text Support the show Georgia Fintech Academy https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/ LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy) https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

    57 min
  7. 🎙️ Fintech Talks: Navigating Careers in FinTech - Insights from Chrissy Wagner (FIS)

    05/05/2025

    🎙️ Fintech Talks: Navigating Careers in FinTech - Insights from Chrissy Wagner (FIS)

    In this episode of Fintech Talks, host Laura Gibson-Lamothe is joined by Chrissy Wagner, SVP GTM Automated Finance at FIS and student guest host, Senior at Georgia Gwinnett College, Florencia Cosenza Diez for an honest, energizing conversation about building a meaningful career in FinTech. From first jobs to C-level insights, we unpack the moments that shape us—how early experiences teach humility, why mentorship matters, and how inclusivity fuels innovation. Chrissy shares the personal story that led her into FinTech, along with lessons on risk-taking, leadership, and separating your identity from your job title. For students preparing to launch their careers and professionals navigating what’s next, this episode offers thoughtful takeaways, laughter, and a few truth bombs along the way. 🧭 Topics We Cover: Finding your path in FinTech through personal experienceWhat early jobs can teach you about leadership and serviceThe power of mentorship and being mentoredCreating inclusive work cultures that empower everyoneWhy domain expertise gives you an edgeEmbracing change, risk, and failure as part of growthNavigating work-life integration and mental well-beingAdvice for graduating students entering the job markethttps://www.fisglobal.com/ Florencia Cosenza Diez https://www.linkedin.com/in/florencia-cosenza-diez/ Chrissy Wagner https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissygwagner/?miniProfileUrn=urn%3Ali%3Afs_miniProfile%3AACoAAAVsQr0BlGzygghgkYGJ05LVo8jPLwEiia8 Send us a text Support the show Georgia Fintech Academy https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/ LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy) https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

    33 min
  8. Fintech Talks: Closing the Gap - Financial Literacy and Inclusion in the Digital Economy

    04/28/2025

    Fintech Talks: Closing the Gap - Financial Literacy and Inclusion in the Digital Economy

    April is Financial Literacy & Inclusion Month — and there’s no better time to dive deep into how fintech and financial services are evolving to meet the needs of all communities. In this special episode of Fintech Talks, recorded during New York Fintech Week, host Laura Gibson-Lamothe is joined by: Amanda Estiverne-Colas, Board Member of NAFLI and Founder of AG Advisors https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-estiverne-colas-37061b28 Castleigh Johnson, CEO & Founder of My Home Pathway https://www.linkedin.com/in/castleigh Ariel Serber, Advisor at Lions Financial https://www.linkedin.com/in/aserber Together, we explore: ✔️ The connection between financial literacy, inclusion, and real-world outcomes ✔️ How technology like embedded finance and earned wage access is expanding opportunity ✔️ The critical importance of trust — and how history shapes skepticism toward financial institutions ✔️ Why financial literacy education must be embedded early and tailored to real needs ✔️ Hope for the future: building solutions that reflect the communities we serve If you're passionate about creating a more equitable financial future, this conversation is for you. 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on fintech, innovation, leadership, and building the next generation of financial talent. #FinancialLiteracyMonth #FinancialInclusion #FintechTalks #GeorgiaFintechAcademy #FinancialEducation #FintechForGood #NextGenFinance #ClosingTheGap Send us a text Support the show Georgia Fintech Academy https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/ LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy) https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/

    32 min
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Welcome to Fintech Talks, the official podcast of the Georgia Fintech Academy, where we dive into the dynamic world of financial technology. Join us as we explore the latest trends, innovations, and challenges shaping the fintech landscape. Hosted by industry expert Laura Gibson-Lamothe, each episode features insightful conversations with fintech leaders, alumni, and visionaries who are driving change and fostering innovation. Whether you're a student, professional, or enthusiast, "Fintech Talks" offers a unique platform to gain valuable insights into the intersection of finance and technology. Discover how the Georgia Fintech Academy is building a diverse and skilled talent pipeline, connecting academia with industry, and preparing the next generation of fintech leaders. Tune in for engaging discussions on topics ranging from blockchain and AI to cybersecurity and regulatory compliance. With "Fintech Talks," you're not just listening to a podcast—you're joining a community of #FutureFintechLeaders committed to shaping the future of finance.www.georgiafintechacademy.org

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