Wrestling Payments

NEACH
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Wrestling Payments is a podcast for professionals working at banks, credit unions, and FinTechs who are responsible for managing ACH and payment operations. In each episode, members of NEACH guide conversations to help professionals examine the challenges of modernizing payment operations. Ultimately, the stories uncovered through guest interviews and solo episodes will highlight industry trends and identify how organizations can build their payment operations for the future. 

  1. 2h ago

    One Employee, Five Branches: The Wire Room Reality

    Send us a text. (email us if you need a response) One Employee, Five Branches: The Wire Room Reality SHORT SUMMARY NPG surveyed roughly 45 banks about how they actually run wires and found almost no consensus. Sean Carter walks through the numbers, including the 32 percent that train annually on their wire policy and the wire rooms covering more than five branches per employee. EPISODE DESCRIPTION Sean Carter, President and CEO of NEACH and NPG, brings back the findings from an NPG project reviewing one regional bank’s wire operation, plus a survey of roughly 45 community and regional institutions. He went in looking for the 80 percent answer, the thing most banks do the same way. He did not find one. In the same week, Sean had to send a wire himself as a business customer, which turned a set of survey results into a very concrete 45 minutes at a branch counter. IN THIS EPISODE  | 0:00 | The NPG wire operations project and a 45-institution survey | 1:10 | A wire Sean had to send himself, and eight versions of the same question | 2:20 | Wire rooms, Monday peaks, and the staffing math | 3:30 | What the bank asked for: fewer exceptions, less delay, no added risk | 5:00 | Looking for an 80 percent answer and not finding one | 6:20 | Only 46 percent let consumers send wires digitally | 7:22 | Would being set up in advance have saved any time? | 9:32 | Why FedNow and RTP are not a like-for-like swap | 10:50 | 61 percent are unsure about moving volume to instant payments | 11:44 | Rules vs. regulator expectations on instant vetting | 13:37 | Reg E remittance rules, and the opening that leaves for Western Union | 14:58 | Everyone has a wire policy, 32 percent train on it annually | 16:20 | 35 percent turn new branch staff loose in under a month | 18:08 | More than five branches per wire employee | 21:52 | The Fedwire address change, now delayed | 23:16 | Irrevocability, 93 percent OFAC confidence, and the fear of hitting the button | 25:19 | Wrap: the survey results, and an open invitation to a wire room   LINKS INCLUDED Mentioned: The full NPG wire survey results, with the questions included so listeners can self-answer and compare. Link to be added before publication. Show: More from NEACH, https://www.neach.org

  2. Aug 16

    Fighting Back Against Credit Push Fraud: New ACH Rules for Originators

    Send us a text. (email us if you need a response) Jordan Bennett, AAP, APRP (Senior Director, ACH Network Risk Management at Nacha) joins Joe ahead of NEACH's End User Fraud Symposium to break down the new ACH rules targeting social engineering fraud — and for the first time, they put real obligations on originators, not just financial institutions. Jordan Bennett Key topics Jordan Bennett introduces himself as Senior Director of ACH Network Risk Management and explains how his work now includes helping originators adapt to newer ACH rules. The symposium format is explained - one day for financial institutions, one day for end users and companies so both sides can talk through fraud from their own perspective.The new ACH rules are aimed at social engineering schemes, not just traditional unauthorized debit fraud that the industry has gotten much better at managing.Vendor impersonation is a major risk: a fraudster pretends to be a supplier, claims banking details changed, and tricks a company into sending money to the wrong account.Simple controls can block many scams, especially dual approval and callback procedures using a trusted internal contact list instead of the email sender’s phone number or reply contact.Urgency is a major red flag. If someone says a payment must go out right now and there is no way to verify it, Jordan says to slow down and treat it as suspicious.Real estate has been ahead of the curve for years because wire fraud during closings can derail the whole transaction, not just steal the funds.Account takeover and phone-based fraud are still active, including scams where someone impersonates a bank’s fraud department and asks for one-time codes or login credentials.If fraud is suspected, speed matters. Call the financial institution immediately, get the receiving bank involved, and move fast before the money disappears.Businesses face different protections than consumers, so companies need to understand their own responsibility and not assume consumer-style safeguards will apply.The same fraud prevention mindset should apply across payment methods, including ACH, wires, and checks.Check fraud comes up as a major industry issue, with both the Federal Reserve and payment organizations trying to reduce exposure.Jordan also mentions first party fraud as an upcoming topic, especially as banks and originators wrestle with customers disputing transactions they originally authorized.More from NEACH: neach.org

  3. Jul 30

    Unlocking Data and Decision Making in Banking: A Conversation on AI-Driven Insights

    Send us a text. (email us if you need a response) How can community banks compete with the largest financial institutions in an AI-driven world? In this episode of Wrestling Payments, host Joe Casali sits down with Sean Carter, President & CEO of NEACH, and Toli Amare, co-founder of Predium.ai, to discuss how artificial intelligence, decision intelligence, and data analytics are transforming banking. From fragmented data and outdated reporting processes to real-time scenario modeling and fraud detection, this conversation explores how financial institutions can leverage AI to make faster, smarter, and more confident decisions—without needing a team of data scientists. Whether you're a community banker, fintech leader, executive, or payments professional, you'll gain practical insights into how better data leads to better decisions, stronger profitability, and a competitive edge. In This Episode Why data quality is the foundation of effective AI The hidden costs of fragmented banking systems How Decision Intelligence helps executives make smarter business decisions Real-time scenario modeling for mergers, pricing, and strategic planning Using AI to identify profitable customers and products Fraud detection through continuous data monitoring Why community banks can compete with larger institutions using modern analytics The role of financial expertise alongside AI technology Practical examples of merger analysis, profitability modeling, and risk management The future of AI in banking and continuous decision optimization Key Takeaways ✔ Turn disconnected banking data into actionable insights ✔ Test strategic decisions before committing capital ✔ Improve profitability with customer and product-level analytics ✔ Detect operational risks and fraud in real time ✔ Make faster, more confident executive decisions using AI

  4. May 27

    The Fintech Regulation Cage Match

    Send us a text. (email us if you need a response) Understanding the Future of Fintech Regulation: The Cage Match BeginsIn this episode of Wrestling Payments, Joe Casali dives into the recent executive order that aims to overhaul fintech regulation. As the landscape shifts, understanding how regulation affects fintech firms, banking partnerships, and consumer protections becomes critical for industry participants and observers alike. In this episode: The core aspects of the May 19th executive order titled "Integrating Financial Technology Innovation into Regulatory Frameworks"The current fragmented regulatory environment and the gaps fintechs faceHow executive orders influence regulatory change and the potential scenarios that could unfoldThe implications of direct access to Federal Reserve accounts for non-banksThe disparities across states in regulating fintechs and their consumer protectionsThe potential impacts of the new framework on bank partnerships and the overall payment infrastructureKey questions for the industry moving forward: participant categories, due diligence, dispute resolution, and failure protocols Resources & Links: Federal Reserve, Executive Order on Financial TechnologyNACHA Operating RulesThe Geniuses ActOCC Fintech Charter InitiativesPACE Act OverviewWhite House Executive OrderConnect with Joe Casali: LinkedInStay tuned for future episodes as the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, shaping the future of fintech and payments.

  5. Apr 10

    FedNow Goes Global: How Proposed Reg J Changes Could Enable Cross-Border Instant Payments

    Send us a text. (email us if you need a response) Episode Description The Federal Reserve just proposed changes to Regulation J that would allow FedNow participants to designate intermediary banks — opening the door for cross-border payments over FedNow for the first time. Joe Casali breaks down what the rule actually changes, how the domestic and international legs of a cross-border FedNow payment would work, and why this might be the moment ISO 20022 finally proves its value. He covers the competitive implications for Fedwire, the BSA/AML screening challenges of real-time international transactions within a 20-second timeout window, and what community banks and credit unions on FedNow should be thinking about right now. The 60-day comment period begins April 10, 2026. If your institution has a perspective on this proposed rulemaking, now is the time to make your voice heard. References: Federal Reserve Proposed Rulemaking — Docket No. R-1891, RIN 7100-AH23 | Regulation J, Subpart C — 12 CFR Part 210 | Submit comments at federalreserve.gov/apps/proposals | FedNow Operating Procedures v3.5 (February 2026)

  6. Mar 18

    Conversations from The Clearing House Conference

    Send us a text. (email us if you need a response) Episode Summary In this episode of Wrestling Payments, host Joe Casali sits down with Phil Robin, SVP of Strategy at The Clearing House. They explore how financial institutions are approaching the challenges of modernizing payment operations, with a focus on risk, governance, and the rapid pace of change in new technologies. Phil shares his perspective on the importance of building strong governance around artificial intelligence, noting that a clear framework helps institutions manage both cultural and operational risks as they introduce new tools. He highlights the varied approaches that banks take, shaped by their unique priorities and use cases, and stresses that inaction is often the greater risk as AI becomes more integrated into payment processes. The conversation moves to emerging topics like stablecoin, tokenized deposits, and the steady growth of real-time payments (RTP). Phil explains how shifting regulatory clarity and evolving customer needs are driving experimentation, especially in areas like business-to-business and consumer-to-business payments. He points to the ongoing expansion of RTP and the need for broad acceptance to reach true scale, encouraging payment leaders to keep their eyes on both innovation and fundamentals. Guest-at-a-glance💡 Name: Phil Robin 💡 What he does: SVP, Strategy 💡 Company: The Clearing House 💡 Noteworthy: Guides strategy projects focused on payments innovation, governance, and risk, with deep expertise in real-time payments and industry modernization. 💡 Where to find him:https://www.linkedin.com/in/philrobin1/ Key Insights Focus on Governance First When Adopting AI Strong governance is the foundation of responsible AI adoption in payments. Before diving into the promise of artificial intelligence, organizations must set clear rules and accountability. This means building frameworks around data security, transparency, and risk appetite to ensure any AI use aligns with institutional priorities. When banks and payment providers define the “rules of the road” early, they give staff and leadership confidence to experiment and scale new tools. Governance also helps ease cultural resistance by making the organization’s approach to AI visible and consistent. With guardrails in place, teams can better focus on the practical benefits of AI—like automating manual tasks or unlocking growth opportunities—without losing sight of the risks. The key takeaway: don’t treat governance as an afterthought or a compliance hurdle. Make it the starting point for any serious AI strategy in payments. Instant Payments Will Scale Through Use Case Diversity Real-time payments (RTP) have moved from concept to reality, but true growth hinges on solving a wide range of business needs. Volume keeps hitting new records, yet the next wave of adoption will depend on how RTP addresses complex problems, especially in areas like business-to-business and healthcare payments. Each segment brings unique challenges around data, timing, and control. For example, B2B payments often involve detailed invoices and reconciliation, while brokerage transfers demand speed and confirmation. As more financial institutions explore RTP for these distinct cases, the network’s value and reach will expand. Building for use case diversity ensures that RTP is not just a faster way to pay, but a flexible tool that adapts to industry-specific workflows. Payment professionals should keep looking for unmet needs—these are where RTP can deliver the most impact and drive long-term adoption. Stablecoin and Tokenization: Navigating Fast-Moving Terrain The landscape for stablecoin and tokenized deposits is evolving quickly, creating both urgency and uncertainty for banks. Regulatory changes, like recent national trust charter approvals, h

  7. Mar 5

    Washington Update

    Send us a text. (email us if you need a response) Episode Summary Wrestling Payments kicks off 2026 with a trip to the Hill. Host Joe Casali sits down with William Sullivan, Associate Managing Director of Government and Industry Relations at Nacha, for a wide-ranging Washington update on the policies shaping the future of payments. William breaks down the latest twists in open banking rulemaking—including a potential reversal on whether financial institutions can charge for data access—and explains why stablecoin legislation remains gridlocked between banking and crypto interests. He offers a candid look at the political dynamics slowing progress on the Clarity Act, cannabis banking, and check reduction efforts, showing how competing priorities and election-year pressures keep even common-sense reforms stuck in neutral. Throughout the conversation, William emphasizes that advocacy and engagement aren't optional—payment professionals need to understand these shifts and make their voices heard before the rules are written. Guest-at-a-Glance William Sullivan Associate Managing Director, Government & Industry Relations, Nacha Leads Nacha's advocacy and industry relations efforts, delivering actionable insights on ACH network policy, payment regulation, and legislative developments affecting financial institutions. www.nacha.org  To hear this episode and many more like it, listen here or subscribe to Wrestling Payments on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts. For show notes, transcripts, and other resources visit www.wrestlingpayments.com. Host: Joe Casali, EVP, NEACH #wrestlingpayments #wrestlingpaymentspodcast #paymentspodcast

  8. Feb 11

    The OCC Charter Loophole: An Illegal Hold on Community Banking?

    Send us a text. (email us if you need a response) Episode Summary Wrestling Payments kicks off 2026 with a critical conversation. Host Joe Casali is joined by Brian Laverdure and Mickey Marshall from the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) to unpack the growing regulatory gap between fintechs and traditional banking. As non-banks rapidly expand into mortgage lending and payments, community institutions face an uneven playing field—and the stakes are rising fast. Mickey breaks down how the OCC's National Trust Bank charter has become a backdoor for crypto companies to issue stablecoins without standard bank supervision, FDIC insurance, or community reinvestment obligations. Brian walks through the legislative landscape and explains why the current rulemaking race will define the future competitive environment for community banks. Together, they paint a sobering picture: if deposits migrate from local banks to stablecoin wallets, the capital that funds small business loans, mortgages, and local economic growth disappears with them. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in community banking or payments. The message is clear—education and advocacy aren't optional anymore. Guests-at-a-Glance Brian Laverdure Vice President, Payments and Technology Policy, ICBA Specializes in digital asset policy and cross-border payment frameworks for community institutions. LinkedIn  Mickey Marshall Vice President and Regulatory Counsel, ICBA Legal expert navigating payments regulation, novel bank charters, and cryptocurrency regulatory challenges. LinkedIn  To hear this episode and many more like it, listen here or subscribe to Wrestling Payments on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts. For show notes, transcripts, and other resources visit www.wrestlingpayments.com. Host: Joe Casali, EVP, NEACH #wrestlingpayments #wrestlingpaymentspodcast #paymentspodcast

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4.7
out of 5
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About

Wrestling Payments is a podcast for professionals working at banks, credit unions, and FinTechs who are responsible for managing ACH and payment operations. In each episode, members of NEACH guide conversations to help professionals examine the challenges of modernizing payment operations. Ultimately, the stories uncovered through guest interviews and solo episodes will highlight industry trends and identify how organizations can build their payment operations for the future. 

Information

  • Creator
    NEACH
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    75
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Wrestling Payments
  • Show Website
    Wrestling Payments

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