In this episode of Fintech Hustle, host Sam Kilmer engages with guests Kelley Michalik, Kelli Schultz, and Stephen Baker to discuss the evolving landscape of fintech, focusing on investment trends, the integration of marketing and sales, and the competitive dynamics between community banks and megabanks. The conversation highlights the importance of trust, the challenges of integration, and the potential of AI to transform the industry. The episode concludes with a tribute to Barb McLean, a notable figure in the fintech community.

Takeaways:

• The fintech landscape is seeing increased investor interest and momentum.
• Community banks are gaining traction against megabanks by focusing on personalized service.
• Integration challenges remain a significant hurdle in the fintech industry.
• AI has the potential to level the playing field for smaller financial institutions.
• The shift from marketing to sales is crucial for creating a seamless customer experience.
• Trust is eroding in big banks, creating opportunities for community institutions.
• The importance of storytelling in marketing to attract younger customers.
• Collaboration between marketing and sales teams is essential for success.
• The need for integration standards in fintech is still pressing.
• Fresh perspectives from new entrants can drive innovation in the industry.

Forget the keynote fluff and polished demo, this episode of Fintech Hustle drops you straight onto a sun-drenched San Diego balcony with the real players of Finovate Spring 2025. Host Sam Kilmer is joined by fintech rockstars Maya Mikhailov (SAVVI AI), Jason Henrichs (Alloy Labs), and Andy Ivankovich (Baker Hill) for a breakdown of what’s actually happening behind the scenes of the industry’s flashiest conference.

If you’re tired of hearing "AI for X" without substance, wondering what bankers are really doing with data, and curious whether fintech is facing a vibe shift—this is your episode.

What You'll Learn:

• AI Hype vs. Reality: Why everyone’s claiming to be “AI-powered”—and why that’s a problem
• From Vibes to Value: The dangers of “vibe-based banking” and the shift to data-backed decision-making
• Data Ponds vs. Oceans: A practical new take on building usable data systems without drowning in complexity
• Fintech Frustrations: The biggest annoyances of the show—and what needs to be fixed, fast
• What’s Actually Working: Real use cases where small banks are doing big things with automation and AI
• Inside Jokes & Honest Talk: Classic rock, Torrey Pines trivia, and bucket-list podcast moments

In this episode of the Fintech Hustle podcast, host Sam Kilmer sits down live at the AFT Spring Conference with Alex McLeod (CEO, Parlay Finance), Ben Metz (CTO/CDO, Jack Henry), and Will Bryant (COO, Quantalytix) for a high-energy conversation about the future of financial services.

The panel dives into key fintech trends, including the real-world impact of AI in banking, how institutions are rethinking efficiency ratios, and why consumer empowerment is reshaping the market. Beyond tech, they explore the cultural side of fintech – highlighting how music, creativity, and community fuel innovation.

Whether you're a bank or credit union leader, fintech founder, or just love the hustle of financial innovation, this episode delivers strategic insights and fresh perspective straight from the field.

🎧 In this episode:

• Why AI is more than just a buzzword in fintech (and how leaders are applying it)
• How collaboration and culture can solve banking’s toughest challenges
• Why efficiency doesn’t always require AI, and what to prioritize instead
• The increasing importance of human-centered digital experiences
• How events like AFT spark real industry transformation

🔑 Keywords: Fintech podcast, financial services, banking technology, AI in banking, fintech innovation, efficiency ratios, consumer empowerment, AFT conference, credit union trends, financial collaboration, future of fintech