In this Season 1 Bonus Episode, host Nick Dyment is joined by fintech leader Alex Achtemichuk, AVP and Head of Payments Strategy at Central 1 and Eric Lombardi, Director of Advisory for a candid conversation about the future of payments, AI, and the ever-changing landscape of Canadian financial services. They dive deep into the world behind everyday transactions, revealing how digital-native financial institutions and innovative payment providers shape our experiences without us even knowing it.

Alex and Eric unpack the rising importance of real-time payments, the ongoing impact of AI on fraud detection and efficiency, and the growing role of fintechs and challenger banks in keeping Canada at the forefront of payment innovation. You'll hear honest takes on why Canada often gets both praise and criticism for its pace of change, what under-the-radar developments are poised to shake up the industry, and how up-and-comers can turn curiosity and strategic thinking into a meaningful career advantage.
This conversation is full of real talk about opportunity, competition, and the human side of fintech, plus bold predictions about how AI-driven banking could transform our everyday lives. Whether you're a business leader, a tech enthusiast, or just curious about how the money moves, you’re in the right place.
Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.
Watch Season 1 episodes 001 through 006 here:
Episode 1: AI or Bust
Episode 2: Legacy Modernization
Episode 4: Gen AI in Canadian Banks


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