Build vs. Buy in FinTech: Why Embedded Payments and Lending Are the Future with Aditya Raikar

Conversations with Michael Barnett

Conversations with Michael Barnett

13:44

Legendary actor and mental health advocate Glenn Close is on a quest to change how we think about mental health, starting with her decision to speak out about her own family's struggles — a brave choice considering the stigma that pervades the topic. This week, we're revisiting this sweeping conversation with TEDWomen curator Pat Mitchell, where Close shares the inspiration behind the advocacy group she founded to combat the crisis, underscoring the transformative power of community and the critical need for comprehensive mental health care systems. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey ! Become a TED Member today at ted.com/join Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

about a year ago 42:14

MP3•Episode home

In this insightful episode, Michael Barnett sits down with Aditya Raikar,
VP of Growth & Partnerships at Checkbook, to explore the rapidly growing space of embedded finance. Discover why embedded payments and lending are transforming the Fintech landscape, making it easier for companies to offer versatile financial services without building them from scratch. From tackling the build-vs-buy dilemma to understanding market demands, Michael and Aditya share industry expertise and predictions on how embedded solutions will shape the future of finance.
Connect with Aditya on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adityaraikar1/
Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/
Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark
Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/
Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc
Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark
Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@poweredbyloanspark

Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending

11 episodes

#Tech #Loanspark

Build vs. Buy in FinTech: Why Embedded Payments and Lending Are the Future with Aditya Raikar

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

11 episodes

#Tech #Loanspark

All episodes

1
From Fear to Funding: How Mortgage Brokers Can Win in Commercial Lending with John Jurkovich 38:17

5 days ago38:17

38:17

In this episode, Michael Barnett sits down with John Jurkovich—industry veteran and Founder of the Mortgage Broker Builder—to demystify commercial lending for mortgage brokers and loan officers. Whether you're closing 2–3 loans a month or ready to scale beyond 10, this conversation uncovers the tools, mindset shifts, and niche strategies that can unlock new revenue streams. You’ll learn why commercial loans and business purpose lending aren't as complex as they seem, how DSCR loans serve as a “gateway” product, and why being different is better than being better in today’s competitive lending environment. Plus, hear practical tips on how to stop chasing leads and start converting them—without becoming a commercial lending expert overnight. 👉 Perfect for loan officers ready to diversify, boost commissions, and scale smarter. 🔑 Topics Covered: - Why so many LOs avoid commercial lending—and how to change that - The real opportunity behind DSCR and business purpose loans - How to become the go-to expert in your local market - Building a scalable, simplified lending business with the right partners 📈 Ready to add commercial lending to your toolkit? This episode is your blueprint! Connect with John Jurkovich on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-jurkovich-171b3b/ Connect with Michael Barnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/ Join the Mortgage Broker Builder Community: https://fintoolbox.io/freegroup Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@PoweredByLoanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending…

1
Redefining Success in Tech: Purpose, Equity, and the Founder’s Journey with Jess Drislane 37:13

5 weeks ago37:13

37:13

In this episode, Michael Barnett, Founder & CEO of Loanspark, and Jess Drislane, Founder & CEO of OpenScholar, dive into the real work of building early-stage, mission-driven companies that scale by enabling others. They explore what it means to create partner-first platforms, why trust is the most valuable currency in growth, and how to balance speed with purpose in high-stakes environments. Jess shares her journey from investment firm to science-focused tech founder, leading OpenScholar in its mission to help researchers and institutions speed discovery through smarter digital infrastructure. Tune in to learn how OpenScholar powers academic branding to help bring cures to market faster, why true partner enablement beats traditional sales, and what it means to take risks in legacy industries and betting on bold visions. Whether you're growing a fintech, edtech, SaaS, or simply navigating startup leadership, this episode delivers honest insight from two founders who are building with purpose. Connect with Jess Drislane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-drislane-451204a/ Connect with Michael Barnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/ Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@poweredbyloanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending…

1
Building Purpose-Driven Success: Scaling with Sustainability, Culture, and Partnerships with Drew Shula 48:27

10 weeks ago48:27

48:27

In this episode of Conversations with Michael Barnett, Michael sits down with Drew Shula, Founder and CEO of Verdical Group, a sustainability consulting firm dedicated to decarbonizing the built environment by helping to create efficient, resilient, and regenerative buildings. Drew shares his inspiring journey from launching his company in a garage to building a thriving 20-person business known for its impact-driven mission. Whether you're a startup founder, business leader, or sustainability advocate, this episode offers valuable lessons on integrating environmental responsibility into your business strategy. Tune in to learn how businesses can embrace sustainability without sacrificing profitability—and why doing good is just good business. Connect with Drew Shula on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewshula/ Connect with Michael Barnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/ Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@poweredbyloanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending…

1
Building the Future of Banking: Fifth Third’s Approach to Embedded Finance with Ali Malvicino 31:24

14 weeks ago31:24

31:24

In this episode, Michael Barnett talks with Ali Malvicino, Head of Solutions for Newline™ by Fifth Third Bank, about the transformative world of embedded finance. They explore the evolution of financial technology, from prepaid cards to API-driven banking-as-a-service platforms, and discuss how Fifth Third Bank is leading the charge with innovative solutions like the Newline platform. Discover how compliance, trust, and forward-thinking are shaping the future of payments. Connect with Ali Malvicino on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alimalvicino/ Connect with Michael Barnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/ Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@poweredbyloanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending…

1
From Fencing to Fintech: Resilience, Pivots, and How Tax Titans is Revolutionizing the Accounting Industry with Alan Blakeborough 37:29

18 weeks ago37:29

37:29

In this episode, Michael Barnett sits down with Alan Blakeborough, founder of Tax Titans, to discuss entrepreneurship, resilience, and the journey of building a disruptive SaaS platform for the accounting industry. Alan shares his unique career path, from being a competitive fencer to an Army officer, and how those experiences shaped his entrepreneurial spirit. They dive into key topics such as the power of pivoting in business, finding your niche, and the importance of resilience for startups. Alan also introduces Enterprise Bridge , Tax Titans' groundbreaking platform that allows accounting professionals to buy, sell, and trade clients seamlessly—revolutionizing the accounting industry in the face of a nationwide talent shortage. This episode is packed with actionable insights for entrepreneurs, startup founders, and professionals seeking to innovate in their industries. Connect with Alan Blakeborough on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/f3zorroblake/ Connect with Michael Barnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/ Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@poweredbyloanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending…

1
The Future of Payments: From Legacy Systems to Consumer-Driven Innovation with Michael Balzer 34:41

20 weeks ago34:41

34:41

In this episode, Michael Barnett interviews Michael Balzer, a payments industry veteran, about the evolution and future of payments. They discuss how cloud technology, open systems, and API-driven innovation have enabled startups to challenge legacy players, driving consumer-focused solutions. The conversation explores the influence of consumer behavior on payment trends, the role of trust and security in adopting new technologies like biometrics, and the industry’s shift toward personalized, value-added services. Connect with Michael Balzer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mbalzer/ Connect with Michael Barnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/ Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@poweredbyloanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending…

1
Leading Through Burnout: Resilience, Purpose, and the Entrepreneurial Journey with Matt Baxter 45:42

25 weeks ago45:42

45:42

In this episode, Michael Barnett chats with Matt Baxter, CEO of Wedge HR, about the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, from his journey starting a lawn care business to leading a successful HR tech company. They dive into the realities of burnout, the resilience required to keep going, and the importance of balancing ambition with well-being. Matt shares strategies for managing stress, focusing on meaningful work, and sustaining motivation through small wins and a strong support network. This honest conversation reveals insights on connecting with others through authentic leadership and the value of purpose-driven work in building a lasting business. Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcbaxter/ Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/ Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@poweredbyloanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending…

1
Embedded Lending in Europe vs. the U.S.: Ethics, Regulation, and Building Trust in Fintech with Thorsten Seeger 43:35

27 weeks ago43:35

43:35

In this episode, Michael Barnett speaks with Thorsten Seeger, an expert in the European lending market, about the evolution of embedded lending across Europe and the U.S. They dive into COVID’s role in accelerating digital acceptance, the technology gap in European banks, and the impact of embedded lending platforms like Loanspark in advancing the industry. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of ethics in lending, navigating regulatory challenges, and Michael and Thorsten's commitment to responsible, transparent practices in SMB finance. Connect with Thorsten on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thorstenseeger/ Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/ Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@poweredbyloanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending…

1
The Art of High-Performance Leadership: Strategies, Sacrifices, and Sustaining Excellence with Shayan Mozaffar 56:30

29 weeks ago56:30

56:30

In this episode, Michael Barnett sits down with Shayan Mozaffar, CEO of 10x10Y Investments, to discuss the profound challenges and rewards of high-performance leadership. They delve into the importance of resilience, purpose-driven goals, and making conscious sacrifices for sustained success. With insights on aligning life choices with personal values, this conversation is a roadmap for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs. Connect with Shayan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shayanmozaffar/ Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/ Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@poweredbyloanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending…

1
Build vs. Buy in FinTech: Why Embedded Payments and Lending Are the Future with Aditya Raikar 42:14

31 weeks ago42:14

42:14

In this insightful episode, Michael Barnett sits down with Aditya Raikar, VP of Growth & Partnerships at Checkbook, to explore the rapidly growing space of embedded finance. Discover why embedded payments and lending are transforming the Fintech landscape, making it easier for companies to offer versatile financial services without building them from scratch. From tackling the build-vs-buy dilemma to understanding market demands, Michael and Aditya share industry expertise and predictions on how embedded solutions will shape the future of finance. Connect with Aditya on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adityaraikar1/ Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/ Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@poweredbyloanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending…

1
Conversations With Michael Barnett | Official Trailer 1:21

34 weeks ago1:21