Talking Success: Connecting the Global FinTech Community

Send us a text In this episode Darren Franks chats with Erin Louw, Chief People Officer at TymeBank, to discuss what it takes to build an agile, people-centric culture in a fast-growing FinTech. From harnessing people analytics with everyday tools to cultivating talent.Highlights:People-Centric Leadership in a Scaling FinTechHarnessing People Analytics to Drive Organisational HealthHiring and Cultivating Talent vs. ‘Finding' TalentThis episode is sponsored by Pear Network Erin Louws's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-louw-3b838bb/TymeBank's Website: https://www.tymebank.co.za/Darren Franks' Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenfranks/Titc's Website https://titc.io/This episode is brought to you by Pear NetworkPear's LinkedIn: https://www.pear-network.com/

Send us a textThe evolution of payment systems is reshaping how businesses interact with consumers, and Pick n Pay, a stalwart in South African retail, is at the forefront of this revolution. In this episode of Talking Success, Devon Moodley, Head of Financial Services and Value-Added Services at Pick n Pay, provides fascinating insights into the company's strategies, challenges, and vision for the future of payments.

Send us a textMobile money has become a cornerstone of the financial technology (FinTech) sector. In this episode Darren Franks chats with Nikolai Barnwell, Founder and CEO of pawaPay about the world of mobile payments.

Send us a textIn this episode, Darren chats with Michael Yaacov Martin, Co-founder & CEO at Jifiti. Embedded finance and lending represent a paradigm shift in how consumers and businesses access financial services. From BNPL to long-term lending, these innovations are shaping the future of finance, making it more accessible and aligned with modern consumer behaviours.Highlights:

Send us a textIn this episode, Darren chats with Michael Adamson, CEO - South Africa at eShandi. The world of lending is undergoing a seismic shift, with innovators like Ishandi redefining what it means to deliver financial services in Africa. Mike shares the journey of this rebranded challenger bank and its mission to address unmet needs in the lending ecosystem across Africa.Highlights:

Send us a textIn this episode, Darren chats with Idan Jaan, Co-Founder & COO at Flexclub. Idan tells us about the many challenges the automotive industry is facing and how FlexClub is transforming vehicle access in South Africa.Highlights:

Send us a textIn this episode Darren chats with the "Laundry Man" Kenneth Rijock, a reformed money launder.Kenneth's unique background—from laundering over $200 million for cartels to now working closely with law enforcement—offers a fascinating, behind-the-scenes perspective on the world of financial crime.Highlights:From Lawyer to Money Launderer: Kenneth's JourneyThe Three Stages of Money LaunderingThe Evolution of Money Laundering TechniquesKenneth Rijock's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-rijock-2b8419a/Darren Franks' Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenfranks/Titc's Website https://titc.io/This episode is sponsored by RelyComply.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/relycomply/Website: https://relycomply.com/

Send us a textIn this episode, Darren chats with Mark McChlery, Chief Data & Analytics Officer at PayJustNow. Mark provides us with a unique insight into the company's early challenges, evolution, and its key role in today's economy.Highlights:

Send us a textIn this episode, Darren chats with Deon Nobrega and Bryan Habana from Paymenow. In an era where financial inclusion has become a buzzword, few companies truly walk the talk. PayMeNow, a South African startup, is setting a benchmark by offering a platform that brings together technology, empathy, and social impact, reshaping how employees access their earnings.These college roommates tell us their story. Highlights:

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, Darren chats with Maxim Galash, CEO at Coinchange. Max's venture has seen significant transformations since its inception, evolving from a retail-focused DeFi platform to providing sophisticated enterprise solutions. He shares his journey, lessons and insights.Highlights:

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, Darren chats with Hylton Kallner, CEO of Discovery Bank. Hylton provides an insightful overview of the bank's journey and offerings, which have transformed the financial landscape in South Africa and garnered attention from international markets.Highlights:

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, Darren chats with Gur Geva, Founder and CEO of iiDENTIFii. Gur shares how the future of digital identity and payments is one of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity. By harnessing advanced biometric technologies and working closely with regulators and industry partners, companies can drive significant advancements in financial inclusion and security. Highlights:

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, Darren chats with Peter Curk, CEO at Iconomi.We explore the psychological and strategic aspects of taking profits in cryptocurrency trading, emphasizing the importance of discipline, automation, and thorough research. We also delve into B2B crypto solutions, offering insights for fintech companies looking to integrate crypto services.Highlights:

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, Darren chats with Jonny Bell, Senior Director, Head of EMEA & UKI Market Planning at LexisNexis Risk Solutions.We uncover a striking revelation from Bell's discussion about LexisNexis's involvement in combating wildlife trafficking. Join us on this insightful journey as we uncover the dynamics of fraud in today's complex world.Highlights:

In this episode, Darren chats with Jason Lane-Sellers, Director, Fraud & Identity EMEA at LexisNexis Risk Solutions.We delve into the realm of fraud, risk, and money laundering with industry an industry expert. In this special edition, we had the privilege of sitting down to unravel the mysteries of fraud detection and prevention. Join us on this insightful journey as we uncover the dynamics of fraud in today's complex world.Highlights:

In this episode, Darren chats with Vincent Gaudel, Financial Crime Compliance Expert at LexisNexis Risk Solutions.From money laundering to fraud, the complexities of regulatory controls and compliance measures require constant vigilance and adaptation. In a recent podcast, financial crime expert Vincent sheds light on the intricate landscape of regulatory frameworks and the evolving challenges faced by industries worldwide.Highlights:

In this episode, Darren chats with Christo de Wit, Country Manager at Luno.In a world of digital currencies and evolving financial landscapes, cryptocurrencies have emerged as a revolutionary force. Darren and Christo dive into the heart of this transformation. Join us as we explore the shifting dynamics, changing demographics, and emerging trends within the crypto industry from a uniquely South African lens.Highlights:

In this episode, Darren chats with Trevor Gosling, Co-Founder & CEO at Lula. This sentiment of "Business banking is broken in South Africa" echoes the frustrations of many entrepreneurs who have faced challenges with traditional banking services in the country. The conversation delves deeper into this issue, focusing on how to revolutionize business banking for SMEs.Highlights:

In this episode, Darren chats with Lex Sokolin, Managing Partner at Generative Ventures. We learn how DeFi challenges traditional financial systems and how the transformative potential of generative AI is reshaping economic output and labour dynamics.Highlights:

In this episode, Darren chats with Rael Demby, CEO of the South African Gold Coin Exchange. We learn how the convergence of cryptocurrency and traditional gold transactions represents a pivotal moment in financial history.Highlights:

In this episode, Darren chats with Nelson Chu, Founder and CEO of Percent.Nelson underscores the transformative power of standardization and technology in reshaping the private credit industry.  Highlights:❗❗  Risk in Emerging Markets

In this episode, Darren chats with Lorien Gamaroff, Co-Founder and CEO of Centbee. Beyond speculative trading and get-rich-quick schemes, Laurian emphasized the transformative power of blockchain technology in reshaping industries and fostering innovation.Highlights:⚙  Understanding Bitcoin's Utility

In this episode, Darren chats with Andrew Katzwinkel, Founder and CEO of Layup Technologies.A testament to FinTech entrepreneurship, this episode takes us on a journey through perseverance, strategic pivots, and a commitment to addressing real-world challenges. Highlights

In this episode, Darren chats with Panagiotis Kriaris, Commercial Director, Head of Business Development at Unzer.Panagiotis offers a nuanced exploration of the multifaceted FinTech landscape. From the evolution of payment systems to the societal impact of FinTech, the discussion underscores the transformative potential of innovative financial technologies in reshaping global economies.Highlights:

 In this podcast episode, Darren chats with David Birch, an Industry legend, Author and Keynote Speaker. Their conversation takes you on a journey into the intriguing world of digital currencies.Highlights

In this Talking Success episode, we get to be a part of a captivating conversation between Darren Franks and Ron Shevlin, two luminaries in the realms of finance and technology. Their discussion delves deep into the dynamic landscape of financial technology (FinTech), providing invaluable insights into its evolution, challenges, and future trajectory.Highlights:

In this episode, Darren chats with Rahul Jain, Co-founder and CEO of Peach Payments.Rahul provides valuable insights into navigating the African FinTech landscape and how FinTech entrepreneurs can position themselves for success in an evolving and dynamic market environmentHighlights:

In this episode, Darren chats with Chris Skinner, The Finanser, podcast host and author. They explore FinTech's present challenges and future possibilities which beckons industry stakeholders to reflect, adapt and collectively shape the contours of banking in the years to come. Highlights:

Can he survive a year only using stable coins? In this episode, Darren chats with Aeryn Quarmby, Co-Founder and COO of Xion Global.  They cover crypto market trends, emphasizing the prominence of stablecoins and efficient layer two networks. Highlights:

Join Faith and her super cool guest, Darren, as they explore the magical world of FinTech on Talking Success. Darren, who's like a FinTech wizard, spills the beans on why FinTech is soooo cool!Discover how FinTech helps people save money, spend wisely, and keep their moolah super-duper safe. Darren even shares a cool secret - it's like having a special lock that only you can open!

In this episode, Chipo Mushwana, Executive Emerging Innovation & Payments at Nedbank, reveals Nedbank's journey in innovation and payments as a dynamic exploration of merging technological advancements with real-world challenges, signaling a promising future for the bank in shaping the financial landscape of South AfricaHighlights:

In this episode, Darren chats with Mohammed Kaka, COO at Al Baraka Bank.We learn how Islamic banking continues to evolve globally, Mohammed's journey at Al Baraka reflects the industry's dynamic nature. From its foundational principles to embracing digitalization, Islamic banking navigates the intersection of tradition and innovation, offering ethical financial solutions to a diverse clientele.Highlights:

In this episode, Bradley Elliott, CEO of RelyComply, sheds light on their groundbreaking efforts in the anti-money laundering (AML) compliance space.The discussion centres on the challenges faced by financial services businesses in streamlining AML processes amid evolving regulations, with a particular focus on greylisting.Highlights:

In this episode, Darren Franks chats with Brett King, Best-selling author, futurist, founder and podcast host.Brett shares his predictions for the future, particularly in the banking and FinTech space, reflecting on past forecasts and their accuracy.Highlights:

In this episode, Darren Franks chats with Anton Gaylard, Co-Founder and Chief Exponential Officer at Crossfin Holdings. Anton unveils the intricate landscape of the company's investment philosophy, providing a compelling narrative that traverses borders and embraces innovation. From their stronghold in South Africa to ventures in Mauritius, Crossfin's strategic approach unfolds in a conversation that delves into early-stage investments, collaborations with Apis Partners, and the intriguing success story of Troy Gold.HighlightsSpotlight on Success: Recent Investments and GrowthEarly-Stage Passion: Crossfin Ventures Backing StartupsFinancial Inclusion and Impact Investing: The Akello PerspectiveNavigating Company Overlaps: Managing Potential ConflictsAnton Gaylard's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anton-gaylard-a1529a5/Crossfin's Website: http://www.crossfin.co.za/Darren Franks' Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenfranks/Personalize an experienceThe luxury hospitality space depends on the personalized touch to retain guests.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

In this episode, Darren Franks chats with Michael Oluwole, Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer at TAP.Michael highlights the prevalent cash-based nature of everyday transactions in Africa, focusing on the challenges of achieving financial inclusion in a predominantly cash-dependent society. While banks and fintechs have addressed larger transactions, the majority, constituting 70%, remain cash-based, hindering efforts to establish credit profiles for citizens.Highlights

In this episode, Darren Franks chats with Brett Van Aswegen, CEO of Wonga South Africa.Brett recounts the turbulent journey of the once-pioneering FinTech giant. From its innovative roots in the UK to navigating through regulatory storms, this episode unveils the challenges faced, lessons learned, and the transformation of Wonga's business model.Highlights

In this episode, Darren Franks chats with Johan Bosini, Partner at Quona Capital.Highlights

In this special episode of "Talking Success," Darren delves into the essence of the podcast series and his journey in the fintech sector in Africa. With over a decade of experience, Darren has been a part of incredible innovations and companies in fintech. The podcast aims to democratize fintech, making it accessible to everyone, from consumers to small business owners. Darren also introduces his primary business, titc.io, which has evolved from a recruitment-focused company to a full-service growth agency offering marketing, PR, and more. Co-founder of the FinTech Association of South Africa, Darren emphasizes the role of fintech in financial inclusion, literacy, and business scalability. Tune in to gain an 'MBA in Fintech' from the insights shared by industry experts on "Talking Success."titc is a full-service growth agency for FinTechs. A strategic partner that amplifies your brand's reach to the right customers, secures partnerships that matter, attracts top-tier talent, and impresses investors — all under one roof. The Fintech Association of South Africa (FINASA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the growth and development of the fintech industry in South Africa.Titc's Website: https://titc.io/FINASA's Website: https://www.finasa.org.za/Darren Franks' Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenfranks/

In this episode, Darren Franks chats with Chris Govender, Co-founder and COO of Rentoza.  ✔  Subscription model flexibility explained

In this episode, Darren chats with Mariam Cassim, CEO of Financial and Digital Lifestyle Services at Vodacom. Financial and Digital Lifestyle Services.With a main focus on all things SuperApp, we get a full rundown of what a SuperApp is, its use cases, competition and data privacy.Super Apps: Your One-Stop Virtual MallImagine having an entire shopping mall at your fingertips, tailored to your unique lifestyle and preferences. This is precisely what super apps offer—a one-stop virtual mall experience that combines convenience, functionality, and endless possibilities.In the digital age, super apps have become a ubiquitous presence, redefining how we engage with technology and access a multitude of services. Whether you're looking for entertainment, shopping, communication, or financial solutions, super apps aim to be the go-to destination for all your needs.Finding the Anchor Use CaseSuper apps are not just a random amalgamation of services; they typically start with a core use case that becomes the driving force behind user engagement. This anchor use case acts as the entry point to a broader ecosystem, gradually expanding to offer a diverse array of services.Competition and DifferentiationThe super app landscape is fiercely competitive, with various players vying for dominance in specific niches or demographics. Tech giants such as Google and Apple have also thrown their hats into the ring, recognizing the immense potential of these versatile platforms.Data Privacy and Ethical UseIn an era where data is often likened to the new oil, safeguarding user information is of paramount importance. Super apps are no exception to this rule. Users expect their data to be handled with the utmost care and responsibility.The Power of Mobile Network OperatorsOne intriguing aspect that sets some super apps apart is their association with mobile network operators. These operators, like Vodacom, have a unique advantage—access to an extensive database of customer information. They can harness this wealth of data to provide personalized services and contribute to financial inclusion.

In this episode, we sit down with Dawie Roodt, an Award Winning Economist and Chairman at the Efficient Group.This is a deep dive into the South African economy and the future of money in Africa.The Power of Sentiments:Economics and Human Nature: Dawie emphasizes that economics is fundamentally about people, not just numbers and formulas. Alternative Measurements: While traditional economic indicators like per capita income are commonly used, Dawie suggests focusing on metrics like life expectancy, which correlates strongly with overall well-being.Market Sentiments and Confidence:Confidence in Central Banks: Dawie discusses how trust in central banks and their leaders can significantly impact economic decisions.Lack of Confidence in Government: When people lack faith in their government, they hesitate to invest, hindering economic growth.Greed and Fear: Emotions like greed and fear in financial markets play a role in the economy. These emotions can lead to market bubbles and crashes, highlighting the need for economists to analyze and manage such sentiments.Cryptocurrency and Changing Finance:Central Bank Digital Currencies: Dawie discusses the emergence of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) and their programmable nature. CBDCs could be used for various purposes, including controlling spending and ensuring tax compliance.Decentralized Finance (DeFi): The clip explores the concept of DeFi and how it operates outside the control of central banks. It raises questions about whether DeFi will coexist peacefully with traditional financial systems or face regulatory challenges.Episode Highlights

In this episode, we sit down with Gideon Greaves, Managing Director, Africa for CVVC. CV VC invests in all stages of crypto and blockchain development, from incubation to pre-ICO and post-ICO. Blockchain is more than just a technology..This is a deep dive into the world of Blockchain technology and its many user cases, especially across Africa.Gideon is a venture capitalist and specializes in investing in Blockchain-led companies in Africa.Discover how blockchain offers transparency and fraud reduction in procurement processes, potentially reclaiming a significant portion of Africa's lost GDP. Explore real-world applications like smart contracts and the basic attention token (BAT), allowing individuals to monetize their data securely.Gain valuable insights into blockchain adoption, developer availability, and its accessibility for startups. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or simply curious about blockchain's potential to drive change in Africa, this episode provides a balanced view of this crucial topic. Join the conversation and uncover the future of blockchain in Africa.Highlights:

I've been harping on about the potential of SoftPoS to negate the need for traditional POS devices for some time however after speaking with Matt Putman and Graeme Cumming from iKhokha I now fully understand when SoftPoS sits within the POS landscape. This is a fascinating discussion and thanks to Matt & Graeme for taking the time to chat with me.The podcast discusses the evolution of point-of-sale devices and the impact of digital payments in South Africa. It explores how iKhokha, helps small businesses accept payments and grow their businesses. The conversation also delves into topics such as the challenges of load shedding and the increasing adoption of tap-on-phone payments.Highlights

In this episode, we sit down with Ashlin Perumall, Partner at Baker McKenzie South Africa. Baker McKenzie advises domestic and multinational companies, project sponsors, banks and other financial institutions on a wide range of legal issues, including banking & finance, project finance, M&A, capital markets, employment, dispute resolution, private equity, regulation and anti-trust and competition.Mastering FinTech M&A in South Africa: Insights from Ashlin PerumallHighlights

In this episode, we sit down with Aman Behzad, Partner at Royal Park Partners. Royal Park Partners are trusted corporate finance advisors focused on FinTech.Aman Behzad's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aman-behzad-fintechadvisor/Smile ID's Website: https://www.royalparkpartners.com/Darren Franks' Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenfranks/TalentintheClouds Website: http://talentinthecloud.io/TalentintheCloud's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talentinthecloud/Listen on: Apple Podcasts, SpotifyEveryday AI: Your guide to not only learning AI, but how to leverage it in businessCan't keep up with AI? We've got you. Everyday AI helps you keep up and get ahead.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySoaring to New Health: The Glass is Half HealthySDOH: why they are important and how they can play a role in more efficient careListen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyVenturing into Fashion TechExploring the convergence of fashion tech, entrepreneurship, and fashion business.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyThe Gaming BlenderHave you ever wanted to design your own video game?Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Straub, CEO of Smile ID. Smile ID provides the best Africa-focused solutions for real-time Digital KYC, Identity Verification, User Onboarding, Document Verification, Liveness Checks, Face Verification, Anti-fraud, Know your Business (KYB), and Identity Data Deduplication across Africa.Mark Straub's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markstraub/Smile ID's Website: https://usesmileid.com/Darren Franks' Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenfranks/TalentintheClouds Website: http://talentinthecloud.io/TalentintheCloud's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talentinthecloud/Listen on: Apple Podcasts, SpotifyEveryday AI: Your guide to not only learning AI, but how to leverage it in businessCan't keep up with AI? We've got you. Everyday AI helps you keep up and get ahead.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyThe Gaming BlenderHave you ever wanted to design your own video game?Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Elliott, President of Sub-Saharan Africa at Mastercard. Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Their mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere.Mark Elliott's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-elliott-bbb63826/Mastercard's Website: http://www.mastercard.com/Darren Franks' Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenfranks/TalentintheClouds Website: http://talentinthecloud.io/TalentintheCloud's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talentinthecloud/Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotifypayments processing companies, fintech, payments,  intechs, darren franks, talentinthecloud, Mastercard, QR Codes, fintech jobs, fintech explained, what is fintech, mastercard, mastercard south africa, digital payments, mark elliott, mark elliott mastercard, fintech africa, fintech startups, rapid payments programme, crypto payments, financial inclusion in africa, fintech startups in africa, Mastering the Future of FinTech, understanding fintech, top fintech company in africa, fintech technology, financial techThe Gaming BlenderHave you ever wanted to design your own video game?Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

In this episode, we sit down with Coen Jonker, Co-Founder and CEO at Tyme Bank. Tyme Bank constantly looks for ways to empower South Africans to take back control of their money. Coen Jonker's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coenraadjonker/Tyme Bank's Website: https://www.tymebank.co.za/Darren Franks' Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenfranks/TalentintheClouds Website: http://talentinthecloud.io/TalentintheCloud's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talentinthecloud/A-Maze-ing CareersThe world of work is a maze with twists, turns and dead ends, often with no particular...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyStarfleet Leadership Academy - Leadership Through Star TrekThe most unique leadership podcast you've ever heard.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyThe Lawyer Life PodcastLawyers! We are not okay. Too little time, too much stress, zero balance. Time for change.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyThe Gaming BlenderHave you ever wanted to design your own video game?Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

In this episode, we sit down with Tracy Birdsall, VP of EMEA Business Development at Worldpay. Worldpay payment processing solutions allow merchants of all sizes to take, make and manage payments seamlessly.Tracy Birdsall's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracybirdsall/Worldpay's Website: http://www.worldpay.com/Darren Franks' Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenfranks/TalentintheClouds Website: http://talentinthecloud.io/TalentintheCloud's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talentinthecloud/A-Maze-ing CareersThe world of work is a maze with twists, turns and dead ends, often with no particular...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyStarfleet Leadership Academy - Leadership Through Star TrekThe most unique leadership podcast you've ever heard.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyThe Lawyer Life PodcastLawyers! We are not okay. Too little time, too much stress, zero balance. Time for change.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyThe Gaming BlenderHave you ever wanted to design your own video game?Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

In this episode, we sit down with Arno von Helden, Co-Founder and Head of Shyft. Shyft is the money app that gives you more for less, 24/7. Buy forex instantly anytime, anywhere, and at the best rates, and invest in the top U.S. stocks and ETFs directly from your phone.Arno von Helden's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arno-von-helden-068aa84/Shyft's Website: https://getshyft.co.za/Darren Franks' Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenfranks/TalentintheClouds Website: http://talentinthecloud.io/TalentintheCloud's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talentinthecloud/A-Maze-ing CareersThe world of work is a maze with twists, turns and dead ends, often with no particular...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyStarfleet Leadership Academy - Leadership Through Star TrekThe most unique leadership podcast you've ever heard.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyThe Gaming BlenderHave you ever wanted to design your own video game?Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify