Recent Episodes of the PAPER PODCAST

 

The Paper Podcast, hosted by Ryan James, President & CEO of Surety Bank, looks at topics like the future of money, DeFi, FinTech, Compliance, Fraud and many more. Ryan interviews top experts in these fields and gives his audience a refreshing new perspective on where money is going and its effects on our current and future economic landscape. Join us for a new episode each week.

Episode 36 – My Takeaways from Money2020 (EOY 2023)
In this episode of the Paper Podcast, host Ryan James shares key takeaways from his recent travels across conference hotspots like Vegas, Nashville, and Texas. From Money 2020 to Fed Fest in Fredericksburg, Texas, Ryan dives into the common thread he noticed among successful banks – strong compliance. Tune in to discover why compliance is the cornerstone for banks thriving in the ever-evolving landscape of payment and fintech.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 35 – How Banks Should Vet New Vendors

In this weeks episode, Ryan James, CEO & President of Surety Bank shares valuable insights to bank CEOs, executives, and management teams on vetting new vendors. His advice includes examining employee turnover and changes in leadership to determine if vendors bring substantial changes, along with a range of other crucial considerations.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 34 – Should Banks Be Asking Customers Why They Are Withdrawing Cash?
Welcome back to another episode of Paper Podcast! This week our host, Ryan James, President and CEO of Surety Bank explores the intricacies of bank policies and their impact on our everyday financial interactions. Tune in as he unveils thought-provoking insights that may leave you contemplating the true nature and purpose of these policies.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 33 – The Future of Bank Branches – Clip 4 of My Keynote at the FSPA Conference
Join Ryan James as he wraps up his keynote address at the FSPA Conference with this last segment. Listen as he delves into the exciting future of bank branches and discusses different branch models and the vital role of physical branches in establishing trust. Ryan also explores the transformative effects of expanding into new markets and the importance of having knowledgeable staff who focus on cultivating relationships with top-tier customers.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 32 – My Thoughts on Crypto – Clip 3 of My Keynote at the FSPA Conference
In this excerpt from the FSPA Conference, Ryan James discusses the future of cryptocurrency. He highlights concerns with Stablecoin audits and commends Bitcoin for its self-regulation and chargeback prevention. He also delivers a thought-provoking critique of the Consumer Protection Bureau’s approach to handling chargeback disputes and paints a visionary picture of integrating cryptocurrencies into online banking platforms.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 31 – State of the Banking Industry – Clip 2 of My Keynote at the FSPA Conference
Join our host, Ryan James in this unique series of episodes featuring excerpts from his keynote speech at this year’s FSPA Conference. In this second segment, Ryan discusses the current state of the banking industry. He sheds light on a relatively stagnant year, attributing it to the failure of banks due to interest rates. He also highlights the recent failures of three banks and goes into detail on consent orders issued by regulators.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 30 – My Story – Clip 1 of My Keynote at the FSPA Conference
Join our host, Ryan James in this unique series of episodes featuring excerpts from his keynote speech at this year’s FSPA Conference. This first clip unveils his personal journey and encounters within the banking sector, providing a captivating peek into the ever-changing banking landscape.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 29 – A Conversation About the Impact of AI
In this episode, our host Ryan James, President & CEO of Surety Bank, takes a unique approach by engaging in a conversation with Marketing Consultant, Lee Murray.

Together they discuss the current economic situation and utilizing AI in data organization and analysis. They also explore how AI can enhance creativity, eliminate monotonous tasks, and provide real-time analysis for businesses. Additionally, their dialogue zeroes in on the possible advantages and obstacles tied to employing AI.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 28 – Fintechs Get Limited Access to SBA Loans
In this week’s episode of the Paper Podcast, Ryan James explores a proposed Senate bill that aims to limit the involvement of fintechs in SBA 7(a) loans. The bill received overwhelming support with an 18-1 vote during a panel meeting. Its primary goals are to strengthen oversight and impose limitations on new non-bank entrants participating in the small business administration’s lending program.

Ryan provides valuable insights and sheds light on the reasons behind his support for the bill’s passage through the Senate.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 27 – What To Do When New Regulations Hit
In this week’s episode, join Ryan James, CEO and President of Surety Bank, as he explores the vital importance of risk assessments in the banking industry. Discover how adapting to regulatory changes and evaluating the impact of new products on operations play a pivotal role. Ryan emphasizes considering worst-case scenarios, implementing necessary controls, and engaging various departments for effective risk management.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 26 – Some Thoughts on the Adoption of Upcoming FedNow Service
Welcome to another episode of the Paper Podcast. Our host, Ryan James, CEO & President of Surety Bank gives his thoughts on the upcoming FedNow service and gives insight on the behind-the-scenes processes of FedNow, a faster real-time payment service offered by the Federal Reserve. He emphasizes the need for caution and waiting until the procedures have been ironed out before diving into it. He also provokes thoughtful reflection on faster payment services and whether it’s really necessary.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 25 – Do Banks Really Need a Chief Risk Officer?
Are chief risk officers the solution to preventing another banking crisis? Join Ryan James, President & CEO of Surety Bank as he answers this question and shares his thoughts on the recent bill proposing the requirement of chief risk officers in large banks.

While acknowledging the value of having a chief risk officer, Ryan challenges the notion that it is the sole solution to preventing mismanagement and misregulation. He emphasizes the need for a comprehensive system of auditing and trusted advisors who can ensure banks are truly substantive and doing the right thing.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 24 – Is The Build-to-Sell Model Broken For Banks?
Welcome to the latest episode of the Paper Podcast hosted by Ryan James, CEO and President of Surety Bank. Get ready to dive deep into the banking industry as Ryan discusses bank collapses, emphasizing the crucial role of proper management and oversight.

Discover the challenges faced by community banks and explore strategies for sustainable growth and enhanced service to our communities.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 23 – Fears in Banking & Lending Cannabis
In this week’s episode, Ryan James shares his observations from the recent capital markets cannabis conference. He emphasizes the importance of proper risk assessments and investigating everything, treating the industry like any other.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 22 – Risk Management Practices on the Heels of Banking Failures
This week, host Ryan James, CEO and President of Surety Bank delves into the world of risk management practices and exposes the dangers of trusting inexperienced companies and individuals who claim they can help you.

This episode is full of valuable insights and tips on how to identify reputable auditors and experts who can genuinely aid in enhancing your risk management practices.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 21 – The Good, Bad and Ugly on Banking Regulations Right Now
In this week’s episode, Ryan James, CEO and President of Surety Bank discusses the changing landscape of the banking world and the impact of recent regulatory changes. He highlights the issues faced by banks with regard to their bond portfolio and the need for all banks to be held to the same standard.

With a mix of insights and opinions, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in the banking industry and the challenges it faces.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 20 – Banking Failures Recap & Insights
In this episode, Ryan James, CEO and President of Surety Bank shares his enthusiasm for crypto and banking with crypto. Watch as he reflects on the recent ups and downs of the crypto market, and how it has led to the weeding out of weak ideas in the industry. Discover why Ryan believes this is a crucial time for practitioners to shine and for quality products to rise.

If you’re interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the potential impact of the crypto industry on banking, this episode is a must-listen.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 19 – Banking Failures Recap & Insights

Join Ryan James, CEO and President of Surety Bank as he discusses recent events in the banking world, including the demise of Silvergate, Silicon Valley Bank, and Signature Bank, and the regulatory actions that followed.

In this episode, Ryan delves into how the banks’ downfall was caused by insufficient risk management and inadequate regulatory oversight. As a banker, you can gain valuable insights from this analysis and learn how to avoid similar pitfalls in your own institution.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 18 – Are Community Banks Fueling Discount Window Borrowing?

n this week’s episode, Ryan James, President and CEO of Surety Bank breaks down an article from American Banker titled “Small Banks Feel the Rise in Borrowing from the Fed’s Discount Window” and discusses whether or not community banks are in direct competition with the government. Tune in to hear more about the state of banking and finance in the US, and how these issues directly affect consumers and small businesses.

Article: https://www.americanbanker.com/news/s...

 

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 17 – How Community Banks Can Use AI

In this week’s episode of Paper Podcast, Ryan James, President and CEO of Surety Bank talks about AI’s future in community banking. Listen as he shares his personal experiences using AI and explains how it can enhance a community bank’s brand and leverage its employees.

Ryan also covers potential solutions for common online banking questions, such as frequently asked questions and chat box applications, as well as potential issues related to customer identification and voice inflection.

Bank CEOs looking to stay ahead of the curve and explore new technologies will find this episode very informative and thought-provoking.

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 16 – Insights On Monitoring High-Risk Accounts

In this week’s episode our Host, Ryan James, CEO and President of Surety Bank delves into a bank that faced a significant loss – Silvergate Bank.

Get a glimpse into their financials, the impact cryptocurrency had on them, and the events that led to their downfall. This episode will provide lessons learned from this experience and you’ll be able to gain insight into the importance of monitoring concentrations in deposits as well as the potential risks in the crypto industry.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 15 – Highlights from the first 14 Episodes

This week, we’re sharing highlights from the first 14 episodes of the Paper Podcast. Watch Ryan James, President and CEO of Surety Bank, discuss a range of topics with guests including fraud, cryptocurrency adoption by banks, identifying human trafficking with transactions, and more.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 14 – Insights On Monitoring High-Risk Accounts
This week, Ryan James, President and CEO of Surety Bank talks about compliance for bankers, specifically the importance of monitoring high-risk accounts with the FDIC.

He speaks on a variety of topics, including overseeing committees, the importance of exceeding regulatory framework, and why it’s important to take the time to know your customer’s customers.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 13 – What Bankers Should Look for in 2023
In this week’s episode, Ryan James, President and CEO of Surety Bank, shares his thoughts on what all bankers should look for in 2023.

He’ll discuss the future of banking, how he envisions it changing as well as strategies banks can employ to remain successful despite an uncertain economy.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 12 – What Bankers Should Look For In 2023

In this week’s episode, Ryan James, President and CEO of Surety Bank discusses how bankers can perform a more thorough check when deciding whether or not to partner with a fintech.
Ryan also considers the advantages and disadvantages of Walmart’s new Buy Now, Pay Later service.

Thank you for watching this episode! If you enjoyed it and want to stay up to date with new upcoming episodes, please subscribe and share with a friend or colleague!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 11 – Lee Murray: Amazon’s New Line of Credit

Surety Bank CEO, Ryan James sits down with Lee Murray, Harvard Murray Consulting’s Business Growth Strategist to discuss Amazon’s latest offering – a new type of credit line to help sellers cover short-term costs, like inventory.

There are many questions that remain to be answered about this new line of credit, such as the benefits and value it presents for its customers and Ryan and Lee are here to discuss them.

Will this new type of credit line from Amazon be beneficial? We want to hear your thoughts on this interesting case study!

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 10 – Tanner Mayo: Core Convergence, Crypto & Debit Card Revenue

Ryan James, CEO of Surety Bank speaks with Tanner Mayo, President of FedFis and part of the FinTech Cowboys. On today’s episode, they talk about everything from the importance of bankers understanding the revenue generated with debit cards, not shying away from core convergences, and the overall belief in crypto.

Tanner also gives insight into what he thinks the future of banking holds, and his opinion might just surprise you.

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 09 – Lee Murray: FTX Debacle and How It Affects Banking

 

Join Ryan James, CEO of Surety Bank as he chats with Lee Murray, Business Growth Strategist of Harvard Murray Consulting on the FTX debacle.

On today’s show, you’ll get an insider view of what the crypto world looks like from a bank’s perspective, as well as tips for navigating its constantly-evolving landscape. He describes what the ideal crypto custodian should be like: a bank with very strong, strict compliance and capital.

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 08 – Lee Murray: How Regulators Impact Crypto Adoption

Ryan James, CEO of Surety Bank and Lee Murray, Business Growth Strategist of Harvard Murray Consulting discuss how regulators are responding to cryptocurrency and what bankers should be aware of when it comes to fintech and overregulation.

In a world where crypto is constantly changing, this podcast will give you insight into what’s currently going on in the industry.

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 07 – Josh Cemelich: The Modern Day Business Owner

Ryan James, CEO of Surety Bank and Josh Cemelich, Owner of ABTModern have an unfiltered conversation about modern day small business ownership and how banks play a role in it.

They cover topics such as lending, cryptocurrency, cashflow and other important aspects of running a successful business.

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 06 –
Paper E6 Aaron Kahler Banking and Human Trafficking

In this sixth episode of the Paper Podcast, Ryan James interviews Aaron Kahler, Founder & CEO of Anti-Human Trafficking Intelligence Initiative (ATII). Aaron is a special guest doing amazing, world-changing work fighting human trafficking through financial crimes.

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 05 – Kian Sarreshteh: Custodians, Liquidity Providers and How CryptoFi Works

Ryan sits down with CryptoFi CEO Kian Sarreshteh to discuss a range of topics related to cryptocurrencies and banking. It’s another episode rich in knowledge from both Ryan and his guest. Bankers and other experts in the financial industry can gain some fundamental insights from this one.

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 04 – Faisal Islam: ML, Regtech, Fintech and Rat Poison

Ryan James, CEO of Surety Bank, interviews guest Faisal Islam, Consultant and subject matter expert in the Fintech space. Their conversation is robust as they discuss money laundering, Fintech value and Faisal breaks down what happened with the recent implosion of stablecoin Terra.

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 03 – NEO Banks & The Modern Day Bank Robbery

Ryan James, CEO of Surety Bank, talks with Lee Murray, Marketing Consultant with HMC about a host of topics as they plan future episodes of the podcast. Some of the topics covered are: • How the bank handles fraud with Money Service Businesses • Google negative reviews • How consumers are creating fraud • Do NEO banks have any substance? • Modern day bank robberies

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Episode 02 – The Biggest Threat to Banking

In this episode, Ryan James, CEO of Surety Bank and Lee Murray, CEO of Signal Media further set the stage for future podcast content by discussing a variety of topics such as: • Participation in communities • Technology’s impact on the modern workforce • Are Fintechs really valuable? • The biggest threat to banking • How to banks fit in when DeFi in on the horizon?

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.

Inaugural Session 01 – Why Bankers Don’t Innovate

In this first session, Ryan takes us through his thinking about why banks have mostly stayed the same for so many years and why bankers don’t think like business people. At the end he gives bankers some initial steps they can take to start experimenting with innovation.

Listen on Apple. 
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Google.
Listen on Stitcher.