S4: Episode 6: Empowering Financial Futures with Kudzu
04/24/24 • 34 min
Join us on a captivating discussion with Systems and Methods , Inc. (SMI), a family-owned trailblazer in government payment services with over 50 years of innovation and commitment to improving lives. In this must-listen episode, we sit down with Bo Stone , Chief Strategy Officer at SMI , and Wesley Stone Director of Government Affairs at SMI , alongside graduating senior Astrid Cuellar Benitez from Kennesaw State University , and Laura Gibson-Lamothe , Executive Director at the Georgia Fintech Academy .
Founded in 1971 in Carrollton, Ga., SMI began as a modest computer consulting service and has since grown to operate robust State Disbursement Units (SDUs) across 16 states, managing the smiONETM Visa® Prepaid Card for over two million cardholders. This episode delves into the heart of SMI’s innovative spirit and its role in facilitating secure, efficient government payments that significantly enhance the quality of everyday life for millions.
We'll uncover the features and benefits of Kudzu, SMI’s latest endeavor in financial education and management tools, designed to empower users with the knowledge and means to manage their finances effectively. Our guests share personal insights and stories that highlight and complement SMI's relationship-based approach, blending cutting-edge technology with genuine care to craft tailored solutions that meet the needs of their customers.
Tune in to discover how SMI's dedication to innovation and service is shaping the future of financial literacy and access. Whether you're interested in fintech, innovative solutions, or stories of impact, this episode offers invaluable perspectives on creating meaningful and lasting change in the financial landscape.
Georgia Fintech Academy
https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/
LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/
Join us on a captivating discussion with Systems and Methods , Inc. (SMI), a family-owned trailblazer in government payment services with over 50 years of innovation and commitment to improving lives. In this must-listen episode, we sit down with Bo Stone , Chief Strategy Officer at SMI , and Wesley Stone Director of Government Affairs at SMI , alongside graduating senior Astrid Cuellar Benitez from Kennesaw State University , and Laura Gibson-Lamothe , Executive Director at the Georgia Fintech Academy .
Founded in 1971 in Carrollton, Ga., SMI began as a modest computer consulting service and has since grown to operate robust State Disbursement Units (SDUs) across 16 states, managing the smiONETM Visa® Prepaid Card for over two million cardholders. This episode delves into the heart of SMI’s innovative spirit and its role in facilitating secure, efficient government payments that significantly enhance the quality of everyday life for millions.
We'll uncover the features and benefits of Kudzu, SMI’s latest endeavor in financial education and management tools, designed to empower users with the knowledge and means to manage their finances effectively. Our guests share personal insights and stories that highlight and complement SMI's relationship-based approach, blending cutting-edge technology with genuine care to craft tailored solutions that meet the needs of their customers.
Tune in to discover how SMI's dedication to innovation and service is shaping the future of financial literacy and access. Whether you're interested in fintech, innovative solutions, or stories of impact, this episode offers invaluable perspectives on creating meaningful and lasting change in the financial landscape.
Georgia Fintech Academy
https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/
LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/
Previous Episode
S4: Episode 5: Fintech Frontiers - Deep Dive into Product Management
Navigating Fintech Frontiers: A Deep Dive into Product Management with Naomi Donaldson
Join Executive Director, Laura Gibson-Lamothe and KSU Senior, Julianie Ferguson in this insightful episode of the Georgia Fintech Academy podcast as we unravel the intricacies of product management in the dynamic realm of Fintech. Our special guest, Naomi Donaldson, shares her invaluable experience and career journey, offering a profound understanding of the strategic and innovative landscape of product management. Tune in to gain exclusive insights that will empower your journey in the ever-evolving world of Fintech.
Georgia Fintech Academy
https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/
LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/
Next Episode
S4: Episode 7: Financial Literacy and Fintech - Bridging the Gap
This special edition turns the tables, with Georgia State University seniors Scott Thompson and Gharam Mansour , co-founders of the student organization FTO (Financial Technology Organization) at GSU, taking the lead as hosts.
In this episode, they sit down with fintech leaders Ben Jackson , COO of the Innovative Payments Association (IPA), and Laura Gibson-Lamothe , Executive Director of the Georgia Fintech Academy , to explore the critical importance of financial literacy in today's fast-paced Fintech landscape. Why does it matter? Because understanding finance is more than just making ends meet; it's about establishing financial wellness, sustainability, and generational wealth. It is also a pre-requisite for those pursuing careers in the Fintech industry or developing innovative solutions as entrepreneurs. From payment solutions to cutting-edge Fintech educational programs, this episode dives into how fintech tools are not just enhancing financial education and empowerment but revolutionizing it.
Get ready for a deep dive into the real-world impact of fintech innovations, personal anecdotes, and a discussion on what the future holds for the industry. This dynamic exchange of ideas, where education meets innovation at the intersection of financial wellness and technology, is a must-listen for students, professionals, and entrepreneurs interested in Fintech, financial literacy, and innovation. Discover how fintech sets the stage for a financially literate world.
Links:
Financial Technology Organization (student org) at GSU
https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-technology-organization-at-gsu/about/
Innovative Payments Association (IPA)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovativepaymentsassociation/about/
Georgia Fintech Academy
https://www.georgiafintechacademy.org/
LinkedIn (Georgia Fintech Academy)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-fintech-academy/
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