Founder and advisor Shawn Johnston opens up about the realities of entrepreneurship—from what pushed him to build his own business to the hard lessons he learned leading “by habit” before shifting to leadership by design. He shares how building systems transformed his company’s scalability and profitability, and why clarity is the key to removing bottlenecks and empowering teams. Shawn also dives into the personal side of leadership, discussing how ADHD hyperfocus can be both a powerful driver and a risk for burnout, and the strategies he’s developed to manage load, find balance, and lead more intentionally. Whether you’re building a business, leading a team, or navigating work with a neurodiverse brain, this conversation is full of practical takeaways on how to grow with purpose and sustainability.

On this episode of Fintrepreneur, Dave and Eli sit down with Sahil Hasan, founder and CEO of Dots, a fintech startup helping companies pay contractors across the globe. Sahil’s career spans Google and X (the Moonshot Factory), and he shares how those experiences shaped his leap into fintech entrepreneurship. We explore his founder journey, how Dots scaled to multi-million revenue in under three years, and the lessons learned from raising nearly $6M from Y Combinator and top-tier investors. The conversation also looks ahead to the rise of fractional work, the challenges of cross-border payments, and the role fintech will play in building the infrastructure for the future of work. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in fintech, startups, or the changing landscape of global payments.

In this episode, Dave and Eli sit down with Cameron Burke, Partner at Fort Capital Partners, to explore what’s really driving today’s tech and fintech deals. From his journey as an operator to becoming a trusted advisor on capital raising and M&A, Cameron shares his perspective on what founders need—and what they don’t—when navigating high-stakes decisions. The conversation spans the current state of tech and capital markets, the evolving M&A landscape in 2025, and what buyers are really looking for. Plus, a deep dive into fintech trends, sustainable business models, and how companies can stand out in an increasingly competitive and compliance-heavy space. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or just curious about what’s next in fintech, this episode offers a front-row seat to the thinking behind today’s biggest deals.

In this episode of Fintrepreneur, Dave and Eli sit down with Tyler Thielmann, CEO of Spring Financial, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming personal finance in Canada. Tyler shares his journey as a fintech founder, from launching Spring Financial to introducing the AI-powered assistant OscarAI, and discusses how his team is working to bring all banking services under one intelligent, user-friendly platform. The conversation covers the rise of AI in personal finance management, the challenges of building an all-in-one financial hub, and how real-time insights are empowering Canadians to make smarter financial decisions. Whether you're building in fintech, interested in AI, or curious about the future of Canadian banking, this episode is packed with forward-looking insights and practical takeaways.

Season 4 kicks off with an in-depth look at the growing threat of account takeover (ATO) fraud. As cybercriminals become more sophisticated, businesses need real-time solutions to stay ahead. In this episode, Dave and Eli sit down with Israel Mazin, CEO of Memcyco, to explore how cutting-edge fraud prevention strategies are transforming the fight against ATO attacks. They discuss why fintech platforms are prime targets, how AI and machine learning are revolutionizing fraud detection, and the importance of balancing security with a seamless user experience. With ATO fraud on the rise, understanding how behavioral analytics and real-time monitoring can help detect and prevent threats is more critical than ever. Tune in for actionable insights on how fintech companies can implement real-time prevention measures to protect their platforms and customers. Whether you're in cybersecurity, fintech, or just curious about the future of fraud prevention, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

In this episode, Dave and Eli reflect on the key trends and milestones that defined fintech in 2024. They explore how the Canadian Emergency Business Account (CEBA) repayment deadlines impacted small businesses and highlight the role Merchant Growth played in helping them navigate these challenges and unlock new opportunities. The conversation also dives into Tabit’s incredible year of growth and innovation. From empowering merchants to manage cash flow to scaling operations with enhanced B2B BNPL solutions, Tabit continued to drive success for businesses across Canada. Rounding out the discussion, Dave and Eli examine the evolution of AI and automation, showcasing its transformative impact on lending, risk assessment, and customer support. Join us for a comprehensive recap of 2024 and a look ahead to the exciting developments coming in 2025!

In this episode of Fintrepreneur, we sit down with Kendall Garrison, the CEO of Amplify Credit Union, to explore his journey to leadership and discuss the evolving role of credit unions in today’s digital economy. Kendall provides valuable insights into how credit unions are adapting to regulatory changes, embracing digital transformation, and fostering innovation to stay competitive in an increasingly dynamic financial landscape. Through our conversation, we delve into the key challenges and opportunities for credit unions, as well as Kendall’s approach to leadership and innovation in the financial services industry. This is an episode packed with lessons on the future of finance, leadership, and the impact of digital transformation. Tune in to hear Kendall’s perspectives on the future of credit unions and the broader financial sector. Don’t miss this thought-provoking discussion!

Join hosts Eli and Dave in the latest episode of Fintrepreneur as they delve into "Expert Views on Small Business NeoBanking" with Eytan Bensoussan, the Co-Founder and CEO of NorthOne. Eytan shares his journey to becoming a fintech leader, offering insights into the transformative power of neo-banking for small businesses. This episode covers the rise of neo-banking and its impact on small business finance, discussing key features, benefits, and the challenges that neo-banks present. Looking ahead, the conversation explores future trends in neo-banking, helping small businesses understand what to expect in this evolving sector. Tune in for an engaging and informative discussion on the future of finance for small businesses!

Welcome to Fintrepreneur with your hosts, Eli and Dave! In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of fintech strategy with John MacKinlay, a former partner at PwC Canada and current Executive Chair of the Board at Peloton Technologies. We kick off by exploring John's journey and the pivotal moments that have shaped his impressive career in the fintech industry. Join us as we uncover the core elements of a successful fintech strategy. John shares his insights on what it takes to build a robust and innovative fintech framework, drawing from his extensive experience and expertise. Whether you're an aspiring fintech entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, you'll find valuable takeaways in our discussion. Finally, we delve into strategies for maintaining flexibility and resilience in the ever-evolving fintech landscape. John provides practical advice on how to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in this dynamic field. Tune in for expert insights and actionable strategies that can elevate your understanding of fintech dynamics. Don't miss this engaging conversation with one of the industry's leading minds!

Join Eli and Dave on another exciting episode of Fintrepreneur as they dive into "The Evolving Role of Fintech in Retail Environments" with special guest Omar Sahyoun, Founder and CEO of Shopley. In this episode, they explore Shopley's journey from inception to success under Omar's leadership. They also discuss the future of retail and how fintech is reshaping consumer trends. Gain insights into the integration of fintech solutions in retail environments, from concept to checkout. Learn how Shopley is empowering merchants and redefining retail through innovative fintech solutions. Tune in for a captivating conversation that delves into the dynamic intersection of fintech and retail.

Welcome to another episode of Fintrepreneur! Today, we're diving into "The Evolution of Fintech Marketing: Insights from Former CMO Brad Lensing." In this episode, we'll explore Brad Lensing's career journey and key milestones in fintech marketing. From his early days to pivotal moments in his career, we'll uncover the insights and experiences that have shaped his approach to marketing in the financial technology sector. Join us as we discuss Brad's strategies for fostering high-performing marketing teams, driving revenue growth, and scaling marketing operations efficiently. We'll delve into innovative approaches and data-driven insights that have propelled fintech marketing success. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation as we glean valuable insights from Brad Lensing's wealth of experience in fintech marketing.

Welcome back to Fintrepreneur! In this episode, titled "Investment Banking Career Insights: From Manager to Managing Director," we embark on a journey with Sean Martin as he shares his path to reaching the prestigious role of Managing Director at Raymond James. Alongside Sean, we explore a myriad of captivating topics, including the nuances of fintech founder decisions, the evolving landscape of fintech valuations, and the hurdles encountered in fintech capital raising. Drawing from Sean's wealth of experience, we glean valuable advice for aspiring fintech entrepreneurs and peer into the future of the fintech ecosystem, pondering the transformative role of AI in innovation. Join us for an enlightening discussion that promises to deepen your understanding of investment banking and inspire entrepreneurial pursuits in the financial technology realm.

Welcome back to Fintrepreneur, your go-to podcast for cutting-edge discussions at the crossroads of finance and entrepreneurship. In today's episode, hosts Eli and Dave lead a captivating exploration into the realm of "Democratizing Private Debt Markets" with esteemed guest Michael Shum, CEO of Cascade Debt. Embark on an inspiring journey through Michael's experiences, uncover the profound Digital Transformation of Private Debt Markets, and explore the latest in Fintech solutions driving innovation. Discover how these technological advancements are not just reshaping finance but also fostering unprecedented opportunities for businesses to thrive. Learn from industry leaders as we unravel the secrets behind empowering business growth and navigating the intricate financial landscape. Join the conversation as we shed light on the crucial role of sustainability in the private debt sector. Don't miss out on this dynamic discussion that promises valuable insights for entrepreneurs and finance enthusiasts alike. Tune in to Fintrepreneur for an engaging blend of expertise, innovation, and the ever-evolving intersection of finance and entrepreneurship!

Step into the world of Fintrepreneur with Dave and Eli as they reflect on the impactful journey of 2023, a year filled with personal and professional milestones. In this special episode, our hosts take you on a candid exploration of their accomplishments, the triumphs of their business, and provide a sneak peek into the exciting developments on the horizon. Join Dave and Eli as they share personal insights, reflecting on the highs and lows of the past year. From individual achievements to business successes, our hosts delve into the significant moments that defined 2023 for both themselves and their venture. Explore the intricate tapestry of accomplishments, as they unveil the strategies and decisions that contributed to the growth of their business. From innovative projects to strategic collaborations, get an insider's perspective on the key factors that fuelled their success in the fintech landscape. But the journey doesn't end there. Tune in for an exclusive preview of what lies ahead – the big things to come in the future of Fintrepreneur. Whether it's groundbreaking projects, new partnerships, or industry trends, Dave and Eli provide a glimpse into the exciting developments that will shape the fintech landscape in the coming months. Whether you're a fellow entrepreneur, a fintech enthusiast, or someone eager to gain insights into navigating the complexities of both personal and professional growth, this episode offers a front-row seat to the Fintrepreneur journey. Embark on this reflective and forward-looking conversation with Dave and Eli as they navigate the twists and turns of the past year and chart a course for the exciting adventures that await in the world of Fintrepreneur.

Welcome to the Fintrepreneur podcast, a captivating exploration at the intersection of finance and entrepreneurship, hosted by Eli and Dave. In this episode, we're excited to introduce you to Cato Pastol, the visionary behind Loop, a game-changing entity in the financial world. Cato's incredible journey and the creation of Loop are the focal points of our conversation, promising to inspire and enlighten. Join us as we dive into the world of tailored financial products designed exclusively for Canadian small businesses. These small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of the Canadian economy, and we'll explore what sets them apart and how tailored financial solutions can make a significant impact on their success. Our discussion will also shine a light on the unique demands and challenges faced by Canadian small businesses in the financial landscape. With the rise of fintech companies, there's a growing opportunity to address these specific needs and empower SMEs with financial tools and services customized to their requirements. Discover the pivotal role that fintechs play in shaping the future of finance as they craft innovative solutions to meet the unique requirements of SMBs. Stay tuned for a thought-provoking dialogue that may change the way you view the financial and entrepreneurial landscape in Canada. Subscribe to Fintrepreneur and join us on this enlightening journey through the dynamic world of Canadian small businesses and the financial solutions tailored just for them.

Welcome to Fintrepreneur, where insightful conversations about entrepreneurship, finance, and technology unfold. In this episode, we're excited to bring you a special episode delving into the realm of "Innovation and Technology in the Gig Economy" with our esteemed guest, Matt Spoke, the visionary behind Moves Financial. In this enlightening discussion, we'll embark on a journey through the evolution of the gig economy and how technology has been a catalyst for transformative changes. Our conversation kicks off with an exploration of Matt Spoke's entrepreneurial voyage and the fascinating genesis of Moves Financial, a platform designed to revolutionize financial services for gig workers. We'll then pivot to a broader discussion on the gig economy itself—its rapid rise, the shifting dynamics of the modern workforce, and the role of technology in shaping this landscape. Specifically, we'll shine a light on how technological advancements are not only driving this growth but also how they're instrumental in addressing the unique financial needs and challenges faced by gig workers. As we progress, we'll focus on an integral aspect of this discussion—tailored banking solutions for gig workers. Understanding the financial intricacies of gig work is crucial, and we'll explore how banking designed exclusively for gig workers plays a vital role in supporting and empowering them. Moreover, we'll peer into the future, anticipating how payment systems for gig workers might evolve, providing a glimpse into the financial landscape that lies ahead. Stay tuned for a thought-provoking conversation that bridges innovation, finance, and the gig economy, offering valuable insights for entrepreneurs and enthusiasts alike.

Welcome to "The Future of Small Business Payments" where we have a special guest joining us – Nicolas Beique, the visionary behind Helcim. Tune in as we dive deep into "The Future of Small Business Payments with Nicolas Beique." We'll uncover the fascinating story of Nicolas Beique's path to founding Helcim, gaining valuable insights into his entrepreneurial journey. Our conversation delves into the intricate realm of Small Business Financing and Payment Options, shedding light on the diverse avenues available for business owners to secure the funds they need. Stay tuned as we explore the latest Small Business Payment Trends and Predictions, helping you stay ahead in an ever-evolving financial landscape. With numerous options out there, finding the right Payment Solution for Your Small Business can be daunting. Fear not! We'll guide you through the process, offering expert advice to ensure your business thrives. Join us on this episode of Fintrepreneur, where we combine the expertise of Nicolas Beique with our own insights to provide you with an enriching conversation about the future of small business payments. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your journey, this episode promises to deliver valuable takeaways that you won't want to miss.

Welcome to "Turning Ideas into Action," where we embark on an incredible journey through the world of startups with Ben Yoskovitz, the visionary co-founder of Highline Beta. In this podcast episode, we delve deep into the essential elements that validate the potential of new business concepts. We'll explore the strategies behind Business Models & Product Development, unlocking the secrets to transforming raw ideas into market-ready products that set startups up for success. Next, we'll dive into Sales and Marketing & Product Market Fit, where you'll learn how to effectively match your product with the right market. Master the art of sales and marketing for startup growth, gaining a competitive edge in the industry. Last but not least, we'll explore the realm of Raising Capital and Scaling. Gain valuable insights into the world of funding and scaling, and hear firsthand from Ben Yoskovitz about how he successfully scaled Highline Beta to new heights. Join us for this enlightening podcast as we provide you with invaluable knowledge and inspiration for your own entrepreneurial journey. Let's turn your ideas into action!

Join Dave and Elias for an insightful episode of "Navigating the World of Small Business" as we sit down with Jason Charlebois, Senior Vice President, Small Business at Scotiabank. Gain expert opinions and valuable insights into small business banking and the evolving landscape of the industry. In this episode, we delve into Jason Charlebois' inspiring journey to becoming an SVP at Scotiabank and the recent decisions impacting small businesses and their customer base. We explore the intricacies of small business banking, unveiling the vibrant economy of small businesses in Canada. Additionally, we examine the ongoing debate between evolution and revolution in banking services and highlight the innovations driving the industry forward. Tune in to this engaging conversation and gain invaluable insights on small business banking, the Canadian economy, and the ever-changing landscape of the banking industry. Listen now on your favourite podcast platform. We appreciate you listening to Fintrepreneur and hope you enjoy Season 2 of our podcast! Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ review and share the pod with your friends. You can connect with us on all social platforms or feel free to visit our website to reach out to us to learn more: https://tabit.ai/