In this special recap episode, Ben Jackson sits down with Kate Lybarger to reflect on their experiences at the recent IPA Conference in Washington, DC. Ben and Kate unpack the key themes, standout moments, and emerging trends that defined the three-day event that was packed with insights from regulators, fintech innovators, authors, and industry leaders.

From the evolving regulatory landscape and financial inclusion to fraud prevention and the future of blockchain and crypto, this episode offers a thoughtful synthesis of the conversations shaping the future of payments and fintech.

Topics Covered Include:

· Synapse and Evolve as case studies in shared accountability between banks and fintechs.

· Why fintechs must “act like grownups” and own their risk management.

· Insights into how the regulatory tide may be shifting—from strict oversight to more open innovation.

· Federal vs. state approaches to regulation and their implications for fintechs and consumers.

· Why AI is a powerful tool (not a magic wand), and where it might go next.

· Realism about crypto’s volatility vs. blockchain’s infrastructure potential.