I recently joined my good friend Nico Simko, Co-founder & CEO of Clair, on HR Tech Trailblazers to discuss my journey in fintech and my thoughts on all things HR Tech.

While I definitely didn't plan it this way, working across early-stage startups, hypergrowth companies, profitable trading firms, and now public companies has given me a unique perspective on how we can expand financial access at scale. A few highlights from the interview:

1. The evolution of payroll platforms is happening now: We're watching payroll companies transform from basic systems of record into sophisticated platforms for financial services innovation. Their thoughtful approach to data sharing, while sometimes challenging for fintechs, creates the foundation for sustainable innovation that protects both employers and employees.

2. Earned wage access isn't just a nice-to-have, it's a necessity: When we talk to users at the fintechs I've worked at about what matters most, it consistently comes back to liquidity. With 40%+ of Americans wanting faster access to their earned wages, this is more than a convenience and is all about financial security. At Block, we're thinking deeply about how to solve this at scale.

3. Ecosystem plays are powerful but complex: Connecting Square Sellers with Cash App users and leveraging our unique ecosystem creates unique opportunities to help both businesses and their employees. While the execution is challenging, I'm convinced that these interconnected solutions will define the next generation of financial services.

Thank you to Nico Simko, Karen Yung and the team that made this happen!