Collecting Thoughts

Today's customers expect more from their banks, especially when it comes to collections. In this podcast, C&R Software's Nags Odedra and Jeremy Russell give a quick taste of how banks are using AI to deliver personalized service at scale. Dave Wasik, Partner at 2nd Order Solutions, and Ed Wallen, CEO of C&R Software, will unpack how this works in practice at CBA Live. Join them on Monday, March 30...

This episode of Collecting Thoughts explores the intricate balance between rapid AI advancement and strict EU regulatory requirements including the EU AI Act. Banks face growing pressure to modernize and innovate, but managing risk is a top priority. That's especially true in collections, which falls under the "high risk" category and therefore is subject to increased scrutiny from regulators. Fin...

This episode of Collecting Thoughts explores why telecommunications companies must embrace data-driven collections. With churn rates keeping telco executives up at night, the focus shifts from price to customer experience as the key differentiator. We explore the concept of "customer-obsessed collections," where humanization and personalization transform collections into loyalty-building opportuni...

This episode of Collecting Thoughts dives into the complexities of digital transformation in collections. Facing the challenge of upgrading systems while maintaining operational resilience, we explore four major headwinds: rising household debt, increased regulatory scrutiny, outdated legacy infrastructure, and the personalization gap in AI. This episode discusses how central orchestration can hel...

In this episode of Collecting Thoughts, we explore the transformation of collections from a system of enforcement to a driver of financial wellness. We dive into how AI-native collections can predict financial struggles before they occur, offering proactive solutions to customers in real time. We discuss the pitfalls of DIY AI systems, including data inaccuracies, compliance issues, and bias, and...

The rise of fintechs and digital banks is heightening the competition for legacy players. This episode explores how AI native collections offer the opportunity to turn collections into an opportunity to build customer loyalty. Personalized, human focused support at scale makes a meaningful difference to customers in times of distress. AI makes this possible.

Many collections teams still depend on a patchwork of legacy systems and manual processes, limiting automation and reducing cross‑border data visibility across subsidiaries. This also heightens compliance risk, especially in the EU. This episode explores why a unified, configurable, cloud‑native platform is becoming essential.

AI adoption is accelerating across Thailand’s financial sector: nearly 18% of organizations have already implemented AI, and more than 70% plan to follow. In this episode of Collecting Thoughts, we push past the hype to explore the importance of adopting a unified orchestration layer for AI in collections. This architecture coordinates various AI "satellite" capabilities including conversational A...

In this episode of Collecting Thoughts, we explore the evolving role of AI in the collections industry, focusing on a humanized approach that enhances rather than replaces the essential empathetic connection with customers. As financial pressures mount globally, particularly in the UK, we discuss how specialist lenders can navigate the complexities of high-volume collections while maintaining a pe...

In this episode of Collecting Thoughts, we delve into the pressing trends and challenges facing Canadian banks in the collections landscape of 2026. With household debt levels soaring and delinquency rates among younger Canadians rising sharply, collections leaders must adapt to a rapidly changing environment. I explore the shift towards digital-first collection strategies, the necessity of person...

In this episode of Collecting Thoughts, I explore the complexities of integrating AI into bank collections while managing the challenges posed by legacy systems. Many financial institutions express a desire to lead with AI but struggle with outdated architectures that hinder real-time data sharing and decision-making. I delve into the importance of creating a unified data layer and implementing a...

In this episode of Collecting Thoughts, we dive into the fascinating world of agentic AI and its implications for collections teams. I explore what sets agentic AI apart from traditional generative AI, emphasizing its proactive, autonomous capabilities that can enhance operational efficiency. We discuss how this technology operates within strict compliance and auditability frameworks, ensuring saf...

In this episode of Collecting Thoughts, we dive into the pressing challenges and opportunities within the European auto finance market. As delinquencies rise and regulatory demands increase, I discuss how auto financiers can navigate this complex landscape through effective digital transformation. We explore the importance of a unified data layer for better decision-making and the role of AI in pe...

In this episode of Collecting Thoughts, I explore Winning Strategies for Today's Collections Teams. We delve into how artificial intelligence and digital transformation are reshaping collections in global organizations, tackling challenges like economic uncertainty, regulatory compliance, and fragmented systems. I discuss the importance of integrating data across divisions to enhance risk assessme...

In this episode, Christina is joined by Erica Lannan, the Director of Revenue Cycle Management at Jerns Healthcare. With over 17 years in the healthcare industry and 15 years in leadership roles, Erica shares her journey from starting as a financial assistant to becoming a leading expert specializing in revenue cycle management and customer success. As the Director of her team, she discusses compr...

In this episode, Christina is joined by Asia Edwards, the Senior Director of Loan Servicing at NFF, a national community development financial institution (CDFI). With a rich career spanning notable roles at Fortune 500 banks, smaller community banks, and even local government services, Asia brings valuable insights into the collection and loan servicing industry. Asia takes us on her journey from...

In this episode, Christina is joined by Deana Reynolds, the Director of Credit at EDGES Electrical Group. Deana brings nearly two decades of experience in the credit industry, following a fascinating career transition from a U.S. Air Force pilot to a senior credit leader. Deana shares her unconventional journey into the credit industry, starting from bookkeeping and accounting roles to discovering...

In this episode, Christina is joined by Nick Wallpe, the Director of Credit and Collections at TACT Food Services division. With over two decades of experience in the B2B collections industry, Nick shares his journey from a collection analyst to his current directorial role, highlighting his extensive background and expertise. Nick delves into the topic of customer centricity within collections, e...

In this episode, Christina is joined by Steven Epling, a seasoned collection senior leader with nearly two decades of industry experience. Steven's unique journey from teaching English language learning and holding a degree in psychology to becoming a prominent figure in the credit union and collections industry is truly inspiring. Steven outlines his career path, beginning with his early years at...

In this episode, Christina is joined by Eric Madison, the Director of Billing and AR Services at VSP Vision. With extensive experience spanning over 15 years in the financial services industry, Eric brings a unique perspective drawn from his collegiate and professional sports background. Eric delves into his journey from being a professional baseball player to leading AR and collections teams at V...

In this episode, Christina is joined by Ryan Farmer, the Director of Cash, Credit Management, and Collections for Vesta Services LLC. With a robust career spanning 25 years in finance, Ryan leads his team to enhance customer experience while effectively driving cash flow. He also contributes his expertise to the NACM National Board of Directors. Ryan shares his journey from starting as a credit ma...

In this episode, Christina is joined by Jennifer Wangler Anderson, the Managing Director of Credit and Collections at Lighthouse Lab Services. With a unique background combining a nursing career and a business degree from the University of Glasgow, Jennifer shares her remarkable journey to the top of her field. Jennifer delves into the ever-evolving landscape of the credit and collections industry...

In this episode, Christina is joined by Matt Stegall, the Assistant Vice President of Credit Resolution and Recovery at Vantage Credit Union. With nearly 20 years in the collections and operations industry, Matt shares his journey from interning in the remarketing department of a large auto finance company to his current longstanding role at Vantage Credit Union. Matt delves into the nuances of re...

In this episode, Christina is joined by Larry Chapman, the Director of Collections and Loan Support at Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union. With over 20 years of experience, Larry shares his journey from the beginnings in the banking industry at BB&T and Truist to his current role at the credit union. Larry dives deep into the importance of guiding customers back to financial stability, espe...

In this episode, Christina is joined by Michelle Stur, the RCM Director of Collections for Emerita. Michelle’s journey began at Regis University where she graduated premed, followed by a decade-long career in the revenue cycle management industry. After owning her own medical billing and coding business, she transitioned to the corporate sector in 2020 and is currently pursuing her MBA. Michelle d...