In this episode of our Paycast Network series live from Chicago, we sit down with local industry professionals Lucio Viezca and Joe Ayala from Neighborhood Payments.

Lucio reflects on nearly two decades in merchant services, covering the evolution from traditional terminal processing to complex, integrated POS systems. Joe shares what it is like navigating his first three years in payments, leveraging new AI software, and growing a team of sub agents. Together, they discuss the power of cross generational mentorship, securing capital to compete with big tech, and the importance of continuous learning in an ever changing industry.

In this episode, we cover:

• How MWAA has grown and expanded over the last decade in Chicago.

• Major industry shifts including cash discounting, EMV chips, and integrated point of sale software.

• How new agents can leverage AI and veteran mentorship to scale their business.

• Strategies for recruiting sub agents and securing capital to stand out against big tech competition.

• Testing Chicago history knowledge with a famous Great Chicago Fire myth.

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