Instant Payments

Ep 10 Part 2: How Instant Tipping and Wage Access Helps with Retention at Sun Holdings

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 08:45:00 -0400

Tal Clark hosts part two of the Instant Payments Podcast with Laura McLand, VP of HR at Sun Holdings, a major U.S. restaurant group with 30,000+ employees, discussing HR trends including earned wage access and digital tipping. Laura says fast, fee-free access to tips improves satisfaction, and notes the shift from physical pay cards to mobile payments. She describes Sun Holdings’ efforts to position restaurant work as a career path, reporting retention improved by 20% over the last two years due to instant payments and greater employee engagement. She explains piloting new programs with one brand before scaling, outlines ROI-driven internal buy-in, and shares how AI is being used in recruiting and new payroll software for faster information retrieval.

00:00 Welcome Back to Laura

00:35 Instant Tips Impact

01:45 Beyond Plastic Cards

03:25 Turnover and Retention

05:39 Employee Engagement Focus in 2026

07:05 Rolling Out Instant Pay

08:45 Selling Value of Instant Payments To Execs

11:09 AI In HR Operations

13:19 Rapid Fire Q&A

15:51 Closing And Thanks

Instant Financial: instant.co

Sun Holdings: sunholdings.net

Connect with Tal Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/

Connect with Laura McLand: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-mcland/

Ep 10 Part 1: Earned Wage Access and Digital Tips at Scale for Sun Holdings’ 30,000+ Employees

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 08:45:00 -0400

Host Tal Clark interviews Laura McLand, VP of HR at Sun Holdings, a franchise operator with 1,250+ locations across 32 states, 13 brands, and 30,000+ employees. Laura describes moving into HR through payroll, then joining Sun Holdings to unify previously fragmented HR, payroll, and benefits teams and improve speed and consistency of employee support. She explains how payroll is organized by brand type with shared resources for similar brands. Tal and Laura discuss Sun Holdings’ use of Instant Financial since 2021 for digital tips and earned wage access, and emphasize immediacy and mobile, 24/7 access as key to employee financial wellness. This episode is a great conversation around how one of the country’s largest restaurant groups prioritizes financial access.

00:00 Introducing Today’s Guest, Laura McLand

01:38 Laura’s Career Path: From First Payroll Role to HR Leadership

03:35 Joining Sun Holdings: Fixing a Fragmented HR/Payroll/Benefits Org

05:02 Managing 13 Brands at Scale

06:40 What Makes Sun Holdings Special

07:59 Supporting 30,000 Employees

10:00 Modern Pay in Action: Digital Tips + Earned Wage Access

12:25 Meeting Employees on with 24/7 Tools

14:49 What’s Next and Wrap-Up

Instant Financial: instant.co

Sun Holdings: sunholdings.net

Connect with Tal Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/

Connect with Laura McLand: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-mcland/

Ep 09 Part 2: The importance of both instant pay and tips for Cotton Patch Café

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 08:45:00 -0400

In this episode of the Instant Payments Podcast, host Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, continues the discussion with Stephanie Callihan, CFO of Cotton Patch Cafe, about the transformative impact of instant digital payments in the restaurant industry. Stephanie shares insights on how Cotton Patch's adoption of Instant Pay for both tips and wages has significantly boosted employee satisfaction, reduced turnover, and streamlined payroll processes. They explore the benefits of providing daily access to earnings and discuss how this system supports career advancement within the company. Additionally, Stephanie reveals her personal passion for equestrian sports and forecasts technology trends that could shape the future of restaurant operations. The episode concludes with a look at 2026 growth for Cotton Patch Cafe.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:26 Digital Tips and Employee Satisfaction

02:22 Transition to Instant Pay

07:07 Regulatory Landscape and Earned Wage Access

11:44 Future of Restaurant Technology

14:38 Stephanie's Equestrian Passion

17:42 Rapid Fire Questions

20:07 Conclusion and Farewell

Instant Financial: instant.co

Cotton Patch Cafe: https://cottonpatch.com/

Connect with Tal Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/

Connect with Stephanie Callihan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniecallihan/

Ep 09 Part 1: Managing Instant Pay While Scaling Operations with Stephanie Callihan of Cotton Patch Café

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 08:45:00 -0400

In this episode of the Instant Payments Podcast, host Tal Clark talks with Stephanie Callihan, finance leader at Cotton Patch Café, about navigating payroll, compliance, and retention in a large hourly workforce. Stephanie shares her career path through restaurant finance, Cotton Patch’s people-first culture, and how digital tipping helped the brand preserve daily pay while reducing operational risk. The conversation highlights why listening to employees, simplifying manager workflows, and modernizing pay systems are critical to retention and guest experience.

00:00 Welcome and Stephanie’s career journey in restaurant finance

03:28 Cotton Patch Café culture, awards, and growth focus

06:31 Payroll compliance and the realities of an hourly workforce

09:05 Retention strategies and strengthening management coverage

12:03 The decline of cash and the challenge of daily tip payouts

14:30 Preserving daily pay through digital tipping

17:01 Operational efficiency, security, and auditing benefits

Instant Financial: instant.co

Cotton Patch Cafe: https://cottonpatch.com/

Connect with Tal Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/

Connect with Stephanie Callihan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniecallihan/

BONUS Ep 08: Breaking Down the CFPB's New Advisory Opinion on Earned Wage Access

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 08:45:00 -0400

In this bonus episode of the Instant Payments Podcast, host Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, and Heather Heebner, head of compliance at Instant Financial, discuss the CFPB advisory opinion released December 23, 2025. The conversation delves into the current regulatory environment of earned wage access (EWA) at both the federal and state levels, the history of advisory opinions from the CFPB, and the implications for employers and EWA providers. They also explore how this new ruling affects compliance, the differences between previous advisory opinions and the current one, and what it means for the overall industry. The episode provides valuable insights for employers considering offering EWA as a benefit to their employees.

00:00 Welcome to the Instant Payments Podcast

00:33 Introducing Heather Heebner and Today's Topic

01:02 Understanding Earned Wage Access (EWA)

03:18 The CFPB's Advisory Opinions on EWA

08:44 Implications for Employers and Providers

10:40 State-Level Legislation and Its Impact

13:56 Final Thoughts and Industry Outlook

16:49 Conclusion and Contact Information

CFPB Advisory Opinion: https://files.consumerfinance.gov/f/documents/cfpb_earned-wage-access-advisory-opinion_2025-12.pdf

Instant Financial: instant.co

Connect with Tal Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/

Connect with Heather Heebner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-heebner-8b59615/

Get in touch with Instant: marketing@instant.co

Ep 07 Part 2: More HR Trends with Britt Landrum: AI, Benefits, and Personal Passions

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 08:45:00 -0400

In this episode of the Instant Payments podcast, host Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, continues the conversation with Britt Landrum, CEO of Landrum, Inc. They discuss the impact of AI on staffing, including Landrum's AI, 'Abby,' for recruiting. The conversation extends to the evaluation of tools like payroll cards and earned wage access for worker impact and business ROI. Britt touches on Landrum, Inc.'s industry reach, recent acquisitions, and new office openings. The discussion also delves into Britt's personal interests, including his journey in music and triathlons, and the integration of physical and mental health. Britt shares advice for HR and business leaders about being adaptable and flexible, emphasizing the importance of communication and creativity. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions about Britt's recommendations and future expectations for AI and automation in HR.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:26 Impact of AI on Staffing

01:56 Evaluating Payroll Solutions

03:27 Industries Served by Landrum

05:10 Expansion and Acquisitions

08:02 Musical Talents and Early Influences

14:09 Triathlon Journey and Fitness

20:10 Advice for HR and Business Leaders

23:07 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion

Instant Financial: instant.co

Landrum, Inc: https://landruminc.com/

Connect with Tal Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/

Connect with Britt Landrum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittlandrum/

Pensacola Business Community: https://www.pensacolachamber.com/

Ep 07 Part 1: Navigating Growth in the Staffing and PEO Industry with the CEO of Landrum, Inc.

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 08:45:00 -0400

In this episode of the Instant Payments podcast, host Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, interviews Britt Landrum, CEO of Landrum, Inc — two companies based in Pensacola, Fla. Britt shares insights on the history of his family staffing and PEO business, the technological advancements in staffing and HR, and the importance of earned wage access for hourly workers. They explore the impact of AI on employment, the adaptability required for future growth, and the significance of maintaining personal relationships and trust in business. Tune in to hear about Landrum's journey from a local staffing firm to a major player in the HR industry.

00:00 Introduction to the Instant Payments Podcast

00:35 Meet Britt Landrum: CEO of Landrum, Inc.

02:03 The History of Landrum, Inc.

07:25 Adapting and Thriving in the Staffing Industry

12:27 The Role of Technology in Modern HR

18:45 The Impact of AI on Employment

20:45 Conclusion and Future Discussions

Instant Financial: instant.co

Landrum, Inc: https://landruminc.com/

Connect with Tal Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/

Connect with Britt Landrum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittlandrum/

Pensacola Business Community: https://www.pensacolachamber.com/

Ep 06 Part 2 Driving Labor Efficiency and Employee Development in the Restaurant Industry

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 08:45:00 -0400

In this episode of the Instant Payments Podcast, Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, continues the conversation with Matt Umholtz, President of AllianceHCM, delving into the labor challenges faced by the restaurant industry. The discussion navigates the importance of an 'hourly first mindset,' career advancement opportunities, and the role of training in reducing turnover rates among young workers. They explore the benefits of earned wage access as an incentive for employees, dispelling misconceptions about it being akin to payday loans. The episode also highlights the significance of cutting-edge HR technologies and AI for improving operations and profitability. Lastly, tips for budding restaurant operators and the importance of leadership understanding their employees' experiences are shared, emphasizing the need for empathy and innovative solutions in the industry.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:20 Labor Challenges in the Industry

00:47 Understanding the Hourly First Mindset

03:10 Earned Wage Access and Its Misconceptions

09:42 Technology and Innovation in the Restaurant Industry

13:34 AllianceHCM's Role and Innovations

19:10 Rapid Fire Questions and Insights

24:48 Conclusion and Farewell

Workforce Warriors Award: https://www.instant.co/workforce-warrior/

Instant Financial: instant.co

AllianceHCM: alliancehcm.com

Connect with Tal Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/

Connect with Matt Umholtz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattumholtz/

Ep 06 Part 1 QSR and Multi-Unit Restaurant Trends with Matt Umholtz of AllianceHCM

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 08:45:00 -0400

In this episode of the Instant Payments podcast, CEO Tal Clark interviews Matt Umholtz, President and CRO of AllianceHCM. They discuss Matt's journey from working in high-end kitchens to becoming a leader in payroll and HR technology. The conversation highlights key industry challenges such as labor and food costs, turnover rates, and the importance of specialization in multi-unit restaurant operations. Matt shares insights on how technology can improve operational efficiency and employee engagement. The episode also spotlights the Workforce Warriors Award, an initiative to recognize exceptional hourly workers.

00:00 Welcome to the Instant Payments Podcast

00:41 Introducing Workforce Warriors Awards

01:05 Meet Matt Umholtz: Payroll and HR Technology Expert

02:15 Matt's Journey: From Kitchens to Payroll

05:12 Merging Companies and Specializing in Payroll Solutions

08:27 Challenges and Opportunities in the Restaurant Industry

13:35 Labor and Food Costs: Managing Restaurant Operations

20:16 Success Stories: Building for Growth Without Losing Culture

21:44 Conclusion and What's Next

Workforce Warriors Award: https://www.instant.co/workforce-warrior/

Instant Financial: instant.co

AllianceHCM: alliancehcm.com

Connect with Tal Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/

Connect with Matt Umholtz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattumholtz/

Ep 05 Part 2 Restaurant Industry Trends, Common Pitfalls, and the Potential of AI with Kep Sweeney, CEO of PDQ Restaurants

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 08:45:00 -0400

In this episode of the Instant Payments Podcast, host Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, continues the conversation with Kep Sweeney, CEO of PDQ Restaurants. They delve into the business environment of the quick-service restaurant (QSR) space, discussing the handling and implications of tips, employee compensation, the free market, and industry trends. Kep and Tal also explore the challenges distressed restaurant brands face, common pitfalls, and the evolving role of AI in enhancing operations and financial forecasting. The discussion wraps up with advice for emerging restaurant leaders on gaining diverse experiences and taking advantage of educational opportunities. To learn more, visit instant.co/podcast.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:19 Discussing Employee Tips in QSR

07:22 Employee Well-being and Management

11:38 Challenges in Distressed Restaurant Brands

14:48 AI in the Restaurant Industry

20:07 Final Advice for Future Leaders

23:05 Conclusion and Farewell

To learn more about PDQ: eatpdq.com

Connect with Kep: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kep-sweeney-a19a3b5/

Connect with Tal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tal-clark-a60776b/

Ep 05 Part 1 Restaurant Industry Insights with Kep Sweeney, CEO of PDQ and Former Wall Street Analyst

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 08:45:00 -0400

In this episode of the Instant Payments podcast, host Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, interviews Kep Sweeney, the CEO of PDQ Restaurants. Kep shares his extensive background in the restaurant industry, from working in kitchens as an executive chef to transitioning to an analyst role on Wall Street and ultimately leading PDQ restaurants. The discussion covers PDQ's business model, its focus on quality, workforce management, and current challenges in the restaurant industry. Kep also provides insights into the quick-service restaurant (QSR) space and how businesses can navigate market pressures. Tune in for part two, where Tal and Kep will discuss tipping etiquette, restaurant trends, and AI applications in the industry. To learn more, visit instant.co/podcast.

00:00 Welcome to the Instant Payments Podcast

00:39 Introducing Today's Guest: Kep Sweeney

01:40 Kep Sweeney's Journey in the Restaurant Industry

04:00 Transition to Wall Street and Analytics

07:56 Joining PDQ Restaurants

10:15 PDQ's Business Model and Employee Focus

15:07 Current Challenges in the Restaurant Industry

20:51 Conclusion and What's Next

Learn more at www.instant.co/podcast.

Check out www.eatpdq.com.

Ep 04 Payroll’s Past, Present, and Future with Payroll Leader Dr. Martin Armstrong, VP of Payroll Shared Services for a Fortune 100 Telecom Company

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 08:45:00 -0400

In this episode of the Instant Payments podcast, host Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, interviews Dr. Martin Armstrong, Vice President of Payroll Shared Services at a Fortune 100 telecommunications company. They discuss Martin's extensive career in payroll, his journey from the Navy to becoming a recognized leader in the industry, and the technological advancements that have transformed payroll practices. They also touch on the benefits of modern payroll solutions like earned wage access and robotic process automation. Martin shares his insights on the future of payroll and offers advice for payroll practitioners looking to advance their careers.

00:00 Welcome to the Instant Payments Podcast

00:43 Introducing Dr. Martin Armstrong

02:13 Martin's Journey into Payroll

03:29 Martin's Military and Business Career

10:15 The Evolution of Payroll

13:47 The Importance of Earned Wage Access

21:51 Future of Payroll Technology

25:49 Advice for Payroll Practitioners

27:41 Closing Remarks and Farewell

Ep 03 Part 2 Optimizing restaurant finance to improve margins with Kevin O'Bold from Ultra Steak

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 08:45:00 -0400

In this episode of the Instant Payments Podcast, host Tal Clark (CEO of Instant Financial) continues his conversation with Kevin O'Bold, VP of Finance at Ultra Steak. They dive deep into the impact of digital tipping, pay-at-the-table technology, and electronic payments on restaurant operations, employee satisfaction, and business efficiency. Kevin shares real-world insights on transitioning from cash to digital, optimizing labor, customizing tip pools, and the future of technology in the hospitality industry. The discussion also covers leadership advice for those aspiring to grow in the restaurant business.

Chapters & Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction & Welcome Back

00:29 – The Shift to Pay-at-the-Table and Digital Payments

01:55 – Impact of Electronic Tipping: Efficiency & Transparency

04:15 – Employee Experience: Daily Tip Access & Financial Wellbeing

07:15 – Reducing Cash Handling & Courier Service Costs

09:00 – Employee Feedback and Retention Benefits

12:08 – Customizing Tip Pools and Automation

15:01 – Technology Needs: Forecasting, AI, and Labor Optimization

19:10 – Balancing Technology with Human Touch in Hospitality

21:15 – Dynamic Pricing: Opportunities and Challenges

23:45 – Leadership Advice for Restaurant & Hospitality Professionals

26:20 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Learn More

Ep 03 Part 1 Restaurant finance and innovation with Kevin O'Bold from Ultra Steak

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 08:45:00 -0400

In this episode of the Instant Payments Podcast, hosted by Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, industry leader Kevin O'Bold discusses his journey and role as Vice President of Finance for Ultra Steak, Inc. Kevin shares insights into his 10-year tenure, the transition from accountant to VP, and the challenges and strategies involved in modernizing payroll, IT, and automation initiatives. The conversation delves into Ultra Steak's diverse portfolio, including Aspen Creek Grill, Aspen Tap House, and Slim Chickens, focusing on operational efficiencies and technology investments. Tune in to learn how Ultra Steak navigates the complexities of the restaurant industry while maintaining growth and innovation.

00:00 Welcome to the Instant Payments Podcast

00:39 Introducing Kevin O'Bold and Ultra Steak, Inc.

02:02 Kevin's Journey and Ultra Steak's Evolution

06:00 Challenges in the Restaurant Industry

09:24 Aspen Creek Grill and Market Strategies

15:35 Slim Chickens: A New Venture

18:49 Technology Investments in Restaurant Operations

21:58 Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two

Ep 02 Bold Flavors and Building a People-First Culture with Outback Steakhouse Co-Founder Tim Gannon

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0400

Welcome to the Instant Payments podcast hosted by Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial. In this episode, Tal is joined by Tim Gannon, co-founder of Outback Steakhouse (now retired) and Bolay Fresh Bowl Kitchen. Tim shares his remarkable journey through the culinary world, from studying art history in Florence, to co-founding one of America's most iconic restaurant brands. Discover how Tim's experiences in New Orleans and beyond laid the foundation for his success, the creation of the famous Bloomin' Onion, and the revolutionary people-first culture at Outback. Tim also touches on the innovative technologies transforming the restaurant industry, the importance of great employee relations, and his latest venture with his son, Bolay. Don't miss this inspiring conversation filled with valuable insights and timeless wisdom!

00:00 Introduction and Host Background

00:43 Guest Introduction: Tim Gannon

01:32 Tim Gannon's Early Career and Culinary Journey

08:56 Founding Outback Steakhouse

17:16 Building a People-First Culture

22:41 The Bloomin' Onion Story

25:07 Innovations in the Restaurant Industry

32:04 Bolay: A New Venture

35:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Ep 01 Exploring Innovations in Restaurant Industry Payroll: A Deep Dive with David Alvarado

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 08:45:00 -0400

In the inaugural episode of the Instant Payments podcast, host Tal Clark, CEO of Instant Financial, speaks with David Alvarado, Instant Financial’s VP of Sales. With over 30 years of experience in the restaurant industry, David shares insights from his unique career journey—from his family’s Mexican restaurant in Michigan to a senior leadership role at Bloomin' Brands, and now at Instant Financial. The episode explores how digital payments, instant pay, and earned wage access are transforming payroll processes and improving employee satisfaction in the hospitality industry. David also discusses the challenges of adopting new technologies and the ongoing shifts within the restaurant sector. instant.co/podcast

00:00 Introduction to the Instant Payments Podcast

00:50 Meet Our First Guest: David Alvarado

02:24 David's Early Journey in the Restaurant Industry

06:12 Climbing the Ranks at Outback Steakhouse

08:57 Global Leadership and Veterans Support

12:55 Transition to Instant Financial

17:21 Challenges and Innovations in the Restaurant Industry

21:47 The Importance of Employee Satisfaction

28:55 Future of Financial Wellness in Hospitality

34:13 Final Thoughts and Farewell