In this episode of Total Retail Tech Insights, Editor-in-Chief Joe Keenan interviews Paul Paradis, president of Sezzle, a mission-driven fintech empowering the next generation with interest-free installment plans that enhance purchasing power online and in-store. Listen in as Paradis discusses Sizzle's founding and what differentiates it in the buy now, pay later (BNPL) landscape (1:05), his career journey to co-founding the business (5:10), and the common misconceptions retailers have about BNPL (8:15). He touches on Gen Z and millennial financial behaviors (10:45), why younger consumers' hesitation around credit cards is fueling BNPL adoption (12:55), and the value for brands in offering more than one BNPL provider at checkout (14:35).

In addition, Paradis shares how merchants can support budget-conscious shoppers by offering BNPL solutions (19:50), details evolving consumer expectations (23:05), and offers insight into how he sees payment innovation influencing loyalty, not just conversions (26:40). Lastly, he discusses how merchants can learn more about Sezzle at sezzle.com/merchants (29:20).

Paul Paradis is the executive director and president of Sezzle. He has extensive experience in sales, marketing, and strategy in the finance industry. Paul began his career in sales and marketing with the Minnesota Timberwolves. From there, he went on to receive his MBA from the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota, and continued his career with Dashe & Thomson and the Abreon Group. In 2016, Paul left the Abreon Group and co-founded Sezzle, where he oversees marketing, partnerships and merchant development.