About
Product Lead at Block. Writer on fintech and payments.
I am Ricky Graziosi. I build products, publish Payments Demystified on Substack, and share Life's Project.
Current profile
A few things I am focused on right now.
How I think about building
Systems first
Payments products work when product, operations, and compliance are designed together.
Economics in the loop
Unit economics and regulatory constraints should inform roadmap decisions early.
Operator-level clarity
I focus on clear decision frameworks teams can actually use under delivery pressure.
Teach while building
My writing turns complex payments concepts into practical guidance for teams.
Background highlights
A recurring series on Substack covering card programs, sponsor banks, and payment architecture.
Currently leading product work at Block with a fintech systems lens.
Practical experience across program economics, risk tradeoffs, and execution.
LinkedIn profile includes PayPal Top Innovator 2019 among past awards.
Follow the writing or reach out
For ongoing fintech insights, subscribe on Substack. For collaboration, send a note.