ATM TALKS | Guest Todd McEwan New England ATM | Episode 0002

Welcome to ATM TALKS — the show where we interview real ATM operators, processors, and industry pros to bring you unfiltered, practical knowledge about running an ATM business.In this episode, we sit down with Todd McEwan, the founder and president of New England ATM LLC. With a background at major financial institutions like J.P. Morgan Chase, Todd made the "leap" in 2012 to build his own ATM empire. Today, he owns and operates nearly 500 machines, processes for over 2,000 more, and pays out roughly $30,000 in monthly commissions.Whether you're a seasoned operator or just starting out, Todd delivers a masterclass in scaling a business, from his humble beginnings as a "reluctant" side-hustler to becoming a leading full-service provider in the Northeast.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Todd's journey from corporate banking to a pivotal, life-changing moment that forced him into the ATM business full-time.How he grew New England ATM into a powerhouse, operating 500 machines and processing for 2,000+.The biggest mistakes new deployers make and why patience is the key to building a profitable portfolio.Strategies for finding underserved geographic markets and the types of locations that perform best (including a surprising take on nail salons and smoke shops).How to approach merchant partnerships and why he doesn't always require a written contract.Advanced revenue streams beyond surcharging: Credit Card Surcharge Segmentation, DCC, and the potential of digital topper advertising.The critical importance of systems, procedures, and workflows for scaling beyond the "solopreneur" stage.A deep dive into the opportunities and risks of operating in high-risk markets like cannabis dispensaries.Todd's honest advice for newcomers: "Just do it," find a mentor, and overcome the biggest hurdle—finding a bank.If you’re searching for:✔ How to start an ATM business✔ Scaling an ATM portfolio✔ Corporate to entrepreneur transition✔ ATM business management✔ Veteran ATM operator adviceThis episode is packed with the wisdom you need.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction & Todd's Background01:38 - The "Leap" from Corporate Banking to ATMs04:14 - The Pivotal Moment That Changed Everything08:28 - Getting into the Industry "Kicking and Screaming"11:41 - Describing the Current ATM Operation (Deployment & Processing)13:44 - Co-Founding the ATM Business Startups Facebook Group16:12 - Top Performing Location Types & Market Strategy18:33 - How to Evaluate a New ATM Placement20:38 - Approaching Merchant Partnerships24:38 - Generating Income Beyond Surcharges29:16 - The Future of ATM Toppers & Advertising30:42 - Advice for Someone Starting an ATM Operation32:18 - The #1 Hurdle for Newcomers: Banking34:31 - In-House ATM Maintenance & Refurbishment36:09 - New Technologies & Trends (Recyclers, Toppers)37:25 - Operating in High-Risk Markets (Cannabis)40:59 - The Biggest Challenge in Scaling: Systems & Procedures43:39 - Using AI and Software in the Business45:35 - Collaborating with Merchants and Service Providers48:08 - Defining Success Beyond Profit49:42 - How to Connect with ToddConnect With Todd McEwen & New England ATM LLC:🌐 Website: newenglandatm.net📘 Facebook Group: ATM Business Startups📸 Instagram: @newenglandatm🔔 Follow to ATM TALKS and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode with the leaders and innovators shaping the future of cash access.