CONNECT by California MBA: Recent Episodes

The California MBA

Welcome to California MBA's podcast, Connect, our all-new podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry.

California MBA serves to represent the residential and commercial real estate finance industry before all governing bodies. The California MBA encourages and promotes sound business practices and honesty in marketing, origination, lending and servicing of mortgage loans through our educational and networking opportunities.

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When a natural disaster destroys a home, the mortgage servicer is one of the first calls a homeowner makes. What happens in those first days and weeks can determine whether a family rebuilds — or falls through the cracks.In this episode of Connect, California MBA CEO Paul Gigliotti sits down with Ron Malik, Senior Vice President of Default Servicing at Dovenmuehle Mortgage, one of the nation's most experienced mortgage subservicers. Dovenmuehle has been an instrumental partner in California MBA's wildfire recovery and rebuilding work — bringing the operational expertise that turns strong policy ideas into solutions that actually work for homeowners.This is the conversation behind the work.In this episode:- What a servicer's disaster response actually looks like from day one — proactiveness, task force deployment, and identifying impacted borrowers immediately- How Dovenmuehle balances speed, empathy, efficiency, and investor requirements all at once during a disaster- What forbearance really is — and why it has to be clearly explained to every homeowner before they sign- Where the rebuild process breaks down: insurance proceeds, draw schedules, inspections, liens, and the gap between what insurance pays and what rebuilding actually costs- Why the $100 million California Disaster Rebuilding Fund matters — and why that solve isn't always available- How Dovenmuehle's participation shaped real legislative outcomes — helping California MBA move to neutral or supportive on key forbearance bills- Why no one can do this work alone — and what true servicer and trade association collaboration looks like in practice- What success looks like for wildfire families and participating servicers one year from nowConnect is the California MBA's podcast where strategy, innovation, and leadership come together to shape the future of mortgage finance.Subscribe for new episodes featuring the voices driving the industry forward.

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Affordability. Access. Inventory. These words get thrown around constantly — but what do they actually mean for the families sitting in a financial literacy event in Atlanta wondering if they'll ever own a home?In this episode of Connect, California MBA CEO Paul Gigliotti sits down with Nora Guerra, Senior Vice President of Community Lending Solutions at Guild Mortgage, for one of the most inspiring and grounded conversations on affordable homeownership we've had on the show. Nora has spent her career — including time at Freddie Mac — focused on one mission: getting real information to real people so they can make one of the most important financial decisions of their lives.She's hosting over 50 financial literacy events across the country this year alone. This is what boots-on-the-ground advocacy looks like.In this episode:- Why the biggest myth holding buyers back is the belief they need 20% down — and how to dispel it- The power of comparing a PITI with MI payment to a rent payment — and the aha moments that follow- Why 19 years of renting could have been 19 years toward a paid-off mortgage- How HUD counselors are one of the most underutilized resources in the housing ecosystem — and how Nora deploys them at every event- Freddie Mac's free, multilingual Credit Smart financial literacy curriculum — and how to access it- Guild's Workforce Housing initiative: 22 teacher union partnerships and 11 programs that can help teachers live in the communities they serve- The Homium shared equity program: a 40% shared equity second with no monthly payment, already transforming Detroit- How Nora is inviting local politicians — from city council members to U.S. Senators — to her events and showing them the data firsthand- Why responsible access to credit and expanded access to credit are not opposing ideas- The generational opportunity: 50 million millennials who haven't bought yet, and Gen Z just entering the workforceConnect is the California MBA's podcast where strategy, innovation, and leadership come together to shape the future of mortgage finance.Subscribe for new episodes featuring the voices driving the industry forward.

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Every lender is being pitched AI right now. But how many are actually implementing it successfully — and what separates the ones that do from the ones that don't?In this episode of Connect, California MBA CEO Paul Gigliotti sits down with Varant Herculian of JazzX AI for a candid, execution-focused conversation on what it actually takes to move from an exciting AI demonstration to real-world adoption inside a mortgage operation.Varant brings nearly three decades of mortgage industry experience — from originating loans to leading digital strategy and operational transformation — and now he's helping lenders reimagine their entire operating model with AI. This is not a product pitch. It's a masterclass in change management.In this episode:- Why the Frankenstein ecosystem of stacked point solutions is the core problem AI needs to solve — and what an intelligence layer actually means in practice- The difference between a point solution and a true end-to-end AI platform: connected decisions, shared context, and no rip-and-replace of existing systems- Why real adoption starts with business outcomes, not technology — and why the North Star metrics matter more than the implementation plan- The agile production launch philosophy: why five loans in a real production environment teaches you more than five months in a conference room- How to build a champion network, capture testimonials, and cascade adoption at scale- The two workflow scenarios every lender falls into — and how JazzX solves for both- Tunable autonomy: how lenders can start in recommendation-only mode and gradually increase AI autonomy as trust and evidence grow- How to establish baseline metrics from day one so ROI can be proven — not assumed- Why lenders are more open to upfront implementation costs than you'd think — if you can prove the value firstConnect is the California MBA's podcast where strategy, innovation, and leadership come together to shape the future of mortgage finance.Subscribe for new episodes featuring the voices driving the industry forward.

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stands for (trended data)- Why 10T is a video, not a photo — and what that means for how lenders see borrower credit behavior- How 24 months of trended history changes the picture for borrowers who manage credit well but look risky at a single point in time- The rental data question: only 3.5 million of 77 million renters have data furnished to credit bureaus — and what FICO is doing about it- Improved treatment of authorized users, medical collections under $500, and what's new vs. classic FICO- FICO 10T for Free: the program already running with 70+ lenders that lets them receive 10T alongside their classic score at no extra cost- Why the VA space and non-QM are the first places lenders can start using 10T right now- How 10T can sharpen MSR pricing grids and improve secondary market execution- Why both scoring models should be implemented at the same time — and what chaos looks like if they aren't- What policymakers need to understand about credit modernization before layering on new regulationConnect is the California MBA's podcast where strategy, innovation, and leadership come together to shape the future of mortgage industry. Subscribe for new episodes featuring the voices driving the mortgage industry forward.

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philosophy: why MeridianLink gives lenders full administrative control over their own workflows- How one MeridianLink client doubled their volume without doubling their staff- The Gen Z and late millennial borrower: why they want a fully digital experience that can pivot to human instantly — and what happens when lenders can't deliver that- Why data aggregation is king right now — and how MeridianLink's Insight BI platform lets lenders benchmark themselves against peers- How lenders can use their own data to identify and cure potential fair lending issues before regulators surface them with AI- Why MeridianLink Intelligence is built natively on the data layer — giving it a full 360-degree view of every loanConnect is the California MBA's podcast where strategy, innovation, and leadership come together to shape the future of mortgage finance.Subscribe for new episodes featuring the voices driving the industry forward.

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integration model — how Gateless works entirely behind the scenes inside the LOS with zero end-user friction- Why Gateless focuses exclusively on credit, income, and assets — and why being an inch wide and a mile deep beats trying to do everything- How moving verification work to the front of the process creates cleaner files, faster closings, and a better borrower experience- The stat that changes the conversation: 1 in 4 loans gets a full credit, income, and asset certification in 5 minutes or less- Why 24/7 availability is a competitive advantage loan officers and borrowers are actually counting on- How one Gateless client reported a 12-day savings compared to their other channel — and another cut resubmission rates by 50%- Why technology on top of a bad process makes things worse — and what to fix before you implement- What the best operators are doing right now to be ready when the market movesConnect is the California MBA's podcast where strategy, innovation, and leadership come together to shape the future of mortgage finance.Subscribe for new episodes featuring the voices driving the industry forward.

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The regulatory and compliance landscape for mortgage lenders has never been more complex — and the risks hiding in the rearview mirror may be bigger than the ones ahead.In this episode of Connect, California MBA CEO Paul Gigliotti sits down with James W. Brody, Esq., Founder and Managing Partner of Brody Gapp LLP, for a wide-ranging conversation on the current legal risk environment, where litigation is spiking, and what lenders need to do right now to protect themselves.James brings decades of experience in mortgage banking litigation, enforcement defense, regulatory risk, and the rapidly evolving legal landscape around AI — and he doesn't hold back on any of it.In this episode:- Why the CFPB stepping back has created a dangerous patchwork of state-level AI and compliance regulations — and why national lenders are being forced to build to the strongest law- The biggest litigation category right now: LO poaching and non-solicit cases in a consolidating market- Why Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are scrubbing their 2020–2023 portfolios using AI fraud tools — and what that means for repurchase exposure- How lenders can take an active role in renegotiating MLPAs to add materiality qualifiers and limit buyback liability- Why compliance woven into the fabric of a company from the ground up creates less exposure and more opportunity- How to inventory the AI already inside your organization — because it's likely already there through vendor updates- Why agentic AI doing licensable activity is the next major legal debate — and who will be held responsible- Why advocacy is not separate from your business — and why now is the moment to leverage political capital before it's too lateConnect is the California MBA's podcast where strategy, innovation, and leadership come together to shape the future of mortgage finance.Subscribe for new episodes featuring the voices driving the industry forward.

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— and how to protect against bothCalifornia licensing and usury rules: why a 12% loan can become a 0% loan overnight without the right license- Why California has more usury exceptions than most states — and why that actually favors lenders- The insurance risk every California lender should be thinking about over the next 12-24 months — wildfires, earthquakes, and whether the industry can absorb a major loss eventConnect is the California MBA's podcast where strategy, innovation, and leadership come together to shape the future of mortgage finance.Subscribe for new episodes featuring the voices driving the industry forward.

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Core Services at T3 Sixty, a firm helping real estate leaders think through strategy, brokerage performance, technology, and the future of how real estate companies operate. The conversation covers consolidation, the fight for the consumer, the evolving LO-agent relationship, and what AI is starting to do to the home search experience.This is the intersection of mortgage and real estate — and it's a conversation the industry needs to have.In this episode:• Why real estate brokerage EBITDA is hovering near zero — and the parallels to mortgage• The consolidation wave: Compass at 30% market share, Rocket-Redfin, and what it means for JV partnerships• Why 80% of borrowers and real estate clients never come back — and the stat behind it (88% don't even remember their loan officer's name 12 months after the transaction)• What agents actually want from lender partners right now — and why coffee and open houses aren't enough anymore• The dual technological journey borrowers go through — and why it's creating transaction trauma• How propensity data and AI-powered home search are reshaping the consumer experience in real estate• Answer engine optimization vs. search engine optimization — and why it matters for mortgage next• Why shifts in the market always create opportunity — and how to approach change with eyes wide openConnect is the California MBA's podcast where strategy, innovation, and leadership come together to shape the future of mortgage finance.Subscribe for new episodes featuring the voices driving the mortgage industry forward.

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One out of every four loans in 2026 will be non-agency. Are you positioned to compete for all of them — or just three out of four?In this episode of Connect, California MBA CEO Paul Gigliotti sits down with Tom Davis, Chief Sales Officer at Deephaven Mortgage, for a data-heavy, no-fluff conversation on where the non-QM and non-agency markets are headed, why the equity opportunity is generational, and what loan officers need to do right now to stay relevant.Tom brings a front-row view of what's actually happening across borrower demand, product innovation, and liquidity — and he doesn't sugarcoat what originators are leaving on the table by not having a full suite of non-agency products.In this episode:• Why non-QM is on pace to hit $150–180B in 2026 — an all-time recordThe $400–500B total non-agency market and why missing it means only accessing 75% of your opportunity• Who the non-QM borrower really is: self-employed, investor, credit event, foreign national — and why they're actually lower risk than you think• Why 30% of all 2025 transactions were investor deals — and what a full investor product suite looks like• The home equity opportunity: $35 trillion in equity, 80% of homeowners locked into sub-5% rates, and $600B in renovation originations projected for 2026• HELOCs, closed-end seconds, and how Deephaven built a Jumbo HELOC up to $1M with alt-doc features• Why waiting for rates to drop is a losing strategy — and what LOs should be doing instead• How servicers are stealing your past clients at a 90% retention rate — and how equity products stop the bleedConnect is the California MBA's podcast where strategy, innovation, and leadership come together to shape the future of mortgage finance.Subscribe for new episodes featuring the voices driving the industry forward.

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strategy: why moving decisions earlier in the process is the highest-leverage tool for reducing cost• Why plugging new technology into an old linear workflow is a guaranteed failure• AI's biggest opportunity in production: fraud detection, call center coaching, income calculation, and real-time underwriting decisioning• How an AI listening tool could give a loan officer an near-underwriting decision before the first call ends• The coming California legislation on automated underwriting — and why being at the table matters• Why advocacy isn't separate from production — it IS productionConnect is the California MBA's podcast where strategy, innovation, and leadership come together to shape the future of mortgage finance.To learn more about AmeriHome, visit www.correspondent.amerihome.comSubscribe for new episodes featuring the voices driving the industry forward.

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The mortgage industry has been talking about AI and automation for years — but where is it actually delivering results today?In this episode of Connect, California MBA CEO Paul Gigliotti sits down with Neil Armstrong, newly appointed Chief Revenue Officer of Indecomm, to dig into the real-world mechanics of operational automation in mortgage lending. Neil brings a rare perspective — 20+ years in the industry, including time on the lender side at PHH and Citi Mortgage — and he's not here to sell buzzwords. He's here to talk process, ROI, and what it actually takes to build a scalable lending operation.From machine learning-based document classification to automated underwriting, from breaking down operational silos to the critical role of change management, Neil lays out exactly what's working, where lenders get stuck, and what the next wave of agentic AI looks like inside the mortgage lifecycle.In this episode:• Why cost-per-function analysis is replacing headcount as the efficiency benchmark• How Indecomm's IDX system is cutting title review from 38 minutes to 3 and appraisal review from 40 minutes to 6• The 60% lift in underwriter productivity — and how automated underwriting is getting there• Why you can't automate a bad process (and what to fix first)• Change management as the #1 deployment killer — and how to get buy-in from the top down• The difference between deterministic rules, machine learning, and true generative AI (and why it matters)• What's coming next: agentic AI as a digital assistant for auditors and underwriters• The human-technology balance — why borrower-facing automation isn't the goalConnect is the California MBA's podcast where strategy, innovation, and leadership come together to shape the future of mortgage finance.Subscribe for new episodes featuring the voices driving the industry forward.

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analogy that perfectly captures why automation can't replace the loan officer.Beyond Lead Gen: How TrustEngine manages the full borrower lifecycle — not just the top of funnel.The Lifetime Client Strategy: Why borrowers do ~7 mortgage transactions and rarely with the same LO — and how to fix that.Proving ROI: How Mortgage Coach drives 30% higher pull-through rates for the LOs who use it.Making Hard Conversations Easier: How technology helps LOs move rate-obsessed borrowers toward smarter financial decisions.About the California MBA:The California MBA is the leading advocate for the mortgage industry in California, dedicated to promoting fair and ethical lending practices through advocacy, education, and innovation.Connect with us:Website: https://www.cmba.com

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Hybrid: Exploring features like e-notes, e-vaults, and automated funding QC.• The Consumer Experience: Why shortening the cycle time by 18 days leads to a significant lift in NPS.• The 2026 Outlook: What lenders need to do now to prepare for a fully automated future. About the California MBA:The California MBA is the leading advocate for the mortgage industry in California, dedicated to promoting fair and ethical lending practices through advocacy, education, and innovation.Connect with us: Website: https://www.cmba.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/california-mba/

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demand realities• AI and technology in mortgage operations• Regulatory landscape (Basel III, AI regulation)• Industry productivity and cost managementSubscribe to the California MBA channel for more Connect Podcast episodes with top mortgage leaders.Sponsored by the 2026 President Council: AmeriHome, Western Alliance Bank, Consolidated Analytics, Loan DNA, CMG Financial, Guild Mortgage, Rocket Mortgage, and more.

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AI's Role12:10 – Final Thoughts: What Lawmakers Need to KnowSubscribe to California MBA for more industry insights on legislation, innovation, and advocacy. Like, comment your thoughts on AB1018, and share with fellow mortgage professionals!

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comment: What's your biggest origination pain point?Learn more about Wilco: https://www.wilco.io/ (or official site)California MBA: https://www.camortgage.org/#MortgageTech #LoanOrigination #AITech #MortgageLending #ProductionOptimization #CharliePlatform #Wilco #CaliforniaMBA #Podcast

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Closing

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In this episode of the IMPACT Podcast, California MBA CEO Paul Gigliotti sits down with Chuck Iverson to break down California’s proposed Community Reinvestment Act (AB 801) and what it means for the industry heading into 2026.While the intent behind new legislation is often to help, Paul and Chuck discuss why policy must be grounded in operational reality to avoid unintended consequences for housing affordability and credit access.Key Realities Discussed in this Episode:The IMB Impact: Why independent mortgage bankers are already the primary drivers of lending to LMI and minority borrowers.Policy vs. Reality: The danger of well-intended legislation that ignores the mechanics of the mortgage market.The 2026 Outlook: What the California MBA is doing to ensure advocacy is driven by data and consumer impact.About the IMPACT Podcast: The IMPACT Podcast brings you the conversations that shape the mortgage industry, featuring leaders who are navigating the intersection of policy, business, and advocacy.

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In this episode of Connect by California MBA, host Paul Gigliotti sits down with Vik Kasparin from Rams Mortgage Capital for an in-depth look at the secondary mortgage market.Rams specializes in mortgage asset valuation, training, advisory services, and whole loan trading—focusing on post-closing strategies for lenders, banks, and portfolio holders. They help market and sell specialized assets including non-agency jumbo, non-QM, second homes, bridge loans, and select agency products with arbitrage potential.Key highlights from the conversation:- How falling rates and supply/demand imbalances are driving buyer appetite in 2026- Growing demand from insurance companies and asset funds pushing yields tighter (agency, jumbo, non-QM)- Holistic valuation methods: models + real-time trading desk insights to price prepay penalties, compare to Treasuries, and support warehouse bank mark-to-market- Why many lenders mistakenly expect par pricing—and how lower-coupon loans often trade in the 90s or 80s- The rise of non-QM and specialized loan trading (including scratch-and-dent paper)Whether you're in origination, secondary sales, risk management, or investing in mortgage assets—this episode delivers practical insights from one of the industry's major whole loan traders.Thanks to our 2026 President's Council sponsors: Amerome, Consolidated Analytics/loanDNA, CMG Financial, FundingShield, Guild Mortgage, Rocket Mortgage, Weiner Brodzky Kinder, and Western Alliance Bank.Subscribe for more mortgage industry interviews, market updates, and expert discussions from California MBA!#SecondaryMortgageMarket #NonQM #WholeLoanTrading #MortgageValuation #MortgageIndustry #NonAgencyLoans #RamsCapital

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in rates next year.• Actionable Advice: John advises listeners to act now and take advantage of the current low-interest-rate environment to protect against future inflation risks.Don't miss this essential discussion for anyone in finance, lending, or real estate who wants to navigate market volatility with confidence.

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Digital mortgages aren't the future — they're here. Tune in to the latest episode of the Connect Podcast, presented by the California MBA, to hear how the industry is making the shift to fully digital closings!This week, the CEO of the California MBA Paul Gigliotti, sits down with Leah Sommerville, Director of Sales at DocMagic and 2025 HousingWire Rising Star, to dive deep into the world of mortgage tech. Leah shares how she's helping lenders embrace fully digital closings and what that means for borrowers.We discuss everything from AI-powered platforms to the rise of eHELOCs and beyond. Leah breaks down the cutting edge of mortgage innovation and reveals what's still holding some lenders back from making the leap.Hear how DocMagic is actively pushing the entire mortgage industry forward!Topics We Cover:• The current state of digital mortgages.• The role of AI in the lending process.• Understanding eHELOCs and other digital products.• What prevents lenders from adopting digital closings.• DocMagic's vision for the future of mortgage technology.Stay connected with the California MBA: https://www.linkedin.com/company/californiamba/

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In this special edition of the Connect podcast, outgoing CEO Susan Milazzo sits down with her successor, Paul Gigliotti, to discuss the future of the California MBA (California Mortgage Bankers Association)Susan celebrates her 21 years of service while Paul, a veteran mortgage leader with a deep background in mortgage technology, outlines his vision for the association. Get an inside look at Gigliotti's journey, from building lenders to advancing mortgage tech, and hear his plans for amplifying California MBA’s advocacy, enhancing member engagement, and leading the industry through an era defined by affordability and AI innovation.

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Mark Wilson, CEO, AdvisentEpisode discussion topics:How you got into the mortgage industry?You have big news that just launched – the rebranding of your company. What was CWDL is now Advisent! Why a rebrand and what has been the journey to Advisent?How does this rebrand help Advisent support clients with long term strategic goals?I’ve always found it fascinating that your firm specializes in this the mortgage industry. Where to you see accounting in the mortgage banking space going in the next 5 – 10 years?Can you share with our listeners why you chose to support the California MBA?To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Connect with Lee Gillispie, Senior Managing Principal, Paradatec | Episode 244 by The California MBA

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Susanne Livingston Owner/Chief Strategy Officer, RWM Home Loans and Jimson Tharayil VP Strategic Partnerships, Acrisure.Episode discussion topics:
What’s really driving the spike in homeowners insurance rates in California?What can homeowners — and insurers — do to manage these costs?How is regulation impacting the insurance landscape in California?Where is technology helping — and where is it falling short?To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Kenon Chen, EVP Strategy and Growth, Clear Capital.Episode discussion topics:Tell us how you got into the mortgage industry?I believe Clear Capital has been involved with the California MBA since its very early days, which is more than 20 years! What have been the most surprising industry changes for the company in that time?The company’s mantra on your website reads: Wherever it leads, Whatever it takes. What does that mean for your customers?Clear Capital was one of the early adopters of technology in the mortgage space. Tell us about how Clear Capital is using AI in your products.Can you share with our listeners why you chose to support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Daniel Ceniceros, Founder & CEO, Connect MediaEpisode discussion topics:1:59 - What innovative marketing techniques should people be thinking about to get their name out there?4:37 - What innovative things is Connect doing as a company in this challenging marketing?10:51 - Let’s do a check in on the commercial real estate finance market in general. How is mid-year 2025 looking for the industry?13:21 - I’m thrilled to have Connect CRE back at our annual Western States CREF Conference. What should people do to get the most of this eventTo learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Cody Charfauros, Principal/Managing Director, Slatt CapitalEpisode discussion topics:What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen in the CRE market since then?When you were last on Connect, we talked about the adoption of technology in CRE. Where is the industry today?How is the insurance crisis impacting the commercial real estate finance industry?You are also serving as this year’s Chair for our 2025 Western States CREF Conference (wscref.com). What are some of the highlights you can share with our listeners?Western States CREF is our signature event for the CRE industry but the support we receive through membership is crucial to our continued success. What do you share about the value of the California MBA with companies considering membership?To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Jon Brod, Co-Founder & CMO, RoamEpisode discussion topics:1:14 - Let’s start with your journey—what sparked your move into the world of AI? Was there a defining moment or inspiration behind that transition?4:54 - We usually record these podcasts on Zoom, but today we’re on your platform—Roam. What makes Roam different, and why do you believe it’s the better choice for conversations like this?9:05 - Roam clearly has potential across multiple industries, but where do you see it making the biggest impact within the mortgage space specifically?11:29 - Jon, you’re an accomplished entrepreneur and founder of several companies over the years. What advice would you give someone who wants to launch their own company?13:46 - We truly appreciate your support at the Mortgage Innovators Conference and your decision to join the California MBA. What motivated you to get involved, and why does this partnership matter to you?To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Amy Moses, Business Development Consultant, MISMOEpisode discussion topics:1:28 - I always like to get started with a little background, so tell us how you got into the mortgage business2:44 - Can you share with our listeners a little more about MISMO and the value the organization brings to the lending industry? How can lenders become involved?6:12 - What are some of the key initiatives underway at MISMO right now that will benefit the industry? Anything that will help lenders cut costs in these trying times?9:03 - What are the big trends in mortgage technology that you see for the next 12 months? I assume increased use of AI but is there anything in particular?11:50 - Can you share with our listeners why you choose to support our organization?Subscribe to MISMO Matters here! https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/a468c0d093284b9ba54fd2f3afad7731 Register for the MISMO Fall Summit, September 15-18 in Annapolis, MD - https://www.mismo.org/events-education/mismo-summit- To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Caren Castle, Managing Attorney, California, The Mortgage Law Firm Episode discussion timestamps:I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business. You’ve had such an impressive legal career and have really been a trailblazer for women in this industry—often the only woman in the room. We’ve even heard you called an icon. How does that label sit with you?I heard you have a special connection to an Olympic medalist and a member of the judiciary.  Can you elaborate on that?    With a footprint that spans seven Western states, including Hawaii, your firm clearly has a strategic regional reach. Can you walk us through how that came to be and what that means for your clients?The Mortgage Law Firm is new to the California MBA and is becoming active. Can you share with our listeners why you chose to support our organization? To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Mitch Kider, Managing Partner, Weiner Brodsky Kider, PC Episode discussion timestamps:1:29 - The last time you were on Connect; we were fresh off the 2024 Presidential election. Now that this Administration has taken so many actions across the board that impact lenders, what are you sharing with lenders about the current state of the CFPB?4:27 - It has been stated, and we’re certainly seeing it in California, that the actions at the federal level will force states to be more aggressive from a legislative or regulatory standpoint.  How are you seeing the states react?9:12 - In this type of uncertain regulatory environment, what advice are you giving lenders?10:33 - Outside of the regulatory environment for a moment, what are some of trends in litigation for lenders?You’ve been a big supporter of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful.  From what you’ve shared today, its clear that the advocacy efforts of the state MBAs becomes much more significant in this Administration.  Why should lenders support the state MBAs in which they’re licensed?To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Tom Davis, Chief Sales Officer, Deephaven Mortgage.Episode discussion timestamps:1:30 - You became interested in the mortgage industry as a child. Tell me what you love about it and what keeps you so optimistic. 3:44 - Deephaven Mortgage offers HELOANs and HELOCs that allow alternative income options. You recently announced product updates for your HELOAN closed-end second that now include DSCR income for real estate investors. Why do you consider this a good time to innovate in the second mortgage / equity solutions space? 7:44 - Who are the non-QM borrowers most in need of a second lien or HELOC option? Where are the opportunities to serve self-employed borrowers or real estate investors, for example? 9:59 - What other growth areas do you see for loan officers in the non-QM space? 15:53 - Deephaven has been a long-time California MBA. Member. Can you share with our listeners why you chose to support our organization? To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Cheryl Messner, PRODUCT, PollyEpisode discussion timestamps:1:29 - Tell us how you got into the mortgage business3:22 - How do you see business intelligence and analytics evolving in the mortgage industry over the next few years?5:38 - Polly continues to experience significant growth. In your opinion, what are the key differentiators driving lenders to choose Polly over legacy pricing engines?8:23 - Polly has gained quite a bit of attention in terms of innovation and overall pace of delivery. How does Polly approach the product roadmap and prioritize what comes next?10:39 - Can you share with our listeners why Polly chooses to support the California MBA and Mortgage Innovators?RSVP to Polly's #MBASecondary25 reception event: https://connect.polly.io/2025-mba-secondary/reception-rsvp Follow Polly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pollyex/ To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Praveen Chandramohan, SVP, Origination Growth Solutions, CotalityEpisode discussion timestamps:1:27 - How you got into the mortgage business2:44 - Big changes recently with the rebrand of CoreLogic to Cotality. Can you share with our listeners a little background on what inspired that change?5:21 - Cotality has always focused on creating opportunities for customer retention. What’s the main focus on that for 2025 for the company?7:15 - How do you see business intelligence and analytics evolving in the mortgage industry over the next few years? Where is Cotality heading to meet these needs? 9:59 - Cotality is a member of the California MBA, and a Premier Sponsors at our Mortgage Innovators Conference happening May 7 - 8; thank you so much for your support. Can you share with our listeners why you choose to support our organization?11:32 - You and I communicated earlier this year about the data your company has been compiling data on the Southern California wildfires. Are there any insights you can share around that data?Lenders, use "Cotality-Lenders" at checkout for an extra discount. Register for the Mortgage Innovators Conference here - https://my.cmba.com/events/mic25.html To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Marcus Carter, President, La Mesa Fund Control & Escrow Inc.Episode discussion timestamps:1:29 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. You and your Team seem to have a long history, over 130 years of combined experience!  Tell us how you got into this business. 5:57 - You are a very robust company that provides many different services from risk mitigation solutions, and compliance to being an independent licensed and bonded escrow company. Do you feel that being so diversified has helped your company be so successful?6:51 - I love what you say in your philosophy, stability, trust, strength, growth, teamwork. What drew you to those core values?8:45 - AI is the wave of the future, are you integrating any of it into your operations? 10:33 - Marcus La Mesa is new to the California MBA and has become very active, for which we are very grateful. Can you share with our listeners why you chose to support our organization? To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Paul Gigliotti, Head of Growth and Partnerships, Prudent AIEpisode discussion timestamps:1:44 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business.3:10 - Why is the non-QM market becoming increasingly critical in today's lending landscape and how are you seeing them scale the non-QM operations?6:39 - How is AI transforming the traditional lending qualification process?10:52 - How are lenders currently handling complex income scenarios, and what bottlenecks exist? 15:50 - Can you share with our listeners why the Mortgage Innovators Conference has risen to be one of the best tech events in mortgage banking? To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Anthony Ho, Managing Director and Chief Credit Officer, Amerihome MortgageEpisode discussion timestamps:1:39 - Tell us how you got into this business.3:18 - 2025 hasn’t started at the pace I think many lenders were hoping for. What do you anticipate volumes will be like for the balance of the year?4:31 - How can lenders stay competitive in a challenging market?6:41 - What are your thoughts on the use of AI in the mortgage industry?10:32 - Can you share with our listeners why you chose to support our organization? To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Tom Delaney, President, Bankers Insurance ServiceEpisode discussion timestamps:1:39 - I always like to start with finding out about our journeys to the mortgage industry, tell us how you got start?3:58 - Tell us about Bankers Insurance Service and your role in the mortgage industry6:09 - Climate change is impacting stress put on loan portfolios and servicers, how is BIS helping lenders in this area?9:44 - Cyber security remains a very high priority for our lenders, how does your company address this issue for lenders? Are there elements they typically overlook in a policy?14:28 - Can you share with our listeners why you chose to support our organization? To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Agustin (Augie) Del Rio, Founder and CEO, Gallus InsightsEpisode discussion topics:I always like to get started with a little background, so tell us how you got into the mortgage business and what inspired you to start Gallus Insights? The mortgage industry is complex and fast-moving. Why is data so critical for mortgage lenders and servicers, and where do you see companies struggling to leverage it effectively?” Can you share a specific example or use case where Gallus Insights has helped a mortgage lender or servicer achieve real results? What are the biggest challenges you’re seeing mortgage lenders face today when it comes to reporting and analytics, and how does Gallus help them overcome these? How do you see business intelligence and analytics evolving in the mortgage industry over the next few years? Where is Gallus Insights heading to meet these needs? Can you share with our listeners why you choose to support our organization? To learn more about the Gallus Insights, visit gallusinsights.coTo learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Brandon Glidden, CEO, 2n1 Tech SolutionsEpisode discussion timestamps:1:26 - How you started 2n1 Tech Solutions? What does the name 2n1 represent?5:22 - You specialize in IT services for mortgage lenders. How are they different from other businesses?7:49 - What do you feel are the areas most missed by lenders when it comes to protecting their companies?9:34 - What advice do you give lenders on breach protocols?16:48 - Can you share with our listeners why you chose to support our organization? To learn more about the 2n1 Tech Solutions, visit 2n1tech.comTo learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Leslie Winick, Chief Strategy Officer, MCT (Mortgage Capital Trading)Episode discussion timestamps:1:29 - Tell us how you got into the mortgage business.4:26 - What is your outlook for 2025 for this industry?10:03 - In addition to your role at MCT, you are Co-Founder and Board Member of the CapitalW Collective. Tell us about that amazing organization. How can someone get more information about the CapitalW Collective?14:49 - What can we all do to support more women in the mortgage banking industry?19:00 - When we chatted a couple of months ago, you shared that you have worked in Europe and traveled the world, and one of your favorite places in Europe is Ireland! What would be the top 3 things you’d recommend as “must sees” if they were going there for the first time? To learn more about the CapitalW Collective, visit https://capitalwcollective.org To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome T. Robert Finlay, Esq., Partner, Wright, Finlay & Zak, LLPEpisode discussion timestamps:1:31 - What were some of the big legislative takeaways for CA lenders this year?10:27 - What litigation trends are you seeing right now?13:55 - You will join us again to lead a panel discussion on in-house counsel and outside counsel relationships for lenders. What are some of the key points the panel will discuss?16:16 - You’ve had a decorated career in legal representation for the mortgage industry. What advice would you give to someone just entering into this business?18:22 - You’ve been a big supporter of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you’re such a big supporter? To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome 2024 Legal Issues and Compliance Conference Co-chairs Melissa Koupal, | SVP, Servicing Risk & Compliance, CMG Financial and Maria Moskver, CEO, CloudVirgaEpisode discussion timestamps:1:44 - Thank you for Co-Chairing our upcoming 2024 Legal Issues and Regulatory Compliance Conference next week. You’ve both attended this conference several times, what sessions are you most interested in this year? 3:53 - From a lender’s perspective, what is your top compliance concern right now? 5:25 - From a solution providers perspective, what is the most prevalent issue you’re seeing from your clients relative to compliance? 6:17 - Sheila Oliver, Deputy Commissioner of the Mortgage Division of the DFPI is attending and speaking. What topics are you hoping she covers during her presentation? 8:29 - Can you each give our listeners a little preview of what we’ll be covering during the conference? 10:57 - Listeners should also know that we’ve applied for MCLE credits from the California State Bar for those attorneys licensed here, including an hour of Legal Ethics!12:21 - Register for California MBA’s 2024 Legal Issues and Regulatory Compliance Conference: https://lirc24.events.cmba.com/Use LEGAL-50 at checkout to receive $50 off your conference registration, just for listening to our podcast today! To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Ken Perry, President and CEO, Knowledge CoopEpisode discussion timestamps:1:31 - How did you get into the mortgage industry? 2:24 - Tell us about starting Knowledge Coop 4:23 - How is your company supporting lenders for success in the New Year?6:01 - Share with us what’s in store for Knowledge Coop for 2025 7:52 - What are your thoughts on the use of AI in our industry? 10:32 - Can you share with our listeners why you choose to support our association?Register for California MBA’s Legal Issues and Regulatory Compliance Conference: https://lirc24.events.cmba.com/ To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Michael Snelling, Vice President and Danny Gemma, Vice President, HUB International ServicesEpisode discussion timestamps:1:41 - Let’s hear how you each got into this business 2:57 - HUB’s services are not isolated to the mortgage industry, but that’s vertical. Can you share a little information with our listeners about HUB in general? 4:39 - Cyber security continues to be top of mind for lenders and the hackers just seem to be increasing in sophistication of their crimes. What role does HUB play in keeping lenders safe in these circumstances? 6:19 - Can you share some of the top areas where lenders may think they’re covered adequately as far as their policies and procedures on fighting cyber-attacks, but they’re really falling short? 9:36 - In addition to the ever so popular Cyber liability related conversations, is there anything else on the ‘insurance front’ that has been an emerging topic? 11:36 - Can you share with our listeners why you support the California MBA?Register for California MBA’s Legal Issues and Regulatory Compliance Conference:  https://lirc24.events.cmba.com/ To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Mitch Kider, Managing Partner, Weiner Brodsky Kider, PCEpisode discussion timestamps:1:39 - We are fresh off the presidential election. Given the outcome, what regulatory impact should lenders expect?5:40 - Artificial Intelligence is top of mind for everyone, including legislators and regulators. What advice are you giving lenders as to the use of AI in their operations?8:30 - What should lenders be thinking about relative to fair lending compliance in this market?12:01 - What advice would you give to someone just entering into this business?14:45 - You’ve been a big supporter of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you’re such a big supporter?Register for California MBA’s Legal Issues and Regulatory Compliance Conference: https://lirc24.events.cmba.com/ To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Kris D. Kully, Partner, Mayer BrownEpisode discussion timestamps: 1:30 - Tell us about your journey to the legal side of mortgage banking.4:23 - You advise clients on a wide range of federal and state regulatory compliance issues. What are some of the latest fair lending issues lenders should be aware of?8:59 - What would you say lenders should be aware of as far as priorities for the CFPB going into 2025?11:38 - Lenders are still navigating a tough origination market. How do you help clients find innovative ways to provide mortgage options?13:48 - We greatly appreciate Mayer Brown’s sponsorship for our upcoming Legal Issues and Regulatory Compliance Conference. Can you share with our listeners why you choose to participate and volunteer for our organization?Register for California MBA’s Legal Issues and Regulatory Compliance Conference: https://lirc24.events.cmba.com/ To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome David Shirk, Managing Member, Shirk Law PLLCEpisode discussion timestamps: 1:38 - Tell us how you got into legal representation for the mortgage business.4:56 - What are some of the issues you’re seeing in the market on this these days?7:25 - How has the NAR settlement impacted real estate agent employment considerations?10:27 - How does your firm set themselves apart from other law firms?13:52 - Can you share with our listeners why your firm supports the California MBA?Register for California MBA’s Legal Issues and Regulatory Compliance Conference: https://lirc24.events.cmba.com/ To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Richard J. Andreano, Jr., Partner, Ballard SpahrEpisode discussion timestamps: 1:36 - What are some of the latest fair lending issues lenders should be aware of?6:11 - What advice would you give lenders to strengthen their fair lending policies?9:42 - Earlier this year the CFPB finalized a nonbank enforcement order registry. What should our industry members who are subject to a covered order be doing to prepare?13:49 - I see that your firm is merging with Lane Powell.  How does that strengthen Ballard Spahr?16:15 - Can you share with our listeners why you choose to participate and volunteer for our organization? To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Deb Dubois, President, MBA Opens Doors Foundation Episode discussion timestamps: 1:59 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry, but you’re like me, we didn’t have a background in mortgage! Tell us how you came to become President of MBA Opens Doors.4:45 - MBA Opens Doors, give us an overview of what services the foundation provides.9:14 - Can you give our listeners an idea of the impact the foundation has on these families?15:50 - Fundraising is a constant need for non-profits. How can companies support MBA Opens Doors, aside from just writing a check?23:29 - What MBA Opens Doors events should people know about at the upcoming MBA Annual event? Donate to MBA Opens Doors: https://give.mbaopensdoors.org/give/177793/#!/donation/checkout To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome John Walsh, CEO, LERETAEpisode discussion timestamps: 1:33 - I always like to get started with a little background, so tell us how you got into the mortgage business.2:24 - Rising taxes and interest rates have been in the news a lot, what impact is this having on LERETA clients and their customers?3:43 - Earlier this year we saw an interesting survey come out of LERETA about borrower’s knowledge and understanding of escrow, what prompted you to do this survey, and what did you learn?7:14 - I have seen LERETA over the years be very proactive about their preparation for Q4 tax processing, can you tell me more about the approach your team takes to make this as smooth as possible for your clients?9:35 - John, LERETA became a member of the California MBA this year and we greatly appreciate your support. Can you share with our listeners why the company supports the California MBA?To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Carol Ng, Managing Director, Derivative LogicEpisode discussion timestamps: I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry.  Tell us how you got into this business.You have been with Derivative Logic since January 2023, tell us a little about the company and its services.We were thrilled to have you join us as a speaker at our 2024 Western States CREF Conference where you joined industry leaders discussing today’s market.  What are you advising as far as hedging strategies for hedging fixed rate and floating rate loans?How does Derivative Logic help lenders and borrowers in a market like this?In addition to having an impressive resume, I recently learned that you are also trained as a search and rescue volunteer!  What prompted you to pursue that?Derivative Logic has been a member of the California MBA for years and a big supporter of our annual Western States CREF Conference!  Can you share with us why the company supports our organization?To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Elizabeth Burnett, Managing Director, Loan Servicing, Slatt CapitalEpisode discussion timestamps:1:41 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business.3:25 - You have earned your CCMS (Commercial Certified Mortgage Servicer) designation through the national MBA and you’ve served as a course instructor and oral exam panel member for the designation classes. What can you share with listeners about the importance of professional designations?5:55 - You also earned the MBA Opens Doors Foundation Spirit Award this year, which recognizes people for their efforts to support that wonderful non-profit. Tell us about the MBA CCMS Philanthropic Committee. To learn more or donate visit: https://give.mbaopensdoors.org/campaign/ccms-philanthropic-committee/c4870558:57 - Shifting to today’s commercial real estate market, what are some of the challenges or trends loan servicers have seen?12:39 - Artificial Intelligence is a hot topic these days – do you see a role for AI in loan servicing?13:57 - How is California’s insurance crisis impacting commercial loan servicing?17:25 - Slatt Capital has been a member of the California MBA for years AND Barry Slatt was a Board member and helped launch the Western States CREF Conference! Can you share with us why Slatt Capital supports our organization?To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Adam Chaudhary President, FundingShieldQuestions: How did you get into the mortgage industry? It seems like the more we do to protect ourselves and our companies from fraud, there is always a new scheme out there. Tell us about what FundingShield does to protect lenders. What are some of the key findings from your recent fraud report? Lenders are focused on efficiency, risk and cost reduction, how is FundingShield delivering on these metrics to drive ROIs for clients ?FundingShield has been a tremendous supporter of the California MBA over the years including your President’s Council sponsorship in 2024, thank you so much for your support. Can you share with our listeners why you choose to support the California MBA? Check out FundingShield’s latest fraud report here: https://www.fundingshield.com/fundingshield-q2-2024-fraud-analytics-with-commentary-from-fundingshields-ceo-ike-suri/ To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Nicollette Chapman, SVP, Mortgage Division, Zonda.1:31 - I always like to get started with a little background, so tell us how you got into the mortgage business.4:07 - Zonda focuses on developing builder business for residential lenders, how’s the health of the new home sale market in CA and how does that compare nationwide?6:18 - What type of technology does Zonda use to provide services to the industry?8:11 - How do lenders get their foot in the door with homebuilders?10:25 - What are some of the best CA markets for new home sales and builder business?11:32 - Zonda recently joined the California MBA, thank you for your support. Can you share why Zonda decided to become a member?To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Skye Laudari, CEO, Crib Equity1:43 - Skye, welcome, I always like to get started with a little background on my guests.  Tell us how you got into the mortgage industry. 4:36 - I am fascinated by the concept of Crib Equity.  Tell us about the company? 8:37 - In a state like California, down payment assistant programs are so important to helping people achieve the American dream of homeownership.  Do you find that there is still a lack of understanding of all the programs that are available? 11:01 - You’ve had a long career, what advice would you give someone just starting out in the mortgage industry? 14:05 - Crib Equity has recently become a member of the California MBA, thank you for your support.  Can you share why the company chooses to support the California MBA?To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Connect with Daniel Ceniceros, CEO, Connect Media and Gary Bechtel, CEO, Red Oak Capital Holding by The California MBA

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Greg Vacura, President, Agile Trading Technologies.1:36 - Greg, you’ve been a guest on Connect in the past, welcome back. How has the first half of 2024 gone for Agile?5:44 - What are the priority initiatives for Agile this year?9:46 - I see Agile is a sponsor of the CapitalW Collective, can you tell me how you became engaged with that organization?11:37 - I know that no one has a crystal ball, but what are your thoughts on the rate environment going into 2025?14:27 - Greg, Agile is a sponsor for our big CAMPAC Golf Tournament being held today, Monday, August 19th to kick off our Western Secondary Market Conference 2024! Can you share with our listeners why Agile chooses to support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Serene Vernon, President and Greg Armstrong, Chief Operating Officer, LoanStream Mortgage.1. I always like to get started with a little background, so tell us how you each got into the mortgage business.2. Recently LoanStream was recognized as a top Non-QM lender - what separates LoanStream from other Non-QM lenders?3. The market has been difficult for many lenders, as a wholesale lender you can see clients trying to navigate the market - how does LoanStream assist them in expanding their market?4. You’ve both had successful careers in the mortgage industry. What advice would you give someone who’s just starting out?5. LoanStream is a member of the California MBA and a sponsor for our upcoming Western Secondary Market Conference. Can you share with our listeners why the company supports the California MBA?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Kim Nichols, Chief TPO Production Officer, PennyMac and Nick Pabarcus, Sales Director, Logan Finance You two are Co-Chairs for this year’s big Western Secondary Market Conference happening at our new location, Terranea in Rancho Palos Verdes. What can you share with our listeners about the new venue?What are some of the agenda highlights attendees can look forward to this year?I think it’s important for the industry to understand that the proceeds from this and all our conferences are essentially invested right back into the industry in the form of advocacy. Do you find that many folks miss that connection?Not only are you both putting a tremendous amount of time and effort into our signature event for residential lenders, but you’re both also on our Board of Directors. Can you share with our listeners why it’s important to support the California MBA?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Tom Wight, VP Mortgage Banking, KeyBank. 1:42 - I always like to get started with a little background, so tell us how you got into the commercial mortgage business.3:17 - You moved from a mortgage bank, Northmarq, to a depository bank last year. How was the adjustment to being at a depository bank?6:47 - What are the top priorities for KeyBank for the balance of the year?8:21 - You’ve had over a decade in this business now. What advice would you give someone just starting their career in commercial real estate finance?12:10 You are not only a Board member for the California MBA, but also serving as Chair for this year’s Western States CREF Conference.  Can you share with our listeners some of the hot topics we’ll be covering this year at the Western States CREF Conference?12:38 - As we mentioned, you’re on our Board and serve in that volunteer capacity, KeyBank is a member of our association. Can you share with our listeners why the company supports the California MBA?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Michelle Richardson, CMB, AMP, CTP // SVP, Chief Financial Officer, Plaza Home Mortgage. 1:24 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business.3:40 - I am so impressed with the number of industry designations you’ve earned, how have those classes supported your career growth?5:03 - We’re still in the midst of a tough cycle for originators. How can a company be competitive in a purchase market like this?5:46 - How does Plaza Home Mortgage set themselves apart from competitors?6:34 - How is California’s Insurance crisis impacting your business?9:06 - What advice would you give a young mortgage professional just starting out?10:26 - Plaza Home Mortgage is a member of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful. And Mike Fontaine currently sits on our Board of Directors. Can you share with us why Plaza chooses to support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Valerie Ausband, SVP, National Field Sales & Strategic Accounts, Arch MI 1:29 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry.  Tell us how you got into this business.3:08 - You were named Women of Influence by HousingWire in 2017 and 2018. How did you react when you got that news?5:21 - The last 12-15 months have been rough for the mortgage industry. How does Arch MI help lenders in a market such as this?9:36 - What are the top priorities for Arch MI for the balance of this year?10:46 - You have a successful career in this industry, what advice would you give a young mortgage professional just starting out?13:06 - Arch MI is a member of the California MBA, and for the past several years also a President’s Council Sponsor, for which I’m always grateful.  Can you share with us why Arch chooses to support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Tom Davis, Chief Sales Officer, Deephaven Mortgage. 1:24 - I always like to get started with a little background, so tell us how you got into the mortgage business.3:54 - Why is Non-QM important in today’s market? What are the opportunities with Non-QM?11:11 - What are the top priorities for Deephaven for the balance of the year?14:33 - Tell me about Deephaven’s delivery options (delegated and non-delegated)?16:34 - Deephaven is a member of the California MBA and a sponsor for our upcoming Western Secondary Market Conference. Can you share with our listeners why the company supports the California MBA?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Sal Miosi, President and COO, MGIC. 1:49 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business.2:40 - It is not common to see someone at one company for as long as you’ve been with MGIC – what a great story. Corporate culture must have had a lot to do with your longevity at the company. Tell us a little about MGIC’s corporate culture5:58 - You recently won the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Alumni Association award for outstanding achievements in technology, operations, marketing and strategy. How did you react when you heard of this recognition?7:42 - MGIC provides a wide range of resources for lenders and borrowers. June was National Homeownership Month – how is MGIC helping to provide access to sustainable homeownership?11:19 - What are the primary areas of focus for MGIC for the balance of 2024?14:22 - MGIC has been a member of the California MBA for years, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you choose to support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Tai Christensen, President, Arrive Home 1:32 - Tai welcome, I always like to get started with a little background on my guests. Tell us how you got into the mortgage industry. 4:47 - Congratulations on moving to the role of President last year at Arrive Home. What are some of the company’s priorities for the balance of 2024? 8:31 - In a state like California, down payment assistant programs are so important to helping people achieve the American dream of homeownership. Do you find that there is still a lack of understanding of all the down payment assistant programs that are available? 11:37 - Tai, thank you for serving as Chair for the California MBA’s DE&I Committee, we’re grateful for your leadership. We’re moving to on-demand content to hopefully have a greater reach for our presentations. What can you share with our listeners about the information the DE&I Committee provides? 13:41 - Arrive Home is a member of the California MBA and you’re a leader for one of our major committees, can you share why the company chooses to support the California MBA?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Chris Hilliard, CEO and Founder, Winnow 1:38 - Chris welcome, I always like to start with a little background, how did you get into the mortgage industry? 2:43 - Tell us about starting Winnow Solutions with my good friend Clint Rockwell. 5:57 - Chris, thank you for being a sponsor at our recent Mortgage Innovators Conference, we were very pleased with that event overall.  Of course, the use of AI was a huge topic.  What can you share about Winnow AI? 9:23 - You’ve always kept your finger on the pulse of legislative and regulatory updates, what is top of mind for regulators right now? 13:20 - You were recently at our Legislative Day serving as one of our Team Leaders for our Capitol visits (thank you so much for your leadership and support!) and the MBA’s National Advocacy Conference.  Can you share with our listeners why you prioritize advocacy for our industry?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Kevin Peranio, Chief Lending Officer, PRMG 1:39 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business.3:20 - You’ve had a long history in the mortgage industry, 2023 was a tough year for originators. How can a company be competitive in a purchase market like this?5:58 - You have an incredible following in this industry KP! Including your weekly LinkedIn market update – how did that get started?11:13 - Can you share some of the best highlights from our 2024 Mortgage Innovators Conference?14:13 - California MBA has launched a PR campaign to highlight the impacts of our insurance crisis. How can the industry support our efforts?17:20 - Can you share with us why you and PRMG choose to support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Jeff Flory, CMB, AMP, CEO, QC Ally 1:26 - Jeff, thank you for being back on Connect – always a pleasure to catch up with you. We’re about halfway through 2024, what’s the word you’re hearing from your clients about how they’re feeling about the balance of the year? 6:25 - QC Ally offers a wide range of services for mortgage quality. How are you using AI to provide services to your clients? 9:52 - You’ve always kept your finger on the pulse of legislative and regulatory updates, what is top of mind for regulators right now? 15:51 - You were recently at our Legislative Day serving as one of our Team Leaders for our Capitol visits (thank you so much for your leadership and support!) and the MBA’s National Advocacy Conference. Can you share with our listeners why you prioritize advocacy for our industry?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Michael Pearson, SVP Business Development, A&D Mortgage1:41 - I always like to get started with a little background, so tell us how you got into the mortgage business.3:05 - How does A&D Technologies help individuals who prefer traditional methods to increase their earnings?5:08 - What steps did A&D Mortgage take to develop something new and beneficial for your partners, like AIM?6:24 - How does your company work on creating long-term partnerships?7:34 - A&D Mortgage is a proud member of the California MBA, but your company head office is based in Florida. Why did you decide to support California MBA through membership?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Joe Dahleen, Managing Director of Strategy and Sales, Silverwork Solutions1:48 - I always like to get started with a little background, so tell us how you got into the mortgage business.4:14 - Artificial intelligence is used in an ever-increasing capacity in this industry and is top of mind for all lenders. What would you say is AI’s most effective aspect for the mortgage industry?5:36 - The field of AI in general is met with such mixed reviews. The unimaginable potential and the fear of replacing humans! What are your thoughts on the future of AI in general?7:33 - Tell me about Silverworks priorities in 2024?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Adam Carmel, Founder & CEO, Polly1:48 - I always like to get started with our journeys into the industry. I also love a great entrepreneurial story. Can you share how you got into mortgage and why you decided to start Polly?5:08 - You've had a great career in financial services. What advice would you give a young mortgage professional just starting out, specifically as it relates to technology or the lender/vendor paradigm? 8:16 - How else is Polly positioned to help lenders succeed in a market such as this? 10:42 - Polly is a member of the California MBA and a sponsor for our Mortgage Innovators Conference happening this week – thank you so much for your support! Can you share with us why you choose to support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Phil Rasori, Chief Operating Officer, Mortgage Capital Trading (MCT)1:30 - You’ve had a long history in the mortgage industry, We’re coming off a tough year for originators. How can a company be competitive in a purchase market?5:01 - I hear from my members that we could be seeing some improvement in the market, what is your outlook for the balance of the year?7:33 - Tell me about the latest technology solutions MCT is offering?12:14 - MCT has been a long-time supporter of the California MBA, for which we’re very grateful. Can you share with our listeners why you choose to support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Aaron Samples, Chief Revenue Officer, Logan Finance Corporation1:22 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry.  Tell us how you got into this business.2:52 - You’ve had a long history in the mortgage industry, We’re coming off of a tough year for originators. How can a company be competitive in a purchase market like this? How does Logan Finance set themselves apart from competitors?9:05 - What are some of the opportunities in today’s market for the non-QM lending space?12:54 - Being a leader during hot markets is much different than challenging markets, like we’re in today. What are some of the leadership values that can help companies navigate the tough times?16:20 - You’ve had a successful career in financial services, what advice would you give a young mortgage professional just starting out?18:30 - Logan Finance is a member of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you choose to support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Boaz Reisman, AI and Machine Learning Expert, Dark Matter Technologies1:24 - I always like to get started with a little background, so tell us how you got into the mortgage business.4:13 - Artificial intelligence is used in an ever-increasing capacity in this industry and is top of mind for all lenders. What would you say is AI’s most effective aspect for the mortgage industry?6:50 - The field of AI in general is met with such mixed reviews. The unimaginable potential and the fear of replacing humans! What are your thoughts on the future of AI in general?13:42 - Dark Matter is a fascinating company, tell us about the company’s priorities in 2024?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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This is a special episode with the two hosts of California MBA's 2024 Mortgage Innovators Conference. Join Susan as she is joined by Kevin Peranio, PRMG and Paul Gigliotti, PJ Operations to talk about the exciting event in May.To learn more about the conference and to register, visit mortgageinnovators.com/conference

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Erin Wester, VP, Product Management, Optimal Blue1:35 - I always like to get started with a little background, so tell us how you got into the mortgage business.3:21 - As lenders are coming off an incredibly challenging year, 2023, what are the top solutions Optimal Blue is offering to help lenders be successful in this market?9:13 - You were named one of “The Most Powerful Women in Fintech” in 2023 by PROGRESS in Lending Association, how did you react when you heard the news?10:09 - Optimal Blue is a member of the California MBA, for which we are always grateful and the company has supported many of our events and initiatives over the years. Can you share why Optimal Blue is such a big supporter?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Holly Neber, CEO, AEI Consultants1:35 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry.  Tell us how you got into this business.3:35 - It is not common to see someone at one company for as long as you’ve been with AEI – what a great story.  Corporate culture must have had a lot to do with your longevity at the company.  Tell us a little about AEI’s corporate culture5:18 - AEI offers a number of services, how has valuation and due diligence changed since the pandemic?7:10 - FHA Radon requirements changed a year ago - how has the industry adapted?9:53 - What is AEI seeing as far as office building valuation trends?11:03 - Being a leader during hot markets is much different than challenging markets, like we’re in today. What are some of the leadership values that can help companies navigate the tough times?13:37 - AEI Consultants has been a member of the California MBA for years AND have consistently sponsored our big Western States CREF Conference, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you choose to support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Rekha Siddani, EVP, National Credit Operations, Amerihome1:22 - I always like to get started with a little background, so tell us how you got into the mortgage business.3:59 - Rekha you’ve had a long history in the mortgage business, what is your outlook on the balance of 2024 for this industry?5:50 - What do you find to be the biggest challenge today for a mortgage banks underwriting and appraisal operations?8:39 - Cyber security continues to be a top priority for anyone in business. What advice would you give to lenders about prioritizing their data and information?11:07 - You’ve been at Amerihome for many years, what are the priorities for that company in 2024?13:12 - You’ve recently received the MBA’s Path to Diversity Scholarship, congratulations! Tell us more about that programTo learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Rajan Nair, CEO, Indecomm1:52 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business.4:59 - The mortgage industry seems ripe for automation, but I still talk to some lenders who are reluctant to use it. What do you think is the reason for the reluctance and how do you help them get through it?11:55 - Tell me more about your Genius suite of automation products and the journey that you had to take to get here.19:04 - Being a leader during hot markets is much different than challenging markets, like we’re in today. What are some of the leadership values that can help companies navigate the tough times?23:57 - Indecomm is a member of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you choose to support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Pamela Hamrick, President, Incenter Diligence Solutions1:27 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business.2:36 - You’ve had a long history in the mortgage industry, We’re coming off a tough year for originators. How can a company be competitive in a purchase market?3:38 - How does Incenter Diligence Solutions help lenders in a market such as this?6:37 - How has California’s insurance crisis impacted risk management for lenders?9:28 - What are the top priorities for Incenter Diligence Solutions this year?11:58 - You’ve had a long career in financial services, what advice would you give a young mortgage professional just starting out?14:44 - Incenter Diligence Solutions is a member of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you choose to support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Chad Ruggles, SVP Head of Vylla Home, brokerage arm of Carrington Mortgage Services1:29 - I always like to get started with a little background, so tell us how you got into the mortgage business.3:03 - You’ve had a long career in the mortgage industry - what’s your overall take on the residential mortgage market for 2024?5:19 - Vylla Title is part of the Carrington Family of Companies. How was it moving from the mortgage side of the business to leading their brokerage company?7:18 - Cyber security continues to be a top priority for anyone in business. Running your company means you have access to significant personal information. What advice would you give to lenders about prioritizing their data and information?8:49 - How does Vylla Home set themselves apart from their competitors?11:51 - Chad, Vylla Home is not only a member company but a consistent sponsor of our annual CAMPAC Golf Tournament, which we greatly appreciate. Can you share with us why you choose to support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Amit Tyagi, Principal, Gantry1:24 - This year, you’ve been promoted to Principal at Gantry. What does this new role mean to you?3:01 - How did you get your start into the mortgage industry?4:51 - 2023 was tough market for all real estate finance. What asset classes do you see faring better than others in the next 12 months?10:43 - What makes Gantry unique in the industry?14:43 - The real estate finance industry is always looking to increase diversity. How is Gantry attracting young or diverse mortgage professionals to this industry?17:57 - Can you speak to the role of mentors as you have moved through different stages of your career? And what advice would you give a person just starting their career in our industry?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Wes Iseley, Senior Managing Director, Carrington Mortgage ServicesI always like to get started with a little personal background; how did you get into the mortgage industry?We’re at the start of a new year, and interest rates seem to be stabilized.  What are your insights into what you expect for the overall mortgage market in 24?What do you expect will be the priorities for Ginnie Mae this year?In 2022, The Five Star Institute honored you with their Lifetime Achievement Award recognizing your amazing 40-year career!  How did you react when you heard the news?Your company has an incredible charity, the Carrington Charitable Foundation.  Tell us a little about how that non-profit got started and programs it supports.Wes, I have been so honored to work with you as part of our Board of Directors and later this year, you’ll be installed as Chairman of our Board!  Can you talk about why it’s important for the industry to support the California MBA?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Tony Kaufmann Principal, Gantry1:21 - This year, you’ve been promoted to Principal at Gantry. What does this new role mean to you?2:18 - How did you get your start into the mortgage industry?5:22 - 2023 was tough market for all real estate finance. What asset classes do you see faring better than others in the next 12 months?9:37 - What makes Gantry unique in the industry?13:01 - The real estate finance industry is always looking to increase diversity. How is Gantry attracting young or diverse mortgage professionals to this industry?15:36 - Can you speak to the role of mentors as you have moved through different stages of your career?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Brian Devlin, CEO, Arc Home Loans.1:30 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business.2:11 - You’ve had a long history in the mortgage industry, We’re coming off of a tough year for originators. How can a company be competitive in a purchase market like this? How does Arc Home set themselves apart from competitors?3:35 - What are some of the opportunities in today’s market for the non-QM lending space?6:31 - Being a leader during hot markets is much different than challenging markets, like we’re in today. What are some of the leadership values that can help companies navigate the tough times?8:15 - You’ve had a long career in financial services, what advice would you give a young mortgage professional just starting out?11:32 - Arc Home is a member of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you choose to support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Josh Friend, CEO, Insellerate1:49 - Josh, you’ve been a guest on Connect before, welcome back! We’re kicking off a new year – what’s your overall take on the residential mortgage market for 2024?2:46 - I have heard you give a fascinating presentation on artificial intelligence. What should lenders be thinking about this year regarding AI?5:08 - Tell us what’s in store for Insellerate in 20247:20 - Being a leader during hot markets is much different than challenging markets, like we’re emerging from today. What are some of the leadership values that can help companies navigate the tough times?8:52 - We were fortunate to have Tristan Friend in our Future Leaders Program in 2023, thank you for supporting that program. What was his/your impression of that experience?10:31 - Josh, Insellerate has been a member for years, a President’s Council sponsor for many years also, and we’re just so grateful for your overall support. Can you share with us why you choose to support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Chris Robbins and Joe Euphrat, Managing Principals, GreenRock.Topics of discussion: I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the mortgage/C-PACE industry?I love a good entrepreneurial story, tell us about starting GreenRock Tell us about the charitable partners you’ve chosen (City of Hope and Little Wishes)We’re at the start of a new year, any insights into what you expect for the overall commercial real estate market in 24?How has C-PACE financing changed in the past decade? What do you see for the coming 12-24 months?What are you seeing in the industry from a conversion standpoint (office to some other use, etc.)? Chris and Joe, we are grateful for the support you’ve shown to the California MBA over the years through GreenRock and other companies. Can you talk about why it’s important for the CRE industry to support the California MBA?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome David Doyle, Sales and Business Development, Sagent1:29 - Introduce yourself and share a little about your role at Sagent?2:31 - What initially got you into lending and financial services, and how has the space changed over the years?7:05 - What's in store for the housing market as we look ahead to 2024? What are the biggest headwinds / opportunities?10:50 - How can lenders help homebuyers navigate home affordability?12:50 - Any technology trends that stand out to you right now, especially as we move into the new year?16:17 - When it comes to recruitment and retention, what do lenders, servicers, and their fintech partners need to consider to attract the right individuals to their companies?18:48 - Sagent had a participant in our 2023 Future Leaders Program, what were your thoughts on that program?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Ed Gill, Partner, BridgeCounsel StrategiesTopics of Discussion:1:37 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into the mortgage industry2:57 - Describe what it was like moving from the private sector in the role of a state regulator?7:58 - As a former regulator, what advice can you give lenders as to the best way to communicate with your state regulator?11:00 - You started BridgeCounsel with Manny Alvarez, former DFPI Commissioner this year, What are the top priorities you’re hearing from clients?14:52 - What’s does BridgeCounsel have planned for 2024?17:08 - Ed, your company became a member of the California MBA this year and you and I will be on stage together at our Legal Issues & Regulatory Compliance Conference next week, and I truly appreciate your support. To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Jehan Patterson, Counsel, Debevoise & PlimptonTopics of Discussion:1:44 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into legal representation for financial services.5:35 - You have recently joined the Board of Directors of the DC Bar Foundation - how did you react when you got that news? Tell us a little bit about the Foundation6:39 - You were an Enforcement Attorney at the CFPB, what were some of the top compliance areas that seemed to trend the most?9:01 - What are the legal trends that mortgage lenders should be paying attention to right now?12:08 - You will be speaking at our Legal Issues & Regulatory Compliance conference that’s coming up December 11 – 12 in Irvine. Can you give us a sneak peek at what you’ll be covering?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Jeff Flory, CMB, AMP, CEO, QCAllyTopics of Discussion:1:26 - Jeff, I always like to start by finding out how people got into this industry, so tell us your story. 4:14 - Congratulations on your professional designations – both CMB and AMP, that’s impressive. What can you share with our listeners about what you experienced while going through those programs? 8:39 - We’ve known each other since you were at First American and I’ve always valued working with you. What are some of the top QC issues lenders should be focusing on right now? 12:09 - Another congratulations on becoming the CEO of QCAlly! What’s in store for the company in 2024? 16:24 - Jeff, you’ve been a fantastic and active member of the California MBA. I especially appreciate your role in our legislative efforts over the years and encouraging others to pay attention to what’s happening from a legislative perspective. Can you share why you are a supporter of the California MBA?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Anoush Garakani, Partner, Alston & BirdTopics of Discussion:1:40 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry.  Tell us how you got into legal representation for financial services.5:59 - You were recognized in 2021 and 2022 edition of “The Best Lawyers in America” on the “Ones to Watch” list for your work in Corporate Governance and Compliance Law.  What did that recognition mean to you?7:01 - 2023 is certainly the toughest market we’ve seen in years.  What do you advise lenders as the most important thing to monitor from a compliance perspective right now?10:19 - Can you give us a little insight as to what you might be covering at our annual Legal Issues & Regulatory Compliance Conference?13:45 - You’ve been a big supporter of the California MBA, can you share with us why you’re such a big supporter?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Michael Pearson, SVP Business Development, A&D MortgageTopics of Discussion:1:26 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business.2:39 - 2023 is definitely a tough year for originators. How can a company be competitive in a purchase market like this?How does A&D set themselves apart from competitors?4:30 - What are some of the opportunities in today’s market for the non-QM lending space?6:40 - How do you work with brokers to help combat any current fears that clients may have about whether this is the right time to buy a home?8:26 - You’ve had a long career in financial services, what advice would you give a young mortgage professional just starting out?10:12 - A&D Mortgage is a big supporter of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why the company supports us?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Melissa Grindel, EVP/Head of Compliance, ActiveComplyTopics of Discussion:1:44 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry.  Tell us how you got into compliance in the mortgage industry3:48 - With so much pressure on loan officers this year, I’m sure they’re getting “creative” with their marketing!  What are the top issues lenders should be monitoring as far as social media compliance with their LOs?6:10 - How does ActiveComply help LOs make the most of their social media campaigns while staying compliant?8:31 - 2023 has certainly been a challenging year, but ActiveComply is still growing!  How do you find the right fit for your corporate culture?10:42 - With the market downturn this year, have you seen more lenders look to consultants to help support their compliance teams to stay ahead of the ever-changing rules across the country?12:42 - 2024 is fast approaching, can you share with us what’s next for ActiveComply?14:14 - ActiveComply had been a big supporter of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful.  Can you share with us why you’re such a big supporter?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Josh Friend, CEO & Founder, InsellerateTopics of Discussion:1:24 - Josh, welcome back to Connect! The MBA Annual Convention is this week in Philadelphia – what are you most excited about experiencing while you’re there? 2:31 - You recently presented to our Executive Forum on the topic of Artificial Intelligence and you pretty much blew everyone’s mind! What are the top things lenders should be paying attention to in this area? 5:14 - This is definitely a market where LOs are competing for business and looking for ways to stand out to borrowers. How is Insellerate making it easy for originators to gain market share? 9:37 - Josh, you’re an incredible entrepreneur, and I thank you for having your son in our Future Leaders Program this year! What advice would you give to a young mortgage professional just starting out?13:22 - Insellerate has been a President’s Council sponsor for the California MBA for several years and we’re extremely grateful for that support. Thank you for being a guest on Connect!To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Discover the fascinating dialogue between some of the most influential players in the mortgage industry as they explore the progress of affordable housing and what further steps must be taken in the future. This was all captured live at the 2023 Western Secondary Market Conference, brought to you by the California MBA.Get an inside look at this premier event and find out more about the 2024 conference details by visiting westernsecondary.com now!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Dawar Alimi Founder/CEO, Lender PriceTopics of Discussion:2:07 - How has a PPE influenced the way mortgage lenders approach pricing and product eligibility in today’s market? 4:26 - Could you share your insights on how you perceive the influence of AI on the mortgage industry? 6:39 - How do you view the interplay between AI advancements, regulatory frameworks, and compliance requirements, effect on the mortgage industry? 7:54 - How is Lender Price utilizing AI within the mortgage industry, and to what extent do you expect other industry players to adopt similar AI implementations in the near future? 9:31 - Do you believe that AI has the potential to replace human roles within the mortgage industry?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Robin Wright, Managing Partner, Wright Finlay & Zak, LLPTopics of Discussion:1:39 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into legal representation for financial services.3:47 - I was very pleased to learn that you have been chosen as one of the five finalists to win a 2023 Women in Housing Leadership Award in the category of Diverse Ownership at the 20th Annual Five Star Conference in Dallas in September! Congratulations – how did you react when you got that news?5:58 - As you know, the California MBA has an active Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee. Your firm is also active in several national associations promoting diversity. How has your involvement on those issues benefited your firm?9:25 - What are the legal trends that mortgage lenders should be paying attention to right now?13:17 - You’ve been a big supporter of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you’re such a big supporter?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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This week, Josh Friend and Insellerate are joining us on Connect to reveal their expert perspectives on the industry and market trends. Tune in to gain valuable insights and stay ahead of the curve!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Raymond Snytsheuvel, Partner, Garris HornTopics of Discussion:2:02 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into legal representation and compliance for financial services.3:39 - You have a unique perspective when it comes to legal representation in this industry because you’ve been a loan officer, underwriter, internal auditor. How has that background helped you in your legal career?5:26 - You have had a long, successful career in this industry, and you’ve seen various cycles. What do you feel are the highest priorities for state and federal regulators right now?8:55 - With the market downturn this year, have you seen more lenders look to consultants to help support their compliance teams to stay ahead of the ever-changing rules across the country?10:44 - Onto a topic outside of the mortgage industry – CAMPING! You and I share a love of camping. What’s your favorite camp spot?13:11 - You’ve been a big supporter of the California MBA for many years, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you’re such a big supporter?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Tom Gilliland, Director, JLL Capital Markets

Topics of Discussion:

1:36 - I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the mortgage industry?

6:07 - 2023 is a tough market for all real estate finance. What asset classes do you see fairing better than others in the next 12 months?

10:12 - The real estate finance industry is always looking to increase diversity. How is JLL attracting young or diverse mortgage professionals to this industry?

13:40 - The use of technology in the CRE space seems to be really taking off. What are your thoughts on how the industry is adapting to more technology?

16:42 - Can you speak to the role of mentors as you have moved through different stages of your career? And what advice would you give a person just starting their career in our industry?

20:28 - Tom, we are grateful that you became a member of our Board of Directors for the California MBA this year! We’ve also got our big Western States CREF Conference happening next week. Can you talk about why it’s important for the CRE industry to support the California MBA?

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Darshana Shetty, VP, Head of Product, Truv

Topics of Discussion:

1:27 - Darshana, thank you for joining us, tell us a little about your background and how you got started at Truv.

3:22 - What are some of the use-cases that Truv solves for?

4:52 - 2023 is the most challenging year lenders have had for some time. How is Truv working with customers to meet the challenges of tyouoday’s market?

8:22 - How does Truv set themselves apart from their competitors?

9:32 - Why does Truv choose to support an organization like ours?

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Josh Friend, CEO/Founder, Insellerate.

Topics of Discussion:

1:51 - Let’s do a mid-year check in – how do you see the market right now?

4:43 - I see your posts on tips on how sometimes little things that people can do to stay motivated through tough times. Do you get a lot of feedback on those?

5:32 - This is definitely a market where LOs are competing for business and looking for ways to stand out to borrowers. How is Insellerate making it easy for originators to gain market share?

7:54 - Josh, I recently saw your post about Chat GPT and I believe you’re hosting a webinar on this subject tomorrow. Can you give us a little preview of what you’ll share.

10:50 - You’ve not only been a mortgage banker but you also had experience working in politics – I think you and I clicked on that from the first time we met! Of course advocacy is the cornerstone of the California MBA. Can you share with our listeners why its important for everyone in the industry to advocacy efforts at both the state and federal levels?

To register for the Chat GPT webinar Josh and Susan mentioned details are below: Date: August 22nd, 11:00 AM PST - Register NOW: https://lnkd.in/g32Rdv9N

To learn more about the Mortgage Action Alliance, visit: https://www.mba.org/advocacy-and-policy/mortgage-action-alliance-maa

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Daniel Ceniceros, Founder & CEO, Connect Commercial Real Estate

Topics of Discussion:

2:40 - How did you get into the commercial real estate industry?

4:45 - What motivated you to start Connect CRE?

7:24 - What advice would you give to a young mortgage professional just starting out?

10:45 - What do you think is the “next big thing” in CRE technology?

13:53 - What innovative marketing techniques should people be thinking about to get their name out there?

18:35 - Why is our Western States CREF event a priority for your company?

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Chris King, SVP, Business Development, Mr. Cooper

Topics of Discussion:

1:32 - What is top of mind for Mr. Cooper?

6:26 - What solutions are you offering to your clients to help them maneuver through this current market cycle?

10:05 - How has the acquisition of Home Point Capital gone for the company?

11:31 - We’re excited to welcome you as a speaker at our Western Secondary Market Conference next month. Can you give us a preview of some the highlights you’ll address regarding trends in servicing?

14:20 - Mr. Cooper has been a long time supporter of the California MBA, what can you share with listeners about the importance of supporting the advocacy efforts of this state association?

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Rob Chrane, Founder & CEO, Down Payment Resource

Topics of Discussion:

1:41 - Tell us a little about your background and starting Down Payment Resource

5:04 - What advice would give to a young entrepreneur?

8:17 - 2023 is a tough market for sure. Has there has been a lot of interest in the services of your company this year – have you seen a big increase?

10:05 - How many DPA programs are available in CA? Why do some lenders shy away from these?

13:24 - DPR has been named “Most Innovative New Technology” by HousingWire Tech 100 and Inman. How did that recognition make you feel?

16:29 - You're a volunteer for the MBA Convergence program in Memphis and Columbus as well as a volunteer for the Black Homeownership Collaborative. Tell us a little about those efforts.

17:50 - Down Payment Resource recently became a member of the California MBA. Can you share with our listeners why you support our association?

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Danny Garcia-Velez, Head of Business Development and Marketing - MGIC

Topics of Discussion:

1:41 - Danny, thank you for joining us, tell us a little about your background and how you got started in the mortgage business

9:26 You were in the MBA’s Future Leaders Program in 2019. How has that experience impacted your career?

11:52 - 2023 is the most challenging year lenders have had for some time. How is MGIC working with their clients as they navigate this market?

14:49 - Tell us more about MGICs Down Payment Connect Tool. Seems like that is a fantastic product for lenders in this market!

16:46 - MGIC is a big supporter of the California MBA and we greatly appreciate that support! Why does the company choose to support an organization like ours?

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Keith D. Murray, MAI, President/CEO, PCV Murcor

Topics of Discussion:

1:53 - Keith, thank you for joining us, tell us a little about your background and starting PCV Murcor

4:27 - I love stories about great entrepreneurs such as you. What advice would give to a young entrepreneur?

5:57 - 2023 is a challenging year for mortgage lending, what are your clients sharing with you about how they’re navigating this market?

6:48 - PCV Murcor is our DE&I Committee sponsor in 2023, thank you so much for that support. Can you share with our listeners why this particular sponsorship was important for you?

8:02 - Your company has its own non-profit, Seeds of Hope. What is the mission of that non-profit?

9:27 - PCV Murcor joined the California MBA last year, thank you for your support through membership. Can you share with our listeners why you chose our association?

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Gordon Gerson, Managing Principal, Gerson Law Firm

Topics of Discussion:

2:03 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into the mortgage business.

8:45 - With higher interest rates than we’ve seen in years and inflation, what property types do you see fairing well in 2023 as far as commercial real estate goes?

11:18 - Looking at your career, you’ve been honored with some impressive awards including “Best Lawyers in America” and “Southern California Super Lawyers”, etc. How do you feel about that type of continuous recognition to be outstanding in your field?

13:30 - You’ve had a long career in commercial real estate finance, what advice would you give to someone just starting out in this business?

19:48 - You’ve been a big supporter of the California MBA and our Western States CREF Conference, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you’re such a big supporter of California MBA?

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Steve Kolker – EVP, National Correspondent Sales, AmeriHome Mortgage

Topics of Discussion:

1:49 - I always like to start by sharing how someone got into the mortgage business. Tell us how you got started?

4:58 - Being a leader during hot markets is much different than challenging markets, like we’re in today. What are some of the leadership values that can help companies in a year like this?

7:57 - You’ve had a long career in financial services, what advice would you give a young mortgage professional just starting out?

11:20 - You’re a member of the Mortgage Action Alliance (MAA) which is a grassroots advocacy tool used at the national level but one that we also use at the California MBA to get the word about important legislation we’re working on. Can you share why you feel that’s important to support the Mortgage Action Alliance (MAA)?

15:01 - You have spent a lot of time volunteering as a baseball coach for Little League. What drove you to stay involved?

17:25 - AmeriHome has been a longtime supporter of the California MBA, can you share with our listeners the importance of supporting our association?

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Carrie Nikols, CEO, The Nikols Company, Manager of The Nikols Mortgage Fund

Topics of Discussion:

1:45 - I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the commercial mortgage industry?

3:25 - Interest rates are up in 2023 after a few years of historically low rates. What asset classes do you see faring well over the next 12 months?

5:49 - The Nikols Company is a private fund. How does that structure allow for more flexibility or customization for your clients looking to fund projects?

8:15 - Carrie, you are most certainly a minority when it comes to the demographics of commercial real estate finance. What would you share with other women looking to enter this segment of the market?

10:26 - You’re heavily involved in some local charities. Tell us a little about those.

12:02 - The Nikols Company has been a long-time supporter of our association and sponsor at our Western States CREF Conference. What can you share with our listeners about the importance of supporting the California MBA?

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Nema Daghbandan, Partner, Geraci, LLPTopics of Discussion:1:36 - Nema, welcome! I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into legal representation for financial services.3:21 - The Geraci law firm is always very active with events to educate clients about legal trends. Would you say that’s what separates you from your competitors?4:15 - You and several of your attorneys have been very active with us for many years; we are so grateful for the expertise that your firm brings to our legislative and legal agenda. What do you feel are the most important legal issues lender are facing in 2023?7:56 - I see that your profile also includes you as CEO of Lightning Docs. Tell us a little about that company?11:25 - Geraci LLP’s website states that it is the Nation’s leading private lending law firm, what exactly does the company do for private lenders and how are private lenders different from other lenders?13:02 - You’ve been a big supporter of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you’re such a big supporter?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Jeffrey Tesch, CEO, RCN CapitalTopics of Discussion:1:56 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business.7:02 - 2023 is such a challenging year for lenders, where are people seeing opportunities in the real estate market despite rate increases and ongoing turbulence?10:38 - Being a leader during hot markets is much different than challenging markets, like we’re in today. What are some of the leadership values that can help companies navigate the tough times?14:45 - How have investors been leveraging alternative lending products like non-QM loans and private money to be successful in today’s challenging market?18:55 - You’ve had a long career in financial services, what advice would you give a young mortgage professional just starting out?21:05 - You’ve been a big supporter of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you’re such a big supporter?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Vince Furey, Senior Vice President of Mortgage, MeridianLinkTopics of Discussion:1:37 - Tell us a little about your background and how you got started in the mortgage business 2:53 - I love stories about great entrepreneurs such as yourself and I see you were self-employed at one time. What advice would give to a young entrepreneur? 5:07 - 2023 is the most challenging year lenders have had for some time. How can automation done correctly help reduce costs and improve borrower experience? 8:30 - How does OpenClose (now MeridianLink) set themselves apart from their competitors? 12:44 - MeridianLink is a big supporter of the California MBA and we greatly appreciate that support! Why does the company choose to support an organization like ours?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Kevin Peranio, Chief Lending Officer, PRMGTopics of Discussion:1:37 - I always like to start by sharing how someone got into the mortgage business.  Tell us where you started? 3:45 - Being a leader during hot markets is much different than challenging markets, like we’re in today.  What are some of the leadership values that can help companies in a year like this?5:42 - You’ve had a long career in financial services, what advice would you give a young mortgage professional just starting out? 7:45 - You started in this industry when there was next to no technology.  Now we’re in an era where technology is key for the mortgage industry.  What areas of technology adoption will be the highest priority for your company this year? 10:13 - Kevin, you’ve been to every Mortgage Innovators Conference since our inception in 2019.  What can you share with listeners about the value of that event? 12:46 - You’re also a member of our Board of Directors and have encouraged many companies to become active with the California MBA.  Can you share with our listeners the importance of supporting our association?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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This week, Insellerate is taking the Connect podcast by storm! Tune in to hear Josh Friend, Founder and CEO of Insellerate, and Jon Irvine, Chief Production Officer at Change Home Mortgage, discuss the hottest topics in the mortgage industry, the current market conditions, and so much more. Don't miss out on this great opportunity to get the inside scoop on the industry.https://insellerate.com/

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Kevin Parra, CEO, Plaza Home MortgageTopics of Discussion:1:41 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business.3:24 - You’ve had a long history in the mortgage industry, 2023 is definitely a tough year for originators. How can a company be competitive in a purchase market like this?How does Plaza set themselves apart from competitors?6:05 - Being a leader during hot markets is much different than challenging markets, like we’re in today. What are some of the leadership values that can help companies navigate the tough times?11:13 - Outside of the mortgage space, you’re a big extreme sports fanatic! Tell us about your latest adventure.13:33 - Getting back to the industry, you’ve had a long career in the mortgage industry, what advice would you give a young mortgage professional just starting out?16:20 - You’ve been a member of our Board of Directors, and currently Mike Fontaine sits on our Board – Plaza has always been such big supporter of the California MBA, for which we’re grateful. Can you share with us why you’re such a big supporter?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome back Ben Miller, Co-Founder and CEO, SimpleNexusTopics of Discussion:1:47 - Tell us a little about your background and how you got started in the mortgage business 4:28 - I love stories about great entrepreneurs such as yourself. What advice would give to a young entrepreneur? 10:43 - You were named one of the 40 Most Influential Mortgage Professionals Under 40 Years Old by National Mortgage Professional Magazine in 2019. How did you react to that recognition? 11:48 - 2023 is the most challenging year lenders have had for some time. How can automation done correctly help reduce costs and improve borrower experience? 15:03 - How does SimpleNexus set themselves apart from their competitors?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome back Chuck Iverson, President, Mason-McDuffie MortgageTopics of Discussion:1:48 - 2023 has proven to be a harder year than the mortgage industry has seen in some time, but Mason-McDuffie is growing! How difficult is growth to navigate in this market? 3:25 - Being a leader during hot markets is much different than challenging markets, like we’re in today. What are some of the leadership values that can help companies in a year like this?7:20 - You’ve had a long career in financial services, what advice would you give a young mortgage professional just starting out? 9:17 - You started in this industry when there was next to no technology. Now we’re in an era where technology is key for the mortgage industry. What areas of technology adoption will be the highest priority for your company this year? 11:17 - Chuck, you served as Chair of the Inaugural Mortgage Innovators Conference in 2019. What can you share with listeners about the value of the Mortgage Innovators Conference 2023? 14:50 - You’re also a member of our Board of Directors and have encouraged many companies to become active with the California MBA. Can you share with our listeners the importance of supporting our association?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Bob Noble, SVP of Product and Innovation, TRUETopics of Discussion:1:39 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business.3:32 - 2023 is the most challenging year lenders have had for some time. How can automation done correctly help reduce costs and improve borrower experience?8:07 - The TRUE platform, using artificial intelligence, is cutting edge for lenders. Tell us a little about the company10:27 - How does TRUE set themselves apart from competitors?14:20 - Lastly, I noticed TRUE talks a lot about Lending Intelligence. It’s not a term I’ve heard widely used. Can you talk about this?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Mitch Kider, Managing Partner, Weiner Brodsky Kider, PCTopics of Discussion:1:39 - Mitch, its been a few years since you’ve joined on the Connect Podcast. I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into legal representation for financial services.5:14 - You and I had the chance to chat at the IMB Conference earlier this year, I loved your perspective on this market and your reflection on the past “down markets” you’ve weathered in this industry. Can you share with our listeners your thoughts on what we’re experiencing this year?10:17 - You and several of your attorneys have been very active with us for many years; we are so grateful for the expertise that your firm brings to our legislative and legal agenda. What do you feel is the most important legislative issue we’ll face in 2023?13:33 - We’ve been fortunate to have you speak at our Legal Issues & Regulatory Compliance Conference many times and you always share your expertise in the area of fair lending. What should lenders be thinking about relative to fair lending compliance in this market?18:56 - Outside of your legal career, you’re on the Board for Project HOPE at Johns Hopkins Medicine. Project RESTORE is a collaborative multidisciplinary effort to develop new therapies to treat neuroimmunologic disorders including Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Transverse Myelitis (TM). Tell us a little about Project HOPE.23:31 - You’ve been a big supporter of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you’re such a big supporter?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Christy Bunce, President, New American Funding.Topics of Discussion:1:57 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business. 3:29 - New American Funding has an incredible corporate culture, I believe its known as NAF360. How does that strong corporate culture set the company apart from competitors?8:02 - New American Funding sets the bar when it comes to getting employees active on legislative issues! I know that NAF is always promoting the Mortgage Action Alliance to its employees, which is incredibly effective. Tell us about how NAF leadership is so successful in employee engagement on legislative issues. 10:36 - Our association has a very active Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee, designed to promote DEI policy in our members’ companies. Can you talk with us a little about NAF’s New American Dream Initiative?14:31 - You were recently moved into the role of President at NAF. Being a leader during hot markets is much different than challenging markets, like we’re in today. What are some of the leadership values that can help companies navigate the tough times? 18:26 - You have received some incredible recognition for your leadership including a Gold Stevie Award for Female Executive of the Year for companies with more than 2,500 employees and you were also named a 2021 Mortgage Star by Mortgage Women Magazine and a 2020 HW Vanguard by HousingWire. How did those awards impact you? 20:39 - New American Funding has always been a huge supporter of the California MBA, for which we are very grateful. Can you share with us why the company supports our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Keith Lind, CEO at Acra LendingTopics of Discussion:1:41 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business.2:54 - You’ve had a long history in the mortgage industry, 2023 is definitely a tough year for originators. How can a company be competitive in a purchase market like this?5:29 - What are some of the opportunities in today’s market for the non-QM lending space?7:53 - Being a leader during hot markets is much different than challenging markets, like we’re in today. What are some of the leadership values that can help companies navigate the tough times?9:43 - You’ve had a long career in financial services, what advice would you give a young mortgage professional just starting out?11:40 - You’ve been a big supporter of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you’re such a big supporter?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Justin Vedder, Managing Director, Residential Solutions, SitusAMCTopics of Discussion:1:55 - Justin, thank you for joining us, tell us a little about your background and how you got started in the mortgage business 4:07 - You have a unique professional perspective to bring to this podcast, in that you are a working professional that has Parkinson’s. What can you share with listeners about the challenges and fears you navigate on a personal level? 6:23 - Getting back to the industry, tell us more about SitusAMC and what you offer mortgage bankers 8:09 - In a year when lenders are looking to manage expenses any way possible, why should lenders utilize offshore fulfillment teams? 11:03 - How does SitusAMC set themselves apart from their competitors? 12:35 - SitusAMC is a big supporter of the California MBA and for that, we’re very grateful. Why does the company choose to support an organization like ours?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Last week, Susan had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Insellerate's CEO/Founder, Josh Friend, LIVE at the ICE Experience 2023. Hear what Josh has to say about the exciting updates Insellerate is providing its clients, as well as his invaluable insights on how to make the most of the current market – don't miss out! To learn more about the California MBA, visit cmba.com

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Ali Nassirian, VP, Home Loans, Golden 1 Credit UnionTopics of Discussion:2:17 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business.3:10 - Prior to the credit union you were at mortgage companies. What are the cultural differences between those models?4:09 - How does Golden 1 set itself apart from competitors?5:15 - I see you have your AMP (Accredited Mortgage Professional) designation from the national MBA. Why was that important for you to obtain?7:06 - You served on the California Building Industry Association Board in 2021. Can you talk with us about some of the challenges relating to our housing supply issues?9:22 - Golden 1 recently rejoined the California MBA, and thank you so much for your support. Can you share with us why you support our organization?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Tom Wight, Vice President, Mortgage Banking, KeyBank Real Estate CapitalTopics of Discussion:1:42 - I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the commercial mortgage industry?5:02 - Interest rates are up and we’re just kicking off 2023. You focus on multifamily finance, how do you see that asset class fairing over the next 12 months?8:32 - You recently moved from a commercial mortgage broker to a national bank. What are some of the similarities or differences between these roles?11:01 - Tom you have been involved in other associations and I know you are an incredible networker. What advice can you share with newer entrants in the market about how to build that strong professional network?15:24 - You recently joined our Board of Directors, and we look forward to working with you. What can you share with our listeners about the importance of supporting the California MBA?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Mark Ulmer, EVP Lending Operations, Freedom MortgageTopics of Discussion:1:41 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into this business.4:45 - What are you/Freedom Mortgage focused on in today’s market?9:20 - Freedom Mortgage is known for not only being one of the top mortgage lenders in the country but also for the incredible philanthropic work they do. Can you tell us more?14:31 - So, Freedom Mortgage gives back and at the same time takes care of its employees. Freedom Mortgage has been recognized as one the “best places to work” many years in a row. Tell us a little about the corporate culture what creates that environment.18:20 - You’ve had a long career in financial services, what advice would you give a young mortgage professional just starting out?23:11 - You’ve been a big supporter of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you’re such a big supporter?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Robert Finlay, Wright, Finlay & ZakTopics of Discussion:1:38 - I always like to get started with our journeys to the mortgage industry. Tell us how you got into legal representation for financial services.3:31 - You and several of your attorneys have been very active with us for many years; we are so grateful for the expertise that your firm brings to our legislative and legal agenda. What do you feel is the most important legislative issue we’ll face in 2023?6:50 - You and your firm have also worked with us for years on participating with amicus briefs on important legal cases. Can you share with our listeners the issues surrounding our most recent case, Honchariw v FJM?12:04 - As you know, the California MBA has an active Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee. Your firm is also active in several national associations promoting diversity. How has your involvement on those issues benefited your firm?14:36 - Onto a topic outside of the mortgage industry – WINE! I happen to know you’re a big fan of the Palo Robles wine country in our beautiful state. What is your favorite winery?16:49 - You’ve been a big supporter of the California MBA, for which I’m always grateful. Can you share with us why you’re such a big supporter?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome David Rosenthal MAI, FRICS, President & CEO, Curtis-Rosenthal, Inc.Topics of Discussion:1:31 - You’ve been a guest on Connect before, but I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the mortgage industry?5:49 - Interest rates are up and we’re just kicking off 2023. What asset classes do you see fairing better than others in the next 12 months?10:05 - Your company has a number of people that have been with you for years. What is the secret to your strong corporate culture?12:16 - David you were one of the first people I met at the California MBA all those years ago. I know you are an incredible networker. What advice can you share with newer entrants in the market about how to build that strong professional network?15:23 - Curtis-Rosenthal is the ONLY company that has sponsored the Western States CREF Conference every year since its inception. Why is that event a priority for the company?To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Michael Berman, Founder & CEO, NcontractsTopics of Discussion:1:35 - Tell us a little about your background and starting nContracts. 3:11 - What advice would give to a young entrepreneur? 5:52 - What is your philosophy on corporate culture? 7:54 - Fair lending compliance and risk management are huge issues. What are your clients sharing with you as far as their biggest concerns in these areas? 11:14 - What is on the horizon for Ncontracts in 2023?Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Chris Vinson, CEO, Windsor Mortgage.Topics of Discussion:1:55 - Chris, thank you for joining us, tell us a little about your background and how you got in the industry? 7:08 - You’ve had a long history in the mortgage industry, 2022 is definitely a tough year for originators. How can a company be competitive in a purchase market like this?8:58 - How does Windsor Mortgage set themselves apart from competitors? 11:42 - In your eyes what are 3 things LO’s should be doing today? 17:07 - You started in this industry when there was next to no technology. Now we’re in an era where technology is key for the mortgage industry. What areas of technology adoption will be the highest priority for your company in the coming year? 20:00 - What are you most excited about in mortgage in 2023? 23:11 - Chris I see that you offer “Coaching with Chris” to help mortgage professionals enhance their skills. We offer a fantastic Future Leaders Program through Pepperdine University as we also believe in investing in young mortgage professionals. Can you share with us why mentorship is so important? 24:48 - Windsor just became a member of the California MBA and we’re grateful for your support through membership. Can you share with us why it's important to support the California MBA?Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. This week we welcome Jason Cave, Head, Fintech Strategy, FHFATopics of Discussion:2:15 - Thank you for joining us, tell us a little about your background 4:03 - assumed the role of Head, Fintech Strategy at FHFA. What are your primary goals in this role for 2023? 7:01 - What factors are impacting or streamlining adoption of technology for lenders? 10:43 - What role should fintechs play in assisting with the modernization of our industry? 12:46 - I’m excited to be welcoming you to our Mortgage Innovators Conference 2023 next June. Can you share with us why you feel its important to participate in or VIP Mortgage Innovation Roundtable at this event?Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Nicole Booth, QC Ally

Topics of Discussion:

2:11 - Nicole, many of our members know you from building and leading government and public affairs teams for corporate and startups. Why did you decide to move to the marketing and business side, and how has that transition gone?

3:34 - Our members might know QC Ally by their former name, Incocheck. Can you provide some information on why the company decided to rebrand?

4:34 - With the industry looking to increase access to homeownership, what should lenders be thinking about to ensure they are maintaining a healthy risk management process?

7:05 - You mentioned the idea of "Enterprise Loan Quality". Can you expand on what you mean by that?

7:48 - With so much growth at QC Ally over the past few months as you already mentioned, what does 2023 have in store for the company?

9:27 - Nicole, I have been so grateful for your support for the California MBA through each company you’ve been a part of since we met! Can you share why its important to support the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

To donate to CAMPAC visit https://form.jotform.com/212726783504054

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Hassan Rashid, Chief Revenue Officer, Tavant joins us for our 126th episode.

Topics of Discussion:

1:47 - Hassan, thank you for joining us, tell us a little about your background and how you got in the industry?

4:49 - Tough year for mortgage lenders this year, what are your clients sharing with you about their top priorities for 2022 and looking at the start of 2023?

8:05 - How is automation impacting the mortgage industry today?

12:36 - Tell us about Touchless Lending?

15:52 - You’ve been an innovator in the mortgage space for many years, what can the mortgage industry learn from other industry’s about tech adoption?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Mikhail Cook, EVP, Strategic Sales, Sagent joins us for our 125th episode.

Topics of Discussion:

1:37 - Mikhail, thank you for joining us, tell us a little about your background and how you got in the industry?

3:19 - With rising interest rates, regulators are expecting an uptick in foreclosure activity. How is Sagent working with customers to navigate this cycle?

4:33 - What processes and digital tools have you seen the industry embrace and gravitate toward in a late stage-pandemic environment?

5:10 - I've read that modernizing servicing is sometimes considered "the last frontier of the fintech era". Why is that and how do you tackle such a challenge at Sagent?

5:48 - Why is it important to keep the consumer at the center of the servicing process?

6:36 - Even if provided with the best self-serve options, some consumers seek human advice when managing their loans. How do you weigh technology and human support when speaking with your customers?

7:41 - What makes this market cycle different from previous ones, and how do you work to support customers through the current market uncertainty?

8:54 - Sagent is a proud member of the California MBA and we greatly appreciate your continued support. What can you share with listeners about why you support our association?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Dan Catinella, Chief Lending Officer, Total Expert joins us for our 124th episode.

Topics of Discussion:

1:39 - Dan, thank you for joining us, tell us a little about your background and how you got in the industry?

6:16 - You have the unique distinction in your career of being on the technology solution side of the industry but have also been a mortgage banker. How does that give you an advantage in this market?

9:35 - 2022 has certainly been a tough year for mortgage lenders this year, what are your clients sharing with you about their top priorities for wrapping 2022 and looking forward to 2023?

14:13 - How is Total Expert setting themselves apart from competitors to help their clients navigate this market?

16:46 - You’ve been an innovator in the mortgage space for many years, what can the mortgage industry learn from other industries about tech adoption?

19:44 - You have been a big supporter of this association and one of the hosts of the launch of our Mortgage Innovators podcast (thank you!). What can you share with listeners about why it is important to support the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Robert Moore, President, Inventiv Technologies joins us for our 123rd episode.

Topics of Discussion:

1:34 - Robert, thank you for joining us, tell us a little about your background and how you got in the industry?

4:30 - 2022 has certainly been a tough year for mortgage lenders this year, what are your clients sharing with you about their top priorities for wrapping 2022 and looking forward to 2023?

7:37 - You have the unique distinction in your career of being on the technology solution side of the industry but have also been a mortgage banker. How does that give you an advantage in this market?

10:02 - You’ve been an innovator in the mortgage space for many years, what can the mortgage industry learn from other industry’s about tech adoption?

12:59 - You and Inventiv have been big supporters of the Mortgage Innovators Conference, and are sponsoring again in 2023 (thank you!). What can you share with listeners about why this event is a priority for your company?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Tom MacManus, President & CEO, Money360 joins us for our 122nd episode.

Topics of Discussion:

I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the mortgage industry?

You joined Money360 a couple of years ago, what drew you to the company?

2022 is a tough market for all real estate finance. What asset classes do you see fairing better than others in the next 12 months?

What are the current trends you are seeing in the market, particularly in regard to lending?

How has bridge lending, specifically, come into play in this current environment?

What experience does Money360 have in navigating uncertain markets with its clients?

You have been a big believer in mentorship and giving back to this industry. Can you share with us the people who’ve been mentors in your career?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our podcast sponsor, Insellerate, TAKES OVER episode 121. Watch or listen to Josh Friend - CEO, Insellerate and Jon Irvine - Chief Production Officer, Change Home Mortgage.

Topics of Discussion:

  • What are some of the unique products in today’s market?
  • What can loan officers do to be successful in this market?
  • Providing homeownership opportunities to the underserved market

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 120th episode features Jennifer Schachterle, Director of Warehouse Lending, Western Alliance Bank

Topics of Discussion:

1:35- I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the mortgage industry?

2:50- You’ve had a long history in the mortgage industry, 2022 is definitely a tough year for originators. How can a company be competitive in a purchase market like this?

5:23 - What are your customers sharing are their top priorities for the balance of 2022?

7:38 - Technology is such a critical component of lending these days. What can you share with our listeners about www.MortgageInnovators.com?

10:10 - You are a mentor for our Future Leaders Program that we offer in partnership with Pepperdine University. Did you have a mentor that was instrumental in your career?

13:14- You of course are a member of our leadership and serve on our Board of Directors. What can you tell our listeners about the importance of supporting the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 119th episode features Ned Payant, President, American Pacific Mortgage.

Topics of Discussion:

1:35 - I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the mortgage industry?

4:53 - You’ve had a long history in the mortgage industry, 2022 is definitely a tough year for originators. How can a company be competitive in a purchase market like this?

8:42 - How does APM set themselves apart from competitors?

13:26 - American Pacific Mortgage has a very specific corporate culture/motto. What can you share with our listeners about how that culture was developed?

16:56 - Being a leader in a hot market is much different than being a leader in a challenging one. What are some leadership values that can help companies navigate tough times?

22:28 - Increasing diversity in the mortgage market is a high priority for the California MBA. What are APMs priorities/best practices around DE&I?

26:01 - American Pacific Mortgage has been a long-time supporter of the California MBA. What can you tell our listeners about the importance of supporting the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 118th episode features Paul Gigliotti, COO Pinnacle Home Loans and Founder, Axis Lending Academy.

Topics of Discussion:

1:50 - How did you get into the mortgage industry?

3:32- We are in the middle of a tough cycle for the residential mortgage industry. How can a company be competitive in a purchase market like this?

9:17 - What can you share with our listeners about www.MortgageInnovators.com?

13:26- What do you think are the biggest factors in making the Mortgage Innovators Conference such a big hit?

16:05 - What can you share about Axis Lending Academy and what are your 2023 priorities?

21:21 - Can you share with our listeners the importance of supporting an organization like the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 117th episode features Andrew Mekjavich Principal at Gantry

Topics of Discussion:

1:36 - I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the mortgage industry?

4:29 - You participated in our Future Leaders program years ago, can you share with listeners your thoughts on the importance of mentorship?

7:22 - The real estate finance industry is always looking to increase diversity.  How is Gantry attracting young or diverse mortgage professionals to this industry?

9:53 - You’re involved with a few charities, can you tell me why these organizations are important to you?

12:12 - 2022 is a tough market for all real estate finance.  What asset classes do you see fairing better than others in the next 12 months?

13:48- How does Gantry differentiate themselves from competitors?

16:10 - The use of technology in the CRE space seems to be really taking off.  What are your thoughts on how the industry is adapting to more technology?

18:59 - You are a member of the Board of Directors for the California MBA, can you talk about why it’s important for the CRE industry to support the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 116th episode features Cody Charfauros, Principal/Managing Director, Slatt Capital

Topics of Discussion:

1:32 - I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the mortgage industry?

2:36 - The real estate finance industry is always looking to increase diversity. How is Slatt Capital attracting young or diverse mortgage professionals to this industry?

4:42 - 2022 is a tough market for all real estate finance. What asset classes do you see fairing better than others?

7:12- How will Slatt differentiate itself from competitors?

8:18 - The use of technology in the CRE space seems to be really taking off. What are your thoughts on how the industry is adapting to more technology?

11:18 - You will be on stage at our Western States CREF Conference next week interviewing Nolan Bushnell, the founder of Atari. Can you give us a sneak peak of what you might be discussing?

13:37 - You are a member of the Board of Directors for the California MBA, can you talk about why it’s important for the CRE industry to support the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 115th episode features Bobby Khorshidi, President & CEO, Archway Capital

Topics of Discussion:

1:42 - I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the mortgage industry?

6:08 - What asset classes do you see faring better than others in the next 12 months? How will Archway differentiate themselves from competitors?

10:21 - What are some of the unique deals you’re looking at this year?

11:45 - What can you tell us about how the current capital market has impacted Archway’s business?

12:45 - I see you’re on the Board for the UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital – tell us a little about that charity and why you’re involved?

16:12 - You are one of our speakers on the Structured Finance panel at this years Western States CREF Conference – back at Aria this year in Las Vegas, next month. Can you give our listeners some highlights of what you’ll cover on that panel?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 114th episode features Dan Phelan, CMB, CEO, Pacific Southwest Realty Services (PSRS)

Topics of Discussion:

1:53 - I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the mortgage industry?

5:28 - Can you share with listeners a little history of the association?

10:42 - You have several professional designations: CMB, CRI, CCMS. Why was it important for you to obtain those designations?

15:44 - The real estate finance industry is always looking to increase diversity. How is PSRS attracting young or diverse mortgage professionals to this industry?

26:12 - 2022 is a tough market for all real estate finance. What asset classes do you see fairing better than others in the next 12 months?

32:47 - How will PSRS differentiate themselves from competitors?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 113th episode features Gary Bechtel, CEO, Red Oak Capital Holdings

Topics of Discussion:

01:23 - I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the mortgage industry?

03:12 - You joined Red Oak a couple of years ago, what drew you to the company?

0:727 - 2022 is a tough market for all real estate finance. What asset classes do you see fairing better than others in the next 12 months?

10:53- How will Red Oak differentiate themselves from competitors?

14:40 - There has been a huge influx of technology solutions on the residential side of the industry. Can you talk a little about the adoption of technology in the commercial space?

18:38- You have been a big believer in mentorship and giving back to this industry. Can you share with us the people who’ve been mentors in your career?

21:01 - You are Chair of the 2022 Western States CREF Conference – back at Aria this year in Las Vegas, next month. Can you give our listeners some highlights of what they can expect?

23:28 - You are also a member of our Executive Board at the California MBA. Can you talk about why you volunteer your time with us and why its important to support the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 112th episode features Madison Simm, President of Mortgage Finance, Texas Capital Bank

Topics of Discussion:

1:26 - Share with our listeners about your background and your role at Texas Capital Bank.

3:06 - Given the current market, what are some of the conversations you’re having with clients?

7:30 - Can you share some of the notable and recent program enhancements for the Mortgage Finance business at Texas Capital Bank?

11:15- How does Mortgage Finance fit into the bank’s overarching strategy to become the flagship financial services firm headquartered in Texas?

15:29 - What is something you consider especially unique to the bank’s Mortgage Finance business?

17:27 - What is next for the Mortgage Finance team at Texas Capital Bank?

22:21 - We’re excited you are participating on our Mergers & Acquisitions Panel this week at the Western Secondary Market Conference. Can you give us a preview of some the highlights you’ll address?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 111th episode features Andrew Rhodes, Senior Director – Head of Training, Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT)

Topics of Discussion:

1:36 - I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the mortgage industry?

3:18 - You were one of the original employees at MCT I believe! That’s a great legacy in an industry that tends to see a lot of movement. Talk to us about what its been like watching that company grow to be such an incredible industry leader.

6:27 - What are some of your favorite aspects of what you do in this industry?

10:08 - Given the current market, what are some of the conversations you’re having with clients?

13:18 - We’re excited you are participating on our Capital Markets Panel at the upcoming Western Secondary Market Conference. Can you give us a preview of some the highlights you’ll address?

16:20 - MCT is one of our members who has always been a staunch supporter of the California MBA, what can you share with listeners about the importance of supporting the advocacy efforts of this state association?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 110th episode features Chris King, SVP, Business Development, Mr. Cooper

Topics of Discussion:

1:27 - I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the mortgage industry?

3:27 - As a leading Correspondent investor, what trends are Mr. Cooper seeing evolving in the market?

5:44 - What solutions are you offering to your clients to help them maneuver through this current market cycle?

7:20 - We’re excited you are participating on our MSR panel at the upcoming conference. Can you give us a preview of what you’ll address regarding the state of the market of MSRs?

9:09 - Mr. Cooper has been a long time supporter of the California MBA, what can you share with listeners about the importance of supporting the advocacy efforts of this state association?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 109th episode features John Hedlund, Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer, Amerihome Mortgage

Topics of Discussion:

1:28- I always like to get started with a little personal background, how did you get into the mortgage industry?

2:52 - Amerihome was acquired by Western Alliance Bank not long ago. What can you share about the merging of corporate cultures in an acquisition?

5:48- You’ve had a long history in the mortgage industry, 2022 is definitely a tough year for originators. How can a company be competitive in a purchase market like this?

10:44 - This month you are being sworn in as the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the California! I also know you’re a leader in the national MBA. What can you share with listeners about the importance of supporting our trade associations?

14:01 - Under your leadership, Amerihome has sent multiple participants through the California MBA’s Future Leaders Program. What do your employees tell you about that experience that leads you to keep sending new applicants through?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 108th episode features Nick Pabarcus, CMB, AMP, EVP, Wholesale and Correspondent Lending, LoanDepot

Topics of Discussion:

1:24 - How did you get into the mortgage industry?

3:49 - You have two professional designations; both your CMB and AMP.  Why was it important for you to obtain those designations?

6:16 - How can a company be competitive in a purchase market like this?

9:06 - What can you tell our listeners about the panels we have lined up for this year’s Western Secondary Market Conference?

12:50 - Can you share with our listeners the importance of the California MBA’s advocacy efforts?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 107th episode features Angel Hernandez and Jeremy Potter with Stavvy.

Topics of Discussion:

1:35 - Angel, thank you for joining us, tell us a little about your background.

4:16 - Jeremy, you and I met when you were chairing the MBA’s State Legislative Committee! Tell us about your background

7:56 - What factors are impacting or streamlining adoption of technology, particularly eClosing tools?

12:05 - What role should fintechs play in assisting with the modernization of our industry?

16:09 - What are the secondary market complexities or considerations the industry should be paying attention to in this market?

19:55 - What are you hearing about the needs and appetites for additional efficiencies for secondary market participants?

23:44 - Can you share with our listeners the importance of the California MBA advocacy efforts?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 106th episode features Aaron King, CEO, SnapDocs

Topics of Discussion:

1:44 - What’s your background? How did you get started in the mortgage industry?

3:46 - As I’m sure you’re aware, interest rates are rising in the market and volumes are projected to decline significantly. From your standpoint, what trends are you starting to see with lenders?

7:31 - How have you seen lenders react to this new market condition? How are lenders staying ahead of their competition?

9:19 - What exciting developments is Snapdocs working on this year?

15:29 - Top-of-mind still for a lot of lenders is how to provide the best borrower experience. From your perspective, how do you define the best borrower experience?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 105th episode features Jean Marie Richardson, CEO and Founder, iFOLIO

Topics of Discussion:

1:49 - Jean Marie, tell us about your background and how you founded iFOLIO

3:25 - My lender members are laser focused this year on improved efficiencies, increasing margins and customer retention. What are you hearing from your customers?

7:01 -The market environment we’re currently in tends to encourage more mergers and acquisitions. How does a lender’s branding and marketing strategy support a smooth transition?

9:46 -Switching gears for a moment from the production side of business to compliance – what are the biggest problems iFOLIO can solve for lenders relative to compliance?

13:30 - Sharing success stories like yours is so important to our industry, can you share your thoughts on mentorship for other entrepreneurs?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 104th episode features an Innovator Insights Panel titled "Generating New Volume through Non-QM" that premiered LIVE at Mortgage Innovators Conference 2022.

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 103rd episode features Josh Lehr, Senior Director, Partnerships & Industry Technology, Total Expert

Topics of Discussion:

1:47 - Tell us a little about yourself and your professional journey to Total Expert. Why were you excited to join Total Expert?

4:38 - What are customers sharing that is their main focus this year relative to technology?

6:10 - Many of our members have shared that they struggle with tech stack integration. How does Total Expert help lenders through this?

8:37 - We’ve all seen so much advancement in the way of mortgage technology over the past decade, where have you seen the most significant progress?

11:24 - How can technology help keep customers and loan officers loyal to a lender?

13:42 - Specifically Total Expert has a tool that provides consumer insights; how is that effective in retention opportunities with borrowers?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 102nd episode features David Karandish, CEO, Capacity.

Topics of Discussion:

1:37 - Tell us a little about your background and starting Capacity?

2:18 - What are your clients sharing with you about their top priorities for 2022?

3:36 - How is automation impacting the mortgage industry?

6:14 - How can we help loan officers get comfortable with AI and automation?

9:16 - Can you share an example of how AI and automation is helping mortgage companies streamline processes?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 101st episode features Carl Tyree, Arch MI.

Topics of Discussion:

1:56 - What are your thoughts about the volatility we are seeing in the capital markets and interest rates? Do you think the volatility continues?

3:06 - What would you say is most critical for lenders to get right in the next 6 months?

4:20 - Tell us about how your clients are engaging with their mortgage insurance providers, and maybe specifically with Arch MI?

6:43 - As a company that has a huge position in mortgage credit risk, what aspects of the mortgage market are most concerning to Arch MI?

8:15 - How is the mortgage insurance industry well positioned to handle choppy times with housing valuations?

11:05 - There is a lot of talk about margin compression, what do you think allows that pressure to go away?

12:28 - Do you think the mortgage insurance industry has much to worry about if FHA lowers their MIP (mortgage insurance premium)? If so, why?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our amazing sponsor Insellerate is TAKING OVER our 100th episode. Listen or watch today as mortgage industry experts Josh Friend and Rob Chrisman talk about:

1:58 - Rob’s thoughts on interest rates for the remainder of 2022? 5:15 - How are rates going to impact housing prices? 8:59 - What’s in store for Non-QM lending in 2022? 12:52 - Are lenders readdressing their technology needs? 15:24 - How are lenders addressing the rising cost of loan production?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 98th episode features Ky Hacker, VP Operations and Revenue, FileInvite

Topics of Discussion:

2:04 - Tell us about your background and a little about FileInvite

2:34 - FileInvite works with a large number of companies across both residential and commercial lending. What trends are you seeing across these industries?

4:17 - What trends are FileInvite seeing within borrowers and borrower behavior?

6:34 - With the mortgage industry responding to changes within their borrowers, what themes are you seeing within companies themselves?

9:57 - Privacy and cybersecurity are hot topics right now within the industry. Do you have any views on how the mortgage industry can respond to changes here?

14:22 - What can you share with listeners about the value of the Mortgage Innovators Conference?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 97th episode features Sandra James, CEO & Founder, Private Eyes Screening Group

Topics of Discussion:

1:40 - Tell us about starting your company, Private Eyes Screening Group.

2:22 - You have a successful global company that you started on your own, how do you mentor other women leaders?

3:37 - With the focus on consumer privacy over the past few years, has providing background check services become more challenging?

5:48 - With interest rates rising, the market shifting for IMBs, what are your clients reporting to you that is top of mind for them this year?

7:14 - What can you share with listeners about the value of the Mortgage Innovators Conference?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 96th episode features the one and only Alex Kutsishin, CEO, Sales Boomerang.

Topics of Discussion:

2:00 - Sales Boomerang is an incredible success story. What can you share with other entrepreneurs just starting out?

7:29 - In this current environment when Lenders are cutting budgets left and right, why are they spending more with Sales Boomerang? Why do Lenders care about Sales Boomerang now more than ever?

12:05 - Besides the alerts that are perfectly catered to this market and that are making your Lenders so successful, how are you able to help drive new business from realtors to your Lenders?

18:49 - What's the deal with Sales Boomerang and Mortgage Coach?

22:28 - Sales Boomerang has been a continuous supporter of the California MBA and our Mortgage Innovators Conference – what can you share with listeners about the value of the Mortgage Innovators Conference?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 95th episode features Chuck Iverson, President, Mason-McDuffie Mortgage.

Topics of Discussion:

2:29 - What can you share about adapting to such a well-established corporate culture?

6:56 - Interest rates are rising and lenders are looking at new products. What would you say are the hot products of 2022?

10:24 - We are starting the CFPB era under the leadership of Rohit Chopra. What do you think lenders should expect to be his particular areas of focus?

14:33 - Now we’re in an era where technology is key for the mortgage industry. What areas of technology adoption will be the highest priority for your company this year?

20:13 - What can you share with listeners about the value of the Mortgage Innovators Conference?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 94th episode features Dawar Alimi, CEO and Rick Webster, Chief Marketing Officer of Lender Price.

Topics of Discussion:

2:36 - Tell us the story of launching Lender Price? When did you first start working in the mortgage industry?

6:23 - What is your forecast for the “next big thing” in mortgage technology?

8:08 - As the refi boom diminishes in 2022, what do you see as the top issues facing your lender clients in this competitive purchase market environment?

11:43 - I see that your product is compatible with non-QM lending – how is that setting you apart from your competitors? How are you different from your competition?

14:44 - What should lenders be doing right now to prepare for a slowdown in the market?

18:21 - What can you tell our listeners about the importance of being an active supporter of our advocacy efforts?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 93rd episode features Margaret Chiavini, CMB, AMP and Paul Gigliotti who are hosting the Mortgage Innovators Conference 2022 happening May 2-4, 2022 at the Hilton Anaheim.

Topics of Discussion:

3:20 - Why is MIC22 THE conference to attend if you’re looking for solution providers?

6:19 - Can you tell us more about the 3 days of the conference from a content perspective?

10:16 - Can you talk about the significant registration discounts that we’re offering lenders?

11:27 - Why is supporting the Mortgage Innovators Conference important for the mortgage industry?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 92nd episode features Josip Rupena, Founder and CEO of Milo Credit.

Topics of Discussion:

2:28 - Tell us the story of launching Milo Credit?

3:56 - How are you keeping your crypto with a crypto mortgage?

5:11 - What’s the benefit of a crypto mortgage over a traditional one?

7:03 - Have you been in conversation with the GSEs about this product?

8:02 - What do you see on the horizon for blockchain technology as it relates to the real estate finance industry?

10:45 - Can you share how this global diversity benefits your corporate culture?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 91st episode features the family behind RWM Home Loans: Brad Livingston, Susanne Livingston, Kristen Livingston, and Lauren Livingston.

Topics of Discussion:

2:57 - How did you get started in the mortgage industry?

8:41 - What can you share about the corporate culture at the company that makes RWM unique?

11:40 - What areas of technology adoption will be the highest priority for your company this year?

14:07 - We are starting the CFPB era under the leadership of Rohit Chopra. What do you think lenders should expect to be his particular areas of focus?

16:59 - Can you share your thoughts on the importance of mentoring and lifting up those rising stars in our organizations?

19:05 - What advice would you give a young mortgage professional just entering this industry?

22:16 - What can you share about why it’s important for lenders to support the advocacy work of the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 90th episode features Mike Fontaine, Co-President and Chief Operating Officer at Plaza Home Mortgage, Inc., and his son Ryan Fontaine, Digital Marketing Manager, Plaza Home Mortgage, Inc.

Topics of Discussion:

3:04 - How did you get started in the mortgage industry?

4:41 - Ryan – When you came to Plaza was it what you expected? And how is it working with your dad?

5:54 - Tell us about both your career transitions within Plaza Home Mortgage Inc.

8:07 - What’s your outlook for 2022, and what will Plaza be doing to compete in a smaller, more competitive purchase market?

10:00 - How important is digital marketing in terms of driving business this year?

11:45 - What is Plaza doing to attract young talent?

13:40 - What do you think the industry will need to do to attract Millennials?

15:54 - Can you share why it’s important for lenders to support the advocacy work of the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 89th episode features Christopher George President, CMG Financial and AJ George Chief Administrative Officer, CMG Financial

Topics of Discussion:

2:27 - How did you get started in the mortgage industry?

10:35 - Your motto, “Every customer, every time, no exceptions, no excuses!” Can you tell us about this statement at CMG?

15:41 - With ReFis drying up, innovative products will be key for lenders in 2022. CMG has an All in One loan. Tell us about the journey of that product.

21:12 - We are starting the CFPB era under the leadership of Rohit Chopra. What should lenders expect to be his particular areas of focus?

26:23 - Can you both share your thoughts on the Future Leaders Program and the importance of mentoring those rising stars in our organizations?

30:31 - AJ what advice would you give a young mortgage professional just entering this industry?

31:48 - What areas of technology adoption will be the highest priority for your company this year?

35:52 - Why it’s important for lenders to support the advocacy work of the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 88th episode continues our series "Legacy in the Mortgage Industry" with Gary Martell, President, Mountain West Financial and Laura Martell, Executive Vice President, Mountain West Financial.

Topics of Discussion:

2:21 - How did you get started in the mortgage industry?

4:55 - What areas of technology adoption will be the highest priority for your company this year?

8:25 - What do you think you offer as far as corporate culture that entices your team to stay?

9:48 - What can you share with our listeners about your experience in the Future Leaders Program?

12:46 - Are there new products that IMBs are considering to provide more options to customers?

15:41 - What can you share about why it’s important for lenders to support the advocacy work of the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 87th episode features Scott Calder and John Calder.

Topics of Discussion:

2:53 - How did you get started in the mortgage industry?

6:55 - What was the culture of the association back in the 70s and 80s?

10:28 - Do you have peers in the industry that you knew or met as a kid through the California MBA events?

12:18 - What is your outlook for the 2022 commercial market? Is there an emerging market that stands out?

15:52 - As far as office/retail space, are we all moving towards more remote work/shopping experiences for good?

20:17 - What can you share about why it’s important for lenders to support the advocacy work of the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. We begin 2022, with our Legacy in the Mortgage Industry series, and what better way to kick off the new year than to be joined by Rob Chrisman, Industry Analyst and Author of the Chrisman Commentary, and Robbie Chrisman, Head of Content at MCT and Host of the Daily Mortgage News Podcast.

Topics of Discussion:

3:46 - What’s your background? How did you get started in the mortgage industry?

6:28 - How do you two work together to decide what information goes into The Chrisman Commentary?

9:54 - Subscribers are able to email you directly back from the daily commentary. I have often wondered, do you spend the balance of your day responding to those inquires?

12:30 - I love the idea of adding a podcast to the commentary.  What are your plans for guests or topics for 2022?

14:13 - What do you both see on the horizon for the mortgage industry over the next 12-24 months?

18:52 - What advice would you give to young mortgage professionals entering this industry?

20:29 - Is DE&I an area of heightened focus for the companies with whom you consult?

21:37 - What can you share about why it’s important for lenders to support the advocacy work of the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 85th episode features Joseph T. Lynyak, III, Partner, Dorsey & Whitney LLP

Topics of Discussion:

3:36 - How did you get your start in the industry? Why did you pursue the financial services industry for your law career?

6:05 - You have been on the Washington DC list of Super Lawyers every year since 2016, recognized as exhibiting excellence in the practice of law. Do you mentor other attorneys?

10:04 - As a nationally recognized leader for the financial services industry, what do you think is top of mind for the new CPFB Director?

11:57 - Fair lending has been an issue for the mortgage industry for many years, but now we’re also focusing on fair servicing – especially as we see many borrowers exiting forbearance. What should lenders be thinking about relative to fair servicing in their shops?

15:44 - What would you suggest is the number one area of regulatory compliance lenders should be focused on/reviewing for correct policies and procedures going into 2022?

19:42 - You have been a very active member with us for many years – what can you share with listeners about why you volunteer with the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 84th episode features Maria Moskver, President & Chief Legal Officer, CloudVirga

Topics of discussion:

2:27 - How did you get your start in the mortgage industry?

6:22 - You were named one of HousingWire’s 2018 Women of Influence, noting your years of work in compliance and regulatory matters for the financial services industry, and in 2020 you were named as one of the top 20 Most Powerful Women in Fintech. How did you react to those awards and what has it meant for your career?

8:09 - We’re wrapping up 2021 in a few weeks, what do you see on the horizon for Cloudvirga in 2022?

9:12 - Much of your career has been centered around regulatory compliance for the residential mortgage industry. What do you think is top of mind for the new CPFB Director?

11:34 - You have been an active member with us and were recently elected as Secretary for our Legal Issues Committee! What can you share with listeners about why you volunteer with the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 83rd episode features Nick Foster, Co-founder, Lion Fire Group

Topics of discussion:

2:37 - How did you get your start in the industry and what led you to co-found Lion Fire?

5:54 - Trying to get your company to outshine your competition can be tough. What element of marketing should a company be constantly reevaluating?

7:56 - Is paid social media worth the spend? What is the real return?

10:13 - You are an entrepreneurial young man, what advice would you give to your peers that may be considering starting their own business?

13:44 - What is mortgageinnovators.com all about?

17:43 - Mortgage Innovators Conference 2022 is happening May 2-4, 2022 - what can attendees expect?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Insellerate's own Josh Friend takes over this week's podcast with a conversation with Jon Irvine, Chief Production Officer at Change Home Mortgage.

Topics of discussion:

1:41 - What’s your background and tell us about Change Lending?

12:21 - What is CDFI and what does it do?

16:02 - How are you educating and reaching out to these underserved communities?

24:16 - How many loans a month would you close in the purchase call center? How did you achieve those results?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 81st episode features the one and only Ike Suri, Chairman & CEO, FundingShield.

Topics of discussion:

2:34 - What’s your background and how did you come to start FundingShield?

9:29 - What is FundingShield’s secret sauce that led to you big success?

13:01 - Technology in the mortgage space is top of mind for everyone. What do you think the next big thing will be in mortgage technology space?

18:07 - How do you feel your company’s diversity has benefited your bottom line and corporate culture?

20:07 - Let’s talk about mentorship – do you have any mentors? Do you mentor others?

24:41 - You have been a big supporter of the California MBA. What would you tell another mortgage industry professionals about the value of this association?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 80th episode features Dave Savage, Co-Founder/CEO, Mortgage Coach.

Topics of discussion:

2:27 - How did you get your start in the industry and what led you to found Mortgage Coach?

5:06 - We are excited to welcome Mortgage Coach to the CMBA community. For those who may not be familiar with your firm, can you tell us about what you do?

8:32 - Why is it still important for the human loan officer to be a part of the homebuying process?

13:08 - Many economists predict that 2022 will see a big drop in refi volume and a shift to more “high-effort” purchase lending. How would you advise lenders to prepare for what’s to come?

15:10 - More than 42 million Americans have student loan debt and are either denied home financing or have reduced purchase power because of high DTIs. What can lenders do to help improve financing outcomes for these people?

17:51 - Why did you join the California MBA/why do you think it is important to support the CMBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 79th episode features Matt Ostrander, CEO of Parkside Lending.

Topics of discussion:

3:20 - What’s your background? How did you get started in the business?

5:52 - What’s been the secret sauce that has kept it in business through all the market up-and-downs?

9:11 - You sold your wholesale platform to Finance of America. What led to that acquisition?

12:12 - What has been the heart of Parkside’s diversity initiatives?

16:35 - What’s the outlook for the next 12-24 months?

19:06 - What do you think the next big focus in mortgage technology will be?

24:30 - What can you share about why it’s important for lenders like Parkside to support the advocacy work of the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 78th episode features the one and only Bill Dallas, President, Finance of America Mortgage.

Topics of discussion:

3:54 - You command a stage - when did you first realize you had that natural ability?

5:28 - What drove you to get a law degree once you were in the mortgage business?

8:44 - What do you think the next big thing will be in the mortgage technology space?

19:12 - Why is it important for lenders to support the advocacy work of the California MBA?

27:50 - How do you feel your company's diversity has benefited your bottom line and corporate culture?

32:55 - What do you see on the horizon for the mortgage industry over the next 12-24 months?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 77th episode features Arvin Wijay, CEO & Brian Gehl, President, Consolidated Analytics

Topics of discussion:

3:07 - What's your background and how did you get into the industry? 5:25 - How was your business relationship impacted by health challenges? What's the story behind that? 9:20 - What do you think are the key characteristics every successful entrepreneur has? 14:09 - What was the biggest hurdle in building the business? What lessons did you learn? 15:53 - What would you have done differently, and what decisions would you repeat if you had the chance? 19:30 - What unique challenges do you think today's entrepreneur faces that perhaps you didn't? 22:57 - How important was it to have mentors and those around you to bounce ideas off of and gain insight from? 26:25 - How are you helping to bring along the next generation of leaders and Innovators? 33:38 - Why is it important to you to support the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 76th episode features Ryan Chapman, Senior Vice President at Walker & Dunlop.

Topics of discussion:

2:53 – We just held our annual Western States CREF Conference a week or so ago – what are your big takeaways?

6:54 – How have you and W&D begun to transition back to back-to-work, back to face-to-face meetings, and do you anticipate the hybrid/WFH models will continue to stay with us as business/government content with new variants of COVID-19?

10:52 – What’s the CRE outlook from your perspective heading into Q4, and looking ahead to 2022?  What will be the hot markets or property types?

16:40 – What about federal/state/location eviction moratoria?  How might these continue to impact property values or deal volume?

19:16 – You’ve now started your term as chairman of the California MBA – what are some of your priorities for the association this year?

23:05 – Your involvement with the California MBA stretches back to your time as a participant in our Future Leaders Program – how important is it for companies and orgs like the California MBA to foster these opportunities for younger folks to get plugged into the industry?

26:16 – What’s the biggest misperception you had about groups like the California MBA before you got involved?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 75th episode features Dan Friedeberg, CEO, Slatt Capital

Topics of discussion:

3:25 - What’s your background? How did you get started in the business? 5:30 - Slatt is celebrating their 50th anniversary this year – how did the company get started and what’s been the secret sauce that has kept it in business through all the market up-and-downs? 7:32 - How does Barry Slatt’s legacy still live on at the company? 8:50 - Switching gears, what products/local markets are hot right now? 10:12 - What’s the outlook for the next 12-24 months? 11:37 - The company seems to put a high value on servicing – what has been the key to success during the pandemic/recession/recovery? 13:46 - Has the increased use of technology changed commercial lending, or is it still a “people” business (or both)? How has tech perhaps improved the experience for the investor/borrower? 17:45 - Why is it important for lenders like Slatt to support the advocacy work of the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 74th episode features Terry Schmidt, President, Guild Mortgage Company

Topics of discussion:

2:49 – What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned (professionally or personally) over the past 18 months? 4:51 – What’s one thing that Guild is doing differently since March 2020? Something that is a permanent change to company culture or processes or vision, etc. etc. 8:15 – Guild has always been a big player in the purchase market – does the shift back to purchase from refi benefit your team? How are (or are they) your strategies shifting? 11:14 – What has been one of the challenges you and the leadership team have faced since the company’s IPO? Has the company culture shifted/changed/evolved? 12:58 – What’s the biggest advantage the company has seen, having you and Mary Ann (and other women in senior leadership) in leadership for so long? 15:02 – How crucial to the success of Guild has been the consistent effort to promote from within? 18:33 – What is the most important economic indicator (other than interest rates) that you watch on a regular basis? 19:39 – Is the inventory squeeze going to continue to drive home values/prices up? 21:15 – Why has Guild supported the California MBA for so long? What are the most important benefits that membership provides?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 73rd episode features Chuck Iverson, President, Mason McDuffie Mortgage Corp.

Topics of discussion:

2:44 – How did you get started in the industry?

5:19 – What’s the most important lesson you learned (professionally or personally) over the past year?

8:09 – Do you think going through the 2008 financial crisis prepared you for the changes and challenges of 2020?

10:50 – Describe the threat that the margin call issue in March 2020 posed to the industry?

13:38 – What’s the current state of innovation in the industry, and where will the next breakthrough emerge?

17:19 – What’s your strategy as the industry transitions from refi-dominated back to purchase?

21:37 – What single economic factor (other than interest rates) will have the biggest impact on the market in 2022?

23:46 – Do you see any relief in housing inventory in sight? Why or why not?

25:08 – Why is it important for lenders to support the advocacy and grassroots work of the California MBA/MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 72nd episode features Mike Fontaine, Co-President & COO, Plaza Home Mortgage

Topics of discussion:

3:47 – What’s your background? How did you get started in the industry and what led you to your current role at Plaza? 7:02 – What’s the most important lesson you learned (professionally or personally) over the past year? 10:32 – Do you think going through the 2008 financial crisis prepared you for the changes and challenges of 2020? 14:42 – How important is culture at Plaza, and how have you maintained that during remote working conditions? 20:07 – What’s the strategy at Plaza as the industry transitions from refi-dominated back to purchase? 22:44 – What single economic factor (other than interest rates) will have the biggest impact on the market in 2022? 25:24 – Do you see any relief in housing inventory in sight? Why or why not? 27:32 – Why is it important for lenders to support the advocacy and grassroots work of the California MBA/MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 71st episode features Artin Betpera, Shareholder, Buchalter.

Topics of discussion:

2:44 - What’s your background and how did you end up as a litigator in the mortgage industry?

7:26 – How did surviving the 2008 financial crisis prepare you to navigate 2020?

11:21 - What is the most important legal trend to watch right now?

14:26 - Any big cases we should be keeping an eye on?

22:24 - What is the most underestimated litigation threat to lenders?

24:52 - What’s the one thing lenders can do right now to reduce risk?   27:24 - Why is it important for industry to support (as you do) advocacy/grassroots groups like the California MBA/MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 70th episode features Jarlath Curran, Member, Severson & Werson

Topics of discussion:

4:06 - What’s your background and how did you end up as a litigator in the mortgage industry? 8:46 - What was the biggest lesson you learned this past year (either personally or professionally)? 14:27 - What is the most important litigation trend to watch this year? 20:04 - Any big cases we should be keeping an eye on? 22:16 - What is the most underestimated litigation threat to lenders? 23:29 - What’s the one thing lenders can do right now to reduce risk? 27:02 - Why is it important for the industry to support (as you do) advocacy/grassroots groups like the California MBA/MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 69th episode features the the “Czar” of TCPA Eric Troutman, Partner, Squire Patton Boggs.

Topics of discussion:

4:39 - What’s your background and how did you end up as a litigator in the mortgage industry?

9:01 - What was the biggest lesson you learned this past year (either personally or professionally)?

10:48 – What is the most important TCPA trend to watch right now?

14:14 - What’s the impact of the recent Facebook case?

19:04 – What’s the latest out of Florida?

26:21 - What’s the one thing lenders can do right now to reduce risk?

28:35 - Why is it important for industry to support (as you do) advocacy/grassroots groups like the California MBA/MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 68th episode features Sanford Shatz, Of Counsel, McGlinchey Stafford PLLC.

Topics of discussion:

3:48 - What’s your background and how did you end up as a litigator in the mortgage industry? 8:05 - What was the biggest lesson you learned this past year (either personally or professionally)? 11:50 - What is the most important trend to watch this year? 16:08 - Any big cases we should be keeping an eye on? 20:05 - What is the most underestimated litigation threat to lenders? 22:24 – What about compliance/regulatory concerns to watch? 24:30 - What’s the one thing lenders can do right now to reduce risk? 25:45 - Why is it important for the industry to support (as you do) advocacy/grassroots groups like the California MBA/MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 67th episode features Phil Rasori, Chief Operating Officer, MCT Trading.

Topics of discussion:

3:48 - Tell us about your background, what led you to where you are in the industry and at MCT 9:37 - What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned over the past year (professionally or personally)? 12:18 - What’s the latest at MCT? 16:40 - What should mortgage lenders keep in mind right now when working on their hedging strategies? 19:42 - What will be the hottest market or product 12 months from now? 24:41 - What’s the one thing that mortgage bankers don’t know that they should know? 28:33 - Why is it crucial for firms like MCT to support industry groups like the MBA and California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 66th episode features Carl Tyree, Chief Sales Officer, Arch MI

Topics of discussion:

2:53 – Tell us about your background and how you got into the industry 5:08 – What has been your biggest takeaway from the past year – what is the most important lesson you’ve learned (professionally or personally)? 8:08 – How have the capital markets responded to the impact of the new administration so far? 9:14 – What about the MI markets in particular? What’s going on in the industry that we need to know? 10:56 – What’s the latest at Arch in particular? How is the company working with lenders to navigate the current environment? 13:00 – With the changes underway right now (refi volume down, inflation up, etc.) how are secondary strategies shifting for the next 12-24 months? 14:18 – What about the non-agency market? What do you see happening here over the next year or two? 17:01 – What is one of the most underappreciated economic indicators that lenders should keep an eye on? 18:41 – Why is it crucial for industry to support the advocacy/grassroots efforts of groups like the California MBA/MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 65th episode features Jeff Birdsell, VP, Loan Programs, ReverseVision and Michael McCully, Partner, New View Advisors.

Topics of discussion:

3:28 - Tell us about your backgrounds, what got you interested in the industry, and led you to where you are today? How did you end up in the RMBS space based on your traditional mortgage industry history?

6:19 - How do reverse mortgages differ from traditional mortgage loans?

10:25 - What is the inherent value of reverse mortgage loans and securities?

13:57 - Is there any significance Ginnie Mae has 13 approved HMBS issuers?

16:17 - Do lenders need specialized secondary marketing staff, resources or technology to sell HECMs and proprietary reverse mortgage loans in the secondary market?

17:59 - Why don’t more homeowners take out reverse mortgages?

22:31 - Some lenders offer proprietary reverse mortgage products. How does that work, what is the historical experience in this arena and what should potential investors know?

25:46 - What’s on the horizon for the next 6-12 months?

30:06 - Why is it crucial for lenders to support the advocacy work of groups like the California MBA/MBA/NRMLA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 64th episode features Jim Glennon Director, Secondary Services, Black Knight.

Topics of discussion:

2:34 - What's your background, and how did you end up at Black Knight in your current position?

6:41 - What's the biggest lesson you learned over the past year?

12:13 - As we move away from refi and back to purchase, what should lenders keep in mind?

13:25 - What do think the jumbo/QM market looks like a year from now?

16:01 - What's the latest from the Fed, and what should we be keeping our eyes on?

20:14 - How is inflation impacting the market right now? How should that change strategies/outlook?

22:20 - What do you think is the most underappreciated stat that lenders should pay more attention to?

24:24 - How is technology changing secondary/capital market strategies?

27:26 - Why is it important for lenders and solutions partners to support the advocacy work of industry groups like the California MBA/MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 63rd episode features Laura Martell, EVP, Mountain West Financial.

Topics of discussion:

3:34 - How did you get involved in the industry, and what was it like to have your early careers happen during the boom/bust period of the 2000’s?

7:00 - What has been your biggest challenge to overcome in your career?

9:06 - What have you learned (professionally or personally) over the past year that has made a lasting impact on you?

11:21 - What is the mortgage industry doing right when it comes to reaching younger borrowers?

13:50 - What is the mortgage industry doing right when it comes to attracting a younger workforce?

18:36 - Do you think the industry is embracing new technologies/innovations fast enough to keep up with consumer demands/expectations?

20:43 - What does the loan process look like 10 years from now – both for the consumer and the originator?

24:33 - Do you think the current work-from-home situation is a long-term trend, or will most people at your company be back in the office a year from now?

28:41 - Tell us something about yourself that most of your colleagues might not know

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 62nd episode features Ty Cieloha, Account Director, Qualia.

Topics of discussion:

5:19 - What’s your background, and how did you get involved in the industry? What led you to your current role at Qualia?

7:34 - What was your biggest challenge breaking through in the industry?

10:12 - How has your relative youth been a benefit to you in your career thus far?

11:37 - What project(s) are keeping you busy at Qualia right now?

13:38 - How is RON changing the mortgage process?

17:53 - What do mortgage companies need to keep in mind when looking to attract a younger workforce?

22:52 - Tell us one thing about you that most of your colleagues wouldn’t know?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers and shakers in the mortgage industry. In our 61st episode, we welcome Maggie Mae, Director of Product Development at Top of Mind Networks.

Topics of discussion:

4:25 - What’s your background for those who don’t know you? What path did you take that has led to your current role with Top of Mind?

6:34 - How did starting your career in the mid-to-late 2000s shape and impact your experience?

8:13 - What has been your toughest obstacle to overcome and why?

12:11 – How is storytelling crucial to success for lenders?

15:13 - What has been your biggest success in the industry?

16:49 - What’s the latest project or initiative you’re working on at Top of Mind?

18:55 - Do you think industry firms are doing more to adapt to a more Gen X/Millennial workforce? What advice would you have to a company looking to get younger?

25:13 - What is the biggest strength that younger folks bring to the table?

28:18 - Fun fact about you that most colleagues wouldn’t know?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. In our 60th episode, our podcast sponsor Insellerate takes over for a great conversation with Josh Friend, CEO, Insellerate and Rob Chrisman, robchrisman.com

Topics of discussion:

3:10 – What is the outlook for interest rates and inflation?

10:06 – What should we expect from the CFPB under the new administration?

17:04 – A ‘win-win’ for customers and lenders

22:06 – What factors are impacting home prices?

28:36 – How should lenders position themselves to take advantage of the future market?

33:08 – What is the biggest challenge for the industry in 2021?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. In our 59th episode, we welcome Brian Zitin Co-Founder & CEO, Reggora

Topics of discussion:

2:38 - What’s your background in the industry, and how did you end up at Reggora?

5:30 - What’s the innovative or disruptive factor that Reggora has brought to the market?

7:52 - What have you found to be helpful in building the company and breaking through in an industry that has a very traditional mindset?

9:54 - What do you think are the key characteristics of a great disruptive/innovative leader?

11:57 - What’s on the horizon for Reggora and the appraisal side of the business?

15:14 - In 5 or 10 years, what does the typical borrower’s experience look like, and how will it be different from today?

17:40 - Why is it important for you to support groups like the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. In our 58th episode, we welcome Brent Chandler, Founder & CEO, FormFree.

Topics of discussion:

4:04 - Since we talked last year, FormFree unveiled new branding to reflect its focus on expanding financial inclusivity in home ownership. Is financial inclusivity the new frontier for innovation at FormFree?

5:46 - What do you think has made FormFree a successful innovator/disruptor in the mortgage space?

9:31 - If I’m building a company that’s going to go into uncharted waters in an industry, likely to disrupt established players, what are some qualities I should look for in myself and my leadership team?

13:18 - What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of the past few years, as FormFree has grown tremendously?

15:53 - What does the next phase of growth look like for you and FormFree?

17:52 - Where is the mortgage industry most ripe for a new disruptor?

24:07 - What can mortgage companies do to continue to foster an environment that promotes innovation and evolution?

30:04 - Why should tech/vendor firms like FormFree support advocacy groups like the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. In our 57th episode, we welcome Alex Kutsishin, Co-Founder, Chief ROI Booster, Sales Boomerang.

Topics of discussion:

4:06 – What’s new at Sales Boomerang?

6:09 – What do you think has been the biggest innovation or disruption that you and Sales Boomerang have had on the marketplace?

13:06 – What is the most important attribute for a company to have to be a successful disruptor in any industry?

16:05 – What about the innovator or innovators at the heart of a successful company – what are the most important or common qualities you see in them?

22:26 – How do you make the transition from upstart disruptor to established market player?

26:42 – Back to mortgages, what aspect of the lending lifecycle is due for a major innovator or ripe for a disruptor to come in and shake things up?

32:48 – How important is it to bring in outside voices (outside the mortgage industry) to help drive innovation?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. In our 56th episode, we welcome Michael Guidotti, VP, Integration & Branch Technology, American Pacific Mortgage

3:22 - What’s your background, and what led you to the tech side of the industry and APM?

6:27 - What has your experience been like over the past year, trying to keep your team systems up-to-date through the pandemic and refi boom?

8:34 - What changes are you starting to make with the return to a more purchase-oriented market on the horizon?

10:14 - Do you think that, during the next purchase market cycle, success will depend more on the strength of REALTOR relationships or technology integration/efficiency?

13:26 - Do you think customers are going to see more change and a better experience due to changes on the front end or back-end processes?

16:18 - What are you most excited to see in the future, when it comes to how lenders build out customer experience tools?

18:23 - You’ve been with APM for almost a decade now – what’s unique about the culture at the company, and how does that spill over into customer experience?

20:57 - Why is it crucial for lenders and younger folks in the industry to get involved and support their state/national advocacy groups, like the California MBA/MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. In our 55th episode, we welcome Greg Pettersen, Director of Technology at RWM Home Loans

Topics of discussion:

3:29 - What’s your background/how did you get started in the business, and what’s drawn you to the marketing/tech side of the industry?

6:04 - What’s the transformation in customer experience been like for you over the past decade?

9:56 - What has been the biggest improvement in customer experience during that time?

13:35 - What does the next decade look like? More gradual change, or something seismic that truly transforms the industry?

20:15 - What’s the biggest pain point right now that you see for homebuyers?

26:12 - How is your strategy shifting as you see the end of the refi boom coming and the return of a more purchase-focused market?

29:01 - What advice would you give to mortgage lenders to help the industry better reach out to and get young people interested in the business at a younger age?

34:39 - Why is it important for lenders and even younger people at the company to support groups like the California MBA and their advocacy efforts?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. In our 54th episode we welcome Linn Cook VP, Sales, OptifiNow

Topics of discussion:

2:06 - What’s your background, and how did you get started in the industry and end up where you are now at OptifiNow?

4:07 - How has the pandemic sped up (or slowed down) industry innovation trends when it comes to customer experience?

10:48 - As an industry, it seems like we may be moving away from a tech stack/vendor bolt-on approach for originators in favor of all-in-one approaches. Is that the future?

16:14 - Can you give us a practical example of how marketing automation really does help drive more sales? How do you assimilate the massive amounts of data and make it practical for LOs to utilize to convert more transactions?

20:26 - What changes are we likely to see from lenders as we shift from refi back to purchase this year?

23:14 - Tell me about how lenders can use social media to engage with borrowers and build their brand equity

27:17 - In talking with lenders, what do you think execs need to know that they don’t?

33:18 - Why should tech firms belong to groups like the California MBA, and why should advocacy issues matter to them (and not just to lenders)?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. In our 53rd episode, we welcome Cathleen Schreiner Gates, President, SimpleNexus.

Topics of discussion:

3:06 - Tell us about your background and what led you to SimpleNexus.

8:25 - You’ve joined a leadership team that has largely been there from the start – how has it been integrating with the others on the exec team?

11:14 - What was your most important takeaway from the recent SimpleNexus SNUG event?

16:35 - Do you think the comprehensive homeownership platform model that SimpleNexus has forwarded is the future of the customer’s experience? Why?

21:41 - What’s the state of digital/mobile closing processes?

25:21 - Where is the biggest pain point for borrowers right now, and what must industry do to fix that?

29:21 - Do you think the next few years will see more change in “ease of use” or faster turnaround for borrowers (or both/neither)?

36:37 - Why should industry solutions partners like SimpleNexus support the advocacy efforts of the California MBA/MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 52nd episode we welcome back Josh Friend, Founder & CEO, Insellerate.

Topics of discussion:   3:35 - Much of the focus in the past half-decade (or more) in the realm of customer/user experience has been on the front end/end-user side.  But since the advent of digital mortgage platforms that put the borrower in the driver’s seat, it seems like the industry has started to realize that we can improve the customer experience by also innovating in process/technology that the customer may not always realize.  What are your thoughts on this shift?

7:26 - Where are we going to see the next big breakthrough in customer experience?

9:26 - What changes will we see as the pendulum swings back to purchase?

12:42 - What is the most effective strategy to stay in touch with borrowers throughout the process, and how can originators maintain touch with borrowers during high volume periods?

16:23 - Does the increasing ability of the borrower to educate themselves (with greater access to information) change how originators communicate with (and what they communicate) borrowers?

23:08 - How are the top lenders today turning the vast amount of data into actionable intelligence to drive sales further?

28:23 - What should we be keeping our eye on as far as new releases from Insellerate this year?

31:43 - It’s easy to forget the importance of industry advocacy efforts when volumes are high and everyone is busy and happy.  Why should companies make sure to invest in the advocacy work of groups like the California MBA in times good and not-so-good?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 51st episode we welcome 3 Rising Stars of Commercial Real Estate Finance.

Sarah Bernhisel, Vice President, Slatt Capital Pasha Johnson, Principal, Pacific Southwest Realty Services Amit Tyagi, Senior Director, Gantry

Topics of discussion:   3:41 – How did you got started in the industry?

9:10 - What is the current state of the CRE market from your perspective, and what’s your outlook for 2021?

16:16 - What is the biggest impact you see the new Biden admin could have on the market?

21:43 - What do you see as a potential hidden gem in the market, a silver lining or a great investment opportunity for the right borrower?

27:26 - What’s your favorite sales story – either a huge win or a crash landing that you learned from?

34:16 - What are you more concerned about, long term – retail or office? 

36:03 - What advice do you have for younger folks coming into the CRE space, and what can the industry do to better encourage a younger, more diverse workforce?

43:14 - How crucial are industry advocacy efforts right now, and what would you tell a colleague who perhaps doesn’t see the value in supporting organizations like the California MBA, MBA, etc.?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 50th episode features Peter Margolin, Commercial Loan Originator, Alliant Credit Union

Topics of discussion:   4:04 - What’s your background, and how did you get into the business and to Alliant?

5:29 - Where is the market at right now – what’s the state of lending from your perspective?

7:10 - Are we waiting more for government action (stimulus bill) or market activity (correction, rate changes) to spur the economy and the CRE sector?

9:42 - How much longer do you see the (positive) trend continuing with multi-family?

11:40 - What about retail? What does the sector look like post-pandemic?

13:06 – How about office?  Will large urban buildings continue to suffer as employees work from home?

16:16 - What tips do you have for younger professionals who have recently entered the marketplace?  How do you build a book of business in the midst of a pandemic?

18:35 - What is one thing lenders should know that they don’t?

20:05 - How crucial is it for industry pros to support advocacy groups like the California MBA, MBA, and CUNA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 49th episode features Brad Zampa, EVP, CBRE Capital Markets.

Topics of discussion:   3:47 – What’s your background, and how did you get into the CRE market, and specifically the debt/structured finance sector?

9:56 – Big picture – what is the state of the CRE market right now, and where are the biggest pain points?

13:48 – What about the biggest opportunities/bright spots in the market?

16:03 – What about office space in particular – where do we go from here (post-pandemic)?

22:25 – Are you starting to see development resume on some big projects, or are we still waiting for the shackles to come off, via the vaccine/lifting of government restrictions?

24:07 – What’s the secret to navigating high-value, complicated deals in the midst of a once-in-a-lifetime headwind like the pandemic?

28:43 – How important is it for industry players to support the advocacy work of organizations like the California MBA, MBA, and NAIOP?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 48th episode features Gary Bechtel, CEO, Red Oak Capital.

Topics of discussion:   4:44 - What’s your background and how did you wind up at Red Oak Capital?

9:25 - What’s the current state of the CRE market right now, and what trends do you see dominating 2021?

17:08 - What indices or market indicators do you keep a close eye on?

20:00 - What will be the hottest product this year?

21:00 - What about the hottest geographical region?

23:51 – Why are you bullish on retail, and what pandemic-related trends are likely to endure beyond 2021?

29:10 – Will government actions or market forces make a bigger impact on the health of the CRE scene this year?

31:42 – As someone who’s built/helped build several successful companies, what advice would you have to someone jumping into the market?

36:06 – How are keeping culture front and center during the pandemic?  Any strategies or success stories?

40:20 – Why is advocacy important, and why should CRE professionals in particular care about the advocacy work of groups like the California MBA, MBA, etc.?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 47th episode features Lori Brewer, CEO, LBA Ware.

Topics of discussion:

2:18 - What’s your background and what led you to start LBA Ware?

5:33 - CompenSafe’s position as the industry’s leading incentive compensation management platform has given you in-depth insight into industry comp trends. What are key comp trends you observed in 2020?

9:24 - What are some best-practices for maximizing the impact of incentive compensation plans?

11:59 - LBA Ware is perhaps best known for CompenSafe, but last year you launched LimeGear, a turnkey BI platform designed for mortgage lenders. What sets LimeGear apart in the BI space?

14:46 - So much of the industry focus right now is on optimizing sales/managing pipelines to keep up with the refi boom and take advantage while it lasts. What are some tangible steps lenders can take to improve those areas?

17:11 - How can firms like LBA Ware help companies maintain origination volume/sales in a remote/WFH environment?

20:16 - Beyond quantity, how crucial is it to keep an eye on the quality of your pipeline?

22:46 - As a woman-owned business, what are your thoughts on how the mortgage industry can help develop more diverse leaders?

24:09 - Tell me about the “chucks” and how you’ve successfully created a unique culture at LBA Ware.

26:51 - How crucial are the advocacy efforts of groups like the MBA/California MBA right now, and what would you say to a colleague considering membership?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 46th episode features a mini-panel discussing Sales & Origination Strategies for 2021.

Panelists: Casey Hughes-Wade, VP, Relationship Manager-Mortgage, SLK Global Solutions Erin Futterer, Regional Vice President, Stearns Lending, LLC James McKibban, Branch Manager, New American Funding

2:18 - What’s your journey in the industry?

5:22 - Refi boom marches on as we start 2021 – what’s the biggest challenge for originators right now?

11:12 - How can tech solutions help originators continue to push the envelope without getting buried and losing touch with borrowers?

17:46 - What is the most important sales trend heading into this year?

23:14 - How permanent do you think the virtual meeting thing is?  Is this the future of sales?

29:05 - What’s your favorite sales story – either a huge win or a crash landing that you learned from?

35:52 - What is the smart originator doing right now to prepare for the eventual end of the refi gravy train?

42:33 - What about younger originators just getting into the game, who haven’t been around for a purchase-focused cycle?  How can they plan ahead if they don’t have a book of business built up yet?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 45th episode features Bill Tessar, President, Civic Financial Services. This episode covers a variety of topics including:

4:56 - What’s your background?  What led you to Civic and the private lending space?

7:43 - So what is the state of private lending right now, considering the pandemic/economic challenges?

14:17 - Tell me about the culture at Civic – what sets it apart? 

19:28 - What key strategies or tactics are private originators using to boost volume?

22:21 - What advantages does private lending provide to borrowers in uncertain times like these?

25:59 - What are the hottest products right now in private lending?

27:41 - What happens with the refi boom ends – what are the keys to success for originators in that environment?

31:05 - What about younger originators/brokers/correspondents entering the business – Why should they consider private lending instead of the more typical/traditional route (bank/IMB)?

34:56 - How crucial are the advocacy efforts of groups like the MBA/California MBA right now, and what would you say to a colleague considering membership?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 44th episode features Erik Enright, COO/CTO Top of Minds. This episode covers a variety of topics including:   5:11 - What's your background? How did your varied experience lead you to Top of Mind?

6:23 - What has been the biggest challenge for you this year, leading operations and technology for the company?

10:25 - What has been the biggest challenge for your clients this year?

12:54 - How has Surefire helped lenders manage the unprecedented mortgage volumes of 2020?

15:22 - Obviously, gathering leads is easier in a low rate refi boom, like we're in the middle of now, but what's the winning strategy for lenders when rates go up and the focus turns back to purchase business?

17:21 - How can lenders break through the noise of social media and connect with potential borrowers?

22:10 - Top of Mind has recently received recognition alongside such companies as IBM and PepsiCo for its creative marketing content. Tell us about how your content library sets you apart?

28:00 - You haven't spent all your career in the mortgage industry - what can the industry do to better engage with thought leaders and folks outside the industry to bring in fresh ideas?                 Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 43rd episode features Margaret Chiavini, Regional Vice President, Correspondent Sales West, Caliber Home Loans This episode covers a variety of topics including:   3:57 - Let’s start with your background – how did you get started in the business, and how did you end up at Caliber, in your current position?

10:09 - What has been the biggest challenge for you this year?

11:46 - What specific challenges do you think correspondent lenders have had this year, facing both the pandemic and the refi boom?

15:23 - What does the near-term future look like (2021), particularly for the correspondent side of business?

17:20 - What intrigues you about the tech side of the business, and what are you most excited to see from industry tech solutions providers in the future?

19:49 - Where do you see that industry has made the most progress in the past few years when it comes to technology adoption/implementation?

21:56 - As an investor, what are the biggest pain points for you and your correspondent customers right now?

25:22 - Switching gears, advocacy from groups like the California MBA and the national MBA were crucial in 2020 – what would you say to a colleague that didn’t understand the importance of advocacy?

28:16 – What is the Mortgage Innovators Conference all about?                 Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 42nd episode features Michael Flynn, Of Counsel, Buchalter. This episode covers a variety of topics including:   3:08 - What’s your background?  What drew you into the legal field, and how did you end up at Buchalter?

5:57 – What was a bigger challenge – your time during the financial crisis at HUD, or the following years in the industry?

8:26 - What are you hearing from lender clients right now about the biggest challenge they anticipate in 2020?

10:49 - It appears at this point that Joe Biden will be inaugurated on January 20 – how quickly do you think that mortgage bankers will see a different approach from either the CFPB or other regulators?

15:04 - What should we be keeping an eye on coming out of the newly-minted CA Department of Financial Protection and Innovation?

18:25 - Of the bills recently signed in to law by Gov. Newsom, what are some of the big impacts you foresee?

24:56 - Where are we at with the residential eviction moratoria, and what are we likely to see next year?

27:43 - What’s one thing lenders can do right now to protect their businesses and mitigate liability risk?

29:53 - How crucial is the industry’s advocacy efforts right now, both in CA and DC?

Join the conversation | Bank CRE Lending Report and CREF Ecosytem Outlook Conclave, happening December 8th —> https://lnkd.in/g8BxdrC

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 41st episode features Brent Chandler, Founder & CEO, FormFree. This episode covers a variety of topics including:   3:01 - What’s your background?  How did you get started in the industry and what led you to found FormFree?

5:09 – How can the industry help our veterans more, and keep them engaged and plugged in to the mortgage lending community?

6:18 - Tell us about how 2020 has been for you and FormFree – what lessons have you learned and how have you navigated the ups-and-downs?

8:24 - How have you maintained the culture at the company in the midst of so much work-from-home?

10:44 - What are some of the changes from this year that you see as permanent, or what industry tech trends did the pandemic accelerate?

13:25 - What are the biggest tech/UX gaps in the borrower journey right now, and what do lenders need to do to better serve customers?

21:22 - What will we all be talking about at industry tech conferences in 5 years?

30:04 - How important are industry advocacy efforts right now, from MBA at the federal level to California MBA here in our state?   Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 40th episode features Richard J. Andreano, Jr., Partner, Ballard Spahr. This episode covers a variety of topics including:   4:15 - Let’s start with your background.  What led you into the legal field, and specifically to the world of financial markets, mortgage and regulation?

6:41 - What has been the biggest challenge for you during the pandemic?

9:24 - Regulation in the industry has obviously changed quite a bit over the past few decades – what is perhaps the most under-appreciated law/case/regulatory action that has had a major impact on the industry in that time?

13:03 - Where do we stand with the legal challenges to the CFPB?

17:37 - What do you anticipate the CFPB’s agenda to look like next year? How might that change if we have a President Biden or President Trump?

20:56 - Where are we at with QM/GSE patch?  What impact on the industry next year?

24:04 - What can/should lenders do now to be ready for the next year’s priorities from the CFPB?

29:34 - How crucial are industry advocacy efforts right now, both at the state/national level (California MBA and the MBA)?   Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 39th episode features Ben Miller, Co-Founder, SimpleNexus. This episode covers a variety of topics including:   2:04 - What’s your background?  What led you to SimpleNexus?

9:37 - What was the biggest challenge in helping to start a company?  Advice for aspiring mortgage industry entrepreneurs?

12:30 - What challenges/opportunities are you working through as the company expands and scales, particularly during the pandemic and refi boom? 

16:36 - Lending has always been a relationship business. How has the pandemic affected originators’ ability to network with purchase referral partners?  

23:10 - Where are some of the gaps in mortgage tech now?

26:58 – Let’s talk advocacy - how crucial is it for companies in the industry to support organizations like the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 38th episode features Michael Pfeifer, Of Counsel, Kirby & McGuinn, California MBA General Counsel. This episode covers a variety of topics including:   2:33 - What’s your background?  How did you get started and what led you to the mortgage industry?

18:36 - What has been your biggest challenge or most rewarding victory as an attorney in the industry?

28:44 - What case or cases are you keeping an eye on right now?

36:50 – What’s the state of regulation right now?

42:11 – Give us one piece of practical advice for lenders to reduce their liability

43:40 – How important is it to support groups like the California MBA?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 37th episode features Cody Charfauros, Principal/Managing Director, Slatt Capital. This episode covers a variety of topics including:   2:43 - Let’s start with your background – how did you get into the business, and what led you to Slatt Capital?

5:28 - How is the company – how are you – coping with the changes from COVID-19, specifically the face-to-face nature of the commercial real estate finance industry?

8:01 - What changes do you see as permanent?

10:05 - What’s the overall state of the market right now?

13:50 - Gov. Newsom just announced that he’s extended the ability of local governments to enact local commercial rent moratoriums until March 2021. How do you anticipate that might impact the market?

17:42 - Speaking of impacts on the market, what do you see having the most impact on the health of the market in 2021?

21:28 - Let’s go back to the election for a moment – we’ve got two big ballot initiatives this year in CA – Prop 15 (“split roll” tax) and Prop 21 (rent control).  What’s your take on the potential impact those could have on the market?

27:14 – It’s Membership Month at the California MBA (go to www.JoinCMBA.com to get 15% off your first-year dues!) – what would you say to a colleague who is on the fence about joining?

https://noonprop15.org/ https://noonprop21.org/

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 36th episode features Alex Kutsishin, Co-Founder, CEO & Chief ROI Booster, Sales Boomerang. This episode covers a variety of topics including:   4:05 - Let’s start with your background – how did you get into the business, and what led you to co-found Sales Boomerang?

10:36 - What was the problem that you saw that needed fixing?

17:34 - What was the biggest challenge you faced starting a new business

24:18 - How is Sales Boomerang managing through the COVID-19 reality and craze of the refi boom?

29:45 - If I’m an LO, what should make me excited about increasing automation, instead of worrying about being replaced?

34:00 - What does the borrower experience look like in 5 years?

38:49 - What would you say to someone in the mortgage business that wants to get themselves more “out there” on social media but is intimidated or overwhelmed at what to do first?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 35th episode features Joe Langner, President, ReverseVision. This episode covers a variety of topics including:   4:04 - What’s your background?  How did you get started on the reverse side of the business, and what drew you to ReverseVision?

7:55 - With all the focus in the industry right now seemingly on the refi boom, what is the state of the market on your side?

11:03 - Are there particular challenges that the pandemic has caused for reverse mortgage firms and consumers? 

15:17 - How has the company adapted to the new WFH reality, and how have you maintained company culture in this environment?

19:48 - How has the government’s response to the pandemic helped/hurt the reverse mortgage business?

22:30 - What is the state of technology for reverse lending right now?

27:21 - How different is creating/building the borrower experience for reverse lenders?

30:38 - What is the biggest technology change that you foresee on the horizon for reverse lenders?

34:02 - What’s one thing that the forward side of the business doesn’t know about reverse mortgages that they should know?

36:11 - How do you see ReverseVision evolving in the future to meet the needs of the mortgage market in general?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 34th episode features Gary Clark, COO, Sierra Pacific Mortgage. This episode covers a variety of topics including:   3:32 - What’s your background?  How did you get in the industry and end up at Sierra Pacific?

5:37 - How has the company adapted to the pandemic and the California wildfires?

7:28 - How are you maintaining company culture?

9:45 - What changes do you think are permanent?

11:19 - What economic indicators are you looking at these days to make plans for the future?

13:13 - How are you and SPMC preparing for that eventual shift and rebalancing between refi/purchase business?

15:17 - What is the biggest “unknown” that keeps you up at night?

16:46 - What is the biggest priority or initiative that RESBOG is working on these days?

20:15 - How crucial is industry advocacy right now?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. We are joined by David Rosenthal MAI, FRICS, President & CEO, Curtis-Rosenthal, Inc. This episode covers a variety of topics including:   6:52 - What’s your backstory? How did you get started in the industry and what led you to start the company?

9:24 - What’s the state of the industry like right now, from your perspective?

16:14 - What impact do you think the new SoFi Stadium will have on the market in Hollywood Park?

19:00 - How has the company and the commercial valuations industry adapted to the COVID-19 environment?

26:42 - What impact do you think the split-tax roll and rent control ballot measures would have on the market and economy if they pass in November?

30:31 - You’ve always been a big supporter of industry groups like LAMA, the MBA and the California MBA – why?

33:32 - Leave us with some advice for CRE pros to thrive in the current environment – what can they do right now?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 32nd episode features Brena Nath, HW+ Managing Editor, HousingWire. This episode covers a variety of topics including:   5:13 - What’s your backstory?  How did you wind up at HousingWire?

10:45 - What are the challenges facing journalists in general in 2020? Is it the crush of never-ending breaking news, or social media demands, or something else?

13:05 - What are the differences or unique challenges for industry/trade publications compared to general publications?

15:52 - What are you hearing about the state of the market right now?

21:44 - Do you have any tips for companies in dealing with reporters/media?

25:39 - What about some common misperceptions/myths about reporters/media?

29:41 - Do you have any advice for companies on how to break through the noise and get your voice heard?

33:06 - What about media/crisis management – some tips on how to survive scandal in 2020?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 31st episode features Dave Zitting, Co-Founder, Chief Lending Officer, Avenu Technologies. This episode covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:   4:12 - What's your background?  How did you end up starting Avenu?

9:35 - What was the biggest challenge in starting a new tech company in the real estate/finance sector? 

12:46 - How has the pandemic changed or adjusted your strategy? 

15:10 - What economic indicators are you keeping an eye on right now? 

20:44 - What's your take (as a former IMB CEO) on the state of mortgage technology? Do we need more tech or need to better utilize what's out there? 

28:21 – What does the ideal homebuyer experience look like in 5 years? 

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 30th episode features John Seroka, Principal, Seroka Brand Development and Joe Dahleen, SVP, Strategy & Sales, FirstClose. This episode covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

2:55 - What’s your take on the FHFA’s new 50bps fee increase for refis?  Impact on industry?

6:51 - What’s the hottest mortgage tech trend right now that you see out there?

11:09 - Do lenders need more/new tech or to better utilize the tech that is out there already?

13:43 - How have you seen the pandemic change lender strategies – both marketing and tech?

24:14 - What about the vendor perspective – tell us what vendors need to do to become partners and not just providers?

29:05 - Let’s look into the future – what does the borrower experience look like in 5 years?

31:03 - What is one actionable thing that lenders can do right now to serve customers better?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 29th episode features Ryan Chapman Senior Vice President, Walker & Dunlop and California MBA Commercial President. This episode covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:   3:50 - Tell us about your background in the mortgage industry

6:55 - How is the company adapting to the new pandemic normal?

13:09 - What’s the biggest challenge for operations folks like yourself right now?

17:54 - What are you hearing from producers about the state of the industry?

21:04 - What is likely to be the biggest sector hurt long-term – retail, office or hospitality (or something else)?

27:00 - Switching gears, how is the industry working to get more younger folks engaged?

31:38 - How is the work-from-home reality impacting corporate culture? What can you do to maintain a good culture at a large company in this environment?

36:20 - How crucial are industry’s advocacy efforts right now?  What’s the hottest topic we should know about?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 28th episode is a replay of our conversation with Josh Friend, CEO/Founder, Insellerate. This episode covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

1:57– Josh’s Journey to Insellerate

3:58 – How is Insellerate dealing with COVID-19 challenges?

5:37 – Long-term impact of COVID-19 on industry?

11:22 – Borrower engagement: what are lenders doing right/wrong?

18:08 – How do lenders/LOs stay organized with their varied communication methods with borrowers?

20:41 – Is the next “big thing” better use of existing tech and optimizing the stack?

31:05 – Tips for younger professionals

35:15 – Importance of advocacy

40:28 – Closing thoughts…

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 27th episode features Terry Schmidt, President at Guild Mortgage. This episode covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:   3:17 - What’s your journey?  What path did you take to arrive at the leadership of Guild?

6:09 – How Terry’s early career shapes her leadership today

7:49 - How is the company adapting to the COVID-19 crisis, both internally and in your interactions with consumers?

11:21 - Do you think there is more pressure right now on originators or servicers?

14:27 - Overall, what shape do you think the recovery will take?  What about the housing/mortgage market in general?

16:17 - How is Guild working to improve the relationship with customers and continue making the mortgage experience even better?

18:25 - Tell me about the corporate culture at Guild?  The company certainly has placed a high value on promoting women in leadership (and promoting from within) – how has that made the culture unique?  What advantages has that given the company?

21:40 - How can mortgage companies (and the industry overall) do more to help promote diversity in leadership?

23:39 - As someone in a CEO/President position, thinking about the future, what issue is keeping you up night these days, beyond the current pandemic crisis?

25:51 - How crucial is the advocacy work of groups like the California MBA and the MBA these days?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 26th episode features Douglas G. Duncan, SVP, Chief Economist, Fannie Mae. This episode covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:   3:23 – What’s your background?  What led you to the field of economics, and how did you end up at Fannie Mae?

5:37 – Agriculture lessons explain housing supply/demand?

7:37 – What do you see as the biggest/most important macro economic trend right now?

9:51 – What metric should we focus more attention on – unemployment rates, interest rates, inflation rates, or something else?

16:17 – What is the current state of forbearance, and how is that impacting the economy and housing market?

18:41 – What happens if COVID-19 government relief efforts end after July 31st?

22:09 – How much longer to do see the refi boom going on for? 

24:31 – What are the steps needed for Fannie Mae to exit conservatorship?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 25th episode features Dave Stevens, Chief Executive Officer, Mountain Lake Consulting, Inc. In this episode Dave covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

3:08 - What’s your backstory?  How did you end up in the industry and how did you end up at FHA and MBA?

6:43 - After so many years in the private sector, what was the biggest adjustment you had to make in moving into government service?

9:29 - What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what was the key to overcoming it?

15:48 - What opening in the market or opportunity did you see that got you interested in co-founding Mortgage Media?

17:40 - What is the biggest change in borrower experience you’ve seen over the years, and what elements of the relationship are the same?

23:03 - Where do you think we’re at right now in the industry?  What’s a bigger concern to you as far as the health of the industry – unemployment or supply?

26:56 - How much progress do you think industry has made in the past few years when it comes to inclusion, diversity – when it comes to race/ethnicity as well as age?

32:35 - What considerations should companies make when deciding how/when/how much to engage on political issues?

37:15 - How crucial is the role industry groups like MBA and California MBA play when it comes to advocating on issues relevant to borrowers and lenders?

42:03 - Tell us something that most people may not know about you!

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 24th episode features Kyle Kamrooz, Co-Founder, Cloudvirga. In this episode Kyle covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

3:26 - What’s your backstory?  What opening did you see in the market that led you to found Cloudvirga?

13:09 - What were some of the early challenges in building the company?

16:08 - What do you see as some of the major friction points in the mortgage transaction, and how can technology ease those problems?

20:05 - What do you think a borrower’s experience will look like 5 years from now?

25:32 - Do you see lenders not utilizing enough of existing/current technology?  Is it a matter of better coordinating the tech stack?

27:41 - What about compliance/QA/regulatory issues?  How does a multi-state lender keep those ever-evolving standards straight in a digital platform?

28:53 – One thing lenders don’t know that they should know

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about Cloudvirga visit https://www.cloudvirga.com/

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 23rd episode features Rick Arvielo, Co-Founder and CEO, New American Funding. In this episode Rick covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

3:26 - What’s your journey in the mortgage industry, and what led you and Patty to found NAF?

4:43 - What were some of the early challenges in building the business? 

8:19 - What’s the secret to building the kind of employee-focused, positive culture that you’ve always had at NAF?

12:36 - So how are things are NAF right now?  What’s your outlook for the rest of the year and into 2021?

16:44 - What’s the biggest number that lenders/servicers should keep an eye on – unemployment rates, mortgage rates, or forbearance rates?

22:24 – You’ve always been a huge supporter of industry advocacy grassroots efforts – why?

Sign up for the Mortgage Action Alliance (MAA): https://www.mba.org/get-involved/take-action-with-maa

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit www.insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about New American Funding visit https://www.newamericanfunding.com/

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 22nd episode features Monika L. McCarthy Managing Director & General Counsel, CrossCheck Compliance LLC. In this episode Monika covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

3:50 - What’s your journey in the mortgage industry?  How did you wind up at CrossCheck Compliance?

6:42 - How is the firm handling the fall-out from the COVID-19 pandemic?

10:24 - Talking to your clients, what is your sense on what shape the recovery is going to take?  What are your biggest concerns?

13:43 - How are lenders/servicers adapting to the challenge of dramatically increased forbearance requirements?

18:25 - Aside from forbearance issues, what is the most pressing regulatory/compliance issue that lenders are dealing with right now?

21:00 - What about legal/litigation concerns?  What should lenders keep an eye out for?

23:05 - What’s one thing that lenders should know right now that they don’t?

Thank you to our sponsor, Insellerate. To learn more visit insellerate.com or call 855-973-1646

To learn more about CrossCheck Compliance LLC visit https://crosscheckcompliance.com/

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 21st episode features Marlene Chaker, Founder & CEO, AAA-AMC. In this episode Marlene covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

3:08 – What’s your journey?  How did you end up in the mortgage industry and in the appraisal side of the business?

5:10 – What was your experience starting a company?  Biggest challenges?  Greatest rewards?

7:19 – What steps did you take to create the company culture that you have?

8:35 – What role does supporting the professional development of your team play?

11:08 – How has the pandemic impacted your company and the wider appraisal business?

12:24 – What long-term trends in the appraisal business do you think will come out of the pandemic?

15:02 – What are you hearing from clients about the state of the industry overall right now?

16:05 – I know you’ve had some great mentors in the business, and that you’ve become a mentor yourself now?  How important is giving back like that to you?

17:19 – How important is it for vendors in the industry to support trade groups like the California MBA?  What tangible benefits have you seen from your membership?

20:44 – What one bit of advice would you give for mortgage professionals to position themselves to come out of the pandemic strong, be ready for major growth in 2021?

To learn more about AAA-AMC visit http://www.aaa-amc.net/

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, sponsored by Insellerate, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 20th episode features Jeff Burns, Senior Managing Director, Walker Dunlop, California MBA Chairman (2019-2020). In this episode, Jeff covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

2:22 - California MBA weekly update

5:38 – What’s your journey? How did you get started in the business, and what led you to Walker Dunlop?

8:21 – What’s the state of the commercial real estate market right now?

10:41 – What will the recovery look like?

14:06 – What will some of the permanent changes (like more WFH situations for more employers) in the economy have on the commercial real estate market?

17:17 – What actions can governments take right now to help stabilize or boost the recovery of the market?

19:34 – What can CRE lenders do to thrive in the current economic environment?

21:14 – How are you and your colleagues staying connected right now? What does the future of networking look like for the industry?

23:23 – What’s the biggest advocacy issue right now that commercial real estate pros to be aware of?

28:07 – What’s your biggest accomplishment or the most important thing you worked on as California MBA Chairman?

To learn more about Walker Dunlop visit https://www.walkerdunlop.com/

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 19th episode features Susanne Livingston, Co-Owner, RWM Home Loans. In this episode Susanne covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

5:08 – What’s your backstory? How did you get involved in the industry and what led you to start the company?

6:18 – What do you think has sustained and grown it over the years? What’s the secret sauce?

8:09 – How is the company coping with COVID-19 challenges, from capital/liquidity to employee/WFH scenarios to borrower engagement?

10:15 – What’s the state of the housing/real estate market right now, in your estimation? Where do you think we are in 6-12 months?

13:37 – What’s one thing that mortgage bankers need to keep in mind right now to thrive in the current environment?

15:57 – I know that you’ve always put a premium on building a solid corporate culture at RWM – what are some tips to keep in mind if I’m either starting a company from scratch or looking to reinvest in a new culture?

18:41 – Have you always seen a real ROI on the investments you make in culture?

19:27 – What about technology? Do you see more innovation right now on the process/back-end or the front-end borrower experience?

21:50 – Let’s switch gears – how crucial is the industry’s advocacy efforts right now?

25:18 – What’s your message to a colleague or someone new in the industry that doesn’t see the value in advocacy or groups like the California MBA and MBA?

To learn more about RWM Home Loans visit https://www.rwmloans.com/

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 18th episode features Carl Tyree, EVP, Chief Sales Officer, Arch MI. In this episode Carl covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

1:29 – What’s your backstory?  How did you find your way to the MI side of the business?

3:34 – How is Arch MI adapting to the new COVID-19 reality?

5:52 – What are the biggest pain points you’re hearing about from your lender or servicer customers?

7:41 – What do you think the future (both near term and 12-24 months) looks like for non-QM lending?

10:06 – What is the most critical action(s) government/regulators can take to help lenders and borrowers right now?

11:27 – What is the most important technology-related innovation or change that you see lenders utilizing to better serve borrowers?

12:57 – Since you get to see how different lenders interact with their borrowers, where do you see that they are getting it right, and where do you see room for improvement?

15:49 – Switching gears, I know that Arch’s marketing/communication efforts include things like the Insights podcast and blog (which is active), webinars and more.  What advice would you have for a company that’s looking to expand into areas like this, but is perhaps intimidated by the resources or effort it might entail?

18:18 – As someone on the sales/marketing side of the business, I’m curious to hear your thoughts on how you’re networking in a COVID-19 world, without the face-to-face opportunities you’d get at conferences, cocktail receptions, etc. etc.

21:54 – Closing thoughts – leave us with one thing lenders should know that they don’t

To learn more about Arch MI visit https://mi.archcapgroup.com/

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 17th episode features Anthony Romano, CEO, eScreenLogic. In this episode Anthony cover a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

2:06 – Who is eScreenLogic?

2:38 – Tell us a bit more about what led you to this point in your career and what’s driven you to become the CEO of eScreenLogic

7:19 – With the pandemic and all that brings with it, what are the PAINS you are solving for now and in the near future? How has eScreenLogic adjusted and what are you hearing from the industry/your customers on the new challenges the pandemic presents?

9:37 – Where is eScreenLogic headed strategically and if I had you back say a year from today, what would we be talking about in terms of the ways you’ve continued to help the CRE industry with innovative solutions?

15:42 – Networking/deal-making in the CRE space is traditionally a face-to-face process.  How are both seasoned pros and younger producers going to navigate this in a post-pandemic world?

17:35 – How crucial are advocacy efforts right now?  Potential issues like commercial split-roll and rent control are potential legislative and/or ballot measures industry faces in 2020 and beyond.  What are some of the unintended consequences?

20:36 – Any tips for lenders/vendors to do more than just survive the next 6-12 months?

23:20 – Launching a new product or service during a crisis

To learn more about eScreenLogic visit https://www.escreenlogic.com/

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 16th episode features John Seroka, Principal, Seroka Brand Development, Co-Chair, Mortgage Technology & Marketing Committee (MTAM) and Scott Seroka, Principal & Chief Brand Strategist, Seroka Brand Development

In this episode John & Scott cover a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

2:18 – What’s your backstory/journey through the mortgage industry?  What interested you in the marketing/branding side of the business?

9:41 – In speaking to you clients, prospects, and colleagues in the industry, what’s your sense on how optimistic/pessimistic folks are about the near-term future, once the economy opens back up?

14:39 – Outside of the industry, which company(ies) do you see that are doing something right when it comes to building their brand, and why?

18:03 – What is the difference, both strategically and tactically, in “building” a brand and “maintaining” a brand?

27:44 – What are some differences and similarities between B2C and B2B marketing?

36:38 – What if you’re starting a brand from scratch?  What are your top 3 tips for getting started?

43:42 – How is your own networking strategy changing in the current shelter-in-place/WFH environment?   48:32 - What are the most exciting technology innovations that you’re keeping an eye on?

51:56 – How crucial are advocacy groups, like the California MBA, right now?  What’s your pitch to a non-member on why they should get plugged in?

To learn more about Seroka Brand Development visit https://seroka.com/

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 15th episode features Paul Gigliotti, COO of Pinnacle Home Loans. In this episode Paul covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

1:33 – What does your journey look like through the mortgage world?  How did you get to where you are now at Pinnacle?

4:12 – Culture is crucial - how is the company staying connected during the COVID-19 pandemic?

7:26 – What do you think the long-term impact on the industry will be?  More WFH scenarios? 

12:28 – Long term do you see more automation?  Different hedging strategies?

19:27 – What new or upcoming tech/innovation has you most excited about the future?

22:39 – How do you think the mortgage experience will be different for borrowers in 5 years?

26:16 – Any suggestions for younger professionals trying to get plugged into the industry?

31:31 – What would you say to a colleague that doesn’t see the value in groups like the California MBA, MBA or other trade associations?

To learn more about Pinnacle Home Loans visit https://pinnacle-loan.com/

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 14th episode features Clinton R. Rockwell, Partner, Buckley, LLP. In this episode Clinton covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

1:23 - What’s your journey in the industry?  What interested you in mortgage lending above other topics you could focus on?

5:57 - How is the fallout from COVID-19 impacting the legal industry from your perspective?

10:27 - What is the single most important regulatory/policy action taken so far to help during the crisis, either at the state or federal level?

13:32 - Where else can policymakers focus to mitigate potential or actual damage?

16:57 - Do you think we’ve “solved” the liquidity crisis that was threatening the industry a few weeks ago, or is the level of uncertainty still too high?

19:04 - Where do we stand with forbearance and foreclosure/eviction moratoria?  What do lenders/servicers need to know?

20:55 - I understand that Buckley has developed a Regulatory Tracker that monitors COVID-19 related issuances, can you tell me a little about that?

24:10 - What kind of litigation do you see arising from the recent regulatory/policy actions?

27:38 - What’s the single biggest piece of “pro bono” advice you would give lenders right now?

30:00 - Switching gears, what advice would you give younger folks trying to get plugged into the industry, particularly right now when a lot of face-to-face networking isn’t possible?

32:49 - How crucial is the advocacy work of groups like the California MBA/national MBA right now?

To learn more about Buckley, LLP visit https://buckleyfirm.com/

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 13th episode features Tim Nguyen, Co-Founder & CEO, BeSmartee. In this episode Tim covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

1:25 – What’s your journey? How did you get from your start in the industry and start BeSmartee?

3:39 – How is the company dealing with the fallout from COVID-19?

5:46 – When it comes to customer experience, what do you see lenders doing right and where do they need to improve?

9:14 – Just as the 2007-2008 crisis changed a lot of thinking and processes in the industry.  Do you think the current crisis will have a similar impact?

11:47 – What are the biggest impediments to speeding up/simplifying the mortgage process even further? Appraisal process? Document signing/notarization? Something else?

13:12 – What part of the process do you see as something that can be automated further?

15:45 – Suggestions for someone looking to build a mortgage-related business from the ground up?

17:04 – One thing that mortgage bankers should know that they don’t

Learn more about BeSmartee: https://www.besmartee.com/

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Welcome to Connect, a podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 12th episode features John M Hedlund, COO, AmeriHome Mortgage. In this episode John covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

1:33 – John Hedlund’s journey in the mortgage industry

3:36 – How is AmeriHome adapting to, and dealing with the fallout from COVID-19 right now?

7:44 – How does the nature of the corporate culture at AmeriHome help?

12:33 - What is the single biggest threat to mortgage bankers right now?

14:31 - What lessons did you learn from 2007-2008 that are helping now?

18:28 - Too early to really tell, but where do you think we stand 6 months from now?

20:42 - Stepping back from the current crisis, how has borrower engagement changed over the past few years? 

24:34 - Why is professional development so important for you and AmeriHome?

28:10 - What would you say to a colleague that isn’t a member, or doesn’t “get” the critical nature of advocacy?

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Our podcast Connect features one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our 11th episode features Josh Friend, CEO/Founder, Insellerate. In this episode Josh covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

2:31– Josh’s Journey to Insellerate

4:33 – How is Insellerate dealing with COVID-19 challenges?

6:11 – Long-term impact of COVID-19 on industry?

11:58 – Borrower engagement: what are lenders doing right/wrong?

18:43 – How do Lenders/Loan Officers stay organized with their varied communication methods with borrowers?

22:33 – Is the next “big thing” better use of existing tech and optimizing the stack?

32:56 – Tips for younger professionals

37:07 – Importance of advocacy

42:18 – Closing thoughts…

To learn more about the California MBA visit www.cmba.com and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Our all-new podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our tenth episode features Robert Slatt, Principal at Gantry, Inc.

In this episode Robert covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

4:12 – What’s your backstory?

5:35 – Barry Slatt’s model to follow

8:15 – What’s new at Gantry?

10:06 – Maintaining core values through culture

12:25 – Robert’s industry outlook for 2020/2021

13:50 – Challenges on the horizon?

16:25 – Impact of new rent control law

19:50 – Any hidden opportunities for lenders?

21:30 – Role of small-balance lender today

22:23 – Tips for younger mortgage professionals

25:20 – Building trust through digital “connection” or face-to-face networking?

27:55 – Why support the California MBA?

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Our all-new podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our ninth episode features Mitch Kider, Managing Partner with Weiner Brodsky Kider PC.

In this episode Mitch covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

1:57-6:15: Mitch’s journey

6:15-7:56: Hot litigation topics in 2020

7:56-12:01: What about class action litigation?

12:01-16:50: What does the future of the CFPB look like? A Supreme Court ruling on the way?

16:50-21:27: What should we be looking for in the CFPB’s 2020 agenda?

21:27-24:32: What will the fallout look like after the QM patch expires?

24:32-26:32: Any advice for younger attorneys looking to get into the industry?

26:32-End: What should lenders know that they don’t?

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Our all-new podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our eighth episode features Bill Lowman, President/CEO, American Pacific Mortgage.

In this episode Bill covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

1:54 – Bill’s journey to American Pacific Mortgage 2:56 – Biggest challenge for mortgage bankers today? 4:11 – GSE reform on the horizon? 5:12 – Bill’s take on industry origination volume 6:45 – How to prepare for 2020 and beyond 8:16 – What about opportunities for mortgage bankers? 10:15 – Generational strengths and weaknesses? 11:55 – What’s next in mortgage tech? 14:10 – Secret to building a successful corporate culture 16:35 – Supporting professional development at APM 19:50 – What’s your ROI on promoting future leaders? 21:15 – Why get involved with the California MBA? 24:00 – One thing mortgage bankers should know…

This podcast is sponsored by The Real Estate Services Trust. The Real Estate Services Trust (REST) is an exclusive employee benefits program that provides real estate services industry employers with premier health plan options at exceptional rates. To learn more visit: www.cmba.com/rest/

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Our all-new podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our seventh episode features Mary Ludgin, PhD, Managing Director, Head of Global Research, Heitman.

In this episode Mary covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

1:56-4:21: Mary's backstory 4:21-8:28: Economic check-up 8:28-10:20: Mary’s biggest economic worry 10:20-12:34: State of real estate market in the west 12:34-14:30: Mary's thoughts on opportunity zones 14:30-18:55: Mary's outlook for retail market 18:55-20:15: Hottest product right now? 20:15-22:10: Changing demographics in commercial real estate? 22:10-25:04: Most under-reported story of the year is…? 25:04-End: Mary’s tips for surviving the next 12 months

This podcast is sponsored by The Real Estate Services Trust. The Real Estate Services Trust (REST) is an exclusive employee benefits program that provides real estate services industry employers with premier health plan options at exceptional rates. To learn more visit: www.cmba.com/rest/

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Our all-new podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our sixth episode features Krystal Thomas, Government Program Specialist, Residential Policy and Member Engagement, Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA)

In this episode Krystal covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

2:03-4:39: Krystal's story 4:39-7:28: Discuss the MBA’s efforts to jumpstart a youth movement in the industry 7:28-9:55: Challenges in engaging young professionals in mortgage banking? 9:55-12:55: Portrait of a success story 12:55-14:40: What do Millennials want? 14:40-17:00: Making your voice heard 17:00–End: Next steps to get involved

This podcast is sponsored by The Real Estate Services Trust. The Real Estate Services Trust (REST) is an exclusive employee benefits program that provides real estate services industry employers with premier health plan options at exceptional rates. To learn more visit: www.cmba.com/rest/

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Our all-new podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our fifth episode features Abraham Park, PhD Associate Professor of Finance and Department Chair of Accounting, Finance, and Real Estate Graziadio Business School, Pepperdine University.

In this episode Dr. Park covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

3:35-5:20: Dr. Park's story 5:20-6:25: Top headlines in economic markets 6:25-7:25: Predictions for 2020 7:25-9:30: Today’s business climate 9:30-10:45: Affordability challenges 10:45-11:45: M&A activity 11:45-13:25: Global perspective 13:25-16:30: Thoughts on Brexit 16:30-21:00: Next generation of business leaders 21:00-End: Millennials vs. Gen Z

This podcast is sponsored by The Real Estate Services Trust. The Real Estate Services Trust (REST) is an exclusive employee benefits program that provides real estate services industry employers with premier health plan options at exceptional rates. To learn more visit: www.cmba.com/rest/

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Our all-new podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our fourth episode features the class of 2019 of our Future Leaders Program:

  • JoAnn Lockard, Closing Manager, American Pacific Mortgage
  • Chelsea Johnson, Director of Operations & Human Resources, CBC Mortgage Agency
  • Benjamin Johnson, Associate, Newmark Realty Capital, Inc.

In this episode the group covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

2:45-6:32: What’s your story? 6:35-9:31: Thoughts on the state of the market 9:45-14:50: What does the future of the mortgage industry look like? 15:01-16:53: How is tech changing your side of the business? 17:00-25:20: What about Millennials? 25:25-31:35: How are companies attracting younger borrowers? 32:00-36:20: How can companies support professional development?

This podcast is sponsored by The Real Estate Services Trust. The Real Estate Services Trust (REST) is an exclusive employee benefits program that provides real estate services industry employers with premier health plan options at exceptional rates. To learn more visit: www.cmba.com/rest/

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Check out Episode 3 our all-new podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our third episode features Christopher M. George, President & CEO, CMG Financial (https://www.cmgfi.com/)

In this episode Chris covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

2:40 - 9:15: Who is Chris George? 9:15 - 13:40: Top priority for MBA in 2019? 13:40 - 15:50: What would Chris George’s GSE system look like? 15:50 - 17:30: Will we see compromise and change in DC before 2020? 17:30 - 19:45: What can we do to help? 19:45 - 24:00: State of the CFPB 24:00 - 27:40: Chris’ market overview 27:40 - 30:20: What is the state of the IMBs? 30:20 - 33:20: Where are we at with efforts to improve diversity? 33:20 - 34:35: Inclusivity vs. Diversity 34:35 - 40:05: Millennials… 40:05 - 42:25: What can I get out of MBA and California MBA? 42:25-End Of Show: Leaving on a positive note…

This podcast is sponsored by The Real Estate Services Trust. The Real Estate Services Trust (REST) is an exclusive employee benefits program that provides real estate services industry employers with premier health plan options at exceptional rates. To learn more visit: www.cmba.com/rest/

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Check out Episode 2 our all-new podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our second episode features S.A. Ibrahim, Chairman of Mortgage Media(https://www.mortgagemedia.com/)

In this episode S.A. covers a variety of topics around the mortgage industry including the following:

0:00 - 1:55: Introduction to podcast 1:55 - 6:05: S.A. shares his background and career path 6:05 - 9:25: S.A. discusses what mortgage media is all about 9:25 - 12:38: How can lender engage better with media? 12:38 - 16:50: S.A. gives his insights on the economy and mortgage market 16:50 - 23:38: Discussion on the state of industry’s effort to encourage diversity 23:38 - 27:10: Discussion on how is the advent of the Millennial homebuyer changing the delivery of mortgage products? 27:10 - 30:00: S.A. answers the question: If Congress could address one housing/mortgage issue, what would that be? 30:00 - 32:46: S.A. shares what he is excited about the industry? 32:36 - end of show: Wrapping up show

This podcast is sponsored by The Real Estate Services Trust. The Real Estate Services Trust (REST) is an exclusive employee benefits program that provides real estate services industry employers with premier health plan options at exceptional rates. To learn more visit: http://www.cmba.com/rest/

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Check out Episode 1 our all-new podcast featuring one-on-one interviews with some of the top movers-and-shakers in the mortgage industry. Our first episode features Bill Dallas, President of Finance of America Mortgage (https://www.financeofamerica.com/)

In this episode Bill covers a variety of topics including the following:

0:00 - 1:53: Introduction to podcast 1:53 - 16:22: Bill’s story – from Ohio to First Franklin to Finance of America 16:22 - 17:00: Bill shares that the industry is "Not your father’s mortgage market". 17:00 - 21:00: Bill shares his insights on the current state of technology and innovation in the mortgage industry. 21:00 - 22:00: Bill talks about “The End of Easy” 22:00 - 24:18: Bill shares his view on the future of customer experience 24:18 - 26:38: What about the LO's? 26:38 - 35:41: Bill speaks on the “gig economy” and Non-QM 35:41 - 45:00: Bill ends his interview with discussing about tomorrow’s mortgage bankers

This podcast is sponsored by The Real Estate Services Trust. The Real Estate Services Trust (REST) is an exclusive employee benefits program that provides real estate services industry employers with premier health plan options at exceptional rates. To learn more visit: http://www.cmba.com/rest/

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode!