In this episode of Lending Forward, hosts Hannah McManus and Bill Hitchcock sit down with Kyle Draper and Shane Kidwell to challenge how originators think about business planning. Together, they unpack why traditional planning often falls short—and how shifting from reactive habits to intentional, authentic action can redefine success in 2026 and beyond. From social media strategy and brand building to mindset and purpose, Kyle and Shane share how loan officers can create impact by showing up as their real selves—without the burnout or the endless to-do list. They discuss what top originators are doing differently, why “top of funnel” is where the fun really happens, and how authenticity is becoming the ultimate differentiator in today’s market. A huge thank you to our friends at The Collective Coaching for sponsoring this conversation! Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts from people at the heart of the business—Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more—as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward?

In this episode of Lending Forward, host Hannah McManus sits down with Mike Vough, Head of Corporate Strategy at Optimal Blue, to pull back the curtain on the secondary mortgage market. Mike breaks down how secondary departments protect profitability, manage risk, and ultimately shape the rates offered to borrowers. From global events and regulatory changes to the role of technology and AI, Mike explains the forces driving rate volatility and why transparency and communication between loan officers, secondary teams, and investors are more important than ever. He also shares exciting innovations at Optimal Blue, including a breakthrough in direct lock technology, and looks ahead to how non-QM lending and digital assistants could reshape the mortgage landscape. A huge thank you to our friends at Capacity for sponsoring this conversation! Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts from people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward?

In this episode of Lending Forward, host Bill Hitchcock along with special guest host Juan Giraldo sit down with Laura Arce, Senior VP of Economic Initiatives at UnidosUS, to discuss the future of Latino homeownership and the barriers and opportunities that shape it. Laura shares insights on building authentic trust with Hispanic communities, the younger demographics driving first-time home purchases, and how affordability challenges are shifting the definition of the “American Dream” of homeownership. She also highlights the importance of policy changes, representation, and community-based outreach in expanding access to credit and sustainable housing. This episode offers both data-driven perspective and heartfelt storytelling from one of the industry’s leading voices. Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts from people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward?

In this episode of Lending Forward, host Hannah McManus sits down with Emenyo “E” Segbefia, Director of Business Development at Chenoa Fund, a national down payment assistance provider dedicated to expanding access to homeownership. E shares his personal story of discovering the power of down payment assistance (DPA), explains how Chenoa’s tribal ownership makes their programs unique, and dives into how lenders can build stronger partnerships to better serve buyers. From dispelling myths about DPAs being “too hard” to walking through compliance considerations, E highlights why these programs are essential tools in today’s housing market. You’ll also get a sneak peek into Chenoa’s upcoming builder-focused product, designed to make affordable homeownership even more accessible. Whether you’re a lender, Realtor®, or homebuyer advocate, this episode sheds light on how DPAs can transform lives and communities. Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward?

In this episode of Lending Forward, host Bill Hitchcock sits down with Bryan Greene, Vice President of Policy Advocacy at the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), for an in-depth conversation on housing policy, transparency, and the challenges facing today’s homebuyers. Bryan shares his unique journey - from consulting on an Oscar-winning documentary to leading critical housing policy initiatives at NAR. Together, Bill and Bryan unpack the aftermath of the NAR settlement, the impact on first-time buyers and veterans, and the urgent need to expand housing supply. Listen to gain insight into how federal policy, tax reform, and innovative approaches like accessory dwelling units could reshape affordability and access to housing. Bryan also offers a candid look at what’s on the horizon, and how the industry can preserve and expand opportunities for future homeowners. Whether you’re a Realtor, lender, or industry professional, this conversation sheds light on the resilience of the housing industry and the importance of policy in shaping its future. Thank you to our friends at Experience.com for sponsoring this episode! Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts from people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward?

In this episode of Lending Forward, host Bill Hitchcock sits down with Rich Binsacca, Editorial Director at ProBuilder Magazine and Endeavor Business Media, to discuss the state of the homebuilding industry and where it’s headed. From labor shortages and material costs to the impact of government policy and changing consumer demands, Rich brings decades of insight into the challenges and opportunities builders face today. Tune in as they explore the connection between housing supply, affordability, and regulation, and why collaboration across the mortgage, real estate, and building industries is more important than ever. Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward?

In this episode of Lending Forward, host Hannah McManus sits down with Len Wolfson, Principal at Breakaway and former Acting FHA Commissioner, to break down the “One Big Beautiful Bill” and its impact on housing policy. Len shares insights from his decades in Washington, including his time at HUD and FHA, and explains key provisions that matter most to homebuyers, lenders, and the housing market at large. From making the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit permanent to restoring mortgage insurance deductibility, Len outlines how these changes could influence affordability and supply in the years ahead. The conversation also dives into GSE reform, agency-level deregulation, and why bipartisan momentum in housing policy is giving him hope for the future. Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward? And a big thank you to Chenoa Fund for sponsoring this episode!

In this powerhouse episode of Lending Forward, host Hannah McManus sits down with Matt Linville, VP of Marketing at Investors Title and a nationally recognized expert in real estate investment strategy. Matt breaks down the often misunderstood 1031 exchange - what it is, how it works, and why it's one of the most powerful tools available to real estate investors and their advisors. Whether you're a real estate agent, loan officer, or investor, you'll walk away with eye-opening insights on timelines, tax deferral, financing, and strategic portfolio growth. Plus, Matt debunks common myths and shares how you can "swap ‘til you drop" while creating generational wealth. This is a must-listen for anyone looking to level up in real estate investing. And a big thank you to our friends at Atlantic Carolinas Title for sponsoring this episode! Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward?

In this episode of Lending Forward, host Hannah McManus sits down with Julian Hebron, founder of The Basis Point and a leading voice in fintech, mortgage strategy, and market insight. With over two decades of experience across both legacy institutions and fintech disruptors, Julian shares powerful industry stats, challenges mainstream housing narratives, and provides a grounded look at the future of home financing. From AI and blockchain to market share myths and ROI-focused innovation, this episode is a must-listen for loan officers, lenders, and housing professionals who want to stay relevant in a rapidly shifting market. Learn how today’s tech isn’t here to replace humans - it’s here to empower them. And a big thank you to our friends at Optimal Blue for sponsoring this episode! Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward?

In this episode of Lending Forward, host Hannah McManus sits down with Colby Berger, CEO of ActiveComply, to demystify digital marketing compliance in the mortgage world. From navigating AI advancements to striking the balance between creativity and regulation, Colby shares valuable insights on how lenders can market effectively without crossing compliance lines. Tune in as Colby breaks down the evolution of AI - from predictive to autonomous - explains what regulators are watching on social media, and discusses how technology can actually empower compliance departments and originators alike. Plus, hear what not to post and how to “lend it forward” with simplicity and kindness. Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward? And a huge thank you to our friends at SocialCoach for sponsoring this episode!

In this powerful episode of Lending Forward, mortgage industry pioneer David Lykken shares how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing operations, improving loan officer efficiency, and reshaping borrower behavior. From the rise of AI platforms to emerging end-to-end tech stacks that are streamlining everything from pre-qualifications to disclosures, David breaks down the biggest tech shifts - and what they mean for your business. He also dives into why business intelligence is the key to relationship-building, how loan officers can reclaim their time, and why lenders must act now to remain competitive as consumers increasingly connect with lenders before Realtors. He does all of this while holding true that the relationship is still the heart of this business, no matter what new technology comes along. Whether you're a loan officer, operations leader, or mortgage executive, this is a must-listen conversation about technology, strategy, and lending it forward. Thank you to our friends at MGIC for sponsoring this episode! Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward?

In this impactful episode of Lending Forward, host Bill Hitchcock sits down with Gary Acosta, Co-Founder and CEO of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP), to explore the intersection of advocacy, entrepreneurship, and homeownership in the Latino community. Gary shares how NAHREP empowers members through things like business growth and inspired leadership, and in this episode he emphasizes why both are essential in closing the wealth gap through homeownership. They dive into policy challenges and opportunities under the current administration, including DACA, FHA eligibility, DEI, and the future of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Gary also sheds light on how NAHREP is preparing the next generation of Latino professionals for transformative change in the industry. Plus, get the inside scoop on Gary’s personal commitment to helping others build generational wealth. If you're a lender, Realtor, or industry partner looking to support underserved communities and grow your business, this is a must-listen. Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward? Thanks to our friends at ActiveComply for sponsoring this episode!

On this episode of Lending Forward, we’re joined by Joe Marsocci, Sr. Director of Mortgage and Capital Markets at FICO, to break down credit scoring misconceptions, explore risk modeling in lending, and uncover how mortgage professionals can better guide and empower today’s borrowers. With decades of experience in the financial industry, Joe brings a data-backed perspective on everything from the truth about FICO score versions to the role of consumer behavior in lending decisions. We discuss the importance of educating clients early, how score migration impacts risk, and why tools like MyFICO.com are essential for preparing first-time homebuyers. This episode is packed with actionable insights for loan officers, real estate professionals, and anyone looking to better understand the mechanics behind credit scoring and consumer risk management. What You’ll Learn:-Why consumer education should start before a loan application-How behavioral trended data affects credit models-The importance of refreshing and managing scores over time-Why portfolio scoring and early risk detection matter more than ever- and more! Whether you're helping a client build credit or looking to stay ahead of the industry curve, this conversation with Joe Marsocci will elevate your approach. And a big thank you to our friends at Informative Research for sponsoring this episode! Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward?

In this wide-ranging discussion, Barry Habib - CEO of Highway.ai - and host Bill Hitchcock explore the complex issue of tariffs and their broader implications for the U.S. economy and the housing market. Barry explains how tariffs act as a consumption tax paid by importers, often passed on to consumers, and how they can shrink margins and slow economic activity, potentially increasing the risk of recession. Yet, Barry offers perspective: despite media alarm, the actual impact on consumer prices may only be around 4–5%, not the full value of the tariff. He compares implementing tariffs to starting a new fitness regimen - painful at first, but potentially necessary for long-term health, in this case, economic sustainability amid ballooning deficits. Bill and Barry also underscore the importance of mortgage professionals staying educated and focused. They point out that housing often performs well during recessions, with falling interest rates and stable or rising home values - except during the 2008 financial crisis. Barry’s national forecast? A solid 4.1% appreciation in home values this year, which, when combined with mortgage leverage, can translate into significant wealth creation for homeowners. Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward? Thank you to our friends at Highway.ai for sponsoring this episode!

Is your CRM just a digital filing cabinet, or is it the engine behind your growth? In this episode of Lending Forward, we sit down with Dan Catinella, Chief Lending Officer with Total Expert, to uncover how originators and mortgage companies can go from viewing their database as a “Rolodex” to treating it like the gold mine it truly is.   We talk about the tech evolution in lending, how to avoid shiny object syndrome, and the critical role of sales and marketing alignment. You’ll hear how top-performing lenders are leveraging AI, data, and CRM platforms to 10X their customer retention, drive conversions, and build scalable, future-ready businesses.   Whether you're a tech-savvy originator or just starting to explore CRM beyond flyers and printouts, this episode will change how you look at your tech stack AND your future.   Thank you to our friends at Evocalize for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at evocalize.com/signup.   Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending.   So tell us, how are you lending it forward?

In this episode of Lending Forward, we're diving into real talk with social media coach, speaker, and author Kyle Draper. From his journey as a pastor and roofer to becoming a leader in authentic marketing, Kyle shares why your past holds the key to building trust and connection in today's noisy digital world. Co-hosts Hannah McManus and Bill Hitchcock explore how loan officers can stop chasing likes and start cultivating relationships - whether it’s through one-to-one videos, revisiting old connections, or simply embracing who they truly are. Kyle also unpacks how fear of video is often fear of visibility, and how even the smallest win (like sending a 14-second video to a past client) can lead to breakthroughs in business and life. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes peek at Kyle’s book series, Rethink Everything, and the “why” behind his mission to help professionals communicate with authenticity. Whether you’re camera-shy or content-curious, this episode will leave you encouraged, equipped, and ready to make deeper connections - one story at a time. Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward?   Thank you to our friends at Total Expert for sponsoring today’s episode. Total Expert is THE purpose-built customer engagement platform for modern financial institutions. Trusted by hundreds of financial services enterprises, Total Expert turns customer data into actionable insights that help marketing and sales teams engage and guide consumers through complex financial decisions. Fusing digital touchpoints and human interactions, Total Expert humanizes the customer journey to create better financial outcomes, build deeper relationships, and win customers for life. Visit Total Expert dot com to learn more.

As Women’s History Month comes to a close, Lending Forward is celebrating by highlighting one of the most influential women in the mortgage industry—Marcia Davies. As the Chief Operating Officer of the Mortgage Bankers Association and the founder of mPower, Marcia has dedicated her career to uplifting and empowering women in the industry. In this episode, host Hannah McManus sits down with Marcia to discuss her journey, the impact of mPower, and what it takes to navigate and thrive in your career. From taking bold risks to embracing leadership opportunities, Marcia shares invaluable advice for women looking to make their mark. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, encouragement, and actionable takeaways to help you step into your power. Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward?  

In this episode of Lending Forward, we dive deep into the evolving regulatory landscape with Mike Silver, Partner at Husch Blackwell and former CFPB insider. With over a decade shaping consumer finance law, Mike unpacks the uncertain future of the CFPB, its leadership shake-ups, and the impact on mortgage regulations. Tune in as we discuss:-The current legal battles surrounding the CFPB-How state regulators may step up enforcement-What industry professionals should do to stay compliant-The need to modernize mortgage regulations to reflect today’s tech-driven landscape This is a must-listen for mortgage professionals, compliance officers, and industry leaders navigating an unpredictable regulatory environment. Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward?

In this episode of Lending Forward, host Bill Hitchcock dives deep into the power of mindset with special guest Steve Scanlon, founder of Rewire, a coaching company specializing in mindset transformation. Steve unpacks the science behind narrative circuitry, explaining how the stories we tell ourselves shape our actions, leadership, and success in the mortgage and real estate industries. Tune in to hear Steve cover-- Why behavior change without mindset change is ineffective- How our brains resist change, and how to overcome it- The role of self-awareness in leadership and sales success- Practical strategies to shift your mindset for sustainable growth- and more! If you’ve ever struggled with action reluctance, habit formation, or self-limiting beliefs, this episode will challenge you to think differently and take actionable steps toward lasting transformation. Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward?

In this insightful episode of Lending Forward, host Hannah McManus sits down with Pete Mills, Senior VP, Residential Policy & Member Engagement at the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), and Justin Wiseman, VP for Residential Policy & Managing Regulatory Counsel at MBA, to break down the major shifts happening in the mortgage industry. With a new administration in place, economic policy changes, and evolving regulatory oversight, Pete and Justin share their expert perspectives on:-How administration changes impact mortgage lending-GSE reform: What happens if Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac exit conservatorship?-The future of the CFPB and what it means for mortgage professionals-Key compliance considerations for lenders in an uncertain regulatory environment-The impact of market shifts on first-time homebuyers This episode is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate the road ahead, so tune in now and stay informed about the future of mortgage lending!   Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward?