What does it really take to make homeownership possible for millions of Americans—especially Gen Z, first-time buyers, and families often overlooked by the traditional system? This week, we’re joined by two of the industry’s most passionate voices: Dave Savage and Kristin Messerli, co-founders of FirstHome IQ, a nonprofit on a mission to deliver financial education and empower five million young adults with the tools to become homeowners. About Dave Savage Dave is a legend in mortgage education, known for founding Mortgage Coach and now serving as Chief Innovation Officer at TrustEngine. Over the course of his career, Dave has: Conducted over 1,000 interviews with top industry leaders Built the Mortgage Coach YouTube channel into a leading training platform for loan officers Championed financial literacy as a core mission, believing loan officers are on the frontlines of helping families make smarter financial decisions Co-founded FirstHome IQ to tackle the financial literacy gap for Gen Z and first-time buyers His mantra is simple: Technology won’t replace loan officers—but loan officers who master technology will replace those who don’t. About Kristin Messerli Kristin’s journey began in social work, where she specialized in serving immigrant and unhoused communities. From there, she launched Cultural Outreach, a groundbreaking multicultural marketing agency, later acquired by NAMMBA. Today, as co-founder of FirstHome IQ, she’s using her voice to bridge the trust gap many consumers feel when it comes to money and financial institutions. Kristin brings her TRUST Framework and personal experience with financial anxiety into her work, creating tools and strategies that resonate with modern consumers. She believes in radical acceptance, authentic education, and turning complex financial decisions into approachable, confidence-building steps. What You’ll Hear in This Episode The real state of financial literacy among Gen Z and first-time homebuyers Why 5 million young adults are at the center of Dave & Kristin’s vision How FirstHome IQ is rewriting the playbook on financial education The role of technology, storytelling, and trust in shaping tomorrow’s mortgage industry Why relationships—not just rates—will define the future of lending The personal stories and leadership philosophies that drive Dave and Kristin This episode is part education, part inspiration, and all about the mission: building a generation of confident, informed homeowners. About Our Sponsors Mortgage Connect delivers a full suite of innovative mortgage services designed to help lenders and servicers exceed borrower expectations. Learn more at https://www.mortgageconnectlp.com Aidium helps mortgage professionals manage leads and relationships with a powerful CRM built for the modern loan officer. Learn more at https://www.thinkaidium.com Floify streamlines the loan process with intuitive digital tools for borrowers, lenders, and Realtors—making the mortgage journey faster and easier. Learn more at https://www.floify.com