In this week’s episode of MikedUp, we’re getting behind the curtain of mortgage operations with Rob Jewett, the Chief Operating Officer of NewFed Mortgage Corp and one of HousingWire’s Tech Trendsetters. Known for streamlining processes and integrating innovative technology, Rob has reimagined what mortgage operations can look like in a digital-first world. From AI-driven automation to real-time borrower communication and mobile loan origination, Rob has built systems that “unkink the hose” — removing bottlenecks, reducing friction, and restoring flow in the mortgage process. He’s not just talking about efficiency for its own sake; he’s transforming the borrower experience while elevating how loan officers work every single day. At the heart of Rob’s success is a belief that speed, transparency, and service must coexist. Under his leadership, NewFed Mortgage implemented nCino’s point-of-sale system, enabling loan officers to take applications, pull credit, issue prequalification letters, and lock loans — all from their phones. The result? Loans are getting approved within days, often with no borrower conditions. This episode dives deep into: How Rob transformed NewFed’s operational backbone with technology and data analytics The impact of AI tools and eClose solutions on speed and accuracy Using video marketing and borrower engagement to humanize the digital experience What it takes to scale operations while keeping the personal touch The mindset behind “people-first innovation” in mortgage lending How data-driven decision making shapes market expansion and retention strategies Rob also opens up about NewFed’s core philosophy — that mortgages aren’t just financial transactions, but life milestones. With more than two decades of experience and a passion for process excellence, Rob has positioned NewFed Mortgage as a trailblazer among mid-sized independent mortgage banks, proving that being agile and people-focused isn’t a contradiction — it’s the future. If you’ve ever wondered how the best operators in the business are preparing for the next decade of mortgage lending, this episode will give you a front-row seat. Episode Sponsors Polly The modern mortgage capital markets platform that empowers lenders with smart pricing, hedging, and pipeline management tools. Website: https://polly.io Floify A secure, user-friendly point-of-sale solution helping lenders streamline borrower communication and document collection. Website: https://floify.com Truework Simplify income and employment verification for faster, more accurate mortgage approvals. Website: https://truework.com FundingShield The mortgage industry’s leader in wire and title fraud prevention, protecting lenders and borrowers at every stage. Website: https://www.fundingshield.com