The college admission season has begun. With the anxiety of "getting in" comes the angst of how do we pay for it!?! Nod DaSilva-Kilgore, of Personal College Counseling, Inc, joins the podcast to share how she helps students and families prepare, search, and finance their educational goals. We expire the FASFA, merit scholarships, parent loans, home equity, and how all of these can fit within your family's short and long term budgets and finance goals.

The Friends of Boston Homeless is a non-profit "housing first" organization dedicated to assisting our most vulnerable neighbors find safe, sustainable housing solutions. Volunteer Board Member Darren Lee shares his personal childhood story about overcoming homelessness. We discuss how fast stable can turn to tragic and the roll of organizations, like the Friends, can be part of the path back to "normalcy" for people in need.

To learn more, donate, or volunteer, visit www.fobh.org.

As rates come down, homeowners and prospective buyers are in for it over the next few months! I've heard stories of people shopping around being bombarded by as many as 250 calls, texts, and/or email solicitations. How do you find a bank, lender, or loan officer you can trust? CEO and Founder or Lendaid, Jerry Devlin, shares his insights on what to look for in a mortgage lender. We discuss how Lendaid, Inc evaluates mortgage originators and how that can aid realtors and homebuyers when selecting a lending partner. We also share how customers, referral partners, and hiring managers can "read between the lines" on reviews to decifer between "raving fans" and bots or just raving crazy people. We also share effective ways (any small business owner) can leverage customer feedback to grow your business.

Mortgage Insurance is an often used and even more often misunderstood financial tool in the homebuying process. Kerry Murtagh, Account Manager at Arch Mortgage Insurance, breaks down MI facts and features to help homebuyers, realtors, and sellers understand how it can be best leveraged. We can also discuss why more down payment does not always mean the best loan or most qualified buyer.

The Friends of Boston Homeless is a non-profit "housing first" organization dedicated to assisting our most vulnerable neighbors find safe, sustainable housing solutions. Volunteer Board Member Darren Lee shares his personal childhood story about overcoming homelessness. We discuss how fast stable can turn to tragic and the roll of organizations, like the Friends, can be part of the path back to "normalcy" for people in need.

To learn more, donate, or volunteer, visit www.fobh.org.

Likability is a common topic among voters and politicians. We discuss it like it's a skill. But being likable is best without the effort. Mayor Kassandra Gove, of Amesbury MA, joins the conversation to discuss likability, approachability, and other abilities. We share how genuine connections and consensus are best built on authentic relationships and casual interactions. Enjoy the lessons she's learned as mayor, as a realtor, and at the chamber of commerce to benefit your business.

Learn how Coach Joel Barrett, of Joel Barret Baseball & Softball, embraces being called the "best looser" with enthusiasm. His "win or learn" mentality will change your business, make your home buying process more enjoyable, and/or help you live a more positive life. If you have ever been too hard on yourself or let competition and negativity impact you, then listen to this episode!

www.JoelBarretBaseball.com | www.MassachusettsAttack.com

Ads are great at creating commercials that make you “feel” something, but often the most memorable will smile, laugh, and remember the product in only 20-30 seconds. Comedy has a unique stickiness to it that we can use when networking and building relationships with clients, friends, and colleagues. Alan Reich, an accomplished copy writer (and the person my Dad calls the funniest person he’s ever worked with), joins the podcast to discuss the value of being funny and the fine line of funny in serious or stressful situations. He shares tips on how you can make someone laugh to create a genuine connection in your next “elevator” pitch or first impression.