Non-Del Influencers

In this episode of the Non-Del Influencers Podcast, host Matt Coles, National Sales Manager at FirstFunding, Inc., sits down with Valerie Saunders, Chief Executive Strategist of the National Association of Mortgage Brokers (NAMB) and accomplished business owner.

Valerie brings decades of industry experience and a passion for advocacy, leadership, and growth. In this engaging conversation, she shares her perspective on the evolving mortgage broker landscape and how NAMB is working to support and protect the broker community. Valerie also opens up about balancing her multiple leadership roles, from running a mortgage brokerage and title company to guiding national initiatives that directly impact Non-Delegated Lenders.

Whether you're a rising LO looking to better understand the broker channel or a seasoned leader aiming to grow your business while navigating regulatory and market shifts, this episode is packed with insights you can implement today.

🔍 Key Takeaways:
🏛️ How NAMB advocates for and protects the mortgage broker community
📈 Strategies Non-Delegated Lenders can use to thrive in today’s market
🤝 Why connection and collaboration are essential for long-term success
🧭 Lessons Valerie has learned as both a business owner and national leader

📩 Want to connect with Valerie Saunders?
Visit https://www.namb.org

🎧 Don’t miss this empowering and forward-thinking conversation with one of the most influential leaders in the mortgage broker industry.

The Non-Del Influencers Podcast is an essential podcast for Non-Delegated Lenders and brokers exploring the transition to the Non-Del model. Discover the pathway to success with the Non-Del Influencers Podcast! Hosted by industry veteran Matt Coles and supported by FirstFunding, Inc., this podcast brings you best practices, operational strategies, and expert advice from the most influential voices in the mortgage industry. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your lending business, tune in to gain the insights and confidence you need to thrive.

🎙️ Listen to more episodes: https://www.nondelinfluencerspodcast.com
📚 Find Non-Delegated Correspondent resources: https://www.nondelinfluencers.com
🏢 Learn more about FirstFunding, Inc.: https://www.firstfundingusa.com

The information provided is for use as a training tool only. The information is not intended, nor should it be relied upon for any other purpose.

In this episode of the Non-Del Influencers Podcast, host Matt Coles, National Sales Manager at FirstFunding, sits down with Delfino Aguilar, Chief Production Officer – TPO at Kind Lending.

With a sharp mind for strategy and a passion for mentorship, Delfino delivers a high-impact conversation full of real-world takeaways for Non-Delegated Lenders. From the importance of intentionality in sales calls to the power of reflective leadership, Delfino shares the questions he asks himself after every client interaction: What did you do right? What did you do wrong? What could be improved?

He also opens up about the value of mentorship, preparation, and lifelong learning—offering practical insights that lenders at all stages of their journey can put into action today.

Whether you're a rising LO trying to hone your sales craft or a seasoned leader looking to scale with clarity and purpose, this episode will help you think deeper, lead better, and execute smarter.

🔍 Key Takeaways:

🧭 How to bring structure and purpose to every client meeting
💭 Why reflection is a powerful tool for professional growth
🤝 The impact of mentorship on building long-term success
🧠 The mindset shift that separates top producers from the rest

📩 Want to connect with Delfino Aguilar?
Visit https://www.kindlending.com

🎧 Don’t miss this insightful and motivating episode featuring one of the most respected leaders in the TPO space.

The Non-Del Influencers Podcast is an essential podcast for Non-Delegated Lenders and brokers exploring the transition to the Non-Del model. Discover the pathway to success with the Non-Del Influencers Podcast! Hosted by industry veteran Matt Coles and supported by FirstFunding, Inc., this podcast brings you best practices, operational strategies, and expert advice from the most influential voices in the mortgage industry. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your lending business, tune in to gain the insights and confidence you need to thrive.

🎙️ Listen to more episodes: https://www.nondelinfluencerspodcast.com
📚 Find Non-Delegated Correspondent resources: https://www.nondelinfluencers.com
🏢 Learn more about FirstFunding, Inc.: https://www.firstfundingusa.com

The information provided is for use as a training tool only. The information is not intended, nor should it be relied upon for any other purpose.

In this episode of the Non-Del Influencers Podcast, host Matt Coles, National Sales Manager at FirstFunding, sits down with Erin Dee, Chief Operating Officer at InterLinc Mortgage and President of the Texas Mortgage Bankers Association.

With over 20 years of experience spanning operations, risk management, capital markets, and mortgage technology, Erin delivers a powerhouse conversation loaded with practical insights and candid moments. She shares what it takes to lead with authenticity in today’s evolving lending landscape—and how Non-Delegated Lenders can build scalable, high-performing operations while staying true to their values.

You’ll also get a taste of Erin’s signature humor as she dishes on breakfast tacos, hot sauce, and what “mortgage life” really looks like behind the scenes.

Whether you're a broker looking to make the move to a Non-Delegated model, or a seasoned lender aiming to optimize operations, this episode offers the strategic clarity and inspiration you need to level up.

🔍 Key Takeaways:

Why operational excellence is the backbone of successful Non-Del Lending

How authenticity and transparency in leadership drive stronger teams and results

The importance of industry engagement through organizations like TMBA

A lighthearted look at balancing career intensity with everyday moments

📩 Want to connect with Erin Dee directly?
Visit https://interlincmortgage.com

🎧 Don’t miss this bold, insightful, and motivating episode from one of the mortgage industry's most respected leaders.

The Podcast is an essential podcast for Non-Delegated Lenders and brokers exploring the transition to the Non-Del model. Discover the pathway to success with the Non-Del Influencers Podcast! Hosted by industry veteran Matt Coles and supported by FirstFunding, Inc., this podcast brings you best practices, operational strategies, and expert advice from the most influential voices in the mortgage industry. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your lending business, tune in to gain the insights and confidence you need to thrive.

🎙️ Listen to more episodes: https://www.nondelinfluencerspodcast.com
📚 Find Non-Delegated Correspondent resources: https://www.nondelinfluencers.com
🏢 Learn more about FirstFunding, Inc.: https://www.firstfundingusa.com

The information provided is for use as a training tool only. The information is not intended, nor should it be relied upon for any other purpose.

In this episode of the Non-Del Influencers Podcast, host Matt Coles sits down with Paul Needels, SVP and Head of Non-Delegated Correspondent Lending at AmeriHome, to unpack what it really takes to scale successfully in today’s complex lending environment—and how AmeriHome is leading the way in supporting that growth.

Paul breaks down how AmeriHome helps Non-Delegated Lenders move confidently from broker to banker and beyond, sharing why streamlined processes and reducing file touches can be the difference-maker in today’s tighter, more competitive market. From partnership alignment to hands-on sales support, Paul offers a candid look into what separates AmeriHome from the pack.

If you're facing affordability challenges, tough qualifications, or just trying to find a smoother way to do business, this episode gives you the clarity and practical strategies to take your lending model to the next level.

🔍 Key Takeaways:

Why minimizing file touches boosts efficiency and borrower experience

What makes AmeriHome an ideal investor for growing Non-Del Lenders

How to evaluate investor partnerships that support long-term scalability

📩 Want to connect with Paul Needels or learn more about AmeriHome Correspondent?

Visit: https://correspondent.amerihome.com

🎧 Don’t miss this episode if you’re ready to evolve your lending model and compete more effectively in today’s market.

The Podcast is an essential podcast with experienced realtors about the tips and tricks new realtors can incorporate along their real estate journey. Discover the pathway to triumph in the real estate industry with the Podcast! Hosted by the seasoned professional Matt Coles and supported by FirstFunding, Inc., this podcast brings you exclusive insights and best practices from successful real estate agents. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, tune in to unlock the secrets of success in the dynamic world of real estate, brought to you by the experts at FirstFunding.

🎙️ Listen to more episodes: https://www.nondelinfluencerspodcast.com
📚 Find Non-Delegated Correspondent resources: https://www.nondelinfluencers.com
🏢 Learn more about FirstFunding, Inc.: https://www.firstfundingusa.com

The information provided is for use as a training tool only. The information is not intended, nor should it be relied upon for any other purpose.

In this high-impact episode of the Non-Del Influencers Podcast, host Matt Coles sits down with Jon Tallinger, Chief Growth Officer at Class Valuation, to uncover a key competitive edge for Non-Delegated Lenders: owning and optimizing your AMC (Appraisal Management Company) relationship.

Jon shares how forward-thinking lenders are moving beyond the basic appraisal process to leverage valuation partnerships as a strategic advantage. Learn how Class Valuation helps Non-Del Lenders deliver a more turnkey borrower experience, stand out in competitive markets, and ultimately position themselves as true value-add partners—not just another LO.

If you're making the move from broker to banker—or you're already operating as a Non-Del Lender—this episode will change the way you view your appraisal strategy. You’ll discover why controlling the AMC relationship isn’t just a back-office decision—it’s a front-line differentiator.

🔍 Key Takeaways:

Why the AMC relationship is often the most overlooked part of the Non-Del model

How Class Valuation supports Non-Del Lenders in delivering next-level borrower experiences

Practical steps to move from transactional to transformational lending

📩 Want to connect with Jon Tallinger directly?
Visit https://www.classvaluation.com or connect via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jontallinger

🎧 Don’t miss this conversation packed with value, strategy, and real-world tips from one of the industry's leading voices in valuation innovation.

The Podcast is an essential podcast with experienced realtors about the tips and tricks new realtors can incorporate along their real estate journey. Discover the pathway to triumph in the real estate industry with the Podcast! Hosted by the seasoned professional Matt Coles and supported by FirstFunding, Inc., this podcast brings you exclusive insights and best practices from successful real estate agents. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, tune in to unlock the secrets of success in the dynamic world of real estate, brought to you by the experts at FirstFunding.

🎙️ Listen to more episodes: https://www.nondelinfluencerspodcast.com
📚 Find Non-Delegated Correspondent resources: https://www.nondelinfluencers.com
🏢 Learn more about FirstFunding, Inc.: https://www.firstfundingusa.com

The information provided is for use as a training tool only. The information is not intended, nor should it be relied upon for any other purpose.

In this high-impact episode of the Non-Del Influencers Podcast, host Matt Coles, National Sales Manager at FirstFunding, Inc., sits down with Tom Davis, Chief Sales Officer at Deephaven Mortgage, to explore how Non-QM and Non-Delegated solutions are powering growth for today’s most agile originators.

Tom shares how Deephaven is uniquely positioned to support Non-Delegated Lenders with multi-channel delivery options, including wholesale, non-delegated, and delegated pathways—all backed by an experienced, stateside underwriting team. From builder-focused financing to seasoned loan decisions you can trust, this episode unpacks how lenders can scale confidently, diversify their product offerings, and better serve underserved borrowers.

If you're a broker making the leap to banker—or you're already in the Non-Del game and want to sharpen your edge—this is a must-listen conversation with one of the leading voices in Non-QM lending.

🔍 Key Takeaways:

Why Non-Del lenders should feel confident leveraging Deephaven’s underwriting and funding process

How Non-QM products open doors to previously untapped borrower markets

The value of working with a partner experienced in all delivery channels—especially in uncertain market conditions

📩 Want to connect with Tom Davis directly?
Visit https://deephavenmortgage.com or reach out via LinkedIn.

🎧 Don’t miss this episode if you’re ready to elevate your lending strategy and expand your reach with smarter Non-QM solutions.

The Podcast is an essential podcast with experienced realtors about the tips and tricks new realtors can incorporate along their real estate journey. Discover the pathway to triumph in the real estate industry with the Podcast! Hosted by the seasoned professional Matt Coles and supported by FirstFunding, Inc., this podcast brings you exclusive insights and best practices from successful real estate agents. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, tune in to unlock the secrets of success in the dynamic world of real estate, brought to you by the experts at FirstFunding.

🎙️ Listen to more episodes: https://www.nondelinfluencerspodcast.com
📚 Find Non-Delegated Correspondent resources: https://www.nondelinfluencers.com
🏢 Learn more about FirstFunding, Inc.: https://www.firstfundingusa.com

The information provided is for use as a training tool only. The information is not intended, nor should it be relied upon for any other purpose.

In this high-impact episode of the Non-Del Influencers Podcast, host Matt Coles, National Sales Manager at FirstFunding, Inc., sits down with Lauren Gustafson, Director of Business Development at Strategic Compliance Partners, to dive into one of the most important, yet often misunderstood, aspects of Non-Delegated Lending: compliance management.

Lauren breaks down how SCP supports brokers and lenders by delivering turnkey compliance solutions that simplify oversight, reduce risk, and free up leaders to focus on growth. From regulatory navigation to day-to-day operational support, Lauren shares how Strategic Compliance Partners becomes a true extension of your business—offering clarity, consistency, and calm in an otherwise high-stakes environment.

Whether you're making the move from broker to banker or you're already operating as a Non-Del Lender, this episode will help you rethink compliance—not as a burden, but as a powerful foundation for scalability and long-term success.

🔍 Key Takeaways:

• Why having the right compliance partner transforms how lenders scale
• What brokers and Non-Del Lenders must know about staying ahead of regulatory changes
• How SCP becomes a true partner—not just a vendor—for confident operations

📩 Want to connect with Lauren Gustafson directly?
Visit https://strategiccompliancepartners.com or email [email protected]

🎧 Don’t miss this insightful episode packed with real-world takeaways and compliance strategies from one of the industry's most trusted voices in mortgage support.

The Podcast is an essential podcast with experienced realtors about the tips and tricks new realtors can incorporate along their real estate journey. Discover the pathway to triumph in the real estate industry with the Podcast! Hosted by the seasoned professional Matt Coles and supported by FirstFunding, Inc., this podcast brings you exclusive insights and best practices from successful real estate agents. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, tune in to unlock the secrets of success in the dynamic world of real estate, brought to you by the experts at FirstFunding.

🎙️ Listen to more episodes: https://www.nondelinfluencerspodcast.com
📚 Find Non-Delegated Correspondent resources: https://www.nondelinfluencers.com
🏢 Learn more about FirstFunding, Inc.: https://www.firstfundingusa.com

The information provided is for use as a training tool only. The information is not intended, nor should it be relied upon for any other purpose.

In this episode of the Non-Del Influencers Podcast, host Matt Coles sits down with Wade Betz, Head of Correspondent Lending at Mpire Financial Group, for a transparent and energizing conversation on building a scalable and resilient non-delegated lending platform.

Wade opens up about his journey from retail to broker to banker—sharing valuable lessons from the trenches, including the one loan that almost went sideways and the systems that saved it. From starting with one warehouse line to now building a team and scaling investor relationships, Wade explains what it really takes to win in this space while staying true to your business values.

🎯 Key highlights include:

• The promise Wade made before launching Mpire’s correspondent platform
• Why transparency on rate sheets matters
• Common LO hang-ups about non-del and how to overcome them
• How to build your team without overhiring
• Smart strategies for managing investor relationships
• What to do when a loan isn’t getting purchased (and how Wade handled it like a pro)
• Why systems define your success—and what "S.W.E.A.T." really means
• Lessons from sharing the stage with top producer Shant at HousingWire

🔗 Want to learn more or connect directly with Wade?
Visit https://www.winningwithwade.com to dive deeper into his journey, insights, and strategies for thriving as a Non-Delegated Lender.

The Podcast is an essential podcast with experienced realtors about the tips and tricks new realtors can incorporate along their real estate journey. Discover the pathway to triumph in the real estate industry with the Podcast! Hosted by the seasoned professional Matt Coles and supported by FirstFunding, Inc., this podcast brings you exclusive insights and best practices from successful real estate agents. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, tune in to unlock the secrets of success in the dynamic world of real estate, brought to you by the experts at FirstFunding.

🎧 You can find more episodes at: https://www.nondelinfluencerspodcast.com
💼 Find Non-Delegated Correspondent resources at: https://www.nondelinfluencers.com
🔗 Learn more about FirstFunding at: https://www.firstfundingusa.com

The information provided is for use as a training tool only. The information is not intended, nor should it be relied upon for any other purpose.

In this dynamic episode of the Non-Del Influencers Podcast, host Matt Coles welcomes Drew Dyet, SVP – TPO Sales at Pennymac TPO, to talk about one of the most talked-about rollouts in the Non-Delegated space—PennyMac Non-Del+ Program.

Drew shares exclusive insight into what went into building this new program, the feedback loop from trusted lender partners, and why the Non-Delegated channel is more important than ever in PennyMac’s long-term vision. From overcoming tech and process challenges to staying laser-focused on partner success, Drew explains what sets Pennymac TPO's Non-Del+ Program apart—and why lenders should take notice.

This episode is a must for mortgage professionals ready to scale smart, strengthen investor relationships, and align with one of the industry's top players focused on Non-Del growth.

🔍 Key Takeaways:

• What makes Pennymac TPO Non-Del+ Program a standout opportunity for Non-Del Lenders
• Why collaboration between sales and tech teams is critical to launching game-changing products
• The importance of support, trust, and transparency in building long-term investor relationships

📩 Want to connect with Drew Dyet directly?
Visit https://www.pennymac.com or connect with Drew on LinkedIn: Drew Dyet on LinkedIn

🎧 Want to reach out to host Matt Coles?
Connect on LinkedIn: Matt Coles on LinkedIn

The Podcast is an essential podcast with experienced realtors about the tips and tricks new realtors can incorporate along their real estate journey. Discover the pathway to triumph in the real estate industry with the Podcast! Hosted by the seasoned professional Matt Coles and supported by FirstFunding, Inc., this podcast brings you exclusive insights and best practices from successful real estate agents. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, tune in to unlock the secrets of success in the dynamic world of real estate, brought to you by the experts at FirstFunding.

🎙️ Listen to more episodes: https://www.nondelinfluencerspodcast.com
📚 Find Non-Delegated Correspondent resources: https://www.nondelinfluencers.com
🏢 Learn more about FirstFunding, Inc.: https://www.firstfundingusa.com

📘 The information provided is for use as a training tool only. The information is not intended, nor should it be relied upon for any other purpose.

In this episode of the Non-Del Influencers Podcast, host Matt Coles sits down with Eric Lenarz, EVP of Correspondent Lending at Champions Funding, for an eye-opening conversation on the evolution of Non-QM lending and what it really takes to build a fully integrated correspondent channel in today’s market.

Eric shares how Champions Funding is offering both Non-Delegated and Delegated Correspondent Lending, with the flexibility for clients to toggle between both models seamlessly. He walks us through the strategy behind launching their new Delegated channel, lessons learned from going live, and how they're simplifying a traditionally clunky space with clarity, speed, and service.

You’ll hear insights on:

Why “Non-QM is for unique borrowers, not unique properties”

The stigma of the word Non-QM and how rebranding can elevate borrower experience

Building infrastructure for scale without sacrificing service

What makes an ideal Non-Delegated partner for Champions

The roadmap ahead, including their plans to support emerging bankers with “Banker in a Box”

Whether you're a lender curious about expanding into Non-QM, a warehouse provider navigating the risks, or just looking for fresh ideas to grow your business—this episode is packed with practical insights and future-forward thinking.

📍Connect with Eric Lenarz and explore Champions Funding at https://www.champscorr.com

Welcome to the Non-Del Influencers Podcast, where we empower Non-Delegated Lenders to achieve outstanding performance, drive sales, and achieve tangible results. Hosted by Matt Coles, we bring you real-world insights, expert advice, and resources you can actually use—whether you're just getting started or scaling your business.

📚 Our topics go beyond lending—we cover marketing, leadership, time management, and more, so you can thrive in every aspect of your business.

🚀 Start growing today:
👉 https://www.nondelinfluencers.com
🎧 Follow the Podcast:
👉 https://www.nondelinfluencerspodcast.com
💼 Brought to the industry by FirstFunding, Inc.
👉 https://www.firstfundingusa.com

The information provided is for use as a training tool only. The information is not intended, nor should it be relied upon for any other purpose.