The MikedUp Show

The mortgage industry is evolving, and if you’re not paying attention to the Hispanic homeownership movement, you’re missing out on the biggest opportunity in real estate.

In this episode of The MikedUp Show, hosts Michael Kelleher and Michael Zau sit down with Alex Garza and Rick Guerrero, two powerhouse leaders from NAHREP (National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals) to discuss the future of mortgage lending, the power of networking, and why Spanish is the language of opportunity in real estate.

✅ The Role of NAHREP – Why NAHREP has grown from 40 people in a room to nearly 60,000 members influencing the industry nationwide.
✅ Hispanic Homeownership Trends – How Latinos are driving mortgage and homebuying growth for the next 10-20 years.
✅ The Power of Networking – Why loan officers, real estate professionals, and lenders should be part of NAHREP to expand their business and build lifelong partnerships.
✅ Overcoming Cultural Barriers in Lending – Understanding the financial fears, banking habits, and homebuying challenges unique to the Hispanic community.
✅ Marketing to Hispanic Buyers – How professionals can tailor their approach to connect with first-generation buyers, business owners, and multi-generational households.
✅ The Hispanic Wealth Project & The NAHREP 10 – The key wealth-building principles NAHREP teaches to help Latinos achieve financial success.
✅ Industry Shifts & the Rocket Mortgage-Redfin Deal – What it means for the future of real estate and mortgage professionals.
✅ AI & the Future of Mortgage Sales – How artificial intelligence is reshaping real estate marketing and lead conversion while still needing the human touch.

The Hispanic market isn’t just growing—it’s shaping the future of homeownership. If you’re a loan officer, mortgage broker, real estate professional, or lender, understanding this demographic is essential to your long-term success. NAHREP is more than just an organization—it’s a movement helping professionals build relationships, grow wealth, and advocate for industry change.

"You don’t have to speak Spanish to join NAHREP, but you do need to understand that the future of mortgage lending is multicultural."

A huge shoutout to our sponsors for supporting this conversation:

Mortgage Connect – Delivering cutting-edge mortgage solutions for lenders, servicers, and institutional investors.
Aidium – Revolutionizing real estate & mortgage marketing with AI-driven consumer insights.

Want to level up your mortgage business? Make sure to check out these industry-leading solutions!

Leadership isn’t just about holding a title—it’s about impact, influence, and the ability to scale your vision effectively.

In this episode of The MikedUp Show, hosts Michael Kelleher and Michael Zau sit down with Owen Lee, CEO of Success Mortgage Partners, to talk about what it really takes to lead in today’s mortgage industry. From building a strong personal brand to mastering delegation, Owen shares insights gained from years of experience as both a business leader and an industry advocate.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ The Power of Personal Brand – Why top leaders focus on reputation, influence, and visibility.
✅ Effective Delegation – How to scale your business while empowering your team.
✅ Leading Through Industry Shifts – Owen’s take on the next 5-7 years in mortgage and real estate.
✅ The Role of the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) – Why advocacy and participation in the industry matter now more than ever.
✅ Success Mortgage Partners’ Mission – How Owen leads with integrity and purpose, inspired by lessons from his father.

As a former MORPAC Chair and industry leader, Owen understands the challenges that mortgage professionals face in today’s changing landscape. He explains how local loan officers can thrive by leveraging relationships, technology, and strategic branding. This episode is packed with valuable leadership lessons that every mortgage professional, business owner, and industry advocate needs to hear!

"One man practicing sportsmanship is far better than ten men teaching it." This quote perfectly sums up Owen’s leadership philosophy—he doesn’t just talk about what makes a great leader, he lives it every day.

Sponsors & Resources:
We’re proud to be sponsored by Mortgage Connect and Aidium, two companies at the forefront of innovation in mortgage lending and technology. Be sure to check them out for solutions that can take your business to the next level!

Tune in now and discover what it takes to scale leadership, strengthen your brand, and lead with impact. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave us a review!

Welcome back to The MikedUp Show for our second installment of Season 4! Hosts Michael Kelleher and Michael Zau sit down with Candice McNaught, an Executive Sales Leader with more than 16 years of experience in the financial sector and current SVP at Planet Home Lending. Candice’s track record for driving measurable growth, mentoring high-performing teams, and forging strategic client relationships is unparalleled. Now she’s here to share her unique insights into thriving in the ever-evolving mortgage industry.

We’re proud to be sponsored by Mortgage Connect and Aidium. Both organizations are industry leaders committed to raising the bar in lending and customer service. Be sure to check out their latest solutions for better workflows, improved customer experiences, and strategic insights that can help elevate your entire operation.

Link to buy the book : https://amzn.oia.bio/ks235
Find the 7 Principles here : https://postimg.cc/RNrn3WST

In this Season 4 premiere of The MikedUp Show, hosts Michael Kelleher and Michael Zau welcome Stanley C. Middleman, Founder and CEO of Freedom Mortgage—one of the nation’s largest full-service mortgage companies. Titled “Seeing Around Corners,” this episode shines a spotlight on Stanley’s approach to entrepreneurship, resilience, and purposeful action.

Stanley reflects on his decades-long career—beginning with Freedom Mortgage’s founding in 1990 and growing it into a top U.S. originator and servicer. He also discusses his commitment to community, having served on non-profit boards like the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. Along the way, Stanley has navigated market swings and regulatory complexities, championing the idea that true success involves “doing things on purpose.”

During the conversation, you’ll hear about:

From recognizing revenue-generating activities to mapping out your week in advance, Stanley’s guidance offers practical tools for professionals and dreamers alike. You’ll also get behind-the-scenes anecdotes about learning from mistakes, negotiating with challenging landlords, and staying resilient when everything seems to “rain down” all at once.

Beyond running a thriving business, Stanley remains deeply engaged with industry boards. He’s served on the Mortgage Bankers Association Residential Board of Governors (RESBOG), as well as advisory boards for Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, and Ellie Mae. His numerous awards—including recognition as a top CEO by South Jersey Business Magazine—further underscore his influence on the mortgage landscape.

Prepare to discover how Stanley Middleman’s experiences can help you anticipate challenges, optimize your strategy, and strengthen your leadership approach. Whether you’re a loan officer, an entrepreneur, or simply someone who loves hearing success stories, you’ll find this chat both enlightening and inspiring. Stanley proves that real growth, personal or professional, rarely happens by accident—it’s the result of measured planning and an unwavering commitment to progress.

Sponsored By: Mortgage Connect
Be sure to visit Mortgage Connect for comprehensive mortgage solutions that streamline processes and optimize your lending operations. Their cutting-edge services mirror the innovative spirit we celebrate on The MikedUp Show.

Join Michael, Michael, and Stanley for this deep dive into purposeful leadership, staying ahead of the curve, and building a lasting legacy—starting now, on The MikedUp Show!

In this compelling installment of The MikedUp Show, hosts Michael Kelleher and Michael Zau welcome Steven Plaisance, a transformational mortgage banking executive whose 35+ years in the industry have been fueled by a genuine passion for people, servant leadership, and strategic innovation. Aptly titled “Ambassador of Advocacy,” this episode goes beyond the buzzwords and dives straight into how advocacy can be transformed into tangible actions that reshape an entire industry.

Steven’s story is as personal as it is professional: He’s led massive teams—1,600 members at Gateway First Bank and over 2,000 at Arvest—through market shifts, technological evolutions, and cultural transitions. Driven by a deep commitment to empowering individuals, he has consistently championed collaborative work environments, robust people development programs, and open-communication cultures. He believes in leading from a place of authenticity, staying approachable, and investing in the strengths of every team member.

Throughout the conversation, Michael & Michael tap into Steven’s vast expertise on topics like capital markets, risk management, regulatory compliance, and customer-centric strategies—all areas where he has a proven track record of success. You’ll get a front-row seat to his behind-the-scenes insights on how to weather volatile markets, drive operational efficiency, and implement meaningful growth initiatives, even when the road gets bumpy.

But it’s not just about spreadsheets and strategies. Steven reveals the human side of leadership—how championing advocacy means serving communities, supporting families in need, and nurturing future talent through targeted programs like Gateway’s “RISE” leadership development initiative. He discusses the challenges and rewards of fostering inclusive cultures, underscoring that true advocacy happens when leaders prioritize people first and profits follow.

If you’re looking for a playbook on how to blend heartfelt service with high-level business acumen, this is the episode for you. Steven’s blend of values and visionary thinking sets the stage for an uplifting and informative discussion—one that might just spark your next big idea for championing change in your own sphere of influence.

Tune in now at mikedupshow.com to learn why Steven truly embodies the spirit of an Ambassador of Advocacy, and how you too can harness the power of proactive leadership to make a lasting impact in the mortgage industry and beyond.

It’s time for a deep dive into MBA’s Independent Mortgage Bankers Conference 2025 (IMB25)—and your hosts, Michael Kelleher and Michael Zau, are back to share all the game-changing highlights on this latest episode of The MikedUp Show! Recorded right after the biggest annual gathering of IMBs in Austin, Texas, this episode gives you the exclusive inside scoop on what went down from January 27–29.

The guys open with an overview of the conference vibe—an intimate yet powerhouse setting packed with senior executives, industry influencers, and ambitious leaders from every corner of the independent mortgage banking world. Hear how IMB25 delivered on its promise of curated content for every IMB size and model, from deep-dive breakout sessions to insights on maximizing profitability, embracing AI-driven processes, and future-proofing your business strategy.

Then, Michael and Michael break down the major keynotes, touching on Stan Middleman (Founder, President & CEO of Freedom Mortgage) and Bill Lowman (Chairman of American Pacific Mortgage), along with their must-hear predictions for 2025 and beyond. From cutting-edge technology solutions to compliance considerations, you’ll get the inside track on industry best practices and the do’s and don’ts for staying ahead of the mortgage game.

Finally, enjoy the duo’s signature banter as they discuss Austin’s vibrant culture, the Live Music Capital of the World, and how that energy carried over into networking events, after-parties, and the all-important annual IMB party. If you missed the conference, this episode is the perfect recap. And if you were there, you’ll appreciate Michael and Michael’s fresh takes on what’s next for independent mortgage bankers—and why you don’t want to miss the next round of IMB events.

Tune in now on The MikedUp Show to hear the definitive wrap-up of IMB25, and get inspired to tackle the new year with the latest trends, relationships, and revenue-boosting ideas!

On this electrifying audio episode of The MikedUp Show, hosts Mike and Mike shift into high gear, spotlighting the immense potential of fix & flip financing—complete with playful nods to “Caddyshack,” lively discussions about country clubs, and a comedic spin on how you, the mortgage originator, can emerge as a local hero for real estate investors. Their conversation with special guest Shelley Duffy, Executive Vice President of National Sales at Incenter Capital Advisors, radiates both humor and depth, showcasing the nuts and bolts of how lenders can break into a lucrative market niche that’s often overlooked.

Right from the get-go, the episode crackles with excitement: references to Rodney Dangerfield’s outlandish antics set the tone as the hosts draw a parallel between a golf-club outsider and the mortgage professional who hasn’t yet ventured into fix & flip. Shelley’s insights reassure anyone feeling like a newcomer that there’s a clear opportunity here: fix & flip can boost your bottom line and expand your reach far beyond standard Fannie or Freddie deals.

In her trademark approachable style, Shelley explains that Incenter Capital Advisors has been methodically building relationships and testing strategies that can give originators the most competitive fix & flip products around. She emphasizes the synergy with realtors—who themselves constitute nearly a quarter of the flipping market—and encourages originators to recognize the extraordinary benefit of being the “go-to loan source” for these investors. By offering specialized products that directly address the needs of property flippers, you become an invaluable resource in their quest to transform homes and profit from quick turnarounds.

A memorable highlight emerges as the conversation drifts into the comedic realm of “home improvement gone wrong.” If a house is already professionally renovated, Shelly jokes, it might save a family from the dreaded scenario of a spouse “sleeping on the couch” due to ongoing do-it-yourself disasters. The bigger picture is that fix & flip specialists deliver turnkey properties, and mortgage pros with the right financing solutions can help speed up the process—from the initial acquisition through final resale.

While fix & flip loans often come with higher points and fees—sometimes four or more—Shelley underscores that investors understand the cost of capital as a normal part of flipping. They’re accustomed to factoring in the expense, so the real question is whether you, as an originator, can deliver. Shelley highlights how Incenter aims to de-risk these transactions through meticulous due diligence and robust underwriting practices, so you don’t have to fear the dreaded buyback scenario.

Shelley’s deep industry background comes to the forefront during this discussion. Having built an impressive track record over more than 15 years, she’s navigated senior roles at Computershare Loan Services and Radian. Now at Incenter, she’s directing an expanding Enterprise Business Development team tasked with unveiling creative solutions—spanning capital markets, student lending, insurance, property tax, and more—that can significantly elevate a lender’s position in a competitive marketplace.

Throughout the episode, listeners will sense Shelley’s passion for forging new relationships and her drive to give mortgage originators the confidence to diversify. She and Incenter are committed to helping partners stand out by offering them an array of tools and resources tailored to the evolving world of fix & flip. If you’ve been searching for practical steps to navigate an untapped niche, this is your comprehensive guide.

Mike and Mike ensure that every minute of audio is packed with useful tidbits. They keep the tone light, weaving in jokes about the country club lifestyle and using comedic illustrations to highlight that you don’t have to be a “perfect fit” to make a splash in unfamiliar territory. The biggest takeaway? Armed with the right partner—namely Shelley and her powerhouse team—you can confidently explore fix & flip lending, build your portfolio, and score those “wow” moments when deals close seamlessly.

So don your headphones, buckle up, and prepare to discover how fix & flip can transform your approach to originations. Let the comedic banter fuel your curiosity, and let the step-by-step insights guide you into a market packed with potential. If you’re ready to differentiate yourself, make new industry connections, and offer a solution that investors truly value, you’ve found the episode that will put your plans into motion.

In this episode of The MikedUp Show, we sit down with Timothy Li, the visionary founder and CEO of LendAPI, to explore how his groundbreaking platform is reshaping the banking and lending landscape. With over 20 years of experience in banking and technology and a track record of successful FinTech ventures, Tim brings unparalleled insights into how banks and FinTechs can leverage cutting-edge technology to innovate, scale, and succeed.

LendAPI: Transforming Banking and Lending
LendAPI is a venture-backed FinTech infrastructure company that empowers banks and FinTechs to launch financial products in mere minutes. With an all-in-one platform that includes Product Studio, Rules Studio, Pricing Engine, and Integrated Partners, LendAPI simplifies the complexities of banking innovation. The platform also boasts an advanced decision engine, enabling clients to optimize their digital onboarding processes with A/B testing, backtesting, and shadow scoring.

What would the mortgage industry look like if loan officers were restricted to handling only purchase loans in 2025? In this eye-opening episode of The MikedUp Show, we sit down with Terry Aikin, Managing Director at MGIC and a seasoned expert with over 38 years in mortgage banking and insurance, to explore this intriguing scenario and much more.

Terry shares his wealth of knowledge about the evolving role of mortgage insurance (MI) and its critical importance in today’s market. He breaks down the differences between PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) and FHA loans, highlighting their unique benefits for borrowers and their relevance in a purchase-driven market. Whether you’re a new loan officer or a seasoned professional, this episode provides actionable insights to help you adapt to an unpredictable future.

A passionate advocate for responsible lending, Terry discusses how organizational culture influences behavior, creativity, and growth within the mortgage industry. Drawing on his extensive experience as an instructor for the MBA’s School of Mortgage Banking, Terry dives into the historical and strategic importance of MI and its role in fostering homeownership.

This episode is packed with actionable takeaways and strategic insights tailored for mortgage professionals navigating uncertain times. Terry’s deep understanding of the industry and his ability to anticipate market trends make this discussion essential listening for anyone in mortgage banking.

Whether you're looking to better understand MI, adapt to a purchase-heavy market, or gain a competitive edge, this episode equips you with the tools to succeed in 2025 and beyond. Don’t miss Terry’s thoughtful perspectives on the intersection of risk management, borrower advocacy, and innovation in the mortgage industry.

In this week’s compelling episode of The MikedUp Show, hosts Mike Kelleher and Michael Zau welcome Stephen Moye, Senior Loan Officer and Sales Manager at New American Funding. Stephen’s accolades speak for themselves: 2022 & 2024 President's Council Winner, Scotsman Guide Top Loan Originator for 2020, 2021, and 2022, and Mortgage Executive Magazine Top 1% Originators in America for three consecutive years. With a career spanning back to 1996 and over 3,800 families served, Stephen brings unparalleled expertise to the table, offering listeners a unique perspective on the mortgage industry’s future.

As we prepare to embrace 2025, Stephen shares an insider’s take on what lies ahead for loan originators, industry leaders, and homebuyers alike. Drawing from decades of experience, he breaks down the evolving landscape of mortgage lending and explores how originators are empowered today to make better decisions and earn the rewards they deserve. Stephen emphasizes the critical importance of being a servant to the industry and highlights how collaboration, mentorship, and community-building are shaping the future of mortgage banking.

Stephen candidly admits that, as an "old-school person," he’s had to adapt to significant industry shifts—and he’s done so with grace and innovation. He discusses the "new NIL landscape," where loan originators have opportunities akin to those offered in collegiate NIL programs. It’s a game-changing era, where industry professionals are encouraged to focus not only on numbers but also on fostering meaningful relationships with colleagues and clients. This is a show about transforming mindsets, embracing leadership roles, and cultivating an ethos of service to others.

The conversation delves deep into the core principles that drive success in mortgage lending. Stephen reminds us that the ultimate goal is to help families achieve the American Dream, whether it’s through purchasing a $150,000 manufactured home or a $1.5 million property. “Never lose sight,” he says, “that these are families whose lives you’re changing.” His passion for helping people secure homes and build communities shines through in every word.

Beyond helping families, Stephen touches on the broader ripple effects of our actions as industry professionals. From inspiring colleagues to fostering innovation across organizations, he believes in the power of servant leadership to create a lasting impact. As Mike and Michael summarize, it’s about asking, “What’s in it for everyone else?” rather than, “What’s in it for me?”

Whether you’re a seasoned mortgage professional, a new loan originator, or someone looking to better understand the dynamics of the industry, this episode is packed with invaluable takeaways. Stephen Moye offers a refreshingly honest and optimistic perspective on where the mortgage industry is headed. As he puts it, “This is an industry with a bright, bright future ahead.”

Tune in now to hear more about Stephen’s journey, his vision for 2025, and how he continues to lead with integrity and purpose. Don’t miss this inspiring and insightful conversation