The MikedUp Show

In this powerhouse episode of The MikedUp Show, we dive deep into the evolving world of capital markets with none other than Jennifer McGuinness-Lubbert — a 25+ year mortgage banking veteran and the CEO of Pivot Financial. Jennifer doesn’t just adapt to change — she builds for it. This episode is a must-listen for any independent mortgage banker, originator, or lender looking to play offense in to...

Warehouse lines aren't just financing—they’re a foundation. In this compelling episode of The MikedUp Show , hosts Michael Kelleher and Michael Zau sit down with Chris Avery , Vice President and Relationship Manager at First Horizon Bank , to unpack the crucial intersection of warehouse lines of credit and strategic industry relationships in today’s mortgage banking environment. Chris brings over...

In today's fast-changing mortgage world, opportunity is shifting—and smart lenders are paying attention. On this episode of The MikedUp Show , hosts Michael Kelleher and Michael Zau are joined by Ben Fertig , President of Constructive Loans , to explore the rise of residential real estate investment products and what they mean for the future of lending. Ben brings nearly three decades of experienc...

What does it really take to launch a mortgage company in today’s market? In this episode of The MikedUp Show , hosts Michael Kelleher and Michael Zau sit down with Jim Carroll , a seasoned mortgage professional and builder of operations from the ground up. With over two decades of experience across every major role in mortgage—from top-producing loan officer to DE underwriter, recruiter, and execu...

In this powerful episode of The MikedUp Show , hosts Michael Kelleher and Michael Zau are joined by Nikki Bialka , an unstoppable advocate for financial inclusion and the force behind Fifth Third Bank’s community lending initiatives. With a career rooted in mortgage, pipeline management, and operations, Nikki’s true passion lies in creating access and empowering underserved communities . She’s not...

What does it take to not only survive but thrive for over 45 years in mortgage banking? On this week’s episode of The MikedUp Show , hosts Michael Kelleher and Michael Zau sit down with industry legend Steven A. Milner , the Founder & CEO of US Mortgage Corporation —a company that’s been going strong since 1994. From his days as a high school math teacher to leading a nationwide lender license...

In this episode of The MikedUp Show , hosts Michael Kelleher and Michael Zau are joined by none other than David Lykken , CEO of Transformational Mortgage Solutions —a true industry legend, thought leader, and master of change. Together, they dive deep into what it means to not just talk about transformation, but to lead it—through better conversations, intentional leadership, and a mindset shift...

Welcome to another power-packed episode of The MikedUp Show , where we break down the evolving dynamics of the mortgage industry—one conversation at a time. This week, Michael Kelleher and Michael Zau are joined by Rich Weidel , CEO of Princeton Mortgage , for an unfiltered, insightful discussion on what it really takes to win in the new normal of mortgage lending. Whether you're an originator, br...

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...

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 , Ow...

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 relationsh...

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...

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 a...

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...

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 Shelle...

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 tec...

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 evo...

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 cons...

Welcome to an exciting new episode of The MikedUp Show , where your hosts, Mike Kelleher and Michael Zau, dive into their bold predictions and strategic insights for 2025. As we close out 2024 and prepare for a new year of opportunities, this episode is your ultimate guide to staying ahead in the fast-paced mortgage and real estate industries. What will 2025 bring? Mike and Michael explore the fut...

In this engaging episode of The MikedUp Show , hosts Mike Kelleher and Michael Zau sit down with Eddy Perez, CMB , CEO and co-founder of Equity Prime Mortgage (EPM), to explore powerful insights into leadership, growth, and embracing change in the mortgage industry. Eddy Perez brings his expertise, passion, and visionary approach to this candid discussion, highlighting what it takes to succeed in...

As 2024 draws to a close, hosts Mike Kelleher and Michael Zau take a moment to reflect on the remarkable conversations and transformative insights shared on The MikedUp Show this year. From the launch of Season 3 to now, every episode brought unique perspectives, memorable discussions, and actionable strategies from some of the brightest minds in mortgage, finance, and real estate. The hosts kick...

The mortgage industry is evolving at a breathtaking pace, and in this episode of The MikedUp Show , we are joined by the esteemed Jim Clapp, Chief Lending Officer at Assurance Financial, to unpack the dynamic landscape of lending and mortgage origination. Jim’s extensive expertise—spanning over 25 years—provides a lens into the strategies, innovations, and leadership practices needed to thrive in...

  In this episode of The MikedUp Show , we welcome James Dwiggins, the visionary Co-Founder and CEO of NextHome Inc., a trailblazing real estate franchise redefining the home-buying and selling experience. James shares his extensive journey in real estate, highlighting his passion for integrating technology, fostering transparency, and driving value for agents and clients alike. A dynamic leader w...

Dive into the fascinating world of Residential Transition Loans (commonly known as Fix and Flip Mortgage Loans) with Michael Zau in this episode of The MikedUp Show . Whether you're a seasoned real estate investor or an independent mortgage banker, this episode is your one-stop resource to understand these powerful financial tools that are reshaping the investment landscape. Michael unpacks the fu...

In this insightful episode of The MikedUp Show , we sit down with Leora Ruzin, CMB, AMP, an experienced lending executive and the Founder of Ruzin Creative, LLC. Leora’s 15-year journey in the mortgage industry has been characterized by a steadfast commitment to professionalism, personal growth, and advocacy for responsible lending practices. With her unparalleled expertise in mortgage production,...