Best Team ACUMA Podcasts (2025)

1
Burnout to Breakthrough: Overcoming Stress in the Mortgage Industry 47:02

1d ago47:02

47:02

Ever reach that breaking point in your mortgage career where you're ready to walk away from it all? You're not alone. This eye-opening conversation with Kim Moore, Director of Mortgage Sales at Mountain America Credit Union, tackles the elephant in the room: burnout in the mortgage industry. Despite loving what we do, mortgage professionals often h…

1
Washington's Regulatory Rollercoaster Is Reshaping Mortgage Lending 28:45

7d ago28:45

28:45

The federal policy landscape is transforming at breakneck speed, with sweeping changes across regulatory agencies that directly impact credit union mortgage operations. Leah Dempsey, Shareholder at Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, joins ACUMA President Peter Benjamin to unpack these developments and provide crucial insights for mortgage professiona…

1
Unlocking the Power of CUSOs for Credit Union Success 50:25

16d ago50:25

50:25

Randy Shannon, VP of Correspondent Lending at Member First Mortgage, brings decades of credit union mortgage lending expertise to shed light on an often-overlooked resource in the industry: Credit Union Service Organizations (CUSOs). This thought-provoking conversation explores why more credit unions aren't taking advantage of these specialized par…

1
People Helping People: The Heartbeat of Credit Union Mortgage Success 47:42

29d ago47:42

47:42

On this episode of the ONpoint Podcast, ACUMA President Peter Benjamin is joined by Yvonne Case, Director of Mortgage Sales from Texell Credit Union. Join us as Peter and Yvonne discuss advocacy for mortgage lending as a strategic imperative rather than just a necessary product offering. She challenges credit unions to increase awareness of their m…

1
The ABCs of Regulatory Shake-Ups: Navigating Mortgage Policy Changes from FHFA, HUD, and NCUA 32:43

1M ago32:43

32:43

The regulatory landscape for credit union mortgage operations is experiencing a seismic shift as new leadership takes control at key federal agencies. This thought-provoking conversation with policy expert Annmarie Conboy-DePasquale from Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck unpacks the latest developments affecting credit unions and their members. Key d…

1
The Future of Mortgage Lending in the Credit Union Industry 50:45

1M ago50:45

50:45

Navigating the shifting mortgage landscape feels daunting, but it presents a treasure trove of opportunities for credit unions committed to serving their members. In our latest episode of the ONpoint Podcast, we had an insightful chat with Julie Bowering, Senior Vice President of Lending at A+ Federal Credit Union, as she shared her expertise on ho…

1
Personal Growth and Empowerment Through Adversity 35:37

2M ago35:37

35:37

What if a simple mindset shift could change the trajectory of your life? Join us as we explore this transformative concept with Jamie Aguilar, Senior Vice President of Lending at Sunward Federal Credit Union. Jamie shares her journey of resilience, balancing education and family, and how adopting a positive mindset helped her overcome personal and …

1
Navigating CFPB Transformations: Leadership Changes and Workforce Reductions 29:25

2M ago29:25

29:25

Join ACUMA President Peter Benjamin as he is joined by Zach Pfister, Policy Director at Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck. Together, they will discuss navigating complex shifts within the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) with insights. Have you ever wondered how the changing leadership at a major regulatory agency could ripple through the …

1
Embracing Authenticity in Financial and Comic Worlds 35:24

2M ago35:24

35:24

How does a mortgage loan officer juggle the worlds of finance and comedy? On this episode of the ONpoint Podcast, ACUMA President Peter Benjamin sits down with Allie Hager of Telhio Credit Union. Allie shares her journey from the rigid structure of big banks to the supportive environment of credit unions, where she discovered her true calling. Alon…

1
Empowering Communities: The Bollinger Foundation's Legacy and Future in Credit Unions 1:01:16

3M ago1:01:16

1:01:16

Join Peter Benjamin, President of ACUMA, and Justin Hawkins, Director of Marketing and Communications, as they sit down with Heather and Steve Bollinger, the dynamic duo behind the Bollinger Foundation. Discover how a serendipitous introduction by a mutual friend sparked a promising partnership with ACUMA, set to make waves in the credit union mort…

1
Federal Agency Transitions and Their Impact on Credit Unions 26:32

3M ago26:32

26:32

What if the credit union mortgage industry is on the cusp of major changes as the political landscape shifts in Washington? Join ACUMA President Peter Benjamin on the next episode of the ONpoint Podcast as we unpack the complexities of the current political climate with our insightful guest, Leah Dempsey, Shareholder from Brownstein Hyatt Farber Sc…

1
Strengthening Branch-Mortgage Connections and Celebrating Industry Insights 43:27

3M ago43:27

43:27

Margaret Greczek, Senior Vice President of Real Estate Lending at Polish and Slavic Federal Credit Union, offers an insider's look at the nuances of the credit union mortgage industry. Her story is one of openness and kindness, underscoring the personal connections that have propelled her success. Join ACUMA President Peter Benjamin and Margaret as…

1
The Art of Being Real in the Business World 36:36

4M ago36:36

36:36

David Ocasio Ross is the dynamic AVP of Mortgage Sales at AmeriCU Credit Union, who opens up about his remarkable journey in the credit union mortgage landscape. David's compelling story is not just about career achievements but also about building authentic relationships that transcend the boundaries of professional life. As we celebrate New Year …

1
Navigating Financial Regulation Shifts and Housing Policy Changes 37:06

4M ago37:06

37:06

What if the next big shift in financial regulation is just around the corner? Join ACUMA President Peter Benjamin as he sits down with Zach Pfister, Policy Director at Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP, to navigate the complex policy landscape shaping the credit union mortgage industry. Together, they unravel the intricacies of Washington, D.C.’…

1
Reliving 2024’s Highlights, Triumphs, Laughter & Growth and Looking Ahead for an Inspiring 2025 45:46

5M ago45:46

45:46

Join us as we explore the challenges and triumphs of 2024 in the latest episode of the ONpoint Podcast. You'll hear about the remarkable achievements of Team ACUMA, the hurdles we've overcome — and how we turned skepticism into thriving participation at our events. Get ready for insights into our educational initiatives and upcoming in-person event…

1
Adapting to Political Changes in Housing Policy 27:20

5M ago27:20

27:20

Witness the unfolding dynamics of the credit union mortgage industry as we unravel the potential shifts under a new administration. With expert guidance from policy advisor Annmarie Conboy-DePasquale, we venture into the anticipated changes at pivotal regulatory bodies like the CFPB and FHFA. This episode promises to equip you with a deeper underst…

1
Collaboration and Leadership in the Credit Union Mortgage Sector 39:03

6M ago39:03

39:03

What impact do credit unions have in the mortgage industry, and how can they foster collaboration and leadership? Our latest episode of the ACUMA ONpoint podcast promises to enlighten you with insights from Magda DeMauro, AVP of Mortgage Services and Underwriting at Fairwinds Credit Union. Magda's leadership within Florida's credit union mortgage s…

1
Leadership in the Credit Union Mortgage Industry: Overcoming Self-Doubt and Fostering Growth 41:08

6M ago41:08

41:08

What if the key to becoming a leader in the credit union mortgage industry lies in overcoming self-doubt? Join us as we sit down with Nicole Poole, Vice President of Residential Lending at The Police Credit Union, who shares her inspiring journey and the leadership qualities that shaped her career. Nicole's sales mindset and unwavering dedication t…

1
Strategic Shifts in Housing and Political Landscapes 34:02

6M ago34:02

34:02

Leah Dempsey and Zach Pfister from Brownstein Hyatt Farber and Schreck, both join us to dissect the high-stakes world of housing policy as voters head to the polls. Learn what's at stake with tax credits for first-time homebuyers and strategies to reduce regulatory burdens, particularly how these proposals might reshape the credit union mortgage in…

1
Building a Stellar Loan Officer Team 43:07

7M ago43:07

43:07

Get ready to unlock the secrets of the credit union mortgage industry with our special guest, Elizabeth Million, Senior Vice President of Lending at Elevations Credit Union. Join us as Elizabeth shares her incredible journey from a real estate appraiser to a leading figure in the industry, providing invaluable insights into overcoming career obstac…

1
Conference Highlights: Content, Peer Collaboration, and Market Trends 17:20

7M ago17:20

17:20

Ever wondered what industry leaders are saying about the future of mortgages and economic challenges? Join Peter Benjamin in this lively episode of the ONpoint Podcast as we broadcast live from the 2024 Make Your Mark annual conference in Las Vegas. We sit down with Margaret Greczek, SVP, Head of Mortgage with Polish and Slavic Federal Credit Union…

1
The Calm Before the Election Storm 31:19

7M ago31:19

31:19

Congress is back from its 5-week summer recess, and its only job is to continue funding the government. Simple as that sounds, it’s made more complex by the contentious presidential election currently galloping toward its November finish line. How that budget will be cast is the topic of this edition of ACUMA’s ONPoint Podcast. Zach Pfister, Policy…

1
Trust Your Gut, Then Let Your Head Follow 39:56

8M ago39:56

39:56

The most effective people live and communicate their own truths, allowing them to share their journeys in meaningful ways with those they want most to influence. Former Top 100 collegiate athlete and motivational speaker Darryll Stinson knows that’s true from personal experience. His life included a few dark moments until he finally understood how …

1
Embrace Your MI Partner(s) 35:22

8M ago35:22

35:22

Credit unions succeed as member-driven alternatives to transactional for-profit institutions that simply build their mortgage loan portfolios on the backs of their borrowers. We need to continue fulfilling that role while increasingly cultivating more and better service capabilities. Mortgage insurance is one of the more important arrows in the mor…

1
Navigating Regulatory Shifts & Election Impacts: What to Watch For 27:00

8M ago27:00

27:00

The dog days of summer, when Congress is absent, usually slow down when it comes to rulemaking. This year the upcoming presidential election has further diffused issues. But according to Leah Dempsey, shareholder with Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, there are things to watch, including possible rulemaking affecting the way AI can be deployed in re…

1
Not Transactional, But Relational 38:12

8M ago38:12

38:12

Credit unions were founded to help people, not to make money for shareholders, and that creed still drives the industry today. In this episode of the ONpoint Podcast, the fourth in this summer’s MI mini-series, ACUMA President Peter Benjamin, CMB, shares thoughts with Ralph Remy, Senior Director for Client Digital Experience for National Mortgage I…

1
Break Down Credit Union Stereotypes to Grow More Business 42:55

9M ago42:55

42:55

Credit unions’ core strength has always been helping people address their financial issues. However, other stereotypes regarding size and service limitations must change for the member-owned financial services industry to grow, according to Peter Hurst, SVP of Regional Accounts with Enact Mortgage Insurance, and guest on the latest ACUMA ONpoint Po…

1
Junk Fees and Election Issues Continue to Heat Up the D.C. Summer 41:31

9M ago41:31

41:31

Temperatures have risen in late June and all of July, and chaos ensues in our Nation’s Capital. It’s anyone’s guess what will happen next, according to Zach Pfister, Policy Director for Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck LLC. Speaking with ACUMA President Peter Benjamin, CMB, in the latest OnPoint Podcast “Policy Series” episode, Pfister sheds light o…

1
Adapting to Change in the Mortgage Lending Market 42:52

9M ago42:52

42:52

Credit unions have inherent advantages in helping members master the mortgage loan process. That’s a given. However, in today’s purchase market, it will also take foresight, planning, and a deliberate effort to reach those members first, according to Chris Perry, VP of Sales and National CU Manager at MGIC. Chris and ACUMA President Peter Benjamin …

1
Get ‘em while they’re (on) hot (sauce)! 49:14

10M ago49:14

49:14

Do you want to know what’s percolating for ACUMA this year? Tune into the latest ACUMA ONpoint Podcast featuring ACUMA’s staff of crack professionals – who grill President Peter Benjamin, CMB, about the association’s future while sampling an array of hot sauces with “tots and tenders.” Recorded at ACUMA’s recent Denver Workshop, the crew gets into …

1
Few Fees are Really Junk Fees 24:40

10M ago24:40

24:40

In the current legislative/regulatory environment, junk fees are a popular talking point, especially in light of an imminent and disruptive presidential election. But such fees originated generally to protect both consumers AND lenders. In a time of a polarized, often inactive Congress, regulators have begun painting everything with the junk-fees b…

1
Mortgage Insurance is Key to Credit Unions Helping People 43:39

10M ago43:39

43:39

Credit unions’ ability to meet their “people helping people” mandate improves when those CUs embrace their traditional methodologies, augment them with new technologies, and wrap mortgage insurance into the mix to extend their reach and serve even more members. That’s the message of this ACUMA ONpoint podcast, the first in a new mini-series devoted…

1
Investing in Young CU Professionals’ Future Success 48:30

11M ago48:30

48:30

As a credit union leader, are you cultivating, educating, and enhancing the value your young professionals bring? Staff members with the courage to step forward, ask questions, and, most importantly, find answers through their peers will benefit personally and professionally. That’s the purpose of ACUMA’s Young Professionals Network, led by ACUMA A…

1
Being Vulnerable and Getting Out of Our Own Way Is The Path Forward 20:53

11M ago20:53

20:53

Live from the Denver FOCALpoint Workshop, Peter Benjamin, President of ACUMA, sat down with two of our attendees, Brittany Breakiron from ENT Credit Union and Andrew Martin from Canvas Credit Union, to discuss the high points of day one and what they are looking forward to the most from day two. They are sending the message that credit union profes…

1
Siri, What AI Can I Use to Better Serve My Credit Union Members? 30:51

11M ago30:51

30:51

Artificial intelligence has exploded across the landscape, with little understanding of its ramifications and even less guidance by regulatory agencies. Credit unions may run the risk of violating consumer protection laws, but no one seems sure, and that’s dangerous for both lenders and borrowers alike. In this edition of ACUMA’s ONpoint Podcast se…

1
Is Your Credit Union Change-ready? How About You? 49:49

11M ago49:49

49:49

The only constant is change, as the saying goes. However, the mere thought of change creates a fear of the unknown in many, even though failure to change often means the end of even the most successful enterprises. Daisy Romo, Ph.D., Executive Vice President for On Tap Credit Union, has studied change and has learned that the more we think we know,…

1
The Secret to Building Relationships, Both Professional and Personal 41:08

12M ago41:08

41:08

We all like to be with – and do business with – people we like, who share our values and interests, and who see as many benefits in knowing us as we see in them. That’s a simple concept but a difficult practice for many of us. Josh Tindel, SVP of Sales for Atlas Title Company, has mastered this talent through concerted effort. Where to start? Put y…

1
Fostering a Community for Credit Union Success 24:30

12M ago24:30

24:30

Community is not just a word the credit union industry throws around. It is the central embodiment of why credit unions exist. ACUMA President Peter Benjamin had the opportunity to catch up with some first-time attendees on this episode of the ONpoint Podcast. The networking, the community, the engagement, and the welcoming environment were all hig…

1
Make “Accountability” a Positive Force for Change 48:22

1y ago48:22

48:22

Accountability, both on the job and in life, is the responsibility we all have for accomplishing the tasks that we’ve chosen or have been given to us. Too often, however, the word becomes a negative used to connote failure. Sales consultant Dr. Bruce Lund knows the intrinsic power of the word “accountability” and wants to see it used on both sides …

1
AI, Housing and All that Regulatory Jazz 25:23

1y ago25:23

25:23

As November’s presidential election approaches, lawmakers are slowing their wheels in anticipation of a change in administration. Topics around housing (in particular junk fees), financial institutions' use of artificial intelligence (AI), and others are still in hot debate, but with vacations looming, Congress is literally running out of time. In …

1
Women in Finance and Housing Play a Powerful Role 45:12

1y ago45:12

45:12

Women are vital in financial services and mortgage lending, especially among credit unions. Providing both support and opportunities is critical to helping them excel in their roles and provide excellent member service, or so says Kris Kully, a partner with Mayer Brown and president of the Women in Housing and Finance Foundation. In this podcast, K…

1
Make Training Needs Known Throughout the Mortgage Lending Process 35:57

1y ago35:57

35:57

Mortgage lending is a complex business with many steps and multiple individuals involved in closing the deal for the borrower. In most cases the process follows the domino principle: When one domino falls, the rest are sure to follow. The only way to stop that from happening is to assure that all involved understand the entire process. Effective tr…

1
It’s Election Season, and This Year Housing Tops the Ticket 27:16

1y ago27:16

27:16

It’s a year of turmoil and change, but one constant shines through from many agendas: housing, housing, and more housing. From interest rate volatility to inventory shortages to mortgage fees of all types, everyone from House and Senate leaders to presumptive presidential candidates from both parties sees housing issues among the most critical chal…

1
Expect Spring Growth in Your Mortgage Loan Portfolio Provided You Plant the Right Seeds 36:37

1y ago36:37

36:37

April showers bring May flowers, but in the right environment they can also help nurture mortgage loan growth despite what are sure to be some stormy days ahead. That’s the message Patty Mason, Vice President of Real Estate Lending for American Eagle Financial Credit Union, shares with her staff when it comes to revitalizing credit union mortgage l…

1
Concocting the Magic Elixir in Economic Projection 41:50

1y ago41:50

41:50

According to Logan Mohtashami, Lead Analyst for HousingWire, economics done right is often boring. The discipline is data-driven, and understanding how to read data is the secret to understanding economic conditions, right? Well, there’s more to it than that, and often it’s the “why” and “wherefore” of that data, where it’s been and where it’s goin…

1
An Election Year Changes Everything 24:55

1y ago24:55

24:55

Like the witches in Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the current D.C. climate may be best described as one of “double, double toil and trouble, fire burn and cauldron bubble,” or more commonly, Election Year. It’s a time when issues old and new are trotted out by friends and opponents alike to see what’s likely to stick when the new Administration takes offi…

1
Master Best Practices in Credit Union Construction Lending 40:40

1y ago40:40

40:40

There are big differences between buying an existing home and building a new one. Likewise, there are similar differences in writing a mortgage loan on an existing home versus working with consumers to finance the various steps in the home-building process. According to Shannon Faries, Director of Risk Management for Land Gorilla, this is a market …

1
The Best That the CU Mortgage Lending System Has to Offer 41:52

1y ago41:52

41:52

Seeking graduate-level training in leading a credit union mortgage lending program? Ready to discuss everything from e-closings to improving the housing inventory to growing your mortgage loan portfolio? Look no further than Beth Eller, SVP of Mortgage Lending Truliant Federal Credit Union. She is among the “best” that the credit union mortgage ind…

1
Close Looks at D.C. Lawmaking Highlight ACUMAs New Policy Podcast Series 32:43

1+ y ago32:43

32:43

With apologies to whomever said it first, the theme of the latest ACUMA podcast – and the first in its monthly series on policy updates – could well be “May You Legislate in Interesting Times.” According to experts polled in this first episode, 2024 is no ordinary year, but one when not only the presidential administration may change, but how we do…

1
Realtor-Partners Help You Better Meet Member Needs 37:39

1+ y ago37:39

37:39

The partnership between credit union mortgage lenders and Realtors is as symbiotic as it can be successful. But that success is greatest when the two professionals have a previously established relationship and understand how best to meet each other’s business needs in the process, according to Christopher Davis, AVP of Business Development with Na…

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Podcasts Worth a Listen