Podcasts about heloc

In this heartfelt episode of Restaurant Owners Uncorked, Wil sits down with Asheville-based caterer and soon-to-be café owner Svitlana Eadie, whose journey from a small Ukrainian village to launching Slava, her café bakery on Wall Street in downtown Asheville, is nothing short of inspiring. She shares how growing up on a self-sustaining farm shaped her love for food and community, how immigrating to the U.S. with no English and no money forced her to adapt and work tirelessly, and how years in kitchens, bakeries, and hospitality strengthened her passion for sharing culture through food. Through setbacks, delays, construction challenges, and the chaos of COVID wiping out her catering business, she kept pushing, relying on grit, planning, and what she calls “experience assets.” Supported by her family, including her mother and sister, who will help run the bakery, Svitlana is building not just a café but a gathering place meant to reconnect people, share stories, and restore the kind of close-knit community she remembers from her childhood.10 Takeaways  Svitlana immigrated from a tiny Ukrainian village where community, shared food, and hospitality were woven into everyday life. She arrived in the U.S. at age 20 with no English and no money, adapting quickly by working any job she could find in hospitality. Her culinary foundation is deep, with studies in restaurant/hotel management and food science before leaving Ukraine. Her career path is broad—dishwasher, prep cook, server, banquet captain, baker, and more, including roles at Crowne Plaza, Grove Park Inn, a French bakery, and Whole Foods. She launched her catering company in 2017, which grew steadily until COVID abruptly canceled every event on her calendar. Finding the right café space took nearly four years, and once she found it, unexpected plumbing issues and contractor changes significantly delayed opening. She financed the café through disciplined saving, a HELOC, and finally a seed loan, emphasizing that nothing happened quickly or easily. Her menu will showcase traditional Ukrainian foods and recipes from her grandmother, along with breads, cakes, and familiar options for newcomers. Community is the heart of her mission—she wants the café to be a place where people talk, connect, and step away from screens. Her mindset is her superpower—optimism, resilience, gratitude, and what she calls building “experience assets” have carried her through every challenge.

Turn your home equity into a plan, not a panic button! This episode gives a clear, practical checklist for using a HELOC or second mortgage wisely: how they work, what they cost, when they help, and when alternatives (like a consumer proposal) will protect your cash flow and your home better. Listen first, then decide with the numbers. (00:00) Toronto condo stress and Welcome to Scott Terrio (05:00) What a HELOC is and how it works (07:30) Second mortgages: key risks (09:00) Home "value" is changing in this market (11:00) HELOC pitfalls and personal risk (15:30) Why many homeowners resist selling (17:00) Could creditors place a lien anyway? Get the numbers (21:00) Banks can cut credit access—even existing limits (25:00) Snapshot of cash flow: budget vs. "budgeting," emergency funds (31:00) Rebuilding plan: why it isn't too late Think Twice Before Getting a Home Equity Line of Credit Episode with Scott Terrio  – Debt Free in 30 HELOC Debt: Is a Home Equity Line of Credit Right for You? Hoyes Michalos DIY Free Credit Repair Course Sign Up for the Monthly Debt Free Digest Hoyes Michalos YouTube Channel Learn About Debt Relief Options in Ontario Disclaimer: The information provided in the Debt Free in 30 Podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and is not intended as personal financial advice. Individual financial situations vary and may require personal guidance from a financial professional. The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Hoyes, Michalos & Associates, or any other affiliated organizations. We do not endorse or guarantee the effectiveness of any specific financial institutions, strategies, or digital tools/apps discussed.

Welcome to The Chrisman Commentary, your go-to daily mortgage news podcast, where industry insights meet expert analysis. Hosted by Robbie Chrisman, this podcast delivers the latest updates on mortgage rates, capital markets, and the forces shaping the housing finance landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just looking to stay informed, you'll get clear, concise breakdowns of market trends and economic shifts that impact the mortgage world.In today's episode, we look at the shifting priorities and sentiments of would-be home buyers. Plus, Robbie sits down with TD Bank's Jon Giles for a discussion on how today's rate environment is reshaping housing supply, why rising renovation trends and growing HELOC demand are turning home equity into a powerful financial tool, and how lenders can responsibly meet homeowners' increasing appetite for equity access. And we close by examining what sort of expectations there are for future rate cuts.Thank you to Figure. Figure is shaking up the lending world with their five-day HELOC, offering borrower approvals in as little as five minutes and funding in five days. Figure has hundreds of partners in the Banking, Credit Union, Home Improvement, and of course, IMB space embedding their technology. Lenders, give your borrowers an experience they will rave about. Learn more at figure.com.

Welcome to The Chrisman Commentary, your go-to daily mortgage news podcast, where industry insights meet expert analysis. Hosted by Robbie Chrisman, this podcast delivers the latest updates on mortgage rates, capital markets, and the forces shaping the housing finance landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just looking to stay informed, you'll get clear, concise breakdowns of market trends and economic shifts that impact the mortgage world.In today's episode, we look at the latest findings from the Mortgage Bankers Association's (MBA) newly released Quarterly Mortgage Bankers Performance Report. Plus, Robbie sits down with Figure's Michael Tannenbaum for a discussion on how small-balance first-liens and HELOC-as-refi strategies work, the latest developments after the company's IPO, and his thoughts on the current lending climate. And we close by examining what the influence of the labor market on mortgage rates.Thank you to Figure. Figure is shaking up the lending world with their five-day HELOC, offering borrower approvals in as little as five minutes and funding in five days. Figure has hundreds of partners in the Banking, Credit Union, Home Improvement, and of course, IMB space embedding their technology. Lenders, give yo

Thanksgiving is upon us and the expense can get crazy. Clark shares ways to spend less on the family feast. Later - you may be charged more when purchasing online because of the WAY you shop, among other factors. How do you know you're getting the best price?  Clark explains “surveillance pricing”  and money saving tricks of the trade. Plus, at the very end of the podcast Clark has an important tip for Medicare Advantage plan holders. Save On Thanksgiving Dinner: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Savvy Shopping Online: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Aldi's Thanksgiving dinner is just $4 per person The Best Deals of Aldi's Middle Aisle in November #1 Way To Protect Yourself From Credit Card Skimmers Is a HELOC a Good Idea? The Simple Answer How To Get the Best Price Possible Shopping Online How To Use Camelcamelcamel Clark Deals - Laptops Booking a Cruise? Here Are 5 Ways To Do It for Less Don't miss out on the early Christmas gift from your Insurance Company when your Medicare Advantage (MA) plan gets canceled.Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On episode 198 of Ask The Compound, Ben Carlson and Duncan Hill are joined by Ritholtz CFO Bill Sweet to discuss: 50% losses in your portfolio, stock concentration, 401k optimization, HELOC, Roth, and more. Submit your Ask The Compound questions to askthecompoundshow@gmail.com! Visit: https://exhibitaforadvice.com/ for all your charting needs! Subscribe to The Compound Newsletter for all the latest Compound content, live event announcements, find out who the next TCAF guest is, get updates on the latest merch drops, and more! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thecompoundnews.com/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Welcome to The Chrisman Commentary, your go-to daily mortgage news podcast, where industry insights meet expert analysis. Hosted by Robbie Chrisman, this podcast delivers the latest updates on mortgage rates, capital markets, and the forces shaping the housing finance landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just looking to stay informed, you'll get clear, concise breakdowns of market trends and economic shifts that impact the mortgage world.In today's episode, we look at the latest news and corporate developments from around the mortgage industry. Plus, Robbie sits down with HomeLight's Nick Friedman for a discussion on lender sentiment heading into 2026, with optimism rising and new buyer behaviors taking shape that could reshape the housing market. And we close by examining what sort of prepayments we are seeing in the mortgage-backed security (MBS) market.Thank you to Figure. Figure is shaking up the lending world with their five-day HELOC, offering borrower approvals in as little as five minutes and funding in five days. Figure has hundreds of partners in the Banking, Credit Union, Home Improvement, and of course, IMB space embedding their technology. Lenders, give your borrowers an experience they will rave about. Learn more at figure.com.

Welcome to The Chrisman Commentary, your go-to daily mortgage news podcast, where industry insights meet expert analysis. Hosted by Robbie Chrisman, this podcast delivers the latest updates on mortgage rates, capital markets, and the forces shaping the housing finance landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just looking to stay informed, you'll get clear, concise breakdowns of market trends and economic shifts that impact the mortgage world.In today's episode, we look at the latest news and testimony emerging from the fraud case against Fed Governor Cook. Plus, Robbie sits down with ICE's John Hedlund for a discussion on how mortgage leaders can scale sustainably, unlock new innovation in risk and operations, balance efficiency with human-centered borrower experience, and prepare for the next major shift in the housing and lending cycle. And we close by examining what sort of performance we are seeing in the mortgage-backed security (MBS) market.Thank you to Figure. Figure is shaking up the lending world with their five-day HELOC, offering borrower approvals in as little as five minutes and funding in five days. Figure has hundreds of partners in the Banking, Credit Union, Home Improvement, and of course, IMB space embedding their technology. Lenders, give your borrowers an experience they will rave about. Learn more at figure.com.

Welcome to The Chrisman Commentary, your go-to daily mortgage news podcast, where industry insights meet expert analysis. Hosted by Robbie Chrisman, this podcast delivers the latest updates on mortgage rates, capital markets, and the forces shaping the housing finance landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just looking to stay informed, you'll get clear, concise breakdowns of market trends and economic shifts that impact the mortgage world.In today's episode, we look at the latest changes (or proposed changes) from FHFA. Plus, Robbie sits down with MBA's Joel Kan for a discussion on the mortgage industry's cautiously optimistic outlook, with steady purchase activity, emerging refi opportunities, and expected annual originations above $2 trillion, despite regional housing softness, a gradually weakening labor market, and uncertain short-term impacts from AI. And we close by examining what the economic calendar should look like now that the government is back up and running.Thank you to Figure. Figure is shaking up the lending world with their five-day HELOC, offering borrower approvals in as little as five minutes and funding in five days. Figure has hundreds of partners in the Banking, Credit Union, Home Improvement, and of course, IMB space embedding their technology. Lenders, give your borrowers an experience they will rave about. Learn more at figure.com.

This week on A Week In Her Wallet, we head to Atlanta to follow Kristen, a 40-something clinical researcher who earns about $150K a year and travels nearly full-time for work. She walks us through a week of thoughtful spending, including a $1,300 mortgage payment, $500 toward her HELOC, a $150 yard sale win (promptly spent on music festival tickets), and the small joys that keep her grounded when she's on the road so much.

In this episode of The Tech Trek, Amir sits down with Sadi Khan, Co-Founder and CEO of Aven, to unpack how technology can make capital fairer for everyone. Sadi explains how Aven is tackling one of the world's biggest inefficiencies—the trillion-dollar burden of consumer credit card debt—and why the solution lies in reducing the cost of capital through innovation. This is a deep dive into building products that require not just engineering skill, but endurance, conviction, and a long-term mindset.Key Takeaways• Aven's mission is to cut credit card interest payments in half by rethinking how consumers access and use home equity.• True innovation often comes from solving inefficiency, not chasing market trends.• Complex problems create strong moats when founders are willing to grind through technical and regulatory barriers.• Founders should pick problems worth spending a decade on—pivot less, persist more.• Product success depends on identifying your “axis” and going all-in on being the best at that one thing.Timestamped Highlights00:40 — How Aven's hybrid credit card + HELOC model is lowering the cost of borrowing for homeowners04:10 — The moment Sadi realized the cost of capital was a massive, overlooked problem12:34 — Why most lenders haven't solved this yet and how Aven's approach differs19:33 — Building what others couldn't: how persistence and engineering precision led to breakthroughs23:36 — Choosing execution risk over market risk and what it takes to stay with a problem long enough to solve it37:47 — Why picking the right “axis” is how great companies build an unshakable moatMemorable Line“The only problems worth working on are the ones worth working on for a very long time.”Call to ActionIf you enjoyed this episode, follow The Tech Trek for more conversations at the intersection of people, impact, and technology. Subscribe on your favorite platform and share it with someone building bold ideas.

Could you be sitting on a hidden income stream? In this episode of Landlord Diaries, The Monthly Rentals Podcast, we sit down with Denver-based real estate investor and landlord Andre Galaviz, who shares how he turned his basement into a midterm rental bringing in over $2,500 in monthly profit without buying a new property.With rising interest rates and housing affordability tightening, Andre's story is a must-hear for anyone looking to house hack, maximize a current mortgage, or start cash flowing without acquiring a second home. Tune in to hear how he converted his single-family home into a functional duplex, financed the remodel with a HELOC, and leveraged Furnished Finder to attract high-quality tenants all while living upstairs with his family.Andre breaks down:What types of tenants he's attracting (spoiler: it's not just travel nurses!)How room rentals (co-living) and house hacking can help offset today's high interest ratesWhy monthly furnished rentals are the perfect complement to or replacement for short-term and long-term strategies List Your Property Now on Furnished Finder:https://www.furnishedfinder.com/list-your-property(Use code LLD10 for $10 off new listings) 

Welcome to The Chrisman Commentary, your go-to daily mortgage news podcast, where industry insights meet expert analysis. Hosted by Robbie Chrisman, this podcast delivers the latest updates on mortgage rates, capital markets, and the forces shaping the housing finance landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just looking to stay informed, you'll get clear, concise breakdowns of market trends and economic shifts that impact the mortgage world.In today's episode, we look at news from around the mortgage industry. Plus, Robbie sits down with with Arc Home's Lee Malone for a discussion on the HELOC market: the need for it, the various products out there, and how it's being utilized across origination channels. And we close by looking at what contributed to bond yields rising.Today's podcast is brought to you by ICE. As the standard for innovation, artificial intelligence, efficiency and scalability, ICE is the technology of choice for the majority of industry participants, defining the future of homeownership. 

In this episode of The Fintech Combine, host Kris Kovac sits down with Omar Jordan, founder & CEO of Coviance, to unpack how credit unions can deliver a true fintech experience in home equity and HELOC lending. Omar shares the origin story (from fax-era frustrations to 72-hour clear-to-close), why broken process and policy—not the LOS—slow lenders down, and what's changed at Coviance over the last 18 months, from scaling the team to helping 450+ institutions modernize member lending.Follow the Pod:https://twitter.com/fintechcombineFollow Kris Kovacs:https://twitter.com/ManagementByteshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kriskovacs/https://www.instagram.com/kriskovacs/The Fintech Combine is Produced and Edited by Anson Beckler-JonesFollow Anson Beckler-JonesInstagram - @ansonandcoYoutube - @ansonandco

For most people, debt isn't a mistake; it's just life. The mortgage, the car loan, and the credit cards are what everyone does. Making the minimum payments feels normal, but that actually keeps people stuck. Millions of families are drowning in debt, and they're barely managing. They're working hard, keeping up with their bills, but almost every dollar they earn goes right back out in interest. They're not moving forward; they're treading water. The hard part is, they're not doing anything "wrong." They're doing what the system taught them to do: stay cash-poor while the banks collect. People proudly lock in their 30-year loans at "record low rates," convinced they've made the smartest financial move of their lives. But they don't realize that even at 3%, they're giving away hundreds of thousands in interest. That money could be building security, breathing room, and financial freedom.  What if the same dollars you're paying the bank every month could start working for you instead? What if your paycheck could reduce your interest, shorten your payoff timeline, and create new cash flow, without earning a cent more? In this episode, Velocity Banking expert Christy Vann and all-in-one loan expert Harrison George return. We unpack how the system keeps you cash poor, and the simple shifts that can set you free. From using tools like the all-in-one first-lien HELOC to applying velocity and Infinite Banking principles, you'll learn how to redirect your money and eliminate debt faster.    Things You'll Learn In This Episode  The minimum-payment illusion Most people think staying current on their bills means they're managing their money well. What if that belief is the very thing keeping them broke? The hidden cost of a low-rate mortgage A 3% mortgage feels like a win, until you realize it's still costing you hundreds of thousands in interest. How can you flip that money back in your favor? Turning interest into opportunity Every month, you hand a portion of your paycheck to the bank. What happens when you start redirecting that same money toward your own freedom instead? The smarter way to get debt-free You don't have to earn more or live with less to change your situation. How do systems like the all-in-one HELOC, Velocity Banking, and Infinite Banking make that possible?   Guest Bio   Harrison George is a highly accomplished Mortgage Loan Officer at CMG Financial in Meridian, Idaho, specializing in both purchase and refinance solutions. With a degree from Colorado Mesa University, he has earned recognition as a Top Producer by Scotsman Guide for his exceptional loan performance. Harrison is a thought leader in mortgage innovations, particularly the "All‑in‑One Loan" concept using LinkedIn and YouTube to educate homeowners, investors, and realtors on how to build equity faster and achieve greater financial flexibility. Dedicated to client success, Harrison emphasizes transparent communication and customized strategies, earning consistently positive feedback from satisfied borrowers.   Subscribe to The Harrison George Team on YouTube Find Harrison on LinkedIn @Harrison George Christy Vann is a Velocity Banking expert, coach, and founder of Vanntastic Finances. She is a financial educator teaching people how to become debt-free very, VERY quickly! Christy explores debt-relief options with individuals, so we all may live in total financial peace! For more information, head to https://vanntasticfinances.com/, subscribe to her YouTube channe,l and join her private Facebook group.    About Your Host   From pro-snowboarder to money mogul, Chris Naugle has dedicated his life to being America's #1 Money Mentor. With a core belief that success is built not by the resources you have, but by how resourceful you can be. Chris has built and owned 19 companies, with his businesses being featured in Forbes, ABC, House Hunters, and his very own HGTV pilot in 2018. He is the founder of The Money School™ and Money Mentor for The Money Multiplier.   His success also includes managing tens of millions of dollars in assets in the financial services and advisory industry and in real estate transactions. As an innovator and visionary in wealth-building and real estate, he empowers entrepreneurs, business owners, and real estate investors with the knowledge of how money works.   Chris is also a nationally recognized speaker, author, and podcast host. He has spoken to and taught over ten thousand Americans, delivering the financial knowledge that fuels lasting freedom.   Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!

Using a HELOC as an emergency fund isn't always inherently wrong, but it's also not the straightforward optimization it might appear to be on the surface.

Tony Misura sits down with Chris Beard, Building Products Research Director at John Burns Research and Consulting, for a comprehensive look at what's really happening in housing and building materials markets heading into 2026. Chris breaks down the numbers that matter: why single-family starts are down mid-single digits while multifamily is strengthening, what the "magic" 5.5% mortgage rate means for buyer behavior, and why production builders are willing to pay a $130 premium per thousand board feet for Canadian lumber despite new tariffs. From the "wall of wood" created by preemptive inventory builds to the lock-in effect keeping 72% of homeowners in sub-5% mortgages, this episode cuts through the uncertainty of 2025's policy-driven volatility. Chris shares bullish forecasts through 2034 based on demographic trends, explains why the remodeling market could see major tailwinds from falling HELOC rates, and offers practical advice on building localized market dashboards. Whether you're a dealer, distributor, manufacturer, or builder planning your 2026 strategy, this conversation provides the data-driven insights you need to navigate labor shortages, tariff impacts, and regional market variations. Key Topics: Mortgage rates, Canadian lumber tariffs, household formation trends, multifamily construction, labor inflation, existing home sales, remodeling market opportunities, and regional market forecasting. Guest: Chris Beard, Building Products Research Director, John Burns Research and Consulting Length: 46 minutes

Are you a federal retiree still waiting for your first pension check? You're not alone—delays at OPM are leaving thousands in financial limbo. In this video, learn bridge strategies to cover expenses, avoid financial hardship, and what steps you can take now if your federal retirement payment is late.Your pension check might not be processed—so what are you going to do when no pension checks are being processed?

If you listened to Tom's last episode about using a HELOC to prevent a fraudulent transfer of the title to your home, this follow-up episode is for you. 

Andrew Freed began as a project manager before a Rich Dad Poor Dad revelation led him to pursue financial freedom through real estate. Using a HELOC on his Boston condo, he rapidly scaled to 10 properties in two years and now oversees 400+ units with 50 more under contract. Specializing in multifamily, house hacking, and syndications, Andrew is a top BiggerPockets contributor and podcast guest who shares his expertise at meetups, inspiring others to achieve financial independence through real estate.   Here's some of the topics we covered:   From W2 Worker to Real Estate Savage The Secret Hack That Guarantees Success in Anything How Andrew Crushes It Buying C-Class Assets in Massachusetts The Rinse-and-Repeat Real Estate Formula That Keeps Printing Profits  Living Every Day in a State of Abundance The Harsh Economic Reality Hitting the C-Class Market The Truth About Section 8 Housing  The #1 Regret People Have on Their Deathbed  The Hiring Game-Changer That Transformed Andrew's Business   To find out more about partnering or investing in a multifamily deal: Text Partner to 72345 or email Partner@RodKhleif.com    For more about Rod and his real estate investing journey go to www.rodkhleif.com   Please Review and Subscribe

It is time for some smart money moves! This month, Art considers some moves that focus on gratitude and following the next step God gives you. Additionally, Art addresses two financial questions—one about a HELOC and another about buying a house. Don't miss it!Resources:8 Money MilestonesChristian Money HelpAsk a Money Question!

Home ownership is becoming harder for many Americans, with78% citing affordability issues like income and down payments (2024Bankrate/Yahoo Finance). Most buyers (74%) require financing, assessed by rulessuch as the 28/36 rule. The number of loan officers dropped by half from 2021to 2023 (Investopedia), and only 27–40% of buyers use them; most get loansthrough banks or credit unions.Michael Newmann, Branch Manager & Senior Loan Officer atCMG Home Loans, offers expertise in wealth-building home loans nationally. Withover 20 years in the industry and a background in psychology, he leadshigh-profile clients using strategies like CMG's innovative All-In-One Loan—a30-year HELOC with daily interest calculations and equity access. Michaelcombines financial knowledge with empathetic client service and strategicthinking, aiming to help clients save money and reduce their mortgage terms.For more information, For More Information: https://www.cmghomeloans.com/mysite/mike-newmann/team/The-Newmann-Group or call (541) 227-2722. 

[Housing Wire] High Tech Lending launches a new flexible senior HELOC. [RMI] All the latest HECM data in Revere Market Insight's Market Minute. [Law Offices of Laurie E. Ohall] One law firm addresses the question of how heirs can settle an estate with a reverse mortgage. Watch our video podcast here!

Your home's equity can be a powerful financial tool — but should you tap into it through a line of credit or a fixed-rate loan? Compeer Home loan officer Scott Gundermann joins Home Sweet Home to explain the key differences between a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) and a Home Equity Loan. Hear how each option works, what fits best for different goals and lifestyles, and how Compeer Home's rural expertise can help you use your equity with confidence.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The big brokerage firms are fighting for your investment accounts Our investment advisory firm over the years has never been a favorite of the big brokerage firms because we generally only do three, maybe four trades on average per year. But the big brokerage firms are now acting like the casinos in Las Vegas and are doing everything they can to get you on their platform. They will give you all kinds of tools and seminars, so you'll take higher risk and do more trading. In the meantime, they're downplaying the risk of trading. You see also like the casinos in Las Vegas, there are now stories of them giving away free rooms for the big players and they are giving you free software and free education on how to trade. Robinhood even invited 1000 people to Las Vegas and took them go kart racing and provided classes with their new trade platform. Schwab and Fidelity are doing similar types of events to get you to use more of their services. Once they get you in the door, they can show you how to use margin debt, which by the way hit a new record of $1.13 trillion in September, along with option trading and other exciting ways to make you think you can make a lot of money. Doesn't that sound like the casinos in Las Vegas that try and get you to hit the gambling tables? Unfortunately, it seems to be working somewhat because the percentage of investors who now have self-directed accounts is 33%, which is a big increase from 24% just five years ago. My problem with this, as you can tell, is I don't believe they're teaching people how to invest but more on how to gamble and how exciting it can be. Going back 100 years it's still the same with Wall Street, they will make some big profits, and the small investors will lose most if not all of their nest egg. Can Travis Kelce turn around Six Flags? If you're not sure who Travis Kelce is, he is a tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs and engaged to the well-known singer Taylor Swift. Six Flags, which is a public company that trades under the symbol FUN, has received an investment of $200 million from the activist investment company JANA Partners. It was not disclosed how much investment Travis has of the $200 million, but he does like to invest in companies both public and private. He has investments in over 30 companies that include manufacturing, distribution, consumer goods, entertainment, and a beer company. He is pretty excited about his investment because as a kid he used to love the roller coasters, Dippin' Dots and him and his brother have great memories at Six Flags. He has suggested that they do a roller coaster with a 300 foot drop where riders feet dangle from beneath. Investing in Six Flags seems to be an uphill battle. Year to date the stock is down roughly 45%, the company is losing money and has a market capitalization of $2.6 billion. Travis does have a long-term perspective on all his investments likes we do. He is OK investing in a company losing money in hopes it could be turned around. Our philosophy at our firm is we will not invest in companies that do not have earnings. One benefit he does have is obviously his name and I'm sure if him and his fiancé, Taylor Swift, would start showing up at Six Flags, you can bet that they will be all over the news giving the company some nice free advertising.   Markets actually declined after the Fed rate cut  On Wednesday, the Fed announced they would lower their benchmark overnight borrowing rate by 0.25% to a range of 3.75%-4%. This marked the second consecutive cut of 0.25% and there is still one meeting left this year where we could see another rate cut. The keyword here is could and the lack of conviction around another cut is likely what spooked the market. Powell said a December rate cut isn't a “foregone conclusion” and while recently appointed Fed Governor Stephen Miran again dissented in favor of a 0.5% cut, there was also a hawkish dissent with Kansas City Fed President Jeffrey Schmid voting for no decrease. Schmid's vote and Powell's language was likely what sent the market lower after the announcement as many essentially had the December rate cut factored in as a sure thing. Powell also added that there is “a growing chorus” among the 19 Fed officials to “at least wait a cycle” before cutting again. This resulted in traders lowering the odds for a December cut to 67% from 90% the day prior. Given the lack of data and an economy that still appears to be in an alright position, I do believe the Fed needs to be careful cutting too quickly especially since they are taking another accommodative stance with the announcement that they would be ending the reduction of its asset purchases – a process known as quantitative tightening – on Dec 1. This in theory will stimulate the Treasury and mortgage-backed securities markets, which should help with longer dated debt instruments, as the Fed was allowing these assets to just roll off the balance sheet and now will need to step in and buy new debt to replace the securities as they mature. While QT shaved off around $2.3 trillion from the Fed's balance sheet, Covid led to a major expansion from just over $4 trillion to close to $9 trillion. The question is with the rapid expansion just a few years ago, was enough removed from the balance sheet to put it at a more normalized level. Like with the Fed cuts, I do believe if monetary policy eases too much, we risk a return of inflation and a further increase in many speculative assets that could cause problems down the road.   Financial Planning: When does a Solar System Make Sense? Buying a solar system generally makes the most sense if you use a lot of electricity and plan to stay in your home long term. Installing by the end of 2025 allows you to capture the 30% federal tax credit, which significantly shortens the payback period. If the system is financed with a mortgage or home equity line of credit (HELOC), the interest may be tax-deductible, allowing for little or no upfront cash outlay and after-tax loan payments that can be lower than the monthly electricity savings. Owned solar panels usually increase home value, though not always enough to fully offset the system's cost, which is why longer-term ownership is important to recoup the investment. In California, including a battery is almost always recommended so you can store power generated during the day for use at night, reducing the need to buy expensive electricity from the grid. Leasing can be attractive for shorter-term homeowners if lease payments are well below current utility costs, but leases generally don't increase home value and don't qualify for tax credits. The main advantage is immediate monthly savings without an upfront investment, though leased panels can complicate a future home sale. In some cases, it may be best not to install solar at all—for example, if you don't plan to stay in the home long term, or if your electricity usage and potential savings are too low to justify the hassle and possible roof wear from installation.   Companies Discussed: The Coca-Cola Company (KO), Capital One Financial Corporation (COF), QUALCOMM Incorporated (QCOM), Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings Inc. (KNX)

Eli Goodman of Illinois Real Estate Buyers gives the complete playbook on dealing directly with sellers to acquire off-market deals! Eli starts with explaining the grind it took to get his wholesaling off the ground! He discusses the right way to communicate with distressed sellers to create win-win scenarios and also throws in a few horror stories. Eli shares the various processes for direct to seller marketing and how he's achieved success. He closes things to keep in mind when practicing wholesaling in Illinois to mitigate your risk! If you enjoy today's episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Guest: Eli Goodman, Illinois Real Estate Buyers Link: Eli's Instagram Link: Eli's Meet Up Link: Never Split the Difference (Book Recommendation) Link: Dan Clarton (Title Services Referral) Guest Questions: 01:42 Housing Provider Tip - Leverage a HELOC on your primary residence for emergencies and to continue scaling! 03:37 Intro to our guest, Eli Goodman! 07:00 Getting a wholesaling business off the ground. 11:42 How to communicate directly with sellers! 17:18 Tactical tips on direct to seller marketing. 25:08 Building a list of cash buyers. 34:33 Outlook on Eli's wholesaling business. 37:07 Challenges of wholesaling in Illinois. 44:19 What is your competitive advantage? 44:45 One piece of advice for new investors. 45:00 What do you do for fun? 45:12 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 45:29 Local Network Recommendation? 46:05 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

What if we stopped investing like bystanders and started investing like owners and “neighbors” in the story of our finances?When you invest like an owner, our portfolios can reflect faithful stewardship and create real-world impact. Robin John joins us today to share practical ways to move from passive investing to purposeful ownership.Robin John is co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at Eventide Asset Management, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. He's also the author of the book, The Good Investor: How Your Work Can Confront Injustice, Love Your Neighbor, and Bring Healing to the World.Investing vs. SpeculatingMany people confuse investing with speculating. Speculating—like day trading—is often no different than gambling. It's focused on short-term gains, trying to predict what the market will do tomorrow. But investing is about ownership. When you buy a stock, you're buying a piece of a company. You become a co-owner.That means your money is participating in real work—serving customers, employing people, and creating products that impact lives. As Christians, we should invest in companies we believe are doing good for the world, not just generating profits.Speculation is reactive and anxious. Investing, when done faithfully, allows us to rest in the knowledge that our capital is working toward purposes aligned with God's design for flourishing.The Responsibility of OwnershipOwnership changes everything. It confers ethical responsibility.If you owned a neighborhood store, you'd care deeply about how it serves your community, treats employees, and impacts the environment. In the same way, being a shareholder means you share in both the profits and the moral implications of what that company does.That's why Eventide Asset Management believes that Christians must think like owners, not traders. Ownership means engaging thoughtfully with the companies we invest in—voting proxies, engaging in dialogue with management, and ensuring that our capital is stewarded with integrity. Our investing isn't just about earning; it's about embodying our faith in the marketplace.Why Passive Investing Deserves a Closer LookIn recent years, many investors have turned to index funds or “passive” strategies. While these offer simplicity and diversification, I believe we should pause and ask: What are we actually owning?As Christians, we can't do anything passively—not even investing. Romans 12:2 calls us to avoid conforming to the patterns of this world, to renew our minds, and to discern what is good. That means we can't blindly invest in every company just because it's part of a market index.Do we really want to profit from industries like pornography, abortion, gambling, or tobacco? Our calling is to pursue good profits—profits that come from serving others and honoring God.To meet that need, Eventide has created systematic ETFs—investment funds that provide broad market exposure while intentionally excluding harmful industries. They're designed for believers who want to participate in the market without compromising biblical conviction.The Neighbor Map: Loving People Through InvestingIn his book, The Good Investor, Robin shares something he calls the Neighbor Map—a framework that helps us see all the “neighbors” affected by a business.God's command to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19) isn't abstract. It applies to the business world. At Eventide, they have identified six key neighbors every company should serve:Customers – Are the company's products truly good for those who use them?Employees – Are they treated with dignity, fairness, and care?Suppliers – Are business relationships ethical and respectful?Communities – Does the company create meaningful jobs and contribute positively to local life?The Environment – Is creation being stewarded well? Caring for creation is one of the most direct ways to love the poor, because it's the poor who suffer most from pollution and neglect.Society – Is the company contributing to the flourishing of the broader culture?Faithful investing isn't only about avoiding harm—it's also about embracing good. When we invest in companies that love their neighbors well, we participate in God's ongoing work of restoration.As investors, we're not distant spectators. We're partners. At Eventide, they engage directly with the companies we invest in—raising concerns, asking hard questions, and encouraging leadership to act with wisdom and compassion.Their goal isn't confrontation—it's collaboration. Whether it's addressing supply chain ethics, employee safety, or corporate philanthropy, we approach these conversations as co-owners who want to see good companies become even better.Clarity for Every Christian InvestorMany believers are unaware of what their money supports. That's why the team at Eventide created GoodInvestor.com—a free tool that allows you to screen your portfolio and see exactly what you're investing in. You can also connect with advisors who understand faith-based investing and can help you align your portfolio with your convictions.We hope that Christians everywhere would invest with joy, clarity, and confidence—knowing that their capital is serving God's purposes in the world. When we invest, we're not just moving money—we're shaping the world. Every dollar we deploy carries moral and spiritual weight.Our prayer is that more believers would see investing as a form of worship—a way to love God and neighbor through the stewardship of capital. Together, we can build a world that rejoices, where profits are good, people are valued, and creation is honored.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Back in 2010, my parents set up a life estate warranty deed for their home, adding my siblings and me to the deed. My mom passed away eight years ago, and my dad passed in December 2024. We're preparing to sell the house now, but I keep hearing that we need to use a “life expectancy table” to calculate the home's value for capital gains or losses. Can you explain how that works and what steps we'll need to take for the taxes?I've saved up three months' worth of income—about $2,300 in total—and I still owe around $500 on a HELOC and another $500 on a credit card with interest rates of about 7% and 8.9%. My question is: Should I treat my savings separately from my three-month emergency fund? For example, if something unexpected happens—like a car repair—I don't want to touch my emergency fund. Is there a certain percentage or guideline for how much should be in an emergency fund versus regular savings?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)The Good Investor: How Your Work Can Confront Injustice, Love Your Neighbor, and Bring Healing to the World by Robin C. JohnEventide Asset ManagementGoodInvestor.com (Investment Screening Tool and Advisor Search)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Starting an IBC policy when everything feels worst? That's exactly how Nelson Nash discovered Infinite Banking, when bank rates hit 23% and leverage turned on him. Here's what he did, why it worked, and how to avoid the same traps.

Joining us on this episode of Living Off Rentals is someone who's helped countless people escape the trap of long-term loans that can end up costing nearly twice the original amount. Adam Carroll is a financial educator, speaker, and founder of The Shred Method. Through this approach, he's helped families and real estate investors accelerate their mortgage payoff timelines through smart money management and the strategic use of lines of credit. Listen as he breaks down a simple but powerful strategy that turns traditional banking upside down and helps homeowners and investors eliminate debt, build equity faster, and save thousands in interest. Enjoy the show! Key Takeaways: [00:00] Introducing Adam Carroll and his background [02:36] What makes Adam interested in The Shred Method? [04:40] The Shred Method defined [06:28] How The Shred Method optimizes your cash flow and what it actually does [09:05] Understanding amortization and how most payments go to interest [10:51] How lump-sum payments speed up principal payoff [11:59] Turning rental income into a faster wealth-building tool [13:57] Why simple interest (HELOC) beats compound interest over time [15:10] Using short-term borrowing to save long-term interest [16:50] The benefits of the Shred Method [18:50] Why traditional banking habits keep most people stuck [22:45] Paying off vs. leveraging. How to decide what's right for you [23:45] Why paying properties to zero isn't always the best move [27:09] Can you get a KLOC on a rental property? [32:51] Success stories from Shred Method [38:47] How small wins create a financial snowball effect [41:00] Most people don't have an income problem; they have a payment problem [44:04] Outro Guest Links: Website: https://theshredmethod.com/  Show Links: Living Off Rentals YouTube Channel – youtube.com/c/LivingOffRentals  Living Off Rentals YouTube Podcast Channel - youtube.com/c/LivingOffRentalsPodcast  Living Off Rentals Facebook Group – facebook.com/groups/livingoffrentals  Living Off Rentals Website – https://www.livingoffrentals.com/  Living Off Rentals Instagram – instagram.com/livingoffrentals  Living Off Rentals TikTok – tiktok.com/@livingoffrentals

Real Estate Expert & Best-Selling Author, Gerald Lucas discusses the advantages and disadvantages of a HELOC (home equity line of credit).

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode - Home prices have inflated so much in recent years, and banks are luring home owners to tap that home equity like it's a piggy bank. But what does this do to your overall wealth? Before you're tempted, hear what Clark has to say about HELOCs and home equity loans. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Home Equity Decisions: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Are Extended Warranties Ever Worth It? Term Life vs. Whole Life Insurance: Understanding the Difference 4 Common Scams on Cash App, Venmo and Zelle (and How To Avoid Them) What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? Where Should I Set Up My Health Savings Account (HSA)? Report: 10 Used Cars With Big Price Drops HELOC vs. Home Equity Loan: Similarities and Differences Home Equity Loan Calculator - Clark Howard Is a HELOC a Good Idea? The Simple Answer How To Buy a House in 9 Steps What to know about online purchases and tariffs Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Upstart co-founder and CTO Paul Gu joins OPTO Sessions to explain how AI underwriting powers 92% fully automated loans and lifts conversion to approximately 24% as the AI lending marketplace returns to profitability with triple digit revenue growth. He unpacks fraud controls, the Upstart Macro Index, and expansion into HELOC and auto. -----The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only. Opto Markets LLC does not recommend any specific securities or investment strategies. Investing involves risk & investments may lose value, including the loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Investors should consider their investment objectives and risks carefully before investing. The information provided is not an endorsement of this product and is for information and/or educational purposes only.

It's been a while since I've talked about Wealth Formula Banking in detail, and I know we have a lot of new listeners who may not have heard about it yet. So today, I want to share a webinar that explains why I think this strategy is such a no-brainer. First off—what is Wealth Formula Banking? You may have heard of something called “infinite banking.” It's a similar concept, but instead of focusing on paying your bills, Wealth Formula Banking is specifically designed to amplify your investments. My introduction to this idea came the same way you're hearing it now—through a podcast. I kept hearing the phrase “be your own bank.” Honestly, I didn't know what that meant, and I tuned it out until a friend finally broke it down for me. That's when I had my aha moment. Here's why. Normally, when you want to invest in a cash-flowing asset, you park money in a checking or savings account first. The problem? Those accounts pay you almost nothing—well under 1 percent. Meanwhile, inflation is running at 2–3 percent, so you're guaranteed to lose money. That's why my friend Robert Kiyosaki always says, “savers are losers.” Wealth Formula Banking flips that script. You're essentially creating a special kind of cash value life insurance policy, where the money you put in grows at a virtually bulletproof 5–6 percent compounding rate per year. Not that sexy on its own, BUT…here's the kicker: you don't have to pull that money out to invest in your deal. Instead, you borrow against it from the insurance company's general ledger at a simple interest rate. That means your original money keeps compounding inside the policy at 5–6 percent—even while you've borrowed against it to invest in cash-flowing assets like real estate. That's the key. With a HELOC, when you borrow, your money stops working for you. With Wealth Formula Banking, your money never stops growing. So now you've got the same dollars doing two jobs at once: earning safe, compounding growth inside your policy and generating income from your investments outside of it. By simply routing your money through Wealth Formula Banking, you're supercharging your returns. And here's what makes it even more powerful: tax-free growth within the insurance account, real asset protection to shield your wealth from lawsuits and creditors. Plus, it includes a permanent death benefit, which means that in addition to building wealth today, you're also creating a lasting legacy for your family tomorrow. It's not magic—it's math. And it's the kind of smart arbitrage that can turn ordinary investments into extraordinary ones. Schedule a FREE consultation: https://wealthformulabanking.com

Send us a textHow Two First-Time Franchisees Built a Thriving Roofing Business — Without Construction BackgroundsIn this episode, the team sits down with Kevin and Kathy, first-time franchise owners of Action Exteriors, to unpack how two non-constructors turned a leap of faith into a fast-growing exterior restoration business.They share how they mastered insurance claims, learned the trades on the fly, built a team-first culture, and turned single-scope roof jobs into multi-trade projects that scale. Expect a real conversation about cash flow, subs, support, and the realities of ownership—not a highlight reel.You'll learn:• Why Kevin and Kathy chose Action Exteriors based on culture and coaching, not hype• How they turned insurance roofs into profitable multi-trade projects• The keys to hiring slow, firing fast, and protecting culture early• How to manage 30–90 day insurance receivables without running dry• The right way to use subcontractor networks for scale and quality• What “selling outcomes over items” really looks like in home services• How they planned funding with ROBS and HELOC backup• The path from residential to commercial roofing (and licensing in Oklahoma)• Why local relationship marketing beats vanity social posting• How they're already thinking about their exit strategy and unit acquisitionsThis episode is packed with real franchise ownership lessons—from managing cash and crews to building a scalable, sellable business with no prior construction experience.

⭐ Join Rental Property Mastery, my community of rental investors on their way to financial freedom: http://coachcarson.com/rpm   

Most people obsess over “rate of return”, but they miss the banking process that controls every dollar in their life and how to leverage that same dollar to make more.  Book: Life Without The Bank by Mary Jo Irmen

Most people think they can't invest in real estate because their local market is too expensive. Mike Buska proves that excuse wrong. He works full-time in private security and lives a market where finding cash flow is nearly impossible. Instead of giving up, he looked out of state. Within a year, he built a portfolio of seven units across Detroit and Pennsylvania while still working his demanding full-time job. In this episode, Mike reveals how he turned long-distance investing into an advantage by creating systems and relying on the right local partners to operate his properties. He also explains how he tapped into a HELOC, using the equity in his primary home to fund multiple deals and accelerate his growth without draining his savings. Mike's story is proof that location doesn't matter when you have the right plan, the right people, and the discipline to take action. If you've been waiting for the “perfect time” or thinking your market is too expensive, this episode shows you how to start investing remotely, scale faster, and build wealth no matter where you live. Book your mentorship discovery call with Cory RESOURCES

Mike Cagney, the founder of Figure joins the show. In this episode we discuss: The process of taking Figure public in September 2025. The market structure for tokenized securities. Perspectives on the key issues being debated in the context of The Clarity Act. Reg NMS considerations for blockchain assets. The impact of stablecoins on the banking sector. The original thesis of Figure and the attractiveness of the HELOC market. The Provenance Blockchain Competition versus legacy financial services firms. To learn more about Figure visit figure.com. Follow Mike on X. Follow Figure on X.