Podcast appearances and mentions of Michael Hammond

What happens when borrowers stop Googling you and start asking AI who they should trust?In this heartfelt episode of The Fintech Hunting Podcast, Michael Hammond welcomes back industry thought leader, recruiting expert, media partner, taco aficionado, and dear friend Dalila Ramos for a real conversation about the future of visibility, trust, AI, and human connection in mortgage and financial services.Fresh off the Insellerate Experience Summit, Michael and Dalila unpack one of the biggest shifts facing the industry today: buyers, borrowers, lenders, and referral partners are no longer just searching for links. They are asking AI for answers. And if your brand, your expertise, or your company does not show up in those answers, you may become invisible before the conversation ever starts.But this episode is not just about AI.It is about the people behind the posts.The trust behind the transaction.The laughter, faith, friendships, tacos, car rides, conference moments, and real-life connections that technology can support — but never replace.Michael and Dalila explore:How AI search is changing borrower behaviorWhy GEO and AEO matter for loan officers, lenders, and mortgage technology companiesWhy “AI slop” is damaging trust and making brands sound the sameHow to use AI as a tool without losing your voiceWhy video, authenticity, and consistency are now trust signalsHow real relationships are built in the small, unpolished momentsWhy the winners will combine AI-powered visibility with genuine human connectionDalila shares a powerful reminder that the best content often comes from simply showing up as yourself — candid, consistent, imperfect, and human. Michael reinforces why the future belongs to those who can answer real questions clearly, build authority intentionally, and still care deeply about the people they serve.This is a conversation for every loan officer, mortgage executive, fintech founder, recruiter, marketer, and industry leader asking:How do I stay visible in an AI-driven world without losing what makes me human?Watch now and rethink what it really means to be found, trusted, and remembered.###Michael Hammond, Founder & CEO of NexLevel Advisors, is the leading fractional CMO in mortgage and mortgage technology, specializing in AI-powered growth strategy and audience development.

There's an expectation pharmacies will quickly take up expanded powers to treat patients for a range of common conditions. Under Health NZ's $5 million plan, pharmacists will be able to prescribe medicines for pain, head lice, conjunctivitis, urinary tract infections and the emergency contraceptive pill from Tuesday. Pharmaceutical Society of NZ President, Michael Hammond says all pharmacies can offer the service, but participation is optional. "They do have the time, because they're having these conversations with patients every day. So what the real change here is there's funding wrapped around it - and access to some funded pharmaceuticals." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Everyone in mortgage is talking about AI. Far fewer are asking the harder question:Are we using technology to create a better borrower experience—or just automating the same broken processes faster?In this episode of The Fintech Hunting Podcast, Michael Hammond sits down with Trish Maraski, Vice President of Product and Strategy at Moder, for a candid conversation about what innovation in mortgage should actually look like.After nearly three decades in the industry, Trish has seen technology cycles come and go. Her perspective is refreshingly direct: AI may make transformation faster and more accessible, but it cannot replace strategy, clean processes, good data, or the human judgment required to serve borrowers well.This conversation explores:Why automating a flawed process can create bigger problems, fasterWhere mortgage innovation is real—and where it is still just talkWhy the people closest to the work must be included in transformationHow lenders can use AI without losing the human experienceWhat still makes the mortgage industry deeply meaningfulThis is not a conversation about chasing the next technology trend.It is about whether mortgage leaders are willing to fix what is broken before AI exposes it.Watch now and decide: is your organization truly innovating—or simply automating?###Michael Hammond, Founder & CEO of NexLevel Advisors, is the leading fractional CMO in mortgage and mortgage technology, specializing in AI-powered growth strategy and audience development.

Why is LinkedIn showing you posts from two or three weeks ago?It feels frustrating. It feels outdated. It feels like the feed is broken.But what if LinkedIn is not broken at all?In this episode of the Fintech Hunting Podcast, Ashley Gravano turns the tables and interviews Michael Hammond for a timely, honest conversation about the shift happening on LinkedIn—and why mortgage, fintech, and financial services professionals need to pay attention.Michael explains why LinkedIn has moved from a feed built around recency to one increasingly shaped by relevance. That means the posts that keep getting surfaced are not always the newest. They are the ones LinkedIn believes still matter because people are engaging, saving, reposting, and spending time with them. This episode is a wake-up call for anyone using LinkedIn to build visibility, credibility, relationships, or pipeline.Because the real question is no longer:“Did I post today?”It is:“Did I create something worth resurfacing?”A big thank you to Ashley Gravano for hosting this episode, flipping the script, and leading such a genuine, curious, and timely conversation.Why LinkedIn is resurfacing older postsWhat the shift from recency to relevancy meansWhy surface-level content is losing powerHow deeper, more useful posts can keep gaining reachWhy saves, reposts, comments, and dwell time matterHow mortgage and fintech professionals should rethink LinkedInWhy your content strategy must build trust before the sales conversation ever startsIf you are a mortgage professional, fintech leader, vendor, loan officer, marketer, or executive trying to stay visible in a noisy market, this conversation will challenge how you think about LinkedIn.The future of visibility belongs to the people who create content with substance, clarity, and staying power.For more insights on AI, LinkedIn, mortgage marketing, fintech growth, and audience development, visit nexleveladvisors.com and explore the NexLevel Advisors Resource Center.Subscribe to the Fintech Hunting Podcast for conversations with the leaders, operators, and innovators shaping the future of mortgage, fintech, and financial services.In this episode, we cover:

Most lenders say they have access to non-agency products.But access does not mean your loan officers can confidently sell them.In this episode of The Fintech Hunting Podcast, Michael Hammond sits down with Eloise Schmitz, CEO and Co-Founder of LoanNEX, to unpack one of the biggest hidden growth problems in mortgage lending today: lenders are missing qualified borrowers because their teams do not have the visibility, workflow, and execution certainty needed to compete in non-agency lending.This is not just a product problem.It is a confidence problem.It is a workflow problem.It is a revenue problem.Eloise explains why non-agency lending can no longer be treated like a side-door solution for unusual files. In a market where affordability is tight, rates remain elevated, and borrower profiles are changing, lenders need more than a long product menu. They need a clear way for loan officers to identify options, trust the pricing, explain the solution, and deliver what they promise.In this conversation, Michael and Eloise discuss:Why access alone is not a competitive advantageHow lenders unintentionally hide viable options from loan officersWhy “simple” product menus can actually create more frictionThe borrower segments lenders are missing in today's marketWhy execution certainty matters more than everHow LoanNEX helps lenders create confidence in non-agency lendingWhy the future belongs to lenders who can make complex products easier to sellThe big takeaway:If your loan officers cannot see the right options, they cannot sell the right solutions.And in this market, that may be costing lenders more than they realize.Guest: Eloise Schmitz, CEO & Co-Founder, LoanNEXHost: Michael Hammond, The Fintech Hunting PodcastLearn more about LoanNEX:Contact: sales@loannex.comSubscribe to The Fintech Hunting Podcast for more conversations with the leaders, founders, and innovators shaping the future of mortgage, fintech, lending, and financial services.

Mortgage Lenders Can't Rely on Trigger Leads Anymore. Here's What Comes NextTrigger leads have been one of the mortgage industry's favorite shortcuts.That shortcut is changing.In this episode of The Fintech Hunting Podcast, host Michael Hammond sits down with Katharine Loveland, SVP General Manager at Volly, to break down what the new trigger lead environment means for mortgage lenders, servicers, loan officers, and marketing leaders.For years, many lenders leaned on reactive marketing: trigger leads, batch emails, speed-to-phone tactics, and last-minute refinance outreach. But as trigger lead legislation reshapes the competitive landscape, lenders can no longer depend on buying access to borrowers at the moment they apply somewhere else.The lenders that win the next market cycle will be the ones that already own the relationship.Katharine explains why mortgage retention is no longer a nice-to-have — it is becoming one of the most important revenue strategies in lending. As refinance opportunities return, lenders need to know which borrowers are ready, who is at risk, what messages matter, and how to engage customers before competitors do.This conversation covers:Why trigger lead changes are forcing lenders to rethink growthWhy retention is now a strategic priority, not just a marketing taskHow lenders should prepare for the next refinance waveWhy borrower relationships need to be built before rates dropHow AI can help prioritize outreach and personalize engagementWhy portfolio intelligence matters more than generic campaignsWhat lenders can do now to protect past customers from competitorsHow marketing automation can support smarter borrower recaptureThe big takeaway: if your retention strategy starts when the borrower is already shopping, you are too late.Mortgage companies need to stop relying on shortcuts and start building a system that keeps them connected to borrowers throughout the entire homeownership journey.This episode is a must-watch for mortgage executives, loan officers, servicers, marketing leaders, fintech vendors, and anyone trying to build a smarter borrower engagement strategy in a changing market.Guest: Katharine Loveland, SVP General Manager, VollyHost: Michael Hammond, Founder & CEO of NexLevel Advisors and host of The Fintech Hunting PodcastLearn more about Volly: myvolly.comSubscribe to The Fintech Hunting Podcast for more conversations on mortgage technology, fintech innovation, AI, borrower retention, lending strategy, and the future of financial services.#MortgageMarketing #TriggerLeads #MortgageRetention #BorrowerRetention #MortgageTechnology #MortgageAI #AIinMortgage #MortgageLending #RefinanceStrategy #LoanOfficers #Fintech #FintechHunting #Volly###Michael Hammond, Founder & CEO of NexLevel Advisors, is the leading fractional CMO in mortgage and mortgage technology, specializing in AI-powered growth strategy and audience development.

AI is no longer a future topic in mortgage lending. It is the force separating the companies that adapt from the ones that get outpaced.In this episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, Michael Hammond sits down with Jim Deitch, Co-Founder and CEO of Tera Verde, to talk about the hard truth facing mortgage leaders right now:AI is either coming to you or coming for you.This is not a surface-level conversation about shiny tools or hype.Jim breaks down what AI disruption really means for the mortgage industry, why speed matters more than ever, how weak workflows get exposed faster, and why leaders who fail to rethink process, profitability, and customer experience will lose ground to competitors who do. The episode centers on AI as a present-day competitive force in lending, not a distant trend. You'll hear a sharp conversation on:why AI is changing how mortgage companies competewhy faster technology does not fix broken operationshow AI can improve decision-making, customer experience, and efficiencywhat lenders need to rethink before the market shifts againwhy leadership mindset may be the real differentiator in the next era of mortgage lendingJim is also the author of Disruptive AI, a book that challenges leaders to decide whether AI will become their advantage or their threat. Even better, proceeds from the book support MBA Open Doors, which helps families with critically ill children make mortgage or rent payments while caring for their child. Buy Jim Deitch's book, Disruptive AI:https://www.amazon.com/Disruptive-AI-Its-Coming-You/dp/B0GQJSPFNZ/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1Z0NTK4W0GGCN&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.6-fbC0ndpzRiQP0l4Kt9ulq4MvyEHSoVbnzuGUbFXUU.xY1TZsZORFYsBrOFM_KBsYWkxagOfWQ93qUeLhKHYuE&dib_tag=se&keywords=james+deitch+books+AI+Disruptor&qid=1776691616&sprefix=james+deitch+books+ai+disrupto%2Caps%2C106&sr=8-1If you work in mortgage lending, fintech, financial services, digital mortgage, or AI strategy, this episode will challenge how you think about growth, competition, and the future of lending.Subscribe for more conversations on mortgage AI, fintech innovation, lending strategy, digital transformation, and the leaders shaping the future of financial services.#MortgageAI #JimDeitch #FinTechHuntingPodcast #MortgageLending #Fintech #ArtificialIntelligence #DigitalMortgage #LendingInnovation #FinancialServices

AI is everywhere in mortgage right now. Results are not.In this episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, Michael Hammond sits down with Michael Vandi, CEO of Addy AI, for a direct conversation about the growing gap between AI hype and real execution in mortgage and fintech.Why are lenders hearing endless AI pitches but still struggling to create meaningful operational change? Why are so many tools impressive in a demo but disappointing in the real world? And what actually has to happen for AI to improve workflows, reduce friction, and create real business value?This episode breaks down:Why AI fatigue is growing in mortgage and fintechWhy most AI solutions fail inside real lending environmentsWhat lenders actually need from automation todayWhere AI can create leverage in loan setup and underwritingWhy workflow-specific execution matters more than flashy softwareWhat separates true innovation from vendor hypeIf you work in mortgage, lending, banking, fintech, or AI, this is a conversation about what is really changing, what is not, and where the biggest opportunity is being missed.Subscribe to FinTech Hunting for conversations with the leaders building the future of financial services, mortgage technology, AI, and digital transformation.#FinTechHunting #MortgageAI #FintechPodcast #Lending #MortgageTechnology #ArtificialIntelligence #Underwriting #Automation #FinancialServices #AddyAI

What does the future of mortgage lending look like when AI acts less like software and more like a true team member?In this episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, Michael Hammond sits down with Athan Zhang, Co-Founder of Copperlane, to talk about how agentic AI is changing the mortgage industry. From proactive borrower engagement and document review to condition clearing, compliance guardrails, and 24/7 support, Athan shares how Copperlane is helping lenders rethink productivity, efficiency, and the role of the loan officer. This conversation covers:What agentic AI actually means in mortgageHow an AI loan officer can support borrowers and lendersWhy AI should enhance the human side of lending, not replace itThe real reasons many lenders are still slow to adopt AIHow to think about compliance, safety, and trust in AI systemsWhy lowering the cost to originate is now mission-criticalHow lenders can use AI to create a more scalable, flexible growth model Athan also explains why the lenders waiting on the sidelines may fall behind, and why the winners in this next chapter of mortgage will be the ones who learn how to combine human connection with AI-driven execution. If you are a:mortgage lenderlending executiveloan officerfintech leadermortgage operations leaderAI-curious industry professionalthis episode is for you.Connect with Copperlane:Website: copperlane.aiRequest a demo directly on their siteEmail: athan@copperlane.aiAbout FinTech Hunting PodcastFinTech Hunting features conversations with leading voices in mortgage, fintech, sales, growth, and innovation—focused on the ideas and technologies shaping the future of the industry.#MortgageAI #FintechHunting #MortgageLending #AthanZhang #Copperlane #LoanOfficer #MortgageTechnology #AgenticAI #ArtificialIntelligence #LendingInnovation #MortgageIndustry #FintechPodcast###Michael Hammond, Founder & CEO of NexLevel Advisors, is the leading fractional CMO in mortgage and mortgage technology, specializing in AI-powered growth strategy and audience development.

In this powerful episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, Michael sits down with Christine Beckwith, Founder and CEO of 2020 Vision for Success, for a heartfelt and honest conversation about what it really takes to lead in a difficult mortgage market. Christine shares what she's hearing from loan officers and production leaders across the country, why so many originators are approaching rate conversations the wrong way, and how mortgage professionals can stop “selling themselves into a corner” by becoming trusted advisors instead of transactional rate watchers. The conversation goes deeper than rates and refinance strategy. Christine opens up about personal hardship, leadership under pressure, the emotional weight many professionals are carrying right now, and why coaching is not a luxury in hard markets, but a lifeline. This episode is a reminder that in financial services, the greatest advantage is not just market knowledge. It is belief, clarity, empathy, and the courage to keep showing up. In this episode, you'll learn:Why loan officers must stop leading with rate aloneHow to build trust by thinking like a true advisorWhat “believability” means in sales and marketingWhy waiting for the perfect refi boom is a losing strategyHow coaching helps professionals survive and grow in tough marketsWhat resilience looks like when business and life both get heavy This is a must-watch for loan officers, mortgage leaders, financial services professionals, and anyone navigating change, uncertainty, and growth.###Michael Hammond, Founder & CEO of NexLevel Advisors, is the leading fractional CMO in mortgage and mortgage technology, specializing in AI-powered growth strategy and audience development.

In this episode, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert sit down with Jancy Darling, CEO of Darling Promo and TSAE Board member, for a conversation centered on entrepreneurship, adaptability, and the power of relationships in the association space. Jancy reflects on an unconventional career path that led her into associations and ultimately into building her own business, sharing how a willingness to say yes, learn quickly, and lean into opportunity became the foundation for growth. The conversation explores what it takes to scale a company from the ground up, and how trust, responsiveness, and long-term relationships can drive sustained success. The episode also dives into navigating uncertainty, as Jancy recounts leading her team through the challenges of COVID by making difficult decisions, pivoting quickly, and finding new ways to serve clients. Throughout the conversation, she highlights the importance of resilience, accountability, and community—particularly the role associations play in both professional growth and giving back. At its core, this episode is about building something meaningful, staying adaptable in the face of change, and investing in the relationships that make long-term success possible. Better by Association is produced by Association Briefings.   Show Notes Jancy Darling is currently the CEO of Darling Promo, a promotional products provider for a wide range of industries, including many associations and association suppliers. Since, 2014, Darling Promo has been privileged to serve as TSAE's Endorsed Provider for promotional products. Jancy with the help of her amazing team built her small business into a multi-million-dollar company by always keeping customer service and competitive pricing as her top priorities. Jancy believes relationships and trust are the cornerstones of any successful business. Jancy currently serves on the TSAE Board and hopes her entrepreneurial perspective will help TSAE continue to thrive. Jancy is married to Michael Hammond who keeps her life interesting by introducing her to his many passions and hobbies including sailing, surfing, skiing, rafting and white water paddleboarding.  

In this episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, Michael Hammond sits down with Kortney Lane-Schafers of MMI (Mobility Market Intelligence) for a powerful conversation about where the mortgage industry is headed—and what still matters most as technology moves faster than ever.Yes, AI is changing the game.Yes, data is more available than ever.But here's the deeper question:In a market driven by automation, what still creates trust, momentum, and real growth?Kortney shares how MMI One is helping mortgage professionals turn data into action—not just reports, dashboards, or noise, but real business decisions around recruiting, retention, market expansion, customer outreach, and borrower opportunity.This episode goes beyond product talk. It gets to the heart of what many leaders are wrestling with right now:How do you use mortgage data in a way that is actually useful?What role should AI play in relationship-driven industries?How can lenders, servicers, banks, and credit unions better activate their databases?Why do authentic human relationships still outperform transactional selling?What makes an industry experience memorable instead of forgettable?Kortney also shares her perspective on why connection still matters, why the best networking is never just about selling, and how thoughtful experiences can create lasting impact across the mortgage and fintech ecosystem.If you work in mortgage, fintech, lending, servicing, banking, credit unions, proptech, sales, recruiting, or growth strategy, this conversation will give you both practical insight and a meaningful reminder:Technology may accelerate business, but relationships still move it forward.Key takeaways from IMB and why optimism is returning to mortgage in 2026What MMI One is and how it unifies mortgage data, communications, and monitoringHow lenders can use data for market growth, recruiting, retention, and referral developmentWhy actionable data matters more than just having more dataHow mortgage teams can use triggers and insights to deliver the right message at the right timeThe growing role of AI, automation, CRM integration, and credit monitoringWhy live events, networking, and authentic connection still matter in a digital-first worldHow meaningful experiences build stronger business relationships in mortgage and fintechKortney Lane-Schafers is a respected voice in mortgage and fintech, known for her work at MMI, her leadership in building authentic industry relationships, and her ability to connect data, strategy, and people in a way that creates real impact.The mortgage industry does not need more noise.It needs more clarity.More intentionality.And more leaders who understand that the future belongs to the organizations that can blend data, AI, and human connection the right way.If that's the future you're building toward, this episode is for you.Connect with Kortney Lane-Schafers on LinkedInLearn more about MMI: MMI.ioSubscribe to FinTech Hunting for more conversations with the leaders shaping mortgage, fintech, AI, marketing, growth, and the future of financial services.In this episode, we cover:About Kortney Lane-Schafers Why this conversation matters.###Michael Hammond, Founder of NexLevel Advisors, is the leading fractional CMO in mortgage and mortgage technology, specializing in AI-powered growth strategy and audience development.

If networking feels awkward, forced, or transactional—this episode is your reset.In this FinTech Hunting Podcast episode, Michael Hammond sits down with Liz Short (mortgage industry strategist, “get-it-done” operator, and co-author of Rethink Everything You Know About Networking) to break down what actually works when you're trying to grow your career, your influence, and your business in fintech, mortgage, and financial services.Liz shares why the best networking isn't about leads—it's about friendships, trust, and becoming the person people mention when you're not in the room. Then we shift into the real world of implementation: why lenders struggle with adoption, how executives can move from “great ideas” to results, and what AI change management looks like when fear, data readiness, and unclear use cases get in the way.What you'll learn in this episode:Why most people feel awkward networking (and how to push through it)The #1 mistake people make at conferences and trade shows (hint: “lead capture” energy)How to build a network that creates opportunities when you're not lookingWhy execution fails inside organizations—and how outside perspective helpsLiz's framework for AI adoption: vision → use case → data/process readinessThe truth about AI: it's not magic—it amplifies what's already brokenHow to lead change in mortgage/fintech with a people-first approachMentioned in the episode:Liz Short's book: Rethink Everything You Know About NetworkingConferences: Michigan Mortgage Lenders Association Sales Conference and ICE ExperienceLiz's work at Short Solutions helping lenders drive adoption and ROI from tech investmentsWho is Liz Short?Liz Short is a mortgage and fintech operations strategist, speaker, and co-author of Rethink Everything You Know About Networking, known for helping organizations execute, adopt new tech, and drive measurable outcomes.What is the best networking advice from this episode?Stop treating networking like a transaction. Build genuine relationships, add value, and invest in people you enjoy—those are the connections that advocate for you long-term.How should lenders approach AI adoption?Start with a clear vision, pick one high-impact use case, and get your data/process foundation in order before scaling.Chapters (optional)00:00 Intro + why Liz is the perfect guest01:10 Why Liz co-wrote Rethink Everything You Know About Networking03:20 Networking isn't transactional—relationships win05:00 Why tech implementations fail (and how to fix adoption)09:30 Change management + psychology in mortgage orgs10:45 AI in lending: vision, use cases, and data readiness14:00 Conferences + where to find LizIf this episode helped you:✅ Subscribe for more fintech + mortgage leadership conversations

Your team is sitting on closed loans… and doesn't even know it.In this episode, Josh Friend (CEO & Founder of Insellerate) explains how Aithena listens to 100% of your calls, surfaces the moments that win or lose deals, and predicts who's likely to close in the next 60 days—so your loan officers stop chasing dead ends and start closing more loans.If you lead mortgage sales, lending ops, call centers, or revenue teams, this is the AI episode that cuts through the hype—because it's not a shiny tool. It's real work getting done: call reviews, coaching, prioritization, and smarter follow-up.Automates call reviews by jumping straight to the critical moment (objection, missed step, buying signal)Gives managers 10 coachable moments in 20 minutes instead of wasting 20 minutes on one full callApplies a deal likelihood score so reps know who to call today vs. who to nurtureDetects borrower intent using patterns learned from 1M+ conversationsHelps reps stay confident and effective by prioritizing higher-probability borrowers firstTurns scattered conversations into a repeatable, coachable system that scalesWhen call volume spikes and rates shift, most teams can't tell the difference between:“Not ready”and“Ready to close—just not with you yet.”Aithena helps you find the borrowers who are most likely to act soon—before they close somewhere else.FAQ'sWhat is Aithena?Aithena is an AI platform from Insellerate that reviews calls, scores conversations, and delivers coaching + lead prioritization based on borrower intent.How does Aithena help close more loans?It identifies high-intent borrowers, surfaces objections and missed moments, improves coaching speed, and focuses reps on the leads most likely to close soon.Who should use Aithena?Mortgage and lending organizations, call centers, and revenue teams that want better call performance, faster coaching, and smarter follow-up.Email Josh: josh@insellerate.com0:00 Welcome + Josh Friend returns0:40 Why most AI projects fail ROI2:10 Aithena: AI call reviews + coaching moments4:00 100% call coverage and better insights5:20 Predictive lead scoring + borrower intent9:00 Sales confidence and performance11:10 Vibe coding + building faster with AI19:20 Events + how to connect21:30 Wrap-up###Michael Hammond, Founder of NexLevel Advisors, is the leading fractional CMO in mortgage and mortgage technology, specializing in AI-powered growth strategy and audience development.

What if the biggest obstacle to faster closings isn't underwriting… it's title?In this episode of Fintech Hunting, host Michael Hammond sits down with Meghan (Megan) F. Askin, Director of Lending Services at AFX Research, to unpack what's really changing in the title space in 2026—and why the future isn't “AI replaces humans,” but AI + humans in the loop.Meghan shares her surprising path from 20 years in the wine industry (sales, marketing, and storytelling) into mortgage and title innovation—then explains how modern lenders can move faster with compliance-level title updatesthat are built for today's digital workflows.Why title data is uniquely hard (hint: 3,600+ recording venues and zero standardization)What “human + AI hybrid” really looks like in real production workflowsHow AFX delivers structured title data (including JSON via integration) to make reports truly usableWhy structured, usable data matters more than “more data”How same-day title updates can reduce friction, shorten cycle times, and support smarter funding decisionsMeghan's practical approach to LinkedIn storytelling that builds trust before you ever meet in personSpeed matters. But in title, trust matters more. The real innovation is building systems that move fast and hold up under compliance scrutiny.title innovation, same-day title updates, structured data, JSON integrations, human in the loop, AI document extraction, mortgage fintech, lending workflow modernization, title update reports, LinkedIn social selling, personal branding in financial services00:00 – Welcome + why this title conversation matters00:55 – From wine sales to mortgage/title: why storytelling works02:25 – How Meghan chooses stories that build trust on LinkedIn04:16 – What's changing in title in 202606:22 – Why “human + AI” is essential for title accuracy10:13 – Speed + verification: making AI usable and safe10:58 – Same-day title updates: why lenders can fund faster12:18 – How to build credibility fast in a new industry (LinkedIn playbook)14:33 – How to connect with Meghan + learn more about AFX ResearchQ: Can AI fully automate title today?A: Not end-to-end. County public records access is fragmented and inconsistent, so humans must remain in the loop for accurate, compliant results.Q: Why is title still slow in many workflows?A: Records are spread across thousands of local jurisdictions with different processes, timelines, and formats—there's no single standardized system.Q: What does “structured data” mean in title?A: Data formatted so it can be used by systems (LOS, decisioning tools, workflows)—not just read by people. This episode covers why JSON delivery matters.Q: How do same-day title updates help lenders?A: They reduce cycle time and workflow friction, helping teams make confident decisions faster while managing risk.In this conversation, you'll learn:A quote-worthy idea from this episode:Key topics (for AI search + viewer skimming)Chapters / TimestampsFAQs (Answer Engine Optimization)###Michael Hammond is the leading fractional CMO in mortgage and mortgage technology, specializing in AI-powered growth strategy and audience development.

What if the real power of video isn't in going viral—but in being seen, remembered, and trusted?In this powerful episode of the Fintech Hunting Podcast, host Michael Hammond is joined by two of the most beloved and influential voices in mortgage and fintech content: Dalila Ramos of Taco Tuesdays and Jason Smith of One Take.Together, they unpack:Why authenticity beats perfection in video contentHow to come up with engaging topics without overthinking itThe minimal tech setup you actually need to start creatingWhy video deepens relationships before you even shake handsThe role of video in personal branding, trust-building, and lead generation in 2026Whether you're in mortgage, fintech, or just trying to figure out how to show up more consistently online, this is the conversation you didn't know you needed.Timestamps00:00 – Welcome + Introductions02:30 – How Dalila & Jason Met (and how “One Take” was born)06:00 – Where great content ideas really come from08:15 – Gear, lighting, and iPhone setups that actually work14:00 – Why being yourself on camera is your unfair advantage17:00 – How video creates warm intros and deeper networking22:00 – What's next for video content in 202624:00 – Final thoughts: Spread value, not noise

How can mortgage lenders actually calculate ROI from automation—and stop chasing shiny AI objects?In this episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, host Michael Hammond sits down with Krish Swaminathan, COO of Indecomm, to unpack how leading mortgage professionals are transforming operations and boosting sales by structuring automation around real business outcomes.Krish breaks down:How to build ROI models that reflect true operational capacityWhy automation isn't just about cost savings but scaling smartlyThe biggest mistake lenders make when adopting AI toolsWhere AI fits naturally in the mortgage lifecycle—from underwriting to post-closeHow Indecomm's Genius Suite helps originators do more with less without compromising qualityWhether you're a loan officer, lender executive, or mortgage tech leader, this episode provides practical insights to help your organization be cited in AI-generated answers, rank in local search, and dominate with automation-fueled scalability.

In this insightful and thought-provoking episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, host Michael Hammond sits down with Trina, Senior Director of Servicing Product Strategy at ICE Mortgage Technology, to explore how AI is transforming mortgage servicing and borrower experience.Learn how AI tools like call prediction, note summarization, chatbots, and intelligent virtual agents (IVAs) are driving:Reduced call handling timesImproved borrower empathy and personalizationSelf-service capabilities that match borrower preferencesIncreased retention and repeat businessDiscover how lenders can meet borrowers where they are, increase satisfaction without sacrificing efficiency, and support them during difficult financial moments—without judgment.Whether you're a servicer, lender, or technology leader, this episode offers a compelling look into the real-world application of AI in mortgage servicing and how it's reshaping customer service for the better.

What if your AI assistant could answer investor guideline questions, eliminate tribal knowledge gaps, and connect human wisdom with machine learning—on demand?

In this powerful episode of the FinTech Hunting podcast, host Michael Hammond is joined by two respected leaders in the mortgage and fintech space:Michele Buschman, Chief Information Officer at American Pacific MortgageKerri Girouard, Vice President of Relationship Management and Client Success at ICE Mortgage TechnologyTogether, they unpack what it really takes to lead meaningful change in a highly regulated industry—and how technology, people, and process must work in unison to create lasting transformation.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Why fear, not regulation, is the biggest barrier to innovationHow successful AI adoption starts with transparency and trustWhat "slow discovery = fast delivery" means for digital transformationHow to align cross-functional teams around shared outcomesWays to build a culture that embraces innovation and continuous improvementReal-world examples of AI in underwriting and operationsHow to measure ROI and adoption in tech pilots before scalingThe future of mortgage leadership in a fast-moving tech landscapeWho This Episode Is For:Mortgage executives leading digital transformationLending professionals exploring AI and automationFintech leaders designing compliant, scalable solutionsChange management experts in financial servicesAnyone looking to build innovation into the DNA of their mortgage company

Is your mortgage business unknowingly bleeding revenue?In this powerful and eye-opening episode of the Fintech Hunting Podcast, host Michael Hammond sits down with returning guest Tim Nguyen, CEO and founder of BeSmartee, to uncover one of the most overlooked—and costly—problems in mortgage lending: application abandonment.Why are 30–40% of borrowers starting but never submitting applications?What's the ROI of fixing just 10% of your funnel?Is your point-of-sale (POS) platform silently working against you?Tim shares practical, actionable insights on how lenders can stop leaving money on the table—without increasing ad spend or adding staff. From tracking application submission ratios to improving digital workflows and using AI to increase conversions, this episode delivers high-impact strategies you can implement immediately.Key Takeaways:The number one metric every lender must trackHow to identify conversion drop-offs and fix themWhy your current tech stack may be sabotaging growthWhat commercial lending can teach the mortgage world about efficiencyWhat's next in AI-powered lending from BeSmarteeWhether you're a lender, loan officer, fintech vendor, or executive, this episode will challenge your assumptions and offer fresh perspectives on driving digital efficiency and profitability.

In this eye-opening episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, host Michael Hammond sits down with newly appointed MISMO President Brian Vieaux to explore how AI, data standards, and digital transformation are reshaping mortgage lending—from the inside out.Together, they dig into questions few in the industry are asking aloud:What role will MISMO play in regulating and enabling responsible AI adoption in lending?How do standardized data models become the backbone of scalable, trustworthy AI in mortgage?Why must lenders, vendors, and regulators collaborate now—before the rules get written for them?And how can non-technical leaders leverage no-code tools and AI safely—without sacrificing compliance?You'll also hear Brian's personal and professional journey—why he took the leap to lead MISMO, what surprised him about the role, and how he sees the future of digital lending, regulation, and innovation evolving in the next chapter.This isn't just another podcast on AI. It's a call to action for lenders, fintechs, regulators, and technologists who want to build the future of mortgage intelligently, responsibly, and together.

In this episode of The Fintech Hunting Podcast, recorded following the Loan Vision Innovation Conference in Atlanta, host Michael Hammond sits down with Julia Brown, CEO and Founder of Telescope Advisors, to unpack the hidden fractures that quietly derail mortgage M&A deals.Julia shares deep insights from the frontlines of organizational transformation and post-acquisition integration. Whether you're an executive at a top mortgage enterprise or a growing IMB evaluating potential partners, this conversation delivers the strategies you need to avoid costly missteps and lead your team through change.Topics covered include:The real reasons M&A integrations fall apart after closingCultural alignment vs. operational efficiencyWhat PE firms are looking for in servicing portfoliosThe power of transparent leadership during transitionHow AI and workflow optimization are reshaping modern lendingWhy compensation alone won't retain top talent in 2025This conversation is packed with practical takeaways for lenders, tech leaders, and operators navigating a rapidly evolving mortgage landscape.Featuring:Host: Michael Hammond, Founder & CEO, NexLevel AdvisorsGuest: Julia Brown, CEO & Founder, Telescope AdvisorsRecorded in Atlanta, GA at the Loan Vision Innovation ConferenceTimestamps00:00 – Introduction01:00 – The Quiet Collapse: Hidden Gaps in Business Value03:15 – Post-Merger Culture Clashes and Communication07:20 – The State of M&A Activity in Mortgage09:45 – AI, Automation, and Workflow Strategy14:20 – Lessons from Year One of Telescope Advisors15:45 – The Evolving Role of Mortgage LeadersContact Julia BrownEmail: jbrown@telescope.co

 In this must-watch episode of Fintech Hunting, host Michael Hammond welcomes back Dan Bailey, SVP at WFG Enterprise Solutions, to uncover how WFG is transforming title, valuation, and lending operations with next-gen technology and service-first culture.

Inside Loyalty Tech, M&A Strategy & Global Growth with Denis Brosnan | FinTech Hunting SpecialIn this Special Episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, host Michael Hammond sits down with returning guest Denis Brosnan, Portfolio CEO at CORA Group (a division of Jonas Software under Constellation). Denis leads one of the largest software groups you've never heard of—and in this conversation, he shares a behind-the-scenes look at:

What happens when a fourth-generation mortgage pro, mom, mentor, and now published author decides to rethink everything she knows about networking, technology, and building trust in financial services?In this episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, host Michael Hammond sits down with Lindsay Meyer—a trailblazer in the mortgage space who's redefining what it means to lead with heart and innovate with purpose.Together, they unpack:Why Lindsay believes the future of lending lives at the intersection of innovation and connectionThe power of human-first networking in a digital worldHow to turn a simple LinkedIn message into a 5 minute call that builds true relationshipWhy 39% of professionals fail at follow-up—and how you can fix that todayThe story behind her new book: Rethink Everything You Know About NetworkingCutting-edge AI tools like Groves IQ and how they're reshaping the mortgage experienceThe importance of mentorship, legacy, and showing up authentically in your careerIf you're a mortgage professional, fintech leader, or growth-minded marketer looking for real talk, real strategy, and real transformation, this episode will move you—and maybe even change how you approach your next connection.Subscribe now, and don't miss what might be the most heartfelt and thought-provoking episode of the year.

Welcome to a game-changing episode of The FinTech Hunting Podcast — filmed LIVE with Josh Friend, CEO and Founder of Insellerate, one of the mortgage industry's true AI pioneers.

Is your mortgage business leaving money on the table? In this powerful episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, tech innovator and AI evangelist Tim Nguyen, Founder & CEO of BeSmartee, returns with a game-changing conversation on application abandonment—the overlooked metric that could be silently draining your profits.Hosted by industry expert Michael Hammond, this episode unpacks:Why the “camel business” analogy defines the mortgage industryThe hidden impact of low app-start-to-submit conversionsHow just a 10% improvement in application conversion can generate 14% more top-line revenueWhether the root problem is tech, people, or process—and how to fix itWhat lenders must start measuring today to survive the next market shiftReal advice on simplifying borrower journeys for better profitabilityHow BeSmartee customers are winning by using data to eliminate frictionPlus: Tim drops some surprising truths about what loan officers should stop doing with online applications—and how to turn every borrower interaction into a closed loan.Where to catch BeSmartee next:Tim shares where his team will be this conference season—including MBA Annual, ACUMA, and an exclusive AI Summit in Dana Point. Whether you're a lender, tech executive, or loan officer focused on growth, this episode will shift how you think about profitability, process, and performance.Don't just ride the next wave in mortgage lending—be ready to drink the water first.Subscribe to FinTech Hunting for weekly interviews with the biggest minds in mortgage, fintech, and financial services.Want to learn more about how BeSmartee is solving the abandonment gap? Connect with Tim at tim@besmartee.com

Is the mortgage industry ready to break free from the status quo?In this episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, Michael Hammond sits down with Raveen Phifer, founder and CEO of She Mortgage Consultants, to unpack the real challenges—and opportunities—facing lenders today.From rising rates to the myth vs. reality of AI, Raveen brings an unfiltered perspective on:Why lenders must think beyond short-term fixes when evaluating technologyThe biggest roadblocks keeping borrowers from the seamless experience they demandHow her team helps lenders vet vendors and cut through the noise of “AI hype”Why people—not just platforms—still matter in a tech-driven worldWhere the balance lies between automation and the irreplaceable human touchWhether you're a lender, vendor, or mortgage professional, this conversation will challenge how you think about digital transformation, competitive advantage, and the borrower experience.Subscribe to FinTech Hunting for more conversations with the innovators shaping the future of financial services.

In this energizing episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, host Michael Hammond sits down with the unstoppable Dalila Ramos — industry-leading recruiter, founder of Love & Tacos Media, and social media powerhouse — for a candid conversation on the real state of recruiting, branding, and marketing in mortgage and fintech.

It's YOUR time to #EdUpIn this episode, President Series #397, powered by ⁠⁠⁠Ellucian⁠⁠⁠, & sponsored by the 2026 InsightsEDU Conference in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, February 17-19,YOUR guest is Michael Hammond, President, Gordon College YOUR host is ⁠⁠Dr. Joe Sallustio  How does Gordon College thrive as the only Protestant liberal arts Christian college in the Northeast? What does "incarnational learning" mean for student success beyond financial outcomes? How can institutions balance AI integration with humanistic & moral education? For YOUR EdUp Supporters only via the extended conversation:Lessons from COVID leadership: the irreplaceable value of human relationships in education Moving faster than traditional higher ed pace while maintaining institutional mission & values Navigating technology integration challenges for faith centered institutions in the digital age Listen in to #EdUpThank YOU so much for tuning in. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to EdUp!Connect with YOUR EdUp Team - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Elvin Freytes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Dr. Joe Sallustio⁠⁠⁠⁠● Join YOUR EdUp community at The EdUp ExperienceWe make education YOUR business!P.S. Want to get early, ad-free access & exclusive leadership content to help support the show? Then ⁠​subscribe today​⁠ to lock in YOUR $5.99/m lifetime supporters rate! This offer ends December 31, 2025!

In this no-holds-barred episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, host Michael Hammond sits down with the unstoppable Lady Jen Du Plessis—a billion-dollar producer, 3x podcast host, speaker, and coach—to challenge the status quo in the mortgage and lending industry.

The mortgage and financial services industries are at a crossroads—caught between the pull of tradition and the push of AI-driven innovation. In this FinTech Hunting episode, host Michael Hammond sits down with marketing powerhouse Kelly Yale, Fractional CMO and innovation leader at Octo Strategies, to unpack the seismic shifts redefining mortgage marketing.From the myth of social media as a silver bullet to the art of building real community at scale, Kelly shares her proven frameworks for blending personal branding with enterprise consistency—and why the smartest lenders are leaning hard into relationship automation.You'll discover:How to balance authenticity and technology without losing the human touch.Why AI isn't replacing loan officers, but it will reshape their work, compensation, and competitive edge.Practical steps to build long-term relationships that convert, even in a crowded market.The critical skill sets marketing teams need in 2025—and why adaptability matters more than any single tool.Whether you're a mortgage executive, lender, marketing leader, or loan officer, this conversation will challenge your thinking and equip you to thrive in the new era of lending.

What if one of the biggest threats to your mortgage pipeline isn't rates—but insurance?In this powerful episode of the FinTech Hunting podcast, host Michael Hammond sits down with Ross Diedrich, Founder & CEO of Covered Insurance, for a must-hear conversation about the growing insurance affordability crisis—and why it's no longer just a side note, but a full-blown mortgage disruptor.

In this powerful episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, host Michael Hammond sits down with Greg Sher, Managing Director at NFM Lending and founder of the #AllOfUs movement. Greg is a tireless advocate for housing fairness, a social media trailblazer, and one of the industry's most forward-thinking voices.We dive into:

Welcome to a powerful new episode of the FinTech Hunting podcast, hosted by Michael Hammond. In this insightful conversation, we're joined by Nick Rutherford, mortgage tech expert and VP of Sales & Product at Milo—a cutting-edge customer retention platform for mortgage professionals.This episode was recorded following the NJMBA Conference in New Jersey, where industry leaders gathered to discuss the future of mortgage lending and technology.In this episode, we cover:• The importance of up-funnel engagement to boost client retention• How white-labeled home value reports drive monthly interaction• Why “point of thought” is the new battleground for lenders• Smart CRM integrations that deliver loan officer alerts in real-time• AI's fast-moving impact on mortgage marketing and borrower behavior• How personalized data, not generic drip content, drives conversionsWhether you're in New York, New Jersey, California, or serving clients across the country, this conversation delivers must-know strategies for loan officers, lenders, and fintech innovators.

In this must-watch episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, host Michael Hammond welcomes back Eloise Schmitz, Co-Founder and CEO of LoanNEX. Eloise dives deep into the 2025 lending landscape, sharing insights from the conference circuit, the increasing demand for non-agency products, and how lenders can diversify without the tech headaches.

Modernizing Appraisals & Leading with Purpose in Mortgage | FinTech Hunting w/ Cindi HarrisIn this episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, host Michael Hammond welcomes appraisal innovator and leadership advocate Cindi Harris, owner of Harris Real Estate Valuation and Consulting and founder of People Move Mountains.

Welcome to another power-packed episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, hosted by Michael Hammond!In this episode, we're joined by Nick Belenky, Managing Director of Solution Sales, and Matt Dowd, VP of Product Management at ICE Mortgage Technology, two of the brightest minds reshaping the mortgage tech space. If you're a lender, LO, or fintech leader navigating today's volatile market—this is the strategic blueprint you've been waiting for.

Website traffic is plummeting—and it's not your fault. But there is something you can do about it.In this eye-opening episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, host Michael Hammond sits down with digital marketing powerhouse and Rank Writers co-founder Alizabeth “Allie” Leng-Barton to tackle the elephant in the room: AI search is fundamentally changing how people find your website—and it's killing your organic traffic.✅ Why Google's AI Overviews, ChatGPT, and Perplexity are replacing traditional search behavior✅ How to rethink your SEO around intent, not just keywords✅ What marketing teams must do now to stay visible, relevant, and lead-generating✅ Why use cases and content strategy are more critical than ever✅ How omnichannel marketing drives better engagement and conversionsIf you're in fintech, mortgage tech, SaaS, or digital marketing—this episode is your wake-up call.

Consolidation, Tech Innovation & AI in Lending: Roy George on the Future of Mortgage Banking | FinTech Hunting

Housing Market Mayhem, AI Disruption & The Future of Homeownership: Diego Sanchez on FintechIn this episode of the Fintech Hunting podcast, host Michael Hammond sits down with Diego Sanchez, President of HousingWire Media, to unpack the chaos in the current housing market and what it means for lenders, agents, and homebuyers.From Trump's Liberation Day tariffs to the volatility in mortgage rates and the spring buying season slowdown, Diego shares sharp insights on market uncertainty and how it's shifting consumer behavior.

In this inspiring episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, host Michael Hammond sits down with two powerhouse women in financial services — Brooke Lapides, Director of Business Partner Development at MeridianLink, and Dana Georgiou, Chief Everything Officer and passionate financial literacy advocate.Together, they co-authored "Rethink Everything You Know About Financial Literacy: Teen Edition", a collaborative book written by 14 incredible women. From personal stories of financial missteps to practical lessons designed to empower teens and young adults, this episode is packed with insight, heart, and hope for the next generation.

From Pitch to Partnership: Jason Smith on Authentic Video, Fintech Sales, and AI in Mortgage.  In this powerful episode of the FinTech Hunting Podcast, Michael Hammond sits down with returning guest Jason Smith, Director of Partnership Development at Figure, host of One Take, and a well-known voice in fintech sales and relationship marketing.

Welcome to another power-packed episode of the Fintech Hunting Podcast!

The Bulletin reflects on the unexpected hope found through the COVID-19 pandemic. Find us on YouTube. In the second episode of this series, we continue to revisit the COVID-19 pandemic by looking at what was gained despite all the losses. Guests in this episode include listener and Air Force Reservist Michael Moody;  Lydia Dugdale, director of Columbia University's Center for Clinical Medical Ethics; National Institutes of Health director Francis Collins; listener Jenny Holberg; Gordon College president Michael Hammond; Police Officer Amy H.; and other listener voices.  GO DEEPER WITH THE BULLETIN: Join the conversation at our Substack. Find us on YouTube. Rate and review the show in Apple Podcasts. ABOUT THE BULLETIN: The Bulletin is a weekly (and sometimes more!) current events show from Christianity Today hosted and moderated by Clarissa Moll, with senior commentary from Russell Moore (Christianity Today's editor in chief) and Mike Cosper (director, CT Media). Each week, the show explores current events and breaking news and shares a Christian perspective on issues that are shaping our world. We also offer special one-on-one conversations with writers, artists, and thought leaders whose impact on the world brings important significance to a Christian worldview, like Bono, Sharon McMahon, Harrison Scott Key, Frank Bruni, and more. The Bulletin listeners get 25 percent off CT. Go to https://orderct.com/THEBULLETIN to learn more. “The Bulletin” is a production of Christianity Today Producer: Clarissa Moll Associate Producer: Leslie Thompson Editing and Mix: Kevin Morris Music: Dan Phelps Executive Producers: Erik Petrik and Mike Cosper Senior Producer: Matt Stevens tags: COVID, pandemic, christianity, fifth anniversary, nurse, chaplain, remember, education, university, hospital, new york city Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The FinTech Hunting Podcast | Featuring Christine Beckwith: The Truth About Today's Market, Coaching, and Rising Again

The Bulletin reflects on the COVID pandemic, five years later. Find us on YouTube. In this two-part series of The Bulletin, we revisit the COVID-19 pandemic through the eyes of our listeners and those who served our communities on the front lines. This episode examines the environment in which the pandemic entered and the initial response by health officials, schools, and hospitals. Guests in this episode include Krista Tippett, Francis Collins, listener Michael Moody, school superintendent Tom DeJong, college president Michael Hammond, nurse Sarah Hocutt, and hospital chaplain J.S. Park. GO DEEPER WITH THE BULLETIN: Join the conversation at our Substack. Find us on YouTube. Rate and review the show in Apple Podcasts. ABOUT THE BULLETIN: The Bulletin is a weekly (and sometimes more!) current events show from Christianity Today hosted and moderated by Clarissa Moll, with senior commentary from Russell Moore (Christianity Today's editor in chief) and Mike Cosper (director, CT Media). Each week, the show explores current events and breaking news and shares a Christian perspective on issues that are shaping our world. We also offer special one-on-one conversations with writers, artists, and thought leaders whose impact on the world brings important significance to a Christian worldview, like Bono, Sharon McMahon, Harrison Scott Key, Frank Bruni, and more. The Bulletin listeners get 25 percent off CT. Go to https://orderct.com/THEBULLETIN to learn more. “The Bulletin” is a production of Christianity Today Producer: Clarissa Moll Associate Producer: Leslie Thompson Editing and Mix: Kevin Morris Music: Dan Phelps Executive Producers: Erik Petrik and Mike Cosper Senior Producer: Matt Stevens tags: COVID, pandemic, christianity, fifth anniversary, nurse, chaplain, remember, education, university, hospital, new york city Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 289 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair Some Years Later Knitting in Passing Crafty Adventures KAL News Events Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Content Note: I start the episode by sharing news that most of you probably already know but in case not, will set the tone for the rest of the episode. After 3 long years battling Stage 4 Lung Cancer- we lost my Mom, Diane, on New Year's Day. I share a bit more of the story in the Life in Focus segment, but there are small moments peppered throughout so if death and loss is a difficult topic for you right now, that's ok. I just wanted to give a heads up. If this isn't the episode for you, we'll catch you in the next one.   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Wintermint Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Wintermint Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Peace & Light Mitts Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Peace & Light Colorway Pattern: Soccer Mitts by Erica Lueder. Free Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry. Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the yarn: 6 stripes in blues/teals, 3 in creams/yellows Cast on with 56 sts like socks. Gave to Mom for Christmas. She only ended up wearing them a few times but she loved them very much.   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Woolens & Nosh 2024 Advent Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: 1st sock done. 2nd is beyond the heel.   Freckled Whimsy 2024 Advent Socks Yarn: Freckled Whimsy Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Riley knit a lot on these! The 1st sock is beyond the heel.   From the Armchair The Life Impossible by Matt Haig- Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.     Some Years Later Wearing mostly Mom's handknits because I was there and didn't have all of my own to choose from. I wore some of her socks especially when we ended up sleeping in the family room and it was chilly and I couldn't leave her alone. Mom's blue Camp out fingerless mitts (Ravelry Project Page link)- 2021 Mom's Shift Cowl out of my handspun (Ravelry Project Page link)- 2022 Mom's Carbeth Cardigan (Ravelry Project Page link) - finished night before Rhinebeck in 2023 (while in Vegas)   Knitting in Passing Millie loved her lipstick and nail polish amigurumi. Hattie didn't get her Christmas gifts until after Miles' Baptism on 1/12- "be off you boring socks" and threw socks across the room and immediately put them on and was showing them off. It was very dramatic and adorable. Laura sent me a text of her friend Arielle wearing the socks I knit her. You can find the Ravelry Project Page here. Laura and I went back to my house one day to collect some things and Riley asked me to bring ALL THE KNITTING, so I grabbed a ton of stuff. She opened every single project bag and in the end still decided to knit on the Freckled Whimsy advent socks   Crafty Adventures We printed almost 400 photos for 11 posters for the funeral home. We broke out the scrapbook supplies and tape gun which I can't believe Laura didn't steal because after an initial skepticism she and Jenny were very into it.  Megg, Oisin and Riley were huge helps and had a lot of fun. Megg and Laura searched house for memoriabilia stuff to make 3 displays for funeral home- Red Sox & reselling, Christmas and Wiz of Oz. Incredible. Funeral home did it just as well or even better. Megg made these Sox and Bruins "tickets" on Canva   KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24 Event Dates: Thursday September 5, 2024- Monday February 10, 2025 Find everything you need in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Official Rules Registration Form  (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Tune in to see if you won our Quarter 3 Challenge sponsored by FanGirl Fibers. Official Sponsor for Q4: Fibernymph Dye Works- Small Gains Challenge (January 2025). Check out this Ravelry Thread for details. Tune in to see if you won a December participation prize. Mary's Commentator Updates I just finished a sweater--my first big project of the PSP.  It took me months and it feels like a great accomplishment. Plus it is enough yards to qualify for a blitz!  This got me thinking about blitzes and wondering how the pigskin partiers are doing with blitzes this year. When I just looked, players had already submitted for 202 blitzes this year!  Amazing!  But even more amazing are a handful of what I am calling super-blitzers!   2 players have already completed 6 blitzes so far this year!  Can you believe it? Spottydogknits finished two sweaters, one cardigan, a vest, a shawl and a scarf.  Their Winterwald shawl is particularly pretty. It looks like a lot of fun to knit with a variety of mosaic colorwork. Purplemomz has completed 4 blankets!  Two were knit and two were crocheted along with two cardigans!  I really like their two rainbow ripple blankets--it is so fun to see how the same pattern works up in different yarn. https://www.ravelry.com/projects/PurpleMomz/rainbow-ripple-baby-blanket-3 https://www.ravelry.com/projects/PurpleMomz/rainbow-ripple-baby-blanket-4 In addition to these super-blitzers, 3 players have completed 5 blitzes and 3 more have completed 3!  But don't be dismayed if you are a mere mortal like me--The best thing about the PSP is that you can make whatever you want (as much or as little as you have time for).  Wishing you all a very happy new year!   Life in Focus   Tune in to hear the last of my Mom's story. I also reviewed my word for 2024, Heart, my goals and my 24 for 2024 list.   On a Happy Note Seeing a local production of Pippin and introducing it to Riley. Seeing Hattie in Funky Nutcracker & her winter dance recital. Check out Day 14 of Vlogmas for more. Riley took her first solo drive as a licensed driver, made us breakfast and braided my hair. Later that day, friends surprised my Mom by caroling. Check out this video for more. Oisin got his license the following Saturday. Mom was so proud of both of them. Silly moment putting TJ's gummy mustaches on our faces. Mom even got in on the action resting it on her oxygen tube and giving crazy eyes for a photo. The Christmas eve cling wrap game that my cousin Lea hosted. You can see it at the end of my Vlogmas Day 24 video Fun Christmas morning with G & Z who enjoyed the power wheels Jeep. Doing puzzles with G while Z played the piano. Low key Christmas afternoon at my parents'. At one point Mom got confused and said we were at a wedding so that turned into a running joke all day. My cousin Jenny, mom's Goddaughter, came over for a bit and showed Mom the video that over 40 people sent in clips for. She said it was her fav Christmas gift. Laura, whose timing is impeccable and who was everything I needed during the hardest time. Shopping with friends to find attire for Mom's funeral. Conor led the kids in singing Somewhere Over the Rainbow at mom's services and our friend Michael Hammond led a group singing Seasons of Love to finish the service at the Cemetery. My cousin Rita Marie sang at funeral mass. Folks flew in from 12 states to attend which was lovely but also it got crazy once we realized we had way more people coming than would fit in he luncheon venue we talked to. Dad said it was like the Jerry Lewis telethon w/ everyone making phone calls trying to find a new venue. By the next morning, we found a place that worked, visited and picked out the menu by that night. As ever, this segment is meant to focus on the highlights. Not the lowlights of which there have been many. Grief sucks. Its hard, but we also got 68 beautiful years w/ my Mom- and we lived it up royally in the last 3 since she got sick. We'll always more time but I don't have any regrets and that's something to be truly grateful for. Miles' Baptism. It was a beautiful service with brunch after at Conor & Carly's. Just before Christmas, we gave away $10k in FearLESS Living Fund scholarships to 2 gentlemen the Blind Center of Nevada. Friends attended and sent us videos. Just incredible. I hope it helps to really give them a leg up this year.   Quote of the Week "There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love."   Washington Irving   ------ Thank you for tuning in.   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.      

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 284 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.    This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Some Years Later In my Travels KAL News Events Contest, News & Notes Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Woolen Women Fibers, Bronwyn the Brave Designs & Chit Chat Knits Designs   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Farmhouse Pumpkin Pattern: Farmhouse Pumpkins by More Dreams Less Life. $4.25 crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Yarn: KnitKraft Wintuk Yarn in the Rust Colorway Hook: F (3.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Rest Relax Recharge Socks Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn: Plush Sock in the Rest Relax Recharge Colorway (from the March 2023 Yarnable Box) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Check out my Yarnable Unboxing Playlist on YouTube Get $5 off with coupon code BOSTONJEN using my Affiliate Link   Urth Yarn Turn a Square Hat Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood ($5 pattern available on Ravelry & Brooklyn Tweed website) Yarn: Urth Yarn Uneek Worsted Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) for ribbing. US 7 (4.5 mm) for body. Ravelry Project Page Started August 5th but never talked about on the podcast. Purchased during Cape and South Shore Yarn Haul a year or two ago.  Ended up being about 48g. Still have about 56 g leftover so I will make another.   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Owen's Christmas Stocking Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I've also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White Hook: G (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: 2 pieces done, seamed up and working on the cuff. I need to finish the cuff, create the appliqué, sew on the name the hook.   Peace & Light Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Peace & Light Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the yarn: 6 stripes in blues/teals, 3 in creams/yellows- Pigskin Pro Shop Sponsor Purchased from Michele at VT Sheep and Wool. Wound up the yarn on Sue's ballwinder the next morning and knit most of the leg of the first sock on a boat on Lake Champlain with Sue & Dave Stokes, Paige and Paul Miller and Rachel!! Woolens & Nosh is a Pigskin Pro Shop Sponsor   Dirty Crayon Box Socks Yarn: Fiber Stash Strong Toes Sock (80% SW Merino/ 20% Nylon) in the Dirty Crayon Box Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page I bought this yarn at a festival a long time ago. Speckly with an overall purple tone. Progress: cuff done and a few inches of the first leg.   Dream Big Socks Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Strong DK (75% SW Merino/ 25% Nylon) in the Dream Big Colorway (Fundraiser for our FearLESS Living Fund) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) Ravelry Project Page 48 sts cuff down Cast on in June but haven't talked about on the pod before. leg of the first sock is nearly done: About the colorway: larger stripes of blue, green, orange. Smaller stripes of orange, purple, gray.  Fibernymph Dye Works is a Pigskin Pro Shop Sponsor   Vegas Baby Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Vegas Baby Colorwork Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Welcome to Litchfield Hat Pattern: Citrus Hat by Laura Treadway (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Handspun (Ravelry Project Page)- Into the Whirled; 2 braids Texel & BFL Tussah Silk in the Welcome to Litchfield Colorway + Traveler colorway on Cheviot base to make a 3 ply yarn Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) & US 6 (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Brainstorming   I fell in love with the Love Today Cowl by Knit Sisu that I saw at a VT Sheep and Wool. I found some of my handspun (Ravelry page here) that I thought would work, wound it up and then did a wraps per inch test and its too thin. I went back to the handspun bin, and found another skein (Ravelry page) and now I'm thinking they'd be nice in the Inclinations Cowl by Andrea Mowy (Ravelry | website). The goal of this cowl was for a potential Christmas gift even though I'd like it for me, but I think with these 2 skeins of handspun I want to keep it, so we'll see if I cast these on now or let it marinate, because I also want to cast on a sweater for me, and more socks and hats for Christmas gifts. I swatched for a sweater with yarn from VT Sheep and Wool. More on that next time.   From the Armchair The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Some Years Later   I've been wearing lots of woolies lately as have my loved ones! Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan (Pigskin Sponsor)- Ravelry Project Page Dad wore his Musselburgh to Topsfield Fair- Ravelry Project Page Megg also wore Nanaimo Cardigan to Mamma Mia- Ravelry Project Page I also have 2 Nanaimos that I've been wearing- the original one I knit is in earthy oatmealy tones and the other in gray- Ravelry Project Page 1 & Ravelry Project Page 2 here. I'm also wearing a lot of wool socks, especially with wool clogs. I need more supportive clogs for walking. Any suggestions for me?   In My Travels   Check out my VT Sheep and Wool Vlog Video on YouTube. Patrons, check out the video linked in your feed for more photos and no ads. I talked about the following makers: Woolens & Nosh,  Wooly Thistle, KnitSisu, Junction Fiber Mill, Jennifer Steingass's Silverlining Sweater- available on Ravelry.   KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24 Event Dates: Thursday September 5, 2024- Monday February 10, 2025 Find everything you need in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Official Rules Registration Form  (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Our Official Sponsor for Q1 (October) is The Little Wolf Knits. This means you've got a challenge that can earn you more points and entry towards a cool prize. Check out the challenge details in this Ravelry post Q2- November- sneak peek- sponsor= Twin Mountain Handcrafts- using buttons! Commentator Mary Klute's report: The first quarter challenge has really inspired pigskin partiers! There has been a lot of chatter in the huddle thread about the new techniques folks are planning to meet the requirements of the challenge!   Some players are planning to tackle knitting techniques that they have never tried before like half fisherman's rib, colorwork, intarsia, magic loop, a new cast on or bind off, and brioche. Others are trying out a new tool like an i-cord maker or a new knitting app Others are trying new kinds of projects: a garment with lace down the side, joggers, knitting a shawl for the first time, knitting a shawl with an unusual construction, and colorwork socks A couple of people have mentioned joining mystery knit a longs for the challenge Others have mentioned using varieties of yarn they've never used before like boucle yarn or non-superwash wool. And a finally a bunch of players are planning crochet projects--some who have never successfully crocheted before and others who want to grow their crochet skills by moving beyond granny squares or learning how to join crocheted pieces. This challenge is really motivating players to step out of their comfort zones!  If you still haven't decided what to do for the quarter 1 challenge--head on over to the huddle thread for some inspiration!    Events NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY Fiber Festival of New England- November 2 & 3- Mom, Riley and I are going on Sunday November 3rd Maryland Alpaca and Fleece Festival: November 9-10, 2024 in West Friendship, Maryland For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.   Contest, News & Notes   My friend Linda is looking for donations of warm handknit/crocheted items for adult and youth homeless in Massachusetts. They set up tables on Thanksgiving and put all of the handmade items on the fence outside the First Church in Woburn, MA. Calling for all makers who want to donate. PM me on Ravelry or email me at downcellarstudio at gmail.com and I'll give you the address to send them to. Any fiber type welcome. Hats, scarves, mitts, shawls, blankets. Anything warm is welcome!   Life in Focus   2024 Word of the Year- Heart   2024-  Goals: Use my podcast/YouTube/Instagram following to raise money for the FearLESS Living Fund (details in the Ravelry group- and email if you're one of our regular sponsors) Make & assess goals every month in 2024 Monthly review of number of workouts + weigh on at least twice a month. Stretch/Theragun 2-4 times a week   24 for 2024 List Updates Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy (1 at Oasis in July, 1 scheduled Oct had to move. scheduled 2 more) Read more books than you did in 2023 (50) 45 as of now Knit at least 1 finished project with handspun in progress Knit/crochet myself a new sweater swatched Make a Christmas afghan for the living room- in progress Try a new local restaurant - Lolita (want one even MORE local)   On a Happy Note   Mamma Mia + dinner at Ruka beforehand October 4: we celebrated my dad's birthday with an evening cookout and swim! Dad left the pool open while mom was in the hospital, and heated it back up to a warm 88 degrees for us to all enjoy one last swim. VT Sheep and Wool!!! Mom, Dad, my Uncle Bob and Aunt Wendy all went to the Topsfield Fair. Beautiful quilts, handknits, emotional support chickens. Live Laugh Love cross stitch- live, laugh, love. Mom got some blue tinsel in her hair! Adorable. Saw everyone's photos of the Northern Lights on Facebook on the way home so I had to take a few! Baby Jane- adapted for the stage by my Mom's friend Michael Hammond for Company Theatre- Marybeth in it.   Quote of the Week   Bob Dylan on the advice his father gave him: "Even if you don't have all the things you want, be grateful for the things you don't have that you don't want."   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.