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In this episode of Longevity By Design, Dr. Layne Norton, Founder of BioLayne and Carbon app, joins Gil Blander to discuss optimizing nutrition and fitness for a longer, healthier life. Layne emphasizes the importance of prioritizing scientific evidence over popular narratives, highlighting how easily isolated studies can be misinterpreted. He stresses the power of personalized approaches to nutrition and fitness, advocating for a critical approach to information consumption.Layne dives into the complexities of protein intake, challenging common misconceptions. He advocates for a protein intake above the recommended daily allowance, stressing the role of muscle mass in overall health and longevity. Layne explains the importance of resistance training, even for older adults, to maintain muscle mass and reduce fall risk. He advocates for finding enjoyment in exercise, stressing that passion fuels consistency.Beyond physical health, Layne underscores the impact of mental health on longevity. He discusses the detrimental effects of stress, provides practical stress management tips, and encourages healthy boundaries. Layne's holistic approach highlights lifestyle factors, nutrition, training, and stress management , as key drivers of a longer, healthier lifespan.Guest-at-a-Glance
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Adrian Webb - Sr. Loan Officer, Milestone Mortgage SolutionsHow to Leverage Your Time and Build Your Business Through Strong ConnectionsAdrian Webb is one of the top mortgage loan originators in the country. Even though his loan volume has increased over the years, his sales activities have stayed the same. Why do mortgage brokers have to stay connected to their referral sources regardless of how much business they're doing? Tune into episode #99 of Good. Better. Broker. to find out how Adrian maximizes his schedule and holds himself accountable.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn how to leverage your time to build new relationships and further existing ones.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:30 – Adrian's approach to relationship management• 3:06 – why Adrian's activity level never changes • 4:41 – how Adrian measures his activity• 6:03 – interacting with clients in person vs. virtually• 6:48 – the importance of working on the weekend• 7:52 – making sure people know what you do• 10:12 – lunch meetings vs. open houses• 12:51 – using metrics to define success• 14:20 – Adrian's definition of a perfect week• 15:44 – how to not be overly salesy to agents• 17:43 – getting people in the community to think of you for their home loanResources mentioned in this episode:Real Producers Magazine Show Contributors:Adrian WebbConnect on LinkedIn Connect on Facebook Connect on InstagramAbout the Host:Justin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter Connect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook • LinkedIn • Instagram • Twitter • YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
Artificial intelligence is beginning to significantly impact the jobs market - resulting in losses and slower hiring. Shelly Palmer, CEO of the Palmer Group and Professor of Advanced Media in Residence at the Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University joins Rob Hart on the WBBM Noon Business Hour to discuss...
Welcome to Common Concern: Conversations on Anti-Asian Racism in the Wake of COVID-19. This is a special Below the Radar series produced in collaboration with Toronto Metropolitan University and SFU's Vancity Office of Community Engagement. Common Concern is a mini-series that considers the historical context, and short and long term impacts of a rise of anti-Asian racism during the COVID-19 pandemic, through the lens of academics and community organizers. In this introductory episode, Canadian Journal of Communication editor Stuart Poyntz is joined by Sibo Chen to discuss the origins of Common Concern, as an offshoot of Sibo's ongoing research, the potential for podcasting as an accessible vehicle for knowledge mobilization, and the development of this special series in partnership with Below the Radar. Bios: Sibo Chen Sibo Chen is an Assistant Professor in the School of Professional Communication at Toronto Metropolitan University. As a critical communication scholar by training, his areas of interest include Public Communication of Climate and Energy Policy, Risk and Crisis Communication, Transcultural Political Economy, and Critical Discourse Analysis. Currently, he serves as Executive Board Members of the International Environmental Communication Association as well as the Canadian Communication Association. Stuart R. Poyntz Stuart R. Poyntz is Professor and Associate Director of the School of Communication and a Director of the Community Engaged Research Centre (CERi) at Simon Fraser University. His work in participatory research has largely involved teenagers in informal learning spaces and art institutes. He has been a Visiting Scholar at Queensland University of Technology, Griffith University, Hong Kong Baptist University, and the University of British Columbia, and was President of the Association for Research in Cultures of Young People. Stuart's research addresses children's media cultures, theories of public life, social care and urban youth cultures. He has published five books, including the forthcoming monograph, Youthsites: Histories of Creativity, Care and Learning in the City (Oxford UP), and has published widely in national and international peer-reviewed journals, including Oxford Review of Education, Popular Culture, Journal of Children and Media, Canadian Journal of Communication, Cultural Studies, Studies in Social Justice, Journal of Youth Studies, Review of Education, Pedagogy and Cultural Studies, and in various edited collections.
Julia Aoki hosts a discussion with Dr. Sibo Chen and Dr. Cary Wu on anti-Asian racism during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Chen, assistant professor at Toronto Metropolitan University, discusses his research on media narratives, political polarization, and disinformation. Dr. Wu, an associate professor at York University, highlights the rise of anti-Asian racism and its impact on mental health. Sibo emphasizes the importance of bringing together diverse voices, including scholars, community practitioners, and journalists, to discuss and address the long-lasting impact of anti-Asian racism, which intensified during the pandemic. The conversation also covers the importance of understanding different perceptions of racism within Asian communities and the need for transdisciplinary research to address these issues effectively. Resources: Sibo Chen: https://www.torontomu.ca/procom/people/sibo-chen/ Cary Wu: https://profiles.laps.yorku.ca/profiles/carywu/ #StopAsianHate: https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/jtc-2021-2002/html?lang=en Angus Reid Institute: https://angusreid.org/ Bios: Sibo Chen Sibo Chen is an Assistant Professor in the School of Professional Communication at Toronto Metropolitan University. As a critical communication scholar by training, his areas of interest include Public Communication of Climate and Energy Policy, Risk and Crisis Communication, Transcultural Political Economy, and Critical Discourse Analysis. Currently, he serves as Executive Board Members of the International Environmental Communication Association as well as the Canadian Communication Association. Cary Wu Cary Wu (PhD, UBC) is an assistant professor of sociology at York University. His research focuses on political culture, race and ethnicity, and health inequality. He has published widely on these topics and often shares his research with the public via national and international TV, radio, and newspaper forums including NPR, CBC, CTV, Washington Post, Toronto Star, Maclean's, and The Economist. He is currently working on a five-year (2022-2026) SSHRC Insight Grant research project to develop a political sociology of health (PSH) to study social and political trust as essential determinants of health.
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Brandon Brotsky – Co-founder and Co-owner, Reach Home LoansCommit to Creating Content to Grow Your Brand and Your BusinessThere's no better way to get in front of clients and referral partners than by making sure they see you as often as possible. Why should mortgage loan originators commit to creating video content? Listen to Episode #96 of Good. Better. Broker. to find strategies for creating videos that will turn you into someone who borrowers and real estate agents want to work with.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn how to enhance your brand through a consistent commitment to content creation.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:32 – How Brandon's brand helps differentiate him from others• 2:48 – The decision to focus on video content for social media• 5:12 – How Brandon got comfortable in front of the camera• 6:20 – How Brandon generates ideas for his videos• 8:20 – How AI influences Brandon's content• 9:46 – Repurposing content ideas• 11:00 – Ways Brandon hooks his audience• 12:15 – Brandon's best-performing video concept• 13:57 – How to balance originating vs. creating content• 17:36 – Long-term content• 20:24 – How social media content helps Brandon help his agents• 22:18 – Brandon's future plans for contentShow Contributors:Brandon BrotskyConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramAbout the Host:Justin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, Jaime Hunt sits down with leadership coach, author, and longtime friend Melissa Farmer Richards to unpack her new book, The 30-60-90 Day Handbook. The conversation dives deep into how new and seasoned leaders alike can thrive in higher ed by mastering the fundamentals of trust, credibility, and commitment—while navigating modern leadership challenges like burnout, crises, and emerging AI tools. Whether you're stepping into a VP role or eyeing leadership from your current position, this episode offers actionable strategies to lead with authenticity and resilience.The 30-60-90-Day Handbook: Checklists for Communications and Marketing Leaders in Higher EducationGuest Name: Melissa Richards, Founder and Principal, iMarketingMixGuest Socials: LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/melissafarmerrichardsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/imarketingmix/Bluesky Social: https://bsky.app/profile/melissarichards.bsky.socialGuest Bio: Principal and founder of iMarketingMix LLC, Melissa Farmer Richards, MPA, APR is an author, teacher, consultant, facilitator, and leadership coach. Dubbed The Checklist Guru™, she authors The Weekly Leadership Checklist™ and designed The Three Fundamentals of Leadership™ proprietary coaching curriculum.Melissa's 32-year career spans corporate industry, technology, small business start-ups, nonprofits, and higher education administration. She has held senior positions at start-up software companies and global technology organizations, and later led in such roles as chief of staff and vice president for communications, marketing, and enrollment, serving liberal arts colleges and a large public university. She also has founded two small businesses and co-founded two nonprofits, a children's museum and a genetics research foundation.Melissa earned a Master of Public Administration at Virginia Tech and a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Virginia. She also achieved the Accreditation in Public Relations credential and the Association of Governing Boards Board Professional Certificate. Having led award-winning creative teams, she was nominated for the American Marketing Association Nonprofit Marketer of the Year 2022 and named one of 30 Vice Presidents to Follow in 2018 by Leadership in the Digital Age.A natural public speaker and experienced writer, Melissa has spoken at dozens of national conferences and authored more than 100 papers and articles. Her first book, “The 30-60-90 Day Handbook: Checklists for Communications and Marketing Leaders in Higher Education,” is now available from the Council of Advancement and Support of Education. She has collaborated to organize four major TEDx events — including pitching the event and mentoring dozens of speakers —and led numerous conference planning committees. Throughout her three decades of leading internal teams, she developed many small and large professional development events, including a 10-course brand ambassador certificate program. She has contributed her leadership of communications strategy to significant fundraising campaigns, the largest of which was $400 million.Melissa serves as chair of the Public Relations Society of America Northeast District and immediate past president of the Central New York Chapter. She is a part-time adjunct instructor at Aurora University and previously taught at Utica University and the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.iMarketingMix LLC is a CASE Educational Partner, a Rising Team Channel Partner, and a CenterState CEO Member. As an entrepreneur, Melissa is a member of The Upside and the Central New York Women's Network. As an adjunct teacher, Melissa is a member of UPCEA, the online and professional education association.Author of The 30-60-90-Day Handbook: Checklists for Communications and Marketing Leaders in Higher Education (Council for Advancement and Support of Higher Education, 2025). - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Craig Snell – VP of Sales, Milestone Mortgage SolutionsUsing an Education-Based Approach to Build Loyalty With Borrowers and AgentsSpending 45 minutes to an hour on an initial client call is a commitment, but if done properly, the return can be well worth the time. Why should mortgage brokers take an education-based approach with clients and referral partners? Listen to Episode #95 of Good. Better. Broker. to find out how the top-brokered LO in Massachusetts has won over borrowers and referral partners by advising instead of selling.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn why taking the time to educate clients is a surefire way to not lose deals.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:32 – why education became Craig's strategy• 3:14 – why Craig tells clients how he gets paid• 4:10 – how Craig avoids sounding like a salesperson• 5:34 – how Craig educates clients without overwhelming them• 7:27 – asking questions and explaining why you're asking them• 9:31 – telling clients about all their options and the best option• 10:29 – how to stop problems before they pop up• 11:29 – the impact of spending more time with clients on a first call• 15:26 – how relationships have helped Craig's production• 17:51 – how Craig's experience as a firefighter and paramedic helps him nowShow Contributors:Craig SnellConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramAbout the Host:Justin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
In this episode, host David de Roode sits down with Mike Howard, Chairman and CEO of Howard Energy Partners, live from the Thrive Conference in Houston, Texas. Mike shares his inspiring journey—from starting as a chemical engineer in publicly traded companies to founding and leading Howard Energy Partners.Their conversation explores the vital role of oil and gas in modern life, the value of reliable and affordable energy, and Howard's vision for growth in the U.S. and Mexico. They also dive into energy policy, public perception challenges, and how innovation is shaping the industry's future.Don't miss this insightful episode packed with a lot of experience!00:50 Podcast Sponsors and Their Contributions02:03 Welcome and Guest Introduction02:51 Mike Coward's Journey in the Oil and Gas Industry03:22 Howard Energy Partners and Its Operations04:29 Energy Infrastructure and Economic Development in Mexico11:34 Future Prospects and Challenges for Howard Energy Partners15:09 Energy Policy and Advocacy19:30 The Importance of Public Communication in the Energy Industry19:47 Energy Advocacy and Education20:38 Energy's Role in Alleviating Poverty20:55 Scott Kers and Switch Energy21:33 The 50-50-50 Initiative22:09 The Impact of Expensive Energy22:32 Challenges of Net Zero Policies24:46 The Paradox of Energy and Poverty25:49 The Role of Low-Cost Energy in Industry30:19 Innovation in the Energy Sector36:14 The Importance of Continuous Learning38:11 Closing Remarks and Future Plans
The following guests sit down with host Justin White:• Jalen Scott – Mortgage Broker, Belong Lending• Grace Mulcahy – Realtor®, @PropertiesTeaming Up With a Real Estate Agent to Become Top of Funnel With ClientsInstead of asking a real estate agent for referrals, imagine going to initial client meetings with them. How can mortgage loan originators partner with agents to build stronger relationships with borrowers and do more loans? Listen to Episode #94 of Good. Better. Broker. as we sit down with a mortgage broker and a Realtor® to find out how they complement each other and why they present themselves as a package deal.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn how to win over real estate agents and get more face time with borrowers.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:51 – the partnership between Jalen and Grace• 2:40 – what most lenders do when they approach Grace for business• 4:43 – how Jalen determines which real estate agents he wants to work with• 5:33 – what Grace looks for in her lending partners• 6:33 – educating clients• 7:34 – why Jalen and Grace started going to initial client meetings together• 9:10 – the importance of synergy between a broker and an agent with client interactions• 11:29 – how being a package deal helps Jalen and Grace work with more clients• 13:47 – bringing ideas to agents to help them get more business• 15:55 – why real estate agents prioritize availability from their lenders• 17:35 – how Jalen came through for Grace on a weekend• 19:00 – how Grace has helped Jalen become a better LO• 21:15 – why an agent-broker partnership helps with beating other offersShow Contributors:Jalen ScottConnect with Jalen on LinkedInConnect with Jalen on FacebookConnect with Jalen on InstagramGrace MulcahyConnect with Grace on FacebookConnect with Grace on InstagramConnect with Grace on TikTokAbout the Host:Justin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Keith Richardson – President, Coast 2 Coast Mortgage LendingLoan Originators are Looking for Tech, Leads, and Retention Tools – but That's Not AllAs mortgage brokerages look to hire and retain talented loan originators, broker-owners are asking themselves an important question: what do LOs want from the company where they hang their license? Listen to episode #93 of Good. Better. Broker. as we sit down with the president of a mortgage company that closed over $1B in loan volume in 2024. He'll explain how their support-focused approach has fueled production and retention.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll find out why prioritizing LO support helps mortgage brokers keep talented loan originators.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:41 – how Keith keeps talented loan originators• 2:15 – how Keith's experience outside mortgage helped shape his leadership style• 2:47 – what Keith does to help his LOs solve the revenue riddle• 3:23 – what Keith does to make sure his LOs feel taken care of• 4:01 – the biggest needs of LOs in today's mortgage landscape• 4:46 – how Keith provides happiness through operations• 5:50 – why a faster and easier process matters for LOs• 6:29 – why Keith gets back to all of his LOs within an hour• 7:21 – how Keith has come to have an empathetic approach• 8:28 – supporting LOs while also holding people accountable• 9:51 – why Keith tells recruits their best reference is current LOs at the company• 10:35 – feedback from Keith's LOs on why they stay with the company• 11:47 – Keith's advice for other brokers on keeping top talentShow Contributors:Keith RichardsonConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramAbout the Host:Justin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
In a world with increasing conflicts, governments are under pressure to increase their defence spending. In Ireland, the government announced a record €1.4 billion defence budget for 2025. This trend makes the production and exporting of dual-use technologies fundamentally strategic for international markets. Pat O'Connor has experienced this with his company VRAI, which he founded in 2017. Pat believes that dual-use technologies will continue to play a big role in our economies and I recently caught up with him.Pat talks about his background, the startup journey, simulation technology, dual use technology, and more.More about Pat O'Connor:Pat O'Connor is a Co-Founder and CEO of VRAI. He served in the Irish Defence Forces for over 20 years, where he undertook a variety of roles, including Reconnaissance Unit Commander, Deputy Director of Communications and as a spokesperson for Three Irish Chiefs of Defence. He also completed over three years of operationally deployed service with the United Nations' Peacekeeping and Peace Enforcement missions in Liberia, Syria, Lebanon and Israel. Pat also has an M.A. in Political and Public Communication as well as an MSc in Business, Leadership and Management and founded VRAI alongside Niall Campion in 2017 to provide greater simulation training technology to military forces.
In a world with increasing conflicts, governments are under pressure to increase their defence spending. In Ireland, the government announced a record €1.4 billion defence budget for 2025. This trend makes the production and exporting of dual-use technologies fundamentally strategic for international markets. Pat O'Connor has experienced this with his company VRAI, which he founded in 2017. Pat believes that dual-use technologies will continue to play a big role in our economies and I recently caught up with him. Pat talks about his background, the startup journey, simulation technology, dual use technology, and more. More about Pat O'Connor: Pat O'Connor is a Co-Founder and CEO of VRAI. He served in the Irish Defence Forces for over 20 years, where he undertook a variety of roles, including Reconnaissance Unit Commander, Deputy Director of Communications and as a spokesperson for Three Irish Chiefs of Defence. He also completed over three years of operationally deployed service with the United Nations' Peacekeeping and Peace Enforcement missions in Liberia, Syria, Lebanon and Israel. Pat also has an M.A. in Political and Public Communication as well as an MSc in Business, Leadership and Management and founded VRAI alongside Niall Campion in 2017 to provide greater simulation training technology to military forces. See more podcasts here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.
Julian KheelFounder and CEOPoints PathOver the last 15 years, Julian Kheel has become one of the world's top experts on travel rewards. He first learned the ins and outs of travel loyalty programs while flying more than 200,000 miles a year as a TV producer and director for World Wrestling Entertainment (and yes, of course it's all real). He expanded his expertise on travel topics in the following years, writing about travel for U.S. News and World Report, along with popular weekly columns for the travel rewards websites Frequent Miler and Travel Codex.Noting Kheel's growing following, he was recruited in 2016 to work at The Points Guy, the largest website in the world covering travel rewards, where he served as both Editorial Director and Director of Special Projects. He was the creator of the site's now‐annual “Best and Worst U.S. Airlines” special report, as well as personally authoring its first and second yearly editions, both of which drew attention from hundreds of media outlets across the country.Following his time at The Points Guy, Kheel became a Senior Editor at CNN covering both travel and finance topics, and launched the company's first e‐commerce division focused on travel rewards. Battling through the global stoppage in travel from the pandemic, he grew the small section from its infancy to over seven figures of annual revenue in only three years.In 2023, Kheel left CNN to become the founder and CEO of Points Path, a company that helps people utilize their travel rewards. The company's browser extension not only shows travelers the cost in points and miles of every flight directly in Google Flights, but also indicates whether using points or miles for each flight is the better deal. In just 8 months, Points Path has grown to over 40,000 users, and has been lauded by numerous travel publications.Kheel has appeared regularly as an analyst to discuss finance, travel and loyalty programs on national television segments for CNN, Bloomberg News, CNBC's “Squawk Box,” Yahoo Finance and Cheddar TV, as well as on ABC and CBS Radio. He has been quoted in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, the Chicago Tribune, and many other print and web outlets on travel-related topics. He has also worked as a consultant for the “Big 3” US airlines, advising them on their frequent flyer programs.Originally from New York and South Florida, Kheel is a graduate of Syracuse University's Newhouse School of Public Communications with a bachelor's degree in television, radio and film production. His hobbies include managing his ever‐changing personal inventory of 25+ credit cards while maintaining a credit score of over 800.summaryIn this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins interviews Julian Kheel, founder and CEO of Points Path. Julian shares his unique journey from being a reluctant traveler to becoming an expert in travel rewards and frequent flyer miles. He discusses his experience working with WWE, the importance of understanding travel points, and how Points Path simplifies the process of finding the best flight deals. The conversation also covers tips for maximizing travel rewards, the value of credit cards, and the future of Points Path.takeawaysJulian Kheel initially disliked travel but overcame his discomfort through frequent flying for work.Points Path is a browser extension that helps users find the best flight deals using points or cash.Frequent flyer programs are more valuable than airlines themselves, especially post-pandemic.S Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Haley McGovern – Loan Officer, CMS Mortgage SolutionsEvery Borrower and Agent You Interact With Could Be the One That Changes Your CareerThere's no way to know when a major opportunity will present itself – but you can be ready for it. Haley McGovern was, and now she has referrals coming in and people marketing on her behalf. How can loan originators come through for clients and referral partners when they're most in need? Listen to Episode 92 of Good. Better. Broker. to find out how Haley's consistent approach to service helped her secure relationships that produce multiple referrals.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll find out why every mortgage loan originator is one connection away from a career breakthrough.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:36 – what Haley did to set herself up for a career breakthrough• 2:26 – how Haley earned one of her biggest referral sources• 3:53 – how Haley helps real estate agents• 4:40 – how Haley earns referrals from agents• 5:15 – real estate agents marketing for Haley• 6:10 – what Haley does to impress listing agents• 7:24 – how Haley's office has contributed to her success• 8:57 – the importance of real relationships with agents• 10:09 – being patient when it comes to business referrals• 12:08 – why Haley feels comfortable being more aggressive to get business• 14:15 – how to be ready when a breakthrough opportunity arisesShow Contributors:Haley McGovernConnect on FacebookConnect onInstagramAbout the Host:Justin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
Episode Description In this episode, Jill Tirone is joined by Amelia Fazio to discuss how dance studio owners can empower their teachers to become true stakeholders in their business. They explore why teacher engagement is essential, how to create a positive studio culture, and practical ways to help teachers feel invested in the studio's success. Key Takeaways Why Teachers Matter as Stakeholders - Teachers are frontline brand ambassadors who shape the student experience. Building Teacher Engagement & Buy-In - Create a studio culture where teachers feel valued, encouraged, and included. The Power of Communication - Keep teachers informed about policies, schedules, and changes while Providing them with resources and clear paths for handling student or parent concerns. Encouraging Teacher Investment in Studio Growth - Provide ongoing education, leadership opportunities, and support for professional development. Showing Appreciation & Strengthening Relationships - Small gestures, such as studio logo wear or handwritten notes, can boost morale. Episode Timestamps [01:37] Amelia's background and experience in dance, business, and arts nonprofits. [04:34] Who are the stakeholders in your studio, and why does it matter? [09:26] Strategies to keep teachers informed and aligned with your vision. [13:48] Ways to make teachers feel invested in the studio's success. [16:14] Overcoming challenges to teacher participation and involvement. [19:32] How teachers influence retention and enrollment growth. [26:07] Ensuring teachers align with studio goals and expectations. [31:20] Ideas for showing appreciation and boosting teacher morale. Links Mentioned in this Episode... Energize Conference and Expo: https://www.energizeconference.com/ Dance Studio Owner: https://www.dancestudioowner.com/public/joinnow.cfm About Our Guest: Amelia's lifelong passion for dance started at the age of five, leading her to train with some of the most renowned instructors in the field. After her own dance career, she earned a degree in Public Communications and combined her love of dance with business, working in arts nonprofits, apparel, and costume design before joining Revolution in 2021. Rate, Review & Subscribe! If you loved this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring valuable content to the dance community! Running a dance studio is hard work, and growing your studio is even more of a challenge. No matter if you're just starting out—or perhaps you're a well-established owner; we understand that it's a uniquely demanding and personal business to own and operate. Be more effective and productive. As studio owners ourselves, we've been there. But, it's also very possible to be a happy owner of a thriving dance business that you love. Learn More About Membership: http://www.DanceStudioOwner.com/podcast
The following guests sit down with host Justin White:• Michael Cain and Tracy Campagna – Mortgage Brokers, C2 FinancialBuild Relationships and Business by Engaging With Real Estate Agents on Social MediaWhen Michael Cain and Tracy Campagna moved to San Diego from Chicago, they didn't know anyone. Now, if you look at their social media, it looks like they know everyone. How did Michael and Tracy use Instagram to connect with real estate agents who consistently give them referrals? Listen to Episode #91 of Good. Better. Broker. as we find out the secrets to their successful social strategies.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn how to build relationships with real estate agents through Instagram.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:51 – the impact social media has had on Michael and Tracy's business• 2:41 – why Michael and Tracy chose to use social media as a business strategy• 4:28 – how Michael and Tracy came up with their Instagram handle• 6:23 – how Michael and Tracy attract real estate agents through social media• 7:35 – prospecting for real estate agents you may connect with• 9:57 – how Michael and Tracy complement each other• 11:53 – why Instagram is Michael and Tracy's preferred social platform• 12:31 – determining content for posts vs. stories• 14:39 – getting engagement from followers• 16:16 – why Michael and Tracy decided to hire a social media manager• 17:02 – getting leads from Instagram• 18:29 – connecting with people online vs. in-person• 20:06 – finding common ground with real estate agents• 21:11 – making social media a priorityShow Contributors:Michael Cain and Tracy CampagnaConnect with Michael on LinkedInConnect with Tracy on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramAbout the Host:Justin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
In this powerful conversation, we sit down Harriet Brown, Professor of Magazine, News, & Digital Journalism at the Newhouse School of Public Communications, to unravel the deep-rooted beliefs around eating disorders, diet culture, and body image. Harriet shares her personal journey as well as the historical and societal forces that continue to fuel our obsession with thinness. We dig into the research, explore the harm caused by intentional weight loss, and discuss how we can start breaking free from these toxic narratives. It's an eye-opening episode about redefining health, challenging what we've been taught, and planting the seeds for self-acceptance.Mentioned in this episode:Click link to try WeShape free!weshape.com/free Have WeShape build you a better workout
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Carrie Gusmus – President and CEO, Aslan Home LendingThere's a Difference Between Being a Top Producer and a Productive OriginatorCarrie Gusmus admits she probably spends more time individually developing her LOs than most mortgage brokers. Its part of her mission to bring out the greatness in everyone. How can brokers develop loan originators who are productive and happy? Listen to Episode 90 of Good. Better. Broker. to find out how Carrie sets her people up to have a fulfilling career and life.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn how to train and develop originators no matter their level of experience.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:31 – Carrie's methods for developing productive originators• 2:28 – hiring people with no previous mortgage experience• 4:22 – Carrie's training and coaching model• 7:07 – authenticity as a salesperson• 7:55 – loan originators overcomplicating things• 9:28 – why Carrie tweaks her training program• 11:05 – recruiting originators who fit the company• 13:18 – why you don't have to be a top producer to be productive• 15:37 – bringing greatness out of originators• 17:37 – coaching people up or coaching them out• 19:51 – Carrie's advice on developing productive LOsResources mentioned in this episode:Success TrackShow Contributors:Carrie GusmusConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect onInstagramAbout the Host:Justin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
Born in Germany with Vietnamese roots, and raised in Switzerland, Dr. Kim Dang is a dynamic force in both academia and the arts. A Zurich University alumna, Kim earned a BA in Film Science, Media, and Public Communication, along with an MA and PhD in Mathematics, focusing on Random Matrix Theory. As a former Yale professor of Applied Mathematics, Kim boldly transitioned to film production and acting. Her boutique media and film production company is dedicated to crafting captivating biopics and legacy stories. Now based in NYC, she helps decision-makers navigate personal and professional challenges through her innovative "The Art Of Starting Over" and “Quiet Wealth Creation” coaching programs.Dr. Kim Dang is a visionary self-made entrepreneur and actress with Vietnamese roots, based in NYC. A former Yale Applied Mathematics professor, Kim transitioned from academia to the world of film. With degrees in Film Science and Mathematics from Zurich University, Kim founded Dark Runner, a company with a mission to inspire and empower through storytelling, illuminating true narratives that unlock human potential and guide individuals on their own transformative journeys. Her coaching programs are designed for decision-makers navigating rough and ever-changing territories. Her film company section specializes in biopics and legacy films. Her Mission is: "to inspire and empower through storytelling, illuminating true narratives that unlock human potential and guide individuals on their own transformative journeys."In this episode, we discover the following: The art of starting over. The power and importance of your WHY. How to be driven by vision, instead of fear. Going from mathematician to film producer to coach.With podcast host: Mark SephtonHope you'll enjoy the episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Eric Katz – President, Independence Home LoansYou can't always win a deal in the first minute and a half of a sales call, but you can certainly lose it. How can mortgage loan originators set themselves up for success on the phone? Listen to episode 89 of Good. Better. Broker. as we sit down with a mortgage broker who reveals a sales philosophy that helped his company bring in almost $1 billion in loans last year.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn strategies for nailing the first 90 seconds of a sales call.In this episode, we discuss...• 1:32 – keys to Eric's success as a mortgage loan originator• 2:45 – how Eric trains his sales team• 3:47 – 3 keys to the beginning of a sales call• 5:19 – why the first 90 seconds of a sales call are crucial• 6:45 – starting calls the same way• 8:46 – building trust and understanding clients' needs• 10:14 – having the right mindset before getting on a call• 11:43 – the importance of having no distractions while on a call• 12:36 – learning and using sales scripts• 14:53 – how to disarm and differentiate• 16:28 – tracking data and call coaching• 19:21 – Eric's message to LOs on the first 90 seconds of a callShow Contributors:Eric KatzConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect onInstagramAbout the Host:Justin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
About this episode: In the first few days of President Trump's second term he signed a blitz of executive actions. In today's episode: a look at some of the actions and memos that take aim at key public health policies including the communications pause for health and science agencies, a pause on NIH study sections, immediate posturing on DEI initiatives, exiting the Paris Agreement and WHO, and more. Note: These podcasts are a conversation between the participants, and do not represent the position of Johns Hopkins University. Guest: Dr. Josh Sharfstein served in a number of political roles in his career including as the Secretary of the Maryland Department of Health, the Principal Deputy Commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, as Commissioner of Health for Baltimore City, and as a Congressional health policy advisor. Host: Stephanie Desmon, MA, is a former journalist, author, and the director of public relations and communications for the Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, the largest center at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Show links and related content: Memo: Immediate Pause on Issuing Documents and Public Communications (pdf)—Department of Health & Human Services Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing—White House Executive Order Putting America First In International Environmental Agreements—White House Executive Order Withdrawing the United States From the World Health Organization—White House Executive Order Federal health agencies told to halt all external communications—NPR Trump administration halts NIH grant-making process—The Hill Trump is withdrawing the U.S. from WHO. Here's what that means—Science News Statement From Dr. Richard Besser on DEI and Health—The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Contact us: Have a question about something you heard? Looking for a transcript? Want to suggest a topic or guest? Contact us via email or visit our website. Follow us: @PublicHealthPod on Bluesky @JohnsHopkinsSPH on Instagram @JohnsHopkinsSPH on Facebook @PublicHealthOnCall on YouTube Here's our RSS feed
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• David Kakish – Branch Manager, C2 FinancialDavid Kakish is part mortgage broker, part mad scientist. He tests out everything and then builds systems and processes around what works best. How did this strategy help David double his business? Listen to Episode 88 of Good. Better. Broker. to find out how he earns business without having to ask for it.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn how a newer mortgage broker 2X'd his business by creating processes to impress real estate agents and borrowers.In this episode, we discuss...• 1:24 – David doubling his business in 2024• 2:08 – David's previous career as a pastor• 3:15 – systems and processes that have helped David succeed• 7:14 – testing out processes to see what's most effective• 8:49 – why David refers to loans as happy accidents• 12:23 – how David utilizes data and tracking leads• 14:52 – David's perspective on real estate agent relationships• 17:07 – testing out cold calls• 21:24 – how David attracts new real estate agents• 23:51 – David's advice for creating processes with people in mindResources mentioned in this episode:RETRShow Contributors:David KakishConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramAbout the Host:Justin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
Shelly Palmer, Professor at the Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and CEO of The Palmer Group, reports on the AI marketing trends he is most excited about coming out of this year's Consumer Electronic Show in Vegas. He talks about what's over and underhyped - from superautomation and agents to content creation and beyond. And we'll hear predictions as to how AI in marketing is evolving in 2025. For Further Reading:Read Shelly's blog from CES: https://shellypalmer.com/2025/01/ces-2025-ai-everywhere-all-at-once/?mc_cid=9308fe7c89&mc_eid=6a852a63e9Subscribe to Shelly's newsletter: https://shellypalmer.com/subscribe/ Listen on your favorite podcast app: https://pod.link/1715735755
Nick Cicero '09 is a social media entrepreneur, who — after starting college at Nazareth as a trumpet-playing music major – was intrigued by the spread of Facebook, Twitter, other social media platforms, and followed his instincts to pursue a career in internet technology and business. Nick's life's work has focused on building social publishing and analytics tools for publishers and media companies, eventually founding, developing and leading social media analytics company Delmondo, which was later bought by Conviva. Nick has 20 years of experience in advancing the social media, digital marketing, and streaming video industries, with a track record of innovation and leadership. He has been at the forefront of many tech firsts, such as creating the first enterprise analytics solutions for Snapchat, Instagram Stories, Facebook Live, and TikTok, co-producing the first Snapchat branded series with Marriott Rewards, and working with Oprah Winfrey to launch the first Instagram video on TV. Today, Nick works as an advisor, consultant, professor, and investor. He has made hundreds of presentations at major industry events like Vidcon, SXSW (South by Southwest), SportsPro, Social Fresh, and Social Media Marketing World. He serves as an advisor and mentor to early-stage startups and educates future leaders as a faculty member at the esteemed S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.
The Hoes and Bitches Need A Champion.Based on a post by FinalStand, in 13 parts. Listen to the ► Podcast at Explicit Novels. ‘Once you go Black, you don't go back; unless you are an Amerindian, Arabic, Asian, Black, Indian, Latina, or White girl, or guy who has tried Black, then found sexual fulfillment with a non-Black person and created a blissful relationship with them'Introduction:Right off the bat, be warned that I'm using the 'N' words, nigger, niggah, my niggah, plus homie, thug, coon, buck, spook, spade and whatever other crude racial slurs that come to mind. This story plays to both Black and White stereotypes.Lastly, this story is rather flippant with the entire concept of sexual assault. Those who have red my previous tales know this is not my attitude at all. For the sake of this genre I had to grapple with the concept of forcing a woman and 'making them love that cock'Prelude:My tale begins as the Winter Man Saga 1300 years ago, about the year 700 AD. One small clan of my Swedish ancestors lost a brutal feud with their neighbors. Their farms were burned, animals slaughtered and their women and children taken as slaves. Only three young brother-warriors survived, wounded but unconquered. The victors chased them high into the mountains when a terrible winter storm struck.The three brothers were trudging across a glacier between the mountain peaks in Whiteout conditions. The lead brother stepped into a crevasse and slid to the bottom of the glacier. Not giving up on their last kinsman, the other two slid down into the darkness after him. At the roots of that glacier they found an ice cavern formed by snow that fell 100,000 years ago.They melted the ice for water with their body heat and in doing so, unleashed a demoness (virus) that no man had ever known and survived. The three men grew very sick, but their fierce desire for vengeance kept them from succumbing. When they emerged from their icy tomb, they discovered that several of their pursuers had frozen to death in the blizzard and the rest had returned to their stolen homes and purloined lands, thinking the three brothers were dead.In the dark of the long northern night, they snuck upon the Great Hall of their enemies. When one of the brothers saw his 'former' wife doing a slave's work, he revealed himself to her. She rejoiced at the return of her love; physically, then brought the three table scraps to survive on. In the process, they learned that their sisters were also alive and the sexual playthings of their male nemeses.Due to the depth of winter, stealing back their womenfolk wasn't possible. They'd all freeze to death if they didn't starve first. To repay their enemy's wickedness, one of the brother's snapped and raped one of the chief's daughters. He was possessed with an unearthly desire and held her in a stable for hours. Only when he was utterly spent did he fall asleep.She ran to her father and returned with many warriors. So the first of the brothers was taken. He was tortured and abused. For three long nights he suffered at the hands of his captors yet refused to admit any of his other brothers were still alive. After that third night, the chief's daughter sneaked past the sleeping guards of the chained man, and raped him.For the next five nights, while her father, brothers and husband slept, she raped and raped and raped that brother. On the fifth night, a sister-in-law caught her at it. The daughter pled for the other to spare her; that the man's sexual prowess had ensnared her. She even challenged her kinswoman to sample the 'fruit' before turning her in. Five women later, the brother cracked and told the women how to find his brothers.The night after the Spring Equinox Celebrations, the women of their enemy rose up and slaughtered all their adult menfolk at the behest of the three brothers, on the conditions that their youngest sons be spared and that the men continue to share their favors with all the womenfolk (who were not their kin).The Sammi ClanThe isolated region of the land of the Swedes kept my ancestors out of contact with the wider world for some time. Many generations later, a son of that clan came to lead a band of (female) Finns. His Swedish name is forgotten. The Finns called him Sami (the Exalted One, no shit). He and this band took to fur trading along the Eastern tributaries of the Volga.In time, this group became identified with the Varangian. The Sons of Sami intermarried with the Slavs, becoming Slavicized and the Sons of Sami became Samsonovs. They followed the Rus expansion into the eastern tributaries of the Volga reaching Nizhny Novgorod in the 10th century.Then came the Mongol Conquest, the Tartar Yoke, Rus reunification and the Russian drive across Siberia. The Samsonovs remained tightly clannish and uncomfortable in urban settings. That wanderlust led them across the Bering Straits into Alaska where their genetic abnormality, the gift of that ancient demoness (virus), slumbered in isolation and monogamy.After a thousand years, the tales of mass orgies with strange women and protective female war bands faded into obscurity. Then my Mom, the brilliant, driven eccentric came along. Once she became enraptured with her own Samsonov lover, she had to know the secret of Samsonov men's sexual prowess.With her burning intellect and educational background, she eventually figured it out. She was also amoral enough to keep the knowledge to herself and vengeful enough to plan to use our curse as a weapon.My Living Family· Father, Nikolay 'Nik' Samsonov;· Mother, Gayle Fonteneau Samsonov;· The Triplets, Alexander 'Alex', Mikhail and Vladimir 'Vlad'; that's me.Sitting at the dinner table, I protested; ‘Mom, You actually expect me to believe my Father, Brothers and I have the genetic capability to addict every woman we have sex with to our schlongs? That's nuts!'Mom retorted; ‘As opposed to thinking the color, length and girth of a phallus makes any woman lose all sense of loyalty, morality and decorum so she can become a man's sex sleeve, whore, bitch, property? Yes, I do.'The lives of my family took an unexpected detour in the spring of this year. My great-aunt Matilda (Mattie) died and willed her estate to Mom. I had never met the woman while she was alive yet in death she would have a profound effect on all our lives. Mom's family was a mess; a crowded dingy with a madhouse of odd characters.Lionel was my eldest maternal uncle. He was a Big, Bulging Brain working as a Chief Technical Advisor for NASA; a solitary crusader for all Mankind. What was he a technical advisor for? If anything left terra firma for more than fifteen seconds, he knew every detail about it. That included volcanic eruptions too. When we were younger, he invited us to various volcanoes (both above and beneath the waves). Great guy.Cassius, my second uncle, was serving time in Indonesia for piracy. Mom said he was meaner than every saltwater crocodile that ever lived. The two times I'd met him, he'd been a lean, happy laconic kind of guy with a love for military history. Mom said he was a charismatic rebel who was possessed by an obsession to defy authority in all its forms.Dido was child number three; my Mom's older sister, married to an Evangelical Televangelist in Nebraska under an assumed name, Paula Richmond. She also had a MD in Psychiatry and a Master's in Public Communications (under her real name), which she kept secret from the fundamentalist congregation. The few times we met; she was the perfect mother. Secretly, we three sons wished she'd been our mother instead of our real mother. Mom said Aunt Dido was a master manipulator and wielded a cruel whip;Then there was Mom's twin, Uncle Theo, who never lived in one place, traveled all around the globe and had every law enforcement agency in the civilized world looking for him. We always receiving presents from him during all the normal holidays; like Michaelmas, Holy Week, the start of Lent, Martinmas (his favorite) and our birthdays; which arrived at random, unrelated times of the year and never from the same location.He was the only one we'd never met, but the one Mom loved the most. Dad suspected he was a narco-trafficker while Mom insisted he was too paranoid to be considered reliable for that line of work. Mom told us he'd spent his formative years killing people for Uncle Sam until one day he simply walked away from Fort Bragg and became an independent contractor.The Defense Department sent some fine, brave men from Joint Special Operation Command, to talk to Mom every few months. They made sure not to trip over the CIA and Homeland Security types who occasionally staked out our house. We boys guessed they came around every time Uncle Theo assassinated people. Mom taught us how to appreciate them in an elaborate ritual she called 'April Fool's, which became an 'any day of the year' activity.My Mom's father (I never met the guy) was a leader of a cult in Nevada. He went down, guns blazing during a DEA raid. Apparently his interests included both harems and marijuana production.Mom's mom? She left my Mother outside a dive bar in San Diego and was never seen again. She had doctorates in Biology and Physics as well as the reputation for being a certifiable Space Cadet. Mom insisted her mom hadn't abandoned her, she'd simply forgotten where she left her youngest daughter who was 15 at the time.After five days, Mom decided to join an Alternative Rock band instead of looking for the lady yet again. Seven years later, she was declared legally dead; though all her offspring believed she was still alive; somewhere; doing something.Then you had Dad's family. We had some characters on that side of the family, just not like Mom's. For starters, Samsonovs were bred for law enforcement. We'd been arresting bad guys since the 1500's. We'd been doing that in Alaska since the time of the tsars. When the Alaskan Territory was sold to the United States; well, my ancestors simply started writing their reports in English instead of Russian.Over the centuries, we had bagged serial killers, smugglers, poachers, drug dealers, domestic abusers and thieves. Mostly they arrested drunks and wackos. My Great Grandfather Petrov was a law enforcement legend in Alaska. Alone, he ran down a pack of murderous robbers in the dead of winter before they made it to 'safety' in the Yukon Territory.In the spring, they found them frozen solid, him leading five men, he recorded in his journal he'd killed the other three while apprehending the gang, back in chains. That pretty much defined the nature of my Father's family, no too many stellar geniuses, but always relentless past all norms of endurance and reason. The moment females were allowed in law enforcement, the womenfolk joined the profession.My Aunt Iliana was in the Coast Guard, that made her the 'Black sheep' in this clan. Taking the law out to the high seas was about as wild as Dad's family got. Dad was pretty much the standard issue for my kin. Big, Dad was 6' 5' and 290 lbs., and about as imaginative as a glacier. Why Mom married Dad had long been a mystery to his sons.Don't get me wrong. I loved my Dad, but the man used a grand total of twenty different sentences his entire life. The fewer words he had to speak, the happier he was. He was a nice guy, never drinking too much and I'd never seen him lose his temper. He smiled, was unerringly polite and had always been helpful and playful with us kids from our earliest memories.Grandpa, my great-aunts and -uncles, my aunts, uncles and cousins by blood were the exact same way. I mean that quite literally. We all pretty much looked alike as well. Those who married, married eccentrics. In our regular family get-togethers that translated over to the blood kin in one room saying and doing nothing (we were already cluing into some sort of primitive telepathy) and being very happy that way, while the married relations were in another room packing on the lunacy.There was no middle ground; you were either a silent, brooding peak in the Samsonov mountain range, or the aurora borealis. That left me and my brothers, we were triplets, in a precarious position. We looked like smaller versions of our Dad (we were still growing) yet were totally at the mercy of our Mother most of our young lives. Recall what I said about eccentrics and lunatic behavior. Mom was the Queen of the Asylum.Mom quickly fell in love with 'things' and she loved doing those things with family. Since Dad worked long hours, family meant my brothers and me. We could make passable pottery by age seven. Krav Maga? Screw this 'driving to some dojo in Anchorage' crap. Mom signed us up for a two week course in Israel and online lessons for a year. Archery, check. Rewiring our house and refitting all the plumbing, check.The three of us were SCA squires at age 12. Pleading to Dad was pointless. He'd smile, mess up our hair and remind us these excursions made our Mother happy aka he wasn't going to help us have normal lives. We had some ex-Green Beret guys teach us outdoor survival skills in Wyoming. We could pull wool, make thread and knit a set of pants and sweaters.I and my brothers had to memorize 1200 medically useful plants before we could get our Christmas presents when we were 14. We free-climbed mountains, ran 10Kms, kayaked, were proficient seamen on a sailing ship and learned how to navigate by the Sun, Moon and stars. Around the age of 15, we figured out that Mom had a ton of money squirreled away. There was no way Dad, with his civil servant's salary, could afford all this crazy shit.By the age of 18 we had such a crazy patchwork set of skills, we weren't sure what we would end up doing with our lives; though tracking down Uncle Theo and living a life on the run was looking more attractive every month. What we didn't have were great social lives. We all had girlfriends at one time, or another, but they never lasted.Right before any of us were about to get serious with any girl in high school, my Mom dragged us off; to things like a five day course on Renaissance artwork in Milan; that's Italy. We had to learn to speak Italian in three days, plus during the flight over. Mom made it easy for us. We could only speak Italian the entire time. Doing that at school was 'fun'. Dad? He smiled and said nothing for three days.Welcome to the Fonteneau House, Kingston, ArkansasAnyway, Mom's Great-aunt Mattie kicked the bucket and left her vast fortune in northwestern Arkansas to my Mom. The old bird hated the rest of the nutjobs in the clan, but adored my Mom (and Theo). Upon receiving the news, my brothers and I began thinking the same thing: banjo lessons, redneck stunts and girls in Daisy Dukes. By 'fortune' we were thinking a ramshackle Ozark shack sitting on a mountain top.Nope. Great-aunt Mattie was loaded. In fact, Mom's whole family had tons of money. They'd made a killing, quite literally, during the White expansion westward using various despicable means. They'd even been cursed by an entire Indian Tribe for bilking them off their land. Mom's family blamed that malediction for their bizarre behavior.That Arkansas home was actually the summer residence for the Fonteneau clan from a hundred years ago. Along with the palatial residence came thousands upon thousands of acres spread over a quarter of the state (and some land in Texas, Missouri and Oklahoma too).Tara, or the Biltmore estate, it was not, but it certainly had pretensions. It was a wide and roomy, rambling Victorian structure. The house proper (there were two barns, a stable, storage sheds, two garages, one attached and the other stand-alone, semi-attached servant quarters and four outlying hunting lodges) abutted the Kingston town limits.The place was big enough to require Mom to employ six staff;Phineas Cobb the third, an angry, sullen old White guy and his carbon-copy son, Phineas IV, were our two Wardens. That meant they took care of the outlying property which included hunting down poachers, interlopers and moonshiners (the competition, no doubt) and seeing to the upkeep of the various lodges, roads, trails and bridges around the place. Phineas the third and Mom; well, he cried and hugged Mom when he saw her, so we didn't know what to think of him and his son.Bebe Marston worked the stables and the twelve horses therein. She was a college dropout, White and 21; a woman at one of life's crossroads. Great Aunt Mattie brought her on a few months before she passed on. Bebe was a bit shy and distant around the menfolk. Mom treated Bebe like her long lost daughter; they got along fine.Thomas Freeman was the groundskeeper. Thomas seemed nice enough, a polite and somewhat deferential older Black man. I liked him. Mom fired him the moment the lawyer finished reading Maggie's Will. She believed the man was a back-biter, liar and a thief.Kamika Perry was the cook. She was a largish, plump Black woman with a large family in town. She was a tyrant in the kitchen but friendly and out-going everywhere else. She knew Mom from before; before what, we didn't know. She was close to Mom's age and was the niece of the former cook. She and Mom were cordial yet a tad formal.Nefertiti Cooke was the upstairs maid. She was a whip-tin attractive Black woman in her late-20s and joined Thomas heading out the door. Mom discharged her due to Nefertiti's sour attitude and general unwillingness to adhere to a work schedule.Anita Turner was our downstairs maid and overall manager of the other servants. Like Kamika, she knew Mom from her previous stay at the house, though Anita was already part of the staff back then. They acted like old friends though they understood the mistress-servant dynamics of their relationship.Mom solved our labor shortage by bringing in Mexicans (Hondurans actually). The two families divided up the nine rooms in the detached servants' quarters with Bebe, since Anita and Kamika lived in town and the Cobb's had their own cottage somewhere on the property.Hector Martinez became our new groundskeeper. He had a wife, Maria. Mom enrolled her in some online college courses so she could get a teaching license. They were both pretty young.Consuela Castro was our new upstairs maid. She was a single mother with a son, Gustavo (10), and a daughter, Isabo (6); they went to the local elementary school in town. Both families were very nice to us and seemed happy with their current circumstance. Since this job was their first go at being domestic servants, Mom told us to be patient and respectful while they learned the ropes from Anita and Mr. Cobb (only Mom could call him Phineas without pissing him off).My brothers and I, our Father, the Martinez's and the Castro's couldn't have predicted the shit-storm Mom was creating between our house and the dominant Black populace of Kingston along the great racial divide. The Hondurans had spent half their lives learning to keep their heads low when faced with discrimination. We didn't, nor did we know that Mom was acting with deliberate malice of forethought at that time.To help appreciate our understanding of the situation, we triplets had known a grand total of four Black people well enough to call them by their Christian names our entire lives. One was a crazy, older guy who had been a sniper at some point in his military career. By crazy, I meant he'd go off on tangents in mid conversation, or just stopping entirely. We all liked the guy.He and Granddad Samsonov were real tight. They'd served together in Vietnam and we boys suspected something bad had happened to them both, something which scarred and bound them together closer than brothers. He and Alexander went hunting all the time back in Alaska. All I knew was Morris (Grandpa's comrade-in-arms) was treated like family.That meant if Morris got in trouble, fifteen to twenty Samsonov's would show up to bail him out. That's what family meant. The other two were a retired Air Force couple, Parker and Mariana Carrington plus their infant William, that had moved in next door (that's 40 yards away in Alaska) when I was fourteen. They were in their early thirties and wanted to start a family. The woman had been pregnant with her second child when we left.My Mom and another neighbor trundled her off to a clinic during her first birth. Dad had driven fifty miles in a blizzard to get her husband, so he could witness his firstborn come into the world. The man worked as a fishing boat mechanic and had gotten stuck at work when his wife went into early labor. It was the Alaskan way to look after one another.I never much thought about minorities. There were nearly as many Native Alaskans attending my schools as White folk. The Natives knew my family going back eight generations. I had a few cousins who were 'First Peoples'. Minority? Majority? We were Alaskans and that was that.Again, I didn't think much about there being a social and economic racial crevasse when I showed up in Kingston, Arkansas. I probably would have been totally blind-sided about it if Dad hadn't done his due diligence and went to the Kingston Police Station and Davis County Sheriff's Office to report his status as an Alaskan State Trooper and register his firearms.Since we didn't know what to look for, we missed the obvious signs of trouble. The Black police officer that Dad talked to was; impolite. He informed Dad there would be no 'courtesy' given despite Dad's professionalism, i.e. he wasn't permitted to carry any of his licensed firearms. The Sheriff's department was very different.We met the Sheriff and the man got Dad to be about as verbose as I'd ever seen him. The Sheriff verified Dad's story, gave him a 90 Day permit for his sidearm and told him to make no never mind over the Town cops' hostility. He certainly seemed pleased Dad had three big, strong, strapping boys and gave Dad an application to join his department.That night, Dad informed us all at the dining room table he was considering the Sheriff's job offer. Mom was secretly pleased (like her sister, she IS an evil mastermind and master manipulator). Anita, Bebe and Kamika were eating with us as well, Mom insisted all the help do so (the Hondurans weren't with us yet), and I detected a hint of worry in their posture. I would have thought 'us' staying in the house, thus their continued employment, would be seen as a good thing.Welcome To Kingston.That night, over some late night cocoa, Mom gave the family the regional 4-1-1. Kingston was 75% Black, 20% White and 5% other. The rest of Davis County was 95% White and 5% Black and other. In Kingston, the Blacks ruled the town. All elected officials and police officers were Black. The Sheriff's department had a few Black officers, but was mostly White.It would have been all White except a combined lawsuit by Southern Poverty Law Center and N Double A CP, forced the County to 'integrate'. I asked the logical question: why hadn't the town been forced to integrate too? Mom told me that wasn't how things worked in the Lower 48. Here, Blacks couldn't discriminate; they could only be discriminated against.The Federal government said so. I was sensing shades of Uncle Theo in Mom's blanket assessment of things. My brothers and I were wrong. Mom was right. We were entering White Man's Hell aka Big Black Cock Country. Of course, Mom wasn't sadistic, or masochistic. She had a tidbit of knowledge no one this side of British Columbia was aware of, a Secret Weapon.Dad applied for and got the job of Senior Deputy, which riled some of the other (read: Black) deputies, but Dad's extensive experience and easy-going manner eased his entry into the unit. Mom remained Mom, an unconventional, beautiful, free-spirited kook. She made no effort to make friends. I was the boldest of the triplets so I asked her why.‘Do you know how your Father's family would rather hack of a hand than go back on their word?' she gazed at me intently. I nodded. When she said 'Father' instead of 'Dad', this was our cue that this was a Major Life lesson we had best memorize. ‘These people aren't like that. They will take that which is not theirs, break trusts, sully families and lie to your face.'‘These women are all bold-faced whores, cock-hungry tramps and sluts who get abortions because they don't know what color the daddy is. The males are either the kind of men who would sleep with those kinds of women, or gutless wonders who won't fight for their rights as boyfriends, brothers, fathers, fiancés and spouses.'‘This is a colored thing, right?' I guessed. I wanted to be wrong.‘Got it in one,' Mom patted me on the shoulder. ‘Most White men in town are spineless wimps, Black men jump on whatever cunt they can crack open and women of either color put up with it, even beg for it. I know because I was once like them.'‘You and Dad?' I worried. Mom gave a deep, hearty laugh.‘That is not going to be a problem, I promise you. The only man for me is your Father,' she smiled. ‘I had plenty of lovers before your Dad. Since one month after I met him, I've never been with another man, or woman, or even wanted one.' More than I wanted to know, but good news none the less.While we were moving in the small amount of belongs that had followed us from Arkansas, two Kingston cops stopped by to see what we were doing. I had spent my entire life around law enforcement who knew about me and my clan. They were always friends and people we could trust. Kingston PD was a rude awakening we weren't in Alaska anymore.They were brusque and intimidating. Their real purpose was to remind my family the house was part of the town, even if the back acreage was not. Mom snorted at their pale deception. She asked to see their warrant. They asked if there was some reason they might need one. Mom politely asked them to leave as they were trespassing.They basked in their defiance. What could Mom really do? If she went all redneck and produced a gun, they'd lock her up, pointing weapons at law enforcement was stupid. Sadly for the cops, familiarity breeds understanding too. Mom gave us the April Fools' signal. Alexander, our oldest triplet, moved the cargo truck so it blocked the officers' view of their patrol car.While Mom looked peeved, feeding the Black cops sense of empowerment, my youngest triplet Mikhail and I (Vladimir) stripped their car of all easily removable parts; the dash-cam went first. They wanted to loiter around on our property? We let them behave stupidly. We dumped the parts and our work gloves in a packing box and carried it right past them.We walked straight out the back too. There was a burning barrel which we made prompt use of, for the oily gloves and box. We had spares. Mikhail tended the fire as I picked up a broken cinder block, a heavy-duty trash bag and walked a few hundred yards to the bog near the creek that ran through our property, county land. The bag and contents went into the bog.I used a branch to make sure it sunk deep before returning. Cleaning off my boots with the outdoor hose completed my destruction of evidence. Ten minutes later a member of the Arkansas Highway Patrol stopped by to see what the problem was. Mom had called them before the sabotage had even begun. She didn't know these two personally, but she knew from earlier visits to her aunt that these two were going to give us 'attitude'.Calling the Sheriff's Department would only cause a standoff where the police had the upper hand, the whole town jurisdiction thing. By the time the HP arrived, Alexander had left with the truck so when the Highway Patrolman began expressing concern for my Mom's civil rights, the two buck butt-bandits made to leave. That didn't work out well for them.First came the circus of the discovery they were missing key parts of their vehicle and the lack of an explanation of how that had happened. Mom wouldn't let the town cops search her place. She happily let the Highway Patrolman (who happened to be Black too) look around. We'd used the hose and the burning barrel because moving was nasty, sweaty work, especially in the Arkansas summer heat.The two policemen blamed us, the triplets. Mom asked them when, in the cops thirty minute trespass, had her 'little angels' stolen the parts, why we would do such a criminal thing, and if they knew where the parts might be. The Highway patrolman was kind of curious about the length of their stay as well.The cops lied, Mom went inside and brought back the camcorder that had taken in the entire event. They were caught in the lie and all they could claim was the cargo truck had been strategically placed to block a visual to their car; as we unloaded our truck. Mom even got the Highway Patrolman to co-sign her complaint to the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigations department.Mom knew this one wouldn't go anywhere. She had lived with cops long enough to know the value of building up a case file. Alexander was off returning the truck in another county, so he was safe. Mom called him and Dad so they could hook up before Alexander came home. She counted on the cops to be petty and they were.Alexander was on a motorcycle. When he got pulled, the city cops pulled in front of him. Dad stopped as well. Despite their continuing pressure to make Dad leave, they had no legal grounds to do so, he was Alexander's father, who would be responsible for Alex's ride if they took him into custody. Being an off-duty sheriff's deputy wasn't good enough, yet Dad's point was telling.Cops always pull up behind a suspect, not ahead of them unless they want to ignore the dash-cam evidence. Dad had pulled up in his Sheriff's vehicle behind Alexander and his dash-cam was recording everything. They let Alexander off with a Warning Ticket and departed giving father and son dirty looks. School was five days off. We checked out the property for two days. The third morning my brothers and I, on motorcycles, decided to explore Kingston.Having never before confronted such blatant racism, we weren't afraid, we were furious. We hadn't done anything to anybody. We were from Alaskan-Russian stock and had never owned a person ever, as far as we knew. We certainly weren't invested in this whole 'Black slavery, White guilt' issue. Those who gave us attitude about 'White privilege' didn't care for our counter, that saying all White people were alike was equally racist.As Mom had warned us, Black people couldn't be racist; just ask them. Mind you, many of the town's Black residents were friendly and helpful. They just weren't friendly enough to defend us from the 'haters'. At the end of the first day, Mikhail nearly got in a fight with five members of the Black post-high school crowd who were fucking with, and sitting on, our bikes.Where we came from, that was rude in the extreme. When he appeared to be alone, they were boisterous enough. When Alexander and I stepped out of the pool hall (we'd been made unwelcome there), they backed off from their threatening rhetoric. They still wouldn't leave, or get off our bikes. The three versus five odds didn't deter us.It was the lack of faith in the local justice system that encouraged Alexander and me to hold Mikhail back. We had an answer to their intransience, crowding. It takes a great deal of cool to have three guys, all over six feet tall and 220 lbs. lean in on you while you are sitting down. When the current bastard was dealt with, we moved to the next. Before the group could figure a way to thwart us, we had retrieved our bikes and were headed home.The next day, we took Mom's 2012 Shelby V8 Mustang out for a drive. We found the three spots in town the 'White folk' hung out in. We had the Country Western Redneck posse' section of town, pseudo-riche Southerner clique downtown region, and the movie theater (theoretically neutral turf). The saner White middle class had departed for safer pastures, they had established their own municipality a few miles outside of town).The rednecks welcomed our physicality. We were attempting to fit in until they began talking about all those damn 'niggahs'. Alexander broke down after a bit and asked what a 'niggah' was. It was a 'coon'. Since that was of no help, we asked what a 'coon' was.The regulars found our naiveté amusing. It took us three minutes of running a verbal obstacle course to piece together that 'niggahs' was their inbred pronunciation of 'niggers' (a term we knew from TV and movies) which was idiot slang for a Black person. We were 'crackahs', idiot slang for crackers aka White people. Hispanics were 'beeners'; yeah, right.We also learned that the favorite activities for teenage rednecks was knocking over mailboxes as they sped down the road, beating up White girls who sucked Black cock and beating up 'niggahs' who touched White girls. My analysis was that these yahoos were long on talk and short on action.I wasn't a fashion icon yet I could tell these boys could use a bath and some fresh clothes. The girls who hung around this crowd looked about as loyal as salmon during spawning season. At 18, we were hardly experienced, but we weren't desperate virgins either. Girls we had just been introduced to, flirting with us and suggesting later sexual rendezvouses were a definite turn-off because God knows who else they'd been doing it with.That led us to the riche clique. Among the guys; half were snobbish closet gays who weren't our thing. The other half were rich straight guys pretending to be rednecks. Rich White girls pretended to be friends with the rich Black girls. They were used to being pampered by their rich White boyfriends while eyeing every Black stud that crossed their path.Until they realized Samsonov = Fonteneau, they were snide. After that, they tried to convince us we were all (distantly) related. Bloodlines and riches were not the basis for what we called friends so we politely postponed any celebrations.The Cineplex was a hunting ground for all ages. White women I was pretty sure were married to someone else engaged in sexual liaisons with Blacks; be they teens, business types, or lay-abouts. We had no idea if these were random hook-ups, or affairs and we didn't really care.Having wasted nine hours of our lives we definitely wanted back, we ended up rendezvousing with Mom and Dad at his boss's, the Sheriff's, place. Whatever else he was, Robert ‘Big Bob' Carson wasn't an underpaid county employee. His home was nice, expansive, relatively new and sitting on four wonderful acres of land, half woodland/half professionally maintained lawn and gardens. He had an expansive deck with a built-in grill, hot tub and pool out back.My brothers and I had been under the impression this would be an office outing. It ended up being our two families; the five of us, Big Bob and his daughter, Brandy Crystal Carson. There was no Mamma Carson in sight and a lack of family pictures was noticed by us and our Mom. Dad and Bob (it was tough to call him Big Bob when Dad was bigger than he was) were deep in conversation at the outdoor grill when I arrived.‘Vlad, come out here,' my Dad called to me in his easy going manner.‘Brandy!' Bob shouted. I promptly showed up. Dad wasn't a passionate disciplinarian. I didn't hustle out of fear. I hurried out because I wanted my Dad to look good in front of the Sheriff. ‘Hello Vlad,' Big Bob greeted me. ‘You are a strapping lad, big like your Daddy.'That was a bit odd. I had only heard one person call my Father 'Daddy'. That was my Mom when she was feeling frisky. Mom walked around the house naked when the mood struck her (even when we had guests over) and had few compunctions about hopping into Dad's lap when she wanted attention. That was a common enough occurrence that 'us' boys had learned to sneak out of the room quietly before we were ten.Only in the last two years had we figured out part of Mom's bizarre sexual behavior was caused by Dad being utterly clueless where women were concerned. He could spot a shoplifter at a glance, or an expired car registration at fifty feet on a moonless night. I had seen a car saleswoman hit on Dad when he was getting his newest pick-up. She did everything but flash her tits and do a striptease; it all went right over Dad's head.‘Brandy! Get your ass down here!' Bob bellowed. She must have been most of the way to us because she materialized five seconds later.‘Yes Daddy,' Brandy sounded bored. I was too busy gawking to see Big Bob's reaction to his daughter's insolence.Brandy was beyond gorgeous (according to my personal standards). She had pale-blonde hair in a ponytail that clearly went past her shoulder blades. Her caramel skin was the beneficiary of countless sessions with a tanning booth. Her eyes were the darkest blue I'd ever seen. Breasts, Jesus, they were large and firm. I could tell that because she had on a pink crop-top and no bra. I could almost see the bottoms of each orb.Her stomach was muscled with a thin layer of fatty tissue to give her real womanly curves and she had curves to spare. Her waist was narrow and her hips were wide, complimenting her breast size. She had on super-short, cut-off, 'faded-almost-to-White' denim jeans that accentuated her dark skin. Her ass was to die for. A bit big but well-muscled, each a perfect hemisphere.Her thighs and calves were the product of consistent exercise. Hot, hot, hot. She had on white tennis socks (no shoes) that finished off her delectable image.‘Brandy, this is Vladimir, Senior Deputy Samsonov's son. He's going to be your boyfriend this year,' Bob announced. I had a feeling this wasn't open for debate, in his mind.‘What!' Brandy squawked.‘What?' I looked to my Dad.‘What the fuck?' Brandy turned and glared at me. I would have enjoyed her breasts bouncing more if I hadn't been eyeballing my patriarch.‘Dad?' I kept my voice calm. Brandy was fantastic looking, but I didn't want anyone dictating my social life, period. I was eighteen. Besides, Brandy was turning out to have a far less appealing personality, Pretty Princess syndrome.‘Brandy, Vladimir's a nice boy. His father is 'good people',' Bob laid out his case.How did he know I was a good boy? He was taking a lot on faith.‘I don't want to date this loser,' Brandy shouted. 'Loser'? She didn't knew me either.‘If you don't keep Vlad as your boyfriend, then no cheerleading and no dance team,' Bob glared at his daughter. This clash of wills made no sense to me.‘No way!' Brandy glanced back at her Dad, protested loudly and stomped her foot on the wooden deck.‘Well then, you need to be home at 3:20 pm every school day,' Bob threatened. ‘And I'll make sure to check up on you.' Before I could wonder about Big Bob's abuse of power, I noted the state of the art security system, cyber-nanny.Brandy turned on me in a furor. Her face was screwed up with anger, her fists were clenched and I was working double-time to not ogle the cleave she enhanced by leaning forward. Man, she hated me for reasons I couldn't fathom. I disgusted her which I didn't get either. Plenty of non-relative women had called me good-looking and handsome.I had a healthy, well-defined physique, nice thick, blonde hair and the common sense to keep my body and clothes clean and casual. My only downside I'd ever been told about was my size, I was tall for my age and 'cut'. Brandy was 5' 4'. I was 6' 2'. I had stormy grey eyes, light blonde hair the color of wheat and skin spared the ravages of acne.‘Brandy, I am as uncomfortable and surprised about this as you are,' I tried to placate her. ‘Do you want to talk about it?' She forced herself to appear calm.‘Fine Victor,' she grumbled. Worse than getting my name wrong was the look of viciousness that glimmered in her eyes. ‘We'll make Daddy happy and be a cookie-cutter couple.'‘Dad?' I tried to exit this fiasco with some decorum.‘You'll do fine son,' he responded. That wasn't helpful.‘I'll see you Monday morning, Victor,' Brandy snidely mocked me before leaving. I turned to follow her thunderous retreat.Running after her would have felt pathetic so my sedate pursuit meant she put some distance between us. She ran right into Mom, who grabbed her arm.‘I'm warning you right now,' Mom hissed. ‘Don't have sex with any of my sons.'‘That won't be a problem,' Brandy snorted. I was filth in her mind
The following guests sit down with host Justin White:• Andi Numan, Swift Home Loans• Ian Twaddle, UMortgage• Ryan Proffitt, Future Home Loans• Jalen Scott, Belong Lending• Lauren Fisco, United American Mortgage Corp.Highlights From Our 5 Most Downloaded Episodes of 2024How to excel at refinances in any market. Chase relationships, not loans. Pounding the pavement as a sales activity. What it takes to grow as a first-year originator. How to make your past clients remember you. These were the topics we covered in our most popular episodes of the year. You'll hear something from each of those conversations on Good. Better. Broker'sBest of 2024.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll hear interviews from our most downloaded episodes of 2024.In this episode, we discuss ...• 0:54 – Refinances with Andi Numan• 5:29 – Real estate relationships with Ian Twaddle• 9:35 – Successful sales activities with Ryan Proffitt• 13:51 – Growing and scaling as a newer LO with Jalen Scott• 18:13 – Creating a memorable client experience with Lauren FiscoShow Contributors:Andi NumanConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramIan TwaddleConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramRyan ProffittConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramJalen ScottConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramLauren FiscoConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramJustin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
In this episode, Juliana Maria Trammel, Associate Professor of Journalism & Mass Communications and Laura Robinson, Professor of Sociology talk with the UC Riverside School of Public Policy about the challenges and vulnerabilities with delivering information and services using eGovernment. This is the fifth episode in our 11-part series, Technology vs. Government, featuring former California State Assemblymember Lloyd Levine. Thank you so much to our generous sponsor for this episode, the Wall Street Journal. Activate your free school-sponsored subscription today at: WSJ.com/UCRiverside About Juliana Maria Trammel: Dr. Juliana Maria Trammel is a communications consultant, professor, and researcher. She has 12 years of experience in the field of communications that includes journalism, public relations, organizational and strategic communication, and communications research. She is currently an associate professor of Journalism & Mass Communications at Savannah State University. She earned a Ph.D. in Communication and Culture (organizational communication) from Howard University; a MA in Public Communication (social marketing) from American University; and a BA in Print and Broadcast Journalism (double major) from Rust College. Learn more about Juliana Maria Trammel via https://www.savannahstate.edu/class/departments/mass-communications/juliana-trammel.shtml About Laura Robinson: Laura Robinson specializes in digital sociology, research methods, and global media in Brazil, France, and the U.S. Robinson's work has appeared in journals including Information, Communication and Society; New Media & Society; Sociology, and Sociological Methodology. Robinson earned her Ph.D. from UCLA, where she held a Mellon Fellowship in Latin American Studies and received a Bourse d'Accueil at the École Normale Supérieure. She also earned degrees from Université Sorbonne Nouvelle - Paris 3 and USC. Leadership to the discipline has included serving as CITAMS Section Chair and as a member of the ASA Committee on the Status of Persons with Disabilities in Sociology. Learn more about Laura Robinson via https://www.scu.edu/cas/sociology/faculty-and-staff/laura-robinson/ Interviewers: Lloyd Levine (Former California State Assemblymember, UCR School of Public Policy Senior Policy Fellow) Dinara Godage (UCR Public Policy Major, Dean's Ambassador) Music by: Vir Sinha Commercial Links: https://spp.ucr.edu/ba-mpp https://spp.ucr.edu/mpp This is a production of the UCR School of Public Policy: https://spp.ucr.edu/ Subscribe to this podcast so you don't miss an episode. Learn more about the series and other episodes via https://spp.ucr.edu/podcast.
The following guests sit down with host Justin White: • Michael Saleh and Henri Houmani, Zoom Home LendingKnowledge and an Ability to Present Options Are Key When Discussing Points With BorrowersIn an elevated rate environment, one of the most important skills a mortgage loan originator can have is being able to discuss discount points with borrowers. How can mortgage brokers educate their clients on whether they should buy points? Listen to Episode #86 of Good. Better. Broker. as we talk with two former top-producing retail LOs who are bringing their wisdom on discount points to the wholesale channel.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn various strategies on how to sell discount points.In this episode, we discuss • 1:44 – the importance of being able to sell discount points • 3:21 – educating clients on discount points • 4:28 – how Henri and Michael learned selling discount points in retail • 6:16 – sales skills that help most when having conversations about points • 7:31 – the approach an LO should take when discussing discount points • 10:49 – the importance of being educated on the topic of discount points • 11:41 – the impact of home equity on discount points • 13:34 – providing options to borrowers • 14:49 – how to talk borrowers through paying for points • 16:31 – showing the borrower a visual of their options • 19:44 – how to approach borrowers differently based on how they learn • 22:41 – how to figure out how much savings makes sense to buy discount points • 24:13 – Henri and Michael's advice for other LOs on discount pointsShow Contributors:Michael SalehConnect on LinkedInConnect on InstagramHenri HoumaniConnect on LinkedInConnect on InstagramAbout the Host:Justin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media: • Facebook • LinkedIn • Instagram • Twitter • YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
Erik M. Francis - Deconstructing Depth of Knowledge: A Method and Model for Deeper Teaching and Learning. This is episode 729 of Teaching Learning Leading K12, an audio podcast. Erik M. Francis is an international author, educator, and presenter with 30 years of experience in education as a classroom teacher, site administrator, education program specialist at a state education agency, and staff development trainer. He is consistently ranked as one of the World Top 30 Education Professionals by the international research organization Global Gurus. Erik provides professional development on establishing rigorous learning environments and delivering educational experiences that challenge students to demonstrate different levels of thinking and discuss the depth and extent of their learning. His areas of expertise include good questioning and inquiry, teaching and learning for Depth of knowledge, tiered instruction, authentic learning, differentiated instruction, personalized learning, standards-driven learning, and talent development. Erik received a master's degree in education leadership from Northern Arizona University and a master's degree in television/radio/film production and management from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. He also holds a bachelor's degree in communication and rhetoric and English from the University at Albany. Our focus will be Erik's book - Deconstructing Depth of Knowledge: A Method and Model for Deeper Teaching and Learning So much to learn and think about! Great talk! Excellent read! Before you go... You could help support this podcast by Buying Me A Coffee. Not really buying me something to drink but clicking on the link on my home page at https://stevenmiletto.com for Buy Me a Coffee or by going to this link Buy Me a Coffee. This would allow you to donate to help the show address the costs associated with producing the podcast from upgrading gear to the fees associated with producing the show. That would be cool. Thanks for thinking about it. Hey, I've got another favor...could you share the podcast with one of your friends, colleagues, and family members? Hmmm? What do you think? Thank you! You are AWESOME! Connect & Learn More: https://maverikeducation.com/ https://www.solutiontree.com/presenters/erik-m-francis.html https://www.solutiontree.com/blog/how-to-deconstruct-then-reconstruct-depth-of-knowledge/ https://www.solutiontree.com/deconstructing-depth-of-knowledge.html https://www.solutiontree.com/inquiring-minds-want-to-learn.html https://x.com/Maverikedu12 Length - 58:30
The latest guest on The PR Week podcast is Anthony D'Angelo, who leads the public relations practice at Syracuse University's S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications. He gives listeners insight into how colleges and universities are training students for a future in which AI is an even more integral part of their professional lives. D'Angelo also weighs in on the historic holding company merger bringing together Omnicom Group and Interpublic Group and what it could mean for clients, agencies and employees. Follow us: @PRWeekUSReceive the latest industry news, insights, and special reports. Start Your Free 1-Month Trial Subscription To PRWeek
The following guest sits down with host Justin White• Lauren DuVall – Brokerowner, Guardian Core MortgageHow Being Unapologetically Yourself Wins Borrowers Over and Sets You Up for ReferralsMixing business with your personal life isn't for everybody, but it can be a differentiator in earning a client's trust. What can mortgage brokers do to personalize every interaction with a borrower? Listen to Episode #85 of Good. Better. Broker. as we talk with a mortgage broker who builds relationships by getting to know her clients and, just as importantly, letting her clients get to know her.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn why being authentic and transparent with borrowers leads to repeat business and referrals.In this episode, we discuss• 1:28 – how Lauren personalizes interactions with her borrowers• 2:09 – how this approach helped Lauren to not have to pay for leads• 3:37 – Lauren's closing gift baskets• 4:29 – the point in the loan process when Lauren gets to know clients personally• 5:36 – how Lauren keeps track of her clients' personal details• 6:12 – handwritten notes• 6:51 – personalized Christmas ornaments• 8:29 – reaction from clients to a personalized gift• 9:06 – why Lauren allows clients to get to know her on a personal level• 10:37 – how transparency allows Lauren to set expectations with clients• 12:32 – Lauren's approach to social media content• 15:00 – how social media opens doors with real estate agents• 16:42 – how Lauren's approach helps her grow organically• 18:23 – advice for other mortgage brokers on social media contentResources mentioned in this episode:CapCutShow Contributor:Lauren DuVallConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookAbout the Host:Justin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Brett Moon – Vice President of Growth & Operations, FAM RealtyWhat Real Estate Agents Look for in Lending Partners and How Brokers Can Deliver for ThemIf you're trying to work with a top real estate company in your market, it's essential to offer them something different. How can mortgage brokers provide a unique value proposition to agents? Listen to Episode #84 of Good. Better. Broker. as we sit down with one of eXp® Realty's mega teams to understand how being in lockstep with their preferred lender fuels their business.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn what top real estate companies want from their mortgage lenders.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:42 – how FAM Realty has transitioned from buying leads to relying on technology• 3:33 – social media outreach tactics• 4:53 – the role inside sales agents play for Brett's company• 6:17 – how FAM Realty became a mega-team with eXp• 7:24 – focusing on what's best for clients vs. the bottom line• 8:40 – what lenders can do to add value to real estate agents• 10:34 – how Brett and his preferred lender stay in constant communication• 11:17 – why Brett's company works with wholesale lenders• 12:50 – how lenders can offer something unique to their real estate partners• 14:13 – how Brett's relationship with his preferred lender began• 15:55 – the importance of having similar values as your business partners• 18:08 – how other mortgage loan originators can attract top real estate companiesResources mentioned in this episode:FAM Realty GroupSlackShow Contributor:Brett MoonConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramJustin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
Show SummaryOn today's episode, we're featuring a conversation with Army Veteran Chuck Hodges, President of the Education and Training Division at Transforce, an organization and network of transportation professionals across the US.Provide FeedbackAs a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health. About Today's GuestsChuck Hodges is President of the Education and Training Division, a role he's held since August 2022. He and his team run The CDL School, Troops Into Transportation, and the United States Truck Driving School, graduatinging thousands of new CDL drivers each year for the Transportation Industry. Before joining TransForce, Chuck was the Executive Director of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Hiring Our Heroes Program, where he worked with employers and military installations to connect thousands of Transitioning Service Members and Military Spouses with career opportunities. Chuck is a retired US Army Infantry Colonel, having served 27 years on active duty, completing his career as Joint Base Commander of Joint Base Lewis McChord - the largest operational joint base in the Department of Defense. He commanded at multiple levels including leading 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry as part of the Army's first Stryker Brigade Combat Team. He holds a Master's Degree in Instructional Systems from the University of Central Florida, a Master's Degree in Public Communication from American University, a Master's Degree in Strategic Studies from the US Army War College and a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from the University of Central Florida. Links Mentioned in this Episode Transforce Web SiteTroops into Transportation Web Site PsychArmor Resource of the WeekFor this week's PsychArmor resource of the week is the PsychArmor course, Veteran Supportive Supervisor Training -- Supportive Supervisor Behaviors This course will explore the four types of support supervisor behaviors, four performance supportive behaviors and then will learn how to apply these behaviors to create a balanced, healthy, vibrant, and productive work culture environment. You can find the resource here: https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/Veteran-Supportive-Supervisor-Training-Supportive-Supervisor-Behaviors Episode Partner: Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media Email PsychArmorPsychArmor on TwitterPsychArmor on FacebookPsychArmor on YouTubePsychArmor on LinkedInPsychArmor on InstagramTheme MusicOur theme music Don't Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Kelly Belcher – Mortgage Loan Officer, Key Mortgage InkEverything Mortgage Loan Originators Need to Know About Getting Positive ReviewsFor any business or product, positive reviews can be a big boost to business. The opposite can also be true for negative reviews. How can mortgage brokers earn good reviews and avoid the bad ones? Listen to Episode #83 of Good. Better. Broker. as we talk with a 20+ year industry veteran who explains what she does to receive five-star reviews.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn the how, why and when of asking borrowers for reviews.In this episode, we discuss ...• 2:13 – how Kelly goes about getting online reviews• 2:53 – how Kelly gets calls from borrowers who find her on Google®• 3:56 – Kelly's brand as the “Michigan Mortgage Mom”• 5:03 – how the Review Me tool helps Kelly• 6:07 – when to ask for a review• 7:03 – why it's ok to ask for reviews at the beginning of the process• 8:08 – why reviews from first-time homebuyers are so valuable• 9:27 – using QR codes for reviews• 10:24 – quality over quantity when it comes to reviews• 11:50 – focusing on education to earn reviews• 15:29 – elements of Kelly's loan process that help earn good reviews• 17:03 – Kelly's strategy to be a resource for her real estate agents• 19:20 – why providing value leads to good reviews• 21:01 – attending open houses to help real estate agentsResources mentioned in this episode:homebotHouse CanaryShow Contributor:Kelly BelcherConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramJustin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
Misinformation and disinformation are prevalent everywhere you look these days, especially on the internet and social media. What's more troubling, our brains are struggling to process and understand what we're seeing and whether an image, a video clip or a story is real or synthetic. Thankfully, on this 'Cuse Conversation, two esteemed Syracuse University faculty members will discuss Artificial Intelligence (AI), misinformation, disinformation and the upcoming election. Jenny Stromer-Galley is an expert in political campaigns and misinformation and is a professor in the School of Information Studies. Jason Davis is an expert on misinformation and disinformation detection, and is a research professor with the Office of Research and Creative Activity in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications. They offer up tips and tools you can use to help spot misinformation, discuss why our brains can make us our own worst enemies when it comes to detecting what's real and what's synthetic, share advice to help us be better-informed consumers of information and social media and analyze the latest research on misinformation trends in the upcoming presidential election.
Scott Hanson is the host of NFL RedZone; he is also the host for NFL Network's on-location coverage of events such as the Super Bowl, NFL Scouting Combine, NFL Draft, free agency, and more. Scott joined NFL Media in 2006 as a national reporter covering all 32 teams. He transitioned into studio hosting in 2008 and was named the host of NFL RedZone during its inaugural season in 2009. He graduated Cum Laude from the prestigious Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University while playing football for the Orangemen. You're going to love my conversation with Scott; he shares his remarkable journey from a passionate football player to becoming one of the most recognizable voices in sports broadcasting. In our discussion, Scott provides a glimpse into his meticulous preparation routine, his unwavering commitment to excellence, and the deep sense of joy and purpose he finds in his work. He shares his faith-driven perspective on servant leadership and the importance of living a generous life. “Care about the people with whom you work.” - Scott Hanson “The joy in my life comes through my relationship with God” - Scott Hanson “You lead best when you serve.” - Scott Hanson This Week on The Wow Factor: Scott's background and his early passion for sports. Why Scott decided to become a professional sportscaster after his time at Syracuse University Why NFL Red Zone became popular among hardcore football fans and fantasy players Scott's meticulous preparation process for NFL RedZone, including watching multiple games on TV and reviewing stats and facts How Scott manages his morning routine pre-show, starting with a 4:30 AM alarm and a strict diet and hydration plan to ensure he can host the show without breaks The joy and fulfillment Scott finds in his relationship with God and how it translates into his career The pressure of hosting NFL Red Zone for seven hours straight without breaks and without a backup host Scott shares his strategy for managing his body and maintaining his energy throughout the show The importance of giving your best and striving for excellence in all aspects of your life Why servant leadership and the importance of serving others in both personal and professional life are central to Scott's leadership philosophy Why leaders should focus on building into the lives of their colleagues and customers by adding value and serving them Scott Hanson's Words of Wisdom: You lead best when you serve—focus on serving, building into people's lives, and adding value. Connect with Scott Hanson: Scott Hanson on the NFL RedZone Connect with The WOW Factor: The WOW Factor Website Connect with Brad Formsma via email Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook Brad Formsma on Twitter
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Darren Copeland – President and CEO, Summit LendingRemoving All Barriers So Loan Originators Can Do What They Do Best - SellThere's a saying that goes “either you control your day, or your day controls you.” This rings true for mortgage brokers, who are constantly trying to determine how to effectively manage their daily responsibilities. How can LOs spend more time on activities that bring in revenue? Listen to Episode #82 of Good. Better. Broker. as we sit down with a broker who dedicates time to sales and marketing every single day and coaches his LOs to do the same.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn how time blocking can help grow your network and business.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:40 – what it means to live in your green zone• 2:56 – the importance of having a business plan• 4:16 – why time blocking matters to mortgage loan originators• 6:04 – being proactive to drive business• 7:09 – figuring out your real estate agent targets• 8:28 – why success is measured by quality conversations• 10:08 – how to determine how many referral partners you need• 11:47 – making online reviews and social media about your referral partners• 13:30 – Darren's tracker for living in your green zone• 15:29 – how living in the green zone has impacted Darren's LOsResources mentioned in this episode:MMIRETRModel MatchShow Contributor:Darren Copeland Connect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramJustin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
TWiV reviews Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda, cryo-EM based discovery of a parvovirus causing black wasting disease in farmed beetles, and a mosaic nanoparticle experimental vaccine that elicits cross-reactive sarbecovirus responses in pre-vaccinated animals. Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, and Brianne Barker Subscribe (free): Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, RSS, email Become a patron of TWiV! Links for this episode MicrobeTV Discord Server Marburg virus disease, Rwanda (WHO) Suspected German Marburg case tests negative (Politico) Cryo-EM discovery of insect parvovirus (Cell) Mosaic sarbecovirus nanoparticle experimental vaccine (Cell) Letters read on TWiV 1157 Timestamps by Jolene. Thanks! Weekly Picks Brianne – ASM Lesson Plans Alan – A City on Mars, and this blog by a ham radio operator hit by Hurricane Helene Vincent – How to Win A Nobel Prize Listener Pick Laura – Science of Public Communication (original article) Intro music is by Ronald Jenkees Send your virology questions and comments to twiv@microbe.tv Content in this podcast should not be construed as medical advice.
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Jonathan Esposito – Mortgage Broker, Rîze MortgageWhy it's Important for Mortgage Brokers to have a Structured Loan Process as they GrowClosing loans is the goal for every originator – but to grow, there needs to be a blueprint for how every loan and every relationship is handled. How can mortgage brokers set up a loan process that is both repeatable and scalable? Listen to episode #81 of Good. Better. Broker. as we sit down with a broker who is winning over real estate agents and borrowers with a process that always puts them first.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn how to earn business by having a structured loan process.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:16 – Jonathan's path from the Ivy League to working as a mortgage broker• 2:07 – why following a repeatable process is important in business• 5:32 – what makes Jonthan's process repeatable and scalable • 6:35 – Jonathan's experience in tech sales helps him as a mortgage broker• 8:03 – Jonathan's experience as a real estate investor • 9:29 – why working backwards works well for Jonathan • 10:42 – keys to Jonathan's relationships with his real estate partners• 3:38 – how to manage real estate partners' requests• 18:15 – the value Jonathan's real estate partners find in his repeatable process• 19:15 – why Jonathan hired a social media specialist• 21:50 – being intentional with outreach • 23:45 – Jonathan's plans for future growthResources mentioned in this episode:ChatUWMShow Contributor:Jonathan Esposito Connect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramJustin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Ann Sullivan – Sr. Loan Officer, Lending HeightsStrategies for Mortgage Brokers to Guide Homeowners on Leveraging their Home EquityWith home values at all-time highs, homeowners have an incredibly powerful tool in their equity. How can mortgage loan originators help clients decide how or if they should use it? Listen to episode # 80 of Good. Better. Broker. as we discuss the different ways to take advantage of home equity and how it can benefit a consumer's financial wellbeing.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn how to guide homeowners to leverage their equity.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:37 – how Ann advises her borrowers on using their home equity• 2:03 – how home equity can combat credit card debt• 3:10 – clients who have a low mortgage rate and high credit card debt• 4:17 – conversations with borrowers about rate vs. payment• 6:20 – questions to ask borrowers about debt consolidation opportunities• 8:29 – the responsibility of a loan originator to assess clients' finances• 9:54 – how consumers look at the equity they have in their home• 11:07 – how investors can leverage their equity• 13:36 – borrowers who want to wait to refinance until rates come down• 16:00 – the difference between doing refinances now and the last refi boom• 18:15 – Ann's message to loan officers on conversations with borrowers about equityResources mentioned in this episode:Home Value EstimatorShow Contributor:Ann SullivanConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramJustin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
In this episode, Jaime sits down with Kim Hallman to talk about the role placing faculty experts can play in an integrated marketing communications strategy. By strategically integrating faculty experts into an overall marketing communications strategy, universities can leverage their knowledge and reputation to enhance the institution's image, attract and retain students, and potentially impact rankings. Takeaways from this episode include:Advice on how to choose faculty members for strategic expert pitching – and how to train them to make the most of their interview opportunitiesInsight into ways colleges and universities can use earned media as part of a broad marketing strategyGuidance on how to craft a pitch that sells an expertInsight into trending topics – including the forthcoming electionStrategies for leveraging faculty expertise through short form videoGuest Name: Kim HallmanGuest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyhallman/Guest Bio: Now in season 10 at 160over90, Kim leads the agency's institutional marketing practice, helping colleges and universities, research institutes, health enterprises, and cause-based organizations raise awareness and raise funds to support a core impact mission. A former journalist turned publicist now all-around communications strategist, she first penned bylines in The Post-Standard in upstate New York, then worked as an editorial assistant for the National Campaign for the Arts in London, before landing on the marketing scene 18+ years ago. Originally focused in retail and hospitality PR, Kim quickly found that education category work fulfills her deep desire for lifelong learning. She holds a BA in English from Bucknell University and a master's degree in Print Journalism from Syracuse University's S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications. These days, when Kim's not working, she's soaking up all the firsts of new motherhood (and still trying to make some time for sleep). - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse. Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Element451 is hosting the AI Engage Summit on Oct 29 and 30Register now for this free, virtual event.The future of higher ed is being redefined by the transformative power of AI. The AI Engage Summit brings together higher ed leaders, innovators, and many of your favorite Enrollify creators to explore AI's impact on student engagement, enrollment marketing, and institutional success. Experience firsthand how AI is improving content personalization at scale, impacting strategic decision-making, and intuitively automating the mundane tasks that consume our time. The schedule is packed with real examples and case studies, so you leave knowing how to harness AI to drive meaningful change at your institution. Whether you're looking to enhance student outcomes, optimize enrollment marketing, or simply stay ahead of the curve, the AI Engage Summit is your gateway to the next level of higher education innovation. Registration is free, save your spot today.
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Chris Sbonek – Brokerowner, Mitten Mortgage LendingProviding Value Before Asking for Loans as a Growth Strategy for Independent Mortgage BrokersIn a society where most things we want are just a click away, it's tough to choose a longer runway to success – especially for small business owners. Why is slow growth a strategy that pays off for mortgage brokers? Listen to Episode # 79 of Good. Better. Broker. as we sit down with a brokerowner who is intentional about growing his business through organic relationships.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn why developing organic relationships creates a sustainable business model.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:30 – how Chris has intentionally grown his business slowly• 2:16 – Chris' definition of an organic relationship• 3:26 – why it's important to find people who truly want to work with you• 4:43 – why Chris prioritizes consistency and long-term success• 7:17 – operating as a 100% referral-based business• 8:05 – how Chris decided to focus on relationships with real estate agents• 11:22 – the importance of attending open houses and closings• 13:31 – coaching real estate agents to do things the right way• 15:56 – solving issues early in the loan process and being proactive• 20:38 – being attentive to the individual needs of all clients• 22:41 – Chris' advice for other brokers on growing slowly and organicallyShow Contributor:Chris SbonekConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramJustin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
Naresh Vissa discusses his move from Baltimore to Tampa and his reasons for choosing Tampa as his new home. He also talks about his career in digital media and marketing, as well as his venture into real estate investing. Naresh shares his perspective on the Florida housing market and the opportunities it presents. He also discusses his experience as a parent and the challenges and joys of raising two young children. Naresh Vissa discusses the importance of early childhood development and the impact it has on raising confident and independent adults. He shares his own parenting philosophy and the activities he exposes his children to in order to instill passion, values, and principles. Naresh emphasizes the significance of sociability, self-sufficiency, and efficiency in raising adults. He also highlights the importance of confidence and likability in navigating through life. Naresh encourages fathers to be actively involved in their children's lives from a young age and to cherish every moment.About Guest, Naresh Vissa:Naresh Vissa is Founder and CEO of Krish Media & Marketing – a full service online and digital media and marketing agency. He has worked with leading publishers, media firms and institutions such as CNN Radio, JP Morgan Chase, EverBank, The Institute for Energy Research, Houston Rockets, Houston Astros, the American Junior Golf Association, Agora Publishing, and Stansberry Research.Naresh helped launch an online radio network generating six-figures in monthly revenue. He managed the production and marketing for the first online retail physical precious metals trading platform. He's a #1 bestselling author of PODCASTNOMICS: The Book Of Podcasting… To Make You Millions and has been featured on USA Today, Yahoo!, Bloomberg, MSNBC, Huffington Post, Business Week, MSN Money, Business Insider, India Today, and the Hindustan Times. He was also the Director of Media Strategy at the largest private and independent financial publisher in the world.In 2009, Naresh co-hosted the top-rated financial talk show in the Dallas/Fort Worth metropolis, The Wall Street Shuffle. He has booked more than 1,500 experts in the fields of finance, economics, business management & consulting, self-help, leadership, sales and marketing.Naresh aided the Houston Rockets' staff in selecting draft picks Aaron Brooks, Carl Landry and Donte Greene in the 2007 and 2008 NBA Drafts.Naresh took as many as 27 credit hours a semester while at Syracuse University, and he graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Renée Crown University Honors Program, triple majoring in broadcast and digital journalism, finance, and accounting at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and Martin J. Whitman School of Management. Morgan Stanley nominated him as an Emerging Student Leader. During his junior and senior years, he served as an analyst for the Orange Value Fund, where he managed an investment portfolio in excess of $1.2 million of private investor money. Upon graduation, he was awarded as a high-achieving student in his class.Naresh earned a Master's Degree from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business, concurrently working as an admissions recruitment coordinator, marketing and communications blogger, and strategy research assistant to Executive in Residence Professor Bill Sax. A former academic tutor, counselor to underrepresented students, and middle school assistant basketball coach at the nationally renowned Village School in Houston, Naresh frequently donates his time to community service and social advocacy. He holds a first-degree Black Belt in Taekwondo.
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Evan Kaufman – Military Loan Originator, WeVett Home LoansDetermining a Loan Product or Demographic to Focus on as a Strategy for Mortgage BrokersThe beauty of the wholesale channel is that mortgage brokers can offer a variety of loan products to fit their borrowers' needs. That said, some brokers choose to narrow their focus to a specific loan type or demographic. How can brokers determine their niche and dominate it? Listen to Episode #78 of Good. Better. Broker. as we talk with a real estate agent turned broker whose “super niche” is serving active-duty military members.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn why finding a niche loan product or demographic can be a driver of success.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:29 – how Evan went from real estate broker to mortgage broker• 2:46 – why Evan chose the broker channel when he became an LO• 4:00 – why Evan chose to focus on helping active-duty military members• 4:56 – how Evan decided a niche was going to be the majority of his business• 6:03 – Evan's approach to working with borrowers• 7:33 – what's required to help military families going through the loan process• 8:37 – timing recommendations on buying and selling• 11:17 – Evan's goal for all his clients• 13:15 – why Evan focuses on direct-to-consumer business• 16:24 – Evan's marketing content strategy• 18:26 – targeting a demographic niche vs. a geographic niche• 21:19 – how loan originators can identify their nicheShow Contributor:Evan KaufmanConnect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramJustin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
Erik M. Francis - Inquiring Minds Want to Learn: Posing Good Questions to Promote Student Inquiry. This is episode 700 of Teaching Learning Leading K12, an audio podcast. Erik M. Francis is an international author, educator, and presenter with more than 25 years of experience in education as a classroom teacher, site administrator, education program specialist at a state education agency, and staff development trainer. He is consistently ranked as one of the World Top 30 Education Professionals by the international research organization Global Gurus. Erik provides professional development on establishing rigorous learning environments and delivering educational experiences that challenge students to demonstrate different levels of thinking and use their depth of knowledge (DOK) in different contexts. His areas of expertise include good questioning and inquiry, teaching and learning for depth of knowledge (Webb's DOK), tiered instruction, authentic learning, differentiated instruction, personalized learning, standards-based grading and learning, and talent development. Erik received a master's degree in education leadership from Northern Arizona University and a master's degree in television/radio/film production and management from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. He also holds a bachelor's degree in communication and rhetoric and English from the University at Albany. Our focus will be Erik's book - Inquiring Minds Want to Learn: Posing Good Questions to Promote Student Inquiry. What a fun conversation! So much to learn about questions and inquiry. You will love this talk! Before you go... You could help support this podcast by Buying Me A Coffee. Not really buying me something to drink but clicking on the link on my home page at https://stevenmiletto.com for Buy Me a Coffee or by going to this link Buy Me a Coffee. This would allow you to donate to help the show address the costs associated with producing the podcast from upgrading gear to the fees associated with producing the show. That would be cool. Thanks for thinking about it. Hey, I've got another favor...could you share the podcast with one of your friends, colleagues, and family members? Hmmm? What do you think? Thank you! You are AWESOME! Thanks so much! Connect & Learn: https://maverikeducation.com/ https://www.solutiontree.com/presenters/erik-m-francis.html https://www.solutiontree.com/inquiring-minds-want-to-learn.html https://x.com/Maverikedu12 erik@maverikeducation.com Length - 01:18:13
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Craig Good – Chief People Officer, Dovetail MortgageBuild a Successful Broker Shop by Mentoring, Engaging and Motivating Loan OriginatorsAfter nearly 3 decades in the mortgage business, Craig Good is embracing the opportunity to pay all his knowledge forward. In the process, he's helping build a broker shop that is growing every year. How can mortgage brokers set their originators up for short- and long-term success? Listen to Episode 77 of Good. Better. Broker. as we find out the mindset it takes to succeed in a commission-only job.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn how to scale your business by being boots on the ground with your originators.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:46 – Craig's leadership style• 2:30 – how Craig keeps his company's originators motivated• 4:10 – Dovetail's onboarding process• 5:10 – how Craig keeps originators engaged• 6:26 – recruiting younger and inexperienced loan originators• 7:32 – why having a mix of experienced and inexperienced LOs works well• 9:22 – how Dovetail's investment in technology has impacted growth• 11:40 – navigating tripping points in the loan process• 13:11 - what it takes to succeed in a commission-only job• 14:45 – how the company's values contribute to its production• 17:08 – the importance of bringing younger people into the business• 18:51 – Craig's advice for leaders on scaling successfullyResources mentioned in this episode:Brian Buffini CoachingSuccess TrackPA+Show Contributor:Craig Good Connect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramJustin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Andrew Chavez, National Director of Sales Development, UMortgageGenerate Consistent Business by Nailing Down the Basics of Sales ActivitiesGet up every day and do the basics exceptionally well. That mindset helped Andrew Chavez become a Green Beret who served two tours of duty in Afghanistan. How has this concept helped Andrew coach mortgage loan officers with less than 3 years of experience close an average of more than four loans per month? Listen to Episode 76 of Good. Better. Broker. as we find out how to identify and execute the fundamentals of daily sales activities.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn how a military veteran is using lessons he learned as a Green Beret to help mortgage loan originators find success.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:55 – why the lessons Andrew learned in the military help him coach LOs• 3:12 – how Andrew transitioned from being a Green Beret to the mortgage business• 5:58 – the meaning of “brilliance in the basics” and “trooping the line”• 12:23 – why Andrew coaches brokers to read and search guidelines• 14:33 – Andrew's emphasis on communicating with branch managers• 16:14 – how Andrew gets people to buy into his coaching strategy• 19:44 – how LOs can build relationships with referral partners• 22:51 – how to determine what your plan and daily activities should be• 23:48 – the meaning of framing success and applying perspective• 26:08 – why Andrew teaches LOs to have a repeatable processShow Contributor:Andrew Chavez Connect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramJustin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or XConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• X• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Cory Bohman, Mortgage Loan Originator – Grow MortgageMaking Yourself Stand Out by Making Clients Feel Like You Truly Care About ThemOf all the ways mortgage loan originators try to gain an edge over their competition, one that's often overlooked is simply caring about the client. How can mortgage brokers create a memorable experience and a client for life? Listen to Episode 75 of Good. Better. Broker. as we talk with a mortgage veteran with over 25 years of experience whose calling card is treating her borrowers like family.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn how to gain repeat business and referrals by making clients feel special.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:49 – why Cory's relationships with her clients are vital to her success• 2:52 – Cory's background in operations and underwriting and how it helps her as an LO• 4:11 – why Cory lets her clients know early on that she cares about them• 5:44 – the importance of customizing communication with clients• 8:02 – how Cory sets up the client experience for success• 11:35 – frequency of communication with clients• 14:39 – what Cory does to create a ‘wow factor' for her clients• 17:30 – what Cory does for a client when a loan is cleared to close• 18:19 – Cory's follow-up process once a loan is closed• 20:29 – how data analytics help guide Cory's actions• 23:27 – Cory's message for other LOs on creating a memorable client experienceShow Contributor:Connect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramJustin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
The following guest sits down with host Justin White:• Enrique Braunschweiger – Brokerowner, First West FinancialConsistently Getting Loans Requires a Business Plan for Short- and Long-Term Success“What is your plan today to get more loans?” That's the question Enrique Braunschweiger poses to every loan originator who asks for his help. What does a successful plan look like and why is it important to have one? Tune into Episode 74 of Good. Better. Broker. as we talk with a mortgage broker who doubles as a coach and helps other brokers put together a plan to bring in business.In this episode of the Good. Better. Broker. podcast, you'll learn why having a blueprint is essential to consistent success.In this episode, we discuss ...• 1:44 – why Enrique believes mortgage loan originators need a business plan• 2:36 – why mortgage brokers can't wait for loans to come to them• 3:38 – the four main areas Enrique covers with his coaching clients• 5:31 – where Enrique starts when helping brokers put together a blueprint• 6:52 – why Enrique works backward when developing strategies• 7:53 – why Enrique has always invested in coaching• 10:04 – what's required to achieve goals as a loan originator• 11:20 – why Enrique puts together coaching plans with his clients• 12:27 – the question Enrique asks every broker who calls him for help• 13:55 – why Enrique enjoys helping other mortgage brokers• 15:22 – The role AI plays in putting together a successful business plan• 16:58 – Enrique's message for other loan originators on making adjustmentsResources mentioned in this episode:AIMESuccess TrackShow Contributor:Connect on LinkedInConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramJustin White is UWM's in-house brand journalist and the host of the daily news video, Inside Pass. He creates engaging content across multiple platforms to promote the benefits of the wholesale channel and partnering with UWM. A seven-time Emmy-award winner, Justin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.Connect with Justin on LinkedIn, Instagram or TwitterConnect with UWM on Social Media:• Facebook• LinkedIn• Instagram• Twitter• YouTubeHead to uwm.com to see the latest news and updates.
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