Lords of Lending
Journey through the labyrinth of lending with the dual expertise of Shane, the master of loan architecture, and Stephanie, the vanguard of banking innovation. Together, they demystify the art of business loans, from traditional SBA offerings to avant-garde financial instruments, in episodes rich with actionable intelligence.
Episodes
In this episode of 'Lords of Lending,' we discuss the economic forecast for small businesses in 2026, emphasizing increased borrowing and reduced equity. We draw parallels to the 2008 financial crisis and express concerns about the rising trends of highly leveraged acquisitions and diminishing equity pools.
The conversation touches on the importance of prudent lending, the potential impact of AI and other market...
Welcome back to Lords of Lending! In this episode, we return from our break to review the significant events of 2025 and share what we've learned. We discuss the record-breaking $100 billion in government-guaranteed loans extended to small businesses and analyze the impact of the new administration's transparency and released data.
We delve into the challenges faced by small business owners, including rising int...
What happens when a business owner drops hints about selling—or outright asks you to “dance”? In this episode, the Lords break down real-world signals, emotional undercurrents, and strategic moves buyers should make when owners start flirting with exit. From awkward coffees to intentional conversations, learn how to recognize the moment and act on it.
📌 Timestamps:
[00:01:05] The Dance That Changed Everything - Steph&...
Seller notes are reshaping how deals get done. In this episode, the Lords of Lending sit down with Abby Shemesh of Seller Edge Capital to explore the evolving world of seller financing, note sales, and how liquidity is changing the psychology of buyers and sellers. If you’re in acquisitions, lending, or advising, this is a masterclass in structuring smarter deals.
📌 Timestamps:
00:00 - Opening: Why seller notes are th...
What does it take to launch and scale a thriving restaurant business? In this episode, the Lords dig into the real-world challenges, hidden costs, and strategic thinking behind building a successful food and beverage concept. Whether you’re dreaming of opening your first café or scaling your third location, this conversation covers what it really takes—from startup costs and SBA funding to operations, brand building, and long-term ...
Are high interest rates really stopping you from making your next business move? In this episode, Shane, Stephanie, and Brian unpack the myth of waiting for “cheaper money.” They break down what a 25 basis point rate cut actually means (hint: it’s probably less than you think), and why real entrepreneurs don’t let headlines dictate action. If you're considering an SBA loan or looking to grow your business in today’s market, th...
What does your reputation say about your business? In this episode, the Lords sit down with review industry expert Stuart Faught to break down what reputation really means in lending, operations, and growth. Whether you’re trying to build trust with sellers, brokers, lenders—or your own team—this is the real talk behind what shapes credibility and how to own your story.
📌 Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro: Why Reputation Is the Real Cu...
What really makes a lender different? Shane, Brian, and Steph go rapid-fire to reveal their biggest lessons, toughest deals, and why client experience wins every time.
📌 Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
00:27 - Welcome to “Ask the Experts” with Stephanie, Shane & Brian
01:14 - What Sets Us Apart from Other Lenders
03:13 - The Human Side of Lending: Why People Matter Most
05:25 - Defining a Great Client Experi...
In this raw, unfiltered episode, the Lords of Lending pull back the curtain on the personal experiences that shaped them into the SBA lending experts they are today.
From childhood poverty and career failures to finding purpose through adversity, Shane, Stephanie, and Brian share the dark seasons that forged their professional wisdom.
This isn't your typical business advice - it's the real story behind ...
In this tactical deep dive, Shane, Stephanie, and Brian sit down with serial acquirer Collin Trimble to dissect what really happens when you scale through acquisition. From chaotic day-one takeovers to post-close surprises, this episode is all strategy, scars, and lessons earned the hard way.
📌 Timestamps:
00:09:49 - What Strategy Looked Bulletproof (But Wasn't)
00:12:38 - 28 Minutes In: The Day One Disaster Story
...
On the road, the Lords break down key takeaways from a week of business broker conferences. From AI innovations to personal follow-up strategies, Shane, Stephanie, and Brian explore how lenders can stand out, deepen relationships, and add long-term value beyond the transaction.
📌 Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro: On the Road with the Lords
01:00 – Conference Recap: Transworld, IBBA, Murphy
02:15 – AI & Tech Takeaways from ...
In this episode, Shane Pierson, Stephanie Dunn, and Brian Congelliere share their backstories, career pivots, and what drives them. From courtroom exits to cold calls and The Apprentice, get to know the Lords of Lending on a personal level.
📌 Timestamps:
01:00 – Intro & Episode Overview
02:06 – Why This Episode Matters: Get to Know the Hosts
04:56 – Stephanie’s Origin Story: From Hotels to SBA Lending
09:56 – Br...
The SBA just dropped a new SOP—and it’s shaking up how small business loans work. Shane, Stephanie, and Brian break down what’s changing, what’s broken, and how buyers and lenders can adapt. From seller carries to guarantee requirements, this episode is packed with real talk and strategy.
📌 Timestamps:
01:00 – Intro & Overview of SBA SOP 50 10 8
02:25 – What Changed and Why It Matters
04:04 – New Down Payment & ...
In this episode of Broke or Billionaire by 2030, hosts Shane Pierson, Stephanie Dunn, and Brian Congelliere dive into the mindset, strategies, and financial habits that separate those who struggle from those who thrive. Whether you're aiming for financial freedom or just want to make smarter money moves, this conversation is packed with insights to shift your trajectory.
📌 Timestamps:
01:00 - Intro & Welcome
01:28 ...
In this episode of Lords of Lending, hosts Shane Pierson, Stephanie Dunn, and Brian Congelliere dive into the realities of buying and scaling a business. They discuss how to assess inherited employees, identify underperformers, and maximize human capital for growth. Whether you're acquiring a company or expanding your current one, this episode offers actionable strategies to optimize payroll, improve leadership, and build a hi...
Are you truly urgent about success, or are you just busy? In this episode of Lords of Lending, hosts Shane Pierson, Stephanie Dunn, and Brian Congelliere take a hard look at why urgency—not just activity—is the key to winning in business and lending. They break down the dangers of complacency, how to eliminate wasted effort, and the power of acting now instead of later. From setting clear deadlines to removing bottlenecks in decis...
Traditional relationship banking is being replaced by algorithms, automation, and AI-driven decision-making—but is this a good thing? In this episode of Lords of Lending, hosts Shane Pierson, Stephanie Dunn, and Brian Congelliere dive into the rapid rise of automated lending. They explore how AI is changing loan approvals, eliminating human bias, and increasing efficiency, but also discuss the dangers of losing the personal touch ...
Shane Pierson explores the impact of Trump tariffs on small businesses, from rising costs to supply chain issues, and shares key strategies to adapt, cut expenses, and stay competitive in uncertain times.
📌 Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro & Episode Overview
02:36 - What Are the Trump Tariffs and Why Do They Matter?
04:00 - How Tariffs Impact Small Businesses
05:50 - Supply Chain Disruptions & Rising Costs
09:2...
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