In this powerful episode of The MikedUp Show, hosts Michael Kelleher and Michael Zau are joined by Nikki Bialka, an unstoppable advocate for financial inclusion and the force behind Fifth Third Bank’s community lending initiatives. With a career rooted in mortgage, pipeline management, and operations, Nikki’s true passion lies in creating access and empowering underserved communities.
She’s not just talking about equitable lending—she’s actively building it. From leading homeownership symposiums across the country to driving national conversations with organizations like MBA, Project REACh, and Su Casa Hispanic Center, Nikki is redefining what community lending looks like.
✅ How Real Community Lending Works
Discover how Nikki and her team meet people where they are—literally. From brokers and housing counselors to nonprofits and local leaders, she’s uniting the Avengers of housing.
✅ Every Mortgage Has a Story
It all started with hardship letters. Nikki’s journey proves that behind every loan file is a family, a challenge, and a community in the making.
✅ Serving the Underserved
Learn how targeted education, cultural connection, and showing up (not just selling) makes the difference in building trust and generational wealth.
✅ Relatability Over Salesmanship
Nikki challenges the industry to rethink who shows up for borrowers. It’s not always the polished salesperson—it’s the relatable face that understands the struggle.
✅ Empowering the 98%
While only a small percent of people can “sell” their way through problems, Nikki’s mission is focused on the rest—the 98%—who need honest support and real access.
“We’re not just helping people buy homes—we’re building communities, one conversation at a time.” – Nikki Bialka
This episode is a must-listen for any lender, loan officer, or leader who wants to make a difference where it truly matters.
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
Mortgage Connect – Revolutionizing the lending experience from end to end.
Aidium – Smart CRM tools built for modern mortgage pros who lead with impact.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!