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        <title>Wakecon</title>
        <link>https://redcircle.com/shows/wakecon</link>
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        <itunes:subtitle>Housing and Community Shaping Economics</itunes:subtitle>
        <itunes:author>Jordan Steffaniak</itunes:author>
        <itunes:summary>Making sense of housing and community shaping economics. We are powered by Professor Lending (NMLS 2644699), based in Wake Forest, NC in Wake County, hence Wake&#43;econ.

For video content see: https://www.youtube.com/@ProfessorLending</itunes:summary>
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        <description><![CDATA[<p>Making sense of housing and community shaping economics. We are powered by Professor Lending (NMLS 2644699), based in Wake Forest, NC in Wake County, hence Wake+econ.</p><p>For video content see: https://www.youtube.com/@ProfessorLending</p>]]></description>
        
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            <itunes:name>Jordan Steffaniak</itunes:name>
            <itunes:email>info@professorlending.com</itunes:email>
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                <itunes:title>Contractor Facts Every Homeowner and Investor Should Know with Sean Gossett</itunes:title>
                <title>Contractor Facts Every Homeowner and Investor Should Know with Sean Gossett</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Jordan Steffaniak</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>n this episode, Jordan is joined by Sean Gossett of Veritas General Contractors. Sean shares his journey from music to real estate, discusses the ins and outs of general contracting, and offers valuable advice for investors and homeowners alike. Learn about licensing, project management, cost estimation, and how to avoid common pitfalls in remodeling projects.</p><p>For more about Veritas see: https://veritas-nc.com/</p><p>Chapters</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Sean Gossett and his background</p><p>01:49 Sean&#39;s transition from music to real estate and construction</p><p>07:00 What does a day in the life of a general contractor look like?</p><p>10:00 Why licensing, insurance, and vetting are crucial when hiring a contractor</p><p>14:59 Red flags to watch out for in contractor selection</p><p>17:00 Managing project costs, deposits, and budgeting tips</p><p>19:54 Business skills and education for contractors</p><p>23:06 Common project delays and how to prevent them</p><p>27:54 Estimating costs and understanding market conditions</p><p>31:58 Best renovation projects for return on investment</p><p>34:54 Timeline expectations for fix and flip projects</p><p>37:01 Advice for homeowners starting their first renovation</p><p>37:53 How to contact Sean Gossett and learn more about his services</p><p><br></p><p>Jordan Steffaniak, NMLS 2353843</p><p>Professor Lending, NMLS 2644699</p><p>For rates and purchase or refinance assistance, visit: www.professorlending.com</p><p>Content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute a loan commitment or guarantee of approval. Rates, terms, and programs mentioned are subject to change and individual qualification.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;n this episode, Jordan is joined by Sean Gossett of Veritas General Contractors. Sean shares his journey from music to real estate, discusses the ins and outs of general contracting, and offers valuable advice for investors and homeowners alike. Learn about licensing, project management, cost estimation, and how to avoid common pitfalls in remodeling projects.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;For more about Veritas see: https://veritas-nc.com/&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Chapters&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;00:00 Introduction to Sean Gossett and his background&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;01:49 Sean&amp;#39;s transition from music to real estate and construction&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;07:00 What does a day in the life of a general contractor look like?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;10:00 Why licensing, insurance, and vetting are crucial when hiring a contractor&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;14:59 Red flags to watch out for in contractor selection&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;17:00 Managing project costs, deposits, and budgeting tips&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;19:54 Business skills and education for contractors&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;23:06 Common project delays and how to prevent them&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;27:54 Estimating costs and understanding market conditions&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;31:58 Best renovation projects for return on investment&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;34:54 Timeline expectations for fix and flip projects&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;37:01 Advice for homeowners starting their first renovation&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;37:53 How to contact Sean Gossett and learn more about his services&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Jordan Steffaniak, NMLS 2353843&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Professor Lending, NMLS 2644699&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;For rates and purchase or refinance assistance, visit: www.professorlending.com&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute a loan commitment or guarantee of approval. Rates, terms, and programs mentioned are subject to change and individual qualification.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <pubDate>Thu, 03 Sep 2026 01:56:49 &#43;0000</pubDate>
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                <itunes:title>Why You Feel Poorer Every Year: Michael Green Explains the ‘Valley of Death’</itunes:title>
                <title>Why You Feel Poorer Every Year: Michael Green Explains the ‘Valley of Death’</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Jordan Steffaniak</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode Jordan Steffaniak interviews Michael Green, Chief Strategist at Simplify Asset Management, discussing his essay on the poverty line and economic disparities. They explore the outdated methodology of calculating poverty, the real cost of living, and the implications of rising childcare and housing costs. Green argues for policy changes, including expanding the earned income tax credit, to better support families facing economic challenges. The conversation highlights generational differences in economic experiences and the need for systemic change to address these issues.</p><p><br></p><p>Resources:</p><p>Michael&#39;s Substack Essay: https://www.yesigiveafig.com/p/part-1-my-life-is-a-lie</p><p><br></p><p>Chapters</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Housing Economics and Poverty</p><p>02:18 Understanding the Poverty Line Calculation</p><p>05:04 The Valley of Death: Economic Implications</p><p>09:12 Policy Solutions for Economic Disparities</p><p>11:53 Childcare Costs and Economic Strain</p><p>15:04 Housing Market Challenges</p><p>17:44 Data Points for Understanding Economic Issues</p><p>21:47 State-Level Solutions and Economic Mobility</p><p>23:04 Generational Economic Differences</p><p>28:14 The Role of Education and Awareness</p><p>31:04 Concluding Thoughts on Economic Structures</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In this episode Jordan Steffaniak interviews Michael Green, Chief Strategist at Simplify Asset Management, discussing his essay on the poverty line and economic disparities. They explore the outdated methodology of calculating poverty, the real cost of living, and the implications of rising childcare and housing costs. Green argues for policy changes, including expanding the earned income tax credit, to better support families facing economic challenges. The conversation highlights generational differences in economic experiences and the need for systemic change to address these issues.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Resources:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Michael&amp;#39;s Substack Essay: https://www.yesigiveafig.com/p/part-1-my-life-is-a-lie&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Chapters&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;00:00 Introduction to Housing Economics and Poverty&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;02:18 Understanding the Poverty Line Calculation&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;05:04 The Valley of Death: Economic Implications&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;09:12 Policy Solutions for Economic Disparities&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;11:53 Childcare Costs and Economic Strain&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;15:04 Housing Market Challenges&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;17:44 Data Points for Understanding Economic Issues&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;21:47 State-Level Solutions and Economic Mobility&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;23:04 Generational Economic Differences&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;28:14 The Role of Education and Awareness&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;31:04 Concluding Thoughts on Economic Structures&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 05:00:02 &#43;0000</pubDate>
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                <itunes:duration>2064</itunes:duration>
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                <itunes:title>Broker vs Captive: Why Options Matter in Lending &amp; Insurance with Michael Babcock</itunes:title>
                <title>Broker vs Captive: Why Options Matter in Lending &amp; Insurance with Michael Babcock</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Jordan Steffaniak</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In this conversation, Jordan Steffaniak talks with Michael Babcock who shares his journey in the insurance industry, discussing the importance of building trust and relationships in sales, the impact of AI on insurance processes, and the distinctions between commercial and personal insurance. He emphasizes the value of independent insurance agencies and brokers, the significance of setting expectations in the home buying process, and common misconceptions about insurance rates. The discussion also touches on marketing strategies and the role of experience in providing effective service to clients.</p><p><br></p><p>Chapters</p><p><br></p><p>00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest</p><p>01:42 Michael Babcock&#39;s Background and Journey in Insurance</p><p>10:02 The Art of Cold Calling and Building Trust</p><p>15:26 High Trust Relationships in Insurance</p><p>20:51 Distinctions Between Commercial and Personal Insurance</p><p>26:06 Understanding Independent Insurance Agencies and Their Advantages</p><p>29:20 The Value of Independent Insurance Consulting</p><p>31:55 Setting Expectations in the Insurance Process</p><p>34:57 The Importance of Pre-Approval in Home Buying</p><p>36:33 Understanding Insurance Rates and Market Trends</p><p>37:55 Navigating Insurance Claims and Client Advocacy</p><p>43:02 Finding Trustworthy Lenders and Brokers</p><p>47:48 The Benefits of Working with Brokers</p><p>53:03 The Value of Expertise in Insurance and Lending</p><p><br></p><p>Jordan Steffaniak, NMLS 2353843</p><p>Professor Lending, NMLS 2644699</p><p><br></p><p>For rates and purchase or refinance assistance, visit: www.professorlending.com</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In this conversation, Jordan Steffaniak talks with Michael Babcock who shares his journey in the insurance industry, discussing the importance of building trust and relationships in sales, the impact of AI on insurance processes, and the distinctions between commercial and personal insurance. He emphasizes the value of independent insurance agencies and brokers, the significance of setting expectations in the home buying process, and common misconceptions about insurance rates. The discussion also touches on marketing strategies and the role of experience in providing effective service to clients.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Chapters&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;01:42 Michael Babcock&amp;#39;s Background and Journey in Insurance&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;10:02 The Art of Cold Calling and Building Trust&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;15:26 High Trust Relationships in Insurance&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;20:51 Distinctions Between Commercial and Personal Insurance&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;26:06 Understanding Independent Insurance Agencies and Their Advantages&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;29:20 The Value of Independent Insurance Consulting&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;31:55 Setting Expectations in the Insurance Process&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;34:57 The Importance of Pre-Approval in Home Buying&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;36:33 Understanding Insurance Rates and Market Trends&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;37:55 Navigating Insurance Claims and Client Advocacy&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;43:02 Finding Trustworthy Lenders and Brokers&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;47:48 The Benefits of Working with Brokers&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;53:03 The Value of Expertise in Insurance and Lending&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Jordan Steffaniak, NMLS 2353843&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Professor Lending, NMLS 2644699&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;For rates and purchase or refinance assistance, visit: www.professorlending.com&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <pubDate>Wed, 24 Sep 2025 04:00:18 &#43;0000</pubDate>
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                <itunes:title>The Mortgage Broker’s Edge: Options, Strategy, and Trust with Matt Joy</itunes:title>
                <title>The Mortgage Broker’s Edge: Options, Strategy, and Trust with Matt Joy</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Jordan Steffaniak</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In this conversation, Jordan Steffaniak talks with Matt Joy from Union Home Mortgage about the mortgage industry, exploring Matt&#39;s journey as an account executive, the differences between wholesale and retail mortgage channels, and the importance of education in the industry. They discuss various loan products, market trends, and the significance of building relationships with real estate agents to foster business growth. The conversation emphasizes the need for mortgage professionals to adapt to changing market conditions and to prioritize customer education.</p><p><br></p><p>Chapters</p><p><br></p><p>00:00 Introduction to Homeownership Education</p><p>04:02 Matt Joy&#39;s Journey in the Mortgage Industry</p><p>11:39 Understanding Wholesale vs. Retail Mortgage Channels</p><p>18:56 Exploring Loan Products and Market Trends</p><p>26:33 Building Relationships with Real Estate Agents</p><p><br></p><p>Jordan Steffaniak, NMLS 2353843</p><p>Professor Lending, NMLS 2644699</p><p><br></p><p>For rates and purchase or refinance assistance, visit: www.professorlending.com</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In this conversation, Jordan Steffaniak talks with Matt Joy from Union Home Mortgage about the mortgage industry, exploring Matt&amp;#39;s journey as an account executive, the differences between wholesale and retail mortgage channels, and the importance of education in the industry. They discuss various loan products, market trends, and the significance of building relationships with real estate agents to foster business growth. The conversation emphasizes the need for mortgage professionals to adapt to changing market conditions and to prioritize customer education.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Chapters&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;00:00 Introduction to Homeownership Education&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;04:02 Matt Joy&amp;#39;s Journey in the Mortgage Industry&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;11:39 Understanding Wholesale vs. Retail Mortgage Channels&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;18:56 Exploring Loan Products and Market Trends&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;26:33 Building Relationships with Real Estate Agents&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Jordan Steffaniak, NMLS 2353843&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Professor Lending, NMLS 2644699&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;For rates and purchase or refinance assistance, visit: www.professorlending.com&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <pubDate>Mon, 04 Aug 2025 04:00:23 &#43;0000</pubDate>
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