Shows
ACUMA ONpointThe One Big Beautiful Bill: How Reconciliation Shaped Credit Union PolicyThe "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" (OBBA) passed through Congress along party lines, preserving the credit union tax status while making significant changes to mortgage policy and CFPB funding. Zach Pfister joins the ONpoint Podcast policy series and breaks down the political dynamics behind major policy developments affecting credit union mortgage lenders and previews upcoming legislative challenges.In this discussion with ACUMA President Peter Benjamin, Zach and he discuss:Credit union tax status was preserved despite being initially considered as a potential revenue source.Successful advocacy efforts included bipartisan congressional opposition and thousands of credit union...2025-07-2527 min
ACUMA ONpointBreaking Down Mortgage ComplianceThe compliance landscape for credit union mortgage operations has never been more complex or critical to navigate successfully. In this eye-opening first episode of our Compliance Summer Mini Series, regulatory expert Michael Christians is joined by ACUMA President Peter Benjamin, warning against developing a false sense of security in today's shifting environment.While federal regulators may be stepping back from aggressive enforcement, Michael reveals why this doesn't mean credit unions can relax their compliance vigilance. Instead, he explains how State Regulators and Attorney Generals are poised to fill the enforcement void, maintaining pressure on credit unions to...2025-06-1141 min
ACUMA ONpointPrairie Dogs and Cycling: Breaking Free from Mortgage StressWhat keeps you going after 30 years in the credit union industry? The answer lies in a carefully cultivated balance between professional passion and personal pursuits. Join ACUMA President Peter Benjamin and Victor Williams, Senior Vice President of Mortgage Lending at Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union, as they break down this balance.With 25+ years focused on helping members achieve homeownership, Victor brings profound wisdom to the conversation about avoiding burnout while maintaining excellence. The mortgage industry presents a unique challenge that has nothing to do with complexity. As Victor and Peter discuss, what makes mortgage work demanding isn't complicated...2025-05-2838 min
ACUMA ONpointMortgage Industry Backsliding: Risks and ResponsibilitiesThe mortgage industry stands at a crossroads where diminishing regulatory oversight meets economic pressure, creating perfect conditions for a dangerous backslide in lending standards. Dan Sugg, Chief Mortgage Lending Officer with Michigan First Credit Union and a 31-year veteran of the industry, sounds a thoughtful alarm about the risks of regulatory cutbacks. Join him and Peter Benjamin, President of ACUMA on this thought provoking discussion surrounding the changes impacting the credit union mortgage industry, and what the future could look like if you don't stay vigilant.Particularly concerning is the vulnerability of first-time homebuyers being approved at...2025-05-1444 min
ACUMA ONpointCredit Union Collaboration: Live from Savannah with Mortgage ExpertsWhat happens when credit union mortgage leaders gather in beautiful Savannah, Georgia? Rich conversation, valuable insights, and a reminder of why collaboration matters now more than ever.The latest episode of the ONpoint podcast takes you behind the scenes at ACUMA's 2025 FOCALpoint Workshop. Host Peter Benjamin sits down with Natalie Bozeka, Director of Retail Mortgage Operations with Wright-Patt Credit Union, and Chuck Stiles, VP of Mortgage with Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union, to capture their workshop experience.Between bites of the city's famous she-crab soup (which both guests agreed was extraordinary), these mortgage professionals reveal...2025-05-0726 min
ACUMA ONpointWashington's Regulatory Rollercoaster Is Reshaping Mortgage LendingThe federal policy landscape is transforming at breakneck speed, with sweeping changes across regulatory agencies that directly impact credit union mortgage operations. Leah Dempsey, Shareholder at Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, joins ACUMA President Peter Benjamin to unpack these developments and provide crucial insights for mortgage professionals navigating this new terrain and what to watch for in the coming months:New leadership at FHFA with CEOs of Fannie and Freddie replaced, and John Roscoe appointed chief operating officer.GSE reform appears back on the agenda with Trump administration appointees who have experience in this areaCFPB is awaiting confirmation of...2025-04-2528 min
ACUMA ONpointPeople Helping People: The Heartbeat of Credit Union Mortgage SuccessOn this episode of the ONpoint Podcast, ACUMA President Peter Benjamin is joined by Yvonne Case, Director of Mortgage Sales from Texell Credit Union. Join us as Peter and Yvonne discuss advocacy for mortgage lending as a strategic imperative rather than just a necessary product offering. She challenges credit unions to increase awareness of their mortgage services year-round, noting that seasonality is no longer a factor and members will seek these services elsewhere if not prominently promoted. Her practical advice for gaining leadership buy-in focuses on the substantial non-interest income mortgages generate – particularly valuable as traditional fee income faces gr...2025-04-0247 min
ACUMA ONpointNavigating CFPB Transformations: Leadership Changes and Workforce ReductionsJoin ACUMA President Peter Benjamin as he is joined by Zach Pfister, Policy Director at Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck. Together, they will discuss navigating complex shifts within the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) with insights. Have you ever wondered how the changing leadership at a major regulatory agency could ripple through the financial sector? With a wave of terminations, an operational freeze, and no budget request from the Federal Reserve, could we witness a strategic downsizing of the CFPB? As Jonathan McKernan is expected to step in as the new permanent director, our discussion probes the potential future landscape...2025-02-2829 min
ACUMA ONpointEmbracing Authenticity in Financial and Comic Worlds How does a mortgage loan officer juggle the worlds of finance and comedy? On this episode of the ONpoint Podcast, ACUMA President Peter Benjamin sits down with Allie Hager of Telhio Credit Union. Allie shares her journey from the rigid structure of big banks to the supportive environment of credit unions, where she discovered her true calling. Along the way, she talks about balancing work and stand-up comedy, helping families achieve homeownership, and embracing resilience, humor, and authenticity. Don’t miss this inspiring blend of wisdom, laughter, and personal growth! Tune in to the latest.Sponsored by Polygon Rese...2025-02-1935 min
ACUMA ONpointEmpowering Communities: The Bollinger Foundation's Legacy and Future in Credit UnionsJoin Peter Benjamin, President of ACUMA, and Justin Hawkins, Director of Marketing and Communications, as they sit down with Heather and Steve Bollinger, the dynamic duo behind the Bollinger Foundation. Discover how a serendipitous introduction by a mutual friend sparked a promising partnership with ACUMA, set to make waves in the credit union mortgage industry. Step into the heartfelt journey of the Bollinger Foundation, born out of personal tragedy, and its mission to support children who have lost a parent. Hear the stories of Steve and Heather's father, an influential figure in HUD, who left his family unexpectedly, and...2025-02-051h 01
ACUMA ONpointFederal Agency Transitions and Their Impact on Credit UnionsWhat if the credit union mortgage industry is on the cusp of major changes as the political landscape shifts in Washington? Join ACUMA President Peter Benjamin on the next episode of the ONpoint Podcast as we unpack the complexities of the current political climate with our insightful guest, Leah Dempsey, Shareholder from Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck. With her expertise, we navigate the anticipated transitions within federal agencies, focusing on the bold moves by CFPB Director Chopra, even amidst congressional pushback, as President Trump gears up to take office. Leah provides an expert roadmap on what industry insiders can expect...2025-01-2426 min
ACUMA ONpointStrengthening Branch-Mortgage Connections and Celebrating Industry InsightsMargaret Greczek, Senior Vice President of Real Estate Lending at Polish and Slavic Federal Credit Union, offers an insider's look at the nuances of the credit union mortgage industry. Her story is one of openness and kindness, underscoring the personal connections that have propelled her success. Join ACUMA President Peter Benjamin and Margaret as they discuss unique insights on what sets her credit union apart. Creating bridges between mortgage departments and branch operations is essential, and the discussion digs into the necessity of such relationships. Communication and understanding between the branches and mortgage departments are essential. Margaret and Peter...2025-01-2243 min
ACUMA ONpointThe Art of Being Real in the Business WorldDavid Ocasio Ross is the dynamic AVP of Mortgage Sales at AmeriCU Credit Union, who opens up about his remarkable journey in the credit union mortgage landscape. David's compelling story is not just about career achievements but also about building authentic relationships that transcend the boundaries of professional life. As we celebrate New Year milestones, David shares insights from his past experiences and offers a fresh perspective on what it means to truly be oneself in today’s fast-paced industry.Discover the power of authenticity in the business world as ACUMA President Peter Benjamin and David explore ho...2025-01-0836 min
ACUMA ONpointNavigating Financial Regulation Shifts and Housing Policy ChangesWhat if the next big shift in financial regulation is just around the corner? Join ACUMA President Peter Benjamin as he sits down with Zach Pfister, Policy Director at Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP, to navigate the complex policy landscape shaping the credit union mortgage industry. Together, they unravel the intricacies of Washington, D.C.’s current political climate, including the short-lived extension of government funding by the 118th Congress and the modest scope of the National Defense Authorization Act. Zach offers his expert analysis on the missed opportunities and the looming challenges that await as we head into th...2024-12-2737 min
ACUMA ONpointReliving 2024’s Highlights, Triumphs, Laughter & Growth and Looking Ahead for an Inspiring 2025Join us as we explore the challenges and triumphs of 2024 in the latest episode of the ONpoint Podcast. You'll hear about the remarkable achievements of Team ACUMA, the hurdles we've overcome — and how we turned skepticism into thriving participation at our events. Get ready for insights into our educational initiatives and upcoming in-person events in Pensacola, FL; Savannah, GA; Seattle, WA; and Denver, CO.Amidst the laughter and learning, we celebrate the bright future of our industry, spotlighting the Young Professional Network's leadership. We're also thrilled to welcome Maddie to the marketing team, hearing firsthand her enriching ex...2024-12-1145 min
ACUMA ONpointAdapting to Political Changes in Housing PolicyWitness the unfolding dynamics of the credit union mortgage industry as we unravel the potential shifts under a new administration. With expert guidance from policy advisor Annmarie Conboy-DePasquale, we venture into the anticipated changes at pivotal regulatory bodies like the CFPB and FHFA. This episode promises to equip you with a deeper understanding of how new leadership appointments might reshape housing policy and regulatory agendas, offering a historical perspective on significant policy swings with each administration change. Join Annmarie and Peter Benjamin, President of ACUMA, as they spotlight the strategic importance of appointing directors who can withstand political scrutiny...2024-11-2727 min
ACUMA ONpointCollaboration and Leadership in the Credit Union Mortgage SectorWhat impact do credit unions have in the mortgage industry, and how can they foster collaboration and leadership? Our latest episode of the ACUMA ONpoint podcast promises to enlighten you with insights from Magda DeMauro, AVP of Mortgage Services and Underwriting at Fairwinds Credit Union. Magda's leadership within Florida's credit union mortgage sector offers a compelling look at how credit unions are making significant strides. We'll reflect on the transformative power of teamwork and the importance of an open-minded approach, as Magda shares her experiences and valuable lessons learned from industry events. Our conversation explores a collaborative initiative in...2024-11-1339 min
ACUMA ONpointLeadership in the Credit Union Mortgage Industry: Overcoming Self-Doubt and Fostering GrowthWhat if the key to becoming a leader in the credit union mortgage industry lies in overcoming self-doubt? Join us as we sit down with Nicole Poole, Vice President of Residential Lending at The Police Credit Union, who shares her inspiring journey and the leadership qualities that shaped her career. Nicole's sales mindset and unwavering dedication to member service offer a fresh perspective on what it takes to excel in this field. Join Nicole and ACUMA President, Peter Benjamin, as they discuss the importance of creating a workplace culture that encourages emerging leaders to express their ambitions and seek...2024-10-3041 min
ACUMA ONpointStrategic Shifts in Housing and Political LandscapesLeah Dempsey and Zach Pfister from Brownstein Hyatt Farber and Schreck, both join us to dissect the high-stakes world of housing policy as voters head to the polls. Learn what's at stake with tax credits for first-time homebuyers and strategies to reduce regulatory burdens, particularly how these proposals might reshape the credit union mortgage industry. Join Leah and Zach, along with ACUMA President Peter Benjamin, as they unpack the critical issues at play, from campaign spending frenzies to the tight races influenced by political division and gerrymandering. The outcome of these elections is more than just who sits in...2024-10-2534 min
ACUMA ONpointBuilding a Stellar Loan Officer TeamGet ready to unlock the secrets of the credit union mortgage industry with our special guest, Elizabeth Million, Senior Vice President of Lending at Elevations Credit Union. Join us as Elizabeth shares her incredible journey from a real estate appraiser to a leading figure in the industry, providing invaluable insights into overcoming career obstacles and the significance of a member-focused approach. Ever wondered what it takes to build and manage a successful team of loan officers within a credit union? Elizabeth dives into the intricacies of hiring, offering best practices for recruiting candidates who possess grit, ethics, and a...2024-10-1643 min
ACUMA ONpointThe Calm Before the Election StormCongress is back from its 5-week summer recess, and its only job is to continue funding the government. Simple as that sounds, it’s made more complex by the contentious presidential election currently galloping toward its November finish line. How that budget will be cast is the topic of this edition of ACUMA’s ONPoint Podcast. Zach Pfister, Policy Director with Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, has some thoughts about that, where The White House is headed, and what in the world is happening with CFPB. He shares his thoughts with ACUMA President Peter Benjamin and listeners in this edition of T...2024-09-2731 min
ACUMA ONpointTrust Your Gut, Then Let Your Head FollowThe most effective people live and communicate their own truths, allowing them to share their journeys in meaningful ways with those they want most to influence. Former Top 100 collegiate athlete and motivational speaker Darryll Stinson knows that’s true from personal experience. His life included a few dark moments until he finally understood how minor tweaks can have major impacts on himself and others. A keynote speaker at ACUMA’s upcoming 2024 Make Your Mark Annual Conference, Darryll shares with ACUMA President Peter Benjamin the self-realizations and techniques that can make you the master of your own journey. Sponsored by Opti...2024-09-1839 min
ACUMA ONpointEmbrace Your MI Partner(s)Credit unions succeed as member-driven alternatives to transactional for-profit institutions that simply build their mortgage loan portfolios on the backs of their borrowers. We need to continue fulfilling that role while increasingly cultivating more and better service capabilities. Mortgage insurance is one of the more important arrows in the mortgage loan quiver. According to Michael McDermott, account manager for Essent Guaranty Mortgage Insurance, members benefit when you offer more MI options. Listen to this podcast, the final in the ACUMA MI mini-series, as he explains to ACUMA President Peter Benjamin, CMB, just how and why that works. Sponsored by...2024-09-0435 min
ACUMA ONpointNavigating Regulatory Shifts & Election Impacts: What to Watch ForThe dog days of summer, when Congress is absent, usually slow down when it comes to rulemaking. This year the upcoming presidential election has further diffused issues. But according to Leah Dempsey, shareholder with Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, there are things to watch, including possible rulemaking affecting the way AI can be deployed in reaching out to consumers, and what remains on tap on CFPB’s “junk fees” agenda. As to the election, VP candidates JD Vance and Tim Walz each have their own experiences in housing, Dempsey tells ACUMA president Peter Benjamin, and each bear closer watching no matter...2024-08-3027 min
ACUMA ONpointNot Transactional, But RelationalCredit unions were founded to help people, not to make money for shareholders, and that creed still drives the industry today. In this episode of the ONpoint Podcast, the fourth in this summer’s MI mini-series, ACUMA President Peter Benjamin, CMB, shares thoughts with Ralph Remy, Senior Director for Client Digital Experience for National Mortgage Insurance Corp. They discuss how credit unions can maintain member loyalty and provide better service without losing its collaborative ethos. Remy says it’s about “educating the team within the team.” Tune into this episode to learn more about just what he means. Sponsored by LoanC...2024-08-2138 min
ACUMA ONpointBreak Down Credit Union Stereotypes to Grow More BusinessCredit unions’ core strength has always been helping people address their financial issues. However, other stereotypes regarding size and service limitations must change for the member-owned financial services industry to grow, according to Peter Hurst, SVP of Regional Accounts with Enact Mortgage Insurance, and guest on the latest ACUMA ONpoint Podcast, part of the summer MI mini-series. Hurst and ACUMA President Peter Benjamin, CMB, share war stories and memories and offer recommendations from their work with credit unions. Spend some time listening to the two experts, and you’ll remember why you started working for credit unions in the firs...2024-08-0742 min
ACUMA ONpointJunk Fees and Election Issues Continue to Heat Up the D.C. SummerTemperatures have risen in late June and all of July, and chaos ensues in our Nation’s Capital. It’s anyone’s guess what will happen next, according to Zach Pfister, Policy Director for Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck LLC. Speaking with ACUMA President Peter Benjamin, CMB, in the latest OnPoint Podcast “Policy Series” episode, Pfister sheds light on the continuing junk fee debate and participants’ “race to the bottom” in attempting to manage the issue. And don’t even try to understand the shifting sands underlying the presidential race with its quick, dramatic changes. All will be revealed in November (maybe...2024-07-2641 min
ACUMA ONpointAdapting to Change in the Mortgage Lending MarketCredit unions have inherent advantages in helping members master the mortgage loan process. That’s a given. However, in today’s purchase market, it will also take foresight, planning, and a deliberate effort to reach those members first, according to Chris Perry, VP of Sales and National CU Manager at MGIC. Chris and ACUMA President Peter Benjamin put their heads together in this OnPoint Podcast, the second in ACUMA’s MI Mini series, to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing today’s movement. Tune in so your credit union isn’t left out of the mortgage lending race. Sponsored by LoanCar2024-07-2442 min
ACUMA ONpointGet ‘em while they’re (on) hot (sauce)!Do you want to know what’s percolating for ACUMA this year? Tune into the latest ACUMA ONpoint Podcast featuring ACUMA’s staff of crack professionals – who grill President Peter Benjamin, CMB, about the association’s future while sampling an array of hot sauces with “tots and tenders.” Recorded at ACUMA’s recent Denver Workshop, the crew gets into serious discussion, not to mention laughs, trivia, and games, while climbing the Scoville hotness scale one painful, fiery rung at a time. HINT: Big news is coming for ACUMA members in August and December that may signal a “spicy” end to 2024. Don’t mis2024-07-1049 min
ACUMA ONpointFew Fees are Really Junk FeesIn the current legislative/regulatory environment, junk fees are a popular talking point, especially in light of an imminent and disruptive presidential election. But such fees originated generally to protect both consumers AND lenders. In a time of a polarized, often inactive Congress, regulators have begun painting everything with the junk-fees brush, and that sets a dangerous precedent. Join ACUMA President Peter Benjamin in this next Policy Podcast as he and Leah Dempsey, Shareholder, and Annmarie Conboy-DePasquale, Policy Advisor with Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, unwind those and other concerns facing credit unions lost in the currently regulatory haze. Sponsored...2024-06-2824 min
ACUMA ONpointMortgage Insurance is Key to Credit Unions Helping PeopleCredit unions’ ability to meet their “people helping people” mandate improves when those CUs embrace their traditional methodologies, augment them with new technologies, and wrap mortgage insurance into the mix to extend their reach and serve even more members. That’s the message of this ACUMA ONpoint podcast, the first in a new mini-series devoted to Mortgage Insurance. Ira Oskowsky, VP of Sales for Arch MI, joins ACUMA president Peter Benjamin CMB to discuss how MI can help CUs better serve their members without losing the human touch that separates them from the competition. Sponsored by LoanCare.2024-06-2643 min
ACUMA ONpointInvesting in Young CU Professionals’ Future SuccessAs a credit union leader, are you cultivating, educating, and enhancing the value your young professionals bring? Staff members with the courage to step forward, ask questions, and, most importantly, find answers through their peers will benefit personally and professionally. That’s the purpose of ACUMA’s Young Professionals Network, led by ACUMA Associate Director of Events & Member Relations, Camryn Hinton. Join Camryn and YPN co-chairs Liam Carothers, Business Development Manager at Class Valuation, and Alberto Climaco, Real Estate Lending Manager at Justice Federal Credit Union, as they explain to ACUMA President Peter Benjamin why and how investing in youn...2024-06-1448 min
ACUMA ONpointBeing Vulnerable and Getting Out of Our Own Way Is The Path ForwardLive from the Denver FOCALpoint Workshop, Peter Benjamin, President of ACUMA, sat down with two of our attendees, Brittany Breakiron from ENT Credit Union and Andrew Martin from Canvas Credit Union, to discuss the high points of day one and what they are looking forward to the most from day two. They are sending the message that credit union professionals must do a better job putting themselves out there to capture their members' attention. This is one you aren't going to want to miss. Tune in now!2024-06-1220 min
ACUMA ONpointSiri, What AI Can I Use to Better Serve My Credit Union Members?Artificial intelligence has exploded across the landscape, with little understanding of its ramifications and even less guidance by regulatory agencies. Credit unions may run the risk of violating consumer protection laws, but no one seems sure, and that’s dangerous for both lenders and borrowers alike. In this edition of ACUMA’s ONpoint Podcast series, Zach Pfister, Policy Director with Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, and ACUMA President Peter Benjamin discuss AI issues being considered by regulators. Will AI technology be good for CUs? Congress doesn’t seem to know yet. CFPB’s latest actions also pop up in the conversa...2024-05-3130 min
ACUMA ONpointIs Your Credit Union Change-ready? How About You?The only constant is change, as the saying goes. However, the mere thought of change creates a fear of the unknown in many, even though failure to change often means the end of even the most successful enterprises. Daisy Romo, Ph.D., Executive Vice President for On Tap Credit Union, has studied change and has learned that the more we think we know, the less likely we are to change. As she tells ACUMA President Peter Benjamin in this podcast, it’s important for us to “humble our minds” to let new ideas and strategies come in. She has other...2024-05-2949 min
ACUMA ONpointThe Secret to Building Relationships, Both Professional and PersonalWe all like to be with – and do business with – people we like, who share our values and interests, and who see as many benefits in knowing us as we see in them. That’s a simple concept but a difficult practice for many of us. Josh Tindel, SVP of Sales for Atlas Title Company, has mastered this talent through concerted effort. Where to start? Put yourself out there and get to know others on their turf. What else? Join Josh as he and ACUMA President Peter Benjamin outline the secrets to becoming an industry leader by first knowing others2024-05-1541 min
ACUMA ONpointFostering a Community for Credit Union SuccessCommunity is not just a word the credit union industry throws around. It is the central embodiment of why credit unions exist. ACUMA President Peter Benjamin had the opportunity to catch up with some first-time attendees on this episode of the ONpoint Podcast. The networking, the community, the engagement, and the welcoming environment were all highlights to our attendees and guests on this special edition episode. Tune in now to find out what their favorite parts of the event have been.2024-05-1024 min
ACUMA ONpointMake “Accountability” a Positive Force for ChangeAccountability, both on the job and in life, is the responsibility we all have for accomplishing the tasks that we’ve chosen or have been given to us. Too often, however, the word becomes a negative used to connote failure. Sales consultant Dr. Bruce Lund knows the intrinsic power of the word “accountability” and wants to see it used on both sides of the management equation. Listen as he and ACUMA President Peter Benjamin debate the word’s use and how it can empower credit union staff at all levels to succeed. Sponsored by Accountable CRM.2024-05-0148 min
ACUMA ONpointAI, Housing and All that Regulatory JazzAs November’s presidential election approaches, lawmakers are slowing their wheels in anticipation of a change in administration. Topics around housing (in particular junk fees), financial institutions' use of artificial intelligence (AI), and others are still in hot debate, but with vacations looming, Congress is literally running out of time. In this edition, Shareholder, Leah Dempsey of Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck shares her insights with ACUMA President Peter Benjamin about what is – and isn’t – coming down the road for CUs. Sponsored by LenderPrice. 2024-04-2625 min
ACUMA ONpointWomen in Finance and Housing Play a Powerful RoleWomen are vital in financial services and mortgage lending, especially among credit unions. Providing both support and opportunities is critical to helping them excel in their roles and provide excellent member service, or so says Kris Kully, a partner with Mayer Brown and president of the Women in Housing and Finance Foundation. In this podcast, Kris shares with ACUMA President Peter Benjamin how best to support those women, why they must work hard, and why they must “just keep swimming,” especially when the waters get deep. Sponsored by Blue Loans2024-04-1745 min