In this episode of Lending Forward, host Hannah McManus is joined by three powerhouse leaders in the compliance world: Melissa Grindle, Executive Vice President and Head of Compliance at ActiveComply; Brett Contreras, Vice President of Compliance at West Capital Lending; and Amanda Tucker, Chief Risk & Compliance Officer here at Atlantic Bay.

Together, they unpack the rapidly shifting regulatory landscape—one where state-level exams are expanding, interpretations are widening, and what many are calling “50 mini-CFPBs” are beginning to take shape. Drawing from real-time examinations, industry collaboration, and their collective decades of experience, the group breaks down why lenders are seeing broader exam scopes, more frequent audits, and a sharper focus on AI usage, cybersecurity, and state-by-state rule variations.

They also dive into the human side of compliance:
• how to build meaningful relationships with state regulators
• why communication and transparency can prevent enforcement actions
• how technology (and AI) is influencing both lender operations and examiner expectations
• what lenders should prepare for as 2026 approaches

This conversation is equal parts strategic and practical—shedding light on what’s changing, why it matters, and how organizations can stay ahead while protecting consumers and supporting their sales teams.

Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand insights from Mortgage Bankers, Compliance Executives, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Vendors, and more as we cultivate transparency around the future of lending.

So tell us—how are you lending it forward?

In this episode of Lending Forward, host Bill Hitchcock sits down with Shawn Gerald, President and Managing Partner of Lifestyle International Realty for the Carolinas. Shawn shares his inspiring journey from the Marine Corps to retail entrepreneur to real estate leader, revealing how his “three-foot rule” and relentless follow-up fueled rapid growth.

He discusses how Lifestyle International Realty is expanding across the Carolinas and beyond, the importance of servant leadership, and why personal culture drives recruiting and retention. Shawn also explains how he’s helping agents embrace AI to future-proof their businesses.

Whether you’re in real estate, lending, or simply curious about leadership and growth, this conversation is packed with energy, practical advice, and forward-thinking insights.

Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts from people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending.

So tell us, how are you lending it forward?

In this episode of Lending Forward, host Bill Hitchcock sits down with Rob Zimmer, Principal at TVDC and Executive Director of External Affairs for the Community Home Lenders of America. Rob shares his perspective as a former Army captain and longtime industry advocate to break down what today’s buyers, lenders, and veterans need to understand about the market.

Together, they explore why VA loans remain such a powerful tool, how trigger lead reform aims to protect consumers, and why preserving small and mid-sized lenders is essential to maintaining real choice for homebuyers. Rob also offers insight into the future of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the challenges facing young buyers, and what true affordability must look like going forward.

Lending Forward is the home for real conversations about the industry’s future, shaped by the people who live it every day.

So tell us, how are you lending it forward?