In this episode of Lending Forward, host Hannah McManus sits down with Dr. Jeremy Porter, Chief Economist and Head of Climate Implications Research at First Street Foundation, for a timely conversation on how climate risk is already reshaping housing, insurance, and mortgage affordability.

Drawing on years of peer-reviewed research and real-world data, Dr. Porter breaks down why insurance has become the most tangible way homeowners and buyers experience climate risk. From rapidly rising premiums and carrier exits to repeated disasters outside traditional FEMA flood zones, he explains how climate-driven risk is changing the true cost of homeownership—and why insurance now takes up a growing share of the average monthly mortgage payment.

The conversation explores how climate hazards like flooding, wildfire, wind, and extreme rainfall are becoming more frequent and widespread, impacting regions once considered “safe.” Dr. Porter also discusses climate-informed migration, the growing role of property-level risk data in real estate decisions, and why transparency—not avoidance—is key to serving homeowners responsibly.

For lenders, real estate professionals, and housing leaders, this episode offers practical insight into why climate risk belongs in modern risk assessment, how better data can support smarter decisions, and what the next five to ten years may hold for housing and affordability.

Lending Forward is the home for real conversations about the industry we love. Hear firsthand perspectives from mortgage professionals, real estate leaders, policymakers, and economists 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 Julienne Joseph—former HUD Chief of Staff under Secretary Marcia Fudge and founder of JYJ Consulting—for a timely and thought-provoking conversation on the future of mortgage affordability.

Drawing on more than two decades of experience across origination, housing counseling, policy, and federal leadership, Julienne breaks down two of the most talked-about concepts in housing today: the proposed 50-year mortgage and the idea of portable interest rates. While both aim to address affordability, Julienne explains why longer amortizations and transferable rates may introduce unintended risks for borrowers, servicers, and the broader housing ecosystem.

The conversation goes beyond headlines, exploring sustainability versus access, the importance of equity-building, and why education and empathy are essential—especially for first-time and underserved buyers shaped by the lasting impact of the housing crisis. Julienne also shares personal insights from her career, including her proudest policy accomplishment and why expanding housing supply, not just new loan products, is critical to long-term affordability.

From FHA policy and servicing challenges to inventory, development, and HUD-approved housing counseling, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at what it really takes to move housing forward—responsibly.

Lending Forward is the home for real conversations about the industry we love. Hear firsthand perspectives from Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, policymakers, and industry leaders as we cultivate transparency around the future of lending.
So tell us—how are you lending it forward?

In this special episode of Lending Forward, we sit down with Brian Holland, CEO, and Stan Holland, President of Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group, to explore 30 years of impact, growth, and giving back. From building a thriving team of 650+ employees to helping thousands of families achieve the dream of homeownership each month, their story is about more than mortgages—it’s about people.

Hear how a culture of happiness, mentorship, and opportunity drives their team, why community involvement has been central to their mission for decades, and how they’ve supported organizations like the Roc Solid Foundation and the Boys and Girls Club. They also share personal stories about early work experiences, the value of internships, and lessons learned along the way.

Looking ahead, Atlantic Bay is embracing innovation, AI, and automation, all while staying true to the human-centered approach that has defined their legacy. Whether you’re part of the mortgage industry or simply inspired by leadership, community, and purpose-driven growth, this episode is full of insights and inspiration.

Lending Forward is about real stories and real people moving our industry ahead. Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more share their experiences as we cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you #LendingItForward?

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