The Lenders Playbook

#108: Two Marines with no background in hard money jump into the business… and build a disciplined, institutional-grade lending platform.In this episode, I sit down with Aidan Wong and Adrian Posoz from Red Sun Capital to break down how they went from figuring it out on the fly to running a high-level operation focused on real underwriting, strong borrower relationships, and long-term performance.We also get into how they’re using AI to move faster and make better lending decisions, and what the future of private lending actually looks like.This episode is brought to you by Verivest, helping real estate investment managers design, launch, and operate funds with structure, discipline, and real-world experience. https://www.verivest.com/

#107: Today’s episode is a powerful one with Ashkan Bashiri, we’re diving deep into real estate, lending, and what’s actually happening in today’s market… not just at the local level, but globally. Ashkan also spoke about this with Michael Franzini on the same topic.With rising geopolitical tension, including the ongoing situation involving Iran, and uncertainty across the economy, investors are asking the same question right now: Where are the real opportunities—and how do you navigate risk?So today, we’re breaking that down.We’re joined by someone who operates at a high level across multiple sides of the business—real estate, lending, hard money, and valuation—all under one roof at CARLILE, a true all-inclusive boutique brokerage.In this conversation, we get into:His journey into real estate and what led him into the world of hard money lendingThe turning points and early mistakes that shaped how he operates todayWhat most investors are getting wrong right now—and where the real opportunities areAnd how global events, like the Iran situation, could impact rates, liquidity, and investor behaviorIf you’re an investor, broker, or someone looking to better understand where the market is heading—this is an episode you don’t want to missThis episode is brought to you by Directed IRA. With over 1,000 clients served and more than $3 billion in assets under custody, Directed IRA is a trusted leader in self-directed retirement accounts. Their network includes 20,000+ investors and 60+ dedicated associates supporting over 100 daily transactions. Whether you're investing in real estate, private lending, or alternative assets, they give you the tools and control to build wealth your way. Plus, check out their #1 ranked Self-Directed IRA Podcast, bestselling book, and the industry-leading Self-Directed IRA Summit. If you're serious about taking control of your retirement, Directed IRA is where it starts.

#106: Welcome back to The Lender’s Playbook Podcast. I’m your host, Matt Rosen, and this is Episode 106.Today’s episode is all about one thing, how to invest in multifamily real estate like the pros… even if you’re not one.I sit down with Victor Bell, a longtime friend and seasoned expert in the multifamily investing space. We break down what actually makes a deal profitable, the key metrics every investor and lender should understand, and how to avoid costly mistakes, whether you’re investing passively or deploying capital as a private lender.If you’re looking to make smarter, more confident investment decisions in multifamily real estate, this episode is for you.Thank you Episode Sponsor!Dynamic Finance GroupIf you’re a real estate investor looking for speed, flexibility, and a lending partner that actually understands your deals, Dynamic Finance Group has you covered.From short-term bridge loans to fix-and-flip, new construction, and long-term 30-year rental financing, they offer solutions built to move at your pace.What sets them apart?Clear communication, hands-on support, and a team that puts your goals first.If you’re ready to close faster and scale smarter, connect with Dynamic Finance Group today.https://www.dynamicfinancegroup.com/Check out the podcast I did with them! https://app.fusebox.fm/embed/player/track/Kbx2Q3jWNM/42Join us for the 5th National American Lending Conference! Oct 9-10, 2026 in Las Vegas at the Green Valley Ranch!https://www.americanlendingconference.com/

Welcome back to The Lender’s Playbook! I’m your host, Matt Rosen, and today we’re tackling one thing every private lender wants: consistent, qualified deal flow.I sit down with Stephen Lawrence from BlueCraft Leads to break down their system designed specifically for private lenders. We cover how they attract serious borrowers, filter out unqualified leads, and deliver results for private lenders, brokers, and funds alike.If you’re ready to stop chasing deals and start building a predictable pipeline, this episode is for you.Thank you Sponsor~ This episode is brought to you by Title Ease, a turnkey franchise solution to start your own title and closing company. Launch a new revenue stream, increase your enterprise value, and take control of your customers’ transactions. Check them out at https://www.titleeasefranchise.com/ and meet them at the American Lending Conference, Oct 9–10 in Las Vegas. American Lending Conference -Oct 9-10, 2026 Las Vegashttps://www.americanlendingconference.com/

#104:Welcome back to the Lenders Playbook Podcast. This is episode 104, and I’m your host, Matt Rosen.Today we sit down with Roy Landers. An attorney and former judge... and I’ve got to say — this was one of the most eye-opening and fun conversations I’ve had in a while.Roy buys profitable small businesses from retiring owners and scales them with investors. It’s an incredible model for entrepreneurs who want to own a business without starting from scratch.Many of these acquisitions also include real estate, creating opportunities for loans backed by strong collateral, cash flow for investors, and sometimes even equity participation when the deal makes sense.We talk about mergers and acquisitions... buying boring, service-based businesses, scaling them, buying more, and eventually exiting.This is truly a fascinating niche, and I know you’re going to love this one.First a Quick shoutout to one of the lenders we work with — Deephaven Mortgage.If you're a real estate investor who’s ever been told ‘you don’t qualify’ by a traditional bank, this is exactly why Deephaven exists. They specialize in Non-QM loans, which basically means they look at deals differently — using common sense and flexible underwriting instead of rigid government guidelines.They work with over 1,000 mortgage brokers nationwide and fund loans for investors, landlords, and entrepreneurs who don’t always fit the traditional box.Deephaven is headquartered in Charlotte and backed by Pretium, a major investment manager in real estate and mortgage finance.If you're looking for financing on your next deal, reach out to me and I’ll see if Deephaven could be a fit. Oct. 9-10, 2026American Lending ConferenceNational Private Lending Conferencehttps://www.americanlendingconference.com/

Welcome back to the Lenders Playbook Podcast-episode 103. Today I’m joined by Bill Bymel the founder of First Lien Capital, a company focused on buying and investing in real estate notes.In this episode, we’ll talk about how he got started in the note business, the types of deals he looks for, and how he decides which notes to buy. We’ll also get into what makes his company different, where he thinks interest rates are headed in 2026, and some of the leadership principles that have helped him build the business.

Welcome to the Lenders Playbook Podcast with Matt Rosen. In episode 102, we’re joined by Darius Ross, a long-time American Lending Conference member who turns overlooked neighborhoods into profitable opportunities. Darius shares his journey in inner-city investing, the deals that shaped him, and the lessons most investors learn too late. We talk real deals, real risks, and how to find opportunities while making a real impact.

Building a True All-Inclusive Real Estate & Lending Platform with Taylor GreerIn this episode, I sit down with Taylor Greer, a seasoned real estate and hard money professional who’s been navigating the Sacramento market since 2005. Taylor breaks down how CARLILE was built as a true all-inclusive boutique brokerage—combining real estate, lending, hard money, and appraisals under one roof—and why that model gives buyers and investors a serious advantage.We dive into how the Sacramento market has evolved over the years, where smart money is finding opportunity right now, and the biggest mistakes buyers and sellers continue to make. Taylor also shares real client success stories, his education-first approach to investing, and what buyers and investors need to understand heading into 2026.If you’re looking to make smarter real estate decisions, spot opportunities others miss, and learn how integrated services create better outcomes, this episode is packed with insight.

Today’s episode is a big one.Welcome to the Lenders Playbook! Today is a big day for us. This is our 100th episode, and I honestly couldn’t think of a more fitting way to mark the milestone here at the start of 2026.When I look back at why this podcast started, it was always about bringing real conversations, real operators, and real value to this industry—not hype, not noise, but people who are actually in the arena doing the work.That’s why having Nema and Kevin Kim on for episode 100 feels perfect.They represent exactly what this show is about: long-term thinking, discipline, execution, and building something that lasts. Their journey, the way they operate as a law firm and the impact they’ve had in this space align completely with the standards we try to hold here every single episode.So if you’ve been with us since episode one—or if this is your first time tuning in—this conversation is a powerful one. I’m excited, grateful, and proud to bring you episode 100 with Nema Degbandan and Kevin Kim from Fortra Law.Let’s get into it.

In Episode 98 of The Lenders Playbook, host Matt Rosen dives into what happens when real estate deals don’t go as planned—and how private lenders can protect themselves before problems arise.Our guest today is by Brock Berglund, a specialist in commercial foreclosures and loan workouts, we break down real-world scenarios, common lender misunderstandings, and practical strategies to avoid costly mistakes when deals go sideways.This episode is brought to you by Temple View Capital Funding, LP, a national private money lender offering flexible, common-sense financing for non-owner-occupied residential investment properties—helping investors close faster and scale smarter nationwide.American Lending ConferenceNational Private Lending EventMarch 10-11, 2026Las Vegas, Green Valley Ranchhttps://www.americanlendingconference.com/

Episode 97 of The Lenders Playbook features an in-depth conversation with entrepreneur Chance Wheeler, founder of Asset Allies—a company using advanced AI to transform the way lenders, brokers, and investors underwrite real estate deals.In this episode, we unpack the real problems in today’s underwriting process: slow turnaround times, inconsistent valuations, and decisions often based on gut instead of data. Chance shares the moment he realized AI could outperform traditional methods, how his platform delivers faster and more accurate deal analysis, and why this technology is already reshaping the lending landscape.We also discuss the biggest challenges in scaling a tech company in the real estate space, how users are reacting to AI-driven underwriting, and what deal valuation is likely to look like by 2026.If you’re a private lender, broker, or real estate investor looking for the future of deal analysis, this episode is packed with insights you can use today.

Looking for consistent returns without the headaches of fixing toilets or managing tenants? Promissory notes may be the passive investment strategy you’ve been searching for. In Episode 96, our guest explains how note investing supports real families, delivers strong results, and allows investors to own the asset directly without doing any of the work. If you want to build wealth smarter and faster, this episode will show you how to take the first step.March 10-11, 2026Las VegasAmerican Lending ConferenceNational Private Lending Conferencehttps://www.americanlendingconference.com/

Welcome back to The Lenders Playbook Podcast episode #95. We are you your go-to resource for private lending, real estate, and entrepreneurship. I’m your host, Matt Rosen. Today, I’m joined by Mat Sorensen — attorney, best-selling author, and CEO of Directed IRA, one of the nation’s top self-directed IRA companies.  We’re breaking down how to use your retirement funds to invest in real estate, private lending, and other alternative assets — plus the biggest mistakes to avoid and how to get started.   If you’ve ever wanted to take control of your retirement and invest like the pros, this episode is for you. Thank you to our Episode Sponsors!Doss Law https://www.dosslaw.com/American Lending Conference https://www.americanlendingconference.com/

Welcome back to The Lenders Playbook, Episode #93! I’m your host, Matt Rosen and today’s episode is one every lender needs to hear.We’re joined by Melissa Martorella, Partner at Fortra Law, one of the most respected legal firms in private lending. Melissa shares how she built a powerhouse team serving lenders nationwide, the biggest legal mistakes to avoid, and what it takes to stay protected in a changing market.Grab your notebook this one’s packed with game-changing insights for lenders, brokers, and investors.This episode is brought to you by Temple View Capital, your trusted nationwide private lender offering fast approvals, flexible loan programs, and a common-sense approach to funding.Meet them live at the American Lending Conference, March 10–11 at Green Valley Ranch in Las Vegas. Visit https://www.americanlendingconference.com/ to register.Now, let’s jump in with Melissa Martorella from Fortra Law.

#92: Today, we’re sitting down with Bryce Matheson founder of Lendr, a company that’s transforming how private lenders run their businesses. If you’ve ever felt bogged down by spreadsheets, overwhelmed by managing multiple tools, or stuck trying to scale, this conversation is for you.We’ll unpack the problem that sparked the creation of Lendr, how it streamlines day-to-day operations for lenders, and the biggest transformations they’ve seen in businesses that made the switch. Plus, we’ll talk about the automation features lenders love most, what sets successful entrepreneurs apart, and even the book that’s made the biggest impact on Bryce's journey.So whether you’re looking to save time, scale your business, or just stay ahead of the curve with the right tech and marketing tools, you won’t want to miss this one.Let’s jump in!Do not miss our 5th National American Lending Conference!March 10-11, 2026 in Las Vegas. The best and brightest in private lending will be there! Will you? Register here-->https://www.americanlendingconference.com/

#91: In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of the recent American Lending Conference, our most impactful event yet. From powerful keynote sessions and high-level panels to the incredible networking that brought lenders, brokers, investors, and service providers together, this year’s conference truly raised the bar.I’ll share some of the highlights, the energy in the room, and the key takeaways that are shaping the future of private lending. Whether you were there in person or following from afar, this episode gives you an inside look at what made the event so special and why the American Lending Conference has become the place to be for the lending community. Be sure to mark your calendar! March 10-11, 20265th National American Lending Conference and Golf Tournament!https://www.americanlendingconference.com/

#90: Welcome to The Lender’s Playbook episode 90!,  I’m your host, Matt Rosen and today we’ve got a very special episode. But first a quick yet timely announcement!The American Lending Conference is just around the corner—next week, September 3rd–4th at the beautiful Green Valley Ranch in Las Vegas. This national event is where lenders, brokers, investors, and industry experts come together to connect, learn, and grow.In today’s episode, we’re joined by Chris Donovan from Doss Law, who will be taking the stage at the conference to share some powerful insights on multi-state expansion and the legal strategies lenders need to know. We’ll talk about the challenges, the risks, and the smartest ways to grow your lending business with the right structure in place.So, whether you’re attending the conference or just tuning in from home, you’re going to walk away with real, practical advice you can apply right away. Let’s jump in.”

Welcome to The Lenders Playbook. Your resource for all things private lending, real estate, and entrepreneurship.  In today’s episode, I sit down with Greg Herlean, Founder of Horizon Trust, to talk about how investors can take control of their financial future using Self-Directed IRAs. And how Greg at a very young age was able to raise a significant amount of capital for his real estate projects. Greg breaks down what a Self-Directed IRA is, how it’s different from traditional retirement accounts, and why it’s such a powerful tool for real estate investors and private lenders.  e dive into the benefits, the risks, and even real-life examples of people who’ve used this strategy to grow their wealth.  Whether you’re raising capital, lending, or just getting started in real estate investing, this conversation will give you practical steps and inspiration to put your money to work in more innovative ways.And we are right around the corner from our 4th national private lending conference, Sept 3-4 in Henderson, NV, where you will meet most of our podcast guests, lenders, investors, capital providers, and brokers for great networking opportunities and education.  We're excited to announce an amazing lineup: a kickoff cocktail party, world-class breakfast and lunch, an after-party with a huge exhibitor hall, and some cool surprises for you!  lease go to www.americanlendingconference.com for more detailsAnd now, let's bring on Greg Herlean

In this episode, we sit down with Vince Martinez since, a seasoned mortgage broker with his sights set on expanding into private lending. He shares his take on today’s market, where he sees opportunity in hard money and non-QM, and why this year’s conference is the place to make those deals happen. I love this episode, because I think you will relate to his journey especially if you are a mortgage broker or wanting to enter into our space. Lets bring him on...

Welcome to the lenders playbook podcast, episode 87! I am your host Matt Rosen, and we are your go to podcast for private lending, real estate and entrepreneurship.Today we’re taking a deep dive into the evolving world of valuations and appraisals with Service 1st, a company that’s redefining how private lenders and investors approach the appraisal process. My guest is Pete Gianfransesco who plays a pivotal role in guiding the company’s mission and innovation as the Senior VP of Appraisals.We’ll talk about what Service 1st does, who they serve, how their technology is streamlining the process, what sets them apart from other AMCs, and how they’re tackling some of the biggest challenges in today’s appraisal market. We’ll also cover what private lenders should look for in a great AMC partner, the trends shaping the future of valuations over the next couple of years, and Pete's personal insights on leadership,If you want a clear picture of where the appraisal industry is headed — and how to make sure you’re working with the right partner — this episode is for you.