Lords of Lending

2026 Look Ahead and Predictions | LoL #18

In this episode of 'Lords of Lending,' we discuss the economic forecast for small businesses in 2026, emphasizing increased borrowing and reduced equity. We draw parallels to the 2008 financial crisis and express concerns about the rising trends of highly leveraged acquisitions and diminishing equity pools.  The conversation touches on the importance of prudent lending, the potential impact of AI and other market disruptors, and the need for businesses to focus on sustainable cash flow and equity growth. We also predict that business valuations may adjust due to these financial pressures.  Join us for an in-depth analysis and strategic advice for navigating the financial landscape of 2026. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:30 2026 Economic Predictions 01:03 Debt and Equity Concerns 01:53 Lending Practices and Risks 04:19 Market Disruptors and Future Trends 05:38 Sustainable Business Strategies 07:13 The Importance of Equity 10:26 Cash Flow and Balance Sheet Fundamentals 20:05 Concluding Thoughts and Future Episodes Questions or feedback? We'd love to hear from you. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2315806/open_sms]

2025 Lessons and Reflections | LoL #17

Welcome back to Lords of Lending! In this episode, we return from our break to review the significant events of 2025 and share what we've learned. We discuss the record-breaking $100 billion in government-guaranteed loans extended to small businesses and analyze the impact of the new administration's transparency and released data.  We delve into the challenges faced by small business owners, including rising interest rates and tighter lending criteria, and provide insights on the entrepreneurial revolution post-COVID. We also explore how AI is transforming the lending landscape, offering both opportunities and pitfalls.  Tune in for a comprehensive recap of 2025 and insightful predictions for 2026. 00:00 Welcome Back to Lords of Lending 00:14 Reflecting on 2025: Wins and Mistakes 01:15 Record Year for SBA Loans 03:19 Challenges and Risks in 2025 11:02 The Entrepreneurial Revolution Post-COVID 14:46 Leveraging AI for Small Business Success 25:00 Summarizing 2025 and Looking Ahead to 2026 Questions or feedback? We'd love to hear from you. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2315806/open_sms]

When a Business Owner Asks You to Dance | LoL #16

What happens when a business owner drops hints about selling—or outright asks you to “dance”? In this episode, the Lords break down real-world signals, emotional undercurrents, and strategic moves buyers should make when owners start flirting with exit. From awkward coffees to intentional conversations, learn how to recognize the moment and act on it. 📌 Timestamps: [00:01:05] The Dance That Changed Everything - Steph's wake-up call about corporate America [05:36] From Corporate VP to 20+ Acquisitions in 5 Years - Ruth's audacious goal [11:14] The Compassion Strategy - How Ruth negotiates with legacy male sellers in a male-dominated industry [18:42] Starting at $3.35/Hour - Ruth's telemarketing origin story and work ethic foundation [30:41] "Don't Wait" - Ruth's urgent advice to women entrepreneurs (and why she wishes she'd started sooner) [35:15] Betting on Ruth - How Steph fought her credit team to back a "dreamer" who doubled revenues in year one [42:22] Breaking Glass Ceilings - Why women need "fem-tours," not mentors [49:56] The LLC Strategy - Brian breaks down Ruth's legal structure for multiple acquisitions Questions or feedback? We'd love to hear from you. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2315806/open_sms]

Seller Financing for Business Acquisition | LoL #15

Seller notes are reshaping how deals get done. In this episode, the Lords of Lending sit down with Abby Shemesh of Seller Edge Capital to explore the evolving world of seller financing, note sales, and how liquidity is changing the psychology of buyers and sellers. If you’re in acquisitions, lending, or advising, this is a masterclass in structuring smarter deals. 📌 Timestamps: 00:00 - Opening: Why seller notes are the overlooked weapon in M&A  04:31 - Abby's origin story: From Bear Stearns to disrupting Main Street finance  10:04 - The liquidity problem: Why 44% of sellers say "no" to seller financing  13:49 - The 3 contract elements that make seller notes buyable  19:05 - Steph's challenge: Why buy mediocre loans from Dubuque, Iowa?  25:15 - The capital market dislocation problem (18% vs 10% returns)  28:05 - The 3-5 year sweet spot for seller note terms  40:22 - How SBA refinancing creates perfect exit timing for note buyers  45:06 - Final roadmap: Closing more deals with seller note strategies Questions or feedback? We'd love to hear from you. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2315806/open_sms]

Building a Successful Restaurant | LoL #14

What does it take to launch and scale a thriving restaurant business? In this episode, the Lords dig into the real-world challenges, hidden costs, and strategic thinking behind building a successful food and beverage concept. Whether you’re dreaming of opening your first café or scaling your third location, this conversation covers what it really takes—from startup costs and SBA funding to operations, brand building, and long-term growth. 📌 Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro: Restaurant business isn’t for the faint of heart   01:15 – Shane’s restaurant background and hard lessons   04:22 – Startup costs: what most people underestimate   07:35 – SBA loan structure for food and beverage concepts   10:42 – Brand, vibe, and concept: the recipe for traction   14:05 – Lease terms, equipment, and location considerations   17:12 – Hiring and staffing in a high-turnover industry   20:40 – The systems behind successful operations   24:30 – Passion vs. profit: which comes first?   28:02 – Real challenges: debt, seasonality, and cash flow   31:44 – Advice to new operators looking to launch   35:10 – Wrapping up: where great restaurant owners focus Questions or feedback? We'd love to hear from you. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2315806/open_sms]