The Mordeau Mortgage Podcast

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Jul 2026

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About the show

Mortgage Loan Officers and entrepreneurs, Matt Morrell and Jason Thibodeau, share industry insights and chat with other dedicated professionals. Our goal is to provide meaningful education and value to the consumer and Real Estate professional alike. JMJ Financial Group, NMLS ID# 167867

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July 29, 2026Episode 9948 min

Ep.99 How to Use a 1031 Exchange to Build Long-Term Wealth

Send us Fan Mail Real estate isn't just about buying and selling properties. It's about making smart decisions that help you build wealth over time. A 1031 Exchange is one of the most powerful tools available to real estate investors, allowing you to defer capital gains taxes while reinvesting into new investment properties. When used strategically, it can help you preserve equity, grow your portfolio, and create a stronger long-term financial plan. In this episode of The Mortgage Lounge, Mike Grambow is joined by Monique Wilson and Michael Spring of Exchange Resources to explain how 1031 Exchanges work, who qualifies, the critical deadlines every investor should know, and the common mistakes that can put an exchange at risk. They also discuss reverse exchanges, Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs), estate planning strategies, and why having the right team of professionals can make all the difference. Whether you're preparing to sell your first investment property or looking to expand your real estate portfolio, this conversation will give you a better understanding of how a 1031 Exchange can become part of your long-term wealth-building strategy. ================= 🔑 Key Takeaways What a 1031 Exchange is and how it works Which investment properties qualify The 45-day identification and 180-day exchange deadlines Common mistakes that can jeopardize an exchange Reverse Exchanges and Build-to-Suit Exchanges explained Estate planning benefits, including step-up in basis Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) as an investment option Why working with the right lender, CPA, escrow officer, and qualified intermediary matters ======================= #1031Exchange #RealEstateInvesting #InvestmentProperty #CapitalGainsTax #WealthBuilding Other related keywords 1031 exchange, how to use a 1031 exchange, what is a 1031 exchange, 1031 exchange explained, 1031 exchange rules, reverse 1031 exchange, Delaware Statutory Trust, DST investing, qualified intermediary, capital gains tax, investment property, real estate investing, wealth building, estate planning, step up in basis, Exchange Resources, Monique Wilson Kaiser, Michael Spring, Mike Rambo, The Mortgage Lounge, JMJ Financial, real estate education, passive real estate investing, investment property taxes, 1031 exchange for beginners

July 21, 2026Episode 9821 min

Ep.98 What Most Home Buyers Don't Know About Pre-Approvals

Send us Fan Mail Being a great loan officer does not always mean winning every deal. Sometimes, doing the right thing means asking more questions, requesting more documentation, slowing down the process, and even losing business to someone willing to say yes faster. In this episode of The Mortgage Lounge, Jason Thibodeau and Jason Thomas discuss the hidden cost of being a thorough, honest, and responsible loan officer—and why integrity often feels expensive in the short term. They break down what a true mortgage pre-approval should involve, why income, assets, and credit must be properly verified, and how cutting corners at the beginning of a transaction can create unnecessary stress, delays, and financial risk for buyers and Realtors later in escrow. Jason and Jason also share real experiences from their careers, including moments when being cautious cost them business, the pressure loan officers face to compete with faster approvals, and why saying yes to everything can eventually damage a professional reputation. The conversation also explores how strong loan officers respond when problems arise. Instead of panicking, disappearing, or becoming defensive, they communicate clearly, remain calm, and focus on solutions. That kind of professionalism does more than save transactions—it builds trust with clients, Realtors, listing agents, and everyone involved in the process. The lesson is simple: shortcuts may help you win business today, but integrity is what builds a career that lasts. Whether you are a loan officer, Realtor, homebuyer, or mortgage professional, this episode offers an honest look at what responsible lending really requires. ====================== Follow Jason Thibodeau! Instagram: jasonthibodeauofficial Website:www.jmj.me/jThibodeau NMLS 296586 =================== Follow Jason Thomas! Instagram:jason_thomas_mortgage Facebook: Jason Thomas Mortgage Website: www.jmj.me/jthomas NMLS 1163778 =================== Key Takeaways What a legitimate mortgage pre-approval should include Why income verification is critical when qualifying for a home loan How incomplete pre-approvals can put buyers and deposits at risk Why some loan officers lose business by being more thorough The danger of saying yes before verifying the complete financial picture How cutting corners creates stress for buyers, Realtors, and lending teams Why calm communication matters when problems arise during escrow How professionalism during difficult transactions creates future referrals Why reputation and trust are built over time The difference between chasing quick deals and building a lasting mortgage career ===================== What matters more to you when choosing a loan officer—speed or certainty? Share your thoughts in the comments. If you found value in this conversation, like the video, subscribe to The Mortgage Lounge, and turn on notifications for more honest discussions about mortgages, real estate, business, and the realities behind the industry. Hashtags #TheMortgageLounge #LoanOfficer #MortgageIndustry #MortgageLending #RealEstateProfessionals #MortgagePreApproval #HomeBuying #MortgageAdvice #RealEstateAgents #MortgageBusiness #LoanOfficerTraining #MortgageEducation #JMJFinancial #OrangeCountyRealEstate #IntegrityInBusiness YouTube Tags The Mortgage Lounge, Jason Thibodeau, Jason Thomas, JMJ Financial, loan officer, mortgage loan officer, great loan officer, mortgage lending, mortgage pre approval, mortgage preapproval process, how to become a better loan officer, loan officer training, mortgage industry, mortgage career, real estate professionals, real estate agents, home buying process, mortgage approval, income verification mortgage, mortgage underwriting, mortgage documentation, mortgage mistakes, loan officer mistakes, ethical mortgage lending, integrity in business, mortgage business, building trust with Realtors, Realtor lender relationships, mortgage podcast, real estate podcast, Orange County mortgage, Huntington Beach mortgage lender, mortgage advice, responsible lending, successful loan officer, long term business success

July 20, 2026Episode 9745 min

Ep.97 How They Saved a Real Estate Deal in Just 48 Hours

Send us Fan Mail Most real estate transactions don't come with a 48-hour deadline. This one did. When a reverse 1031 exchange came down to its final two days, what seemed impossible quickly became a race against time. With multiple moving parts, unexpected roadblocks, and significant tax consequences on the line, every decision mattered. In this episode of The Mortgage Lounge, Jason Thibodeau sits down with Lorraine Thibodeau, owner of On Demand Escrow, and Jeff Bemis of 1031 Specialists to unpack one of the most extraordinary real estate transactions they've ever experienced. Beyond the story, they explain what a 1031 Exchange is, how a Reverse 1031 Exchange works, why strict IRS deadlines matter, and what it takes for lenders, escrow officers, title representatives, and qualified intermediaries to work together when every hour counts. This conversation isn't just about taxes or real estate. It's about preparation, communication, relationships, and the professionals who quietly solve problems behind the scenes when everyone else thinks a deal can't be done. Whether you're a real estate investor, Realtor, escrow officer, lender, or simply curious about how complex transactions come together, you'll walk away with a new appreciation for the teamwork that makes successful closings possible. ========================== Key Takeaways What a 1031 Exchange is in simple terms How a Reverse 1031 Exchange works Why timing is everything in a 1031 Exchange What happens when IRS deadlines are at risk How one real estate transaction was saved in just 48 hours The role of escrow, title, lenders, and qualified intermediaries Why relationships matter more than transactions Lessons every real estate professional can apply =========================== 🏷️ Hashtags #TheMortgageLounge #1031Exchange #Reverse1031 #RealEstateInvesting #Escrow #RealEstate #Mortgage #RealEstateProfessionals #PropertyInvestment #RealEstatePodcast 🏷️ YouTube Tags 1031 exchange, reverse 1031 exchange, what is a 1031 exchange, how does a 1031 exchange work, qualified intermediary, Jeff Bemis, 1031 Specialists, Jason Thibodeau, Lorraine Thibodeau, On Demand Escrow, escrow, escrow officer, real estate investing, investment property, capital gains tax, tax deferred exchange, real estate podcast, The Mortgage Lounge, real estate transactions, commercial real estate, residential investment property, IRS 1031 rules, exchange accommodator, real estate education

July 20, 2026Episode 9638 min

Ep.96 Why the Best Real Estate Professionals Play the Long Game

Send us Fan Mail What does it really take to build a successful and lasting career in real estate? In this episode of The Mortgage Lounge, Jason Thibodeau sits down with Michele Kader, Publisher and Owner of Orange County Real Producers, and Michael Perisi, Owner of Mariners Escrow, following an exclusive event that brought together more than 300 of Orange County’s leading real estate professionals. The event featured four of Orange County’s top-producing real estate agents, each with a different personality, leadership style, and path to success. Yet beneath those differences were many of the same principles: consistency, authenticity, strong relationships, resilience, and a willingness to stay committed long after the excitement of starting has passed. Michele shares what it takes to build and execute high-level real estate events, why protecting the quality of the Orange County Real Producers community matters, and how years of experience have shaped the way she approaches leadership, delegation, and growth. Michael reflects on more than three decades in the escrow industry and explains how simple relationship-building habits helped grow Mariners Escrow from a small team into one of the area’s leading escrow companies. He also shares why trust, responsiveness, patience, and treating every relationship as a long-term investment continue to matter in today’s market. Together, Jason, Michele, and Michael discuss the reality behind long-term success, the importance of becoming comfortable with discomfort, and why meaningful growth rarely happens overnight. Whether you are a real estate agent, mortgage professional, escrow professional, business owner, or someone building a relationship-driven career, this conversation offers a grounded look at what it takes to stay relevant, continue growing, and build a reputation that lasts. ================================= Follow Michele Kader! Instagram: Michele Kader Instagram: OC Real Producers Website: https://www.ocrealproducers.com/ ============================ Follow Michael Perisi! Instagram: Michael Perisi President Website: https://marinersescrow.com/ =========================== Follow Jason Thibodeau! Instagram: jasonthibodeauofficial Website: https://jmjhbmortgage.com/ NMLS 296586 ============================ KEY TAKEAWAYS • Why different personalities and business styles can all lead to success • What Orange County’s top real estate producers have in common • Why consistency matters more than immediate results • How relationship-building creates long-term business opportunities • Why adding value can be more effective than competing for attention • What it takes to plan and execute a high-level real estate event • Why strong leaders eventually need to create space through delegation • How authenticity helps professionals build stronger connections • Why public speaking and confidence improve through experience • What new real estate professionals should understand before entering the industry • Why today’s real estate market rewards experience, expertise, and resilience • How playing the long game can create a career and reputation that last ============================== HASHTAGS #TheMortgageLounge #OrangeCountyRealEstate #RealEstateSuccess #RealEstateProfessionals #RealEstateLeadership #RealEstateBusiness #MortgageIndustry #EscrowIndustry #OCRealProducers #RelationshipMarketing #BusinessGrowth #RealEstateCareer #OrangeCountyBusiness #RealEstateNetworking #TopRealEstateProducers Other Keywords The Mortgage Lounge, Jason Thibodeau, Michelle Cater, Mike Parisi, Orange County Real Producers, OC Real Producers, Mariners Escrow, Orange County real estate, Orange County real estate agents, top real estate producers, real estate success, successful real estate agents, real estate career advice, how to succeed in real estate, building a real estate career, real estate leadership, real estate business growth, real estate networking, relationship marketing, building business relationships, real estate industry, mortgage industry, escrow industry, real estate events, Orange County business, top producing real estate agents, long term business success, real estate motivation, real estate market 2026, real estate podcast, mortgage podcast, business leadership podcast, consistency in business, authenticity in business, relationship based business

June 3, 2026Episode 9528 min

Ep.95 The Real Reason Most Business Owners Never Start Content

Send us Fan Mail Starting content feels exciting… until it becomes overwhelming. In this episode of the Mortgage Lounge, Mike sits down with Corie Savery, producer and business partner behind Studio 9one9, to talk about the real challenges business owners face when trying to show up online. From awkward first videos and social media anxiety to finding authenticity on camera, this conversation dives into why so many entrepreneurs struggle to start, and what actually helps people build confidence. They also share the unexpected story of how Studio 9one9 came together, why authentic storytelling matters more than polished perfection, and how small businesses in Long Beach, Orange County, and Southern California can create content without feeling overwhelmed. If you've ever felt stuck trying to figure out cameras, content, podcasts, social media, or simply how to show up online as yourself, this conversation is for you. ============================== 🔍 Questions This Episode Answers • Why do most business owners struggle with content? • How do you start creating content without feeling overwhelmed? • What makes content feel authentic? • Do small businesses really need social media? • How can podcasts help local businesses grow? • What makes a great content studio experience? Whether you're a Realtor, lender, entrepreneur, or local business owner, this episode shares practical insight on showing up online without losing yourself in the process. ===================================== #studio919 #smallbusinessmarketing #podcastmarketing #contentcreation #longbeachbusiness #orangecountybusiness #entrepreneurmindset #smallbusinessowner #socialmediamarketing #businessgrowth #authenticmarketing #brandingstrategy #mortgagelounge #videomarketing #contentcreator #longbeachca #orangecountybusiness #localbusinessmarketing #businesspodcast #entrepreneurlife

June 2, 2026Episode 9420 min

Ep.94 She Almost Didn’t Buy the House… Now She Owns Multiple Properties

Send us Fan Mail Buying a home can feel overwhelming, especially when interest rates, uncertainty, and fear start creeping in. But what happens when you buy anyway? In this episode of the Mortgage Lounge, Mike Grambow sits down with mortgage loan officer Andrianna Felando talk about homeownership, generational wealth, first-time buyer fears, and why waiting for the “perfect time” can sometimes cost more than people realize. Andrianna shares her personal homebuying journey, from purchasing her first home while navigating uncertainty, to becoming an investor and seeing firsthand how real estate can create long-term financial stability for families. They also discuss: ✔️ Why fear stops so many buyers from making a move ✔️ Is now actually a good time to buy a home? ✔️ Why Southern California real estate behaves differently ✔️ What first-time homebuyers often misunderstand ✔️ How real estate creates generational wealth ✔️ Why waiting for lower rates can sometimes backfire ✔️ The emotional side of buying a home Whether you're a first-time buyer, move-up buyer, investor, or simply wondering if now is the right time to purchase, this conversation offers a grounded perspective on real estate, timing, and long-term wealth building. =============== Follow Andrianna Felando! Instagram: andriannamarie Facebook: / andrianna.tucker Website: https://web.jmj.me/AndriannaFelando =============== Follow Mike Grambow! Instagram: mike_grambow_mortgage Facebook: Mike Grambow Mortgage Youtube: @MikeGrambowMortgage Website: www.jmj.me/mgrambow NMLS 1766492 ================================ 🔍 Questions This Video Answers: • Is now a good time to buy a house? • Should I wait for interest rates to drop? • Why do buyers regret waiting? • How does home appreciation actually work? • Is buying a home still worth it in California? • How can real estate create generational wealth? • What should first-time homebuyers know before purchasing? #mortgage #firsttimehomebuyer #southerncaliforniarealestate #longbeachrealestate #orangecountyrealestate #homebuyingtips #realestatepodcast #mortgagetips #generationalwealth #housingmarket

May 28, 2026Episode 9331 min

Ep.93 He Didn’t Follow the Typical Real Estate Playbook

Send us Fan Mail What does it actually take to build momentum in real estate… fast? In this episode of the Mortgage Lounge, Mike Grambow sits down with Winston Yeh of the Sackin Stone Team in Huntington Beach to talk about career pivots, relationship-based business, and what it really takes to grow in real estate today. Before real estate, Winston spent years helping run his family’s wedding gown business, overseeing sales, production, and international operations. Then in 2022, he made a major career shift and has since completed more than 37 transactions while building a business rooted in trust, patience, and genuine relationships. This conversation covers what new agents often overlook, why being genuine matters more than hard selling, how team sports shape leadership, and why patience is still one of the biggest advantages in today’s market. =============== Follow Winston Yeh! Instagram: Winston Yeh =============== Follow Mike Grambow! Instagram: mike_grambow_mortgage Facebook: Mike Grambow Mortgage Youtube: @MikeGrambowMortgage Website: www.jmj.me/mgrambow NMLS 1766492 🔍 QUESTIONS THIS VIDEO ANSWERS • Is it too late to start a career in real estate? • How do new Realtors succeed faster? • What skills transfer into real estate success? • How important are relationships in real estate? • What makes buyers trust an agent? • Should new agents join a real estate team? ======================== #realestatepodcast #realestateagent #huntingtonbeachrealestate #longbeachrealestate #orangecountyrealestate #californiarealestate #mortgagelounge #realestatetips #realtorlife #realestatecareer #newrealtor #businessgrowth #entrepreneurmindset #realestatecoach #homesellingtips #homebuyingtips #relationshipmarketing #realestateeducation #realestatebusiness #southerncaliforniarealestate

May 13, 2026Episode 9233 min

Ep.92 What Can Kill a Deal Last Minute

Send us Fan Mail Most buyers think once you’re approved, the deal is done. It’s not. In this episode, Mike Grambow sits down with Rod Grishaber to break down one of the most overlooked parts of real estate, title and what can go wrong right before closing. From hidden liens to last-minute surprises, they explain why deals can fall apart even after everything seems approved. Inside this conversation: • What title insurance actually protects you from • Why liens can show up at the last minute • The difference between buyer risk vs property risk • How title companies clear issues before closing • Why some deals get delayed… and others don’t They also walk through real scenarios, including IRS liens, child support liens, and property issues that almost stopped deals from closing. If you’re buying, selling, or working in real estate, this is the part of the process most people don’t fully understand until it becomes a problem. =============== Follow Rod Grishaber! Instagram: Rod Grishaber Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/groups/titleu/... Youtube: @TitleU101 Tiktok: @rodgrishaber =============== Follow Mike Grambow! Instagram: mike_grambow_mortgage Facebook: Mike Grambow Mortgage Youtube: @MikeGrambowMortgage Website: www.jmj.me/mgrambow NMLS 1766492 ================= 🔍 WHAT THIS VIDEO ANSWERS • What does a title company do in real estate? • What is a lien on a property? • Can a deal fall apart before closing? • Why do issues show up last minute in escrow? • What is title insurance and do I need it? • How are liens removed before closing? =================================== #realestate101 #homebuyingtips #realestatepodcast #escrowprocess #titleinsurance #closingday #homebuyers #realestatetips #orangecountyrealestate #californiarealestate #mortgageprocess #propertybuying #realestateeducation #homeownership #realestateadvice #firsttimehomebuyer #housingmarket #realestatestrategy #behindthescenesrealestate #loanofficerlife

May 13, 2026Episode 9116 min

Ep.91 A Different Way to Succeed in Real Estate

Send us Fan Mail What does it really take to build a successful real estate business… on your own? In this episode, Angie Sandoval sits down with Angie Rebennack, a top-performing agent in Long Beach who has built her business through consistency, systems, and genuine connection with her community. Instead of relying on a large team, she shares how being intentional with her time, her relationships, and her daily structure has allowed her to grow while still staying present for her family and life outside of work. Inside this conversation: • How consistency compounds over time • The systems that make her business sustainable • Why community involvement leads to real referrals • How she balances family, business, and personal life • What most people overlook when building a real estate career This is a real look at what success can look like when it’s built with purpose, not pressure. =============== Follow Angie Rebennack! Instagram: Angie Rebennack Facebook: Angie Rebennack Realtor Youtube: ‪@angierebennack‬ Website: www.angie-r.kw.com NMLS 1766492 =============== Follow Angie Sandoval! Instagram: lendingwithangie Youtube: ‪@LendingwithAngie‬ Website: www.jmj.me/asandoval NMLS 1766492 ============================== 🔍 WHAT THIS VIDEO ANSWERS • Can you succeed in real estate on your own? • What makes a real estate business sustainable? • How do agents stay consistent long term? • How do relationships turn into referrals? • What does a successful solo agent do differently? =============================== #realestateagent #realestatepodcast #longbeachrealestate #californiarealestate #realestatetips #topagent #realtorlife #realestatesuccess #agentlife #realestatemarketing #communitymarketing #referralbusiness #realestatestrategy #womeninrealestate #realestateeducation #homebuyingjourney #realestategrowth #listingagent #realestatebusiness #entrepreneurmindset

May 12, 2026Episode 9046 min

Ep.90 The Reality Behind Building a $50M Real Estate Business

Send us Fan Mail Success in real estate isn’t just about closing deals. It’s about what you do before anything starts working. In this episode, Mike Grambow sits down with Zach Mickelson, a 24-year-old agent who built over $50M in production while navigating the challenges most new agents never get past. This conversation goes beyond one moment or one struggle. It dives into the full journey, from starting with no traction, to learning how to take action without overthinking, to building confidence, systems, and eventually a team in a highly competitive market like Orange County. They break down what actually creates momentum in real estate, why consistency matters more than talent, and how shifting your mindset can completely change the direction of your business. If you’re an agent trying to grow, or someone curious about what it really takes to succeed in today’s market, this episode gives you a real, grounded perspective. =============== Follow Zach Mickelson! Instagram: zachmickelson1 Facebook: Zach Mickelson Youtube: @ZachMickelson Website: https://ocrealtorzachmick.com/ =============== Follow Mike Grambow! Instagram: mike_grambow_mortgage Facebook: Mike Grambow Mortgage Youtube: @MikeGrambowMortgage Website: www.jmj.me/mgrambow NMLS 1766492 ======================== WHAT THIS VIDEO ANSWERS • What does it really take to succeed in real estate? • How do agents go from zero to high production? • Why do most new agents struggle early on? • What mindset shifts create real momentum? • How do you compete in a market like Orange County? • When should you start building a team? ========================= #orangecountyrealestate #southerncaliforniarealestate #californiahousingmarket #realestatepodcast #realestatejourney #newagenttips #realestatecareerpath #fromzerotoproducer #realestatesuccessstory #agentgrowthmindset