Conversations with Michael Barnett

Loanspark

Several years ago I made a bold move...I left behind the world of working for others and set out into the wild world of entrepreneurship. Since then, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges and celebrated some incredible victories. Today, I’m proud to lead Loanspark, one of the fastest-growing fintech companies in the U.S. But here’s the thing—the journey is far from over. In fact, it’s just getting started. Every day is a new adventure, a new lesson, and a new opportunity to grow. Every month, I sit down with some of the top founders and executives across all industries. We get real about the highs, the lows, the game-changing ideas, and the moments that make you question everything as a leader. No fluff, no filters—just candid conversations about what it really takes to succeed in today’s fast-paced world.  I’m your host, Michael Barnett, and this is the Conversations with Michael Barnett Podcast. Follow:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@PoweredbyLoanspark

  1. 12/01/2025

    Mastering Change in Business: How to Lead Through Uncertainty with Jim Urquhart

    What does it take to lead a company through constant uncertainty while still building great teams and attracting top talent? In this episode of Conversations with Michael Barnett, Michael sits down with Jim Urquhart, Managing Director at ZRG, to unpack the realities of today’s tech hiring market and what it means for founders, executives, and job seekers. Jim brings decades of expertise helping startups and growth-stage companies scale their leadership teams 💼 Together, they dive into: 🤖 How AI is reshaping workforce strategies and changing the roles companies actually need to fill 🤝 Why relationship-based hiring still matters (and how to build those relationships before you need them) ⚠️ The most common hiring mistakes early-stage companies make—and how to avoid them 🏆 How founders can compete for top talent against big-brand employers with deep pockets 📊 Why strategic planning and role clarity are essential for startup growth Whether you’re a founder preparing to scale, a leader navigating uncertainty, or a professional seeking your next opportunity, this episode is packed with insights on mastering change and leading with strategy in today’s shifting business environment. Connect with Jim Urquhart on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimsprofile/ Connect with Michael Barnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/     Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@PoweredByLoanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending 🔔 Subscribe for more founder stories and conversations on leadership, growth, and innovation. #Leadership #FounderStories #BusinessGrowth #StartupSuccess #ExecutiveInsights #HiringStrategies #TechLeadership #Entrepreneurship #ScalingBusinesses #Loanspark

    41 min

  2. 11/01/2025

    From Burnout to Buy-In: How to Create Teams That Love Mondays with Jasmine Martirossian

    High-performance teams don’t happen by accident—they’re built with intention. In this episode, Michael Barnett sits down with Jasmine Martirossian, Gallup-certified strengths coach and Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer at Strategy Ark, to explore how leaders can build high-performance cultures that people genuinely want to be part of. Together, they unpack why traditional management styles often fall flat—and how coaching-driven leadership transforms disengaged teams into energized, innovative ones. They dive into: 💪 What high-performance teams really look like (beyond buzzwords) 💪 Why most companies unknowingly clip their employees’ wings 💪 How to build a culture of coaching vs. command-and-control management 💪 The role of Gallup StrengthsFinder in maximizing individual and team potential 💪 Practical steps leaders can take today to boost engagement and accountability 💪 How to sustain a thriving workplace culture long after the training ends Whether you’re a CEO, a people manager, or someone who simply wants to love Mondays again, this conversation is packed with actionable insights on leadership, coaching, and building workplaces that last. Connect with Jasmine Martirossian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasmine-martirossian/ Connect with Michael Barnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/     🔗 Learn more about Strategy Ark: https://strategyark.com/ Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@PoweredByLoanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending 🔔 Subscribe for more founder stories, leadership lessons, and strategies for building teams that perform—and stay inspired. #LeadershipDevelopment #HighPerformanceTeams #WorkplaceCulture #EmployeeEngagement #LeadershipPodcast #Loanspark #StrategyArk

    46 min

  3. 10/01/2025

    From Clinician to Founder at 57: Building the Startup That Helps Clinicians Succeed in Practice with Pirooz Zia

    What drives a successful endodontist to leave a 30-year career and start over in tech at 57? In this episode, Michael Barnett sits down with Dr. Pirooz Zia, founder and CEO of Unifi, to explore his bold leap from root canals to entrepreneurship. Learn how Unifi—a platform built by clinicians, for clinicians—is solving the everyday headaches of private practice by unifying services like payroll, HR, merchant processing, patient financing, and lending into one seamless hub. They dive into: ✨ Why “comfort is dangerous” for high-performers ✨ How age can be an asset—not a liability—when launching a startup ✨ Practical advice for founders pivoting later in life ✨ The importance of planning, humility, and mission-driven strategy ✨ How Unifi is changing the game for independent healthcare practices Whether you're a clinician, an entrepreneur, or someone considering a late-career pivot, this conversation is a masterclass in vision, courage, and execution. Connect with Pirooz Zia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pirooz-zia-b0a3952b/ Connect with Michael Barnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/     🔗 Learn more about Unifi: https://myunifi.care Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@PoweredByLoanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending 🔔 Subscribe for more founder stories, fintech insights, and industry transformations. #StartupStories #HealthcareInnovation #LateCareerPivot #Unifi #ClinicianFounder #MichaelBarnett #Loanspark

    36 min

  4. 09/01/2025

    Redefining Mortgage Lending: The Relentless Execution Strategy Loan Officers Can Learn From with Thuan Nguyen

    In this episode of Conversations with Michael Barnett, Michael sits down with Thuan Nguyen, Founder & CEO of Loan Factory, to dive into what it really takes to succeed in today’s mortgage industry. Discover how relentless execution, discipline, and innovation can transform a loan officer’s career and redefine the mortgage lending experience. Thuan shares his journey of building one of the fastest-growing mortgage platforms in the nation—scaling from a one-person startup to a fintech powerhouse that now closes thousands of loans each month. 🧠 Along the way, you’ll learn valuable lessons every loan officer can apply: ✅ How to thrive in any market cycle ✅ Why execution matters more than excuses ✅ The keys to creating lasting client relationships beyond rates ✅ Practical strategies for growth, perseverance, and success Whether you’re a new loan officer looking for inspiration or an experienced mortgage professional seeking an edge, this conversation is packed with insights you can act on today. Connect with Thuan Nguyen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thuanloanfactory/ Connect with Michael Barnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/ Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@PoweredByLoanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending

    30 min

  5. 08/01/2025

    “Just Do the Thing”: The Truth About When to Push, Pause, or Pivot with Rebecca Engle

    🚀 Thinking of starting a business? Already launched but feeling stuck?  In this candid and insightful episode, Loanspark CEO Michael Barnett sits down with Rebecca Engle—strategy and operations expert—to unpack the real truths behind launching and scaling a successful company. You’ll learn: ✅ When to trust your gut and just do the thing ✅ How to avoid analysis paralysis and perfection traps ✅ Why some ideas never turn into businesses (and how to fix that) ✅ What early-stage founders get wrong about money, hiring, and growth ✅ How to know when it’s time to push harder, pause, or pivot completely Whether you’re a first-time founder, a solo entrepreneur, or a consultant guiding others, this conversation is packed with hard-earned wisdom and actionable advice. 🧠 Key Topics: - MVP mindset vs. perfectionism - Financial discipline & cash flow truths - Building the right team for your stage - The emotional rollercoaster of early startup life - Scaling smart (not just fast) Connect with Rebecca Engle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccasengle/ Connect with Michael Barnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/ Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@PoweredByLoanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending

    45 min

  6. 07/01/2025

    From Ice Cream to Interest Rates: Banking on a Better Tomorrow with Marcell King

    In this episode of Conversations with Michael Barnett, Michael sits down with Marcell King, President & COO of Incent, a youth digital banking platform revolutionizing how kids and families build financial literacy from an early age. 💡 Marcell shares his powerful personal story—from navigating financial missteps in college to leading a mission-driven fintech helping the next generation make smarter money decisions. Discover how Incent empowers parents and children to have real-world conversations about budgeting, saving, spending, and credit—starting as early as age 8. 🚀 Whether you're a parent, educator, financial institution, or fintech leader, this episode dives into: The importance of early financial educationHow real-life moments (like buying a fish 🐠) become lasting money lessonsWhy banks and credit unions need to adopt youth banking nowHow Incent differs from Greenlight, GoHenry, and other fintech playersMeasuring behavioral change—not just participation—in financial literacy🔗 Learn more about Incent: https://www.incent.net Connect with Marcell King on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcellking/ Connect with Michael Barnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/ Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@PoweredByLoanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending

    38 min

  7. 06/02/2025

    From Fear to Funding: How Mortgage Brokers Can Win in Commercial Lending with John Jurkovich

    In this episode, Michael Barnett sits down with John Jurkovich—industry veteran and Founder of the Mortgage Broker Builder—to demystify commercial lending for mortgage brokers and loan officers. Whether you're closing 2–3 loans a month or ready to scale beyond 10, this conversation uncovers the tools, mindset shifts, and niche strategies that can unlock new revenue streams. You’ll learn why commercial loans and business purpose lending aren't as complex as they seem, how DSCR loans serve as a “gateway” product, and why being different is better than being better in today’s competitive lending environment. Plus, hear practical tips on how to stop chasing leads and start converting them—without becoming a commercial lending expert overnight. 👉 Perfect for loan officers ready to diversify, boost commissions, and scale smarter. 🔑 Topics Covered: - Why so many LOs avoid commercial lending—and how to change that - The real opportunity behind DSCR and business purpose loans - How to become the go-to expert in your local market - Building a scalable, simplified lending business with the right partners 📈 Ready to add commercial lending to your toolkit? This episode is your blueprint! Connect with John Jurkovich on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-jurkovich-171b3b/ Connect with Michael Barnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/ Join the Mortgage Broker Builder Community: https://fintoolbox.io/freegroup Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@PoweredByLoanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending

    38 min

  8. 05/01/2025

    Redefining Success in Tech: Purpose, Equity, and the Founder’s Journey with Jess Drislane

    In this episode, Michael Barnett, Founder & CEO of Loanspark, and Jess Drislane, Founder & CEO of OpenScholar, dive into the real work of building early-stage, mission-driven companies that scale by enabling others.  They explore what it means to create partner-first platforms, why trust is the most valuable currency in growth, and how to balance speed with purpose in high-stakes environments.  Jess shares her journey from investment firm to science-focused tech founder, leading OpenScholar in its mission to help researchers and institutions speed discovery through smarter digital infrastructure.  Tune in to learn how OpenScholar powers academic branding to help bring cures to market faster, why true partner enablement beats traditional sales, and what it means to take risks in legacy industries and betting on bold visions. Whether you're growing a fintech, edtech, SaaS, or simply navigating startup leadership, this episode delivers honest insight from two founders who are building with purpose. Connect with Jess Drislane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-drislane-451204a/ Connect with Michael Barnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/ Follow Loanspark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loanspark Follow Loanspark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poweredbyloanspark/ Follow Loanspark on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/loansparkllc Follow Loanspark on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loanspark Subscribe to Loanspark on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@poweredbyloanspark Learn more about partnering with Loanspark: https://www.loanspark.com/landing/loanspark-embedded-small-business-lending

    37 min
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Trailer

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Several years ago I made a bold move...I left behind the world of working for others and set out into the wild world of entrepreneurship. Since then, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges and celebrated some incredible victories. Today, I’m proud to lead Loanspark, one of the fastest-growing fintech companies in the U.S. But here’s the thing—the journey is far from over. In fact, it’s just getting started. Every day is a new adventure, a new lesson, and a new opportunity to grow. Every month, I sit down with some of the top founders and executives across all industries. We get real about the highs, the lows, the game-changing ideas, and the moments that make you question everything as a leader. No fluff, no filters—just candid conversations about what it really takes to succeed in today’s fast-paced world.  I’m your host, Michael Barnett, and this is the Conversations with Michael Barnett Podcast. Follow:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcbarnett/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@PoweredbyLoanspark

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