Episodes

  • Ep. 76 | Beats, Business, and Breaking Barriers with DJ Squizzy Taylor
    Dec 24 2024

    In this episode of From the Ground Up, DJ Squizzy Taylor shares his incredible journey from Langston University graduate to the official DJ of the Denver Broncos. Discover how he’s transformed Denver’s nightlife, built thriving businesses like The Lobby, 4Play Kitchen & Cocktails, and founded the Celebrate Life Foundation to empower his community. He also dives into his passion for creating spaces that celebrate culture and diversity, from nightclubs to new ventures in the cannabis market. Whether it’s energizing a stadium or giving back through philanthropy, Squizzy offers insights into balancing creativity, business, and impact. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about music, entrepreneurship, and leaving a lasting legacy.

    Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and set up alerts!

    Shay Jenkins & Sarah Alberts are the founders of S&S Mortgage Team at New American Funding in Denver, Colorado.

    S&S Mortgage Team is a full-service mortgage lender that provides financing for homeowners and home buyers throughout the country. We are licensed in 36 states, so we can serve the greater majority of the United States.

    The leaders of the team, Sarah and Shay, met in college in 2008 and instantly clicked. They both have been in the mortgage industry for several years and decided to join forces in 2021 to start the power group behind S&S Mortgage Team.

    The S&S Mortgage Team is dedicated to our client’s success. It is this driving mission that keeps our team constantly learning and pushing beyond our boundaries. We make a commitment to each borrower, fulfilling it with hard work, constant communication, and creative problem solving.



    Follow Us Everywhere:
    https://linktr.ee/ss_mortgageteam
    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/ss_mortgageteam
    Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/SSMortgageTeam

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    42 mins
  • Ep. 75 | Building an Empire and Empowering Communities
    Dec 2 2024

    In this inspiring episode of From the Ground Up, Bret sits down with Patty Arvielo, co-founder and CEO of New American Funding, the nation’s largest Latina-owned mortgage company. With over 40 years in the mortgage industry, Patty shares her journey from a small local operation to leading a national powerhouse with over 4,500 employees across 285 locations. Recognized by Forbes and Latino Leaders Magazine for her trailblazing leadership, Patty discusses her commitment to equity through groundbreaking initiatives like Latino Focus and NAF Dream, which aim to expand homeownership in diverse communities.

    Tune in to hear insights from a self-made entrepreneur and advocate shaping the future of housing and empowering underrepresented communities nationwide.

    Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and set up alerts!

    Shay Jenkins & Sarah Alberts are the founders of S&S Mortgage Team at New American Funding in Denver, Colorado.

    S&S Mortgage Team is a full-service mortgage lender that provides financing for homeowners and home buyers throughout the country. We are licensed in 36 states, so we can serve the greater majority of the United States.

    The leaders of the team, Sarah and Shay, met in college in 2008 and instantly clicked. They both have been in the mortgage industry for several years and decided to join forces in 2021 to start the power group behind S&S Mortgage Team.

    The S&S Mortgage Team is dedicated to our client’s success. It is this driving mission that keeps our team constantly learning and pushing beyond our boundaries. We make a commitment to each borrower, fulfilling it with hard work, constant communication, and creative problem solving.



    Follow Us Everywhere:
    https://linktr.ee/ss_mortgageteam
    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/ss_mortgageteam
    Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/SSMortgageTeam

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    51 mins
  • Ep: 74 | Redefining Real Estate: Jennifer Briseno on Building Dreams, Giving Back, and Creating Lasting Impact
    Nov 18 2024

    In this episode of From the Ground Up, we sit down with Jennifer Briseno, Broker, Owner, and CEO of Success Realty Experts, LLC. A proud Colorado native, Jennifer’s journey is as inspiring as it is impactful. From helping over 1,300 families achieve homeownership to flipping more than 100 properties and building a thriving real estate brokerage, she shares the secrets behind her remarkable success.

    Jennifer reveals her unique approach to creating unforgettable client experiences—from surprise remodels to concierge services—and her passion for giving back, with initiatives ranging from Christmas charities to affordable housing projects in Colorado. Tune in to hear how she balances her career, family, and faith while staying grounded in positivity and gratitude.

    This is an episode you don’t want to miss!

    Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and set up alerts!

    Shay Jenkins & Sarah Alberts are the founders of S&S Mortgage Team at New American Funding in Denver, Colorado.

    S&S Mortgage Team is a full-service mortgage lender that provides financing for homeowners and home buyers throughout the country. We are licensed in 36 states, so we can serve the greater majority of the United States.

    The leaders of the team, Sarah and Shay, met in college in 2008 and instantly clicked. They both have been in the mortgage industry for several years and decided to join forces in 2021 to start the power group behind S&S Mortgage Team.

    The S&S Mortgage Team is dedicated to our client’s success. It is this driving mission that keeps our team constantly learning and pushing beyond our boundaries. We make a commitment to each borrower, fulfilling it with hard work, constant communication, and creative problem solving.



    Follow Us Everywhere:
    https://linktr.ee/ss_mortgageteam
    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/ss_mortgageteam
    Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/SSMortgageTeam

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    43 mins
  • Ep. 73 | From Homeless to Housing Hero: Alex Kamenetsky’s Real Estate Redemption
    Nov 5 2024

    In this inspiring episode of From The Ground Up, we’re joined by Alex Kamenetsky, Capital Raising Manager and Investor Relations expert at Homestir. Alex shares his powerful story of transformation—from overcoming homelessness to building a thriving real estate portfolio through creative financing, Section 8 housing, and strategic fix-and-flip projects. With seven years of sobriety and a mission-driven approach, Alex reveals how he leverages non-traditional financing and focuses on long-term relationships to structure win-win deals. He also discusses opportunities for Private Money Lenders and Partners in his latest ventures. Don’t miss this episode for insights on resilience, innovation, and the power of second chances in real estate investing.

    Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and set up alerts!

    Shay Jenkins & Sarah Alberts are the founders of S&S Mortgage Team at New American Funding in Denver, Colorado.

    S&S Mortgage Team is a full-service mortgage lender that provides financing for homeowners and home buyers throughout the country. We are licensed in 36 states, so we can serve the greater majority of the United States.

    The leaders of the team, Sarah and Shay, met in college in 2008 and instantly clicked. They both have been in the mortgage industry for several years and decided to join forces in 2021 to start the power group behind S&S Mortgage Team.

    The S&S Mortgage Team is dedicated to our client’s success. It is this driving mission that keeps our team constantly learning and pushing beyond our boundaries. We make a commitment to each borrower, fulfilling it with hard work, constant communication, and creative problem solving.



    Follow Us Everywhere:
    https://linktr.ee/ss_mortgageteam
    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/ss_mortgageteam
    Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/SSMortgageTeam

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    58 mins
  • Ep. 72 | Mastering Real Estate Leadership with Bret Weinstein: Building Success Through Service & Strategy
    Oct 22 2024

    In this episode of From the Ground Up, we sit down with Bret Weinstein, founder and managing broker of Guide Real Estate in Colorado. Leading a team of 90 agents, Bret shares his journey of 13 years in the industry, emphasizing the importance of honesty, transparency, and community involvement in achieving success. From his feature on HGTV’s A Sale of Two Cities to his recognition in the Denver Business Journal's 40 Under 40, Bret discusses his proactive approach to staying ahead of industry trends and his commitment to giving back. Tune in to hear his insights on leadership, building lasting relationships, and how Guide Real Estate is tackling the NAR settlement and launching new training initiatives for the future.

    Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and set up alerts!

    Shay Jenkins & Sarah Alberts are the founders of S&S Mortgage Team at New American Funding in Denver, Colorado.

    S&S Mortgage Team is a full-service mortgage lender that provides financing for homeowners and home buyers throughout the country. We are licensed in 36 states, so we can serve the greater majority of the United States.

    The leaders of the team, Sarah and Shay, met in college in 2008 and instantly clicked. They both have been in the mortgage industry for several years and decided to join forces in 2021 to start the power group behind S&S Mortgage Team.

    The S&S Mortgage Team is dedicated to our client’s success. It is this driving mission that keeps our team constantly learning and pushing beyond our boundaries. We make a commitment to each borrower, fulfilling it with hard work, constant communication, and creative problem solving.



    Follow Us Everywhere:
    https://linktr.ee/ss_mortgageteam
    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/ss_mortgageteam
    Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/SSMortgageTeam

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    56 mins
  • Episode 71 | Luxury Real Estate & Long-Term Success with Matt Conway
    Oct 7 2024

    In this episode of From the Ground Up, we sit down with Matt Conway, a Denver native with over 17 years of experience in urban and luxury real estate. As a broker at MileHiModern, Matt has completed over 50 transactions at the Four Seasons, represents the largest portfolio of privately owned luxury rental properties, and is a trusted advisor for luxury apartment developments. Matt shares his journey, strategies for long-term success, and the unique insights that have helped him stand out in the competitive world of real estate. Plus, we dive into his passion for Baja Mexico real estate and exciting upcoming projects.

    Tune in for valuable advice on building lasting client relationships and making real estate a true career, not just a part-time job!

    🔔 Don't forget to subscribe for more industry insights! #RealEstate #LuxuryRealEstate #FromTheGroundUp #DenverRealEstate #BajaMexicoRealEstate #MattConway

    Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and set up alerts!

    Shay Jenkins & Sarah Alberts are the founders of S&S Mortgage Team at New American Funding in Denver, Colorado.

    S&S Mortgage Team is a full-service mortgage lender that provides financing for homeowners and home buyers throughout the country. We are licensed in 36 states, so we can serve the greater majority of the United States.

    The leaders of the team, Sarah and Shay, met in college in 2008 and instantly clicked. They both have been in the mortgage industry for several years and decided to join forces in 2021 to start the power group behind S&S Mortgage Team.

    The S&S Mortgage Team is dedicated to our client’s success. It is this driving mission that keeps our team constantly learning and pushing beyond our boundaries. We make a commitment to each borrower, fulfilling it with hard work, constant communication, and creative problem solving.



    Follow Us Everywhere:
    https://linktr.ee/ss_mortgageteam
    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/ss_mortgageteam
    Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/SSMortgageTeam

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    55 mins
  • Episode 70 | From CEO to Meme King: Michael Sunnaa’s Journey of Humor and Leadership in the Mortgage Industry | From the Ground Up Podcast
    Sep 23 2024

    In this episode of the From the Ground Up podcast, we’re joined by Michael Sunnaa, CEO and Broker at Viewpoint Lending and Neighborhood Real Estate. With 26 years in the mortgage and real estate industry, Michael has played a pivotal role in growing three national mortgage companies and is currently expanding Viewpoint Lending across 18 states.

    Beyond his professional success, Michael is the creative force behind the popular Instagram account @mortgage_memes, where he uses humor to connect with the mortgage community and bring some much-needed laughter to an often stressful industry. With a keen eye for relatable content, he’s built a following by highlighting the lighter side of mortgage life while fostering a sense of community and support.

    Michael shares his inspiring story of overcoming cancer, the value of prioritizing others' goals and needs, and his passion for empowering his team to achieve both personal and professional success. Tune in to learn about his unique philosophy inspired by Zig Ziglar: “Help enough other people get what they want and eventually you’ll get what you want.”

    Don’t miss out as Michael dives into his upcoming events, leadership style, and the mindset that sets him apart from others in the industry. Follow him on Instagram @yourcasualceo and @mortgage_memes to stay updated on his latest projects, events, and hilarious mortgage memes.

    🔔 Subscribe and hit the notification bell for more episodes highlighting leaders and innovators in real estate and beyond!

    #FromTheGroundUpPodcast #RealEstate #MortgageIndustry #Leadership #MichaelSunnaa #ViewpointLending #NeighborhoodRealEstate #MortgageMemes

    Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and set up alerts!

    Shay Jenkins & Sarah Alberts are the founders of S&S Mortgage Team at New American Funding in Denver, Colorado.

    S&S Mortgage Team is a full-service mortgage lender that provides financing for homeowners and home buyers throughout the country. We are licensed in 36 states, so we can serve the greater majority of the United States.

    The leaders of the team, Sarah and Shay, met in college in 2008 and instantly clicked. They both have been in the mortgage industry for several years and decided to join forces in 2021 to start the power group behind S&S Mortgage Team.

    The S&S Mortgage Team is dedicated to our client’s success. It is this driving mission that keeps our team constantly learning and pushing beyond our boundaries. We make a commitment to each borrower, fulfilling it with hard work, constant communication, and creative problem solving.



    Follow Us Everywhere:
    https://linktr.ee/ss_mortgageteam
    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/ss_mortgageteam
    Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/SSMortgageTeam

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    57 mins
  • Episode 69 | Power Couple Whitney Johns & Chris Camozzi Share Their Fitness & Fighting Journey
    Sep 9 2024

    In this exciting episode of From the Ground Up Podcast, we sit down with fitness and wellness expert Whitney Johns and professional fighter Chris Camozzi to explore how they balance their personal and professional lives.

    Whitney shares her journey from earning a WBFF pro card to launching her personalized fitness app, Find Your Fit with Whit, and her Whitney Johns Nutrition supplement line. With three consecutive "Physique of the Year" titles from Fitness Gurls Magazine and a victorious pro boxing debut in front of thousands, she talks about what drives her success, the importance of authenticity, and her latest projects.

    Chris Camozzi brings his 18+ years of professional fighting experience, including in the UFC and Bare Knuckle Boxing, to the conversation. Discover how Chris maintains his competitive edge while managing a career in real estate.

    Join us for an inspiring conversation about fighting through adversity, embracing new opportunities, and what’s next for this dynamic couple.

    🎧 Tune in for tips on fitness, wellness, entrepreneurship, and fighting spirit!

    Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and set up alerts!

    Shay Jenkins & Sarah Alberts are the founders of S&S Mortgage Team at New American Funding in Denver, Colorado.

    S&S Mortgage Team is a full-service mortgage lender that provides financing for homeowners and home buyers throughout the country. We are licensed in 36 states, so we can serve the greater majority of the United States.

    The leaders of the team, Sarah and Shay, met in college in 2008 and instantly clicked. They both have been in the mortgage industry for several years and decided to join forces in 2021 to start the power group behind S&S Mortgage Team.

    The S&S Mortgage Team is dedicated to our client’s success. It is this driving mission that keeps our team constantly learning and pushing beyond our boundaries. We make a commitment to each borrower, fulfilling it with hard work, constant communication, and creative problem solving.



    Follow Us Everywhere:
    https://linktr.ee/ss_mortgageteam
    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/ss_mortgageteam
    Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/SSMortgageTeam

    Show more Show less
    52 mins