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.

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.

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.