Finance With Factor

Carrie Couglin, Director of the Friends of Boston's Homeless, shares the dramatic and increasing needs of our most vulnerable neighbors struggling with homelessness. As a housing first organization, the FOBH teams with community partnerships and a variety of grants to secure safe, sustainable, permanent housing for unhoused neighbors in need. Despite a 10% increase in demand, in 2025 alone, mostly from young families, teens and women escaping abuse, veterans, and our elderly, the FOBH was recently informed that their $1M Federal HUD grant has been recalled. They have to refund the remaining money that was earmarked to house 25 more people. Listen to this episode to learn why we are working to fill that funding gap and how you and your company can get involved to help!

The Rise Above Foundation is committed to providing foster children with enriching experiences that promote normalcy, comfort, and self-esteem. I was honored to join co-founder Sara Baldiga and board member Nick Pelletier of Pelletier Properties in their recent effort to build a playground at the Leominster DCF Office. On this episode, we discuss the project and how businesses can integrate philanthropy into their models to support local communities. As an impact lender, donating 49% of annual profits to local nonprofits, Movement Mortgage is proud to support this initiative and I invite you to listen and learn more about Rise Above and how you can get involved!

Aimée Dodson, Chief Engagement Officer at Movement Mortgage, discusses the company’s unique role as an "Impact Lender" and its commitment to giving back to communities. Movement Mortgage leads the way by donating 49% of its annual profits to local non-profits, setting a high standard for philanthropy in the lending industry. Aimée invites real estate professionals, lenders, and agents to join in this mission, sharing practical ways to integrate community service into your business with authenticity that inspires others. Tune in for insights on how you can integrate a cause into your business, not just for marketing, but with meaningful sincerity.

Joel Fanjoy, Regional Senior VP of Insurance Sales at William Raveis Insurance, discusses the impact of insurance on housing affordability. With rising premiums due to new condo insurance guidelines, natural disasters, and other market pressures, homebuyers are feeling the strain. Joel shares expert insights on how to manage controllable factors to protect your insurance, ensuring you don't get overwhelmed by the rising costs. Tune in for practical tips on small claims and total loss so you can navigate today's insurance hazards safely.

As pitchers and catchers report, learn how Coach Joel Barrett, of Joel Barret Baseball & Softball, embraces being called the "best looser" with enthusiasm. His "win or learn" mentality will change your business, make your home buying process more enjoyable, and/or help you live a more positive life. If you have ever been too hard on yourself or let competition and negativity impact you, then listen to this episode!

Also www.joelbarrettbaseball.com camp registration is open, but filling fast. So if you are a coach looking for a summer job or parent/kid looking for summer fun, listen to this episode and act quickly.

Nicole Pinkos, real estate attorney with Hornung & Scimone, shares expert tips how to navigate property transactions in probate, breaking down key terms and answering essential questions for agents, sellers, and buyers. Tune in for practical tips and advice to ensure a smooth real estate process.

Dr. Samantha Welchman (of Hanover Physical Theropy) explains the importance of being proactive with your health, fitness, and physical therapy by taking small realistic steps, instead of waiting for the big injury needing rehab. We discuss how this approach mirrors creating an achievable business plan--setting goals, staying accountable, and tracking progress. Listen to the full episode for tips and tricks on how to improve your health and apply the same strategies to your business and goals!

In this crossover episode, I join Mike Sokolowski and Saad Munir's of Torrii Homes, for their "Storii Time" on IG Live to discuss getting out of your own head and taking small steps toward your goals. We share simple strategies for making marketing and social media less intimidating and more approachable—perfect for anyone feeling stuck or overwhelmed. If you like their vibe, follow @saadmun1r and @photolowski to catch Storii Time live Wednesdays at 5pm ET.

Angela Zullo, a realtor with Lamacchia Realty, discusses how her background as an architect helps homebuyers and sellers. Angela shares how her education and professional experience in architecture provides invaluable insights when navigating new construction projects or preparing homes for sale. Whether it's helping clients spot design potential or understanding the intricacies of construction, Angela's shares how hiring a realtor with an eye for detail gives clients a distinct advantage in the competitive real estate market.