EPISODE · Apr 7, 2026 · 58 MIN
Episode 12: Operational Déjà Vu: Why The New SOPs Feel So Familiar
from Sweatpants & Strategy · host Dana Hirschkowitz
Operational Déjà Vu: Why The New SOPs Feel So FamiliarFeeling confused (again) by the SBA’s latest SOP changes? You're not alone. In this episode, we unpack the so-called "simplification" efforts—and why they feel more like a flashback than a fresh start.From shifting requirements to mixed messages, we're breaking down: ✔️ What’s actually changing ❌ What’s just being recycled 💬 And what it all means for lenders, bankers, and small business advocates who have to make sense of it in real time.No fluff. No jargon. Just straight talk, a little sarcasm, and a lot of clarity.🎧 Guests: Kevin Rafferty – SBA Director at Paradise Bank. Kevin brings unmatched insight into the economics of SBA lending, the changing SOP landscape, and how banks are adapting to regulatory shifts. Smart, pragmatic, and deeply experienced, Kevin keeps it real about the risks and realities of small business lending.Michael Johnston – SBA Director at Bankwell. Known for his clear-eyed, no-fluff approach, Michael sheds light on how technology, credit culture, and talent pipelines are transforming the lending space. He speaks candidly about what lenders need to succeed in today’s tighter, more accountable environment.🎧 Listen now and let us know in the comments: Are these changes helping or just making things harder?
What this episode covers
Operational Déjà Vu: Why The New SOPs Feel So FamiliarFeeling confused (again) by the SBA’s latest SOP changes? You're not alone. In this episode, we unpack the so-called "simplification" efforts—and why they feel more like a flashback than a fresh start.From shifting requirements to mixed messages, we're breaking down: ✔️ What’s actually changing ❌ What’s just being recycled 💬 And what it all means for lenders, bankers, and small business advocates who have to make sense of it in real time.No fluff. No jargon. Just straight talk, a little sarcasm, and a lot of clarity.🎧 Guests: Kevin Rafferty – SBA Director at Paradise Bank. Kevin brings unmatched insight into the economics of SBA lending, the changing SOP landscape, and how banks are adapting to regulatory shifts. Smart, pragmatic, and deeply experienced, Kevin keeps it real about the risks and realities of small business lending.Michael Johnston – SBA Director at Bankwell. Known for his clear-eyed, no-fluff approach, Michael sheds light on how technology, credit culture, and talent pipelines are transforming the lending space. He speaks candidly about what lenders need to succeed in today’s tighter, more accountable environment.🎧 Listen now and let us know in the comments: Are these changes helping or just making things harder?
NOW PLAYING
Episode 12: Operational Déjà Vu: Why The New SOPs Feel So Familiar
No transcript for this episode yet
Similar Episodes
No similar episodes found.
Similar Podcasts
No similar podcasts found.