Taking the Leap: Harold Delcham on Overcoming Fears

In this episode of Laugh, Lend, & Eat, we’re live from NAMMBA Connect '24 in Orlando, and we have an inspiring conversation with Harold Delcham, CEO and founder of Opportunity Mortgage Group. Harold shares the challenges and triumphs of starting his own mortgage brokerage just four months ago, and how NAMMBA played a crucial role in inspiring him to take the leap. With over 18 years of experience in the mortgage industry, Harold's story is one of ambition, community, and the courage to chase your dreams. Key Themes: Taking the Leap into Entrepreneurship: Harold reflects on the journey of founding his own mortgage company and how important it was to overcome self-doubt and just get started. The Power of Community and Representation: He shares how attending NAMMBA for the first time last year inspired him by seeing other minority-owned businesses and how that community empowered him to make his dream a reality. Looking Ahead in the Mortgage Industry: Harold discusses the importance of embracing technology and positioning his company to succeed in the evolving mortgage landscape. Quotes from Harold’s Journey: On Overcoming Fear and Taking Action: "It was kinda always on my mind to become a mortgage broker, start a mortgage company... But I was always scared, like when's the right time?... But coming out to Namba, and I just saw so many people looking like me that were owners... So I left with that energy, like, 'Man, you really gotta do your own thing.' And here I am four months ago, started my own company." This quote highlights Harold’s pivotal moment of inspiration and how NAMMBA gave him the confidence to start Opportunity Mortgage Group. On the Challenges of Starting a Business: "The hardest part is really me... Just overcoming the thoughts. You could easily go just be a part of that team and they'll make the same money. Why are you doing this? So it's really just me getting out of myself and overcoming the thoughts that try to stop me from doing this." Harold reflects on the internal battles entrepreneurs often face when starting something new, illustrating that the hardest barriers are often mental. On the Future of the Mortgage Industry: "I think technology is probably gonna be the biggest impact on the mortgage industry... So I'm trying to learn as much as I can, build the brokerage up enough so that I can grasp and get some of this technology that's gonna help me communicate better with the borrowers in the future." Harold sees technology as key to the future of the mortgage industry and is determined to incorporate it into his business to stay competitive and better serve clients. Call to Action: Follow Laugh, Lend, & Eat for more inspiring episodes from leaders in the mortgage and finance industries. Connect with Harold Delcham and Opportunity Mortgage Group to learn how his company is providing new opportunities in the mortgage space. Stay tuned for more discussions about the future of the industry and the entrepreneurs who are shaping it!