Episode 213: The Rundown: Government Shutdown, SBA & the State of Lending

In this first installment, Ami Kassar and Lynn Ozer share real-time insights from the NAGGL Annual Conference — set against the backdrop of a government shutdown that's sending ripple effects across the lending industry.

What happens when Washington stops? For many small businesses, it means stalled approvals, frozen funding, and uncertainty about the future. Ami and Lynn discuss how shutdowns disrupt SBA operations, what lenders are experiencing on the ground, and why collaboration within the industry matters more than ever during uncertain times.

"We live as part of an ecosystem that runs on the SBA," says Ami Kassar. "It's a reminder of the far-reaching implications of this program — and how we all make our living by supporting and helping borrowers through it."

The main topics of today's episode include:

• Government shutdowns create ripple effects throughout the lending ecosystem.

• SBA lenders face stalled deals and client uncertainty during shutdown periods.

• Conferences like NAGGL play a vital role in maintaining connection and clarity amid disruption.

• Staying informed — and united — helps the industry adapt when Washington goes quiet.

Recorded on 11/3/2025