Ambassador of Advocacy ft. Stephen Plaisance

In this compelling installment of The MikedUp Show, hosts Michael Kelleher and Michael Zau welcome Steven Plaisance, a transformational mortgage banking executive whose 35+ years in the industry have been fueled by a genuine passion for people, servant leadership, and strategic innovation. Aptly titled “Ambassador of Advocacy,” this episode goes beyond the buzzwords and dives straight into how advocacy can be transformed into tangible actions that reshape an entire industry.

Steven’s story is as personal as it is professional: He’s led massive teams—1,600 members at Gateway First Bank and over 2,000 at Arvest—through market shifts, technological evolutions, and cultural transitions. Driven by a deep commitment to empowering individuals, he has consistently championed collaborative work environments, robust people development programs, and open-communication cultures. He believes in leading from a place of authenticity, staying approachable, and investing in the strengths of every team member.

Throughout the conversation, Michael & Michael tap into Steven’s vast expertise on topics like capital markets, risk management, regulatory compliance, and customer-centric strategies—all areas where he has a proven track record of success. You’ll get a front-row seat to his behind-the-scenes insights on how to weather volatile markets, drive operational efficiency, and implement meaningful growth initiatives, even when the road gets bumpy.

But it’s not just about spreadsheets and strategies. Steven reveals the human side of leadership—how championing advocacy means serving communities, supporting families in need, and nurturing future talent through targeted programs like Gateway’s “RISE” leadership development initiative. He discusses the challenges and rewards of fostering inclusive cultures, underscoring that true advocacy happens when leaders prioritize people first and profits follow.

If you’re looking for a playbook on how to blend heartfelt service with high-level business acumen, this is the episode for you. Steven’s blend of values and visionary thinking sets the stage for an uplifting and informative discussion—one that might just spark your next big idea for championing change in your own sphere of influence.

Tune in now at mikedupshow.com to learn why Steven truly embodies the spirit of an Ambassador of Advocacy, and how you too can harness the power of proactive leadership to make a lasting impact in the mortgage industry and beyond.