September 23, 2026

Bob Coleman
Founder & Publisher

A Coleman Conversation: Jared Johnson

In this week’s episode of A Coleman Conversation, Bob Coleman sits down with Jared Johnson of First Internet Bank, a two-time Coleman BDO of the Year, to discuss his career in SBA lending, his specialization in business acquisitions and entrepreneurship through acquisition, and the approach that has helped him build approximately $850 million in career lending volume. Jared shares what he looks for in strong acquisition borrowers, how he balances high production with personalized service, his perspective on larger SBA transactions, and why specialization, hard work and credit quality are essential to long-term success in the industry.

Watch episode here

Read transcript here (Coleman Premium Members only)

Topics Covered:
✓ Jared’s career journey from entering SBA lending while finishing school to becoming a top producer and two-time Coleman BDO of the Year
✓ Building approximately $850 million in career lending volume, including more than $500 million at First Internet Bank
✓ Why today’s acquisition buyers are bringing more sophisticated M&A experience and due diligence to the lower middle market
✓ What Jared looks for in SBA acquisition borrowers, including liquidity, debt service coverage and transferable management experience
✓ How Jared balances high loan volume with personalized borrower service, team support and educational resources
✓ Why work ethic, continuous improvement and years of consistent execution have driven his success as an SBA BDO
✓ Jared’s perspective on larger SBA loan limits and the financing gap for $5 million to $15 million lower-middle-market acquisitions
✓ His advice to new SBA lenders and brokers: find a niche, become an expert and never sacrifice credit quality or reputation for short-term success