Ladies In Lending

Welcome to another episode of the Ladies In Lending podcast, with your host, Allison Johnston. In this episode of the Ladies In Lending podcast, Allison Johnston, sits down with Shelley Leonard—President of Xactus and a trailblazer in both tech and mortgage. Shelley shares how she went from entry-level programmer to president by embracing lateral moves, staying curious, and refusing to settle for comfortable. You'll hear how she balances leadership with life, stays grounded in her purpose, and builds strong teams by leading with compassion and authenticity. Her story is a masterclass in embracing growth, setting boundaries, and inspiring the next generation of women to lean into leadership with confidence.

Welcome to another episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, with your host, Krista Russo. In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, Krista Russo sits down with Brenda Wyatt, a top 1% originator and senior mortgage advisor at La Salle Mortgage. Brenda shares her inspiring journey from corporate finance to becoming a nationally ranked loan officer, all while staying grounded in service, legacy, and heart-led leadership. You'll hear how her deep family roots in real estate shaped her mission to leave every client better than she found them—and why connection matters more than just closing the deal. From community outreach to coaching the next generation, Brenda opens up about the power of collaboration, formalizing your systems, and leading with purpose. She leaves us with a challenge every woman needs to hear: "Jump, and the parachute will appear."

Welcome to another episode of the Ladies In Lending podcast, with your host, Krista Russo. In this episode of the Ladies In Lending podcast, your host, Krista Russo sits down with Carolina Vergara, Vice President of Sales at First Option, for an inspiring conversation about perseverance, boundaries, and the power of reinvention. Carolina shares her story of immigrating from Colombia at 15, navigating a major culture shock, and finding her voice—and her path—in the competitive world of lending. She opens up about burnout, motherhood, creating structure that actually allows for freedom, and the courage it takes to prioritize what really matters. From building a loyal team to embracing vulnerability and shifting definitions of success, this episode is a must-listen for women striving to lead boldly and live fully.

Welcome to another episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, with your host, Krista Russo. In this powerful conversation, Krista sits down with producing branch manager Rachel Lester to unpack her incredible journey from economic development to mortgage leadership—through cancer, personal loss, and ultimately, a purposeful new mission. Rachel opens up about navigating the lending world while surviving inflammatory breast cancer, grieving the loss of her daughter, and finding healing through action, advocacy, and service. You'll hear how she built a thriving branch, honors her daughter's legacy through a heartfelt new project, and supports veterans with deep conviction and care. This episode is a moving reminder that success isn't just about numbers—it's about grit, grace, and leading with purpose.

Welcome to another episode of the Ladies In Lending podcast, with your host, Krista Russo. In this episode of the Ladies In Lending podcast, your host, Krista Russo, sits down with personal finance expert and author Lisa Chastain for a heartfelt and empowering conversation on money, mindset, and self-worth. Lisa shares her powerful journey from financial rock bottom to becoming a sought-after money coach, author, and speaker—revealing how healing your relationship with money starts with healing yourself. Together, they dive into identity loss, comparison culture, motherhood, and the unique challenges women face while building wealth and leading at home and work. This episode is packed with honest insights, transformational mindset shifts, and practical encouragement to help women break through outdated money paradigms and define success on their own terms.

Welcome to another episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, with your host, Krista Russo. In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, your host, Krista sits down with Rebecca Richardson, also known as The Mortgage Mentor, to talk about the power of authentic branding in today's mortgage space. Rebecca shares how she went from on-the-job training to building an educational platform with over 770 videos and a loyal following by simply focusing on what buyers really need to know. You'll hear her take on how to blend tech and human connection, why consistency is the only silver bullet, and how she's helped reshape the way loan officers think about video, branding and legacy. Whether you're brand new or rebuilding, this is a masterclass in building something that lasts without burning out or losing who you are.

Welcome to another episode of the Ladies In Lending podcast, with your host, Krista Russo. In this episode of the Ladies In Lending podcast, your host, Krista Russo, sits down with Jody Bruns, founder of the Divorce Lending Association and creator of the CDLP certification, for a heartfelt and eye-opening conversation. Jody shares how her personal journey through divorce inspired her to build a powerful platform that bridges the gap between lending and family law. They unpack the critical—but often misunderstood—role mortgage professionals can play in the divorce process and how proper training can make a life-changing difference for both parties. Jody and Krista explore the value of neutrality, the importance of strategy infused with empathy, and how women in lending can lead with both heart and purpose. The episode closes with a moving discussion on Jody's new book Anchored in Faith, and the courage it took to bring faith and vulnerability into her business.

Krista Russo sits down with Shannon Conradi of Propy Inc. to explore how tech, service, and grit are transforming the title experience for loan officers and agents alike. Shannon shares how Propy's AI-driven platform, 24/7 escrow access, and client gifting set a new standard for efficiency and connection in real estate. She also opens up about her personal journey with epilepsy, the challenges she's overcome, and how those experiences fuel her passion for helping others. Want to see what Propy can do for your business? Connect with Shannon on LinkedIn or email [email protected] to schedule your free platform demo.    

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, your host, Krista Russo sits down with Laura Brandao, CEO of Lighthouse Advisors and host of her own podcast. Laura shares her incredible journey in the mortgage industry, from her unexpected entry as a young mom to becoming a powerful leader and advocate for women in the field. Discover how her husband's unwavering support fueled her passion, the importance of finding your "why," and how she empowers others by spotlighting their achievements. With insights on overcoming imposter syndrome and the significance of community support, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to lead with heart and inspire with purpose.  

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, your host, Krista Russo sits down with mortgage broker Kambi Heywood, who shares her incredible 27-year journey in the mortgage industry. Kambi discusses her passion for empowering clients through financing, the importance of personal connections in a tech-driven world, and her insights on navigating the evolving landscape of AI in business. She emphasizes the value of self-reflection, coaching, and building a supportive team, all while maintaining a focus on meaningful relationships. Kambi also teases her upcoming book on the power of human connection, making this episode a must-listen for anyone in the lending community!

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, your host, Krista Russo sits down with Lindsay Barron LaBonte, a top-producing branch manager with Applied Mortgage Team of HMA Mortgage Company. Lindsay shares her unique journey into the mortgage industry, influenced by her father's passion for helping others achieve homeownership. They discuss the importance of financial literacy, the challenges of balancing motherhood with a successful career, and the significance of building a strong team. Lindsay also emphasizes the value of education in the mortgage process and how she strives to empower her clients with knowledge. Tune in for valuable insights and motivation from a leader who is making a difference in the lives of her clients and community!

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, your host, Krista Russo sits down with Sue Moody, a senior loan officer at City Wide Home Mortgage, to discuss her incredible journey through breast cancer and the importance of self-advocacy and community support. Sue shares her personal experiences, from her initial diagnosis to becoming an advocate for pre-screening and supporting local nonprofits through her initiative, "Sue's Mission Miles." Tune in to hear how she balanced her health challenges with her professional life, the power of mindset, and the significance of being your own hero. Don't forget to check out Sue's Facebook page and join her mission to raise awareness for women's health! Use the hashtag #SuesMissionMiles on social media to join her mission and support local nonprofits.

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, your host, Krista Russo sits down with Tara McCafferty, a seasoned producing branch manager at American Pacific Mortgage. With over 24 years in the mortgage industry, Tara shares her journey of resilience and adaptability, including her recent move from Nevada to Florida and the challenges that came with it. Discover how she cultivated success through consistent habits, tracking her numbers, and building meaningful relationships in a new market. Tara's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of knowing your "why," and the value of community support in the lending industry. Tune in for valuable insights and motivation to help you thrive in your own career!

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, your host, Krista Russo sits down with Parker Borofsky, a brand leader, mortgage loan officer, and accomplished real estate investor with Wealth Builders Mortgage Group, powered by Movement Mortgage. Parker shares her journey to becoming one of Scotsman Guide's 2024 top 50 women originators and discusses her passion for helping clients achieve financial independence through investment properties. With insights on navigating the mortgage landscape, the importance of authenticity, and the challenges of balancing work and life, Parker's story is a testament to resilience and empowerment. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from her experiences and discover how you can pave your own path to success!

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, your host, Krista Russo sits down with Kim Winters, a top 1% mortgage originator and team lead at Movement Mortgage. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Kim shares her journey from surviving to thriving in a challenging market, emphasizing the importance of mindset, building strong relationships, and leveraging a supportive team. Discover valuable insights on how to create a referable experience for clients, the significance of empathy in leadership, and the power of women supporting women in the mortgage industry. Tune in for practical tips and motivation to elevate your career in lending!

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, your host, Krista Russo sits down with Denise Donoghue to discuss her incredible journey from a challenging childhood to becoming one of the country's top 1% mortgage originators. Denise shares her personal story of resilience, financial empowerment, and the importance of building lasting relationships in the mortgage industry. Discover how she transformed her experiences into a passion for helping others achieve financial freedom and stability, and learn valuable insights on creating a successful business while maintaining work-life balance. Tune in for an empowering conversation that highlights the strength of women in lending and the impact of mentorship and community!

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, your host, Krista Russo sits down with Denise Panza, a passionate mortgage banker from Total Mortgage, who shares her journey from New York to Florida and the values that drive her success in the industry. With over 27 years of experience, Denise discusses the importance of integrity, building relationships, and maintaining a work-life balance as a dedicated mother and businesswoman. She reflects on the challenges faced as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field and emphasizes the significance of consistency and perseverance in navigating market shifts. Tune in to discover how Denise's love for helping others shapes her career and the meaningful connections she creates along the way!

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, your host Krista Russo interviews Melissa Cohn, the Regional Vice President of the Southern Division for William Raveis Mortgage. With nearly 43 years of experience in the mortgage industry, Melissa shares her journey from starting as an entrepreneur at a young age to becoming a leading figure in mortgage brokerage. She discusses her impressive accolades, including being featured in the Scotsman Guide and Crain's New York Business, and offers valuable insights on navigating the current market, building lasting relationships with clients, and the importance of timely communication. Tune in to learn how Melissa balances her successful career with her passion for mentoring women in the industry and her commitment to non-profit work, all while enjoying the sunny lifestyle in Florida!

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, your host Krista Russo sits down with Alina Burke, Branch Manager and Senior Mortgage Loan Officer at Northpointe Mortgage.  With over 23 years of experience in the mortgage industry, Alina shares her journey of building meaningful relationships and her commitment to ethical lending practices.  Discover her insights on being a "lender for life," the importance of clear communication, and how she navigates the challenges of the mortgage space while prioritizing her clients' well-being. Alina also opens up about her personal story, including her new book, "Incomplete: A Journey from Abandonment to Parenthood," and her passion for helping survivors of sex trafficking. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation filled with valuable advice and motivation for anyone in the lending industry!

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, your host Krista Russo welcomes Jane Floyd, a powerhouse in the mortgage industry with over 30 years of experience. As a top originating branch manager at NFM Lending and a consistent member of the top 1% of mortgage originators in America, Jane shares her incredible journey into the mortgage space and the pivotal moments that shaped her career. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the mortgage industry, Jane's story and advice will inspire you to pursue your passion and create lasting success.  

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, join Krista Russo as she welcomes the vibrant and energetic Brittany Thompson from Mortgages with Brittany. Brittany shares her inspiring journey from the medical field to the world of mortgages, highlighting how the challenges of COVID pushed her to pursue a career in origination. In this episode, Brittany discusses: Her nurturing background and how it influences her approach to client relationships. The importance of perseverance and building trust in the mortgage industry. Overcoming rejection and the power of forming meaningful connections with realtors. Her incredible success in a challenging market, closing nearly $26 million in loans. Advice for first-time homebuyers and common misconceptions about the mortgage process. Brittany's passion for helping others and her commitment to her team shine through as she shares her goals for the future. Tune in to hear her motivational story and learn how she plans to double her success this year!

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, our host Krista Russo sits down with Brittany Bobbs, Vice President of Sales at Coastal Lending Group. Brittany shares her incredible journey from operations to becoming a successful loan officer, achieving an impressive $66 million in sales in just a few years. She opens up about her initial fears of transitioning from a stable salary to the unpredictable world of sales, the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the importance of having a supportive network. She also discusses how her background in operations has both helped and hindered her growth in the sales arena and how she learned to let go and trust her team. Additionally, she emphasizes the power of mindset and belief in oneself, encouraging listeners to recognize their unique purpose and talents. Don't miss this empowering conversation filled with valuable insights for anyone in the lending industry or looking to make a significant career change!

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, our host Krista Russo sits down with Lauren Mazurkiewicz, a growth and development specialist at Success Mortgage Partners.  Lauren shares her journey into the mortgage industry, the importance of building relationships, and how she helps loan officers succeed. Discover how Lauren's background in communication and her passion for connecting with people has shaped her approach to growth and development in the lending space. They also discuss the significance of company culture, the challenges loan officers face when considering a move, and the power of community among women in the industry. Don't miss out on the chance to connect with Lauren and learn more about her work!

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, our host Kristin Simpson interviews the incredible Joanne Johansen, affectionately known as the "Connecticut Crusher." With nearly 30 years of experience in the mortgage industry, Joanne shares her inspiring journey from a bank teller to a successful mortgage broker owner. In this episode, you'll hear about: Joanne's unexpected entry into the mortgage business and the challenges she faced along the way. The importance of mentorship and how a pivotal relationship shaped her career. Unique insights into the Connecticut mortgage market, including the influence of local universities and the competitive landscape. The impact of coaching on her business and personal growth over the past year. Balancing work and family life, including her experiences as a grandmother and business owner. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the mortgage industry, Joanne's story is sure to motivate and inspire you.

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, our host Krista Russo sits down with the incredible Holly Walther, leader of the Holly Walther Lending Team. Holly shares her journey from a summer job in the mortgage industry to becoming a passionate advocate for women's empowerment and homeownership in the Southeast. Holly's mission is to empower 2,000 women to achieve homeownership over the next five years, and she emphasizes the importance of relationships in the lending process.  Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Holly's experiences and discover how you can take the next steps toward your financial goals!

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, our host Krista Russo welcomes Marty Guy Fink, a dynamic branch manager from Virginia Beach with Homespire Mortgage. Marty shares her unique approach to building relationships in the real estate industry through her innovative podcast, "Riding in Cars with Real Estate." She discusses the impact of her podcast on her business and the importance of proactive education for homebuyers. She also dives into her journey of overcoming fears, embracing coaching, and the power of community in the mortgage industry. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in lending, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, our host Krista Russo welcomes the dynamic duo from Prost Mortgage Group, Danielle and Ken Prost!  With a shared journey in the mortgage industry, this power couple from Kentucky discusses their unique path to success, balancing work and family life, and the importance of communication in a partnership. In this episode, you'll learn: How Danielle transitioned from social work to the mortgage industry The challenges they faced during the 2007-2008 financial crisis Tips for maintaining work-life balance while working together The significance of coaching and mentorship in their business growth Strategies for effective team management and communication Insights on how to consistently achieve production goals Whether you're a couple working together in the industry or looking to evolve your business, Danielle and Ken share valuable insights and strategies that can help you succeed.

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, our host Kristin Simpson interviews Sharon Wofford, a seasoned professional in the mortgage industry with 43 years of experience. Sharon shares her unique journey, which began in an accounting department where she taught herself computer programming to transition into the mortgage field. She discusses the challenges she faced as a young female loan officer in a male-dominated industry and how she overcame them through determination and a commitment to learning.  She also emphasizes the importance of setting and achieving goals, celebrating milestones, and continuously seeking improvement. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the industry, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiration.

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, host Kristen Simpson flips the script and interviews Krista Russo from Success Mortgage Partners. Join them as they dive into Krista's inspiring journey into the mortgage industry, starting from her early challenges as a single mother to her current role in helping others achieve their dreams of homeownership. Krista shares her personal story of perseverance, the importance of setting boundaries, and how to find a work-life balance while navigating the demands of a career in lending. They discuss the significance of community support, the impact of mentorship, and the lessons learned along the way. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the lending world, this episode is packed with valuable insights and encouragement for women in the industry. 

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, join Krista Russo as she welcomes special guest Cindy Ertman, founder of The Defining Difference. Cindy shares her incredible journey from being a new loan officer in Los Angeles to becoming a top producer and eventually transitioning into coaching and training others. She discusses the importance of perseverance, the power of mindset, and how to overcome fear in the competitive mortgage landscape. She also emphasizes that success is not just about making money; it's about making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Additionally, she offers valuable insights on how women can thrive in the mortgage industry, the significance of having non-negotiables, and the necessity of investing in oneself through coaching. Whether you're new to the industry or looking to elevate your business, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration. Don't miss out on Cindy's wisdom and passion for helping others succeed!

In this episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, host Krista Russo sits down with the incredible Sue Woodard, a prominent figure in the mortgage industry. With over 35 years of experience, Sue shares her remarkable journey from starting as a processor to becoming an executive leader and a passionate advocate for customer service. In this episode, you'll hear about: Sue's early career experiences and the challenges she faced, including overcoming discouragement from her first boss. The importance of building relationships and trust in the mortgage industry, especially with millennials and first-time homebuyers. Insights on the barriers millennials face in homeownership and how the industry can better support them. The significance of surrounding yourself with positive influences and the power of intention in achieving your goals. Tips for women looking to grow in their careers, embrace leadership roles and find work-life balance. Sue's heartfelt approach to connecting with people and her dedication to making a positive impact in the industry shines through in this conversation. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the mortgage space, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.

Join us for an inspiring episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, where host Krista Russo sits down with Allison Johnston, the president of Success Mortgage Partners. With over 30 years of experience in the mortgage industry, Allison shares her unique journey, from her unexpected entry into the field to her rise in leadership. In this episode, you'll learn about: The importance of maintaining a positive mindset and how affirmations play a role in Allison's daily routine. The innovative "Save a Deal" initiative that showcases the team's commitment to finding solutions and not giving up on challenging loans. The significance of communication in customer service and the policy of picking up the phone instead of relying on emails. How building a "bench" of potential candidates helps ensure the company is always prepared for growth. Valuable advice for women aspiring to grow in their careers, emphasizing the importance of goal-setting and community support. Don't miss out on the chance to learn from one of the industry's leading voices!

Join Krista Russo and Sue Meitner, the president and founder of Centennial Lending Group, in this inspiring episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast! Discover Sue's incredible journey from a post-closer to leading a successful mortgage company, and learn how she has impacted countless lives along the way. In this episode, Sue shares her unique perspective on the lending industry, the importance of building relationships, and how she empowers her team to achieve their goals. She discusses the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life, offering valuable advice for women navigating similar paths. Don't miss out on Sue's powerful message about empowerment, resilience, and the importance of community in achieving success.

Join us for an inspiring episode of Ladies in Lending as host Krista Russo sits down with the incredible Sarah Cox. In this episode, Sarah shares her remarkable journey into the mortgage industry, from her humble beginnings in Tucson, Arizona, to becoming a successful loan originator in Texas. Discover how Sarah navigated challenges, embraced risks, and found her passion for serving the Hispanic community. She discusses the importance of community, mentorship, and mindset in achieving success, as well as the power of calculated risks in her career. Don't miss this empowering conversation filled with valuable advice and inspiration for women in lending!

Join us for an inspiring episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, hosted by Krista Russo, as she sits down with the phenomenal Maureen Krist. With over 26 years of experience in the mortgage industry, Maureen shares her incredible journey from real estate to becoming a successful sales and fulfillment manager at major companies like Citibank and Bank of America. Maureen discusses the challenges and triumphs of balancing a demanding career while raising four children. She emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities, being true to oneself, and the impact of mentorship in the workplace. Krista and Maureen also reflect on the significance of empowering women in the mortgage industry and the fulfillment that comes from helping others realize their potential. Now retired, Maureen is dedicating her time to travel, skincare, and volunteering as a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) for children in foster care. Her passion for making a difference continues to shine through as she supports young individuals in finding their confidence and value. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation filled with wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice for women looking to advance in their careers. Get Involved with CASA

In this debut episode of the Ladies in Lending podcast, host Krista Russo sits down with Theresa Sprague, National Director of Growth and Development at Success Mortgage Partners, to explore the origins and mission of the Ladies in Lending initiative. Born from a casual conversation at a company gala, Ladies in Lending has grown into a thriving community with nearly 2,000 women. Krista and Theresa discuss the challenges women face in the lending industry—from achieving work-life balance to finding their voice in a competitive field—and highlight the importance of mentorship, support, and shared experiences in building successful careers.  Listeners will hear inspiring stories from both women, as well as Theresa's vision for the podcast, which aims to create a space for women to share insights, industry trends, and practical strategies. Whether balancing a career with family or navigating a fast-paced work environment, this episode offers an uplifting perspective on how connection and community can empower women at every stage of their careers.  Join Krista and Theresa as they set the stage for an inclusive, empowering series designed to unite, inspire, and uplift women across the lending industry.