CCM Talks

When the market got tough, Drew Stacey kept showing up. Nothing fancy — just consistency. In our latest episode of CCM Talks, he breaks down the little things that keep him moving forward and how you can get ready for a new market.

CrossCountry Mortgage’s Non-QM philosophy is about finding a solution even when others say no. Pete Fickeisen is a megaphone for that message. In this episode of CCM Talks, he shares why he loves the CCM portfolio model, how to get started and where he sees Non-QM going next.

Educate. Lead. Repeat. That’s how Jay Tolisano shows up every day. He joined CCM Talks to talk about how he built his branch on mentorship, simple systems and genuine care for his team. Tune in for honest leadership advice you can put to work right away.

As Virginia’s #1 female loan originator, Gina Myers brings trust, authenticity and energy to every day. In the latest episode of CCM Talks, she gives a peek into how she does it.

Lauren Maxwell’s calendar is full of gold. Doctor’s visits become new business, quick calls create lifelong connections and learning is always occurring. Our #1 Woman Originator joined CCM Talks to share how she maintains her energy, focus and success. Tune in now for Lauren’s wealth of knowledge.

Julie Johnson’s success comes down to one word: intentionality. It powers her personal accomplishments, guides her leadership style and strengthens her relationships. It’s how she infuses joy and balance into her work. And she's sharing how she does it all in this episode of CCM Talks.

Andrew Marquis considers himself no more successful than anyone else. So how has he led the industry year after year, including a #4 ranking on Scotsman Guide’s Top Originator list in 2025? Listen to his interview to find out.

When a buyout forced April Janas to reevaluate everything, her values and team’s needs led her to one place: CrossCountry Mortgage. If you’re thinking about your next move, April’s interview with Hunter Marckwardt can’t be missed.

When Joe Macchione recruits, he listens. First, for coachability and drive — the CCM DNA. Then, for how we can fuel a candidate’s growth. Joe's interview with Nicole Perrone is a must-listen for anyone growing their team — or looking to join ours.

To kick off CCM Talks Season 4, JJ Mazzo and Gavin Ekstrom explore how purpose, consistency and curiosity ignite their success. From JJ’s tips for starting the day with intention to Gavin’s coaching philosophy, this episode is packed with insight. 

Lizy Hoeffer’s journey from front desk to executive suite is proof that the mortgage industry offers limitless possibilities. As a Phoenix branch leader and champion for Hispanic borrowers, she’s built a career on hard work, organization and a commitment to helping others succeed. In this episode, Lizy reveals how sacrifice pays off, why mothers have an edge in this business and the steps anyone can take to advance their career.

Reverse mortgages are having a moment — and Nick Petrillo is leading the charge. As Divisional VP, he’s building a team of experts with 250+ years of experience (no, that’s not a typo) and turning reverse into a trusted tool for retirement planning. In this episode, Nick shares why financial planners have flipped their stance, how loan officers can get certified and why CCM is all-in on home equity as a strategic asset. If you think reverse isn’t for you, this one’s about to change your mind. 

Before he was an Executive Vice President at CrossCountry Mortgage, Hunter Marckwardt was deep in the tech world of Silicon Valley — until a self-described “junior mid-life crisis” led him to follow his family’s footsteps into the mortgage business. Now, with over 20 years of experience, Hunter shares how his story unfolded, what it means to lead with heart and why investing in people creates the biggest ripple effect. Listen until the end for his buffalo lesson! 

In this episode, Jackson Thomas tells us how an unexpected career pivot led him to become a top-producing loan officer. He opens up about moments that forced him to either walk away or dive all in. Since then, he’s built his business rooted in mentorship, high standards and never missing a closing date. From working alongside family to thriving under pressure, Jackson believes there’s no better industry — or company — to be part of. 

In this episode, we sit down with Steph Noble, a powerhouse branch manager and one of Oregon’s top 1% lenders. She went from solo loan officer to leading a dynamic, all-female team who focus on empowering clients — especially women and underrepresented communities — to become homeowners. She also opens up about her passion for personal growth, her commitment to community impact and how she keeps her team motivated year after year. 

Karen Chiu, SVP of Mortgage Lending and a Mortgage Executive Magazine top 1% mortgage originator, joins us to discuss longevity, leadership and why she believes CCM is the right place for top performers. With nearly two decades of experience, Karen shares how a culture of openness paired with innovative technology has fueled her success since joining. 

Freeman Sawyer, Regional Vice President, joins us to share the strategy, mindset and mission behind his successful transition to CCM. Known for being deeply hands-on, Freeman walks us through why coming to CCM felt like the right move — and how early experiences like the Sales Rally confirmed the cultural and operational difference. He also touches on the values that drive him — from his Military roots to founding Heroes Ranch. 

Non-QM is on the rise — and Pete Fickeisen is here to tell you why it’s a game-changer. In Season 3, Episode 12, our Sales Director of Non-QM Signature Expanded shares how his team is helping loan officers boost volume and stay sharp in a competitive market. Don’t miss the latest episode. 

In Season 3 Episode 11, Branch Manager Brandon Von Almen shares how he keeps a clear vision about his values since his time in the U.S. Army. One of his big reasons for moving to CCM was the focus on people over production – and he appreciates the company’s unwavering support. Learn how his impact goes far beyond business in the latest episode. 

In Season 3 Episode 10, Tennessee Branch Manager Shawn Kaplan says using his resources is in his DNA. He doesn’t just see a ‘big company’ – he sees endless possibilities and knows exactly how to make them work for him.  Find out how CCM matches his energy right back by listening to his latest episode. 

In Season 3 Episode 9, the #1 female originator in Virginia, Gina Myers, gives her top takes about the growth she’s experienced at CCM. Making decisions on the fly comes way more naturally now, especially with the full support of the company behind her. Listen to her latest episode now. 

In Season 3 Episode 8, Senior Vice President Chris Devin admits he was “in” by the time he got to the lunch presentation of his Cleveland recruiting visit. Listen to why he’s now in the top 1% of mortgage originators nationwide. 

In Season 3 Episode 7, Loan Officer Steve Garrott tells his unique mortgage origin story and how his background perfectly positioned him to fit into the industry. He also shares his apprehension about joining a larger company and what he thinks of CCM now.  

In Season 3 Episode 6, SVP of Production Nicole Perrone explains how she uses brand to her advantage. She’s fully embraced the power of digital marketing and all the benefits that lie behind it. How, you ask? By realizing she gets uncomfortable by being comfortable. 

In Season 3 Episode 5, Dwayne Stein is fully transparent about why he’s stayed at CrossCountry Mortgage. Get ready for a wild ride as he reveals what he’s seen since signing up as Branch #8. Alligator wrestling may or may not come up. Listen now and find out! 

In Season 3 Episode 4, Andy Matkovic gives the ultimate insider look at CCM’s past, present and future. As the company’s first hire – he’s seen it all. Listen to him get fired up about the types of people who join CCM and thrive.

In Season 3 Episode 3, Michelle Bobart shares her secret for teambuilding. She also tells us how her move to CCM gave her more control and a new peace of mind. We’ll give you a hint: consistent client experience! Listen and learn today. 

In Season 3 Episode 2, Katie Grimes shares how she’s built her business based on value and impact. She claims she can’t sell anything – but we find that hard to believe based on her numerous top rankings! Listen to learn the truth for yourself. 

Kyle Johnson showcases why he’s an emerging star. This is a must listen for new loan officers and a motivational refresher for industry veterans. Find out who his biggest competitor is and more!  

Three of our loan officers sit down with Lizy Hoeffer and discuss their passion about advocating for the Hispanic community. Listen to what Lauren Maxwell, Teresa Barajas, and Aindrea Wilder have to say about investing in Hispanic homebuyers! 

Some people hold off purchasing a home for fear of a large down payment, low credit score, or just are unsure of the process. But most people are more ready to buy a home than they think. Listen to Jayma Banks (Senior Vice President of Housing Initiatives), Jeremy Durkin (Originating Branch Manager), and Victoria Kammer (Senior Loan Officer) talk about the many ways people can find the home of their dreams at the payment they can afford.

Women make up 53% of the workplace at CCM. Hear Jenn Stracensky (Chief Operating Officer), Laura Soave (Chief Brand Officer), and Jayma Banks (Senior Vice President of Housing Initiatives) talk about what drives them to succeed in an industry typically dominated by men.

Why do loan officers come to CCM? Get your answers here from Maggie Mikaitis (IL) and Shawn Kaplan (TN) as they go into detail about the transition process and what excites them about working here.

Two of our top-producing loan officers Shireen Shackelford (OH) and Jerry Sundt (AZ) sit down and discuss how they help homebuyers see the future in front of them by using our home loan product options.

Sit down with 3 of our loan officers who have served in the Military: Joe Smith (MA), Nicole Francis (CA), and Kyle Johnson (WA). They get real about how their service helps them in their roles at CrossCountry Mortgage and what they do to support Veteran homebuyers.

Stream 24 minutes of wisdom from some of the top female leaders at our company: Lauren Maxwell, Lizy Hoeffer, and Laura Soave.Are you interested in joining our team? Visit our career page.

This is personal to us. We help Veterans use the homebuying benefits that they earned. There's power in educating clients and real estate partners about VA loan impacts. Connect with the featured loan officers: Jose Sampoll, Rick Yniguez, and Steve Flounlacker.Are you interested in joining our team> Visit our career page.

Check out CCM Talks: Supporting the Hispanic Homebuyer, our podcast dedicated to celebrating Hispanic culture, homeownership, and gratitude for our Hispanic and Spanish-speaking loan officers, partners, and customers.Featured employees: Lova Gomez and Doug BenavidesAre you interested in joining our team? Visit our career page.

We have the best loan officers in the business! Our business model attracts them, and our great culture keeps them here. We’re excited to introduce you to a few of them today as they discuss life at CCM. Connect with the featured loan officers: Gavin Ekstrom, Dwayne Stein, and Shireen Shackelford.Are you interested in joining our team? Visit our career page.