Episodes

  • Breaking Barriers: How Sharon Wofford Became a Top Female Loan Officer
    Jan 15 2025

    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.

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    28 mins
  • Breaking Barriers to Find Your Way
    Jan 8 2025

    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.

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    34 mins
  • Overcoming Fear and Embracing Opportunity: A Conversation with Cindy Ertman
    Jan 1 2025

    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!

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    42 mins
  • From Processor to Powerhouse
    Dec 18 2024

    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.

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    28 mins
  • Saving Deals and Building Teams: Innovative Strategies from Success Mortgage Partners
    Dec 11 2024

    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!

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    21 mins
  • Empowering Women in Lending: Sue Meitner's Journey from Post-Closing to CEO
    Dec 4 2024

    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.

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    28 mins
  • Calculated Risks and Unstoppable Growth: Sarah Cox's Path to Success
    Nov 27 2024

    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!

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    38 mins
  • Finding Your Voice: The Importance of Visibility and Opportunity in Your Career
    Nov 20 2024

    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.

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    23 mins