In this episode 27 of Approved AF – The Mortgage Licensing Podcast, Catalina sits down with Ryan Kinch, CEO of LicensingStore.com and former General Counsel with more than 350+ state and federal regulatory exams under his belt.

Together, they break down what every new and growing mortgage company needs to know about building a simple, healthy, and scalable compliance system — without drowning in policies, audits, or data cleanup.

You’ll learn:

The biggest compliance mistakes first-time mortgage CEOs make

Why statusing loan files correctly is the foundation of clean NMLS reporting

How to build policies you can actually follow (and not just copy-paste)

What to know before expanding into new states or shifting to correspondent lending

Why compliance is less about perfection and more about structure, consistency, and mindset

How to avoid repeat findings and reduce exam anxiety

If you’re a broker owner, a soon-to-be CEO, or someone scaling from two states to twenty, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence to build a compliance system that protects your business as it grows.

Helpful Links:

🌟 Follow Us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/approvedaf_licensing/

🌟 Visit Our Website: https://www.LicensingStore.com

Subscribe for More:

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more actionable tips, strategies, and insights to grow without the chaos.

The information provided on Approved AF - The Licensing Podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. Each mortgage licensing application and business situation is unique, and the strategies or recommendations discussed on the show may not apply to every individual or scenario. This podcast is not a substitute for professional advice, and we encourage listeners to consult with a licensing expert or legal advisor for guidance specific to their circumstances.

The opinions and views expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Approved AF or LicensingStore.com.

Supplemental reporting is one of the most misunderstood (and costly) parts of mortgage compliance. Most companies believe the Mortgage Call Report covers everything. It doesn’t. In this episode, Catalina sits down with Erika Reinhofer, head of the Reporting Department at LicensingStore.com, to break down the hidden state-specific reporting requirements that can trigger fines, license items, delayed renewals, and full-on revocations.

Erika explains which states are the most data-heavy, how deadlines really work, why clean LOS data is everything, and the biggest mistakes companies make when expanding into multiple states. If you're licensed in more than one state, growing your team, or worried you may have missed a deadline, this conversation is your compliance safety net.

You’ll learn:

• Which states require supplemental reports and how they differ

• Why some reports require up to 100 data points

• Why missing one deadline can block renewal

• How to set up systems that protect your business

• How LicensingStore’s team helps companies stay ahead of deadlines

This episode is your roadmap to avoiding surprise fines, unnecessary stress, and compliance emergencies.

Helpful Links:

🌟 Follow Us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/approvedaf_licensing/

🌟 Visit Our Website: https://www.LicensingStore.com

🌟 Email Erika: [email protected]

Subscribe for More:

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more actionable tips, strategies, and insights to grow without the chaos.

The information provided on Approved AF - The Licensing Podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. Each mortgage licensing application and business situation is unique, and the strategies or recommendations discussed on the show may not apply to every individual or scenario. This podcast is not a substitute for professional advice, and we encourage listeners to consult with a licensing expert or legal advisor for guidance specific to their circumstances.

The opinions and views expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Approved AF or LicensingStore.com.

In episode 25 of Approved AF – The Mortgage Licensing Podcast, Catalina Stepanov sits down with Jen Anderson, a certified transformational and accountability coach and the Amazon bestselling author of Give Your Yes a Bestie Named No.

They dive into what every high-performing mortgage professional needs to hear: how shifting your beliefs, setting boundaries, and building self-trust can change not only your business but your entire life.

Jen shares how over-giving, imposter syndrome, and “yes-girl” habits hold back even the most driven leaders and how you can break that cycle to lead with clarity and confidence.

If you’re a loan officer, broker, or business owner constantly on call, this episode will help you:

Build boundaries that support your success (not sabotage it)

Identify mindset blocks keeping you from launching your next big thing

Strengthen self-accountability and trust

Lead with authenticity instead of burnout

🎧 Tune in to learn how to stop performing and start leading—from a place of peace, purpose, and power.

Helpful Links:

🌟 Follow Us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/approvedaf_licensing/

🌟 Visit Our Website: https://www.LicensingStore.com

🌟 Jen Anderson LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejenniferanderson/

🌟Jen Anderson's website: https://www.thankfulheartscoaching.com/

Subscribe for More:

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more actionable tips, strategies, and insights to grow without the chaos.

The information provided on Approved AF - The Licensing Podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. Each mortgage licensing application and business situation is unique, and the strategies or recommendations discussed on the show may not apply to every individual or scenario. This podcast is not a substitute for professional advice, and we encourage listeners to consult with a licensing expert or legal advisor for guidance specific to their circumstances.

The opinions and views expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Approved AF or LicensingStore.com.

In episode 24 of Approved AF – The Mortgage Licensing Podcast, Catalina sits down with Matt Rosen, CEO of American Lending Conference and host of The Lender’s Playbook Podcast, to talk about building a brand, leading through change, and keeping your business compliant while scaling fast.

From the early days of running sales for his father’s Pitbull Conference to launching his own nationwide lending event, Matt shares how grit, leadership, and adaptability built a powerhouse community in private lending.

You’ll hear how the American Lending Conference is redefining industry education, how to pivot with purpose in changing markets, and why licensing and compliance are the foundation of sustainable growth for any mortgage professional.

Helpful Links:

🌟 Follow Us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/approvedaf_licensing/

🌟 Visit Our Website: https://www.LicensingStore.com

🌟 Matt Rosen's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/entrepreneurhi/

🌟American Lending Conference Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanlendingconference/

🌟American Lending Conference website: https://www.americanlendingconference.com/

Subscribe for More:

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more actionable tips, strategies, and insights to grow without the chaos.

The information provided on Approved AF - The Licensing Podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. Each mortgage licensing application and business situation is unique, and the strategies or recommendations discussed on the show may not apply to every individual or scenario. This podcast is not a substitute for professional advice, and we encourage listeners to consult with a licensing expert or legal advisor for guidance specific to their circumstances.

The opinions and views expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Approved AF or LicensingStore.com.

In episode 23 of Approved AF – The Mortgage Licensing Podcast, host Catalina Stepanov sits down with Randi Fechter, founder of Fechter Business Strategy Services and a bookkeeping expert with over 20 years of experience helping small business owners find financial clarity.

Randi breaks down the top bookkeeping mistakes mortgage brokers make, why your numbers tell the story of your business, and how clean books can actually help you grow—not just stay compliant.

Learn the three key KPIs every mortgage company should track, how to plan ahead for license renewals and expansion, and why outsourcing your bookkeeping can save you time, money, and stress.

If your books are a mess, this episode will show you exactly where to start and how to become decision-ready in your business.

Helpful Links:

🌟 Follow Us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/approvedaf_licensing/

🌟 Visit Our Website: https://www.LicensingStore.com

🌟 Randi Fechter's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randifechter/

🌟Randi Fechter's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fechterbusinessservices/

🌟Randi Fechter's website: https://fbstrategy.net/

Subscribe for More:

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more actionable tips, strategies, and insights to grow without the chaos.

The information provided on Approved AF - The Licensing Podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. Each mortgage licensing application and business situation is unique, and the strategies or recommendations discussed on the show may not apply to every individual or scenario. This podcast is not a substitute for professional advice, and we encourage listeners to consult with a licensing expert or legal advisor for guidance specific to their circumstances.

The opinions and views expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Approved AF or LicensingStore.com.

In episode 22 of Approved AF – The Mortgage Licensing Podcast, Catalina Stepanov sits down with Chelsea Gardner, founder of Fully Aligned Marketing, to talk about how mortgage professionals can finally stop posting blindly and start turning content into closings.

Chelsea breaks down what really works on social media right now — from how to find your target audience to why “likes and follows” don’t pay the bills (but engagement does). You’ll learn how to humanize your brand, create compliant yet compelling content, and how even platforms like Pinterest can become your secret lead magnet.

If you’re ready to make social media feel simple and profitable, this episode is for you.

Helpful Links:

🌟 Follow Us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/approvedaf_licensing

🌟 Visit Our Website: https://www.LicensingStore.com

🌟 Chelsea Gardner's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fullyalignedmarketing/

🌟 Chelsea Gardner's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fullyalignedmarketing/

🌟 Fully Aligned Marketing Website: https://fullyalignedmarketing.com/

Subscribe for More:

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more actionable tips, strategies, and insights to grow without the chaos.

The information provided on Approved AF - The Licensing Podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. Each mortgage licensing application and business situation is unique, and the strategies or recommendations discussed on the show may not apply to every individual or scenario. This podcast is not a substitute for professional advice, and we encourage listeners to consult with a licensing expert or legal advisor for guidance specific to their circumstances.

The opinions and views expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Approved AF or LicensingStore.com.

In episode 21 of Approved AF – The Mortgage Licensing Podcast, Catalina Stepanov chats with Jaelynne Vik, Mortgage Enthusiast and industry pro from Arrive, about how technology and social strategy can simplify your mortgage business and amplify your relationships.

We’re breaking down how to use tools smarter (not harder), the power of storytelling on social media, and why showing up consistently online can turn connections into closed deals.

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by mortgage tech or stuck on what to post — this episode will help you start thriving, not just surviving.

Helpful Links:

🌟 Follow Us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/approvedaf_licensing/

🌟 Visit Our Website: https://www.LicensingStore.com

🌟 Jaelynne Vik's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaelynne-mcmaster-vik/

🌟Jaelynne Vik's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mortgagerockstars/

Subscribe for More:

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more actionable tips, strategies, and insights to grow without the chaos.

The information provided on Approved AF - The Licensing Podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. Each mortgage licensing application and business situation is unique, and the strategies or recommendations discussed on the show may not apply to every individual or scenario. This podcast is not a substitute for professional advice, and we encourage listeners to consult with a licensing expert or legal advisor for guidance specific to their circumstances.

The opinions and views expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Approved AF or LicensingStore.com.

Surety bonds may not protect you—but they can make or break your mortgage business. In episode 20 of Approved AF – The Mortgage Licensing Podcast, Catalina Stepanov sits down with Chris Sturdivant, VP of Business Development at the National Notary Association, to unpack everything brokers, lenders, and new company owners need to know about surety bonds.

From the difference between bonds and insurance, to common mistakes that can suspend your license, Chris breaks it all down in plain English. You’ll also hear pro tips on bond renewals, budgeting for premiums, and how new technology makes securing a bond in 30 seconds possible.

Whether you’re starting fresh, scaling nationwide, or just trying to stay compliant, this episode will give you the clarity (and caution) you need.

Helpful Links:

🌟 Follow Us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/approvedaf_licensing/

🌟 Visit Our Website: https://www.LicensingStore.com

🌟 Chris Sturdivant's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chris-s-6408183

Subscribe for More:

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more actionable tips, strategies, and insights to grow without the chaos.

The information provided on Approved AF - The Licensing Podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. Each mortgage licensing application and business situation is unique, and the strategies or recommendations discussed on the show may not apply to every individual or scenario. This podcast is not a substitute for professional advice, and we encourage listeners to consult with a licensing expert or legal advisor for guidance specific to their circumstances.

The opinions and views expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Approved AF or LicensingStore.com.

Financial statements aren’t just numbers on a page—they’re the foundation of your mortgage company’s licensing and compliance. In this episode of Approved AF – The Licensing Podcast, Erika breaks down why audited vs. unaudited financials matter, how net worth impacts your applications, and the costly risks of missing or inaccurate statements. Whether you’re a broker starting out or expanding nationwide, this episode reveals the financial must-knows to stay licensed, compliant, and growth-ready.

Helpful Links:

🌟 Follow Us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/approvedaf_licensing/

🌟 Visit Our Website: https://www.LicensingStore.com

🌟 Email Erika: [email protected]

Subscribe for More:

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more actionable tips, strategies, and insights to grow without the chaos.

The information provided on Approved AF - The Licensing Podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. Each mortgage licensing application and business situation is unique, and the strategies or recommendations discussed on the show may not apply to every individual or scenario. This podcast is not a substitute for professional advice, and we encourage listeners to consult with a licensing expert or legal advisor for guidance specific to their circumstances.

The opinions and views expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Approved AF or LicensingStore.com.

Starting a mortgage brokerage takes more than industry knowledge—it takes courage, strategy, and support.

In episode 18, we sit down with Laiken Charles, Founder of Hobbs Mortgage Loans, LLC DBA Luma Lending, to hear how she left retail lending, bet on herself, and launched her own brokerage. Laiken shares her journey, from the first conversation with her husband about taking the leap, to partnering with the right support systems, and learning what it means to lead as a woman in a male-dominated industry.

You’ll learn:

How to navigate the fear and reward of launching a mortgage company

Why communication and empathy are powerful tools in leadership

The role of support systems in scaling your business

How to balance CEO responsibilities with originating loans

Why betting on yourself is the ultimate success strategy

If you’re thinking about opening your own brokerage or growing into leadership, Laiken’s story is proof that with vision, support, and persistence—you can do it.

Helpful Links:

🌟 Follow Us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/approvedaf_licensing/

🌟 Visit Our Website: https://www.LicensingStore.com

Book Mentioned: Surrounded By Idiots by Thomas Erikson

Clifton Strengths: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/252137/home.aspx

Subscribe for More:

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more actionable tips, strategies, and insights to grow without the chaos.

The information provided on Approved AF - The Licensing Podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. Each mortgage licensing application and business situation is unique, and the strategies or recommendations discussed on the show may not apply to every individual or scenario. This podcast is not a substitute for professional advice, and we encourage listeners to consult with a licensing expert or legal advisor for guidance specific to their circumstances.

The opinions and views expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Approved AF or LicensingStore.com.