In this episode of Loan Officer Team Training, I chat with Liz Reese, a talented loan officer and content creator, about her inspiring journey with personal branding and social media. Liz opens up about the strategies she uses to engage with clients, build strong relationships, and why being vulnerable can be such a powerful part of your brand.

We talk about the mindset it takes to succeed in this business and how sharing your personal stories can help you truly connect with your audience. Liz reminds us that success is a marathon, not a sprint, and encourages everyone to show up authentically and be genuinely social online. It’s an uplifting, practical conversation that will make you excited to put yourself out there in a real and meaningful way.

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Follow Liz Reese:

Instagram: @loanladyliz

Website: https://linktr.ee/lizreese

Connect with me:

Listen to this Episode: https://loan-officer-team-train.captivate.fm/listen

My Instagram: @itsireneduford

My LinkedIn: Irene Duford

My Email: [email protected]

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Personal Branding

06:29 Maximizing Efficiency in Content Creation

11:57 Teaching and Empowering Others

17:55 Standing Out in a Saturated Market

23:53 Engaging with Your Audience

34:37 Content Creation Strategies

40:27 Mindset and Self-Talk

46:11 Vulnerability in Branding

47:32 Building Connections and Community in the Loan Industry

48:28 Introduction and Appreciation

In this episode, I sit down with Christy Pessemier to talk all things copywriting, marketing, and how the landscape is changing—especially with the rise of AI. Christy brings so much wisdom to the table as we dive into why authenticity in your messaging matters now more than ever. We also chat about the StoryBrand framework and how it helps you clearly identify and speak to the problems your clients are really facing.

Christy shares her journey into the world of copywriting and why creating a great client experience is at the heart of everything she does. She offers some fantastic advice for Loan Officers who want to grow their business without losing that human connection. We also touch on the power of gratitude, the role of positive self-talk, and how both can shape your mindset and success. It’s a thoughtful, practical, and encouraging conversation—I think you’ll really enjoy it!

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Follow Christy Pessemier:

Instagram: @christypessemier

Website: ChristyPessemier.com

Connect with me:

Listen to this Episode: https://loan-officer-team-train.captivate.fm/listen

My Instagram: @itsireneduford

My LinkedIn: Irene Duford

My Email: [email protected]

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CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:57 The Role of Copywriting in Marketing

04:40 The Importance of Authenticity in Messaging

09:56 Utilizing AI in Copywriting

12:29 Understanding the StoryBrand Framework

17:36 Identifying Client Problems

24:02 The Value of One-on-One Coaching

28:36 The Importance of Sharing Your Expertise

31:15 Christy's Journey into Copywriting

33:41 Unreasonable Hospitality and Client Retention

38:07 Building Healthy Routines for Success

43:09 Mindset and the Power of Gratitude

48:57 Encouragement for Loan Officers

This episode hit different.

I sat down with Chris Medellin, and what started as a conversation about branding and business quickly turned into something much deeper. We talked about what it really takes to break through in your life… not just in your career, but in the way you think, move, and show up every day.

Chris opened up about the habits that used to hold him back, and the moment he decided to make a real change, from hitting rock bottom to building a brand that’s now leading in the mortgage space. We got into everything from fitness and mindset to sobriety and purpose.

This isn’t just about being more productive. It’s about building a life you’re actually proud of.

If you’ve ever felt like you were meant for more, or you're in a season where you know something needs to shift, this conversation is for you.

Some things we unpack in this episode:

The power of routine and physical discipline

Why timing your creativity actually matters

The real reason Chris gave up alcohol, and what changed after

How to build a personal brand that reflects who you really are

What most people get wrong when chasing success.

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Follow Chris Medellin:

Instagram: @thechrismedellin

Website: chrismedellinofficial.com

Connect with me:

Listen to this Episode: https://loan-officer-team-train.captivate.fm/listen

My Instagram: @itsireneduford

My LinkedIn: Irene Duford

My Email: [email protected]

—

CHAPTERS

00:00 - Intro

00:30 - Why This Conversation Matters

06:37 - Chris’s Story: From Struggles to Leadership

14:36 - Routines That Built Momentum

17:25 - Discipline Through Fitness

20:25 - When Creativity Peaks

23:35 - Branding That Feels Real

31:30 - Chris’s Sobriety Journey

32:35 - The Influence of Family

35:24 - Choosing to Get Sober

42:50 - What Happens After You Quit

44:27 - The Real Life Transformation

45:48 - Final Thoughts

In this episode, I had the pleasure of talking with Garrett Gunderson, and what a fun and eye-opening conversation it was! Garrett shares his journey from cleaning cars as a young entrepreneur to becoming a well-known financial educator and author. We dive into how our mindset around money can really shape our lives—and how shifting that mindset can lead to more freedom and peace.

Garrett also shares some practical steps for managing finances, why it’s so important to teach kids about money early on, and how he uses humor to make financial education more approachable. We talk about the fear and scarcity mindset so many of us deal with, and how having the right support and community can help you break through it. Garrett’s all about helping people heal their relationship with money, and I think you’ll take away some powerful insights from this one!

Episode Resources:

Garrett's questions to ask yourself:

What am I trying to protect, defend, or control?

What's the emotions I feel behind this?

Do I need to accept or what do I need to forgive?

What can I love about this? What can I learn from this?

Connect with Garrett: https://garrettgunderson.com/

Get Loan Team Training for YOUR Team: loanteamtraining.com

Watch my podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NThE1s1GFWM

Follow me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsireneduford/)

Follow me on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ireneduford/)

Follow us on Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/LoanTeamTraining)

Email:  [email protected]

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Garrett Gunderson

03:18 Garrett's Journey with Money

08:32 Transforming Mindsets Around Money

12:36 Practical Money Management Strategies

17:39 Healing Money Stories and Legacy Conversations

19:17 Embracing Mistakes as Lessons

20:33 Mindset and Self-Talk Strategies

24:55 Valuing Relationships and Setting Boundaries

27:56 Teaching Financial Literacy to Children

30:43 The Intersection of Comedy and Financial Education

32:12 Navigating Fear and Seeking Support

34:16 Finding Motivation in Tough Times

37:02 Identifying Personal Superpowers

38:25 Coaching and Financial Empowerment

In this episode, I had a great conversation with Sam May, a seasoned Loan Officer from All Western Mortgage. Sam and I talk about something that doesn’t always get enough attention in our industry—vulnerability—and how being real and open can actually strengthen business relationships and team culture. He shares his journey through the ups and downs of the mortgage world and the lessons he’s learned along the way, especially when it comes to hiring the right people and creating a strong, supportive team.

We also dive into how important it is to truly understand your clients and create an experience that makes them feel seen and supported. Sam talks about the software he developed, called HOMPWR, and how it’s helping to improve the mortgage process in a really smart and innovative way.

We touch on the role AI could play in the future of the industry, the struggle so many of us face with perfectionism, and why community and collaboration matter more than ever. It’s a conversation full of insight and heart—I think you’re really going to enjoy it!

Episode Resources:

Connect with Sam: https://www.instagram.com/loanguysd/

Learn More about HOMPWR: https://www.hompwr.com

Get Loan Team Training for YOUR Team: loanteamtraining.com

Watch my podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ha94ZZq-Sp0

Follow me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsireneduford/)

Follow me on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ireneduford/)

Follow us on Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/LoanTeamTraining)

Email:  [email protected]

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction and Connection

02:16 Journey into the Mortgage Business

03:40 Building a Strong Team Culture

06:43 Hiring for Success

10:25 The Importance of Tough Conversations

11:48 Setting Expectations with Clients

14:14 The Role of Video in Client Engagement

20:07 Creating a Better Client Experience

21:54 Innovating with Technology in Mortgages

31:52 Embracing Video Communication

34:08 The Evolution of HOMPWR

36:02 AI's Role in the Mortgage Industry

37:59 The Journey of Building a Course

39:50 Overcoming Perfectionism

42:45 The Fear of Releasing Work

45:19 The Importance of Team Dynamics

48:19 Relationship vs. Transactional Business

51:19 The Power of Community and Collaboration

54:24 Work Ethic and Helping Others

In this episode of Loan Officer Team Training, I’m joined by the amazing Jessica Van Nuland to talk all about using Instagram as a powerful marketing tool—especially for loan officers. Jessica shares her story of how she got into Instagram coaching and gives some really helpful tips on how to use storytelling, authentic engagement, and creativity to connect with your audience in a way that feels natural and not salesy.

We also dive into how to create content that really speaks to people, the importance of verification on social platforms, and how to get past that perfectionism that can hold us back from posting in the first place. If you’ve ever felt unsure about showing up on Instagram, this episode is full of encouragement and practical advice to help you get started and stay consistent!

Episode Resources:

Connect with Jessica: https://www.instagram.com/jessvannuland/

Join Forward Academy: https://www.forwardacademy.com

Get Loan Team Training for YOUR Team: loanteamtraining.com

Watch my podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/G0F85Gef-8M

Follow me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsireneduford/)

Follow me on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ireneduford/)

Follow us on Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/LoanTeamTraining)

Email:  [email protected]

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Jess Van Nuland

01:32 Journey to Becoming an Instagram Coach

02:58 Simplifying Instagram for Beginners

05:40 The Importance of Authenticity on Social Media

08:07 Transitioning from Old to New Video Strategies

11:19 The Power of Success Stories

12:18 Engagement Strategies on Instagram

17:02 Building Real Connections through DMs

23:19 Different Types of Instagram Posts

24:23 Leveraging the Algorithm for Growth

26:16 Rediscovering Creativity through Instagram

29:18 Mental Health and Personal Growth

30:14 The Power of Community and Gratitude

31:04 Overcoming Fear and Building Resilience

33:16 Legacy and Living Without Regrets

35:24 Authenticity in Social Media

37:33 Engagement Strategies for Social Media

39:27 Understanding Instagram Features and Strategies

43:07 The Impact of Instagram Live

46:12 Creating Meaningful Connections Through Content

In this episode, I sit down with Trevor York—Loan Officer and founder of Lynkspot—for a truly inspiring conversation. Trevor shares his journey through the mortgage industry and talks about how focusing on the customer experience, dialing in your messaging, and using social media effectively can make a huge difference in your business. He walks me through what Lynkspot is all about and how it’s helping loan officers simplify their marketing in one easy-to-use platform.

We also chat about mindset, the ups and downs of growing through adversity, and how personal growth plays a big role in professional success. Trevor opens up about how his family has shaped his perspective, and I just love his genuine passion for helping others in the industry. He reminds us to celebrate the wins—big or small—and to keep lifting each other up. You’re going to walk away from this one feeling encouraged and ready to take action!

Episode Resources:

Learn more about Lynkspot: https://lynkspot.com

Connect with Trevor: https://www.instagram.com/trevyork/

Get Loan Team Training for YOUR Team: loanteamtraining.com

Watch my podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1kEint2d218

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsireneduford/

Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ireneduford/

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LoanTeamTraining

Email: [email protected]

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Trevor York and Lynkspot

02:22 Trevor's Journey as a Loan Officer

04:19 The Birth of Lynkspot

05:15 The Importance of Customer Experience

09:16 The Role of Messaging and Packaging

11:19 Extracting Authenticity in Communication

17:08 Overcoming Challenges in Video Communication

23:16 Understanding Lynkspot's Features and Benefits

30:07 Mindset Matters: Cultivating Positivity

37:27 The Power of Gratitude and Faith

44:24 Strengths and Weaknesses: A Dual Perspective

45:31 Empowering Others: The Ripple Effect of Support

50:12 Learning from Family: The Cycle of Growth

53:06 Closing Thoughts: The Value of Connection and Learning

In this episode, I’m joined by the amazing Jessica Van Nuland to talk all about using Instagram as a powerful marketing tool—especially for loan officers. Jessica shares her story of how she got into Instagram coaching and gives some really helpful tips on how to use storytelling, authentic engagement, and creativity to connect with your audience in a way that feels natural and not salesy.

We also dive into how to create content that really speaks to people, the importance of verification on social platforms, and how to get past that perfectionism that can hold us back from posting in the first place. If you’ve ever felt unsure about showing up on Instagram, this episode is full of encouragement and practical advice to help you get started and stay consistent!

Episode Resources:

Connect with Jessica: https://www.instagram.com/jessvannuland/

Join Forward Academy: https://www.forwardacademy.com

Get Loan Team Training for YOUR Team: loanteamtraining.com

Watch my podcast on YouTube: 

Follow me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsireneduford/)

Follow me on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ireneduford/)

Follow us on Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/LoanTeamTraining)

Email:  [email protected]

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Instagram Coaching

02:19 The Journey to Instagram Mastery

05:42 Effective Instagram Posting Strategies

09:19 Storytelling and Engagement Techniques

16:07 Building Authentic Connections on Instagram

19:21 The Importance of Verification and Authenticity

21:56 Conclusion and Future Insights

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Dr. Shad Helmstetter about the powerful role self-talk plays in both personal development and parenting. 

We explored how the words we say to ourselves, and to our children, can shape confidence, self-esteem, and overall well-being. 

Dr. Helmstetter shares some fascinating insights into the neuroscience behind self-talk and how it literally programs the brain, for better or worse. Whether you’re a parent or not, this will really hit home.

We also talked about how we, as parents and educators, have a responsibility to help kids develop positive inner dialogue from a young age. Dr. Helmstetter offered practical ways to shift negative thought patterns and even walked through how to teach self-talk to children in everyday life. 

The ripple effect of these conversations can be life-changing—not just for our kids, but for future generations. 

This episode will speak to you as a parent, leader, or anyone who wants to create lasting impact—starting with the words we use.

It was such a meaningful discussion, and I can’t wait for you to hear it.

Where to get self talk:

https://selftalkplus.com

https://shadhelmstetter.com

Books by Dr. Shad Helmstetter

What To Say When You Talk to Yourself - https://a.co/d/194hJmd

Predictive Parenting-What To Say When You Talk to Your Kids - https://a.co/d/6IOXgmq

Who Are You Really and What Do You Want? - https://a.co/d/9wUQuMn

The Power of Neuroplasticity - https://a.co/d/j9c1qK5

Negative Self Talk and How to Change it - https://a.co/d/ffLdSZY

The Self Talk Solution - https://a.co/d/cNWqxsx

Watch this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/AEgkGMCGaiI

Get Loan Team Training for YOUR Team: https://loanteamtraining.com

Let’s Connect:

Instagram – @itsireneduford

LinkedIn – Irene Duford

Facebook – Loan Team Training

Email – [email protected]

Episode Highlights

00:00 The Power of Self-Talk in Parenting

07:00 Neuroscience of Self-Talk and Its Impact

14:54 Practical Applications of Self-Talk

22:03 Teaching Self-Talk to Children

30:06 The Ripple Effect of Positive Self-Talk

Join me as I have a great conversation with Neel Dhingra, a prominent digital creator, entrepreneur, and mortgage industry leader, the founder and CEO of Forward Academy. He has significantly impacted the real estate and mortgage industries by leveraging content marketing and personal branding to grow his business exponentially. 

He lives what he teaches.

We talk about the power of personal branding and content marketing, how passion can drive your business forward, and what it really takes to create content that connects. 

Neel shares his journey of working in the mortgage business to becoming a leader in personal branding and marketing through content creation, and he really emphasizes the importance of helping others and building a strong, supportive community along the way.

We also get into some of the real challenges that come with shifting market conditions, the mindset needed to push through, and why staying focused on growth is so important. 

Plus, Neel gives us a preview of the upcoming Forward Event- a high-energy, in-person conference designed for mortgage and real estate professionals aiming to elevate their personal brands. The upcoming event is scheduled for July 11–12, 2025, in Las Vegas, featuring marketing experts from outside the industry who inject fresh perspectives that work. Neel brings world-class speakers like Chris Do, Dan Martell, Shade Zahrai, Johnny Cupcakes and so many more.

This is an inspiring conversation with so many gold nuggets from Neel you won’t want to miss!

Connect with Neel:

Neel Instagram

The Neel Home Podcast 

https://neelhome.com

https://www.youtube.com/c/NeelDhingra

https://www.linkedin.com/in/neelhome

https://www.forwardacademy.com

Get Loan Team Training for YOUR Team: loanteamtraining.com

Watch my podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3DGxFZRqXFA

Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/itsireneduford/

Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ireneduford/

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LoanTeamTraining

Email: [email protected]

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Neil Dhingra and Forward Academy

04:38 The Journey of Building a Personal Brand

10:59 Refocusing on Passion and Enthusiasm

14:45 Creative Marketing Strategies in Direct Mail and Social Media

16:37 The Importance of Packaging Your Message

17:43 Implementing Strategies for Success

19:32 Identifying Your Target Audience

22:55 Narrowing Your Focus for Greater Impact

25:08 Engaging with Your Audience on Social Media

30:37 The Fulfillment of Helping Others

33:24 The Impact of Business Success on Personal Lives

34:36 Gaining Freedom Through Teamwork

37:36 Understanding Customer Pain Points

40:36 Flipping Adversity into Advantage

41:43 The Power of Daily Creation

45:00 Building a Strong Team

47:21 Going the Extra Mile for Success

49:34 The Importance of Personal Branding

52:30 Creating a Supportive Community

55:32 Long-Term Strategies for Business Growth