Ever wondered what it takes for our community protectors to transition from serving on the front lines to settling into their dream homes? Joining us in the studio is Maple Conston, a spirited ex-deputy of the Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office, who now dedicates her days to guiding first responders through the maze of home buying. She's on a mission, armed not with a badge, but with an arsenal of real estate savvy and an insider's understanding of the unique housing needs that come with a life in law enforcement. As we chat, Maple unveils the ins and outs of a special housing grant program and the critical steps our heroes in uniform should take when they're ready to hang their hats in a place of their own.

This isn't just any house-hunting tale; it's a heartfelt journey of change and community support. Maple's transition from patrolling to property listings is nothing short of inspiring, and her expertise in negotiating not only deals but dreams is truly enlightening. In our lively conversation, she sheds light on the misconceptions surrounding the home buying process and advises on how to balance the scale between wants and needs. For those ready to build memories in a new home, Maple Conston is the ally you never knew you needed. Tune in to hear her story and gather the essential knowledge to navigate your path to homeownership with confidence.

Unlock the door to the latest home construction marvels with Adrienne Fontenot, the esteemed Executive Director of the Acadian Home Builders Association, in our latest heart-to-heart. Adrienne gives us an exclusive sneak peek into the Parade of Homes event, an architectural festa where you can rub shoulders with the crème de la crème of local, licensed contractors and feast your eyes on their latest masterpieces. If you're on the hunt for a new abode or just itching to sprinkle some fresh design ideas into your current digs, this episode is your personal VIP pass to innovation and inspiration.

Step into the nuts and bolts of the Parade of Homes as Adrienne navigates us through the digital transformation that has revolutionized attendees' experiences. The mobile app is a game-changer – think turn-by-turn directions to the avant-garde abodes, coupled with a treasure trove of information on each home, builder, and sponsor. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a guided tour through the spring buying and building season, promising to plant you front and center at the intersection of high-end craftsmanship and cutting-edge home design. Join us and transform how you view the home-building journey.

Have you ever imagined the wild thrill of owning a zoo? Well, for Courtney Oldenburg's family, this isn't just a whimsical daydream—it's their reality. In this heartwarming chat, we're joined by Courtney from Zoosiana, the enchanting animal haven that's been a cornerstone of Acadiana for three decades. We journey through the vibrant happenings of their current springtime event, ExtravaganZoo, exploring the bevy of educational and entertaining activities that await. From keeper talks to the beloved Safari Express train, prepare to be captivated by stories that bring the spirit of the wild to our doorstep.

Courtney's personal narrative adds a special touch to this episode, as she recounts her father-in-law's leap from commercial banking into zoo ownership—a move that sparked a multi-generational love affair with wildlife conservation. We get a tantalizing sneak peek into Zoosiana's calendar, teasing events like Boo at the Zoo and a possible celebration for World Giraffe Day, offering a poignant reminder of the zoo's dedication to these graceful creatures. Whether you're planning your next family escapade or simply looking to indulge in the passion that fuels one of Acadiana's most treasured attractions, this conversation is your ticket to an inspiring adventure.

 Join us for an intimate and inspiring conversation where Joel recounts his journey, not only through the trials of cancer but also his passionate engagement with the American Cancer Society. His work as the co-chair for past events and his lead role in the upcoming 2024 black and white Gala is a testament to the power of community and the difference we can make when we come together for a cause that touches us all.

Our dialogue with Joel doesn’t stop at his personal narrative; it extends to the very heart of community involvement in the fight against cancer in Louisiana. He sheds light on the impact of the black and white Gala, an event that epitomizes elegance and altruism, rallying the Acadiana community to contribute to cancer research and support services for patients. Furthermore, Joel invites listeners to look beyond the glitz of the gala and consider joining the leadership breakfast, underscoring the importance of collective efforts and volunteerism. This episode promises more than just a story—it's an opportunity to be part of an ongoing battle where every contribution, big or small, carries the potential to save lives.

When life throws curveballs, it's the strength of community and the power of faith that can turn the tide. I had the privilege of sitting down with the incredible Alison Howard, who turned her own trials into a transformative mission, Women at the Well of Love. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of how Alison's journey through an unexpected separation and subsequent divorce, intertwined with Father John Joseph Bork's vision, became a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges, particularly within the Catholic Church. It's a conversation that will leave you inspired, as we discuss the significance of inner healing and the solace found in togetherness during life's storms.

The energy in the room was undeniable as Allison detailed the exciting events and retreats organized by Women at the Well of Love, designed to offer sanctuary and understanding. She also shared her personal coaching practice's vital role in providing one-on-one support to women walking a path mirroring her own. The future looks bright with plans for a men's retreat and the utilization of the new life center at St Pius, where many will find a fresh start. Join us for this profound discussion that not only spotlights the importance of personal growth after adversity but also radiates hope and practical guidance for those looking to rebuild and flourish.

Struggling to find the sweet spot between your professional hustle and personal sanctuary? You're not alone. Join me, Mimi Doucet, as I sit down with Jackie Russo of Brand University and a dynamic group of agents at Maison Title to tackle the myth of perfect work-life balance. We're digging into the heart of equilibrium challenges and shining a light on strategies to harmonize our lives. With the resurrection of our masterminds book studies, we're opening the doors to growth and learning for those who feel life's pace has snatched their reading moments. Our conversation is not just a prelude to our first session on Matthew Kelly's 'Off Balance' but a rallying cry for change.

This episode is your invitation to a transformative gathering on January 9th, where professionals from all walks of life can find common ground in their search for balance. As a mortgage expert, certified coach, and speaker, I'm laying out my personal pledge to embrace a more balanced approach in the coming year and encouraging you to do the same. Whether you're a real estate maven, a self-starting entrepreneur, or hustling in any field where the scales of work and life seem perpetually tipped, this is where you'll find camaraderie and concrete steps towards equilibrium. Let's step into this journey together, and gear up for a Monday routine that infuses your week with mortgage motivation and actionable advice.

As the year comes to a close, we can't help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for the resilience and accomplishments we've seen in the mortgage industry in 2023. There's a unique magic in helping families create their dream homes, and this special episode is an homage to those moments. We wrap up the year with a ribbon of thanks to the real estate agents, builders, and everyone who trusted us to guide them through buying, constructing, or refinancing their homes. Your support has built more than houses; it's crafted a community.

Celebrating the festive cheer, this episode is more than just a recap; it's a fireside chat brimming with heartfelt stories and the warmth of the holiday spirit. We're sharing some of the most inspiring moments from the past twelve months and spreading joy that goes beyond business deals and interest rates. Join us as we raise a toast to the memories we've all made, the challenges we've overcome, and the bright and promising New Year ahead. Let's cherish these times with loved ones and look forward to creating many more in the year to come.

We published our Home for the Holidays episode for a final reminder!
BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW, HERE: https://bit.ly/41ljBz8

We've got a heartwarming episode for you as we bring in an extraordinary guest, Adrienne Fontenot, the Executive Director of the Home Builders Association in Lafayette. Ever wondered how to make a real difference in your community? Adrienne shares about the magical Home for the Holidays campaign, an initiative that has incredibly raised over $2.8 million for local shelter-related agencies in the past 19 years. We talk about how this campaign, filled with love and compassion, benefits Faith House, Lafayette's Habitat for Humanity, Healing House, and Foster the Love. Plus, we'll let you in on how you can be part of this inspiring cause and snag tickets for a chance to win a house or $100,000!

We didn't stop at the highlights of the campaign. We're also giving you updates on the Home for the Holidays project right in Lafayette, Louisiana. Get the inside scoop on the progress of the house construction, the current needs for donations, and how you can secure tickets for the raffle that could potentially have you winning the newly built house or a cool stash of cash! We reveal the driving force behind this project and the impact it has made on the community. Stay with us as we gear up towards a future episode where we delve into the origins of the Legendary organization and their role in the Home for the Holidays project. Join us in this episode that is brimming with community spirit!

Are you ready to take on a new perspective about work-life balance? Join me, Mimi Doucet, as we crack open the intriguing book, "Off Balance" by Matthew Kelly, on January 9th, in an hour-long mastermind book study. Matthew Kelly's insightful piece is set to challenge the conventional notions of work-life balance, an issue many of us struggle with. Regardless of your profession, whether you're a realtor, builder, car salesman, or any professional in control of your destiny and income, you're warmly invited on this journey of learning and growth. 

The idea for this book study was born from a thought-provoking discussion about balance with Jackie Russo from Brand University and a group of agents from Maison Title. It's all part of my annual end-of-the-year introspection where I reflect on the year that has passed and how we can improve going forward. This is your chance to be part of a collaborative discourse where we'll dissect Matthew Kelly's views about work-life balance in an hour or so. So, mark your calendars, join me at the GMFS office and let's find our balance together.

For more on MiMi and GMFS:
https://gmfsmortgage.com/branch/lafayette/

Unlock the secrets to successfully building a custom home with Cody, our esteemed guest from District South Real Estate. Cody's seasoned know-how and his association with the McLain Companies unravels the intricate journey of creating a dream home. From securing an ideal location to collaborating with a proficient architect, Cody guides us through every little detail. And guess what? You can now get your hands on the delectable honey and seasonings from the renowned MarketEats restaurant!

We're also diving deep into the world of real estate, spotlighting a new enchanting development in Magnolia Trace. Hear a local builder spill the beans on his experiences and expertise in the field. We debate the pros and cons of the current real estate market, including potential lower interest rates and the art of balancing construction costs. And if you're keen on expansion stories, Cody's successful extension of MarketEats Broussard to two new locations, with a third one possibly on the way, will surely inspire you. For queries, don't hesitate to touch base with Cody. This episode is truly a treasure trove of insightful information for anyone interested in real estate, home construction, or the food business. Tune in!

For more on Cody:
https://www.districtsouthre.com/agents/cody-musgrove/

For more on Mimi + GMFS:
https://gmfsmortgage.com/branch/lafayette/