Take It To The Max!

In this episode of Take It To The Max, LaDonna Lockard welcomes back Brian Vieaux, President of MISMO, for a deep dive into why clean data and standardized workflows matter more than any new AI tool. From MISMO compliance and fintech partnerships to automation pitfalls and regulatory readiness, this conversation offers practical insight for lenders preparing to grow smarter in 2026 and beyond.

In this episode of Take It To The Max, LaDonna Lockard sits down with Rogelio Goertzen, Founder and CEO of HOME (Hispanic Organization of Mortgage Experts), to discuss inclusion, education, and access in the mortgage industry. From language barriers and ITIN lending to financial literacy and leadership, this conversation highlights how building people and community is the key to expanding homeownership opportunities.

In this powerful episode of Take It To The Max, CEO of MaxClass LaDonna Lockard sits down with returning guest Jeana Lanktree for a deep, forward-looking conversation about what’s really ahead for the mortgage and housing industry in 2026. From home affordability and evolving loan products to AI, income shifts, and the growing importance of human connection, this episode challenges conventional thinking and cuts through the noise.

Together, LaDonna and Jeana explore why opportunity belongs to professionals who invest in education, understand their clients on a human level, and are willing to pivot with intention rather than fear. This is a must-listen for loan officers, industry leaders, and anyone ready to approach the next market cycle with clarity, strategy, and confidence.

In this forward-focused episode of Take It To The Max, CEO of MaxClass LaDonna Lockard sits down with Elle Muse, VP of Education at MaxClass, to talk innovation, compliance, and how education is evolving to meet a changing industry. From “sticky situations” to new professional development tracks, Elle reveals how MaxClass is shaping the next generation of mortgage professionals.

In this emotional and inspiring episode of Take It To The Max, CEO of MaxClass, LaDonna Lockard has Jen Peachman on to share her journey of balancing career growth, leadership, and motherhood while championing authenticity in an industry that often prizes polish over honesty. Discover how vulnerability and intention can transform not only your network, but your life.

It’s renewal season — and MaxClass CEO LaDonna is here to make sure you don’t lose your license or your edge. Joined by Cerryia Lindberg, she covers key renewal reminders, lessons from MBA Annual, and a powerful look at how AI, layoffs, and leadership are reshaping the housing ecosystem heading into 2026.

In this episode of Take It To The Max, MaxClass CEO LaDonna Lockard sits down with Matt Gallant, Director of Member Engagement at the MBA, to explore how education fuels stronger networks and better leadership. Discover why empowering others through learning isn’t just good business — it’s the key to real professional growth.

For the first time ever, Take It To The Max welcomes two powerhouse guests in one episode.

Liz Short and Lindsey Meyer join CEO of MaxClass, LaDonna Lockard, for the special “Three L’s” edition to share the story behind their new coauthored book Rethink Everything You Know About Networking. From how one authentic connection sparked a 26-person collaboration to the power of building relationships that open real doors — this episode is all about meaningful networking, leadership, and collaboration at its best.

In this episode of Take It To The Max!, CEO of MaxClass LaDonna Lockard sits down with Jake Vermillion to dive deep into how loan officers can strategically expand their networks in a challenging lending environment. From leveraging local partnerships to capitalizing on open houses and community marketing, Jake shares practical, time-tested strategies top producers are using to thrive.

In this episode of Take It To The Max, CEO of MaxClass LaDonna Lockard talks with Brian Vieaux, currently President of FinLocker and soon-to-be President of MISMO. Brian discusses the transition, MISMO’s role in driving industry standards, and how initiatives around AI, collaboration, and affordability can transform the future of housing finance.