Loan Officer Team Training with Irene Duford

Hosted by Irene Duford, Loan Team Training

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103

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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About the show

Interviews with successful loan originators, team members, branch managers and others with great ideas THAT WORK to share to help us all nurture and develop a success mindset. This is a show for Mortgage Industry pros looking to build a successful team. Irene brings almost 3 decades of experience in the industry to you and your team through this weekly podcast. Subscribe today and share with colleagues who would find value!

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 2, 202649 min

The Mindset Behind Mortgage Success with Shawn Kaplan

In this episode of the Loan Officer Team Training Podcast, I sit down with someone who has built a reputation for helping mortgage professionals elevate both their business and their mindset. Shawn Kaplan, top-producing loan officer, leader, and founder of Content Creator University, joins me for a conversation packed with practical strategies for growth, leadership, and long-term success.Shawn shares his journey from growing up on a farm in Vermont to becoming a respected voice in the mortgage industry. Along the way, he learned that success is rarely about talent alone. Instead, it is built through repetition, discipline, and a commitment to personal development. We explore why mindset is the foundation of everything, how daily habits shape performance, and why people ultimately become what they practice.This episode is for loan officers, team leaders, and entrepreneurs who want to strengthen their mindset, improve their execution, and build a business that continues to grow regardless of market conditions. Expect practical leadership lessons, proven growth strategies, and a fresh perspective on what it takes to win in today's environment.Follow Shawn:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theshawnkaplan/Learn More About Content Creator University:https://mailstat.us/tr/t2/8f5fdda/qajqabnstfrbic/3/https://marketingwithkap.com/join?mc_cid=5cee7ed1bb&mc_eid=UNIQIDDoc: Shawn Kaplan | 10 Things I Wish I Could Go Back and Do Differently Fifty Hires Later:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1h5rzNsWJnS4SRGoeX0bHl49njIGXYGQu/view?usp=sharingConnect with me:My Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/itsireneduford/My Email:irene@loanteamtraining.comGet Loan Team Training for YOUR team:https://go.loanteamtraining.com/

May 12, 202651 min

How Small, Consistent Improvements Can Transform Your Business and Life with Lani Fisher

In this episode of the Loan Officer Team Training Podcast, I sit down with someone whose story is a powerful reminder that when life falls apart, mindset determines whether you stay stuck in the loss or rise through the lesson.Lani Fisher, real estate professional, community builder, and advocate for small, consistent improvements, joins me for an inspiring and deeply personal conversation about resilience, gratitude, and the grit it takes to transform both your business and your life.This episode is for loan officers, real estate professionals, and entrepreneurs who are ready to stop waiting for life to get easier and start building strength through consistent growth. Expect honest reflections on adversity, practical systems for success, and a powerful reminder that small, intentional shifts can change everything.---Follow Lani on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lanifisherhomes/My Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsireneduford/MyEmail: irene@loanteamtraining.comGet Loan Team Training for YOUR team:https://go.loanteamtraining.com/Visit loanteamtraining.com to learn how we can help your team wow clients and close more loans. #realestate #loanofficer #mindset #resilience

April 21, 202637 min

The Future of Mortgage Marketing with Mosi Gatling

In this episode of the Loan Officer Team Training Podcast, I sit down with someone who is challenging the way our industry thinks about growth, connection, and opportunity. Mosi Gatling, Senior Vice President of Strategic Growth and Expansion at New American Funding, brings a bold and necessary perspective on how loan officers can expand their reach by truly understanding the communities they serve. This episode is for loan officers, team leaders, and real estate professionals who are ready to evolve their approach, stand out in competitive markets, and build a business that reflects the world we actually live in today. Expect strategic perspective shifts, practical marketing adjustments, and a clear challenge to rethink how you attract and serve your clients.First Home IQ: https://firsthomeiq.com/ Words Matter-Inclusive Language and marketing for diverse borrowers https://heyzine.com/flip-book/wordsmatter2025Follow Mosi on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mosigatling_/Connect with me: My Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/itsireneduford/My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ireneduford/My Email: irene@loanteamtraining.comGet Loan Team Training for YOUR team: https://go.loanteamtraining.com/

April 7, 202626 min

Why Most Lenders Fail at Networking with Real Estate Agents, with Chris Medellin, Farrell Hogenauer and Irene Duford

🚀 Are you a lender in the Phoenix area who feels like you are hitting a wall in your production? In this episode, we dive deep into why the traditional way of prospecting is failing and how joining a high-level mastermind can provide the community and frameworks you need to scale.🌟 We explore the massive shift from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mentality, proving that your competitors can actually be your greatest allies. You will hear the incredible story of how one real estate agent used the power of her mastermind group to manifest a meeting with Barbara Corcoran through sheer persistence and the right connections. This conversation highlights why being in the right room is the secret weapon for any professional looking to break through their current ceiling.📈 Scaling your mortgage business requires more than just working harder. It requires building the right systems and hiring the right support staff. Irene Duford shares her expertise on training loan officer assistants to help you buy back your time and focus on what you do best. We also announce an exclusive new mastermind opportunity in Phoenix specifically for high-producing lenders who are ready to stop being the one doing everything.Follow ChrisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechrismedellin/Follow FarrellInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/azrelo_realtor_and_list_agent/Connect with me:My Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsireneduford/

March 24, 202653 min

The Art of Conscious Communication with Jamie Miller

In this episode of the Loan Officer Team Training Podcast, I sit down with someone who is redefining how professionals communicate in a world that is increasingly transactional. Jamie Miller, communication expert and strategist, joins me to break down what it really takes to create meaningful, trust-driven conversations that convert.Jamie and I go deep into the art of conscious communication and why most loan officers lose opportunities, not because of rates, but because of how they communicate value. We unpack the psychology behind common client questions, how overthinking disrupts authentic connection, and why small shifts in language can completely transform your outcomes. This is not about scripts. It is about awareness, intention, and precision in how you show up.This episode is for loan officers, team leaders, and real estate professionals who want to elevate their communication, stand out in competitive markets, and create a client experience that actually feels human. Expect mindset shifts, tactical language strategies, and a new perspective on how to turn everyday conversations into lasting relationships.Follow Jamie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consciousjamie?igsh=MXY4bGo2emppcXZtNw%3D%3D Humancon event: https://humancon26.com/Listen to this Episode: https://loan-officer-team-train.captivate.fm/listenConnect with me:My Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsireneduford/My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ireneduford/My Email: irene@loanteamtraining.comGet Loan Team Training for YOUR team: https://go.loanteamtraining.com/

February 17, 202646 min

Relationships Over Transactions with Scott Hudspeth

In this episode of the Loan Officer Team Training Podcast, I sit down with someone who has consistently stayed ahead of the curve while keeping relationships at the center of the business. Scott Hudspeth, long time industry leader, founder of MLO Live, and champion of authentic marketing, joins me for a candid and tactical conversation about what actually drives sustainable success in mortgage.Scott and I unpack the evolution of MLO Live and how technology, especially AI, is reshaping the way loan officers market and communicate. But more importantly, we dig into what has not changed. Relationships still outperform transactions. Consistent communication still wins. And showing up on video still builds trust faster than almost anything else.We talk openly about overcoming fear in cold calling, managing self-talk in high-pressure sales environments, and why most loan officers overcomplicate outreach when simple connection is often the most powerful strategy. Scott also shares the heart behind the Growth Rooms initiative and his commitment to helping new loan officers and agents build confidence, clarity, and community.This episode is for loan officers and team leaders who want to stop chasing tactics and start building long-term relevance. Expect practical marketing strategies, mindset shifts that create resilience, and clear direction on how to stay visible, human, and valuable in a rapidly evolving industry.

January 13, 202641 min

Reinventing Real Estate, Lauren Lucas Uses AI to Win Time and Trust

In this episode of the Loan Officer Team Training Podcast, I sit down with a guest whose blend of grit and innovation is changing how agents work and connect. Lauren Lucas, a high-achieving real estate agent and practical AI expert, joins the conversation to share a journey that moves from early adversity to being recognized as Rookie of the Year, and then on to leading with purpose and technology.Lauren and I explore how lived experience fuels her passion for helping others, how mentorship and community have shaped her trajectory, and how a practical approach to AI can free up time and create better client outcomes. We talk about building a real estate team that scales with heart, using AI as a productivity multiplier rather than a buzzword, and embracing failure as a necessary step toward iteration and growth.This episode is for loan officers, team leaders, and real estate professionals who want tactical thinking and mindset clarity. Expect actionable ideas on integrating AI into daily workflows, practical ways to create supportive communities, and honest reflections on the work it takes to reinvent yourself and lift others along the way.

December 11, 202535 min

Empowering Women in Mortgage with Julie Yarbrough

In this episode of the Loan Officer Team Training Podcast, I sit down with someone whose presence and leadership continue to shape the direction of our industry. Julie Yarbrough, a respected force in mortgage lending and a driving voice within the Association of Independent Mortgage Experts, brings both depth and perspective to this conversation.Julie and I revisit the moment we first connected at a conference and unpack how genuine networking can become the foundation for long-term, trust-based relationships. From there, we explore the core values that drive her business, the remarkable growth of Empire Home Loans, and the intentional leadership approach that has positioned her as a champion for independent mortgage professionals.We also spotlight the energy and momentum coming out of the Fuse event, along with the transformative impact of the Women's Mortgage Network. Julie brings a refreshing take on collaboration, mentorship, and the power of bridging generational perspectives to elevate the entire industry.

November 6, 202539 min

Building Trust in the Mortgage Industry: Insights from Geoff Zimpfer

In this episode of the Loan Officer Team Training Podcast, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with a respected voice in our industry. Geoff Zimpfer, founder of the Mortgage Marketing Institute, and a true leader in helping loan officers and real estate professionals grow through education, connection, and smart marketing.Geoff brings a wealth of experience and heart to this conversation. We dive into how education builds trust and long-term relationships between Loan Officers and Realtors, the evolving role of AI in marketing, and how mindset truly shapes success, especially when challenges arise.He also shares practical tips on creating engaging realtor classes, overcoming overthinking, and staying adaptable in a constantly changing industry. Whether you’re a Loan Officer, Team Leader, or just someone passionate about growth, you’ll walk away from this episode inspired and full of actionable ideas.Geoff's insights remind us that continuous learning, genuine relationships, and a positive outlook are the keys to thriving in this business.-----------------------------------------------------Follow Geoff:Instagram: @geoffzimpferLinktree: https://linktr.ee/geoffzimpferConnect with me:My Instagram: @itsirenedufordMy LinkedIn: Irene DufordMy Email: irene@loanteamtraining.comGet Loan Team Training for YOUR team: go.loanteamtraining.com

October 22, 202544 min

Mastering Content Creation: Insights from Filmmaker Jake Isham's Journey

In this episode of the Loan Officer Team Training Podcast, I had the chance to interview filmmaker and content creator Jake Isham.We discuss Jake's journey from acting to filmmaking and marketing, emphasizing the importance of content creation for entrepreneurs, particularly loan officers. Jake shares insights on overcoming self-consciousness in front of the camera, the differences between content types like reels and stories, and the power of storytelling in engaging audiences.He also highlights the compounding interest of consistent content creation and the value of working with a videographer to enhance video quality and delivery.-----------------------------------------------------Follow Jake:Instagram: @jakecapturedthisWebsite: https://www.jakeisham.com/Listen to this Episode: https://loan-officer-team-train.captivate.fm/listenConnect with me:My Instagram: @itsirenedufordMy LinkedIn: Irene DufordMy Email: ireneandkevin@loanteamtraining.comGet Loan Team Training for YOUR team: go.loanteamtraining.com