The Most Influential Women in Mortgage Industry – 2023

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he mortgage industry has long been a predominantly male-dominated field. However, over the years, numerous remarkable women have broken barriers and made significant contributions to the industry's growth and development. These exceptional women have not only shattered glass ceilings but have also revolutionized the way the mortgage industry operates, inspiring countless others along the way.

Train skill.

The mortgage industry is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by technological advancements, changing customer preferences, and evolving regulatory landscapes. Within this dynamic environment, the most influential women in the mortgage industry have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and a commitment to driving positive change. They have championed diversity and inclusion, fostering a more inclusive industry that embraces the talents and perspectives of women.

These women have held influential positions in various sectors of the mortgage industry, including mortgage lending, banking, technology, compliance, and regulatory affairs. Their expertise, knowledge, and strategic vision have shaped the industry's trajectory and propelled it into new frontiers. From implementing groundbreaking digital mortgage solutions to advocating for fair lending practices, these women have left an indelible mark on the mortgage industry and have become role models for aspiring professionals.

Insights Success highlights the qualities of leadership, resilience, and innovation of the leaders who have demonstrated exceptional skills in navigating the complexities of the industry, adapting to change, and driving transformative initiatives. Their accomplishments have earned her recognition and respect from her peers, industry experts, and stakeholders.

Through this edition, “ The Most Influential Women in Mortgage Industry- 2023 ,” we will delve into the achievements, leadership strategies, and contributions of adept women leaders in the mortgage industry. Through their inspiring journey, we will gain insights into the qualities and characteristics that have propelled her to the pinnacle of success in the industry. Their stories serve as a testament to the incredible talent and potential that women leaders bring to the mortgage industry and pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse future.

As we explore the achievements, we celebrate accomplishments and acknowledge the significant strides women are towards shaping the industry's landscape. Their leadership, vision, and dedication serve as an inspiration to current and future professionals in the mortgage industry, illustrating the possibilities that can be achieved through perseverance, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.

Abhishek Joshi

Featured Person

Alyssa North Senior Vice President of Operations

Amy Broadnax Loan Originator

Kimberly Hartsough SVP National Production Operations

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Brief Company Name

Primary Residential Mortgage Inc. primeres.com

Sun West Mortgage Company sunwestmortgage.com

Prime Lending primelending.com

Alyssa has been part of the PRMI family for over 13 years and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in managing numerous departments as well as managing relationships with our investors and warehouse lenders.

Amy’s expertise lies in identifying needs and crafting innovative and effective solutions for any task that comes her way.

Kimberly focuses on providing excellent communication, consistent stellar performance with active inter-personal skills, self motivation, and team player attitude.

Linda Davidson Area/Branch Manager/Sr. Residential Mortgage Originator

Lindsey Goins Sr. Loan Officer

Mona Edick Area Sales Manager

Nichole Foster Account Executive

Nicola Goldie Head of National Accounts

Tammy McNeany Senior Mortgage Loan Officer

Atlantic Coast Mortgage atlanticcoastmortgage.com

Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation fairwayindependentmc.com

Laura takes a team-driven approach to her work and strives to ensure that she not only meet but exceed the expectations of her clients each and every day.

Linda’s proven systems of creating an Excellent Customer Experience and the mentoring of others has increased her and the branch Loan Officers’ production year after year and it is exciting for her to facilitate an environment of growth.

Lindsey has the knowledge and experience to help her clients explore financing options in a way that’s simple and straightforward. Movement Mortgage movement.com

Bay Equity, LLC bayequityhomeloans.com

Kind Lending kindlending.com

Virgin Money uk.virginmoney.com

Laura Triplett SVP, Area Manage Wintrust Mortgage Corporation wintrustmortgage.com

Mona is passionate in bringing meaning and create lasting impact for her clients.

Nichole is advancing the field of pharmacy and promoting growth and success for Pharmacy Technicians and elevating Pharmacist practice standards.

Nicola is a multiple award winning Leader and Mentor who is passionate about driving the best customer, colleague and shareholder outcomes.

As a loan officer with Wintrust Mortgage, Tammy has the expertise and experience to get you the right mortgage and to handle your transaction professionally.

Alyssa North

Senior Vice President of Operaons

Primary Residenal Mortgage, Inc.

PRMI

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North

Mastering Mortgage Operations by Empowering Excellence

At PRMI, the team maintains a strong commitment to being an innovative and forward-thinking company that stays ahead of industry trends and adapts to the ever-changing business environment.

WWomen are making significant strides in the mortgage sector, with an increasing number of them assuming leadership positions and excelling in various roles. From mortgage loan officers to underwriters, processors, and managers, women are making their mark and bringing valuable perspectives to the industry.

Their expertise, professionalism and ability to build strong relationships have been instrumental in driving positive change and shaping the future of the mortgage sector. As more women continue to enter and excel in this field, they are breaking barriers, shattering glass ceilings, and inspiring future generations of female professionals in the mortgage industry.

As the Senior Vice President of Operations at PRMI (Primary Residential Mortgage, Inc.) , Alyssa North holds the responsibility of establishing and fostering industry connections, as well as guiding the strategic direction of its various Operations departments, ranging from Processing to Post-Closing. Originally from Colorado,

Alyssa now resides in Centerville, Utah, alongside her husband of five years, two daughters and two stepkids. In her leisure time, she indulges in activities such as golfing, attending live music shows, snowshoeing, hiking with her dogs Brody and Jasper, and spending quality moments with her kids.

In 2008, Alyssa entered the industry from an entry-level position, without prior mortgage knowledge or experience. At that time, her manager, who was expecting her first child, chose not to return to work after giving birth, entrusting Alyssa with the responsibility to take charge. Despite having only six months of experience in the mortgage field, Alyssa swiftly adapted to the job's demands, progressing in her career and gradually assuming more significant responsibilities, including overseeing PRMI’s post-closing teams.

As time went on, Alyssa was promoted to VP of Operations approximately three years ago and had the privilege of working alongside her former EVP of Operations, who had been Alyssa’s boss and mentor for several years.

The Most Influenal Women in Mortgage Industry - 2023

She asserts, “I am now aware that she was preparing me to succeed her as she planned to leave the working world and focus on her family. Looking back, I would never have anticipated holding an executive position at PRMI when I first joined the company. I am immensely grateful for every opportunity I have had at PRMI and am excited to continue contributing to the company's growth and success.”

Streamlining Processes

As an esteemed Senior Vice President (SVP) of Operations in the mortgage industry, Alyssa leaves a lasting impact on the field with her expertise. Her contributions can be witnessed through various avenues:

Alyssa's keen eye for optimization allows her to streamline operational processes with finesse. By drawing upon her vast experience and proficiency, she improves the speed and accuracy of critical tasks such as loan processing, underwriting, and closing. The result? A more efficient and effective system that drives the company forward.

In this fast-paced technological era, Alyssa embraces innovation as a guiding principle.In her role, she fearlessly adopts cutting-edge technologies like machine learning and automation. By weaving these transformative tools into the fabric of the company's operations, Alyssa enhances efficiency, reduces errors, and elevates customer satisfaction to new heights.

Beyond operational excellence, Alyssa's influence extends to the growth and development of her team. As a senior leader, she takes pride in nurturing talent, serving as a mentor and guide to aspiring professionals. By investing in their personal and professional growth, Alyssa empowers her team members to become industry trailblazers, leaving an indelible mark on the mortgage industry.

Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Self-Worth

Alyssa's greatest challenge and success revolved around raising her two daughters alone while advancing in her career. Despite numerous nights spent juggling office work and parental responsibilities, she persevered. Balancing work and home life proved challenging, but her determination to excel in her job never wavered.

Additionally, Alyssa grappled with accepting and trusting the recognition and value accorded to her by the leadership

team at PRMI. As a newcomer to the industry, her limited self-confidence made her professional achievements seem insignificant. However, her tenure at PRMI has been transformative both professionally and personally. Alyssa has learned to strike a harmonious balance between work and home life, and she now recognizes her worth as a mortgage professional and an independent woman. She can confidently celebrate her successes as the SVP of Operations and as a devoted mother.

PRMI is dedicated to cultivating a work culture characterized by excellence, innovation, and integrity.

PRMI's Core Values

PRMI is dedicated to cultivating a work culture characterized by excellence, innovation, and integrity. The company's core values revolve around the recognition that their clients, partners, and employees are their most valuable assets. Here is an overview of the values that underpin PRMI's work culture:

1 Client-Centered Focus: PRMI believes in putting their clients first and providing them with the best possible experience by delivering personalized and customized mortgage solutions that meet their unique needs.

2 Employee Development: PRMI invests in the professional and personal development of their employees by providing ongoing training, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities.

3 Integrity: PRMI operates with honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct in all business interactions and relationships.

4 Innovation: PRMI values innovation and is committed to finding new and better ways to serve their clients and partners.

5 Community Involvement: PRMI is dedicated to giving back to the communities they serve through charitable contributions, volunteering, and community outreach programs.

6 Collaboration: PRMI fosters a collaborative work culture where employees are encouraged to work together, share ideas, and support each other to achieve common goals.

7 Continuous Improvement: PRMI is committed to ongoing improvement in all aspects of their business, including processes, products, and services, to provide the best possible experience for their clients and partners.

Innovative and Forward-Thinking

At PRMI, the team maintains a strong commitment to being an innovative and forward-thinking company that stays ahead of industry trends and adapts to the ever-changing business environment. This is achieved through strategic investments in the latest technology, providing ongoing training and development opportunities for employees, and fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration.

Alyssa leaves a lasting impact on the field with her expertise.

The vision at PRMI is to become the most respected and sought-after mortgage lender in the country. The company aims to be known for its exceptional customer service, innovative solutions, and unwavering dedication to employees, partners, and communities. Building long-term relationships with clients and partners is a key objective, achieved by consistently exceeding their expectations and delivering on promises.

To drive progress in the ever-changing business landscape, PRMI's team consistently assesses and enhances processes, embraces emerging technologies, and fosters a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. Additionally, the company places great importance on corporate social responsibility, actively supporting charitable organizations and initiatives that bring positive change to the communities it serves.

Streamlining Processes, Enhancing Efficiency and Improving Customer Experience

PRMI recognizes the significance of technology in streamlining processes, enhancing efficiency, and improving the overall customer experience. PRMI remains committed to staying at the forefront of technological advancements in the mortgage industry to provide innovative and resourceful solutions to clients and partners.

Here are some ways PRMI is leveraging technology to enhance their solutions:

1 Business Intelligence and Analytics: PRMI utilizes sophisticated data analytics and business intelligence tools to gain insights into customer behavior, market trends, and operational efficiency. This aids in making informed decisions and improving overall performance.

2 Mobile Applications: PRMI offers mobile applications to customers and partners, allowing them to access accounts, view loan status, and communicate with loan officers on the go.

3 Cybersecurity: PRMI invests in cybersecurity technologies to safeguard customer and company data from cyber threats, ensuring the utmost security and privacy for all stakeholders.

4 Digital Mortgage Solutions: PRMI provides digital mortgage solutions, enabling customers to complete applications and submit documentation electronically. This approach accelerates the process, offers convenience, and ensures security.

5 Automated Underwriting: PRMI utilizes automated

underwriting software for prompt loan approvals while maintaining accuracy and compliance.

6 CRM (Customer Relationship Management) and Workflow Automation: PRMI employs advanced CRM and workflow automation software to streamline processes and enhance communication among team members, clients, and partners.

7 By leveraging these technological advancements, PRMI can provide innovative solutions that simplify the mortgage process, enhance the customer experience, and boost operational efficiency. This strengthens their position in the mortgage industry.

Prominent Trends in the Mortgage Industry

Alyssa observes two prominent trends in the mortgage industry. Firstly, there is a growing momentum towards digitization, with digital mortgages gaining popularity. This involves completing the entire mortgage process online, including applications, document submission, and signatures. The advantages of speed, efficiency, and convenience are driving this trend, and it is expected to continue.

Secondly, automation and artificial intelligence are increasingly being employed in the mortgage process. Automated underwriting, fraud detection using machine learning, and chatbots for customer service are examples of how technology is improving efficiency and reducing errors. This trend is likely to expand further in the future.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also accelerated the shift towards remote work and virtual communication in the mortgage industry. Remote work offers flexibility for employees, reduces overhead costs, and facilitates efficient collaboration among teams.

While specific changes in the mortgage sector are challenging to predict, these trends indicate that technology will play a significant role in shaping the industry. Companies that embrace new technologies can gain a competitive advantage in this evolving landscape.

Principles for Success

Alyssa advises aspiring entrepreneurs who are venturing into the mortgage business to focus on several key principles. Firstly, she emphasizes the importance of prioritizing customer experience. For a successful mortgage business, it is essential to understand customers' needs, provide exceptional service, and ensure a seamless and stress-free mortgage process. By keeping the customer experience at the forefront, entrepreneurs can establish a strong foundation for their business.

Secondly, Alyssa stresses the significance of staying current with regulations. The mortgage industry is highly regulated,

and entrepreneurs must stay updated on the latest regulations and requirements. This knowledge enables them to avoid costly mistakes and ensures that their business operates in compliance with legal and industry standards.

In addition, Alyssa highlights the value of building strong relationships. Relationships play a critical role in the mortgage industry, encompassing customers, employees, and industry peers. By cultivating trust, credibility, and rapport, entrepreneurs can establish a solid network that leads to valuable partnerships and collaborations.

Furthermore, Alyssa encourages entrepreneurs to embrace technology. The mortgage industry is undergoing significant technological advancements, and entrepreneurs should leverage these innovations to streamline operations, enhance the customer experience, and maintain a competitive edge.

Lastly, Alyssa emphasizes the need for resilience. The mortgage industry can be unpredictable, and entrepreneurs must be prepared to adapt their business strategies and navigate challenges and setbacks with determination and grace.

By adhering to these principles, budding entrepreneurs can lay a strong foundation for their mortgage business and position themselves for long-term success.

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Attributes of Innovators

In the fast-paced and competitive mortgage industry, effective leadership is crucial for driving success and ensuring organizational growth. Leaders in this field must possess a unique set of skills and strategies to navigate the complexities of the industry, inspire their teams, and achieve exceptional results. This article explores key principles and strategies that contribute to effective leadership in the mortgage industry, providing insights and guidance for professionals looking to excel in their roles.

Visionary Leadership

Effective leaders in the mortgage industry have a clear vision of where they want their organization to go. They develop a compelling vision statement that aligns with the company's values and long-term goals. By effectively communicating this vision to their team, leaders create a sense of purpose and inspire commitment. A visionary leader motivates their team to work towards a common goal and adapts their strategies to meet the ever-evolving needs of the industry.

Adaptability and Agility

Leaders in the mortgage industry must be adaptable and agile in response to changing market conditions, regulatory requirements, and customer demands. They stay informed about industry trends, technology advancements, and policy changes to proactively adjust their strategies. By fostering a culture of flexibility and encouraging innovative thinking, leaders can navigate challenges and seize opportunities as they arise.

Building High-performing Teams

One of the hallmarks of effective leadership in the mortgage industry is the ability to build and nurture high-performing teams. Leaders should focus on hiring top talent, creating a diverse and inclusive work environment, and providing ongoing training and development opportunities. They empower their team members, delegate responsibilities, and encourage collaboration to maximize individual strengths and create a cohesive unit that delivers exceptional results.

Effective Communication

Communication is a fundamental aspect of effective leadership. Mortgage industry leaders must be skilled communicators, capable of conveying complex information clearly and concisely. They actively listen to their team members, clients, and stakeholders, ensuring open and

transparent communication channels. Leaders should foster a culture that encourages feedback, addresses concerns, and promotes effective collaboration throughout the organization.

Ethical and Responsible Leadership

Integrity and ethical conduct are critical for effective leadership in the mortgage industry. Leaders must adhere to industry regulations and ethical standards, ensuring fair and transparent practices. By setting an example of ethical behavior and instilling a culture of integrity, leaders build trust and credibility within their organizations and with clients. They make decisions that align with the best interests of their clients, employees, and stakeholders, fostering long-term relationships and sustainable growth.

Continuous Learning and Professional Development

Leadership development is an ongoing process, and effective leaders in the mortgage industry prioritize continuous learning and professional development. They stay informed about industry trends, attend conferences and seminars, and seek out opportunities for personal growth. By investing in their own development, leaders can stay ahead of the curve, adapt to industry changes, and inspire their teams to embrace a learning mindset.

Effective leadership in the mortgage industry requires a combination of visionary thinking, adaptability, team building, effective communication, ethical conduct, and a commitment to continuous learning. By incorporating these strategies into their leadership approach, professionals can navigate the challenges of the industry, inspire their teams, and drive success for their organizations. Ultimately, effective leadership sets the foundation for sustainable growth and long-term success in the dynamic and everevolving mortgage industry.

Amy B r o a d n a x Broadnax

Empowering Dreams through Mortgage Expertise

Amy Broadnax , a thriving woman in the mortgage sector, is making waves as a mortgage loan originator at Sun West Mortgage Company With a passion for serving her community and an entrepreneurial spirit, Amy is committed to putting the world's best interests first. Residing in the vibrant city of Atlanta, GA, she is a beacon of excellence in her field.

Amy's expertise lies in identifying needs and crafting innovative and effective solutions for any task that comes her way. She thrives on the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of her clients and the community she serves. Her journey has been shaped by the invaluable guidance and support of mentors and colleagues who continue to inspire her career growth.

Driven by a deep sense of pride in her work, Amy is dedicated to continuously enhancing her personal and professional development. With her unwavering commitment to excellence, she is a shining example of the incredible achievements that women are making in the mortgage sector.

In a traditionally male-dominated industry, Amy Broadnax stands tall as a testament to the exceptional skills, determination, and passion that women bring to the table. As she continues to make her mark in the mortgage sector, Amy's impact reverberates far beyond her immediate community, inspiring others to pursue their dreams and thrive in their chosen fields.

During the interview, Amy Broadnax shared inspiring stories that exemplify how her expertise in the mortgage sector has helped numerous individuals achieve their dreams of homeownership. Here are some of the highlights:

Please briefly describe for our audience your professional journey up until now.

Wow, grab your seats and hold on; it's a pretty cool story. I started off in mortgage and real estate lead generation. The more I learned, the more I wanted to be on the other end of the phone, in the broker's seat. One day I was recruited by a marketing director at one of the largest mortgage companies of our time.

What challenges did you face along the way?

Market ups and downs like any real estate and mortgage professional. My branding is unique, and I've even received hate mail about The Mortgage Mermaid being fat. I explain that she was raised in Texas, and our mermaids are a little thicker down here.

What significant impact have you brought to the mortgage industry?

I pride myself on fighting for the underdogs applying for homes who don't quite qualify for conventional products. My specialty is working with borrowers who have "creative income" non-QM mortgages for self-employed individuals, gig workers, entertainers, and athletes. I also help speak up to executives about changes that employees are concerned about.

Tell us about Sun West Mortgage Company and its foundation pillar.

Sun West is driving the mortgage industry forward by implementing fascinating AI technology. With Morgan, everyone involved in the loan process has less work to do,

Amy Broadnax, Loan Originator Sun West Mortgage Company

is kept up to date every step of the way, and most importantly, is able to get more accomplished in less time. Basically, Morgan helps YOU tap into your inner Superpower! Which gives you more time to "Be Human.”

How does Sun West Mortgage Company promote workforce flexibility, and what is your role in it?

Sun West allows us to build our own teams. They require professionals who are top producers with a minimum of 1 million per month in volume and are opening doors for newly licensed loan officers as well.

What is your take on technology's importance, and how are you leveraging it?

At first, I was terrified of technology until I started using it more. The more I get familiar with how to use it to my advantage, the better my results have been. I threw a fit at first, but change is always a little uncomfortable.

What will be the next significant change in the mortgage industry, and how are you preparing for it?

I hope technology doesn't eliminate the role of real mortgage processors. They are vital to the mortgage business and the backbone of high-producing MLO's. I hope technology gives processors the ability to get more work done and make more money. Technology shouldn't replace our roles, but it should help us excel in them.

What are your goals in the upcoming future?

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I have an event coming up on July 1 in Houston that I am excited about. Sun West and I have partnered with the Legendary Chopstar DJ Coalition to educate the entertainment community on financial literacy and homeownership. I am working on building my team of superstar mortgage professionals called "Home Team by The Mortgage Mermaid.”

What advice would you like to give the next generation of aspiring business leaders?

Never be afraid to be WHO YOU ARE! Be authentic; your authenticity is YOUR superpower!

Amy's expertise lies in identifying needs and crafting innovative and effective solutions for any task that comes her way.

Developing Leadership Skills in the Mortgage Industry

Leadership skills play a crucial role in the mortgage industry, where professionals are tasked with guiding clients through the complex process of securing loans for their dream homes. The ability to lead and inspire a team, make strategic decisions, and adapt to the ever-changing market dynamics is paramount for success in this field. This article explores the key aspects of developing leadership skills in the mortgage industry, providing a roadmap to help professionals excel in their roles and navigate the challenges they may encounter.

Embrace Continuous Learning

Leadership development starts with a commitment to lifelong learning. Mortgage industry leaders must stay abreast of the latest trends, regulations, and technological advancements shaping the industry. Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops to expand your knowledge base and encourage your team to do the same. By continuously learning and updating your skills, you'll be better equipped to make informed decisions and lead effectively.

Cultivate Effective Communication

Communication is the bedrock of successful leadership. As a mortgage industry leader, you need to communicate clearly and effectively with clients, team members, and stakeholders. Develop active listening skills, learn to articulate ideas concisely, and foster an open and transparent communication culture within your team. Regularly provide constructive feedback, actively seek input from others, and ensure everyone understands the vision and goals of the organization.

Foster a Collaborative Culture

In the mortgage industry, teamwork is essential for achieving shared goals. As a leader, it is your responsibility to foster a collaborative environment where individuals can thrive and contribute their best. Encourage teamwork, establish clear roles and responsibilities, and promote a culture of mutual respect and support. By leveraging the strengths of each team member, you can create a cohesive unit that delivers exceptional results.

Develop Strategic Thinking

Leaders in the mortgage industry must possess strategic thinking abilities to navigate a rapidly changing landscape. Stay informed about economic trends, market conditions, and regulatory changes that may impact the industry.

Anticipate challenges and proactively develop strategies to address them. Foster an environment that encourages innovation and creative problem-solving and empower your team to think critically and propose solutions.

Lead by Example

Leadership is not just about delegating tasks; it is about setting an example for others to follow. Demonstrate integrity, accountability, and professionalism in your work. Be accessible and approachable and show empathy towards your team members and clients. By embodying the qualities, you expect from others, you inspire trust and loyalty, and your team will be motivated to perform at their best.

Invest in Leadership Development Programs

Take advantage of leadership development programs tailored specifically for the mortgage industry. These programs provide valuable insights, training, and networking opportunities to enhance your leadership skills. Seek out industry associations, professional development organizations, and reputable training providers that offer programs focused on leadership in the mortgage industry. By investing in your professional growth, you position yourself for long-term success.

Developing leadership skills in the mortgage industry is a continuous journey that requires a commitment to learning, effective communication, collaboration, strategic thinking, and leading by example.

By embracing these key aspects and investing in your development, you can navigate the challenges of the industry, inspire your team, and drive success in your organization. Remember, leadership is not just about personal achievement but also about empowering others to reach their full potential.

Nichole Foster Kind Lending (NMLS #3925)

N Nichole Foster

A Skilled Account Executive with Years of Wholesale Mortgage Experience

Over the years, women have been making

significant strides in the finance sector, breaking through gender barriers, and achieving leadership positions. Today, women are leading the way in the finance sector, with many serving as CEOs, CFOs, and other highlevel executive roles. These women are bringing diverse perspectives, innovative ideas, and fresh approaches to the industry, and their contributions are helping to shape the future of finance.

Nichole Foster is a highly experienced account executive with a passion for providing exceptional service and communication to her customers. With over 23 years of wholesale mortgage experience, Nichole has built a solid reputation as a go-to point of reference for her broker partners and their clients.

Nichole's expertise spans across various loan products, including FHA, CalHFA, VA, Conventional, Jumbo, and more. As the main point of contact for her customers, Nichole is committed to assisting them with product parameters, pipeline management, and answering any questions they may have regarding underwriting, pricing, and loan closing.

Nichole's dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed. She has received several awards and recognition throughout her career, including the Top Wholesale Account Executive Award from HSBC/D1 for five consecutive years from 2003 to 2007.

Nichole also received the Rising Star Award from Household Finance in 2007 and has been a President's Club Winner for Stearns Lending, LLC for five years straight from 2014 to 2018. In addition, Nichole was recognized with the Circle of Excellence Award from HomePoint Financial for three consecutive years, from 2019 to 2021. Kindlending 2022 Presidents Club.

The interview with Nichole highlighted how her extensive knowledge, expertise, and unwavering dedication to excellence, making her an indispensable resource for any Broker Partner and their clients.

Brief us about your career path as a staunch woman leader up until your current position. What were the challenges that you had to overcome to scale your progress?

At a young age, I had seen a lot because of a very troubled childhood. Living in motels, stealing food, leaving me with self-doubt throughout my adulthood.

During my career, I learned I had to OUTWORK MY SELF-DOUBT. I had to prove to myself every day what I was truly made of. Helping as many people as possible get home became a personal challenge for me. I would say that self-doubt was the most challenging for me throughout my journey. Occasionally, it still is. I am not ashamed of it—it has helped me get to where I am today.

Tell us more about your present company and its mission and vision.

At age 25, after working as a loan officer for 10 months, Glenn Stearns formed his own mortgage company, Stearns Lending LLC, in 1989. In 2015, Glenn sold Stearns Lending and embarked on a multi-year sabbatical with his family. Returning in 2019, Glenn starred in a reality show, Undercover Billionaire, on the Discovery Channel. The goal was to anonymously build a business valued at $1 million in 90 days, which led to the creation of Underdog BBQ in Erie, PA.

Following the show, Glenn went back to his roots in mortgage banking and visualized the next evolution in wholesale mortgage lending. Focused on building a

company around its people, who were seasoned veterans in the industry with a passion for helping others – Kind Lending.

What methodologies do you implement that contribute to new growth opportunities?

My strength is that I trained myself to have an impeccable work ethic. In the words of Will Smith, "I will die on the treadmill because you will not outrun me," I demanded that my personal work ethic stay in a state of constant growth; it's not about my competition outside of me; it's me against me.

Please share your learning of the business world.

As soon as I became pregnant at 18, motherhood became very important to me. It didn't take me long to realize that my little girl was my world. I was in the medical field at the time and learned fast that it wasn't for me. Then, I learned about the mortgage industry and discovered I could help people buy homes! Since I was introduced to this venture by a family member at the age of 22, I have been dedicated to it ever since. I love building relationships, so it was easy for me to follow this career path.

What values do you incorporate to enhance the work culture of your company?

Kind Lending is not opposed to variable hours to best serve the employee and customer base alike. Additionally, Kind embraces hybrid and remote work situations where appropriate. I'm never opposed to flexibility in work hours or remote working, as this promotes a healthy team environment and work situation for all. The way I look at it, it's more coverage around the clock.

What, according to you, could be the next significant change in your sector? How are you preparing for the change?

No one ever knows what's next in this crazy business, just that we are here and ready for the curveballs that life throws!

Where do you envision yourself to be in the long run, and what are your future goals for your company?

My goal is to continue creating and nurturing relationships, listening to people, growing and mentoring those on my

path, and most importantly, overcoming my own self-doubt. The by-product of all of that is that I demolish my competition along the way. So, it's simple, but never easy.

What advice would you give to the next generation of women leaders willing to venture into the modern business arena?

Ride the waves, serve people, create connections, and most importantly, outwork yourself in times of doubt and most of all BE KIND!