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: ireneandkevin@loanteamtraining.com

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