Take It To The Max!

In this compelling episode of Take It To The Max , host LaDonna Lockard sits down with Matthew Blackmer, VP of Business Development at West Capital Lending, to explore his extraordinary journey from professional figure skating to leadership in the mortgage industry. Blackmer shares actionable strategies for growth, the value of human connection in business, and why representation and authenticity...

From late-night flights to last-minute panels, LaDonna Lockard dives into the NJ MBA Regional with wit, heart, and a fierce love for industry advocacy. She highlights game-changing sessions, a puppy booth with purpose, and women like Heidi Belnay who are shaking up the space. With a nod to LGBTQIA+ pride and a call to action for youth engagement, this episode blends heart, hustle, and high-impact...

In this engaging conversation, MaxClass’ CEO, LaDonna Lockard, and Customer Success and Ops Manager, Cerryia Lindberg, discuss how AI technologies are reshaping traditional business practices. They emphasize the importance of adapting and growing through continuous education. Learn how professionals can effectively navigate market shifts and thrive in an evolving landscape.

In this episode, host LaDonna Lockard chats with Jordan Wilde, CEO of JW Partner Solutions, to discuss his innovative approach to mortgage consulting. Wilde shares insights from his diverse career path, emphasizing the power of networking and technology-driven efficiency. Discover how he transforms complex industry challenges into thriving business opportunities.

LaDonna Lockard, CEO of MaxClass, chats with Brandon Christensen, Director of Education of MaxClass and an elite CE instructor, who returns with sharp, honest insights about today's mortgage market challenges and opportunities. From post-pandemic complacency to the rise of automation, he unpacks how loan officers can evolve, educate, and thrive in a rapidly shifting landscape.

Brandon Treadway joins Take It To The Max host LaDonna Lockard to break down real strategies for building a strong personal brand online. From crafting effective video hooks to balancing professional and personal content, he shares insights on creating trust and lasting engagement. Whether you're new to social media or ready to level up, this conversation offers clear, actionable advice.

In this episode, Jake Belter and LaDonna Lockard discuss the power of advocacy within the mortgage industry, leveraging professional associations for industry betterment, and how loan officers are missing out if they are not properly utilizing real estate and mortgage data analytics in their businesses.

LaDonna Lockard talks with Lindsey Meyer about how showing up with purpose can lead to real relationships—and real results. Influence starts with intention, not a massive following.

LaDonna Lockard and Brandon Christensen break down the latest mergers, policy shifts, and foreclosure trends impacting loan officers. With uncertainty comes opportunity—discover how to navigate these changes and support borrowers effectively.

As spring heats up, so does loan volume, and tax season can make or break a deal. LaDonna Lockard and Jeana Lanktree discuss key pitfalls to avoid, from tax filing delays to ensuring refund funds are in hand before closing.

Chris Burks, Head of Growth at Zietro, Inc., shares insights with LaDonna Lockard on AI-driven advancements in mortgage tech and how loan officers can benefit. He also addresses industry hesitancy and the importance of adopting new technology.

With loan officer numbers down but home sales projected to rise, those who stay in the game could win big. Host LaDonna Lockard interviews Steven Wynands on industry shifts, securing agent relationships, and why “existing till ’26” could be the key to long-term success.

LaDonna Lockard, CEO of Maximum Acceleration, and Brian Vieaux, President and COO of FinLocker, discuss a powerful approach to lead generation that moves beyond traditional referrals. Learn how one loan officer leveraged webinars and technology to create long-term client relationships.

LaDonna Lockard sits down with Dylan Latour, founder of Inkpress Digital, to discuss the importance of personal branding in the mortgage industry. He explains why now is the perfect time to create a digital footprint and how content can set professionals apart.

LaDonna Lockard, CEO of Maximum Acceleration, sits down with Jeffrey Tesch, CEO of RCN Capital, to uncover how RCN Capital started during the 2010 housing crisis and grew into a leader in private lending. They discuss the shift from fix-and-flips to rental investments, the future of the mortgage industry, and why company culture makes all the difference.

On this episode of Take It to the Max!, host and CEO of Maximum Acceleration, LaDonna Lockard talks with Steven Wynands, CEO of RETR, about the power of data in the mortgage and real estate industries. Steven shares his journey from government consulting to revolutionizing real estate data, revealing insights on loan officer-agent relationships, market trends, and the future of AI. If you're looki...

In this conversation, industry expert Coby Hakalir shares insights on the evolving role of technology in mortgage lending, the importance of recruiting young talent, and how AI is transforming loan origination. He also discusses the challenges of compliance, the impact of economic shifts, and the future of digital mortgage processes.