Marketing strategist DeLaine Nick reveals how an unexpected leap—literally—propelled her into an industry she never planned to join. In this conversation, she discusses leadership lessons from her father, the power of LinkedIn connections, and her mission to spotlight women shaping the future. She also highlights her “Coffee Chats That Connect” series, a platform for authentic voices and community-driven storytelling

In this episode, we sit down with the dynamic and visionary Heidi Belney, a rising leader in the mortgage and fintech space whose journey into the industry was anything but conventional. From her accidental entry via an appraisal job to shaping impactful tech solutions and reinventing live events for the New Jersey MBA, Heidi shares a candid look at how she’s challenging the status quo.

Despite unprecedented access to information, many young Americans remain confused and unprepared for homeownership. Kristin Messerli, Executive Director of FirstHome IQ, highlights how financial education, early outreach, and community partnerships are essential to breaking generational cycles of financial exclusion on Take It To The Max with LaDonna Lockard. This candid interview reveals how tech, trust-building, and real-world resources can create lasting change.