31 | Rainmaker Secrets: Build Your Dream Team in Mortgage Lending

Hey there, Rainmakers! For years, I thought I had to do it all — prove I was credible, trusted, and capable by being the Michael Jordan of mortgage lending. I was rebounding, shooting, defending, dunking… and burning out. The truth? Michael Jordan didn’t win championships until he had a team. And neither will you. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and introducing you to the powerhouse professionals who help me run a thriving, scalable mortgage business. Together, we break down the exact roles, routines, and rhythms that transform your career from hustling solo to leading like a true Rainmaker. You’ll hear from: Shannon Giraldo, Team Lead Loan Processor, on the superpower of being the hub of the wheel and how daily workflows and communication drive flawless closings. Marcy Kramer, Pre-Approval Manager, on lightning-fast turn times, bulletproof pre-approvals, and how she manages 50–60 pre-approvals a month with ease. Stephanie McDowell, Loan Officer Assistant & Lead Admin, on tracking leads, working hot shoppers, and keeping your pipeline moving with precision. We also dive into practical strategies for hiring, creating culture, and building systems that let you step out of the grind and into your true role as a leader. And I share a sneak peek of my upcoming Slay with Shay Live Event, where we’ll take these strategies even deeper. 💡 What you’ll learn: How to stop white-knuckling your business and start empowering others The daily rhythms of high-performing processors, pre-approval managers, and LOs How to build trust, culture, and ownership inside your team Hiring strategies to find and retain A+ players Why building your dream team is the ultimate lever for growth Are you ready to make it rain? Let’s do this! PLUS– Slay with Shay Live is coming and trust me, you do NOT want to miss this! This September 15th - 17th in beautiful Lake Tahoe , I’ll bring you my entire playbook, plus a host of top producers, speakers and badasses, all carefully chosen by me to get you to that next level. Go to shaylagifford.com now , get your ticket and book your hotel. And yes...it will sell out! Connect with Shayla: Shayla on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaygiff/ Shayla on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shayla-gifford-3019396/ Show Links: Shayla's Website: https://shaylagifford.com/ The Mortgage Rainmaker Podcast: https://shaylagifford.com/podcast/ The Catalyst Coaching Community: https://shaylagifford.com/catalyst/ Guild Mortgage: https://www.guildmortgage.com/