16 | From Back Office to $53M Boss: Rosa Izzi’s Journey to Rainmaker Status

What if your greatest power is hiding in plain sight? Hey there, rainmakers! Today’s episode of The Mortgage Rainmaker Podcast is a masterclass in rising from the shadows and stepping fully into your power. I’m joined by the incredible Rosa Izzi — a woman who spent 20 years in operations, underwriting and closing loans behind the scenes, before boldly stepping into the spotlight as a producing branch manager in Albuquerque, NM. In 2024, Rosa closed 188 units for over $53 million in volume — all in one of the toughest markets and smallest towns you can imagine. She did it by leaning into her technician genius, embracing discomfort, and building powerful referral partnerships from the ground up. We talk about what finally pushed her to take the leap, how she moved from painfully shy to shameless in sales, and the tactical systems she uses to stay consistent, connected, and confidently in demand. If you’ve ever doubted whether you’re “cut out” for sales… this episode is for you. Are you ready to make it rain? Let’s do this! 💡 What we talk about: How Rosa turned a casual thank-you into a game-changing career pivot The strategy behind her Tuesday update emails — and how they quietly won her new referral partners Why technicians are often the most powerful (and underutilized) rainmakers The mindset shift from “shy” to “shameless” — and what helped Rosa ask for business with confidence How small-town markets and under-tapped agents helped fuel her growth Why being exceptionally good at your job is still the most magnetic sales strategy of all Guest Links: Guild Mortgage Profile - Albuquerque Experience.com Reviews If you liked what you heard, leave me a five-star review and tell me what hit home for you! PLUS—if you’re done chasing the next shiny idea and want real, proven strategies that actually move the needle, then it’s time to join my free weekly newsletter, Rainmaker Insider . Every week, I share one key lesson from my billion-dollar career in mortgage lending—from sales psychology and leadership to mindset and systems that create true freedom. No fluff. Just real-world insights that help you close more deals and lead with confidence. Subscribe now at shaylagifford.com and start leading like the Rainmaker you’re meant to be! 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/