In this episode of Roots and Roofs, McKenzie sits down with real estate powerhouse Cortney Thomas, a single mother who made the bold leap from Director of Operations at Prairie and Pine Real Estate Group to joining the team as a full-time real estate agent. Cortney opens up about navigating divorce, financial pressure, and the fear that initially pushed her into the industry—turning each challenge into fuel for her success.

She shares how building a strong network before getting licensed gave her a running start, and why consistent, income-producing routines—like mastering scripts for expired listings—became the backbone of her growth. Cortney also highlights the critical role mentors and coaches played in shaping her confidence and strategy.

Listeners will hear candid insights on embracing change instead of resisting it, the sacrifices required to pursue a bigger vision and more. As Cortney continues to rise, she now sets her sights on building a mini-team and stepping into a powerful leadership role.

This episode delivers both inspiration and practical direction for anyone standing at the crossroads of fear and opportunity.

Time Stamps:

01:04 Cortney's Journey into Real Estate

02:52 Facing Challenges as a New Agent

07:17 Transforming Fear into Motivation

09:47 Daily Routines and Income-Producing Activities

12:20 Achieving Financial Success in Real Estate

13:58 Mastering Expired Listings

17:47 Sacrifices and Rewards of Real Estate

20:14 Support Systems in Real Estate

22:47 Advice for Women Facing Challenges

24:19 Future Goals and Aspirations

Connect with Mackenzie:

https://www.facebook.com/mackenzie.raburn/

https://www.instagram.com/mackenzieleeshelton

Find more great tips on her website:

www.mahoganyacres.com

In this episode of Roots and Roofs, Mackenzie interviews Loredana Ghete, who shares her inspiring journey from Romania to the United States and her experiences in the real estate industry. They discuss the importance of mindset in achieving success, and the cultural shifts Loredana faced after moving. Loredana emphasizes the significance of coaching, developing leadership skills, and fostering resilience in both personal and professional growth. The conversation highlights the transformative power of asking questions, the drive to help others succeed and of course, motherhood and entrepreneurship.

Timestamps:

01:06 Lorendana’s Journey in Real Estate

10:13 Cultural and Mindset Shifts in Moving to the U.S.

19:37 The Role of Coaching in Real Estate

28:29 Developing Millionaires and Leadership

35:45 Understanding Resilience and Growth Mindset

Connect with Mackenzie:

https://www.facebook.com/mackenzie.raburn/

https://www.instagram.com/mackenzieleeshelton

Find more great tips on her website:

www.mahoganyacres.com

Roots and Roofs host Mackenzie Shelton sits down with mortgage loan officer Nicki Montelongo to shed light on what sets her apart in the mortgage industry. They delve into how lending practices have changed, stress the vital role of educating clients throughout the home buying process, and acknowledge the deep emotional significance of purchasing a home. Nicki highlights the necessity of being financially ready and discusses how she balances her professional life with being a single mother. Furthermore, the episode underscores the value of community engagement and maintaining a long-term perspective in client relations, all with the goal of empowering families through knowledge and assistance.

Time Stamps:

01:00 Nikki Montelongo: Journey into Mortgage Lending

04:32 Evolution of Mortgage Lending: Past vs Present

07:00 The Importance of Education in Home Buying

09:26 Navigating Emotional Aspects of Home Buying

11:49 Financial Preparedness for Home Buyers

15:57 Finding Balance as a Single Mom and Professional

21:50 Lessons from Motherhood in Client Relationships

27:03 Community Involvement and Its Impact

31:00 Long-Term Vision for Client Relationships

Connect with Mackenzie:

https://www.facebook.com/mackenzie.raburn/

https://www.instagram.com/mackenzieleeshelton

Find more great tips on her website:

www.mahoganyacres.com