Closing Time
Welcome to Closing Time, the podcast where we delve into the world of mortgages, real estate and so much more! Join us as we chat monthly with industry professionals, each offering unique and valuable perspectives, knowledge and insight. Closing Time is a production of the Great Lakes Division of NFM Lending.
Closing Time
Bank to Retail LO: The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything
In this episode of The Closing Time Podcast, we sit down with a Loan Originator who made the leap from the traditional banking world to the fast-moving retail lending side — and found a completely new level of freedom, ownership, and opportunity.
We break down what really changes when you move from a bank environment to a retail platform:
• The mindset shift required
• The learning curve of building a business instead of taking whatever walks into a branch
• The surprises—both good and bad—when you lose a steady pipeline and have to create your own
• The wins that come from having real tools, real support, and real control
• How communication, culture, and speed make or break a retail LO’s success
You’ll hear about the challenges of starting over, what it takes to build confidence as a self-generated Loan Officer, and why the retail side isn’t just different—it’s a completely new career if you’re willing to work.
Whether you're a loan officer thinking about making the jump, a leader trying to recruit, or someone who just wants to understand how the business really works behind the scenes, this episode is full of value, perspective, and honest conversation.