First Trust Home Loans Founder and CEO Glenn Strong joins Rich Swerbinsky and Rob Chrisman to discuss building a customer-first mortgage company, navigating market cycles, and growing market share during one of the most challenging periods in mortgage industry history.
From a small brokerage in Sheridan, Arkansas to a multi-state mortgage lender, Glenn shares the leadership principles, culture, and business strategies that helped First Trust continue expanding while many independent mortgage banks faced consolidation and contraction.
- Glenn Strong\'s journey from launching a small-town mortgage brokerage to leading a multi-state lender
- Why customer service and community involvement remain at the center of First Trust\'s strategy
- The importance of hiring for culture fit and maintaining company values during growth
- How First Trust expanded while many lenders struggled through the market downturn
- Why leadership, accountability, and long-term thinking matter more than market cycles
- The evolving role of loan officers as advisors rather than order takers
- How technology, AI, and operational efficiency are shaping the future of mortgage lending
- The growing importance of non-QM and DSCR lending opportunities
- Why mentorship and in-person development remain critical for new mortgage professionals
- Glenn\'s advice for mortgage leaders looking to grow sustainably in today\'s market
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Introduction and NBA Finals discussion
04:01 Meet Glenn Strong and the story behind First Trust Home Loans
06:38 Building a customer-first and community-focused mortgage company
07:25 Hiring, recruiting, and protecting company culture
08:39 Washington developments and industry headlines
19:15 The rise of non-QM and DSCR lending opportunities
22:27 How First Trust evaluates and launches new products
25:50 Leadership, coaching, and developing talent
28:35 Advice for young professionals entering mortgage lending
31:06 How First Trust grew while many lenders consolidated
35:09 Expansion strategy and entering new markets
39:24 The new First Trust Home Loans headquarters
41:47 Market outlook, AI, and the future of mortgage lending
45:10 Leadership lessons and sustainable growth strategies
47:00 Closing thoughts
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