In a recent episode of the Savvy Brokers Club, host Abby Torres welcomed Ania Kozera, a seasoned mortgage advisor with a compelling story of resilience and triumph. Abby delved deep into Ania's journey from Poland to the United States, highlighting the significant challenges and remarkable successes she encountered along the way.

Ania's story begins in a small village in Poland, where opportunities were scarce. Despite these limitations, Ania's parents instilled in her the value of education and perseverance. At the age of 19, driven by a desire for a better future, she made the bold decision to move to the United States alone. "I left without my parents' permission," Ania recalls. "My mom was devastated, but my dad gave me his blessing, hoping I would make him proud."

The transition was anything but easy. Ania juggled multiple jobs while putting herself through school, often sleeping less than four hours a night. Despite these hardships, she remained undeterred. "I remember my dad visiting me at my community college graduation," she shared. "I was so exhausted, but seeing his pride made it all worth it."

Ania's entry into the mortgage industry was serendipitous. A friend suggested she explore the field, and despite initially not understanding what a mortgage was, Ania embraced the opportunity. She joined a Polish brokerage and quickly realized that success required building connections and bringing in clients independently. "I showed up at the office expecting training, but soon learned I had to create my own opportunities," she said.

Ania discussed how she leveraged her Polish community connections and used creative marketing strategies, like advertising in Polish newspapers, to build her client base. Her story is a testament to the power of hard work and resilience.

One of the key takeaways from the interview is Ania's emphasis on patience and perseverance. "Be patient because it's not something that's going to happen instantly," she advised aspiring mortgage professionals. "The money will come if you do the right thing and if you're human in all of this."

Ania's journey is not just about professional success but also personal growth. She credits her parents for teaching her the importance of a positive attitude and the willingness to try new things. "My dad always said, 'Put your mind into it and try it first before you say no.' That's something I’m instilling in my kids too," she shared.

Abby highlighted how Ania's story resonates with many immigrants who come to the United States seeking better opportunities. Ania's experience of starting with nothing and working her way up is inspiring. Her dedication to helping others in her community, whether Polish or Latino, is a reflection of her generous spirit.

Ania's journey is a powerful reminder that success is not just about financial gain but about making a positive impact on others' lives. She ensures that every client she encounters, regardless of their initial qualifications, leaves with a plan and hope for the future. "I didn't get any help when I started, so I make sure no one leaves my office without direction," she stated.

Abby and Ania reflected on the importance of community and the role it plays in achieving success. Ania's story is a testament to the power of resilience, hard work, and the unwavering belief that anything is possible with the right attitude and effort. Her journey is an inspiration to all, showing that with determination and support, one can overcome any obstacle and achieve their dreams.

In this episode of The Savvy Brokers Club Podcast, Jose Baeza, CEO of eFunding Expert, takes us on an inspiring journey from his humble beginnings to his current success.

Raised in Palatine, Illinois, after moving from Mexico at age six, Jose’s dream of becoming a chef morphed into a passion for entrepreneurship. Despite financial obstacles and the challenge of funding a college education, he navigated his path with resilience and determination.

Jose’s story emphasizes the importance of integrity, mentorship, and a relentless belief in oneself. He shares valuable insights on protecting credit, seeking the right funding, and the crucial role of having a supportive network.

Jose's philosophy of "ask and it is given" serves as a powerful reminder that opportunities are abundant if you know where to look and have the courage to ask. Tune in to hear how Jose’s experiences can inspire and guide you on your entrepreneurial journey.

Devontae Brooks' journey is a testament to resilience and determination. Growing up in the Quad Cities, Illinois, Devontae faced numerous challenges, but he always saw a bigger world beyond his circumstances. From his early days in low-income housing to earning a finance degree from Northern Illinois University, Devontae's path was paved with hard work and unwavering focus.

His story of becoming a regional underwriting manager at Wells Fargo and transitioning to a successful mortgage loan officer is a beacon of hope for many. Devontae emphasizes the importance of investing in oneself, continuous learning, and building authentic relationships. His nonprofit, Roman's Wish, born out of personal tragedy, supports families experiencing infant loss, showcasing his deep commitment to community and empathy.

Devontae's journey is a powerful reminder that with perseverance and vision, one can overcome any adversity. Listen to his full story on the Savvy Brokers Club Podcast and be inspired to pursue your own dreams with relentless determination.