Celebrating Two Years of Creating and Sharing Unique Talks

Two years ago, I stepped onto a stage with a simple goal—to spark conversations that matter. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of creating and delivering six unique talks across Canada, each one inspired by the challenges, insights, and aspirations of those in the mortgage industry and beyond.

These talks have been more than just presentations; they’ve been opportunities to engage, learn, and evolve alongside the incredible professionals I’ve met. Here’s a look at the journey so far:

1. People Are Not Robots My debut talk at MPC Conference Vancouver focused on generative listening—how truly hearing others can transform relationships, businesses, and outcomes.

2. 15 Best Practices of Mortgage Brokers After interviewing 30 brokers, I compiled their best practices into a talk that has resonated deeply with industry professionals. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve given this talk across Canada, but the conversations it has sparked are unforgettable.

3. Fascination Advantage A workshop designed for sales and operations teams internally, helping them understand their unique value and how others perceive them. By recognizing their natural strengths and how they are seen by colleagues and clients, they can communicate more effectively and build stronger connections.

4. Science of Human Connection Delivered at MPC Symposiums across Canada and at the MPC National Conference, this talk explores what truly drives human connection. Recently, I had the pleasure of transforming it into a workshop-style session for Sagen’s National Sales and Operations Team at their 2025 Conference in Toronto.

5. Entrepreneurial Gap A strategic planning talk for mortgage brokers, helping them shift their perspective on goal-setting and business growth.

6. Conquer or Cave A mindset-driven pep talk on the choices we make to own our success. We all need this reminder from time to time!

Each of these talks was born out of real conversations and the willingness to listen deeply to the challenges others are facing. I am excited to continue learning, creating, and sharing in the years ahead.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey—your insights, feedback, and engagement fuel my passion to keep evolving these conversations.

What topics do you think need more discussion in our industry? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

About the author:

Lee-Ann McEllister is a Senior Director of Sales at MCAP, Canada’s largest mortgage finance company. With years of experience coaching top-performing business development managers, Lee-Ann is passionate about leadership, strategy, and unlocking human potential.