We recently connected with Celia Anzalone Bowers and have shared our conversation below.

Celia, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?

From my federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit (Lead with Love international) and my most recent book “You Are a Queen: Transform Your Pain into Power” to my successful mortgage business that has been thriving despite the rates and inflation, my mission is the same: lead others with love and compassion. This has blessed my philanthropic endeavors as well as my mortgage business— as I believe the clients I “work for” can truly sense that I care. You can’t fake genuine care and compassion.

I grew up with a compassionate nature, but my drug addiction to methamphetamine and cocaine as a teenager humbled me in a way I could never recover and I honestly believe that’s been my power in business.

Humans are drawn to real, imperfect people as much as we ourselves strive for perfection knowing it can’t be attained. I learned at an early age I’ll never be perfect, and I am full of weaknesses, but I have since transmuted them into my strengths, I hope to inspire others to do the same.

Celia, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a licensed mortgage professional. I am currently licensed in seven states, but I have the ability to be licensed in every state within the United States. I can work with any client, regardless of where you are located.

With over 300k of the 400k licensed in 2021 leaving the business due to not being able to make it in this climate (higher interest rates and inflation), I see it as my market share has increased and it’s a testament to my perseverance and that love always wins. My relationships with the Realtors who are my main referral source and repeat clients are what has sustained me.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

My dad used to work on call when I was a child as a pediatrician at a hospital so I was familiar with the term. I consider myself “on call” and maybe this life isn’t for everyone, but it certainly is for me.

Regardless of where I am or even the time (if I’m awake), I make myself open to business. I answer the phone. I reply to the text (sometimes I am delayed on emails, but all my clients and agents have my cell phone number).

None of what I do has to be done in person in this day and age. It is all over the phone and electronic. As long as I have my cell phone and my iPad, that paired with as assistant who works from a desktop computer 9-5, M-F, I can take my business with me anywhere and be available anytime. This is crucial in this industry because if you don’t answer, someone else could.

I have worked deals and landed new contracts all over the Caribbean. My husband is supportive, as it benefits our family to step away from dinners to take urgent calls or to preapprove a client. Having this encouragement has really helped me soar.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

When I first began building my business 7 years ago, I stepped away from sharing my story. I was afraid people wouldn’t use me if they knew the truth— that I was a former drug addict. But what I found, the more I brought back my truth and shared, the more loyal my following became. They have connected to me on a deeper level. I have loyalty with some of my agents, and you don’t always see that.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www,Celiaanzalonebowers.com
• Instagram: Lovewaitsforyou
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/celia.anzalone
• Other: @celialendstn on Instagram as well

Image Credits

Mark Block
Mary Craven
Austin Ryde