Teresa Carlson joins Danielle Burmeister in this discussion about funeral home lending, the future of females in the funeral space and the importance of succession planning. Teresa is Vice President of The Bancorp Bank, a nationwide funeral industry lender. In their chat, Teresa talks about how she got started in the banking industry, challenges and opportunities in small business lending and how her career has evolved into a focus on funeral home loans. They also cover how she grew her career while maintaining a healthy work/life balance. Learn all about lending opportunities for firms of any size in this entertaining conversation with Teresa.

Chapters:

0:42 · From banking to funeral home lending.
Teresa shares how she began her career in banking and what sparked her move into small business and eventually funeral home lending

6:03 · Finding the focus.
We explore a deeper look at what motivated Teresa to specialize in funeral home lending and how that niche differs from general business lending

7:40 · The lending landscape.
What makes funeral home lending unique, and why accessing capital can be a challenge for funeral businesses of all sizes

9:00 · Growth hurdles.
Danielle and Teresa explore common barriers funeral homes face when seeking funding for expansion or modernization

13:46 · The power of partnerships. 
How Teresa’s relationship with Homesteaders developed and why collaboration matters in serving the profession

19:20 · Planning ahead.
The importance of succession planning and the conversations funeral home owners should be having sooner rather than later

25:32 · Women in funeral service.
Teresa reflects on the profession's history, its shift toward more female representation and advice for young women entering the profession

29:44 · What’s energizing her now.
Teresa talks about what’s currently inspiring her in her work and life

31:25 · On her nightstand.
Listen in on what Teresa is reading right now and how it’s shaping her perspective