Why I’m Stepping Forward Now: The Voice Behind the CDLP® and Divorce Mortgage Planning

There comes a time when staying quiet—or working only behind the scenes—isn’t enough.

For me, that time is now.

After decades in the mortgage and financial industry, living through my own divorce, and training nearly 1,000 mortgage professionals through the Certified Divorce Lending Professional® (CDLP®) program I created, I’m stepping forward—not to build a personal brand but to amplify a message that matters.

Because this work matters.
Because divorcing homeowners deserve better.
Because professionals deserve tools, strategy, and clarity to guide their clients.
Because no one should feel alone at the intersection of divorce and homeownership.

This Isn’t Just My Work—It’s My Story

Divorce isn’t just a legal process—it’s deeply personal. I know because I’ve been there.

I’ve sat at the kitchen table, documents spread out, wondering what my financial future looked like after divorce. But unlike many others, I brought something powerful to the table: over 35 years in the mortgage and financial world.

That perspective changed everything.

I began to notice the blind spots—the disconnect between mortgage advice and divorce realities. Attorneys focused on the legal side, financial planners looked at long-term investments, and loan officers focused on closing loans.

But no one was guiding divorcing homeowners through one of their life's most significant financial decisions—what to do with the house.

So, I created what didn’t exist.

The Birth of Divorce Mortgage Planning & the CDLP® Certification

Divorce Mortgage Planning was born out of the need for clarity, structure, and compassion in a space that too often overlooks the homeowner’s reality.

From that came the CDLP® Certification, designed to empower mortgage professionals with the knowledge and strategy to support divorcing clients with purpose and precision.

For years, I did this work quietly. I trained leaders, built the foundation, and created the tools and structure professionals needed to serve at a higher level.

"I spent years hiding in plain sight—doing the work, building the foundation, and creating the CDLP® Certification to empower others. Now I’m stepping forward to bring the clarity, strategy, and truth our industry and divorcing homeowners need.” — Jody Bruns

Seeing the Full Picture

Divorce housing decisions are never just about a mortgage. They’re about:

• Real property
• Cash flow and underwriting
• Equity distribution
• Tax implications
• Emotional and psychological weight

I’ve made it my life’s work to integrate all this under one clear focus: the house in a divorce.

I don’t just teach strategy—I help professionals and homeowners alike see what others miss.

Why I’m Stepping Forward Now

Because people still make the wrong housing decisions during divorce.
Because professionals still need better tools and education.
Because homeowners still feel lost, overwhelmed, and unheard.

And because this isn’t just about transactions—it’s about transformation.

I’m stepping forward to raise awareness, educate more broadly, and be a trusted voice in the conversations that matter—on podcasts, in courtrooms, in mediations, at conferences, and in homes across the country.

Not to compete. But to continue the mission, I started behind the scenes.

What I Stand For

• Empowering divorcing homeowners with clarity and compassion
• Elevating mortgage, legal, and financial professionals with strategic insight
• Bridging the emotional and financial realities of divorce housing
• Leading with authenticity, not ego
• Advocating for smarter, more sustainable housing decisions during divorce

An Invitation to Connect

If you’re a divorcing homeowner, follow me. I’m here to provide genuine, honest education and support.

Let's talk if you’re a podcast host, event organizer, or media outlet. I bring experience, depth, and a message that’s changing lives.

If you’re a professional looking to deepen your impact in divorce, connect with me. I’ll help you grow through strategy, heart, and proven guidance.

This isn’t just my work.
It’s my mission.
And I’d love for you to be part of it.

—
Jody Bruns
Founder of Divorce Mortgage Planning and the Divorce Lending Association
Creator of the CDLP® Certification
#1 Divorce Mortgage Expert