The Loan Officer Podcast

In this episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen sits down with Mike Smalley, a top-producing mortgage originator and former college baseball pitcher, for an in-depth and engaging conversation. Together, they reflect on Mike's athletic background and how the discipline, teamwork, and competitive spirit he developed on the baseball field have contributed to his impressive career in the mortgage industry.   Mike shares the story of his journey to surpassing $1 billion in career mortgage volume, highlighting the dedication, perseverance, and strategic thinking required to achieve such a milestone. The discussion delves into the 17-year business partnership between Mike, Dustin, and their colleague David Holbrook, examining the evolution and challenges of maintaining a successful long-term collaboration. They explore the critical importance of open communication, trust, and effective delegation in building and sustaining high-performing teams within the mortgage business.   Throughout the episode, Mike and Dustin candidly share lessons learned from their experiences, including overcoming obstacles, adapting to industry changes, and fostering a positive team culture. Producer Karina Mojica joins the conversation, bringing her unique perspective and injecting humor into the discussion, which adds depth and relatability to the episode. The trio's dynamic interaction provides listeners with a behind-the-scenes look at the realities of working in the mortgage industry and the personal growth that comes from navigating both triumphs and setbacks. This episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for mortgage professionals at any stage of their careers, as well as for anyone interested in business growth, leadership, and the power of strong partnerships. Whether you're looking to build your own team, strengthen your business relationships, or simply be inspired by stories of resilience and achievement, this episode delivers a wealth of knowledge and motivation.   TLOP's Originator Coaching: https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-p...   Loan officer looking for a new place to call home?

In this episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, hosts Dustin Owen and Laura Zuluaga, joined by producer Karina, kick things off with a lively recap of Laura's recent trip to a New England Patriots playoff game. Laura shares her firsthand experience of the electrifying atmosphere at the stadium, from the pre-game tailgating festivities to the nail-biting moments on the field, while Dustin and Karina chime in with playful banter and questions about her favorite highlights and the fan culture she witnessed. After some lighthearted conversation, the hosts transition to the main focus of the episode: answering a series of insightful listener questions related to real estate and mortgages.   They dive into the feasibility and potential implications of 50-year mortgages, discussing how such long-term loans could affect monthly payments, total interest paid, and overall home affordability. The conversation then shifts to creative ways buyers might fund a home purchase, including the pros, cons, and legal considerations of tapping into retirement accounts like 401(k)s or education savings plans such as 529s. Dustin and Laura break down the tax implications, penalties, and strategic scenarios where these options might make sense. The hosts also tackle the growing influence of institutional investors in the housing market, examining how large-scale property purchases by investment firms can drive up prices, reduce inventory for individual buyers, and impact neighborhood dynamics.   They provide context on recent trends and share their perspectives on what this means for first-time homebuyers and the broader market. In response to ongoing debates about housing affordability, Dustin and Laura analyze recent proposals aimed at lowering mortgage rates, such as government interventions or special loan programs. However, they emphasize that these measures are only part of the solution, arguing that the real key to making homes more affordable lies in increasing the overall housing supply. They discuss the challenges and opportunities involved in building more homes, including zoning laws, construction costs, and policy changes that could encourage development.   As the episode draws to a close, the team shares exciting announcements about upcoming industry events, educational workshops, and networking opportunities for listeners. They also tease details about an exclusive listener cruise, inviting fans of the show to join them for a unique chance to connect, learn, and have fun together on the open seas.   TLOP's Originator Coaching: https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs/?utm_source=TLOP&utm_medium=Description&utm_id=YouTube  Loan officer looking for a new place to call home?

In this episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen sits down with Abdel Khawatmi, a top-producing mortgage loan officer based in New Jersey, for an in-depth conversation about success in the modern mortgage industry. Abdel shares his inspiring journey, detailing how he made the transition from a career in law to becoming a leading figure in the mortgage business. He explains the pivotal role that leveraging advanced systems, automation, and artificial intelligence played in rapidly scaling his business, resulting in a remarkable 30% increase in loan volume and an impressive 175% surge in overall profitability. Throughout the episode, Abdel provides valuable insights into his strategic approach to team management, emphasizing the importance of building a cohesive and motivated team to support growth. He discusses his methods for coaching and empowering real estate partners, fostering strong relationships that drive mutual success. The conversation delves into the practical aspects of integrating cutting-edge technology into daily operations, highlighting the efficiencies and competitive advantages gained through thoughtful implementation. Abdel also opens up about his personal life, sharing how he strives to maintain a healthy work-life balance while raising a family. He talks about the significance of providing financial education to his children, instilling in them the values of responsibility and long-term planning. Additionally, Abdel and Dustin explore the critical role that consistency, discipline, and accountability play in achieving sustained success in the mortgage industry. Listeners will gain actionable tips and inspiration for building a thriving, future-ready mortgage business while maintaining personal fulfillment and strong family connections.   TLOP's Originator Coaching: https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs/?utm_source=TLOP&utm_medium=Description&utm_id=YouTube    Loan officer looking for a new place to call home?

In this episode of "The Loan Officer Podcast," host Dustin Owen interviews Juan Carlos Barreneche, a former top-producing realtor who now runs a successful staffing agency. Juan Carlos shares his inspiring journey from aspiring doctor to real estate standout, and now to helping mortgage and real estate professionals scale their businesses with virtual assistants. Dustin and Juan Carlos discuss the importance of time management and how delegating tasks to virtual assistants can free up time for business owners to focus on what matters most. They talk about building strong teams and overcoming growth challenges in the mortgage and real estate industries. Juan Carlos explains how his company, Gold Bar Staffing, provides highly trained virtual assistants and support systems tailored for mortgage brokers, loan officers, and real estate agents. He offers real-world examples showing how virtual assistants can boost productivity, streamline operations, and cut costs without sacrificing client service. Listeners will gain practical tips for integrating virtual assistants into their businesses, whether for administrative support, customer service, or scaling operations.   TLOP's Originator Coaching: https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-p... Loan Officer looking for a new place to call home?

In this episode of "The DO Show," mortgage expert Dustin Owen takes a deep dive into the popular advice often given to homebuyers: to "just wait" for the perfect time to purchase a home. Dustin challenges this conventional wisdom by highlighting the pitfalls of waiting on the sidelines, such as missing out on valuable opportunities, losing precious time, and potentially delaying important life milestones like starting a family, building equity, or settling into a community. He explains that while it's natural to want to time the market perfectly, the reality is that predicting market highs and lows is nearly impossible—even for seasoned professionals. Dustin emphasizes that the decision to buy a home should be based less on trying to forecast short-term market trends and more on what will benefit your life over the next five to seven years. He points out that, historically, those who focus on their long-term goals and personal circumstances tend to fare better than those who wait endlessly for the "perfect" moment. Addressing concerns about today's higher interest rates and the challenges of affordability, Dustin encourages buyers to look beyond current headlines and instead assess their own financial readiness, stability, and long-term plans. Throughout the episode, Dustin urges listeners to prioritize responsible planning and personal preparedness over chasing ideal market conditions that may never materialize. He reassures buyers that while the market will always fluctuate, making a well-informed decision based on your unique situation is far more important than waiting for the stars to align. By focusing on what you can control—such as your budget, needs, and future goals—Dustin believes you can make a smart investment in your future, regardless of the current market climate.

D.O. sits down with Legendary Mortgage President Mike Fitzpatrick for an in-depth conversation about technology and AI in the mortgage industry. Fitzpatrick shares his personal career journey from humble beginnings to leading a thriving mortgage division, including the pivotal role of operational mentors, leveraging social media, and how positivity drives success. Loan officer looking for a new place to call home?

In this engaging episode of The Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen sits down with Laura Zuluaga, a dynamic Central Florida-based endurance athlete and accomplished real estate investor originally from Medellin, Colombia. Laura shares her inspiring journey from immigrant to Ironman competitor, her high-level water polo experience, and how she and her husband built a mortgage-free real estate portfolio - offering valuable lessons on financial independence and property investment. Laura also provides practical tips for making the most of corporate travel and business conferences, drawing from her expertise as a successful travel agency owner. The conversation includes actionable strategies for maximizing networking and streamlining travel, plus an exciting announcement: a mortgage industry cruise set for 2026, inviting listeners to join this unique networking event at sea. The episode highlights Laura's remarkable background and delivers practical advice for mortgage and real estate professionals. Dustin and Laura wrap up by discussing future podcast collaborations, promising more expert guests and insightful content. Whether you're interested in endurance sports, real estate investing, or professional growth, this episode offers inspiration and actionable takeaways for all. TLOP's Originator Coaching: https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs/?utm_source=TLOP&utm_medium=Description&utm_id=YouTube   Loan officer looking for a new place to call home?

D.O. sits down with Selene Kellam, COO of Lower Mortgage, for an insightful conversation on The Loan Officer Podcast. In this episode, Selene shares her unique journey from starting as a temp in the mortgage industry to becoming the CEO of Thrive Mortgage and now leading at Lower. Loan officer looking for a new place to call home?

In this episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen kicks off 2026 with an exciting new format and a dynamic team lineup. Dustin introduces key team members, including marketing expert Mike Siciliano (“Marketing Mike”), who brings a wealth of experience in digital marketing and branding for mortgage professionals, and producer Karina Mojica (“Special K”), whose technical expertise and creative vision help shape the show's engaging content and seamless production. Together, the team unveils a series of innovative podcast features designed to provide even more value to listeners, such as interactive Q&A segments, deep dives into industry trends, and exclusive interviews with top-performing loan officers and industry leaders. The episode also highlights a calendar of upcoming industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities that loan officers won't want to miss in 2026. Dustin, Mike, JC, and Karina discuss the importance of ongoing education and professional development, emphasizing how coaching and mentorship can accelerate career growth and help mortgage professionals stay ahead in a competitive market. Listeners are treated to a wealth of actionable strategies aimed at boosting income and business success as a Loan Originator in 2026. The team shares proven techniques for generating high-quality leads, improving conversion rates, and strategically targeting higher-value loan opportunities. They break down practical steps for building stronger referral networks, leveraging technology for efficiency, and enhancing client relationships to drive repeat business. Throughout the episode, the team's camaraderie and lighthearted banter create an energetic and welcoming atmosphere. Their authentic conversations set a positive tone for the year ahead, inspiring listeners to take action and engage with the growing Top community. The episode serves as both a roadmap for success in 2026 and an invitation for mortgage professionals to connect, learn, and thrive together.

In this episode of The Loan Officer Podcast, D.O. sits down in Nashville with mortgage industry powerhouse Vernon Miles. Vernon shares his journey from buying his first home and getting burned by a broker, to running Milestone Mortgage Solutions, now a top competitor in the nation. They discuss the sacrifices needed to succeed, the importance of spousal support, building the right team, and striving for both personal and professional growth. D.O. pulls out lessons on purchase vs. refi business, mentorship, recruiting philosophy, and financial literacy—ending with practical advice for both seasoned professionals and newcomers trying to break into the business. Inspiring stories, actionable strategies, and a few laughs make this a must-listen episode. Loan officer looking for a new place to call home?

In this special live episode of The Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen sits down with renowned mortgage industry leader Jason Purcell at the Central Florida Mortgage Bankers Association's highly anticipated year-end event. Surrounded by a dynamic live audience comprised of mortgage professionals, real estate agents, and prospective homebuyers, Dustin and Jason engage in an in-depth conversation that explores the evolving landscape of the mortgage industry. Throughout the episode, they delve into the qualities and strategies that define effective leadership in today's fast-paced market, sharing personal experiences and actionable advice. The discussion highlights the transformative impact of technology and artificial intelligence on lending practices, underwriting, and customer service, offering listeners a glimpse into the future of the industry. They also address the challenges and opportunities presented by shifting market cycles, providing practical tips for navigating periods of uncertainty and change. A significant portion of the conversation is dedicated to the importance of coaching, mentorship, and building strong partnerships, emphasizing how collaboration and continuous learning can drive both personal and professional growth. The interactive format allows for real-time audience participation, with a lively Q&A session that brings forth practical questions and insightful answers. These exchanges offer valuable, real-world perspectives on topics such as client communication, regulatory changes, and business development. This mastermind session, enriched by the collective wisdom of industry experts and audience members alike, serves as an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to achieve lasting success and resilience in the mortgage business. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode delivers inspiration, education, and actionable takeaways to help you thrive in a competitive marketplace.

D.O. sits down with Shawn Miller, one of Florida's most productive loan originators, with over two decades of experience in the mortgage industry and a 15-year run as an in-house lender for Keller Williams. Shawn shares insights on building successful realtor relationships, the pros and cons of being an in-house lender, and how to create systems that lead to top producer results. Loan officer looking for a new place to call home?

In this episode of "The D.O. Show," host Dustin Owen—drawing on his two decades of expertise in the financial and mortgage industries—dives deep into the often misunderstood world of insurance. With his signature "321 format," Dustin breaks down the essentials of disability, term life, and whole life insurance, making complex topics accessible for listeners at every stage of their financial journey. Dustin kicks off the episode by answering real audience questions, addressing common concerns such as: "Do I really need disability insurance if I'm young and healthy?", "How much term life coverage is enough for my family?", and "Is whole life insurance a smart investment or just a sales pitch?" He then transitions into a discussion of recent headlines and trends in the insurance industry, highlighting regulatory changes, new product offerings, and shifts in consumer behavior that could impact listeners' decisions. Throughout the episode, Dustin offers an in-depth perspective on whole life insurance, explaining how it differs from term life, the mechanics of cash value accumulation, and the scenarios where it might make sense—or not—for different individuals. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the true purpose of each insurance product, dispelling myths such as "insurance is only for the wealthy" or "whole life is always a bad deal." Dustin also shares real-life stories from his career, illustrating how proper insurance planning has protected families and individuals during unexpected life events. Importantly, Dustin stresses that insurance should be viewed as a foundational element of a sound financial plan—not as an exciting investment or a way to chase returns. He encourages listeners to approach insurance decisions thoughtfully, focusing on protecting their income, loved ones, and long-term financial stability. By the end of the episode, listeners will have a clearer understanding of how disability, term life, and whole life insurance work, why they matter, and how to evaluate their own coverage needs. Dustin's practical advice and candid insights empower the audience to make informed, confident decisions about their insurance, ensuring they're prepared for whatever life may bring.

In this special live episode of The Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen sits down with renowned mortgage industry leader Jason Purcell at the Central Florida Mortgage Bankers Association's highly anticipated year-end event. Surrounded by a dynamic live audience comprised of mortgage professionals, real estate agents, and prospective homebuyers, Dustin and Jason engage in an in-depth conversation that explores the evolving landscape of the mortgage industry. Throughout the episode, they delve into the qualities and strategies that define effective leadership in today's fast-paced market, sharing personal experiences and actionable advice. The discussion highlights the transformative impact of technology and artificial intelligence on lending practices, underwriting, and customer service, offering listeners a glimpse into the future of the industry. They also address the challenges and opportunities presented by shifting market cycles, providing practical tips for navigating periods of uncertainty and change. A significant portion of the conversation is dedicated to the importance of coaching, mentorship, and building strong partnerships, emphasizing how collaboration and continuous learning can drive both personal and professional growth. The interactive format allows for real-time audience participation, with a lively Q&A session that brings forth practical questions and insightful answers. These exchanges offer valuable, real-world perspectives on topics such as client communication, regulatory changes, and business development. This mastermind session, enriched by the collective wisdom of industry experts and audience members alike, serves as an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to achieve lasting success and resilience in the mortgage business. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode delivers inspiration, education, and actionable takeaways to help you thrive in a competitive marketplace. TLOP's Originator Coaching: https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs/

Join D.O. as he sits down with Optimal Blue executive Mike Vough to pull back the curtain on how mortgage interest rates are really set in today's industry. This episode is a must-watch for loan originators, mortgage brokers, homebuyers, and real estate agents who want to truly understand the mysteries behind the secondary mortgage market—including rate locks, hedging, pricing engines, and the latest trends in non-QM lending. You'll learn why rates move independently of the Fed, how lenders use hedge strategies, and get actionable insights on the future of mortgage rates. If you're in the mortgage space and want to better advise your clients and grow your business, this is the episode for you.

Dustin shares 15 invaluable life and career lessons he wishes he'd known in his twenties. Drawing from over two decades of hands-on experience in the mortgage industry, real estate, and business, he offers practical, actionable advice on a wide range of topics, including building strong partnerships, seeking out mentorship, understanding equity, achieving work-life balance, cultivating a growth mindset, managing money wisely, and prioritizing personal development. Aimed at young adults just starting out, professionals looking to advance, and anyone striving for greater success, Dustin emphasizes the critical importance of nurturing relationships, thinking bigger than your current circumstances, being fully present in each moment, and making decisions with confidence and clarity. He shares personal stories and candid reflections, highlighting both his successes and the lessons learned from setbacks, to provide listeners with a realistic and inspiring roadmap for thriving in life, business, and relationships at any age. Throughout the episode, Dustin encourages listeners to invest in themselves, embrace continuous learning, and take calculated risks. He discusses the value of surrounding yourself with positive influences, setting ambitious goals, and maintaining integrity in all aspects of life. Whether you're navigating the early stages of your career, considering a major life change, or simply seeking motivation to reach your full potential, Dustin's insights offer guidance and encouragement to help you overcome obstacles and achieve lasting fulfillment.

Join D.O. and Chris Vinson, CEO of Windsor Mortgage, for this insightful episode of The Loan Officer Podcast. Chris shares his journey from a young entrepreneur selling car stereos, through car sales and insurance, to becoming one of the mortgage industry's top leaders. Dive into stories about building market share, developing meaningful business strategies, and advice for originators on treating their database like a portfolio. With candid reflections on mistakes and wins, plus an outlook on new products and challenges facing mortgage professionals, this episode delivers actionable lessons and inspiration for anyone in the real estate or lending business.

In this insightful episode of The DO Show, host Dustin Owen—drawing on his extensive 20+ years of hands-on experience in the mortgage industry—delivers a comprehensive guide for mortgage professionals at every stage of their careers. Whether you're contemplating a career move, actively seeking new opportunities, or aiming to recruit and retain top-tier talent for your organization, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world wisdom. Dustin begins by exploring the most common pitfalls that mortgage professionals encounter when considering a job change. He delves into the dangers of chasing after niche loan products or fleeting market trends, emphasizing the importance of focusing on long-term career growth rather than short-term gains. He also addresses the critical issue of mishandling client data, explaining how lapses in compliance and data security can not only jeopardize your reputation but also put your entire career at risk.

In this episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen sits down with John Motowidlak, co-founder of Mpire Financial. Together, they dive deep into the ways technology—such as artificial intelligence, automation, robotics, and SaaS solutions—is revolutionizing the mortgage industry and accelerating Mpire Financial's impressive growth trajectory. John offers valuable insights into the process of developing proprietary technology, emphasizing how innovation and adaptability are crucial for staying ahead in a rapidly evolving market. The conversation also touches on the significance of cultivating a strong company culture at Mpire Financial, and how this foundation supports both employee satisfaction and client success. John and Dustin discuss the upcoming Mortgage Con 2026 conference in Orlando, highlighting the event's potential for learning, networking, and discovering the latest industry trends. Throughout the episode, they explore the exciting opportunities that come with tech-driven change in real estate, as well as the unique challenges that mortgage professionals face in adapting to new tools and processes. John shares his perspective on the future of coaching and mentorship in the industry, introducing innovative coaching platforms and resources designed to help loan officers and mortgage professionals thrive. Listeners will also hear about new networking opportunities, best practices for leveraging technology, and actionable strategies for navigating the dynamic landscape of modern mortgage lending.   TLOP's Originator Coaching ---> Visit Website

D.O. takes a deep dive into the growing buzz surrounding 50-year mortgages and portable mortgage products. Leveraging his two decades of hands-on experience in the mortgage industry, Dustin breaks down these trending topics, separating hype from reality for his listeners. He begins by explaining what 50-year and portable mortgages actually are, outlining how they function in theory and practice. Dustin then explores why these unconventional loan products are unlikely to gain widespread acceptance in the United States, drawing insightful comparisons to the mortgage systems in Canada and the United Kingdom, where such products have seen varying degrees of popularity.

In this episode of The D.O. Show, host Dustin Owen leverages his extensive 20+ years of experience in the mortgage and real estate industries to deliver a comprehensive and practical guide to real estate investing. Dustin breaks down essential investment strategies, including buy-and-hold, house flipping, wholesaling, and the powerful B.U.R.R. (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance)*method, providing listeners with a clear understanding of how each approach works and when to use them for maximum return on investment.  

In this power-packed episode of The Loan Officer Podcast, D.O. sits down with Jonathon Haddad, President of NerdWallet Mortgage Experts and CEO of AIM, live from Nashville during AIM Fuse. Jonathon shares actionable strategies for mortgage professionals to maximize client retention, work their database, and elevate their advisory roles. The conversation gets tactical, offering scripts, touchpoints, and insights on leveraging systems and building real relationships. D.O. and Jonathon also dive into the importance of sales skills and neuro-linguistic programming in achieving long-term success in lending. Get ready for a fast-paced, no-nonsense guide to dominating the mortgage business in 2025 and beyond.

D.O. sits down with LinkedIn expert Dan Smokoska in Dallas, Texas, during the Sales Mastery event. They dive deep into Dan's unique journey from mortgage industry executive to mastering LinkedIn as a tool for professional survival and growth. Dan shares his firsthand experience using LinkedIn to rapidly expand his network and build a personal brand after job loss, as well as five actionable tips every sales and business professional can use to turn LinkedIn into a revenue engine. Packed with practical strategies and honest conversation, this episode is a must-watch for anyone wanting to level up their social selling and personal branding game.

In this episode of *The DO Show* mortgage expert *Dustin Owen* tackles one of the most pressing questions in today's real estate market: *Is there a housing bubble in 2025?* Drawing on his extensive experience in the mortgage industry, Dustin debunks the widespread myth of an impending housing market crash. Instead, he explains that *today's high home prices* are largely driven by a persistent *housing shortage* and strong buyer demand, not by risky lending practices or speculative bubbles.

Welcome to another episode of "The DO Show," hosted by mortgage industry veteran Dustin Owen! In this insightful and engaging episode, Dustin draws from his extensive 20-year career as a top-performing mortgage loan originator to provide a comprehensive look into the world of mortgage lending. Whether you're considering a career in the mortgage industry, are a new loan officer, or simply curious about what it takes to succeed in this dynamic field, this episode is packed with valuable information and real-world advice. Dustin Owen shares his personal journey, revealing the highs and lows he's experienced over two decades in the business. He breaks down the unique rewards and challenges that come with being a mortgage professional, from helping clients achieve the dream of homeownership to navigating the ever-changing landscape of lending regulations and market conditions.

In this episode, D.O. shares a major career move: fully committing to TLOP and going brand agnostic after years of working within specific mortgage companies. He discusses the journey of turning a passion project into a full-scale mission to elevate the mortgage industry, supporting loan officers, brokers, and realtors with innovative coaching, consulting, and media content. D.O. dives into the challenges and excitement of entrepreneurship, the importance of industry relationships, and his vision for scaling impact across the mortgage space. Whether you're an industry newbie or a seasoned professional, this episode delivers refreshing insights, bold announcements, and true inspiration for anyone in the business.

D.O. sits down with Alec Hanson, SVP of Sales at Loan Depot, for a high-energy, no-fluff conversation on how AI is radically transforming the mortgage and real estate industries. Alec shares his journey from humble beginnings as a receptionist to becoming a top producer, marketing executive, and now a sales leader.

In the first episode of The D.O. Show, Dustin explores youth travel sports and the financial impacts it can have on your child's future education.

D.O. sits down with mortgage industry legend Todd Bookspan for a candid conversation packed with career insights and industry secrets. Todd shares his unique journey from entrepreneur and bicycle shop owner to top-producing mortgage originator and coach. Discover the story behind his game-changing "Win By Noon" philosophy, how he built a 550+ unit year, and lessons learned from coaching with icons like Bill Hart. Plus, Todd and D.O. dig deep into the impact of mentorship, accountability tools, and the power of communication—wrapping up with actionable advice for sales pros and originators looking to elevate their business. Don't miss these strategies, stories, and takeaways you can use right now to accelerate your growth!

D.O. sits down with top-producing Orlando real estate broker Yuritza Srichaiyan for an inspiring and energetic conversation. Yuritza shares her unique journey from growing up in Orlando, working a dream decade at Disney, and experiencing a major life shift into motherhood.

D.O. dives into the latest industry shake-ups after a rare two-week hiatus. He tackles the challenges behind AUS (Automated Underwriting System) denials, breaks down how government policies are shaping loan approvals, and discusses the dramatic changes around FICO credit algorithms and report costs. D.O. also explores the impact of a government shutdown on the mortgage process, offering practical insights and strategies for navigating these unpredictable times. 

D.O. breaks down the top 10 cities in the U.S. with the greatest increases in mortgage volume year-over-year—revealing the hottest spots for loan officers and brokers looking to ramp up their origination business. He also shares his insights on industry events, dives into the most buyer-friendly markets in 2025, and offers actionable tips for success in today's shifting mortgage environment.

D.O. shares actionable strategies for mortgage professionals to dominate their database and turn it into a powerful "data bank." D.O. walks through a step-by-step process—including celebrating client milestones, sending impactful newsletters, utilizing social media, and hosting events—to help you build brand loyalty and generate leads.

D.O. breaks down the five essential loan products every top-producing mortgage originator needs to master to make a million dollars a year. He dispels common myths around chasing niche and "sizzle" products, and instead focuses on proven, scalable choices backed by years of industry insight. D.O. also shares stories from his coaching career and reveals the patterns of mortgage millionaires across the country. Whether you're new to the business or looking to refine your product mix, this is a must-listen for actionable strategies, industry wisdom, and the mindset required for long-term success in mortgage lending.

D.O. unpacks the powerful connection between sales and storytelling. He breaks down four essential tactics every salesperson should use to capture attention, deliver value, and make their message memorable—whether one-on-one or to a packed audience. He shares how incorporating key phrases, strategic pauses, and deeper storytelling can help mortgage professionals, real estate agents, and anyone in sales build trust, drive engagement, and ultimately win more business.

D.O. tackles one of the most common challenges loan originators face: what to teach at Realtor events. D.O. breaks down actionable class topics, from getting more offers accepted and creating inventory, to leveraging low down payment programs and demystifying mortgages for real estate agents. He shares proven strategies and irresistible class titles that fill rooms, boost engagement, and ultimately help Realtors close more deals. 

D.O. broadcasts live from the Louisiana Mortgage Bankers Association event in Baton Rouge, diving deep into the ever-evolving topic of trigger leads. Despite recent legislative wins against trigger leads in the mortgage industry, D.O. reveals why the battle is far from over.

D.O. sits down with Kate deKay, CEO of Eustis Mortgage, for an inspiring and insightful conversation. Kate—who bought the company originally founded by her grandfather—shares her journey from summer receptionist to processor, loan originator, manager, and ultimately CEO. She candidly discusses the realities of being a female leader in a male-dominated mortgage industry, how she navigated family business dynamics, and the challenges and triumphs faced along her 20-year career.

D.O. sits down with top mortgage producer and TLOP coach Brian Kimball, aka Coach BK, for an inspiring and candid interview. BK's journey will resonate whether you're a mortgage professional, entrepreneur, or simply love a great story about personal growth and business leadership. D.O. and Brian explore a range of topics beginning with BK's unexpected entry into the mortgage world after a unique early career as a live sound engineer. Listen as Brian shares how he leveraged his upbringing as a second-generation mortgage professional, navigated the aftermath of the 2008-09 financial crisis, and ultimately built a thriving business through a commitment to helping everyday Americans.

D.O. breaks down actionable takeaways for loan officers and mortgage professionals at any stage in their career. Discover how these coaches achieved success (with some funding over 400 units a year!), the philosophies that drive their teams, secrets to balancing work and family, and practical frameworks you can implement immediately—like the Eisenhower Matrix and the “Here We Grow” mantra.

D.O. sits down with industry standout Gwen Swain for an inspiring conversation as part of the Top Producers series. Gwen shares her remarkable transition from being a fitness instructor and stay-at-home mom to consistently producing over $50 million in personal mortgage volume—highlighting the founding and growth of her "Gwenpire".

D.O. deep dives into the proposed privatization of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, offering a balanced look at why this move is being considered, what it could mean for mortgage rates and access to credit, the financial implications for taxpayers and investors, and why both excitement and caution are warranted. 

Join D.O. as he interviews Ross Woods, one of the mortgage industry's elite performers. Broadcasting from Chicago, Ross shares his journey from small-town Missouri and humble beginnings in the title industry, through relentless hard work and determination, to becoming a top 1% mortgage originator and successful branch manager at Flat Branch Home Loans. The episode dives deep into Ross's work ethic, the sacrifices he made, his "magic formula" for success, and the importance of mentorship in reaching the top. 

D.O. breaks down the "11 Steps" every loan officer needs to bounce back, level up, or launch their business strong. D.O. shares actionable strategies pulled straight from his top-performing originator bootcamp, covering everything from tracking your daily habits to building your business plan and networking like a pro. The episode also features insights about coaching, events, open houses, and why storytelling and social media matter for modern mortgage professionals.

D.O. dives into the breaking Loan Depot class action lawsuit and its potential ripple effects across the mortgage industry. D.O. explains how LO compensation practices are under fire—drawing parallels to the seismic impact of the NAR commission lawsuit. 

D.O. explains the true role of Account Executives ("the plug") in the mortgage world and breaks down how AEs provide unparalleled value to brokers—not just with competitive rates, but through deal structuring expertise, business coaching, and driving growth with event marketing. Whether you're a mortgage veteran or curious about the AE path, this episode gives actionable strategies for success and uncovers surprising parallels between AE-broker and LO-realtor partnerships.

Join D.O. a "spicy" episode as he dives into one of the most debated topics in the mortgage industry: override managers. Are they truly earning the extra compensation, or are they just skimming from hardworking loan originators? Get

D.O. tackles the top FAQs submitted by loan officers, listeners, and viewers while sharing practical advice and seasoned insight on topics like how to stand out when rates and fees aren't the focus, creative ways lenders are making homeownership more affordable, and the impact of AI on the mortgage business.  Get

Join D.O. as he sits down with Peter Benjamin, President of ACUMA and one of the top experts in credit union mortgage lending. Dive deep into what sets credit unions apart in the mortgage world, why they're great places to work, and the challenges and opportunities they face in today's market.

D.O. dives into a controversial and crucial topic in the mortgage industry—how loan officers handle requests for kickbacks from real estate agents. With real world anecdotes, he breaks down the legality, ethics, and business consequences of kickbacks, and explores alternative solutions like co-marketing through Zillow, MSAs, and Joint Ventures.