The Loan Officer Podcast

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? 👉 https://specials.lower.com/tlop D.O. and Mike dive into the future of lending, highlighting the rise of agentic agents and automation, crucial advice for loan officers, and specific AI tools already transforming their business. The second half of the episode is packed with actionable insights for integrating AI, prompt engineering, creative curiosity, and embracing tech-forward practices for industry growth up to 2030.

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? 👉 https://specials.lower.com/tlop

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? 👉 https://specials.lower.com/tlop She discusses navigating mergers and acquisitions, tips for thriving during major transitions, the significance of mentorship and coaching, and her vision for the future with new technology and AI in mortgage lending. This episode is packed with strategies for mortgage professionals and inspiring stories of rising through the ranks.

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? 👉 https://specials.lower.com/tlop

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? 👉 https://specials.lower.com/tlop

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.

👉 Get Coached through TLOP's Originator Coaching Join TLOP In this episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen sits down with Bob Niemi, a highly experienced mortgage professional, compliance consultant, and industry thought leader. Together, they delve into a range of critical and timely topics affecting mortgage professionals today. The conversation begins with an in-depth exploration of the ongoing challenges surrounding loan officer compensation, including the complexities of structuring pay in a way that aligns with both regulatory requirements and business objectives. Bob and Dustin analyze the current state of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), noting its relative inactivity and discussing the potential implications for lenders and loan officers who may be tempted to relax their compliance standards during this period of regulatory lull. The discussion then shifts to the significant risks associated with non-compliance, highlighting real-world examples of enforcement actions and the long-term consequences for individuals and companies who fail to adhere to industry regulations. Bob provides valuable insights into the evolving Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS) attestation process, explaining recent changes, common pitfalls, and best practices for ensuring accurate and timely submissions. A major focus of the episode is the legal and ethical complexities involved in compensating real estate agents for referrals. Bob breaks down the nuances of RESPA (Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act) compliance, clarifies what constitutes a violation, and offers practical advice for mortgage professionals seeking to build strong referral relationships without crossing legal boundaries. Throughout the conversation, Dustin and Bob emphasize the critical importance of maintaining a robust compliance culture, seeking ongoing legal counsel, and adopting a long-term perspective on career growth in the mortgage industry. They stress that, amid ongoing regulatory changes and shifting market dynamics, mortgage professionals must remain vigilant, proactive, and committed to ethical business practices to ensure sustained success and avoid costly missteps. *Introduction & Guest Background (00:00:00)* *Bob’s Early Mortgage Career & Transition to Compliance (00:02:21)* *State Regulator & MLS Ombudsman Experience (00:04:16)* *Current Role & Bridging Compliance and Production (00:05:36)* *Advocacy & Industry Involvement (00:06:18)* *Typical Week & MLS Ombudsman Duties (00:09:33)* *CMB Community & Professional Development (00:13:05)* *Top Reasons Clients Contact Bob/Weiner Brodsky Kider (00:15:55)* *Loan Officer Compensation (LO Comp) Issues (00:17:02)* *Risks of Non-Compliance & Real-World Scenarios (00:21:24)* *State Regulators & Individual Liability (00:24:03)* *CFPB’s Current State & Regulatory Landscape (00:25:06)* *State Regulators Increasing Enforcement (00:28:38)* *Industry Need for Regulation & Historical Context (00:31:13)* *Paying Real Estate Agents for Referrals (00:33:30)* *Compliance Challenges with Dual Roles (00:34:27)* *Risks & Best Practices for Realtor Compensation (00:36:31)* *Additional Considerations for Dual Roles (00:39:30)* *Upcoming MLS Disclosure Changes (00:41:29)* *Potential Impact of MLS Changes (00:42:39)* *Guidance and Resources for MLS Changes (00:44:43)* *Closing & Personal Insights (00:47:19)* Subscribe!  @TLOPentertainment ​

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.