Loan Officer Freedom

Episode 609 If you want help getting clear on your numbers, your income, and a smarter path to long term freedom, schedule a free strategy call at LoanOfficerStrategyCall.com. Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl sits down with Adam Crosley, a regional manager with Crown Home Mortgage, for a candid conversation about money, investing, and what it really means to make work optional. The discussion kicks off with Adam sharing how he saved over $8,400 in a single month by consistently paying himself 25% first, and why that habit alone puts him ahead of the vast majority of Americans. Carl and Adam dive deep into real numbers around real estate investing versus the stock market, pulling from decades of firsthand experience. Carl openly shares lessons learned from single family rentals, negative cash flow, and underestimated maintenance, while comparing those results to long term investing in the S&P 500 and precious metals. The conversation strips away theory and focuses on what actually builds wealth with fewer distractions and less stress. They also explore multi unit real estate, leverage, tax strategies, liquidity, and why most investors underestimate the true cost of time and opportunity. Throughout the episode, the message stays clear and practical: save consistently, know your numbers, and keep your focus on the activities that produce the highest return. If you want a real world conversation about building long term wealth while staying focused on your mortgage business and your family, this episode will challenge how you think about money, investing, and freedom.

Episode 608 If you want help mapping out a clear, step by step plan to grow your production, visit GetMoreLoans.com. Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl sits down with Chris Kloc, a Chattanooga based loan officer who is just four years into the business and on pace to close roughly 175 loans in 2025. Chris shares his journey from being completely outside the mortgage industry to building a high performing, leveraged team and producing at a level most loan officers never reach. Chris breaks down the simple principles that fueled his growth, including ruthless implementation, tracking daily activity, and shortening the gap between learning something proven and actually doing it. He explains how accountability, consistency, and being highly active and visible in the market drove both his purchase and refinance production. The conversation also dives into team structure, buying back time, and why knowing your real job as a loan officer is critical once production starts to scale. Chris outlines how he built leverage around himself so he could stay focused on lead generation, consultations, and leadership. If you are early in your career or stuck at a few loans a month and want a clear picture of what it really takes to scale quickly without burning out, this episode delivers practical lessons you can apply immediately.

Episode 607 To see if a quick strategy call makes sense for your business, visit GetMoreLoans.com. Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl sits down with John King, a Sacramento based branch manager and 25 year mortgage veteran who is on pace to close roughly 135 units this year. John shares how leading mastermind groups for local business owners has strengthened his leadership skills, expanded his influence, and created deeper, more loyal relationships in his market. John explains how his mastermind groups are structured, why they are intentionally not leads groups, and how teaching and facilitating conversations has helped him grow personally and professionally. He breaks down the difference between coaching and masterminding, and why removing pressure and formal accountability actually increased engagement and trust. The conversation also dives into confidence, imposter syndrome, and why fear never really disappears, even for experienced producers. Carl and John unpack how stepping into leadership roles sharpens confidence, improves communication, and positively impacts sales conversations and relationships. If you are looking for a smarter way to grow through leadership, collaboration, and shared ideas rather than grinding harder, this episode delivers a powerful blueprint you can apply right away.  

Episode 606 For more information about Carl's upcoming accountability group, visit AllianceNextLevel.com. Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl sits down with Robyn LaVassaur, a powerhouse leader and producer whose branch closed an incredible 191 units in a single month, and this was not a one-time spike. Robyn shares her journey from a small-town start with no industry background to becoming one of the top producers and executives in the country, all while raising a family and building a high-performing team. Robyn breaks down the simple math behind consistent production, including why daily lead goals, tracking conversion, and focusing on tomorrow's money are non negotiable for long-term success. She explains how her team maintains high standards through clear expectations, strong process control, and a culture built around service rather than pressure. The conversation also dives deep into accountability, leadership, and mindset as Carl and Robyn unpack why most loan officers struggle with consistency and how tracking activity removes emotion from the business. Robyn shares why controlling the process, setting expectations early, and measuring what actually matters leads to predictable results month after month. If you want a real-world look at how disciplined activity, clear numbers, and accountability with heart can drive massive production, this episode delivers a masterclass you can apply immediately.

Episode 605 To see more of this loan consultation checklist, visit GetMoreLoans.com and ask the team for the full breakdown. Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl is joined by top producer Jenay Bowen, who consistently closes eight to nine units a month by following a structured loan consultation process that dramatically increases conversion and minimizes surprises for buyers and agents. Jenay walks through her three part framework intro, nuts and bolts, and close and explains how it transforms the pre approval meeting into a smooth, predictable, and highly professional experience. You'll hear how she uses a simple 21 point checklist to stay on track, avoid missed steps, and set clear expectations from the start, which she says eliminates up to 90 percent of the problems that usually surface later in the transaction. Jenay shares how she educates clients with real numbers, guides couples to get aligned on budget, and uses her triangle of trust approach to strengthen agent relationships in every meeting. She also breaks down her pilot and turbulence story that prepares buyers for the journey ahead and shows why it boosts confidence and trust. Carl and Jenay dig into her closeout strategy, including why she has every borrower sign their application on the spot, how she asks for referrals in a natural way, and why this meeting creates pre approvals that agents view as solid as cash. Her system leaves nothing to chance and gives loan officers a repeatable process that increases conversion without adding more hours to the day. If you want pre approvals that stick, smoother transactions, and a consistent path to higher conversion, Jenay's process gives you the blueprint.

Episode 604 Schedule a one-on-one free coaching call, click here or visit LoanOfficerStrategyCall.com. Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl is joined by top-producing loan officer and team leader Sarah Cox, who breaks down her full 5 star client experience system and explains how she consistently turns borrowers into lifelong fans. Sarah shares how a simple Walt Disney quote on her desk sparked the idea for a client journey that feels thoughtful, tangible, and unforgettable in a world full of digital noise and lookalike lenders. You'll hear how she re-engineered every stage of the client path, from branded thank you postcards with QR-activated homebuyer guides, to glossy pre-approval packets that feel like a true milestone event, to sweet contract gifts, to a clear to close pizza box that creates excitement and earns glowing reviews. She even walks through the watercolor home magnets she gives at closing, a unique top-of-mind tool that stays on the client's refrigerator long after move-in day. Sarah and Carl also explore how these touchpoints spark more referrals, how she built the system so her whole team can use it, and how she's using this experience strategy to book more agent appointments than ever before. She opens up about what she learned from major brands like Disney, Apple, and Coca-Cola, why she believes loan officers should invest 8 to 10 percent of gross revenue back into marketing, and how this shift is helping her team close more loans with less chasing. If you want to separate yourself from every lender down the street and create a client journey that builds loyalty, referrals, and remarkable moments, Sarah's blueprint will show you how to elevate your entire business and become the person of interest that borrowers and agents are drawn to. Connect with Sarah and see how she runs her operation at StartWithSarah.com

Episode 603 Get the full Refi Toolkit to spark more refis from your past database at GetMoreLoans.com Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl sits down with top-producing loan officer Monica Ledbetter, who is on track for 21 closings this month and shares the story of how a blue polyester uniform, a backpack full of catalogs, and sheer grit taught her the discipline that now powers her success in the mortgage business. Monica opens up about the habits, mindset, and daily structure that take her far beyond the industry average, including her "surprise and delight" client touches, her relentless morning outreach, and the authentic connection that fuels almost all of her referrals. You'll hear how she builds deep, loyal agent relationships, why her handwritten notes are converting like crazy, and how her new-agent breakfasts consistently turn fresh licensees into long-term referral partners. She also breaks down her team structure, her marketing cadences, and the practical activities she recommends for loan officers who want to go from 1 closing a month to 4… and then from 4 to 15+. If you're looking for real-world, boots-on-the-ground strategies from someone actively doing 20+ units a month in today's market, Monica's story will show you exactly what's possible with intention, structure, and a genuine love of people.

Episode 602 To map out the exact plan top producers use to grow their business, visit GetMoreLoans.com. Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl sits down with Jim Reed to break down one of the biggest leaps a loan officer can make in their business: hiring their first assistant and doing it the right way. Jim shares the exact signals that show you are ready, the traps most LOs fall into when they wait too long, and why bringing on support early can often double your capacity faster than any marketing tactic. Together they unpack what tasks should come off your plate first, how to structure the role for maximum impact, and why a great assistant can create more freedom, more consistency, and more closings. Carl explains how his own business transformed the moment he let go of the busy work and focused his time on the highest value activities that only he could do. Jim also walks through the mindset shift required to stop thinking like a solo operator and start thinking like a business owner, including how to afford an assistant sooner than you might expect and what qualities matter more than resume experience. Their conversation gives a clear picture of how the right hire becomes a force multiplier for growth. If you have ever felt buried in tasks, stuck at the same production level, or unsure how to scale without burning out, this episode will show you how a single hire can open the door to more loans, more freedom, and more momentum.

Episode 601 For more information about Carl's upcoming accountability group, visit AllianceNextLevel.com. Schedule a one-on-one free coaching call, click here or visit LoanOfficerStrategyCall.com. Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl sits down with Diane Ranger to revisit one of the most influential experiences in his business life, a little known mastermind inside a Breckenridge ski house that quietly shaped the strategies the Mortgage Marketing Animals still use today. He shares how that group introduced him to early mentors, sparked major breakthroughs, and taught him the true difference between masterminding and coaching. Carl reflects on the lesson of writing small checks to cash big checks, the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, and how unexpected connections can lead to life changing opportunities. Diane adds her perspective on those early days and how relationships from that season helped fuel nearly two decades of growth for the MMA community. The conversation then moves into the power of accountability as Carl highlights real members saving thousands each month by simply sticking to the plan with guidance and follow-through. He explains why accountability with a hug works, who the group is designed for, and why now is the time to lock in your plan before the new year rush. If you enjoy the behind-the-scenes stories that shaped this movement and the practical takeaways that still hold true today, this episode will show you exactly how one mastermind sparked a ripple effect that changed everything.  

Episode 600 For more information about Carl's upcoming accountability group, visit AllianceNextLevel.com. Schedule a one-on-one free coaching call, click here or visit LoanOfficerStrategyCall.com. Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. This is not just another episode. This is episode 600, a milestone nearly two decades in the making. To celebrate, Carl brings on the one person who has been there since day one: Diane Ranger. Together they reflect on the early days of the Mortgage Marketing Animals, back when podcasting was not common, and how their partnership shaped everything loan officers now know as the MMA system. Carl and Diane share the biggest truths they have learned along the way, including the now famous "Don't ask how, ask who," why loan officers must stop building the farm and start milking the cows, and the dangers of half built bridges and chasing too many shiny objects. Their conversation dives into delegation, confidence, staying in your lane, and the hard won lessons that transformed a small idea in 2004 into a nationwide movement. The episode closes with a heartfelt reflection on the impact Diane has had not only on the MMA organization, but on hundreds of thousands of loan officers who have built better businesses and better lives because of the work they quietly built behind the scenes. If you want the real story behind 600 episodes, the wisdom learned, the mistakes made, and the people who made it possible, this celebration is a must listen.  

Episode 599 For more information about Carl's upcoming accountability group, visit AllianceNextLevel.com. Schedule a one-on-one free coaching call, click here or visit LoanOfficerStrategyCall.com. Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl sits down with branch manager and trusted partner Jim Reed for a wide-ranging conversation that starts with Christmas bonuses and ends with a lesson on grace, growth, and leadership. Jim shares the simple formula he uses to keep bonuses consistent year after year, why employees value stability more than big swings, and how to build culture without tying it to market cycles. Carl and Jim also dig into the real work of leading a team, including why top performers want responsibility, why you should never jump in and do someone's job for them, and how inconsistency can unintentionally send the wrong message. They open up about money, purpose, and the difference between compensation and appreciation, offering a grounded look at what it means to lead people well in a volatile industry. The conversation wraps with a powerful discussion about personal growth, learning from pressure, and how the biggest breakthroughs often come from the weight life puts on your barbell. If you've ever wondered how to lead with clarity, reward your team fairly, and grow through both challenges and successes, this episode will hit home.  

Episode 598 For more information about Carl's upcoming accountability group, visit AllianceNextLevel.com. To map out the exact plan top producers use to grow their business, visit GetMoreLoans.com. Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl sits down with Rebecca Bernard, the executive assistant behind one of the most productive mortgage branches in the nation, closing nearly $400 million a year. Rebecca shares how she supports branch manager Jim Reed both personally and professionally, taking everything off his plate that does not generate revenue so he can focus entirely on growth. You will hear how Rebecca manages finances, schedules, communication, tech issues, branch operations, event planning, coaching logistics, and even borrower intake in her earlier role, freeing up massive time for the entire branch. She explains what traits to look for when hiring your first assistant, why green and eager often beats experience, and how the right support person becomes a true profit center instead of an expense. Carl and Rebecca break down why top earners almost always have this level of help, how assistants keep loan officers focused on prospecting instead of distractions, and why the most successful leaders build their team before they think they qualify. If you have ever wondered when it is time to hire help or how much it could change your life, this episode lays it out clearly and simply.

Episode 597 For more information about Carl's upcoming accountability group, visit AllianceNextLevel.com. Schedule a one-on-one free coaching call, click here or visit LoanOfficerStrategyCall.com. Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl sits down with Tuan Nguyen to unpack his incredible story of going from escaping Vietnam's Mekong Delta as a child to now closing 10 loans a month in a small Tennessee market. Tuan shares how his family's journey shaped his work ethic, what reignited his success after hitting a plateau, and the simple "1% rule" that helped him rebuild momentum—making 10 extra agent calls a day and turning cold calls into lasting relationships. Carl and Tuan dive deep into how consistency, community, and coaching can completely change your trajectory, especially when you stop chasing magic fixes and double down on the basics that work. They also explore what it really takes to scale from 10 to 15 loans a month without losing your sanity or your weekends. If you've ever felt stuck between your next level of growth and your current reality, this episode will show you how discipline, gratitude, and connection can create lasting success.

Episode 596 Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl sits down with Owen Lee, CEO of Success Mortgage Partners, to explore one of the most groundbreaking uses of AI the mortgage world has seen yet: an automated phone agent that can answer borrower calls 24/7, collect key details, and deliver pre-qualification letters within minutes. Owen reveals how this new AI system acts as a true digital assistant for loan officers, handling after-hours calls, summarizing conversations, scheduling appointments, and sending pre-qualification letters instantly, all while making sure no lead slips through the cracks. The result is more conversations, more offers, and more closings, even while you're off the clock. Carl and Owen break down why this innovation is a game changer for loan officers who want to stay ahead of the curve, and how it gives them a serious advantage over competitors still relying on voicemail. They also discuss the next phase of AI in mortgage, when it will begin analyzing docs, verifying income, and helping with true pre-approvals, plus what it means for anyone looking to scale without burnout. If you've been wondering how to use AI for real business growth, this episode will show you what's working right now and what's coming next. Call the live demo at 734-206-7164 to experience the AI assistant for yourself. For more information about Carl's upcoming accountability group, visit AllianceNextLevel.com. Schedule a one-on-one free coaching call, click here or visit LoanOfficerStrategyCall.com..

Episode 595 Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl sits down with Jon Tober from San Antonio to unpack how he went from closing 3 loans a month to consistently hitting 8 and 9, even in a market where most loan officers are struggling to stay flat. Jon opens up about what shifted for him after facing a 50% drop in production, and how joining the right mentorship circle completely changed his trajectory. He shares the exact strategy that's been driving his surge in business: a simple but powerful book club for referral partners that builds real relationships, adds value, and keeps agents engaged week after week. You'll hear how Jon identifies the right agents to invite, structures his meetings, and turns each chapter into an opportunity for accountability and growth, both for his partners and his own business. Carl and Jon also dig into what it really means to be intentional, how to stay a lifelong student, and how consistency and connection can triple your income in less than a year. If you've been wondering how to create deeper, scalable relationships with your agents and grow your pipeline without adding chaos to your schedule, this conversation is packed with real-world ideas you can put to work right away. For more information about Carl's upcoming accountability group, visit AllianceNextLevel.com. Schedule a one-on-one free coaching call, click here or visit LoanOfficerStrategyCall.com.    

Episode 594 Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl sits down with Chris Johnstone, CEO of Loan Officer CRM, to talk about one of the biggest changes the mortgage industry has ever faced, the rise of AI-powered search and how it's already reshaping where loan officers get their leads. Chris shares how ChatGPT and other large language models are becoming the new "Google," why top producers are already closing fully completed loan applications through AI, and what every loan officer can do right now to position themselves as the go-to expert in their market before the wave hits. Together, they unpack how AI is disrupting traditional marketing, what it means to "rank" inside ChatGPT, and why being an early adopter could secure your spot for years to come. You'll also learn practical steps to get your business recognized by AI so you can start seeing real leads and closings from it. If you want to stay ahead of the curve and future-proof your mortgage business, this episode will show you exactly how to do it before everyone else catches on. Want help getting ranked and optimized for AI-driven leads? Visit LoanOfficerCRM.ai/AIO to learn more. Enjoying the podcast? Leave Carl an honest review at 5StarCarl.com. Schedule a one-on-one free coaching call, click here or visit LoanOfficerStrategyCall.com.

Episode 593 Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl sits down with Kevin Gillespie, leader of the Leadership Academy at Mortgage Marketing Animals, to reveal how loan officers can stop competing on price and start winning with value. Kevin shares five key strategies that top producers use to raise conversion rates, increase profits, and stand out in a crowded market without being the lowest rate in town. Together, they dive into how to build irresistible "wow" offers, stack value into every loan, and instantly engage clients so they feel confident choosing you from the very first call. You'll also learn how to move from transactional selling to true consultative conversations that build trust and long-term relationships. If you're ready to earn more while doing less, this episode will show you how to turn pricing pressure into profit power. Want help putting these systems in place for your own business? Visit ProfitDrivenPlan.com to schedule a free strategy call.

Episode 592 Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl shares a powerful perspective that every loan officer needs to hear. He explains why building a thriving mortgage business is actually a smarter and more profitable path than owning a franchise like McDonald's. He compares the $2 million investment it takes to open a single McDonald's location to the near-zero startup cost of being a loan officer and reveals how a handful of well-managed closings each month can outpace what most franchise owners earn in a year. Carl breaks down the real numbers, lifestyle freedom, and scalability that make the mortgage business such an incredible opportunity when you follow the right systems. He also gives a nod to Kevin Gillespie and the Leadership Academy for inspiring this powerful mindset shift that could change how you see your own business. If you're tired of thinking you need a massive investment to make a great living, this episode will open your eyes to just how close you already are to building your own McDonald's-level success without the grease traps or name tags. Ready to see how simple it can be to grow your income and freedom at the same time? Visit GetMoreLoans.com to schedule a free strategy call.

Episode 591 Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this insightful episode, Carl sits down with top-producing loan officer Mike Steplowski from Mount Juliet, Tennessee, to uncover how his team is using AI to clear underwriting conditions faster than ever. Mike shares how his crew leverages a free AI tool called Perplexity to instantly find answers straight from agency guidelines, cutting out the hours of manual searching and reducing interruptions so everyone stays focused on closing loans. Carl and Mike break down how this simple shift has streamlined communication, boosted productivity, and helped his team close 13 loans in a single month while freeing Mike from being the "easy button" for every question. They also touch on how sticking to the basics of the Daily Success Plan continues to fuel steady, referral-based growth even in a changing market. This episode is a great reminder that technology doesn't replace good habits, it amplifies them. When your team knows where to find answers, you stay focused on what really moves the needle: conversations, closings, and client relationships. If you'd like to connect with Mike, click here to find him on Facebook. Join Loan Officer Breakfast Club at LoanOfficerBreakfastClub.com where we share ideas like this every weekday morning and even send you the replays if you can't make it live. Schedule a one-on-one free coaching call, click here or visit LoanOfficerStrategyCall.com.

Episode 590 Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this heartfelt and introspective episode, Carl reflects on the recent passing of a childhood friend and the unexpected lessons that surfaced in the days that followed. What starts as a story about loss becomes a powerful reflection on grace, gratitude, and how the people we surround ourselves with can shape the entire direction of our lives. Carl and Chris Johnstone dig into the difference between hardship and unhappiness, the quiet power of favor, and how to listen to those small nudges that push us toward meaningful connections. They explore how certain moments, both painful and beautiful, often prepare us for something greater, even when we can't see it at the time. This one is raw, real, and full of perspective. It's a reminder to reach out when someone comes to mind, appreciate the journey that shaped you, and keep learning from the people who've crossed your path. Click here to connect with Carl on Facebook. Schedule a one-on-one free coaching call, click here or visit LoanOfficerStrategyCall.com.