The Level Up Your Content Podcast

Unlock the secrets to revolutionizing your professional presence as we host the ever-creative Johnnie Mercado, a trailblazing loan officer from Ventura. His genius in harnessing social media to connect with communities and enhance mortgage content is nothing short of inspiring. Prepare to be enlightened on why loan officers should don their marketing hats first, and how this focus on providing value can lead to a more substantial, rewarding career. Johnny’s story of persistence through early doubt to becoming a beacon of advice and education offers an invaluable blueprint for leveraging the power of a strong online presence.  We break down his home tour videos and how he leverages them to not only grow his brand, but to generate leads for his business. Follow Johnnie Mercado on IG at https://www.instagram.com/johnniemercado/Follow Phil Dodds on IG at https://www.instagram.com/phildodds/All the gear I use to create content can be found at www.phildodds.com

Ever find yourself scrolling through a barrage of self-promotion on social media, yearning for something genuine? Jason Stier steps away from the usual mortgage talk to share a slice of real life with his daily Facebook thoughts, and these sparks of authenticity are lighting up the internet. Tune into our chat with the VA loan maestro as he opens up about the magnetic pull of being your true self online. From fatherhood to facing everyday hurdles, Jason's straightforward and engaging posts remind us that it's the personal touch that truly resonates with audiences.Who knew that a military strategy could teach us a thing or two about standing out in the business world? In this episode, Jason draws parallels between the battlefield and content creation, underscoring the importance of consistency and niche-focused know-how. Witness how a simple, yet effective routine of sourcing inspiration from everyday interactions can produce meaningful content that strikes a chord. We also tackle the delicate dance between professional life and personal time, highlighting how our social media personas can serve as a professional tool while offering a glimpse into our true selves.As we wrap up our enlightening discussion, it's clear that providing value should be at the heart of every content strategy. Jason's 'Did You Know' series serves as a masterclass in delivering educational content that not only informs but also builds community. We encourage you to soak in the wisdom Jason imparts on VA loans and so much more. If his insights stir something within you, consider magnifying our voice with a review, and don't forget to subscribe for a steady stream of enriching dialogues just like this one.You can follow Jason on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/va_loan_boss/You can follow Phil on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/phildodds/

In this episode, Phil interviews Trevor York, a successful mortgage loan officer and content creator. They discuss the importance of making mortgage content interesting and engaging, and how to find a niche and grow a following. Trevor shares his roadmap for converting content into mortgage applications, including the optimization of website links. They also discuss the value of investing in camera equipment and setting up a consistent content creation space. Trevor emphasizes the impact of quality in content creation and the benefits of joining Forward Academy for guidance and support. They conclude by discussing the options for editing videos and hiring help. In this conversation, Phil and Trevor York discuss the importance of editing in content creation and the benefits of outsourcing the editing process. They also explore the idea of whether businesses can survive without social media and the role of building relationships in sales. Trevor shares his perspective on adapting and enjoying the content creation process, and they provide recommendations for cameras, microphones, and lighting equipment. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the value of creating relationships through content and finding strategies that work for individual preferences and goals.TakeawaysMake mortgage content interesting and engaging by focusing on value and finding ways to catch people's attention.Optimize website links to capture potential customers and create a funnel for conversion.Invest in camera equipment, such as a microphone and light, to improve the quality of your videos.Set up a consistent content creation space to reduce friction and make it easier to create videos.A professional Zoom setup can elevate your brand and make a positive impression on clients and partners.Batch making content saves time and allows for more efficient video creation.Consider joining Forward Academy for guidance and support in creating engaging mortgage content.Editing videos can be done independently or by hiring help, depending on your resources and preferences. Break down content creation into five steps: ideation, refining, shooting, editing, and distribution.Outsource the editing process to save time and focus on other aspects of content creation.Building relationships is at the core of sales and can be achieved through various methods, including social media.Adapt and find strategies that work for you, while also enjoying the content creation process.Invest in quality equipment, such as cameras, microphones, and lighting, to enhance the production value of your content.

Ever wondered how a strategic social media blitz could skyrocket your mortgage business? That's exactly what Kurt Moore from Movement Mortgage did, and in our latest episode, he pulls back the curtain on his journey to success. With a candid recount of how he navigated through the minefield of compliance restrictions to share relatable, immediate content, Kurt serves up a blueprint for creating genuine connections with real estate agents and growing your network.Strap in as we tackle the world of professional branding in the digital age—where your online presence can make or break your business. Putting a face to the name, I open up about conquering camera shyness and the game-changing decision to collaborate with a professional for content creation. The fusion of authenticity and high-quality media not only draws in clients but also paves the way for an enduring professional image. And if you're worried about the investment, we'll show you how a modest foray into professional content can reap rewards far greater than its cost.As the conversation wraps, we champion the art of crafting local, meaningful content over the siren call of viral fame. It's about nurturing the roots where you're planted, engaging with your community, and building a solid foundation for your business—one post at a time. Thanks to Kurt's insights and our shared experiences, this episode is a trove of strategies for anyone in the real estate and mortgage industries aiming to stand out and thrive in this fast-paced digital world. So, join us, follow the journey on Instagram, and gear up for a content creation revolution that's sure to inspire.

Ever wonder how to amplify your business with YouTube? Ready to learn the secrets of creating engaging content that resonates with your audience? Buckle up, because in our recent episode, we sat down with real estate agent and YouTube wizard, Alex Skeen. Alex walks us through his innovative journey of using YouTube to catapult his real estate business. He shares how focusing on his local Quad Cities audience and tailoring content to their interests, even those unglamorous aspects of real estate, have been instrumental in increasing engagement and trust. Creating clickable titles, thumbnails, and employing negative aspects to draw attention, Alex leads us into the art of YouTube channels. We got deep into the significance of tools such as TubeBuddy for A/B testing and Canva for captivating thumbnails. The discussion opens up the world of video editing, categorizing b-roll footage, and the importance of investing time and money into your YouTube channel. We also addressed the role of the YouTube algorithm, the impact of non-target audiences on your channel's growth, and the magic of evergreen videos.The episode winds down with a practical guide on producing high-quality video content on a budget. Alex, who started his YouTube journey with just a smartphone and a $25 microphone, stresses the importance of good lighting and good sound. We shared tips on video quality enhancement and the potential of local content for referrals. Finally, we delved into Alex's foray into content creation, the value of a good hook, and his experience with video processing. We wrapped up the episode with a heartfelt thank you to our listeners and the power of reviews. This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice, real-world experiences, and invaluable insights for anyone looking to leverage YouTube for their business.You can learn more about Alex on Instagram at @alexskeenreal and also on his Youtube Channel at Livinginthequadcities.The Level Up Your Content Podcast is hosted by Phil Dodds. www.instagram.com/phildodds

Brian Weis is a Managing Director of Strategic Growth in the mortgage industry and after 20 years in the business, he decided to go all in on making content for social media and he has had an incredible ride.  On this episode he shares his wins and losses and how his business and brand have grown over the last 12 months, plus he shares some amazing nuggets on what type of content is connecting with buyers TODAY!Follow me on Instagram at instagram.com/phildodds/www.phildodds.com

Cody's story is absolutely amazing.  That's all I got to say.  Simply amazing.  You're going to want to buckle up and listen to his journey and how he used his life experiences to pivot his mortgage business to generating business on social media.  Cody is a solo creator, meaning he strategizes, creates and edits all of his own content himself!!!  So many LO's complain about not having enough time to learn and do all of this, but he proves why it's not that difficult and that if a non-tech savy rodeo cowboy like him can learn it, SO CAN YOU!Go follow Cody on Instagram at www.instagram.com/thecodyinmanYou can follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/phildoddsor on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/phillip.w.dodds

Yes.  You read that correctly.  Sean Uyehara is a Branch Manager out in Las Vegas and he is generating up to 30 leads a month and $40 Million a year from his Youtube Channel where he is talking about his local community and mortgage topics.  Sean is also crushing in ton Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.   Go follow him on Instagram at www.instagram.com/sean.uyehara Follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/phildoddsFollow the show on Instagram at www.instagram.com/levelupyourcontentLevel Up Your Content is hosted by Phil Dodds.

On today's episode I break down a conversation I had with another LO who was struggling with the idea of investing in equipment to grow his content game.  I think we often forget how important our brand is and just how much of a role our content plays in communicating our brand to our customers.   Your content is a bigger piece of your everyday business than you think!If you like the podcast please consider subscribing and leaving us a review!If you'd like to schedule a FREE call to go over your content strategy schedule a time on my calendar here https://calendly.com/phil-430/content-coaching-sessionFollow me on instagram at www.instagram.com/phildodds/Follow the show on Instagram at www.instagram.com/levelupyourcontent/

Do you struggle with how to start your videos? What to talk about? Do you ramble on and on without getting to the point? Follow this roadmap to help you stay on point and make mortgage content that stops the scroll, connects, provides value and will help grow your reach!Follow me on instagram at www.instagram.com/phildoddsFollow the show on instagram at www.instagram.com/levelupyourcontentThe Level Up Your Content Podcast is hosted by Phil Dodds.

On today's episode I walk you guys through my content setup from my camera to lighting.  Here is my current gear list:Camera - Fujifilm XT4Lens - Fujifilm 18-55 2.8-4Microphone - Shure MV7 USBMain Light - GVM 100 with Lantern SoftboxPractical Lights - GVM LED Light PanelsEditor - Davinci ResolveQuestions? Hit me up on Instagram at www.instagram.com/phildodds/The Level Up Your Content Podcast is hosted by Phil Dodds

2022 was an amazing year for me and one of my biggest successes was 5x my real estate partners.  I break down my very simple roadmap for accomplishing this on social medial this year.1. Build a database.2. Make Valuable content.3. Engage.4. Niche down.You can always connect with me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/phildodds/The Level Up Your Content Podcast is hosted by Phil Dodds.

Go follow Glenda at  www.instagram.com/themortgagecoachdfwFollow me at www.instagram.com/valoanpatriotLevel Up Your Content Podcast is hosted and produced by Phil Dodds. 

Ricky Cheath has an incredible story and I promise when you hear where he came from and what his family went through in immigrating to this country, you will be a huge fan too! Ricky is a leader of Loan Officers at Movement Mortgage and his consistent approach to content is next level.  So many great nuggets in this episode!You can follow Ricky on IG at www.instagram.com/cheath_rYou can follow me on IG at www.instagram.com/phildoddsmortgageThe Level Up Your Content Podcast  is hosted by Phil Dodds helping mortgage loan officers make better mortgage content.

Deanna Reich is a Regional Business Development Manager at Movement Mortgage and is one of the sweetest and most energizing people I have ever met! She talks to LO's everyday and is killing it on LInkedIn!You can follow her here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanna-reich/https://www.instagram.com/deannas_mortgagebord/

Alec Hanson is one of the most brilliant minds in the mortgage industry and this episode is packed full of eye opening content.  Seriously, pull the car over and take notes.You can follow Alec on Instagram at www.instagram.com/alecthehansonYou can follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/phildoddsmortgageThe Level Up Your Content Podcast is hosted by Phil Dodds.

Jason Stier is a leader in the VA Loan mortgage industry and is crushing the niche game by channeling his passion to serve the members of our military by educating them about their VA Benefits.  This episode is packed with Value and is one of my favorite episodes to date.  Jason is an amazing advocate for Veterans everywhere and you are going to love this episode!  Make sure to follow Jason on Instagram at www.instagram.com/va_loan_bossIf you want to become a Veteran Mortgage Advisor, visit: www.veteranmortgageadvisor.comFind out more about Jason at www.valoanboss.comFollow me at www.instagram.com/phildoddsmortgage

 Sosi Avila is absolutely crushing the Social Media game with his on point and engaging reels.  Sosi walks us through his process for coming up with video ideas AND how to turn them into action.  This is the how to video podcast you've been looking for!Find Sosi on social here:https://www.instagram.com/mortgageswithsosi/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC2vsXugzKwuTR_1KslO-Aw/featuredhttps://www.tiktok.com/@mortgageswithsosi?

Geoff Zimpfer is the Founder of Mortgage Marketing Pro, Host of the Mortgage Marketing Radio Podcast,  Author of Disrupt or Die: How To Survive and Thrive The Digital Real Estate Shift and a sought after keynote speaker.  Geoff is the leading voice when it comes to creating incredibly engaging and value full Agent Marketing Classes that Loan Officers can teach to grow their relationships with their referral partners.   Geoff hopped on the podcast to talk content, the mortgage market today and what makes an engaging class.Mortgage Marketing Pro - https://www.mortgagemarketing.pro/ Geoff's Book - https://www.amazon.com/Disrupt-Die-Survive-Thrive-Digital/dp/1677941588/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2Q08PNSYKM3GU&keywords=disrupt+or+die&qid=1653016130&sprefix=disrupt+or+di%2Caps%2C104&sr=8-1Podcast - https://www.mortgagemarketinginstitute.com/podcast/Follow Geoff at https://www.instagram.com/mortgagemarketingradio/

Amber Brittain is The Branch Leader at Movement Mortgage in Birmingham, AL and she is absolutely killing it right now.  She has tripled her business over the last 3 years and her content has just risen to the next level! She is an incredible LO and a more incredible person!  She took the time to share her secrets and her processes with us to help you grow your business today!!You can follow Amber on IG at www.instagram.com/abteamloans