The BLITZ Break

The Blitz Break

Weekly takes on real estate, finance, business, trending topics, sports & life — unfiltered.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    The BLITZ Break - Episode 31

    Episode 31 | The Blitz Break 🎙️ This week on The Blitz Break, hosts Phil Rasmussen and Buzz Howard take the mic for a wide-ranging conversation that dives deep into leadership, resilience, relationships, and the philosophy behind building a business centered on value. What starts with some lighthearted banter quickly turns into an honest discussion about what it truly means to serve clients well, not just as mortgage professionals, but as trusted advisors throughout the entire homeownership journey. Phil and Buzz share the vision behind the Give Value Program, a curated network of trusted home service providers designed to help homeowners find reliable professionals long after the loan closes. The conversation expands into why delivering value, building relationships, and staying connected with your community will always outperform transactional sales. Along the way, both hosts open up about their personal journeys, from Phil’s college athletics career and difficult business setbacks to Buzz’s decades-long career training lenders across the country before joining Big Valley Mortgage. In this episode, we cover: 👟 The philosophy behind the Give Value Program and becoming a true trusted advisor 🎥 Why video and podcasting are essential tools for building authentic connections today 🏀 Phil’s athletic journey, career pivot, and lessons learned through adversity 🧠 The identity crisis many athletes (and professionals) face after major life changes 🤝 Buzz’s career path from Texas basketball coach to nationally recognized mortgage trainer 📈 The new “Done For You, Done With You, Done By You” model for supporting loan officers 💡 Why focusing on value, not just interest rates, transforms client relationships 📊 Buzz’s latest market update and what’s driving interest rate movement right now 🏡 Why waiting for the “perfect rate” might cost you the home you actually want This episode is equal parts business insight, personal story, and leadership philosophy, a reminder that success in any industry ultimately comes down to serving people well and building genuine relationships. 👉 If you enjoyed this conversation, LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and share it with someone who believes business should always be built on trust and value. #TheBlitzBreak #Mortgage #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #TrustedAdvisor #VideoMarketing #RealEstate #PersonalGrowth Chapters 00:00:00 – Welcome, Shoe Banter & Give Value Intro 00:11:00 – Trusted Advisors: Why It Takes More Than a Loan 00:20:30 – Phil’s Athletic Journey: College Basketball & Adversity 00:30:18 – Rock Bottom to Renaissance: Building Triple J Studios 00:38:11 – Overcoming the Fear of Video 00:48:11 – 2D vs. 3D: Why Authenticity Wins 00:56:21 – The Athlete’s Identity Crisis 01:10:32 – Storytelling, Authenticity & the BVM Mission 01:18:51 – Phil Introduces Buzz Howard 01:25:48 – Buzz’s Journey: Texas to Sacramento 01:32:00 – Buzz’s Career in Mortgages & Mentorship 01:40:51 – Done For You, Done With You: The New Model 01:47:54 – Why Loan Officers Must Deliver Value First 01:53:47 – Market Update: Rates, Oil & What to Do Now 02:01:15 – Final Thoughts, Shoutouts & Subscribe

    2h 8m
  2. 6 MAR

    The BLITZ Break - Episode 30 - (Guest) Mustafa Abdul

    Episode 30 | The Blitz Break 🎙️ This week on The Blitz Break, hosts Phil Rasmussen and Buzz Howard welcome Mustafa Abdul, founder and owner of Jaguar Heating & Air Conditioning, for a deep dive into the HVAC industry, home maintenance, and what it takes to build a successful family-owned business in Sacramento. Mustafa shares the story behind starting Jaguar Heating & Air in 2013 with just himself in the field and his wife answering phones, right as they were preparing to welcome their first child. What began as a leap of faith has grown into a thriving company with dozens of technicians and installers, earning recognition as SMUD’s Top Contractor for 2025. In this episode, we cover: 🏠 Why HVAC inspections are critical when buying or selling a home ⚠️ Common safety risks homeowners should know about, including gas leaks and carbon monoxide concerns 🔧 What actually happens during a professional HVAC tune-up and why maintenance matters 💡 How dirty coils, clogged filters, and closed vents can quietly damage your system 🔌 The future of home heating and cooling, including California’s shift toward heat pumps and electric systems 🌡️ Smart thermostat tips, multi-zone comfort solutions, and when DIY works (and when it doesn’t) 📈 The realities of running a growing local business and the importance of customer education Mustafa also shares insights into the future of home energy efficiency, the benefits of new HVAC technology, and why working with trusted, local professionals can make all the difference for homeowners. 👉 Connect with Jaguar Heating & Air: Visit JaguarHeatingAir.com or search Jaguar Heating & Air on Google to learn more about their services and Sacramento showroom. Whether you’re a homeowner, real estate professional, or simply interested in entrepreneurship and home systems, this episode is packed with practical advice, industry insight, and real-world experience. 👉 Enjoying the show? LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and share the episode with someone who wants to keep their home comfortable and efficient year-round. Chapters: 0:00:00 Introduction & Welcome 0:02:53 Mustafa’s Journey - Starting Jaguar Heating & Air 0:08:22 Building the Business & Winning Awards 0:18:21 Industry Challenges & Home Inspections 0:26:04 Common HVAC Problems & Misconceptions 0:28:56 Trust & Safety in HVAC Services 0:33:21 HVAC Maintenance & Tune-Ups Explained 0:41:49 The Future of HVAC - Heat Pumps & Electric Systems 0:46:59 System Lifespan & Efficiency 1:03:13 Mini-Splits & Zoning Solutions 0:53:34 Financing Options & Customer Education 1:14:49 Market Update & Partnership Discussion 1:24:37 Closing Thoughts & Thanks

    1h 26m
  3. 20 FEB

    The BLITZ Break - Episode 28 - (Guest) Jason Mata

    Episode 28 | The Blitz Break 🎙️ This week on The Blitz Break, hosts Phil Rasmussen and Buzz Howard welcome Jason Mata, top-producing loan officer at American Pacific Mortgage, for a deep dive into the 2026 housing market, buyer psychology, and what it really takes to win in today’s lending environment. From market predictions to daily disciplines, this episode is packed with insight for loan officers, real estate professionals, and homebuyers trying to make smart moves in a shifting market. In this episode, we cover: 📈 2026 Market Outlook & Trends Why optimism is rising, increased buyer activity despite steady rates, pent-up demand, and how limited supply continues to impact pricing. 🧠 Home Buyer Psychology Why buyers are jumping in before rates drop, normalizing today’s interest rates, debunking the 20% down myth, and understanding the true cost of waiting versus building equity. 🎓 Education & Value-First Strategy Jason’s homebuyer education program (serving 10,000+ attendees annually), rent vs. buy analysis, and how to build trust before talking about rates to avoid becoming a commodity. 🚀 Business Strategy & Daily Disciplines High-value consultations, quarterly goal setting, and the tools powering his business (Salesforce, Mortgage Coach, Total Expert, Jungo). Plus, preferred realtor partnerships and a strong direct-to-consumer model. 🤝 Client Relationships & Aftercare Customized consultations, rate watch programs, serving all credit levels equally, and community-driven initiatives like Give Value. 🤖 AI & Technology Using ChatGPT for planning and content, testing AI outbound calls with transparency, and why authentic AI use matters more than shortcuts. 📊 Market Minute Update Weekly rate trends, key economic indicators, and updates on the CalHFA Dream For All program enrollment window. Whether you’re a loan officer looking to level up, a realtor navigating buyer hesitation, or a consumer trying to understand the current market, this episode delivers practical strategy, mindset shifts, and forward-looking insight. 👉 Enjoying the show? LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and tell us in the comments: Are you bullish on 2026 — or still waiting on rates? Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction & Guest Welcome 00:04:52 2026 Market Outlook & Buyer Activity 00:08:48 Home Buyer Education Program 00:16:18 Common Home Buyer Misconceptions 00:21:18 Tools & Systems for Success 00:23:12 AI in Mortgage Business 00:30:00 Database Management & Email Campaigns 00:31:00 Give Value Program & Community Events 00:33:08 Jason’s Journey & Motivation 00:36:04 Daily Disciplines & Business Planning 00:43:00 Real Estate Market & Preferred Partners 00:53:03 Client Aftercare & Rate Watch Program 00:57:00 Mortgage Minute Market Update 01:02:39 Closing & Wrap-up

    1h 4m
  4. 13 FEB

    The BLITZ Break - Episode 27

    Episode 27 | The Blitz Break 🎙️ This week on The Blitz Break, it’s just the core crew, Phil Rasmussen, Buzz Howard, and Julie Shroyer, for a focused, practical conversation on relationships, consistency, and how to build a business that lasts. From the power of a well-managed database to networking with intention, this episode is all about giving value first and trusting that the business will follow. In this episode, we cover: 🤝 Why networking still matters (and how to do it without feeling salesy) 📇 The importance of maintaining and actually using your database 🎁 Ways to give real value to your clients and partners without constantly selling 📊 Buzz’s market update and what’s happening right now in the housing and lending world 📱 Julie’s Social Media Tip of the Week you can start using immediately Whether you’re in mortgage, real estate, or any relationship-driven industry, this episode is a reminder that the best businesses are built on consistency, service, and genuine connection. 👉 Enjoying the show? LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and tell us in the comments: What’s one way you’re giving value to your network this month? Chapters 00:00:00 - Introduction & Give Heart Event 00:03:38 - Networking Events Strategy 00:07:20 - The Art of Networking 00:10:48 - Follow-Up & Building Relationships 00:15:14 - Being Memorable at Events 00:20:56 - Standing Out from the Crowd 00:24:01 - Give Value Philosophy 00:27:01 - Client Appreciation Events 00:31:01 - Creating Memorable Experiences 00:34:57 - Giving Without Expectations 00:37:02 - Database Management 00:42:08 - Building Your Database 00:44:13 - The Threat of AI & Staying Relevant 00:47:18 - Consistency & Systems 00:48:54 - Overcoming Sales Paralysis 00:50:54 - Don’t Quit Too Early 00:54:10 - Confidence Through Knowledge 00:56:30 - Providing Value to Homeowners 00:59:03 - Mortgage Minute - Market Update 01:03:10 - Social Media Tip - Consistency

    1h 6m
  5. 8 FEB

    The BLITZ Break - Episode 26 - (Guests) Noel and Shauna Felix

    Episode 26 | The Blitz Break 🎙️ This week on The Blitz Break, hosts Phil Rasmussen and Buzz Howard welcome Noel and Shauna Felix, founders of GiVE Culture, for a powerful and heartfelt conversation about unity, empathy, and the impact of choosing to lead with grace in a divided world. What starts with light banter and road trip stories quickly turns into a meaningful deep dive into the origins of GiVE Culture, the experiences that shaped its mission, and how a simple message can spark real change in schools, businesses, and communities. In this episode, we cover: 🤍 The origin of GiVE Culture and the personal experiences that inspired the movement 🏫 How GiVE Culture is being implemented in schools to combat bullying and promote accountability 🏀 Why sports can be the ultimate equalizer and bridge between cultures and backgrounds 🧠 Emotional intelligence, judgment, and the importance of giving people grace 🎨 The intentional design behind the GiVE Culture brand and message 🤝 How Big Valley Mortgage’s “Give Value” philosophy aligns with the GiVE Culture mission 📈 A quick market update from Buzz and upcoming community events This episode is a reminder that leadership, business, and life are all better when rooted in empathy, connection, and purpose. Whether you’re in mortgage, real estate, education, sports, or simply trying to make a positive impact, there’s something here for you. 👉 Connect with Noel and Shauna and get involved with GiVE Culture: Visit https://www.shopgiveculture.com/ to learn more, support the mission, and bring GiVE Culture into your school, workplace, or community. If this conversation resonated with you, LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and share the episode with someone who believes in building stronger, more connected communities. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction: Road Trip Stories & Life Lessons 00:10:14 The Origin of Give Culture 00:14:41 The "Got Milk" Campaign Inspiration 00:16:46 Give Culture in Schools 00:23:14 Big Valley Mortgage Partnership 00:37:34 Judgment, Race & Personal Experience 00:45:09 Sports as the Great Equalizer 00:47:40 Emotional Intelligence & Grace 00:55:44 Noel’s Basketball Journey 01:01:04 The Power of Sports to Unite 01:08:34 The Give Culture Brand Design 01:10:25 Economic Update & Interest Rates 01:13:43 Upcoming Events & Closing 01:14:23 Building Memories & Home

    1h 15m
  6. 9 JAN

    The BLITZ Break - Episode 23 - (Guest) Kassidy Callori

    Episode 23 | The Blitz Break 🎙️ This week on The Blitz Break, hosts Phil Rasmussen, Buzz Howard, and Julie Shroyer welcome Kassidy Callori, social media influencer and Arbonne consultant, for an encouraging and practical conversation about confidence, content creation, and showing up consistently online. Kassidy shares her path into Arbonne and how social media became a powerful tool for building community, creating opportunity, and growing a personal brand. The group also dives into real-world social media strategies and the mindset shifts needed to stay positive and push past fear. In this episode, we cover: 📲 Kassidy’s journey into Arbonne and building her brand through social media 💡 Platform-specific social media tips you can actually apply 🧠 How to overcome nerves, negativity, and self-doubt when posting content 🌱 Why focusing on the positive is essential for long-term growth 🎥 How authenticity and consistency lead to stronger connections Whether you’re building a business, growing your online presence, or just trying to get more comfortable putting yourself out there, this episode is packed with relatable stories, encouragement, and actionable advice. 👉 Enjoying the show? LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and tell us in the comments: What’s the biggest thing holding you back from posting right now? #TheBlitzBreak #SocialMedia #ContentCreation #Arbonne #Authenticity #Mindset #PersonalBrand #confidence Chapters 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:03:30 - Kassidy’s Origin Story 00:06:00 - Starting the Arbonne Business 00:09:30 - Building Social Media Following 00:16:00 - Overcoming Fear & Negativity 00:19:00 - Dealing with Haters & Criticism 00:23:30 - Finding Your Authentic Voice 00:28:00 - The Black Dot Analogy 00:32:00 - Power of Positive Comments 00:36:00 - Pushing Through Hard Times 00:38:30 - Discipline & Non-Negotiables 00:44:00 - Using AI & Chat GPT 00:48:00 - AI Photo Shoots & Content Creation 00:50:30 - Teaching AI Your Voice 00:57:00 - Selling Benefits vs Products 01:01:30 - Consistency & Showing Up Daily 01:05:00 - Finding Your Passion 01:06:30 - Market Update & Wrap Up

    1h 11m
  7. 2 JAN

    The BLITZ Break - Episode 22 - (Guest) Liz Andersen

    Episode 22 | The Blitz Break 🎙️ This week on The Blitz Break, hosts Phil Rasmussen, Buzz Howard, and Julie Shroyer welcome Liz Andersen from American Pacific Mortgage (Reverse Mortgage Division) for an honest and insightful conversation to kick off the new year. From goal-setting (and why we’re no longer calling it that) to emotional connection, the group dives into what it really takes to show up authentically in today’s market while navigating a rapidly changing mortgage landscape. In this episode, we cover: 🎯 New Year’s resolutions, goals, and how to stay aligned throughout the year ❤️ Why emotion and vulnerability matter on social media, and how they build trust 🏡 The current state of the mortgage and reverse mortgage industry 👵 What people misunderstand about reverse mortgages and who they can truly help 📱 Julie’s Social Media Tips of the Week you can start using immediately Whether you’re in mortgage, real estate, or focused on building stronger relationships through content, this episode delivers clarity, perspective, and practical advice to start the year with intention. 👉 Enjoying the show? LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and tell us in the comments: What’s one goal you’re committing to this year? #TheBlitzBreak #Mortgage #ReverseMortgage #SocialMediaTips #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #Authenticity #newyearsgoals Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction and New Year’s Greetings 00:01:46 New Year’s Celebrations and Resolutions 00:07:54 Goals vs Intentions for 2026 00:13:01 Business Outlook for 2025 00:20:27 Industry Changes and Market Trends 00:29:23 Economic Challenges and Retirement 00:35:38 Pent-Up Demand and Market Forces 00:42:24 Social Media Strategy and Authenticity 00:50:17 Emotional Content and Connection 00:58:42 Client Relationships and Personal Impact 01:06:00 Productivity vs Being Busy 01:13:15 Social Media Consistency and Evolution 01:20:04 Closing Thoughts and Wrap-Up

    1h 23m

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Weekly takes on real estate, finance, business, trending topics, sports & life — unfiltered.