The Loan Officer Podcast

Dustin Owen
  • 4.8 (212)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Semiweekly

This show makes the boring FUN! Imagine if Joe Rogan and Dave Ramsey had a baby. That’s this show! These guys teach the sh*t they don’t teach in school. Their goal is to simplify topics that range from personal finance, purchasing real estate & obtaining home loans to being a successful mortgage originator, running a business and finding success as a sales professional. The mission is simple; to invite you into the room where it happens. They strive to teach you how to create opportunities even when it can be a struggle to get your foot in the door. While there is a lot of content geared specifically towards mortgage professionals, the majority of the episodes will resonate will all audience members. (Not just mortgage lenders!) D.O. (Dustin Owen) is the creator & host. He is a 20+ year veteran of the mortgage industry, a real estate investor, business coach and angel investor. J.C. (John Coleman) is the co-host / producer of the show. J.C. has 15+ years’ experience as an Emmy Award-Winning Content Creator & Marketer.

  1. 9h ago

    Inside Pylon Lending: How Trent Hedge Is Automating the Mortgage Industry for the Future - Part 2

    In part 2 of this engaging two-part series, host Dustin Owen sits down with Trent Hedge, the founder and CEO of Pylon Lending, for an in-depth discussion about the innovative ways his company is transforming the mortgage industry for Episode 631 of The Loan Officer Podcast. Since establishing Pylon in 2022, Hedge has successfully raised nearly $45 million in venture capital funding, which has enabled him and his team to focus on building a robust technology infrastructure designed to streamline every aspect of mortgage lending from the initial origination of loans all the way through to their delivery on the secondary market.  Throughout the conversation, Hedge explains how Pylon’s platform is able to eliminate many of the inefficiencies and bottlenecks that have long plagued traditional mortgage processing, resulting in a smoother, faster, and more transparent experience for all parties involved. He also shares insights into how Pylon is able to deliver substantial pricing improvements for its customers, often in the range of 100 to 200 basis points, making home financing more affordable and accessible.  Additionally, the discussion highlights how Pylon empowers loan officers by equipping them with advanced tools and resources that allow them to significantly scale their businesses without the need to hire additional staff, ultimately driving greater productivity and growth. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the future of mortgage lending and the pivotal role that technology and innovation will play in shaping the industry. TLOP's Originator Coaching: 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs  Reserve Your Cabin For TLOP UNITE 2026: Caribbean Takeover 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/tlop-unite-2026  Loan officer looking for a new place to call home? 👉🏼 https://specials.lower.com/tlop

    55 min

  2. 4d ago

    Inside Pylon Lending: How Trent Hedge Is Automating the Mortgage Industry for the Future - Part 1

    In episode 630 of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen embarks on a special journey to Palo Alto, California, marking the show’s first-ever in-person interview. Dustin sits down with Trent Hedge, the dynamic founder and CEO of Pylon Lending, for an engaging and insightful conversation. Trent opens up about his remarkable entrepreneurial journey, beginning with his early days running a landscaping business as a teenager in Columbus, Ohio. He discusses how his passion for technology led him to teach himself coding, a skill that would prove invaluable as he made the bold decision to relocate to Silicon Valley at just 18 years old. Trent goes on to share the inspiration and challenges behind founding Pylon Lending, a company at the forefront of developing AI-driven, fully automated mortgage origination technology. The discussion delves into how Pylon’s innovative platform is designed to dramatically reduce operational costs and streamline the mortgage process, with the ambitious goal of disrupting the traditional lending industry. Dustin and Trent explore the broader implications of automation and artificial intelligence in financial services, and what this means for both lenders and borrowers in the years ahead. Listeners can look forward to part two of this compelling interview, where Dustin and Trent will take an even deeper dive into Pylon’s growing impact on the mortgage industry, the future of lending technology, and what’s next for both Trent and his groundbreaking company. TLOP's Originator Coaching: 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs  Reserve Your Cabin For TLOP UNITE 2026: Caribbean Takeover 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/tlop-unite-2026  Loan officer looking for a new place to call home? 👉🏼 https://specials.lower.com/tlop

    41 min

  3. May 26

    Analyzing RETR’s 2026 Mortgage Report: Growth, Consolidation, & the Rise of Broker Models | Ep. 629

    In this episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen is joined by Marketing Mike and Karina Mojica as they take a deep dive into the latest mortgage industry data sourced from RETR, focusing on trends and developments projected for early 2026. The team discusses comprehensive findings that highlight significant movement within the industry, including the notable statistic that over 10,000 loan originators have switched companies during this period. This mass migration underscores the dynamic nature of the mortgage landscape and the ongoing search for better opportunities among professionals. The analysis reveals that, among all origination channels, brokers stand out as the only segment demonstrating net positive growth in both the number of originators and overall loan volume. This trend suggests a growing preference for the broker model, possibly due to its flexibility and client-centric approach. The hosts break down the performance of major players, noting that CrossCountry Mortgage led the industry in volume gains, solidifying its position as a top destination for high-performing originators. In contrast, Rocket Mortgage experienced the largest losses in both originator count and volume, prompting a discussion about the challenges faced by larger, more traditional lenders in adapting to current market shifts. Throughout the episode, Dustin, Mike, and Karina explore the underlying factors driving these trends, such as the impact of mergers and acquisitions, evolving business models, and the increasing importance of technology and innovation in the mortgage process. They emphasize that for loan originators aiming to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment, it is crucial to align with growth-oriented companies that offer structured coaching, robust support systems, and ongoing educational opportunities. The hosts stress that continuous professional development and adaptability are key to thriving amid rapid industry changes, and they encourage listeners to be proactive in seeking out organizations that prioritize both personal and professional growth. By the end of the episode, listeners gain valuable insights into the current state and future direction of the mortgage industry, as well as practical advice for navigating career decisions in a market defined by constant evolution and opportunity. Introduction and Industry Data Overview (00:00:01) Catching Up with the Team (00:01:22) The Top Unite Cruise Event (00:04:03) Sponsor Spotlight: Lower Mortgage (00:06:40) Analyzing Reder's Data (00:08:27) Top Gainers and Losers by Loan Volume (00:12:40) Analyzing Headcount vs. Volume (00:19:07) Sponsor Spotlight: Pilaf Unite (00:26:11) IMB vs. Bank vs. Broker Channels (00:26:43) Why the Broker Channel is Growing (00:30:25) Sponsor Spotlight: Labs Originator Coaching (00:42:25) Summarizing Key Takeaways (00:47:44) Clarifications and Final Thoughts (00:51:27) TLOP's Originator Coaching: 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs  Reserve Your Cabin For TLOP UNITE 2026: Caribbean Takeover 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/tlop-unite-2026  Loan officer looking for a new place to call home? 👉🏼 https://specials.lower.com/tlop

    59 min

  4. May 21

    From Bank Teller to Mortgage Titan: The Untold Playbook of Phil Jawny | Ep. 628

    In this episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen sits down with Phil Jawny, a top mortgage producer who consistently funds over $100 million in loans annually. Phil recounts his inspiring journey, beginning as a bank teller in Chicago at the young age of 18, and details how his early experiences in the financial industry laid the foundation for his future success.  Over the years, Phil worked his way up through various roles, eventually establishing himself as a leading loan officer in Raleigh, North Carolina. Throughout the interview, he emphasizes the importance of a disciplined and methodical approach to originating high-quality loan applications, which has enabled him to achieve an impressive 80-95% pull-through rate on his submissions. Phil also delves into his unique business philosophy: rather than paying referral sources for business, he focuses on demonstrating his value by actively helping builders and realtors sell more homes.  By providing exceptional service and expertise, he creates strong partnerships where his referral partners are eager to work with him and, as he puts it, “want to pay him for his expertise.” Phil’s story offers valuable insights for both new and experienced loan officers looking to build lasting relationships and achieve long-term success in the mortgage industry. TLOP's Originator Coaching: 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs/ Reserve Your Cabin For TLOP UNITE 2026: Caribbean Takeover 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/tlop-unite-2026 Loan officer looking for a new place to call home? 👉🏼 https://specials.lower.com/tlop

    50 min

  5. May 18

    What Critical Changes Are Coming to the Mortgage Licensing System in 2026? | Ep. 627

    In this episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen welcomes back Bob Niemi, Director of Government Affairs at Weiner Brodsky & Kider, for an in-depth discussion on the latest developments impacting the mortgage industry. Together, they dive into critical updates to the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS) - the first significant changes to the system since its inception in 2008. Bob provides a comprehensive overview of the new disclosure requirements now affecting both licensed originators and company control persons, emphasizing the importance of compliance ahead of the upcoming August 31st soft deadline. The conversation also highlights key advocacy topics addressed at the recent National Advocacy Conference in Washington, D.C. Dustin and Bob break down the industry’s ongoing efforts to ban trigger leads, a controversial practice that impacts both consumers and mortgage professionals, and discuss the implications of the proposed "Road to Housing" bill, which aims to improve access to homeownership. Throughout the episode, they stress the importance of industry engagement and encourage all mortgage professionals to join the Mortgage Action Alliance, a grassroots organization that makes it easy for individuals to participate in advocacy efforts and have their voices heard on Capitol Hill. Whether you’re a seasoned loan officer or new to the industry, this episode offers valuable insights into regulatory changes, legislative priorities, and practical steps you can take to stay informed and involved in shaping the future of mortgage lending.   Disclosure Questions Update:  https://mortgage.nationwidelicensingsystem.org/knowledge/Products/nmls/stateresourcecenter/SitePages/Disclosure-Questions-Update.aspx  https://mortgage.nationwidelicensingsystem.org/knowledge/Products/nmls/stateresourcecenter/SitePages/Disclosure-Questions-Update.aspx TLOP's Originator Coaching: 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs/  Reserve Your Cabin For TLOP UNITE 2026: Caribbean Takeover  👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/tlop-unite-2026  Loan officer looking for a new place to call home? 👉🏼 https://specials.lower.com/tlop

    46 min
  6. Why Your “Low Payment” Mortgage Might Be a Financial Trap

    May 16

    Why Your “Low Payment” Mortgage Might Be a Financial Trap

    In this episode of The DO Show, host Dustin Owen takes a deep dive into the world of home financing, breaking down why the cheapest mortgage option isn’t always the smartest or safest choice for buyers. Drawing on over 20 years of hands-on experience in the mortgage industry, Dustin shares his expert insights into the true components that make up a mortgage payment, going beyond just principal and interest to include taxes, insurance, and other hidden costs that can catch buyers off guard. Dustin warns listeners about falling into the "monthly payment trap," where focusing solely on securing the lowest possible payment can lead to long-term financial stress or missed opportunities. He unpacks a variety of strategies that borrowers can use to tailor their mortgage to their unique needs, such as buying discount points to lower interest rates, choosing between different loan terms, utilizing temporary buy-downs, negotiating seller credits, and planning for future refinancing options. Throughout the episode, Dustin emphasizes that just because a lender approves you for a certain amount doesn’t mean that amount is right for your personal budget or lifestyle. He encourages buyers to look beyond the numbers on paper and consider what truly fits their financial situation and long-term goals. Dustin also offers practical advice on the types of questions buyers should be asking their lenders and real estate agents before making one of life’s biggest financial decisions, empowering them to make informed choices and avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, this episode is packed with valuable tips to help you navigate the mortgage process with confidence and clarity.

    21 min

  7. May 14

    A Simple Connection Exercise Every Loan Officer Needs to Know | Ep. 626

    In this engaging episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, hosts Dustin Owen, Mike Siciliano, and Karina Mojica take a deep dive into the transformative "Four H's" connection exercise: History, Heroes, Heartbreak, and Hopes. Drawing inspiration from senior executive Anthony Frederick, Dustin explains how this straightforward yet powerful framework can be used to build authentic and lasting relationships in a remarkably short amount of time. Throughout the episode, the hosts each personally walk through the four categories, sharing candid and heartfelt stories about their own upbringings, the influential role models who have shaped their lives, the personal losses and heartbreaks they've experienced, and the hopes and dreams they hold for the future. Their vulnerability and openness set the tone for a meaningful discussion about the importance of genuine human connection. Dustin encourages listeners to embrace and apply the Four H's exercise not only with teammates and colleagues but also with clients and referral partners, emphasizing how it can foster deeper, more meaningful connections in both professional and personal settings. By the end of the episode, listeners are equipped with practical tools and real-life examples to help them strengthen their relationships and create a more connected, supportive environment in every aspect of their lives.   TLOP's Originator Coaching: 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs/  Reserve Your Cabin For TLOP UNITE 2026: Caribbean Takeover 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/tlop-unite-2026  Loan officer looking for a new place to call home? 👉🏼 https://specials.lower.com/tlop

    47 min

  8. May 11

    The Four Agreements: Practical Wisdom for Stress, Communication, and Success in Mortgage and Life | Ep. 625

    In this episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen is joined by Marketing Mike and Karina Mojica for an in-depth exploration of The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. Together, they break down each of the four agreements in detail: being impeccable with your word, not taking things personally, avoiding assumptions, and always doing your best. The hosts dive into the meaning and practical application of each agreement, sharing both personal anecdotes and professional experiences that highlight how these principles can positively impact business partnerships, internal self-talk, and interpersonal relationships within the mortgage industry and beyond. Throughout the discussion, Dustin, Mike, and Karina reflect on the challenges and rewards of implementing these agreements in their daily lives, offering listeners actionable insights and relatable stories. Dustin also shares key takeaways from his recent visit to United Wholesale Mortgage, providing listeners with an insider’s perspective on industry trends and best practices. As the episode draws to a close, the hosts present four reflective questions designed to help listeners internalize the lessons from The Four Agreements and apply them to their own lives and careers. They wrap up with a reminder about an exciting upcoming Caribbean event, encouraging listeners to stay engaged and look forward to future episodes.   TLOP's Originator Coaching: https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs  Reserve Your Cabin For TLOP UNITE 2026: Caribbean Takeover 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/tlop-unite-2026  Loan officer looking for a new place to call home? 👉 https://specials.lower.com/tlop

    49 min
See All (656)

4.8
out of 5
212 Ratings

About

This show makes the boring FUN! Imagine if Joe Rogan and Dave Ramsey had a baby. That’s this show! These guys teach the sh*t they don’t teach in school. Their goal is to simplify topics that range from personal finance, purchasing real estate & obtaining home loans to being a successful mortgage originator, running a business and finding success as a sales professional. The mission is simple; to invite you into the room where it happens. They strive to teach you how to create opportunities even when it can be a struggle to get your foot in the door. While there is a lot of content geared specifically towards mortgage professionals, the majority of the episodes will resonate will all audience members. (Not just mortgage lenders!) D.O. (Dustin Owen) is the creator & host. He is a 20+ year veteran of the mortgage industry, a real estate investor, business coach and angel investor. J.C. (John Coleman) is the co-host / producer of the show. J.C. has 15+ years’ experience as an Emmy Award-Winning Content Creator & Marketer.

Information

  • Creator
    Dustin Owen
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    656
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2020 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Loan Officer Podcast

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