The Loan Officer Podcast

Dustin Owen

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. 54m ago

    Rebuilding Your Loan Pipeline: A Guide to Turning Cold Leads into Hot Opportunities | Ep. 38

    In this episode of The D.O. Show, host Dustin Owen addresses a challenge that every loan officer faces at some point in their career: the anxiety and uncertainty that come when your pipeline suddenly drops to zero. Drawing on his two decades of hands-on experience in the mortgage industry, Dustin shares a practical, no-nonsense strategy for rebuilding your business from the ground up. He begins by emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with past clients, those individuals who already know, like, and trust you, and reminds listeners that these relationships can be a valuable source of repeat business and referrals. Dustin also discusses the value of reviving dormant leads, encouraging loan officers to reach out to prospects who may have gone cold or fallen off the radar. By re-engaging these contacts with authentic, personalized communication, you can often reignite interest and uncover new opportunities. In addition, Dustin highlights the critical role that referral partners and real estate agents play in filling your pipeline. He suggests setting up genuine, face-to-face conversations, whether over coffee, lunch, or a quick phone call, to strengthen these relationships and demonstrate your ongoing commitment to mutual success. Rather than getting distracted by the latest flashy marketing tactics or quick-fix solutions, Dustin advocates for a back-to-basics approach: consistent daily prospecting, disciplined time management, and diligent follow-up tracking. He stresses the importance of carving out dedicated time each day for outreach and relationship-building activities, and of keeping detailed records to ensure that no opportunity slips through the cracks. Throughout the episode, Dustin’s core message remains clear: rebuilding a pipeline isn’t complicated or mysterious. It’s about persistence, having meaningful conversations, and establishing a sustainable routine that you can stick with over the long term. By focusing on these fundamentals and refusing to give up, any loan officer can overcome a zero pipeline and get back on track for lasting success. TLOP's Originator Coaching: 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs/

    Rebuilding Your Loan Pipeline: A Guide to Turning Cold Leads into Hot Opportunities | Ep. 38
  2. 23h ago

    Mistakes Holding Back Mortgage Loan Originators from Real Success | Ep. 656

    In this episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen, co-host Marketing Mike, and producer Karina Mojica take a deep dive into three common habits that are holding loan officers back from reaching their full potential. The first habit they discuss is an over-reliance on social media. The hosts explain that while social media is a valuable tool for building awareness and staying connected, it should be used to support in-person networking and genuine relationship-building, rather than serving as a substitute for these essential activities. They emphasize that meaningful connections and trust are best developed through face-to-face interactions and consistent follow-up, rather than relying solely on digital engagement. The second habit they address is an excessive focus on non-QM (non-qualified mortgage) lending. Dustin, Mike, and Karina point out that although non-QM products can be an important part of a loan officer’s toolkit, they should only represent a portion of a loan officer’s business, roughly mirroring their approximate 20 percent share of the overall mortgage market. The hosts caution against putting all your eggs in the non-QM basket, as this can lead to missed opportunities in the much larger qualified mortgage space. Instead, they recommend maintaining a balanced approach that allows loan officers to serve a wider range of clients and remain adaptable to market changes. The third habit they explore is the recent trend of chasing "vibe coding" and building SaaS (Software as a Service) products. The hosts argue that while innovation and technology can certainly enhance a loan officer’s business, spending too much time and energy on developing software solutions or following the latest buzzwords can distract from the core work of originating mortgages and serving clients. They encourage loan officers to focus on proven fundamentals and to prioritize activities that directly contribute to business growth and client satisfaction. Throughout the episode, Dustin, Mike, and Karina advocate for finding balance in your business, investing in authentic relationship-building, and sticking to time-tested strategies that have consistently produced results. They stress the importance of not getting sidetracked by shiny new trends or tools at the expense of the basics that drive long-term success. TLOP's Originator Coaching: 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs/  Loan officer looking for a new place to call home? 👉🏼 https://specials.lower.com/tlop

  3. 3d ago

    Shawn Mingus’ Reimagining Balance Breaks Down the Eight Dimensions of a Purposeful Life | Ep. 655

    In this episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen welcomes Shawn Mingus, a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in the mortgage industry and the author of Reimagining Balance. During their engaging conversation, Shawn Mingus challenges the traditional and often outdated notion of work-life balance. Instead of viewing balance as a simple division between work and personal life, he introduces listeners to a comprehensive eight-dimension framework. This framework encompasses areas such as spirituality, romance, finances, innovation, and several other key aspects of life, all of which are visualized together as a dynamic polygon rather than a static scale. Throughout the episode, Shawn draws on his diverse and eventful journey, which includes his time serving in the military, his extensive leadership roles within the mortgage sector, and even his experiences navigating the challenges of a failed tech startup. He emphasizes that achieving true balance is not about reaching a final destination or maintaining a perfect state. Rather, it is an intentional and ongoing process that requires continuous effort and mindful action. Shawn encourages listeners to rethink their approach to balance by prioritizing what is truly sustainable for them, proactively managing the pressures that come with both professional and personal responsibilities, and thoughtfully designing their lives with a clear sense of purpose. By adopting this holistic and proactive mindset, he believes individuals can cultivate lasting harmony and fulfillment in all areas of their lives. TLOP's Originator Coaching: 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs/ Loan officer looking for a new place to call home? 👉🏼 https://specials.lower.com/tlop

  4. 6d ago

    The Most Effective Strategy to Thrive in a High-Interest Mortgage Market | Ep. 37

    In this episode of The D.O. Show, host Dustin Owen delivers a powerful message to loan officers everywhere: stop blaming high interest rates for slow business and start taking control of your own success. Drawing on over 20 years of hands-on experience in the mortgage industry, Dustin shares his perspective that waiting for rates to fall is not a business plan, it’s just an excuse that keeps you stuck. He emphasizes that the most successful originators aren’t sitting on the sidelines hoping for market conditions to improve. Instead, they’re actively rebuilding and nurturing their databases, strengthening relationships with realtors, and consistently following up with clients and prospects. Dustin encourages loan officers to focus on delivering real value that goes far beyond simply quoting rates. This means providing education, offering creative solutions, and positioning yourself as a trusted advisor in your community. He reminds listeners that the loan officers who are winning in today’s challenging market are the ones who are proactive, resourceful, and relentless in their pursuit of new opportunities. Rather than waiting for better rates to rescue their business, they’re out there making things happen, one conversation, one relationship, and one closed loan at a time. Tune in to learn how you can shift your mindset, take meaningful action, and thrive no matter what the market throws your way. TLOP's Originator Coaching: 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs/  Subscribe to our YouTube! https://youtube.com/@TLOPentertainment

    The Most Effective Strategy to Thrive in a High-Interest Mortgage Market | Ep. 37
  5. Aug 20

    Understanding Housing Market Trends with Logan Mohtashami | Ep. 654

    In this episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen sits down for an in-depth conversation with Logan Mohtashami, who serves as the lead analyst at Housing Wire, to discuss the outlook for the U.S. housing market through the year 2030. During their discussion, Logan provides a comprehensive analysis of current market conditions and future trends. He explains that, despite a number of well-publicized challenges facing the housing sector, the market is actually healthier than many people realize. Logan points to several positive indicators, including a gradual increase in available housing inventory, a noticeable slowdown in the rate of home price appreciation, and continued growth in wages, all of which are contributing to improved affordability for buyers. Logan delves into the topic of mortgage rate spreads, offering insights into how these spreads are impacting both buyers and sellers in the current environment. He also highlights the significant role that millennial demographic demand is playing in shaping the housing market, noting that this large cohort of potential homebuyers will continue to drive demand for years to come. Additionally, Logan addresses the frequently discussed concept of the "silver tsunami," which refers to the anticipated wave of baby boomer homeowners selling their properties. He reassures listeners that this phenomenon remains a distant concern and is unlikely to disrupt the market in the near future. Throughout the episode, Logan offers practical advice tailored to different segments of the market. He encourages buyers to negotiate assertively in order to secure the best possible deals, and he urges sellers to set realistic prices that reflect current market conditions. For loan originators, Logan suggests that this period of lower competition presents a valuable opportunity to focus on building relationships, refining their skills, and strengthening their businesses in preparation for the next phase of market growth. By taking these steps, industry professionals can position themselves for long-term success as the housing market continues to evolve. TLOP's Originator Coaching: 👉🏼 https://tloponline.com/mlo-coaching-programs  Loan officer looking for a new place to call home? 👉🏼 https://specials.lower.com/tlop

  6. Aug 17

    Are You a Mortgage Pro Stuck in Your Career Despite Making Six Figures? Do This Now | Ep. 653

    In this episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen takes a deep dive into the challenges faced by experienced mortgage professionals who find themselves feeling stuck or stagnant in their careers. Drawing on his extensive industry experience, Dustin explores the nuanced reasons why even seasoned loan officers can hit a plateau, despite years of hard work and prior success. To illustrate these points, he shares three detailed, real-world case studies featuring loan officers from diverse markets like Florida, Ohio, and Missouri, each grappling with unique obstacles but ultimately facing similar growth barriers. Throughout the episode, Dustin identifies and unpacks several common issues that hinder professional advancement, such as a lack of systematic tracking, inconsistent follow-up with clients and referral partners, and poor marketing habits that fail to generate new business. He stresses the critical importance of returning to the basics, urging listeners to focus on foundational activities like building and maintaining robust VIP and realtor lists, consistently hosting value-driven events, sending out engaging newsletters, and diligently measuring results to track progress and identify areas for improvement. Dustin goes beyond tactical advice, delving into the mindset and environmental factors that contribute to career stagnation. He underscores the significance of surrounding oneself with the right people, fostering a culture of accountability, and seeking out coaching or mentorship to gain fresh perspectives and break through performance plateaus. By sharing practical strategies and motivational insights, Dustin empowers loan officers to take actionable steps toward scaling their production and reigniting their passion for the business. Additionally, Dustin takes the opportunity to spotlight TLOP's coaching programs, designed to provide ongoing support and guidance for mortgage professionals at all stages of their careers. He also builds excitement for the upcoming Caribbean TLOP Unite event, an exclusive gathering aimed at fostering networking, learning, and growth within the industry. Whether you’re a veteran loan officer or a rising star, this episode offers valuable lessons and inspiration to help you overcome obstacles and achieve your next level of success. 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

  7. Aug 13

    From Car Sales to Mortgage Empire: The Rise of Robert Bencomo's Culture-Driven Success | Ep. 652

    In this episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen sits down with Robert Bencomo, the owner and founder of Elite Lending, a thriving mortgage brokerage based in South Florida. During their engaging conversation, Robert opens up about his unconventional journey into the mortgage industry, beginning with his early days in car sales and banking. He candidly discusses the challenges he faced as a newcomer, revealing that he closed just $700,000 in loan volume during his first year, an experience that taught him valuable lessons about perseverance and growth. Through determination and a willingness to learn, Robert was able to scale his production dramatically, reaching an impressive $20 million in closed loans by his third year in the business. Now at the helm of Elite Lending, Robert has built a company where the average loan officer earns over $100,000 annually, a testament to the strong sales culture and supportive environment he has cultivated. He shares insights into his approach to leadership, including the importance of hiring new loan officers who don’t bring bad habits from previous roles, and how he invests in their training and development to ensure long-term success. Robert also discusses his early adoption of social media as a powerful tool for business growth, explaining how it helped him expand his network and attract new clients in a competitive market. A key part of Elite Lending’s success, according to Robert, is the development of proprietary technology that streamlines operations and enhances the client experience. He emphasizes the critical role of mindset, ensuring that every team member is aligned with the company’s values and vision. Robert also highlights the significance of culture fit and operational planning, noting that these elements are essential for sustaining growth and maintaining high performance within the organization. Throughout the episode, listeners gain valuable advice on building a successful mortgage business, fostering a winning team, and staying ahead in a rapidly evolving 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

  8. Aug 10

    What Are the Top 5 Things Loan Officers Should Stop Saying Right Now? | Ep. 651

    In this engaging episode of the Loan Officer Podcast, host Dustin Owen is joined by Marketing Mike and producer Karina Mojica as they dive deep into the world of mortgage lending. Together, they explore five common phrases that mortgage loan originators frequently use, which Dustin finds particularly frustrating based on his extensive experience in the industry. Drawing from thousands of candid conversations with professionals across the United States, Dustin provides valuable insights into why statements such as "I have access to hundreds of lenders," "my processor can't talk to clients," "I just need an assistant," "I can do this part-time," and "what's the best company to work for?" often reveal underlying misconceptions or counterproductive attitudes within the profession. Throughout the episode, Dustin breaks down each phrase, explaining how these statements can reflect a mindset that may hinder personal and professional growth. For example, he discusses how claiming access to numerous lenders can sometimes be a distraction from building meaningful relationships with clients and referral partners. He also addresses the importance of empowering team members, such as processors, to communicate directly with clients in order to create a smoother and more efficient loan process. The conversation further explores the misconception that hiring an assistant is a cure-all solution, and why treating mortgage origination as a part-time job can limit success in a highly competitive field. Additionally, Dustin, Mike, and Karina examine the tendency for new and experienced originators alike to focus on finding the "best" company, rather than seeking out strong leadership, supportive culture, and opportunities for personal development. Each frustration Dustin shares is transformed into a practical lesson, encouraging loan originators to shift their focus toward adding real value for clients, building scalable and sustainable business systems, and prioritizing mentorship and leadership over simply chasing a well-known company name. By the end of the episode, listeners are left with actionable advice and a renewed perspective on what it takes to thrive as a mortgage loan originator. The discussion serves as both a reality check and a motivational boost, inspiring professionals to adopt a growth-oriented mindset and make intentional choices that will set them up for 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

4.8
out of 5
214 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.

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