Talking Shift with Craig

Craig Davis
  • 5.0 (4)
  • MANAGEMENT

Are you ready to Make Shift Happen? 🔥 This is a no corporate golf shirt conversation, because it's not unicorns and rainbows out there, it's bourbon in a dirty glass. Join Craig Davis and his special guests as they solve the world's problems, have some laughs, and Talk Shift. They're getting gritty about success, going beyond the AI hype, overcoming the big-nasty-ugly obstacles, and much more. If you enjoy the show, please like, subscribe, and share with someone who can benefit. To learn more, visit www.talkingshiftwithcraig.com. Go forth and Make Shift Happen! 🔥

  1. Dino Katsiametis: The Ethos of Success

    2D AGO

    Dino Katsiametis: The Ethos of Success

    "Common sense is the one thing that trumps everything else.". Dino grew up in the restaurant business, learning at an early age that success isn't about complex algorithms, it's about being a good human, discipline, and crisscrossing cheese in the kitchen to save time when cooking in the restaurant. Today, as the CEO of Ethos Lending, he’s disrupting a multi-billion dollar Mortgage industry and building something Mortgage Advisors want to retire at. In this episode of Talking Shift, Craig and Dino dive deep into why the traditional mortgage model is outdated, how AI is driving impact, and why as an entrepreneur you have to “burn the boats” to build a legacy. What you’ll learn in this episode: The "Restaurant Rule" for Business: Why giving away a "free drink" was more powerful than anything else.The M.U.M. Framework: How to turn your book of business into a “Mortgages Under Management” asset that is helping Loan Officers retire when ready.AI as a CEO Tool: Why Dino wakes up at 4AM building an AI powerhouse to serve his business and increase the asset value of his Loan Officer’s Mortgages Under Management.The Shift in Perspective: Why your perspective is the only thing standing between you and a million-dollar year. Timestamps: 00:00 – Who is Dino? The CEO with a different "ethos".06:47 – Lessons from the Greek restaurant: Counting change and crossing cheese.09:20 – The "Distraction" Technique: Managing client anxiety.17:01 – Why Dino stopped "hunting" for loans to build a legacy.22:52 – Explaining M.U.M. (Mortgages Under Management) .38:49 – Waking up at 4:00 AM for the AI revolution.49:43 – The one word every leader needs: Perspective.ABOUT THE GUESTDino Katsiametis is the CEO and Founder of Ethos Lending. With 28 years in the industry, Dino is a visionary leader focused on transforming loan officers into advisors. He is the pioneer of the MUM model and host of The Way podcast.  🌐 Ethos Lending🌐 The Way Podcast 🌐 Dino's LinkedIn ABOUT THE HOSTCraig Davis is an Executive Coach, Keynote Speaker, and host of Talking Shift. A valued leader in the mortgage industry and cancer survivor, Craig helps high-performers get out of the grind, reduce stress, and succeed on purpose.  🌐Ascend Xperience🌐Craig’s LinkedIn Check out Talking Shift on all your favorite platforms.🎙️ talkingshiftwithcraig.com👉 Apple | Spotify | YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, please support it by liking, subscribing, and sharing.

    52 min
  2. Michelle Berman-Mikel: The Black Line

    JAN 19

    Michelle Berman-Mikel: The Black Line

    Most people are seeking motivation to succeed. But that is not the answer to success. On this episode of Talking Shift, Michelle Berman-Mikel and Craig Davis dig into how to drive momentum when the motivation wears off. It’s not hacking into social media algorithms, going viral, or just using AI. It is one intentional action. Done daily. No excuses. It’s your “Your Black Line.” Michelle shares how committing to a single daily prospecting habit led to 38 percent year-over-year growth in her business; even amidst personal loss and being stuck. It was going back to her Black Line. This conversation is about leadership, entrepreneurship, prospecting successfully, and doing the work. If you're not prospecting then your calendar isn’t filling up, your pipeline becomes unpredictable, and your business stagnates. This episode will show you about the Black Line that builds success and how to prospect successfully on social media, leverage relationships, and grow your business. When you listen to the full episode, and ask yourself one honest question: What is the one thing you must do every day to move your business forward? 00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Book 02:58 Reflecting on Growth and Achievements 05:46 The Impact of Personal Challenges on Professional Growth 08:57 The Black Line Concept: Origin and Meaning 12:03 Discipline vs. Motivation in Achieving Success 15:04 The Importance of Consistency and Focus 17:47 Leveraging Relationships for Business Growth 20:48 The Methodology Behind Prospecting Success 23:59 Building Genuine Relationships Through Prospecting 28:16 The Entrepreneurial Spirit and Calendar Management 30:36 Building Authentic Social Presence 33:10 Challenging the Algorithm Obsession 35:12 The Importance of Movement and Discipline 37:43 Identity and Leadership as a Black Line 40:01 Defining Your Daily Discipline 42:41 Setting Boundaries for Personal and Professional Growth About the Hosts Michelle Berman-Mikel | Speaker, Author & Podcast Host Michelle Berman-Mikel is a nationally recognized keynote speaker, author of The Black Line, and founder of Berman Media PD. Creator of Beyond The Method™, she helps entrepreneurs, mortgage, and real estate professionals turn social media into a powerful prospecting tool—focused on connection, credibility, and real business growth. She also hosts The Coffee & Questions podcast, interviewing top leaders on high performance and strategy. Craig Davis | Executive Coach, Keynote Speaker & Host of Talking Shift Craig Davis is an Executive Coach, Keynote Speaker, and host of the Talking Shift podcast, helping busy leaders escape the grind and achieve more with less stress. With 20+ years of experience spanning sales to executive leadership in the mortgage industry, Craig is known for practical strategy, authentic leadership, and real-world results. A cancer survivor and reinvention expert, he brings honesty, humor, and purpose to leadership—because real growth isn’t unicorns and rainbows, it’s making meaningful shifts that matter.

    49 min
  3. Ken Perry’s Genius Zone: AI, Entrepreneurship, & ADHD

    12/17/2025

    Ken Perry’s Genius Zone: AI, Entrepreneurship, & ADHD

    Ken Perry joins Craig Davis for a conversation that goes far beyond business. We dive into the early moments that shaped his path, the bold decision to walk away from a successful career as an AE, and the drive that pushed him to build Knowledge Coop from the ground up. Ken breaks down the mindset behind taking risks, the importance of knowing your strengths, and how he has harnessed his super power of connecting deep research with humor as a foundation to helping the good guys win in Mortgage. Ken and Craig Talk Shift about leadership, developments in AI, ADHD, and entrepreneurship. Ken shares stories from the mortgage industry, the challenges he saw years ago and how those experiences shaped his mission to impact the Mortgage Industry. This episode is packed with insight and humor. If you’re growing a business, leading a team or finding your next move, this conversation will fire you up. Check it out and let’s Talk Shift! 00:00 Introduction to Ken Perry and His Journey 05:57 The Entrepreneurial Mindset and Growth 11:43 The Importance of Finding Your Genius Zone 17:12 Navigating the Risks of AI 32:31 Exploring AI Tools and Their Evolution 38:08 The Importance of Authenticity in AI 43:36 Navigating Authority vs. Authenticity in AI 49:47The Future of AI and Its Societal Impact Talking Shift is on all your favorite platforms:🎙️ talkingshiftwithcraig.com👉 @Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-shift/id1835827708 👉 @Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3FrnO79RfhkMc2iSQN14KM?si=ec1af3e7c1884863 👉 @YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TalkingShiftwithcraig If you enjoy this podcast, please support it by liking, subscribing, and sharing.

    57 min
  4. Shelley Leonard & Greg Holmes, Xactus. The Credit Shift: The Truth, The Strategies, The Win.

    12/08/2025

    Shelley Leonard & Greg Holmes, Xactus. The Credit Shift: The Truth, The Strategies, The Win.

    What is happening in the Credit Reporting market with the changing models, pricing, and how can this become an opportunity for lenders? Jump into this episode and find out! Welcome to another episode of Talking Shift with Craig. In this conversation, Craig Davis sits down with Shelley Leonard, CEO of Xactus, and Greg Holmes, Chief Revenue Officer of Xactus. They take us inside the shifts in the mortgage and credit space, especially with the new FICO direct model hitting the market fast. This episode brings much needed clarity for originators and leaders throughout the mortgage and housing industry given the industry shifts, FICO direct model, Vantage score, and much more. Shelley and Greg give a clear breakdown of the new credit reporting landscape and what FICO direct really means, why costs are changing, and how Xactus is delivering strategies to increase flexibility and the borrower experience, giving their clients a competitive edge. SummaryShelley and Greg talk about why lenders need more choices and how that ultimately will benefit the consumer. They explain how the direct model increases flexibility and competition, and with data insights, there is opportunity to increase the borrower experience. Key Takeaways• We feel responsible for giving lenders every option they need.• One size does not fit all.• Competition and flexibility keep the market healthy.• Lenders can compete more effectively with more choices.• Diversity in needs requires diversity in solutions.• Competition pushes innovation.• Flexibility drives satisfaction and stronger performance. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Xactus and Industry Challenges02:13 Understanding the Current Credit Landscape05:46 The Credit Reporting Ecosystem Explained11:09 FICO Direct Model. What It Means13:20 Cost Implications of the New FICO Model17:35 Navigating Competition and Market Changes21:13 Xactus and the Future of Flexibility24:00 Leading Through Change29:57 Strategic Insights for Lenders35:27 Turning Change Into Opportunity42:06 The Future of Credit and Technology Talking Shift is on all your favorite platforms:🎙️ talkingshiftwithcraig.com👉 @Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-shift/id1835827708 👉 @Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3FrnO79RfhkMc2iSQN14KM?si=ec1af3e7c1884863 👉 @YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TalkingShiftwithcraig If you enjoy this podcast, please support it by liking, subscribing, and sharing.

    47 min
  5. Rene Godefroy, Resilience from Haiti to the National Stage.

    11/21/2025

    Rene Godefroy, Resilience from Haiti to the National Stage.

    Rene Godefroy Resilience from Haiti to the National Stage This episode is something special. I sat down with my guest Rene Godefroy, a man whose story defines resilience, vision, and the power of declaring your destiny before anyone else believes in it. From the villages of Haiti to speaking on national stages, his journey is a reminder that you never have to wait for permission to pursue the life you were created for. We begin with Rene's story as he was left behind in his Haitian village at nine months old. Rene opens up about how relationships shaped his resilience, how Port au Prince transformed his path, and how dreaming of America lit a fire that carried him into purpose. Learn about the power of mindset, belief, gratitude, and resilience. This conversation is raw, empowering, and deeply human. If you’ve ever questioned your worth, your dreams, or your ability to rise above your circumstances, this episode will meet you exactly where you are. Key TakeawaysI am not waiting for people’s permissionDeclare what you want boldlyMindset is the foundation of every success storyResilience helps you rise after every setbackGoal setting is the roadmap to momentumEmpower yourself to take actionConfidence begins within youBreak free from the permission mentalityYour vision creates your direction Chapters 00:00 Introduction to a Powerful Journey 02:47 The Impact of Abandonment 08:47 Resilience and the Role of Relationships 18:47 A New Life in Port-au-Prince 32:50 Dreaming of America and the Power of Vision 34:56 Seizing Opportunities in Unexpected Situations 37:08 Mindset and Manifestation: Creating Your Reality 39:53 The Journey of an Immigrant: Overcoming Challenges 45:38 Resilience and the Power of Positive Influence 48:13 The Importance of Sharing Your Story 59:18 The Gift of Sharing: Purpose and Impact Shout Outs: https://www.renegodefroy.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/renegodefroy/  Talking Shift is on all your favorite platforms:🎙️ talkingshiftwithcraig.com👉 @Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-shift/id1835827708 👉 @Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3FrnO79RfhkMc2iSQN14KM?si=ec1af3e7c1884863 👉 @YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TalkingShiftwithcraig If you enjoy this podcast, please support it by liking, subscribing, and sharing.

    1h 5m
  6. Abdel Khawatmi, The Mortgage Gorilla: Crushing the Mortgage Business

    11/14/2025

    Abdel Khawatmi, The Mortgage Gorilla: Crushing the Mortgage Business

    If you are a mortgage professional looking to adapt and thrive, this is a must-listen episode. It's published and ready for you now! Join Craig Davis and the legendary Abdel Khawatmi (aka The Mortgage Gorilla) as they dig into the fast-moving landscape of the mortgage industry and how successful leaders are balancing education, technology, and human connection to build success. Abdel shares his powerful, client-first strategies for integrating AI and building systems-based origination that always prioritizes the client relationship. This episode provides a roadmap for professionals ready to adapt, automate, and act. Key Takeaways from The Mortgage Gorilla:The leaders who are crushing it are adapting, automating, and acting.Education leads first in building client relationships.Integrating AI enhances efficiency and reduces costs, but must be balanced with personal touch.Understanding the client's 'why' is key to building lasting relationships. Jump to Specific Topics: 00:00 Introduction to the Mortgage Gorilla 01:11 Insights from the Sales Mastery Conference 03:32 Adapting to Change in the Mortgage Industry 06:53 Building Relationships and Communication 10:22 The Importance of Human Connection 12:11 Time Management and Team Structure 18:24 Integrating AI into Business Processes 23:56 Leveraging Technology in Client Interactions 24:43 Balancing Modernization with Personal Touch 27:33 Understanding Client Communication Preferences 29:41 Enhancing Client Engagement through Technology 31:08 The Importance of Relationship Building 32:45 Creating Infrastructure for Client Education 34:49 Leadership in the Mortgage Industry 36:55 Cost Efficiency through AI and Technology 40:06 Addressing Margin Compression with Innovation 43:28 Controlling Client Relationships for Better Outcomes

    47 min
  7. Eric Levin: Tech Leader, National Champion, & Ditch Digging

    10/31/2025

    Eric Levin: Tech Leader, National Champion, & Ditch Digging

    🎙️ Check out the newest Talking Shift episode: “Tech Leader, National Champion, & Ditch Digging with Eric Levin” This week on the 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐡𝐢𝐟𝐭 𝐏𝐨𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭, I’m joined by Eric Levin, Co-Founder of Model Match and the National Champion Hickory FC. We get gritty about success, being a tech innovator, leader in the Mortgage Industry, and what it takes to be National Champions as a part owner of the Hickory Football Club! This is a badass conversation, and if you’re in leadership, branch management, or looking to grow and scale,, you will want to check this out. Because nobody is above ditch digging! Talking Shift is on all your favorite platforms:🎙️ talkingshiftwithcraig.com👉 @Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-shift/id1835827708 👉 @Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3FrnO79RfhkMc2iSQN14KM?si=ec1af3e7c1884863 👉 @YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TalkingShiftwithcraig Shout outs! 👉 https://www.modelmatch.com/ 👉 https://www.facebook.com/hickoryfc  👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/elevin/ 00:00 Introduction to Eric Levin and Model Match 03:04 The Journey of Hickory FC 06:10 Starting a Semi-Professional Soccer Team 08:59 Passion and Creative Outlets 12:02 Building Relationships in Business 14:42 Ego vs. Mastery in Business 17:56 The Importance of Flexibility and Adaptability 20:41 The Ditch Digger Mentality 23:40 Creating Accountability in Business 26:22 Insights and Data in Recruiting 29:23 Model Match: Solving Industry Problems 32:06 Friction as an Opportunity 35:09 Growth vs. Recruiting in the Mortgage Industry 38:18 The Evolution of Model Match 41:07 Creating Value Through Insights 43:55 Final Thoughts and Reflections

    53 min
  8. Jeremy Davis: Barbershops, Pulpits, and Cornerstores

    10/24/2025

    Jeremy Davis: Barbershops, Pulpits, and Cornerstores

    In this compelling episode, join Craig Davis as he sits down with Jeremy Davis, the President of Southern Bancorp, to explore the power of mission-driven leadership and community engagement. Jeremy shares his personal journey from growing up in a low-income neighborhood to becoming a leader committed to making a difference in the mortgage and housing industries. Discover how his innovative strategies and heartfelt dedication are transforming communities and creating opportunities for underserved families. Tune in to hear inspiring stories of resilience, the importance of authentic relationships, and the impact of education in building generational wealth. Don't miss this insightful conversation that highlights the nobility of the housing industry and the profound effect of personal connections. 00:00 Introduction to Jeremy Davis and His Mission 05:35 Generational Wealth and Home Ownership Advocacy 11:19 The Role of Barbershops, Pulpits, and Corner Stores 16:33 The Power of Education in Home Ownership 22:57 The Heart of Homeownership 27:45 Navigating Challenges in the Mortgage Business 33:18 The Importance of Listening in Leadership 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes.🌐 To learn more: https://www.talkingshiftwithcraig.com Go forth and Make Shift Happen!

    41 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Are you ready to Make Shift Happen? 🔥 This is a no corporate golf shirt conversation, because it's not unicorns and rainbows out there, it's bourbon in a dirty glass. Join Craig Davis and his special guests as they solve the world's problems, have some laughs, and Talk Shift. They're getting gritty about success, going beyond the AI hype, overcoming the big-nasty-ugly obstacles, and much more. If you enjoy the show, please like, subscribe, and share with someone who can benefit. To learn more, visit www.talkingshiftwithcraig.com. Go forth and Make Shift Happen! 🔥

Information

  • Creator
    Craig Davis
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Craig Davis
  • Show Website
    Talking Shift with Craig