In this powerhouse episode of The Way with Dino Katsiametis, top-producing mortgage advisor Marc Bui shares his no-BS journey from 19-year-old loan officer to one of the most trusted voices in the industry. From surviving the crash of 2008 to mastering the art of relationship-based lending, Marc dives into how mindset shifts, tactical follow-ups, strategic social media, and client-first communication transformed his business.

Marc and Dino talk shop about:

• The truth behind chasing leads vs. planting referral trees
• How to recession-proof your mortgage career
• The art of client retention (and pre-selling the refinance!)
• Why personal branding and post-close follow-up are game changers
• Real talk on social media burnout—and how to use it wisely

Whether you're a new LO or a seasoned pro looking to scale, this episode is packed with honest advice, smart strategies, and a whole lot of laughs.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

In this powerful episode of The Way with Dino Katsiametis, Dino sits down with David Sidoni—realtor, national educator, podcast host, and self-proclaimed “guru for first-time home buyers.” David shares his journey from show business (Newsies, Disney, Michael Jackson, and more) to building a revolutionary system that empowers Gen Z and millennial buyers. Together, Dino and David dive into why the industry overlooks this massive market, how his “Last Lease Ever” program is changing lives, and why systems—not hustle alone—create lasting success. They also tackle AI’s role in real estate, market predictions, and the mindset shift from loan officer to true mortgage advisor. If you’re in real estate, lending, or simply want to understand the future of homeownership, this episode is packed with insights you can’t afford to miss

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

In this action-packed episode of The Way, Dino Katsiametis sits down with Sosi Avila—former pastor turned top-producing mortgage advisor—to uncover how he went from missionary work in 27 countries to building a $100M mortgage business. Sosi shares his step-by-step playbook for mastering referrals, building strong realtor relationships, scripting perfect handoffs, and scaling client trust through strategic gifting and post-close engagement.

Whether you're a new LO or seasoned pro, you'll learn how to stand out in today's competitive market by combining authenticity, systems, and service. Packed with scripts, strategies, and mindset shifts, this episode is your go-to guide for sustainable growth in the mortgage industry.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

Dino Katsiametis CEO of Ethos Lending sits down with John Farrell of US Bank—an “obnoxiously good” loan officer with decades of experience and a reputation for keeping it real. From humble beginnings and industry burnout to becoming a top producer in a highly competitive market, John shares how he built a thriving, referral-based business by focusing on relationships, authenticity, and adaptability. Tune in for tactical advice on social media, surviving market downturns, leveraging AI tools, and the one thing every new loan officer should prioritize. Whether you're in lending or any relationship-driven business, this episode is packed with nuggets that can transform your game.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

Are you a mortgage broker looking to grow your production, scale your mindset, and build lasting client relationships? In this high-energy episode of The Way with Dino Katsiametis, we sit down with Amir Syed — top-producing loan officer, founder of Go Coaching, and billion-dollar mortgage expert — to unpack the exact mindset shifts, scripts, systems, and sales strategies that helped him build a billion-dollar business.

From mastering the perfect 60-second phone call to breaking down the “Loan Officer Love Languages” and why your CRM isn’t enough without the right rituals, Amir drops gold for LOs who want to grow in a down market. Whether you're closing $5M or aiming for $100M+, this episode is packed with actionable tips that will elevate your production and your purpose.

🔥 Topics include:

• The 3 barriers to growth for loan officers
• Prospecting like a pro in today’s market
• Building a high-performing team with systems that scale
• How to create your Pre-Work Ritual (PWR) to win the day
• Why loving on your clients is your biggest competitive edge

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

What happens when you stop settling and start betting on yourself? JJ left a "good" job to chase something better—and built a thriving mortgage business in the process. Tune in to hear how he faced the fear, broke the rules, and made his own lane. No fluff, just real talk for anyone ready to level up. 

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

What does it take to dominate the mortgage industry while maintaining a fulfilling life? In this episode of The Way Podcast, host Dino Katsiametis sits down with top mortgage advisor Sean Herrero to uncover the mindset, marketing tactics, and relationship-building strategies that set him apart. From leveraging video for client trust to crafting offers that win in competitive markets, Sean shares invaluable insights that every loan officer and real estate professional needs to hear. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with game-changing advice.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

How do top performers rise above challenges while others struggle? In this powerful episode of The Way Podcast, host Dino Katsiametis welcomes keynote speaker, author, and sales expert Rene Rodriguez to unpack the secrets of influence, resilience, and success. From mastering rejection to creating systems that drive efficiency, Rene shares game-changing strategies to help loan officers, entrepreneurs, and leaders thrive—no matter the market conditions. If you're ready to shift your mindset, strengthen your business, and lead with confidence, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

What does it take to go from a young loan officer assistant to running a thriving mortgage consulting business? In this episode of The Way Podcast, we sit down with Stew Sweet, founder of Night Owl Consulting, to explore his journey from grinding 18-hour days in the mortgage world to building a game-changing outsourcing firm. Learn how he scaled his business, overcame major obstacles, and developed a system that helps loan officers optimize their operations. If you’re in the mortgage industry—or just love an inspiring business transformation—this episode is a must-listen!

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

In this powerful episode of The Way Podcast, host Dino Katsiametis sits down with mortgage industry veteran and transformational coach Cindy Ertman. With over 37 years of experience, Cindy shares the lessons that propelled her to the top of the mortgage world—building a billion-dollar branch, mastering work-life balance, and coaching originators to success. She reveals the key strategies for thriving in today’s challenging market, the mindset shifts that separate top producers from the rest, and the one bold choice you should make every day. Whether you're a new loan officer or a seasoned pro, this conversation will inspire you to take action and elevate your business.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

In this episode of The Way with Dino Katsiametis, we welcome Hope Bouman, CEO and Founder of Signature Strategies Coaching. Hope shares her incredible journey from commercial real estate to top mortgage producer and sought-after business coach. She dives into the power of mental fitness, the art of relationship-building, and the mindset shifts needed to thrive in any market. Whether you're in mortgage lending, real estate, or business leadership, this episode is packed with actionable insights on growth, adaptability, and lasting success.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

On this episode of The Way Podcast, Dino Katsiametis talks with Mike Benton, Division President of Responsive Mortgage, who shares his journey of resilience and success in the mortgage industry. From starting fresh in unfamiliar markets to navigating economic downturns, Mike reveals how consistency, relationship-building, and unwavering determination turned obstacles into opportunities.

Get practical tips on growing your mortgage business, maintaining work-life balance, and using discipline to achieve personal and professional goals. Mike also opens up about overcoming personal challenges, including his decision to give up alcohol, and how it transformed his outlook and performance. Whether you’re a seasoned broker or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights to help you thrive.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

What does it take to stay relevant and impactful after four decades in the mortgage industry? In this episode of The Way with Dino Katsiametis, industry legend Dale Vermillion, founder of Mortgage Champions, shares his journey from selling pots and pans door-to-door to leading thousands in the mortgage world.

Dale opens up about:

• Why faith, humility, and service are the foundation of his success.
• The power of mentorship and constant learning in building a career without a college degree.
• How to thrive in tough markets with relationships, trust, and relentless action.
• Why giving back—whether through feeding families or building orphanages—is the real measure of success.

Whether you’re a loan officer, leader, or entrepreneur, this conversation will inspire you to focus less on rates and more on impact, integrity, and people.

👉 Tune in and discover why success isn’t about chasing money—it’s about lifting others up along the way.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Wally Elibiary, one of the nation’s top mortgage professionals and founder of Aspire Mortgage Advisors. Wally shares his incredible journey from door-knocking apartments as a young loan officer to building a scalable, client-centered mortgage business.

Learn how he overcame early challenges, embraced mentorship, and developed systems to sustain growth while prioritizing family and personal fulfillment. Wally also reveals key insights from his book, 24/7 Mindset, and offers advice on navigating career shifts, smart investments, and finding balance in a demanding industry. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to elevate their business and life.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

In this insightful episode, we dive deep into the world of mortgage lending with Rick Mount, co-manager of Churchill Mortgage, as he shares his 30+ years of experience. From starting out in a suit with an empty briefcase to leading a top-performing team, Rick discusses the personal and professional milestones that shaped his career. We explore his daily routines, the power of relationships in business, and how success is often about serving others. Tune in for valuable lessons on leadership, family, and finding balance in the fast-paced world of finance.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

On this episode of The Way Podcast, Dino chats with Trevor Hammond from Neo Home Loans, a man who’s mastered more than just mortgages—he’s figured out how to build a business that doesn’t make you want to play Russian roulette  with a 357 Magnum! Trevor takes us through his journey from being a young loan officer to a divisional leader and coach, with plenty of laughs and lessons along the way. Ever heard of "Debts Under Management"? Neither did Dino—until Trevor blew his mind with a new way to make loans work for you, not the other way around. Trevor also drops knowledge on how to turn every loan into a growing asset, all while keeping your sanity intact. Tune in to hear Trevor’s passion for financial literacy, his hilarious stories of learning the hard way, and why he’s the kind of guy who helps you build wealth—and maybe laughs at your bad jokes too.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

What do you get when you combine a mortgage pro, an Ironman, and a dad who throws the ultimate 18th birthday party? You get Mike Hardy, the guest on today’s episode of The Way Podcast! Dino sits down with Mike, who spills the beans on how he's mastered the art of balancing a successful mortgage business with a thriving family life—and still finds time to be annoyingly perfect at everything else. Mike shares his "rite of passage" birthday tradition for his sons. We also get a peek into his daily routine, where just 15 minutes of exercise somehow makes him fitter then most of the SF 49er's frontline. Tune in for laughs, life hacks, and a few solid tips on how to make adulting look easy (even though it's not.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

In this episode of The Way, Dino Katsiametis chats with Ryan Grant, a mortgage industry visionary and founder of Neo Home Loans. Ryan dishes on everything from avoiding financial missteps to revolutionizing how the mortgage industry serves its clients. With humor and insight, he reveals why most people treat their mortgage like fast food—quick and easy—and how that mentality needs to change. Whether you're just starting out in real estate or a seasoned pro, Ryan shares tips on building generational wealth, the importance of post-closing service, and why becoming a true financial guide for your clients is the key to long-term success. Bonus: Find out what sushi and cheap loans have in common!

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

Join Dino Katsiametis on The Way as he interviews Todd Bookspan, the man behind Win By Noon, a self-proclaimed “fitness nerd” with 26 houses and a knack for talking to realtors before you’ve even had your second cup of coffee! Todd shares his secrets to success, from balancing family life with a booming mortgage career, to how he survived (and thrived) through the financial crisis with a plan, a vision, and a whole lot of humility. Whether you’re curious about building wealth, surviving the grind, or just wondering how Todd gets it all done by noon, this episode will inspire you to level up your business—and life—with humor and hustle.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

Join Dino Katsiametis, host of The Way, as he welcomes mortgage industry legend (and self-proclaimed “oldest guy still kicking”) Dave Savage to the show! With nearly four decades of experience under his belt—and still going strong—Dave dishes out wisdom on how to empower and equip tomorrow’s loan officers while sharing his personal pivots from loan officer to tech entrepreneur. From mortgage tips to morning routines that involve cold plunges and espresso shots, this episode is packed with humor, insights, and Dave’s no-nonsense approach to building a purpose-driven career. Whether you're new to the mortgage world or just trying to figure out why Dave wakes up at 3:15 AM without an alarm, you’re in for a fun and inspiring ride!

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

Struggling to turn Instagram followers into actual clients? In this episode of The Way with Dino Katsiametis, Dino sits down with Michelle Berman-Mikel—founder of Berman Media PD and creator of the Instagram Power Method—for a deep dive into using Instagram strategically (not stressfully).

Michelle shares how real estate professionals and mortgage brokers can stop winging it on social media and start building a personal brand that drives real business. You’ll learn how to balance value-driven content with authentic storytelling, avoid the traps of automation, and turn DMs into deals.

💡 Highlights include:

• The biggest mistakes agents make on Instagram
• Why content that connects > content that sells
• How to stop “posting and praying” and start converting
• Building community through vulnerability, not vanity metrics

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or Insta-anxious beginner, this episode delivers tactical tips and a fresh perspective that’ll change how you show up online.

📲 Follow Michelle @bermanmediapd | Learn more at bermanmediapd.com

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

In this inspiring episode of The Way with Dino Katsiametis, Canadian mortgage mogul Brian Hogben shares his incredible journey from aspiring rock star to the founder of Mission 35 Mortgages. Brian opens up about the lessons learned from starting with nothing, building a multi-branch brokerage, and navigating massive setbacks—including being abandoned by his team just as he launched his business. He and Dino discuss work-life balance, leadership, pouring into others, and how fear can be your greatest motivator. Whether you're stuck in your career or striving for the next level, this episode is packed with actionable insights and bold strategies for building wealth and purpose.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

In this no-holds-barred episode of The Way with Dino Katsiametis, mortgage entrepreneur Chris Piro shares his remarkable journey—from nearly becoming a chef to leading a multi-state mortgage firm and closing over $150 million a year.

Chris reveals how cold-calling shaped his success, why discipline creates true freedom, and how he built a client base of 94,000 by staying relentlessly consistent. From his days in retail banking to launching Searchlight Lending, Chris brings real talk on what it takes to grow, scale, and stay sane in the mortgage industry.

- How cold calls, coffee meetings, and shoeboxes of business cards built his empire
- Why brokers should stop chasing shiny objects and double down on what works
- The exact routines, marketing systems, and CRM tactics Chris uses to generate business on autopilot
- Plus: the mindset shift every $20M loan officer needs to scale past the plateau

Whether you’re just starting out or trying to break past your ceiling, this episode delivers the real roadmap to going big in the mortgage world—without burning out.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

In this powerful episode of The Way, Dino Katsiametis sits down with Brian Covey—former professional soccer player turned mortgage executive and leadership coach—for a deep dive into the mindset, faith, and strategy that fuel high-performance business.

Brian shares his journey from the soccer field to becoming a top producer and respected leader in the mortgage world. They talk about building stamina—in sports and business—overcoming self-doubt, leading with integrity, and why faith and gratitude are Brian’s greatest business tools.

Listeners will discover:

• Why mental toughness and discipline are non-negotiables for entrepreneurs
• How Brian scaled from solo producer to leader of elite mortgage teams
• The impact of personal branding, coaching, and doing the hard things first
• Tactical advice for new and struggling loan officers
• Why being known beats being the best—and how to become both

Whether you're in real estate, lending, or leadership, this episode will give you the clarity and courage to level up your business and life.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

In this unfiltered and inspiring episode of The Way with Dino Katsiametis, mortgage leader, content creator, and industry veteran Alec Hanson shares his incredible journey—from closing $85M in loans in his first year to becoming a driving force at LoanDepot. Alec opens up about his early insecurities, lessons from the 2008 financial collapse, and how building authentic relationships—and a personal brand—changed his career trajectory.

🔍 In this episode, Alec breaks down:

• His rise from loan assistant to top producer and executive
• How content creation became a game-changer for recruiting and influence
• Lessons from losing everything in the housing crash
• The mindset shift from ego to servant leadership
• Why connection > perfection when it comes to social strategy
• How originators can leverage content to grow their referral networks
• What he’d do today if dropped in a new market with nothing but his knowledge

This is a must-listen for loan officers, leaders, and anyone in mortgage looking to stay relevant, make an impact, and future-proof their business.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

In this powerhouse episode of The Way with Dino Katsiametis, Dino sits down with Greg Sher—mortgage executive, media powerhouse, and host of the One on One podcast—for a candid and forward-thinking conversation on the future of lending, leadership, and technology in the mortgage industry.

Greg shares:

• His unique journey from sportscasting to mortgage industry leadership
• Why AI is more than a buzzword—and how it’s already changing origination
• The importance of adaptability for loan officers and real estate agents
• Honest takes on the NAR settlement and what it really means for your business
• Why voice, advocacy, and transparency are essential for the next-gen mortgage leader

This episode is a must-listen for mortgage professionals who want to stay relevant, lead with impact, and win in the age of automation. Whether you're a seasoned executive or just starting out, Greg’s no-BS insights, bold predictions, and deep industry perspective will leave you inspired and equipped for what’s next.

👉 Subscribe, share, and join us as we redefine the way lending should be done.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

In this powerhouse episode of The Way with Dino Katsiametis, we sit down with Tano Kapedani, CEO of EZ Fundings, who personally closes 200+ loans a year—even in tough markets. Tano shares the exact strategies that skyrocketed his production, from mastering product knowledge to turning bank turndowns into goldmines. Discover how he built one of the industry's top-performing brokerages and his no-BS approach to relationships, referrals, and real results. Whether you're a new LO or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with actionable insights that could transform your business.

👉 Subscribe now and learn from one of the top 2% in the mortgage industry!

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/

On this episode of The Way with Dino Katsiametis, John Donnelly, Executive Director of Sales at Service First Mortgage, shares how a 25-year journey in the mortgage industry—and a literal climb up Mount Kilimanjaro—taught him what it truly means to lead, grow, and serve.

Dino and John unpack the lessons behind lasting success:

• From call-center chaos to executive leadership—how grit builds greatness
• The power of servant leadership and creating impact beyond the paycheck
• Turning relationships into real results in today’s mortgage market
• How to find your “why” and keep climbing when business (and life) get tough
• Why systems, mindset, and integrity are the foundation of every top producer

If you’re a loan officer, entrepreneur, or leader searching for inspiration, strategy, and heart, this episode shows you how to rise higher—one intentional step at a time.

Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/