Episodes

  • Samir and Darlene Rashed: Enriching Communities through Homeownership Education
    Oct 31 2024
    Samir and Darlene Rashed, the dynamic duo behind Crefco Financial Group. With over 27 years in the mortgage industry, they built a reputation for their commitment to educate, uplift, and inspire communities through home ownership. Their journey began with the purchase of their first home in their early twenties, sparking a passion for helping others achieve the dream of home ownership. Samir transitioned from corporate sales to become a loan officer, with Darlene following suit after a distinguished 26-year corporate career. For the past 15 years, they've been partners at Crefco Financial Group, where their expertise in real estate and dedication to customer satisfaction have driven success. Married for 30 years, their commitment to each other extends to their shared mission of making a positive impact in their community.In this episode, Dante, Samir & Darlene discuss:Founding Crefco Financial Group and empowering homebuyers through educationEconomic challenges impacting homebuyers and the importance of planningPopularity of multi-unit buildings and co-signing strategies for young buyersEfficient communication and debunking homebuyer myths through transparencyResearching AI trends and enhancing digital capabilities while maintaining a human touchKey Takeaways: Founders emphasize the importance of empowering homebuyers through education and personalized attention, setting Crefco apart in the mortgage industry.Economic challenges require strategic education and planning, particularly for lower-income borrowers seeking affordable homeownership.Multi-unit buildings are highlighted as an investment option, offering both rental income and mortgage support for homeowners.Co-signing with parents emerges as a key solution for young buyers struggling with affordability in the housing market.Embracing technology, Crefco enhances the customer experience with digital tools while maintaining a human touch, focusing on education and transparency.“We educate, uplift, and inspire through home ownership by humanizing the customer experience. From start to finish, we guide people with education, helping them feel comfortable so they can confidently reach the finish line.” - Samir & Darlene RashedConnect with Samir & Darlene Rashed:Website: https://www.cfgohio.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cfgohio Twitter: https://x.com/CFGOhio Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cfgohio/ Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
    Show more Show less
    25 mins
  • Jess Ford: Coaching with Integrity – Building Leaders and Ethical Salespeople
    Oct 17 2024
    Jess Ford is a seasoned professional in the mortgage industry. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, she began her career in 2010 as a loan officer after studying business at Eastern Michigan University. During her time at one of the largest consumer direct mortgage lenders in the country, she discovered her passion for learning and development, gaining experience in training, sales coaching, and underwriting.In 2013, Jess expanded her knowledge by earning credit certifications as a homeownership coach, where she educated potential borrowers, especially those with below-average FICO scores, preparing them for mortgages. Later, she transitioned to business-to-business mortgage lending, training and coaching hundreds of account executives and assisting mortgage brokers nationwide to expand and grow their businesses. She is known by her colleagues as hardworking and ethical, with an unwavering dedication to excellence and integrity. She has a solid reputation for meeting her clients' needs in a pleasant, prompt, and professional manner, maintaining confidentiality and providing a transparent process. Currently, Jess serves as a business development consultant and a licensed loan originator.In this episode, Dante and Jess discuss:Leadership approaches in sales accounting for personal factors and adult learning stylesEmphasizing ethics and integrity by prioritizing client interests over profitsDeveloping diverse salespeople and grooming future trainersMaintaining a growth mindset through consistent training and tailored communicationCoaching with a focus on being a "good human" in business practicesKey Takeaways: A successful career is built on passion, ethics, and a commitment to client service, forming the foundation for long-term success.Effective leadership hinges on understanding the personal lives of salespeople, identifying issues, and guiding them back to core principles.Recognizing and adapting to individual learning styles is essential, as adult brain development significantly impacts learning capacity.Differentiating through superior client service, integrity, and ethics ensures a business thrives by prioritizing customer interests over profit.Leaders who prioritize consistent training and clear communication foster growth in their teams, enabling diverse salespeople to reach their potential and become future trainers.“So, when it comes to coaching, training, and leadership, it's all about the attention to detail and the cadence of the coaching cycles. Each person needs something a little different, and it's our job as coaches and leaders to figure out what it is on that individual level and then build them a multilevel coaching platform to work through. If we can do that, as coaches and leaders, we're going to produce some really, really good salespeople—some honest salespeople—but we're also going to build a lot of leaders at the same time.” - Jess FordConnect with Jess Ford:Website: https://www.kscopeconsultants.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-ford-0020955/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JFordConsulting Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jford_consulting/ Email: jessford@kscopeconsultants.com Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
    Show more Show less
    25 mins
  • Paige Zautcke: Mastering Non-QM: The Path to Homeownership and Real Estate Success
    Oct 3 2024
    Paige Zautcke is an experienced Account Executive for Open Mortgage Wholesale, specializing in Non-QM and Portfolio Non-Agency programs. With over 20 years in the mortgage industry, Paige has spent the majority of her career working with mortgage brokers and bankers, helping them guide borrowers toward homeownership and building stronger communities. Her background also includes roles as a licensed Real Estate Salesperson and Senior Mortgage Operational Specialist at a global bank. An alumna of the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville, Paige currently resides in Florida with her family. When she’s not helping clients achieve their dreams of homeownership, you’ll likely find her beachside or poolside with a good book, or enjoying the company of friends.In this episode, Dante and Paige discuss:Non-QM loans help self-employed buyers own homesMortgage brokers guide and educate on non-QM optionsHomeownership strengthens communitiesUnderstanding rates and underwriting eases the mortgage processSmart real estate investing requires research and control over emotionsKey Takeaways: Non-QM and portfolio programs provide flexible lending options for self-employed borrowers, offering alternatives to traditional financing.Mortgage brokers and loan officers play a vital role in guiding borrowers toward homeownership while also transforming communities through their expertise.Getting pre-approved and receiving financial counseling before house hunting ensures smoother transactions and sets realistic expectations for buyers.Understanding the mortgage process—from focusing on payments over rates to the role of underwriters—can reduce stress and help avoid common misconceptions.Thorough research and careful planning are essential for real estate investing, helping avoid impulsive decisions based on emotions.“It's my job to provide the opportunity for loan officers and processors to learn my products, system, and process, which helps create a smoother, more enjoyable loan experience. I love teaching loan officers and processors something new, especially when someone comes to me who has never done a Non-QM product before. It excites me to help clear up the misconceptions about Non-QM products. And when it comes to buying a house, before you find a realtor or even look at homes, find a loan officer like Dante—someone you can talk to thoroughly about your finances, job history, and everything that can impact the underwriter's decision.” - Paige ZautckeConnect with Paige Zautcke:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paige-zautcke-ab17a149/ Phone: 414-699-8333Email: paigezautcke@openwholesale.com Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
    Show more Show less
    21 mins
  • H. Edward Gallatin: Proactive Tax Strategies for Real Estate Success
    Sep 19 2024
    H. Edward Gallatin, MBA, CPA, CTRS, a lifelong resident of the Wabash Valley is a distinguished professional with extensive academic background and a profound commitment to his community. With a foundation from Indiana State University including a Bachelor of Science in Political Science (1980), Bachelor of Science in Accounting (1996), and a Master of Business Administration (1998), Mr. Gallatin imparts wisdom as an Accounting and Finance educator at Indiana State University and is a sought-after guest speaker on Personal Finance and Tax Strategies. Operating under the banner of H Edward Gallatin CPA, his firm is situated at 18 S. 5th Street, Terre Haute, Indiana, serving the diverse needs of individuals and small businesses within the Wabash Valley. With a distinguished certification as a Certified Tax Resolution Specialist (CTRS), Mr. Gallatin offers personalized, confidential assistance in addressing IRS-related issues, standing in stark contrast to the impersonal promises of national firms.In this episode Dante and Edward discuss:Tax-saving strategies like cost segregation and 1031 exchangesThe value of proactive CPA partnerships and regular meetingsTax benefits of cost segregation and stepped-up basis at inheritanceReal estate professional status and rental loss deductionsChoosing advisors who offer proactive advice, not just compliance workKey Takeaways: Real estate investors can leverage tax-saving strategies like cost segregation and 1031 exchanges, which offer significant benefits to reduce taxable income.Regular, proactive CPA meetings are essential, helping real estate investors navigate tax laws and make informed financial decisions throughout the year.Qualifying as a "real estate professional" provides investors the advantage of deducting rental losses against income, bypassing AGI limitations.Advisors should be chosen not just for their compliance skills but for their ability to offer strategic, forward-thinking advice tailored to real estate investments.Ignoring tax filings can lead to severe consequences, including forfeited refunds and potential legal action; professional assistance is crucial in avoiding these risks.“I think the biggest thing is cost segregation. Even those who are aware of it often think, ‘Well, I don’t own a big office complex or a mall.’ However, you can use cost segregation on residential rentals as well, which is often overlooked and can result in significant tax savings. For those playing the long game in real estate, the 1031 exchange is probably the best strategy for generating what I call generational wealth. It’s perfect for that.” - H. Edward GallatinConnect with H. Edward Gallatin:Website: https://www.heg-taxrelief.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/h-edward-gallatin-mba-cpa-ctrs-312a1354/ Phone: (812) 233-3989Email: hgallatin@aol.com Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
    Show more Show less
    24 mins
  • Erika J. Kendrick: From Courtside Cheers to Cultivating Mental Fitness
    Sep 5 2024
    Erika J. Kendrick is a bestselling author, national speaker, and mental fitness expert. With a psychology degree from Stanford and an MBA from the University of Illinois at Chicago, Erika's diverse career includes being an NBA cheerleader for the Chicago Bulls and writing novels like Confessions of a Rookie Cheerleader and Appetite. She’s currently touring her bestselling middle grade books Squad Goals and Cookie Monsters, with her next novel, Instafamous, set to release on October 1, 2024.After overcoming personal struggles, Erika founded Mental Fitness for Life, launching the "Who Moved My Happy?" tour to inspire hope through conversations about mental health. She has spoken at colleges, Fortune 500 companies, and the military, and is a Hall of Fame inductee with the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Erika has been featured on major media outlets like Good Morning America and in publications such as The Huffington Post and The Chicago Tribune.In this episode, Dante and Erika discuss:Transition from cheerleading to mental health advocacyManaging depression and anxietyImpact of social media on emotional well-beingPromoting mental wellness in communities of colorConstructing a mental fitness planKey Takeaways: Erika's personal narrative sheds light on the power of transformation, revealing how career changes can be catalysts for advocacy and personal fulfillment. Recognizing and accepting one's mental health struggles are highlighted as the first steps towards managing depression and anxiety effectively.The complex relationship between social media usage and our collective happiness, cautioning against the hidden pitfalls of digital engagement.The pressing need for better mental health support in underserved communities, advocating for a more inclusive approach to wellness resources.Practical advice surfaces on how to draft your own mental fitness plan, emphasizing support systems and professional guidance as foundational elements.“It's been incredible to be able to use a lot of my pain for good now that I'm on the other side of it and I'm thriving and not just struggling to survive. It's a tremendous blessing.” - Erika J. KendrickConnect with Erika J. Kendrick:Website: http://xoerika.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-kendrick-658284127/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erikajkendrick/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erikajkendrick/ Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
    Show more Show less
    19 mins
  • Joshua Mercer: Diverse Ventures and Community Impact
    Aug 22 2024
    Joshua Mercer is a true Chicago visionary with a heart for the community and a knack for entrepreneurship. A graduate of Howard University with a degree in marketing, he later received a master's in elementary education. His journey has been marked by impactful ventures, from founding Swish Dreams Sports and Educational Foundation to pioneering the largest black bar crawl with the Movemakers. His commitment to youth empowerment and community engagement is unparalleled. Not stopping there, he ventured into insurance with the Joshua Mercer Insurance Agency, serving thousands in the Chicagoland area, and later expanded into real estate with Mercer Capital LLC, now boasting over 135 units and a luxury lounge, The Hue Chicago. Beyond business, Joshua is deeply involved in organizations like 100 Black Men and finds joy in family moments with his wife, Kenya, and their two children.In this episode Dante and Joshua discuss:Joshua's motivations and journey in his diverse entrepreneurial venturesThe shift from traditional employment to thriving as an entrepreneurStrategic problem-solving and partnership building across various businessesThe pressures of entrepreneurship and the resilience needed to push through challengesEssential advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, including reputation management and the balance between professional growth and giving back to the communityKey Takeaways: Understanding how the desire for freedom and financial autonomy can drive the leap into entrepreneurship, while also highlighting the importance of utilizing one's unique skill set to address market needs.The narrative of shifting from teaching to entrepreneurship accentuates the critical role of strategic problem-solving and partnership formations in cultivating business growth.Examining the intense pressures of entrepreneurship reveals that the immense financial and personal investment often makes quitting a viable option.This insightful discussion delves into the complexities of serial entrepreneurship, from sustaining brand integrity and achieving work-life balance to effective team building.Offering invaluable guidance for budding entrepreneurs, Mercer touches upon the pillars of a strong reputation, clear problem identification, adaptability, leadership, and the impact of giving back to the community.“The true mark of a leader is somebody who makes other people better. You can lead from the front, the middle, or the back, but if you're not making other people better, you're not a leader.” - Joshua MercerConnect with Joshua Mercer:Websites: https://www.movemakerevents.com/ , https://www.homecomingathoward.com/ , https://hue-chicago.com/ , https://www.listwithmercer.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuamercer/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoshuaMercerInsurance/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/josh4insurance/ Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
    Show more Show less
    31 mins
  • Trent Ehrlich: Revolutionizing Insurance in an Evolving Market
    Aug 8 2024
    Trent Ehrlich is a seasoned insurance professional dedicated to providing personalized coverage solutions throughout Colorado. With over a decade of experience, Trent is known for his attentive customer service, unwavering integrity, and ability to simplify complex insurance concepts. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance, which enables him to combine industry expertise with a strong financial background to offer tailored solutions for both families and businesses. Outside of his professional endeavors, Trent is an active community member, volunteering with local charities and youth organizations. He enjoys hiking in the picturesque Colorado mountains, skiing in the winter, and spending quality time with his family.In this episode Dante and Trent discuss:Trent's dedicated approach to offering customized insurance solutions and the relevance of personal integrity and education in his workThe unexpected path that led Ehrlich to the insurance sector, underscoring the importance of interpersonal connection, a positive mindset, and technological savvyThe significant challenges confronting the insurance industry such as surging insurance rates tied to an increase in crime, thefts, and economic issues post-2020State Farm's strategic response to industry challenges and its success in retaining its market in high-risk areasKey insights for budding insurance professionals around the importance of resilience, maintaining an upbeat attitude, and not taking obstacles personallyKey Takeaways: Tailoring insurance solutions to individual clients is paramount, and this is grounded in the consultant's experience and integrity.Success in the insurance industry can often stem from an ability to foster strong interpersonal relations, remain optimistic, and adapt to technological changes.The insurance landscape is influenced by a variety of factors including crime rates and economic conditions, requiring customer education and clear communication of changes.Companies like State Farm can succeed in challenging environments by adopting competitive strategies that address regional risks.Aspiring insurance agents should focus on persevering through setbacks, staying positive, and viewing challenges as stepping stones to success.“Staying up-to-date with technology and being highly customer-focused—ensuring that customers come first and receive accurate information—are key to success. It's also important to remain optimistic and positive during challenging times, which are inevitable in the insurance industry. Staying informed about the latest technology and industry trends, and effectively communicating this knowledge to customers, is crucial.” - Trent EhrlichConnect with Trent Ehrlich:Website: https://www.statefarm.com/agent/us/co/boulder/trent-ehrlich-1cdc678mbge Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
    Show more Show less
    21 mins
  • Jesse Pettway: Service Beyond the Transaction
    Jul 25 2024
    Jesse Pettway is a Husband, Father, Firefighter Paramedic, and Licensed Funeral Director. He is a dedicated professional with a passion for guiding aspiring Funeral Directors on their journey to obtaining licensure. As an honors graduate of Malcolm X College's Mortuary Science Program, Jesse brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the field. Who is Jesse Pettway? Jesse is more than just a licensed funeral director; he's a loving husband and father to 11 children, having experienced the heartache of losing two of them at an early age. His unique perspective and commitment to family drive his unwavering dedication to his work. Balancing Act In addition to his role in the world of mortuary science, Jesse serves as a full-time Firefighter Paramedic for the City of Chicago. In this episode Dante and Jesse Pettway discuss:Jesse's multifaceted career and his dedication to serving others in various capacities, including the often misunderstood funeral industry.The unexpected journey into funeral direction and the importance of pre-planning to reduce the financial and emotional burden on loved ones.The practicalities of life insurance planning, especially the advantages of planning early.A closer look into the costs and processes of burial and cremation services, challenging common myths about the industry.The personalized approach to providing compassionate support to grieving families, and the significance of personalizing funerals to honor the memory of the deceased.Key Takeaways: Jesse Petway showcases how personal experiences can shape professional paths, leading to a fulfilling career that blends empathy with service.Preplanning critical end-of-life services, like funerals and life insurance, can be an invaluable gift, easing the practical and financial stress on families during difficult times.Understanding the costs and processes involved in funeral services can dispel myths and bring clarity to a topic often shrouded in mystery.An empathetic and flexible approach towards grief can redefine the experience of morticians' interactions with grieving families, moving away from the traditional stoic image.There is a powerful desire to build a lasting legacy, not just through the services offered but through the impact and care imparted to each individual and the community.“Mortuary science or death care is pretty much similar to clergy in the fact that we take care of people. The journey of grief is a long journey and it helps to have somebody with you that's familiar with that journey, so that you could get to the other side.” - Jesse PettwayConnect with Jesse Pettway:Website: https://nbeexamprep.com/home LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-pettway-5340b27b/ Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
    Show more Show less
    15 mins