Lend and Lead

SE01 E34 Quality Over Quantity The Sales Shift That Changes Everything | Bobby Thames

Sam Abazari — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0100

The mortgage industry is built on a broken system of chasing volume, outdated sales tactics, and burnout disguised as success. But what if the hidden truth is this: working less, earning more, and eliminating stress is actually possible? In this episode, Bobby Thames exposes the uncomfortable reality behind big mortgage companies, industry myths about scaling, and why most loan officers are playing the wrong game.
If you’re serious about mortgage business, loan officer success, real estate sales, financial freedom, passive income, wealth building, and entrepreneurship, this conversation will completely shift your mindset.

Bobby Thames, a seasoned mortgage broker and business owner, shares how he built a $42M mortgage business working just 25 hours a week, without ads, without chasing leads, and without sacrificing life.

This is not theory. This is a proven blueprint.
🎯 What you will explore:
🔹 The “Quality Over Quantity” Philosophy That Destroys Competition
🔹 Why Big Mortgage Companies Are Built Like Sweatshops
🔹 The Exact Strategy To Close 100 Percent Of Your Deals
🔹 How To Work 25 Hours Weekly And Travel Every Month

From low interest rate strategy, mortgage broker business model, client conversion psychology, sales strategy, real estate networking, passive income streams, rental property investing to money management habits that actually build wealth, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Connect with Bobby Thames:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-thames-bb712712/

The future of this industry belongs to those who think differently.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

Listen to Lend & Lead on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RQyoXtGzt5yOC9TZjYvBk
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lend-and-lead/id1832440770
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9605275b-9baf-4ea7-a6a5-14740bfc92ff/lend-and-lead

#loanofficer #mortgagebroker #realestateprofessionals #leadgeneration #salescoaching #mortgageloans #mortgagetips #realtorrelationships #loansales #lendingindustry #closemoredeals #usrealestate #mortgagecareer #referralstrategies #loanofficercommunity #lendandlead
Lend & Lead is a podcast for loan officers who want to grow, win more business, and stay ahead in today’s mortgage market. Hosted by Sam Abazari, each episode features honest conversations, practical sales tips, and real stories from the front lines of lending. Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned pro, you’ll find ideas you can actually use - from building stronger realtor partnerships to generating more consistent leads and getting to the closing table faster. Sam also runs the Level Up LO community, where he shares free content and tools to help loan officers take action and level up their results. Tune in weekly, and get the support, strategy, and mindset you need to lead in your market; no fluff, just what works.

SE01 E33 Deal Flow Drying Up This Real Estate Comeback Strategy Fixes It | William Manly

Sam Abazari — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0100

The mortgage industry is broken… and the uncomfortable reality is most loan officers are chasing outdated strategies, burning out, and wondering why success keeps slipping away. This episode exposes the hidden truth about what actually builds sustainable income, real relationships, and a life you don’t secretly hate.

In this powerful conversation, William Manly of Princeton Mortgage shares what nobody tells you about rebuilding from rock bottom, losing everything, and redefining success beyond money.

After hitting peak income and then starting over from zero, William reveals how shifting from transactional selling to genuine relationships completely transformed his business, mental health, and lifestyle.

This is not theory. This is lived experience from the front lines of the mortgage industry.

If you're a loan officer, entrepreneur, or sales professional tired of the grind, this episode will change how you think about growth forever.

🎯 What you’ll explore:
🔹 The fall that forces real growth
🔹 Why money driven success quietly destroys you
🔹 The relationship strategy that prints consistent leads
🔹 Rebuilding life, business, and identity from zero

🔗 Connect with William Manly:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-manly/
Website: http://www.princetonmortgage.com/

If you're a loan officer, real estate agent, or entrepreneur looking for real growth, better clients, and a healthier life, this is for you.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E32 The simple daily habit that drives consistent deal flow | Jon Overfelt

Sam Abazari — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0100

The uncomfortable reality about the mortgage industry is this: most loan officers are stuck in a broken system built on outdated strategies, chasing social media hacks instead of mastering what actually drives consistent deal flow. While everyone obsesses over leads, the hidden truth is simple, brutal, and often ignored sales skill, daily discipline, and real relationships still win. In this episode, Jon Overfelt from American Security Mortgage exposes what nobody tells you about scaling in today’s market—and why most originators are playing the wrong game.

In this high-impact conversation, Jon Overfelt - Owner and Director of Sales at American Security Mortgage—breaks down the real mechanics behind building a $1.3B mortgage business with just 65 loan officers. With 27 years of experience, he shares raw, unfiltered insights on leadership, sales psychology, and the future of lending.

This is not theory. This is what actually works.

🔥 What you’ll learn:
• Why sales skills beat lead generation every time
• The difference between marketing vs sales (and why most get it wrong)
• How top loan officers create consistent deal flow without relying on social media
• The truth about ownership, leadership, and income ceilings in mortgage careers
• How to build a high-performance loan officer business with better work-life balance
• Why AI and lean structures are reshaping the mortgage industry
• The exact mindset shift needed to scale from LO to business owner

Jon also reveals how transparency, autonomy, and entrepreneurial thinking are helping loan officers 3x–4x their production—and why the future belongs to those who adapt early.

💬 If you're a loan officer, mortgage professional, or sales-driven entrepreneur looking to grow in 2025 and beyond, this episode is your blueprint.

👉 Subscribe for more high-performance conversations
👉 Comment your biggest takeaway
👉 Share with someone stuck in outdated strategies

The industry is changing fast. The question is—are you evolving with it?I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E31 The Trust Based Strategy Behind High Volume Loan Officers | Jonathan Kulak

Sam Abazari — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

The uncomfortable reality about mortgage success, lead generation, and scaling to $100M+ production is this: most loan officers are stuck in a broken system built on outdated strategies, chasing realtors, spamming social media, and relying on tactics that simply don’t work anymore. What nobody tells you is that real growth doesn’t come from more marketing it comes from mastery, trust, and community dominance.

In this episode, Jonathan K reveals the hidden truth behind building a referral engine so powerful, you never have to chase business again.
A retired Lieutenant Colonel, AC-130 pilot, and top VA lender, Jonathan K has funded over $169M in a single year without social media, ads, or aggressive sales tactics. His approach flips the entire mortgage industry playbook.
In this conversation, you’ll discover:
• How to build a $100M mortgage business without paid ads or cold outreach
• The referral strategy that replaces traditional lead generation
• Why most loan officers fail at scaling and what to do instead
• The competency + care framework that drives massive trust and repeat clients
• How to dominate a niche community and become the go-to expert
• The truth about realtor relationships and why most strategies are outdated
• How to create consistent deal flow through reputation, not marketing
This episode is a must-watch for loan officers, mortgage brokers, real estate professionals, and anyone serious about building a high-income, referral-driven business.
If you're tired of chasing leads and want a scalable, sustainable growth model, this is your blueprint.
👉 Subscribe for more high-performance business conversations
👉 Comment your biggest takeaway
👉 Share this with someone stuck in the old playbook
The future of business isn’t louder marketing. It’s deeper trust.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E30 Instagram DMs Are Closing More Deals Than Cold Calls | Katie Skaggs

Sam Abazari — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

The mortgage industry loves to sell a polished success story. Easy commissions. Endless referrals. A predictable pipeline. The uncomfortable reality is very different. In this episode, Katie Skaggs exposes the hidden truth behind modern mortgage sales, the broken assumptions about lead generation, and why outdated strategies are failing loan officers in today’s housing market. From closing millions in loan volume while pregnant to rebuilding a pipeline from scratch, Katie reveals what nobody tells you about surviving and thriving in the mortgage industry.

In this powerful conversation, Katie Skaggs shares her unconventional journey from entering the mortgage world straight out of college to becoming a high performing sales professional producing $18 million in loan volume in a single year while raising three children.

Her career spans retail lending, wholesale mortgage sales as an account executive, and returning to the broker channel where she rebuilt her business through relentless prospecting and modern relationship building.

This episode explores mortgage sales strategy, real estate partnerships, social media lead generation, and referral marketing.

Katie breaks down how she blends cold calling, Instagram outreach, and consistent relationship nurturing to connect with real estate agents and create a steady stream of referral partners.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E29 The Mortgage Sales Shift That Turns Activity Into Real Loan Growth | Chris Vinson

Sam Abazari — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

The mortgage industry runs on a broken system of outdated strategies, vanity metrics, and hustle myths that keep loan officers stuck. In this powerful episode, Chris Vinson exposes the hidden truth behind sustainable mortgage success. Instead of chasing flashy tactics or social media hype, he reveals the uncomfortable reality that the biggest wins in lending come from mastering the boring fundamentals that most originators avoid. If you want predictable growth, consistent referrals, and real authority in the mortgage business, this conversation breaks down what nobody tells you about winning in today’s market.

In this episode, Chris Vinson, CEO of Windsor Mortgage, a Division of Plains Commerce Bank, shares the leadership frameworks and production strategies that helped build one of the most dominant mortgage operations in the United States. With over two decades in the mortgage industry and billions in loan production, Chris is widely respected for coaching originators, broker owners, and leaders to scale consistently.

You will learn how top loan officers actually grow their pipeline, why daily accountability changes performance instantly, and the mindset shift that transforms producers from chasing numbers to building long term influence.

Chris also reveals the systems his teams use to create high performing loan officers, maintain strong referral relationships, and build a mortgage business that thrives even in volatile markets.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E28 Mortgage Industry Mistakes Costing Loan Officers Deals In 2026 | Laura J. Brandao

Sam Abazari — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Laura Brandao, President and Owner at MLB Wholesale, reveals the frameworks and strategies that helped her rise from a call center lead generator to leading companies generating billions in mortgage production.

She breaks down the leadership mindset, operational strategy, and relationship driven approach that modern mortgage professionals must adopt to survive a changing housing market. From building scalable mortgage operations to creating innovative loan programs and leveraging technology like AI and CRM automation, Laura explains how loan officers and brokers can differentiate themselves and dominate their markets.

Whether you are a loan officer, mortgage broker, real estate professional, or fintech leader, this episode dives deep into the future of the mortgage industry and the mindset required to build lasting success.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E26 THE CAPITAL MARKETS ADVANTAGE MOST BROKERS NEVER SEE | Robert Pieklo

Sam Abazari — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

The mortgage industry is stuck in outdated strategies, broken tech stacks, and ego driven leadership. Meanwhile, the broker channel is quietly taking market share. In this explosive episode, Rob Pieklo, President and CEO of E Mortgage Capital also known as EPM, reveals the hidden truth about wholesale lending, capital markets, and why most originators are distracted by the wrong things. After personally raising capital to acquire a lender and driving 900 percent wholesale growth in two years, Rob breaks down what actually creates dominance in today’s mortgage market.

From funding 1.3 billion in Q4 2025 to building AI driven mortgage technology, this conversation pulls back the curtain on broker growth, mortgage rates, capital markets strategy, and the uncomfortable reality loan officers need to hear.

Rob has held nearly every role in the mortgage industry including loan officer, branch manager, capital markets leader, and CEO. His edge? Deep capital markets expertise combined with real broker experience. He explains why most wholesale lenders operate as side businesses and how investing in technology, pricing strategy, and true partnership creates exponential broker growth.

This episode covers mortgage leadership, broker channel expansion, revenue generating activities for loan officers, wholesale lending strategy, AI in mortgage tech, and how to scale a mortgage business globally.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E25 Mastering Mortgage Success: The Art of Client-Centric Numbers | Jake Schoemann

Sam Abazari — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Jake shares insights into his successful mortgage business, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships, tracking numbers, and providing exceptional customer service. He discusses the balance between work and personal life, the significance of understanding clients' financial goals, and the value of hiring the right team members. Jake also highlights the need for loan officers to stay top of mind with referral partners and the impact of small, consistent actions in business growth.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E24 MASTERING RELATIONSHIPS IN MORTGAGE LENDING :LOAN OFFICER’S LIFE | Carly Roberts

Sam Abazari — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Carly Roberts shares her insights on being a successful builder loan officer, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships with sales reps and clients. She discusses her unique approach to client interactions, the significance of work-life balance, and the strategies that have led to her impressive capture rate. Carly also reflects on her journey into the mortgage industry and offers valuable advice for aspiring loan officers.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E23 THE REAL WAY TO SCALE A MORTGAGE BROKERAGE IN A TOUGH MARKET | Brandon List

Sam Abazari — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Brandon shares his journey in the mortgage industry, detailing his rise to processing $75 million in loans. He discusses the balance between work and family life, the sacrifices made, and the importance of having a supportive partner. Brandon emphasizes the significance of building relationships with builders and the strategic approach he took to identify market inefficiencies. He highlights the grit required to succeed, including cold calling and persistence, and outlines his future goals of expanding into direct consumer markets and educating potential homebuyers about financial literacy.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E22 $5 Million to $67 Million: Secrets Behind Rapid Growth in the Mortgage Industry | Alex Reid

Sam Abazari — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Alex shares his remarkable journey in the mortgage industry, detailing his rapid growth from closing $5 million in loans to an anticipated $67 million in 2025. He discusses the importance of mindset, personal sacrifices, and the challenges of balancing work and personal life. Alex emphasizes the significance of networking, building relationships, and finding a niche in the market. He also reflects on the financial responsibilities that come with success and outlines his strategies for continued growth and team development.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E21 Turning Challenges into Opportunities in Sales | Danilo Ariza

Sam Abazari — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Danilo shares his journey in the mortgage industry, discussing the challenges he faced during a tough year and how he turned things around. He emphasizes the importance of mental resilience, building a strong network, and maintaining accountability in sales. Danilo also highlights the significance of follow-up, setting clear goals, and the role of a supportive team in achieving business growth. He reflects on the emotional highs and lows of sales and the necessity of continuous improvement and training for success.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E20 Top 1% Producer Secrets for High-Converting Referrals | Bashir Kadi

Sam Abazari — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Bashir shares his journey from a W-2 job to becoming a top mortgage producer, discussing the importance of mentorship, the phases of a mortgage career, and the balance between work and family life. He emphasizes the significance of building strong relationships with realtors, managing leads effectively, and expanding into new markets while maintaining a solid online presence. Bashir also highlights the value of past clients and the challenges he faces in growing his business while prioritizing family time.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

SE01 E19 Building Relationships in the Loan Business: Loan Officer's Journey | Cameron Pridemore

Sam Abazari — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Cameron shares his journey from being a teacher to becoming a successful loan officer and branch manager. He discusses the importance of relationship building, maintaining a positive mindset, and balancing work with family life. Cameron emphasizes the flexibility of the loan officer business and how it allows him to enjoy activities like golfing while still being productive. He also shares insights on lead generation, conversion rates, and the significance of having a supportive team. Throughout the discussion, Cameron highlights the importance of staying connected with referral partners and being accessible to clients.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

SE01 E18 The One-Man Mortgage Powerhouse: Secrets to Success | Koorosh Farzad

Sam Abazari — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, we explore the journey of a successful one-man mortgage broker who generates $60 million annually through organic growth and exceptional client service. The discussion covers time management strategies, the importance of building a high-end clientele, and the mindset required for financial freedom. The speaker shares insights on expanding into new markets, maintaining client relationships, and offers valuable advice for aspiring loan officers.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E17 Millionaire at 28: Balancing Family & Entrepreneurship | Alex Hernandez

Sam Abazari — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Alex Hernandez shares his journey as a successful entrepreneur and loan officer, discussing his experiences in balancing work and family life, financial concerns, and the importance of building relationships in the business. He emphasizes the significance of having a solid business model and the role of tools like Rate Update in maintaining client engagement. Alex also highlights the need for effective communication and a structured sales system to succeed in the loan industry.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

SE01 E16 How Thomas Harris created a $32M/yr business using Zillow | Thomas Harris

Sam Abazari — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Thomas shares his journey in the real estate and mortgage industry, discussing his achievements, challenges, and strategies for success. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships with realtors, understanding financial stability, and navigating the complexities of rental properties. The discussion also covers investment strategies, effective marketing, and the significance of follow-up in converting leads into clients. Thomas offers valuable advice for aspiring loan officers, highlighting the need for proactive networking and reliability in building a successful career.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E15 Doing 13 loans/mo leveraging social media | Arturo Nava Solis

Sam Abazari — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Arturo shares his journey as a loan officer, detailing his transition from a state employee to a successful mortgage professional. He discusses the importance of building a referral network with realtors, leveraging social media for business growth, and innovative lead generation strategies. Arturo emphasizes the significance of client education and setting clear goals for future success, while also providing valuable advice for new loan officers entering the industry.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E14 Building a successful branch in his 3 year with great hires | Courtney Douglas

Sam Abazari — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Courtney Douglas shares his remarkable journey from a new loan officer to a successful branch manager at just 26 years old. He discusses the pros and cons of branch management, the importance of profitability, and the strategies he employs to maintain strong client relationships, especially during refinancing periods. Courtney emphasizes the significance of hiring the right talent, managing team dynamics, and the role of operations in achieving success. He also highlights the importance of flexibility and travel in maintaining a balanced life while achieving business goals.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E13 Full time pilot doing 6 loans a month with 92% conversion | Steve Ton

Sam Abazari — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Steve shares his journey as a successful loan officer and entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of mindset, systems, and client relationships. He discusses how to build a business while managing multiple responsibilities, the significance of onboarding clients effectively, and the value of creating a strong team. Steve also highlights strategies for lead generation and the importance of providing value beyond the closing process. His insights offer practical advice for aspiring loan officers looking to grow their business and achieve success.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E12 Becoming a top mortgage broker with direct to consumer | Zach Bleznick

Sam Abazari — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Zach shares his journey in the mortgage industry, discussing the importance of adaptability, building relationships, and effective communication. He emphasizes the need for loan officers to pivot in response to market changes, focusing on generating deals rather than just leads. Zach also highlights the significance of branding and online presence in attracting clients, as well as the strategy of consumer direct marketing. He concludes with key advice for loan officers on being present, communicating effectively, and asking for business opportunities.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E11 Doing $40M/Yr and building a mortgage company in his 20s | Grant Hall

Sam Abazari — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Grant Hall, a successful mortgage producer, shares insights into his journey in the mortgage industry, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people, maintaining a team-oriented mindset, and achieving a balance between work and personal life. He discusses strategies for scaling his business, the significance of building meaningful partnerships, and the need for a strong client experience. Grant also reflects on lessons learned throughout his career and offers valuable advice for aspiring loan officers.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E11 Turning his life around from near death to top producer in 8 years | Jason Parker

Sam Abazari — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this conversation, Jason Parker shares his diverse career journey, highlighting the influence of his military background on his success in the mortgage industry. He discusses the importance of building relationships, maintaining a strong reputation, and the financial rewards of his current role. Jason emphasizes the significance of competence and consistency in loan origination, as well as effective communication with clients and realtors. He also provides insights into his business metrics and the challenges of lead generation, ultimately offering advice for aspiring loan officers.

Jason Parker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-parker-aa904713b/

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: / samabazari
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/abo...

Listen to Lend & Lead on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1RQyoXt...
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/960...

SE01 E10 Turning his life around from near death to top producer in 8 years | PJ Crescenzo III

Sam Abazari — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this conversation, PJ Crescenzo shares his remarkable journey in the mortgage industry, highlighting his achievements, mindset, and the importance of personal growth. He discusses his relocation to Orlando, the obstacles he faced, and how they shaped his perspective on success. PJ emphasizes the significance of faith, family, and building relationships in the industry. He also outlines his vision for his new role as Vice President of Sales, focusing on helping loan officers grow their businesses sustainably. Throughout the discussion, PJ provides valuable insights on overcoming challenges, the role of finances, and the importance of mentorship and personal development.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E09 Seth Bellas, In Debt to Millionaire in his 30s | Seth Bellas

Sam Abazari — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this conversation, Seth Bellas shares his journey in the mortgage industry, emphasizing the importance of relationships, mentorship, and personal growth. He discusses his financial strategies for home buying, the significance of consistency in follow-up, and the value of adding practical insights to clients' lives. Seth also reflects on his success in lending, the challenges faced, and the importance of building a sustainable business. He concludes with advice for new loan officers and the significance of finding the right support in their careers.

Connect with Seth on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethbellas/

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E08 From Sharing a Basement to building an Empire | With Amer Bally

Sam Abazari — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this conversation, Amer shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a top mortgage broker in Michigan. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, a winning mindset, and the power of gratitude in both personal and professional life. Amer discusses the significance of building a strong foundation in business through networking and understanding client needs. He also highlights the balance between work and family, and the transformative process of redefining one's identity beyond professional success.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E07 From Call Center to Millionaire | With Drew Ferguson

Sam Abazari — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this conversation, the speaker shares insights from their journey as a loan officer, discussing their personal philosophy on money, the importance of work-life balance, and the evolution of their mindset over the years. They emphasize the significance of building strong relationships with realtors, providing value to clients, and maintaining a solid reputation in the market. The speaker also offers advice for new loan officers, highlighting the challenges of the first few years in the industry and the importance of patience and hard work.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E06 Becoming a top producing VP after 20 years in corporate America | With Josiah Burdge

Sam Abazari — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this conversation, Josiah shares his journey from a successful career at T-Mobile to becoming a Vice President at Anchor Home Mortgages. He emphasizes the importance of balancing family life with a demanding career, highlighting that true success is not just about financial achievements but also about being present for loved ones. Josiah discusses the significance of building genuine relationships in the mortgage industry, the power of giving without expectation, and the necessity of embracing technology to stay competitive. He offers practical advice for both new and existing loan officers, stressing the importance of open houses and creating a supportive team environment. The conversation concludes with insights into the future of the mortgage industry and the need for adaptability.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E05 Building an origination business inside real estate offices | With John Keene

Sam Abazari — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this conversation, John shares his journey of starting over in the Cincinnati real estate market after moving from Arizona. He discusses the challenges he faced in building relationships with realtors, the importance of responsiveness, and how his past experiences shaped his current success. John emphasizes the need for a solid plan and persistence in the competitive mortgage industry, as well as his evolving relationship with money and the importance of giving back.

website: https://tcghomeloans.com
https://www.zillow.com/lender-profile/john%20keene9/

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E04 From Corporate Sales to Broker Owner and Building a Team | With Braian Da Silva

Sam Abazari — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this conversation, Brian De Silva shares his journey from a corporate sales manager to a successful independent mortgage broker. He discusses the challenges and rewards of transitioning to a commission-based role, the importance of family support, and the strategies he employs to build a client-centric business. Brian emphasizes the significance of hard work, discipline, and maintaining a strong reputation in the industry. He also shares insights on financial management, investment strategies, and his vision for the future, which includes mentoring aspiring loan officers and creating a supportive team environment.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E02 Roger Moore, $1.4B Mortgage CEO of Loan Pronto | With Roger Moore

Sam Abazari — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 13:00:00 +0100

In this conversation, Roger discusses his journey as a serial entrepreneur in the mortgage industry, focusing on the challenges faced during economic downturns, the importance of team resilience, and innovative marketing strategies. He emphasizes the significance of maintaining company culture and employee morale, even in tough times, and shares insights on balancing work and personal life. Additionally, Roger addresses the future of AI in business and the importance of personal branding for loan officers.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E02 - Building a $100M Producer without Realtor Partners | With Jay Bunte

Sam Abazari — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 14:00:00 +0100

Jay Bunte, Branch Manager at UMortgage, is a West Point graduate and $100M producer in less than five years. In this conversation, he shares how he built a thriving VA loan business by getting most of his referrals from social media and very few from realtor partners. Jay discusses the importance of changing perceptions about VA loans, building trust with realtors, and leveraging social media for lead generation. The conversation also explores work-life balance, investing in team growth, and the significance of communication and personal branding in the loan industry.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

SE01 E01 - Becoming a Top Mortgage Broker In The First Year In Business | With Taylor Sherman

Sam Abazari — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 10:44:06 +0100

In this inspiring interview, Taylor - one of Southern Arizona’s top mortgage brokers - shares his remarkable journey from mortgage tech sales to becoming a top-producing loan officer in just two years. He opens up about his community-driven approach to business, his impressive production results, and the power of reputational selling. Taylor reveals how he balances a thriving career with personal life, builds high-performing teams, and navigates the ever-changing mortgage landscape. You’ll also hear his insights on the art of storytelling in sales, creating strong realtor partnerships, and his best advice for aspiring loan officers looking to break into the industry.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Sam and the Lend & Lead podcast team

Connect with Sam Abazari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samabazari/
Visit the Level Up LO community: https://www.skool.com/level-up-lo/about?ref=2cb859523a28420d8762609bd56c7694

#newseries #lendandlead #business #foryoupage #foryou #podcastseries