The Big Skip Energy Podcast

Today Skip welcomes Malik Wilkes to discuss his extensive experience and involvement in the mortgage industry. Malik shares his not so unique story about stumbling into the mortgage field, from planning a career in law to becoming the lead of the mortgage origination team at a credit union. He emphasizes the importance of financial literacy, industry education, and community involvement. They also talk about strategic approaches credit unions can adopt to promote their mortgage services, and listen to Malik’s holiday preferences in an entertaining 'this or that' segment.

In this episode of the Big Skip Energy Podcast, Skip welcomes back Laura Witte, a loan officer with Highland Mortgage, and two new faces, Chelsea Monaco Carlis and Gabby Hines from the Anna K InTown real estate team in Atlanta. With all the recent changes for agents, the group dives into the critical role of buyer's agents, the importance of local partnerships and how buyers and sellers can ensure they are working with an agent who will deliver for them. They talk about the intricacies of the home-buying process, including the benefits of bridge loans and HELOCs.

Skip is here to drop some knowledge today with  Laura Witte from Highland Mortgage  and Mark Jones, CEO of Keller Williams Atlanta,. They delve into the complexities of the current real estate market, from the importance of local expertise and the shift to a skills-based approach to navigating commissions and securing successful transactions. They address election season dynamics, the risks of for-sale-by-owner deals, and the crucial role of professional agents in mitigating fraud and negotiating advantageous deals.

We have all faced some tough times in the industry, and Skip's guest today, Bryan Lovell, is no exception as he started his career in 2007.  Bryan is a mortgage retail sales leader with Highland Mortgage. He and Skip discuss the current ups and downs of the mortgage business, and Bryan shares his experiences starting in a very challenging market, the importance of maintaining a proactive mindset amidst economic challenges, and effective strategies for building and maintaining real estate referral partnerships. He stresses the importance of building personal connections alongside detailed business planning, Brian offers advice for both new and seasoned loan officers to adapt to market shifts and prepare for future success.Find more about Bryan Lovell

On today's episode, brought to you by Highland Mortgage, Skip welcomes John McNair, President and CEO of the Community Bankers Association of Georgia. They discuss his history in the banking industry, the importance of community banking, and his experience with advocacy and education. John highlights the tech advancements in community banking, the association’s legislative accomplishments, and the ever-changing role of education in combating fraud. He also shares how his passion for martial arts and golf help to shape his leadership style.

In this episode of the Big Skip Energy Podcast, sponsored by Highland Mortgage, Skip welcomes Laura Witte from Highland Mortgage and veteran real estate agent Weslee Knapp, Owner at KellerKnapp. They share their extensive experience in the real estate industry, discuss the implications of the recent NAR settlement, and offer valuable advice for both consumers and real estate pros. They talk with Skip about the importance of transparency, good fundamentals, early investment in property to create long-term wealth, and give actionable insights and reassuring perspectives during times of change in the real estate market.

Today Skip welcomes Kristie Jones, a sales consultant for early-stage B2B SaaS startups. She tells her story about her start in corporate America and transition to self-employment. Kristie explains how her entrepreneurial background inspired her to help founders transition from founder-led selling to building robust sales processes. She and Skip discuss the importance of finding the right sales role, leveraging sales superpowers, and staying adaptable in a dynamic sales environment. Don't miss her new book, 'Selling Your Way In,' the blueprint for sales professionals to control their income and life.Find more about Kristie

In this episode of the Big Skip Energy Podcast, Skip welcomes Ashley Yarabinec, CMB, AMP, the Director of Member Relations for the Bankers Association. They discuss the Mortgage Action Alliance (MAA) and its significance in mortgage industry advocacy. She explains how industry professionals can get involved, the tools available for advocacy, and shares success stories of impactful campaigns. Ashley also highlights the upcoming Advocacy Conference in Washington D.C. and the 'Advocacy in August' campaign, showing just how important grassroots efforts are in shaping legislative priorities.

In this episode of the Big Skip Energy Podcast, Skip welcomes Michelle Berman Mikel, CEO of Berman Media PD. Her background in fitness and competitive swimming translates into high competitive energy in the world of social media coaching for real estate agents and mortgage professionals. She discusses her company services and goals, and offers tips on effective social media prospecting and content creation, emphasizing authentic connections over passive marketing.

The one and only Susanna Gray Jones returns to the Big Skip Energy podcast to share her story from education recruitment in England to starting a business in Dubai. Susanna and Skip discuss the challenges of sales management, effective recruitment, the importance of clear communication and accountability, and the significance of treating employees with dignity, even when parting ways.

Today Skip welcomes Mark Milam, former airline pilot and current President of Highland Mortgage. He talks about his transition from aviation to the mortgage industry, and discusses the importance of persistence, nurturing client relationships, and effective communication strategies. Learn how Mark overcame challenges, adapted his skills, and built a successful mortgage company from the ground up

Today Dr. Bruce Lund joins the Big Skip Energy Podcast to discuss his background in human performance, his transition into mortgage coaching, and launching his coaching business, 90 Day Sales Manager. He gives insights on building confidence, returning to basics, thriving in the mortgage industry, and embracing unique individual experiences and strategies for bank and credit union loan officers to succeed.

Sit back, maybe pop open a cold one, and listen to Skip and his guest Rick Roque dish out some market insights. Rick is a mortgage industry pro with over two decades of experience. He explains his beginnings in technology and transition into the mortgage business. He and Skip discuss insights on market cycles, strategies for mortgage professionals in current market conditions, the importance of adapting and pivoting, social media strategies and the significance of down payment assistance programs. Rick also talks about his new venture into the brewery business with Censored Monkey Brewery, and the creative way they name their beer.

Today Skip welcomes Liz Short, a strategy and technology consultant with over 22 years of experience in the mortgage industry. They discuss the importance of leveraging technology and modern sales approaches to optimize business processes. She explains how loan officers can use tech to enhance their efficiency, manage customer relationships, and navigate the ever-changing mortgage industry.

Today Skip and Kayla welcome Laura Witte, a seasoned loan officer and co-owner of Highland Mortgage, to discuss her impressive 25-year career in the mortgage business. As someone that has closed over a billion and a half dollars in loans and is one of the top five producers in Georgia, she knows a thing or two about delivering for homebuyers. Laura describes 2023 as the hardest year of her career, even harder than the market crash, but emphasizes the importance of mindset, decision-making, and hustle in overcoming adversity. Skip, Kayla and Laura discuss adapting to the tough market by focusing on educating clients and agents through classes and advice on navigating through high rates and market instability. They also talk about finding success by being problem solvers and going above and beyond to find solutions for clients. Find more about Laura hereFind more about Highland Mortgage

Kevin Ducey, VP of Business Development for Kama Insurance, joins Skip and Kayla on today's episode. He discusses his time in the mortgage and insurance industries, the importance of building relationships, and creating generational wealth through homeownership. Kevin shares his view on the value of empathy in sales, owning an insurance business, and the impact of helping families achieve the American dream. Most importantly, they discuss remembering your why to avoid burnout.

Today's show comes full circle. Skip welcomes back his very first guest Steve Barsby, Assistant Athletics Director and Head Tennis Coach at Georgia College and State University, to talk about recruitment across various industries. Steve shares his insights from his 24 years of recruiting athletes, emphasizing the shift towards a more recruit-centered approach and the critical aspect of establishing trust and setting proper expectations during the recruitment process. He and Skip discuss best practices for recruiting, such as being honest, setting clear expectations, focusing on the process rather than solely on outcomes, and broader issues related to company culture and relationship-building in recruitment.

Today's episode is a treat - The one and only Jeff Bajorek, speaker, leader, trainer, coach, and podcast host, returns to the show. He shares insights into his recent projects, including the challenges and rewards of integrating into multiple corporate cultures simultaneously. He tells some personal stories, his dislike for macaroni and cheese due to childhood trauma, to highlight the importance of adaptability and human connection in sales and leadership. He emphasizes the critical role of being part of a company's culture while managing the distractions it can bring, and stresses the significance of understanding the human element in sales organizations, beyond just selling skills and processes. Jeff and Skip discuss the concept of fractional management and leadership, focusing on the value of adaptability in changing market conditions, especially in the mortgage banking and real estate sectors.

On today's show,Skip brings back a favorite guest from the past, Erica, who previously appeared on the 'Top Producing Women in Mortgage' episode. Erica shares her experiences of transitioning from a direct lender to a broker, highlighting the benefits she discovered in terms of pricing control and personalized service. She emphasizes the importance of having a solid CRM system and staying consistent in business practices. Erica gives some keys to building strong professional relationships, and how adapting to changes like new social media trends and other technological advancements is integral for longevity and success in the industry.

Today, Camryn Hinton, the Associate Director of Member Relations and Events at ACUMA (American Credit Union Mortgage Association), joins the Big Skip Energy Podcast. She talks about ACUMA's operations, services, and its commitment to educating credit union mortgage professionals. Camryn discusses the recently formed Young Professional Network at ACUMA, which provides educational content and networking opportunities for hopeful upcomers in the finance field.