Get ready for some real talk on financial struggles as we address the often misleading perceptions of success perpetuated by social media. Preston shares his personal story of transition and success, emphasizing the significance of educating young people about financial literacy. We advocate for a game-based approach to financial education for youth, making lessons relevant to everyday life. Our dialogue extends to the evolving job market, the rise of remote work, and the global competition that demands adaptability and entrepreneurship, all while stressing the importance of personal decisions and perseverance.

Finally, we'll explore the intricate world of investment strategies and real estate. Discover how changes in Japan's interest rates ripple across global markets, impacting everything from stock investments to real estate transactions. We also discuss the benefits of homeownership versus renting and the significant role of financial education in navigating these decisions. Joseph Milhouse brings his expertise to the table, offering nuanced perspectives on market trends and financial advising. Celebrate with us as we reach 9,000 subscribers, and join our commitment to providing valuable content aimed at financial empowerment and resilience.

Key Factors Podcast is Powered by ReviewMyMortgage.com
Host: Mark Jones | Sr. Loan Officer | NMLS# 513437
If you would like to work with Mark on your next home purchase or as a partner visit iThink Mortgage.

Ready to tackle the $35 trillion U.S. national debt? Join us as we bring in Kevin O'Leary, renowned Shark Tank investor, to present his ambitious proposal: tapping into the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for oil extraction and channeling the profits towards debt reduction. We dissect his plan, drawing parallels to Norway's sovereign wealth fund, and debate the legislative safeguards necessary to ensure these funds are allocated correctly. With hosts Mark, Andy Hilger, and John Hudson, we navigate the complexities of the U.S. debt clock and its economic ramifications, stressing the urgency for viable solutions and fiscal responsibility.

Ever wondered why the stock market’s success doesn’t seem to benefit everyone? We break down the staggering economic disparities where the top 10% reap most of the benefits, leaving the bottom 50% with barely a sliver of the pie. We challenge the misconception that a booming stock market can offset the national debt, analyzing the economic policies of political candidates and the critical need for spending cuts to combat inflation and safeguard family finances and retirement savings. This chapter underscores the pressing need to reevaluate our economic strategies.

Shifting gears, we scrutinize the ways the U.S. government generates revenue and the effects of "printing money" on inflation and interest rates, examining how these policies impact consumer affordability and the housing market. The conversation pivots to the BRICS coalition's efforts to establish an alternative trading system, the historical petrodollar agreement, and current geopolitical tensions. Finally, we tackle the challenges of financial literacy and the importance of staying informed in an era rife with misinformation. This episode is a treasure trove of insights, perfect for anyone eager to understand today’s economic landscape.

Key Factors Podcast is Powered by ReviewMyMortgage.com
Host: Mark Jones | Sr. Loan Officer | NMLS# 513437
If you would like to work with Mark on your next home purchase or as a partner visit iThink Mortgage.

What if you could turn your financial struggles into a triumphant success story? Join us on the Key Factors Podcast as we chat with Whitney Robinson, a realtor who has navigated a winding road from a small Virginia town to a thriving career in real estate. Whitney's journey is a testament to perseverance and the power of financial literacy, shaped by early experiences in a single-parent household and an eclectic career path that spans from waitressing to wealth management at Wells Fargo.

Whitney opens up about the emotional and financial challenges she faced, sharing poignant moments that reveal the depth of her resilience. From childhood curiosities about money to the harsh realities of being judged by appearances, her story underscores the importance of managing limited resources and finding hope through biblical lessons. Whitney also delves into the complexities of co-parenting post-divorce, the significance of emotional intelligence, and how maintaining authenticity can foster genuine relationships both personally and professionally.

But the wisdom doesn't stop there. Whitney dishes out invaluable advice for real estate professionals, from strategic marketing tactics to financial planning for those living on commission. Whether you're inspired by stories of house-flipping triumphs or looking for tips on emotional check-ins with your kids, this episode is packed with insights. Whitney's narrative is a powerful reminder that success isn't just about financial gain; it's about emotional growth, genuine connections, and staying true to yourself along the way. Don't miss out on this episode packed with heart and strategy!



Topics Covered:

Introduction and Background: Mark introduces Whitney Robinson, highlighting her faith-based approach to overcoming life's challenges and her journey from a small town in Virginia to a thriving career in Texas.

Early Life and Financial Trauma: Whitney opens up about her upbringing in a small town, the financial struggles her family faced, and how these experiences shaped her understanding of money and financial literacy.

Career Before Real Estate: Whitney discusses her diverse career path, including waitressing, retail, and working in wealth management and business banking. She shares her experience working for Wells Fargo and the pivotal moments that led her to real estate.

Transition to Real Estate: Whitney describes the significant life changes she faced, including moving to Texas, the death of her father, and becoming a new mother. She explains how these events led her to pursue a career in real estate and the challenges she overcame in her first year.

Emotional Intelligence and Forgiveness: The conversation delves into the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) and relational intelligence (RQ). Whitney shares her journey of forgiving her father and maintaining a positive relationship with her ex-husband for the sake of her son.

Building a Real Estate Career: Whitney offers practical advice for new real estate agents, emphasizing the importance of asking questions, shadowing professionals, and putting in the extra work without expecting immediate returns. She stresses the value of authenticity and building relationships based on trust.

Marketing and Personal Branding: The discussion highlights the significance of marketing, social media presence, and staying true to oneself. Whitney shares her strategies for leveraging social media and creating engaging content to build her bra

Key Factors Podcast is Powered by ReviewMyMortgage.com
Host: Mark Jones | Sr. Loan Officer | NMLS# 513437
If you would like to work with Mark on your next home purchase or as a partner visit iThink Mortgage.

Imagine being laid off from a stable job at the Bank of San Antonio while raising a family. That's exactly what Moses Thatcher faced, and his emotional journey from frustration to resilience is nothing short of inspiring. Listen as he opens up about the challenges of unemployment, the unwavering support from his family, and how he balanced the responsibilities of child support while embarking on a new career in real estate. Moses' story is a testament to the power of adaptability and determination in the face of adversity.

Starting a new career with minimal financial resources is daunting, but Moses proves that it's possible with the right mindset and sacrifices. From cutting out luxuries to prioritizing essentials, learn about the practical decisions that paved the way for his success in real estate. We also tackle the importance of authenticity in business, the pitfalls of superficial success, and the critical role of building supportive professional relationships. Through practical business strategies and personal growth stories, discover how investing in oneself and others can lead to genuine success and fulfillment.

Key Factors Podcast is Powered by ReviewMyMortgage.com
Host: Mark Jones | Sr. Loan Officer | NMLS# 513437
If you would like to work with Mark on your next home purchase or as a partner visit iThink Mortgage.

Discover the transformative power of emotional intelligence in sales and leadership with our special guests, Joey Rodriguez and Katie Hasson. Joey, a loan officer who pivoted from the food and beverage industry to the mortgage sector, shares his unique journey and insights. Katie, a seasoned sales and leadership coach, explains how her diverse background—from selling books door-to-door to coaching professionals—shapes her approach to personal and professional development. Together, they reveal the secrets to aligning personal values with behavior and recognizing different behavioral styles to improve sales strategies and business relationships.

Learn how emotional intelligence can be the game-changer in understanding and managing both your emotions and those of your clients. We break down the four critical areas of EQ: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and social management. Joey and Katie share real-world examples to illustrate the importance of maintaining core routines while being adaptable, recognizing verbal and non-verbal cues, and using self-awareness to enhance interactions. By understanding the four behavioral styles—fighter, detective, entertainer, and counselor—sales professionals can tailor their approach to connect more effectively with clients.

Unlock the potential of meaningful conversations and build trust through emotional intelligence. We explore how empathy, genuine care, and strategic thinking can improve client relationships and drive better sales outcomes. From the initial discovery phase to closing deals and asking for referrals, our discussion emphasizes the importance of listening, asking the right questions, and demonstrating vulnerability. Tune in and discover how continuous practice and self-awareness can help you master EQ, strengthen professional relationships, and inspire others on their journey. Thank you for being part of this insightful exploration into the role of emotional intelligence in sales and leadership.

Key Factors Podcast is Powered by ReviewMyMortgage.com
Host: Mark Jones | Sr. Loan Officer | NMLS# 513437
If you would like to work with Mark on your next home purchase or as a partner visit iThink Mortgage.

What if the journey from organizing backyard parties to conquering the real estate market held the secret to career transformation? Join us as Moses Thatcher candidly shares his incredible journey from nightlife club promoter to a successful real estate professional. Discover how his early experiences and decision to stay alcohol-free until 21 shaped his path, and learn the importance of building genuine connections with clients. Moses' dedication to family and his commitment to his core values serve as the foundation of his work ethic and success in real estate.

In this episode, we delve deep into the critical need for financial literacy, especially for those raised with a cash-only mentality. Hear firsthand from Moses about the psychological challenges of managing large sums of money and the pitfalls of financial mismanagement. We'll discuss practical advice on credit scores, debt management, and creating better financial habits that can lead to long-term stability. Our conversation sheds light on how comprehensive financial education can break cycles of financial stress and foster lasting financial health.

Finally, we shift our focus to overcoming adversity and the power of self-accountability. Moses and I explore the importance of moving past failures, the reality of hard work and resilience, and how mentorship and the right relationships can propel you to success. We wrap up by highlighting the significance of maintaining a positive attitude, learning to be a supporter rather than a detractor, and the transformative impact of personal growth and sobriety. Don't miss these valuable insights and inspiring stories that can guide you on your own journey to success.

Key Factors Podcast is Powered by ReviewMyMortgage.com
Host: Mark Jones | Sr. Loan Officer | NMLS# 513437
If you would like to work with Mark on your next home purchase or as a partner visit iThink Mortgage.

What if you could transform your real estate career by learning from the best? In this episode, we meet Carlos Kabzawa and Chris Jacobs, the powerhouse real estate agents who have successfully transitioned from military service and extensive sales backgrounds to dominating the real estate market. They share the mission behind their new venture, "Just One More Podcast," which aims to shed light on topics beyond real estate, from supporting veterans and first responders to promoting local businesses in San Antonio. Their stories are not just motivational but also packed with practical advice on how mindset and effort play crucial roles in overcoming market challenges.

Navigating today's real estate market can be tricky, but Carlos and Chris are here to demystify it for us. We delve into the nitty-gritty of pricing homes realistically, understanding the true value of properties, and the nuances between median sales prices and actual home values. With interest rates hovering around 6.8%, the duo discusses strategic marketing and buyer hesitancy, emphasizing the need for realistic pricing. They offer invaluable insights into ongoing market corrections and the importance of strategic planning for both buyers and sellers to thrive.

Lastly, we explore the critical aspects of buyer representation agreements and the expertise required to navigate these complex contracts. Carlos and Chris highlight the importance of clear communication and mentoring in the real estate industry, stressing the value of building lasting relationships over mere transactions. From understanding the financial intricacies to mastering the art of negotiation, this episode is a goldmine of knowledge for anyone involved in real estate. Tune in for expert advice, personal stories, and actionable strategies that can elevate your real estate game.

Key Factors Podcast is Powered by ReviewMyMortgage.com
Host: Mark Jones | Sr. Loan Officer | NMLS# 513437
If you would like to work with Mark on your next home purchase or as a partner visit iThink Mortgage.

Ready to uncover the truth about VA loans and shatter some long-held myths? Join us as we toast with Don Julio and celebrate our birthdays alongside John Hurd of the John Hurd Team. John shares his inspiring journey from his roots in San Antonio and his service in the Marines, to becoming a respected mortgage professional. Our conversation underscores the critical role of honesty in setting expectations, a principle that has greatly benefited our clients and careers.

Are you confused about VA loan eligibility, especially for spouses and active duty members? This episode is your guide to understanding the intricacies of VA loans. We tackle common misunderstandings, such as the myth that VA loans can only be used once, and explain the unique Tidewater process for VA appraisals. You'll also learn about recent changes tying appraisals to veterans rather than properties, and how these developments ensure a fairer home valuation.

Curious about the current mortgage market trends and how they impact you? We delve into refinancing options like the IRRRL and the benefits of switching from conventional to VA loans. We dispel the notion of hidden fees and highlight the advantages of VA loans, such as potential exemptions from property taxes for veterans with higher disability ratings. Don't miss our discussion on the resilience of the Texas real estate market and our predictions for future interest rates. Join us for a heartfelt celebration of our first podcast episode and gain invaluable insights into the world of VA loans!

Key Factors Podcast is Powered by ReviewMyMortgage.com
Host: Mark Jones | Sr. Loan Officer | NMLS# 513437
If you would like to work with Mark on your next home purchase or as a partner visit iThink Mortgage.