What if the reason realtors don’t call you back has nothing to do with the market—and everything to do with your focus and conviction?
Hey there, Rainmakers!
In this episode of The Mortgage Rainmaker Podcast. I sat down with James Carmody, a top-producing loan officer in Southern California who closed $70M while recovering from a devastating ski accident that took away his ability to drive—and forced him to slow down, in ways that changed everything.
We unpack why most loan officers struggle with call reluctance, inconsistent referrals, and radio silence from agents—and why the fix isn’t more scripts or more events. James shares how focus, belief, and a money-first mindset helped him earn real loyalty from realtors in one of the most competitive markets in the country. From A and B lists to Money-Making Mondays, whale hunting, and a two-step close, this episode is packed with real-world strategy you can use immediately.
If you’re tired of chasing agents, wondering why your calls go unanswered, or craving deeper partnerships that actually produce, this episode will challenge you to stop being liked—and start being chosen.
Key Insights
- Focus creates freedom when distractions are removed.
- Call reluctance disappears when you believe you help people make money.
- A and B lists beat chasing everyone with no strategy.
- Realtors respond faster when conversations are about their paycheck.
- Whale hunting requires patience, conviction, and a two-step close.
- Education beats rate quotes with sophisticated partners.
- Discipline at home creates confidence at work.
Guest Links
Synergy One Lending
https://s1l.com/loanofficer/jamescarmody/
James on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamescarmody/
James on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/thejamescarmody/?hl=en
Are you ready to make it rain? Let’s do this!
If you liked what you heard, leave me a five-star review and tell me what hit home for you!
PLUS—if you’re done chasing the next shiny idea and want real, proven strategies that actually move the needle, then it’s time to join my free weekly newsletter, Rainmaker Insider.
Every week, I share one key lesson from my billion-dollar career in mortgage lending—from sales psychology and leadership to mindset and systems that create true freedom. No fluff. Just real-world insights that help you close more deals and lead with confidence.
Subscribe now at shaylagifford.com and start leading like the Rainmaker you’re meant to be!
Connect with Shayla:
Shayla on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/shaygiff/
Shayla on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shayla-gifford-3019396/
Show Links:
Shayla's Website:
https://shaylagifford.com/
The Mortgage Rainmaker Podcast:
https://shaylagifford.com/podcast/
The Catalyst Coaching Community:
https://shaylagifford.com/catalyst/
Guild Mortgage:
https://www.guildmortgage.com/
