Grit, Growth & the Climb: John Donnelly on Building Leaders in Life and Lending

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On this episode of The Way with Dino Katsiametis, John Donnelly, Executive Director of Sales at Service First Mortgage, shares how a 25-year journey in the mortgage industry—and a literal climb up Mount Kilimanjaro—taught him what it truly means to lead, grow, and serve.
Dino and John unpack the lessons behind lasting success:
From call-center chaos to executive leadership—how grit builds greatness
The power of servant leadership and creating impact beyond the paycheck
Turning relationships into real results in today’s mortgage market
How to find your “why” and keep climbing when business (and life) get tough
Why systems, mindset, and integrity are the foundation of every top producer
If you’re a loan officer, entrepreneur, or leader searching for inspiration, strategy, and heart, this episode shows you how to rise higher—one intentional step at a time.
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