How does a 94% conversion rate sound? 250% growth in one year?

Hey there, rainmakers!

In this episode, I’m talking with someone I’ve nicknamed The Gangster — Alex Dykes. And trust me, it fits. Alex has gone from a loan officer assistant to a branch leader running multi-state teams, growing his business 250% in just one year, from 19 to 67 agent relationships — all in one of the toughest mortgage markets we’ve ever seen. And all after he made one big shift in his mindset and approach.

Alex is doing what most originators only dream of, and he’s doing it with ruthless consistency, radical generosity, and a disciplined mindset. But it wasn’t always this way.

We go into his process—from how he protects his energy and filters out noise, to the exact structure of his team, and how he builds the kind of trust and confidence that converts. Alex doesn’t chase... he attracts. And what he’s created is not just a business—it’s a sustainable machine with massive growth that aligns with his values and lifestyle.

We also break down the real difference between adding value and just staying busy. Whether you’re scaling or just starting out, this episode will shift how you think about growth, hiring, and high-performance client experience.

Are you ready to make it rain? Let’s do this!

What we talk about:

💡 Alex closes $100M+ annually with only 1.5 support staff—proof that lean can still be legendary.

💡 His 94% conversion rate is built on speed, clarity, and immediate client contact—no delays, no fluff.

💡 He runs his calendar like a command center, including scheduled “noise-free” hours.

💡 Alex believes 90% of originators are trying to do too much—he thrives by doing less better.

💡 Referrals come easily because his system delivers consistent excellence—and he knows exactly how to communicate that to agents.

Guest Links:

Website: https://branches.guildmortgage.com/va/arlington/alex-dykes-264-rmad.html

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-dykes/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexdykesloans/

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/