What if the secret to scaling wasn't speed... but slowing down to advise better?

Hey there, Rainmakers!

This episode right here? It's one of those "drop everything and listen" convos.

I sat down with Brendan Donelson—legendary LO, longtime leader, and one of the most consistent, humble top producers I know. He’s been in the game for over 30 years, closed nearly $18M YTD, and he’s still having fun. Not just winning, but redefining how winning looks.

We got into what really creates long-term mortgage success. Spoiler: It’s not chasing leads or quoting rates—it’s mastering the middle. That advice-giving, trust-building, highly consultative space between app and approval.

He walked me through his ‘Smart Start’ strategy, a system that elevates the client experience, reduces the noise, and increases conversion. The kind of system that helps you go from 75 leads → 28 deals, with joy and sanity intact!

If you’ve been feeling stuck in grind mode or wondering how to raise your value in today’s market—Brendan gives you the map (plus a few mic drops you’ll want to replay.)

SO–are you ready to make it rain? Let’s DO this!

💡 What we talk about:

Most clients aren’t in a rush—so stop rushing your process

Presentation isn’t flair—it’s your secret weapon as a trusted advisor

Smart Start™ positions YOU as the expert in a noisy, rate-driven world

The middle pillar—advice and counsel—is where the money and meaning are

Don’t just win more deals… do it with fewer leads and better clients

True mastery is doing the basics with obsession

After 30+ years, Brendan’s still evolving—and still teaching

Guest links:

Guild Profile

LinkedIn

Instagram

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/