Martha Allen is a remarkable figure dedicated to guiding both established and aspiring couples on a transformative journey toward fulfilling relationships. Her approach centers on three key pillars: faith, finance, and foundation—offering couples the tools to build profound connection and clarity as they navigate life together. With over 40 years of experience as an inspirational speaker, Martha has helped countless couples plan their lives and weddings while strengthening their bonds. She is the author of several books on relationship dynamics and personal growth and has traveled extensively as a keynote speaker, sharing her insights on building strong, resilient partnerships at conferences and events worldwide.

In this episode, Dante and Martha discuss:

• The three pillars of a strong relationship: faith, finance, and foundation
• The importance of self-preparation before entering a committed relationship
• Communication breakdowns and how to repair them with mutual respect
• Financial independence and joint planning in partnerships
• Real-life stories of relationship red flags, resilience, and recovery

Key Takeaways: 

• Preparation is powerful. Relationships are more likely to succeed when both individuals invest in their own spiritual, emotional, and financial growth before entering a long-term commitment.
• Faith isn’t about religion—it’s about resilience. Having a personal belief system provides inner strength and guidance when life throws inevitable challenges your way.
• Shared responsibility doesn’t mean losing independence. While joint accounts promote financial transparency, maintaining separate personal funds ensures each partner retains autonomy and the ability to give or act freely.
• The way you talk matters as much as what you say. Difficult conversations should never be held in anger—give each other time and space to reflect before addressing sensitive issues with calm, mutual respect.
• There’s no excuse for abuse. Any form of verbal or physical mistreatment is a serious red flag, and it should prompt immediate reflection on the safety, health, and viability of the relationship.

“Physical abuse, verbal abuse—you don’t do those things to people you truly love. And if you do, then you need to reevaluate what love is, change some of the thought patterns in your own mind, and come together and work together. I don’t believe in a woman abusing a man, and I don’t believe in a man abusing a woman. It goes both ways.” - Martha Allen

Connect with Martha Allen:

Website: https://www.titownmotivation.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martha-allen-speaker-inc-self-help-success-motivational-for-students-a3b810131/ 

Martha’s Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Martha-Allen/author/B09VLHSZXT 

Connect with Dante Royster:

Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/

Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086

Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086

Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/

“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRP

LinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedIn

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoyster

YouTube: Epic Spotlight 

Email: [email protected]

Mission Statement: Epic Spotlight shines a light on the truths behind love, happiness, health, and wealth. Hosted by America’s Mortgage Expert and author Dante Royster, this podcast delivers bold insights to help you grow and build your most epic life.

The 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed in are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/Texas

Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Matricia Jackson is a powerhouse in Chicago real estate with almost 30 years of experience as a broker, investor, mentor, and educator. She’s the founder of Matricia Jackson & Co. and We Wealthy University—both focused on helping families and professionals build real estate wealth with strategy and confidence.

Her mission? To make ownership possible and profitable—for everyone. From first-time homebuyers to seasoned investors, Matricia brings hands-on expertise, strong negotiation skills, and heart to every deal.

She leads a top-producing team, hosts wealth-building masterminds, and continues to grow her own investment portfolio across Illinois and beyond. When she’s not closing deals, she’s pouring into her community, spending time with her family, or coaching her agents toward their next level.

In this episode, Dante and Matricia discuss:

• Why mentorship is crucial for success in real estate
• The real steps to start building wealth through homeownership
• Why “neutral market” doesn’t mean “no opportunity”
• Mistakes new investors make and how to avoid emotional buying
• How Matricia empowers underserved communities through education and coaching

Key Takeaways: 

• Mentorship is a game-changer. Shadowing experienced professionals helps you navigate real estate’s complexities faster and avoid the kind of missteps that cost time and money.
• Start with your ‘why’ before making a move. Partnering with a strategic real estate advisor who understands your goals sets the foundation for smart, intentional wealth building.
• Emotions have no place in your investment math. Many new investors make the mistake of falling in love with a deal—successful ones stick to the numbers and plan for the unexpected.
• It’s not a buyer’s market. It’s not a seller’s market. According to Matricia, it’s a neutral market—full of opportunities for buyers, sellers, and investors alike, if they know where to look.
• Closing the wealth gap starts long before closing day. Educating communities, debunking myths, and teaching financial literacy early on are essential to expanding access to homeownership.

“If you never get started, you will never know how it feels to begin to build wealth.” - Matricia Jackson

Connect with Matricia Jackson:

Website: https://www.matriciajackson.com/ 

Phone: (708) 680-6605 

Connect with Dante Royster:

Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/

Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086

Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086

Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/

“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRP

LinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedIn

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoyster

YouTube: Epic Spotlight 

Email: [email protected]

Mission Statement: Epic Spotlight shines a light on the truths behind love, happiness, health, and wealth. Hosted by America’s Mortgage Expert and author Dante Royster, this podcast delivers bold insights to help you grow and build your most epic life.

The 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed in are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/Texas

Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Shuwanda Hudson is a Chicago native whose career spans the fields of accounting, early childhood development, and psychology. She earned her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from North Park University and is currently a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the Chicago area. Shuwanda is deeply committed to serving individuals who have been traumatized and marginalized. She thrives on creating a space of comfort and transparency to support others on their personal journeys of growth and healing.

In this episode, Dante and Shuwanda discuss:

• The layered impact of trauma and the importance of giving people space to express themselves
• Misconceptions about therapy and how seeking help is an act of self-care
• How emotional awareness and internal goals support better relationships
• Shuwanda’s new book, Sipping Your Own Tea, and its focus on self-love and emotional intelligence
• The practical barriers to mental health care and how to find the right therapist

Key Takeaways: 

• Trauma doesn’t look the same for everyone. The most powerful act of support can be simply holding space and letting someone share their story without judgment or interruption.
• Seeking therapy isn’t a weakness—it’s an act of bravery and a declaration that you’re worth healing. It’s one of the most empowering forms of self-investment.
• Emotional intelligence begins with learning to name what you’re feeling properly. By identifying emotions with precision, you unlock the ability to respond rather than react.
• Finding the right therapist is a journey in itself. It’s not only acceptable but encouraged to meet with different professionals until you feel aligned and supported.
• Incorporating just a few minutes of quiet reflection each day can center your mind. Practices like mindful breathing or simply observing your environment can sharpen your emotional awareness and provide daily grounding.

“Having therapy or searching out therapy is the most courageous thing that anyone can do, because it's a form of self-care.” - Shuwanda Hudson

Connect with Shuwanda Hudson:

Website: https://care.headway.co/providers/shuwanda-hudson 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shuwanda-hudson-50901488/ 

Email: [email protected] 

Shuwanda’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/Sipping-Your-Own-Tea-Hudson/dp/B0DYPL8KCZ 

Connect with Dante Royster:

Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/

Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086

Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086

Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/

“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRP

LinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedIn

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoyster

YouTube: Epic Spotlight 

Email: [email protected]

Mission Statement: Epic Spotlight shines a light on the truths behind love, happiness, health, and wealth. Hosted by America’s Mortgage Expert and author Dante Royster, this podcast delivers bold insights to help you grow and build your most epic life.

The 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed in are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/Texas

Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Brandon “Mr. Finance” Ellington, founder of Access Capital Today Inc., is a seasoned finance expert with over 20 years in the mortgage industry. Raised in Chicago by his entrepreneurial mother, Brandon was inspired early by her success in real estate and her commitment to community empowerment. He now specializes in credit-based lending, bank statement loans, and over 60 innovative financial programs nationwide. With a passion for educating underserved communities, Brandon helps individuals build wealth, legacy, and retirement income—even without traditional proof of income. As a dynamic radio personality and event host, he empowers others to take control of their financial future and create lasting change through strategic lending and financial literacy.

In this episode, Dante and Brandon discuss:

• How Brandon’s mother inspired his journey into real estate and financial education
• Why good credit often outweighs proof of income when building wealth
• Brandon’s strategies for commercial property investing and maximizing NOI
• The importance of financial literacy, life insurance, and family legacy planning
• How Brandon uses media platforms to educate underserved communities

Key Takeaways: 

• Wealth building doesn’t require a high income—it starts with strong credit, a solid game plan, and the courage to take action. Strategy and mindset often matter more than a paycheck.
• Lack of financial literacy—not lack of potential—is what keeps most people from opportunities. When you understand how the system works, you realize you were always more qualified than you thought.
• Real estate remains a powerful tool for building wealth through equity growth, cash flow, and tax-advantaged gains. It's one of the few vehicles that offers leverage, control, and generational impact all in one.
• By investing early in life insurance and your family’s credit profile, you’re planting seeds for generational wealth. Smart financial planning today can create a legacy that outlives you.
• True financial growth comes from consistency, creative leverage, and an unshakable belief in your own potential. Surviving is passive—thriving takes proactive, strategic movement.

“It's not about a 'hey, look at me' moment. It's about more. What can I give back? Because I want to do more things that affect the community, that exact change, and that build wealth that catapults for generations.” - Brandon Ellington

Connect with Brandon Ellington:

Website: https://brandonmrfinance.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-ellington-31680814a/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandon.mrfinance/ 

Connect with Dante Royster:

Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/

Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086

Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086

Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/

“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRP

LinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedIn

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoyster

YouTube: Epic Spotlight 

Email: [email protected]

Mission Statement: Epic Spotlight shines a light on the truths behind love, happiness, health, and wealth. Hosted by America’s Mortgage Expert and author Dante Royster, this podcast delivers bold insights to help you grow and build your most epic life.

The 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed in are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/Texas

Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Ernest B. Fenton is the Founder and Managing Partner of the Law Office of Ernest B. Fenton, a rapidly growing firm based in Chicago with a focus on civil litigation and estate planning. A Harvard Law graduate with a background in business management, Attorney Fenton brings deep expertise in residential and commercial transactions, contract drafting, business formation, and negotiation. Beyond his legal practice, he is also an educator, author, and entrepreneur—having successfully launched small businesses in both the retail and real estate sectors. A proud U.S. Army veteran, Fenton remains deeply committed to community service, dedicating his time to causes such as foreclosure prevention, social justice, and building generational wealth.

In this episode, Dante and Ernest discuss:

• Why communities of color urgently need asset protection education
• The biggest pitfalls people face when they finally acquire wealth
• How silence and strategy are powerful tools in business and estate planning
• Ernest's journey from real estate transactions to foreclosure defense and beyond
• Practical tips for structuring your business the right way—starting with a layup

Key Takeaways: 

• Asset protection isn’t reserved for the ultra-wealthy; it’s a vital step for anyone serious about creating and sustaining generational wealth. The earlier you put safeguards in place, the better positioned you’ll be to pass on what you’ve built.
• Most people don’t think about protecting their assets until a crisis hits—and by then, it’s often too late. Proactive planning is key to avoiding preventable financial loss.
• Ernest stresses that true business growth requires time spent on the business—building systems, strategies, and structure—not just hustling inside it day-to-day.
• Success doesn’t always make noise. Strategic silence and staying behind the scenes often give entrepreneurs the edge they need to protect and grow their influence.
• Even without a formal structure, assembling a board of trusted advisors can dramatically sharpen your decision-making. A fresh set of eyes can reveal opportunities—and risks—you might otherwise miss.

“At the end of the day, it’s not about how much of your knowledge you sold—it’s about how much of your knowledge made an impact.” - Ernest B. Fenton

Connect with Ernest B. Fenton:

Website: https://www.attorneyernestfenton.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Ernest-B-Fenton/100063654759124/ 

Connect with Dante Royster:

Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/

Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086

Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086

Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/

“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRP

LinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedIn

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoyster

YouTube: Epic Spotlight 

Email: [email protected]

Mission Statement: Epic Spotlight shines a light on the truths behind love, happiness, health, and wealth. Hosted by America’s Mortgage Expert and author Dante Royster, this podcast delivers bold insights to help you grow and build your most epic life.

The 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed in are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/Texas

Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Natalie A. Ramos is the Director of Individual Giving at Teach For America, with over 15 years of experience in philanthropy and nonprofit development. She has raised millions through major donor strategies and is known for her empathetic, relationship-first approach to fundraising. Passionate about equity, inclusion, and professional growth, Natalie serves as Co-chair of AFP’s Latinx Affinity Group and sits on AFP’s IDEA Committee. She’s also a member of Somos El Poder and the Chicago Council on Planned Giving, and a 2023 AFP ICON Diverse Communities Scholar. Outside of work, she’s a proud soccer coach and PTA volunteer. Natalie is driven by a deep commitment to meaningful partnerships that fuel community impact.

In this episode, Dante and Natalie discuss:

• How Natalie’s early volunteer experiences shaped her career in nonprofit fundraising
• The power of networking and personal branding in the nonprofit space
• Balancing motherhood with a mission-driven professional life
• How social media builds connections and keeps professionals top of mind
• Practical advice for anyone looking to transition into the nonprofit sector

Key Takeaways: 

• Fundraising isn’t just about hitting numbers—it’s about cultivating authentic relationships rooted in empathy and understanding. Success comes when donors feel truly seen and connected to the mission.
• Networking thrives on purpose. Instead of chasing volume, focus on creating meaningful, lasting connections that align with your values and goals.
• Think of social media as your digital handshake—it allows others to discover your professional identity and can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
• Work-life balance isn’t a fixed formula. It's about staying flexible and making intentional choices that align with your personal values and your family’s needs.
• Sometimes, the best way to move forward is to reach out. Proactive networking and learning from mentors can open pathways into the nonprofit sector that aren’t advertised on job boards.

“It’s really more about helping the community overall and making the world a better place. That’s why I’ve always gravitated to nonprofits—because you get the good feeling of knowing the work you’re doing is helping someone beyond yourself. And for me, that impact and giving back to the community is really important.” - Natalie Ramos

Connect with Natalie Ramos:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalieramos/ 

Connect with Dante Royster:

Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/

Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086

Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086

Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/

“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRP

LinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedIn

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoyster

YouTube: Epic Spotlight 

Email: [email protected]

Mission Statement: Epic Spotlight shines a light on the truths behind love, happiness, health, and wealth. Hosted by America’s Mortgage Expert and author Dante Royster, this podcast delivers bold insights to help you grow and build your most epic life.

The 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed in are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/Texas

Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Brent Wilk is the founder, managing broker, and owner of Wilk Real Estate, an independent brokerage based in the southwest suburbs of Chicago. He and his team serve clients across the greater Chicago area and 14 northern Illinois counties. With over 20 years in the industry, Brent has successfully closed more than 2,200 property sales. While his focus is primarily on residential real estate, Brent also brings valuable experience in commercial transactions. His expertise spans traditional sales, REO properties, short sales, probate and estate sales, relocation, land deals, investor services, and portfolio asset management.

In this episode, Dante and Brent discuss:

• How Brent transitioned from banking to founding Wilk Real Estate
• Lessons from surviving the 2008 housing crash and building an independent brokerage
• Why trust, referrals, and personal branding matter more than company logos
• Current real estate trends and the importance of pricing in today's market
• Brent’s role as a community leader, youth coach, and radio host is giving back

Key Takeaways: 

• Journey to success wasn’t instant; it was forged through relentless dedication, mentorship from seasoned professionals, and hands-on experience that taught him more than any textbook could. Real-world learning became his foundation for long-term growth.
• The agent—not the brand—makes the difference. Clients gravitate toward authenticity, reliability, and availability far more than flashy corporate logos.
• The 2008 housing crash tested Brent’s resilience, but instead of backing down, he leaned in, adapted, and emerged with deeper industry insight and sharper business instincts.
• A common mistake Brent sees is overpricing based on emotion or aspiration. Instead, he emphasizes grounding pricing strategy in market data, comps, and actual home conditions to avoid extended listing periods.
• Whether he’s coaching youth baseball or highlighting local businesses on his radio show, Brent is driven by a commitment to community and the belief that legacy is built through service and influence beyond the closing table.

“I see a lot of agents who rely on the logo of the company they’re with and assume that the company is what’s making them money. That’s wrong. It’s absolutely incorrect. It’s the person doing the communicating on behalf of the company who’s building their own fortune and success.” - Brent Wilk

Connect with Brent Wilk:

Website: https://chicagoareahomeexpert.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentwilk/ 

Phone: 815-230-5356

Connect with Dante Royster:

Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/

Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086

Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086

Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/

“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRP

LinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedIn

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoyster

YouTube: Epic Spotlight 

Email: [email protected]

Mission Statement: Epic Spotlight shines a light on the truths behind love, happiness, health, and wealth. Hosted by America’s Mortgage Expert and author Dante Royster, this podcast delivers bold insights to help you grow and build your most epic life.

The 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed in are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/Texas

Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Kent Nichols is the Treasurer and CFO of the Lake Region Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, a faith-based organization headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, that has been uplifting communities since 1945. With over two decades of experience in finance and pastoral ministry, Kent oversees all financial operations, ensuring transparency, integrity, and efficiency. He treats donated funds as a sacred trust and is committed to using every dollar to support meaningful programs, outreach, and education. Under his leadership, the conference honors its mission to serve with purpose, accountability, and a deep commitment to glorifying God through sound financial stewardship.

In this episode, Dante and Kent discuss:

• Journey from financial consulting to pastoral ministry and CFO leadership
• The Lake Region Conference’s funding structure, including tithes and community outreach
• Challenges in managing budgets for a nonprofit ministry across five states
• Strategic efforts to promote financial literacy and generational wealth within the church
• The vision to launch an endowment fund and expand grant-based community impact

Key Takeaways: 

• Kent blends pastoral ministry with financial leadership, bringing both compassion and structure to his role as CFO. His unique background allows him to lead with integrity while supporting spiritual and operational goals.
• Overseeing finances for more than 120 churches demands a careful balance of transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to the needs of diverse communities. Kent and his team ensure resources are allocated to maximize ministry impact.
• With today’s unpredictable economic climate, Kent emphasizes the need for thoughtful budgeting and strategic planning. Adapting to shifts in income and donor behavior is critical for long-term stability.
• Financial literacy isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a mission. Kent is co-authoring a book and developing a curriculum to equip church members with tools for budgeting, investing, and retirement planning.
• His vision for the future includes creating an endowment fund that provides free Christian education and expanding grant programs that directly serve the community. Legacy giving and trust development are also key to sustaining the ministry’s reach for generations to come.

“I want to create an endowment fund so that any child who wants a Christian education can get it for free. That’s the vision—to use our blessings to bless others, now and for generations to come.” - Kent Nichols

Connect with Kent Nichols:

Website: https://www.lrcsda.com/ 

Connect with Dante Royster:

Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/

Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086

Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086

Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/

“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRP

LinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedIn

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoyster

YouTube: Epic Spotlight 

Email: [email protected]

Mission Statement: Epic Spotlight shines a light on the truths behind love, happiness, health, and wealth. Hosted by America’s Mortgage Expert and author Dante Royster, this podcast delivers bold insights to help you grow and build your most epic life.

The 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed in are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/Texas

Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Olivia White, an Aurora, Illinois native and seasoned realtor, understands the trust her clients place in her and strives to exceed their expectations. With over 15 years in the real estate industry, Olivia is dedicated to making each transaction smooth and transparent. Before pursuing her career as a realtor, Olivia spent over 7 years in the mortgage field, working as a loan processor, closer, and funder. This experience has given her a unique insight into her clients' needs and the entire home-buying process. As a homeowner herself, Olivia is familiar with the challenges and excitement of buying a home. She takes pride in helping local buyers and sellers navigate the real estate market with confidence.

In this episode, Dante and Olivia discuss:

• How Olivia’s mortgage background enhances her work as a realtor
• The emotional journey of first-time home buyers and how she supports them
• The importance of education in easing buyer anxiety
• Strategies for preparing homes for sale in a competitive market
• Olivia’s mission to educate her community about homeownership

Key Takeaways: 

• Olivia’s mortgage background gives her a unique edge in real estate—she doesn’t just sell homes; she translates the entire financing process in a way that clients can easily grasp and feel confident navigating.
• She makes education a top priority, walking clients through everything from managing their credit to understanding inspection reports and timelines, ensuring they’re never left in the dark.
• The emotional impact of a home purchase is just as meaningful as the transaction itself—especially when a first-time buyer realizes their dream is becoming a reality.
• When working with sellers, she leans on data and market insight to build trust and guide pricing conversations, knowing that transparency is key in today’s information-heavy landscape.
• Her mission goes beyond closings—Olivia is actively working to bring real estate education into schools, churches, and communities to demystify homeownership for those who may think it’s out of reach.

“Seeing the moments where people realize it's actually happening—the dream of homeownership is coming true. You're gaining a high level of security for yourself and your family. Those are my high moments.” - Olivia White

Connect with Olivia White:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OliviaWhiteRealtor/ 

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

Phone: 630-532-1539

Connect with Dante Royster:

Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/

Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086

Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086

Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/

“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRP

LinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedIn

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoyster

YouTube: Epic Spotlight 

Email: [email protected]

Mission Statement: Epic Spotlight shines a light on the truths behind love, happiness, health, and wealth. Hosted by America’s Mortgage Expert and author Dante Royster, this podcast delivers bold insights to help you grow and build your most epic life.

The 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed in are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/Texas

Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Raina Kilgore is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor with over a decade of experience in human and social services. She holds dual Master’s degrees in Marriage & Family Counseling from Adler School of Professional Psychology and Human Service Administration from Spertus College. Raina is also certified in DBT Therapy and has led impactful work in corrections, mental health hospitals, and child welfare. She’s developed and led programs addressing mental health and substance abuse, including teen prevention initiatives and family reunification efforts. Passionate about breaking down barriers, Raina is committed to helping individuals and families build healthier, more empowered lives.

In this episode, Dante and Raina discuss:

• The origin and mission behind ZEM Therapy
• Why therapy shouldn't wait for a crisis
• The difference between CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed therapy
• Common communication breakdowns in relationships
• The evolving role of love languages and emotional connection in couples counseling

Key Takeaways: 

• Therapy isn’t just for when something’s broken—it’s also a powerful tool for growth. Even those in a good place can benefit from therapy to strengthen what’s already working and create new possibilities.
• Many communication issues arise not from disagreement, but from misaligned interpretations of the same topic. Couples may be discussing the same subject—but not in the same way.
• Loving your partner effectively means understanding their needs, not just expressing your own. It’s about discovering what truly resonates with them and showing up in ways that matter most.
• Through DBT and CBT, clients can challenge limiting beliefs and reshape harmful thought patterns. These evidence-based methods help bring clarity and control to emotional experiences.
• Nothing replaces face-to-face conversations when it comes to emotional connection. While texting offers convenience, meaningful dialogue thrives on presence, tone, and undivided attention.

“I am not a judge, and so this is not—you’re not on a trial here. Even if a person is doing something that is not favorable, they still need empathy, they still need compassion, they still need someone to hear them.” - Raina Kilgore

Connect with Raina Kilgore:

Website: https://zemtherapy.org/ 

Phone: 708-414-6842

Connect with Dante Royster:

Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/

Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086

Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086

Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/

“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRP

LinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedIn

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoyster

YouTube: Epic Spotlight 

Email: [email protected]

Mission Statement: Epic Spotlight shines a light on the truths behind love, happiness, health, and wealth. Hosted by America’s Mortgage Expert and author Dante Royster, this podcast delivers bold insights to help you grow and build your most epic life.

The 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed in are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/Texas

Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul Tagama

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.