In this powerful episode of One Hand at a Time, Chris Welton sits down with Rick Hogle to unpack the incredible story of his life—one built on perseverance, resilience, and refusing to let adversity define his future.

Rick opens up about becoming a father while still in high school and the overwhelming uncertainty that came with it. Unsure if college was even possible, he found guidance in a high school football coach who saw potential in him long before he saw it in himself. That coach took Rick under his wing, reminding him that his story wasn’t over and helping provide an opportunity to continue his education and play Division II football on scholarship.

After college, Rick shares how he bounced from job to job searching for direction until eventually discovering the mortgage industry in 2002—a career path that would change his life. More than two decades later, he’s still thriving in the industry, proving that persistence and adaptability can create long-term success.

Throughout the conversation, Chris and Rick discuss how the hardest moments in life often become the moments that shape us the most. Rather than running from adversity, Rick explains how learning to face challenges head-on ultimately made him stronger, more disciplined, and more capable in both business and life.

This episode is an inspiring reminder that your current circumstances don’t determine your future, and that sometimes the toughest chapters of life become the foundation for your greatest growth.

If you would like to learn more then please schedule a free coaching call with me, Chris Welton today! 

https://calendly.com/chriswelton

In this special episode of One Hand at a Time, Chris Welton delivers his full MortgageCon keynote speech, bringing a powerful message centered around one core idea: adversity isn’t something to avoid—it’s something to leverage.

Chris breaks down his “adversity mindset”, explaining how the challenges we face in both business and life are not roadblocks, but opportunities to grow stronger, wiser, and more resilient. Instead of running from difficulty, he encourages listeners to lean into it, learn from it, and use it as fuel for future success.

A standout concept from the keynote is Chris’s “Adversity Backpack.” He describes it as a mental collection of “receipts”—real-life experiences where he’s faced hardship and found a way through. Each time a new challenge arises, he reaches into that backpack and reminds himself: “I’ve been here before. I’ve overcome before. I can do it again.”

This framework becomes a powerful tool for building confidence, reinforcing belief, and eliminating the fear that often comes with uncertainty.

Throughout the episode, Chris challenges listeners to start building their own adversity backpack—documenting their wins, lessons, and breakthroughs so they’re prepared for whatever comes next.

This keynote is a high-impact message on resilience, mindset, and personal growth—perfect for anyone ready to stop avoiding adversity and start using it as their greatest advantage.

If you would like to learn more then please schedule a free coaching call with me, Chris Welton today! 

https://calendly.com/chriswelton

In this episode of One Hand at a Time, Chris Welton sits down with Joe Motowidlak and John Motowidlak to unpack the vision, execution, and impact behind their innovative event, MortgageCon, hosted at Universal Studios.

Joe and John share how they set out to break the mold of traditional industry conferences by creating an experience-driven event—one that goes beyond speakers and panels to deliver real connection, energy, and unforgettable moments. By choosing a unique venue like Universal Studios, they were able to blend business, entertainment, and relationship-building into something entirely different from the typical mortgage event.

The conversation dives into the behind-the-scenes planning that brought MortgageCon to life—from logistics and partnerships to crafting an environment where attendees could truly engage, learn, and connect at a higher level. They discuss the importance of creating experiences that people don’t just attend—but remember.

Chris, Joe, and John also explore the future of industry events, including their vision and early plans for MortgageCon 2027. Their focus remains on continuing to elevate the experience, provide value, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in the mortgage and real estate space.

If you would like to learn more then please schedule a free coaching call with me, Chris Welton today! 

https://calendly.com/chriswelton

In Episode 19 of Freestyle Fridays, Chris Welton reflects on his recent Easter experience with his family and the powerful shift he’s beginning to notice in his life—he’s finally slowing down.

Chris shares how, in the past, life often felt rushed—constantly thinking about the next meeting, the next goal, the next milestone. He describes how slowing down has made life feel almost like a movie—where each moment is clearer, more meaningful, and more memorable. Instead of always chasing what’s next, he’s learning to appreciate what’s now.

The episode becomes a reflection and a challenge for listeners:

Chris emphasizes that success isn’t just about achieving more—it’s about feeling more, experiencing more, and being present enough to enjoy what you’ve already built.

This episode is a reminder to pause, be present, and start living your life in real time—not just racing through it.

If you would like to learn more then please schedule a free coaching call with me, Chris Welton today! 

https://calendly.com/chriswelton

In Episode 19 of Freestyle Fridays, Chris Welton shares a powerful and eye-opening moment from a recent trip through the airport. While navigating the hustle and chaos, his two-year-old son Leo did something most adults wouldn’t—he confidently walked up to a complete stranger just to start a conversation. No hesitation. No fear. No overthinking. Just pure, natural confidence.

That moment sparked a deeper reflection for Chris on how confidence is something we’re all born with—but often lose over time. As children, we act without fear of judgment. We don’t worry about rejection or what others might think. But as we grow older, those limiting beliefs begin to creep in and hold us back.

Chris uses this experience as a powerful analogy, encouraging listeners to reclaim that childlike confidence in their own lives—whether in business, relationships, or personal growth. He challenges the audience to stop overthinking, stop waiting for permission, and start taking action with belief in themselves.

The episode is a reminder that the version of you capable of greatness already exists—you just have to strip away the doubt that’s been learned over time.

If you would like to learn more then please schedule a free coaching call with me, Chris Welton today! 

https://calendly.com/chriswelton

In this episode of One Hand at a Time, Chris Welton sits down with longtime friend and industry professional Jason Purcell for an authentic and insightful conversation on what it really takes to succeed in today’s evolving mortgage landscape.

Chris and Jason dive into the changing dynamics of the mortgage industry, breaking down how shifting markets are forcing professionals to rethink their approach and adapt with intention. Jason shares his perspective on innovative business models, explaining why those who are willing to evolve and think differently are the ones who continue to grow—even in challenging environments.

A key focus of the episode is the power of niche specialization. Rather than trying to be everything to everyone, Jason emphasizes the importance of identifying a lane, mastering it, and becoming the go-to expert in that space. Combined with that is the undeniable value of relationship-building—a recurring theme that reinforces how long-term success is rooted in trust, consistency, and genuine connection.

Beyond business, the conversation takes a more personal turn as Chris and Jason discuss the importance of balancing family and career. They highlight that true success isn’t just measured by production or income, but by the ability to create a life that supports both professional growth and meaningful time with loved ones.If you would like to learn more then please schedule a free coaching call with me, Chris Welton today! 

https://calendly.com/chriswelton

To learn more about Jason please visit his Instagram! 

@Jasonrpurcell

In this episode of One Hand at a Time, Chris Welton sits down with Jamie Miller to explore the art and psychology of effective communication—especially in the world of sales and leadership.

Jamie shares powerful insights on how conscious communication can transform the way professionals connect with clients, colleagues, and audiences. Rather than focusing on simply delivering a message, he explains the importance of active listening, thoughtful responses, and asking the right questions to create genuine connection and trust.

A major theme throughout the conversation is curiosity. Jamie discusses how the most successful sales professionals aren’t the ones who talk the most—they’re the ones who ask the most insightful questions. By staying curious and present in conversations, salespeople can uncover real needs and build authentic relationships rather than transactional ones.

Chris and Jamie also dive into the psychology behind speaking and presentations, explaining how to create real value when communicating with an audience. Jamie highlights that great communicators focus less on impressing people and more on serving them with meaningful information and perspective.

Another key takeaway from the discussion is the importance of teaching. Jamie believes that when you position yourself as an educator—someone who shares knowledge and helps others grow—you naturally build credibility, authority, and trust in your space.

If you would like to learn more then please schedule a free coaching call with me, Chris Welton today! 

https://calendly.com/chriswelton

In this powerful episode of One Hand at a Time, Chris Welton sits down with Amanda Soukoulis to unpack her journey from a thriving professional dance career to facing unexpected and significant health challenges.

Amanda shares how life shifted when she began experiencing persistent gut issues, hormone imbalances, and unexplained health struggles that traditional approaches weren’t fully addressing. What started as subtle symptoms eventually led her down a deeper path of discovery—uncovering factors like mold toxicity and chronic inflammation that were impacting her overall well-being.

The conversation dives into the role of peptides in healing, how they can support recovery and regeneration, and why Amanda turned toward functional medicine to find answers. Rather than masking symptoms, she explains how taking a root-cause approach allowed her to better understand what was happening inside her body.

Chris and Amanda also emphasize the importance of early intervention—not waiting until health completely declines before taking action. They discuss the power of being proactive, asking better questions, and building a team that looks at wellness holistically rather than reactively.

At its core, this episode is about ownership—of your health, your decisions, and your future. Amanda’s story is a reminder that setbacks don’t have to define you, and that with the right mindset and approach, healing is possible.

If you would like to learn more then please schedule a free coaching call with me, Chris Welton today! 

https://calendly.com/chriswelton

To learn more about Amanda please visit her Instagram! 

@amandasouks 

In Episode 18 of Freestyle Fridays, Chris Welton shares a simple but powerful moment that stopped him in his tracks. While working out at home, his two-year-old son ran up and tackled him mid-session. In that instant, Chris realized something profound—if he were still working in corporate America, tied to someone else’s schedule and sitting in someone else’s office, he likely would have missed that moment entirely.

He reflects on the freedom he’s built since leaving corporate life—the ability to work on his own terms, structure his days intentionally, and be present for the small but meaningful moments with his family. For Chris, the greatest reward hasn’t just been business growth—it’s been time ownership and the memories that come with it.

The episode shifts into a direct challenge for listeners:

Chris doesn’t suggest reckless decisions—but he does encourage intentional evaluation. Because fulfillment isn’t accidental. It’s built through courageous choices, clear priorities, and action.

If you would like to learn more then please schedule a free coaching call with me, Chris Welton today! 

https://calendly.com/chriswelton

In this episode of One Hand at a Time, Chris Welton sits down with Don Goettling, CEO of Momentum Builder, a leadership platform built to unite the best minds and strategies in the housing industry to drive lasting success. Together, they break down the current state of the market, the future of real estate, and what it really takes to win in the evolving mortgage landscape.

Don shares his candid perspective on the real estate market today and where he believes the trajectory is headed in 2026, offering insights for loan officers, leaders, and housing professionals preparing for the next cycle. He reflects on how the industry shifted after the boom years of 2020 and 2021, noting that many professionals became complacent when business was easy—and how that mindset simply doesn’t work in today’s environment.

A major theme of the conversation is relationships. Don emphasizes that success in the current market isn’t built on shortcuts or automation alone—it’s built on authentic, human connection. With deals harder to come by, trust, consistency, and real partnerships are what separate top performers from everyone else.

The episode also dives into the impact of AI in the mortgage industry. Don and Chris discuss how AI can be a powerful tool for efficiency and strategy, but also warn against overreliance on technology at the expense of personal connection. In an industry rooted in trust, people still want to work with people—not just systems.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone in housing, sales, or leadership who wants to stay relevant, build real influence, and win in the years ahead.

If you would like to learn more then please schedule a free coaching call with me, Chris Welton today! 

https://calendly.com/chriswelton