Challenging YOUR Status Quo

In this episode of "Challenging Your Status Quo," host J.A. Dava welcomes Brian Vieaux, the president of MISMO, to discuss the evolving landscape of the mortgage industry as we approach 2026. They explore the significant changes that 2025 brought, particularly how it exposed weaknesses in the industry and highlighted the importance of relationships and personal branding for loan officers...

In the first episode of Season Four of "Challenging Your Status Quo," host J.A. Dava welcomes Erica Acie, a seasoned leader in the banking industry and author of "Got This: A Guide to Securing Your Greatest Future." The conversation begins with a focus on holistic well-being, emphasizing that vocational success is only one aspect of a fulfilling life. Dava and Acie discuss the importance of mental...

In this conversation, J.A. Dava and Michael Mann discuss the upcoming Marine Corps Marathon and the fundraising efforts for the John Owen Mann Foundation, which supports veterans in need of service dogs. Michael shares the legacy of his father, John Owen Mann, and the foundation's mission to help veterans and first responders. The conversation highlights the importance of community support and...

In this episode, Coach Dava welcomes back Rick Elmendorf to discuss the importance of mindset, faith, and philanthropy in achieving success in the mortgage business. They explore Rick's personal journey of rebuilding his business after setbacks, emphasizing the significance of spiritual and mental health practices. The conversation highlights the value of relationships in business and the role of...

In this engaging conversation, J.A. Dava and Rick Elmendorf explore the multifaceted aspects of well-being, emphasizing the importance of balancing vocational success with spiritual, relational, physical, mental, and philanthropic well-being. Rick shares his journey in the loan business, the significance of specialization, and the evolving dynamics in the real estate market. They discuss the neces...

In this episode of Challenging Your Status Quo, J.A. Dava engages in a deep conversation with Eric Pennington, managing partner of Spirit of EQ. They explore the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) in today's world, especially in the context of the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). Eric shares his personal journey from a successful corporate career to entrepreneurship, driven by a ca...

In this conversation, J.A. Dava and Julia Brown discuss the importance of challenging the status quo in business, emphasizing holistic success that encompasses both vocational and personal fulfillment. Julia shares her journey from working at LORE to founding Telescope Advisors, a firm focused on helping businesses build strong foundations and relationships. They explore the significance of face-t...

Join Coach Dava this week as he interviews Jocelyn and Terry Fung. This week we will discuss how the Fungs have navigated marriage, as well as transitioning into a partnership of sales. Merging vocation with relationships is exactly what the Fung's exemplify in their daily choice to balance and prioritize what matters.

In this episode of Challenging Your Status Quo , J.A. Dava introduces Randall Gillespie, the president of Leader One Financial, who shares insights on the importance of vocational and relational well-being. The conversation delves into the current state of the mortgage industry, discussing challenges such as affordability and the cyclical nature of the market. Gillespie emphasizes the significance...

In this episode of Challenging YOUR Status Quo , J.A. Dava welcomes Matt Clarke, President of Churchill Mortgage, for an inspiring conversation that bridges the gap between vocational excellence and spiritual alignment . Together, they explore Matt’s journey through the mortgage industry and what it means to lead with integrity, humility, and purpose in a high-performance environment. Matt opens u...