
The Way with Dino Katsiametis Grit, Growth & the Climb: John Donnelly on Building Leaders in Life and Lending
Oct 21, 2025
01:11:13
On this episode of The Way with Dino Katsiametis, John Donnelly, Executive Director of Sales at Service First Mortgage, shares how a 25-year journey in the mortgage industry—and a literal climb up Mount Kilimanjaro—taught him what it truly means to lead, grow, and serve.
Dino and John unpack the lessons behind lasting success:
- From call-center chaos to executive leadership—how grit builds greatness
- The power of servant leadership and creating impact beyond the paycheck
- Turning relationships into real results in today’s mortgage market
- How to find your “why” and keep climbing when business (and life) get tough
- Why systems, mindset, and integrity are the foundation of every top producer
If you’re a loan officer, entrepreneur, or leader searching for inspiration, strategy, and heart, this episode shows you how to rise higher—one intentional step at a time.
Learn from Dino and join the team at https://ethoslending.com/
