On this week's episode of the Studio 321 Podcast, Steve and Angela sit down with Donny Panasis of Embrace Home Loans to talk leadership, lending, and building a business rooted in people first.

Donny shares his journey from growing up in California and later calling Brevard home his home, and how he ultimately stepped into the branch manager role at Embrace after working for big banks.

He opens up about what makes Embrace different—the culture, the emphasis on care before expertise, and a team mentality where leadership exists to support, not control. Donny also breaks down programs helping first-time buyers and investors alike, including Florida Bond, Hometown Heroes, bank statement loans, DCSR lending, and exclusive Embrace offerings like their Approved to Close Guarantee and Guaranteed Appraisal Value.

From balancing family life to partnering with local brokerages and helping buyers overcome roadblocks that lead to life-changing closings, Donny shares stories and insights fueled by purpose, grit, and a love for the community he serves.

Tune in for inspiration, practical knowledge, and a reminder that relationships—not rates—are what sustain success in real estate.

To get in touch with Donny:
Email: dPanasis@embracehomeloans.com
Phone: 321.223.9960
https://www.embracehomeloans.com/location/florida/viera/donny-panasis

Powered by Brightway Insurance – The Steve Trout Agency

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On this episode of the Studio 321 Podcast, hosted by Steve and Angela, we sit down with Luis Perez, Branch Manager with Certified Mortgage Planners and one of the most relationship-driven loan officers on the Space Coast.

Luis didn’t take the typical straight path into mortgages. He started hustling in the auto salvage industry at 15, entered mortgages three separate times, lived through the 2008 crash, and eventually found his stride not as an agent—but as the guy solving problems behind the scenes. Today, he leads a team built on communication, education, and treating every client like a priority.

Luis shares why first-time buyers get overwhelmed, how he eliminates fear through clear expectations, and why his number one rule is don’t lose a home over $50 a month. From lowering insurance and restructuring debt to strategic use of down-payment assistance, he calls it loan surgery—finding a way to make a deal work when others walk away.

Whether you’re a buyer, a realtor, or just love a great comeback story, this conversation is packed with wisdom, laughs, and real talk about what it takes to thrive in today’s market.

Get in touch with Luis at (321) 586-6168 or luis.perez@cmpfl.com

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On this episode of the Studio 321 Podcast, hosted by Steve, Angela, and Jason, we sit down with Jaime Rhude of CrossCountry Mortgage—one of the top 1% mortgage loan officers in the country and a true advocate for her community.

Jaime shares her powerful journey, from growing up with deaf parents—where sign language was her first language—to becoming a trusted voice in the mortgage industry. Her early experiences shaped her ability to communicate, connect, and lead with empathy—skills that define how she serves clients today.

We talk about life as a military spouse, her deep passion for veterans, and how personal tragedy reshaped her perspective on purpose, gratitude, and service. Jaime also walks us through her education-first approach to lending, why pre-approvals matter, and how long-term thinking builds real trust.

One of the most impactful moments of the episode is the story of a veteran many would have turned away—and how Jaime fought to help him secure a VA loan by going far beyond the standard process. This conversation is about more than mortgages. It’s about leading with empathy, showing up consistently, and building a business rooted in service, relationships, and doing the right thing—even when it’s hard.

For all your mortgage needs, contact Jaime with CrossCountry Mortgage!
Mobile: (321) 501-0120
Tel: (321) 270-8501
Website: jaimerhude.com
Email: Jaime.Rhude@ccm.com

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On this episode of the Studio 321 Podcast, hosted by Steve and Jason, we sit down with Josh Quibodeaux of CrossCountry Mortgage—one of Brevard County’s most respected and consistent producers.

Josh shares how he got his start in the mortgage industry at just 22 years old, what the business was like in the early 2000s “wild west” days, and how everything changed after 2008. We talk about what it really takes to last in this industry, why relationships and reputation still matter more than ever, and how Josh has built his business through reliability, availability, and word of mouth.

The conversation also dives into common misconceptions around VA and FHA loans, what a manual underwrite really means, and Josh’s advice for buyers navigating today’s market. From team building and sustainable growth to work-life balance and longevity, this episode is all about doing mortgages the right way—over the long haul.

For all your mortgage needs, contact Josh on his mobile phone at (321) 917-6247 or via email at Joshua.Quibodeaux@ccm.com

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We’re closing out the year in true Studio 321 fashion with a special New Year’s episode featuring the team from Bella Title & Escrow. Hosted by Steve Trout, this conversation brings together founder Beth LaBella, marketing mastermind Frankie LaBella Jr., licensed title agent Lee Evans, and a special guest appearance from Frank LaBella Sr.

After spending two decades in the title industry, Beth and Frank took the leap to build Bella Title with a vision centered on people, service, and doing things the right way. Frankie later joined the team, bringing fresh energy and creative marketing, while Lee has become a cornerstone of the company and an integral part of its day-to-day success.

We dive into what title insurance really is and why it matters, how Bella Title creates a smooth—and genuinely fun—closing experience, and why attitude and communication are just as important as paperwork. The team also shares how their family-like culture, community involvement, and charitable work—especially their support of the Doug Flutie Foundation for Autism—have shaped the company’s success.

To wrap up the year, we reflect on a strong 2025, celebrate personal milestones, share a few laughs, and look ahead to what’s next. It’s the perfect way to sign, seal, and close out the year!

Website: bellatitle.com

Phone: 321-610-7806

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On this episode of the Studio 321 Podcast, Steve, Angela, and Jason sit down with Jason Fagan for a real conversation about money, mindset, and long-term planning. Jason shares why so many people make emotional decisions in the market — buying high, selling low — and how having a clear plan before volatility hits can change everything. He talks about his journey into financial advising, how the industry has evolved, and why good advising is less about budgeting and more about understanding cash flow, protection, and people.

One of the most meaningful moments comes from the suitcase Jason keeps in his office — a reminder of his father and the purpose behind helping others build a more secure future. From advice for young professionals and business owners to the importance of trust and relationships, this episode is a thoughtful look at planning with intention.

Contact Jason and Fagan Financial Group for your investment needs:

Jason Fagan | Fagan Financial Group

https://faganfinancialgroup.com/

Jason@FaganFinancialGroup.com

321-877-0055

Disclaimer: Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions. Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Fagan Financial Group and Cambridge are not affiliated.

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On this episode of the Studio 321 Podcast, hosted by Steve Trout and Angela Dalaq, we sit down with Bryan Troy, Senior Loan Officer at The Mortgage Firm. With 16+ years in the mortgage industry — and ranked Top 20 in the nation out of 20,000+ loan officers for customer satisfaction — Bryan brings a straight-shooting, client-first perspective to every conversation.

We talk about the biggest mistakes people make when refinancing, how to avoid costly online-lender traps, and why proper pre-approval matters now more than ever in Florida’s changing insurance and housing landscape. Bryan shares how he survived the 2008 mortgage crash, built a relationship-driven business, and why honesty, communication, and doing right by the client always win long term.

We also dive into coaching youth sports, balancing business and family, and the value of having the right people in your corner when buying, refinancing, or navigating a tough market.

For all your mortgage needs, reach out to Bryan Troy with The Mortgage Firm at (321) 544-7239 or via email at Bryan.Troy@tmf.mortgage .

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On this episode of the Studio 321 Podcast, hosted by Steve Trout and Diana Trout, we sit down with Cori Daniels, Nurse Practitioner and functional medicine advocate with Just Lavender Functional Medicine. After nearly a decade of traditional practice, a life-changing event in 2020 inspired Cori to reevaluate her approach to healthcare, focusing on uncovering the root causes of illness rather than just treating symptoms.

We talk about her journey from conventional medicine to functional medicine, the importance of taking actionable steps toward health and longevity, and how she blends her professional passion with a vibrant family life. Born and raised in Merritt Island, Cori shares how she and her high school sweetheart are raising three children while embracing outdoor activities, travel, and creating lasting memories.

Website: www.justlavenderfunctionalmedicine.com

Phone: (321) 209-0911

Email: Cori@JustLavenderFunctinalMedicine.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560509423246

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

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