Episode #1 | James McKibban 🦁 From Hustling Door-to-Door to $2.25B in Loans – The Rise of The Lion of Loans
Kick off The Lion of Loans Podcast with a deep dive into the story of your host, James “Lion of Loans” McKibban. Marketing Director Keegan leads an illuminating interview that uncovers James’s earliest days pounding the pavement—literally dodging dogs and stumbling into backyards—to eventually closing multi-million-dollar deals across all 50 states.
Discover how James built a relentless work ethic from door-hanger marketing in 100-degree heat, all the way to structuring an $8.3 million foreign-national loan that pushed every boundary of mortgage creativity. His motto? “Beast mode every day.” Learn how that unwavering drive led to $2.25B in funded loans, multiple top rankings at major lenders, and a reputation as a fearless problem solver for clients of every size.
Beyond spreadsheets and phone calls, James reveals how he fused hard work with big ideas—think Newport Beach yacht meetups and private Sprinter sessions—to create unforgettable networking opportunities. If you’ve ever wondered why building authentic relationships and keeping pace with new technology are musts in real estate, James breaks it down with candor and humor.
In this premiere episode, you’ll also hear why the “Lion of Loans” brand stands for more than closing deals—it’s about nurturing genuine connections. James recalls mentors who fueled his rise from novice loan officer to the top tier of his craft, sharing lessons like “earn the business, don’t ask for it” and never overlook a small loan that might open the door to something huge.
Highlights include:
* Tales of dog chases, accidental backyard intrusions, and the early grind of door-to-door marketing.
* The game-changing foreign-national loan that tested every ounce of creativity.
* Insights on Newport Beach’s competitive real estate scene—where mega-producers and reality TV stars thrive.
* Staying humble, consistent, and ready to pivot, even if it means working on Sundays.
* Practical tips for Realtors, loan officers, and aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to up their game.
Tune in to hear James and Keegan set the tone for future episodes—a blend of eye-opening mortgage insights, real-world success stories, and lively banter about the people behind the transactions. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned pro, or just love a good underdog-turned-champion narrative, Episode 1 delivers fresh inspiration and actionable advice for going all-in on your dreams.
Subscribe now and follow James on Instagram and YouTube (@JamesMckibban) for behind-the-scenes content and sneak peeks of upcoming episodes. Welcome to The Lion of Loans Podcast, where each success story proves that grit, passion, and genuine relationships can transform any underdog into a real estate champion.
