What does it take to go from broke, addicted, and skeptical… to leading 55 loan officers, building a $250M+ mortgage business, and writing a book that’s changing lives?
That’s the story of JJ Mazzo, mortgage leader, coach, and author of Perseverance Principles. His journey proves that no matter how low you start, the right mindset and systems can completely transform your future.
In this blog, we’ll unpack JJ’s story, his 7 Perseverance Principles, and why they matter for every loan officer looking to scale their business.
What Are the Perseverance Principles All About?
At its core, perseverance isn’t about never failing — it’s about never quitting.
JJ’s Perseverance Principles show how discipline, consistency, and courage through discomfort create exponential results. They’re not abstract theories; they’re battle-tested truths from someone who rebuilt his business and life after bankruptcy and addiction.
From Broke to Broker: JJ Mazzo’s Redemption Story
JJ didn’t start as a top producer. In fact, he hit rock bottom. Bankruptcy and addiction nearly took him out of the industry altogether.
But instead of giving up, JJ rebuilt from scratch. He leaned into mentorship, faith, and a relentless drive to improve. Within just two years, he scaled from making $200K to $2M in income, built a reputation for 10-day closes, and grew a division of 55 loan officers.
His story isn’t just about money — it’s about resilience, discipline, and building a legacy rooted in faith and family.
The 7 Perseverance Principles: Your Playbook for Growth
Here are JJ’s 7 principles that helped him scale from rock bottom to $250M:
1. Discipline Already Exists Inside You
Find the areas where you already show discipline (fitness, family, faith) and channel that same focus into business.
2. Do Hard Things Anyway
Growth requires discomfort. The very task you’re avoiding is likely the one that will move the needle.
3. Keep Value Props Simple
Don’t overcomplicate what sets you apart. JJ built his reputation on one promise: 10-day closes. Simplicity scales.
4. Buckets Create Clarity
Organize your relationships:
- Top 50 (your core advocates)
- Next 100 (warm leads and referral partners)
- Next 300 (prospects and future clients)
This structure ensures no one falls through the cracks.
5. Execute Relentlessly
Ideas are worthless without consistent action. JJ proves that doing the basics daily beats chasing every new trend.
6. Build a Support System
No one succeeds alone. Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and coaches who push you forward.
7. Lead Yourself First
True leadership starts with discipline in your own life. When you live your principles, others naturally follow.
So, How Does This Tie Into Loan Officer Success?
For loan officers, the market can feel unpredictable — rates shift, competition is fierce, and clients expect more speed and clarity than ever.
JJ’s Perseverance Principles are the antidote. They give LOs the framework to:
- Stay consistent when deals slow down
- Differentiate with clear, simple value props
- Scale relationships without losing authenticity
- Lead teams with vision and discipline
In other words, these principles aren’t just motivational—they’re practical tools that directly fuel production.
How to Support JJ and Start Your Perseverance Journey
Want to dive deeper into JJ’s story and apply these principles yourself? Here’s how:
- 📚 Read the book: PerseverancePrinciples.com
- 🎧 Listen to the podcast episode: The Mortgage Rainmaker Podcast featuring JJ Mazzo
- 📱 Follow JJ: LinkedIn | Instagram
💡 Keep learning: Explore more resources like mortgage team strategies, mortgage technology insights, and mortgage leadership tips.
JJ Mazzo’s story is living proof that perseverance changes everything. From broke to $250M, he shows us that when you lead yourself with discipline, lean on support, and embrace discomfort, extraordinary growth is possible.
👉 Start your journey today: Listen to JJ’s full conversation on The Mortgage Rainmaker Podcast and grab his book Perseverance Principles.
Are you ready to make it rain? Let’s do this.
