Today we’d like to introduce you to Gene Griffin
Hi Gene, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
From the Big Woods of Longview, Texas, to where I stand today, my journey has been one of resilience, transformation, and ultimately, triumph. Growing up in a trailer home nestled deep within those woods, life wasn’t always easy. My dad juggled multiple full-time jobs, his hands calloused from hard work, while also playing music on weekends. My mom poured her heart into caring for my brother and me. The 1980s were a different time; dads worked tirelessly, moms held down the homefront. We might not have had much in terms of material possessions, but we were rich in love and the values my parents instilled in us: a relentless work ethic and a heart dedicated to serving others. Those early years, though challenging, laid the foundation for the person I am today.
When my dad earned his degree, our family moved to a duplex in the Houston area, a slight “upgrade” as we called it, where he embarked on a new career path. It was during this time that I veered off course. Like many teenagers, I rebelled, but perhaps a little more intensely than most. My grades slipped, I tangled with the law, and I lost sight of the values I had been raised with. Two nights in juvenile detention served as a stark, jarring wake-up call. It was in that cell, I had a profound realization: this wasn’t me. This wasn’t the person my parents had raised. I knew I was capable of so much more. That experience became a pivotal moment, a turning point that forced me to confront my choices and chart a new direction.
I turned my grades around, got more involved with school clubs, took on more challenging courses and pushed myself to be better.
Looking back, I wouldn’t trade those difficult times for anything. They were the crucible in which my tenacity and passion were forged. They shaped me, strengthened me, and ignited within me a drive to not only succeed but to inspire others who might be facing their own challenges. My story is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of strong values, and the unwavering belief in one’s potential.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey hasn’t exactly been paved with rose petals. It’s been more of a winding road, marked by its fair share of potholes. From grappling with the challenges of poverty and the sting of bullying, to navigating the internal struggles I sometimes created for myself, there have definitely been hurdles to overcome.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I lead a national mortgage operation that helps people finance residential, investment, and commercial properties. Our team is built on a foundation of two core principles – Heart and Hustle – qualities that are non-negotiable and, frankly, unteachable. These values are a direct reflection of my parents and the lessons they instilled in me. The “Heart” comes from my mom, who taught me the importance of being servant-hearted and we will always putting our clients first. We don’t see people as dollar signs; we see them as individuals with unique goals, and we’re committed to helping them achieve those aspirations. The “Hustle” I learned from my dad, whose relentless work ethic inspired me to work circles around others and push my business forward every single day.
In an industry full of egos and a focus on transactions, we strive to be a breath of fresh air. We believe our licenses come with a responsibility – a responsibility to society and to helping people realize the dream of homeownership and building generational wealth. We’re not just facilitating loans; we’re empowering futures. We have some exciting plans in the works this year that I can’t reveal just yet, but I can share our ambitious vision: to become the first mortgage broker operation to become a household name. We’re not just aiming for success; we’re aiming to redefine the industry and make a lasting impact.
What matters most to you?
Above all else, my family is my world. I’m incredibly proud of my amazing 13-year-old daughter, Emma, who inspires me every single day. My beautiful wife, Adrienne, is my constant source of support and encouragement. I wouldn’t be where I am today without either of them, and I’m committed to building a life for them that exceeds even their wildest dreams.
Beyond my family, I’m deeply passionate about the work we do at Summit Mortgage Solutions. I believe our work is purpose-driven; it’s more than just a job, it’s a calling that is bigger that me. I feel, deep down, that this is what I was put here to do.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.summitmortgagesolutions.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genegriffinmortgage/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gene.griffin.10
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genegriffin/
- Other: https://g.co/kgs/DD33FJ6
Image Credits
Images 1 and 2: Paige Newton | Images 3 and 4: Jessica Mims
