Green Zone Mornings: Darren Copeland’s Playbook for Consistency
In this episode, we dig into the playbook behind consistent production in any market: time blocking, calendar control, and relationship-first selling.
Darren shares how “Green Zone” hours—his 7:30–10:30 a.m. money-making block—drive referrals, reviews, and repeat business.
We hit coaching vs. recruiting, finding affordable accountability, and why gratitude video check-ins outperform cold outreach. We also talk Midwest markets, community presence, and how tech should scale the human—never replace it.What you’ll learn:How to build your daily “Green Zone” so your calendar stops running youA simple 90-day goal framework (personal, health, spiritual, financial, production)Five “gratitude call” use cases that spark deals without discountingThe litmus test to separate real coaching from recruiting millsWhy database + time blocking beats “shiny object” tools in Kansas City, Detroit, and beyondHow to start with group coaching or an accountability partner if funds are tightBuyer/LO keywords: mortgage coaching, loan officer time blocking, referral partner strategy, Kansas City mortgage, Midwest housing market, Detroit housing, Summit Lending, The Green Zone Project, Jason Frazier, accountability for LOs, database engagement, gratitude calls, Google reviews for lenders, LO calendar management.Links mentioned:Darren Copeland: linkedin.com/in/darrencopelandkcThe Green Zone Project (book): amazon.com/…/B0FDR6BZ5MPerfect for: New and experienced LOs, branch leaders, and brokers in the Midwest and nationwide who want a repeatable morning routine that turns relationships into applications.
Darren Copeland
President and CEO
Co-Author of The Green Zone | CEO of Summit Lending | Top 1% Mortgage Originator
For over 2 decades, I’ve been helping families achieve their dream of homeownership and guiding loan officers to reach their full potential. As a Top 1% originator nationwide, I’ve built my career on one principle—always put people first.
At Summit Lending, we’ve grown to become one of the fastest-growing mortgage brokerages in the country by keeping things simple: delivering solutions, providing exceptional service, and creating an environment where loan officers can thrive. Our brokerage model gives clients the advantage of shopping the best programs and rates, while empowering our loan officers with the tools, support, and culture they need to grow.
Beyond leading Summit, I’m passionate about mentorship and leadership. I stay actively involved in national coaching groups, sharing strategies that help mortgage professionals grow both personally and professionally. That same passion inspired me to co-author The Green Zone—a book that helps loan officers “operate at their highest level by controlling what they can and mastering their mindset
Outside of work, I’m a proud husband and father, and a lifelong Kansas City sports fan. Each year, you’ll find me sharing the field with Royals Hall of Famers at their annual Fantasy Camp—a tradition that keeps me connected to the game I love.
