A poster for a lender speed dating event on may 3rd


Be The Better Broker Conference

Key Takeaways from A Better Way Mortgage Group


A few weeks ago, 18 of us attended the Be The Better Broker conference in Whistler, BC. The event was packed with insights, inspiration, and practical takeaways to elevate our mortgage business and mindset. After gathering feedback from our team, here’s a consolidated summary of the top lessons we brought home:


Mindset & Personal Growth

  • Stress is a tool – Instead of avoiding it, learn to manage it and use it to accomplish tasks. The only people without stress are no longer with us.
  • Be present and grateful – Take a moment each morning to sit still for 5-6 minutes, reflect on your progress, and see yourself through your younger self’s eyes. You’d be amazed at what you’ve achieved.
  • Embrace who you are – Authenticity wins. Appreciate every single day and the privilege we have in helping people.
  • Avoid the “when-then” trap – Stop waiting for the perfect moment to take action. Success and fulfillment happen in the now.
  • Crossing any threshold? Ask yourself, “What would love do now?” – A powerful way to keep perspective and lead with compassion.
  • Movement matters – 30 seconds of squats or planks every 1.5 hours equals a 30-minute speed walk. Small habits add up.
  • People who swear live longer – Science says so. Take that as you will!


AI, Tech & Business Strategy

  • AI is not optional – It’s a tool that evolves daily, making life easier. Get in the game before you’re out of the game.
  • Explore new tools – Perplexity AI as a research assistant, Google Notebook for form creation, and using [ ] to build repeatable development processes.
  • Slice renewals by age – Consider how different age groups approach mortgage products. Tailor strategies accordingly.
  • Craft an elevator pitch – Create a personal aphorism that defines your value and mission in a single sentence.
  • Listen actively – Let clients fully express their thoughts before responding. Repeat back, expand, and ask clarifying questions.


Industry & Market Insights

  • Know your MPs (Provincial & Federal) – Staying informed and involved in policy matters helps us advocate for clients and industry growth.
  • Reverse mortgages redefined – "The house made more money than you. Why sell the house?" Rethinking financial strategies for aging homeowners.
  • Scarcity thinking is everywhere – Shift towards an abundance mindset to navigate uncertainty.
  • Tariffs aren’t all bad – While not ideal, they push Canada toward self-sufficiency.
  • No drastic BOC cuts expected – Manage expectations in a volatile rate environment.


Community & Resilience

  • We thrive with a home team – Success comes from knowing we’re not in this alone. Lean on your network.
  • Ask for referrals verbally – A simple ask can go a long way in growing your business.
  • A bad hour doesn’t mean a bad day – Keep perspective. Challenges are temporary.
  • Trump wants minerals, AI is inevitable, and birthday cake is good – Some things in life are just facts!


And lastly… No one looks good in plaid. (Sorry, Whistler, we still love you!) - Chris Pughe


This conference reinforced the importance of embracing change, leveraging AI, managing stress, and staying true to ourselves.


Let’s keep building A Better Way, together. 🚀