“If you focus on the problem, you can’t see the solution. Never focus on the problem!”

This month’s Member Spotlight holds that quote as a personal mantra to keep perspective and never give up. If it sounds familiar, don’t cheat with Google, we’ll give you hints as you read on.

In addition to watching late 90’s comedy-dramas featuring a zany male lead (hint), John V. Santilli, Chief Revenue Officer of Rehab Financial Group, enjoys live music, a great dinner, and the beach. Can we join you on a friends date John? Because that sounds wonderful. Read on for more on John.

How long have you been an AAPL member?

2 years.

What AAPL benefit do you MOST value?

I believe the Annual Conference and connections made through AAPL have been the best resources for my continued professional and RFG’s growth and development.

Why did you become a member?

Within any industry, you must find that one pinnacle resource to be the “go-to” for information, resources, and best practices.  Susan Naftulin, a long-term AAPL member and cofounder of RFG fully endorsed AAPL as that “go-to” partner.

What is your favorite AAPL memory?

I am going to say my first AAPL conference in 2019.  I knew absolutely no one and had a preconceived notion or bias that private lending was going to be more of the same stuffiness that comes with typical banking or the stigma that comes from “hard money.”  That was not the case here. While most of the people I met came from similar backgrounds, the welcoming, class acts, openness, and sharing of information to help make all of us better was a completely different expectation and experience.

Speaking of class acts, our movie quote was spoken by a Hollywood legend with a bit of a patchy history.

Why did you decide to enter the private lending profession?

I started the first 11 years of my career writing business loans and migrated into residential lending during the subprime era.  This is where I met Susan.  I ran the front end of residential retail lending and she ran the REO department for our $4 billion dollar servicing portfolio.  

During the 07-08′ collapse, I was in the middle of acquiring a mortgage company for a private equity company.  After abandoning the purchase and spending 10 years building other (marketing-related) companies, Susan came and ask me to help her take RFG to the next level.  I never thought I would be back in lending but have not looked back.

What are some accomplishments you are particularly proud of?

My proudest accomplishments touch me both personally and professionally.  

Personally, I could not be more proud of the father I have become to my three children. As a divorced single parent with 50/50 custody, I immediately chose to be heavily involved with every aspect of my kids’ lives with all of the sacrifices that come with it. Without a doubt, who they are and their accomplishments are jointly shared with me and their mother.  

Professionally, I have only worked at three companies that were all very cutting edge and entrepreneurial.  My work ethic, eagerness to learn, professionalism, and ability to add value has never been in question anywhere or by anyone.  To be able to lead is a privilege I do not take lightly.

What is your favorite book, and why?

I am only mildly embarrassed to say I am not a heavy reader.  I cannot sit still enough to read.  I am one of those people who need to consume as much information and fun in as little time as possible. I guess relaxing means different things to different people.  
 
Recently, I did get through Joe Namath’s “All the Way” and Matthew McConaughey’s “Greenlight.”  So favorite? None really but my favorite type —  about people I “think” I could relate to.

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Oh wait, we’re not done. Still wracking your brains for the source of that quote? Here’s your spoiler (highlight the text to unveil): 1998’s comedic “masterpiece” Patch Adams.

To see yourself in the spotlight or nominate a member, just complete this form. A member of the AAPL team will follow up with you.