In Episode 13 of Unconventional, host Bill Tessar sits down with Freeman Sawyer, Regional Vice President at Cross Country Mortgage and Founder of Heroes Ranch—a sanctuary for veterans, first responders, and families with special needs.
Freeman’s story isn’t just about sales or success—it’s about survival, second chances, and the power of purpose. From selling cars to establishing one of the most successful builder mortgage divisions in the country, his journey proves that true leadership is forged in resilience and service.
From the Car Lot to the Closing Table
Freeman’s career began in the car business. By his early twenties, he was working his way through nearly every position in a dealership—from sales to general manager. His best month? Nearly 70 cars sold, a number that sounds almost mythical in modern sales.
But for Freeman, sales was never about the transaction—it was about the drive. Guided by a philosophy he learned from the book Rhinoceros Success, he built his career on a simple idea: keep charging forward, no matter what.
When family came into focus—and a diagnosis of autism for his youngest son—Freeman made a life-altering pivot. He left the dealership world to enter mortgage lending, applying his same discipline and tenacity to a completely new industry. Within months, he had turned his entire sales team into loan originators.
Reinventing the Mortgage Model
By the mid-2000s, Freeman was leading one of the most innovative call centers in the country, using “trigger leads” to connect with borrowers the moment they entered the market. His system—part precision, part persistence—revolutionized how lenders approached outbound sales.
Then came the financial crisis. Like many, Freeman lost more than money—he lost momentum. But in true rhino fashion, he didn’t stop. The phrase “get my boat back” became his personal mantra—a symbol of rebuilding not just wealth, but freedom and purpose.
Building a Legacy: The Heroes Ranch
When Freeman returned to Texas, he found a new mission. Drawing from his deep respect for the military and his own family’s ties to service, he created Heroes Ranch—a 474-acre haven where veterans, first responders, and families with special needs can hunt, fish, and heal, all at no cost.
Every detail of the ranch was designed with accessibility and dignity in mind: ADA-friendly cabins, adaptive equipment, and a team dedicated to making sure every guest feels seen and celebrated.
“Whether they’ve given their life, their body, or their peace of mind,” Freeman says, “they deserve a place where they can find joy again.”
Today, Heroes Ranch hosts dozens of families each season—offering them not just recreation, but restoration.
A Life-Saving Moment and a Renewed Mission
In 2024, Freeman’s life took another dramatic turn. While on a recruiting trip, his heart suddenly stopped due to a congenital defect. Thanks to the quick actions of his team and an off-duty medic—a Navy Chief Petty Officer—Freeman was revived.
A year later, after an incredulous online search, he found and reunited with the man who saved his life. They are now lifelong friends—a testament to the grace and gratitude that define Freeman’s story.
Leading With Heart and Humility
Today, Freeman oversees nearly $400 million in annual loan volume with Cross Country Mortgage, achieving an astonishing 85–90% pull-through rate with his builder partners. Yet, he still finds time to mentor, to give back, and to expand Heroes Ranch—his “new boat.”
His life is a masterclass in faith, perseverance, and perspective. As Tessar puts it:
“Being unconventional isn’t about doing things differently—it’s about doing them with heart.”
Dare to Be Unconventional
Freeman Sawyer reminds us that success isn’t measured by titles or trophies, but by impact. From selling cars to saving lives, he’s proof that when purpose leads, greatness follows.
Follow @CV3Financial and subscribe to the Unconventional with Bill Tessar podcast for more stories of entrepreneurs redefining success.
Dare to be Unconventional.