Purpose Before Profit: Dr. Anthony Kellum Of Kellum Mortgage On The Benefits Of Running A Purpose-Driven Business
An Interview With Chad Silverstein
A Willingness to Adapt and Grow — While your mission should remain consistent, the methods you use to achieve it will likely need to adapt over time. In my experience, the housing market changes, client needs shift, and new technologies emerge. Staying open to learning and evolving while staying true to your core mission is key to long-term success. I’ve had to pivot my business model several times to better serve my clients and maintain profitability without compromising my purpose.
In today’s competitive business landscape, the race for profits often takes center stage. However, some leaders also prioritize a mission-driven purpose. They use their business to make a positive social impact and recognize that success isn’t only about making money. In this interview series, we are talking with some of these distinct leaders and I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Anthony Kellum.
Dr. Anthony Kellum is the founder and president of Kellum Mortgage, a Detroit-based firm that aims to make homeownership more accessible to individuals and families historically marginalized by the housing market. Guided by a philosophy that blends business acumen with community impact, Kellum has emerged as a prominent advocate for purpose-driven entrepreneurship in the mortgage and real estate industries.
Raised in the 1980s in a close-knit and supportive family environment, Kellum describes his upbringing as foundational to his worldview. Though his parents were divorced, both played formative roles in shaping his approach to life and business. His mother embodied drive and perseverance, while his father prioritized thoughtful planning and preparation. Kellum credits his current leadership style to this dual influence — his mother’s instinct to keep moving forward and his father’s focus on strategic thinking.
Kellum entered the mortgage industry with a deep understanding of the importance of homeownership, an insight passed down from his father at an early age. For Kellum, property is more than a financial asset; it represents legacy, stability, and the potential for generational wealth. His work is informed by a historical awareness of systemic inequities in housing, including the unfulfilled promise of “40 acres and a mule.” These ideas have evolved into a central message that Kellum frequently invokes: “Property is Power.”
This philosophy took on renewed urgency in the wake of George Floyd’s death in 2020. In the aftermath, Kellum began to examine how his business could serve as a platform for lasting change. He began speaking more directly about equity in homeownership and re-centered Kellum Mortgage around a mission of empowerment through real estate. That shift, he says, marked a defining moment in his career.
Kellum has emphasized that leadership requires continual growth. In the early days of managing his company, he quickly recognized the gravity of decision-making when others’ livelihoods are involved. He immersed himself in literature on communication, personality dynamics, and business leadership to improve his effectiveness as both a manager and mentor. He is adamant about viewing his team not merely as employees, but as individuals with the capacity to one day lead their own ventures or transform their personal trajectories.
The 2008 housing crisis served as a turning point for Kellum and his business philosophy. He acknowledges that the decisions he made at the time — such as expanding operations and entering into long-term leases — were rooted in a belief that perseverance alone would see him through. That lesson, he says, forced him to balance optimism with caution. Today, he places a premium on staying present, identifying early warning signs, and making difficult decisions when necessary.
Kellum Mortgage’s strategy places a strong emphasis on client education and accessibility. This includes working with clients seeking lower mortgage amounts — transactions that are often time-consuming and less profitable. While some team members have questioned the sustainability of focusing on smaller deals, Kellum maintains that such efforts are critical to the firm’s mission. In his view, business success is not only measured in revenue, but in impact — especially when new homeowners echo the phrase “Property is Power” or share stories about how owning a home has altered their family’s path.
Internally, Kellum works to instill a culture grounded in shared purpose. He involves his staff in mission-driven conversations and encourages team members to see the human impact behind their work. When the firm helped a young family navigate the complex process of purchasing their first home, the experience became a galvanizing moment for the entire office. Such moments, Kellum says, remind everyone that their efforts contribute to real, measurable change in people’s lives.
Looking ahead, Kellum envisions expanding the reach of his message. His goals include being a national voice on increasing homeownership and organizing what he hopes will be the world’s largest homeownership event — “The Property is Power! Conference.” His vision is to pair education with action, offering participants both information and on-site mortgage approvals, in what he hopes will become a record-setting initiative.
Through Kellum Mortgage and his broader advocacy, Dr. Anthony Kellum continues to promote homeownership as a pathway to empowerment and equity. For him, success is ultimately defined not just by what his company earns, but by the movement it helps build.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us your “Origin Story”? Can you tell us the story of how you grew up?
I grew up in the 80s in a wonderfully supportive environment, surrounded by a loving family. I have two sisters, and we are incredibly close to this day. Reflecting on those times brings back memories of playing outside with friends, riding my bike, and engaging in neighborhood baseball and basketball games. It was a tremendous community to grow up in.
Although my parents were divorced, I was fortunate to have both a remarkable mother and father who greatly influenced who I am today. My mom had a hustler’s mindset she was all about mind over matter, always pushing forward. On the other hand, my dad was more analytical, focused on preparation and thoughtful planning. I like to think that I inherited the best of both: my mother’s drive and my father’s strategic thinking.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company or organization?
That’s a great question! I’ll put it this way when you step into a leadership role, and you have employees depending on your decisions, you quickly realize the weight of that responsibility. Early on, I understood that I needed to constantly improve myself. I started reading business books, studying personalities, and focusing on becoming a better communicator. It wasn’t just about being a good leader, but about setting clear expectations and holding myself accountable to those standards.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to not view the people who work with me as employees. Instead, I see them as individuals with the potential to develop skills that could one day help them start their own business or improve their lives. I genuinely believe that there is more than enough success to go around for everyone. If I can help others grow and become better, we all benefit as a result.
We often learn the most from our mistakes. Can you share one that you made that turned out to be one of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned?
Yes, I’ve made plenty of mistakes, and each one has been a valuable lesson. One that stands out is the housing crash of 2008, which was an incredibly difficult and traumatic time. The decisions I made back then were costly like getting into long-term lease agreements that became hard to escape and ignoring the warning signs in the mortgage and housing industries. I thought I could manage it all, hiring when I should have been downsizing.
I think this mindset came from my mother’s influence her belief that you just keep pushing forward, keep fighting, and it will eventually work out. And for many small business owners like me, we’re used to dealing with challenges. But the housing crisis was different. I should have been more prudent, read the signs earlier, and made the tough decisions when they were needed. The lesson I took from that experience is to always stay aware, be present, and be prepared to make hard decisions when necessary.
As a successful leader, it’s clear that you uphold strong core values. I’m curious what are the most important principles you firmly stand by and refuse to compromise on. Can you share a few of them and explain why they hold such significance for you in your work and life?
As a leader, a few core principles guide everything I do, both in business and in life. The first is integrity. I believe in always doing what’s right, even when it’s difficult or unpopular. Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship, whether it’s with clients, employees, or business partners, integrity is at the heart of trust. Another key principle is accountability. I hold myself and those around me accountable for our actions and decisions. Mistakes happen, but it’s how we own up to them and learn from them that defines our growth.
Finally, I believe in the power of growth and development both personally and professionally. I’m committed to lifelong learning, not just for myself but for those I work with. I strive to create an environment where people can evolve and reach their full potential. For me, there’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing someone grow because of the opportunities or lessons they’ve encountered along the way. These principles are significant because they shape the culture of my organization and my approach to life. They ensure that the work we do is impactful, sustainable, and rooted in a deep sense of purpose.
What inspired you to start a purpose-driven business rather than a traditional for-profit enterprise? Can you share a personal story or experience that led you to prioritize social impact in your business?
At an early age, my father taught me the importance of ownership, land and homeownership. It was a powerful lesson that stayed with me and evolved as I got older. I began to view wealth through the lens of homeownership. To me, it’s about more than just financial gain; it’s mission work. Putting people in homes creates stronger communities. Studies show that kids are more likely to go to college when their parents own a home, and it builds a sense of stability and pride.
The history of lost promises like 40 acres and a mule deeply resonates with me. It drives home the fact that ownership is key to family security and generational wealth. I want to share that lesson with everyone I meet. I believe homeownership is non-negotiable for our community; it’s essential.
What truly ignited this passion was the tragic death of George Floyd. Afterward, I reflected on my own impact and asked myself, ‘What have I really done to make a difference for my people and my community?’ That moment changed everything for me. Now, I feel compelled to scream from the rooftops, unapologetically, that Property is Power! Whatever you do, become a homeowner it’s that important.
Can you help articulate a few of the benefits of leading a purpose-driven business rather than a standard “plain vanilla” business?
Leading a purpose-driven business offers a number of profound benefits that go far beyond just financial success. First and foremost, it creates a deep sense of fulfillment, both for me as a leader and for everyone involved in the organization. When your work is tied to a higher mission, it adds meaning to every action, decision, and achievement. You’re not just working for profits; you’re working to make a real, tangible difference in people’s lives. That’s a powerful motivator.
Another benefit is the connection it fosters with your community. A purpose-driven business aligns your goals with the needs of the people you serve, which builds trust and loyalty. Customers and clients recognize that you’re in it for more than just profit, and that creates long-lasting relationships that a standard business model can’t replicate.
Ultimately, a purpose-driven business becomes more resilient. When challenges arise, it’s easier to stay focused and push through, because you’re anchored by a cause larger than yourself. The impact you make becomes your compass, guiding your decisions and driving your growth in ways that a traditional plain vanilla business might not experience.
How has your company’s mission or purpose affected its overall success? Can you explain the methods or metrics you use to evaluate the impact of this purpose-driven strategy on your organization?
For me, it’s actually pretty simple. The greatest measure of success is when people walk up to me and say, Property is Power, or when they post about real estate on social media and tag ‘Property is Power.’ That’s really all I want my legacy to be that we’ve created a movement around the idea that property truly is power. If I can get people to associate homeownership and wealth-building with that message, then I’ve succeeded. That’s how I measure impact… by seeing the message resonate and take root in people’s lives. It’s that straightforward.
Can you share a pivotal moment when you realized that leading your purpose-driven company was actually making a significant impact? Can you share a specific example or story that deeply resonated with you?
There are a few moments that come to mind, but one that stands out is when I helped a client in their 70s buy their first home. They had never owned a home before, but after catching an interview I did on the Property is Power movement and the importance of legacy and homeownership, they were inspired to finally take that step. At 77 years old, they made their dream of owning a home a reality. Seeing their excitement and knowing I had a part in making that happen was truly touching.
Another powerful moment comes from working with young people buying their first homes. These aren’t big deals with huge profit margins, and they require a lot of effort, but when I see the smiles on their faces as they hold the keys to their new home, it reminds me why I do what I do. Their faith and determination to become homeowners is inspiring, and it reassures me that we’re making a real impact. My passion is being fulfilled through these experiences, and it’s a reminder that we’re doing something good and meaningful.
ave you ever faced a situation where your commitment to your purpose and creating a positive social impact clashed with the profitability of your business? Have you ever been challenged by anyone on your team or had to make a tough decision that had a significant impact on your finances?
If so, how did you address and reconcile this conflict? Yes, I’ve definitely faced situations where my commitment to our mission clashed with the financial realities of running a business. One example that stands out is working with borrowers who are purchasing homes with lower mortgage amounts, often around $100K. From a financial standpoint, these smaller deals aren’t very rewarding. In fact, they typically require more time, effort, and education to guide borrowers through the process, which can be taxing on the team.
But despite the financial challenges, I never shy away from these opportunities. I believe that homeownership should be accessible to everyone, regardless of the size of the mortgage. Helping someone secure their first home, no matter the value, aligns with our purpose of building stronger communities and empowering individuals through property ownership.
There have been times when members of my team have raised concerns about the profitability of these smaller deals, and I understand where they’re coming from. However, I’ve always emphasized that the impact we’re making goes far beyond dollars and cents. It’s about fulfilling our mission and creating long-term value for our clients, our community, and ultimately, for the business. By staying true to our purpose, we attract the right kind of people, clients, and partners, and I believe that’s what sustains us in the long run.
What advice would you give to budding entrepreneurs who wish to start a purpose-driven business?
My biggest piece of advice for anyone looking to start a purpose-driven business is to stay deeply connected to your “why.” Your purpose needs to be more than just a marketing slogan it has to be something you believe in and are willing to stand by, even when the going gets tough. Your mission will be your anchor, especially during difficult times when profits might not be as high as you’d like or when challenges arise. Also, remember that building a purpose-driven business doesn’t mean you can ignore financial sustainability. You have to find a balance between making an impact and ensuring the business is profitable enough to keep the mission alive. Purpose and profit can coexist.
Another important thing is to stay patient and persistent. Purpose-driven businesses often take time to build because they require educating people, gaining trust, and aligning with the right partners. Lastly, surround yourself with people who believe in your mission as much as you do. Whether it’s your team, investors, or mentors, having like-minded individuals who share your passion will help keep you grounded and focused on the bigger picture.
What are your “5 Things You Need To Create A Highly Successful Purpose-Driven Business.” If you can, please share a story or example for each.
1. A Clear and Authentic Mission — You need to know exactly why your business exists beyond making money. Your mission should be authentic and deeply rooted in something meaningful. For example, when I started focusing on homeownership as a pathway to building generational wealth, it wasn’t just about selling mortgages it was about empowering people and communities. This mission has become the foundation of everything we do and keeps us focused on the bigger picture.
2. Commitment to Your Values, Even When It’s Tough — Running a purpose-driven business means sticking to your values, even when they conflict with short-term profitability. For instance, I often work with clients who have smaller mortgages that aren’t highly profitable. While these deals take more time and effort, the reward comes from fulfilling our mission of helping people achieve homeownership, regardless of the financial upside. This commitment has built trust with my clients and strengthened our community impact.
3. A Long-Term Vision — Purpose-driven businesses often take time to build because they focus on creating lasting value. You have to be in it for the long haul. I remember early on, when I shifted from a purely profit-driven mindset to a mission-based one, it was tough financially at first. But I stayed patient and focused on the long-term vision of helping people build wealth through property ownership. Over time, the mission has created a more loyal customer base and meaningful growth.
4. A Strong and Passionate Team — Surround yourself with people who believe in your mission as much as you do. When your team is aligned with your purpose, they’ll be more motivated and dedicated to the work. I’ve been fortunate to have team members who share my passion for homeownership and community building. This alignment ensures that we all work toward the same goals, and it creates a positive, supportive environment.
5. A Willingness to Adapt and Grow — While your mission should remain consistent, the methods you use to achieve it will likely need to adapt over time. In my experience, the housing market changes, client needs shift, and new technologies emerge. Staying open to learning and evolving while staying true to your core mission is key to long-term success. I’ve had to pivot my business model several times to better serve my clients and maintain profitability without compromising my purpose.
By focusing on these five elements, you create a foundation for a purpose-driven business that not only thrives financially but also makes a meaningful difference in the world.
I’m interested in how you instill a strong sense of connection with your team. How do you nurture a culture where everyone feels connected to your mission? Could you share an example or story that showcases how your purpose has positively influenced or motivated people on your team to contribute?
Instilling a strong sense of connection within the team starts with ensuring that everyone understands and believes in the mission. I make it a priority to communicate the “why” behind everything we do. It’s not just about securing mortgages it’s about empowering people through homeownership and building stronger communities. I make sure every team member sees the impact of our work firsthand, whether it’s through client stories, community engagement, or even just daily conversations.
I also encourage open communication and collaboration. I want my team to feel like they have a voice and that their contributions are valued, no matter their role. We hold regular meetings where I invite feedback and new ideas, so everyone feels involved in shaping our direction. When people feel ownership over the mission, they’re more likely to feel connected to it.
One example that stands out is when we helped a young family buy their first home. It was a challenging process financially, logistically, and emotionally but my team went above and beyond to make it happen. After the family closed on their home, I received a heartfelt call about how much it meant to them and how it changed their lives. I shared this with the entire team, and it really resonated with them. It reminded everyone why we do what we do and reinforced that we’re changing lives. That moment boosted morale and motivation, showing that our purpose had a direct, positive impact on someone’s life. When your team feels connected to the purpose, they become more than just employees they become advocates for the mission. And that’s what truly drives success
Imagine we’re sitting down together two years from now, looking back at your company’s last 24 months. What specific accomplishments would have to happen for you to be happy with your progress? Two years from now, I would love to be recognized as a leading authority on increasing homeownership across the country. I envision being a sought-after contributor on national news networks, podcasts, and radio shows, as well as giving speeches around the world on the importance of homeownership.
In addition to that, I’d love to host the world’s largest homeownership conference “The Property is Power! Conference. This event would go beyond simply providing information; it would be geared towards action. Attendees would walk away not just motivated but with actual mortgage approvals in hand. My goal is to set a world record for the most mortgage originations at a single event, partnering with lenders and speakers to help people take concrete steps toward owning their homes.
If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
If I could inspire a movement that would bring the most good to the most people, it would be centered around the power of “love” and “understanding” in building strong, connected communities. At its core, this movement would focus on the idea that property and homeownership are not just financial assets, but tools for empowerment, stability, and legacy-building.
Through this movement, we would promote access to homeownership for all, especially those who have been historically marginalized or denied the opportunity. It would combine education, financial literacy, and real resources to help individuals and families realize their dream of owning a home. But beyond the financial aspect, the movement would aim to foster a sense of unity and shared responsibility, emphasizing that when we lift each other up, we all rise together.
By embracing love and understanding as the foundation, we would focus on breaking down barriers, creating empathy, and cultivating a world where everyone has the opportunity to not only own property but to feel secure and empowered in their lives. Because at the end of the day, when we understand each other’s struggles and extend love and support, we have the power to create lasting change.
How can our readers further follow your work or your company online?
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyokellum/
Kellum Mortgage — https://www.kellumortgage.com/
Instagram: @AnthonyO.Kellum
This was great. Thank you so much for the time you spent sharing with us.
About the Interviewer: Chad Silverstein is a seasoned entrepreneur with 25+ years of experience as a Founder and CEO. While attending Ohio State University, he launched his first company, Choice Recovery, Inc., a nationally recognized healthcare collection agency — twice ranked the #1 workplace in Ohio. In 2013, he founded [re]start, helping thousands of people find meaningful career opportunities. After selling both companies, Chad shifted his focus to his true passion — leadership. Today, he coaches founders and CEOs at Built to Lead, advises Authority Magazine’s Thought Leader Incubator.
Purpose Before Profit: Dr Anthony Kellum Of Kellum Mortgage On The Benefits Of Running A Purpose-Dr was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.