From Sports to Real Estate: Ethan’s Journey of Action, Mentorship, and Success

🎙️ On This Episode of the DanCan Show
Host Dan Cantillana welcomes his first-ever guest, Ethan—a driven leader, devoted husband, and one of Spokane’s top real estate agents. In this candid, inspiring episode, Ethan opens up about his life journey: from being adopted from South Korea, growing up in a faith-based family, and chasing athletic dreams, to eventually building a thriving career in real estate.

Ethan shares the pivotal moment he realized his identity was too wrapped up in sports—and how losing that passion led him to redefine his purpose. What follows is a story of hustle, humility, and taking intentional action.

Listeners get a front-row seat to Ethan’s evolution: from mowing greens and waiting tables to working at Dan’s insurance agency, and ultimately launching a successful real estate business. Dan and Ethan unpack the power of mentorship, the importance of honesty in sales, and why relationships are the most valuable asset in life and business.

Whether you’re a business owner, aspiring investor, or just trying to figure out your next move, this episode offers real-life wisdom, a few laughs, and a strong dose of encouragement to take action.

🔑 Highlights
DanCan Mission & Audience
Dan’s vision: lead biblically, take action, get results.
For husbands, fathers, business leaders—and anyone ready to grow.
Keep a journal close for insights you’ll want to remember.

Ethan’s Story

Adopted from South Korea at 7 months
Raised in Spokane in a strong Christian household
Built early identity on sports—football, wrestling, track
Dreamed of going pro but faced physical limits
Lost direction after quitting college football
Battled identity loss and worked multiple jobs

The Dan & Ethan Connection

Met while Ethan was working at a country club
Dan gave career advice and mentorship
Ethan followed up, read How to Win Friends and Influence People, and landed a job with Dan
Learned sales, faced rejection, and grew professionally

Jump to Real Estate

Pandemic shifted the business landscape
Inspired by personal real estate experience
Encouraged by a mentor to read The Millionaire Real Estate Agent
Joined Keller Williams for its collaborative, mentorship-driven culture

Keys to Ethan’s Success

Deep knowledge of Spokane’s market
Blunt but caring honesty with clients
Frugal mindset: treats client money like his own
Built business through networking and referrals
Focuses on both traditional clients and investors

Investor Insight & Partnerships

Enjoys the numbers-driven, no-fluff nature of working with investors
Active investor himself through Wave Capital
Partnership with Dan combines communication and negotiation strengths

Why People Hesitate to Invest

Time: Not doing the work to learn
Capital: Misunderstanding financial needs
Fear: Uncertainty and inaction

Advice for Beginners

Talk to multiple experts
Research thoroughly
Build a reliable network

📞 Want to connect with Ethan?
Call or text: 509-828-2783

💬 Drop your questions in the comments!
🌐 investwithdancan.com
🌐 wavecapitallending.com
🌐 dancanspokane.com
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“Love well and do good.” – Dan