Cash Flow Fight Club

E14: How to Achieve Lifestyle Freedom: Try Life On with Maurice Philogene

Are you looking for inspiration to live life on your own terms and break free of the traditional 9-5 lifestyle? Maurice Philogene joins the Champion’s Corner to share his inspiring story of forging his own path in life. He discusses how early experiences traveling abroad as a teenager sparked his desire for adventure and led him to pursue multiple careers simultaneously. Maurice shares how he was able to work corporate jobs while also investing in real estate, allowing him the financial freedom to travel the world. He offers valuable insights on developing a mindset of continual learning and personal growth. Maurice also provides tips on how he is now able to coach others thanks to his diverse experiences living an extraordinary life of his own design.
Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:
[03:45] - Maurice’s entrepreneurial journey
[11:39] - A career should be your purpose or purposeful
[15:09] - Chasing personal success
[17:47] - The pursuit of growth through continuous learning
[21:00] - Coaching and finding your community
[24:20] - Investing in mentorship and coaching
 
Episode Highlights:
[11:39] Purposeful Careers: Building for Personal Success
A career should be driven by purpose or be purposeful itself. When your career aligns with your purpose, like my journey as a police officer, it brings fulfillment and joy because you are doing what you love. However, if your current job lacks that sense of purpose, it becomes crucial to use your paychecks wisely. Take those earnings and invest them in something that resonates with you, whether it's nurturing relationships, gaining valuable experiences, or investing in assets like real estate or dividend stocks. By using your paychecks purposefully, you can build something meaningful for yourself. It's essential to have a perspective that goes beyond the societal notion of success, which often revolves around titles like executive VP, CEO, or partner. Instead, focus on creating a path that aligns with your true aspirations and values.
[15:09] Chasing Personal Success: Maurice's Unconventional Journey
In 2021, Maurice made a bold decision to leave his job when he realized that he hadn't received a promotion since 2013. Contrary to societal expectations, he consistently turned down partner roles, preferring a good salary and staying off management's radar. This confused many, but Maurice was resolute in his pursuit of personal success, which meant prioritizing experiences and building relationships over titles and responsibilities.
Maurice's experience serves as a powerful reminder that success should be defined individually, not by others' standards. By courageously carving his own path, he prioritized what truly mattered to him, leaving behind the conventional notions of success.
[17:47] The Pursuit of Growth: Maurice's Journey of Continuous Learning
Maurice believes in surrounding himself with extraordinary individuals who inspire and challenge him, emphasizing that it's not about financial success but rather their drive to make a difference through initiatives and philanthropy. He has a deep-rooted desire to constantly be in a state of learning, rejecting the notion of reaching the pinnacle of knowledge on a mountaintop. For Maurice, stagnation is a problem. Instead, he actively seeks out unfamiliar situations that push him beyond his comfort zone, where he can embrace the unknown and embark on a journey of continuous growth and discovery.
Resources Mentioned:
www.thequattroway.com Maurice Philogene | Try Life On

E13: A Contest of Condo Investments: Office Conversion vs. Ground-Up

In this episode of the Cash Flow Fight Club podcast, Aaron Yassin and John Laine go head to head in a coast-to-coast real estate battle royale. Aaron pitches his ground-up condominium development model in New York City, while John shares his strategy of converting vacant offices into much-needed Tacoma, Washington housing through condo conversions. Who will be crowned the Cashflow Champion? Tune in to find out which model offers the most compelling risk/return profile for passive real estate investors!
Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:
[04:00] - Aaron’s real estate background
[09:00] - John’s real estate background
[13:14] - Investing considerations for office-to condo conversions
[23:42] - Investing considerations for ground-up condo construction
[39:56] - Real estate development risks and opportunities
[44:59] - Real estate investment risks and potential returns
 
Episode Highlights:
[13:14] Investment Considerations for Office-to-Condo Model
The office-to-condo model is an investment strategy where office buildings are converted into residential condominiums. This approach allows developers to capitalize on the growing demand for urban housing and repurpose underutilized office spaces. Here are some key points about the office-to-condo model:
Minimum Investment: The minimum investment for the office-to-condo model is typically around $100,000. This investment amount may vary depending on the specific project and location.
Accredited Investors: Developers usually prefer to work with accredited investors for such projects. Accredited investors are individuals or entities that meet certain financial criteria and are deemed to have a higher level of sophistication and understanding of investment risks.
Return on Investment: With the office-to-condo model, investors can expect a return of their capital within approximately 30 months. This timeline may vary based on project specifics.
Long-Term Cash Flow: One of the advantages of the office-to-condo model is the potential for a steady stream of cash flow over the long term. By acting as a "bank," developers can create a second mortgage income stream, doubling their profits. This cash flow can last for up to 30 years or as long as the investor holds the mortgage.
[23:42] Investment Considerations for Ground-Up Condominium Construction Model
The Ground-Up Condominium Construction model is a real estate investment strategy that involves constructing condominium buildings from scratch. Here are some key points about this model:
Higher Projected Returns: The Ground-Up Condominium Construction model offers higher projected returns compared to traditional value-add multifamily investments. Investors can expect returns in the range of 60-70% over a shorter hold period of 24-30 months. These returns are subject to market conditions and project-specific factors.
Design Optimization: With ground-up construction, developers have the opportunity to fully design the building to optimize functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics. This allows for greater control over the final product and can enhance the market appeal of the condominiums. However, there are inherent risks associated with obtaining approvals, demolition, and foundation work.
Exit Strategy: The exit strategy for the Ground-Up Condominium Construction model involves pre-selling individual condo units. This means that the project must be sufficiently completed before closing sales can take place. Pre-selling allows developers to secure buyers and ensure a smoother transition to the next phase of the project.
Minimum Investment and Returns: Passive investors can participate in this model with a minimum investment of $50,000. Depending on the specific project, annualized returns of 23-25% or higher can be expected. 
Resources Mentioned:
Aaron Yassin’s website: www.DesignDrivesValue.com 
John Laine on LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-laine-ratracerescue 

E12: How to Close for Life: Secrets to Lifetime Clients with Josh Cadillac

Your best self is on the other side of the grind. Listen in to today’s episode as Josh Cadillac talks about how to gain a new perspective and motivation to level up your game. He offers invaluable insights on mindset, perseverance through failure, and being the CEO of your own life! 
Josh, a seasoned professional in commercial real estate and a successful entrepreneur, weathered the storm of the 2008 housing crisis, rebuilding his portfolio with unwavering determination. Today, he remains deeply engaged in various aspects of the real estate industry, alongside hosting the widely acclaimed "Know Your Shit" podcast, writing books, and coaching clients on his customer-centric approach. 
Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:
 
[05:40] - What drove Josh into real estate 
[06:02] - The power of differential cashflow in commercial ventures
[13:55] - How to position education in the right way
[16:43] - Getting off the mountaintop to see the best version of you
[21:08] - Big and hard lessons from his father
[39:21] - Embracing pain to discover your untapped potential
[1:00:50] - Embracing life’s challenges
 
Episode Highlights:
[06:02] Understanding the Power of Differential Cashflow in Commercial Ventures
When it comes to commercial ventures, grasping the concept of differential cashflow is essential. It serves as the foundation upon which successful transactions are built. The ability to comprehend that you are essentially selling the customer the future of an asset, and quantifying the value of that future, is paramount. Failure to accurately assess the future sale price and potential rents indicates a lack of proficiency in the role. In order to excel in this field, it is crucial to fully comprehend and effectively communicate the quantifiable aspects of the investment to prospective investors. Only then can you truly succeed in your professional endeavors.
[16:43] Get Off the Mountain Top to See the Best Version of You
People often feel satisfied staying on the "mountaintop" after reaching a high point, but that is where growth stops. Josh believes the only way to see what you are truly capable of is to willingly get "off the mountain top" and back into challenging situations represented by being in the "valley". It is only by facing difficulties and discomfort that one can push past perceived limits and reach an even "higher mountaintop" in terms of abilities and potential.
[39:21] Embracing Pain to Discover Your Untapped Potential
While many individuals shy away from difficult situations due to the anticipated pain, Josh challenges this mindset. He contends that pain, though uncomfortable, provides a unique opportunity to uncover your true limits. By confronting pain head-on in challenging circumstances, you have the chance to push yourself beyond perceived boundaries and discover your untapped potential. It is through these experiences that personal growth flourishes. Rather than succumbing to fear, Josh advocates facing your pain and using it as a catalyst to test your abilities, ultimately becoming the best version of yourself.
[1:00:50] - Embracing Life’s Challenges
In life, when we encounter adversity, it's tempting to retreat and avoid the incoming fire. However, there is immense power in facing challenges head-on and running towards the flames rather than running away. Taking a proactive and fearless approach to life allows us to seize opportunities and pursue our dreams with determination. Instead of being shot in the back, let's embrace the aggressive and bold mindset that leads us to the abundance and fulfillment life has to offer. So, let's march forward, ready to conquer and claim the goodness that awaits us.
Resources Mentioned:
Know Your ShitPodcast
Close for Life: The Real Estate Agent's Guide to Creating Satisfied Customers that Only Do Business with You - Josh’s latest book

E11: Passive Investment Face-Off: Build-to-Rent Battles Mid-Size Multifamily

On today’s episode, Jesse Dickens and Ruben Greth square off to decide which rental investment model is the best - build-to-rent single family homes or mid-size multifamily complexes.
Fighting out of Denver, Colorado, we have Jesse Dickens. With over 10 years of experience in healthcare, Jesse made the transition to real estate investing through multifamily properties. He currently focuses on small to mid-sized value-add multifamily deals in Colorado and Arizona through his firm Wealthcare Capital Partners. 
His opponent,Ruben Greth,  comes to us out of Phoenix, Arizona, and is a developer specializing in build-to-rent (BTR) housing. Ruben is currently developing several build-to-rent subdivisions in high-growth Southeast markets. He also hosts the Capital Raisers Show podcast.
Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:
[01:42] - Introduction of Ruben and Jesse
[04:08] - Ruben and Jesse’s beginnings in real estate investing
[11:43] - Small to mid-sized multifamily vs. build-to-rent housing
[26:04] - The risk and reward differences between the two, for investors
[28:29] - ROI profiles across the investments
[36:52] - What forcing appreciation looks like in BTR
[40:01] - The pros and cons of each model
[50:05] - Targeting opportunity zones
[1:02:34] - Who’s today’s winner?
 
Episode Highlights:
[11:43] Mid-Sized Multifamily Value-Add Properties vs. Built-to-Rent Development
Jesse discussed his approach to small to mid-sized multifamily value-add properties. He looks for underperforming assets that can be improved through renovations, better management, and driving rents higher. This allows him to increase the net operating income and property value.
Ruben then explained his build-to-rent model. He partners with experienced developers and general contractors to acquire land, obtain entitlements, and construct entire subdivisions of single-family rental homes. Ruben discussed raising capital in phases - first for infrastructure, then vertical development. Build-to-rent aims to provide the home experience to renters while cash flows for investors.
Both guests also touched on financing. Jesse emphasized flexibility and avoiding variable rate debt. Ruben noted being able to force appreciation at each stage of the build-to-rent process through incremental value creation as infrastructure and amenities are added.
[40:01] The Pros and Cons
For small multifamily (Jesse's model)
Pros: It's a very proven asset class that has historically performed well through economic cycles due to rental demand. Properties can often be acquired below replacement cost. 
Cons: Individual properties have more vacancy risk. Scaling the business is challenging due to financing complexity with a large number of small properties. Cash flow can vary with tenant turnover. Amenities are generally more limited.
For build-to-rent (Ruben's model)
Pros: It allows for large returns through multiple exits and appreciation forced at each development stage. Renters prefer the home experience it provides. Strong demand from institutional buyers. 
Cons: It carries more development risk that investors may not fully understand. Locations need to support rapid growth. Expenses like maintenance may rise over time with many individual housing units.
[1:02:34] Today’s Winner: Ruben’s Build-to-Rent
The build-to-rent model emerged as the clear winner due to its significant potential upside, flexibility in exit strategies, alignment with the growing demand for housing, and effective risk mitigation through partnering with experienced operators and builders. Overall, it offers attractive opportunities for investors seeking larger returns, adaptability, growth, and secure investment paths.
Resources Mentioned:
Jesse Dickens:
Wealthcare Capital Partners
Email: jesse@wealthcarecap.com 
Phone Number: 720-229-9899 
Ruben Greth:  
Legacy Acquisitions

E10: Mindset Mastery and High-Performance Habits with Rob Wolfe

This week on “The Champion’s Corner”, we’re thrilled to welcome Rob Wolfe, who is renowned for his impressive background in companies like GE Healthcare and Procter and Gamble. As the founder and CEO of Wolfe Strategic Consulting, he excels in optimizing performance and unlocking potential. Rob is not only a business expert but also a certified executive coach, guiding entrepreneurs and executives to become champions in their own right.
Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:
[03:58] - Rob’s family and career background
[11:55] - The power of joining mastermind groups
[15:12] - Strategies for a successful career change
[21:52] - Two ways to get to where you want to be
[25:33] - How to discover your unique abilities
[26:11] - The power of outsourcing
[33:58] - The importance of writing down your goals
[42:20] - The importance of a structured morning time
[49:15] - Tips to stay motivated
 
Episode Highlights:
[15:12] Strategies for a Successful Career Change
Through asking strategic questions, you can quickly understand complex problems or opportunities and determine the best path forward. It’s a powerful skill that you can have in your tool box as you’re able to pick apart a problem or situation and typically find the one thread or proposition that can solve a big part of an issue within 10 minutes of focused discussion. By actively seeking feedback from people we work with, friends, family, clients and colleagues, we can gain valuable insights into how others perceive us and our impact. This feedback can help uncover talents we're unaware of possessing.
The "do not do" list is crucial, especially when facing challenges and responsibilities like family and financial concerns. Have you prepared enough for the next 190 days, following a six month emergency game plan? It's essential to have savings readily available, allowing you to focus on your goals without the constant worry of needing immediate income. Prioritizing saving money becomes the mission for financial security.
[21:52] Two Ways to Get to Where You Want to Be
1. Job hopping - By regularly changing jobs every 1-2 years, you can increase your compensation and benefits at each new role. This allows you to continuously advance your career and financial position rather than staying stagnant at one company.
2. Developing a side hustle - Having a side business or side project that generates additional income provides an avenue for financial independence beyond just a single paycheck. It allows you to gain more control over your cash flow and get closer to your goals through entrepreneurial efforts.
[26:11] Outsourcing to Focus on What Matters
When you're feeling overwhelmed after leaving your job, it's time to take a step back and evaluate your tasks. Start by writing down everything you do on a daily basis, from mundane chores to important business activities. As you check off the list, identify what can be outsourced, allowing you to focus on what you truly love and excel at. By outsourcing and reclaiming your time, you can concentrate on high-value activities that bring significant returns and make a lasting impact.
[33:58] The Importance of Writing Down Your Goals
The most successful individuals in the world understand the power of writing down their goals.By identifying these three tasks and breaking them down into actionable steps, progress becomes tangible. Writing down goals transforms mere dreams and intentions into concrete targets. It triggers a connection within the mind, stimulating visualization and problem-solving abilities. 
Resources Mentioned:
Wolfe Strategic Partners
GoBundance
Who Not How by Dan Sullivan
Unique Ability 2.0: Discovery - Define Your Best Self

E09: Syndication Showdown: Multifamily Acquisitions vs. Raising Capital

Real estate heavyweights George Cline and Michael Manthei go head-to-head to discuss their strategies for actively partnering in multifamily syndications. Hailing from Fort Collins, Colorado, is George Cline, a successful entrepreneur for 25 years. His experience spans real estate, networking, and the internet. He currently focuses on larger multifamily housing, having amassed over 1700 rental units under his management.
In the other corner of the ring, Michael Manthei from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, began entrepreneurship at age 21, and has also served as a full-time minister. Having achieved financial freedom, he retired in his early 30s, and he now creates investment communities through his Elevate Investing group.  He is also currently a general partner in over 2,000 rental units across 18 syndications, having raised over $33 million in capital.
Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:
[03:46] - George and Michael’s respective career backgrounds
[18:40] - Running an apartment complex is like parenting
[23:32] - The importance of systematizing things
[26:39] - Raising capital to fund deals
[41:23] - The power of partnership and mentorship
[45:04] - Criteria to consider when joining a deal
[1:01:13] - Key success factors for capital raising
[1:04:11] - The downsides of capital raising
 
Episode Highlights:
[18:40] Why Running an Apartment Complex is Like Parenting
Running an apartment complex is akin to parenting - exciting yet challenging. Managing the property, securing tenants, and closing deals can be stressful, like the difficulties of pregnancy. Success requires attention, intention, and continuous learning, mirroring the demands of raising children. Rather than acquiring more properties, focusing on improving and mastering the current one is vital. By giving it the necessary attention and intention, one can effectively navigate property management and achieve success.
[27:58] Michael’s Experience Raising Funds
Michael takes a hands-on yet high-touch approach, simplifying paperwork and processes for investors. He aims to provide top-notch service. While he has experience using SyndicationPro, Michael noted the platform is still developing. He is transitioning to Juniper Square which seems more advanced currently. Michael highlighted tracking response rates at different stages of capital raising to avoid being surprised by lower-than-expected results later on. Putting others above himself in his dealings and communications is a trait Michael believes leads to building strong, trusting relationships with investors.
[1:01:13] Key Success Factors for Capital Raising
Authenticity. Don't try to appear further along than you actually are. People can see through that.
Put others above yourself. Make it about serving investors well rather than how things make you look or feel.
Build trust and relationships over time through authentic interactions and high-touch service.
Continually learn and improve your process based on metrics like response rates at different stages. Track what's working.
Simplify and streamline things for investors like paperwork. Don't make them jump through unnecessary hoops.
Have a support system to help you through challenges. Michael mentioned mentors who have been invaluable guides.
[1:04:11] The Downsides of Capital Raising
The weight of responsibility can be overwhelming as it involves handling people's life savings, leading to sleepless nights. Understanding the gravity of this responsibility and approaching it seriously is crucial. Conversely, if someone lacks concern about accepting others' money, it may indicate their unsuitability for this business. Capital raising demands a deep understanding of seriousness and genuine care for investors' financial well-being. Despite the downsides, certain individuals, like Michael, find fulfillment in shouldering this responsibility.
Resources Mentioned:
Elevate Investing Group
Ardent Equity Group
SyndicationPro
Juniper Square

E08: How to Create the Life of Your Dreams: Insights from Mary Miller

In this episode of "In the Champion’s Corner," we have the privilege of learning from the remarkable Mary Miller. As the CEO and owner of JANCOA, Mary has achieved incredible success in her career. Revolutionizing the janitorial industry with her Dream Engineer initiative, Mary has transformed employee satisfaction and reduced turnover rates, turning  JANCOA into an industry powerhouse under her leadership. Mary's impact extends beyond business. As a member of the Strategic Coach coaching team, she advocates for maximizing human potential and cultivating a champion's mindset. With her extensive experience, Mary understands the interconnectedness of our professional and personal lives. 
In our conversation, Mary shares invaluable insights on successfully managing and working in a family business. From developing a winning mindset to adopting best-in-class behaviors and habits, Mary provides practical advice for your own journey toward success. Get ready to be inspired as we uncover the blueprint for achieving greatness!
Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:
[05:26] - Mary’s entrepreneurial journey
[08:02] - Her introduction to the Strategic Coach
[10:08] - The origin of JANCOA
[18:48] - Transforming partnerships: How Strategic Coach shaped Mary and her husband’s personal and professional journey
[24:30] - The importance of humility and lifelong learning
[29:20] - The keys to a successful partnership in business and life
[30:53] - The power of networking
[33:49] - The beginning of Dream Engineer
[46:41] - Giving yourself permission to look at all aspects of your business
 
Episode Highlights:
[18:48] Transforming Partnerships: How Strategic Coach Shaped Mary and Tony's Personal and Professional Journey
Mary and Tony's partnership, both personally and professionally, has been deeply influenced by their involvement with Strategic Coach. Through attending workshops together, they gained access to valuable resources and insights that shaped their early journey. As self-described individualists, they had struggled to establish a successful partnership dynamic before. However, Strategic Coach brought about a transformative change, encouraging them to ask different questions and providing practical tools to shift their mindset. This allowed them to gain a fresh perspective on their goals and embrace the practice of quarterly reflection and planning. By incorporating this process into their lives, Mary and Tony were able to align their personal and professional objectives more effectively. Strategic Coach empowered them to focus on their desired direction and provided a framework for continuous growth and improvement.
[21:20] Embracing Change: The Power of Strategic Coach in Transforming Lives
Strategic Coach offers a transformative experience by addressing the pain points in our lives before they become overwhelming. Through powerful conversations and interactions with like-minded individuals, it provides an opportunity to proactively seek change and take control of our personal and professional journeys. By acknowledging the pain and creating awareness, Strategic Coach empowers us to embrace new perspectives and make impactful decisions for a brighter future.
[30:53] The Power of Networking
In the pursuit of personal growth, it is essential to recognize that both learning and meaningful connections hold equal importance. Continual learning allows us to perceive things from fresh perspectives while building a diverse network introduces us to individuals we may never have encountered otherwise. Through networking opportunities and engaging in exchanges with leaders from different cities, we experience transformative shifts in thinking. Then you begin to see networking as an investment, rather than a cost. 
Resources Mentioned:
JANCOA
Dream Engineer
Strategic Coach

E07: A Cash Flow Cage Match Between Self Storage Rebel, Mike Wagner & Alt Housing Heavyweight, Pete LaBarre

This episode of the  Cash Flow Fight Club podcast features two heavyweight real estate investors - Pete LaBarre who owns several RV and mobile home parks and Mike Wagner who invests in self-storage facilities. They go deep discussing the business models, risks, returns, and strategies for generating cash flow and passive income in these asset classes. .
Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:
[03:51] - Backgrounds of Pete and Mike 
[16:11] - The benefits of investing in mobile homes
[28:31] - The cost of investing in mobile homes
[32:14] - Timeline for cash flow and distributions for mobile homes
[34:59] - The benefits of investing in self-storage
[42:10] - Where to look for value-add properties
[51:47] - Risks and Opportunities: Self-storage vs. Mobile homes
 
Episode Highlights:
[03:51] Round 1: Get to Know Mike and Pete
Pete shares that he has been investing in real estate since the 1980s, starting with single-family homes and then moving into mobile homes and RV parks. He bought his first park in 2007 and then transformed it into an affordable housing solution by renting land for tiny homes and park models. On the other hand, Mike started as a landlord of single-family and duplex properties but wanted more autonomy and cash flow. In 2011 he transitioned into self-storage, quitting his job as a physical therapist. Though it was a big pay cut initially, he was able to turn his first struggling storage facility around and has been investing in storage ever since.
[16:18] Round 2: Mobile Home Parks vs. Self-Storage From A Business Standpoint
Mobile Home Parks
Pete explains that RV and mobile home parks can generate higher returns per square foot of land compared to multifamily properties. By renting land for tiny homes and park models, they can get $7,200 to $14,000 per lot annually versus $4,200 for seasonal RV rentals. The business model focuses on providing affordable housing solutions through a land lease arrangement. Residents have been able to build equity in their homes while the parks have seen rising revenue. The main risks are government regulations and overpaying for properties.
Self-Storage
Mike describes how self-storage benefits from lower operating expenses of 25-28% compared to 50-55% for multifamily. This yields higher profits per square foot despite similar rental rates. His strategy involves buying underperforming, neglected properties and deploying systems to improve operations and cash flow. He aims to double or triple the value of the properties within 2-4 years through a combination of buy and hold, value add, and fix and flip strategies. The main risks he mentions are overpaying due to cheap debt, interest rate resets, and a potential buyer's market in self-storage due to the current economic environment.
[51:47] Round 3: Risks and Opportunities
Mobile Home Parks
The main risks are overleveraging properties and rising interest rates when debt refinances come due. 
There will always be demand for affordable housing solutions as long as population growth continues. 
Investors can expect returns in the 15%+ range once properties are stabilized. It typically takes 3-5 years for investors to recoup their initial capital. 
Self-Storage
The main risks are overpaying for properties, high leverage, and interest rate resets that impact cash flow. 
Self-storage is recession-resistant due to drivers of demand like downsizing, foreclosures, and job displacement.
Investors can target equity returns of 16-20% and debt returns of 8-12%. Minimum investments are typically $50k-$250k. 
Overall, both investors emphasize the importance of a long-term view, risk mitigation, and focusing on lifestyle and serving customers/investors over chasing the highest returns.
Resources Mentioned:
www.redicommunities.com
www.thestoragerebellion.com 

E06: Hunter Thompson on How to Go from Startup to an 8-Figure Empire

Today on In the Champion’s Corner, Hunter Thompson, a super heavyweight entrepreneur, real estate investor and capital raiser, shares insights on the mindset of a champion and what it takes to be successful in his field. He discusses behaviors, values, and tactics that maximize human potential.
Hunter is a renowned figure in the realm of real estate investing and capital raising. He has authored an exceptional book, Raising Capital for Real Estate. As the host of the popular podcast "Cash Flow Connections," Hunter provides valuable insights to his audience. Moreover, he coaches numerous aspiring and accomplished capital raisers through his exclusive mastermind group called RaiseMasters. 
Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:
[02:41] - How Hunter got into the entrepreneurial world
[06:27] - How his grandfather’s catastrophic business failure impacted Hunter’s investing beliefs 
[09:15] - The power of compounding interest
[11:34] - The importance of skills beyond wealth
[16:59] - How he got into the real estate market
[21:47] - How Hunter's unique funding strategy led to vertical integration and increased control
[26:49] - Strategic investments and diversification for passive investors
[31:31]  - About his coaching program, RaiseMasters
[35:15] - What it takes to grow a business to  seven figures vs. eight figures 
[37:16] - Raising Capital for your business
[53:07] - How Hunter stays “entrepreneurially fit”
 
Episode Highlights:
[11:34] The Importance of Skills Beyond Wealth
Opportunities like these arise once every decade or so, but simply accumulating wealth doesn't grant you essential skills. Let's say you strike gold with Dogecoin and amass a staggering $100 million—while this may seem mind-boggling in terms of percentages and probability, it won't necessarily equate to success. Without knowledge of business, leadership, employee management, motivating others, attracting leads, building infrastructure, or assessing risk, the money alone won't bring you much value. You might indulge in luxury purchases or spend recklessly, but without skills, you won't gain much beyond that.
[21:47] Hunter's Unique Funding Strategy Leads to Vertical Integration and Increased Control
Hunter pioneered a unique funding approach, investing in ventures led by industry experts, despite his lack of experience. He convinced accomplished individuals to accept million-dollar investments, securing favorable returns and splits without scrutiny. By pooling investors and surpassing the million-dollar mark, Hunter funded his own ventures and formed valuable partnerships across industries. This allowed him to access opportunities beyond his reach. Now, after a decade of capital placement, Hunter is embracing vertical integration to purchase deals and gain complete control. He attributes this transition to continuous learning, growing confidence, enhanced capital-raising abilities, and an established reputation.
[26:49] Strategic Investments and Diversification for Passive Investors
Hunter offers insightful advice for passive investors, suggesting a strategy that involves identifying five trustworthy groups with bulletproof integrity and aligning investment beliefs. He emphasizes the importance of going all in with these groups, committing $100,000 to each deal they present. This approach, according to Hunter, is an optimal way for passive investors to navigate the investment game. In the realm of entrepreneurship and business ownership, Hunter advises being hyper-specialized and localized. Instead of relying on a single investment partner, he recommends diversifying investments across five different individuals or groups. By doing so, passive investors can mitigate risks and maximize opportunities.
Resources Mentioned:
www.raisingcapital.com 
Raising Capital for Real Estate
Cashflow Connections podcast

E05: The Best Entry to Start Your Real Estate Empire: Short-Term Rentals with Avery Carl vs. House Flipping with Glenn & Amber Schworm

Who will claim the title of Cash Flow Fight Club Champion? Join us as Avery Carl and Glenn & Amber Schworm go head-to-head in a battle of Short-term Rentals (STRs) vs. House Flipping. Discover the ins and outs of these real estate investment models, from deal sourcing to financing, and uncover practical tips and strategies from industry experts. 
Here are some heavyweight  takeaways from today’s conversation:
[04:29] Avery Carl's background and how she got into short-term rentals 
[06:19] Glenn's backstory of getting into house flipping
[09:34] Amber's background in real estate
[10:48] Round 2: STR vs. House flipping
[17:27] Where they find their best deals
[20:03] The cyclical nature of the real estate market
[31:40] How a cash-out refi works
[43:04] Avery's response to why short-term rentals are the best model 
[54:43] Glenn and Amber's response to why house flipping is the best model 
[1:00:17] Avery's advice for success in short-term rentals 
[1:04:12] Glenn and Amber's advice for success in house flipping
 
Episode Highlights:
[04:29] Round 1: Avery and Glenn & Amber’s Background
 
Avery Carl is the CEO of the nation's top short-term rental and Airbnb rental agency, The Short Term Shop, overseeing a portfolio of over 220 rental units and having connected investors with over 5,000 cash-flowing short-term rentals. Avery is on a mission to help investors reach financial independence through short-term rentals.
Real estate power couple, Glenn & Amber Schworm, have built their empire over the last 15 years after being $80,000 deep in credit card debt. From their point of desperation, they began cashing in on large chunks of profit in the single-family space through flipping homes. They have flipped over 1,000 homes with a finished value of over $100 million in counting since 2007. Now, with a proven business model in hand, they are also on a mission to transform the lives of others with their flipping model.
[10:48] Round 2: Short-Term Rentals vs. House-Flipping
Glenn and Amber, like many others, found that house flipping offered a unique set of pros that appealed to his entrepreneurial spirit. Unlike being a landlord with the responsibilities of managing rental properties, house flipping allowed him to focus on transforming distressed properties into beautiful homes. The design aspect was thrilling, and the potential for quick cash influxes was enticing. While the current market presents challenges in finding off-market deals, networking, and strategic marketing are valuable to uncover those lucrative opportunities.
On the other hand, Avery talks about how she focuses on vacation rental markets that are tourism-dependent and have a history of short-term rentals. She mentions that buying properties that are already furnished can reduce costs for short-term rentals. Sellers in vacation markets are often willing to leave the furniture since removing it can be a hassle. This can reduce the initial investment needed to get a short-term rental up and running.
[29:50] Round 3: Whose Model is the Best?
Glenn highlights the advantages of house flipping, stating that it generates the necessary funds for purchasing investment properties. He emphasizes the tax benefits that come with cash-out refinances. Avery, on the other hand, argues in favor of short-term rentals in the right market, citing a simpler business model with fewer complications. She emphasizes the importance of adaptability for success. Glenn and Amber both acknowledge the sound strategy of Avery's hyper-focused short-term rental model in tourism markets. Ultimately, they all agree real estate offers numerous benefits, such as tax advantages, appreciation, and potential for passive income. And while the concept of "passive income" is often associated with real estate, all business models require active management to some extent.
Resources Mentioned:
Avery’s website: The Short Term Shop
Glenn & Amber’s website: https://glennandamber.com/