In this episode of the Teaching Tax Flow podcast, hosts Chris Picciurro, CPA, and John Tripolsky welcome back Scott Maurer, VP at Advanta IRA, to take a deep dive into the world of self-directed IRAs.

Many investors don’t realize that retirement funds can be used for much more than just stocks and mutual funds. Scott breaks down how self-directed IRAs open the door to real estate, private lending, startups, precious metals, and even cryptocurrency — all while maintaining tax advantages.

The conversation explores how these accounts work, what you can and can’t invest in, compliance requirements, and practical strategies for combining traditional IRAs with self-directed ones. Whether you’re an investor seeking greater control or a tax pro advising clients, this episode uncovers strategies that can maximize retirement wealth.

What You’ll Learn:

• What self-directed IRAs are — and what they are not

• How to diversify retirement funds into real estate, private companies, and more

• The rules for disqualified persons and prohibited transactions

• The difference between custodial and checkbook IRAs

• How to plan ahead for RMDs with illiquid assets

• Practical compliance requirements and why custodians matter

Key Insights:

Self-directed IRAs give investors control and flexibility, but with that freedom comes responsibility. From avoiding prohibited transactions to balancing liquidity for RMDs, Scott explains why working with a knowledgeable custodian is essential for both compliance and strategy.

Notable Quotes:

• “Most people don’t know it’s possible to invest in real estate or startups with their IRA — because their brokerage won’t tell them.” – Scott Maurer

• “Your IRA cannot transact with or benefit a disqualified person. That’s critical to know.” – Scott Maurer

• “Control is the number one benefit of a self-directed IRA.” – John Tripolsky

• “Ideas are cheap — implementation and compliance are what make the difference.” – Chris Picciurro

Resources:

• Advanta IRA

• Teaching Tax Flow Hub

• Join the Community: DefeatingTaxes.com

• Sunsets & Dinks Pickleball Apparel – teachingtaxflow.com/pickleball (Use code TTF15)

• (00:00) - Exploring Self-Directed IRAs and Pickleball Enthusiasm