Do you know the difference between IRA contribution limits and your potential earning limits? In this episode of Growing The Money, host Rich Lennon demystifies how to use self-directed IRAs for real estate and private lending profits while staying compliant with IRS rules. 

He explains why points are more powerful than interest, what most people misunderstand about IRA rules, and how Peter Thiel turned a Roth IRA into billions. If you're confused about contribution caps, earnings, or fee structures, this is your guide to smarter, tax-advantaged investing.

You’ll Learn How To:

• Legally grow wealth inside a self-directed IRA.
• Avoid contribution vs. earnings confusion that traps investors.
• Use interest and points to maximize private lending ROI.
• Prevent compliance issues with flips and IRA transactions.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

(00:41–01:31) IRA contribution limits based on age, income, not investment earnings.

(01:42–02:23) How to flip real estate inside a self-directed IRA.

(03:04–03:15) Peter Thiel’s Roth IRA strategy turned PayPal stock into billions.

(04:12–04:59) Points outperform interest rate in short-term private lending deals.

(05:24–05:51) Earn $9,500 using 13% APR plus three lending points.

(06:45–07:35) 12% and 4 points yield more than 14% alone.

(07:37–08:27) Points and lending fees are identical—maximize IRA lending returns.

Who This Episode Is For:

• Real estate investors
• Private lenders
• Roth IRA users
• Anyone using or considering a self-directed retirement account

Why You Should Listen:

You’ll discover how to generate higher, tax-sheltered returns, avoid avoidable IRS mistakes, and structure smarter deals using IRA investing tactics.

Follow Rich Lennon here:

Website: https://richlennon.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rich.lennon.121

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richlennon92/#