Investing To Win

"Mastering Financial Strategies with James Alexander: From Chessboard to Portfolio Management"

In this episode, I’m joined by James Alexander, a seasoned financial advisor and partner at Edge Financial Advisors. With over 15 years in the industry, James shares insights into navigating complex financial planning, the importance of goal setting, and how chess strategies can be applied to financial success. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or looking to improve your retirement plan, this conversation is packed with actionable tips!

[00:00:00] Introduction: Overview of James's background in the financial industry.

[00:03:00] Early Career Path: James shares his journey into finance, starting as a math major and transitioning into the world of investments.

[00:15:30] Becoming a Financial Advisor: Discussing his roles at Scottrade and TD Ameritrade, and what led him to Edge Financial Advisors.

[00:25:45]Interview with Guest: James talks about his philosophy on financial planning, using chess strategies, and helping clients holistically manage their wealth.

[00:45:00] Key Takeaways: The importance of setting specific financial goals, the role of mindset in achieving success, and how to avoid common financial pitfalls.

James Alexander is a partner and wealth advisor at Edge Financial Advisors, where he provides personalized investment management and comprehensive financial planning to individuals and families. With degrees in Finance and Mathematics from Loyola University in Chicago, he has been in the financial services industry since 2009, previously holding positions at TD Ameritrade and Scottrade. His strategic, numbers-driven approach is complemented by a passion for educating his clients.

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Edge Financial Advisors

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"Could Hurricanes Helene and Milton Have Been Prevented? Exploring Disaster Risk with Dr. Balfour Spence"

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Investing to Win, we welcome Dr. Balfour Spence, an expert in disaster risk management and food security. As hurricanes become more frequent and intense, we explore how communities can prepare and mitigate the impacts of natural disasters. Dr. Spence shares his unique insights into the difference between hazards and disasters, the importance of global collaboration, and how food security ties into disaster preparedness.

[00:00:00] Introduction: Garret Wong introduces the topic of disaster risk management in light of recent hurricanes and welcomes Dr. Balfour Spence to the show.

[00:03:00] Topic 1: Dr. Spence’s Background and Journey: Dr. Spence shares his journey into disaster risk management, starting in Jamaica during his time at the University of the West Indies.

[00:15:30] Topic 2: The Difference Between Hazards and Disasters: Explaining how hazards can occur without leading to disasters if proper risk management strategies are in place.

[00:25:45] Interview with Dr. Balfour Spence: Dr. Spence discusses the impact of climate change on the intensity of hurricanes like Helene and Milton, and the importance of food security in disaster-prone regions.

[00:45:00] Key Takeaways: The importance of global collaboration, sustainable agriculture, and early disaster preparedness in reducing the impact of natural disasters on communities.

Dr. Balfour Spence is a professor at Brandon University with over 40 years of experience in disaster risk management and food security. He has worked as a consultant for international development agencies such as the United Nations and USAID, focusing on building resilience in disaster-prone regions. Dr. Spence has spearheaded initiatives to improve agricultural resilience, mitigate disaster impacts, and enhance food security in vulnerable areas.

1. United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO)
2. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
3. Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA)

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"From Teen Investor to Global Business Leader: The Journey of Charlie Panayi"

In this episode, we sit down with Charlie Panayi, a self-made millionaire and Managing Director of Red Squirrel Property Shop. Charlie shares his entrepreneurial journey, from buying his first property at 18 to building high-value property portfolios and acquiring businesses globally. Tune in to discover how Charlie leverages real estate and business investments to scale success and his insights on community, mentorship, and professional growth.

[00:00:00] Introduction: Overview of Charlie Panayi's background in property investment and global business.

[00:03:00] Charlie’s early beginnings in real estate: Buying his first property at 18 and becoming a self-made millionaire by 25.

[00:15:30] Transition from real estate to global business acquisitions: Charlie’s first business purchase and key strategies for success.

[00:25:45]Leveraging business partnerships: Charlie discusses community building, and mentorship in scaling businesses worldwide.

[00:45:00] Key Takeaways: Importance of freedom and happiness in defining success, practical advice on buying businesses, and insights on maintaining work-life balance.

Charlie Panayi is a seasoned entrepreneur who bought his first property at 18 and became a self-made millionaire by 25. He has held leadership roles as the regional director of European property for API Global and head of international property investment for deVere. Currently, he is the Managing Director of Red Squirrel Property Shop, a multi-award-winning real estate company. Beyond real estate, Charlie mentors aspiring entrepreneurs and invests in businesses globally.

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Charlie's Website

Red Squirrel Property

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"Exit Strategy 101: Preparing Your Business for a Profitable Sale"

In this episode, we sit down with Adam Koós, a seasoned financial advisor and expert in business transition planning. Adam shares his insights on how business owners can plan successful exits, maximize their business value, and secure a fulfilling retirement. Whether you're a small business owner or planning your future exit, Adam's advice will help you prepare for a smooth transition.

[00:00:00] Introduction: Overview of the episode and Adam’s background in financial advising and business transitions.

[00:03:00] Adam's Journey: From aspiring trauma surgeon to financial advisor—how Adam pivoted into the world of finance.

[00:15:30] The Importance of Business Transition Planning: Why business owners should start planning their exit strategy early, and the common pitfalls they face.

[00:25:45]Interview with Adam: Adam discusses the creation of his companies, Libertas Wealth Management and Elevate and Exit, and how they help business owners with financial and transition planning.

[00:45:00] Key Takeaways: Adam emphasizes the need to start planning early, the benefits of transitioning your business smoothly, and how it can lead to a better retirement.

Adam Koós is the president of Libertas Wealth Management in Columbus, Ohio. He is a Certified Financial Planner® (CFP), Chartered Market Technician® (CMT), and Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA). Adam specializes in helping business owners transition their companies, ensuring they maximize their business value and secure their financial futures. He has been featured in major publications like The Wall Street Journal and Investopedia.

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Libertas Wealth Management

Elevate and Exit

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In this solo episode, I dive into how to save for and purchase your first rental property, combining insights from a past episode featuring financial expert Justin Peters with a personal touch on the latest updates in the Canadian real estate market. We explore practical strategies, including budgeting, side hustles, and house hacking, to help you navigate the current housing landscape. With the government's recent introduction of 30-year amortizations for first-time buyers on new builds, there’s never been a better time to get started in real estate.

What You’ll Learn in This Show:

1. The importance of budgeting and tracking expenses to save for a down payment.
2. How side hustles can accelerate your savings and boost income.
3. An introduction to house hacking and how it can cover your mortgage payments.
4. The benefits of the 5% down payment option for first-time homebuyers.
5. How to take advantage of 30-year amortization for new builds to reduce monthly mortgage payments.
6. The power of combining multiple strategies to scale your real estate portfolio.

Resources:

Garret Wong

Justin Peters

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"The Art of Video Storytelling: Loreta Tarozaite on Communicating with Impact"

In this episode, we dive into the world of communication and visual storytelling with Loreta Tarozaite, a content marketing expert with over 20 years of experience. Loreta shares insights on how businesses can humanize their brands, develop effective communication strategies, and leverage video to build meaningful connections with their audiences.

[00:00:00] Introduction: Garret introduces the episode’s focus on content, storytelling, and video marketing.

[00:03:00] Loreta’s Journey into Journalism: Loreta shares her unexpected path into journalism and how her early experiences shaped her communication skills.

[00:15:30] Transition to Silicon Valley: Loreta discusses her move from Lithuania to Silicon Valley, adapting her journalism skills into the corporate world.

[00:25:45] Humanizing Brands Through Storytelling: Loreta emphasizes the importance of storytelling for companies and how video can connect brands with their audiences.

[00:45:00] Key Takeaways: Loreta shares practical advice on video communication, internal messaging for companies, and how to present authentically on camera.

Loreta Tarozaite is a communications and content marketing expert specializing in video storytelling. With over 20 years of experience, she has worked across industries, helping companies elevate their visibility through strategic communication. Loreta is passionate about humanizing brands, leveraging new technologies, and helping executives communicate effectively on camera.

Loreta's Website

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" Travel Like a Pro: Luxe Travel Tips from Rodney George"

In this episode, we take a fascinating detour from our usual focus on investing to dive into the world of luxury travel. Join us as Rodney George, founder of Luxe Travel Consultants, shares how he turned his passion for exploring the world into a thriving business. Learn about his journey from financial services to the top of the travel industry and get insider tips on how to travel smart, save time, and experience the world in style.

[00:00:00] Introduction: An overview of Rodney's background and the importance of private money in real estate investing.

[00:03:00] Rodney’s Journey: Rodney’s transition from the financial services industry to the travel business and the growth of Luxe Travel Consultants.

[00:15:30] Travel Consulting: Rodney George explains the difference between travel advisors and online booking, as well as how his team provides exclusive perks and stress-free travel planning for clients.

[00:25:45] Interview with Rodney: Jay dives deep into his strategies for raising private money, the importance of trust, and how to secure funds without asking for them directly.

[00:45:00] Key Takeaways: The value of expert travel advice, how to avoid common travel pitfalls, and why planning ahead with professionals ensures a smooth and memorable trip.

Rodney George is the founder of Luxe Travel Consultants, one of the top five travel agencies in the Cruise Planners - American Express system. After a successful career in financial services, Rodney turned his lifelong love of exploration into a business, helping clients plan luxury vacations on all seven continents. His agency specializes in creating unforgettable travel experiences, earning them a prestigious partnership with American Express Travel.

Luxe Travel Consulting

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"The Art Of Raising Private Money: A Masterclass with Jay Conner"

In this episode, we sit down with Jay Conner, a nationally renowned real estate investor who turned a financial crisis into a multi-million dollar opportunity. Jay shares his journey of discovering and mastering private money, a strategy that has revolutionized his real estate investments. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights on how to raise private money, structure deals, and ensure long-term success in the real estate market.

[00:00:00] Introduction: An overview of Jay Conner's background and the importance of private money in real estate investing.

[00:03:00] Jay’s Journey: How Jay Conner transitioned from traditional banking to private money, and the pivotal moment when his bank cut off funding.

[00:15:30] Understanding Private Money: Jay explains what private money is, how it differs from institutional money, and why it's a game-changer for real estate investors.

[00:25:45] Interview with Jay Conner: Jay dives deep into his strategies for raising private money, the importance of trust, and how to secure funds without asking for them directly.

[00:45:00] Key Takeaways: Jay shares his advice for new investors, including how to leverage relationships, the importance of mindset, and his definition of success.

Jay Conner is a nationally renowned real estate investor who overcame the challenges of traditional financing by developing a system for raising private money. With over $8.5 million in private funds raised and 47 private lenders in his network, Jay has revolutionized his investment strategies and continues to educate others on how to succeed in real estate using private money.

Private Money Challenge

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"The Multifamily Masterclass: Dan’s Blueprint for Real Estate Growth"

In this episode, we sit down with Daniel French, the CEO of ResProp Management, to explore the journey of scaling a property management company with over $2 billion in assets under management. Daniel shares insights into his strategic vision, leadership style, and the core virtues that drive his team’s success. Whether you’re an investor, property manager, or simply interested in real estate, this episode offers valuable lessons in growth and leadership.

[00:00:00] Introduction: Highlighting Daniel French’s role at ResProp Management and the growth of the company.

[00:03:00] Beginnings: The beginnings of Daniel’s career in multifamily properties and his approach to investment and management.

[00:15:30] Company Growth: How ResProp Management has grown under Daniel's leadership, including key strategies for scaling the business.

[00:25:45] Interview with Dan: Introduction to Daniel French, his background, and the core principles that guide his leadership at ResProp Management.

[00:45:00] Key Takeaways: Final thoughts on leadership, the importance of a mission-driven company, and advice for those looking to scale in the real estate industry.

Daniel French is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ResProp Management, where he has played a pivotal role in the company's growth, overseeing a portfolio of approximately $2 billion in real estate assets. With a career in multifamily property investment and management spanning nearly two decades, Daniel brings a wealth of experience and strategic insight. He is a Certified Property Manager (CPM) and holds a BA from Binghamton University and an MPA from Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy. Based in Austin, Daniel is dedicated to fostering a mission-driven culture at ResProp.

ResProp Management

ATX Acquisitions

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"Automating Success: From Engineering to Real Estate Tech"

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of property management automation with Ray Hespen, the CEO and co-founder of Property Meld. Ray shares his journey from a background in manufacturing to building one of the fastest-growing real estate technology companies in the United States. Listen in as we explore the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned in automating an industry that has long relied on manual processes.

[00:00:00] Introduction: A brief origin story of Ray Hespen.

[00:03:00] Beginnings: Ray's transition from manufacturing to real estate technology. We discuss the early days of Property Meld and the initial challenges faced by Ray and his co-founder.

[00:15:30] Company Growth: The importance of customer feedback and how it shaped the development of Property Meld’s software. Ray talks about the evolution of the product and the key milestones in its growth.

[00:25:45] Interview with Ray: Introduction to Ray Hespen. Ray discusses the fundraising journey, securing the first customers, and the pivotal moments that helped Property Meld become a leading player in the industry.

[00:45:00] Key Takeaways: Summary of the key insights shared by Ray, including the importance of perseverance, customer-centric development, and the power of automation in property management.

Ray Hespen is the CEO and co-founder of Property Meld, a leading maintenance automation software company in the property management industry. With a degree in engineering and a background in manufacturing, Ray has a strong foundation in operational efficiency and quality improvement. He combined this expertise with cutting-edge technology to create Property Meld, a company that is transforming how property managers handle maintenance tasks, making the process faster, more efficient, and less costly.

Property Meld - The maintenance automation software company co-founded by Ray Hespen.

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Property Meld Website

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