Wayne Courreges III is a Marine Corps veteran and the founder of CRI Partners, a real estate investment firm focused on building generational wealth through multifamily and entrepreneurial assets. After a 16-year career in asset and property management with CBRE, Wayne transitioned full-time to real estate investing in 2023. He now leads a $50M portfolio that spans value-add multifamily, RV/boat storage development, and strategic commercial projects in Texas and the Southeast.

Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.

• Wayne’s journey from Marine Corps to CBRE to full-time real estate entrepreneur was fueled by long-term vision and layered income streams.

• Asset management and development experience allowed him to take calculated risks while building CRI Partners.

• His model includes multifamily investments (80%) and entrepreneurial projects like RV/boat storage and mixed-use developments (20%).

• For passive investors, education is key—ask the right questions, vet the sponsor, and understand the deal before wiring money.

• Taking action and surrounding yourself with experienced mentors are essential to building momentum and avoiding costly mistakes.

From W-2 to Full-Time Investor

• Started investing while working in commercial real estate at CBRE.

• Created income through asset management fees, acquisition fees, and development work before making the leap.

• Made the switch when he realized he couldn’t serve both CBRE clients and investors at the level they deserved.

Why Multifamily Is Still the Foundation

• 80% of his portfolio is traditional value-add multifamily across Houston and San Antonio.

• Focuses on deals in strong, secondary markets with stable rent growth and access to workforce housing.

• Prioritizes transparency, conservative underwriting, and investor trust.

Entrepreneurial Investments: RV, Boat & Business Storage

• Developed a 20x50 enclosed storage facility based on lessons from a successful Huntsville, AL deal.

• Business tenants include HVAC companies, disaster response teams, stagers, athletic companies, ranchers, and state agencies.

• Facility design and location (highway visibility, 100k+ population) drive demand and retention.

Diversification Through Local Development

• Acquired and rezoned 12 acres for a 150-unit multifamily development and SpringHill Suites hotel in Bryan, TX.

• Emphasizes that high-risk projects like these are only pursued when they’re local and manageable.

• Maintains a disciplined approach—stabilize one asset before scaling the next.

Educating Passive Investors

• Created PassiveInvestorCoaching.com to help LPs learn how to vet sponsors, markets, and opportunities.

• Teaches how to assess underwriting, ask better questions, and avoid the most common mistakes.

• Encourages LPs to start small and grow confidence through informed investing.

📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here.

Failure that set Wayne up for success: Bought a deal in 2022 with bridge debt that required course-correction. Survived the rough patch by refinancing, cutting CapEx, and doubling down on communication with lenders and investors.

Digital or mobile resource:

• PassiveInvestorCoaching.com for LP education

• Google Earth and BestPlaces.net for evaluating new markets

• FEMA.gov for early flood zone vetting

• CrimeReports.org for local safety data

Book recommendation:

• Rich Dad Poor Dad & The Speed of Trust

Daily habit: Schedules each day as either a Focus, Buffer, or Free Day using the Dan Sullivan model—ensuring time is carved out for deep work, meetings, or personal recovery.

#1 insight for investing across asset classes: Know your strengths, and partner with people who complement them. Stay humble and build teams that offset your blind spots.

Favorite restaurant in Texas: Gringo’s Tex-Mex & Sodolaks Beefmasters

• Learn more at CREIpartners.com 

• Get free passive investor training at PassiveInvestorCoaching.com

• Explore both stable and entrepreneurial deals—but know the difference in risk, return, and responsibility

Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you’re enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you do not miss an episode.

Athena Brownson is a former professional skier turned top-performing real estate agent, investor, and developer based in Denver, Colorado. After a career-ending battle with Lyme disease, she reinvented herself through real estate—combining her background in interior design and her passion for people into a thriving business. Athena is known for helping clients build long-term financial wellness through homeownership and strategic real estate investing, and she’s especially focused on education, resilience, and relationship-driven service.

Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.

Key Takeaways

• Athena began investing by house-hacking her primary residences, using a “live in it, then rent it” model to build her portfolio.

• She transitioned from interior design to real estate after recognizing her entrepreneurial spirit and desire for scalable impact.

• Investors must plan for CapEx reserves, property management, and insurance complications—especially in regulated markets like Denver.

• Building the right team is critical; your broker should be your connector to vetted contractors, lenders, and legal resources.

• Resilience—built through adversity and chronic illness—is the core of Athena’s mindset and professional approach.

From Ski Slopes to Showings

• Grew up in Breckenridge and became a pro skier by 15, competing for over a decade.

• Following multiple injuries and health challenges, transitioned to interior design, then real estate.

• Initially skeptical of real estate, she found mentorship and reframed her perception of agents through relationship-driven models.

How She Built Her Real Estate Portfolio

• Started by purchasing homes, living in them, and turning them into rentals after two years.

• Leveraged Denver’s strong appreciation to build long-term wealth without chasing high cash flow.

• Encourages clients to follow a similar path using primary residences as investment stepping stones.

Investor vs. Homeowner Mentality

• Homeowners often buy emotionally; investors must approach with a long-term, data-driven mindset.

• Good investor agents should provide data on appreciation, vacancy, rental income, and CapEx projections.

• Understanding local laws, tenant rights, and insurance challenges is crucial for profitable investing.

Why the Right Team Matters

• Your agent should introduce you to reliable property managers, lenders, contractors, and insurance brokers. Denver is a highly regulated market—landlord-tenant law varies even by neighborhood. Without the right team, investors risk costly missteps, code violations, and legal exposure.

Resilience Through Adversity

• Diagnosed with Lyme disease, Athena rebuilt her career by focusing on real estate as her purpose and outlet.

• Her story highlights how clarity of mission and community service can create fulfillment and long-term success.

📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here.

Failure that set Athena up for success: Being diagnosed with Lyme disease forced her to reevaluate everything—and ultimately helped her discover her calling in real estate.

Digital or mobile resource: U-Haul Migration Reports — a unique, underused resource to track population shifts and identify hot investment markets.

Book recommendation: Sell It Like Serhant by Ryan Serhant — an energizing read that reignites motivation and sharpens real estate strategy.

Daily habit: Structured morning and evening routines—journaling, affirmations, and short meditation sessions to stay focused and intentional.

#1 insight for building resiliency: Find your “why.” Without a purpose that gets you out of bed, it’s impossible to build long-term strength and focus.

Favorite restaurant in Denver, CO: Tavernetta

• Visit AthenaBrownsonRealtor.com to connect and learn more

• Review your current team—broker, PM, lender, legal—and make sure each member knows your investment goals and market landscape

• Start simple: consider using your next home purchase as a launch point for building your portfolio

Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you’re enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you do not miss an episode.

Jonathan Feniak is a business attorney and the driving force behind LLCAttorney.com. After successful careers in logistics and finance, he became a licensed attorney at 45 to help make legal protection and business formation more accessible to entrepreneurs. Jonathan now helps clients across all 50 states establish LLCs, protect their assets, and structure their businesses efficiently—with a focus on practical, cost-effective solutions that deliver real protection.

Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.

• Asset protection begins with proper business formation—but it doesn’t end there.

• Many business owners form LLCs but fail to “respect” them by observing corporate formalities, rendering them ineffective in court.

• Wyoming is one of the best states to form a holding company due to privacy and strong charging order protection.

• Creating a holding company structure helps simplify asset management, estate planning, and liability isolation.

• Revocable living trusts are a low-cost way to ensure smooth inheritance without the burden of probate, especially across multiple states.

From Corporate to Counsel: A Third Career Attorney

• Jonathan began in logistics (UPS, DHL), then transitioned to finance and wealth management.

• At 45, he pursued law full-time to combine strategic advising with legal structure and protection.

• His mission is to democratize access to real legal solutions—without the inflated price tag.

What Most People Get Wrong About LLCs

• Forming an LLC is just step one—maintaining it properly is where most fail.

• Respect your LLC by: holding meetings, documenting decisions, separating finances, and keeping the business in good standing.

• Improperly managed LLCs are often disregarded by courts, leaving owners personally liable.

The Power of Holding Companies

• Use a Wyoming LLC as a holding company for privacy, asset protection, and estate efficiency.

• Helps shield your name from public documents and reduces the impact of being linked to failed partnerships or lawsuits.

• Holding companies simplify asset transfers to heirs and reduce exposure to out-of-state probate.

Estate Planning and Life Events

• Estate plans should be revisited every five years—or after any major life change (e.g., marriage, children, death, relocation).

• A revocable living trust paired with an LLC holding company offers clean transitions for heirs and minimal disruption.

• Overcomplicated estate plans often backfire; keep it simple and update as needed.

Avoiding Snake Oil and Legal Overkill

• Many providers push unnecessary structures—like offshore trusts or layered LLCs—on inexperienced investors.

• Jonathan emphasizes reasonable, effective solutions tailored to the investor’s current risk and net worth.

• Focus on clear, scalable strategies that grow with your portfolio.

📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here.

Failure that set Jonathan up for success: Realizing his unhappiness as a financial advisor led Jonathan to pursue law school and build a business where he thrives today.

Digital or mobile resource: Gemini (AI tool) — Helps condense complex legal materials and improve communication clarity, when guided with trusted source inputs.

Book recommendation: Not a traditional book reader—Jonathan reads thousands of pages of legal cases, law review articles, and court decisions to stay sharp.

Daily habit: Maintains a dedicated workspace at home that acts as his “mental switch” for full focus and productivity.

#1 insight for asset protection: Don’t put too many assets in one bucket. Whether structuring LLCs or allocating capital, smaller, diversified exposures reduce risk.

Favorite restaurant in Luquillo, Puerto Rico: La Fonda.

• Visit LLCAttorney.com to explore services and free resources

• Use promo code FAMILY50 there to receive 50% off formations or registered agent services

• Review your current LLC, asset structure, and estate plan—and don’t wait for a crisis to start planning

Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you’re enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you do not miss an episode.

Steven Pesavento is a real estate entrepreneur and managing partner of VonFinch Capital. Since 2016, he has completed over 220 real estate transactions, renovated nearly 100 properties, and personally transacted over $200 million in real estate. With a background in consulting and startups, Steven transitioned into multifamily investing to build long-term wealth, scale strategically, and help investors achieve financial freedom through high-performance investments.

Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.

• Steven flipped over 200 houses before pivoting to multifamily for greater scalability and repeatability.

• The VonFinch model focuses on building trust at scale, creating long-term investor relationships across asset classes.

• Talent retention is core to their strategy, offering team members aligned incentives and upside in each project.

• The best multifamily buying opportunities are in the middle market ($5–$25M) where institutional competition is minimal.

• Successful investing starts with mindset—embracing both wins and losses as part of a long-term game.

From Flipping to Multifamily

• Built a high-volume flipping business but struggled with lack of repeat clients and team turnover.

• Realized multifamily investing offered better scale, cash flow, and lasting investor relationships.

• Transitioned to commercial deals where trust and strategic partnerships drive long-term success.

Building a Wealth Machine Through Relationships

• VonFinch Capital focuses on relationship-based investing with aligned goals across team, operators, and investors.

• Employees are offered base salaries with profit-sharing incentives to encourage ownership and retention.

• Long-term success is about creating win-win environments that scale with aligned interests.

Navigating the Current Multifamily Market

• Market dislocation has created buying opportunities 30–40% below peak prices in the non-institutional middle market.

• VonFinch targets $5–$15M deals overlooked by large institutions but too big for most small investors.

• Patience and persistence matter—some of their best deals took 6–12 months to close or required years of relationship-building.

Why Now Is Still the Time to Buy

• Even with personal portfolio challenges, Steven remains bullish on buying during market dips.

• Dollar-cost averaging into real estate is critical—especially for those who bought at the top in 2021–22.

• The greatest returns are made in volatile periods when others are fearful.

Investor Mindset and Long-Term Thinking

• Investing is a game—understand the rules, play strategically, and adapt to change.

• Fear of loss often outweighs potential gains, but playing scared leads to missed opportunities.

• Steven encourages investors to view losses as feedback and avoid overexposure in any one deal or asset.

📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here.

Failure that set Steven up for success: Getting fired from a dream startup job taught him what kind of culture and leadership he wanted to create—VonFinch was born soon after.

Digital or mobile resource: The Michel Thomas Method (for learning Spanish) + Duolingo — a powerful combination for language learning and cognitive growth.

Book recommendation: Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill — timeless principles for personal development and wealth creation.

Daily habit: Sauna and cold plunge therapy — helps reset the body and clears mental fog for high performance and focus.

#1 insight for scaling your team: It’s all about people. Serve them, incentivize them, and create a mission they’re proud to be part of.

Favorite restaurant in Denver, CO: Izakaya Den 

• Learn more at VonFinch.com

• Tune into the Investor Mindset podcast for mindset strategies and investment insights

• Check out the previous Multifamily Insights episode with Steven

• Reflect on your investing psychology: are you playing the long game or letting fear win?

Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you’re enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you do not miss an episode.

Sandhya Seshadri is the founder of Engineered Capital, a firm focused on helping professionals grow their wealth through commercial real estate and alternative investments. With a background in engineering, an MBA in finance, and a successful career in stock trading, she became financially independent before shifting her focus to real estate. Since 2018, Sandhya has been an active multifamily syndicator and passive investor in multiple asset classes including oil & gas and tech funds, bringing her analytical skill set and passion for tax-efficient investing to her growing investor community.

Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.

• Sandhya began investing in stocks but transitioned to real estate for better tax advantages and cash flow.

• She started as a passive investor in multifamily before becoming an active general partner.

• Rising interest rates reshaped her strategy, leading her to explore oil & gas and technology funds.

• Passive investing offers the ability to leverage other people’s expertise while generating income and appreciation.

• Asset class diversification and risk tolerance should drive investment decisions, not just projected returns.

From Engineering to Investing

• Started in corporate America but pursued investing to achieve financial independence.

• Learned to trade stocks and used that income to replace her W-2 job.

• Discovered real estate as a tax-advantaged strategy after hitting a tax ceiling with stock gains.

Why Multifamily and Syndications

• Skipped single-family due to lack of appreciation and headaches from managing tenants and maintenance.

• Multifamily appealed due to professional property management, scalability, and the ability to raise capital from investors.

• Took the “passenger to pilot” approach—starting as an LP, then a co-GP, and finally a lead GP.

Shifting the Strategy: From CRE to Alternatives

• Rising interest rates, property taxes, and insurance costs eroded multifamily cash flow.

• Pivoted to alternative investments that better suited current market conditions.

• Launched tech fund offerings for high-upside, long-term appreciation plays.

• Invested in oil & gas deals offering strong tax advantages and predictable cash flow backed by mineral rights.

• Carefully vets all deals personally before introducing them to investors.

Oil & Gas Investing Explained

• Buys into mineral rights after oil is confirmed, reducing drilling risk.

• Returns often include 80% year-one depreciation via K-1 and cash flow within 24 months.

• No depreciation recapture and potential for 2.5–3x returns over a 7-year period.

• Great option for high-income professionals seeking tax relief and diversification.

Investor Education and Risk Management

• Every asset class has its risks—invest small first, understand the model, and scale gradually.

• Focus on understanding the operator, the assumptions behind returns, and aligning with your personal goals.

• Diversify across asset types, hold periods, and cash flow profiles.

📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here.

Failure that set Sandhya up for success: Tighter margins in recent multifamily deals forced her to become hyper-efficient in asset management and expenses—helping her sharpen operational discipline.

Digital or mobile resource: Calendar tools like Calendly—essential for time management and filtering non-essential calls.

Book recommendation: Lessons from Top Leaders – a collection of leadership stories from industry experts, including Sandhya’s own chapter.

Daily habit: Plans her day each morning by prioritizing what would stress her most if it were left undone—this keeps her focused and calm.

#1 insight for investing in alternative assets: Know your risk tolerance and only invest what you’re willing to lose—this applies to every asset class.

Favorite restaurant in Dallas, TX: The Fifth

• Connect with Sandhya on LinkedIn

• Learn more about Engineered Capital and current offerings at engineered-capital.com

• Check out the previous Multifamily Insights episode with Sandhya

• Evaluate your own risk profile and diversify thoughtfully across asset classes

Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you’re enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you do not miss an episode.

Cindy Beier is the founder of Emerald Peak Holdings and CNS Management, with over 30 years of experience in real estate—from new construction sales to live-in flips to multifamily investing. After starting as a real estate agent and property manager, Cindy transitioned into syndications where she now raises capital, manages assets, and helps others enter the world of passive investing. She’s also passionate about educating women in real estate and runs local investor meetups to foster community and mentorship.

Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.

• Cindy transitioned from hands-on property management to passive multifamily investing after experiencing the stress of managing single-family rentals.

• She began investing as an LP and quickly became a GP by bringing in capital and leveraging her network.

• Multifamily syndications offered her better returns and fewer headaches than her actively managed single-family portfolio.

• She encourages other agents and non-investors to explore passive investing through syndications.

• Mastermind communities played a major role in accelerating her education and confidence as an investor.

From Realtor to Real Estate Investor

• Cindy’s journey started after serving in the Air Force and discovering real estate through answering phones at a brokerage.

• Became a licensed agent, ran a brokerage, and eventually got inspired by an investor who built wealth one property at a time.

• Bought several single-family homes, including a short-term rental, before shifting her focus to multifamily.

Why Multifamily and Syndications Made Sense

• Tired of managing repairs, maintenance calls, and vendors herself.

• Compared her modest cash flow from a condo with the stronger returns from a $25K LP investment in a syndication.

• Multifamily provided better returns, scalability, and less day-to-day involvement.

How She Became a General Partner

• Joined a mastermind group and realized she could raise capital and contribute to larger deals.

• Currently an LP and GP in two multifamily properties totaling over 100 units.

• Enjoys the freedom and passive income that come with being part of a larger team.

Tips for Passive Investors

• Vet the operator: make sure they’ve gone full-cycle and have a conservative track record.

• Ask the right questions: returns, loan structure, operator investment, and risk mitigation strategies.

• Analyze the market: consider economic drivers, employer base, and long-term potential.

The Power of Masterminds and Community

• Joined multiple groups to learn, network, and grow faster.

• Finds value in sharing stories and learning from the mistakes and successes of others.

• Believes education, connection, and execution are keys to building wealth in real estate.

📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here.

Failure that set Cindy up for success: Bought a couch before a closing that fell through—learned to never spend money until the deal is actually closed.

Digital or mobile resource: YouTube University—her go-to for real estate education and even gardening tips.

Book recommendation: The 12 Week Year – helps break big goals into achievable short-term plans, giving you a “new year” every quarter.

Daily habit: Focusing on family routines and goals helps her stay centered and committed to long-term financial freedom.

#1 insight for scaling into multifamily: Skip single-family. Take flip profits or saved capital and go directly into multifamily to scale faster with fewer headaches.

Favorite restaurant in Denver, CO: Los Dos.

• Learn more at EmeraldPeakSolutions.com

• Reach out to Cindy directly at [email protected]

Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you’re enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you do not miss an episode.

Paul Shannon is a real estate investor, fund manager, and co-host of the PassivePockets podcast. After spending 15 years in medical device sales, Paul transitioned into full-time real estate in 2019. He has acquired over 200 residential units through creative strategies like BRRRR and joint ventures and is an LP in 40+ deals across multifamily, industrial, debt funds, and more. Today, he runs Invest Wise Collective, an opportunistic investment fund focused on delivering diversified returns through both GP and LP positions.

Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Must Ask, here.

• Paul left a successful sales career to pursue real estate full-time after realizing he wanted more purpose, freedom, and control.

• He failed as a property manager early on but used that lesson to scale through partnerships and better team delegation.

• Invest Wise Collective takes a capital-agnostic, asset-agnostic approach to investing—balancing risk, return, and diversification.

• Passive investors should focus on sponsor alignment, risk tolerance, and consistent underwriting inputs over flashy return metrics.

• Community and mentorship are essential for new and seasoned LPs alike—there’s power in learning from others’ experiences.

From Medical Sales to Real Estate Freedom

• Paul started with single-family rentals and flips, managing properties himself while still in corporate sales.

• In 2019, he left his W2 job with a modest portfolio, savings runway, and a desire to build something meaningful.

• A pivotal moment came when he outsourced property management and focused on acquisitions, unlocking rapid growth.

The Rise of Invest Wise Collective

• In 2023, Paul and partners launched a fund to pool capital and invest across asset classes.

• The fund focuses on both GP and LP positions, enabling flexible capital deployment based on risk-reward profiles.

• Their early strategy emphasized debt positions for income and capital preservation, later pivoting to multifamily as opportunities emerged.

Lessons for New Passive Investors

• Focus on the sponsor first, then the deal—good operators can rescue average deals; bad ones can ruin great ones.

• Underwriting inputs matter more than IRR projections—don’t get seduced by high returns without understanding the assumptions.

• Diversify across operators, asset types, and loan maturities to mitigate risks like market timing or interest rate exposure.

• Don’t let FOMO drive decisions—there will always be more deals. Be intentional, not reactive.

The Power of Community: Passive Pockets

• Paul is co-host of Passive Pockets, formerly Left Field Investors, now owned by BiggerPockets.

• The platform provides deal reviews, sponsor evaluations, educational content, and LP peer collaboration.

• It helps investors go from 100-level beginners to 500-level LPs through shared experience and due diligence transparency.

📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here.

Failure that set Paul up for success: Realized he was a terrible property manager—which led him to outsource operations and discover the value of the Who Not How mindset.

Digital or mobile resource: Slack – an essential tool for team collaboration and staying connected without overwhelming inboxes.

Book recommendation: Creature from Jekyll Island – a deep dive into the history of the Federal Reserve and monetary systems that shaped his financial worldview.

Daily habit: Early morning workouts to boost energy, mental clarity, and start the day with intention and discipline.

#1 insight for passive investing: Don’t fall for FOMO. There will always be more deals—invest when you’re informed and confident.

Favorite restaurant in Fortville, IN: FoxGardin.

• Visit PassivePockets.com to join the LP community and access exclusive education and deal reviews

• Learn more about Paul’s investment strategy at InvestWiseCollective.com

• Focus on sponsor alignment, risk-adjusted returns, and long-term diversification in your investing journey

Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you’re enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you do not miss an episode.

David Blumenfeld is the co-founder of Next Rivet, a proptech advisory firm that helps real estate businesses leverage digital technology to solve real business challenges. With experience leading business development at Westfield Labs—the innovation arm of Westfield Shopping Centers—David has a deep understanding of how to bridge the gap between traditional real estate operations and emerging technologies. At Next Rivet, he focuses on building tailored technology roadmaps and overseeing successful implementation, ensuring that technology delivers measurable impact, not just flashy concepts.

Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.

• Proptech is not about chasing buzzwords—it’s about identifying business problems first and applying the right tools to solve them.

• The biggest failure in tech implementation comes from unclear business requirements, not from the technology itself.

• AI is not a stand-alone solution but an ingredient that enhances existing tools and processes.

• Operational efficiencies, lease management, and tenant experience are key focus areas where technology can provide immediate ROI. Success comes from doing the upfront work: define your goals clearly, then explore solutions.

What Is Proptech and Why It Matters

• Proptech (property technology) spans digital leasing tools, building management systems, smart locks, energy efficiency tech, tenant experience platforms, and more.

• The slow adoption rate in real estate offers an opportunity for forward-thinking operators to gain an edge.

• Focus should always be on solving operational challenges—not on adopting tech for tech’s sake.

Avoiding the “Deck on the Desk” Problem

• Many consulting firms hand over a giant report without real action steps.

• Next Rivet helps clients move from strategy to implementation, working directly with vendors and ensuring real results.

• Their approach is tech-agnostic—choosing the right tools for the job, not locking clients into a specific vendor.

Where Most Owners Should Start with Tech

• Focus on basic operational systems: lease digitization, renewal tracking, building management systems.

• Use AI as a layer within these systems to streamline lease abstraction, document review, and operations.

• Prioritize energy efficiency tools that can produce real cost savings (e.g., HVAC optimization, smart metering).

Technology Across Asset Classes

• Retail: Enhance shopper experience through frictionless parking, special tenant offers, and real-time inventory insights.

• Office: Provide infrastructure that allows tenants to customize their tech stack while the building remains future-proof.

• Multifamily: Combine leasing, operations, and tenant engagement into seamless digital experiences.

How to Vet and Choose Tech Solutions Wisely

• Clearly define business needs before engaging vendors.

• Develop tight business and technical requirements—just like architectural plans for a building.

• Avoid jumping into tools just because they’re AI-powered or new; focus on real benefits and usability.

📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here.

Failure that set you up for success:

Missed a job opportunity at Excite during the dot-com boom—but it led to a career-shaping role at CNET, launching him into the tech space where he’s stayed ever since.

Digital or mobile resource:

• Coresight Research for retail-focused insights

• Commercial Observer for CRE news

• Propmodo, Crytek, and Blueprint events and publications for proptech trends

• Google Alerts for staying up-to-date on key topics like AI, proptech, or property management tools

Book recommendation: Girt – a humorous yet factual history of Australia. Highly entertaining and unexpectedly educational.

Daily habit: Exercise—an essential routine for mental clarity and balance, especially when spending long hours in front of a screen.

#1 insight for leveraging technology: Don’t start with the shiny tech. Start with clear business needs and strong requirements—then find the right solution to fit.

Favorite restaurant in Bay Area, CA: One of the many taquerias in San Francisco’s Mission District—hard to go wrong with any of them.

• Learn more about David and his team at NextRivet.com

• Reach out directly to David at [email protected] for help assessing your technology roadmap

• Audit your current processes and identify key areas where tech could streamline operations or enhance tenant experience

Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you’re enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you do not miss an episode.

Nathan St Cyr is the co-founder of Howzit Hostels, a fast-growing hospitality brand based in the Hawaiian Islands. Within three years, Howzit Hostels earned the 2024 award for the number one small hostel in North America. With two current locations totaling approximately 140 beds, Nathan and his partner are on a mission to scale to 400 beds in Hawaii and 4,000 beds across North America—all while elevating the hostel experience into a modern, community-focused hospitality model.

Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.

• Nathan originally trained in multifamily investing but pivoted to hostels after uncovering a major market gap in the U.S. hostel space.

• Howzit Hostels focuses on elevating the guest experience with boutique design, community engagement, and Instagram-worthy moments.

• The hostel model allows for multiple revenue levers through room configuration, occupancy flexibility, and curated guest experiences.

• Their approach targets the Gen Z traveler, who craves connection, shared spaces, and social currency through experiences.

• Success comes from understanding your avatar, hiring expert operators, and being fully committed to your vision.

From Multifamily to Hospitality Pivot

• Started with multifamily training, searching for apartment deals in Hawaii.

• First property search introduced the idea of hostels, which led to a deep dive into the business model.

• Discovered that hostels offered a more flexible, high-margin opportunity than traditional apartment investing in their market.

What Is a Hostel Today?

• Challenges the outdated U.S. perception of hostels as cheap or dirty backpacker lodging.

• Focuses on community-based experiences with boutique design, common spaces, guided activities, and both shared and private rooms.

• Targets modern travelers who value shared experiences over isolation.

Creating a Scalable, Passion-Driven Asset

• Hostels allow room configurations that multiply income potential—such as converting a single hotel room into a shared six-bed space.

• Hostel occupancy is measured per bed, allowing for higher flexibility and revenue optimization.

• Deep understanding of their target audience (Gen Z) shapes branding, amenities, and experiences.

Mindset, Mentorship, and Execution

• Emphasizes hiring experts to validate business plans and fill skill gaps, including European hostel consultants and hospitality designers.

• Stresses the importance of passion, perseverance, and the willingness to go “all in” on your vision.

• Leverages lessons from a background in sales leadership, focusing on rejection as a temporary obstacle and belief as the driving force.

📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here.

Failure that set Nathan up for success: Early struggles in sales and a challenging first property purchase taught Nathan that belief, persistence, and mindset outlast temporary setbacks.

Digital or mobile resource: Social Wi-Fi—automates mid-stay guest feedback and channels five-star reviews directly to Google while flagging issues for in-house resolution.

Book recommendation: Psycho-Cybernetics by Maxwell Maltz – a game-changing book on mindset, the subconscious, and unlocking your potential (despite the intimidating title).

Daily habit: Morning and evening meditation with visualization to align mindset and focus—Nathan believes 80% of success is mindset, 20% is execution.

#1 insight for running a successful hostel: Culture is everything. Build a company culture where the right people want to work, and your business will thrive.

Favorite restaurant in Maui, HI: Nuka.

• Follow Nathan and explore the Howzit Hostels journey at HowzitHostels.com

• Listen to Nathan’s podcast, Hotel Investor Playbook, for deeper insights into hospitality investing

• Consider the unique opportunities in hostel and hospitality investing, especially for passion-driven entrepreneurs

Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you’re enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you do not miss an episode.

Dr. Janeeka Benoit, also known as “Dr. J,” is a board-certified travel physician in internal and sports medicine, and a real estate investor with over 60 units. She became an accidental landlord during her medical residency and has since evolved into an apartment syndicator. Dr. J helps healthcare professionals invest passively in real estate so they can regain time, reduce stress, and focus on family, freedom, and fulfillment.

Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.

• Dr. J became an investor out of necessity during residency, managing three properties while working demanding hospital shifts.

• A pivotal conversation with her CPA convinced her to go bigger and leverage multifamily investing through syndications.

• She emphasizes the importance of aligning your real estate strategy with your lifestyle and time availability.

• Dr. J now helps other healthcare professionals learn how to invest passively and build wealth.

• Her first real estate meetup had 6 attendees—her most recent had 18, proving the growing demand for real estate education in the medical community.

From Overwhelm to Opportunity

• Started with two single-family homes and a duplex, all self-managed while working long hours as a medical resident.

• Hit burnout quickly and considered quitting—until her CPA told her to “go bigger.”

• Learned about apartment syndication and joined a mastermind to scale with support.

Learning the Language of Multifamily

• Initially intimidated by multifamily jargon and million-dollar deal talk.

• Gained confidence by consistently attending events, showing up for calls, and surrounding herself with experienced peers.

• Discovered she had a story to share—and a community of physicians who needed her voice.

Serving the Medical Community Through Real Estate

• Hosts local meetups for doctors, dentists, residents, and aspiring med students.

• Uses her own journey to teach others how to passively invest without adding stress to their careers.

• Draws parallels between managing patients as a physician and managing investment teams—both require collaboration, diagnosis, and execution.

Investor Mindset and Capital Raising

• Overcame limiting beliefs about asking for capital by treating investor conversations like patient consults.

• Raised $110,000 in five minutes during a mastermind challenge—proving the power of simply asking.

• Prioritizes investing with people who share her values, vision, and integrity.

📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here.

Failure that set you up for success: It took her three years and five MCAT attempts to get into medical school. That journey taught her faith and persistence—skills that now fuel her real estate career.

Digital or mobile resource: Multifamily Insights Podcast – an on-demand library of episodes for anyone serious about multifamily investing.

Book recommendation: The Best Ever Apartment Syndication Book by Joe Fairless – her go-to resource for syndication strategy and fundamentals.

Daily habit: Prayer and meditation. Starts each morning in silence with gratitude, reflection, and intention to stay grounded amid her busy schedule.

#1 insight for investing as a healthcare professional: Choose real estate strategies that match your lifestyle—don’t add stress in the name of building wealth.

Favorite restaurant in Nashville, TN: Urban Grub.

• Connect with Dr. J on LinkedIn to learn more about her meetups and deals

• Attend one of her Nashville events if you’re in healthcare and curious about passive investing

• Explore apartment syndications as a way to invest without the burden of solo property management

Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you’re enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you do not miss an episode.