In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with Mike Zlotnik, a seasoned real estate fund manager who made the leap from technology into commercial real estate following the 2008 financial crisis. Mike shares how experiencing a major market downturn reshaped his understanding of risk, cash flow, and long-term investing. The conversation explores real estate investment strategies built around market cycles, diversification, and contrarian thinking, with Mike offering perspective on why fundamentals matter more than hype. He also reflects on how his business model evolved over time and how family continues to influence both his personal and professional decisions.

Key Highlights:

- Mike transitioned from a technology career into real estate investing after the financial crisis

- Market cycles are unavoidable, and understanding them is critical for long-term success

- The 2008 downturn reinforced the importance of risk management and conservative underwriting

- Diversification across assets and strategies helps protect investors during volatile periods

- Commercial real estate can provide more predictable passive income when structured correctly

- Local market knowledge plays a major role in investment performance

- Cash flow from day one is a non-negotiable principle in Mike’s approach

- Contrarian investing often creates opportunity when others are fearful

- Business models must evolve as markets, capital, and experience change

- Family and lifestyle goals strongly influence how Mike evaluates investments

Mike’s story is a powerful reminder that experience, patience, and discipline matter more than timing the perfect deal. By respecting market cycles, focusing on fundamentals, and staying grounded in personal values, investors can build resilient portfolios that weather uncertainty and support long-term financial freedom.

Get in touch with Mike: 

Website: https://bigmikefund.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mzlotnik/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TFmanagementgroup

YouTube (Podcast + Tempo Funding): https://www.youtube.com/@TempoInvestments

If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:

⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  

Audio Track:

Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠

Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/