The Do More Podcast

If you’ve ever wondered what goes into making a killer protein bar or starting a business from scratch, this episode is full of tips and stories you’ll definitely want to hear!

Today, we’re jumping into the awesome story of James Oliver, the guy behind Atlas Bars—a brand known for its high-protein, low-sugar snack bars made with super clean ingredients.

James opens up about launching his business right after college because he wanted more freedom and was passionate about making snacks that actually fit his own diet. He talks honestly about the ups and downs he’s faced, like how crucial it is to keep your mindset in check as an entrepreneur and why learning from all kinds of feedback really matters.

We also get into what makes Atlas Bars different from everything else out there—their unique ingredients and their serious focus on quality and health.

Takeaways:

• Starting a business often stems from a personal need, as seen with Atlas Bars.
• Entrepreneurs must manage their own psychology, balancing freedom with the weight of responsibility.
• Sourcing high-quality ingredients globally is crucial for maintaining product integrity and taste.
• Customer retention is driven by consistent quality and addressing feedback effectively to improve products.
• The landscape of entrepreneurship favors lean operations and technology to maximize efficiency.
• Understanding the difference between theoretical knowledge and practical experience is vital for entrepreneurs.

Links referenced in this episode:

• atlasbars.com
• vitacost.com

Thanks for following, subscribing and listening to this episode of The Do More podcast hosted by Jon Farling. To learn more or ask questions, go to l4investing.com.

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Let’s break down the pros and cons of cash flow versus equity gains, and help you figure out which route aligns best with your goals.

Understanding the type of investor you want to be is crucial, especially when diving into real estate. Today, I’m sharing insights on the two main paths you can take: chasing predictable cash flow or aiming for those big equity pops.

Whether you're working a 9-to-5 or already leaning into entrepreneurship, it's vital to know what you're looking for in your investments. We’ll explore how each approach can impact your financial freedom and what that means for your long-term strategy.

Takeaways:

• Understanding what type of investor you want to be is crucial for success in real estate.
• There are two main paths in real estate investing: focusing on cash flow or aiming for equity pops.
• Predictable cash flow provides financial stability and allows you to automate your investments more effectively.
• Investing in properties for cash flow often requires a more conservative approach to ensure long-term success.

The Do More Podcast

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Today, I'm diving into the top social media influencers I follow and why they matter.

It's all about getting value from our feeds instead of just mindlessly doomscrolling. I’ve got a list of 15 or so people who consistently provide insights that I find relatable and actionable, whether it's about business, mindset, or just life in general. For me, engaging with their content feels like reading a good book or listening to a podcast—it's all about learning and growing.

I’ll share who these influencers are and what makes them stand out, hoping you'll find some new voices to follow that resonate with you too.

Takeaways:

• In the podcast, I discuss how social media should be used to gain valuable information, rather than just scrolling mindlessly.
• I emphasize the importance of following influencers who provide insights and knowledge in areas like business and mindset.
• Throughout the episode, I share a list of my top influencers, highlighting their unique contributions to my learning process.
• I talk about how social media allows us to quickly filter through content, making it easier to find what truly resonates with us.
• The influencers I mention range from real estate experts to mindset coaches, each offering valuable strategies and perspectives.
• Lastly, I encourage listeners to reach out with recommendations for AI influencers that can help in our learning journey.

Thanks for following, subscribing and listening to this episode of The Do More podcast hosted by Jon Farling. To learn more or ask questions, go to l4investing.com.

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If you’re considering purchasing a business or certain types of Real Estate and just curious about financing options, you won't want to miss this informative chat.

Today, we're looking into the world of SBA lending with Ross Creager from U.S. Bank, who brings a wealth of knowledge as an SBA lender. We unpack the essentials of what SBA loans are, how they function, and why they’re a go-to option for many businesses looking to buy or expand.

Ross lays out the three key ingredients needed to secure an SBA loan: the business's ability to pay for the loan, the owner's experience, and the required equity injection.

We also discuss the various types of businesses that can benefit from SBA financing, including self-storage facilities and car washes, and how the process has evolved, especially in light of recent changes.

Takeaways:

• Ross Creager explains the basics of SBA lending, emphasizing that the SBA guarantees a significant portion of loans to help businesses secure financing.
• Ross highlights the three key ingredients for securing an SBA loan: the business's ability to pay, the owner's experience, and the necessary equity injection.
• The conversation sheds light on the different types of SBA loans available, such as the 7A and 504, which cater to various business needs and structures.
• You'll learn that SBA loans typically require a 10% equity injection, meaning the buyer needs to contribute a portion of the purchase price upfront.
• Ross discusses the importance of a solid business plan in the SBA loan application process, stating that it should include financial projections and a clear management strategy.
• The episode also addresses common misconceptions about SBA loans, including their perceived complexity and the time it takes to secure funding, clarifying that recent changes have improved the process significantly.

The Do More Podcast

Thanks for following, subscribing and listening to this episode of The Do More podcast hosted by Jon Farling. To learn more or ask questions, go to l4investing.com.

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I'm giving you a peek into my daily life as a real estate investor and entrepreneur, where time freedom plays a huge role.

I'll walk you through my typical day—from morning workouts to spending quality time with family and handling business tasks. My routine is organized but flexible, helping me juggle work commitments and personal happiness.

I can't stress enough how having a solid team and good systems lets me concentrate on planning big moves while keeping everything running smoothly day-to-day. So come along as I share insights from others that have influenced how I tackle productivity and success in both business and life!

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we explore how to achieve time freedom while managing responsibilities effectively, particularly in entrepreneurship.
• We discuss the importance of having a structured daily schedule to balance work and family commitments successfully.
• The value of maintaining a healthy lifestyle through exercise and personal development is emphasized throughout the conversation.
• I share my insights on the significance of teamwork and communication in running a business effectively and efficiently.
• Networking plays a crucial role in entrepreneurship, and I highlight the benefits of having regular calls with other professionals.
• Finally, I explain how reflecting on daily goals and gratitude can lead to a more fulfilling and productive life.

Thanks for following, subscribing and listening to this episode of The Do More podcast hosted by Jon Farling. To learn more or ask questions, go to l4investing.com.

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I talk about how belief is the top trait among successful people.

It might sound simple, but it's a game-changer not just in business but in life overall.

I share some personal stories about my journey from being a hesitant athlete to becoming a confident player, thanks to mentors who believed in me. This belief has been key in my ventures, especially with self-storage and real estate investing, where trusting myself has helped me tackle challenges head-on.

Bottom line: building strong self-belief is crucial for success and overcoming hurdles, no matter what you're doing.

Takeaways:

• Belief in oneself is the foundational trait that distinguishes successful individuals in all areas of life.
• Growth in personal belief often requires external validation, as demonstrated through my experience with Coach Frost.
• The journey from self-doubt to self-belief involves hard work and perseverance across various endeavors.
• It is crucial to assess whether you genuinely believe in your capabilities to achieve your goals.
• Success requires both belief and hard work; without belief, achieving your goals becomes significantly tougher.
• Belief can be cultivated over time through experiences and support from mentors or coaches.

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Today, I talk more about the concept of the BRRRR strategy in self-storage investments, outlining how it has shaped my real estate journey.

The BRRRR strategy stands for Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, and Repeat, and serves as a powerful tool for generating equity in properties. I share a practical example from a recent deal in which I acquired two self-storage properties for $3.35 million, illustrating how I leveraged equity from an existing property to finance this new acquisition.

Through this process, I highlight the importance of understanding financing options and the nuances of valuation in commercial real estate, particularly in the self-storage sector, where value is derived from operational income rather than comparables.

Ultimately, I emphasize that substantial equity gains do not always require doubling a property's value, but rather focusing on effective cash flow and strategic refinancing can lead to significant financial success.

Takeaways:

• The BRRRR strategy involves buying, rehabbing, renting, refinancing, and repeating to build wealth.
• In commercial real estate, asset value is determined by net operating income rather than comparable sales.
• An example of a successful Burr deal illustrates extracting equity to finance new property purchases.
• Investors should focus on cash flow rather than solely aiming to double property values for success.
• Securing the right financing options, like SBA loans, can greatly enhance investment opportunities.
• Long-term planning is essential in real estate to adapt to changing market conditions and financing terms.

The Do More Podcast

Thanks for following, subscribing and listening to this episode of The Do More podcast hosted by Jon Farling. To learn more or ask questions, go to l4investing.com.

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Words and thoughts hold significant power, shaping our inner dialogues and influencing our realities. In this episode, I talk about the significance of positive self-talk and its profound impact on our lives, particularly regarding real estate investing and entrepreneurship.

I draw from personal experiences and observations, emphasizing how often we gravitate toward negative narratives and the need to consciously shift our focus to the positive aspects of our lives. I share insights on how even small changes in our mindset can lead to substantial improvements, both professionally and personally.

Ultimately, I encourage you to be mindful of the language you use with yourself and others, as it directly correlates to the outcomes you experience.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, I explore how our thoughts and words significantly impact our mindset, especially in real estate and entrepreneurship.
• I discuss the importance of focusing on positivity instead of negativity, which can greatly influence our overall outlook on life.
• The podcast emphasizes that self-talk matters; it shapes our actions and reactions in everyday situations as well as our business endeavors.
• I share personal experiences of overcoming fears through positive affirmations, illustrating how mindset shifts can lead to improved outcomes in our lives.
• I address societal perceptions about wealth and how negative beliefs can hold individuals back from achieving financial success and abundance.
• Lastly, I stress the importance of consuming positive content to foster a constructive mindset, as what we feed our minds eventually reflects in our actions.

The Do More Podcast

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This episode is a comprehensive overview of the strategies I've employed, the lessons learned, and how I navigated challenges to reach my current position in the self-storage market.

I share my journey of acquiring 14 self-storage facilities over the past decade, offering insights into my unique approach to real estate investing. Many people believe they must raise capital from outside sources to succeed in this field, but I emphasize that it's possible to leverage personal finances and bank loans effectively. My path began in 2014, motivated by the need for supplementary income after the birth of my daughter, and it gradually led me to explore various investment opportunities. Through careful financial planning, utilizing home equity, and strategic decision-making, I've been able to scale my investments significantly while maintaining ownership of my assets.

Takeaways:

• The journey to acquiring 14 self-storage facilities began in 2014, focusing on strategic investments.
• I utilized a combination of personal savings, HELOC, and bank loans to finance my real estate ventures.
• By analyzing market trends, I noticed that while home values appreciated, rental prices often lagged behind.
• The importance of learning from each investment experience helped me streamline operations and enhance cash flow.

The Do More Podcast

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Interest rates are all over the map. Investors are getting cold feet.

I've been talking to a lot of people in the business. There's a sense of uncertainty hanging in the air. Deals are not getting done like they used to. It's mainly because people are waiting for the moment to make a move.

The thing is, that moment might never come.

I think investors need to be prepared to take a chance and make some decisions, even if things aren't exactly as they'd like them to be. Waiting around for everything to fall into place can mean missing out on some opportunities.

In today's credit crunch, people are finding ways to finance their projects. One option that's becoming more popular is seller financing, where the seller acts as the bank and lends the buyer the money to purchase the property. This approach is gaining ground as an alternative to financing methods.

I think it's crucial to find your niche in the real estate market. When you focus on an area, like self-storage or single-family rentals, you get a feel for what's going on in that market and how to run your investments efficiently.

This approach doesn't just help you make decisions; it also makes you more resilient when the market takes a hit. I've seen many people let fear dictate their investment choices, which is why I believe in taking a proactive approach.

Trying new things, exploring different strategies, and not being afraid to think outside the box. By doing you're more likely to stay ahead of the curve and find opportunities that others might miss.

I want to stress how important it is to be learning and adapting when it comes to real estate investing. The market is always on the move, and people who stay on top of things and are willing to adjust can put themselves in a spot to take advantage of opportunities. I hope people will stay involved, look for ways to invest, and take on the challenges that come with each downturn or upswing. Because more often than not, it's the people who are willing to change and try new things who end up succeeding.

Takeaways:

• In the current real estate market, it's crucial to stay informed yet not overwhelmed with information that doesn't directly impact your investment decisions.
• Interest rates are anticipated to decrease slightly, but it's essential to maintain focus on your investment strategies regardless of these fluctuations.
• Many investors are hesitant to act due to market uncertainty, which presents opportunities for those willing to take calculated risks.
• Creative financing options, such as seller financing, are becoming increasingly vital as traditional financing methods tighten in the current economic climate.
• Continuous rent adjustments and value-add strategies are necessary to ensure cash flow stability amid rising expenses and tighter budgets.
• Staying focused on your niche and refining your operations can lead to greater success in any market condition, especially during downturns.

Links referenced in this episode:

• thedomorepodcast.com
• L4Investing.com

The Do More Podcast

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