Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! Host Kyle Moody sits down with Nate Larsen, CIO of the Mid-Atlantic Fund and founder of Credo Capital Management, for an insightful exploration into private lending and its intersection with self-directed IRAs.

In this episode, Nate shares his extensive background as an economist and banker and explains how the Mid-Atlantic Fund was born from a desire to create a more efficient, personable, and flexible lending environment, blending local bank sensibility with institutional resources and technology.

You’ll get a look at the evolution of the Mid-Atlantic Fund, its operational model, and how it offers investors diversification and protection, particularly for those using self-directed IRAs. The conversation covers the fund’s SEC registration, its conservative risk management practices, and the crucial role of collateral, character, credit, and capacity—the four C’s—in their lending philosophy. Nate breaks down how Credo Capital Management works behind the scenes as an asset manager, while Mid-Atlantic Fund remains the investor-facing brand, ensuring a seamless and transparent experience. Whether you’re new to private lending or a seasoned investor considering self-directed IRAs, this episode delivers practical insight and strategic advice.

Key takeaways:

1. Mid-Atlantic Fund’s Approach: The fund operates as a SEC-registered private credit fund, focusing on debt-backed assets rather than equity, providing monthly income to investors and offering built-in diversification across a portfolio of real estate-backed loans.
2. Local Expertise and Market Focus: Most assets are concentrated in the Mid-Atlantic region, especially metro Atlanta, leveraging deep knowledge of local markets for efficient risk management and strong investment prospects.
3. Conservative Risk Management: The fund maintains a strict collateral policy, lending at approximately 65% of asset value, with tangible assets backing every loan. Additional safeguards—such as life insurance policies, redundancy protocols, and backup servicing—further protect investors.
4. Flexible and Efficient Lending: Nate emphasizes the advantages of private lending over traditional banks, highlighting efficiency, flexibility, and responsiveness to local opportunities, making it an appealing choice for self-directed IRA investors.
5. The Four C’s of Lending: Collateral, character, credit, and capacity form the foundation of the fund’s lending decisions, with stringent borrower selection and relationship-driven business practices resulting in a track record of over 500 transactions with no losses and 195 consecutive monthly distributions.

Tune in to discover how private lending through a self-directed IRA can provide both financial security and diversified growth, and learn why Mid-Atlantic Fund stands out as a trusted, relationship-focused partner in the investment landscape.

Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! This week, Kyle Moody welcomes seasoned real estate closing attorney and investor Brian Elam, senior partner at Innovative Closing Solutions and vice president of the Triad Real Estate Investors Association. Together, they pull back the curtain on investing in real estate through self-directed IRAs, tackling the legal parameters, pitfalls, and practical steps every investor should know. Brian Elam brings decades of real estate law experience—having closed hundreds, if not thousands, of self-directed IRA transactions—and provides firsthand stories and actionable advice for both new and seasoned investors.

The conversation covers everything from the importance of hiring the right attorney, differences in closing practices across states, common misconceptions about IRA-owned LLCs, and critical compliance factors you need to consider to keep your investments—and retirement—safe. Whether you’re just starting your self-directed IRA journey or aiming to level up your real estate investing game, this episode is packed with insights to help you become an informed, resilient investor. Tune in to learn what sets investment property transactions apart from primary home purchases, why a business mindset is crucial for landlords, and how to avoid costly mistakes in your IRA investing process.

Key takeaways:

1. Legal Differences Matter: Investing in real estate through a self-directed IRA is legally very different from traditional investing, especially concerning title, logistics, and IRS compliance. It’s crucial to hire a real estate attorney who understands IRA rules and coordinates with the IRA custodian.
2. Representation Is Critical: In states where attorneys aren’t required at closing, investors may lack proper legal representation, increasing the risk of unresolved issues and costly delays. Even in title states, having your own attorney is invaluable.
3. IRA-Owned LLCs Are Not a Free Pass: Forming an LLC within a self-directed IRA offers greater transaction flexibility and reduced costs, but the same prohibited transaction rules and IRS restrictions apply. Custodian oversight is essential, especially for newer investors.
4. Timing and Communication Prevent Mistakes: Early, proactive communication between all parties—including attorney, custodian, and settlement agent—is vital. Delays in paperwork or misunderstanding of compliance requirements can result in postponed closings or extra fees.
5. Emotional Detachment Is Key: Unlike a primary residence, investors should treat IRA-owned properties purely as a business. Emotional decisions can lead to poor investment choices—maintaining a business mindset helps ensure revenue generation and investment success.

Whether you’re learning the ropes or seeking to protect your portfolio, this episode is your go-to resource for making wiser, safer investment decisions within self-directed IRAs. Don’t forget to check out American IRA’s educational resources and webinars, including Brian Elam's acclaimed presentation, on their YouTube channel and website.

Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! In this informative session, host Kyle Moody sits down with John Hamrick Jr. for a deep dive into the must-know details of insuring real estate owned through your self-directed IRA.

John is a seasoned insurance advisor with Brown Davis Insurance and the current president of the Triad Real Estate Investors Association (REIA) in North Carolina.

Together, Kyle and John unravel the complexities of purchasing real estate inside your self-directed IRA, emphasizing how insurance needs change when property is held within your retirement account. John shares cautionary tales from his decades in insurance, explains why being proactive is critical, and provides practical risk-management strategies. From the importance of naming your IRA as the property’s true owner to the unique challenges investors face when a claim arises, listeners will walk away with actionable tactics and enlightening stories—like the pitfalls of last-minute insurance purchases, trampoline troubles, and what to do if a tree falls on your property.

Key takeaways:

1. Correct Ownership and Insurance Naming: John underscores the necessity of ensuring that the IRA—not the individual investor—is listed as the named insured on any policy, as misnaming can jeopardize claim payouts and coverage.
2. Timing Is Everything: Getting an insurance agent involved as soon as the purchase contract is signed, or even during due diligence, helps avoid last-minute surprises such as insurability issues, undisclosed property damage, or disallowed features like trampolines and certain dog breeds.
3. Cash Allocation and Deductibles: Investors must keep sufficient cash reserves inside their IRA to cover deductibles and unforeseen repairs, since personal funds cannot be used without triggering tax penalties or prohibited transactions.
4. Risk Management Through Tenant Insurance: John recommends requiring tenants to hold renter’s insurance with high personal liability limits, as this protects both the IRA owner and tenant in the event of damage or accidents—keeping owner claims and premiums in check.
5. Full Disclosure and Proactive Inspections: Owners are encouraged to be transparent with their insurance agent about all property risks and periodically inspect properties (without hands-on work), as undisclosed issues or risky animal/pet situations can lead to denied coverage—and even policy cancellation.

Whether you’re new to real estate investing through a self-directed IRA or a seasoned pro, this conversation blends expertise with real-life anecdotes, equipping you to avoid costly mistakes and ensure your retirement investments are well-protected. Don’t miss this essential episode—a must-listen for anyone serious about real estate within their IRA!

Welcome to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast, hosted by Kyle Moody and powered by American IRA! In this engaging edition, Kyle sits down with John Ford, the founder and CEO of Bel Air Lending, for an in-depth look at private lending as an alternative investment for self-directed retirement accounts. Listeners will be walked through John’s journey from accidental landlord to the leader of a $44 million private lending enterprise, discovering how his background, team, and investment philosophy have fueled Bel Air Lending's impressive growth. Along the way, John Ford introduces his company’s unique approach, leveraging property-specific lending trusts and pledging his own net worth to ensure investor security, while also sharing personal stories—including the inspiration behind the company’s name and their beloved golden retriever mascot, Goldie.

Throughout the conversation, Kyle and John explore the versatility of self-directed IRAs, the advantages of private money lending, and the diverse backgrounds of Bel Air’s over 300 investors from across 25 states and even Ecuador. John Ford demystifies how even those with limited time or experience can gain access to high-yield, real-estate-secured investments through an easy, hands-off process. If you’ve been curious about growing retirement funds beyond traditional real estate or stock market options, this episode offers both inspiration and practical insights.

Key takeaways:

1. Private Lending as an IRA Strategy: Self-directed IRA investors aren't limited to owning physical real estate; they can participate as private money lenders, either funding loans directly or investing in entities like Bel Air Lending, allowing for more passive, diversified involvement.
2. Bel Air's Unique Structure and Safety: Bel Air Lending operates through over 100 property-specific lending trusts instead of a pooled fund. They maintain investor safeguards by never directly touching client funds and pledging their own net worth as an additional layer of protection—resulting in no investor losses across 550+ loans.
3. Diverse, Hands-Off Opportunities: Both new and seasoned investors can participate, with minimums starting at $10,000 for American IRA referrals, and investments accommodating a wide range of account types—personal, business, 401(k), and more. Clients range from retirees to young children with educational savings accounts, and even include professionals like doctors, hedge fund managers, and a Blackhawk helicopter pilot.
4. Team Strength and Operational Excellence: John’s background as a licensed general contractor and the support of a well-rounded team (including legal, marketing, and operational experts) allows Bel Air to respond quickly to borrower challenges, manage risk effectively, and ensure a streamlined experience for investors.
5. Real Estate Returns Without the Hassle: Private lending with Bel Air offers investors access to real estate-backed returns (typically 10–13%) without the need to actively manage properties. This approach allows professionals, retirees, and anyone with limited time to put their money to work efficiently while benefitting from the company’s experience and hands-on risk management.

Tune in to learn how John Ford and Bel Air Lending can help you make your retirement funds work smarter while maintaining control, flexibility, and peace of mind. Whether you’re new to alternative investing or seeking new opportunities for your self-directed IRA, this episode provides valuable insights to expand your financial toolkit!

Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! Host Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, sits down with Rodrigo Afanador, owner and broker in charge of Vesta Property Management, for an insightful and inspiring conversation. Rodrigo shares his personal journey from growing up in Bogota, Colombia and Canada, to establishing himself as a master networker, real estate investor, and property management entrepreneur in Asheville, North Carolina. In this episode, Kyle and Rodrigo delve into the realities of getting started in real estate and private lending, regardless of age or background, and how leveraging self-directed IRAs can be a powerful tool on the investment path. Rodrigo reflects on his own growth from humble beginnings and the setbacks he faced, offering real-world lessons and advice for listeners who may doubt their ability to break into the investment game. The episode highlights Rodrigo’s story, from his first mobile home deal—funded by a credit card cash advance and fraught with learning curves—to building a portfolio, mentoring others, and shaping a property management business focused on data, transparency, and empowering property owners. Listeners will discover how to expand their investment knowledge, tap into retirement funds for real estate, and stay resilient on their own journey. Whether you’re curious about how to get started, looking for strategies to avoid common pitfalls, or want to hear what differentiates a hands-on property manager, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.

Key takeaways:

1. Real Estate Is Accessible at Any Age: Rodrigo Afanador began his investment career in his early twenties while holding down multiple jobs, showing that you don’t need to wait until retirement age or have large sums of money to get started in real estate.
2. The Power of Mentorship and Taking Action: Rodrigo’s progress was fueled by seeking advice from local experts, faithfully acting on guidance, and maintaining a strong feedback loop with mentors—emphasizing the value of learning from others and doing the work.
3. Lessons from Early Setbacks: Rodrigo’s first real estate purchase, a mobile home in a 55+ park, became a costly learning experience, teaching him the importance of assessing multiple outcomes and potential restrictions before committing to a deal.
4. Building Success through Ownership and Private Lending: Over time, Rodrigo transitioned from wholesaling and flipping to owning rental properties and also working as a private money lender, highlighting different paths and strategies within real estate investing.
5. Data-Driven Property Management: Rodrigo’s approach at Vesta Property Management centers on detailed tracking, transparency with owners, and empowering clients to use their own resources, setting his firm apart from traditional property management companies and providing additional value for investors using self-directed IRAs.

Tune in to this episode to demystify the investment process, hear a firsthand account of what it takes to scale up in real estate, and learn how you can use your own journey—no matter where you start—to build financial security and freedom.

Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! Join your host Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, as he sits down with Christina Wright, investor relations lead at Branch Wealth Partners, for an insightful discussion about property management, real estate investing education, and how self-directed IRAs can power your way into real estate. In this episode, Christina shares her own journey from an executive assistant role in the corporate world to becoming a licensed realtor and passionate real estate educator in the Charlotte and Concord, NC area. Together, Kyle Moody and Christina explore how Branch Wealth Partners is redefining the investor experience by providing a one-stop shop for everything from property management to investor mentorship and consulting.

Whether you’re looking to buy your first rental property, wanting to scale your portfolio, or just curious about creative funding options including using retirement accounts this conversation delivers valuable insights every step of the way. Christina outlines the different services and pathways Branch Wealth Partners offers, from beginner educational programs to tailored consulting and seasoned property management. She also demystifies the tenant screening process and emphasizes the importance of building relationships with both property owners and tenants alike. Plus, the episode highlights collaborative community-building, from monthly deep-dive workshops to ongoing mentorship, ensuring investors have the support and knowledge they need to build lasting wealth.

Key takeaways:

1. Branch Wealth Partners is more than just a property management or brokerage firm—it’s a comprehensive resource for real estate investors at any stage, offering property management, consulting, education, and strategic planning all under one roof.
2. Christina Wright’s own career path exemplifies how anyone, regardless of background or age, can get started in real estate with the right mindset, guidance, and access to supportive communities and mentors.
3. The firm emphasizes mindset and goal setting as the foundation for investment success, focusing on honest expectations and personalized strategies whether you’re new to real estate or looking to accelerate your growth.
4. Property management at Branch means building strong, responsive relationships with both tenants and owners—diligent tenant screening, consistent communication, and a personal touch set them apart in the marketplace.
5. Funding your real estate deals can be more approachable than you think, as Branch Wealth Partners and American IRA partner to educate investors on how to use self-directed IRAs and old 401(k) plans to purchase investment properties and grow wealth tax-advantaged.

Whether you’re a seasoned investor ready to scale, a first-time landlord, or simply curious about leveraging retirement savings for real estate, this episode is packed with practical advice, relatable stories, and inspiring encouragement to help you take your next step!

Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! In this dynamic installment, Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, sits down with special guest Carter Wilcoxson, founder of Epic Services Company.

Carter shares his personal journey into estate and family succession planning, detailing how a family experience inspired him to launch Epic and make advanced estate planning accessible to everyday Americans, not just the ultra-wealthy. Together, Kyle and Carter discuss how Epic’s platform streamlines the process for advisors, attorneys, and clients, offering a one-stop shop approach and providing tools for professionals to simplify and modernize estate planning while strengthening their client relationships.

You’ll also learn about the integration of American IRA with Epic’s services, including how self-directed retirement accounts and charitable giving strategies can expand client options. Carter emphasizes the importance of values alongside financial legacy, encouraging clients to preserve their stories and wisdom for future generations. Whether you are an advisor looking to better serve your clients or an individual navigating your own estate planning journey, this episode delivers both insight and inspiration.

Key takeaways:

1. Family-Centered Planning: Carter Wilcoxson founded Epic based on first-hand experience with family fracturing after a loss, underscoring the importance of proper succession planning for preserving harmony and protecting loved ones.
2. Advisor Empowerment: Epic provides financial advisors with a comprehensive suite of tools—combining estate planning attorneys, onboarding specialists, and more—allowing them to act as the quarterback for clients’ legacy planning needs and look like the "hero of the story."
3. Digital Transformation: Epic began offering digital estate planning solutions before COVID, positioning the company to adapt seamlessly during the pandemic; its platform now blends online and live events to maximize education and outreach.
4. Seamless Integration with Self-Directed IRAs: The partnership between Epic and American IRA gives clients a powerful way to use qualified retirement funds for a range of investments, including private equity, real estate, and capital raises, enhancing control and flexibility.
5. Legacy Stories and Values Preservation: Beyond financial assets, Epic’s platform enables clients to document their personal histories and core values, ensuring that future generations inherit both wealth and the wisdom that created it, anchored by its innovative “Legacy Stories” onboarding process.

Tune in to this episode for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of estate and legacy planning, how education is at the heart of these services, and why your values matter as much as your valuables. Whether you’re preparing to protect your family’s legacy, interested in self-direction for your retirement accounts, or looking to empower your clients, there’s valuable information here for everyone on their journey.

Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! Join Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, as he sits down with this week’s special guest, Clay Hepler, a dynamic seven-figure land investor, coach, and the driving force behind Landman LLC. In this inspiring conversation, Kyle and Clay delve into the transformative journey of building a real estate empire focused on land—bypassing the traditional investment in houses and buildings to discover “the dirt” as an arena for scalable, sustainable, and remote-friendly investment opportunities. Clay candidly shares how necessity—not glamour—pushed him from house flipping and rentals into land deals when sudden setbacks struck, including a loss of household income and daunting property management challenges. In just under three years, he turned this adversity into a thriving business, complete with a robust, international team and a multitude of successful development and flip projects.

You’ll learn not only about Clay’s unique path and the structuring of his business, but also get actionable insights into the mechanics of land acquisition, structuring deals for investors, and the critical lessons learned from mistakes along the way. If you’re considering leaving your 9-to-5, looking for ways to use your self-directed IRA for alternative investments, or simply want to hear how focus and clear goal-setting can drive extraordinary success, this episode is for you.

Key takeaways:

1. Transformative Beginnings: Clay Hepler transitioned into land investment out of necessity after experiencing cash flow crises and personal setbacks in managing old rental properties, illustrating that adversity can spark innovation and business success.
2. Building a Scalable Team: In less than three years, Clay built Landman LLC from a solo enterprise into a comprehensive team including acquisition, marketing, underwriting, dispositions, and social media functions, all designed for efficient and remote operations.
3. Strategic Land Investing: The appeal of land includes its simplicity, lower competition (the “blue ocean” approach), and the absence of headaches like tenants or major property repairs—a business model that allowed for lean, virtual acquisition and growth.
4. Emphasis on Due Diligence: One of Clay’s greatest lessons came from a costly deal involving a non-perkable Tennessee lot and a meth lab discovery—stressing the need to triple-check due diligence and always safeguard investor trust by making them whole, no matter what.
5. Clear Goals and Consistent Execution: Success in land investing (or any venture) depends on goal clarity, realistic expectations, and sustained focus on revenue-generating activities.Clay advises that setting specific targets, understanding one’s financial needs, and starting with adequate capital are essential to building not a “prison” but a business that aligns with your lifestyle and financial aspirations.

Whether you’re an aspiring investor or a seasoned professional seeking new perspectives on alternative assets, don’t miss this episode’s wealth of practical advice, inspiring stories, and detailed breakdowns of the inner workings of a modern land investment business.

Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! Join Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, as he sits down with this week’s special guest, Clay Hepler, a dynamic seven-figure land investor, coach, and the driving force behind Landman LLC. In this inspiring conversation, Kyle and Clay delve into the transformative journey of building a real estate empire focused on land—bypassing the traditional investment in houses and buildings to discover “the dirt” as an arena for scalable, sustainable, and remote-friendly investment opportunities. Clay candidly shares how necessity—not glamour—pushed him from house flipping and rentals into land deals when sudden setbacks struck, including a loss of household income and daunting property management challenges. In just under three years, he turned this adversity into a thriving business, complete with a robust, international team and a multitude of successful development and flip projects.

You’ll learn not only about Clay’s unique path and the structuring of his business, but also get actionable insights into the mechanics of land acquisition, structuring deals for investors, and the critical lessons learned from mistakes along the way. If you’re considering leaving your 9-to-5, looking for ways to use your self-directed IRA for alternative investments, or simply want to hear how focus and clear goal-setting can drive extraordinary success, this episode is for you.

Key takeaways:

1. Transformative Beginnings: Clay Hepler transitioned into land investment out of necessity after experiencing cash flow crises and personal setbacks in managing old rental properties, illustrating that adversity can spark innovation and business success.
2. Building a Scalable Team: In less than three years, Clay built Landman LLC from a solo enterprise into a comprehensive team including acquisition, marketing, underwriting, dispositions, and social media functions, all designed for efficient and remote operations.
3. Strategic Land Investing: The appeal of land includes its simplicity, lower competition (the “blue ocean” approach), and the absence of headaches like tenants or major property repairs—a business model that allowed for lean, virtual acquisition and growth.
4. Emphasis on Due Diligence: One of Clay’s greatest lessons came from a costly deal involving a non-perkable Tennessee lot and a meth lab discovery—stressing the need to triple-check due diligence and always safeguard investor trust by making them whole, no matter what.
5. Clear Goals and Consistent Execution: Success in land investing (or any venture) depends on goal clarity, realistic expectations, and sustained focus on revenue-generating activities.Clay advises that setting specific targets, understanding one’s financial needs, and starting with adequate capital are essential to building not a “prison” but a business that aligns with your lifestyle and financial aspirations.

Whether you’re an aspiring investor or a seasoned professional seeking new perspectives on alternative assets, don’t miss this episode’s wealth of practical advice, inspiring stories, and detailed breakdowns of the inner workings of a modern land investment business.

Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! In today’s conversation, Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, sits down with Beau Turner, co-founder and CEO of Abundant Minds, to demystify the world of Bitcoin and Bitcoin mining, and explore how these emerging technologies can be integrated with self-directed IRAs. 

Kyle and Beau guide you through the basics of Bitcoin—from its history and distinctions from traditional assets like gold, to the mining process and what makes Bitcoin truly unique as a monetary protocol grounded by energy. Beau shares his personal journey from engineering to real estate to building a seven-figure land investing and Bitcoin mining business in Oregon, recounting the ups and downs that led him to develop Abundant Minds’ turnkey mining solution for investors seeking passive income and exposure to crypto assets. 

Together, they dig into practical considerations for those interested in mining, such as equipment ownership, facility operations, and leveraging renewable energy for sustainability. The episode also examines the security advantages of the Bitcoin network, how self-directed IRA clients can structure investments in mining, and what sets Abundant Minds apart in the industry. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned investor, this episode provides a comprehensive overview and actionable steps for expanding your portfolio into digital assets.

Key takeaways:

1. Bitcoin as Engineered Money: Beau explains that Bitcoin is a digital, energy-bounded asset engineered to embody all characteristics of sound money. Unlike gold (which is naturally scarce), Bitcoin’s supply is finite, verifiable on an open ledger, and highly resistant to counterfeiting or manipulation.
2. Mining Process and Passive Income: Mining is likened to a manufacturing process that converts energy into Bitcoin, securing the network and validating transactions. Abundant Minds enables investors to own and host their mining equipment in Oregon, earning passive Bitcoin income while benefiting from depreciation.
3. Sustainable and Secure Operations: Abundant Minds powers its mining data centers with a mix of renewable energy—primarily hydropower and nuclear—providing clients with stability, efficiency, and a strong sustainability profile. Facilities are monitored around the clock and designed for optimal uptime and security.
4. IRA Integration and Flexibility: Self-directed IRA clients can invest in mining equipment via LLCs set up specifically for retirement accounts. This structure allows for seamless, tax-advantaged acquisition of Bitcoin, with American IRA supporting setup, funding, and compliance to safeguard retirement savings.
5. Standout Client Service and Innovation: What sets Abundant Minds apart is its educational approach, transparent business model, and unique hash rate redirect service. If a client’s miner goes offline, Abundant Minds temporarily reallocates its own hash power to ensure uninterrupted Bitcoin earnings, aligning client and provider incentives while minimizing downtime.

If you’re considering adding crypto exposure to your retirement accounts or want to learn more about the mechanics of Bitcoin and mining, don’t miss this episode—and stay tuned for Beau Turner’s upcoming educational webinar to dive even deeper into this transformative asset class.