The Kevin Dairaghi Show: Real Estate Investing & Personal Growth

In this special birthday edition of The Kevin Dairaghi Show, Kevin sits down with seasoned real estate investor Antoine Martel—marking the anniversary of their first interview. Since launching his investing journey in 2015, Antoine has completed over 650 fix-and-flip deals and built a thriving business rooted in perseverance and smart strategy.

Antoine shares how he broke into real estate while still in college, cold-calling leads, and building a reliable team in Memphis, TN. He reveals how strategic networking, out-of-state investing, and creative deal-sourcing (like email list marketing) propelled his success. The conversation also dives into navigating rising interest rates, the appeal of Midwest markets, and balancing growth with personal discipline.

Beyond strategy, Antoine opens up about the personal side of entrepreneurship—staying focused, cutting distractions, and maintaining balance while scaling. It’s a candid look at what it really takes to succeed in real estate without losing sight of what matters most.

Connect with Antoine Martel!

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@martelantoine

Website: www.flipsystem.com

Connect with Kevin Dairaghi!

Website: www.kevindairaghi.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kdairaghi

Instagram: @thekevindairaghishow

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kdairaghi

Get free access to some of the tools we talked about at www.kevindairaghi.com/tools

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In this milestone 50th episode of The Kevin Dairaghi Show, Kevin welcomes lifelong friend and former real estate partner Darren Hoefgen for a reflective, heartfelt conversation—recorded for the first time inside Doorward Studios’ podcast bus. The two dive into their early days in real estate, contrasting networking styles, and their first deal together. Darren shares how his parents’ rental properties sparked his investing journey, which evolved through house hacking and beyond.

The duo also revisits meaningful moments like launching “Tribe Talks” during COVID, and how those connections fueled both personal and professional growth. This episode unpacks the real dynamics of partnership—trust, communication, and knowing when to ask for help.

Through stories of creativity, burnout, and breakthroughs, Kevin and Darren reflect on setting boundaries, rediscovering purpose, and turning passion into a business.

Connect with Darren Hoefgen on Facebook: www.facebook.com/dhoefgen

Connect with Kevin Dairaghi!

Website: www.kevindairaghi.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kdairaghi

Instagram: @thekevindairaghishow

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kdairaghi

Get free access to some of the tools we talked about at www.kevindairaghi.com/tools

You are who you surround yourself with. Join the Tribe!

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What happens when your first big venture flops—and you’ve got to figure out what’s next? For Dustin Hoog, that turning point came after a bar business didn’t pan out. Instead of calling it quits, he leaned into reinvention—and ended up building a thriving career as a real estate investor, coach, and serial entrepreneur.

In this episode, Dustin sits down with Kevin to unpack his journey from curious kid touring open houses with his dad to becoming a key investor. He shares how a random online personality test helped steer him away from the mortgage world and toward a calling that actually aligned with his strengths. They dig into what most agents still don’t understand about investing, and why Dustin's made it his mission to bridge that gap. He also breaks down how he and his wife successfully work together in business, the power of “Level 10” meetings, and how having clearly defined roles keeps things smooth on the home and business fronts.

You’ll also hear how Dustin’s pursuit of personal growth—through boxing, mentorship, and even owning a campground—has shaped the way he shows up as a leader and investor. His take on gratitude, mindset, and navigating hard seasons is worth tuning in for.

Whether you’re just getting into real estate or scaling your next venture, Dustin’s story is a great reminder that success isn’t linear—and the detours often lead to the best destinations.

Connect with Dustin Hoog at www.dustinhoog.com

Connect with Kevin Dairaghi!

Website: www.kevindairaghi.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kdairaghi

Instagram: @thekevindairaghishow

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kdairaghi

Get free access to some of the tools we talked about at www.kevindairaghi.com/tools

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We sit down with Jay Kinder, co-founder of the National Association of Expert Advisors and a true visionary in the real estate world. Jay shares his journey from a small-town agent to building a thriving business, giving us an inside look at how he navigated the ups and downs of the industry.

We dive into how eXp Realty’s unique, agent-focused model is changing the game with revenue sharing, stock incentives, and new paths to passive income. Jay breaks down why thinking outside the box—and staying open to ideas like multi-level marketing—can unlock opportunities you never imagined. But it’s not all business.

Jay opens up about the personal side of success: the sacrifices, the lessons learned during tough economic times, and the challenge of balancing ambition with relationships and family life. He shares wisdom from mentors, the importance of setting big goals, and why finding the right community, like eXp Realty, can make all the difference.

Whether you’re a seasoned agent, an entrepreneur, or just curious about where the real estate industry is headed, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.

Connect with Jay Kinder on Instagram @jaykinder82 or visit www.honeybadgerpartner.com

Connect with Kevin Dairaghi!

Website: www.kevindairaghi.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kdairaghi Instagram: @thekevindairaghishow

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kdairaghi

Get free access to some of the tools we talked about at www.kevindairaghi.com/tools

You are who you surround yourself with.

Join the Tribe!

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Felix Garcia, also known as the Finance Pastor, shares his journey from a challenging upbringing in New York City to a fulfilling life as a motivational speaker focused on battling financial illiteracy. Felix speaks about how her resilience mirrors his own mother’s strong character, reinforcing themes of perseverance and support in personal development. He discusses his inspiring work with entrepreneurs across various states, including California and Hawaii, emphasizing gratitude for the opportunities that have come his way. 

Felix recounts significant life changes initiated by a divine intervention at 24, leading him to the Teen Challenge program and eventually to Bible college. He shares how his unique background and accent have become instrumental in his life, forming connections and opening doors in his endeavors, ultimately showcasing the blend of faith, personal growth, and community engagement in shaping his identity.

Felix’s narrative illustrates a blend of personal experience, cultural appreciation, and professional engagement, highlighting how seemingly small aspects of life can lead to significant opportunities and growth. His journey resonates as a powerful reminder of the value of connection, the impact of education, and the importance of embracing one’s identity in all aspects of life.

Connect with Felix on Instagram at @thefinancepastor

Connect with Kevin Dairaghi!

Website: www.kevindairaghi.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kdairaghi

Instagram: @thekevindairaghishow

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kdairaghi

Get free access to some of the tools we talked about at www.kevindairaghi.com/tools

You are who you surround yourself with. Join the Tribe!

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We are joined by John Hickman, a Nashville-based real estate expert who transitioned from massage therapy to building a property empire. John shares the transformative moment that sparked his interest in real estate, highlighting the influence of a pivotal book during his massage therapy school days. He recounts the unexpected challenges he faced, such as hidden chimneys in renovations and budget setbacks, offering valuable lessons for both seasoned investors and newcomers.

Be inspired by John's insights into the critical role of relationships in real estate. As a key figure with the Nashville Real Estate Investors Association (REIA), he emphasizes the importance of strong partnerships and multiple exit strategies to navigate economic shifts. John also discusses the emotional aspects of helping tenants become homeowners, adding a personal touch to the business of real estate.

Beyond the realm of property, the episode explores themes of personal growth and intentional living. John introduces the concept of a "friend audit" and the power of meditation, offering advice on evaluating relationships and maintaining balance in life. With anecdotes about making memorable impressions—sometimes by donning a kilt—John highlights the significance of leadership and leaving a positive impact.

Connect with Kevin Dairaghi!

Website: www.kevindairaghi.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kdairaghi

Instagram: @thekevindairaghishow

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kdairaghi

Get free access to some of the tools we talked about at www.kevindairaghi.com/tools

You are who you surround yourself with. Join the Tribe!

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When Alexander the Great burned his boats upon landing in Persia, he wasn't just making a strategic move—he was making a statement about total commitment. Picture it: a leader so devoted to his mission that he left his troops with no option for retreat, forcing them to pour every ounce of their energy into victory. This boldness echoes through time, comparable to Hernán Cortés's legendary conquest of the Aztecs. We explore these tales not just for their military genius but for the lessons they offer about making irreversible decisions to drive success, enriched by the historical context of Alexander's brilliance and his face-off with Darius III.

Fast forward to modern times, where commitment and courage take on new forms. Meet Steve, who battled personal demons and legal challenges to save his son from an abusive situation, emerging as a motivational coach and entrepreneur. Then there's Mike, who took the audacious step of firing a major client to nurture a culture of respect and innovation, leading his software company to thrive. We also reflect on a monumental act of commitment: Jesus's sacrifice, a moment that transcends history to symbolize love and redemption. These stories show how decisive actions and unwavering faith can lead to profound change and achievement.

In the world of podcasting, Jake from Doorward exemplifies the power of transformation by leaping from the tech industry to build a mobile podcast studio and connect with communities nationwide. Amidst struggles with mental health, Jake's story underscores the critical role of community support, highlighting the journeys of other individuals like Jeff, Scott, and Kyle, who overcame significant hurdles to reach success. This episode encourages you to embrace failure as a stepping stone to growth and join Kevin in his mission to share powerful messages that can inspire the world.

Connect with Kevin Dairaghi!

Website: www.kevindairaghi.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kdairaghi

Instagram: @thekevindairaghishow

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kdairaghi

Get free access to some of the tools we talked about at www.kevindairaghi.com/tools

You are who you surround yourself with. Join the Tribe!

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Chris Hake, a real estate expert, known for his innovative work in self-storage and leadership in the local Real Estate Investment Association shares his fascinating journey tracing back to his post-college days in the late 80s and early 90s. Initially uncertain about his career path, Chris discovered his entrepreneurial spirit, purchasing his first property with his fiancée and unexpectedly flipping it for a profit. With the influence of a Carlton Sheets course in 1996, Chris's real estate career quickly gained momentum, leading him to acquire an impressive portfolio of properties in the Madison area. His story is not just about acquiring properties but about weathering life's storms, including 9/11, the 2008 financial crash, and the COVID-19 pandemic, all while maintaining a strong focus on family and community.

Chris also shares his personal battles with health issues and his unwavering determination to succeed in the self-storage market. From overcoming debilitating conditions to seizing unexpected opportunities, Chris's tale is one of resilience, positivity, and community engagement.

Chris is the president, visionary, and investor coach of the Master Investor Academy and Madison Real Estate Investors Association (REIA). Chris has decades of real estate investing experience and has seen (and smelled) more distressed properties than he cares to admit. He now applies that knowledge in the mentoring and education of his Coaching students that are actively engaged in rehabbing, wholesaling, and holding of properties all over South Central Wisconsin.

More about Chris at www.linkedin.com/in/chris-hake-28368711

Connect with Kevin Dairaghi!

Website: www.kevindairaghi.com

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kdairaghi

Instagram: @thekevindairaghishow

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kdairaghi Get free access to some of the tools we talked about at www.kevindairaghi.com/tools

You are who you surround yourself with. Join the Tribe!

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Jason Jones, a former bank manager from England who transitioned into a successful real estate investor and educator joins us in today's episode. Jason shares how his wife's discovery of Robert Kiyosaki's "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" transformed their financial mindset, leading them to venture into real estate. Despite initial skepticism due to his banking background, Jason embraced the principles of wholesaling, and today, he passionately shares his experiences to help others achieve financial independence. He reflects on the challenges of being a workaholic, his wake-up call to prioritize health, and the importance of mentorship and education in the real estate journey.

As the conversation unfolds, we delve into the personal trials and triumphs Jason faced along the way, including his battle with Lyme disease. His story of resilience and recovery through naturopathic treatment is both moving and motivational. Amidst health challenges, Jason continued his real estate pursuits, focusing on markets in California, Vegas, and Texas. He emphasizes the vital role of self-belief and personal growth, illustrating how success is defined not just by financial gains but also by maintaining well-being.

Jason and his wife built a supportive community through Real Estate Investors Association (REIA) and cash flow clubs, fostering connections and empowering aspiring investors. From navigating the 2008 financial crisis to discussing strategic real estate investments, Jason shares valuable insights on persistence, seizing opportunities, and diversifying investments, including a cautious interest in cryptocurrency. He offers practical advice for young investors and highlights the dynamic of working alongside his wife, drawing parallels with the EOS system's visionary and integrator roles.

Connect with Kevin Dairaghi!

Website: www.kevindairaghi.com

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kdairaghi

Instagram: @thekevindairaghishow

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kdairaghi

Get free access to some of the tools we talked about at www.kevindairaghi.com/tools

You are who you surround yourself with. Join the Tribe!

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Pip Stehlik, affectionately known as Pip Squeak thanks to his family's playful nickname, brings stories full of humor and heart from his childhood as the youngest of six siblings. His tale is a testament to the unexpected ways childhood experiences can shape our professional journeys.

Pip recounts his incredible experience from working in grocery stores and stand-up comedy to achieving real estate success. His path was inspired by the likes of Zig Ziglar and Lou Holtz, leading to significant investments and the acquisition of numerous properties without personal financial resources.

As we reflect on Pip's life, we honor the legacy of his heroic parents and their profound influence on his values and aspirations. From tales of World War II bravery to heartfelt poems and personal anecdotes, Pip's narrative embodies the spirit of building something lasting and meaningful. It's another episode filled with laughter, inspiration, and insights, celebrating the rich tapestry of experiences that guide our personal and professional lives.

Connect with Pip Stehlik on instagram at @pipstehlik

Connect with Kevin Dairaghi!

Website: www.kevindairaghi.com Linkedin:

www.linkedin.com/in/kdairaghi

Instagram: @thekevindairaghishow

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kdairaghi

Get free access to some of the tools we talked about at www.kevindairaghi.com/tools

You are who you surround yourself with. Join the Tribe!

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