The Pete Podcast

Joe and Jenn Delle Fave are a husband-and-wife real estate investing team based in Florida who left their W-2 jobs behind to build a creative finance portfolio using subject-to deals, seller financing, and lease options — without banks, down payments, or their own credit. Joe spent years grinding 12-to-14-hour days in a car dealership finance office before realizing the money wasn't worth the life he was missing. Jenn came out of a classroom teaching career, made $29,000 her first year after getting her four-year degree and a master's, and eventually poured all of that same work ethic into building something real. Today they run the Creative Finance Playbook, lead a small but mighty team, homeschool their kids, and have helped more renters become homeowners than just about anyone they know.

This conversation covers the full arc — from their first junker house in upstate New York in 2008, to the discovery that the banks were about to cut them off at ten mortgages, to doubling down on marketing at the very beginning of a global pandemic and going from one deal a year to one deal a month overnight. Joe and Jenn talk about how they divide responsibilities as a married couple in business together, how they trained a former babysitter who had never heard of Zillow into a four-year acquisitions rockstar, and why creative finance deals consistently outperform their best fix-and-flip numbers. If you have ever wanted to see what it looks like when two people actually build the life together instead of talking about it, this is that story.

Episode Highlights

[0:53] – Host introduces Joe and Jenn as creators of the Creative Finance Playbook, who closed their first deal together in 2008 and now buy without banks, down payments, or their own credit

[1:50] – Joe and Jenn describe themselves as dreamers who had a vision of leaving their jobs, moving to Florida, and traveling — a goal that once felt impossible until it wasn't

[2:51] – Joe describes the 12-to-14-hour dealership finance days: leaving before the kids were up, coming home after they were in bed, eating pizza at his desk

[4:07] – Jenn shares her teaching background: college in 1999, $29,000 starting salary, master's degree debt, and the moment she realized wealth might actually be available to her too

[6:07] – How their exits from W-2 work happened separately: Jenn left first, then took over operations, and Joe stayed until Covid forced the issue

[7:01] – The turning point when the banks were about to cut them off at ten mortgages and they discovered creative finance as the path forward

[7:39] – Joe's dealership owner gave him a huge raise five days before Covid shut everything down, and March 12th, 2020 became his last day of work

[8:28] – How they went from one deal a year to one deal a month by marketing hard at the very start of the pandemic while others were frozen

[11:16] – How they navigate disagreements as a couple in business: finding a mentor as the third voice and staying in their respective lanes

[13:06] – Jenn's lane is operations and back-end systems; Joe's is seller calls and deal making — and they figured that out through a few bumps and some honest conversation

[14:19] – Their current team: small but mighty, with virtual assistants, an executive assistant, and a former babysitter turned four-year acquisitions rockstar who had to have Zillow spelled out for her on day one

[17:08] – Why Joe has always been willing to train people with zero real estate experience and why mindset and attitude matter more than a résumé

[19:20] – Their coaching community started virtual and recently added in-person events because nothing replaces the energy of being in the same room

[20:25] – How homeschooling lets their kids travel with them to meetups and events, and why both kids at 13 and 11 told state evaluators they want to do real estate

[22:13] – How creative finance reframes what it means to help sellers: most sellers don't want to sell, life just happened, and listening to those stories changes how you show up

[24:12] – A real deal breakdown: a turnkey Florida house with a 3.25% seller-financed rate, no money down, and over $210,000 in saved finance charges compared to current market rates

[25:47] – How they structure lease-option exits for buyers: helping renters become homeowners over time and why those deals consistently produce over six-figure returns

5 Key Takeaways

1. Stay in your lanes. Clearly defined roles are not a limitation in a husband-and-wife business — they are the engine. Once Joe owned seller calls and Jenn owned operations, everything accelerated.
2. Double down when others are frozen. Joe and Jenn launched their full marketing push at the start of a global pandemic. The properties they bought during that season of uncertainty have since doubled or more in value.
3. Creative finance lets you pay full price and still win. When you buy on terms, you are negotiating rate and structure, not equity. That means more sellers say yes, more deals close with dignity, and the returns often beat a fix-and-flip by a wide margin.
4. Hire for mindset, not experience. Their best team member had never heard of Zillow on day one. She became a four-year acquisitions rockstar because she had the right attitude and was willing to take action. The skill can be taught. The character cannot.
5. Every no gets you closer to yes. Rejection is a data point, not a stop sign. Averages always prevail for the people willing to stay the course.

Closing Remark

Joe and Jenn Delle Fave are a living example of what happens when two people refuse to let their circumstances write their story — and choose to build something meaningful together instead. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to rate, follow, share, and review The PETE Podcast so more investors can learn how to build smarter real estate businesses.

In this episode of The PETE Podcast, I sit down with Antonio and Ashley Denmark to talk about building a real estate business rooted in integrity, faith, and long-term impact.

The Denmarks share their journey from getting started in real estate during the 2009 market crash to eventually leaving their jobs and going all in on investing together as a husband-and-wife team. We dive into the mindset required to "burn the boats," embrace failure, and build a business while raising a young family.

We also discuss some of the hardest seasons they've faced—including losing properties during COVID—and why protecting their reputation and honoring their word mattered more than taking the easy way out. Their perspective on integrity, relationships, and helping people achieve homeownership through creative financing strategies sets them apart in an industry where shortcuts are common.

From coaching first-time investors to leveraging AI inside their business, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and real-life lessons about leadership, resilience, and building something meaningful.

If you're looking for a conversation about real estate that goes beyond tactics and focuses on character, mindset, and long-term success, this episode delivers exactly that.

Episode Highlights

[0:00] – Why integrity and reputation matter more than anything [1:05] – Introduction to Antonio and Ashley Denmark [2:13] – Antonio's unexpected love for fruity drinks [2:51] – How they first discovered real estate investing in 2009 [3:25] – Attending auctions and seeing houses sell for unbelievably low prices [4:21] – Transitioning from rentals to full-time investing [5:02] – Ashley getting laid off and the decision to go all in [6:14] – Why Antonio believed it was time to "burn the boats" [7:11] – Building a business together as husband and wife [8:17] – Antonio's entrepreneurial background before real estate [9:02] – "Fail forward" and why failure is necessary for growth [11:02] – Lessons learned from losing properties during COVID [11:46] – Paying back private lenders even after difficult losses [12:22] – Protecting your name and reputation in business [13:11] – Building a business based on integrity and honesty [13:37] – Helping working professionals get their first real estate deal [14:07] – Creating an ecosystem to support beginner investors [15:10] – Why selling is actually serving people [15:49] – Student success stories and helping people overcome fear [17:09] – Building personalized roadmaps for investors [18:18] – Why flexibility in exit strategies matters [19:16] – The "slippery method" and lease-option investing strategy [20:23] – The fulfillment of helping people become homeowners [21:05] – Why serving others creates long-term success [22:56] – Upcoming AI Summit and how they're using AI in real estate [24:34] – Growing a coaching community across multiple states [25:53] – Prioritizing experiences and family over flashy lifestyles [28:57] – Final advice: watch who you listen to and who speaks into your life

5 Key Takeaways

1. Integrity compounds over time. Your reputation and willingness to honor your word matter more than short-term profits.
2. Failure is part of the process. The key is learning quickly, adjusting, and continuing to move forward.
3. Helping people should be the foundation of business. The more value and service you provide, the more opportunities naturally follow.
4. Flexibility creates longevity in real estate. Having multiple exit strategies protects investors when markets shift.
5. The people around you shape your future. You need voices of faith, growth, and positivity—not fear and limitation.

Closing Remark

Antonio and Ashley Denmark are proof that real success isn't built on hype—it's built on integrity, consistency, and serving people well over the long term.

Whether they're helping investors land their first deal, creating paths to homeownership, or navigating difficult seasons in business, their approach is centered around character first and profits second.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to rate, follow, share, and review The PETE Podcast so more investors can learn how to build smarter real estate businesses.

In this episode of The PETE Podcast, host John Nolan sits down with Alex Pardo, founder of Storage Wins, to talk about his journey from 14 years in single family wholesaling to building a self-storage portfolio — and why he never looked back.

Alex shares the real reasons he walked away from a nine-person wholesaling operation in South Florida, why single family rentals didn't give him the freedom he was looking for, and how a chance encounter in a mastermind opened his eyes to the self-storage asset class. He breaks down exactly how to manage facilities remotely without employees, what makes a good storage market, and why storage is more of a business play than a traditional real estate project.

He also gets personal — sharing his biggest professional mistake, a $130,000 IRS bill he didn't see coming, and the hard lesson he learned about abdicating financial responsibility. If you're a residential investor curious about storage or just looking for a smarter path to freedom, this episode is worth the full listen.

Episode Highlights

[0:35] – Introduction to Alex Pardo and Storage Wins

[0:53] – The shared jiu-jitsu connection and what the sport teaches about life and business

[2:18] – Why personal growth and professional growth are inseparable

[3:08] – Designing a business that supports your life — not the other way around

[3:29] – What made Alex walk away from a thriving wholesaling business after 14 years

[4:13] – The concept of playing the movie forward and why it drives big decisions

[5:18] – The income roller coaster of wholesaling and why Alex got tired of it

[5:57] – Why single family rentals didn't deliver the freedom Alex expected

[6:19] – How coaching someone in a mastermind introduced him to self-storage

[7:02] – Using Covid as the catalyst to finally unwind the single family business

[7:44] – Why property management didn't solve the rental headache problem

[8:31] – What a rental portfolio is actually good for — and what it isn't

[9:25] – How to properly underwrite a rental with vacancy, CapEx, and maintenance baked in

[10:37] – Why single family skills transfer directly into self-storage

[11:19] – The two areas where storage underwriting is genuinely different

[12:32] – The filters Alex used when choosing his next business — and how storage checked every box

[13:30] – The three-pronged remote management system for storage facilities

[14:19] – How Alex managed 104,000 sq ft in four facilities in under two hours a week

[14:53] – What a boots-on-the-ground team member actually does — and what it costs

[16:16] – Where to find reliable boots-on-the-ground contractors (including a tip on firefighters)

[17:08] – Gated vs. non-gated facilities and when it matters

[18:10] – Alex's biggest mistake: buying his first storage deal in the wrong market

[19:19] – The market demographics that matter most when evaluating a storage deal

[21:22] – What storage renters are really looking for: convenience, cleanliness, and security

[21:58] – Why self-storage is an unusually sticky product with long average tenancy

[23:16] – The pain of disconnect: why most renters just keep paying rather than move out

[24:42] – Why Americans' consumption habits make storage recession-resilient

[25:01] – Alex's first-ever in-person Storage Wins retreat at a Key Largo beach house

[26:05] – The concept of vision stacking and how to combine business and life goals

[27:44] – What happened at the retreat: deals made, connections formed, and an NFL legend introduced

[29:36] – What genuinely drives Alex — wanting to see people win

[31:02] – Alex's biggest professional mistake: abdicating all financial responsibility to a bookkeeper

[33:07] – Getting a $130K IRS bill in 2009 with no money to pay it

[33:47] – How Alex paid off the IRS and $40K in credit card debt over three years

[34:29] – The difference between delegating and abdicating — and why it matters

[35:36] – Parting advice: speed of implementation is the real multiplier

[36:25] – Where to follow Alex and find the Storage Wins podcast and YouTube channel

5 Key Takeaways

1. Design the business around your life — not the other way around. Alex's shift to storage wasn't just about a better asset class. It was about building something that fit the life he actually wanted.
2. Your single family skills are more transferable than you think. Marketing, acquisitions, owner conversations — they all translate directly into storage. The learning curve is smaller than most people expect.
3. Market selection is everything. You can be an exceptional operator and still fail in the wrong market. Demographics, median household income, and supply-demand ratios matter as much in storage as they do in residential.
4. Storage is a sticky product. With an average length of stay north of two years, tenants tend to stay and pay — making it far more predictable than most real estate strategies.
5. Never abdicate financial responsibility. Delegating your books doesn't mean you're off the hook. The success or failure of your business ultimately sits with you.

Closing Remark

Whether you're burned out on single family, curious about a new asset class, or just looking for a business model that can run without you, Alex Pardo's story is proof that the pivot is worth it — as long as you go in with the right plan, the right market, and the right mindset.

Make sure to rate, follow, share, and review The PETE Podcast so more investors can find the strategies that actually change lives.

In this episode of The PETE Podcast, I sit down with Jordan Fleming, founder and chairman of SmrtPhone, to talk about the evolution of communication technology in real estate and why AI-powered conversations are about to reshape the industry.

Jordan shares the origin story behind SmrtPhone, from the early Podio days to building one of the most recognized communication platforms in the real estate investing space. We dive into how the company grew organically by solving a massive pain point for investors: disconnected communication systems and inefficient workflows.

We also go deep into the future of AI agents, conversational platforms, and what it means to blend human employees with AI-driven workflows. Jordan breaks down the difference between traditional AI tools and "agentic AI," explains why most businesses are not structured properly for AI adoption, and shares his vision for how AI agents will eventually handle conversations, negotiations, and operational tasks inside businesses.

From replacing outdated call center models to creating AI systems with memory and real-time context, this episode gives a fascinating look at where communication technology is heading—and how investors can prepare for it now.

If you're interested in AI, automation, systems, or the future of real estate operations, this conversation is packed with insights that will change the way you think about business technology.

Episode Highlights

[0:05] – Introduction to Jordan Fleming and SmrtPhone [1:08] – How Jordan and John connected through the real estate tech space [2:17] – The origin story of SmrtPhone during the early Podio era [3:06] – Building custom Podio systems before launching SmrtPhone [4:06] – How SmrtPhone solved major communication problems for investors [5:08] – The importance of integrated systems and seamless workflows [6:27] – Why giving users choice matters in technology platforms [7:10] – The problem with software companies trying to lock users in [9:03] – Repositioning SmrtPhone from a "phone system" to a conversation platform [9:50] – The three pillars behind SmrtPhone's new direction [10:13] – Expanding into AI-powered communication tools and agents [11:13] – Why voice AI is one of the hardest forms of AI to build [12:19] – How AI agents are evolving beyond simple automation [13:06] – Defining "agentic AI" and what it actually means [14:28] – Why businesses need workflows designed for AI and humans together [15:26] – The concept of "bounded responsibility" for AI agents [16:14] – Can AI negotiate real estate deals in the future? [18:19] – Why poorly structured processes create chaos with AI [20:23] – The future of call centers and AI replacement [21:15] – Why consumers care more about results than whether AI is involved [22:48] – Connecting AI conversations back to solving customer problems [23:37] – New texting tools and marketing capabilities coming to SmrtPhone [24:38] – Launching the new Real Estate Technology event: RE Tech Unlocked [25:04] – Why hands-on tech training matters for real estate investors [26:12] – Jordan's upcoming book: Labor Architecture AI

5 Key Takeaways

1. Communication systems should remove friction, not create it. Integrated workflows and conversation tools make businesses faster and more effective.
2. AI is moving from information to action. "Agentic AI" is about AI systems that can perform work, make decisions, and operate within business workflows.
3. Most businesses are not structured for AI yet. Clear processes and "bounded responsibility" are necessary before AI can operate effectively.
4. Consumers care about outcomes, not technology. If AI solves problems quickly and effectively, most customers won't care whether they're speaking to a human or an AI agent.
5. The future of business will combine humans and AI together. Companies that learn how to blend AI workflows with human oversight will have a major competitive advantage.

Links & Resources

• Guest: Jordan Fleming • Company: SmrtPhone • Topics discussed: AI agents, communication systems, voice AI, real estate technology, automation, workflows

Closing Remark

Technology is changing faster than most businesses are prepared for—but Jordan Fleming makes it clear that the future isn't about replacing people. It's about building smarter systems where humans and AI work together to create better outcomes.

Whether you're focused on real estate, operations, or scaling a business, this episode is a reminder that the companies willing to adapt early will have a massive advantage moving forward.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to rate, follow, share, and review The PETE Podcast so more investors can learn how to build smarter real estate businesses.

In this episode of The PETE Podcast, I sit down with Amanda Webster, Director of Partnerships at Results Driven, to break down what actually makes partnerships work in today's real estate and business landscape.

Amanda shares how she approaches building relationships, vetting partners, and protecting the integrity of the communities she serves. We dive into the biggest mistakes people make when trying to form partnerships, including coming in too transactional and failing to understand the needs of the audience they're trying to serve.

We also get into what Amanda looks for behind the scenes—data, KPIs, conversion rates, and proof that an offer actually works. She explains why credibility, consistency, and real-world experience matter more than a polished pitch, and how quickly reputation can make or break opportunities in this space.

From building authentic relationships to leveraging AI in both business and personal life, this episode is packed with practical insights for anyone looking to grow through partnerships, community, and long-term value.

If you're trying to build connections, scale your business, or stand out in a crowded market, this conversation gives you a clear framework for doing it the right way.

Episode Highlights

[0:50] – Introduction to Amanda Webster and her role at Results Driven [1:31] – What a Director of Partnerships actually does [2:11] – Why relationships are the foundation of successful partnerships [3:16] – Balancing business, family, and a high-performance career [4:00] – The biggest red flags when someone approaches for a partnership [4:38] – Why transactional pitches immediately fail [5:33] – The right way to approach partnerships (understanding needs first) [6:05] – Why data and KPIs matter more than a good pitch [6:44] – Key metrics Amanda looks for in potential partners [7:19] – Why not knowing your numbers is a major red flag [8:00] – How response time and clarity reveal business maturity [8:22] – Visionary vs operator roles when discussing data [9:25] – Why reputation spreads fast in the industry [10:00] – The importance of reference checks and community feedback [11:30] – Defining "experienced" vs "consistent" investors [12:23] – Understanding the different levels within a real estate community [13:08] – Why success looks different for every investor [14:00] – Breaking down Results Driven's coaching structure [15:12] – Why active operators make better coaches [16:17] – Standing out in a competitive coaching market [17:28] – How to find the right partnerships for your business [18:14] – Filling gaps instead of competing directly [19:12] – Why relationships drive long-term revenue [20:13] – How referrals and goodwill compound over time [21:04] – Managing DMs and maintaining authenticity in communication [22:27] – Spotting AI vs real human interaction [23:12] – Using AI to improve efficiency (not replace authenticity) [25:09] – Practical ways to use AI in business and daily life [28:12] – Final advice: education and continuous learning

5 Key Takeaways

1. Partnerships should never start with "how can I make money?" The best partnerships begin with understanding needs and providing value first.
2. Data reveals the truth behind any business. Knowing your KPIs, conversion rates, and customer metrics is essential for credibility.
3. Reputation spreads fast—good or bad. One bad experience can impact future opportunities more than you realize.
4. Relationships drive long-term success. Leading with value and authenticity creates opportunities that compound over time.
5. Continuous learning is non-negotiable. Whether you're new or experienced, growth comes from constantly improving your knowledge and skills.

Links & Resources

• Guest: Amanda Webster • Company: Results Driven • Topics discussed: Partnerships, real estate coaching, KPIs, business relationships, AI tools, community building

Closing Remark

In a world where everyone is trying to sell something, Amanda Webster reminds us that the real advantage comes from building trust, understanding people, and delivering real value.

Whether you're building partnerships, growing a business, or just trying to stand out, the principles in this episode are simple—but powerful: know your numbers, build real relationships, and keep learning.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to rate, follow, share, and review The PETE Podcast so more investors can learn how to build smarter real estate businesses.

In this episode of The PETE Podcast, host Jon Nolan sits down with Jonathan Cuchi, co-founder of Real Estate Biz, one of the top pay-per-lead providers in the real estate investing space.

Jonathan breaks down how Real Estate Biz is building more than just a lead generation company — they're working toward becoming a full-scale real estate network and marketplace. From how their pay-per-lead model works and what makes it different from the competition, to lead volume, pricing tiers, and a built-in deal distribution platform, this conversation covers everything a wholesaler needs to know before investing in paid leads.

Whether you're just starting out with a few hundred bucks or you're a seasoned investor looking to scale into new markets, Jonathan lays out exactly how to use pay-per-lead as a foundation and build from there.

Episode Highlights

[1:09] – Introduction to Jonathan Cuchi and Real Estate Biz

[1:50] – The vision: becoming the Google of real estate

[2:34] – How Real Estate Biz evolved from a digital marketing agency

[3:41] – Why pay-per-lead simplifies the lead generation question

[4:45] – Why PPL is the easiest entry point for newer wholesalers

[5:30] – The difference between PPL leads and Facebook ad leads

[7:11] – What sets Real Estate Biz apart from other PPL providers

[7:59] – Cutting low-quality leads to improve conversion rates

[8:56] – Suggesting exit strategies based on lead data

[9:38] – How the feedback loop shapes lead quality

[11:23] – Monthly lead volume and geographic reach

[12:52] – Potential future expansion into international markets

[13:57] – How PPL removes the research and development burden for new markets

[15:36] – Using your first PPL deal as a cushion to build in a new market

[16:05] – The deal distribution marketplace and how it helps wholesalers dispo

[17:22] – The three ways to buy leads from Real Estate Biz

[18:17] – Auto Buy Trial: 10 leads per month for $50

[19:15] – Auto Buy Light: $95/month, $29 per lead, no cap

[20:00] – Auto Buy Pro: the flagship subscription tier

[21:12] – What to expect on close rates as a newer vs. seasoned investor

[22:34] – The mindset required to win in this business

[23:53] – How success coaches help you forecast results in your market

[24:54] – Real example: one investor spending $15K–$50K/month and netting $300K

[25:38] – Who is the ideal Real Estate Biz client

[26:08] – How coaching communities are partnering with Real Estate Biz

5 Key Takeaways

1. Pay-per-lead removes the noise. Instead of managing SEO, PPC, and ad spend yourself, PPL gets your phone ringing while you focus on closing.
2. Quality beats volume. Real Estate Biz actively cuts low-intent leads to improve conversion rates, even if that means fewer leads delivered.
3. Start small, scale smart. The trial tier at $50/month gives newer investors at-bats with motivated sellers while they sharpen their skills.
4. Feedback drives better leads. Their ongoing feedback loop from buyers is what allows them to filter smarter over time.
5. PPL works as a foundation. Once you're consistent with pay-per-lead, you layer other marketing channels on top — not the other way around.

Links & Resources

• Guest: Jonathan Cuchi
• Company: Real Estate Biz — realestatebiz.com
• Instagram: @realestateWithKoushik
• Topics discussed: Pay-per-lead, lead generation, wholesaling, deal distribution, real estate marketing, scaling a wholesaling business

Closing Remark

If you've been spinning your wheels trying to figure out the best way to generate leads, this episode is your reset button. Jonathan Cuchi makes a compelling case for why pay-per-lead is the simplest, most direct path to getting in front of motivated sellers — especially when you're just starting out.

Make sure to rate, follow, share, and review The PETE Podcast so more investors can find the tools and strategies that actually move the needle.

In this episode of The PETE Podcast, I sit down with James and Jen Kolde, the powerhouse couple behind Home Guys USA, to talk about building a real estate business rooted in integrity, growth, and long-term vision.

James and Jen share their journey from starting in real estate with no prior experience to rapidly scaling their business, burning the boats, and going all in. We dive into how they grew quickly, built a strong team by leveraging complementary skill sets, and navigated the challenges of working together as a married couple in business.

We also explore their transition into building Home Guys USA, a franchise model focused on helping other investors succeed while maintaining strong values and community. From bootstrapping a new venture to prioritizing the right partnerships and culture, they break down what it takes to build something that lasts.

If you're looking to grow a real estate business, build the right team, or create something bigger than just deals, this episode offers a powerful look at what it means to scale with purpose.

Episode Highlights

[0:44] – Introduction to James and Jen Kolde and Home Guys USA

[2:01] – James' transition from firefighter to real estate investor

[3:59] – How a simple connection turned into a business partnership

[5:59] – Setting a goal of 30 deals—and hitting it in 90 days

[6:25] – The decision to "burn the boats" and go all in

[7:06] – Bringing Jen into the business as the integrator

[8:09] – Why "figure it out" is a critical mindset in entrepreneurship

[9:12] – When to figure things out yourself vs hiring help

[10:14] – Rapid growth and outgrowing office space early

[11:29] – Understanding different skill sets within a team

[12:46] – Visionary vs integrator roles in business

[14:16] – Balancing risk-taking vs calculated decision-making

[15:37] – Building a business through complementary strengths

[16:00] – Transitioning into franchising with Home Guys USA

[16:42] – The vision behind building a supportive investor community

[18:01] – The role of franchises in helping new investors succeed

[19:10] – When franchises are a good fit (and when they're not)

[20:21] – Building a business with integrity and long-term vision

[21:14] – Helping sellers during difficult situations

[23:35] – Why doing the right thing matters more than quick profits

[24:18] – Growth goals and expansion strategy for Home Guys USA

[25:47] – Bootstrapping a new venture after prior success

[26:38] – Prioritizing quality franchise partners over volume

[27:19] – Building community through shared experiences and events

[28:16] – The importance of working with the right people

[30:04] – Using systems and KPIs to scale consistently

[33:08] – Why standardized metrics matter across teams

[35:08] – The value of partnerships and support systems

[39:41] – Building a strong network through masterminds and community

[43:05] – The realities of working with your spouse in business

5 Key Takeaways

1. Burning the boats creates commitment. Going all in forces you to figure things out and move forward without hesitation.
2. Great businesses are built on complementary skill sets. Visionaries and integrators working together create powerful results.
3. Growth should prioritize quality over speed. The right people and partnerships matter more than scaling fast.
4. Community accelerates success. Surrounding yourself with the right network can shorten the learning curve significantly.
5. Do the right thing and the money will follow. Long-term success comes from integrity, not shortcuts.

Links & Resources

• Guests: James Kolde & Jen Kolde

• Company: Home Guys USA

• Topics discussed: Real estate investing, franchising, team building, entrepreneurship, scaling a business, partnerships

Closing Remark

Building a real estate business isn't just about deals—it's about people, systems, and the values you build it on. James and Jen Kolde show that when you combine the right mindset, strong partnerships, and a commitment to doing things the right way, you can create something that lasts far beyond individual transactions.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to rate, follow, share, and review The PETE Podcast so more investors can learn how to build smarter real estate businesses.

In this episode of The PETE Podcast, I sit down with Mark Carpenter, an experienced real estate wholesaler and key member of the PETE team, to talk about what really happens behind the scenes of a high-volume real estate business—and why systems and operations are the difference between chaos and consistency.

Mark shares his journey from building scrappy systems inside platforms like Podio to becoming deeply involved in scaling operations and improving workflows for real estate investors. We break down the frustrations most investors face when trying to track KPIs, manage leads, and keep their team accountable—and how disconnected systems often lead to lost opportunities and wasted time.

We also dive into common mistakes investors make when building teams, including hiring the wrong roles too early, stepping away from sales too soon, and failing to implement proper follow-up systems. Mark shares real-world lessons from his own experience, including how missed processes can lead to "ghost leads" and lost deals.

From automation and KPIs to authenticity in sales and communication, this episode gives a practical look at how to build a more efficient, scalable real estate business without losing the human element that actually closes deals.

Episode Highlights

[0:00] – Introduction to Mark Carpenter and his background in real estate

[2:09] – Mark's experience building systems before tools like PETE existed

[3:22] – The biggest frustrations of managing KPIs manually

[4:38] – Why disconnected systems cause confusion and lost data

[6:06] – The importance of having all business data in one place

[7:27] – Why many investors don't actually know their real numbers

[8:25] – What "ghost leads" are and why investors lose 30–40% of them

[9:11] – The gaps between lead intake and appointment setting

[10:11] – How poor follow-up systems kill deals before they start

[11:01] – Using pattern interrupts to stand out in communication

[12:04] – Why authenticity matters more than scripted responses

[12:37] – When investors should (and shouldn't) step out of acquisitions

[13:33] – The mistake of leaving sales too early in your business

[15:16] – Why your first hire should often be a support or lead manager role

[17:03] – How the right support role increases revenue and efficiency

[18:20] – Why support is undervalued in most businesses

[19:26] – The difference between good software and great support

[20:36] – Common "shiny object" tools investors buy but never use

[21:38] – Why disconnected tools create more problems than they solve

[22:37] – Mark's first deal story and lessons from failure

[24:07] – Turning a major mistake into a $64K deal

[26:35] – The importance of reinvesting into marketing early

[27:18] – Why authenticity builds trust and closes deals

[29:19] – Real-world example of communication breakdown in a deal

[30:37] – Why transparency and ownership build long-term trust

5 Key Takeaways

1. Systems and data visibility are everything. If you can't clearly see what's happening in your business, you can't scale it effectively.
2. Most deals are lost in the follow-up process. Without proper systems, a large percentage of leads fall through the cracks before you ever speak to them.
3. Don't step out of sales too early. Many investors hurt their growth by removing themselves from acquisitions before building a solid foundation.
4. Your first hire should solve bottlenecks—not just add volume. A strong support or lead management role can unlock more revenue than another salesperson.
5. Authenticity and communication win deals. Being real, transparent, and responsive builds trust—and trust is what ultimately closes deals.

Links & Resources

• Guest: Mark Carpenter

• Company: PETE

• Topics discussed: Real estate wholesaling, KPIs, CRM systems, lead management, team building, automation

Closing Remark

Building a successful real estate business isn't just about generating leads—it's about what happens after those leads come in. Systems, processes, and communication determine whether those opportunities turn into deals or disappear entirely.

Mark Carpenter's insights are a reminder that scaling isn't about doing more—it's about doing things better, with the right structure and support in place.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to rate, follow, share, and review The PETE Podcast so more investors can learn how to build smarter real estate businesses.

In this episode of The PETE Podcast, I sit down on the other side of the mic to break down how real estate investors can build a content engine that actually drives leads, builds authority, and creates long-term brand equity.

We dive into why so many investors are invisible online despite doing deals, and how that lack of visibility is costing them opportunities, credibility, and money. I walk through the concept of identifying your "North Star" in marketing, understanding your target demographic, and building content that directly speaks to the people you want to attract.

We also break down what content marketing really is (and what it's not), how to get started without overwhelming yourself, and why consistency matters more than volume. From using AI to generate endless content ideas to understanding how platforms like Google and AI search tools are evolving, this episode gives a practical roadmap for turning content into a predictable marketing machine.

If you've been thinking about creating content but don't know where to start—or you've started and struggled to stay consistent—this episode will give you the clarity and strategy you need to move forward.

Episode Highlights

[0:00] – Introduction and why most real estate investors are invisible online

[2:14] – The "North Star" concept and why clarity in your target market matters

[3:40] – Why niche marketing beats trying to target everyone

[5:12] – Personal brand vs business brand and how they differ

[7:34] – Mistakes investors make when mixing messaging across audiences

[9:34] – What content marketing actually is (and how it works)

[10:23] – Using content to answer real customer questions and build trust

[11:37] – Why content turns cold leads into warm conversations

[12:04] – Choosing the right platform based on your audience

[13:09] – Why podcasts don't work for motivated seller leads (and when they do)

[14:14] – How to start creating content without burning out

[15:48] – Why consistency beats volume in content creation

[16:46] – The difference between brand building vs paid advertising

[17:50] – Why better leads matter more than cheaper leads

[18:35] – How to come up with endless content ideas using AI

[19:17] – Using your website and competitors to generate content topics

[20:36] – The rise of AI search (GEO) and what it means for marketing

[21:39] – How AI tools recommend businesses based on your content

[22:20] – Why not showing up in AI search is a major missed opportunity

[24:06] – The most important KPIs for content marketing success

[25:35] – Why vanity metrics don't equal business results

[27:17] – Real example: 100K views vs a $50K deal from 200 views

[28:33] – Should your content be entertaining or educational?

[30:12] – Why authenticity matters more than trying to go viral

5 Key Takeaways

1. Most investors are invisible—and it's costing them. If you're not building a brand online, you're missing out on leads, credibility, and long-term equity.
2. Content marketing is simply answering questions. The best content directly addresses what your ideal customer is already thinking about.
3. Consistency beats intensity. It's better to post a few times per week consistently than to go all-in and burn out.
4. Vanity metrics don't pay the bills. Focus on leads, conversions, and revenue—not just views and likes.
5. AI is changing how people find businesses. If your content isn't showing up in AI-driven search, you're already behind.

Closing Remark

Content isn't just about posting—it's about building a system that attracts the right people, answers their questions, and moves them toward working with you.

This episode is a reminder that you don't need to be everywhere—you just need to be consistent, intentional, and aligned with your audience.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to rate, follow, share, and review The PETE Podcast so more investors can learn how to build smarter real estate businesses.

In this episode of The PETE Podcast, I sit down with Jeremy Knauff, founder of Spartan Media, to talk about the evolving role of public relations, authority, and visibility in today's digital—and increasingly AI-driven—world.

Jeremy shares his journey from launching and failing his first agency, to rebuilding from scratch after a life-altering health crisis, and ultimately discovering the power of public relations to establish authority and drive business growth. We dive into how he leveraged content, podcast appearances, and media placements to rebuild his brand and scale his business.

We also explore how PR has changed over the years, why traditional marketing alone is no longer enough, and how entrepreneurs can position themselves as credible authorities in their industry. One of the biggest shifts Jeremy highlights is the importance of showing up not just on Google—but inside AI tools like ChatGPT—through credible third-party validation.

If you're building a brand, growing a business, or trying to stand out in a crowded market, this episode breaks down why authority and visibility are becoming the most valuable assets you can invest in.

Episode Highlights

[0:00] – Introduction to Jeremy Knauff and his background in PR and marketing

[1:47] – Early entrepreneurial journey and lessons from a failed first agency

[3:14] – Why there's always a path forward in business—even when it's not obvious

[4:02] – The importance of mastering sales as a business owner

[5:12] – Why leaders need to understand every function of their business

[7:01] – The dangers of disconnected leadership and poor sales systems

[7:58] – Jeremy's second agency and the health crisis that changed everything

[9:12] – Rebuilding from zero using content and public relations

[9:37] – Leveraging blog content into podcast opportunities and media features

[10:00] – Turning media exposure into authority and business growth

[10:43] – Why PR is essential for amplifying credible entrepreneurs

[12:32] – Jeremy's pivot from full-service marketing to PR-focused services

[14:18] – Real-world case study: scaling a company from $300K to $8M through PR

[18:01] – How the media landscape has changed in recent years

[19:22] – The decline of traditional media opportunities and contributor platforms

[20:09] – The risks of using AI incorrectly in PR and media outreach

[21:31] – Why journalists can easily detect AI-generated content

[22:39] – The importance of showing up in AI tools like ChatGPT

[24:37] – Why AI visibility is the new version of SEO

[25:35] – The role of third-party validation in building authority

[26:26] – How media placements impact credibility in AI and search

[27:46] – Why certifications and degrees matter less than real authority signals

[29:17] – Overview of the Spartan Community and PR training program

5 Key Takeaways

1. Authority is the new currency in business. Being seen as a credible expert matters more than just having a good product or service.
2. Public relations amplifies trust at scale. Third-party validation from media outlets builds credibility faster than self-promotion alone.
3. AI visibility is the next evolution of SEO. If you're not showing up accurately in AI tools, you risk becoming invisible.
4. Content alone isn't enough—you need distribution. Strategic media placements and PR create leverage beyond your own platforms.
5. Entrepreneurs must adapt to changing media landscapes. Traditional opportunities are shrinking, making strategic positioning more important than ever.

Links & Resources

• Guest: Jeremy Knauff

• Company: Spartan Media

• Topics discussed: Public relations, personal branding, authority building, AI visibility, media strategy

Closing Remark

Building a business today isn't just about what you do—it's about how you're perceived. Jeremy Knauff makes it clear that authority, credibility, and visibility are no longer optional—they're essential.

If you want to stand out in your industry, attract better opportunities, and future-proof your brand in an AI-driven world, this episode is a strong reminder to invest in how you show up.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to rate, follow, share, and review The PETE Podcast so more entrepreneurs can learn how to build smarter, more visible businesses.