Weiss Advice

Are you prepared to navigate the fine line between ambition and experience in the world of real estate investing?

In this episode, Yonah hosts Alix Kogan, founder of Ashland Capital, for a deep dive into the realities of real estate investing. Alix shares his journey from teaching to building a successful real estate and lending business, emphasizing the importance of due diligence, calculated risk-taking, and the lessons learned from two decades of market experience. The conversation explores the rise of private credit funds, the challenges posed by interest rates, and the value of staying disciplined in a volatile market. 

[00:01 - 06:19] Mindset vs. Mastery: The Real Estate Dilemma

• Challenges with newcomers cutting corners in syndication
• The pitfalls of relying solely on mindset without experience
• Insights on being a good steward of investor capital

[06:20 - 12:23] From Building Homes to Managing Millions

• Alix's early ventures in high-end design and speculative projects
• Transitioning from small assets to managing large portfolios
• Lessons from selling a construction business and focusing on scalable investments

[12:24 - 18:40] Strategizing Through Market Shifts

• Why Ashland Capital paused acquisitions during uncertain market conditions
• The advantages of waiting for pricing and cap rate adjustments
• Adapting to investor needs with private credit funds

[18:41 - 24:49] The Rise of Private Credit Funds

• Lending opportunities across fix-and-flips, preferred equity, and small business credit
• Benefits of quick execution and securitized loans
• Balancing risk and reward with diversified lending strategies

[24:50 - 30:33] A Healthier Market Ahead?

• The evolving landscape of real estate transactions and syndications
• Why discipline and specialization outperform diversification in uncertain times
• Predictions for market stabilization and future opportunities

Connect with Alix:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alix-kogan-54113812/

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Tweetable Quotes:

"Too many people think mindset alone is enough, but experience and education are what truly sustain long-term success." – Alix Kogan

"Real estate doesn’t have to be in your backyard—it’s about managing assets effectively, no matter the location." – Alix Kogan

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How do relationships and mindset shape success in the competitive world of commercial real estate?

In this episode of Weiss Advice, Yonah speaks with commercial real estate veteran Ken Ashley, who brings years of experience and wisdom from his extensive career. Ken shares his journey from humble beginnings in the industry to becoming a leader who values relationship-building, mental resilience, and community engagement. Through personal anecdotes and practical insights, Ken discusses the power of gratitude, the importance of focusing on others, and how to maintain a growth-oriented mindset in the face of challenges. 

[00:01 - 06:18] The Road to Real Estate

• Ken's start in real estate, inspired by a chance encounter
• The impact of mentorship and the value of a helping hand
• Balancing personal challenges with professional goals

[06:19 - 12:25] Mastering Relationship-Building

• The 70-30 rule: How focusing on others fosters connections
• The McKay 66 principle: Remembering details that matter to people
• The importance of active listening and reading body language

[12:26 - 18:08] Influence and Social Media in Real Estate

• The creation of the CREI List during COVID-19
• Networking in the digital age and its long-term impact
• The "abundance mentality" as a key to career growth

[18:09 - 24:58] Mental Health and Maintaining Perspective

• The “golf ball” metaphor for balancing blessings and challenges
• The role of gratitude in personal and professional life
• Prioritizing mental wellness as a foundation for success

[24:59 - 31:54] Giving Back to the Community

• Engaging in local communities and finding purpose outside of work
• How community work opens unexpected doors in business
• Practical advice on getting involved with non-profit boards and fundraising

Connect with Ken:

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kenashley/?hl=en

LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW by clicking this link.

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Tweetable Quotes:

“People generally don’t care what you know; they care about what you know about them.” - Ken Ashley

“The abundance mentality is, in fact, the cheat code for a happy life.” - Ken Ashley

“Your success is about perspective—seeing both the blessings and challenges in balance.” - Ken Ashley

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What if the biggest leap in your financial journey isn’t just about numbers, but about the people and principles you surround yourself with?

In this episode, multifamily real estate investor Annette Hemmert shares how a mastermind group and faith-driven principles transformed her life and investment approach. She discusses her path from limited to general partner, the mindset shifts involved, and how Thou Shall Prosper reshaped her view on business and community.

[00:01 - 07:45] A Diverse Journey Begins

• Annette discusses her Texas roots and corporate sales background
• Explains how her family’s financial goals sparked interest in real estate
• The importance of pursuing passive income and tax efficiency

[07:46 - 14:54] Masterminds and Mentors

• Shares her discovery of real estate through influencers
• The game-changing impact of joining a Texas-based real estate mastermind
• Benefits of learning from experienced investors

[14:55 - 21:50] The Leap into Real Estate

• Transition from limited partner to general partner in real estate investments
• Challenges and rewards of stewarding others' financial investments
• Insights on managing investor expectations

[21:51 - 28:31] Wealth and Values from ‘Thou Shall Prosper’

• Discusses how the book Thou Shall Prosper reshaped her views on wealth
• Values-based approach to business success inspired by biblical principles
• Insights on balancing personal growth with business ethics

[28:32 - 35:14] Community Connection and Strategic Moves

• How relocating to downtown San Antonio boosted her business network
• The value of connecting with others in person and online
• Leveraging social media to broaden investment opportunities

Connect with Annette:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/annette-hemmert-8a342198

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/covenant_capitaltx/

LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW by clicking this link.

WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE?

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None of this could be possible without the awesome team at Buzzsprout. They make it easy to get your show listed on every major podcast platform.

Tweetable Quotes:

"The fastest way to grow is to pay for the skills that you need." – Annette Hemmert

"There’s so much to learn about God and what he wants for you and how to set up your business in a way that it’ll thrive." – Annette Hemmert

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How does one transition from managing small apartment buildings to influencing multi-million dollar real estate investments?

In this episode, Adam Dunn, a seasoned real estate broker specializing in multi-housing investment sales and advisory, takes us through his 16-year journey from entry-level property management to brokering complex, high-stakes real estate deals. He shares insights into his industry transition, challenges with managing distressed properties, the difference between private and institutional investments, and how his work has enabled him to impact communities and clients alike. Adam’s story is filled with lessons on resilience, adaptability, and the value of informed decision-making in real estate.

[00:01 - 07:36] From Property Management to Investment Sales

• Adam’s career journey from property management to a brokerage
• Managing a property with challenging occupancy and financial issues
• Building a reputation as a “fixer” of underperforming properties

[07:37 - 14:19] Transition to Institutional Brokerage

• Moving from private to institutional real estate and its unique demands
• Saving money to transition into a commission-only brokerage career
• Learning how institutional clients rely heavily on data and risk management

[14:20 - 21:25] Private vs. Institutional Clients: A Relationship Game

• The dynamics of working with private families versus large institutions
• How long-term relationships and trust play a critical role in real estate
• Leveraging data-driven insights to serve both private and institutional clients 

[21:26 - 28:36] Balancing Brokerage with Passive Investments

• Adam’s decision to invest passively as an LP, avoiding conflicts of interest
• The importance of aligning with trusted sponsors for passive investments
• The benefits of contributing to real estate without direct ownership

[28:37 - 36:41] Defining Success Through Work-Life Balance

• Balancing a demanding career with family life and presence
• Shifts in perspective on success brought by COVID-19
• Success as providing generational wealth and quality time with family

Connect with Adam:

Email: [email protected]

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

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/adamdunncre/ 

LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW by clicking this link.

WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE?

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None of this could be possible without the awesome team at Buzzsprout. They make it easy to get your show listed on every major podcast platform.

Tweetable Quote:

"In real estate, it's not about transactions, it’s about relationships and actionable intelligence." - Adam Dunn

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How can embracing the digital age fundamentally transform traditional careers and the journey towards entrepreneurship? In this episode of Weiss Advice, Yonah delves into the remarkable journey of Michael Huseby, a visionary real estate investment attorney who leveraged the power of social media to redefine his career and establish his law firm. Through candid conversations, they explore the evolution of Michael's career, from traditional legal practices to pioneering in the digital space, his battle with a life-changing disease, and how these experiences shaped his approach to business, risk, and life itself. This episode is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the transformative potential of embracing change and technology.

[00:01 - 05:16] The Digital Catalyst

• Michael's strategic use of Twitter to grow his law practice
• The importance of social media in modern business development
• Transitioning from traditional law firm environments to entrepreneurship

[05:17 - 10:32] Navigating Life's Curveballs

• Michael's personal journey with a progressive eye disease
• The impact of personal challenges on professional decisions
• Embracing adversity to fuel determination and innovation

[10:33 - 15:25] Building Bridges in Real Estate

• Michael's niche in real estate syndications and investment funds
• The significance of educating clients on complex legal matters
• The role of expertise in fostering client trust and business growth

[15:26 - 20:45] Community and Connection

• The value of in-person meetings fostered through online connections
• Real estate community dynamics on social media platforms
• Building a network of clients, business partners, and friends

[20:46 - 29:25] Vision for the Future

• Strategic planning in the face of uncertainty due to Michael's vision impairment
• The importance of creating a sustainable and adaptable business model
• Leveraging digital platforms for continuous learning and community support

Connect with Michael:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/investing_law

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-bjorn-huseby/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/commercial_in_nashville/?hl=en

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInvestmentsLawyer

LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW by clicking this link.

WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE?

Be sure to follow me on the below platforms:

Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Stitcher.

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None of this could be possible without the awesome team at Buzzsprout. They make it easy to get your show listed on every major podcast platform.

Tweetable Quotes:

"Twitter fundamentally changed my life and the way I do business." - Michael Huseby

"Everybody has their thing; it's about how you adapt and overcome." - Michael Huse

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What is the one critical factor that can make or break your success as a passive real estate investor? 

In this episode, Yonah sits down with the multi-talented K Trevor Thompson, a man with a diverse background spanning from working at Ripley's Believe It or Not to opening 46 iFly Indoor Skydiving locations. He shares his journey into real estate investing, emphasizing the importance of the "who" over the "what" when it comes to choosing the right investment opportunities. Trevor discusses the power of diversification, the lessons learned from deals that didn't go as planned, and the importance of setting ambitious goals. 

[00:01 - 06:08] From Guinness World Records to Real Estate

• Trevor's diverse career background
• The importance of taking action on inspiration, rather than just being inspired
• Trevor's transition into real estate investing after reading Rich Dad, Poor Dad

[06:09 - 13:55] The Power of Passive Investing

• The importance of the "who" over the "what" when choosing investment opportunities
• Diversifying investments across different asset classes, locations, and risk levels
• The benefits of investing in deals with preferred payments and waterfalls

[13:56 - 20:22] The Eighth Wonder of the World

• The power of compounding investments over time
• The importance of staying in a W2 job while growing wealth
• The benefits of having a supportive partner on your real estate journey

[20:23 - 26:00] Lessons Learned from Deals Gone Wrong

• The impact of rapidly increasing interest rates on real estate deals
• The importance of adequate reserves and fixed debt in mitigating risk
• The value of experienced and skilled asset management teams

[26:01 - 32:27] The Key to Success in Real Estate Investing

• The importance of setting ambitious goals
• How to help people reach financial independence through real estate investing
• The value of sharing knowledge and inspiring others to take action in their investment journey

Connect with Trevor:

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kttniagarainvestment/ 

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/earnandlearnwithrealestateinvesting/

LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW by clicking this link.

WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE?

Be sure to follow me on the below platforms:

Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Stitcher.

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www.yonahweiss.com

None of this could be possible without the awesome team at Buzzsprout. They make it easy to get your show listed on every major podcast platform.

Tweetable Quote:

"I think the biggest lesson I've learned in life is the who is way more important than the what." - K. Trevor Thompson

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How can aligning the right people with your goals transform your journey toward financial independence and impact investing?

In this episode, Manny Juarez shares his intriguing journey from the world of interior architecture to real estate investing, particularly in multifamily properties. The discussion delves into the transformative power of self-education, the importance of aligning with the right partners, and the evolving landscape of real estate investment, especially amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic. Manny also touches on the concept of impact investing and its significance in today's world.

[00:01 - 07:09] Path to Multifamily Investing

• Embracing new opportunities during the pandemic
• Transitioning from service to ownership in real estate
• How to seize opportunities, and the importance of mindset in career transitions

[07:10 - 14:15] Current Role and Finding Partners

• The gap in formal education about practical investing
• The revelation of self-education in real estate
• The value of self-education, and understanding various investment avenues

[14:16 - 20:21] Spousal Support on the Journey

• The evolution of Manny's role in real estate syndications
• Building relationships and selecting the right partners
• The importance of networking, and selecting compatible partners

[20:22 - 27:27] Impact Investing Example

• The concept of impact investing and its personal significance
• Balancing financial gains with humanitarian benefits
• The balance between financial returns and societal contributions

[27:28 - 33:22] The Final Four: Worst Job, Book, Skill to Learn, & Definition of Success

• Worst job: A gutter cleaner
• Books that gave a paradigm shift: "The Go-Giver by Bog Burg"
• Skill/talent to learn: Bowling skills
• Success is defined by reaching your future self

Connect with Manny:

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

LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW by clicking this link.

 WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE?

Be sure to follow me on the below platforms:

Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Stitcher.

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None of this could be possible without the awesome team at Buzzsprout. They make it easy to get your show listed on every major podcast platform.

Key Quotes:

"Self-education is something that truly changes the direction of anybody." - Manny Juarez 

"Being able to connect with people on a more human level before anything else is super important." - Manny Juarez 

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Can smart money truly create a cushion against market volatility, and how does mezzanine financing play a role in stabilizing investments during economic downturns?

In this episode, Mike Zlotnik, a seasoned expert in commercial real estate and fund management, explores the nuanced strategies of mezzanine financing in the commercial real estate sector. As markets face volatility and shifting investment landscapes, Big Mike shares valuable wisdom on navigating these challenges through strategic financial structuring. Listeners will gain a profound understanding of how sophisticated financing options can provide safety nets and high returns, even in uncertain times.

[00:01 - 08:00] The Genesis of a Real Estate Maven

• Mike's migration from technology to real estate investing
• The concept of mezzanine financing and its importance in real estate
• Early challenges and opportunities in Mike's career transition

[08:01 - 16:00] Navigating Through Crises with Mezzanine Financing

• Detailed explanation of mezzanine financing structures
• Historical impacts of economic downturns on real estate and strategic responses
• The role of smart money in overcoming these challenges

[16:01 - 24:00] Real-Time Market Adaptations

• Examples of adapting to market changes and safeguarding investment
• The current state of the market and strategic positioning for potential upswings
• The balance between risk and reward in investment decisions

[24:01 - 32:00] The Future of Real Estate Investing

• Predictions for the real estate market and the evolving role of mezzanine financing
• How investors can identify and leverage opportunities in a fluctuating market
• The importance of due diligence and strategic foresight in investing

[32:01 - 41:51] Philosophical Reflections and Tactical Insights

• The philosophical underpinnings of investment strategies
• What success means in the volatile world of real estate
• Practical advice for new and seasoned investors navigating the current economic landscape

Connect with Mike:

Website: https://tempofunding.com/

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

LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW by clicking this link.

WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE?

Be sure to follow me on the below platforms:

Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Stitcher.

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None of this could be possible without the awesome team at Buzzsprout. They make it easy to get your show listed on every major podcast platform.

Tweetable Quotes:

"Experience is what you get when you don’t get what you want." - Mike Zlotnik

"The best investing time is when others are running away from the market." - Mike Zlotnik

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Can AI revolutionize the real estate industry and help entrepreneurs scale their businesses faster than ever before? In this episode of Weiss Advice, Yonah sits down with Vanessa Alfaro, a seasoned entrepreneur and real estate investor who has founded multiple successful companies. Vanessa shares her passion for leveraging artificial intelligence to optimize business processes and drive growth. She discusses how AI can be a game-changer for entrepreneurs, particularly in the real estate industry, by increasing productivity, analyzing deals faster, and ultimately improving the bottom line.

[00:01 - 07:04] From Venezuela to Real Estate and AI

• Vanessa's background in marketing and entrepreneurship in Venezuela
• Transitioning to the US and focusing on real estate and AI consulting
• The importance of innovation in driving business success

[07:05 - 14:28] Leveraging AI for Entrepreneurs and Real Estate Investors

• How AI can help small operators and entrepreneurs scale their businesses
• The potential of AI in optimizing real estate processes and increasing NOI
• The importance of applying AI technologies to stay competitive

[14:29 - 22:23] AI Applications in Real Estate

• Using AI for content creation, personalization, and presentations
• Implementing AI in asset management to reduce expenses and increase NOI
• The power of collective intelligence between humans and AI

[22:24 - 30:47] Accelerating Acquisitions and Analyzing Deals with AI

• How AI can help analyze more deals faster and increase the pipeline
• Creating a ChatGPT-based tool for quick deal analysis
• The importance of understanding how to use AI effectively

[30:48 - 38:22] The Current Real Estate Focus

• Vanessa's focus on multifamily and diversifying into other commercial assets
• The current market opportunity for buyers
• The historical advantage of combining AI with real estate investing

Connect with Vanessa:

Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessagalfaro/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanessavenuscapital/ 

LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW by clicking this link.

WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE?

Be sure to follow me on the below platforms:

Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Stitcher.

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None of this could be possible without the awesome team at Buzzsprout. They make it easy to get your show listed on every major podcast platform.

Tweetable Quotes:

"If you leverage your experience with artificial intelligence, that's when you're going to have a win." - Vanessa Alfaro 

"The problem with AI is that if you don't know how to use it, you cannot see the potential." - Vanessa Alfaro 

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Can adversity be the unexpected catalyst for transforming dreams into reality? In this episode, Yonah hosts Mike and Ligia Deaton, a couple who have made remarkable strides in the real estate business, particularly in land flipping. Starting from corporate careers to a sudden shift towards entrepreneurship following a layoff, they share their journey into real estate investment and coaching. Their story is a blend of personal and professional evolution, showcasing how embracing change can lead to unexpected success and fulfillment.

[00:01 - 06:22] The Beginnings

• Mike and Ligia's background in corporate jobs and their transition to real estate
• The impact of their layoff and how it led to a new career path
• Introduction to land flipping and its possibilities

[06:23 - 12:47] Flipping Dirt - A Business Unfolded 

• The genesis and growth of their business, Flipping Dirt
• Insights into land flipping and its advantages over traditional real estate
• The decision to start coaching others in land flipping

[12:48 - 18:26] Embracing Adversity

• Overcoming the initial fears and uncertainties of starting a new venture
• The role of adversity in propelling them towards entrepreneurship
• How their partnership as a couple strengthened their business approach

[18:27 - 24:55] Strategies and Insights in Land Investment 

• Detailed strategies for choosing and investing in land properties
• The low-risk, high-reward nature of land flipping
• The importance of market research and understanding buyer demographics

[24:56 - 27:51] Personal Dynamics and Future Aspirations

• Balancing personal and professional life as a couple in business
• The distribution of roles based on individual strengths and preferences
• Future goals and aspirations for their business and personal growth

 [27:52 - 37:46] The Final Four: Worst Job, Book, Skill to Learn, & Definition of Success

• Books that gave a paradigm shift:  “The Gap and The Gain” by Dan Sullivan and "Mindset" by Carol Dweck
• Skill/talent to learn: Develop organizational skills and paint with acrylics
• Success is defined as a life of fulfillment and by how you make people feel

 Connect with Mike & Ligia:

Website: https://flippingdirt.us/freedom/ 

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mike_and_ligia/ 

LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW by clicking this link.

 WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE?

Be sure to follow me on the below platforms:

Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Stitcher.

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None of this could be possible without the awesome team at Buzzsprout. They make it easy to get your show listed on every major podcast platform.

Tweetable Quote:

"Adversity is really a blessing many times." - Mike & Ligia Deaton

Support the show