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 syndicationThe pitfalls of relying solely on mindset without experienceInsights 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 projectsTransitioning from small assets to managing large portfoliosLessons 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 conditionsThe advantages of waiting for pricing and cap rate adjustmentsAdapting 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 creditBenefits of quick execution and securitized loansBalancing risk and reward with diversified lending strategies

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

The evolving landscape of real estate transactions and syndicationsWhy discipline and specialization outperform diversification in uncertain timesPredictions for market stabilization and future opportunities

Connect with Alix:

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

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.

LinkedIn

Youtube

Exclusive Facebook Group

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 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

Support the show

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 encounterThe impact of mentorship and the value of a helping handBalancing personal challenges with professional goals

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

The 70-30 rule: How focusing on others fosters connectionsThe McKay 66 principle: Remembering details that matter to peopleThe 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-19Networking in the digital age and its long-term impactThe "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 challengesThe role of gratitude in personal and professional lifePrioritizing 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 workHow community work opens unexpected doors in businessPractical 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.

WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE?

Be sure to follow me on the below platforms:

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

LinkedIn

Youtube

Exclusive Facebook Group

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 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

Support the show

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 backgroundExplains how her family’s financial goals sparked interest in real estateThe importance of pursuing passive income and tax efficiency

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

Shares her discovery of real estate through influencersThe game-changing impact of joining a Texas-based real estate mastermindBenefits of learning from experienced investors

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

Transition from limited partner to general partner in real estate investmentsChallenges and rewards of stewarding others' financial investmentsInsights 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 wealthValues-based approach to business success inspired by biblical principlesInsights 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 networkThe value of connecting with others in person and onlineLeveraging social media to broaden investment opportunities

Connect with Annette:

Email: annette@covenantcapitaltx.com

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?

Be sure to follow me on the below platforms:

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

LinkedIn

Youtube

Exclusive Facebook Group

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 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

Support the show

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 brokerageManaging a property with challenging occupancy and financial issuesBuilding 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 demandsSaving money to transition into a commission-only brokerage careerLearning 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 institutionsHow long-term relationships and trust play a critical role in real estateLeveraging 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 interestThe importance of aligning with trusted sponsors for passive investmentsThe 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 presenceShifts in perspective on success brought by COVID-19Success as providing generational wealth and quality time with family

Connect with Adam:

Email: adam.dunn@berkadia.com

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?

Be sure to follow me on the below platforms:

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

LinkedIn

Youtube

Exclusive Facebook Group

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:

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

Support the show

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 practiceThe importance of social media in modern business developmentTransitioning from traditional law firm environments to entrepreneurship

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

Michael's personal journey with a progressive eye diseaseThe impact of personal challenges on professional decisionsEmbracing adversity to fuel determination and innovation

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

Michael's niche in real estate syndications and investment fundsThe significance of educating clients on complex legal mattersThe 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 connectionsReal estate community dynamics on social media platformsBuilding 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 impairmentThe importance of creating a sustainable and adaptable business modelLeveraging 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.

LinkedIn

Youtube

Exclusive Facebook Group

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 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

Support the show

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 backgroundThe importance of taking action on inspiration, rather than just being inspiredTrevor'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 opportunitiesDiversifying investments across different asset classes, locations, and risk levelsThe 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 timeThe importance of staying in a W2 job while growing wealthThe 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 dealsThe importance of adequate reserves and fixed debt in mitigating riskThe 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 goalsHow to help people reach financial independence through real estate investingThe 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.

LinkedIn

Youtube

Exclusive Facebook Group

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

Support the show

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 pandemicTransitioning from service to ownership in real estateHow 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 investingThe revelation of self-education in real estateThe 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 syndicationsBuilding relationships and selecting the right partnersThe importance of networking, and selecting compatible partners

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

The concept of impact investing and its personal significanceBalancing financial gains with humanitarian benefitsThe 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 cleanerBooks that gave a paradigm shift: "The Go-Giver by Bog Burg"Skill/talent to learn: Bowling skillsSuccess 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.

LinkedIn

Youtube

Exclusive Facebook Group

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.

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 

Support the show

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 investingThe concept of mezzanine financing and its importance in real estateEarly challenges and opportunities in Mike's career transition

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

Detailed explanation of mezzanine financing structuresHistorical impacts of economic downturns on real estate and strategic responsesThe role of smart money in overcoming these challenges

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

Examples of adapting to market changes and safeguarding investmentThe current state of the market and strategic positioning for potential upswingsThe 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 financingHow investors can identify and leverage opportunities in a fluctuating marketThe importance of due diligence and strategic foresight in investing

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

The philosophical underpinnings of investment strategiesWhat success means in the volatile world of real estatePractical 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.

LinkedIn

Youtube

Exclusive Facebook Group

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 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

Support the show

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 VenezuelaTransitioning to the US and focusing on real estate and AI consultingThe 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 businessesThe potential of AI in optimizing real estate processes and increasing NOIThe importance of applying AI technologies to stay competitive

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

Using AI for content creation, personalization, and presentationsImplementing AI in asset management to reduce expenses and increase NOIThe 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 pipelineCreating a ChatGPT-based tool for quick deal analysisThe 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 assetsThe current market opportunity for buyersThe 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.

LinkedIn

Youtube

Exclusive Facebook Group

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 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 

Support the show

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 estateThe impact of their layoff and how it led to a new career pathIntroduction to land flipping and its possibilities

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

The genesis and growth of their business, Flipping DirtInsights into land flipping and its advantages over traditional real estateThe decision to start coaching others in land flipping

[12:48 - 18:26] Embracing Adversity

Overcoming the initial fears and uncertainties of starting a new ventureThe role of adversity in propelling them towards entrepreneurshipHow 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 propertiesThe low-risk, high-reward nature of land flippingThe 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 businessThe distribution of roles based on individual strengths and preferencesFuture 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 DweckSkill/talent to learn: Develop organizational skills and paint with acrylicsSuccess 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.

LinkedIn

Youtube

Exclusive Facebook Group

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:

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

Support the show