In this episode of Brick by Brick, Loren sits down with Will Harvey III, founder of Harvey Capital Funding, a Richmond, VA-based hard money lending operation. Will’s path is anything but straight: a college dropout, a recovering mortgage originator, a house flipper, a syndication LP and GP, a short-term rental operator who took a $70-80k loss on a functionally obsolete Northern Virginia property, and ultimately a fund manager who now says the operating life just isn’t wired into him. The candor in that admission — and what he built on the other side of it — is what makes this episode worth your time.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

•          How Will went from residential loan officer to founding a dedicated hard money fund — and why the 2022 STR deal was the turning point that clarified everything

•          The LP/GP alignment question most limited partners never ask — and why proformas are largely baloney

•          How Will underwrites borrowers beyond the asset: credit score philosophy, face-to-face meetings with every borrower, and the red flags that end a deal conversation

•          How both Will and Loren are embedding AI into their lending workflows — from call transcription to title review to portfolio monitoring

•          What “looking down, not up” actually means in practice — and why Will now stress-tests downside before he ever runs upside

Will Harvey III is the founder of Harvey Capital Funding, a Virginia-focused private lending operation offering fix-and-flip, rental bridge, and refinance loans to real estate investors. He also manages a separate fund investing in seller-financed notes. He is based in Richmond, VA.

Topics covered:

•          Double college dropout to mortgage originator

•          House flipping and building a personal RE portfolio

•          LP investing in 100+ unit multifamily syndications

•          Leading his own syndications and operating a wedding venue and boutique hotel

•          The 2022 Northern Virginia STR loss — deal goggles, a functionally obsolete house, and $70–80k in combined losses

•          Founding Harvey Capital Funding in 2023 and spinning out a dedicated hard money fund

•          Borrower underwriting: credit score philosophy, face-to-face meetings, red flags

•          AI in lending: call transcription, CRM integration, title review, portfolio monitoring

•          The GP mindset: conservative assumptions, verified track record, “look down not up”

If you got value from this show share it with your friends

Connect with Will Harvey:

Website: harveycapitalfunding.com   |   Email: will@harveycapitalfunding.com

In this episode:

• Why active income doesn't equal freedom and Joey's personal transformation story
• The real meaning of financial freedom and the importance of passive income exceeding expenses
• Why traditional retirement is a myth and how to embrace ongoing service and purpose
• The formula for financial freedom and actionable steps to get there fast
• How to identify your investor DNA and choose the right investment strategies
• The pitfalls of relying on IRAs and tax deferral vehicles and what to focus on instead
• How AI will revolutionize investing, lending, and business, reshaping margins and opportunities
• Practical approaches beyond real estate, including online businesses, lending, and media assets
• Overcoming misconceptions and making confident investment decisions

Resources & Links:

• Well Without Wall Street Podcast
• Passive Income Lab
• Joey Mure on LinkedIn
• Book: The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason

Connect with Joey Mure:

• LinkedIn
• Website
• Instagram

Remember:

Your financial freedom depends on the choices you make today. Stop trading time for dollars and start building assets that serve your purpose. The time to act is now. Your future self will thank you!

Ari breaks down why old cyclical models no longer apply, how to read demographic and migration data as a lead indicator, and why the Sun Belt — particularly Texas — isn't a trend. It's a structural shift. From 3D-printed homes and zoning battles to the "J curve" of exponential change, this is a masterclass in thinking long while moving fast.

What You'll Learn:

• Why human behavior — not interest rates — is the real engine of real estate markets
• How demographic shifts, remote work, and lifestyle changes are reshaping investment priorities
• The Texas advantage: population growth, corporate relocations, and central geography
• Why traditional cyclical models are dead — and what the J curve means for your portfolio
• How to use migration data as a lead indicator before headlines catch up
• Micro-market investing: why precise location and hyper-local data beats macro noise
• How 3D printing and construction innovation could solve the housing shortage
• Active vs. passive investing — and how to build wealth without the operational burden
• Why a down market may be the best time for disciplined investors to act

Timestamps: 00:00 — Seismic shifts & why human behavior drives real estate 02:15 — COVID, rates, and geopolitics: stress and opportunity 05:28 — Demographic evolution: remote work and lifestyle shifts 07:50 — The Texas advantage: population growth and corporate relocations 10:45 — Why systematic growth is dead — enter the J curve 13:20 — Migration lead indicators: Austin, Dallas, Florida 16:00 — Micro-location investing: precise data over headlines 18:20 — Zoning, bureaucracy, and 3D printing shaping future supply 21:00 — Essential housing and building for affordability 23:45 — The myth of institutional dominance 26:00 — Policy and accelerating housing development 29:30 — Long-term thinking, local laws, and land banking 33:00 — Government policy, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, systemic rate shifts 36:00 — Why now is a perfect storm for disciplined investors 38:00 — Active vs. passive: investing smart without the hassle 41:00 — Education, partnerships, and time in the market

About Ari Rastegar Ari Rastegar is the founder and CEO of Rastegar Capital, a vertically integrated real estate investment firm based in Austin, Texas. Known as "The Oracle of Austin," he has developed over 4.9M sq ft across 13 states and 38 cities. Featured in Forbes, GQ, WSJ, and The Real Deal.

Connect with Ari: 🌐 rastegarcapital.com 💼 linkedin.com/in/arirastegar 📸 Instagram: @rastegar 📖 The Gift of Failure — available on Amazon

Takeaways

• Tax Liens vs. Tax Deeds
• Transition from Real Estate to Tax Liens
• Risk and Opportunities in Tax Liens Tax Lien vs. Tax Deed
• Tax Sale Resources

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Tax Liens and Tax Deeds
• 27:13 Tax Lien vs. Tax Deed
• 37:33 Tax Sale Resources and Fund Overview

In this engaging episode of Brick by Brick, Loren Wernette hosts marketing expert John Dwyer, known for his innovative direct marketing strategies and his collaboration with Jerry Seinfeld. They discuss the evolution of marketing from traditional methods to modern digital strategies, emphasizing the importance of direct response marketing. John shares insights on creating impactful marketing campaigns, the significance of incentives, and the art of taking customers' eyes off the price. The conversation also touches on the power of creativity in marketing and the value of surrounding oneself with entrepreneurial spirits.

Keywords

direct marketing, John Dwyer, incentives, marketing strategies, Jerry Seinfeld, digital marketing, creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, customer engagement, price strategy

Takeaways

• Direct response marketing focuses on immediate sales rather than brand awareness.
• Incentives can significantly boost customer engagement and sales.
• Creativity is key in differentiating your marketing strategy.
• Surrounding yourself with entrepreneurial spirits can inspire innovation.
• Taking customers' eyes off the price can lead to better sales outcomes.
• Digital marketing allows for quick adjustments and real-time feedback.
• Understanding your target audience is crucial for effective marketing.
• Offering high perceived value incentives can outperform price discounts.
• The evolution of marketing tools has made campaigns more dynamic.
• Collaborations with celebrities can amplify marketing efforts.

Title Options

• Unlocking the Power of Direct Marketing
• John Dwyer's Marketing Masterclass
• From Seinfeld to Sales: Marketing Insights
• The Art of Incentive-Based Marketing
• Creative Strategies for Modern Marketers
• Direct Response Marketing Unveiled
• Engage and Convert: Marketing Tactics
• Price vs. Value: A Marketing Dilemma
• Entrepreneurial Insights with John Dwyer
• Marketing Evolution: From Traditional to Digital

Sound bites

"Direct response is all about results." "Incentives take eyes off the price." "Creativity sets your brand apart." "Surround yourself with innovators." "Digital tools make marketing dynamic." "Know your audience, know your success." "High value beats price cuts." "Celebrity endorsements amplify reach." "Marketing is about engagement, not just sales." "Adapt and thrive in the digital age."

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Introduction to John Dwyer
• 00:00:00 The Evolution of Marketing
• 00:00:00 Direct Response Marketing Explained
• 00:00:00 The Power of Incentives
• 00:00:01 Creativity in Marketing
• 00:00:01 Digital Marketing Strategies
• 00:00:01 Entrepreneurial Insights

In this episode of Brick by Brick, host Loren Wernette interviews Tim Street, a former Marine turned real estate entrepreneur. Tim shares his journey from the Marines to starting tech companies and eventually moving into real estate. He discusses the challenges and successes he faced along the way, including his transition to real estate investing and his current focus on helping others through Foolproof FSBO.

Keywords

Tim Street, real estate, entrepreneurship, Marines, Foolproof FSBO, tech startups, real estate investing

Takeaways

• Tim Street's journey from the Marines to entrepreneurship.
• The importance of self-belief and discipline learned in the Marines.
• Challenges faced in tech startups and real estate.
• The concept of Foolproof FSBO and its mission.
• Tim's insights on the real estate market and DIY projects.
• The role of networking and education in personal growth.
• Tim's perspective on college education and entrepreneurship.
• The impact of authenticity and storytelling in business.
• Tim's advice on balancing work and personal life.
• The significance of giving back and helping others succeed.

Title Options

• From Marine to Real Estate Mogul
• Tim Street's Entrepreneurial Journey
• Building Success Brick by Brick
• Foolproof FSBO: A New Approach
• Lessons from the Marines to Real Estate
• Tim Street on Entrepreneurship and Growth
• Navigating Challenges in Real Estate
• The Power of Self-Belief and Discipline
• Tim Street's Insights on Real Estate Investing
• Giving Back: Tim Street's Mission

Sound bites

• "Self-belief is key to success."
• "Discipline learned in the Marines."
• "Challenges in tech startups."
• "Foolproof FSBO's mission."
• "Real estate market insights."
• "Networking is crucial."
• "Education vs. entrepreneurship."
• "Authenticity in business."
• "Balancing work and life."
• "Helping others succeed."

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Introduction and Tim's Background
• 00:00:00 Journey from Marines to Entrepreneurship
• 00:00:00 Challenges in Tech Startups
• 00:00:00 Transition to Real Estate
• 00:00:01 Foolproof FSBO and Its Mission
• 00:00:01 Insights on Real Estate and DIY Projects
• 00:00:01 Networking and Education
• 00:00:02 Balancing Work and Personal Life
• 00:00:02 Giving Back and Helping Others

Guest Links

🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foolprooffsbo 🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/foolprooffsbo 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothyjstreet/

In this episode of Brick by Brick Wealth Building Conversations, host Loren Wernette sits down with BETTER, a Triangle-based real estate firm focused on investment analysis and residential infill development.

The conversation explores BETTER’s journey into real estate and their strategic evolution from traditional fix-and-flip and fix-to-rent models into new construction, infill development, and build-to-rent (BTR) projects. As lending standards tighten and market volatility increases, BETTER explains why infill development inside established neighborhoods has become a more resilient and scalable strategy in places like Durham and the greater Triangle.

The episode dives deep into Durham’s changing urban landscape, including the impact of Expanding Housing Choices and SCAD (Simplifying Codes for Affordable Development). These policy shifts have reshaped zoning, density allowances, and development feasibility — creating both opportunities and new challenges for investors.

Listeners will hear real-world examples of subdivision processes, ADUs, and small-scale development projects, along with candid discussion around risk management, underwriting discipline, and market projections. Whether you’re a new investor or an experienced operator, this episode provides a grounded look at how smart developers adapt as markets evolve.

Key Takeaways

• Infill development is becoming one of the most durable strategies in Triangle real estate
• The shift from flips to new construction reflects changing lender and risk dynamics
• Durham’s zoning and housing policy changes have unlocked new development opportunities
• Understanding the full development process is critical before pursuing infill or ADUs
• Risk management and realistic underwriting matter more than ever in today’s market
• Long-term success comes from aligning strategy with local market demand and regulation

Guest Information

Learn more about BETTER’s by-right development philosophy on their website:

    https://www.betterpropertiesllc.com/ 

    Connect with BETTER on LinkedIn for investor insights and market analysis
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-properties-construction-realty 

    Follow BETTER on Instagram and Facebook for project updates and community events
    https://www.facebook.com/BetterP.LLC 

    https://www.instagram.com/betterrealtyllc

• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Instagram

Tags

real estate investing, Triangle real estate, Durham development, infill development, build to rent, new construction, ADUs, urban development, real estate risk management, Brick by Brick Podcast

Today, he teaches entrepreneurs how to build businesses that run on relationships, healthy boundaries, and purposeful systems — not hustle, burnout, or chaos.

Garrett shares the mindset shift that happened when his wife challenged him to build a company in under 40 hours a week, what most entrepreneurs get wrong about referrals, and how defining success around your values changes everything.

This conversation is real, practical, and packed with wisdom for entrepreneurs who want to grow without losing their life in the process.

• How Garrett shifted from the grind to a “life-first” business

• The power and simplicity of referral-driven growth

• Why boundaries create freedom (not restrictions)

• How to win at home and in business

• Integrating faith authentically into your work

• Why hiring and delegating early is essential

• The mindset change that helped Garrett reclaim his time

• How The Balanced Breakthrough helps entrepreneurs redefine success

00:00 – Intro to Garrett and 2:10 Collective
03:10 – From higher ed to real estate
07:42 – The 40-hour challenge that changed everything
13:55 – Building a referral-only business
20:18 – Setting boundaries and avoiding burnout
27:03 – Faith, family, and redefining success
34:22 – Systems that support a life-first business
41:50 – Lessons from The Balanced Breakthrough
48:15 – Final thoughts

Garrett Maroon — 2:10 Collective
Website: https://www.210collective.com
Bio: https://www.210collective.com/bio
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garrettmaroon/
Podcast: The Faithful Agent Podcast
Book: The Balanced Breakthrough

Key TakeawaysChaptersGuest Contact

🎧 Episode Description (SEO-Optimized):
If you're a real estate business owner looking to scale smarter, boost wholesale profits, and buy back your time, this episode is a must-listen. We sit down with Theresa Sage, founder of Get Sarah, a cutting-edge AI agent system built for real estate professionals, to talk about how AI-powered lead generation is transforming the game.

In this episode of Brick by Brick, you'll learn:

• How to use an AI agent to grow your real estate business and close more deals

• The backstory behind Get Sarah, the tool that’s helping agents increase profits and reduce burnout

• Theresa’s journey from childhood hustler to 7-figure entrepreneur

• Mindset shifts every business owner needs to scale sustainably

• Why personal development is the real engine behind consistent success

Whether you're flipping, wholesaling, or scaling a brokerage, Theresa drops real talk on using automation, strategy, and mindset to build your empire — brick by brick.

🔗 Resources Mentioned:
👉 Get Sarah – The AI agent designed to help real estate professionals close more leads and reclaim their time
👉 Follow Theresa on IG: @theresasageaz

In this high-energy episode of Brick by Brick: Wealth Building Conversations, we sit down with Jennifer "Jen" Josey — the powerhouse behind Jolific Homes and the Real Estate Investor Growth Network (REIGN). From rapid "5 Day Flips" to growing a rental empire, Jen brings her signature blend of humor, hustle, and heart to the mic.

Jen shares how she transitioned from a career in teaching and health insurance to full-time real estate investing alongside her husband, Vance. We dive into the mindset shifts that helped her grow multiple businesses, the systems behind her lightning-fast flips, and why she believes real estate is a team sport.

Whether you’re an aspiring investor, seasoned flipper, or just need a shot of motivation, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and lessons from one of the industry’s most dynamic voices.

Topics We Cover:

• How Jen and Vance started Jolific Homes

• The secret sauce behind her 5 Day Flips

• Running short- and long-term rental portfolios

• Building REIGN into a thriving investor community

• Embracing discomfort as a catalyst for growth

Guest Contact Info:
🌐 Website: www.therealjenjosey.com
📷 Instagram: @therealjenjosey
🔗 LinkedIn: Jen Josey
📺 YouTube: The Real Jen Josey

In this episode of Brick by Brick: Wealth Building Conversations, we sit down with Alexander J. Brown, Managing Partner at Beacon Venture Partners, to pull back the curtain on what really drives smart venture capital investing.

With over a decade of experience in startups, strategy, and venture, Alex breaks down the mythologies that dominate the VC world — from celebrity founders to billion-dollar unicorn dreams — and shares how seasoned investors can cut through the noise to find truly scalable opportunities.

We also dive into:

• How Alex blends agile methodology (Scrum) into venture operations

• Why hands-on leadership matters in early-stage investing

• A real-life story of stepping in to lead a struggling portfolio company

• Tactical advice for founders seeking capital the right way

Whether you're raising your first round or deploying your tenth, this episode is a masterclass in strategic investing and entrepreneurial leadership.

📍 Connect with Alex:
📧 Alex@beaconventurepartners.com
🔗 LinkedIn
🔗 Scrum Alliance Profile
🔗 Beacon Venture Partners

We cover how Sam:

• Turned debt into a tool for scaling wealth.

• Built systems and teams that let him grow faster without burning out.

• Transformed a viral moment with Dave Ramsey into a nationwide conversation about financial strategy.

• Uses content creation to attract deal flow and private lenders.

• Helps thousands of aspiring investors take action through FasterFreedom, his podcast, and his book Own Your Freedom.

This conversation is packed with practical insights on real estate, leadership, and why failure can be a powerful teacher on the path to financial freedom.

Guest Contact & Resources

• 🌐 Website: fasterfreedom.com

• 🎥 YouTube: @FasterFreedom

• 📲 Instagram: @samfasterfreedom

• 🎧 Podcast: The FasterFreedom Show

• 📖 Book: Own Your Freedom

Caleb opens up about the moment in 2024 when his business nearly collapsed, and the mindset shifts, leadership lessons, and operational pivots that helped him rebuild stronger than ever. Known for his ability to ask the right questions, Caleb shares how curiosity, transparency, and calculated risk-taking guide his work in one of real estate’s most misunderstood niches.

• The story behind Creative TC and how it serves investors, agents, and attorneys in creative finance deals

• How a near-failure year became the foundation for new growth

• Why asking great questions is Caleb’s “low-key superpower”

• Lessons on leadership, ethics, and protecting your business in high-liability spaces

• What’s next for Creative TC and the future of creative finance in real estate

📍 Guest Links
Website: creativetc.io
Title & Escrow Division: creativetitle.io
Instagram: @fcalebchristopher
LinkedIn: Creative TC company page

🎙 Host: Loren Wernette
Brick by Brick Wealth Building Conversations explores real estate, private lending, and business growth strategies — one conversation at a time.

Artificial Intelligence is making waves across industries, and real estate and private lending are no exception. In this episode of Brick by Brick, Loren Wernette dives into how AI is transforming deal sourcing, underwriting, market analysis, and investor relations.

From predictive analytics to automation, Loren explores the opportunities and challenges that AI presents for investors, lenders, and developers. Should you be worried? Or is this a chance to gain an edge in the market?

Tune in for a no-nonsense discussion on where AI fits into the future of real estate and how you can stay ahead of the curve.

🔹 How AI is impacting real estate investing and lending
🔹 The role of automation in underwriting and risk assessment
🔹 What investors need to know about AI-driven market analysis

Subscribe now and stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of real estate!

#RealEstate #AIinRealEstate #PrivateLending #TechTrends #WealthBuilding #LorenWernette

Are you considering investing in a fund but unsure what all the different structures mean? In this episode, we break down the most common fund structures—506(b), 506(c), Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg CF), Series LLCs, and the key differences between Debt Funds and Equity Funds.

You’ll learn:
✅ The pros and cons of each fund structure
✅ Who can invest and how these funds raise capital
✅ The regulatory requirements and restrictions investors should know
✅ Key watchouts before committing your capital

Whether you're a first-time investor or looking to deepen your understanding of fund structures, this episode gives you the high-level insights you need to make informed decisions. Tune in and take control of your investment knowledge!

Over the last five years, I’ve learned some hard-hitting truths about business—lessons that have shaped the way I approach challenges, growth, and success. In this episode, I’m breaking down the five biggest lessons that can shift your mindset and set you up for long-term wins:

✅ Change your mindset from "I can't" to "How can I?"
✅ It’s going to take longer and be harder than you think—embrace it.
✅ The excitement fades, but the real money is in the boring—that’s where most people quit.
✅ Failure isn’t the enemy—inaction is.
✅ Network like crazy, but do it to help others, not yourself.

Whether you’re just starting out or years into your entrepreneurial journey, these lessons will help you stay focused, push through the tough times, and keep building. Let’s dive in!

In this episode of Brick by Brick Wealth Building Conversations, I talk with Matthew Carrigan, founder of REI Cornerstone, about one of the most effective strategies in today’s market: agent outreach.

Matthew shares his “earned and learned” story—how he discovered agent outreach while working under a mentor, then replicated the model to build a six-figure business. With 3–5 years of experience and annual revenue between $100K–$500K, he now teaches investors how to use agents as a scalable, profitable source of deals.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• What agent outreach is and why it works for investors

• How to create repeatable systems for outreach and deal flow

• Step-by-step tips Matthew uses with Facebook groups and GoHighLevel to build trust with agents

• How investors can scale using relationships instead of cold marketing tactics

• What’s next for REI Cornerstone and the future of agent outreach in real estate

👉 If you’re asking yourself “How do I get more real estate deals in today’s market?”—this episode will give you the answer.

📌 Connect with Matthew Carrigan:

• Facebook: Matthew Carrigan

• Facebook Group: REI Cornerstone

• Instagram: @matthew__carrigan

With over 20 years in construction and 17 as a licensed general contractor, Blake shares the real side of land development—from rookie mistakes and costly missteps to the proven processes that lead to profitable projects.

We cover:
✅ The do’s and don’ts of land development
⚠️ Horror stories that cost others big—and how to avoid the same traps
📍 The first steps every new land developer should take
🔧 Why systems and process are the key to long-term success

If you're curious about how to get started in land development, or if you're looking to tighten your systems as a current investor or builder, this episode gives you the roadmap to build smart.

🎁 Don’t miss Blake’s Free Land Evaluation Checklist—a must-have for anyone considering a land deal.

Connect with Blake Anderson:
🧰 Free Checklist: https://envisioninvestorsolution.myclickfunnels.com/free-checklist
📺 YouTube: Envision Investor Solutions
📸 Instagram: @envision.investor

Failure isn’t the end—it’s the raw material of success. In this solo episode, Loren breaks down the 5 biggest myths people believe about failure, and how these beliefs are quietly sabotaging your ability to grow, pivot, and ultimately win. From stories of baseball legends and business experiments to real estate deals gone sideways, Loren shares personal insights and hard-won lessons to reshape how you think about setbacks.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why failing doesn’t make you a failure

• How successful people actually fail more often than you think

• The lie that you’ll fail less as you get richer

• Why failure isn’t a reason to quit—it’s proof you’re trying

• How to reframe failure as a teacher, not a label

📍 Whether you're just getting started or leveling up, this episode will help you embrace failure as fuel.

Contact Loren
Website: www.reihighyield.com/home
Email: loren@reidoubleclose.com
Instagram: @investwtihloren

In this powerful episode of Brick by Brick: Wealth Building Conversations, host Loren Wernette sits down with Michael "Mike" Russell—a real estate broker turned nonprofit founder—to explore how one man's financial collapse sparked a mission to rescue others from foreclosure.

Mike shares his journey from the top of the real estate game to losing it all—bankruptcy, divorce, foreclosure—and how he clawed his way back with purpose. Today, he’s the founder of Hope 4 Hardship, a nonprofit offering free foreclosure counseling and advocacy to homeowners in distress. No fees. No fluff. Just results.

We talk about:

• The real emotional toll of foreclosure—and how Mike’s lived it

• Why mindset shifts matter more than money

• His 80–100% success rate with engaged clients

• How banks are more flexible than most people realize

• What homeowners must do the moment they miss a mortgage payment

This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to turn. Mike proves that with the right guidance, you can turn things around—one decision at a time.

Michael "Mike" Russell
Founder, Hope4Hardship.org
President, Century 21 Signature Properties
📧 Email: c21russells@gmail.com
📞 Phone: (508) 501-5800
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mike-russell-3395baa
🌐 Website: https://hope4hardship.org

PR Contact: Steven Dubin
📧 Email: sdubin@prworkzone.com

📇 Guest Contact Info

In this powerhouse episode of Brick by Brick Wealth-Building Conversations, we sit down with John Hetherington—AI strategist, automation expert, and founder of We Deliver Your Vision—to unpack the exact systems business owners need to stay ahead and stay sane in the AI era.

We dive into:

• The AI Implementation Ladder—and where most businesses are getting stuck

• Why the risk of not using AI far outweighs the risk of using it wrong

• How to stay secure in a world of automated decision-making and data exposure

• Real talk on burnout: if you or your team are overwhelmed, here's your first step to reclaim your time

• The critical mindset shift from process chaos to profit-driving systems

With 25+ years of experience and 100s of companies served, John breaks down complex tech into practical, actionable steps to help you grow revenue, reclaim bandwidth, and future-proof your business.

📍 Connect with John Hetherington:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johnhetherington1
Instagram: @thejohnhetherington
Upcoming Book: Why Technology Will Break Your Business

We get into how your hard-wired behavior shows up in your business, your investments, and your stress responses — and why “behavior makes money” isn’t a catchy phrase, it’s a real framework for reducing risk and improving performance.

We cover:

• How behavioral patterns directly influence financial outcomes

• What he learned transitioning from CPA to a leader in behavioral economics

• How AI is reshaping personalized financial insights

• Why leaders make predictable mistakes under stress

• How to align money decisions with natural behavioral strengths

• The mission behind Boys Without Fathers and what it’s taught him about identity, money, and leadership

Whether you're a lender, operator, or investor, this conversation will change how you think about risk, decision-making, and team dynamics.

DNA Behavior
https://dnabehavior.com

GoDNA.ai (app)
https://www.godna.ai

Behavioral Economics Institute
https://www.behavioraleconomics.com

Boys Without Fathers (nonprofit)
https://www.boyswithoutfathers.org

LinkedIn — Hugh Massie
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hughmassie/

YouTube — DNA Behavior
https://www.youtube.com/@dnabehavior

Podcast — The Behavioral Economics Podcast
https://open.spotify.com/show/4m023IsfGpY2ZnJSqEwOef

Guest Links & Resources

Jason shares how he went from playing it safe in insurance sales to building a $10M+ real estate lending business in under two years. We dive into mindset shifts, the power of mentorship, and the real meaning behind the name "608B" (hint: it's got a backstory you'll want to borrow). Whether you're stuck in a W2 or scaling your empire, Jason’s story proves that it’s never too late to pivot—and win.

📌 Topics we cover:

• Leaving corporate life with nothing but conviction

• Raising capital in today’s market

• Building a brand with authenticity and grit

• How 608B Capital is scaling fast in the lending space

• The real cost—and reward—of betting on yourself

Follow Jason: linktr.ee/jasonseward

In this episode, Mike Otranto reveals how he’s blended the precision of digital marketing with the profitability of real estate investing. From his book Houseflow Formula: A High-Tech Path to Financial Freedom Through Real Estate, Mike breaks down how SEO, inbound marketing, and KPI tracking have helped him create a scalable, system-driven acquisition strategy.

You’ll learn:

• Why SEO is your digital “railroad” for finding motivated sellers.

• How to track the right KPIs to measure marketing ROI and acquisition success.

• Real examples of deals sourced entirely from online inbound leads.

• The difference between hustling for every deal and building a repeatable lead flow.

• How to modernize your real estate investing with tech-driven strategies.

Plus—meet Ruby the Beagle, Mike’s loyal “assistant” who keeps things lively at the office.

Connect with Mike Otranto
📘 Book: Houseflow Formula: A High-Tech Path to Financial Freedom Through Real Estate
🌐 Website: mikeotranto.com
📷 Instagram: @mike_otranto
📘 Facebook: Mike Otranto
▶️ YouTube: Mike Otranto Channel
🐦 Twitter/X: @WC_HomeBuyers

Episode: Building Wealth Without Borders: Global Investing & Tax Freedom
Podcast: Brick by Brick Wealth Building Conversations
Host: Loren Wernette
Guest: Mikkel Thorup, Founder & CEO of Expat Money®

Summary:
If you could design a life without borders—where would you live, and how would you invest?

This week, Loren sits down with Mikkel Thorup, Founder & CEO of Expat Money®, to discuss the strategies wealthy investors are using to legally reduce taxes, gain second residencies and citizenships, and diversify into international real assets like real estate, agriculture, and timber.

From Panama to Portugal, Mikkel explains how to build a global wealth plan that increases freedom, reduces risk, and creates long-term security. He shares lessons from living in over seven countries, visiting 100+, and helping hundreds of clients protect and grow their assets overseas.

You’ll Learn:

• The legal ways to dramatically lower your tax burden

• Why global diversification is key to financial freedom

• How second residencies and citizenships unlock opportunity

• The best regions for tangible, income-producing investments

• Practical steps to start your own offshore strategy

Listen Now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Guest Links:
🌐 ExpatMoney.com
🎧 Expat Money Show
🎫 Expat Money Summit
🔗 LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook

Contact: info@ExpatMoney.com

• Why self-directed IRAs (SDIRAs) matter now — and how they differ from traditional retirement accounts

• Real-world assets in tax-advantaged accounts: real estate, oil & gas, venture capital, and more

• The Quest Trust → Inspira Financial acquisition and what it means for SDIRA holders

• Common SDIRA misconceptions (and how to dodge them)

• Practical steps to roll over funds without triggering taxes

• Steve’s go-to resources for empowering new investors to retire successfully

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-csobaji

• Company: https://inspirafinancial.com

• YouTube: “Investing Beyond What You’ve Always Known with SDIRAs”

• NT Commercial Association New Broker Bootcamp

• Inspira white-paper on 1099-R rollover strategies

• Subscribe to Brick by Brick on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite player

• Follow Loren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loren-wernette

• Questions or feedback? Email loren@reidoubleclose.com

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, tax, or legal advice. Always consult your professional advisors before making financial decisions.

KC shares his journey from traditional CFO roles into creating a Beverly Hills–based firm that helps 7-figure entrepreneurs and family offices legally save millions each year through tax minimization, asset protection, and legacy planning.

We dive into:

• Why upgrading your financial structure matters more than just making more income

• How the wealthy avoid capital gains taxes while maximizing charitable impact

• The surprising, untold stories behind KC’s pivot into advanced tax planning

• Practical steps entrepreneurs can take today to set up structures the ultra-rich use

• How aligning financial strategies with personal values creates a true legacy

Whether you’re a high-income entrepreneur, investor, or simply curious how the top 1% structures wealth, this episode delivers eye-opening insights you won’t want to miss.

📌 Guest Contact Information:

• Website: togethercfo.com

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kcchohan

• Instagram: @togethercfo | @kc.chohan

• YouTube: @TogetherCFO

• Twitter/X: @KCchohan_

We explore how he leveraged YouTube and Instagram to drive investor leads, what it really took to hit millionaire status by 28, and why the key to it all was ruthless focus. Bryce breaks down the systems he uses, the shifts he’s made in his lending business (like switching to monthly payments in 2025), and what he’s seeing in the world of fund compliance and lending automation.

Whether you're a real estate investor, a private lender, or a tech-curious entrepreneur, this episode delivers high-impact insights on building income, raising capital, and creating long-term wealth.

📌 Topics Covered:

• The real ROI of FOCUS

• Building and exiting software companies

• Using content to drive deal flow and raise capital

• Behind the scenes of the Lendr fintech platform

• Hitting 7 figures through house-hacking, OPM, and leveraged growth

🔗 Connect with Bryce Matheson:
Instagram: @brycematheson
YouTube: Bryce Matheson
LinkedIn: Bryce Matheson
Threads: @brycematheson
📧 Email: Bryce@holbrookcapital.com

This week, we’re joined by Dan Rivers, founder of Rivers Capital Group (RCG) and partner at SynergyStays, to talk about what it really takes to build wealth through real estate — and why your mindset is your most powerful asset.

Dan opens up about his incredible journey, including surviving two heart surgeries and now living with a mechanical heart valve (yes, you can actually hear him tick). Through it all, he’s kept one thing at the center: his Why.

In this episode, we dive into:

• The strategy behind SynergyStays and how they help clients outperform STR market averages

• Why mindset matters more than the market

• The importance of adaptability when life hits hard

• Building wealth with intention — in both business and life

Whether you're an investor, entrepreneur, or someone navigating the ups and downs of life, Dan’s story will inspire you to lead with purpose, stay resilient, and keep moving forward.

🔗 Connect with Dan:
Instagram & Facebook: @DanRivers_RCG

Synergy Stays: https://www.synergystayslocal.com/

In this episode, I sit down with Peter Maher to break down one of the most impactful shifts happening in today’s financial landscape: open banking—and how it’s completely reshaping the way lenders understand financial health.

Peter leads Ovanti’s U.S. division and is the founder of Flote, the company’s U.S. rebrand that focuses on using real-time cashflow instead of outdated credit scores to evaluate financial wellbeing. The result? More accurate decisioning and far better access for consumers who've traditionally been boxed out by old credit systems.

We dig into:

• Why credit scores no longer tell the full story

• How open banking gives lenders real-time insight

• The evolution from Ovanti to Flote for U.S. expansion

• How Flote plans to disrupt payday lending and lease-to-own models

• Why financial innovation should protect—not exploit—consumers

• What the future of financial accessibility looks like in an open-banking world

Key Takeaways

• Open banking provides a clearer picture of financial health.

• Ovanti’s U.S. rollout is operating under the new brand: Flote.

• Flote uses cashflow-based underwriting rather than credit scores.

• Legacy credit systems are restrictive and often misleading.

• Open banking is gaining real traction in the U.S. economy.

• Flote’s mission revolves around transparency and consumer-first design.

Sound Bites

• “Open banking is the future of finance.”

• “Credit scores don’t define financial health.”

• “Financial innovation shouldn’t come at the cost of the consumer.”

• “Real-time cashflow tells the real story.”

• “Flote is redefining accessibility in modern finance.”

Chapters
00:00 – Meet Peter Maher & the origins of Ovanti
00:05 – What open banking really is
00:10 – The problem with traditional credit scoring
00:18 – The Flote approach: cashflow over credit
00:28 – Financial accessibility and the future of open banking

Connect with Peter

• Ovanti Global — https://www.ovanti.com/

• U.S. Leadership Bio — https://www.ovanti.com/ovanti-us-leadership

• Flote Partnerships — https://getflote.com/

• LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/ptmaher/

• Partnerships Email — partnerships@ovanti.com

Kelli’s story begins on a farm, where she learned grit and work ethic early. She went on to become a four-time All-American basketball player at the College of Charleston, with her jersey #14 retired as the program’s all-time leading scorer. After college, she built a corporate career at UPS, rising through the ranks to an executive position before leaving to pursue entrepreneurship.

Today, Kelli has built a portfolio of more than 3,500 units, raised over $150M in capital, and funded $400M+ in loans through her companies. But her true passion isn’t just numbers — it’s about building teams, creating big visions, and empowering others through meaningful work and business growth.

We dive into:

• How Kelli’s farm upbringing and athletics shaped her mindset.

• The lessons she carried from UPS into entrepreneurship.

• What it really takes to raise $150M in under five years.

• The strategies she uses to balance multiple companies.

• Why building teams and relationships is at the heart of her success.

If you’re looking for inspiration on perseverance, leadership, and scaling businesses with purpose, this episode is for you.

Guest Contact & Links

• Facebook: Rehab Wallet

• Instagram: @kelli.garrett2

• LinkedIn: Kelli Garrett

• Website: rehabwallet.com

Together, they dig into why traditional financial advice often fails younger generations, how entrepreneurs overlook their own retirement, and what practical, tax-efficient strategies actually create financial clarity.

• Financial education is the missing piece. Most people never learned the rules of money, which keeps them stuck.

• The American Dream still works—but you need non-traditional tools to get there today.

• Rebecca’s ranch-to-finance journey shows how money can create opportunity for anyone, regardless of where they start.

• Entrepreneurs are great at making money… but often horrible at planning for themselves.

• The traditional retirement system is broken for Gen Z and millennials, requiring new strategies.

• Leverage beats spending. Wealth is built by using money as a tool, not a lifestyle.

• Retirement isn’t an end. It’s about giving yourself the freedom to do the work you want to do.

• Long-term care planning matters—people are living longer, and ignoring this creates huge financial strain.

• Avoiding taxes legally is a civic responsibility, not a cheat code.

• Money is energy. Creating wealth helps you, your family, and society as a whole.

00:00 — Welcome & Introduction
03:12 — Rebecca’s upbringing on a ranch & her path into finance
10:45 — Why financial education is failing Americans
17:20 — The challenges entrepreneurs face planning for themselves
25:08 — How retirement planning has changed for younger generations
33:50 — Leveraging money vs spending it: what actually builds wealth
40:15 — Taxes, long-term care, and planning for longevity
48:30 — Rebecca’s message: a roadmap exists no matter where you're starting
54:10 — Final thoughts and where to connect with Rebecca

🔑 Key Takeaways🎧 Episode Chapters (Corrected & Structured)

Website: https://blueskyefinancial.com
Meet the Team: https://blueskyefinancial.com/meet-our-team/
Instagram: @blueskye_financial

In this episode of Brick by Brick Wealth Building Conversations, Dave shares how he went from struggling to make ends meet to managing multimillion-dollar commercial and development deals. His mantra, “Educate, don’t speculate—then implement,” has guided his journey from crisis to credibility, and now he’s teaching others to do the same.

In this episode:

• The turning point that pushed Dave from broke to bold

• Lessons from the Fire Service: discipline, risk, and teamwork

• How education turns speculation into strategy

• Why Legacy Alliance and Freedom Venture focus on teaching action, not theory

About the Guest:
Dave Seymour is the Founder and CEO of Freedom Venture Investments and creator of Legacy Alliance, where he helps professionals master the path from active income to passive wealth. Featured on A&E, CBS, ABC, CNBC, and FOX News, Dave is also the author of Inflation Nation, a practical guide to beating inflation through real estate and private equity.

Guest Links:

• 📘 Inflation Nation — InflationNationBook.com

• 🎬 Inflation Nation Documentary — InflationNationMovie.com

• 🛒 Amazon — Paperback/Hardcover

• 🎓 Free Legacy Wealth Masterclass — LegacyWealthMasterclass.com

• 🌐 Main Hub — YourLegacyAlliance.com

• 💼 Freedom Venture — freedomventure.com

• 🧭 Ultimate Alternative Investment Guide — uaiguide.com

Connect with Dave:
LinkedIn | Instagram | X/Twitter | Facebook

In this episode of Brick by Brick: Wealth-Building Conversations, host Loren Wernette welcomes Adam Williams, Founder and CEO of Elevest Capital, for an eye-opening conversation on strategic real estate investing in the multifamily sector.

Adam brings over 20 years of experience, having weathered market downturns and emerging stronger with a focus on value-driven leadership and crisis-era adaptability. He walks us through:

• Why multifamily is experiencing what he calls “the perfect storm”—and why that presents massive opportunity for investors

• How to vet a fund manager and protect your capital

• The importance of follow-up and consistency in long-term investing success

• Why real estate isn’t a “get-rich-quick” play—it’s a “get-wealthy-for-sure” blueprint

• His personal story of the 2007 crash and how it completely changed his investment philosophy

🔗 Watch Adam's Perfect Storm breakdown on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pO7J2NF2_8o

Whether you're a passive investor, aspiring syndicator, or seasoned entrepreneur, this episode is packed with practical wisdom on building sustainable wealth in turbulent times.

Guest Contact Info:
🌐 Website: https://elevestcapital.com
📸 Instagram: @awinvests
🔗 LinkedIn: Adam Williams
🐦 X (Twitter): @aw_invests
📱 TikTok: @awinvests
▶️ YouTube: Adam Williams Invests

Welcome to The 4 C’s of Lending, the podcast that breaks down the four fundamental pillars of lending—Credit, Collateral, Capacity, and Character—and how they shape real estate financing and private lending decisions.

Whether you’re a borrower looking to secure funding, an investor evaluating deals, or a lender refining your underwriting criteria, this show gives you the insider perspective on how lenders assess risk, structure loans, and make profitable lending decisions.

In this episode of Brick by Brick, Loren sits down with Anton Zherelyev, the CEO of REI Lead Pros and a master of direct-to-owner lead generation. Based in Medellín, Colombia, Anton shares how he scaled his business to 7 figures by helping real estate investors crack the cold-calling code and build predictable lead pipelines.

Anton opens up about the $100K deal that changed everything—thanks to one smart decision (hint: it came from his wife). He drops gems on how to take massive action, why sitting on the sidelines is the biggest risk in today’s market, and how automation and AI are rewriting the playbook for real estate pros.

Whether you're a wholesaler, flipper, or just looking to grow your team with A+ talent through his new venture, Smart Hire Pros, this episode is packed with real-world takeaways.

📲 Follow Anton:
LinkedIn | Instagram
🔗 Learn more: REI Lead Pros | Smart Hire Pros

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Brick by Brick, Loren sits down with Pam Fisher — a powerhouse in the world of manufactured homes and creative real estate deals. With a background as an ER nurse turned full-time investor and founder of both FPR-Fisher Properties & Rentals and VH-Vision Homes, Pam shares how she found her niche in “wobbly boxes” and why now is always the best time to start.

Tune in to hear her unique perspective on persistence, negotiation, creative financing, and what it means to help others realize their own potential through real estate.

What You’ll Learn:

• How Pam transitioned from healthcare to real estate

• The overlooked opportunity in manufactured homes and parks

• Tips for finding your niche in real estate investing

• The value of persistence and creative deal-making

• How VH-Vision Homes is helping investors and families alike

Connect with Pam Fisher:
📍 Facebook: Pam Fisher Personal | VH-Vision Homes

🚀 Thinking about hiring your first employee? Not sure when the right time is or how to manage company culture as you grow? In this episode, I sit down with Scott Hanis, Founder of Fortitude HR Solutions, to break down the biggest HR challenges business owners face and the mindset shifts every entrepreneur must make to scale successfully.

✅ Topics We Cover:

• 📌 When is the right time to hire your first employee? (Signs you’re ready to grow)
• 🏢 How to build and manage a strong company culture as you scale
• 🧠 The essential mindset shifts entrepreneurs need to lead a team successfully
• ❌ The fears business owners have around firing employees – and how to handle it with confidence

💡 Whether you’re a startup founder, business owner, or entrepreneur, this episode will help you navigate the tricky transition from solopreneur to leader.

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert business growth advice!

📢 Follow Scott Hanis & Fortitude HR Solutions:
🔹 Facebook: @FortitudeHRSolutions
🔹 LinkedIn: Fortitude HR Solutions

🎧 Listen now and take your business to the next level!

🔥 #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #HiringEmployees #CompanyCulture #Leadership #ScottHanis #FortitudeHRSolutions #MindsetShift #ScalingYourBusiness #StartupSuccess #HRStrategy #Podcast

Neil walked away from a successful career at IBM in 2007 to pursue e-commerce full-time. Over the past 17 years, he has helped build brands that have generated $100M+ in collective Amazon FBA and omni-channel sales. His proprietary 5:5 product-launch playbook and “pay-as-you-profit” consulting model have guided founders from startup to 7- and 8-figure exits.

We dive into:

• How Neil left corporate America to take a risk on Amazon—and why it paid off.

• The 4 steps to building a real, profitable, and sustainable e-commerce business.

• The most common mistakes new Amazon sellers make—and how to avoid them.

• Why planning for exit from day one is key to building a valuable brand.

• A recent case study where a brand hit $3,000/day in sales within 20 days.

Whether you’re new to e-commerce or looking to scale your online business, Neil delivers actionable insights that demystify Amazon FBA and omni-channel selling.

📌 Resources Mentioned:

• Neil’s book: Almost Automated Income with FBA

• Podcast: High Voltage Business Builders

• Book a strategy call: voltagedm.com

📞 Connect with Neil Twa:

• Email: neil@voltagedm.com

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/neiltwa

• Instagram: @neiltwa

• TikTok: @fbabusinessbuilders

• YouTube: Neil Twa Voltage