AJ Osborne Podcast

America’s financial system is a ticking time bomb. For years, the United States has become increasingly financialized, and we’ve finally reached a boiling point. History shows us that there are cycles, and we’re in the “fourth turning” of one now. What comes next? A complete reset. At this point, it’s the only option left after the politically wealthy and banking system elites have backed the country into a corner. We can’t pay off the national debt, and getting out of debt was never the game plan. The system is broken. The dollar’s days are numbered, but what will replace it? David Morgan, an expert on macroeconomics, precious metals, and the storm that’s currently brewing, believes it’s only a matter of time before a central bank digital currency (CBDC) is ushered in. Everything will change—how our money is saved, spent, and even traced. The real question isn’t just how to protect your wealth in uncertain times, but how society can come together, help each other, and return to the principles our country was founded on: hard work, productivity, and the things that matter far more than money. Insights from today’s episode:  The economic “reset” that is brewing after many years of increased financialization Why the shift from paper assets to hard assets is accelerating in the United States The “slow” deterioration of the U.S. dollar (and the rise of a new currency) What comes after America’s “fourth turning” in the current economic cycle Why a central bank digital currency (CBDC) could threaten our basic freedoms — David’s Website - https://www.themorganreport.com/  Silver Sunrise - https://silversunrise.tv/  Resource Wars - https://www.amazon.com/Resource-Wars-Landscape-Conflict-Introduction/dp/0805055762  The Fourth Turning - https://www.amazon.com/Fourth-Turning-American-Prophecy-Rendezvous/dp/0767900464  How a $30 Billion Welfare Program Became a ‘Slush Fund’ for States - https://www.wsj.com/politics/policy/how-a-30-billion-welfare-program-became-a-slush-fund-for-states-c39b8311  ISO 20022 - https://www.iso20022.org/ 

The United States economy is about to reset. Government systems are largely self-serving. Trust in the country’s institutions has eroded. We’ve reached the point of no return. But empires don’t crumble overnight. This “transformation” will be slow, difficult, and likely painful. But on an individual level, there’s still a clear path to safety—to achieving financial independence and protecting your wealth, even amid a complete reshaping of the U.S. economy as we know it. It’s no secret that America has a spending problem, and the $38 trillion national debt doesn’t even tell the whole story. The government’s game plan? “Inflate” it away, devalue the dollar, but don’t actually solve the issue. We should have seen this coming because we’ve seen it many times before. In 2008, in response to the growing financialization of the U.S. economy, I built businesses around physical, cash-flowing assets. It wasn’t new, trendy, or sexy, but it made me millions. Now, it’s time to return to fundamentals once again: Knowledge. Skills. Productivity. Real value. Tangible, income-producing assets. This “winning” playbook is the only way to weather a storm that most Americans are simply unprepared for.   Insights from today’s episode:  How to build and preserve wealth as the U.S. economy “resets” Why hard assets, not income, are the key to achieving financial independence How the U.S. government plans to “solve” its $38 trillion spending problem Why the financialization of the U.S. has brought a “return to fundamentals” The areas where artificial intelligence will help (and hurt) the American workforce Sign Up for My Newsletter Here:  https://ajosborne.com/newsletter

Could you escape one of America’s toughest neighborhoods to become a self-made millionaire, with the cards stacked against you? Today’s guest is a second-generation American, raised in the streets of Oakland, California—at the time, one of the country’s most dangerous cities. After the traumatic loss of his father, Brian Tran fulfilled his dad’s wish by finishing college, but struggling on a W-2 salary wasn’t in the cards. Fast forward over a decade, Brian owns nine successful businesses and a sizable real estate portfolio, making him a millionaire in the process. This wasn’t supposed to happen—especially not to Brian. But, unlike most people who buy a rental property or two and struggle to reach true financial freedom, Brian did something different. Today, he’s detailing the exact mental map every real estate investor (or business owner) needs to follow before scaling a real estate business. Brian had it put to the test, spending a month in the hospital, all while his businesses paid him out like clockwork. Think you can’t get ahead with today’s interest rates? Think AI will take your job? Feel like your circle is thinking too small? This episode will get you on the path to becoming a self-made millionaire if you follow Brian’s formula.  Insights from today’s episode:  If you can do this for five years, you could be wealthy for the rest of your life The “cheat code” for investing that Brian uses before buying a new business  Why you must run your business (even your rental properties) like a business from the start  Yearly goals? Why Brian says they won’t work and what to try that’s even better  Why you’re so stressed, and the only way you can make it stop affecting your day The #1 actual barrier to success that most Americans are too afraid to hear   — Brian’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mr.briantran/  Brian’s TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mrbriantran?lang=en  Brian’s YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Mr.BrianTran 

The middle class is shrinking, but not for the reason you think. It’s hard to escape the doom-and-gloom narratives: wages are stagnant, the rich are getting richer, and everyday Americans are getting crushed. But when you look at the inflation-adjusted figures, a very different story emerges. For years, we’ve been told that the middle class is collapsing. But it’s not. It’s moving up. Incomes in the U.S. have actually surged over the last 30-40 years. People are getting wealthier, so why doesn’t it feel like it? The reality is that where you live, how you live, and what you owe have a much bigger impact than your tax bracket. Yes, housing has outpaced inflation, but other costs—like college tuition, childcare, and healthcare—have blown past it. A millennial with student debt and less purchasing power feels much poorer than someone in another area of the country—even if they earn the same salary. It’s a tale of two Americas. But there’s an even bigger distinction between millennials who have prospered and those who continue to struggle, and you might have more control over which side you land on after all. Insights from today’s episode:  Why the shrinking middle class actually signals upward income mobility The real reason millennials are divided on lifestyle affordability in the US Why many Americans don’t feel wealthy (despite rising incomes) Why housing affordability isn’t the middle class’s biggest economic challenge Two things you can do today to drastically improve your financial situation — The Wealth System You Were Taught Is a Lie (Here’s the Real One) Sign Up for My Newsletter Here: https://ajosborne.com/newsletter 

The wealthy hate income and actively avoid it. Most people think income is the key to wealth. The more you grow your income, the higher you climb the corporate ladder, the more money you’ll have to save and spend. This couldn’t be more wrong. Income is a silent wealth-killer because you’re losing money before it ever reaches your pocket. Wealth is ownership—not income, but assets that produce income. We’re all taught to earn money, pay our taxes, and either spend or save the rest. But the rich invert this formula by earning, spending, investing, and then paying taxes. It’s not a tax loophole. It’s how the tax code was designed. The system rewards those who play the long game and keep their money in the system. I didn’t learn this overnight. It took years at an old sales job before I realized just how much money I was leaking with every paycheck. Today, I share exactly how I built my wealth by reinvesting, compounding, and strategically deferring taxable events.  More income just brings more taxes, but ownership brings freedom. Insights from today’s episode:  Why the wealthy “hate” income (and what they do with their money instead) How the rich invert the wealth “formula” to delay taxable events Why debt is a powerful tool (not a liability) for building long-term wealth Why the US tax code benefits those who keep their money “in the system” The exact blueprint I followed to 7X my investing returns — My mission is to help everyday people achieve financial independence by teaching the strategies and principles that the wealthy use—but that most people never learn. If you're tired of working hard but not getting ahead financially, you're in the right place. Sign Up for My Newsletter Here: https://ajosborne.com/newsletter  The Self Storage Bubble Bust… https://www.selfstorageincome.com/blog/the-self-storage-bubble-bust 

I have a framework that tells me which investments (and businesses) have the highest odds of succeeding. I’ve used this framework to build multiple $10M+ businesses and own a $100M+ real estate portfolio. I didn’t do this all by luck, and it isn’t because I’m a genius. It’s all because of this simple framework that anyone can use, with any budget, at any stage in their life.   Most businesses fail. Restaurants open, then close a month later. Stocks get sold off and drop to zero. Companies lay off their staff and shut their doors. This is all while other industries, companies, and investments see record profits. They all had a dream, but only some of them succeeded. What’s the secret to knowing which ones will make it?    The 4M Framework.   The 4M Framework has personally helped me invest (and divest) in industries at the exact right times, making the most money possible and growing my wealth to $10M+. I’m finally sharing it, after testing it for over 20 years and seeing incredible results. You can use it, too, no matter how much money you have. I’m breaking down all four stages so you can multiply your money faster and stop getting burned.    Insights from today’s episode:    The 4M Framework: the ultimate way to predict the odds of any investment or business  How I knew exactly when to sell one of my largest investments at precisely the right time  The “shortcut” through the four stages of wealth and what will make you richer faster  How to know whether a business has a “moat” or will get taken down by competitors quickly  Signs that a business or investment is underpriced and has the potential to take off  The one thing that will sink a business, even if it’s poised to succeed  — See My 4M Breakdowns on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ajosborne  Sign Up for My Newsletter Here: https://ajosborne.com/newsletter 

This looks a lot like the Dot-com bubble. Stock prices are hitting record highs, but their valuations are starting to diverge from reality. Americans are scared they’ll miss out on the rise of AI, so they’re pouring cash into the market in record amounts. Meanwhile, price-to-earnings ratios are inching nearer to Dot-com bubble levels.    How close are we to the AI bubble bursting? Is this just another mania, or will AI deliver such strong production and profit increases that this type of stock market becomes the new reality? 90% of investors think the stock market is overpriced…so why is everyone still buying?   I’m sharing my thoughts in today’s episode as we compare the Dot-com bubble in 2000 to the 2025 stock market, which is seeing unprecedented price growth thanks to AI. I’ll admit this isn't the same economic environment as the Dot-com bubble, but the similarities are getting hard to ignore.    Stocks could pull back, as they often do after a massive run-up. The question is: will the AI bubble burst, or is this the new reality?   Insights from today’s episode:    The stock market’s “divergence” from reality and why valuations are growing much faster than profits  The 2000 Dot-com bubble vs. the AI craze of 2024 and 2025  Bubble indicators that are flashing major warning signs, but nobody is paying attention  The almost unbelievable size of US stock valuations, dwarfing other major countries Can this really last if AI provides the performance gains investors are looking for? — AJ Osborne Podcast 29. How AI Could Trigger the Next Great Depression   Sign Up for My Newsletter Here: https://ajosborne.com/newsletter 

This is about to get weird. I’m opening up about something that has only been shared in very private circles. As some of you know, years ago, I was comatose and paralyzed for months, unable to move or communicate, stuck in a hospital bed, with only my thoughts. Deep into my paralysis, strange things began to happen—breakthroughs I didn’t know were possible. Personalities became unlocked, and a part of me I thought had died began to escape.    This led me to what I now call the “meeting of the mind,” a major shift in my life that has not only led me to more success, but greater happiness, a deeper understanding of myself, and the ability to unlock my mind’s full potential. This is something very few people have ever experienced, but today I’m giving you the tools to try this experiment on your own.   This will allow you to unlock all your different personalities, including the one who gives you crystal clear clarity to see things as they truly are. If you were expecting an episode on business building or economic changes, sorry, this isn’t it. But knowing how to have your own “meeting of the mind” will amplify any area of life you want to succeed in.    Insights from today’s episode:  What I saw (and realized) while I was in a coma and paralyzed  How to practice the “meeting of the mind” for yourself and see your true personalities (yes, multiple) “The observer” who creates clarity no matter the situation you’re in  How allowing my personalities to interact made me much more successful  My mental rebirth and the part of AJ who died the day I was paralyzed    Sign Up for My Newsletter Here: https://ajosborne.com/newsletter  

There’s one thing that separates a “good” commercial real estate deal from the rest—and you have complete control over it. Get it right, and your returns are much closer to being locked in. Get it wrong, and you could have a cash-draining property on your hands.  Kevin Bupp, 20+ year investing veteran and mobile home park and parking lot expert, is here to help. He built a massive real estate portfolio from nothing, starting at the young age of 20, lost it all in the 2008 crash, and rebuilt it bigger, better, and (much) safer than before. He’s learned the lessons the hard way, so you don’t have to. In this episode, we’re talking about commercial real estate underwriting, how to separate the “good” deals from the BS, and the most crucial factor that makes or breaks a real estate investment. Kevin is buying multimillion-dollar deals, meaning his margin for error can only be tiny. This is the way he decides whether to buy or move on to the next opportunity.   Insights from today’s episode:  The most crucial factor of a “good” real estate investment that so many got wrong in 2020 - 2022 The best loan to use for commercial real estate investing that can save your deal during bad times  What sets the successful real estate investors apart from the rest (99% of people can’t handle this) How Kevin built his portfolio, lost it all, and rebuilt it better and stronger than before  How to filter out the BS when getting started in real estate investing  — Sunrise Capital Investors: https://sunrisecapitalinvestors.com/fund-4/ Kevin’s Website: https://kevinbupp.com/ Kevin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinbupp/   Sign Up for My Newsletter Here: https://ajosborne.com/newsletter   

Want to start a business and begin working for yourself? This is how you do it. You don’t need to (and actually should not) invent a product or create a new type of service or technology. You can work for yourself simply by doing what you do right now at your job or what you’re interested in. Becoming your own boss enables you to earn more money, live on your own terms, and build something greater than yourself.   This is how to start your own business from scratch, even if you have $0 and are working a full-time job.   My guest isn’t wearing a suit, and he’s not driving a Bentley to work. He doesn’t need to, even though he’s COO of Self Storage Income. George Mortimer became my COO through starting his own web design business after not wanting a boss. Now, he’s running teams and a multimillion-dollar business. George and I know what it’s like to do the grunt work, struggle, and finally succeed at being (often) happily self-employed.   We’ll walk through how you can do it, too: build your own business, become your own boss, and scale up through the business stages (without burning out).   Insights from today’s episode:  How to build your own business (or self-employed income stream) from scratch  Why creating a “job” for yourself is not a bad thing (but it comes with some struggles) The best “business” for anyone to start who’s currently employed  Why big businesses go wrong and how to avoid their massive mistakes  Building the “moat” that makes your business stand out from competitors  Hey, you! DON’T go and invent a thing! Don’t even think about it!     Self Storage Income: https://www.selfstorageincome.com/     Sign Up for My Newsletter Here: https://ajosborne.com/newsletter 

The long-awaited Fed announcement is here. After the recent Fed meeting, where we got more clarity on rate cuts, the economic “cycle” seems to have been just reset. This will have significant consequences for the economy and prime specific industries for a resurgence. If you own any of these assets or work in any of these sectors, you could be riding a new “wave” of wealth for years to come.    After years of economic tightening and high interest rates, stubborn inflation, and American purchasing power shrinking dramatically, the Fed has finally reversed course, heading towards an “easing” cycle. But something more interesting than rate cut news came out of recent Fed meetings—it’s what the Fed didn’t say.   Jerome Powell has switched from familiar verbiage to some new phrasing, priming us that we could be in a much different position than we’ve been in before. This has enormous implications for the next moves the Fed makes, and whether we’ll see interest rates fall even more as a result. Was the Fed too late with this move, with unemployment already rising and job revisions pushing us into an even deeper hole? I’m explaining who will win and who will get left behind in this next cycle.    Insights from today’s episode:  The Fed announcement on rate cuts and what it means for the economy Who will win in this next economic cycle (industries and investments) A big pivot? Why the Fed backed off its 2% inflation goal  Was the Fed too late? Can employment bounce back? What a tightening vs. easing “cycle” means for the average American   — Why U.S. Debt is Everyone’s Problem (Including Yours) - https://youtu.be/DFDZwj64EeQ?si=t6jH1zLvRBn0Wmas  Sign Up for My Newsletter Here: https://ajosborne.com/newsletter 

If you can’t fix this, you’ll never be wealthy. The 99% move like a herd, and the masses scream in fear, duck for cover, and sell in lockstep during every major recession, crash, and recovery. This is why most Americans (or people on Earth, for that matter) will never be wealthy. By letting their fear take over during times of opportunity and their greed override their senses during peaks, the masses buy high, sell low, and remain in the same place. This is avoidable. Anyone can grow wealthy IF they follow the right steps. At some point, I realized that my emotions were controlling too many of my decisions. When I stopped listening to my lizard brain and started operating on a system, everything changed. How did I know to buy so low during the real estate bust in 2008? How did I know my industry was in a bubble before so many others? And why am I back to buying while people are telling me the bottom is yet to come? Keep following the news if you want to remain stuck. Listen to this episode if you want to finally control your financial future.  Insights from today’s episode:  How to stop your emotions from ruining your wealth-building opportunities  The “signal” the wealthy look for that tells them when to buy (and sell) Why allowing yourself to look stupid may be the best decision you ever made My “buy box” formula that controls my investing (not my emotions!) How to capitalize on market confusion and buy when everyone else is too scared to act — AJ Osborne YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@AJOsborneOfficial  Sign Up for My Newsletter Here: https://ajosborne.com/newsletter

AI could trigger a new economic crisis—the next great depression—and most people are ignoring it. I’m not just talking about job loss or automation replacing salaries. There’s a much deeper problem—one that could erode the last remnants of stability in the US economy and government. Is AI taking jobs? Yes. But that’s just one of our worries. “Second-order consequences” are coming fast. Nobody is talking about them. The government, the economy, and everyday US citizens are not prepared. And this isn’t just a US problem. Many developed nations are dealing with a generational shift, massive national debt, and a shrinking workforce. Will AI solve this problem or make it even worse?  I’m sharing my theory on how AI will shift the US economy and you individually, the effects that most people are completely overlooking, and a growing concern that is going to hit the US government head-on. AI could be the solution to many of our problems—it could also be our downfall. Which road will we take? Insights from today’s episode:  The shrinking labor force problem that AI can only superficially solve  How the US government’s debt crisis will ramp up once AI replaces jobs The growing wealth gap that could further widen thanks to AI How to protect your personal wealth when AI is taking high-paying jobs  Could taxing the rich fix any of this—or just make it worse? Why U.S. Debt is Everyone’s Problem (Including Yours) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFDZwj64EeQ&pp=0gcJCcwJAYcqIYzv  Sign Up for My Newsletter Here: https://ajosborne.com/newsletter 

The stock market crashed in March, but now it’s back to all-time highs. You might have sat frozen, waiting for a recovery or a better buying opportunity. Chances are, you didn’t make any moves that made you richer. Was that a mistake? During “trendless” markets like these—where price swings feel random and directionless—most Americans sit on the sidelines. Others, like Adam Koós, one of Investopedia’s Top-100 Most Influential Financial Advisors in the U.S., made money in the peaks, valleys, and in between.    So, how do you invest in chaotic markets where the “trend” seems nonexistent? What’s the investment strategy beginners can use to protect from the crashes and buy on the way back up? If you’re wondering where to invest now, Adam has the answer.   Adam has the technical trading knowledge that 99.9% of investors (and even advisors) lack. His full-time job is identifying trends, capitalizing on them, and moving more money into his all-star roster of investments. He’s sharing his actual investment strategy today (piece-by-piece!)—so you can apply the same principles to your own portfolio. Plus, he even provides his five-year forecast and an optimistic view on interest rates.   Insights from today’s episode:  How to invest even during market chaos, tariffs, wars, and more  Adam’s exact investing strategy to take advantage of any market cycle A five-year economic forecast and a contrarian take on future inflation  How to build a stock portfolio of “playoff teams” that will take YOU to the financial Super Bowl Beginner investments you can make now that protect you during crashes and build wealth during bull runs     Libertas Wealth: https://www.libertaswealth.com/  Elevate and Exit: http://elevateandexit.com/  Connect with Adam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamkoos/  Alphatrends: https://alphatrends.net/  🎙️ Have a story worth sharing? Apply to be a guest on the Self Storage Income or AJ Osborne podcasts: https://form.asana.com/?k=TGU88eU0bFTFW1iHcckuTA&d=1203571084143207 📚 Want the full blueprint? Get my latest book on how to build and scale a successful self storage business: https://a.co/d/aRSKcSq 📉 Ready to invest alongside us? Take advantage of today’s market conditions and grow with our team at Cedar: https://cedar.cc/invest 

For over a decade, as I built my portfolio, I didn’t raise capital from outside investors. Why? I didn’t want to take the risk. Raising capital for real estate is something you cannot afford to get wrong. No one wants to end up in prison because they funded a deal the wrong way. Good news? I’ve got SEC attorney and good friend Mauricio Rauld here to tell you how to do it right. Even better news? AI is about to make it cheaper (and easier) for all of us.    Seriously, why pay a lawyer tens of thousands of dollars to come up with your documents when AI can compile everything for a fraction of the cost? Most lawyers don’t want to hear this, but Mauricio is fully on board. The change is coming, and it’s about to bring huge cost savings to all of us who run businesses or invest in real estate. Plus, accredited investor rules could change soon, making it even easier for average Americans to invest in bigger deals. Will the move actually go through?   If you’re even thinking about raising money, listen to this episode. You could be paying thousands of dollars for what Mauricio is about to tell you. We’re also sharing the best career advice you’ll ever receive, our thoughts on AI’s new lawyer-replacing features, and why the middle class is stuck, getting squeezed while the rich get richer.    Insights from today’s episode:  How to raise capital for real estate (the rules you MUST follow before you do) New AI lawyers that can draft your legal docs for a fraction of the cost  Why you have way more control than you think when raising capital for real estate  Crucial career advice if you feel like you don’t know what your “passion” is Changes to accredited investor rules? Why this could be good for average Americans   — Helpful Articles: https://www.selfstorageincome.com/blog/the-truth-about-real-estate-investing  https://www.selfstorageincome.com/blog/the-secret-investments-of-the-wealthy-1  🎧 Listen to Drunk Real Estate: https://www.drunkrealestateshow.com/ 🔗 Mauricio’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauriciorauld/ 📚 Mauricio’s Coaching: https://coachingwithmauricio.com  🎙️ Have a story worth sharing? Apply to be a guest on the Self Storage Income or AJ Osborne podcasts: https://form.asana.com/?k=TGU88eU0bFTFW1iHcckuTA&d=1203571084143207 📚 Want the full blueprint? Get my latest book on how to build and scale a successful self storage business: https://a.co/d/aRSKcSq 📉 Ready to invest alongside us? Take advantage of today’s market conditions and grow with our team at Cedar: https://cedar.cc/invest 

Sign Up for My Newsletter Here: https://ajosborne.com/newsletter Markets are volatile. Whispers of a recession are getting louder. Some industries—like commercial real estate—are already in recession. This has been one of the most difficult market cycles for business owners and self storage investors to navigate. Want to know how to start a business that thrives in any economic environment? I break it down in today’s episode! We’re coming off arguably the greatest bull market in history. The problem? People start businesses expecting success, which is exactly why they fail. Their systems, models, and contracts aren’t designed for the worst-case scenario. The truth is, if you want to succeed long-term, you can’t build to succeed. You must build to fail. It sounds backwards, but it’s the only way to survive the storms. Make no mistake—you will fail. But how you fail makes all the difference. You don’t need to be fearless, just aware of the risks and prepared for the valleys. In this episode, I show you how to fail the right way—small, fast, and forward! Insights from today’s episode: Why “building to succeed” is a fatal flaw in this economy (and what to do instead)The biggest mistake entrepreneurs make when starting a new businessHow to create “asymmetric failure” that your business can weatherThe number one reason businesses go under during tough market cyclesWhy you must treat every new investment opportunity like a business.   🎙️ Do you have a great story to share on the SSI or AJ Osborne podcasts? You can now apply here! https://form.asana.com/?k=TGU88eU0bFTFW1iHcckuTA&d=1203571084143207 📉 Take advantage of today’s market conditions and invest with us: https://cedar.cc/invest 

This investor makes tens of thousands a month from his “AI vending machine” business. A business so simple a teenager could run it—and make more than most Americans do at their day job. We’re not talking about those old vending machines in the back of bowling alleys selling Cokes for $1.50. We’re talking about an AI vending machine business plan that generates $1,200 to $2,000 per month per machine.    Michael Hoffmann—better known as ‘Mr. Passive’—has been running his vending machine side hustle for over five years. But he’s made a serious business out of it, leveraging his Silicon Valley tech background to perfect the purchasing experience.    A customer simply walks up to your machine, taps their card, grabs what they need, and leaves. You make a massive markup, and the customer gets what they want—fast. Want to know how to repeat it? Michael is sharing exactly how much he makes, how much a machine costs, the profit margins, and a step-by-step plan so you or even your kid can start a vending machine business.   Insights from today’s episode:  How much vending machines make AND how much a vending machine costs The new “AI vending machines” with bigger purchases and better margins A step-by-step business plan for starting your own vending machine business How to scale your vending machine side hustle into a full-time business The best way to teach your kids entrepreneurship? Why AJ is bullish on vending machines for HIS kids    Join the Waitlist for VendHub! - https://www.vendhub.ai/  Learn how to do this yourself and subscribe to Michael’s YouTube Channel! - https://www.youtube.com/@UCCr13sXOZgWCqpPv8WPKhwQ  🎙️ Do you have a great story or advice to share on the AJ Osborne podcast? Apply here! https://form.asana.com/?k=TGU88eU0bFTFW1iHcckuTA&d=1203571084143207 📖 Get AJ's book that teaches you everything he knows about self-storage https://a.co/d/aRSKcSq 📉 Take advantage of today’s market conditions and invest with our company, Cedar Creek Capital: https://cedar.cc/invest 

The parenting playbook is changing. Raising independent children has only gotten harder as family units drift apart, grandparents remain out of the picture, schools fail to teach financial literacy for kids, and overprotective helicopter parenting becomes the new norm. But just because society is heading in one direction, doesn’t mean your family has to as well. We’re proof of that, with four independent, high-achieving children raised by us, not society.    Who is “we”? Today, I brought my better half, Tessa, to the show. Tessa is on the Board of Directors at Innovate Academy, founded the Family Foundations Camp, and is author of the upcoming (hold her to that!) book Parenting in a Petri Dish. Tessa spends all day, every day, thinking about how we can create better futures with our children, not just for them. This “petri dish” parenting is the playbook we use to raise our children to be self-sufficient, financially savvy, and compassionate, caring individuals.   Has the system failed us as parents? You probably already know the answer. So how do we take control of our kids’ cultivation? Simple: practice life skills at home! But how? Today, Tessa and I share what we do to raise children we’re proud of, why daughters and sons need different challenges, and why focusing only on outcomes will fail your child in the long run.    Insights from today’s episode:    The “petri dish” style of parenting that leads to successful (and happy) kids  Call your grandparents! Why older generations MUST be included in your kids’ lives Male vs. female learning patterns and why you should treat your daughters and sons differently  How to “manufacture” challenges in the home that build your kid’s character  Why focusing on outcomes (not skills and habits) is a huge mistake  Family Foundations Camp: https://www.foundationsfamilycamp.com/ Innovate Academy: https://innovatehigh.com/ The Comfort Crisis: https://www.amazon.com/Comfort-Crisis-Embrace-Discomfort-Reclaim/dp/0593138767 

Dan Martell learned how to program at age 17 while in rehab. He traded one addiction for another—starting scalable, successful, profitable software companies. You might know him from his book Buy Back Your Time, where Dan shares the secret to building a business empire that frees you from the chains most solopreneurs and small business owners struggle to break. Today, he’s giving a masterclass on how to do just that.   After scaling multiple top-tier teams, Dan has identified the “cancer” behind a business environment that can erode your company and everything you’ve worked hard for. He gets into his exact strategy for hiring, firing, and promoting people on his team for the best results, and how to compensate others so they deliver their best work and grow your company—while you focus on your highest-value actions.    Maybe you’ve already got a team. How do you keep them on the same page and rowing in the same direction? Dan’s got a simple framework for that—something so clear, your team can move forward even if you’re not around. Dan is an expert in business-building, team management, and hiring. This is crucial advice if you own a business or want to one day.    Insights from today’s episode:    How to build your team for your small (or large) business that can run the ship without you Who you should hire, fire, and promote IMMEDIATELY in your organization  How to hire executives that will multiply your business faster than you ever could  Why you MUST ensure your employees are there for the long haul (and how to reward them to stay) NEVER do profit sharing for an employee…here’s why  — Buy Back Your Time https://www.amazon.com/Buy-Back-Your-Time-Unstuck/dp/059342297X    Dan’s Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/danmartell/?hl=en    Dan’s YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@danmartell/ 

The wealthiest, happiest families in the world use a success “recipe” to raise their children. This leads to happier, healthier, more successful families, while most average Americans struggle to figure out how to teach kids about money. You may be used to fights and tantrums, children refusing to do their chores, and feeling forced to bribe them with allowances, more toys, or screen time. This is the opposite of what America’s wealthiest families do—and today, we’re uncovering their exact success “recipe.”  Scott Donnell has worked with thousands of families, including many of the wealthiest in America. He’s seen households change fast from fragmented parenting and horrible child habits to family-centered success, where everyone, both parents AND children, love to be around each other, learn life skills 99% of Americans are missing, and succeed while remaining deeply connected as a family unit.  How do you do the same with your children, or if you don’t have kids yet, your future family? Scott describes the exact techniques he uses to change family dynamics for the better, and the three “E’s” that make your children work harder, act more grateful, and help your household run more smoothly.  Insights from today’s episode:  What the most successful families in America teach their kids that you don’t Why you need to STOP giving your kids “chores” and “allowances” and what to do instead  What Scott does every single night at dinner to keep his family happy and connected  STOP outsourcing your parenting! Spend less money and more time doing THIS  How to join AJ’s family camp and get your family back on track for happiness, health, and wealth  — Sign Up for Family Foundations Camp 2025: https://www.foundationsfamilycamp.com/  Fig and Eagle: https://figandeagle.com/   Sign Up for My Newsletter Here: https://www.selfstorageincome.com/newsletter?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=ajopod 

I grew a $400 million business from scratch, in a wheelchair, and starting around the Great Recession. Almost everything was against me from the beginning. People told me my business would fail and my assets were worthless; banks laughed us out the door when we asked for funding. Then, suddenly, one day, my business needed to run on its own when I became paralyzed, unable to move, talk, or do anything but blink. So, how did I do it? Today, I’m breaking down my $400 million company, how we make money, what we’re invested in, the teams doing the work, and how you can do the same and build a business that gives YOU ultimate financial freedom. We started this business during tough times, when getting money to fund self storage facilities was almost impossible. I’m sharing the creative way we came up with cash by recycling our capital so we never ran out. Running a multimillion-dollar business is great, but at some point, you will run out of hours in the day. I’ll give you the exact breakdown of how my team runs the businesses for me and why having complete control over your business will stop you from growing, make your life harder, and limit your success. This is a peek behind the curtain of a company most people never get to see—and I’m sharing everything with you in this episode. Insights from today’s episode: How I built a $400 million self storage business with ZERO investing experience to startWhy we’re buying (a lot of) real estate right now (and why we always do in recessions)Getting the funds for your business and my strategy to recycle limited capital How my company runs without me and why you NEED to make sure yours can do the sameThe “smaller” businesses we have that produce over $5 million per year in revenue — Growing Wealth in Self-Storage 2.0 (AJ’s Book!) https://www.selfstorageincome.com/book  🖊️ Enter our survey for a chance to win a signed copy of my Book: https://form.asana.com/?k=da0pR8v74pC8OEgx9dgKRQ&d=1203571084143207  Sign Up for My Newsletter Here: https://www.selfstorageincome.com/newsletter?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=ajopod   

Today, we’re talking about the “T-word”… trauma. Before you click away, this is not a downer episode. If you’ve been through trauma, big or small, you know how hard it is to bounce back. For me, without trauma, I wouldn’t have this podcast, my businesses, my wealth, my financial freedom, or much of the gratitude for life I take with me every single day. The worst months of my life used to define me. Now, they’re much of the reason I’ve succeeded. Eight years ago, out of nowhere, I became paralyzed. My children, who were used to having a strong, stable father, now had a dad who couldn’t move, lying on a hospital bed with tubes running down my throat. I didn’t know if I would ever walk again, hug my children again…or even leave that hospital bed. The pain lasted for months—pain no one should ever have to endure—and still lingers today. I had two options: give up or give whatever I had left in me. I chose the latter. Now, almost a decade later, I’m financially free, own multiple seven-figure businesses, and see life from a different angle. If your trauma is holding you back, keeping you from achieving great things, please hear me out in this episode. You’re not alone—I’m sharing everything that helped me move forward. Insights from today’s episode:  Money and trauma and how you CAN use the worst days of your life to reach financial independence How to be grateful for life when you’re constantly in pain (mentally or physically) Why you MUST start depending on others if you want to succeed and STOP doing everything yourself  Why giving 10% is ENOUGH on days when even waking up seems unbearable  The #1 reason you should invest while you’re young (stop wasting time!)   🎙️ Would you be a good guest for the AJ Osborne or Self Storage Income podcasts? You can now apply here!  https://form.asana.com/?k=TGU88eU0bFTFW1iHcckuTA&d=1203571084143207 Sign Up for My Newsletter Here: https://www.selfstorageincome.com/newsletter?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=ajopod 

The billionaire problem: ultra-wealthy business owners and investors aren’t paying into the tax system. The Warren Buffetts of the world are getting wealthier while average Americans struggle to buy necessities like groceries. So, how do the ultra-rich avoid paying taxes? Would a “billionaire tax” work and finally force the ultra-wealthy to fork over their fair share, or will they merely use their legal loopholes to dodge taxes and make the middle class foot the bill?   “Tax the rich” is, by most means, a misunderstanding at best and ignorance at worst. I want billionaires to pay more, as they should, but is that possible with the current tax system? What happens if we start taxing billionaires on their unrealized gains? Could this finally solve the government’s tax revenue problem or bankrupt the entire system?   I will explain, in depth, how the rich avoid paying taxes, the consequences of a “billionaire tax,” how much it would benefit the United States, and the EXACT strategies billionaires use to avoid taxes that you can copy.   Insights from today’s episode:    How billionaires avoid paying taxes by sheltering their wealth in assets  The effect a “billionaire tax” would have on the United States (very surprising) The one tactic Warren Buffett uses to make tax-free income while dodging Uncle Sam Why both Democrats and Republicans fuel billionaire wealth and hurt average Americans The money-printing machine that is widening the wealth divide and will financially burden our children  — The 2025 “Worst Case" Scenario That Could Begin the US Downfall - https://youtu.be/igSJlA0FBJM?si=Dhcx80ocicPK7_J-    Warren Buffett's Secret Strategy -  https://youtu.be/LS5VApAADPg 

What is “fractional general counsel,” and why was not having it one of the biggest business mistakes I ever made? Whether you’re a startup, a self storage operator, or a growing small business, you rarely think about “legal.” You know that big companies will happily pay hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars a year to protect their products and services, but you dismiss it because you’re not “big enough” for that yet.   This is a massive mistake, and it potentially cost me hundreds of millions of dollars.   Big businesses use their legal counsel to “bury” their competition—it’s all part of their strategy, and until recently, little guys couldn’t access this type of legal network.   That’s why we brought on Jeff Holman, who helps startups and scaling businesses access the right expertise from the right attorney at the right time with his “fractional” legal team. This means even small businesses and new startups can AFFORD to make the same strategic moves as powerful market players for a fraction of the cost of hiring a dozen attorneys.    This is a game-changer for small businesses and startups, and if you think you’re not ready for it, think again. This episode will show you the dangers of not having legal counsel and the massive opportunities of using a “fractional” team.   Insights from today’s episode:   How the big businesses use legal tactics to “bury” their smaller competitors  Why NOT hiring legal counsel was a mistake that slowed down my business dramatically  The legal “strategy” ANY small business can use to compete in their market  Is an on-staff attorney a waste of money? The better option for startup and small business legal needs — Americans vs. Institutions: Why We’ve Had Enough - https://youtu.be/3uOIL6KJbJM?si=KINpdF5nalpPGtL4     Jeff’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/holman/    Book a Strategy Call with Jeff’s Team - https://www.intellectualstrategies.com/strategy-call/book-a-call 

2025 could mark the beginning of the downfall of the United States—and this isn't just clickbait or a catchy intro. The impending economic crisis facing the US economy isn't straightforward; it involves complex factors that could escalate rapidly into a full-blown economic crash with long-lasting implications for you, your money, your business, and the entirety of the United States.  This isn’t just about Trump or tariffs. Both political sides will suffer, and both are to blame.  In this episode, I’m going in-depth on the complicated economic conditions developing for 2025, exploring how government actions and unprecedented debt levels set the stage for severe financial instability. Interest payments could soon surpass every other federal expense, becoming the largest single item in the US budget. What happens when we can’t foot the bill? Is a recession coming?  This will directly impact you, and not knowing what’s coming could cost you dearly. Don’t get hit by surprise; this economic “nightmare” scenario is coming, and it's arriving sooner than you think.  Insights from today’s episode:  The inescapable “nightmare” scenario coming for the US economy in 2025 Why Trump may be trying to drive us into a recession on purpose  The $10T ticking time bomb that could explode the United States  Weaponizing tariffs and using them to sink other countries’ economies  Why the next Great Depression is closer than many Americans think  — Join AJ’s Newsletter - https://www.selfstorageincome.com/newsletter  Why U.S. Debt is Everyone’s Problem (Including Yours) - https://youtu.be/DFDZwj64EeQ?si=cqZGGLljtP-2gCJw  This is What Will Cause the Next Great Depression (2030) w/ Economist Lauren Saidel-Baker (ep14) - https://youtu.be/ClzKRxxDERE?si=aFyrGrkPo2VJc9_r 

What if everything you thought about money and making money was wrong? For centuries, most people have been fed a series of money lies, preventing them from building wealth or escaping poverty. When recessions and economic depressions happen, those believing these lies get wiped out, forcing them to restart while the rich take advantage. To break free from this, I’m sharing three crucial money “truths” the rich know but the poor don’t. Once I describe these truths, I will show you exactly how to take advantage of the value-creating assets that can make you massively wealthy. This is how I built my wealth, and I’ve seen hundreds of others repeat the same process. But where are these assets most primed to make you rich? One KEY data point highlights tremendous opportunities (and exactly where to find them). So many people believe they’re forever stuck in a position they don’t want to be in. As soon as you embrace these money truths, you can begin to escape, ascend the social ladder, and build long-lasting wealth for you and your family. Do NOT believe the money lies. Insights from today’s episode:  Three money “truths” that the wealthy know but the poor do not The economic “pie” lie and how to create value (and money) out of nothing  Why you should NOT be perpetually sitting on cash, even if it makes you feel rich  Key signs of “value” that point to colossal investing opportunities How debt can destroy you and make you rich, and when to use it  Sign Up for My Newsletter Here: https://www.selfstorageincome.com/newsletter?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=ajopod 

How do you build a billion-dollar company? Knowing the “four stages” of business growth will help you not only get to your first million or hundred million but also a billion-dollar business valuation.  Maybe you don’t want to build a massive, billion-dollar business. That’s fine! You can use the initial stages to build multimillion-dollar wealth, just like I did. I’m currently on track to reach billion-dollar status with my companies, starting from nothing, now at $400 million, and within a few years, hopefully, a billion dollars. I’ve followed the formula I’m sharing in this episode to go from small to big business and, hopefully, billion-dollar business. These four stages are crucial for any entrepreneur or business owner. These will help you grow to the next level and even tell you when your business should STOP growing so you don’t get so big that you fail.  I’ve spent decades figuring out these business stages. Take my lessons, learn from me, and build your business faster (and better) than I did!  Insights from today’s episode:  How to build a billion-dollar business and go from solopreneur to ten-figure company  Why testing your market fit is crucial for any business before you scale (or risk failure) The true “cost” of business growth and why you must be prepared to pay it or see your business die Why NOBODY cares how good YOU think your business is, and the one opinion that matters  Building your “business model” so you can scale and avoid entrepreneur burnout  When to start hiring and how to know taking a pay cut (or profit cut) will be worth it 

The next great depression is coming faster than many of us realize, but this time, it won’t be because of the stock market, the real estate market, bad banking practices, or anything we’ve seen before. Instead, the government will be the one to drive us into a depression, and only those who are watching the economic signs will see it coming. If you’re reading this right now, you’re one of the lucky ones, and we’ll explain why. Lauren Saidel-Baker, economist at ITR Economics, has been growing concerned about where our economy is headed. We money-printed our way out of what should have been a recession and continued to do so whenever the economy began to feel even slightly weak. But what’s coming over the next five years is almost inevitable. Even the new Trump administration, with its talks of budget slashing and cost saving, might not even dent the growing forces pushing us into the unavoidable. In today’s show, Lauren explains in detail why her firm is predicting a 2030 depression, what will cause it, whether we can avoid it, and what the economy will look like leading up to it. There’s good news, though, both in the long and short term, but you’ll need to be prepared to take advantage of the enormous opportunities to come. Insights from today’s episode:  Why Lauren believes we could be headed into a great depression in 2030 The tremendous investing opportunities you must prepare for over the next five years Home price and interest rate predictions and whether we’ll ever hit three percent rates again The government’s growing debt and whether lowering rates could help us pay it off The unemployment squeeze hurting employers and causing labor costs to rise  Inflation forecasts and why we may not be out of the woods yet  — ITR Economics: https://itreconomics.com/  ITR Economics YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@itreconomics  Apply here to be a guest on AJ's podcast! https://form.asana.com/?k=TGU88eU0bFTFW1iHcckuTA&d=1203571084143207 

Most people have the wrong idea about entrepreneurship and how to grow a small business. The average Shark Tank viewer thinks you need the next innovative idea and a boatload of venture capital to become a successful small business owner, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Looking to start your own business in 2025? You won’t want to miss this episode!  Today, we’re chatting with Brian Hamilton, a lifelong entrepreneur and philanthropist who has founded, grown, and sold several multimillion-dollar tech companies over the last thirty-plus years. Currently, he’s the chairman of Inmates to Entrepreneurs, a nonprofit organization that equips people with the knowledge, tools, and resources to go out and build their own profitable businesses from scratch. And in this episode, he’s going to show YOU how to do the same!  And guess what? You don’t need to wait for an inventive idea to fall in your lap, pour thousands of dollars into your new endeavor, or cripple your fledgling business by bringing venture capitalists on board. If you have grit and gratitude, you have everything you need to start the type of business Brian is talking about today! Insights from today’s episode:  How to build a successful business from scratch (with low money!) The tried-and-true, low-cost businesses YOU can start today The venture capital “trap” entrepreneurs should avoid when starting out “Downward pressure” and other threats to business owners in 2025 Why grit and gratitude are the entrepreneur’s secret weapons — Inmates to Entrepreneurs https://inmatestoentrepreneurs.org/ LiveSwitch https://www.liveswitch.io/   

This is precisely how to build wealth in 2025. Most people (mistakenly) believe that they just need to work “hard” enough to become wealthy—this isn’t the truth. In fact, this will prolong your journey to financial freedom and millionaire status. After going from digging ditches for extra money to becoming the leader of multiple seven-, eight-, and nine-figure businesses, I’ve learned that there’s a simple framework to building wealth.  Today, I’m sharing this three-stage wealth-creating framework with you, plus how to skip over the second stage so you can build wealth even faster. This isn’t rocket science, and anyone who has the ability to leverage their time and resources correctly can become a millionaire and achieve their wildest financial dreams (I’m living proof of this). As we enter a new economic cycle, this will be even more important to understand, so get this right! Plus, I’m outlining what I did wrong (and right) in 2024 and the most challenging lessons I learned that I’m taking into 2025 to build my businesses even bigger. I’m giving you all my hard-earned knowledge for free in hopes that you can learn a little faster than I did.   Insights from today’s episode:  How to build wealth in 2025 (even if you’re coming from nothing) The new economic “cycle” and why we’re excited about this fundamental shift  The three “stages” of wealth creation and how to skip from stage one to stage three How the rich use their “resources” to massively multiply their wealth  The biggest business lessons I learned from 2024 and how to use them in your life — AJ Osborne Podcast Episode 7 - How I Acquired a Failing Business and Tripled Sales in Weeks - https://www.ajosborne.com/podcasts/aj-osborne-podcast/episodes/2148890193 

Are interest rates really going to fall in 2025? Could DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) actually clean up the federal government? Will tariffs cause more harm to the US than we think? One of the most qualified people to address these issues is former US Chief Market Intelligence Officer Andrew Busch. And he’s got a lot to share about the future in today’s episode. Andrew worked under the Trump administration from 2017 to 2019. He’s also been an economic advisor during the McCain US Presidential Campaign, now running his own firm performing economic and policy research. He’s one of the most experienced economists we’ve ever had the chance to talk to, and we talk about a lot.   We’re discussing everything from the Fed’s big mistake to the developing “power crisis” that could massively impact data centers and manufacturing. We touch on Trump’s proposed tariffs, their effects on our trade partners, and why you should not listen to the news when they give interest rate predictions. Plus, how will commercial real estate fare over the next few years? Things could be looking optimistic!    Insights from today’s episode:  The Fed’s colossal interest rate mistake and whether or not they’re making up for it Why Americans are fed up with the federal government and whether DOGE could change things Good news for commercial real estate and why we should see improvements soon Trump’s 2025 plan: trade, taxes, tariffs, and other massive changes to the government  The looming energy crisis and the surprising advantage the US holds over the rest of the world Andrew’s Website: https://andrewbusch.com/ Andrew’s Book, “World Event Trading”: https://www.amazon.com/World-Event-Trading-Analyze-Headlines/dp/0470106778  American Action Forum: https://www.americanactionforum.org/     

How does “smart money” always seem to be ahead of the curve? The world’s most prominent investors, like Warren Buffett, are slowly selling off their assets and moving their positions into cash. Do they know something that we don’t? What are they preparing for in 2025? And is this next economic cycle going to help or hurt average investors? Instead of speculating, M.C. Laubscher, alternative wealth strategist and founder of Cashflow Ninja, will teach you how to think like the wealthy. M.C. has noticed more of the “smart money” moving their assets into cash—but why? As with any market cycle, you can make money in the peaks and the valleys, so does now signal a great time to get out of your investments? Not necessarily. I’m talking to M.C. about what drives these economic cycles so you can use the same strategies as the ultra-rich to build your wealth in ANY market conditions. M.C. shares what to pay attention to in this cycle, what to do with your cash when waiting on the sidelines, and why the wealthy aren’t scared but are “preparing” for what’s about to come.    Insights from today’s episode:  Why “smart money” is selling off their assets (slowly) and moving into cash Understanding economic cycles and how to make money at the top and the bottom Economic “wild cards” that investors MUST be aware of, especially in 2025  Artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, and whether or not we’re at the peak  How freezing during market volatility will cost you in the long run Can anyone actually time the market?    Cashflow Ninja: https://cashflowninja.com/  Get Wealthy for Sure: https://producerswealth.mykajabi.com/get-wealthy-for-sure  ShadowStats: https://www.shadowstats.com/  Truflation: https://truflation.com/

Do you have the makeup of a serial entrepreneur or successful real estate investor? If you’re looking to time the market and make a quick buck, probably not. But if you’re willing to sacrifice, help others, and play the long game, you might just have what it takes, in which case this episode is for you! Mike and Bo are business partners who have bought over 200 commercial real estate properties and built more than a few dozen businesses from the ground up. Today, I’m talking to them about real estate, self-storage, partnerships, and their many ventures across the last thirty-five years. What has led to their enormous success? They’ve failed. They’ve been broke. But despite all types of challenges and hardships, they’ve stayed true to the “fundamentals” of business. By eliminating ego and greed, prioritizing the customer’s needs, and reinvesting their profits back into their portfolio, Mike and Bo have built a nine-figure empire that most aspiring entrepreneurs only dream of attaining. If you’re just getting into real estate, starting a business, or trying to scale, you CAN’T miss this one. Insights from today’s episode: What Mike and Bo did to build a nine-figure business portfolio from zero Unlocking scalability and opportunity through the power of partnerships Why you DON’T need an exit strategy for your business or property The one investment every person should buy for long-term passive income Why building buy-and-hold businesses always beats “timing the market” The special ability that will allow you to overcome ANY entrepreneurial hardship — Mike and Bo’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikeandbo/ Text: (928) 605-4335 🎙️ Do you have a great story to share on the AJ Osborne podcasts? Apply here! https://form.asana.com/?k=TGU88eU0bFTFW1iHcckuTA&d=1203571084143207

In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the massive red wave from last night’s election and what it means for investors, business owners, and anyone paying attention to the economy. We’ve got one party in control of the House, Senate, and White House, and this shift is going to impact everything from inflation and interest rates to government spending and market growth. I’ll explain why the Democrats’ campaign didn’t resonate with voters, what policies we might see from the new administration, and where the biggest opportunities and risks lie in this changing landscape. Whether you’re in real estate, investing, or just want to understand how to adapt to the new environment, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Tune in and let’s talk strategy.  

In this episode, I’m opening up about my political views for the first time and discussing how U.S. policies shape wealth building, personal finance, and investment strategy. I’ll cover everything from the effects of inflation on generational wealth to the economic divides between states like California and Texas. My goal is to give you a clear look at the economic realities that impact anyone focused on growing wealth, whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, or just trying to make informed financial decisions. Here’s what I’ll be diving into: Why federal vs. state policies matter for investors How inflation affects wealth differently across generations Key differences in landlord and business costs between California and Texas Practical advice on finding growth opportunities in today’s financial landscape I hope you’ll find these insights useful as you navigate the complexities of the current economy and make your own financial decisions. Sources: - Map Comparisons, kinda fun: http://thetruesize.com/     - 4 year change in state wide home prices: https://x.com/ResidentialClub/status/1792269117379989994    - Adult Milestones: https://jbrec.com/research/us-demographics-insights-and-strategies/   - Men are struggling https://www.profgalloway.com/boys-to-men/   -Young Men's Days: https://x.com/profgalloway/status/1684927631806857216/photo/1    - Marital Status and Politics: https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/beltway-confidential/3103191/vance-versus-the-single-woke-females/   - Partisan Gap Between men and Women: https://viviachen.substack.com/p/gen-z-gender-wars-dei-for-white-nationalists     -Voters by Income: https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2024/04/09/partisanship-by-family-income-home-ownership-union-membership-and-veteran-status/    -Wall Street Journal Article: Millennials Wealthier than Baby Boomers? https://www.wsj.com/personal-finance/millennials-personal-finance-real-estate-50742ffe?utm_campaign=feed&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=later-linkinbio Links: 🎙️ Apply here to be on the AJ Osborne podcast. https://form.asana.com/?k=TGU88eU0bFTFW1iHcckuTA&d=1203571084143207 📉 Take advantage of today’s market conditions and invest with us: https://cedar.cc/invest

Disclaimer: This video contains discussions about hunting and the hunting industry, we understand this may not be suitable for all viewers. In this episode, I dive into how I acquired a struggling business in the hunting industry and managed to triple its sales within weeks. With decades of entrepreneurial experience, I share why I believed this acquisition was a great opportunity, despite the company’s mismanagement and debt issues. We discuss: Identifying business potential beyond the numbers. How trust and aligned incentives are key to a successful partnership. The difference between gross margin and net margin and why it matters. Why growth is essential for business survival. I also break down the strategies we used to eliminate barriers to growth and offer insights into my process for structuring deals that create long-term success. If you're interested in learning more, sign up for my newsletter, where I share detailed financials and deeper analysis. Listen in to hear the story behind this acquisition, my partnership approach, and lessons learned over years of buying and growing businesses. Sign up for my newsletter HERE https://www.selfstorageincome.com/start-podcast  Links for my new business! www.velvetantlertechnologies.com  https://www.youtube.com/@velvetantlertechnologies  https://www.instagram.com/velvetantlertechnologies/  Apply here to be a guest on the AJ Osborne podcast! https://form.asana.com/?k=TGU88eU0bFTFW1iHcckuTA&d=1203571084143207 

Real estate investors and entrepreneurs: if you pay attention to what today’s guest explains, your wealth, revenue, and successful decision-making will explode. This is something I’ve personally found evidence of while running multiple businesses, and even though it seems simple, it can have profound effects on everything you do. If you get this right, your business will reach new heights, and you’ll have a crystal clear vision of what to do next. Today, I’m talking to Sharad Mehta, the founder of real estate technology company REsimpli. You might be surprised to find out that Sharad built this tech company with zero experience in coding and NO tech background. He was a house flipper with over seven hundred fix and flips under his belt, so how did he grow a software company to such heights without having previous experience? Simple: data-driven decision-making. It’s the secret sauce behind Sharad’s astounding success, and today, he’s sharing how it’ll take your business to a whole new level. If you have the right data and know which direction you want to go, you can make the best, evidence-based decisions that’ll take the guesswork out of entrepreneurship and leave you with a lot more money.  Insights from today’s episode:  How real estate tech and data can make you a FAR more successful investor  The data-driven decisions that ANY entrepreneur can make to succeed far faster (and more often!) How Sharad build a real estate tech company from scratch with zero coding experience  Why being “passive” in your real estate business will cost you severely  How to figure out which marketing channels have the highest ROI (so you can double down!) Three pieces of advice every entrepreneur should follow to become more successful — Email Sharad: [email protected] 

For years, I thought every American should be investing. After all, it’s the American dream to work hard, build wealth, own property, and lead your family to financial prosperity. But I’ve changed my tune after recent events, probably for good. I no longer think most Americans can handle the pressure of owning businesses, real estate, or an extensive investment portfolio. So, my question to you is, can you handle what it takes to build something great? Over the last few weeks, I’ve seen a “war” on Twitter break out against general partners and real estate operators, with passive investors attacking them for providing sub-optimal returns. Did these general partners do anything wrong, or were they merely acting to defend the asset that provides their investor’s returns? This made me think, “Am I next?” In this episode, I’m taking time to break down my investing philosophy and explain why my mind has changed about everyday Americans investing. Make no mistake: You CAN build substantial wealth investing in real estate, especially in 2024. But if you’re not ready to take your fair share of bumps, bruises, and scrapes along the way, you might as well just get out now. Insights from today’s episode:  The latest Twitter “war” against investors and why everyone is up in arms  Who should (and definitely should NOT) be investing in 2024  The opportunities that you can take advantage of NOW that most Americans ignore Why the middle class is struggling in today’s economy, and why most won’t build wealth  Millennials’ profound misunderstanding of how markets and investing work  What to do now if you want to get ahead of the masses and the danger you must be prepared to face 

After another 80-hour workweek and realizing his kids’ lives were passing him by, Spencer Hilligoss knew he needed to start making passive income. The problem? His time was chained to his tech job’s high pay and long hours. Spencer loved what he did, but the job took away more than he was comfortable with. He hadn’t seen his young son in weeks, and it was eating away at him. He made a plan that wouldn’t be easy to accomplish: build an $8,000/month passive income stream. He gave himself over a decade to achieve it. Thankfully, it took less than half the time. Now, Spencer is a full-time passive investor and real estate syndicator, helping others who want to regain their time freedom invest so their money can go further. In today’s episode, Spencer shares his story of leaving a thirteen-year career to venture out into the unknown, regaining his time and investing in truly passive income, and why you DON’T actually want to retire (you really want something else). And if you’re interested in passive investing, stick around. Spencer and AJ talk through the CRUCIAL questions you MUST ask before investing in a real estate syndication and how to tell who you’re investing with will pull through on the returns they’re promising you.    Insights from today’s episode:  How to make enough passive income that you can replace your salary and live the way you want Crucial questions to ask any syndicator BEFORE you invest a cent into their deals Why financial literacy is essential to building wealth, and why even most adults don’t have this The retirement lie you’re telling yourself and why you don’t really want to vacation forever How to start building your financial moat even if you’re a busy professional Defining your why and how to know whether greed or purpose is driving you — Invest with Spencer

Will the US dollar be replaced? Could we be on the cusp of de-dollarization as more and more countries search for reserve currency alternatives? Is America’s spot as the number one economy in the world up for grabs? Emmanuel Daniel, entrepreneur, advisor, founder of The Asian Banker, and author of The Great Transition, is on the show to discuss the future of the US economy and the global currency battle. The US has been the reigning economic world superpower for much of our lives. But slowly, other countries have begun to realize that reliance on the US dollar isn’t always a good thing. The question is: Can they find a viable replacement? Many look to China’s (mostly) strong economy as the answer, but will their pro-manufacturing stance put them in an economic trap? And with the US struggling with homelessness, political unrest, and more, what happens next? We’ll get into it all in this episode, plus touch on an actual alternative to the US dollar, why the US’s current turmoil DOESN’T guarantee a decline, and why bringing manufacturing back to the States could create problems most Americans haven’t considered. What you’ll learn in today’s show: De-dollarization and whether or not the US dollar can be replaced as the world’s reserve currency  China’s colossal manufacturing mistake that has trapped its economy  The true value of digital currencies and whether the digital dollar will become the norm One often overlooked issue with bringing manufacturing back to the US  The crisis of leadership in the US and what MUST change for our country to succeed  — The Great Transition Emmanuel’s Website Emmanuel’s YouTube 

Nick Lavery, Green Beret and Army Special Forces member, has been shot, blown up, and beaten down. After an insider attack in Afghanistan left him without a leg, Nick wasn’t supposed to return to the Army. He’s had over thirty surgeries, lived with excruciating pain, and had his physical power taken from him. But now, he’s back, and he’s had to adapt, swearing to make those who took from him “regret not killing me.”  You’re going through a challenge in your life, too, just like Nick. Business problems, personal problems, physical problems—no matter what you’re dealing with, Nick has advice to share. After pushing through pain that would kill most people and coming back stronger, Nick is now an expert in growing during the most demanding times. Whatever happens in your life, the skills and mindset Nick shares in today’s episode will prove priceless to you in the future. Nick dives into how he motivates himself to accomplish the impossible, why choosing your “hard” will help you push through even the toughest walls, the “catalyst” that changed his entire mindset during recovery, and the moves every parent can make to develop a mentally tough, successful child. Insights from today’s episode:  Nick’s unbelievable journey from bullied kid to a US Army Green Beret  Turning your anger into motivation to accomplish what most think is impossible Knowing your “why” and why not having one causes so many people to fail Choosing the “hard” in your life and why you CANNOT escape pain, but you can become stronger  The power of humility and why putting others before yourself leads to greatness  Running towards failure, and why those too scared to try will always fail  Work with Nick

We’re on the cusp of the biggest investment opportunity since the 2008 crash. Investors are fleeing from real estate, scared of its apparent risk, but in a couple of years, they’ll be the same investors wishing they had bought NOW. And this isn’t just theory. We’ve been buying deals at MASSIVE discounts that could make us unprecedented returns over the next few years. The question is, will you take advantage of this opportunity, or will you stay on the sidelines and wish you had made moves? Welcome to the AJ Osborne Podcast. Twice a month, I’ll sit down with guests or fly solo to share incredible stories, give my take on today’s economy, and show you how to build wealth the right way. Today, I’m uncovering my real estate portfolio, walking through each investment, and sharing how it’s doing and what has the most opportunity. I’ll also give you my exact 2024 plan that I’m using to make SERIOUS wealth-building moves while most investors are stuck in analysis paralysis. Whether you’re a self storage investor, a business owner, or starting from ZERO, today’s episode could help slingshot your wealth to levels you’ve never even imagined. But you need to act fast; we only have a limited window of opportunity before the masses realize what’s happening. What you’ll learn in today’s show: The 2008-level investment opportunity that I’m taking FULL advantage of this year My 2024 investment plan and everything I’m doing in my business to catapult my wealth  Why so many real estate investors are too scared to invest and why this is a huge mistake Walking through my entire investment portfolio, from self storage to businesses and more Why you should NOT wait until interest rates fall to invest (it will cost you) When is the time to save and when is the time to spend (and which cycle we’re in now) — Growing Wealth in Self-Storage 2.0 Hear Our Interview with Tenant Inc. CEO, Lance Watkins

Real estate is a touchy subject: tenants and landlords don't like each other. Tenants believe they are subservient to them, and landlords believe they SHOULD be. Or are the perceptions of each side drastically different than the reality? In addition, why is our school system so flawed, that most people aren't taught about the best way to make a living? Not everyone is made for the 9-5 lifestyle. And this is a narrative Steve Trang is passionate about changing it.  What if you don't want to be a landlord, and still want financial freedom?  Check out Steve's podcast: https://realestatedisruptors.com/  Take advantage of today's market conditions with our investing firm: https://cedar.cc/invest  Find this podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SavingCapitalism Get more free resources here: https://ajosborne.com/

Cybersecurity is highly technical. You and I probably would not be able to understand a lot of the terms or systems or coding behind it. But revolutionary improvements come from the practical application of technology. So, how do we leverage the tech available to us in our own personal and professional lives? Is it truly the next step for modern businesses? In this episode, we bring on Darren Gallop, CEO & co-founder of Carbide, a company specializing in Information Security. His insight into the new communication age - particularly with the advent of AI - addresses how everyday security and privacy best practices are often difficult for the average human to make sense of. Security & privacy are simple ideas, but in practice, they are intensely complex. And businesses today can have very stubborn or "set in their ways" type of leadership. "No, it's my way, or the highway." But that often alienates the employees involved. 0:00 The Cybersecurity Business 26:34 AI & Cybersecurity Check out Dareen & his company Carbide: https://carbidesecure.com/  Take advantage of today's market conditions with our investing firm: https://cedar.cc/invest  Find this podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SavingCapitalism Get more free resources here: https://ajosborne.com/

Avery and her husband had a great idea one day to purchase a home and to rent it out, in hopes that one day, they will be able to help fund their kids' education with the income. They didn't even know this was known as "Real Estate Investing." At the time, there was no such thing as podcasts or courses to talk about this.  This idea then morphed into AirBNBs and short-term rentals, and she has been doing it for over a decade. But this asset class has changed dramatically over that time. States are changing laws and imposing regulations, all while the competition is increasing. With all the noise about short-term rentals lately, is it still worth investing in?  Stay tuned! Follow Avery on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theshorttermshop/?hl=en  Take advantage of today's market conditions with our investing firm: https://cedar.cc/invest  Find this podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SavingCapitalism Get more free resources here: https://ajosborne.com/

Real estate investing has two forms: active and passive. Passive is what most people think of when you say real estate investing, where you buy an asset, and it generates some sort of cashflow for you. Active investing takes this and applies the principles of business, including scale, value-add, management, and more. Today's guest, John Klingelhoets, began investing in real estate a decade ago. But during this process, he found it very beneficial to send letters - direct mail - to help him find more deals. Eventually, the deals started coming in, his friends wanted letters just like his, and it became a direct mail business. If you think of real estate as not just an asset, but also a business, you can take advantage of a powerful aspect of capitalism: Business-to-Business sales, or known as B2B. But of course, if the businesses provided services to each other are YOUR businesses, there's much more opportunity to expand into multiple niches at once.  So, how can you leverage the power of B2B to grow your real estate portfolio? And can direct mail play a role into it? Find out in this week's episode!  Learn more about John and Robot Ink here: https://www.robotinkmarketing.com/  Take advantage of today's market conditions with our investing firm: https://cedar.cc/invest  Find this podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SavingCapitalism Get more free resources here: https://ajosborne.com/

Can luck dictate one's success in business? Absolutely. But looking at another's success or luck does not mean that you lose something in exchange. Luck is something I fully believe can be CREATED. For example, when I was paralyzed and stuck in a hospital bed, many may say - how is that lucky? That seems like terrible luck. But looking back today, I feel grateful for this experience. It's shaped my new life, my mission, and my day to day. I was stripped away of any self-pride or self-consciousness. This enabled me to take to new heights in my life and business. This podcast is just one of the new beginnings. I would never trade this experience. It was SO valuable...in hindsight. Looking back, I had a choice: I could give up, or I could use it to my advantage.  When you are faced with overwhelming odds or extremely bad luck, what choice will YOU make?  Take advantage of today's market conditions with our investing firm: https://cedar.cc/invest  Find this podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SavingCapitalism Get more free resources here: https://ajosborne.com/