The Richer Geek

Today's episode is different. This marks the final episode of The Richer Geek Podcast. After seven incredible years, Mike is signing off to focus fully on his growing business and new hotel investments in Spain. Thank you for listening, supporting, and being part of the journey. Mike remains active on LinkedIn and looks forward to staying connected there. Resources from Mike and Nichole Check out our latest project here: Barcelona Hotel Fund LinkedIn | Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

Happy New Year and welcome back to another episode of The Richer Geek Podcast. Today, we are joined by Janna Scott, founder of DeFi Tax, to talk about one of the biggest risks crypto investors face today: inaccurate tax reporting. Janna explains why most crypto tax software is unreliable, how IRS audits really work, and what happens when reported numbers don't match blockchain data. She shares how her research exposed major gaps in the system and why both individuals and businesses need audit-ready crypto records. In this episode, we chat about… The Software Variance Problem: Janna tested 14 different crypto tax products and found that every single one gave a different outcome, with variances ranging from 30% to 120%. IRS Audit Pause: After meeting with Janna and reviewing her research, the IRS admitted their data collection methods were wrong and temporarily stopped crypto audits in 2023. The $146 Billion Tax Gap: The IRS has missed out on an estimated $146 billion in tax collection, leading to a new wave of audits with no statute of limitations if they consider the errors to be tax evasion. Risk of Data Manipulation: Many popular crypto products allow users to manually change transaction dates and fees, a feature that can immediately disqualify a report from being used in an official IRS audit. Exchange Terms of Service: One major exchange responded to Janna's findings by updating its terms of service to block class-action lawsuits and make users solely responsible for data errors. Key Takeaways: Most crypto tax software is not accurate or audit-safe Blockchain data must be pulled directly to ensure correct reporting The IRS can penalize taxpayers even if they tried to report correctly Crypto audits can go back years with interest and penalties compounding Audit defense matters just as much as tax calculation CPAs and accountants often cannot defend crypto audits without proper tools Preparing now can prevent massive financial damage later Resources from Janna LinkedIn | DeFi Tax Resources from Mike and Nichole Check out our latest project here: Barcelona Hotel Fund LinkedIn | Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

Welcome back to another episode of The Richer Geek Podcast. It's the last day of 2025, a perfect time to reflect on what worked, what didn't, and what needs to change. Today, we're joined by Pete Neubig, CEO of VPM Solutions, to talk about building virtual teams that actually support growth. If you're planning to hire your first virtual team or scale smarter in 2026, this episode is for you. In this episode, we chat about… Pete's journey from a 20-year employee to building and selling a property management company How virtual team members evolved from simple task roles to leadership positions The real cost difference between US-based hires and global remote talent When entrepreneurs should stop doing everything themselves and start hiring How VPM Solutions helps business owners hire, train, and manage remote teams The difference between direct hire remote workers and agency-managed VAs Why structure, KPIs, and clear job roles matter more than location Key Takeaways: You don't need to be "ready" to hire, stress and overload are already signs Remote team members can own full roles, not just small tasks Clear job descriptions and KPIs reduce hiring mistakes Virtual talent is often college-educated, bilingual, and career-focused Hiring globally allows you to scale faster without killing your cash flow Training and management are required even with great people The right systems help founders work on the business, not just in it Resources from Pete LinkedIn | Email | vpmsolutions.com Resources from Mike and Nichole Check out our latest project here: Barcelona Hotel Fund LinkedIn | Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

Happy Holidays and welcome back to another episode of The Richer Geek Podcast! Today, we are joined by Rod Khleif, a multifamily real estate investor, best-selling author, and host of a top 1% business podcast with over 20 million downloads. Rod shares his journey from growing up with very little, to losing $50M during the 2008 crash, and rebuilding a stronger, purpose-driven real estate business. This episode focuses on mindset, taking action despite fear, and why real estate continues to create opportunity during uncertain markets. If you tend to overanalyze or feel stuck waiting for the "right time," this conversation is for you. In this episode, we chat about… The real reason most first-time investors stay stuck in analysis paralysis Why mindset and psychology matter more than technical knowledge How fear, regret, and limiting beliefs stop people from taking action Why real estate is still full of opportunity during economic uncertainty The importance of partnerships between analytical and relationship-driven investors How gratitude and giving back became a core part of Rod's success Why surrounding yourself with the right peer group changes everything Key Takeaways: Fear regret more than failure. Most people don't fail because they tried—they fail because they never started. Mindset drives results. Success is mostly psychological, not technical. Play to your strengths. Partner, hire, or align for your weaknesses. Real estate is a team sport. There are many roles beyond finding deals. Economic shifts create opportunity. The best deals often appear when others hesitate. Gratitude changes everything. It strengthens resilience and fuels long-term success. Resources from Rod LinkedIn | rodslinks.com | The Lifetime CashFlow Through Real Estate Investing Podcast Resources from Mike and Nichole Check out our latest project here: Barcelona Hotel Fund LinkedIn | Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

Welcome back to another episode of The Richer Geek Podcast. Today we are joined by Fuquan Bilal, a seasoned real estate entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience building wealth through multifamily and luxury real estate investments. As the CEO and Founder of NNG Capital Fund, Fuquan shares how creative strategies, strong investor communication, and community impact drive long-term success. We talk about market cycles, investor trust, and what it really takes to raise capital the right way. This episode is packed with practical insights for investors and operators at every stage. In this episode, we chat about… Fuquan's journey into real estate and revitalizing underserved communities Lessons learned from the 2008 financial crisis and COVID market shifts Why mindset matters just as much as property renovations How to build trust with investors through consistent communication Understanding different investor goals: cash flow vs. long-term equity Scaling from early deals to raising over $50M in real estate capital Inside look at NNG Capital Fund's Opportunity and Mezz Funds Key Takeaways: Cash flow and proper leverage matter more than hype during market shifts Community impact creates stronger, more sustainable real estate returns Investor communication should be consistent, honest, and ongoing Your network plays a major role in capital raising and deal growth Different investors need different strategies, there's no one-size-fits-all Long-term success comes from relationships, not transactions Resources from Fuquan LinkedIn | NNG Capital Fund | NNG Capital Fund Podcast Resources from Mike and Nichole Check out our latest project here: Barcelona Hotel Fund LinkedIn | Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

Welcome back to another episode of The Richer Geek Podcast. Today we are joined by Chris Hervochon, CPA, CVA, a numbers-driven advisor who helps growth-minded entrepreneurs make smarter financial decisions. Chris shares how good accounting goes far beyond tax season, why advisory-based CPAs can save you tens of thousands, and the real difference between bookkeeping, controllers, and fractional CFOs. He also breaks down how to prepare your business for a future sale and the hidden risks most founders never check. If you're ready to run your business like the asset it should be, this episode will help you get there. In this episode, we chat about… Chris shares how his career went from accounting to pro golf and eventually to running his own CPA firm. He explains why traditional CPAs focus on volume and often can't offer real advisory or proactive support. Breakdown of the differences between bookkeeping, controllers, and fractional CFOs. Discussion on how upcoming tax law changes may impact business owners in the next few months. Chris talks about what makes a business valuable and how owners can reduce risk to increase that value. Key Takeaways: A strategic CPA gives advice year-round, not just during tax season. Growing businesses need consistent check-ins, quarterly at minimum, monthly if possible. Your finance function should stay within 1–3% of your revenue to stay effective. Entity structure and tax planning are major sources of missed savings for entrepreneurs. Buyers pay for stable, low-risk cash flow, not a business that depends on the owner. Resources from Chris LinkedIn | Better Numbers Resources from Mike and Nichole Check out our latest project here: Barcelona Hotel Fund LinkedIn | Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

Welcome back to another episode of The Richer Geek Podcast, today we are joined by Christina Suter, a seasoned real estate investor, advisor, and educator. Christina shares her journey, starting with inheriting a paid-off house at 17, and explains why she views real estate as a vehicle for location, time, and choice freedom, not just money. Tune in as she discusses her shift from appreciation plays in California to high cash flow strategies like room shares , and how her "Live A Rich Life" coaching helps people find meaning and purpose beyond just achieving financial independence. In this episode, we chat about… The "Why" for Investing: Christina's core motivation for investing is to be a mom, allowing her time freedom. Investing Start: She began investing at 17 when she inherited the family's paid-off $200,000 house in LA. Money vs. Purpose: Achieving financial freedom in her thirties left her unhappy; she realized money brings freedom, but a sense of purpose brings peace. Shift from California: Christina moved her focus out of high-appreciation California due to poor cash flow and difficult tenant's rights laws. High-Return Strategy: She shifted from Airbnb to room shares, a strategy that can generate over $5,000 a month, or double the income of a long-term rental, on a $300,000 investment. Key Takeaways: Money gives freedom, but mindset is what brings peace. If you don't choose your direction, life chooses it for you. Cash flow and appreciation serve different stages of your financial plan. Room shares can outperform long-term and mid-term rentals in the right markets. Your "why" must be deeper than money, the money comes from living your purpose. Resources from Christina LinkedIn | christinasuter.com | Email | Contact number: (310) 463-5942 Resources from Mike and Nichole Check out our latest project here: Barcelona Hotel Fund LinkedIn | Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

Welcome back to another episode of The Richer Geek Podcast. Today, we are joined by Daanish Azim, who built a $60K/month Airbnb business without owning a single property. He lost everything in 2022, took a chance on one rental unit, and turned it into a small empire. Now he teaches others how to do the same through Airbnb arbitrage. In this episode, we chat about… What Airbnb arbitrage is and how it works Why getting property owners' permission matters How to check city rules and avoid issues with regulations Funding the business using 0% business credit cards What today's Airbnb market requires: staging, photos, pricing, and systems Why some people need coaching and others don't Key Takeaways: You don't need to own real estate to start an Airbnb business Local rules matter, always check city regulations and HOAs Most units need proper staging and pro-level photos to stand out You can fund furniture using 0% business credit cards instead of cash Owners want three things: rent on time, low stress, and legal use Many beginners fail not from lack of information but lack of guidance Focusing on one business for at least a year builds real results Resources from Daanish Instagram | BNB Cashflow Resources from Mike and Nichole Check out our latest project here: Barcelona Hotel Fund LinkedIn | Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

Welcome back to another episode of The Richer Geek Podcast. Today we are joined by Jon Ostenson, one of the top 1% Franchise Consultants in the U.S., respected author, investor, and leading voice in the world of non-food franchising. Jon breaks down how everyday professionals, corporate leaders, and real estate investors can use franchising to build wealth, diversify income, and create long-term stability even without quitting their day job. In this episode, we chat about… Jon's career path from corporate leadership to franchise president and top franchise consultant Why non-food franchising offers lower risk, better margins, and more stability than trendy food brands How Jon helps clients filter through 600+ franchise options to find the best fit for their market and goals The truth about "semi-passive" franchise ownership and what it actually requires Why real estate investors and professionals looking for diversification are a natural fit for franchising Key Takeaways: Avoid Chasing Trends: Focus on non-trendy, understandable, cash-flowing service-based businesses like insulation, dumpsters, senior care, or pet grooming , as people will continue to spend on these regardless of the economy. Franchising is a "One-Stop Shop" Discovery Process: Working with a franchise broker like Jon is entirely free , and they help filter through the "noise" by identifying top opportunities based on the strength of the franchise leadership, financial models, and competitive advantages. Protect Your Area: Franchise brands protect owners, either through a protected radius for customer-facing retail or a defined territory (e.g., 250,000 population) for service-based businesses. Starting a Franchise vs. Buying an Existing One: It's generally easier to start a new franchise because the most successful existing units often sell internally to other franchisees , and buying an existing non-franchise business comes with the risk of key staff/customers leaving after the sale. Be Clear on Your Role: Understand the commitment level required. While many non-food franchises allow for an executive/semi-absentee model , Jon advises that "passive" is a misnomer, and you must be prepared to lean in if the manager isn't great. Resources from Jon LinkedIn | FranBridge Consulting | Download your FREE book: 'Non-Food Franchising' Resources from Mike and Nichole Check out our latest project here: Barcelona Hotel Fund LinkedIn | Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

Welcome back to another episode of The Richer Geek Podcast! This week, as we honor Veterans Day, today's guest brings both service and purpose to the mic. Joshua Brooks, founder of Exponential Advisors and an Army Reserve Chaplain, combines military discipline, faith, and forward-thinking tech to help families and organizations build real financial freedom. Joshua shares how he's blending AI, blockchain, and Bitcoin into modern financial planning, why he believes everyone should take a second look at Bitcoin, and how faith and integrity shape his work. From overcoming PTSD to leading with purpose and even dropping a freestyle rap, this episode proves that money, meaning, and innovation can go hand in hand. In this episode, we chat about… Joshua's journey from Army Infantry Soldier to Chaplain to Financial Advisor Exponential Advisors serves primarily Army veterans, busy parents, and Christian leaders, blending faith, values, and innovation The case for Bitcoin as a once-in-a-generation innovation How AI tools are transforming the way advisors and investors make decisions Joshua's Ayahuasca retreat in Peru and its impact on mental health and family life What discipline and integrity mean in business and money management An unexpected freestyle rap about tech, wealth, and freedom Key Takeaways: Bitcoin isn't hype, it's a historic innovation worth understanding. AI can amplify human decision-making, not replace it. Faith and finance can align to create deeper purpose and sustainability. Healing leads to better leadership, mental clarity drives financial clarity. Character and credibility are the real currency in business. Veterans' discipline and resilience mirror the mindset needed to thrive in investing and entrepreneurship. Resources from Joshua LinkedIn | Exponential Advisors | Exponential Purpose Newsletter Books mentioned: Human Compatible by Stuart Russell | In Our Own Image by George Zarkadakis Resources from Mike and Nichole LinkedIn | Gateway Private Equity Group | Barcelona Hotel Fund | Nic's guide

Welcome back to another episode of The Richer Geek Podcast. Today we are joined by Richard Wilson, CEO of Family Office Club, the largest investor community for ultra-wealthy families with over 7,500+ members and 16+ in-person events every year. Richard has spent 18 years studying how the richest entrepreneurs protect and grow wealth, building a global social network of 17M+ followers and interviewing billionaires to decode what truly moves the needle. In this episode, we chat about… What the ultra-wealthy are actually investing in right now Why investors are moving away from "spray and pray" diversification The rise of Bitcoin and collateral-backed deals Avoiding crowded, boring, and mediocre capital raises How mindset shifts as you level up net worth Why investors want to know you personally, not as a number The power of proximity and joining the right rooms Family Office myths vs. reality (fewer Rolex flexes than you think) Simple tools that make raising capital faster and more credible Key Takeaways: Trust beats hype. Today's capital wants security, clarity, and in-person relationships. Don't diversify blindly. Smart wealth plays offense where they know the game well. Alignment matters. Investors gravitate to founders with shared industry expertise. Materials make you investable. One-liner. One-pager. One-minute pitch video. Environment is everything. The right room can accelerate opportunity overnight. Be uniquely valuable. Say what no one else can say, that's how deals get attention. Resources from Richard LinkedIn | Family Office Club | Billionaires.com (interviews & billionaire book lists) Centimillionaire Strategies YouTube channel Resources from Mike and Nichole LinkedIn | Gateway Private Equity Group | Barcelona Hotel Fund | Nic's guide

Welcome back to another episode of The Richer Geek Podcast! Today, Mike and Nichole break down how U.S. investors can tap into Spain's booming tourism market, including opportunities to buy historic boutique hotels and castles at surprisingly accessible prices. If you've ever dreamed of owning a cash-flowing property you can also vacation in… this one's for you. In this episode, we chat about… Why Spain beats the U.S. in current hotel economics The hidden world of affordable castles and estates The challenges of buying overseas (and how to solve them) How the fund model protects investors Turning investments into bucket-list experiences Key Takeaways: International hotels can outperform U.S. assets in today's high-rate market Spain's boutique hotel space is undervalued and gaining major tourism traction Local experts are crucial for navigating regulations & renovations A fund approach gives flexibility when competition scoops up deals Lifestyle investments create stronger community and long-term retention Refinancing later unlocks investor capital while keeping the property Yes…you can vacation at the castle you invested in (CPA-approved trip) Resources from Mike and Nichole LinkedIn | Gateway Private Equity Group | Barcelona Hotel Fund | Nic's guide

Welcome back to another episode of The Richer Geek Podcast. Today we are joined by Brad Johnson, Co-founder and Chief Investment Officer of Vintage Capital. Brad shares how mobile home park investing is quietly outperforming traditional real estate. He breaks down why this niche is attracting serious investors, the powerful tax advantages that come with it, and how it helps solve America's growing affordable housing problem all while delivering steady, long-term returns. In this episode, we chat about… Brad's journey from small rental properties to managing $3B+ in real estate deals Why mobile home parks deliver high yield and low default rates The five classes of mobile home parks and where the best opportunities are How bonus depreciation and cost segregation boost investor returns Smart due diligence tips when buying mobile home parks Why Brad shifted from operator to allocator and what that means for investors How investing in affordable housing creates both profit and purpose Key Takeaways: Mobile home parks are an underrated, recession-resistant real estate play. The stigma keeps competition low and returns strong. Tax incentives can offset a major portion of taxable income. Long-term ownership builds wealth faster than quick flips. Reliable local partners make or break success in this space. You can invest in affordable housing and still achieve strong financial growth. Resources from Brad LinkedIn | Email | Vintage Capital Resources from Mike and Nichole Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

Can trees really grow your wealth? In this episode, Mike talks with John Brenard, Founder and Managing Director of Southview Timberland Investments, about how timberland and farmland offer strong returns, steady cash flow, and natural inflation protection. John explains why this overlooked asset class is gaining traction with investors who want something real, stable, and sustainable. In this episode, we chat about… From Wealth Management to Timberland: How John turned a family land purchase into a thriving investment strategy. Why Timberland Works: A proven inflation hedge that's uncorrelated to the stock market. The Power of the Southeast: Why this region now leads global timber production. More Than Just Trees: Multiple income streams from harvesting, farmland leasing, and recreational use. Sustainable by Nature: How responsible forestry adds both environmental and financial value. Investor Access: How Southview's five-year fund makes timberland investing accessible through Schwab. Tariffs and Opportunity: How U.S. trade policies are fueling domestic timber growth. Key Takeaways: Timberland is a true alternative asset, it's uncorrelated to traditional markets and historically stable. The Southeast U.S. is now the global timber powerhouse, offering strong mill infrastructure and high demand. Investors can access institutional-quality deals through Southview without the massive minimums of traditional TIMOs. Timberland offers multiple income channels, from harvest revenue to farmland and recreational leases. Sustainability drives returns, good forestry practices directly increase land value and resale potential. Southview's fund model is transparent and investor-friendly, offering regular reporting, on-site visits, and digital onboarding. New trade and tariff policies are strengthening American timber markets, creating additional upside for domestic investors. Resources from John LinkedIn | Southview Timberland Investments | Email Resources from Mike and Nichole Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

In this week's episode of The Richer Geek Podcast, Mike and Nichole sit down for a quick but insightful chat about their first hotel investment, a deal they almost passed on. They share how a mismanaged Arizona property turned into a 3X return and what it taught them about timing, partnerships, and spotting value where others don't look. In this episode, we chat about… How Mike transitioned from multifamily to hotels Meeting Vic and forming a strong investment partnership Finding opportunity in a mismanaged Arizona hotel Why location and local "drivers" matter more than luxury The strategy behind selling at the right time Key Takeaways: Don't ignore unglamorous deals, they often perform best Location + economic drivers = hotel success The right partner can make or break your investment Manage smart, not flashy, focus on fundamentals Timing your exit can multiply your returns Learn through partnerships before going solo Resources from Mike and Nichole Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

What if your family's greatest stories could live on like a Netflix documentary? In this episode of The Richer Geek, today we are joined by filmmaker and storyteller Chance McClain, founder of Heritage Films. With over 800 documentaries produced, Chance has made it his mission to capture family histories, founders' journeys, and life legacies in cinematic style. From Army veteran to Broadway musicals to award-nominated filmmaking, Chance shares how storytelling preserves values across generations and why every story, big or small, matters. In this episode, we chat about… How Chance transitioned from Army service and radio to founding Heritage Films. The story behind the very first Heritage Film and how it sparked a movement in legacy storytelling. Why businesses and family farms are "characters" in founder films. Surprising, real-life stories captured on film from WWII heroes to architects with secret pasts. The evolution of filmmaking technology, from VHS tapes to drones and iPhones. The emotional impact of preserving legacies and how families actually use and rewatch these films. Why talking to older generations unlocks wisdom, humor, and life lessons we often overlook. Key Takeaways: Everyone has a story worth telling: whether you're a founder, veteran, or grandparent, your life holds lessons for future generations. Technology makes legacy preservation possible: from high-end Sony cameras to simple iPhones, storytelling tools are more accessible than ever. Hard work, grit, and values outlast success stories: the true legacy isn't just the narrative, it's the wisdom passed down. Stories change how we see people we thought we knew: a "regular" grandparent may have lived an extraordinary life. Businesses and land carry their own legacies: a company or farm often becomes a living character in family films. Connection matters more than production: while high-quality films are stunning, the heart lies in authentic conversations and memories preserved. Resources from Chance LinkedIn | Heritage Films | farmandranchfilms.com Resources from Mike and Nichole Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

Welcome back to another episode of The Richer Geek Podcast! Today our guest is David Flores Wilson, founder of Sincerus Advisory and named an Investopedia Top 100 Financial Advisor. He helps entrepreneurs, tech professionals, and business owners maximize wealth, optimize equity compensation, and exit businesses the smart way. In this episode, David breaks down tax-saving strategies, the power of donor-advised funds, how to use real estate for wealth building, and why exit planning should start on day one, not the day you're ready to sell. If you want to keep more of what you earn and create a lasting financial plan, this conversation is a must-listen. In this episode, we chat about… How David's early experiences with family businesses shaped his career in financial planning. Why entrepreneurs need a different approach to financial planning than traditional employees. Strategies for deferring taxes and leveraging state residency for long-term savings. Understanding Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) and how it can save millions in taxes. The role of charitable giving strategies (like DAFs and charitable buyouts) in wealth preservation. Why exit planning should start when you form your business, not when you're ready to sell. How to balance wealth-building in real estate vs. stocks based on personal skills and opportunities. The emotional and identity shifts entrepreneurs face when selling a business. Key Takeaways: Entrepreneurs often need customized financial planning because most of their wealth is tied to their business. Tax deferral strategies can provide huge advantages, especially when combined with residency planning. QSBS can exempt up to $10 million in capital gains if structured correctly, an often-overlooked opportunity. Charitable giving can be structured to maximize both impact and tax benefits (e.g., bunching, DAFs, charitable redemptions). Real estate offers unique tax advantages but requires clear strategy and sometimes specialized partners. Exit planning isn't just about money, it's about legacy, lifestyle, and identity after the sale. Resources from David LinkedIn | Sincerus Advisory | Blog: Planning to Wealth Resources from Mike and Nichole Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

Patrick Grimes, CEO of Passive Investing Mastery and internationally bestselling author, shares how accredited investors can diversify like the ultra-wealthy. In this episode, Patrick explains why litigation funding, rare earth metals, and other alternative investments can protect your wealth, create passive income, and thrive during any economic cycle. In this episode, we chat about… Patrick's shift from robotics engineering to building wealth through real estate and alternative assets Why litigation finance is a powerful, non-correlated investment strategy How accredited investors can access opportunities usually reserved for hedge funds and institutions The role of AI and automation in scaling real estate and investment operations Lessons from losing everything in 2009 and why proper diversification matters more than chasing returns The future of alternative investing: rare earth metals, strategic commodities, and commercial acquisitions Key Takeaways: Don't wait for a downturn, true security comes from diversified, recession-resilient assets. Non-correlated investments (like litigation finance or healthcare-related industries) provide stability beyond real estate and stocks. Tax efficiency is important, but it shouldn't drive your entire portfolio strategy. AI is transforming operations in property management and deal sourcing, freeing time for higher-value decisions. Scaling requires partnering and outsourcing, trying to do it all yourself limits growth. The wealthy build portfolios with balanced allocations, not by betting everything on one asset class. Resources from Patrick LinkedIn | Website | Get Patrick's bestselling book (free copy for listeners) The Alternative Investment Almanac by Denis Shapiro | The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss Resources from Mike and Nichole Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

Curiosity can change the way we lead, work, and grow. In this episode of The Richer Geek, operations professional and entrepreneur Jon Bassford shares how curiosity shaped his career and why it's the key to building stronger teams, smarter businesses, and better results. In this episode, we chat about… How Jon went from law school to operations leadership. What it means to be a curious leader. The three shifts leaders need: mindset, operations, and culture. Google's study on psychological safety and why it matters. Stories from Steve Jobs and Jeff Bezos that show the impact of curiosity. Why founders should hire outside their strengths instead of trying to do it all. How curiosity shows up in both business and co-parenting. Key Takeaways: Curiosity helps leaders move past habits and try new approaches. A culture of curiosity starts with making people feel safe to speak up. Leaders need to ask questions and not settle for "this is how it's done." Founders often waste time by hiring in their strengths instead of their gaps. Delegating low-value tasks saves energy for the work that matters most. Curiosity is not just for business, it can also improve family and personal life. Resources from Jon LinkedIn | jonbassford.com | Lateral Solutions Grab your free chapter of The Curious Leader by texting "chapter" to 33777 Resources from Mike and Nichole Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide

What does it take to retire at 44 without winning the lottery or inheriting wealth? In this episode, we are joined by Tony Lopes, CEO of Dirty Boots Capital, real estate professional, best-selling author, coach, and speaker. Tony shares how his immigrant roots, engineering background, and calculated risks in real estate allowed him to achieve financial independence and how you can apply the same principles to your own journey. In this episode, we chat about… Tony's journey from mechanical engineer to full-time investor and entrepreneur The wake-up call that shifted his mindset after being laid off at 28 Why keeping a W-2 job at first can be a powerful tool for real estate investors How to leverage 401(k) funds wisely to build your investment portfolio The psychological barriers (fear, resistance, conditioning) that hold people back from starting Tony's "swim lane" in multifamily real estate and why he focuses there The role of networking and coaching in finding opportunities and accelerating growth Building not just wealth, but a legacy for future generations Key Takeaways: Financial independence starts with understanding your expenses and creating enough cash flow to cover them. A W-2 paycheck can be an advantage, banks value stability when you're just starting out. Don't reinvent the wheel, model the success of others who've done what you want to do. The biggest hurdle is often mindset, not money, overcoming fear and resistance is critical. Networking opens unexpected doors; opportunities often come from simply sharing your goals. Legacy matters: investing in real estate can provide stability and opportunity for future generations. Retiring early isn't about quitting life, it's about having freedom to live on your terms. Resources from Tony LinkedIn | Dirty Boots Capital | www.thriftbooks.com Books recommended: The ONE Thing | The War Of Art Resources from Mike and Nichole Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide