What Actually Happens When You Lend Money on House Flips with Matt Strong

Have you ever wondered what actually happens when you lend money for real estate flips? In this episode, Russ and Joey sit down with Matt Strong from Sierra West Funding to talk about the ins and outs of lending money on house flips. Matt shares his approach to mitigating risk and ensuring that his investors’ money is safe. He explores the three factors to successful private lending and the consequences of chasing higher returns. Matt also highlights how experience in flipping properties helps him evaluate the true value of a deal and the borrower’s ability to execute.

How to minimize risk and protect your investment when lending money on house flips

How to evaluate a good deal

What to do when things go wrong

Matt Strong

Matt Strong is the owner of Sierra West Funding, which provides quick funding for short-term real estate projects, typically fix-and-flip or other single-family investments. He got his start in real estate in 2004 by actively buying and selling his own properties and has purchased and resold over 425 single-family homes in Utah. Matt is also an active buy-and-hold investor, real estate broker, and loan officer.

The Untold Story of Alex and Leila Hormozi

What does it really take to build a $100M empire? In this episode, Russ and Joey sit down with Alex and Leila Hormozi to dive into their untold story. Before they were household names, before they built a $100M empire, they were just like many of us– struggling, learning, and figuring things out. Alex shares how he pivoted from a successful consulting career to opening gyms, eventually leading to the launch of their multimillion-dollar business ventures. Leila, who started in fitness sales and personal training, reveals how she joined Alex in entrepreneurship and helped scale their ventures together.

The real struggles behind the success

The power of taking risks

The importance of mentorship and belief

The Exit Strategy Most $1M–$2M Business Owners Get Wrong with Tom Shipley

Many business owners making $1–$2 million annually feel financially secure, but when it comes time to sell, they realize their business isn't worth enough to retire on. In this episode, Tom Shipley joins Russ and Joey to talk about the exit strategy most $1–$2M business owners get wrong. He explains why two-thirds of businesses in this range fail to sell, and how to avoid the “valley of despair” where owners find themselves stuck in an endless cycle.

Why $1–$2M business owners struggle to retire on the sale of their business

How to prepare your business for a successful exit

The power of acquisitions in business growth and exit strategies

Tom Shipley

Tom Shipley is a serial entrepreneur and investor who focuses on building "optional exits" for $3M-$50M+ businesses, allowing owners to sell on their own terms or continue growing. Tom's emphasis is on leveraging acquisitions for growth and creating valuable, self-sustaining systems rather than just optimizing for a quick sale.

How Much Do You Need To Start The Infinite Banking Concept?

Today, Russ and Joey answer the question: How much do you need to start the Infinite Banking Concept? It’s a natural question after hearing about this powerful financial tool. But there’s a bigger picture here. The real question isn’t about the minimum you can contribute, because let’s be honest, when have you ever gotten maximum results by doing the bare minimum? The key is in understanding the long-term benefits of starting early and putting your money to work in a place that gives you access and control.

How the Infinite Banking Concept works

Why starting early is more important than the minimum amount

How to use Infinite Banking to secure passive income and financial freedom faster

Once You Sell, It’s Too Late: The 1031 Exchange Mistakes Investors Regret Most with Scott Saunders

If you're selling property without understanding the full benefits of a 1031 exchange, you might be setting a huge chunk of your investment on fire. In this episode, Scott Saunders joins Russ and Joey to discuss the critical mistakes investors make when selling properties and how they can affect your wealth. Scott, a 1031 exchange expert, shares his decades of experience in navigating this often-overlooked tax-saving strategy. He explains the real cost of not using a 1031 exchange, with taxes potentially eating up 30–50% of your property’s equity. But it’s not just about avoiding taxes. It’s about smart, strategic investing.

How to avoid tax losses when selling a property

The key mistakes investors make in 1031 exchanges

How to leverage 1031 exchanges for portfolio growth

Scott Saunders

Scott Saunders has an extensive background in IRC 1031 tax-deferred exchanges, having been involved in structuring thousands of 1031 exchanges during his 34 years in the exchange industry. He dedicates a significant portion of his time to presenting classes and podcasts on intermediate and advanced 1031 exchange strategies.

Why Use Whole Life Insurance for Infinite Banking vs IUL or VUL

Is whole life insurance the right choice for your financial future? In this episode, Russ and Joey break down why whole life insurance is the ideal choice for infinite banking compared to Indexed Universal Life (IUL) or Variable Universal Life (VUL), both of which have gained attention in recent years. Nelson Nash, the founder of IBC, believed that whole life insurance provides the most reliable and predictable returns, as opposed to the volatility and limitations of IUL and VUL policies.

Why whole life insurance is the best choice for infinite banking

The risks of using IUL and VUL for infinite banking

How to build long-term wealth with whole life insurance

5 Semi-Passive Income Opportunities That Don’t Require Full-Time Effort

Are you looking for ways to earn money without working full-time? In this episode, Russ and Joey are breaking down 5 semi-passive income opportunities that require minimal time commitment but can still provide consistent cash flow. They discuss each opportunity, outlining the startup costs, how much time is involved, and what you can realistically expect in terms of profits. While these businesses aren’t “get rich quick” schemes, they offer a smart way to start building passive income streams that can eventually replace your day job. Whether you’re new to passive income or an experienced investor, this episode will give you the tools to start earning with minimal hands-on effort. Learn how to start small and scale up your semi-passive income while maintaining your current lifestyle. Top three things you will learn: How to generate cash flow with minimal time commitment The costs and time commitment of semi-passive businesses How to scale and maintain semi-passive income streams February 2026 Income At-A-Glance: Gross Income for February: $98,420.00 Total Expenses for February: $47,701.00 Total Net Profit for February: $50,719.00 Difference b/t January & February: $9,626.00 % of net profit to overall gross revenue: 51%

How The Infinite Banking Concept Works

What if you could take control of your cash flow and build wealth without relying on traditional banks? Today, Russ and Joey answer the question, “How does the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC) actually work?" They break down the mechanics behind IBC and why it’s such a powerful tool for investors. Russ and Joey introduce the core idea that financial freedom is not about how much money you have, but how much cash flow you control. They walk through why most people struggle to build wealth—not due to lack of income, but because they lack access to capital—and how IBC solves this problem by giving investors more control over their money.

The 4-step system behind IBC (store, leverage, deploy, return)

Why access to cash is the real key to financial freedom

How to turn active income into a repeatable passive income system

Why Vacation Markets Are Killing Your Cash Flow (And What to Buy Instead) with Kirby Atwell

Many investors flock to popular vacation spots, but today's discussion highlights how these markets can hurt long-term passive income. In this episode, Kirby Atwell joins Russ and Joey to share insights into why vacation markets might be undermining your cash flow and what smarter investments you should focus on instead. Kirby explains the "1% rule" for vacation rentals and why small multi-unit properties are a better option for high nightly rates and stability. Learn how to choose the right areas that deliver consistent returns without the volatility of mainstream vacation spots.

Why vacation markets can lead to inconsistent cash flow

The benefits of investing in small multi-unit properties for short-term rentals

How to identify smarter investment opportunities for more reliable returns

Kirby Atwell

Kirby Atwell served 11 years on active duty in the U.S. military. In 2011, he left the service, and while working on his MBA, he started his first real estate investment company, focused on buying distressed properties, renovating, and selling them. While working in this first business that required constant hustle, Kirby realized there was a better way to achieve success without sacrificing everything else.

Is Infinite Banking Legit? (Why So Many People Hate It)

Is infinite banking legit? Today, Russ and Joey dive deep into the controversial yet powerful financial strategy known as infinite banking. They break down why so many people are skeptical of this approach, which uses life insurance policies to build cash value and create passive income. While many critics view whole life insurance as a bad investment, Russ and Joey argue that the real issue lies in how the system is used, not the concept itself. The hosts share their personal experiences with infinite banking, explaining how they’ve used this strategy to build a significant passive income stream and how it helps provide financial freedom. They explore why banks and large corporations use life insurance policies as part of their wealth-building strategies and how it can be a game-changer for investors seeking to leverage their cash in ways traditional methods can’t.

Why infinite banking is misunderstood and why it’s not just about life insurance

How serious investors use life insurance to build passive income and wealth

The difference between borrowing from life insurance policies and traditional loans

The Commercial STR Playbook: Turning Old Buildings into High-Profit Experiences with Andrew Llewellyn

What if you could turn underused properties into luxury destinations, attracting large groups and generating significant income? In this episode, Russ and Joey sit down with Andrew Llewellyn to explore an innovative approach to short-term rentals (STR). Andrew has taken a unique route by turning old commercial buildings into high-profit STR experiences. Instead of focusing on individual units, Andrew targets large groups for milestone events like corporate retreats or celebration weekends. By offering experience-based stays for these guests, Andrew has built a thriving hospitality business with a distinct advantage over traditional STR models.

How to turn old commercial properties into profitable short-term rentals for large groups

The benefits of combining lodging with local experiences

Key lessons in financing and marketing a commercial STR business for high-profit returns

Andrew Llewellyn

Andrew Llewellyn stands out in the hospitality industry. He brings over a decade of hands-on business experience and four years in the short-term rental sector, combining deep industry knowledge with practical insights. Andrew's success stems from identifying an underserved market, innovative property management, and a strong focus on guest experiences, setting Super Stays apart in the competitive short-term rental market.

Round Table | Why Making More Money Isn’t Fixing Your Burnout

Many people believe that earning more money will eventually eliminate stress, solve financial pressure, and create the freedom they’ve been chasing. But for many high-income earners, the opposite happens. The bigger the income becomes, the heavier the responsibilities feel, and the harder it becomes to slow down. In today's discussion, the financial coaches explore why financial success doesn’t always translate into real freedom. They unpack the hidden traps that keep successful professionals feeling overwhelmed. The conversation also highlights a critical mindset shift: moving from accumulation to cash flow. And the coaches explain what you need to do to find clarity, motivation, and a tangible path toward financial freedom.

Why earning more money often increases stress instead of creating freedom

How lifestyle creep and responsibility traps keep high earners stuck

Why shifting from accumulation to cash flow is the key to escaping burnout

How to Teach Teenagers About Money, Business, and Passive Income

What if you could teach your teenagers to build passive income before they even finish high school? In this episode, Russ and Joey dive into the powerful lessons they’re teaching their kids about money, business, and passive income. As parents and entrepreneurs, they reflect on how ownership, communication, leverage, and numbers are essential skills that can help kids create financial independence at a young age. They share their journey of teaching their daughters about the vending machine business—a model that’s providing passive income without requiring hours of labor. With an initial investment of just $3,500 per machine, the girls are now generating $200–$300 per month per unit, with plans to scale. Russ and Joey break down five core principles they’ve used to instill a mindset of ownership and entrepreneurship. Tune in for insights on how to help your teens build wealth and make smarter financial decisions. Top three things you will learn: How to teach teens about money and business through hands-on experiences The importance of ownership, communication, and leverage in building wealth at a young age How understanding numbers, preparing for success, and using AI tools can enhance kids' financial literacy January 2026 Income At-A-Glance: Gross Income for January: $63,616.00 Total Expenses for January: $22,524.00 Total Net Profit for January: $41,093.00 Difference b/t December & January: $5,860.45 % of net profit to overall gross revenue: 64%

Round Table | How to Make Confident Money Decisions Without Stress

You don’t lack opportunity. You lack clarity. And that confusion is costing you more than any bad investment ever could. Most people don’t make bad money decisions because they’re reckless. They make them because they’re unclear. In this episode, the financial coaches break down how to make confident money decisions without stress, even in a world full of noise, fear, and financial experts. They unpack why not knowing your true monthly expenses creates anxiety, how common “money traps” like 401(k)s and aggressive debt paydowns can stall progress, and why access to cash is often more important than rate of return. The conversation dives into the psychology of fear, especially the ego-driven fear of making mistakes, and how that fear keeps people stuck in inaction.

The hidden money traps that increase stress and limit financial progress

Why fear of being wrong keeps smart people from taking action

How small, consistent investing reps build real confidence over time

Don’t File Your 2026 Taxes Until You Watch This (Cost Segregation for 2025 Buyers) with Gian Pazzia

Are you a real estate investor? If so, don’t miss out on potential tax savings. In today’s episode, Gian Pazzia joins Russ and Joey to discuss the benefits of cost segregation and why you should apply it before filing your 2026 taxes. Learn how to accelerate deductions, maximize your savings, and reduce your tax bill, all while taking advantage of new tax laws. Gian walks us through a detailed case study showing how someone can potentially save tens of thousands of dollars in taxes by doing a cost segregation study in their first year of owning property. He also shares insights on who should apply for cost segregation, the potential risks of missing out on deductions, and how this tax strategy works for different types of properties.

How cost segregation can help real estate investors save thousands in taxes

The difference between traditional depreciation and accelerated deductions through cost segregation

Who should and shouldn't use cost segregation, including key strategies for short-term rental investors and passive income earners

Gian P. Pazzia

Gian P. Pazzia is currently the Chairman & Chief Strategy Officer at KBKG and oversees all strategic initiatives for the company. He has over 25 years of experience in the specialty tax industry. Before joining KBKG, Gian worked at two of the Big Four accounting firms.

Round Table | Why You Never Feel Ready to Invest

Do you find yourself procrastinating on investments because you don’t feel ready? In today’s conversation, the financial coaches are exploring why the fear of starting is so common and how you can overcome it using mental frameworks like the Passive Income Operating System, Investor DNA, and Buy Box to help you make smarter, quicker decisions that lead to passive income and financial freedom. The coaches also explore the importance of being in the right community, which can push you to take action and avoid getting stuck in analysis paralysis.

How to overcome the mental hurdles that keep you from investing and taking action

The importance of decision frameworks in making smarter investment choices

Why being in the right community can help you break through fear and move closer to financial freedom

Digital Real Estate: How to Buy Cash-Flowing Websites for Passive Income with Matt Raad

What if you could earn passive income without owning physical property? In this episode, Matt Raad, an expert in digital real estate, joins Russ and Joey to explain how you can buy cash-flowing websites and create a passive income stream. He discusses strategies for identifying profitable websites and for managing multiple online businesses to achieve long-term success. Matt walks listeners through the fundamentals of buying websites, including what to look for, the typical returns, and how to avoid common mistakes that could lead to costly investments. He emphasizes that digital real estate can be a game-changer for those looking to diversify their income streams.

How to create a profitable online portfolio

Steps and strategies for managing and growing digital real estate

The common mistakes beginners make when buying websites and how to avoid them

Matt Raad

Matt Raad and his wife are futurists who believe that the best way to succeed in the rapidly changing digital future is to prepare now with knowledge and skills that can be applied across a wide range of careers and businesses. Ten years ago, they recognised the growing opportunity in online business and are now online investors who own a portfolio of passive income websites.

Round Table | The Overwhelm Trap: Too Many Options, No Progress

When it comes to choosing the path to financial freedom, many people are overwhelmed with choices, yet stuck in a cycle of inaction. In today’s conversation, the financial coaches discuss the three game-changing frameworks to help you take action, make better decisions, and finally move towards financial freedom. You'll also hear about people often getting stuck in the “research phase” without ever executing, the opportunity cost of letting cash sit idle, and how not having a clear framework can mean missing out on great opportunities. The coaches break down how you can take the next step, no matter where you are in your investment journey.

How to break free from the overwhelm trap and take action in investing

The 3 key frameworks to filter investment opportunities and make confident decisions

Practical steps to start building passive income and financial freedom

The Secret Tax Strategy Billionaires Use (and You Can Too) with Dan Kaminski

Do you want to pay less in taxes and keep more of your hard-earned money? In this episode, Dan Kaminski joins Russ and Joey to discuss a little-known tax strategy used by billionaires to protect their wealth and reduce tax liability. They explore private family foundations, showing how everyday investors can use these tools to create tax savings while contributing to charitable causes. Dan explains how billionaires leverage this strategy to build generational wealth, focusing on preserving and passing down assets while gaining tax advantages. He highlights the key features of establishing a private family foundation and how it can serve as a wealth-building tool beyond traditional investment channels.

How private family foundations can be used to build and protect generational wealth

The benefits of using a private family foundation compared to donor-advised funds

Practical steps to set up and leverage a private family foundation for tax savings

Dan Kaminski

Dan Kaminski established Foundation Launch in 2023 to answer his own question: "How do I start and manage a foundation without being a billionaire?" As the organization's name implies, Dan's sole focus is on establishing and managing private foundations, widely regarded as the gold standard of charitable vehicles. Dan believes that with a foundation, you can increase your impact and define your legacy in a tax-deductible way

Round Table | The Order of Operations for Building Passive Income

Without a proper system, many investors struggle to reach their goals or face frustrating roadblocks. In this episode, the financial coaches discuss the order of operations for building passive income, emphasizing the importance of having a well-structured approach to create long-term financial success. They break down the key steps needed to establish a repeatable passive income strategy that works, from starting small to building on your successes. The coaches also talk about the importance of cash flow and how it plays a pivotal role in turning passive income into a sustainable source of wealth. Whether you're just starting or looking to optimize your current strategy, you'll get actionable tips and insights to help you create a lasting income stream.

The importance of starting with the right order of operations

How to optimize cash flow and why it is the key to building long-term wealth

Steps to scale passive income effectively