Ep 21. From Burnout to Ambition: A Journey of Shifting Goals and Financial Education

Reflecting on 2024: End of Season 1

In this unscripted, heartfelt episode, Amanda reflects on the milestones and personal challenges she faced in 2024. Marking the conclusion of Season 1 of The Internal Rate of Return podcast, the episode delves into the impact of losing a child, the importance of family, and the drive to achieve financial freedom through real estate and business acquisitions. Amanda highlights key achievements, including surpassing 21 podcast episodes and making significant financial strides, and sets the stage for future growth and a potential return in Season 2. Listeners are encouraged to stay connected through social media and a possible monthly newsletter. 00:00 Reflecting on the End of the Year 00:49 Closing Season 1 of the Podcast 02:20 Personal Reflections and December Memories 04:38 Journey into Real Estate and Investments 08:34 Highlights of 2024 10:08 Looking Ahead and Final Thoughts

From Poker Tables to Real Estate Success: Pasha Esfandiary's Journey

In this episode, we sit down with Pasha Esfandiary, a former professional poker player who transitioned into the real estate industry, amassing a portfolio worth close to $350 million in deals. Pasha shares his journey from playing poker to becoming a significant player in the real estate market, focusing on mobile home communities. He discusses the financial strategies behind his investments, the importance of community, and his people-first philosophy. Pasha also touches on the challenges he faced, the lessons learned, and the importance of delegating effectively. This episode provides real estate insights, especially in mobile home parks, and emphasizes the power of relationships and continuous self-improvement. 00:00 Economic Shifts and Inflation 00:29 Introducing Pasha Esfandiary 01:04 Pasha's Real Estate Journey 01:22 Personal Life and Gratitude 03:29 Early Career and Poker Days 05:20 Cultural Influences and Money 00:00 Real Estate Investments and Strategies 17:08 Transition to Mobile Home Communities 26:31 Managing Mobile Home Communities 27:07 Depreciation Benefits in Real Estate 28:11 Investment Strategies and Returns 31:24 Investor Relations and Team Structure 37:49 Operational Challenges and Solutions 46:05 Recruitment and Company Culture 49:58 Personal Insights and Daily Routines 53:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Ep 23. From 25 Years in Tech to 2,000+ Units: A Conversation With Coach Jens Nielsen

In this episode, Amanda interviews Jens Nielsen, founder and managing member of Open Doors Capital. Jens shares his journey from a background in IT and telecommunications to becoming a prominent figure in real estate investing. With over 25 years of experience and involvement in over 2,700 apartment units, Jens discusses critical lessons in raising capital, the importance of partnerships, and the value of diversification in real estate. He opens up about his upbringing, work ethic, and how his past influences his current success. Jens also highlights the importance of clear communication, especially when dealing with investment challenges, and offers advice on striving for significant cash flow through real estate. The episode underscores the importance of aligning with values and nurturing professional relationships for long-term success. To connect with Jens go to  JensNielsen.us or email him at Jens@opendoorscapital.com  00:00 Introduction and Importance of Networking 00:23 Meet Jens Nielsen: Background and Achievements 02:12 Jens' Real Estate Portfolio Overview 03:29 Challenges aind Learning in Short-Term Rentals 04:52 Personal Real Estate Investments 12:07 Transition to Syndication and Coaching 17:35 Childhood and Early Influences 25:42 Discussing Work-Life Balance 28:01 Reflecting on Financial Struggles 29:57 Starting in Real Estate 32:51 Lessons Learned in Real Estate Investing 40:20 Evaluating Property Investments 46:54 Advice for Aspiring Investors 50:44 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Ep 22. Aligning Actions with Abundance: Journey of Personal and Financial Growth with Ashton Levarek

In this episode, Amanda interviews Ashton Levarek, the founder of Valkere Investment Group and a retired Air Force Special Warfare pararescue jumper. Ashton shares his journey from military service to financial freedom, discussing the importance of personal development, the power of authentic storytelling, and strategies for scaling a real estate portfolio. The conversation covers Ashton's daily routines, his mindset work, and practical advice for anyone looking to achieve their financial goals. Listeners will gain insights into aligning actions with their vision of abundance and the importance of being present in their journey. 00:00 Introduction to Ashton Levarek 02:53 Ashton's Real Estate Journey 04:53 Networking and Building Connections 08:15 Mindset and Personal Development 12:26 Balancing Work and Personal Life 24:07 Daily Routine and Work Schedule 26:56 Crafting a Vivid Vision 27:15 Balancing Early Mornings and Family Time 29:04 Cultural Differences in Daily Routines 31:59 Financial Upbringing and Scarcity Mindset 35:42 Embracing Abundance and Present Moment Awareness 42:59 Overcoming Financial Anxiety 46:44 The Power of Being Present 50:02 Final Thoughts and Advice

Ep 21. From Burnout to Ambition: A Journey of Shifting Goals and Financial Education

In this special 21st episode airing on Thanksgiving, Amanda reflects on personal growth and career shifts, moving from a corporate role to aspiring to own a business. The episode celebrates surpassing the 21st episode milestone in podcasting and Amanda shares her journey of balancing a demanding career, family life, and a passion for investing and learning. Key themes include the importance of knowledge, hustle, and capital in achieving success, and recapping 21 influential books read over the past year. The books cover topics from real estate investing and business scaling to mindset and goal setting, all contributing to Amanda’s evolving vision for the future. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey 00:43 Celebrating 21 Episodes 01:43 Thanksgiving Reflections 02:21 The Triad for Success 03:37 21 Books That Shaped My Year 04:05 Overcoming Adversity Through Books 06:40 Career Evolution and Burnout 07:42 Investing and Side Hustles 09:06 Book Reviews: Real Estate Investing 26:44 Book Reviews: Mindset and Personal Growth 34:51 Book Reviews: Scaling and Business Strategies 41:42 Book Reviews: Goal Setting and Journaling 50:05 Conclusion and Gratitude