Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! In today’s conversation, Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, sits down with Beau Turner, co-founder and CEO of Abundant Minds, to demystify the world of Bitcoin and Bitcoin mining, and explore how these emerging technologies can be integrated with self-directed IRAs.

Kyle and Beau guide you through the basics of Bitcoin—from its history and distinctions from traditional assets like gold, to the mining process and what makes Bitcoin truly unique as a monetary protocol grounded by energy. Beau shares his personal journey from engineering to real estate to building a seven-figure land investing and Bitcoin mining business in Oregon, recounting the ups and downs that led him to develop Abundant Minds’ turnkey mining solution for investors seeking passive income and exposure to crypto assets.

Together, they dig into practical considerations for those interested in mining, such as equipment ownership, facility operations, and leveraging renewable energy for sustainability. The episode also examines the security advantages of the Bitcoin network, how self-directed IRA clients can structure investments in mining, and what sets Abundant Minds apart in the industry. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned investor, this episode provides a comprehensive overview and actionable steps for expanding your portfolio into digital assets.

Key takeaways:

1. Bitcoin as Engineered Money: Beau explains that Bitcoin is a digital, energy-bounded asset engineered to embody all characteristics of sound money. Unlike gold (which is naturally scarce), Bitcoin’s supply is finite, verifiable on an open ledger, and highly resistant to counterfeiting or manipulation.
2. Mining Process and Passive Income: Mining is likened to a manufacturing process that converts energy into Bitcoin, securing the network and validating transactions. Abundant Minds enables investors to own and host their mining equipment in Oregon, earning passive Bitcoin income while benefiting from depreciation.
3. Sustainable and Secure Operations: Abundant Minds powers its mining data centers with a mix of renewable energy—primarily hydropower and nuclear—providing clients with stability, efficiency, and a strong sustainability profile. Facilities are monitored around the clock and designed for optimal uptime and security.
4. IRA Integration and Flexibility: Self-directed IRA clients can invest in mining equipment via LLCs set up specifically for retirement accounts. This structure allows for seamless, tax-advantaged acquisition of Bitcoin, with American IRA supporting setup, funding, and compliance to safeguard retirement savings.
5. Standout Client Service and Innovation: What sets Abundant Minds apart is its educational approach, transparent business model, and unique hash rate redirect service. If a client’s miner goes offline, Abundant Minds temporarily reallocates its own hash power to ensure uninterrupted Bitcoin earnings, aligning client and provider incentives while minimizing downtime.

If you’re considering adding crypto exposure to your retirement accounts or want to learn more about the mechanics of Bitcoin and mining, don’t miss this episode—and stay tuned for Beau Turner’s upcoming educational webinar to dive even deeper into this transformative asset class.

Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! In this engaging installment, host Kyle Moody, from the American IRA business development office, sits down with personal finance expert Linda Grizely. Linda is a financial educator, keynote speaker, podcast host, and personal growth coach who specializes in empowering everyday people—especially women—on their financial journeys. The conversation begins with Kyle and Linda reflecting on their recent meeting at a financial education conference, and delves into Linda’s powerful life story, from her modest upbringing and experience as a single teen mom to her progression through the financial services industry, and ultimately, her mission to serve those who feel left out of traditional financial planning.

Linda shares her innovative, judgment-free approach to financial coaching, describing how she meets clients wherever they are in their journey and provides a wide range of resources, courses, and group experiences. She discusses how her focus isn’t just on dollars and cents—it’s about uncovering and transforming personal money mindsets, self-worth, and the psychological barriers that hold people back. Listeners will learn about Linda’s signature “Me Money” method, a program designed to help individuals intentionally budget for themselves and shed guilt associated with personal spending. Linda offers insights on how anyone can start their financial transformation, regardless of age, background, or perceived setbacks. She tops off the episode with practical advice for getting started on your financial goals now, rather than waiting for the “perfect” time, and introduces her podcast platform, “Real Money, Real Life,” where real-world financial challenges and solutions are explored with a variety of guests.

Key takeaways:

1. Linda Grizely’s coaching and educational approach is judgment-free and tailored for anyone feeling “behind” on their financial goals, with a special focus on women but open to all.
2. Money mindset and personal stories play a critical role in financial decision-making; understanding the roots of financial behavior is essential for lasting change.
3. Linda’s “Me Money” method encourages clients to intentionally budget for themselves, leading to greater self-worth and more empowered financial choices.
4. She offers a range of services, including courses, group and individual coaching, and free consultations, meeting clients at their unique starting point without pressure or unnecessary upselling.
5. Financial progress is not reserved for those with perfect timing, large resources, or complete information—Linda encourages everyone to “just get started” and keep making daily steps toward their goals.

From real-life stories to practical strategies, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable steps for anyone looking to advance their financial well-being—no matter where they are on their journey. Tune in to learn how authenticity and a growth mindset can transform your relationship with money and create lasting results!

Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! This week, Kyle Moody is joined by Gregg Cohen, co-founder of JWB Real Estate Capital in Jacksonville, Florida. In this episode, Kyle and Gregg explore the journey from humble beginnings to building a thriving real estate investment company that serves clients from 49 states and 13 countries, managing over $1.3 billion in real estate assets.

Gregg shares the pivotal moment that started his investing career, the importance of education and mentorship in real estate, and the power of leveraging self-directed IRAs for building passive income through single-family rental properties. Listeners will learn about JWB’s vertically integrated turnkey approach for landlords, why Jacksonville is poised to become the next great American downtown, and how self-directed retirement accounts unlock unique opportunities for investors.

The episode also highlights JWB Cares, the company’s community-driven initiative focused on affordable housing and resident homeownership. Whether you're new to real estate investing, interested in using retirement funds to diversify your portfolio, or drawn to opportunities for community impact, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiration.

Key takeaways:

1. The Importance of Education and Mentorship: Gregg credits his early success in real estate to investing in education and relationships, which enabled him to master smart debt and navigate challenges despite starting out with limited funds and experience.
2. Turnkey, Vertically Integrated Investing: JWB Real Estate Capital offers a fully integrated, hands-off approach—handling land purchase, new construction, tenant placement, property management, and long-term leasing all under one roof—allowing investors to be truly passive.
3. Leveraging Self-Directed Retirement Accounts: Both speakers highlight how investors can use self-directed IRAs and solo 401ks to invest in real estate and other alternative assets, often unlocking capital and achieving tax-deferred or tax-free growth.
4. Why Jacksonville Stands Out: Jacksonville is showcased as a high-opportunity market, with positive cash flow, above-average appreciation potential, and rapid growth—making it a prime destination for real estate investors looking for both income and long-term value.
5. Commitment to Community: Through JWB Cares, Gregg and his team have raised over $1 million to support affordable housing. Their unique programs empower renters to become homeowners, reinforcing JWB’s mission to make a lasting local impact beyond financial returns.

Tune in to discover how you can build your own portfolio, overcome barriers to entry with the right partners, and even contribute to community progress— all while planning for your financial future with self-directed investing!

Welcome back to another insightful episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! In this conversation, Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, sits down with Denise Appleby, owner and operator of Appleby Retirement Consulting, LLC, and widely recognized as the “IRA whisperer.” Denise brings over two decades of experience in the retirement industry, having started her career at one of the largest IRA custodians and eventually launching her own highly regarded consulting firm.

In this episode, Kyle and Denise explore the nuances of self-directed IRAs, dig into common mistakes investors make with their retirement accounts, and clarify misunderstood rules around rollovers and transfers. They also break down recent legislative developments, including the “Big Beautiful Bill” and its implications for kids’ retirement savings, as well as practical guidance for solo 401(k) entrepreneurs. Denise’s practical wisdom and straightforward advice shine throughout as she helps listeners understand how to make the most of their retirement vehicles while avoiding costly missteps.

Key takeaways:

1. The Importance of Proper Guidance: Denise stresses that before engaging in self-directed IRA transactions, investors must consult with qualified CPAs, tax attorneys, or ERISA attorneys to navigate complex IRS rules and avoid prohibited transactions that could inadvertently disqualify an entire IRA.
2. Rollover Rules and Costly Mistakes: One of the most common—and expensive—mistakes in the IRA world is misunderstanding the difference between rollovers and transfers, especially the once-per-12-month rule for IRA-to-IRA rollovers and eligibility criteria for moving employer plan assets into IRAs.
3. Working with Employer Plans: Whether funds can be moved from an employer-sponsored plan into a self-directed IRA depends on eligibility for in-service rollovers, which is ultimately determined by plan administrators—not IRA custodians or administrators.
4. The “Big Beautiful Bill” and Trump Accounts: While the bill didn’t directly impact IRAs, it introduced “Trump accounts”—new opportunities beginning in 2026 for parents and grandparents to start retirement savings for children from birth, even before children have earned income.
5. Solo 401(k) Insights for Entrepreneurs: Denise highlights that solo 401(k)s can be a powerful retirement savings tool for business owners with no full-time employees, offering high contribution limits and flexibility, but warns that operational steps—like proper plan adoption and employee coverage—must be completed before year-end to maximize benefits.

Whether you’re an experienced investor or just starting out, this episode offers indispensable insight into the evolving landscape of self-directed retirement accounts, the pitfalls to avoid, and the proactive steps to take so you can secure your financial future with confidence. Tune in to benefit from Denise Appleby’s expertise and learn how to make smarter decisions with your IRA!

Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! Join Kyle Moody, Business Development specialist at American IRA, as he sits down for a highly informative discussion with Ryan Hughes, CEO of Non Recourse Loan and a seasoned banking and lending expert with over 25 years of experience in the industry. In this episode, Kyle and Ryan delve deep into the intricacies of non recourse loans, especially in the context of self-directed retirement accounts and real estate investing. The conversation highlights the critical differences between conventional loans and non recourse loans, explores how investors lacking full cash in their IRAs can still leverage property purchases, and examines practical considerations for both new and seasoned self-directed IRA investors. Ryan shares his professional journey, why he’s passionate about helping clients build generational wealth, and how his specialized knowledge bridges the gap between traditional banking and self-directed retirement lending. The pair walk through how non recourse loans work, factors that affect qualification, and important tax considerations like UDFI (Unrelated Debt Financed Income). Ryan also addresses common questions, practical steps for investors, and reveals the unique client-focused approach that sets his company apart.

Key takeaways:

1. Understanding Non Recourse Loans: Unlike conventional loans, non recourse loans do not require personal guarantees and are essential for self-directed IRAs purchasing real estate. This means only the property owned by the IRA serves as collateral, not the individual investor’s personal assets, which is crucial for IRS compliance.
2. Major Differences from Conventional Loans: Non recourse loans generally require higher down payments (typically 30–40%), shorter loan terms, and are based solely on the income and value of the property, not the individual borrower’s credit or income. Conventional loans, by contrast, scrutinize the borrower’s credit, history, and offer lower down payments.
3. The UDFI Tax Consideration: Investors using leverage inside their retirement accounts need to be aware of unrelated debt financed income (UDFI) tax, which can apply to profits proportional to the financed portion. Notably, this tax generally applies to IRAs, but Solo 401(k)s may offer an exemption for qualifying investors.
4. Process and Requirements: Ryan walks through the process of obtaining a non recourse loan: ensuring sufficient IRA funds for the down payment, confirming the property meets rental income and reserve criteria, and understanding all associated closing costs and reserve requirements. Every detail, from deal structure to ongoing payments, must remain within the retirement account to comply with IRS rules.
5. Expert Guidance and Diversification: Both Ryan and Kyle stress the importance of working with experienced professionals who understand self-directed IRA rules and the non recourse loan process. They encourage investors to diversify beyond the stock market into real estate, private lending, equity, and other alternative assets while emphasizing education and attention to tax implications.

Whether you’re exploring ways to expand your self-directed retirement portfolio into real estate or just curious about how leverage works in an IRA, this episode offers practical knowledge, insights from an industry veteran, and clear guidance to help you invest wisely and build lasting wealth. Don’t miss Kyle and Ryan’s conversation if you’re ready to take your retirement strategy to the next level!

Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! Join Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, as he sits down with this episode’s distinguished guest, Eric Brotman, principal and CEO of BFG Financial Advisors. With a career spanning over 25 years in financial planning and an impressive roster of credentials, including CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, Accredited Estate Planner®, and Certified Private Wealth Advisor®, Eric brings a wealth of knowledge and an approachable perspective to the discussion.

Kyle and Eric explore the evolving role of financial advisors, how to find the right professional for your unique needs, and what makes comprehensive financial planning so critical in today’s information-saturated world. Eric shares his personal journey from an English and psychology major bound for law school to a seasoned financial advisor building a client-focused, independent firm managing nearly $1 billion in assets. He describes how BFG serves everyone from high-net-worth families to those just starting on their financial journey, always with an eye toward multigenerational planning, personalized strategy, and client empowerment.

The conversation delves into the overwhelming nature of modern financial information, how social media and 24/7 news can paralyze or mislead investors, and why true value lies in tailored advice and consistent financial habits over chasing market fads. Eric introduces his book and podcast, “Don’t Retire, Graduate,” which demystifies financial literacy for audiences of all ages and walks through the major “courses” of a financial life from student loans and cash flow to legacy planning and beyond. Rounding out the episode, Kyle and Eric trade insights on how both professionals and consumers can sift through the noise, ignore the distractions, and focus on what truly drives long-term wealth building.

Key takeaways:

1. The Right Advisor Matters: Not all financial advisors are created equal understanding the difference between a fiduciary advisor and product salesperson is vital for consumers seeking truly objective, client-centered advice.
2. Comprehensive, Coordinated Planning: Successful wealth management isn’t just about picking investments; it requires an integrated approach to legal, tax, insurance, and investment planning so nothing important falls through the cracks.
3. Behavior and Consistency Win: Building wealth is less about high income or market timing and more about consistent, disciplined saving, paying yourself first, and sticking with a strategy over the long run even if it feels less exciting than chasing trends.
4. Tune Out the Noise: The information age has made research and stock tips easy to find but hard to trust; most financial “news” is entertainment, not advice, and meaningful financial progress requires ignoring the distractions and focusing on your unique plan.
5. Start Today, Not Tomorrow: The best time to begin planning for your financial future is now. Procrastination only makes reaching your goals harder the earlier you take inventory and take action, the greater your chances for long-term success.

Whether you’re managing substantial assets or just getting started on your retirement path, this episode offers actionable wisdom for building confidence in your financial future. For more resources or to connect with the American IRA, visit www.americanira.com, and don’t forget to check out Eric’s “Don’t Retire, Graduate” book and podcast for further learning!

Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! Join Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, as he hosts an insightful conversation with Kyah Ebert, a dynamic 22-year-old real estate entrepreneur based in Asheville, North Carolina.

In this episode, Kyle and Kyah explore what it means to start young in real estate, the evolution of building a business from the ground up, and how the next generation of investors is breaking the mold (sometimes quite literally) as Kyah joins the call live from a coffee shop in the heart of Asheville’s forests.

Kyah shares his unique journey from aspiring professional athlete to becoming a principal in a partnership managing nearly 50 vacation rental properties, focusing on both real estate ownership and innovative rental arbitrage models.

Tune in for Kyah’s actionable advice on gaining industry knowledge, building sustainable business partnerships, leveraging creative deal structures, and cultivating a “why” that motivates his rapidly growing enterprise. Kyle and Kyah also discuss actionable steps for scaling a business in today’s challenging real estate market, including operating through natural disasters like Hurricane Helene, and provide a behind-the-scenes look at the resilience, adaptability, and resourcefulness young investors need to thrive. Highlights from this episode also include the importance of mastering a niche, the realities of market downturns, and the opportunities for individuals to partner or invest alongside Kyah’s group using self-directed retirement accounts.

Key takeaways:

1. Early Start and Real Estate Education: Kyah began his real estate journey in his late teens by working for free and learning every aspect of property operations, emphasizing the value of mentorship over formal education for aspiring entrepreneurs with limited resources.
2. Business Growth and Finding a Niche: Kyah’s group now manages around 50 properties, blending owned, leased, and managed rentals. By focusing on high-quality, innovative amenities like curated interior designs and unique features such as virtual reality rooms they differentiate themselves in a competitive short-term rental market.
3. The Power of Partnerships and Networks: Success in real estate is rooted in building a strong sphere of influence, learning from seasoned professionals, and sometimes partnering creatively such as leveraging owner financing or collaborating with builders on new construction projects.
4. Navigating Challenges: Kyah candidly discusses the ebb and flow of the market, from post-pandemic boom times and the impact of Hurricane Helene, to how operating in turbulent periods demands resourcefulness and hands-on management to keep properties profitable and teams motivated.
5. Investing with Purpose and Opportunity: Whether you’re interested in direct real estate investment or looking for more passive involvement, Kyah highlights opportunities for listeners to invest in his projects potentially using self-directed IRAs while staying focused on a larger “why,” such as building a legacy and supporting family.

If you’re curious about how young entrepreneurs are succeeding in real estate, want actionable advice for building your own portfolio, or are interested in using retirement funds to participate in high-performing private real estate deals, this episode is a must-listen.

Welcome back to another informative episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! This time, host Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, sits down with Haley Gant, real estate investor and founder of Elite Mountain Mortgage.

Newly based in Asheville, North Carolina, but seasoned in the real estate industry, Haley draws from a lifetime steeped in real estate investing from growing up in a family of hard money lenders in Texas to now building her own company in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Together, Kyle and Haley explore Haley's journey from being immersed in property visits as a child, to launching her career in mortgage lending, and finding her niche in short-term rental investments. The discussion touches on key moments that shaped Haley’s business path, including navigating moving across the country, adapting to the challenges and rewards of rural real estate, and building credibility in a new market.

Haley also shares her experience as both an investor and a broker, and how her personal approach sets her apart from large mortgage firms. Whether you’re interested in leveraging self-directed IRAs for real estate, understanding the nuances of rural investment properties, or looking for practical advice to break into real estate investing, this episode offers valuable insights from someone who’s walked the walk.

Key takeaways:

1. Building Your Track Record: Haley’s background in real estate taught her the value of diversification and learning by doing. She emphasizes starting with what you know, managing risk, and making sure your investments don’t stretch you too thin.
2. Real Estate and Lifestyle: Personal interests and lifestyle goals can shape viable investment opportunities; for Haley, proximity to recreational activities like mountain biking played a key role in her choice of markets.
3. Adapting in Uncertain Environments: The real estate landscape, especially in rural or rapidly changing markets like Western North Carolina, demands adaptability, a strong network, and reliable local resources for property management and maintenance.
4. Personalized Lending Advantage: As an independent mortgage broker, Haley sets herself apart through dedicated service, transparency, and relationship-building providing tailored loan options and advocating for client education throughout the mortgage process.
5. Advice for New Investors: For those just starting out, Haley highlights the importance of building a genuine local network, taking a conservative approach to choice and financing, and being patient, doing your due diligence and waiting for the right deal instead of jumping at every opportunity.

Whether you’re new to self-directed IRA investing, exploring non-recourse loans, or simply looking for inspiration to take your own leap into real estate, this episode delivers actionable advice, honest reflections, and an encouraging reminder that with the right connections and persistence, you can chart your own successful course in real estate.

Ready to take control of your financial future? Visit us at www.iracafepodcast.com and book a free informational call.