Find A Way with Matt Lavinder

The Uncomfortable Path to Success

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 08:38:10 -0400

Kacey White is a US National Team veteran and UNC All-American who mastered the "Competitive Cauldron" to become a premier voice in MLS broadcasting. From the championship dynasty of North Carolina to the Apple TV booth, Kacey has spent her life defining what it means to find an "edge."

In this conversation, we pull back the curtain on the "Uncomfortable Path to Success." Kacey reveals the mental toughness required to be the smallest player on the pitch, the brutal honesty of elite ranking systems, and why true confidence is always a product of competence. This is a masterclass in honing your craft in the shadows and embracing the grind required to reach the top.

Photographer’s Leap of Faith

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 08:44:29 -0400

Jared Kreiss is a world-class nature photographer who walked away from a stable career path to follow a silent intuition that led him across the globe. From selling everything he owned for a one-way ticket to New Zealand to standing face-to-face with grizzly bears in the Alaskan wilderness, Jared shares a powerful story of risk, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of a vision. This conversation goes behind the "photo dumps" to reveal the Herculean effort required to capture the perfect moment—whether it's days spent on a paddleboard or weeks tracking wildlife in the Smokies. Jared explores the profound "sense of place" found in the wild, the patience required to master a craft from scratch, and how a leap of faith can transform a vague spark into a life of purpose and freedom.

A Herculean Rebuild: 100 Homes in One Year

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 06:44:44 -0400

Olivia Bailey is a former television personality and dedicated community advocate who walked away from the bright lights of big-city media to serve the region she calls home. She shares a powerful story of resilience, local pride, and the Herculean effort required to rebuild after the devastation of Hurricane Helene. From the newsroom to the front lines of disaster recovery, Olivia helped lead a grassroots movement that bypassed red tape to put families back in their homes. This conversation explores the profound "sense of place," the strength found in neighborly collaboration, and how a shared vision can rebuild more than just houses—it can restore the heart of a community.

Rebuilding the Village in Appalachia

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 11:43:43 -0500

Tina McDaniel is a retired corporate professional and community historian who is on a mission to recover the "invisible" stories of Bristol. She shares a moving narrative of the "Village"—the resilient Black neighborhoods of the Jim Crow era where identity was forged on front porches and in segregated classrooms. From the bustling business district of Black Bottom to the 100-year-old oral histories she captures today, Tina explores how communal accountability and a deep sense of place can provide a fortress against adversity. This conversation is a journey through memory, urban renewal, and the urgent need to reclaim the human connection that nourishes a community’s soul.

The Grind Behind Success: Lessons in Persistence and Resilience

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 07:19:23 -0500

Join host Matt as he interviews entrepreneur Allen Hurley about the real challenges and rewards of building businesses from scratch. Alan shares stories from his early days hustling in school to leading successful companies, highlighting the importance of persistence, relationships, and community. Discover why true success is never convenient, and how grit, support, and giving back have shaped Alan’s journey. This episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration for anyone interested in entrepreneurship or making a difference in their community.

The Change Baker: From Bread to Philanthropy

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 11:01:52 -0500

Manolo Betancur is a Colombian-born, award-winning baker and social activist who founded an allergy-friendly bakery and gelato shop. He shares a heartfelt story of hope, hard work, and the magic of breaking bread together. From humble beginnings, Manolo built a thriving business rooted in passion and community. This conversation explores generosity, resilience, and how one person’s vision can nourish more than just the body—it can feed the soul.

41. From Addiction to Connection: Rebuilding Lives and Communities

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 10:13:55 -0400

From Addiction to Connection: Rebuilding Lives and Communities in Appalachia

Dustin shares his journey from addiction to recovery, revealing the challenges of rebuilding relationships and the power of community support. We discuss the importance of connection in overcoming substance abuse and how local programs are helping families heal. This episode offers hope, practical insight, and a reminder that even small acts of kindness can change lives.

40. The Samaritan Inn

Matt Lavinder — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 11:47:38 -0400

Jackie Thayer Craft, Hall of Fame King University Volleyball Player, is working to get the homeless in Dallas back in the workforce. She talks about the challenges and the way Dallas is coordinating specialty services to make real progress in the lives of the unhoused. From Bristol, we talk about the unique challenges facing Appalachian communities and solutions.

39. The Triangle of Success

Matt Lavinder — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 11:49:14 -0400

Josh Holt, head football coach at Tennessee High, explains how the culture trains his three pillars of discipline, simplicity, and consistency. It’s filled with lessons for parents and leaders as he goes deep into the culture they are building, maintaining high expectations, leadership, and the challenges of modern culture.

38. PPA Series Pablo Tellez

Matt Lavinder — Sat, 09 Aug 2025 18:16:42 -0400

Pablo, a professional pickleball player, shares his incredible journey from growing up in a sporty family in Bogota, Colombia to becoming a top pickleball player in the world. He discusses his early days playing soccer, transitioning to tennis, and the challenges he faced, including traveling long distances for training. Pablo reflects on his college experience in the US, his initial struggles with the English language, and his ultimate shift from tennis to pickleball. He emphasizes the importance of discipline, proper technique, and mental strength in reaching the top of his game. Pablo also talks about his partnership with Federico Staksrud and their rise in the pickleball world, highlighting the intense training and strategic changes that have shaped his career.

37. PPA Series: #1 Ranked Player Federico Staksrud

Matt Lavinder — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 18:14:40 -0400

“Don’t let the last point define you.” The PPA #1 ranked pickleball player in the world talks about his journey, what it takes to make it as a professional, and advice for young kids.

36. Coaching Professional Soccer Players

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 16:50:11 -0400

King University Hall of Famer and current Director of the Sporting Kansas City professional soccer academy guides us through the narrow path for young professional players in the MLS Academy program. He explains how talent creates the opportunity, but other important factors determine whether prospects make it to become professionals. This conversation is filled with unexpected insights from the culture in his native Zimbabwe to building a culture for high performers in a professional training ground.

35. The Old House Agent - Restoring Old Houses

Matt Lavinder — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 15:22:07 -0400

Daniel Shew has become an expert on restoring old and historic homes. He discusses the process, surprises, and purpose behind his restorations. We also dive into the history that these houses have taught us about the lives of the founders of Bristol. It’s a really interesting dive into Bristol’s history, slavery, and Appalachian culture as told by the houses built by Bristol’s founding families.

34. Patriot Pride

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 16:58:06 -0400

Andy Hare is the inspirational principal of Sullivan East High School, a small county high school in Bristol that is doing extraordinary things. Andy discusses the super powers of this generation, their dreams, obstacles, and the intentional work the school is doing to empower them. It’s an inspirational approach that has the community bought into Patriot Pride from kindergarten through high school.

33. Coaching Parents and Theatre Bristol

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 11:50:14 -0400

Samantha Gray, the executive director of Theatre Bristol and parenting coach, gives valuable insights into parenting, raising resilient children, and the importance of a community. We also talk about her work with Theatre Bristol, the power of theater, leadership, and their recent purchase of the Cameo Theater. Samanha shares valuable insights from her 30 years of instructing parents and building theater programs.

32. Advocating for Kids in Court

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 29 May 2025 12:34:40 -0400

There are 67,000 cases of child abuse and neglect every year in Tennessee. Missy Sturgill describes the important work volunteer court appointed special advocates (CASA) are doing for kids in the court system. With 3,000 cases every year in Sullivan and Hawkins Counties, CASA volunteers advocate for abused and neglected children as they navigate the court system. It’s an inspiring story of how normal people become heroes and make a profound difference in the lives of hundreds of kids every year.

31. The Art of Coaching Youth Sports

Matt Lavinder — Tue, 13 May 2025 14:05:30 -0400

Matt Yelton, 4x National Champion college soccer coach and director of FC Alliance North, discusses the purpose of youth sports. We discuss the development of youth players, what we’re trying to achieve, and what American youth sports often get wrong. Matt goes deep into what a healthy model looks like, the art of coaching, and how it can ultimately develop character.

30. Civil Service and Leadership

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 01 May 2025 10:29:25 -0400

Margaret Feierabend is a true civil servant and Bristol leader who served as the first female mayor of Bristol in 1997. She discusses the challenges Bristol faced then and now, walking us through critical moments when Bristol set itself up for success. A true community organizer, she talks in depth about the socioeconomic challenges facing Bristolians, childhood trauma, federal funding uncertainty, and how organizations are meeting needs at the local level.

29. An Artisan Life

Matt Lavinder — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 13:06:07 -0400

Blake Collins lives what many view as the American Dream as the owner of Goodman Jewelers, a historic storefront on State Street, and a professional mandolin player. Blake discusses so many interesting things, including the apprenticeship required to learn a skilled craft, the satisfaction it brings, the challenges of the business, his passion for music, and a vision for music in Bristol.

28. Blue Collar, Gold Standard

Matt Lavinder — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:48:42 -0400

Emory & Henry University Football Head Coach Quintin Hunter on his 9-2 season, the nuances of the game, tough love, and the art of leading college players in today's culture. Coach Hunter explains the culture around Emory & Henry's "Blue Collar, Gold Standard" core value. It's a refreshingly positive approach to leadership and college football.

27. The Gambling Clinic

Matt Lavinder — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 15:56:53 -0500

Tennessee is the national leader in gambling addiction treatment. Dr. Meredith Ginley is the director of the Gambling Clinic at ETSU. This is a hopeful episode as Dr. Ginley describes the complicated patterns that lead to gambling problems and the typical 10-week recovery plan they've developed from the clinic's years of research and case studies.

26. Exceed Expectations

Matt Lavinder — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 10:20:08 -0500

Bristol Motor Speedway's Logan McCabe shares the culture, values, and history that have made Bristol, The World's Fastest Half Mile, the favorite speedway among NASCAR fans. It's a lesson on building an authentic culture around exceeding expectations and empowering teams to solve problems. Everyone knows Bristol does racing differently and Logan shares the ideas and work behind it all.

25. Say Yes Until You Can't

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 16:34:38 -0500

City Manager Kelli Bourgeois on the way Bristol TN has chosen to embrace the hard things, what she calls "The Hard Right", rather than choosing the safe and easy bureaucratic approach. She gives a compelling argument for why, demographically, cities must choose to grow or die and how Bristol is using creativity and its uniquely positive culture to punch above its weight.

An experienced city manager, Kelli is honest about the challenges facing local government, benefits of public/private partnerships, leadership, Bristol's competitive advantages, and exciting new projects to further develop downtown.

24. The Joy and Challenge of Teaching

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 09:25:15 -0500

Matt Hawn, recently vindicated by a court decision to overturn his dismissal for assigning controversial materials in a contemporary issues class that has drawn national attention, discusses his own passion for coaching and teaching amidst the extraordinary challenges facing teachers. Matt, born and raised in the same county school system he taught and coached, talks about why it's so important to challenge students and how that is so difficult in today's culture.

What is Find A Way with Matt Lavinder?
The stories of entrepreneurs, leaders, coaches, and interesting people.

23. Basketball and Life

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 09:42:07 -0500

A coaching legend with a gym named after him, local legend John Dyer shares insights from 40 years of coaching high school basketball. Sharing how high school boys have both changed and stayed the same, Coach Dyer describes how he continues to evolve, lead, and form relationships through changing times. A beloved coach and mentor, Coach Dyer offers up valuable and vulnerable thoughts on coaching, parenting, and life that will leave your perspective on high school sports changed.

22. Top 10 MLB Draft Pick

Matt Lavinder — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 10:19:35 -0500

Bristol native and #9 overall draft pick for the Kansas City Royals, Gavin Cross, speaks candidly about his path to Virginia Tech and professional baseball. From the importance of a team in Little League to character development and the transformative college experience, Gavin offers insights from his own experience on the most important parts of his own development.

21. The Art of Storytelling

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 09:52:13 -0500

Lee Hunsaker is the founder of Hoot and Holler Stories, a sold out weekly story telling performance where she coaches normal people to tell their stories in front of a live audience. It started with 8 people in a living room and has grown into a live performance with adoring crowds. It's packed with honesty, empathy, the challenges, and the transformational power of sharing stories.

20. Homelessness in Bristol

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 14:41:31 -0500

There's a lot of conversation around increasing homelessness, and today's episode is with Major Brooks Gilliam of the Salvation Army. Brooks provides a valuable perspective from the front lines, where his organization houses nearly 1,000 unique individuals every year in Bristol. He dispels many myths, clarifies the real problems, and offers insights into how Bristol might solve this important problem.

19. Coaching Leaders and Building Cultures

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 13:32:42 -0400

An extraordinary leader who happens to be a youth volleyball coach. Dale Casey shares what she's learned about building confidence, developing leaders, building culture, and creating healthy environments. Her honesty on how her own leadership style has evolved is both
instructive and inspiring. I learned so much about the game and how she's doing so much more than just coaching volleyball.

18. Leading King University

Matt Lavinder — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 11:58:58 -0400

Dr. Andy Tooley, the new president of King University, shares his approach to leadership along with the opportunities and challenges of leading a university. Dr. Tooley draws on his experience in leadership at Belmont University, one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, and how he's building a unique vision for King.

17. The Amazing Story of Isaiah 117 House

Matt Lavinder — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 17:03:20 -0400

Author and founder of Isaiah 117 House, a national non-profit network of houses built to transform one of the most traumatic days of a child's life, the day foster care begins. From cleverly tricking her husband into foster care classes in rural Carter County to building houses around the country to ensure kids are surrounded by love and hope on "removal day". Ronda's story is about leadership, the unbridled power of a small community, and changing the trajectory of children's lives throughout the country.

16. Hollywood Actor to Tennessee Real Estate Mogul

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 11:26:59 -0400

Derk Cheetwood, Hollywood Actor to Tennessee Real Estate Mogul. Derk Cheetwood on becoming a professional actor, losing out to Matthew McConaughey for a part then later working together, life on major sets like The Postman, numerous television shows including 90210, and a long run as Max Giambetti on General Hospital. Derk describes moving to Tennessee, starting over, and reinventing himself into a successful real estate developer with a New Again Houses franchise.

15. The Culture of Excellence at Tennessee High

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 10:02:13 -0400

In this episode, Matt engages in an insightful conversation with Kim Kirk, the award-winning Principal of the Year in the East Region. Kirk discusses her journey from childhood in Bristol to her influential role in local education, advocating for the importance of supportive communities within schools.

She emphasizes fostering personal growth and understanding through leadership, teaching, and community engagement. The discussion highlights the beautiful architecture and nurturing culture of Tennessee High, underscoring the role of community involvement and the collective effort to maintain educational standards.

The episode explores critical aspects such as discipline, the impact of technology on education, and the benefits of extracurricular activities, offering gratitude and appreciation for contributions from all involved.

01:29 Kim Kirk's Early Life and Bristol Roots

05:32 Discovering a Passion for Teaching

07:02 Challenges and Rewards of Teaching

10:44 Leadership Lessons from Alternative School

12:30 The Importance of Listening and Rules

28:37 Impact of Technology on Students

34:30 Reflecting on the Changing Times

34:46 The Importance of School Community

36:15 Celebrating Student Achievements

37:23 Building Positive Relationships

38:21 Balancing Efficiency and Care

39:18 Fostering a Culture of Kindness

43:37 Addressing Student Loneliness

46:22 The Role of Technology in Education

47:22 Creating a Supportive School Environment

01:00:39 The Vision for the Future

14. Inside Healing Hands: Leadership and Community Impact

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 11:43:28 -0400

In this episode, Helen Scott, the long-time Executive Director of Healing Hands Health Center, shares her journey from growing up in Bristol to leading one of the most impactful nonprofit organizations in the area. Helen discusses her early career in logistics and her transition to nonprofit leadership. The conversation delves into the challenges and strategic decisions involved in scaling Healing Hands, including the integration of students and volunteers, the significance of community relationships, and the evolution of services to address mental health and other holistic needs. Helen emphasizes the importance of community health workers, the necessity of collaborative efforts, and the ongoing adaptations required to meet growing and changing needs in the community.

00:00 Introduction to Helen Scott and Healing Hands

03:09 Career Beginnings and Community Involvement

09:35 Challenges and Strategic Decisions at Healing Hands

18:59 Dental Services and Student Involvement

33:43 Addressing Mental Health and Substance Misuse

35:16 Expanding Medical Services and Hiring New Staff

36:43 The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health Services

40:48 The Role of Community Health Workers

53:57 Challenges and Future Goals for Healing Hands

01:04:25 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action

13. From Tennis Player to Pickleball Pro

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400

Rob Nunnery shares his remarkable journey from tennis to becoming a professional pickleball athlete. He delves into his competitive childhood, playing college tennis, initial struggles, and the discovery of pickleball. Rob highlights the significance of a supportive environment, strong mentorship, and the mental aspects of the game. He emphasizes the role of decision-making and mental strength in achieving success, and compares the strategic depth of pickleball to the decision-making required in football. Tune in to learn how Rob leveraged his tennis background to excel in pickleball, focusing on strategy and intelligent play over physical size.

00:00 Introduction

02:16 Transition to Tennis and Early Challenges

09:38 College Tennis Journey

19:31 First International Experience in China

37:43 Reflecting on the Coaching Journey

39:10 The Struggle with Traditional Jobs

41:51 Discovering Media Buying

44:44 Learning the Ropes of Media Buying

59:45 Training and Improvement

01:15:38 Conclusion and Reflections

12. Building a Musical Legacy in Bristol

Matt Lavinder — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 12:17:22 -0400

Leah Ross shares her journey and the growth of the Bristol Rhythm and Roots Festival. She highlights the unique atmosphere and community involvement that makes the festival special, resembling a magical reunion every year. Starting as a volunteer, Ross explains the festival's humble beginnings and how it grew to attract over 35,000 attendees, involving meticulous planning, volunteer engagement, and overcoming skepticism. She discusses her background, her husband's support, her deep community ties, and the critical role played by the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in solidifying Bristol's cultural footprint.

00:00 The Magic of Rhythm and Roots Festival

01:39 The Growth and Impact of the Festival

02:52 Leah Ross: The Driving Force

04:34 From Volunteer to Visionary

05:38 Challenges and Triumphs

08:51 Building a Community Through Music

12:32 Logistics and Leadership

27:38 Evolving Roles and Responsibilities

28:06 Building Community Relationships

29:08 Challenges of Selling the Vision

30:38 Advice on Persistence and Volunteering

35:15 Balancing Career and Family

38:52 The Birthplace of Country Music Museum

48:07 Empowering a Community Vision

55:00 Reflections and Future Aspirations

11. A Bold Approach to At-Risk Students

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 10:56:33 -0400

Kelly Vance dives into the inspiring efforts of Viking Academy, a groundbreaking alternative education program in Bristol, Tennessee. One of the highlights focuses on the remarkable journey of Austin, a student who overcame significant obstacles to achieve academic and personal success.

The conversation also outlines the innovative approaches Viking Academy employs to support students in difficult circumstances, from transportation to facilitating workforce readiness.

Tune in as Kelly discusses how to build culture and how important their work is in supporting students' future.

00:00 Introduction

00:25 The Viking Hope Award

01:50 Viking Academy's Impact

05:06 Challenges and Solutions

13:23 Workforce Integration Program

19:24 Kelly’s Personal Journey and Vision

35:06 Understanding the Stress Levels of Students

35:22 Homelessness and Its Impact on Students

36:07 Investing in At-Risk Students

38:11 Challenges and Adaptations in Student Programs

40:47 Support and Financial Assistance for Students

43:44 Building a Supportive School Culture

52:49 Addressing Mental Health and Substance Abuse

01:02:22 Maintaining High Expectations and Team Support

01:07:33 Graduation and Reflections on Success

10. Developing Excellence in Leadership

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 13:14:46 -0400

John Wright tells his own story of the decisions and mindset that led him to break a generational cycle of low expectations to become a business leader and coach.

9. A Career In Building Relationships

Matt Lavinder — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 13:10:29 -0400

Join us as guest speaker Mark Pate discusses his climb in the world of finance and how he chose to step away to pursue teaching and founding an Alta Capital lending company with a twenty-four million dollar fund.

8. Standup Comedy and Entrepreneurship

Matt Lavinder — Fri, 31 May 2024 15:01:28 -0400

Shawn and Sarah Carter talk standup comedy and the unpredictable journey that led them to open a comedy club together in the small town of Bristol, TN.

Originally from Boston, this couple played a huge part in bringing comedy as a new form of entertainment to the Tri-Cities area in East TN.

7. On Leadership

Matt Lavinder — Wed, 22 May 2024 12:35:57 -0400

A leadership consultant, coach, and parent to six, Jim Powell discusses the art of leadership, communication, and building trust.

6. 4-Time National Championship College Soccer Coach's Perspective on Youth Sports

Matt Lavinder — Wed, 15 May 2024 17:05:23 -0400

Matt Yelton, 4-time national championship college soccer coach, discusses his perspective on youth sports, the growth of the game, and coaching.

5. The Challenges of Real Estate Investing and Hard Money Lending

Matt Lavinder — Wed, 15 May 2024 14:34:55 -0400

About the Guest:

In this episode, we are joined by Derik Young, a seasoned professional within the real estate investment financing space. Currently affiliated with Vontiv, a financial technology startup, Derik works as a lending advisor, helping hundreds of investors monthly navigate the complexities of real estate lending. Hailing from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with an educational background in Ohio, Derik brings a wealth of experience from different regions in the U.S., including the East Coast, Midwest, and the West Coast where he now resides in Southern California.

Episode Summary:

In an engaging conversation covering the dynamic world of real estate financing, host Matt Lavinder welcomes Derik Young to discuss the nuances of real estate investment lending and the critical role lenders like Vontiv play in the real estate ecosystem.

Derik offers an insightful look into how Vontiv operates not just as a lender, but as a key partner for investors looking to grow and stabilize their portfolios. He sheds light on the various financial products and services, such as short-term value-add loans and long-term debt service coverage ratio loans, crafted specifically to meet investors' unique needs. The episode dives into the qualities and strategies that make a successful real estate investor and discusses how financial technology companies like Vontiv are revolutionizing the way investors finance their projects.

Key Takeaways:

Derik Young's background and his transition from insurance to real estate investment lending highlight the diversity and multi-regional expertise in the real estate industry.
Vontive profiles as a tech-forward startup focusing on solving the fragmented nature of investment real estate lending, aiming to become a reliable financial partner for investors.
Discussion on how different loan products are designed to cater to various investor strategies and the importance of understanding the math and risks involved in property renovation.
The importance of qualities such as proactivity, problem-solving, and resilience in successful real estate investing is emphasized.
Challenges in scaling real estate investment operations and the necessity of forming strategic partnerships to create competitive advantages and handle larger projects.

Notable Quotes:

"We're trying to play the long game and be a long term partner with them [investors].” – Derik Young
"Real estate is unique because you can use other people's money to fund it." – Matt Lavinder
"Problems come up, you can't complain about them… let's figure out how to get them done together." – Derik Young
"You can't do anything big by yourself." – Matt Lavinder
"Good teachers, tend to have a deep empathy because they can see it from a student's perspective, which is really valuable for teaching." – Matt Lavinder

Don't miss out on the full breadth of insights and experiences shared in this episode. Tune in to the podcast to understand the fascinating world of real estate investment lending with Derik Young and stay updated for more invaluable discussions about the real estate market and investment strategies.

4. Former corporate professional transitions to flipping houses

Matt Lavinder — Wed, 01 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

About the Guest:

Erica Vasquez hails from the windy and vibrant city of Chicago. She brings with her a wealth of experience from her background in the corporate supply chain and customer service sectors. Having held various positions in account management, sourcing, and demand planning, Erica has transitioned her career path toward real estate investment. Following a successful stint in the corporate world, she has recently embarked on a journey in house flipping. Her competitive nature, shaped in part by a lifelong passion for volleyball and influenced by her family environment, has seamlessly transitioned into her new professional endeavor.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode, we delve into the story of Erica Vasquez, a driven individual whose career trajectory has taken an exciting turn from corporate stability to the enterprising world of real estate investment. Listeners get a front-row seat to Erica's journey, witnessing her transformation from a job that offered financial comfort but lacked fulfillment, to her newfound passion in flipping houses. This episode not only captures Erica's personal growth but also offers valuable lessons in risk-taking, adaptability, and the pursuit of one's passions.

The conversation begins by exploring Erica's roots in Chicago, touching on the changing dynamics of the city and her passion for volleyball. The discussion then shifts to her transition from a corporate career to pursuing her dream in real estate investment, revealing the learning curves and victories encountered along the way. Key themes of this episode include adapting to change, leveraging personal strengths, and the importance of tenacity and self-belief in achieving success.

Key Takeaways:

Erica Vasquez has successfully shifted her career from the corporate world to real estate investment, driven by a strong desire for independence and fulfillment.
Effective communication and alignment of vision and incentives are crucial when collaborating with contractors in house flipping.
Staging a house can dramatically transform its appeal, leading to quicker sales and higher offers.
Trusting one's instincts and conducting thorough research are pivotal in choosing the right partners and navigating new career paths.
Leaning on a support team and network can fill in knowledge gaps and amplify chances for success in a new venture.

Notable Quotes:

"It's on me, but I trust myself to be able to make it work."
"The social part of it [work] was just kind of drove a final nail into the coffin, you would say."
"Knowing that I'm not familiar with the construction part of it, to me, that was the biggest, scariest, most important first step."
"It's a perfect fit. So that was probably the most transformative, exciting, the very finishing touch on it [the first flip]."

Resources:

No explicit resources, social media handles, company websites, articles, books, or URLs were mentioned in the transcript.

Tune in to the full episode for a real-world perspective on taking risks and pursuing one's professional passion. Discover more about Erica Vasquez's experiences and gain insights that could inspire your own career journey. Stay tuned for more episodes that promise to enlighten and motivate.

3. Creating an Ecosystem for Success

Matt Lavinder — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

About the Guest:

Alex is a seasoned professional hailing from Harlem, New York, with an extensive background spanning various industries, including sales, finance, and real estate. With a strong emphasis on the value of communication, he has navigated his career with ambition and a knack for networking, allowing him to never have to formally apply for a job. His journey has taken him from the fast-paced life of New York to the more controlled environment of Florida, where he's currently engaging in real estate investment focused on house flipping and pursuing generational wealth. Alex's drive for more has led him to create an ecosystem within his business, aiming to scale operations and enjoy the work he is so passionate about.

Episode Summary:

In this revealing conversation with Alex, listeners are taken on a journey through the trials and triumphs of an individual who has made his mark by relentlessly pursuing "more" throughout his life. From growing up in Harlem and observing the bustling pulse of New York City to seeking new vastness in Florida's real estate market, Alex's story is one of relentless ambition and the unwavering, entrepreneurial spirit.

Alex discusses his transition from finance to the thrilling world of real estate investment. Drawing upon his experiences and the challenges faced when navigating unfamiliar territory, he shares his strategy for overcoming obstacles and managing growth. In particular, Alex delves into the immediate and long-term aspects of scaling his business, from managing a single property to looking after multiple projects successfully.

Key Takeaways:

Strong communication skills are critical for personal and professional success, especially in industries that require networking and relationship building.
Transitioning to a new industry can be challenging; however, personal growth often accelerates when stepping out of one's comfort zone.
Building the right team and fostering trust are central to managing and scaling business operations effectively.
Real estate investment provides a pathway to generational wealth if approached with the right mindset and work ethic.
The concept of an "ecosystem" in business is essential for understanding the dynamic, organic nature of a company as it grows and evolves.

Notable Quotes:

"The best thing you could do is learn how to communicate."
"You have to become comfortable with being uncomfortable."
"Money's a weird thing. It's a tool. It can create certain things for happiness, but that's, you know, there's people with a lot of money that are not happy."

For more information visit findawaypod.com

Thank you for listening!

Produced by Mitch McGarry with Maypop Media LLC

2. Leaving Corporate Careers to Pursue Real Estate Business

Matt Lavinder — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

About the Guests:

Ryan Lentz and Katy Lentz, a remarkable duo with an inspiring story, are individuals with a background in the corporate sphere who have transitioned into entrepreneurship. Ryan, previously immersed in the real estate domain, brings experience from a manufacturing background and a rich history in team sports. Katy, with a degree in chemical engineering, has an impressive portfolio that includes working as a process engineer for a consulting firm, focusing on projects such as drug and pharmaceutical manufacturing and bourbon distillation facilities. Together they have ventured into starting a new business, leveraging their process-oriented minds and creative problem-solving skills to make a significant impact in their new endeavor.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode, listeners are invited to delve into the lives of Ryan and Katy Lentz. They share their captivating journey from managing successful corporate careers while raising five children to bravely stepping into the world of entrepreneurial ventures. The conversation uncovers the multitudes of challenges and decisions they faced while transitioning, highlighting the supportive dynamic that makes them a profound team.

Ryan and Katy Lentz reveal how their professional experiences have shaped their approach to starting their new business. Katy's process engineering mindset is particularly intriguing as she recounts projects like automating bourbon distillation processes. The episode sheds light on their ability to adapt and apply corporate principles to their entrepreneurial objectives. Their story is rich with insight on balancing the demands of a business with family life while staying true to their vision and values.

Key Takeaways:

Ryan and Katy Lentz have taken their extensive corporate experience into their entrepreneurial journey, showcasing adaptability and a strong team dynamic.
The importance of trust within a partnership is evident through their shared belief in their abilities and each other, a cornerstone of their transition.
Structured time management, such as their daily and weekly meetings, plays a crucial role in their ability to juggle business with their personal commitments effectively.
Handling adversity and learning from initial setbacks with contractors has been a significant growth experience for them, refining their project management skills.
The couple advocates for following one's instincts when considering a career change, emphasizing the power of self-belief and the influence individuals have on their future.

Notable Quotes:

"You have the power to make the change. You just have to believe in yourself to do that."
"It's easy to take that leap of faith if you have the trust in your spouse."
"We're paying you to manage this. You've got to have those conversations with these guys. If I need to get involved, it's going to be a different conversation."
"We have the ability to take a big situation for most people and turn it into a simpler choice, whether it's right, do it, or not to do it."
"We do not remove roadblocks from [our kids] whatsoever. They have to suffer through it, figure it out."

For more information visit findawaypod.com

Thank you for listening!

Produced by Mitch McGarry with Maypop Media LLC

1. From Non-Profit to Real Estate Entrepreneur

Matt Lavinder — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

About the Guest:

Phil Dunbar is a seasoned Philadelphia native with a strong connection and identity with his city, largely shaped by his experiences with sports. He spent his earlier career working for faith-based non-profits, focusing on leadership development and training. Phil transitioned from his non-profit endeavors to start his own construction company and later ventured into the real estate industry, where he discovered his passion. Leveraging his leadership skills, Phil has successfully expanded into the house-flipping market, growing a team and leading multiple project sites.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful conversation with Phil Dunbar, we delve into the depths of personal growth, city identity, and the hustle required to succeed in the real estate and construction world. Phil takes us on a journey from his childhood attachment to Philadelphia and how sports fostered a sense of belonging and community that mirrored his life's trajectory.

Commencing with the formative years of his career in leadership development, Phil discusses the transition to real estate investing and flipping houses. Emphasizing the importance of human connection, leadership, and making decisive choices, we explore the challenges and triumphs that come with managing construction projects and pushing them forward.

Key Takeaways:

Identifying with your hometown, using sports as a unifying element, can have a profound impact on your personal and professional identity.
Early career experiences in leadership development can be crucial in subtly shaping future entrepreneurial endeavors, especially in real estate.
In real estate, the success of a project is often defined in the meticulous planning and critical decisions made in the initial stages of a flip.
Balancing trust and control with contractors is essential; being present and leading decisively can make the difference between profit and loss.
Achieving career goals, especially in hard-to-predict industries like real estate, is gratifying, especially when coupled with a context of personal significance like family time.

Notable Quotes:

"It's like, where do you want to be in five years? In real estate… the upside potential is there's a lot of places an average guy with an average amount of money, average intelligence, can go with it."

Phil Dunbar

"I see these people with real estate… sitting in front of a stack of $100 bills… like, what a loser. Really? Is that a leader?"

Phil Dunbar

"I got around a few good people that definitely, in my business life, I just got lucky to get around… that gave me some things I could execute that moved me from daydreaming to actual opportunity."

Phil Dunbar

"The train is moving, that's the beautiful thing about real estate, is like, those daydreams, the dreams can come true, but it's not passive. It's getting your hands dirty."

Matt Lavinder

For more information visit findawaypod.com

Thank you for listening!

Produced by Mitch McGarry with Maypop Media LLC