Balancing Life and Literature

Are you wondering how real estate can fast-track your journey to financial freedom? In this episode of Invest2FI, host Craig Curelop sits down with Scott Trench, a real estate investor, author, and former CEO of BiggerPockets to talk about why he walked away after 7 years at the helm. Scott opens up about leadership, burnout, identity, and what’s next in his journey through financial independence. This conversation digs deep into his personal philosophy on business, freedom, and the evolving meaning of success.  

Whether you're building your first portfolio or scaling a team, this candid conversation offers actionable insight and hard-earned wisdom for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Plus, Scott drops golden nuggets on managing teams, family balance, and staying purpose-driven post-FI. Tune in to catch exclusive behind-the-scenes stories and strategic mindset shifts from one of the most influential voices in financial independence. 

PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:

[03:47] Scott’s background as real estate investor and former CEO 

[06:23] Dealing with identity shifts after stepping down as CEO 

[08:47]Why few investors don't "sell it all" and how long-term ownership builds wealth 

[11:20] How financial independence changes your spending patterns and priorities 

[14:19] The mindset shift of owning vs. managing property 

[17:28] How Scott avoids buying at the market peak 

[20:54] Understanding value and not overpaying in competitive markets 

[24:03] Negotiating below market in today’s real estate climate 

[27:29] The biggest mistakes people make on the path to FI 

[34:04] How population growth impacts real estate strategy 

[35:19] Limited supply = opportunity for smart real estate moves 

[38:56] Deciding between different property types and investment vehicles 

[42:41] Why Scott still values a bit of “earned income” 

[46:10] Finding joy in the process, not just the outcome 

[49:59] Scott’s current focus: family, investing, and the BiggerPockets podcast 

HOST 

Craig Curelop    

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy    

📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy    

🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze    

GUEST

Scott Trench 

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scott_trench/?hl=en 

🔍Linked: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-trench-53056a22/