The Active Duty Passive Income Podcast

Starting With $1K: Military Discipline, Investing Smarts & Defining a Rich Life with Darren IckIn this episode of the ADPI Podcast, host Markian Sich sits down with Air Force veteran and long-time investor Darren Thedieck, who shares how he built financial freedom starting with just $1,000 and a Roth IRA. Darren opens up about his humble beginnings, growing up in a split household, and the financial lessons he learned watching his mother struggle to make ends meet.Through discipline, delayed gratification, and a passion for personal finance, Darren carved his path—not with real estate—but with intentional investing, strategic budgeting, and the powerful philosophy of “paying yourself first.”From traveling to over 50 countries to building wealth while stationed overseas, Darren’s journey proves you don’t need a VA loan or fancy portfolio to win. His story is packed with mindset gems, savings strategies, and lessons on defining a “rich life” that’s about memories—not just money.Whether you’re just starting out or looking to dial in your focus, this episode is a must-listen for any service member ready to take control of their financial future.Episode Breakdown:00:00 – Introduction & Guest Announcement 00:58 – Darren’s Background & Humble Beginnings 02:45 – Early Lessons in Money, Bloomberg & Budgeting 06:18 – Military Service, Family, and Financial Drive 08:20 – Starting with $1K: Opening a Roth IRA 10:54 – Mindset Shift: From Saving to Serious Investing 13:15 – Traveling the World While Building Wealth 16:47 – FIRE Movement & Financial Independence Goals 19:08 – Pay Yourself First: Budgeting with Intention 22:13 – Marriage, Compromise, and Shared Financial Vision 25:36 – Investing Psychology: Let Your Winners Ride 27:42 – Stocks vs. Real Estate: Finding Your Investment Identity 31:09 – Discipline Over Motivation: Sticking to the Plan 33:51 – How Darren Defines a “Rich Life” 37:05 – Advice to Young Service Members: Believe in Yourself 39:24 – Final Thoughts, Darren’s Community, and How to ConnectConnect with Darren:Facebook Group: Financial Dream to Realityhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/financialdreamtorealityFacebook Page: AchieveFIhttps://www.facebook.com/AchieveFI/🔥 Join the #1 Military Real Estate Investor Community, today!Looking for expert education, live Q&As, and a network of action-takers who share your financial goals? Join ADPI Campus™ today!🔗 Sign up now → https://go.activedutypassiveincome.com/res-pro-podcast📲 Stay Connected with ADPI:Facebook |  Instagram | YouTube⭐ Love what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts!Support the show

From Marine Raider to ADU Builder: Finding Freedom, Purpose, and a New Mission with Mark BrookmanIn this powerful episode, Markian sits down with Marine Corps veteran and real estate investor Mark Brookman to unpack the part of the military story most people never see—the invisible battles after the uniform comes off. Mark shares how micro–traumas from Afghanistan and Iraq slowly piled up, what it felt like to “look fine” on paper but be mentally spiraling, and why so many veterans struggle with purpose once the mission ends.From losing $50K on his first flip to building high-margin ADU projects in Seattle, Mark walks through how real estate became the bridge from warfighter to present father, husband, and entrepreneur. Together, he and Markian dig into mindset, anxiety, balance, and why financial freedom is less about Ferraris and more about having time to enjoy what’s free—family, community, and impact. If you’re a service member, veteran, or military spouse searching for your next mission, this conversation will hit home.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Why Mark joined the Marine Corps—and how his mindset shifted after deploymentThe unseen psychological toll of “micro events” and constant hypervigilanceHow Mark realized he wasn’t okay even without the stereotypical combat storyThe brutal truth of losing $50K on his first flip—and why he refused to quitHow ADUs in expensive markets like Seattle became his path to freedomThe difference between chasing rank/certifications vs. chasing purposeWhy veterans are uniquely primed to succeed in real estate (with a few mindset tweaks)The real reason “financial freedom” matters—and what to do with it once you have itTimestamps00:00 Introduction and Episode Kickoff 00:35 Meeting Mark Brookman 01:59 Mark's Military Background 05:04 Deployment Stories and Challenges 09:31 Transitioning Out of the Military 22:19 Real Estate as a New Mission 45:53 Bite the Elephant: Embracing Challenges 46:41 Military Mindset in Real Estate 51:16 The Power of Focus and Discipline 52:46 Overcoming Anxiety and Adapting 56:35 Finding Purpose Beyond the Military 01:11:50 Real Estate Success Stories 01:21:45 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with Mark here: Instagram: @SummitPointAcademyIG: @marktbrookman💥 Ready to Level Up with a Like-Minded Community?Join ADPI Campus™—the premier platform and online community built specifically for military real estate investors. Inside, you’ll find real-world education, camaraderie, competition, and the accountability you need to accelerate your journey. 🎓 JOIN ADPI CAMPUS and be part of a movement that’s changing lives: LEARN MORE 🔧 Helpful Resources:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube 🎙️ Enjoyed the Episode?If this conversation inspired you, helped you gain clarity, or sparked new ideas,Support the showSupport the show

Markian sits down with Cheyenne Wachtendorf, a new ADPI member whose path runs from military service to creative deals—live-in flips, seller finance—and a 106-acre VA loan purchase. Cheyenne shares the mindset behind taking calculated risks, learning from setbacks, and his vision for Walk Squad Haven: real estate development, experiential recreation, and community mentorship.Time Stamps00:00 Introduction and Conference Recap 01:30 Guest Introduction: Cheyenne Wetten 02:23 Cheyenne's Unique Real Estate Journey 06:36 Military Background and Personal Struggles 10:47 Transition from Military to Real Estate 19:12 The Importance of Mentorship and Community 49:55 Cheyenne's Vision and Future Plans 52:36 The Puzzle of Real Estate Vision 53:14 Mapping Out the Dream 53:41 Leveraging W2 Income 55:49 First Real Estate Investments 01:01:02 Facing Setbacks and Learning 01:05:05 Rebounding with New Strategies 01:11:16 The Big Vision: W Squad Haven 01:17:17 Final Thoughts and Future PlansKey TakeawaysStart small, build momentum: early creative wins compound into bigger plays.Use VA loan creatively: structure matters more than “standard.”Failures become playbooks: debrief, systemize, and iterate.Mission first: purpose makes persistence possible.Connect with CheyenneWachSquad Haven on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575568000549Phone: 903-698-3040💥 Want to Connect with a Community of Military Real Estate Investors?Join ADPI Campus™—the world’s premier platform for military members and their families building wealth through real estate.🎉 Join today: https://go.activedutypassiveincome.com/adpi-campus-joinInside you’ll find real estate education that works, a supportive community that gets it, and the kind of camaraderie only service members can bring.Interested in joining a MMA cohort? Book a free strategy all here: http://activedutypassiveincome.com/strategy📲 Stay Connected with ADPI:Follow us on Facebook |  Instagram | YouTube If this resonated, share the episode and follow the show to help more military families build wealth through real estate.Support the show

From ROTC to Real Estate: Landon Fillmore's Journey of Investments and IdentityIn this episode, host Mark chats with Landon Fillmore, a member of the military community who has successfully navigated his way into real estate investing. Landon shares his journey from joining the ROTC in college, to buying his first fourplex property, to managing rentals while stationed overseas. They discuss the pivotal conversations, educational resources, and strategies that built Landon's confidence and propelled him into action. The episode also delves into the mechanics of managing properties remotely, leveraging the VA loan, and the power of impactful discussions within the military to promote financial literacy. Whether you're interested in investing, facing an identity shift, or looking to understand real estate's four key pillars, Landon's experiences offer valuable insights for military members and beyond.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:24 Landon Fillmore's Background and Military Journey02:55 First Steps into Real Estate Investing05:46 Discovering Real Estate Education and Influences10:55 The Power of Confidence and Taking Action22:25 Navigating Real Estate Challenges and Opportunities29:27 Exploring Midterm and Corporate Rentals39:17 Balancing Personal Goals and Real Estate Strategies48:17 Introduction to Real Estate Tracks48:42 Embracing Identity Shifts49:57 Military and Real Estate: Balancing Identities52:02 Navigating Personal Identity Crises53:33 From Ukraine to the U.S.: A Journey of Identity56:53 The Naval Academy Experience01:00:07 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship01:02:52 Real Estate Investing Insights01:07:22 Leadership and Financial Education in the Military01:17:43 Managing Properties Remotely01:28:05 Conclusion and Contact Information06:30 The Influence of Robert Kiyosaki and Pat Flynn06:39 Discovering Passive Income and Military Community07:12 The Journey to Real Estate Investing01:41:10 The Importance of Confidence and Education01:52:20 Powerful Conversations and Decision Making01:56:24 Creative Real Estate Strategies02:47:56 Managing Properties Remotely02:58:13 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Connect with Landon here: Instagram: @LandonJFillmoreWhatsApp: +1 801-404-3709,Email: fillmoreestate@gmail.com🔥 Join the #1 Military Real Estate Investor Community!Looking for expert education, live Q&As, and a network of action-takers who share your financial goals? Join ADPI Campus™ today!🔗 Sign up now → https://go.activedutypassiveincome.com/res-pro-podcast📲 Stay Connected with ADPI:Facebook |  Instagram | YouTube⭐ Love what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts!Support the show

Blockchain and Real Estate: A Deep Dive with ADPI ExpertsIn this engaging episode of the ADPI podcast, host Tim Kelly chats with Seneca Peña Colazo about the intersection of blockchain, cryptocurrency, and real estate investing. They clarify misconceptions about crypto, likening blockchain to a highway where scams are the driver's fault, not the road's. Highlighting the permanence and transparency of blockchain, the episode dives into personal experiences and strategies for crypto investment. Seneca shares how he transitioned from a crypto skeptic to an enthusiast, while Tim recounts his journey through commercial and multifamily real estate investments. They emphasize self-custody and security practices, discuss the potential of Bitcoin as 'digital gold', and explore the growing adoption of digital currencies globally. The conversation ties back to real estate, illustrating how blockchain can revolutionize property transactions, title verifications, and investment strategies. Episode breakdown: 00:00 Introduction to Blockchain and Crypto01:08 Welcome to the ADPI Podcast01:45 Guest Introductions and Backgrounds02:57 The Intersection of Real Estate and Blockchain05:15 Understanding Bitcoin and Blockchain Security06:52 The Importance of Self-Custody in Crypto08:22 Exploring Cryptocurrency Mining13:26 Types of Cryptocurrencies: Store of Value vs. Utility18:27 Best Practices for Crypto Storage and Security29:02 Real Estate and Bitcoin: A Comparative Analysis31:05 Understanding Bitcoin's Limited Supply32:01 The Value of Bitcoin and Real Estate34:08 Bitcoin Adoption and Institutional Investment35:16 The Future of Bitcoin and Global Integration36:39 Investment Strategies and Market Timing37:30 Exploring Alternative Cryptocurrencies45:29 Blockchain Technology in Real Estate52:45 Practical Tips for Crypto Investment57:09 Final Thoughts and Resources Do you want to join a community of like-minded Military Real Estate Investors offering real estate education that actually works while celebrating camaraderie, and competition, and fostering a spirit of support? Introducing ADPI Campus™ - the premiere platform and online space for Military Real Estate Investors worldwide! Podcast listeners  JOIN ADPI CAMPUS now and get in on the action! Helpful ResourcesConnect with the ADPI: Facebook |  Instagram | YouTubePlease Subscribe, Rate, & Review on Apple PodcastsThanks for tuning in to this week's episode of the Active Duty Passive Income Podcast! If the information shared in these weekly interviews has inspired you to pursue your dreams of financial independence, please do me a personal favor and head over to Apple Podcasts, subscribe to our show, and leave us a 5-star review.Support the showSupport the show

Uncovering Creative Financing: A Deep Dive with Adam CatledgeIn this episode, we welcome Adam Catledge, a Marine Corps veteran and seasoned entrepreneur, to demystify the complexities of creative financing in real estate. Known for his profound knowledge in sub-2s and wraparound mortgages, Adam shares his journey from military service to becoming a successful real estate investor. He elaborates on his first deals, the mechanics of subject-to transactions, and how wraparound mortgages can create significant cash flow and value. Adam also introduces the concept of co-living as a lucrative exit strategy and underlines the importance of working with mentors to expedite success in creative financing. This conversation provides invaluable insights and practical advice for both novice and seasoned investors.Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:24 Adam Keli's Background and Military Service02:16 Discovering Creative Financing07:28 First Creative Finance Deal17:07 Understanding Subject To Transactions23:54 Dealing with the Due on Sale Clause31:51 Creative Financing in the Current Market42:15 Addressing the Risk of Non-Payment43:06 Mitigating Risk with Mortgage Underwriters45:11 Understanding the Do on Sale Clause45:50 Strategies for Handling Regional Banks47:05 Capital Raising Insights47:33 Exploring Exit Strategies47:42 Wraparound Mortgages Explained51:12 Benefits of Using a Servicing Company01:07:29 Co-Living as a Real Estate Strategy01:17:52 Final Thoughts and Resources Do you want to join a community of like-minded Military Real Estate Investors offering real estate education that actually works while celebrating camaraderie, and competition, and fostering a spirit of support? Introducing ADPI Campus™ - the premiere platform and online space for Military Real Estate Investors worldwide! Podcast listeners can JOIN ADPI CAMPUS now and get in on the action! Helpful ResourcesConnect with the ADPI: Facebook |  Instagram | YouTubePlease Subscribe, Rate, & Review on Apple PodcastsThanks for tuning in to this week's episode of the Active Duty Passive Income Podcast! If the information shared in these weekly interviews has inspired you to pursue your dreams of financial independence, please do me a personal favor and head over to Apple Podcasts, subscribe to our show, and leave us a 5-star review.Support the showSupport the show

In this high-energy episode, Markian interviews Rob Pekarek, a Naval Academy graduate and active-duty Air Force officer, who shares his inspiring journey in real estate investing while serving in the military. Rob discusses his initial steps in real estate, starting from a single-family house hack to joining a general partnership team for multifamily deals. He emphasizes the importance of adding value, building strong teams, leveraging opportunities, and maintaining clear communication. Rob's strategic approach to networking, his commitment to serving others, and his focus on fitness, wealth, and purpose offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to succeed in real estate investing. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview01:29 Guest Background and Early Career06:33 First Real Estate Investment10:59 Transition to Multifamily Investments19:01 Joining a New Team and Scaling Up27:25 Building Confidence with the Right Team27:58 Aligning with Core Values29:00 The Importance of Communication29:46 Effective Communication Tools32:07 Leveraging AI for Business and Personal Use34:05 AI in the Military and Healthcare36:12 Networking and Making Connections41:10 Adding Value and Building a Brand52:11 Final Thoughts and AdviceJoin Rob’s free 30-minute class to learn how to get started with multifamily syndications. This crash course delivers exactly what aspiring investors need to know—no fluff, no sales pitch, just clear, actionable education designed specifically for the military community.You can also connect with Rob on social media: Instagram: @robthepekLinkedIn: Robert Pekarek💥 Ready to Level Up with a Like-Minded Community?Join ADPI Campus™—the premier platform and online community built specifically for military real estate investors. Inside, you’ll find real-world education, camaraderie, competition, and the accountability you need to accelerate your journey.🎓 JOIN ADPI CAMPUS and be part of a movement that’s changing lives: LEARN MORE🔧 Helpful Resources:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube🎙️ Enjoyed the Episode?If this conversation inspired you, helped you gain clarity, or sparked new ideas, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps us reach more military members and families pursuing financial freedom through real estate.Support the show

In this episode of the ADPI Podcast, host Markian Sich sits down with powerhouse military spouse, real estate investor, and soon-to-be author Kaitlyn Dannhardt, who reveals the wildly creative strategies that turned a broke PCS move into a full-fledged short-term rental business — all starting with just $1,500 and a VA loan.From pioneering “TDY hacking” to PCS’ing with a garage full of Wayfair furniture, Kaitlyn breaks down how she leveraged military life’s instability to build wealth, flexibility, and financial freedom.This is not your average house hacking story. It’s mindset meets mission — and a wake-up call for any military family still playing defense with their finances.00 Introduction to Caitlyn Dan Hart01:18 Caitlyn's Journey: From Teacher to Military Spouse03:31 Discovering Airbnb and TDY Hacking07:13 Scaling Up: From Mississippi to Alaska08:31 The Importance of Strategic Planning15:47 Outsourcing and Property Management19:46 The Value of Patience and Vetting People26:47 Flexibility in Business27:08 Overcoming Initial Struggles28:01 Growth and Improvement30:57 Financial Independence and Passive Income36:54 Networking and Conferences38:12 Writing and Publishing a Book48:15 Final Thoughts and Encouragement💥 Want to Connect with a Community of Military Real Estate Investors?Join ADPI Campus™—the world’s premier platform for military members and their families building wealth through real estate.🎉 Join today: https://go.activedutypassiveincome.com/adpi-campus-joinInside you’ll find real estate education that works, a supportive community that gets it, and the kind of camaraderie only service members can bring.📲 Stay Connected with ADPI:Follow us on Facebook |  Instagram | YouTube📢 Love the Show? Help Us Out!If this episode inspired you or gave you a valuable takeaway, do us a solid—subscribe, rate, and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts.Your support helps us reach more military members chasing financial freedom through real estate.🎧 Thanks for tuning in to the Active Duty Passive Income Podcast—where financial freedom is just one investment away.Support the show

In this episode, Markian dives deep into the world of real estate syndication with legal expert Mauricio Rauld. The conversation starts with an informal introduction and segues into Mauricio's extensive background in syndication and securities law, detailing his journey from litigation to becoming a prominent figure in the real estate legal space. They discuss the intricacies and legalities of raising capital for real estate deals, specifically focusing on the differences between 506(b) and 506(c) exemptions. Mauricio emphasizes the importance of compliance when raising money from investors. The episode also explores the importance of having a strong team when closing large real estate transactions, touching on the roles of property managers, co-sponsors, and lenders. Throughout the discussion, Mauricio provides valuable insights into preparing documents like Private Placement Memorandums (PPM). The episode wraps up with mentions of Mauricio's mentorship program and resources available for those looking to get into or are currently navigating the real estate syndication space. Episode breakdown:00:00 Introduction and Podcast Setup00:15 Meet the Guest: Mauricio Rauld02:21 Understanding Syndication and Securities03:03 Mauricio's Background and Journey06:11 The Impact of Rich Dad Poor Dad07:50 Transition to Syndication Expertise11:10 Raising Capital Compliantly16:56 Personal Insights and Experiences24:32 Diving into a Real Deal26:01 Understanding Commercial Loan Requirements26:38 Navigating Liquidity and Net Worth Challenges27:05 Forming a Strong Financial Team28:14 Submitting and Negotiating Offers28:57 Deciding on Fundraising Strategies29:05 Exploring 506(b) and 506(c) Exemptions35:28 Handling Due Diligence and Retrading39:43 Ensuring Compliance in Syndication48:23 Mauricio's Mentorship and Legal Support54:38 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Reach out to Mauricio Rauld and his team at Platinum Legal Consulting here: mauricio@platinumlegalconsulting.com 💥 Ready to Level Up with a Like-Minded Community?Join ADPI Campus™—the premier platform and online community built specifically for military real estate investors. Inside, you’ll find real-world education, camaraderie, competition, and the accountability you need to accelerate your journey.🎓 JOIN ADPI CAMPUS and be part of a movement that’s changing lives: LEARN MORE 🔧 Helpful Resources:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube 🎙️ Enjoyed the Episode?If this conversation inspired you, helped you gain clarity, or sparked new ideas, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps us reach more military members and families pursuing financial freedom through real estate.Support the show

Markian sits down with Thach Nguyen to blend mindset and tactics for today’s market—how military precision can become analysis paralysis (and how to beat it), why rapport is the real negotiation edge, and the ADU/DADU playbook to force value, boost cash flow, and even approach 1–2% rule outcomes.What You’ll LearnThe mindset shift from “perfect plan” to “action first” (especially for vets).Rapport frameworks that turn negotiations into true win-wins.How ADUs/DADUs unlock cash flow, resale flexibility, and future-proofing.Funding paths and practical tips to build/add units and maximize property value.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:43 Exciting Episode Announcement01:03 Introducing Thatch NEN02:46 Thatch's Family and Personal Story04:12 Parenting and Life Lessons07:05 Thatch's Real Estate Journey11:07 Military Influence and Real Estate16:54 Building Rapport in Real Estate32:28 The Importance of Rapport in Communication33:32 Tactical Advice for Real Estate Deals34:28 Affordable Housing Solutions with ADUs36:31 Personal Experiences and Market Insights38:07 Financing and Building ADUs39:49 Maximizing Property Value with ADUs45:24 Understanding the 1% and 2% Rules46:56 Future Trends and Market Predictions57:06 Event Information and Final ThoughtsBuy your Military REICON Tickets here and use code DADU for $200 off any ticket. Purchase your ticket here: https://go.activedutypassiveincome.com/milreicon2025 Thach Nguyen — Real estate investor, coach, and keynote at Military REICon. Known for high-energy communication, rapport-driven deal-making, and scalable ADU/DADU strategies.💥 Ready to Level Up with a Like-Minded Community?Join ADPI Campus™—the premier platform and online community built specifically for military real estate investors. Inside, you’ll find real-world education, camaraderie, competition, and the accountability you need to accelerate your journey.🎓 JOIN ADPI CAMPUS and be part of a movement that’s changing lives: LEARN MORE🔧 Helpful Resources:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube 🎙️ Enjoyed the Episode?If this conversation inspired you, helped you gain clarity, or sparked new ideas, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps us reach more military members and families pursuing financial freedom through real estate.Support the show