
PassivePockets: The Passive Real Estate Investing Show
Welcome to PassivePockets: The Passive Real Estate Investing Show presented by Equity Trust– your go-to podcast for building and protecting wealth through smart, passive real estate investments. Hosted by Jim Pfeifer, this podcast is designed for investors who want to grow without the grind. Each episode features expert interviews with seasoned LPs (Limited Partners) and GPs (General Partners) who share their insights, experiences, and practical advice.
Latest episodes

Jul 15, 2025 • 47min
Brian Burke’s Bold Shift: From Multifamily to Assisted Living Investing
Brian Burke, a seasoned real estate investor and founder of Praxis Capital, discusses his bold shift from multifamily investing to focusing on assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. He reveals the market signals that prompted this transition and highlights the stability of triple-net lease structures. Burke emphasizes the critical role of operator selection in determining investment success and explores financing strategies like HUD loans that can boost returns. His insights offer a valuable perspective for passive investors eyeing this emerging asset class.

Jul 8, 2025 • 44min
The Capital Stack Is Cracking: Eric Sussman on What LPs Need to Know
Eric Sussman, a seasoned real estate investor, CPA, and UCLA professor, offers valuable insights on the shifting dynamics of capital markets. He discusses the impact of inflation, rate policy, and lending trends on investors and sponsors alike. Eric explains why misaligned capital stacks can affect passive investors and emphasizes the importance of trust and disciplined underwriting. He provocatively argues that some deals should fail to ensure a healthier market long-term, shedding light on how institutional players are preparing for potential distress.

Jul 1, 2025 • 45min
Active vs. Passive Real Estate: Chris Lopez’s Strategy in 2025
Join the Active to Passive Cohort (Starts July 28):
https://get.biggerpockets.com/active-to-passive-investing/
Passive Pockets members save $100!
Find your promo code here:
https://passivepockets.com/forums-listing/discussion/5-week-cohort-starts-7-28-active-to-passive-portfolio-transformation-cohort/
Contact Chris Lopez:
chrislopez@biggerpockets.com
Is your real estate portfolio truly aligned with your goals or is it just what you've accumulated over time? Chris Lopez, investor, educator, and founder of the Active to Passive cohort, joins Passive Pockets to share why he pivoted away from being a hands-on landlord and how he's helping others rethink their equity, their time, and their strategy.
In this episode, you’ll learn how to evaluate return on equity versus return on investment, what it means to “optimize” your portfolio in today’s market, and when selling, refinancing, or simply holding might be the smartest move. Chris also shares his step-by-step framework for running an annual diagnostic on your portfolio and how to use that analysis to decide if a shift toward passive investing makes sense.
Plus, stick around as Chris breaks down the five pillars of passive investing diversification and offers a sneak peek into his upcoming July cohort for experienced landlords exploring a hands-off path forward.
Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only. All host and participant opinions are their own. Investment in any asset, real estate included, involves risk, so use your best judgment and consult with qualified advisors before investing. You should only risk capital you can afford to lose. Remember that past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast may contain paid advertisements or other promotional materials for real estate investment advisers, investment funds, and investment opportunities, which should not be interpreted as a recommendation, endorsement, or testimonial by PassivePockets, LLC or any of its affiliates. Viewers must conduct their own due diligence and consider their own financial situations before engaging with any of the advertised offerings, products, or services. PassivePockets, LLC disclaims all liability for direct, indirect, consequential, or other damages arising out of reliance on information and advertisements presented in this podcast.
Why Chris sold off half his Denver portfolio despite great returns
The difference between return on investment and return on equity
How to run an annual “portfolio diagnostic” to evaluate performance
When a 1031 exchange might not be the most efficient move
How to diversify across operators, strategies, markets, and capital stack
The mental shift required to give up control—but gain peace of mind
What Chris’s Active to Passive cohort includes, and who it’s for

Jun 24, 2025 • 45min
Dig In or Delete | Are Sponsors Overpromising Again?
Real estate deal flow is buzzing again, but can passive investors spot the gems among the noise? Dive into real-time evaluations of intriguing opportunities, from a Seattle multifamily property with questionable metrics to a declining mall's BJ's Brewhouse ground lease. Jim and Paul discuss market dynamics, skepticism toward sky-high returns, and the importance of due diligence. Plus, discover the marketing tactics that trigger a quick delete. This insightful analysis provides the tools to navigate the new landscape of passive investing.

Jun 17, 2025 • 46min
Mobile Home Parks 2025: Value, Risk, and the End of Easy Returns
Investing in mobile home parks can rebuild your real estate empire efficiently after economic setbacks. How do you navigate this sector to ensure sustainable growth and returns? Kevin Bupp, a seasoned investor with a wealth of experience in various real estate asset classes, shares his journey and insights into this unique investment space.
In this episode, you’ll learn the intricacies of mobile home park investments, from understanding market dynamics to overcoming infrastructure challenges. The conversation dives into the evolution of this sector, highlighting both increased lending opportunities and rising competition. Thinking of affordable housing as a solution for your real estate portfolio? You won't want to miss Kevin's strategic approach.
Plus, stick around as Kevin spills secrets on creative ways to enhance value in mobile home parks and teases insights into the often-overlooked world of parking lot investments.
Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only. All host and participant opinions are their own. Investment in any asset, real estate included, involves risk, so use your best judgment and consult with qualified advisors before investing. You should only risk capital you can afford to lose. Remember that past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast may contain paid advertisements or other promotional materials for real estate investment advisers, investment funds, and investment opportunities, which should not be interpreted as a recommendation, endorsement, or testimonial by PassivePockets, LLC or any of its affiliates. Viewers must conduct their own due diligence and consider their own financial situations before engaging with any of the advertised offerings, products, or services. PassivePockets, LLC disclaims all liability for direct, indirect, consequential, or other damages arising out of reliance on information and advertisements presented in this podcast.
Kevin's transition from single-family homes to mobile home parks post-2008
The impact of lending and market competition on mobile home park investments
Infrastructure challenges and how to navigate them effectively
The role of property management in optimizing park operations
Exploring the parallel between mobile home parks and parking lots as viable investment sectors
Understanding dynamic pricing and technology enhancements in parking management
Kevin's insights on dealing with private utilities and community management

Jun 10, 2025 • 42min
Turn Taxes into Wealth: Roth Conversion Strategies for Investors
What if you could pay taxes on a smaller amount while investing in the same deals—and then watch your money grow tax-free for decades? In this episode, we explore a little-known strategy that allows investors to convert traditional retirement accounts to Roth at a discount, even when those funds are tied up in illiquid syndications.
Today, we’re joined by John Bowens, a self-directed retirement expert from Equity Trust, to walk us through the “discount conversion” strategy and other advanced tax planning tools for passive investors. John explains how real estate syndications, solo 401(k)s, and Roth conversions can work together to help you minimize taxes, create tax-free income, and even build legacy wealth for future generations.
If you’re holding pre-tax retirement funds, investing in private real estate, or just tired of giving up a chunk of your gains to the IRS, this episode breaks down the tax code strategies that smart LPs are using to protect and grow their wealth.
Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only. All host and participant opinions are their own. Investment in any asset, real estate included, involves risk, so use your best judgment and consult with qualified advisors before investing. You should only risk capital you can afford to lose. Remember that past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast may contain paid advertisements or other promotional materials for real estate investment advisers, investment funds, and investment opportunities, which should not be interpreted as a recommendation, endorsement, or testimonial by PassivePockets, LLC or any of its affiliates. Viewers must conduct their own due diligence and consider their own financial situations before engaging with any of the advertised offerings, products, or services. PassivePockets, LLC disclaims all liability for direct, indirect, consequential, or other damages arising out of reliance on information and advertisements presented in this podcast.
In This Episode We Cover
The basics of Roth conversions and how they apply to self-directed IRAs and solo 401(k)s
The “discount conversion” strategy and how investors are saving thousands in taxes
How to convert illiquid syndication investments without selling
Key differences between traditional IRAs, solo 401(k)s, and checkbook-controlled accounts
When Roth conversions make sense and how to model out your tax impact
And So Much More!

Jun 3, 2025 • 43min
How LPs Are Using AI to Analyze Risk and Spot Weak Deals
AI integration in real estate investing allows savvy investors to make faster, smarter decisions and avoid costly mistakes. So, how can you leverage AI tools to evaluate deals and optimize your investment strategy? Leyla Kunimoto, a finance expert and limited partner, joins us to share her insights on using AI for real estate due diligence.
In this episode, you’ll learn how real estate investors can employ AI to analyze deal pro formas, identify risks, and pinpoint key follow-up questions for sponsors. With informative and professional discussions, you'll discover how AI can streamline your investment processes and offer a tactical edge in deal evaluation. Curious about how AI can enhance your investment strategy? Tune in to find out.
Plus, we delve into the nuances of pro forma analysis and the potential for AI to uncover historical deal mistakes, offering invaluable insights to refine your investing skills.
Topics Covered
The role of AI in evaluating real estate deals
Benefits of integrating AI tools like Notebook LM into your workflow
Overcoming skepticism and embracing AI for investment analysis
How AI highlights key risk factors and informs strategic decision-making
Using AI for operator and fund evaluations
Example scenarios where AI uncovered unexpected deal insights
Tips for crafting effective prompts to maximize AI usefulness

May 27, 2025 • 42min
The New Cycle Is Coming: Why Multifamily Is Poised to Rebound by 2027
In this discussion, Andrew Cushman, a seasoned multifamily investor with nearly 3,000 units under his belt, sheds light on the future of the multifamily market. He shares data-driven insights into the macroeconomic forces that could drive a rebound by 2027. Topics include the impact of stabilizing interest rates, supply slowdowns, and the structural housing shortage fueling demand. Andrew also highlights key lessons learned from syndication failures and offers strategic advice for both new and experienced investors navigating the current landscape.

May 20, 2025 • 38min
Triple Net Investing 101: How to Generate Steady Returns in Uncertain Times
What recourse do limited partners have when their fund is being mismanaged? Do triple net leases (NNN) offer safety in an uncertain economy? In this episode, we’re delving into a recent LP-led succession that underscores the latent power of passive investors and a low-risk investing strategy that delivers steady returns in volatile markets.
Today, we’re joined by Zane Schartz, president of Freedom CRE and a specialist in single-tenant, triple net investing. After a coalition of LPs called upon Zane to stabilize their private equity fund, he spent months navigating an uncooperative handoff and enduring personal attacks. In this episode, he reflects on invaluable lessons learned from the “hardest year” of his life and shares how he’s now helping people build wealth through passive real estate investing.
With institutional-grade tenants, long-term leases, and minimal operational requirements, NNN investments offer a rare blend of stability and simplicity. If you’re an LP looking to understand your rights or explore recession-resistant strategies like NNN real estate, today’s show delivers real-world insight from the front lines of a fund turnaround and its auspicious aftermath.
Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only. All host and participant opinions are their own. Investment in any asset, real estate included, involves risk, so use your best judgment and consult with qualified advisors before investing. You should only risk capital you can afford to lose. Remember that past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast may contain paid advertisements or other promotional materials for real estate investment advisers, investment funds, and investment opportunities, which should not be interpreted as a recommendation, endorsement, or testimonial by PassivePockets, LLC or any of its affiliates. Viewers must conduct their own due diligence and consider their own financial situations before engaging with any of the advertised offerings, products, or services. PassivePockets, LLC disclaims all liability for direct, indirect, consequential, or other damages arising out of reliance on information and advertisements presented in this podcast.
In This Episode We Cover
Zane’s journey from LP to taking over a mismanaged private equity fund
The passive investor’s course of action when dealing with risky operators
Low-risk investments LPs can turn to in an uncertain economy
How to build wealth with the triple net lease (NNN) investing strategy
Two levers investors can pull to make NNN deals work despite high interest rates
And So Much More!
Link Mentioned from the Show
Zane’s LinkedIn

May 13, 2025 • 38min
Markets More Volatile Than Ever: Pascal Wagner’s LP Investing Guide for 2025
Are you eager to deploy capital but wary of making the wrong decision in this uncertain economic climate? Passive investing could help you capture the long-term gains of real estate—without the operational burdens of active management. Today’s guest provides low-risk, time-tested strategies for any stage of your investing journey.
In this episode, we interview Pascal Wagner—seasoned limited partner and host of The Passive Income Playbook Podcast. With a cash-flowing rental portfolio that spans multiple major markets and a professional background in venture capital, Pascal is experienced in both the active and passive sides of real estate investing. He unveils his preferred entry-level approach amid macro headwinds—an option that gives you a diversified investment, relative liquidity, and immediate returns.
Pascal also shares how to conduct rigorous due diligence on real estate syndications and avoid one of the most frequent—and financially damaging—mistakes new investors make. Whether you’re looking to make your money work harder or replace your income, Pascal delivers actionable insights for both aspiring and advanced investors.
Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only. All host and participant opinions are their own. Investment in any asset, real estate included, involves risk, so use your best judgment and consult with qualified advisors before investing. You should only risk capital you can afford to lose. Remember that past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast may contain paid advertisements or other promotional materials for real estate investment advisers, investment funds, and investment opportunities, which should not be interpreted as a recommendation, endorsement, or testimonial by PassivePockets, LLC or any of its affiliates. Viewers must conduct their own due diligence and consider their own financial situations before engaging with any of the advertised offerings, products, or services. PassivePockets, LLC disclaims all liability for direct, indirect, consequential, or other damages arising out of reliance on information and advertisements presented in this podcast.
In This Episode We Cover
Pascal’s journey from active to passive real estate investing
Why replacing your income is the one skill every LP should learn
The number one mistake investors make before analyzing deals
Diversifying across asset types, markets, and within individual investments
Why new investors should start with debt funds rather than equity deals
And So Much More!
Links from the Show
The Passive Investing Starter Kit
Pascal’s LinkedIn