

The Wealth Elevator Podcast: Real Estate, Taxes, Investing
Lane Kawaoka, PE
🎓 Get free access to our 12-module Masterclass and start your journey today at TheWealthElevator.com/master.The Wealth Elevator is your ultimate guide to financial freedom. From my humble beginnings buying small rental properties in 2009 as an W2 working engineer to becoming a general partner in over $2.1 billion in assets, we reveal the three-step wealth-building system, covering:🚀 Alternative investments to diversify your portfolio💰 Tax income strategies for financial independence🏦 Infinite banking to maximize your wealthJoin our community and get access to our free Masterclass - theWealthElevator.com/clubWelcome to those who found us through the new book! Welcome to our Ohana! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 23, 2025 • 49min
Interest Rates Just Dropped—Is Now the Time to Buy Real Estate? Expert Insights from ITR Economics
📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubIn this episode, we sit down with an economist from ITR Economics, the group renowned for predicting the 2008 recession. We dive deep into the latest developments in interest rates during Trump's presidency, the current state of the real estate market, and the economist's personal investment strategies. The conversation shifts to macroeconomic trends, the impact of the pandemic on inflation, and the intricacies of the labor market. We also explore the implications of current tariff policies, potential black swan events, and future projections for interest rates and inflation. Don't miss this insightful discussion packed with data-backed analysis and expert opinions.00:00 Introduction and Market Overview00:10 Interest Rates and Real Estate Insights00:24 Investment Strategies and Market Cycles01:56 Evaluating Investment Deals04:49 Guest Introduction and Economic Background07:45 Macroeconomic Trends and Inflation15:32 Labor Market Dynamics and AI Impact25:09 Understanding Market Absorption and Job Creation25:21 Fed's Approach to Inflation and Interest Rates29:12 Impact of Tariffs on the Economy35:16 Housing Market Challenges and Future Projections37:51 Business Cycle Phases and Industry Analysis43:31 Black Swan Events and Economic Implications47:02 Final Thoughts and Investor Advice Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 9, 2025 • 50min
Asset Protection with Scott Royal Smith
📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubIn this episode, we talk with Scott Royal Smith, a seasoned attorney and business leader, about optimizing your financial life through smart investment, effective tax strategies, and robust asset protection. Scott shares his journey from law school to founding Royal Legal Solutions, emphasizing the importance of compartmentalizing assets and utilizing innovative legal structures like series LLCs. He provides invaluable advice on making savvy investment decisions, minimizing lawsuit risks, and planning for long-term financial freedom. This episode is filled with practical tips and deep insights into building and protecting your wealth, whether you're a business owner or an investor.In this Wealth Elevator episode, recorded while dropping his daughter off at preschool, Lane discusses wrapping up the financial year and invites listeners to consider advanced financial strategies. The podcast introduces Scott Royal Smith, a CPA, attorney, and business leader who shares his insights on optimizing taxes, setting up LLC structures, and preparing for legal challenges. Smith also discusses his journey from a law student to managing his investments and the importance of asset compartmentalization. They delve into real estate syndications, private investments, and tax optimization strategies, giving listeners practical advice on navigating their financial journeys. To learn more or get involved, listeners are encouraged to reach out to Wealth Elevator.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:57 Deal Disqualification and Investment Strategies03:27 Guest Introduction: Scott Royal Smith04:49 Scott's Journey to Financial Freedom06:13 Importance of Asset Protection06:45 Insurance and Legal Structures14:57 Compartmentalizing Assets with Series LLCs20:23 Transitioning to Syndications and Passive Investing25:38 Understanding Asset Compartmentalization26:53 Common Mistakes in Asset Management27:25 The Importance of Separate LLCs28:37 Tax Savings and Asset Protection32:38 Anonymity and Privacy in Asset Protection41:58 Strategic Investment and Risk Management44:31 Comprehensive Wealth Management Services49:49 Conclusion and Contact Information Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 26, 2025 • 26min
Live Coaching Call 28-year-old net worth under $100,000
📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubIn this episode, we conduct a live coaching call with Sam, a 28-year-old recruiter from LA who is embarking on his journey to financial freedom. This session is particularly valuable for individuals with a net worth under $100,000. During the call, Sam shares his background, how he got into real estate investing, and the strategic decisions he's made to accelerate his investment goals. We also discuss the risks and rewards of strategies like borrowing from retirement funds and investing in turnkey properties. This episode provides practical advice for those looking to improve their financial stability and grow their investment portfolios.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview01:24 Live Coaching Call Introduction02:02 Sam's Background and Real Estate Journey03:27 Financial Strategies and First Property Details09:02 Personal Financial Sheet Analysis11:48 Career and Income Growth Discussion14:57 Side Gigs and Additional Income Ideas16:17 Risks and Strategies in Real Estate Investing19:13 Final Thoughts and Advice25:36 Conclusion and FarewellConnect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanekawaoka/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWealthElevatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheWealthElevatorLane Kawaoka is a developer and multi-family syndicator who owns 10,000+ rental units and is the leader of “Hui Deal Pipeline Club” which has acquired over $2.1 Billion AUM of real estate by syndicating over $200 Million Dollars of private equity and most importantly distributed more than $45M back to our investors since 2016. Check out our Top-50 Investing Podcast, The Wealth Elevator. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 12, 2025 • 1h 42min
Mid-Year 2025 Market Recap: 100% Bonus Depreciation, supply/demand
****For an academic understanding of cap rate movements, check out minute 17 from this video here: https://youtu.be/ueCl6Zyl16o📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubIn this semi-annual market report, we review the performance and trends in the commercial real estate market, particularly focusing on the gradual decrease in Cap Rates and its implications on asset prices. Key market changes include the impact of tariffs, progress on tax reforms, and fluctuations in interest rates. The discussion touches on investment opportunities in different asset classes such as private equity, multifamily housing, and newer developments versus distressed assets. It also covers anticipated movements in apartment rents, absorption rates in various markets, and the broader economic impacts of the recent Presidential election and legislative changes. Finally, the video provides insights into current investor interests based on a 2025 survey and emphasizes the importance of strategic investment during periods of market uncertainty.00:00 Introduction and Market Overview00:28 Upcoming Events and Opportunities01:43 Market Recap and Tax Bill Implications02:32 Understanding Cap Rates and Market Trends04:25 New Tax Bill Details and Impacts20:28 Interest Rates and Market Corrections22:50 Supply and Demand in Real Estate29:18 Investor Strategies and Market Predictions33:18 Ultra High Net Worth Investor Insights35:45 Market Recap Replay and Analysis50:50 Market Trends and Predictions52:19 Diversification and Market Cycles53:12 Impact of Inflation and Interest Rates57:10 Commercial Real Estate Insights01:01:23 Supply and Demand Dynamics01:11:30 Insurance and Natural Disasters01:15:46 Election Impact on Economy01:36:31 Investment Strategies and Survey Results Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 29, 2025 • 44min
Bitcoin = Digital Gold? With Pierre Rochard
📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubIn today's podcast episode, our host is joined by Pierre, an expert in the Bitcoin and cryptocurrency space, to delve into the intricacies of Bitcoin, its technology, and its investment potential. The host begins by expressing a personal viewpoint on Bitcoin, including its decentralized nature, technological aspects, and scarcity compared to traditional currencies like the US Dollar. The conversation then transitions to Pierre's extensive background, discussing his early interest in sound money, precious metals, and his journey into the Bitcoin space from grad school to various roles at significant firms like BitPay, Kraken, and Riot. Pierre elaborates on the technological and financial aspects of Bitcoin, comparing it to traditional hard assets such as real estate and gold. They debate on Bitcoin's potential role during economic instability, its unique features like decentralized custody and audit transparency, and the implications of Bitcoin bonds for institutional investors. The episode wraps up with discussions on inflation, investment strategies, the historical performance of Bitcoin through its halving events, and practical steps for newcomers to get started with Bitcoin. Pierre also provides his perspectives on the future of Bitcoin and its place in a diversified investment portfolio. Engage in this comprehensive discussion to gain insights into Bitcoin's market dynamics, investment strategies, and advanced technological framework.00:00 Introduction to Today's Podcast00:04 Personal Views on Bitcoin01:03 Family Office and Estate Planning02:17 Diverse Investment Strategies02:51 Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency Insights03:37 Interview with Bitcoin Expert Pierre03:42 Pierre's Background and Bitcoin Journey07:55 Bitcoin's Technical Aspects and Utility11:56 Bitcoin as an Investment17:32 Bitcoin Bonds and Investment Strategies28:53 Inflation and Bitcoin34:56 Learning Resources and Final Thoughts38:22 Host's Closing RemarksConnect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanekawaoka/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWealthElevatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheWealthElevatorLane Kawaoka is a developer and multi-family syndicator who owns 10,000+ rental units and is the leader of “Hui Deal Pipeline Club” which has acquired over $2.1 Billion AUM of real estate by syndicating over $200 Million Dollars of private equity and most importantly distributed more than $45M back to our investors since 2016. Check out our Top-50 Investing Podcast, The Wealth Elevator. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 15, 2025 • 47min
Mastering Due Diligence on Multifamily Syndication Deals - Webinar Replay
📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubIn this episode, we delve into the intricacies of performing due diligence on multifamily real estate deals. The video starts with an introduction to a comprehensive e-course on syndication due diligence, followed by a replay of a webinar covering key aspects like deal assumptions, market trends, and supply impacts. Discussion includes the effects of high interest rates, significant property price drops, and factors affecting decision-making in recent times. The video also touches upon assessing deals through P&L and rent rolls, and provides an example of evaluating a specific 300-unit property. Essential elements such as recognizing rental market softness, new supply impacts, and discrepancies in projected rent growth are also examined. The latter part of the webinar breaks down key concepts like asset classes, loan terms, risk mitigation, and strategies to optimize returns. Practical insights on pro forma analysis, counterparty risk, and networking in the syndication space are shared, rounding out with some advanced investment strategies and financial planning tips.00:00 Introduction and Course Overview00:31 Current Market Conditions and Challenges01:21 Case Study: Analyzing a 300-Unit Property02:52 Insurance and Debt Structure Considerations03:57 Engaging with Operators and Personal Updates04:41 Introduction to Due Diligence Webinar05:17 Understanding Syndication Deals07:14 Evaluating Deal Structures and Returns17:14 Asset Classes and Market Trends22:31 Due Diligence and Forced Appreciation24:38 Understanding Other Income in Real Estate25:39 Private Placement Memorandum (PPM) Essentials27:01 Navigating Deal Structures and Risks28:55 Counterparty Risk and Syndication Tips33:05 Evaluating Reversion Cap Rates37:18 Importance of Loan Terms in Real Estate40:57 Core Capital and Legacy Planning43:56 Maximizing Experiences with WealthConnect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanekawaoka/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWealthElevatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheWealthElevatorLane Kawaoka is a developer and multi-family syndicator who owns 10,000+ rental units and is the leader of “Hui Deal Pipeline Club” which has acquired over $2.1 Billion AUM of real estate by syndicating over $200 Million Dollars of private equity and most importantly distributed more than $45M back to our investors since 2016. Check out our Top-50 Investing Podcast, The Wealth Elevator. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 1, 2025 • 17min
Is Buying a Home to Live In a Smart Investment Strategy?
If you’d like a free copy of the book, just email us at team@thewealthelevator.com and tell us how you found us.In today's podcast, we delve into the financial implications of buying a home to live in versus renting and investing. The host introduces the concept of the 'wealth elevator' as described in their book, which categorizes different financial stages and offers tailored advice. They discuss why individuals in high-priced areas or early stages of wealth building might benefit more from renting and investing in rental properties instead of purchasing a home. Practical insights from personal experience are shared, including saving strategies and the impact of leveraging rental income. The discussion also touches on the pros and cons of homeownership, while advising listeners to consider their individual financial situations before making a decision. Listeners are encouraged to join the Wealth Elevator community for personalized advice and strategies for financial independence.00:00 Introduction to Home Buying Discussion00:06 The Wealth Elevator Concept00:51 Personal Experience with Home Buying01:46 Financial Advice and Wealth Building02:41 When to Buy a House04:03 Renting vs. Buying Debate04:48 Investment Strategies and Returns09:33 Flexibility and Mobility Considerations13:56 Disadvantages of Home Ownership15:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

9 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 1h 6min
Advanced Tax Strategies for Business Owners | Home Office Deductions, Augusta Rule, and More
If you’d like a free copy of the book, just email us at team@thewealthelevator.com and tell us how you found us.In this episode, we dive deep into various tax strategies tailored specifically for business owners. We cover essential topics such as home office deductions, the Augusta Rule, paying your kids on payroll, Solo 401(k)s, and advanced strategies like captive insurance. The first half of the podcast is dedicated to potential tax changes currently under review by the Senate. We discuss extensions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, increases in qualified business income deductions, and more. In the second half, we bring on guest Patrick Lonergan to discuss specific strategies for business owners and how to optimize personal taxes linked with business operations.00:00 Introduction to Today's Podcast00:18 Overview of Potential Tax Changes00:41 Extension of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act01:26 Bonus Depreciation and Section 17903:13 Qualified Opportunity Zone Program03:57 State and Local Tax Cap Increase04:33 Lifetime Estate and Gift Tax Exemption06:19 Additional Tax Changes and Implications08:03 Infomercial: Family Office Ohana Mastermind08:35 FOOM and Real Estate Professional Status11:33 Tax Strategies for Business Owners14:00 Home Office Deduction17:09 The Augusta Rule21:28 Family on Payroll24:37 Qualified Business Income Deduction29:18 Level Two Tax Strategies37:27 Setting Up Retirement Plans for Solopreneurs38:46 Navigating IRS Audits and Employee Classifications39:17 Overview of Level Two Tax Strategies39:37 Understanding ROBS and Roth Conversions41:08 Introduction to Level Three Tax Planning41:22 Captive Insurance: Benefits and Risks46:38 Investing Through Captive Insurance55:31 Level Four: Tax Fraud and Evasion57:30 Common Pitfalls and CPA Involvement01:05:39 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 3, 2025 • 22min
The Hidden Downsides of Real Estate Syndications
We explore the downsides of investing passively in real estate syndications and why you might instead consider investing in smaller rental properties on your own. We discuss limited control, investment illiquidity, high minimum investments, and operational challenges. Despite these cons, we also briefly touch upon the advantages of syndications such as diversification and tax benefits. We highlight the importance of due diligence, building trust and relationships within investor networks, and understanding the tax efficiencies offered by syndications through cost segregation. Join us to uncover if passive real estate syndication is right for you and learn about strategies for successful investment.08:48 Cons of Real Estate Syndications09:45 Investment Illiquidity and Portfolio Management10:54 High Minimum Investments12:12 Crowdfunding Websites: Pros and Cons13:06 Differences from Rental Property Investments13:44 Building Trust and Network in Syndications15:02 Limited Control in Syndications16:13 Prerequisites for Participation19:21 Tax Benefits of Syndications21:26 Conclusion and Additional Resources Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 20, 2025 • 1h 27min
They Can Sue You… How the Wealthy Protect Assets: Bridge Trusts & Offshore Entities
📚 Unlock the secrets to building wealth! My book and 12-module Masterclass cover everything I’ve learned about passive investing and creating financial freedom. Watch it on-demand for FREE: http://thewealthelevator.com/master🤝 Join the Hui Deal Pipeline Club and get a one-on-one call with me to discuss your investment goals: https://thewealthelevator.com/clubUnderstanding Asset Protection and Trusts with Brian Bradley | Managing Wealth and Legal RisksIn this episode, we dive into the complexities of asset protection and trusts with experienced attorney Brian Bradley. We explore various strategies for shielding your assets from lawsuits and creditors, including offshore trusts, bridge trusts, limited partnerships, and the pitfalls of domestic options. Ideal for high-net-worth individuals or those in high-risk professions, this episode offers valuable insights into legally safeguarding your wealth. Brian also answers audience questions about structuring entities for real estate investments, managing legal risks, and the implications of fraudulent conveyance. Created by Doug Lodmell - The Bridge Trust® combines the protection of a fully offshore asset protection trust with the simplicity of a domestic trust37:29 Introduction to Asset Protection37:54 The Cost and Value of Setting Up Trusts38:22 Understanding Irrevocable Trusts38:51 The Bridge Trust Explained39:38 Legal and Practical Considerations42:40 Fraudulent Conveyance and Legal Risks50:49 Different Types of Trusts and Their Uses56:10 Cost and Process of Setting Up a Bridge Trust57:45 Alternatives to Bridge Trusts01:01:45 Future of Asset Protection01:01:50 Challenges in Asset Protection01:02:10 Specialization in Law Firms01:02:36 Asset Protection Strategies01:02:57 Offshore Trusts and Hybrid Options01:05:46 Domestic Asset Protection Trusts01:06:54 Insurance Limitations01:08:18 Real-Life Legal Scenarios01:09:36 Integrating Existing LLC Structures01:10:07 Benefits of Limited Partnerships01:12:09 Breaking the Bridge in Asset Protection01:14:20 Role of Offshore Trustees01:21:42 Importance of Pre-Litigation Planning01:23:37 Final Thoughts and Q&AConnect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanekawaoka/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWealthElevatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheWealthElevatorLane Kawaoka is a developer and multi-family syndicator who owns 10,000+ rental units and is the leader of “Hui Deal Pipeline Club” which has acquired over $2.1 Billion AUM of real estate by syndicating over $200 Million Dollars of private equity and most importantly distributed more than $45M back to our investors since 2016. Check out our Top-50 Investing Podcast, The Wealth Elevator. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.