

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

Dec 2, 2025 • 35min
Networking with Accredited investors is Critical
📚 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 dive into a podcast replay where Lane Kawaoka, founder of Wealth Elevator, shares the inner workings of his investment retreats and the importance of building real relationships with other accredited investors. He discusses the need for curiosity, the value of mentorship, and the significance of community in personal and financial growth. Lane also highlights his journey from an engineer to a full-time investor, the importance of alternative investments, and how his events foster meaningful connections among high net worth individuals. The episode wraps up with insights on how to prepare for major life transitions and the future plans for Wealth Elevator.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Replay Announcement00:40 Guest Introduction and Initial Thoughts on Growth01:14 The Importance of Curiosity and Coaching02:26 Building Confidence and the Role of Peer Groups05:10 Adapting Strategies for Changing Environments07:15 Lane's Real Estate Journey and Investment Strategies12:38 Transitioning from Engineering to Full-Time Business17:10 Creating Effective and Curated Community Events29:01 The Future of Community and Human Connection33:11 Closing Thoughts and Final 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.

Nov 25, 2025 • 1h 4min
Taxes Before Year-End: Using Oil & Gas Investments to Lower Ordinary Income
In this episode, Lane and guest tax expert Jack Hollander dive into strategies for offsetting ordinary income through oil and gas investments. They discuss the unique tax benefits, including intangible drilling costs and depletion allowances, and how these can provide significant deductions for high-income earners. The conversation addresses common mistakes with passive losses and real estate professional status, provides insights into how to properly utilize oil and gas investments, and answers questions on minimizing tax liabilities and optimizing portfolio strategies.00:00 Introduction to Tax Deductions in Oil and Gas Investments00:39 Understanding Passive and Ordinary Income01:11 Limitations of Passive Losses02:09 Real Estate Professional Status and Short-Term Rentals02:48 Introduction to Oil and Gas Investments03:02 Misconceptions About Bonus Depreciation06:08 Importance of Consulting Professional Advisors07:42 Basics of Tax Law and Income Buckets12:07 Financial Planning and Investment Considerations13:24 How Oil and Gas Investments Fit into a Portfolio15:23 Tax Benefits of Oil and Gas Investments23:53 Intangible Drilling Costs (IDCs) Explained35:16 Understanding Passive Losses and Tax Benefits35:53 Investment Strategies for Self-Employed Individuals36:33 Navigating Tax Forms and Returns37:27 Managing Investment Expectations38:37 Cash Flow and Tax Savings39:49 Evaluating Oil and Gas Investments41:15 Portfolio Diversification and Tax Planning43:15 Risk Management in Oil and Gas Investments53:09 Using IRAs and Roth Conversions01:03:01 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 18, 2025 • 55min
Jailbreaking you 401k: Investing Through Self-Directed IRAs & Solo 401ks
📚 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 how new investors can unlock their retirement funds through self-directed IRAs and Solo 401ks. Learn about the transformation process, the role of custodians, and the potential to invest in real estate or other alternative investments. Our guest, Ted Damp from Advanta IRA, shares his expertise on unique investment strategies, partnering, commingling funds, and navigating IRS rules. We also discuss prohibited investments, transactions, and the unrelated business income tax (UBIT). Discover how to avoid common pitfalls, diversify your portfolio, and leverage your retirement funds effectively. Visit WealthElevator.com for more resources, including event information and vendor referrals.00:00 Unlocking Your 401k and IRA Funds01:05 Introduction to Self-Directed IRAs01:48 Meet Ted from Advanta IRA02:27 Understanding Partnering and Co-Mingling Funds05:41 Basic Rules and Prohibited Transactions09:21 Real-Life Self-Directed IRA Experiences13:36 Disqualified Persons and Entities23:45 Case Study: Partnering on a Real Estate Deal28:43 IRA Ownership and Expense Sharing29:25 Rules on Percentage Ownership30:36 Co-Mingling Funds for Investments32:59 Non-Recourse Loans Explained37:51 Partnering and Co-Mingling in Real Estate44:14 Alternative Investments and Syndications51:26 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 4, 2025 • 26min
LP Understanding Multifamily Apartment Investments: Maximize Your Real Estate Investment: Market Types and CapEx Planning
📚 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, the host invites new and existing investors to the annual Hawaii retreat scheduled for January 16-18 and emphasizes the importance of education in real estate investment. He discusses various aspects like meticulously understanding deals, avoiding being swayed by attractive photos, and thorough due diligence. He explains the differences between primary, secondary, and tertiary markets, the merits and risks of investing in each, and highlights the cyclical nature of markets. The host dives into Capital Expenditures (CapEx), evaluating whether renovation costs in multifamily properties justify rent increases. He offers insights into calculating per-unit costs and emphasizes the need for professional audits. The talk also covers broader investment philosophies, asset diversification, and the importance of being in tune with industry data. He concludes by encouraging listeners to join the syndication e-course and stay connected with like-minded accredited investors for better insights and opportunities.00:00 Welcome and Hawaii Retreat Invitation00:34 Importance of Education and Syndication E-Course01:04 Understanding Market Locations: Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary01:18 CapEx Plan and Deal Disqualification03:42 Due Diligence in Real Estate Deals03:57 Primary vs. Secondary vs. Tertiary Markets08:58 Investment Strategies and Market Cycles16:12 CapEx Budget and Renovation ROI25:44 Final Thoughts and Syndication E-Course Promotion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 21, 2025 • 20min
Maximize Your Rental Property Returns: Should You Sell and Reinvest?
📚 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/clubDownload the spreadsheet here: theWealthElevator.com/ROELane from The Wealth Elevator discusses whether investors should sell their rental properties and reinvest the equity into more profitable ventures. He stresses the importance of focusing on return on equity (ROE) instead of just return on investment (ROI) and provides a framework to evaluate the current performance of your rental properties. Lane also shares personal experiences, offers practical steps for evaluating your investments, and discusses various reallocation options such as T-bills, life insurance, syndications, or other investment opportunities. Additionally, he details the emotional and financial considerations that come into play and emphasizes having a clear exit strategy for underperforming assets.00:00 Introduction: Should You Sell Your Rental Properties?01:03 Investor Insights: Return on Equity03:12 Analyzing Rental Property Performance05:07 Reevaluating Investments: The Annie Duke Approach07:23 Practical Steps for Property Owners12:39 Advanced Strategies and Final ThoughtsConnect 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.

Oct 7, 2025 • 30min
How Smart Investors Are Pivoting After the Commercial Real Estate Crash
📚 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, our guest revisits a podcast where they delve into various aspects of the real estate investment landscape. Topics include the highs and lows of commercial real estate, the impact of interest rates, strategies for sourcing deals, lessons from personal investment journeys, and their new book 'The Wealth Elevator'. They also discuss the importance of personal relationships in investing, market cycles, diversification strategies, and long-term goals. The conversation provides valuable insights for both seasoned and aspiring investors.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Replay Announcement00:32 Upcoming Events and Surveys01:54 Podcast Interview Begins02:27 Current State of Commercial Real Estate06:08 Investment Strategies and Market Cycles12:16 New Book and Personal Investment Journey18:47 Family Office Operations and Networking21:43 Future Investment Goals and Market Insights27:30 Closing Thoughts and Book PromotionConnect 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.

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.


