
Directed IRA Podcast
A show dedicated to educating and informing self-directed IRA and 401(k) investors on strategies, investments, legal structures, tax rules, and pitfalls. Hosted by tax lawyers Mat Sorensen and Mark Kohler who are also co-founders of Directed IRA & Directed Trust Company (https://directedira.com) where they have provided self-directed accounts for thousands of customers. They cover and discuss Roth IRAs, solo(k)s, prohibited transactions, real estate, start-ups, notes, PPMs, PE/VC Funds, UBIT/UDFI, IRA/LLCs (aka, checkbook IRAs), and share examples and stories from their thousands of clients who have self-directed their retirement for decades.
Latest episodes

Mar 26, 2025 • 26min
How to Partner your IRA with others when doing Deals
In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mark Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down the mechanics of partnering your IRA with others in deals. Whether it’s pooling funds from multiple IRAs, combining accounts within a family, or structuring investments to comply with IRS rules, they cover the do’s and don’ts of co-investing. Tune in to learn how to structure partnerships, avoid prohibited transactions, and maximize your self-directed retirement investing strategy.Directed IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/ Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRA Book a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

Mar 17, 2025 • 28min
Investing in Private Companies, Funds, and Small business with a Self Directed IRA or solo 401k
In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mark and Mat break down how to use your self-directed IRA or 401(k) to invest in private businesses, funds, and startups. We’re not talking about running another business yourself—we’re talking about leveraging your expertise to identify valuable investment opportunities.Most people think investing with an IRA means buying stocks, but what if you could invest in the next big thing before it goes public? Whether it’s a local business you know has potential or a startup in your industry, using insider knowledge (legally!) can be a game-changer.We cover:✅ How investing in private companies differs from public stocks✅ Why broker-dealers don’t allow this—and how self-directed IRAs give you control✅ The risks and rewards of private business investments✅ How a Roth IRA can help you grow wealth tax-free with the right investmentsIf you’re looking for ways to maximize your retirement returns beyond traditional stocks and mutual funds, this episode is for you.Head over to DirectedIRA.com now to start your self directing journey! Directed IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/ Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRA Book a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

21 snips
Mar 10, 2025 • 33min
Banks Are Pushing Distressed Assets—Here’s What It Means for You! with Jamison Manwaring.
Jamison Manwaring, co-founder of Neighborhood Ventures, shares insights on a unique foreclosure deal his company secured at a significant discount. With the multifamily sector experiencing rising interest rates, he discusses how they plan to optimize the property’s value by increasing rents and improving management. Jamison also highlights the trend of banks pushing distressed assets and the impact of expiring rate caps. This conversation reveals the opportunities for savvy investors looking to navigate the current real estate landscape.

Mar 5, 2025 • 22min
Self Directed Mechanics - Transfers & Rollovers
In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mark Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down the key steps to setting up and funding a self-directed retirement account. If you have an existing IRA, 401(k), or another retirement account and you're wondering how to transition into self-directing, this episode is for you.Mark and Mat discuss the importance of understanding what type of retirement account you already have, how to take inventory of your funds, and what options are available for rolling over or transferring assets. They also highlight common mistakes people make when assuming what kind of account they hold—and how to avoid them.Whether you're an investor looking to move into alternative assets like real estate, crypto, or private deals, or just want more control over your retirement funds, this episode lays out the mechanics you need to know.Tune in to get expert insights and actionable steps for taking charge of your financial future with a self-directed IRA.Directed IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/ Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRA Book a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

Feb 18, 2025 • 11min
How To Buy XRP Tax-Free With A Roth IRA!
Is it possible to invest in crypto completely tax-free? Yes—if you use a Roth IRA! In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen breaks down how you can use a self-directed Roth IRA to invest in cryptocurrencies like XRP while avoiding capital gains taxes.Most people assume Roth IRAs are limited to stocks, bonds, and mutual funds through major brokers like Fidelity or Schwab. But with a self-directed Roth IRA, you can invest in alternative assets—including crypto. Mat walks you through how to open a crypto Roth IRA, transfer funds tax-free, and use a Gemini trading account to start buying digital assets inside your IRA.If you’re serious about growing your wealth with crypto while keeping your profits tax-free, this episode is a must-listen!Learn More about A Crypto IRA here: https://directedira.com/cryptocurrency/Directed IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/ Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRA Book a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

Feb 10, 2025 • 32min
How To Use An IRA LLC/ Checkbook IRA!
Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler break down the IRA LLC, also known as the Checkbook IRA, explaining how it works, when it makes sense, and how to avoid common pitfalls. As experienced tax attorneys, they clarify the rules, discuss asset protection benefits, and share real-world use cases. Whether you're investing in real estate, private loans, or other alternative assets, this episode gives you the key information to keep your self-directed IRA compliant while maximizing flexibility.Learn More at: https://directedira.com/ira-llc/Directed IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/ Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRA Book a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

Feb 3, 2025 • 44min
How To Find Real Estate Deals For Your Self Directed IRA With Shenoah Grove!
Shenoah Grove, a seasoned real estate investor and speaker at the Alternative Asset Summit, shares her expertise in uncovering off-market real estate opportunities. She discusses why traditional MLS listings often fall short for serious investors and reveals how to leverage the Notice of Substitute Trustee to identify potential foreclosures. Shenoah emphasizes the importance of proactive marketing and a confident mindset for connecting with motivated sellers, making this a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their real estate investment skills.

Jan 21, 2025 • 30min
Self-Directed IRA Rules - Buying Real Estate and Alternative Assets.
In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler continue their deep dive into self-directed IRAs, focusing on the rules you need to follow. This is part two of their ten-part series, where they discuss what you can and cannot invest in using your IRA.They explain prohibited transactions, disqualified persons, and how the tax code impacts your investment decisions. The episode also clarifies common myths, such as the idea that self-directed IRAs are overly complex or risky.Whether you're a seasoned investor or just getting started, this episode will help you navigate the boundaries of self-directed IRA investing confidently.Directed IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/ Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRA Book a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

Jan 13, 2025 • 41min
What Is A Self Directed IRA? Pt.1
Wall Street isn’t telling you the whole story about your retirement accounts—they tell you what works for them. In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler kick off a 10-part series covering everything you need to know about self-directed IRAs.What is a self-directed IRA? How does it work? And why is Wall Street reluctant to share these options with you? Mat and Mark dive into the power of self-directing, explaining how you can invest in assets beyond the stock market, including real estate, private businesses, crypto, and more.With over 25 years of experience as tax lawyers and financial experts, Mat and Mark break down the rules, benefits, and opportunities of self-directed accounts in simple, practical terms. Whether you’re a first-time investor or an experienced advisor, this series is designed to help you take control of your retirement.Don’t miss this foundational episode—your first step toward financial freedom starts here.For a complete guide to self-directed IRAs, get your copy of The Self-Directed IRA Handbook, written by Mat Sorensen. It’s the #1 book in this space and will walk you through everything you need to know. https://a.co/d/dbFUbWRDirected IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/ Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRA Book a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

Dec 30, 2024 • 39min
Where is Real Estate headed in 2025? w/ Jamison Manwaring
Are you wondering how to spot a great investment opportunity in today’s real estate market? In this video, we dive into the current state of the real estate industry, focusing on multifamily properties, interest rate impacts, and strategies to navigate a challenging market.Join us as we discuss: ✔️ Why Arizona’s multifamily market is facing unique challenges and opportunities. ✔️ The effects of rising interest rates on property values. ✔️ How distressed opportunities are creating value for savvy investors. ✔️ What you need to know before investing in a multifamily deal.Discover insights from experts actively working in the space, including the steps we take to evaluate deals, lessons learned from recent market shifts, and why now could be the perfect time to consider investing.Directed IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/ Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRA Book a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com