Directed IRA Podcast
Mat Sorensen and Mark Kohler
The Directed IRA Podcast, hosted by attorneys Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler, is the leading source for investors navigating the world of self-directed IRAs and 401(k)s. As co-founders of Directed IRA & Directed Trust Company (directedira.com), Mat and Mark have helped thousands of clients invest in alternative assets using tax-advantaged retirement accounts.Episodes cover topics related to self-directing retirement accounts, such as Roth IRAs, Solo 401(k)s, real estate, private equity and venture funds, promissory notes, private placements (PPMs), start-ups, IRA/LLCs (Checkbook IRAs), and the UBIT/UDFI tax rules. The podcast also addresses prohibited transactions and shares real-world examples from investors who have successfully self-directed their retirement for decades.Whether you're a seasoned investor or just getting started, this podcast offers practical, expert-level insights into building wealth through self-directed strategies.Mat Sorensen is an attorney, best-selling author of The Self-Directed IRA Handbook, and CEO of Directed IRA & Directed Trust Company, a leading self-directed IRA custodian with nearly $3 billion under administration. He is a national expert on self-directed retirement strategies and a Senior Partner at KKOS Lawyers. Mat also co-hosts The Main Street Business Podcast along with Mark J. Kohler. Mark J. Kohler is a CPA, attorney, best-selling author of six books, and a nationally recognized authority on small business tax and legal strategies. Mark serves as a Senior Partner at KKOS Lawyers and Board Member at Directed IRA Trust Company, which manages over $3 billion in assets. As the founder of the Main Street Certified Tax Advisor Program, Mark has trained thousands of CPAs and Enrolled Agents nationwide, helping millions of small business owners better navigate tax and legal strategies. Mark also co-hosts The Main Street Business Podcast along with Mat Sorensen.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Apr 7, 2025 • 8min
Backdoor Roth Strategy for 2025
In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen breaks down one of the most powerful tools for building long-term, tax-free wealth: the Backdoor Roth IRA. Many high-income earners believe they’re ineligible for Roth IRAs due to income limits—but that’s where the backdoor strategy comes in.Mat walks you through how the Backdoor Roth IRA works in 2025, including the three-step process of contributing to a traditional IRA, making it non-deductible, and then converting it to a Roth. He covers common pitfalls like the pro-rata rule and re-characterization mistakes, explains how to double up contributions for 2024 and 2025, and shares why this strategy remains one of the best-kept secrets in retirement planning—even with ongoing attempts by Congress to shut it down.Whether you're new to this strategy or need a refresher on the rules for 2025, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence to make it work.👉 Learn more and get started with your own Backdoor Roth IRA at https://directedira.com/backdoor-roth-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
Mar 31, 2025 • 39min
Top 10 FAQs For Self Directed IRAs!
The hosts dive into the world of self-directed IRAs, debunking common myths and clarifying misconceptions. They break down what self-directed IRAs are and highlight versatile investment options, including real estate and startups. Tax advantages and the process of transferring funds without penalties are thoroughly explained. Listeners learn about key IRS restrictions and the importance of aligning investments with personal expertise. This insightful discussion serves both new and experienced investors looking to navigate the self-directed IRA landscape.
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
12 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
