
The Gentle Art of Crushing It!
Hello, and thank you for joining us today on "The Gentle Art of Crushing It!" podcast, where we focus on learning and sharing with our listeners all there is to know about how to create success in our lives. This show stands on the shoulders of Giants. Our mission is to empower and inspire our listeners to create the life of their dreams whilst having a blast in the process. Let's celebrate life together! Welcome to the show.
Latest episodes

Mar 24, 2025 • 9min
EP 251: The Irreplaceable Mindset
SummaryIn this episode of The Gentle Art of Crushing It, Doug Clark emphasizes the irreplaceable nature of each individual and the importance of recognizing one's unique purpose. He discusses the common enemy of self-doubt and the power of a growth mindset. The conversation encourages listeners to focus on their goals and define their life's mission, ultimately leading to personal growth and fulfillment.Chapters00:00 The Irreplaceable Mindset03:22 Defining Your Unique Purpose06:31 The Power of Focus and Mindset08:15 outro Keywordsirreplaceable mindset, uniqueness, self-worth, growth mindset, focus, purpose, motivation, success, personal development, self-improvement

Mar 20, 2025 • 38min
EP 250: De-Risking Real Estate Development: Insights from Katie Kim
I’m a real estate developer and educator with over 30 years of experience, specializing in transforming overlooked urban spaces into vibrant, community-enhancing developments. My passion for real estate began early, growing up in a family deeply rooted in construction and development and spending weekends on the jobsites with my dad and school holidays in the office with my mom. I completed my first real estate deal at just 16 years old.Before diving fully into real estate, I spent several years at Accenture Technology Labs in Chicago, working in the Research and Innovation Department. There, I crafted strategic solutions for corporations, traveling globally to implement profitable strategies for clients. This experience honed my ability to align a company’s mission with long-term financial growth—skills I now apply to real estate development by uncovering hidden opportunities and creating profitable projects.In 2004, we founded The Kim Group for our own real estate investments and expanded to work with clients. In 2015, we relaunched the company to incorporate our unique “Developer for Fee” model, designed to help business owners and individuals navigate the complexities of real estate development. This model empowers clients to be fully involved in every step of the development process—from acquisition to design and financial structuring—while I provide the expert guidance needed to ensure success. By 2021, we expanded into Austin and launched The Kim Group ATX, bringing my expertise in adaptive reuse, small-scale urban infill, and Public-Private Partnerships (P3).What sets me apart is my ability to see opportunities where others see obstacles. I’ve led major projects like the Trefzger’s Bakery, Keller Station, and many others transforming neglected properties into thriving community hubs. My expertise in leveraging economic incentives— like TIFs, BDDs, SSA, Historic Tax Credits, and many others —ensures that even the most challenging projects become financially viable and successful. I am launching the Katie Kim Educational Platform to expand my mission of empowering individuals to achieve financial independence through real estate development. My platform provides the education and tools needed to confidently navigate real estate deals, build generational wealth, and make meaningful contributions to their communities.I’m passionate about solving complex development challenges and turning ideas into reality. Whether you’re an aspiring developer or an experienced investor looking for new opportunities, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Real Developers, Real ResultsChapters00:00 Introduction to Infill Development03:46 Market Trends and Passive Investment Strategies04:05 Katie Kim's Origin Story08:35 Understanding Developer for Fee Services13:03 Navigating Development Challenges17:16 Innovative Affordable Housing Strategies21:26 Exploring Affordable Housing Solutions23:40 Building a Supportive Community for Investors27:05 Navigating Development Challenges28:29 Katie Kim's Ongoing Projects and Vision30:18 Final Thoughts and Resources for Investors37:23 outro RANDY SMITHConnect with our host, Randy Smith, for more educational content or to discuss investment opportunities in the real estate syndication space at www.impactequity.net, https://www.linkedin.com/in/randallsmith or on Instagram at @randysmithinvestorKeywordsinfill development, passive investing, real estate, developer fees, tax credits, affordable housing, community building, education, market insights, investment strategies

Mar 17, 2025 • 12min
EP 249: Why You Are Priceless
SummaryIn this episode of The Gentle Art of Crushing It, Doug Clark emphasizes the importance of encouragement and self-belief. He discusses the miraculous nature of human existence, the power of setting both realistic and impossible goals, and the necessity of overcoming self-limiting beliefs. Doug encourages listeners to define their ideal life without limitations and to believe in their potential for greatness.DOUG CLARKDoug Clark is a husband of one, father of six, real estate investor, who is passionate about growth and living life to the fullest! His main goal is to create the life of his dreams and live it on his own terms. He intends on helping as many people as possible to realize this worthy goal for themselves as well. Reach out to him anytime to connect for any reason and you never know he may just have the answer you are looking for! His passions range from his family to being a Christian to studying and implementing success principles, technology, skateboarding, music, and martial arts to name just a few.https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-clark-a13a68191/Chapters00:00 Introduction to Encouragement02:51 The Power of Belief and Self-Worth06:12 Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs09:57 Defining Your Ideal Life11:53 OutroKeywordsencouragement, self-worth, belief, self-limiting beliefs, personal growth, ideal life, motivation, success, goals, positivity

Mar 13, 2025 • 39min
EP 248: Eric Nelson’s Secrets to Finding the Right Property Manager for Multifamily Success
Eric Nelson is from southwest Colorado and received a degree in Civil Engineering from Colorado State University. He is the principal of Wild Oak Capital and is actively syndicating multifamily properties. With over 12 years of real estate experience and more than 1,000 units under management, Eric has figured out how to stop trading his time for dollars and has found the key to living life on our own terms, which he shares inside his mastermind community. He has co-hosted Pay It Forward and Scale, multifamily events that focus on mindset and networking within the multifamily investing community. While living his dream in Spain with his family, he is not only working with his Wild Oak team, but he is also dedicated to coaching motivated real estate investors inside a networking and future-focused community.RANDY SMITHConnect with our host, Randy Smith, for more educational content or to discuss investment opportunities in the real estate syndication space at www.impactequity.net, https://www.linkedin.com/in/randallsmith or on Instagram at @randysmithinvestorChapters00:00 Market Overview and Passive Investing Landscape04:42 Eric's Journey into Real Estate10:02 Scaling Through Syndication12:27 Managing a Remote Team from Spain14:47 Choosing the Right Markets for Investment19:31 Building Strong Relationships with Property Managers20:58 Diverse Investment Strategies26:54 Navigating Debt and Risk Management32:06 Mindset and Personal Growth34:01 Due Diligence in Real Estate Investing35:26 Bucket List Adventures and Family ExperiencesKeywordsreal estate, passive investing, multifamily units, market trends, syndication, property management, investment strategies, remote management, Oklahoma, Arkansas, real estate, investment strategies, debt management, passive investing, property management, mindset, due diligence, family travel, personal growth, multifamily investing

Mar 6, 2025 • 44min
EP 247: Building a $250K Passive Income Portfolio with Pascal Wagner
Pascal Wagner earns over $150k/year in passive income through 20+ LP investments and another $100k/year from his 100+ unit co-living portfolio in Atlanta. With experience deploying $150M into 200+ companies over 3 years at Techstars, Pascal blends institutional knowledge with the hands-on understanding of being a real estate operator.With Pascal's guidance, you’ll have everything you need to confidently build and grow your own cash-flowing portfolio. His newsletter delivers exclusive deal flow every week, his workshops reveal the strategies behind his success, and he provides the unique opportunity to invest alongside him. If you’re ready to follow his path and build a cash-flowing portfolio, sign up for his starter kit at PassiveInvestingStarterKit.com.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Pascal Wagner and His Journey02:46 Current Market Insights and Passive Investing06:08 Pascal's Origin Story in Real Estate08:58 Building a Diverse Investment Portfolio12:02 Lessons Learned from Passive Investing14:48 Understanding Risk and Returns18:06 Defining the Buy Box for Investments21:07 Diversification Strategies in Passive Investing27:04 Investment Strategies: Learning from Experience29:12 Building a Cash Flow Academy: Guiding New Investors32:08 Creating a Roadmap for Passive Income36:39 The Importance of Transparency in Investments37:24 Educational Resources for New Investors40:31 Key Due Diligence Questions for Investors43:58 Personal Bucket List Adventures45:51 Investment Choices: Where to Put Your MoneyKeywordsreal estate, passive investing, market insights, investment strategies, risk management, diversification, cash flow, equity growth, portfolio management, financial education, investment strategies, passive income, cash flow academy, transparency in investments, due diligence questions, educational resources, personal finance, real estate investing, investment roadmap, investor educationRANDY SMITHConnect with our host, Randy Smith, for more educational content or to discuss investment opportunities in the real estate syndication space at www.impactequity.net, https://www.linkedin.com/in/randallsmith or on Instagram at @randysmithinvestor

Feb 27, 2025 • 37min
EP 246: Josh McCallen on Reviving Distressed Resorts and Unlocking Hospitality Wealth
JOSH MCCALLENIt is an honor to lead over 400+ souls in a High-Growth hospitality REVIVAL We host 320,000+ guests annually at our collection of 4 legendary resort properties, with 1000+acres, 2.5miles of waterfront, 2 championship golf courses, 2 award-winning wineries, boat clubs, beach barOur Teams are Transforming Real Estate & Operating Businesses into a Unified Platform for Generational Impact Together we are Unleashing the Power of Truth, Beauty, and GoodnessIt has been an honor to serve teams with the following recognition: Together We…Currently, I serve as CEO/ President of VIVAMEE Hospitality, which humbly welcomes and serves over 325,000 souls as guests each year and employs more than 400 teammates yearlyAdditionally, I serve as Managing Partner and CEO of Accountable Equity, a private equity firm offering direct passive investments for accredited investorsHave enjoyed hosting Capital Hacking Podcast since 2019 with over 300 episodes helping 1st generation wealth builders and private direct investorsTurned Around, 2 bankrupt companies into thriving multimillion-dollar operationsLaunched: 7 successful resorts, 24 unique event venues, 10 unique restaurant concepts, and numerous festival and live in-person ticketed eventsDoubled the revenue of two Championship Golf CoursesAttracted capital from over 435 investor familiesBuilt a 4000+ person investor communityShared our story as Keynote Speaker for over 10 Accredited Investor Summits & MastermindsEarned Inc 5000 recognition twiceLed a resort company that had two resorts nationally ranked in the top 25 best hotels in AmericaAcquired over 1000 acres of premium real estate including 2.5 miles of waterfrontHave employed approximately 3000 souls since 2010Currently operates one of the largest luxury wedding businesses in AmericaHost a podcast in the top one of the worlds shows and has reached hundreds of thousands of downloadsHave been the subject of an “unsuccessful” pilot television show for HGTVHave renovated and constructed over 250,000 ft.² of luxury, residential and commercial propertiesRestored and revived five historically significant properties into legendary destination resortsAppeared as a featured guest on 70 famous podcasts and showsHave been a future speaker and panelist for The Family Office Club, the Alternative Investor Summit, the Real Estate Guys Radio syndication events, and several regional masterminds and conferencesHave appeared in or been featured in over 70 news, articles and morning television shows Capital Hacking www.capitalhacking.comVIVAMEE www.vivamee.comAccountable Equity www.AccountableEquity.comCHAPTERS00:00 Market Insights and Predictions02:55 Background and Business Model Overview06:03 Investment Strategy and Asset Management08:45 Revenue Streams and Operational Strategies12:01 Navigating Challenges During COVID-1918:05 Investment Structure and Investor Relations20:56 Future Growth and Expansion Plans23:57 Operational Excellence and Company Culture30:00 Educational Resources and Final ThoughtsRANDY SMITHConnect with our host, Randy Smith, for more educational content or to discuss investment opportunities in the real estate syndication space at www.impactequity.net, https://www.linkedin.com/in/randallsmith or on Instagram at @randysmithinvestor

Feb 20, 2025 • 42min
EP 245: AJ Osborne on Diversifying with Self-Storage Investments for Modern Investors
AJ Osborne is an American entrepreneur, businessman, and investor who owns and manages his self-storage portfolio of over $350 million of assets through his companies Cedar Creek Capital and Self-Storage Income.He’s the owner and host of the largest self-storage podcast, Self-Storage Income. As an operator and private owner with over 1.2 million square feet of self-storage, he regularly keynotes at national conferences on operations related to investing in, buying, and managing self-storage facilities.AJ specializes in developing, converting and turning around underperforming facilities with a value-add strategy, and loves to show other entrepreneurs and investors how to focus on technology and self-storage automation.Chapters00:00 Market Cycle Insights and Predictions08:50 AJ Osborne's Journey to Self Storage Success17:24 Understanding Self Storage as a Business Model21:44 Centralizing Operations in Self-Storage22:08 Understanding Recession Resistance in Self-Storage25:16 Development Trends in Self-Storage28:15 Opportunities for Passive Investors31:34 Challenges in Raising Capital33:36 Preparing for Future Capital Needs36:27 Educational Resources for New Investors39:51 Due Diligence in Self-Storage Investments41:02 Personal Insights and Future InvestmentsRANDY SMITHConnect with our host, Randy Smith, for more educational content or to discuss investment opportunities in the real estate syndication space at www.impactequity.net, https://www.linkedin.com/in/randallsmith or on Instagram at @randysmithinvestorSummaryIn this episode, Randy Smith interviews AJ Osborne, CEO of Cedar Creek Capital, discussing the current state of the market cycle, predictions for the self-storage industry, and AJ's personal journey from insurance to becoming a leading figure in self-storage. AJ shares insights on the impact of interest rates, government spending, and the transition into a new market cycle, while also detailing his personal challenges and how self-storage provided financial stability during tough times. The conversation highlights the unique aspects of self-storage as a business model and its operational efficiencies. In this conversation, AJ Osborne discusses the current state of the self-storage industry, addressing misconceptions about recession resistance, development trends, and the challenges faced by passive investors. He emphasizes the importance of understanding market dynamics, the impact of interest rates on valuations, and the need for education in the industry. AJ also shares insights on capital raising and the shift towards family offices for funding, while providing resources for new investors to navigate the self-storage space effectively.Keywordsself storage, market cycle, passive income, AJ Osborne, real estate, investment strategies, financial freedom, business model, economic trends, asset management, self-storage, recession resistance, passive investing, capital raising, market trends, educational resources, due diligence, investment strategies

Feb 13, 2025 • 41min
EP 244: Unlocking Abundance: Lessons in Wealth and Impact from Cathy Christen
Cathy Christen is a serial entrepreneur, author, and executive coach with over two decades of experience helping leaders and business owners thrive in their careers without sacrificing what matters most. As the co-founder of GoBundance Women®️ and CEO of Elevated You, Inc., Cathy specializes in creating smart systems, fostering strong team cultures, and empowering leaders to reclaim their time and lead with purpose. Known for her dynamic coaching and actionable strategies, she’s passionate about helping others build a life they love while achieving lasting success.SummaryIn this episode, Randy Smith interviews Kathy Christen, a division manager for Vector Marketing and CEO of Elevated You. They discuss the current market conditions affecting passive investors, Kathy's personal journey from a low-income background to financial success, the importance of mentorship, and strategies for solopreneurs looking to scale their businesses. Kathy emphasizes the need for a long-term investment mindset, the significance of documenting processes, and innovative hiring strategies to foster growth. In this conversation, Cathy Christen and Randy Smith discuss the evolving landscape of passive investing, emphasizing the importance of mindset shifts, education, and mentorship for new investors. They explore the appeal of fractional roles that offer lifestyle flexibility, the significance of viewing money as a tool for freedom, and the necessity of due diligence when investing in businesses. Cathy shares her personal experiences and insights on diversifying investments and learning from successful investors, while also highlighting valuable resources for passive investors.Chapters00:00 Navigating Market Uncertainty05:59 The Importance of Mentorship12:00 Scaling Beyond Cutco17:55 Hiring Strategies for Growth23:42 Mindset Shifts for New Investors30:51 Diversification and Long-Term Thinking36:23 Due Diligence in Business InvestmentsRANDY SMITHConnect with our host, Randy Smith, for more educational content or to discuss investment opportunities in the real estate syndication space at www.impactequity.net, https://www.linkedin.com/in/randallsmith or on Instagram at @randysmithinvestor

Feb 6, 2025 • 39min
EP 243: Invest Smarter: Insights on Real Estate and Wealth Management from Andrew McNair
Andrew McNair is a financial expert, philanthropist, and author dedicated to helping families achieve financial peace of mind. As the President of SWAN Capital in Pensacola, Florida, Andrew’s mission is to help families "Sleep Well At Night" through Total Wealth Management, offering integrated retirement plans that address income, tax, health care, and estate needs.
Andrew began his financial career at 14, interning at a financial firm and later founding SWAN Capital after studying finance at the University of West Florida. He is an Investment Adviser Representative, licensed insurance professional, and creator of the Cygnet Fund for real estate investments.
A passionate advocate for stewardship and giving, Andrew hosts the Rich Young & Powerful podcast and the weekly radio show What Your Money Would Say. He is also the author of Don’t Be Penny Wise & Dollar Foolish, Tithe: A Living Testimony, and The Giving Crisis. Featured on The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and Fox Business, Andrew encourages others to align their finances with their values to create lasting impact.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Andrew McNair and Market Insights
06:14 Andrew's Journey to Financial Success
12:49 Navigating the Current Economic Landscape
19:41 Investment Strategies and Asset Allocation
26:59 The Importance of Giving and Family Experiences
33:47 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations
RANDY SMITH
Connect with our host, Randy Smith, for more educational content or to discuss investment opportunities in the real estate syndication space at www.impactequity.net, https://www.linkedin.com/in/randallsmith or on Instagram at @randysmithinvestor

Jan 30, 2025 • 45min
EP 242: How to Diversify Like a Pro: Lessons from Jeremy Roll's Portfolio
Jeremy started investing in real estate and businesses in 2002 and left the corporate world in 2007 to become a full-time passive cash flow investor. He is currently an investor in more than 60 opportunities across more than $1 Billion worth of real estate and business assets. As Founder and President of Roll Investment Group, Jeremy manages a group of over 1,500 investors who seek passive/managed cash flowing investments in real estate and businesses. Jeremy is also the co-Founder of For Investors By Investors (FIBI), a non-profit organization founded in 2007 with the goal of helping real estate investors network and learn in a strict no sales pitch environment. FIBI is now the largest group of public real estate investor meetings in California with over 30,000 members. Jeremy has an MBA from The Wharton School and is an Advisor for Realty Mogul, the largest real estate crowdfunding website in the US. Jeremy welcomes e-mails (jroll@rollinvestments.com) to network with or help other investors and to discuss real estate or business investments of any size.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Passive Investing with Jeremy Roll
01:04 Current Market Assessment and Its Impact on Passive Investments
06:04 Jeremy Roll's Background and Investment Journey
08:19 Learning Process and Networking in Real Estate
15:44 Diversification Strategies for Passive Investors
20:49 Cashflow Targets and Investment Strategies
23:27 Tax Abatement and Unique Investment Opportunities
24:59 Tax Abatement Trends and Future Outlook
28:41 Investment Strategies and Risk Management
31:44 Understanding Debt Funds and Economic Cycles
35:12 Essential Resources for New Investors
39:07 Key Due Diligence Questions for Passive Investors
42:37 Personal Insights and Future Aspirations
RANDY SMITH
Connect with our host, Randy Smith, for more educational content or to discuss investment opportunities in the real estate syndication space at www.impactequity.net, https://www.linkedin.com/in/randallsmith or on Instagram at @randysmithinvestor
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