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In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with entrepreneur, investor, and syndicator Jennifer DeJesus to discuss what it takes to scale from running multiple businesses to building a sophisticated real estate investment platform. Starting with a career in corporate America, Jennifer transitioned into real estate, eventually building a vertically integrated ecosystem that included a brokerage, property management company, title company, construction business, and investment fund. She shares how she learned to raise capital, structure syndications, create operational systems, and step out of the day-to-day grind so she could focus on growth. The conversation dives into the power of partnerships, the importance of building the right team, and why syndication is one of the most effective vehicles for scaling wealth and creating financial freedom.Key TakeawaysSyndication Is the Ultimate Scaling Tool Whether you're investing in real estate, acquiring businesses, or expanding into new asset classes, syndication allows you to leverage partnerships, capital, and expertise to grow faster.Build Systems Before You Scale Sustainable growth requires strong processes, clear accountability, and documented systems that allow the business to operate without constant owner involvement.The Right People in the Right Seats Changes Everything Scaling successfully depends on building a team with complementary strengths and ensuring every role is aligned with the company's vision and values.Raising Capital Becomes Easier When You Solve Real Problems Investors are more likely to invest when you're providing a clear solution to an existing need rather than simply pitching an opportunity.Entrepreneurs Must Learn to Work on the Business, Not Just in It Transitioning from operator to owner requires delegating responsibilities, trusting team members, and focusing on higher-value activities.Business Acquisitions Can Accelerate Growth Dramatically Once a strong operational foundation is in place, acquiring complementary businesses can be one of the fastest ways to expand revenue and market presence.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael BlankFor full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session527/
In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with asset management expert Cyndee Harding and her son Tyler to explore one of the most overlooked—but most critical—aspects of multifamily investing: asset management. While many investors focus on acquisitions and capital raising, Cyndee makes the case that true wealth is created through exceptional operations. She shares her proven framework for working with third-party property managers, implementing effective SOPs, tracking meaningful KPIs, and creating thriving resident communities that improve both tenant satisfaction and property performance. From leveraging AI to streamline operations to boosting renewals through community-building initiatives, this episode offers a fresh and practical perspective on how great asset management can dramatically increase investor returns while making a meaningful impact on residents' lives.Key TakeawaysYou Don't Make Money When You Buy—You Make Money When You Operate Well Strong underwriting is important, but executing the business plan through disciplined asset management is what ultimately drives returns.The Best Asset Managers Partner Closely with Property Managers Clear expectations, weekly accountability meetings, SOPs, and strong communication create alignment and improve property performance.Community Building Improves the Bottom Line Resident events, relationship-building, and creating a true sense of community can lead to higher renewals, lower delinquencies, and stronger occupancy rates.Data Tells You What's Happening—Questions Reveal Why Metrics and KPIs are important, but successful asset managers dig deeper to understand the underlying causes behind vacancies, turnover, and operational challenges.AI Is Becoming a Powerful Asset Management Tool Automating reporting, identifying trends, and streamlining operational reviews allows asset managers to make faster, more informed decisions.Return on Operations (ROO) Drives Return on Investment (ROI) Improving operational efficiency, communication, and resident experience creates long-term value that directly impacts investor returns.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session526/
Why Your Excuses Are Holding You Back What if the biggest thing standing between you and success isn't your circumstances, your competition, or your limitations... but the excuses you've accepted as truth? In this episode of Deep Leadership, I sit down with Patrick Engasser, bestselling author, business coach, motivational speaker, and former top-performing sales leader. Patrick has been blind since birth, yet he built a remarkable career leading sales teams, coaching entrepreneurs, and helping leaders achieve extraordinary results. Patrick shares how he transformed what many would see as a limitation into a competitive advantage, why mindset always comes before strategy, and how leaders can stop letting obstacles define their future. We also discuss the power of relationships, the importance of leading by example, and why people follow leaders who do hard things when no one is watching. If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or limited by your circumstances, this conversation will challenge the way you think about adversity and inspire you to take action. In this episode, you'll learn: • How to turn your biggest challenge into your greatest advantage• Why mindset must change before results can change• The hidden cost of excuses in leadership and life• How great leaders build trust through relationships• Why people follow actions, not words• Practical habits that help high performers stay focused and resilient• How to lead yourself before leading others Patrick's story is a powerful reminder that our limitations rarely determine our future. The stories we tell ourselves do. Patrick Engasser's Resources: Website: https://patrickengasser.com/ Free Strategy Session: https://talkwithpatrick.com/ Subscribe to Deep Leadership: If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe and share it with someone who wants to become a better leader. Sponsors: Cadre of Men Farrow Skin Care Salty Sailor Coffee Company Leader Connect The Qualified Leadership Series ____ Get all of Jon Rennie's bestselling leadership books for 15% off the regular price today! HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Most D2C brands have tried YouTube ads. Almost none of them are getting credit for what those ads are actually doing. Brett Curry, CEO of OMG Commerce and the guy behind YouTube growth for brands like Native, Arctic, and Dude Wipes, makes the case that in-platform reporting is under-counting YouTube's real impact by roughly 70% — and that the brands leaning in right now are about to widen the gap on everyone still dabbling.This one goes deep: incrementality testing, omnichannel attribution, creative frameworks, and why your Meta winners almost certainly won't survive on YouTube.Inside the episode:Why a 1.0 in-platform ROAS on YouTube is probably a 3.4 in reality — and the 190-test incrementality study behind that numberHow Arctic drove a 25% Walmart sales lift (and 230% branded search lift) by running YouTube in select markets — measured scientifically against matched control marketsThe three creative types that actually work on YouTube: hero/brand films, single-creator UGC, and the specific criteria your Meta winners need to meet before you bother testing themHow to diagnose a broken YouTube ad using just three metrics: view rate, click-through rate, and average watch time per impression — and what each one tells you to fixWhy campaign structure for retail lift looks completely different than for D2C sales — and how to set up for both at once—Sponsored by OMG Commerce - go to https://www.omgcommerce.com/contact and request your FREE strategy session today!—Chapters:[0:00] Introduction: Why Most Brands Still Suck at YouTube[1:51] Audience Poll: Who's Actually Winning on YouTube?[3:15] The Core Problem: Bringing a Meta Mindset to YouTube[4:05] YouTube as Trust: Creators, TV, and Time Spent[8:14] Incrementality 101: Measuring the Real Impact of Your Ads[11:22] How Incremental Is YouTube? The 3.4x ROAS Reality[15:28] Going Omnichannel: Using YouTube to Drive Retail and Amazon Sales[19:13] Arctic Case Study: Measuring YouTube's Impact on Walmart Sales[24:09] Creative Diversity: The Essential Elements of a YouTube Ad[27:16] Creative Breakdown: Single Influencer, Hero, and Mashup Ad Examples[38:05] Creative Story Arc: How to Hook Viewers and Drive Action[40:24] Creative Feedback Loops: What Data to Watch and Why[46:09] Campaign Structure: How to Buy Media Based on Your Goals[51:56] Measure, Model, Maximize: The Trifecta of YouTube Measurement—Connect With Brett: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thebrettcurry/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQmbMwBW8LYDfFAqNqlgTGw Website: https://www.omgcommerce.com/ Request a Free Strategy Session: https://www.omgcommerce.com/contactPast guests on eCommerce Evolution include Ezra Firestone, Steve Chou, Drew Sanocki, Jacques Spitzer, Jeremy Horowitz, Ryan Moran, Sean Frank, Andrew Youderian, Ryan McKenzie, Joseph Wilkins, Cody Wittick, Miki Agrawal, Justin Brooke, Nish Samantray, Kurt Elster, John Parkes, Chris Mercer, Rabah Rahil, Bear Handlon, JC Hite, Frederick Vallaeys, Preston Rutherford, Anthony Mink, Bill D'Allessandro, Stephane Colleu, Jeff Oxford, Bryan Porter and more
In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with marketing strategist and capital-raising expert Scott Corbett to break down what's actually working in online capital raising today—and what's no longer effective. With decades of experience in marketing, sales, and investor acquisition, Scott shares a practical roadmap for building trust, attracting the right investors, and scaling capital raises without relying on gimmicks or “easy button” tactics. They dive deep into investor psychology, content creation, AI-driven due diligence, paid traffic, organic marketing, and why understanding your avatar is the foundation of every successful capital-raising strategy. If you want to raise more capital in today's tougher market environment, this episode delivers a masterclass in building authority, nurturing investor relationships, and creating a long-term marketing flywheel that actually works.Key TakeawaysYou Must Know Your Investor Avatar Before Marketing Anything Successful capital raising starts with understanding exactly who you're speaking to—their fears, goals, pain points, and motivations.Content Builds Trust Before Investors Ever Speak to You Consistent videos, blogs, emails, and social content establish credibility and authority long before a prospective investor books a call.Today's Investors Care More About Risk Than Returns In a post-2022 market, investors want to know how you protect capital and manage downside risk—not just projected IRRs.AI Has Changed Investor Expectations Investors are increasingly using AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude to evaluate sponsors and prepare sophisticated due diligence questions.Organic Marketing Creates Long-Term Momentum Building an email list, nurturing relationships, and consistently publishing valuable content creates a sustainable capital-raising flywheel over time.Paid Traffic Only Works After the Foundation Is Built Facebook ads and paid campaigns can scale capital raising, but only after operators have strong messaging, content, systems, and investor trust already in place.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session525/
In This Episode: Why most chiropractic systems fail without inspection The leadership philosophy behind “You only get what you inspect” How to audit your chiropractic team without creating fear The psychology of positive inspection and praise-based leadership Why job books and documented systems are critical for clinic growth Front desk scripting mistakes that quietly destroy retention Real examples of upgraded chiropractic communication scripts How roleplay drills improve staff confidence under pressure The importance of private correction and collaborative coaching How to build a culture of accountability without micromanaging Key Takeaway: Passive expectation creates inconsistent clinics. Active, positive inspection creates scalable chiropractic systems, stronger teams, better patient retention, and long-term practice growth. Resources & Next Steps:
In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with veteran capital raiser Bronson Hill to unpack what's really happening in today's alternative investment landscape—and how investors should respond. After years of easy money, rapid appreciation, and aggressive multifamily growth, the market has shifted dramatically. Bronson shares candid lessons from raising over $55 million across multifamily, debt funds, oil & gas, mobile home parks, and private equity, while discussing the painful realities many operators and investors have faced over the last few years. Together, they explore market cycles, investor psychology, diversification, risk-adjusted returns, AI-driven due diligence, and why today's challenging environment may actually create the best buying opportunities of the next decade. This is a masterclass in navigating uncertainty while staying focused on long-term financial freedom.Key TakeawaysThe Best Investment Opportunities Often Appear During Fearful Markets Historically, the strongest deals emerge when investors are hesitant, cautious, and sitting on the sidelines—not when everyone is rushing in.Market Cycles Matter More Than Most Investors Realize Understanding when to buy, hold, pause, or sell within an asset class is critical to long-term success and capital preservation.Diversification Can Help Investors Weather Volatility Exploring non-correlated assets like debt funds, precious metals, oil & gas, or private equity can create stability during turbulent market cycles.Cash Flow Is King in Today's Environment Investors are prioritizing assets that generate immediate or near-term cash flow over speculative appreciation plays.Great Operators Communicate During Difficult Times Strong communication, transparency, and accountability matter even more than perfect track records when navigating challenging investments.AI Is Becoming a Powerful Tool for Investor Due Diligence Investors can now use AI tools to analyze deals, uncover risks, generate questions, and align opportunities with their personal financial goals faster than ever before.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session524/
YouTube ads veteran Brett Curry (OMG Commerce) and TikTok Shop expert Jordan West (Social Commerce Club) went back and forth live on what's actually moving the needle for D2C brands right now — and some of their takes are going to sting. Most brands are still treating Google spend as a given, measuring YouTube with click-based attribution that was never built for it, and ignoring a TikTok Shop launch strategy that flips the creator dynamic entirely.Inside the episode:The YouTube Shorts formula that's working in 2026 — why Brett reversed his position, and the 4 things a video must have (including minimum length) before you waste money testing itThe Blitz methodology explained — how Social Commerce Club seeds hundreds of creators in a 24–48 hour window to manufacture momentum and make big creators come to you instead of the other way aroundWhy Jordan thinks most Google spend is a non-incremental tax — and the channel hierarchy he'd use for every D2C brand over $10MThe TikTok Shop–to–Shopify halo effect — the data Jordan's team is seeing that almost nobody is talking about yet"My brand is too premium for TikTok Shop" — Jordan's reframe on why that objection is almost always wrong, and what to ask insteadSponsored by OMG Commerce - go to (https://www.omgcommerce.com/contact) and request your FREE strategy session today!Chapters:[0:00] Introduction: Brett Curry & Jordan West Swap Podcasts[1:09] Why YouTube CPMs Are the Most Underpriced in the Industry[5:00] What's Working on YouTube Shorts: The Framework for Winning Creative[7:57] TikTok Shop Deep Dive: Jordan's Obsession with Demand Generation[10:01] Like, Know, and Trust: Why YouTube Is the Ultimate Brand-Building Platform[11:28] Ad Break: OMG Commerce Omnichannel Growth[12:37] The Blitz Methodology: How Social Commerce Club Concentrates Creator Signal[16:46] Moments vs. Blitzes Explained: Definitions and How They Drive Momentum[19:42] How Far Can Brands Actually Scale on YouTube?[21:53] Why MTA Tools Underreport YouTube: The Case for Incrementality Testing[22:58] The Problem with Multi-Touch Attribution: Jordan's New Halo Tracking Concept[25:17] Incrementality Explained with a Retail Store Analogy[28:43] Rapid Fire YouTube Questions: Mashup Creatives and Repurposing Creator Content[30:53] YouTube Targeting Strategy: Why You Still Need to Feed the Algorithm Signal[32:22] Which Brands Should Be on YouTube But Aren't?[33:09] Hot Take: The Right Ad Spend Hierarchy for D2C Brands[34:43] YouTube vs. Meta by Product Type: Apparel, Problem-Solution, and Omnichannel[37:15] If TV Works, YouTube Should Work: The CTV and Linear TV Connection[38:10] Is Your Brand Too Premium for TikTok Shop? Jordan's Answer[39:42] Why TikTok Shop Is a Fundamentally Different Beast Than TikTok Ads[41:05] Wrap-Up: Where to Find Brett and JordanConnect With Brett:LinkedIn: / thebrettcurryYouTube: / @omgcommerceWebsite: https://www.omgcommerce.com/Request a Free Strategy Session: https://www.omgcommerce.com/contactRelevant Links: Jordan's LinkedIn: jordan-west-marketer/ Past guests on eCommerce Evolution include Ezra Firestone, Steve Chou, Drew Sanocki, Jacques Spitzer, Jeremy Horowitz, Ryan Moran, Sean Frank, Andrew Youderian, Ryan McKenzie, Joseph Wilkins, Cody Wittick, Miki Agrawal, Justin Brooke, Nish Samantray, Kurt Elster, John Parkes, Chris Mercer, Rabah Rahil, Bear Handlon, JC Hite, Frederick Vallaeys, Preston Rutherford, Anthony Mink, Bill D'Allessandro, Stephane Colleu, Jeff Oxford, Bryan Porter and more
In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with Lee Fjord, a real estate investor who has built an $80M+ portfolio and owns over 1,200 units—all starting from a single duplex. But the real focus of this conversation is capital raising in today's shifting environment. As online funnels and paid ads become increasingly ineffective, Lee shares how he's built a powerful, scalable system for raising capital locally through in-person events, curated meetups, and relationship-driven strategies. From hosting monthly property tours to creating a repeatable investor “flywheel,” Lee breaks down exactly how he's raised nearly $2M from his network—and how you can do the same by prioritizing trust, consistency, and community.Key TakeawaysLocal Capital Raising Is Back—and It Works As online ads and webinars lose effectiveness, in-person events and local networking are proving to be far more reliable for building investor trust and raising capital.Consistency Creates a Compounding “Flywheel” Effect Hosting recurring monthly events builds familiarity, credibility, and momentum—turning casual attendees into long-term investors over time.Start Small, Then Scale Strategically Lee began with simple meetups and evolved them into curated experiences, proving you don't need perfection—just consistency and iteration.Curated Experiences Attract Higher-Quality Investors Targeting accredited investors, asking the right questions, and filtering attendees helps ensure you're building relationships with serious capital partners.In-Person Connection Builds Trust Faster Than Funnels Face-to-face interactions dramatically shorten the trust cycle compared to cold online leads, making it easier to convert relationships into investments.Layered Engagement (Events + Webinars) Maximizes Reach Combining live events with ongoing touchpoints like webinars and follow-ups creates a powerful ecosystem for nurturing investor relationships.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session523/
In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with seasoned investor and capital raiser Steeve Breton to unpack what it really takes to build—and protect—wealth in today's multifamily market. With experience as a limited partner, general partner, and fund manager, Steeve brings a rare 360-degree perspective on investing. They dive into the realities of the past few challenging years, from interest rate shocks to overbuilt markets, and share hard-earned lessons on preserving capital, structuring deals, and adapting strategy in uncertain times. The conversation also explores opportunity zones, preferred equity, and how disciplined decision-making can be the difference between surviving and thriving on the path to financial freedom.Key TakeawaysA 360° Investor Perspective Is a Competitive Advantage Understanding deals as an LP, GP, and capital raiser equips you to make smarter investment decisions and communicate more effectively with investors.Market Cycles Expose Weak Assumptions Rising interest rates and oversupply have revealed the importance of conservative underwriting and stress-testing deals before investing.Preserving Capital Is More Important Than Chasing Returns Experienced investors prioritize not losing money—especially in uncertain markets—over aggressive growth strategies.Adaptability Is Critical in Tough Markets From pausing distributions to restructuring deals and securing new financing, flexibility is essential to navigating downturns.Preferred Equity and Opportunity Zones Offer Strategic Advantages These lesser-discussed tools can provide downside protection and tax benefits when used correctly.Strong Communication Builds Investor Trust Transparent, proactive communication during challenging times is key to maintaining long-term investor relationships.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael BlankFor full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session522/
Most DTC brands are making million-dollar channel decisions based on attribution data that's fundamentally wrong. Olivia Kory — CSO of Haus and the incrementality expert Brett references on stage more than almost anyone — breaks down what it actually takes to know if your ads are working. Spoiler: if you've been writing off YouTube based on MTA, you owe yourself a retest.Inside the episode:Why YouTube's true ROAS is 3.4X what the platform reports — and how Haus's 190-test study across 74 brands proved it (plus why your D2C numbers alone are only half the picture)The right time to start incrementality testing — it's not when you're huge, it's when your business gets complicated enough that turning off ads won't give you a clean answerHow StockX went from barely spending on YouTube to making it their #2 acquisition channel — by running geo holdout tests and acting on the resultsWhy Meta's optimization might be too good — and how brands like Jones Road are improving their iROAS by making changes that look worse in-platformThe surprise winner: AppLovin — Olivia came in skeptical of mobile game ad inventory and got data she didn't expectHaus's new DTC Basics tier — a lower-cost entry point so more brands can stop guessing which channels are actually driving growth Sponsored by OMG Commerce - go to (https://www.omgcommerce.com/contact) and request your FREE strategy session today! Chapters: [00:00] Intro clip — Olivia on treating incrementality as a report card vs. a growth tool[00:22] Introductions & background — Olivia's path from Starcom → TubeMogul → Netflix → Quibi → Sonos → Haus[06:55] What is incrementality? — The randomized controlled trial analogy; geo holdouts vs. click-based attribution[10:45] When should a brand start using incrementality? — The low-to-mid 8-figure inflection point; multi-channel complexity as the signal[15:34] Native platform lift studies (Meta & Google) — Are they worth it? Signal loss, CAPI, iOS 14.5 limitations[17:25] Geo holdout vs. user-level testing — Why Haus was "born out of the ashes of iOS 14.5" and went all-in on geo[19:37] How a Haus geo holdout test actually works — Data ingestion, experiment design, market matching, results[23:20] Actioning on incrementality data — Coaching leadership, making reallocation decisions, improving channel performance over time[26:02] How long should you run a test? — Why 2-week YouTube tests fail; 4–6 week minimums and the role of consideration cycles[27:19] Incrementality as an optimization loop, not a report card — Connor from Ridge, Cody from Jones Road Beauty, and the StockX story[30:42] Key metrics defined — iROAS, iCPA, incrementality factor, and why in-platform ROAS can mislead you[32:47] Branded search — Is it incremental? Simple Modern's 5% read, when Amazon bidding on your terms changes the math[35:57] Treatment window & post-treatment window (PTW) — How Haus structures tests for YouTube, Meta, and CTV; lagged effects explained[39:36] Consideration cycles & post-purchase surveys — Why your path-to-purchase report is probably shorter than reality[41:00] Halo effects: Amazon & retail — Why omnichannel brands that only measure D2C are understating YouTube's impact[41:58] The Haus YouTube study findings — The 3.42x incrementality factor; halo effects that doubled lift when Amazon/retail pulled in; Demand Gen vindicated[44:10] YouTube vs. Meta: how the channels differ incrementally — Meta's short payback window, the "too good at intent" problem, and why YouTube wins on halo effects[46:53] Surprises from the data — YouTube (not surprising to Olivia), AppLovin (very surprising), and why TV results swing wildly based on inventory type[50:16] The biggest levers to improve incrementality — Creative first (30–50% wins), then account structure, traffic composition, and spend level[51:46] A DemandGen campaign running on Gmail — A real audit story and why traffic composition can make a channel look broken when it isn't[53:13] Haus's new DTC Basics tier — A lower-cost entry point to measure D2C and Amazon across core ad channels[54:54] Wrap-up & where to find Olivia — Part two teased around the next Haus YouTube report Connect With Brett: LinkedIn: / thebrettcurry YouTube: / @omgcommerce Website: https://www.omgcommerce.com/ Request a Free Strategy Session: https://www.omgcommerce.com/contact Relevant Links: Olivia's LinkedIn: /olivia-kory-50230812 Past guests on eCommerce Evolution include Ezra Firestone, Steve Chou, Drew Sanocki, Jacques Spitzer, Jeremy Horowitz, Ryan Moran, Sean Frank, Andrew Youderian, Ryan McKenzie, Joseph Wilkins, Cody Wittick, Miki Agrawal, Justin Brooke, Nish Samantray, Kurt Elster, John Parkes, Chris Mercer, Rabah Rahil, Bear Handlon, JC Hite, Frederick Vallaeys, Preston Rutherford, Anthony Mink, Bill D'Allessandro, Stephane Colleu, Jeff Oxford, Bryan Porter and more
In this episode, we step outside the usual real estate conversation to explore the role of precious metals (specifically gold and silver) in today's uncertain economic environment.Why should real estate investors care about gold? Whether you're a passive investor allocating capital or an active investor raising it, understanding alternative asset classes is critical. Precious metals have long played a role in preserving wealth, hedging against inflation, and providing liquidity during times of crisis—and today's macro environment makes them especially relevant.We break down the key drivers behind gold's recent surge and volatility, including inflation, interest rates, central bank buying, geopolitical tensions, and the strength of the U.S. dollar. You'll also hear how gold behaves differently from real estate and stocks—and why that matters when building a resilient portfolio.Key Takeaways:Gold can act as both an inflation hedge and a form of financial insuranceMarket liquidity events can temporarily drag down all assets—including goldInterest rates and the strength of the dollar play a major role in gold pricingDiversification across asset classes is essential for long-term wealth preservationReal estate and gold can complement each other when used strategicallyConnect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session521/
In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with Andrew Majd of Dew Wealth Management to break down what true wealth management actually looks like beyond just investing. From tax strategy and alternative investments to insurance, estate planning, and building the right professional team, Andrew outlines a comprehensive “Protect, Grow, Manage” framework that high-net-worth individuals can use as a checklist for building—and keeping—wealth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to close the gaps in their financial strategy and take a more proactive, holistic approach to wealth.Key TakeawaysWealth management goes beyond investing — it includes protection, tax strategy, estate planning, and team coordination.Insurance and asset protection are often overlooked, yet they're the fastest way to lose wealth if done incorrectly.A proper estate plan (especially a revocable trust) is critical to avoid probate and protect your legacy.High-net-worth investors should diversify beyond stocks and bonds into alternative assets like real estate, private credit, and more.Proactive tax planning can save significant money, but most CPAs are reactive unless pushed or supported by a strategist.Your financial professionals must work together — lack of coordination creates costly gaps and inefficiencies.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael BlankFor full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session520/
How much money is your dirty bathroom costing you?Most bar owners think guests only care about drinks, service, and prices.They don't.Guests walk into one filthy bathroom, and suddenly your whole bar feels dirty, sloppy, and untrustworthy.In this episode, we break down why bathroom conditions have a bigger impact on guest trust, repeat business, and sales than most operators want to admit.You'll learn a simple 5-point bathroom audit that helps you catch the problems that kill perception fast, from bad smells and missing supplies to dirty surfaces, full trash, and details that make guests question everything else behind the scenes.If you run a bar, manage a team, or oversee hospitality operations, this episode will help you fix one of the dumbest ways to lose customers and build a cleaner, tighter, more trusted business.
Bar marketing gets expensive fast when every promotion is aimed at strangers.The smarter move is knowing which customers already visit often, spend more than average, and quietly keep the business alive.In this episode, we break down how to identify your most profitable bar customers using POS data, guest frequency, average check size, visit patterns, and order behavior.You'll learn why generic promotions attract weak-fit customers, how to spot your best regulars, and how to build better marketing, menu, loyalty, and staffing decisions around the people who already choose your bar.For bar owners, hospitality leaders, and restaurant operators, this episode gives you a cleaner way to stop guessing and start focusing on the customers who actually drive profit.
In this episode, Michael sits down with August Biniaz, co-founder and Chief Investment Officer of CPI Capital, to discuss why he believes multifamily is approaching a major recovery—and how investors can position themselves now. August shares his perspective on the current market cycle, the challenges of raising foreign capital into U.S. deals, and why he remains bullish on multifamily despite recent headwinds.The conversation also explores why U.S. real estate remains so attractive compared to Canada, how to structure cross-border syndications, and why investors must stay disciplined and continue underwriting deals even in a difficult market.Key TakeawaysAugust believes multifamily fundamentals remain strong because new construction has slowed dramatically while population growth continues. Today's biggest challenge is the “bid-ask spread”—sellers still want 2022 pricing while buyers need lower prices to make deals work. Finding great deals is still a numbers game: the investors closing deals are underwriting far more properties than everyone else. U.S. multifamily remains more attractive than Canadian real estate because of stronger cash flow, fewer regulations, and better long-term yields. Cross-border investing requires the right legal and tax structure, especially when bringing Canadian capital into U.S. syndications.Multifamily is still one of the best industries for entrepreneurs because even the largest operators control only a tiny share of the market.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session519/
Most bar owners track sales, labor, and inventory. But very few ask if they're tracking bar prime cost the right way.In this episode, we break down bar prime cost, how to calculate it, and why it matters more than sales alone when it comes to profitability. You'll learn how labor cost plus cost of goods sold can reveal problems earlier, from overstaffing and overpouring to waste, bad inventory numbers, and rising vendor costs.If you're a bar owner, hospitality leader, or restaurant operator, this episode will help you better understand one of the biggest drivers of bar profitability and show you how to use prime cost as a real management tool.
Scaling an eCommerce brand isn't just about ads, creatives, or new channels.Often, the biggest growth unlock comes from how you treat customers after the purchase.In this episode of eCommerce Evolution, Brett sits down with Kristin Keys, VP of Customer Experience at Baseball Lifestyle 101, to break down how CX can become a true growth engine.From empowering support teams to turning angry customers into loyal advocates, Kristin shares how great customer experience drives retention, increases LTV, and fuels word-of-mouth growth.If you're struggling with churn, negative reviews, or rising CAC, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you turn CX into a competitive advantage.—Sponsored by OMG Commerce - go to (https://www.omgcommerce.com/contact) and request your FREE strategy session today!—Chapters:(00:00) Introduction: CX as a Growth Engine with Kristin Keys(03:12) Why Good CX Drives Retention, LTV & Word of Mouth(07:00) The Baseball Lifestyle 101 Origin Story(14:02) Reducing Refunds, Chargebacks & Negative Reviews(20:04) Empowering Your Team to Resolve Issues on the Spot(24:10) Going Above & Beyond: Community Stories & Surprise Moments(30:51) Key Metrics: Return Rate, Repeat Purchases & Sales from Support(36:50) Biggest CX Mistakes D2C Brands Make(41:46) Parting Advice: Build a CX Team That Loves Your Brand—Connect With Brett:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thebrettcurry/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@omgcommerceWebsite: https://www.omgcommerce.com/Request a Free Strategy Session: https://www.omgcommerce.com/contactRelevant Links:Kristin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinkeyes23Past guests on eCommerce Evolution include Ezra Firestone, Steve Chou, Drew Sanocki, Jacques Spitzer, Jeremy Horowitz, Ryan Moran, Sean Frank, Andrew Youderian, Ryan McKenzie, Joseph Wilkins, Cody Wittick, Miki Agrawal, Justin Brooke, Nish Samantray, Kurt Elster, John Parkes, Chris Mercer, Rabah Rahil, Bear Handlon, JC Hite, Frederick Vallaeys, Preston Rutherford, Anthony Mink, Bill D'Allessandro, Stephane Colleu, Jeff Oxford, Bryan Porter and more
Why is your bar still stuck… even though you're working nonstop?Here's the truth most owners avoid:It's not your staff.It's not your marketing.It's you.In this episode, franchise turnaround expert Mike DeJong breaks down the pattern he sees over and over again:Owners are becoming the bottleneck in their own business.You'll hear why most bar owners stay trapped in operator mode, constantly busy but never actually moving forward, and how their own habits, decisions, and mindset are the real thing holding everything back.This isn't a “tips and tricks” episode.It's a reality check.If you're tired of being stuck in the day-to-day, constantly putting out fires, and wondering why your bar isn't growing…this one's going to hit.If you want to go deeper with Mike:You can download his book Grow Smart for free or connect with him directly.
In this episode, Michael sits down with Bob Fraser, CFO and Chief Macro Strategist at Aspen Funds and author of Invest Like a Billionaire. Bob shares why billionaires invest very differently than most people—and why relying solely on stocks and bonds may be limiting your ability to build long-term wealth.The conversation explores alternative investments like multifamily, private credit, industrial real estate, oil and gas, and private equity. Bob explains how to think through market cycles, why diversification across uncorrelated assets matters, and how investors can position themselves to benefit from long-term tailwinds instead of chasing the latest trend.Key TakeawaysBillionaires don't rely on a traditional 60/40 portfolio—they allocate heavily to alternative investments and uncorrelated assets. There is always an asset class that is working, even when another is struggling, which is why diversification across market cycles matters. Private credit can provide equity-like returns with lower risk by acting as the lender instead of the owner. Investors should focus on long-term macro tailwinds like reshoring, industrial real estate, and energy demand rather than chasing short-term narratives.Great operators are defined by how they perform during difficult market cycles, not just during boom years.You don't need to master every asset class yourself—joint ventures and partnerships can help you gain exposure to new opportunities. Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session518/
What worked before…doesn't work anymore.Same bar. Same drinks.But something's off.The crowd is different.And they're not drinking the way they used to.Most bar owners think it's a traffic problem.It's not.You're running a bar built for the past while Gen Z is playing by new rules.In this episode, we break down how each generation actually drinks, spends, and chooses where to go and why Gen Z is shifting everything from what people order to when they show up.If your bar feels inconsistent and you don't know why…this will change how you see your business.
One night you're busy.Next night? Dead.No pattern. No consistency. All you can do is hope that people will show up.Most bar owners think it's a marketing problem.It's not.You just haven't given people a reason to come in.In this episode, I sit down with Bryan Carr from Geeks Who Drink to break down how programming, like trivia, bingo, and weekly events, actually drives consistent traffic and higher spend.If your weeknights are unpredictable and you're tired of guessing what works… This will change how you think about your bar.Connect with Brian Carr:
In this episode, Michael Blank answers a listener question about what happens when a deal doesn't go as planned—specifically, how to handle loan restructuring in today's challenging market. With rising interest rates and tighter lending conditions, many operators are facing refinancing pressure. Michael walks through practical strategies for working with lenders, protecting investors, and navigating difficult situations while maintaining credibility and long-term relationships.Key Takeaways Loan challenges are more common in today's market, especially with floating-rate debt and expiring terms.Proactive communication with lenders is critical — the earlier you engage, the more options you have.Lenders don't want to take your property — they are often willing to restructure if you bring a realistic plan.Transparency with investors builds long-term trust, even when deals face difficulties.Sometimes additional capital or modified terms are necessary to stabilize a deal.How you handle tough situations defines your reputation far more than easy wins.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session517/
On this solo episode:Stacey explores the topic of unmade decisions and how they are the true bottleneck to growth, and how breaking through your revenue ceiling requires making identity-driven decisions from the future version of yourself rather than the current oneKey Takeaways:-Certainty is built after the decision, not before.-A slow yes is often a no.-Commitment means accountability.Tweetable Quotes:"Every single unmade decision is actively costing you in revenue, momentum, and even the energy it takes to keep carrying them." -Stacey O'Byrne"Letting go of that draining client is not a business decision. It's a trust decision." -Stacey O'Byrne"Your brain is not designed to move you forward… it's designed to keep you consistent." -Stacey O'ByrneResources:Instagram: @pivotpointadvantagehttps://pivotpointadvantage.com/sell-without-selling/Free Strategy Session: text Success to 646.495.9867Schedule a 15-minute call with Stacey: http://pivotpointadvantage.com/talktostaceyIf you're ready to take yourself and your business to the next level and are interested in a coaching program that will get you there check out: http://pivotpointadvantage.com/iwantsuccessJoin an interactive environment to help you build the success you've always wanted with other like-minded, success-driven entrepreneurs, business owners, and sales professionals: https://facebook.com/groups/sellwithoutselling
Why do so many bar owners generate decent revenue… yet still feel like they're constantly behind on money?Most people assume the fix is pushing for more, more customers, more sales, more growth. But that approach usually just creates more pressure without solving what's actually broken.The real problem is how your money is being managed.In this episode, we walk through how to build a forward-looking budget that gives you control, so your cash is allocated with intention and profit is planned, not left to chance.You'll learn how to structure your revenue into clear categories, separate owner pay from actual profit, and set flexible cost percentages that move with your sales, so you can stop guessing and start making smarter financial decisions.If you're putting in the hours, bringing in money, but still not seeing real results at the end of each month, this episode will help you take back control.
Step into the vibrant world of hospitality with our latest episode, where we explore the dynamic India Bartender Show and the essence of joy in the industry. This episode promises to captivate anyone passionate about bars, culture, and community.Discover how the India Bartender Show is reshaping perceptions with its focus on education, community, and cultural expression. Hear from industry leaders about the shared values of joy, love, and generosity that drive hospitality. We also discuss our favorite industry books. Imagine being part of a community that values passion and data equally, where emerging markets like India are setting new standards. This episode offers a unique perspective on how international bar scenes are evolving and the role of storytelling and cultural history in hospitality.Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation. Subscribe to our podcast for more episodes that celebrate the creativity and humanity at the heart of hospitality. Share this episode with friends and colleagues who are as passionate about the industry as you are.Our Favorite Business and Hospitality Books:Setting the Table by Danny MeyerJoy of Mixology by Gary "Gaz" ReganCocktail Codex by Alex Day, Nick Fauchald, and David KaplanUnreasonable Hospitality by Will GuidaraThe Cocktail Balance 2.0 by Stan HucnickDishoom by Shamil Thakrar, Kavi Thakrar, and Naved NasirLeadership Secrets of Attila the Hun by Wess RobertsGood to Great by Jim ColinsStrengthsFinder by Marcus BuckinghamRestaurant Success by the Numbers by Roger FieldsThe Bar Shift, Hospitality DNA, A Tale of Two Taverns by Dave Nitzel and Dave DomzalskiHow to Make Top-Shelf Profits in the Bar Business, Menus that Sell by Chris Schneider
Why are so many bar owners making good money… but still ending every month with nothing left?Most bar owners think the answer is more sales, more customers, more volume… but that's actually the slowest and most expensive way to fix a profit problem.Instead, this episode focuses on building a forward-looking budget that actually controls your cash and locks in profit first.From breaking your revenue into real categories to setting cost percentages that flex with your sales, you'll learn how to stop reacting and start making decisions that protect your margins.If you're a bar owner who's tired of working nonstop and still not seeing real profit, this will show you how to finally take control of your numbers.
In this episode, Michael Blank breaks down the two biggest myths that stop aspiring investors from getting started in apartment building investing. Many believe they need years of experience or their own capital to do a deal—but Michael explains why neither is true. By reframing these misconceptions and focusing on building the right team and skill set, you can fast-track your path to your first multifamily deal and start scaling much faster than you thought possible.
On this solo episode:Stacey reveals how the “Itty Bitty Sh**ty Committee”, the internal fear-driven programming rooted in past experiences, undermines sales performance by hijacking confidence and certainty. Listen in to hear how you can learn to stop it!Key Takeaways:-Certainty is not pushy.-Clarity is the most respectful thing you can offer someone.-Hesitation is nothing more than data, not a verdict.Tweetable Quotes:"You're not bad at sales. You're running a program that is working against you." -Stacey O'Byrne"Your brain cannot tell the difference between a memory and something happening right now." -Stacey O'Byrne"You walk into conversations cognitively compromised by your own history." -Stacey O'ByrneResources:Instagram: @pivotpointadvantagehttps://pivotpointadvantage.com/sell-without-selling/Free Strategy Session: text Success to 646.495.9867Schedule a 15-minute call with Stacey: http://pivotpointadvantage.com/talktostaceyIf you're ready to take yourself and your business to the next level and are interested in a coaching program that will get you there check out: http://pivotpointadvantage.com/iwantsuccessJoin an interactive environment to help you build the success you've always wanted with other like-minded, success-driven entrepreneurs, business owners, and sales professionals: https://facebook.com/groups/sellwithoutselling
Why are so many restaurants busy… but still not making enough money?In this episode, we break down a simple but overlooked strategy that can increase your revenue in as little as 48 hours without more customers, more marketing, or more traffic.Most bar and restaurant owners are stuck chasing new customers, thinking that's the only way to grow. But in today's market, that's the slowest and most expensive move you can make.Instead, this episode focuses on a smarter approach: increasing how much each guest spends.From optimizing your guest check average to using simple psychological triggers inside your service and menu, you'll learn how small shifts can drive immediate profit without raising prices or changing your concept.If you're a bar owner, restaurant operator, or hospitality professional who feels busy but underpaid, this episode will show you exactly where your money is leaking and how to fix it fast.
Scaling paid ads isn't just about better creatives or media buying tweaks.Often, the real unlock is what happens after the click.In this episode of eCommerce Evolution, Brett sits down with Paddy McLarnon, founder of PM Digital Designs, to break down full funnel CRO; from advertorial landing pages to value stacking to subscription optimization.If your CAC is creeping up, your conversion rate feels capped, or your subscription churn is eating margin, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you scale profitably.—Sponsored by OMG Commerce - go to (https://www.omgcommerce.com/contact) and request your FREE strategy session today!—Chapters: (00:00) Introduction(05:01) The Biggest CRO Mistakes Brands Make(07:42) Ad-to-Lander Congruency(09:36) Advertorials & Listicles: Real Examples(16:56) Offer Stacking & Value Perception(19:55) Using Customer Surveys to Build Better Copy(25:13) Why Conversion Rate Can Mislead You(29:27) How to Hit a 72% Subscription Take Rate(36:48) Subscription Offer Breakdown: Real Examples(46:10) Buy Box Optimization & Pricing Psychology(50:13) Email, SMS & Follow-Up Flows—Connect With Brett: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thebrettcurry/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@omgcommerce Website: https://www.omgcommerce.com/ Request a Free Strategy Session: https://www.omgcommerce.com/contact Relevant Links:Paddy's LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/paddy-mclarnon-cro-for-shopify-brands-2055ba124Past guests on eCommerce Evolution include Ezra Firestone, Steve Chou, Drew Sanocki, Jacques Spitzer, Jeremy Horowitz, Ryan Moran, Sean Frank, Andrew Youderian, Ryan McKenzie, Joseph Wilkins, Cody Wittick, Miki Agrawal, Justin Brooke, Nish Samantray, Kurt Elster, John Parkes, Chris Mercer, Rabah Rahil, Bear Handlon, JC Hite, Frederick Vallaeys, Preston Rutherford, Anthony Mink, Bill D'Allessandro, Stephane Colleu, Jeff Oxford, Bryan Porter and more
How can a bar succeed without Instagram, social media marketing, or online promotion?In this episode, hospitality operator Ethan Brown of Ernie's Boondock, a multi-location bar concept, operates with no Instagram, no social media marketing, and almost no online presence.Instead of relying on digital marketing, Ernie's focuses on something most bar operators overlook: culture, staff, and community experienceErnie's started in Des Moines and expanded to Nashville while intentionally avoiding social media. The strategy focuses on creating a powerful guest experience through staff culture, lighting, music, and hospitality, turning customers into the marketing engine.If you're a bar owner, operator, or hospitality professional trying to improve profitability and guest experience, this episode offers an entirely different perspective on marketing and operations.
In this solo episode, Michael Blank introduces a powerful strategy designed to help aspiring syndicators overcome the biggest obstacle in real estate: getting your first deal done. While most first deals take 6–12 months, Michael explains how you can dramatically accelerate your learning curve by running a “Live Sample Deal”—a simulated real-world acquisition that walks you through the entire process in just seven days.By analyzing a real property, speaking with brokers, building your team, and even negotiating an offer, you gain the experience and confidence needed to pursue actual deals. This practical exercise helps eliminate fear, expand your comfort zone, and move you significantly closer to closing your first multifamily investment.Key TakeawaysThe first deal changes everything — once you close a deal, brokers, investors, and opportunities start coming to you.Most first deals take 6–12 months, but you can accelerate your learning through a simulated “Live Sample Deal.”Confidence comes from action, not just education—walking through the full deal process builds real-world experience.Simulating a deal removes fear, especially the fear of making offers or raising capital.Running a sample deal can get you roughly 80% of the experience of doing a real transaction.Expanding your comfort zone is key—what once felt impossible (like a 50-unit deal) quickly becomes achievable after practicing the process.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael BlankFor full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session515/
On this solo episode:Stacey explores why businesses can start to feel heavier and more complex just as they approach a new level of growth. You'll hear how shifts in pressure, leadership, and decision-making can subtly influence momentum inside a company.Key Takeaways:-Movement creates clarity.-Businesses move at the speed of leadership decisions.-Friction is the silent killer of momentum.Tweetable Quotes:"Sales conversations reflect leadership certainty almost instantaneously when a business owner is ready. Conversations are clear, direct, and confidently guide the prospect toward a decision." -Stacey O'Byrne"Scaling a business is not only about strategy or systems; it's also about expanding the leader's capacity to make decisions under pressure." -Stacey O'Byrne"Momentum rarely comes from discovering a perfect strategy; momentum comes from leaders who are willing to move even when certainty is unavailable." -Stacey O'ByrneResources:Instagram: @pivotpointadvantagehttps://pivotpointadvantage.com/sell-without-selling/Free Strategy Session: text Success to 646.495.9867Schedule a 15-minute call with Stacey: http://pivotpointadvantage.com/talktostaceyIf you're ready to take yourself and your business to the next level and are interested in a coaching program that will get you there check out: http://pivotpointadvantage.com/iwantsuccessJoin an interactive environment to help you build the success you've always wanted with other like-minded, success-driven entrepreneurs, business owners, and sales professionals: https://facebook.com/groups/sellwithoutselling
Most bar owners track sales, watch labor, and check their inventory.But very few step back and ask a simple question:Are you actually tracking your prime cost the right way?Prime cost, the combination of labor cost and cost of goods sold, is one of the most important numbers in your bar. But many operators calculate it incorrectly or rely on inaccurate inventory numbers.In this episode, we break down how prime cost actually works, the mistakes bar owners often make when tracking it, and how to start using it as a real management tool.Because when you understand your bar prime cost, you can see problems earlier, whether it's overstaffing, waste, overpouring, or rising vendor prices.If you're a bar owner, hospitality leader, or restaurant operator, this episode will help you better understand one of the most important metrics behind bar profitability.
AI in eCommerce marketing isn't about “better prompts” anymore, it's about better systems. Brett sits down with returning guest Russ Henneberry (TheClick.ai, co-author of Digital Marketing for Dummies) to unpack what's new and what's next: Claude Cowork, agentic workflows, skills that “self-improve,” and what happens when your AI can actually use your files, tools, and data — not just chat about it.If you're a DTC founder, CMO, or operator trying to scale performance without scaling headcount, this episode is a blueprint for how modern teams are building repeatable AI routines for content, reporting, and decision-making.—Sponsored by OMG Commerce - go to (https://www.omgcommerce.com/contact) and request your FREE strategy session today!—Chapters: (00:00) Intro(02:05) What Cowork is: agentic plans, local files, and “skills”(05:20) Skills that self-improve, plus persona + offer as core context(08:10) Cowork as a “brain” with version control, shared across workflows(10:10) Connected sources: Notion transcripts, Zoom notes, and MCP-style integrations(15:10) Parallel agents and context windows: why this runs faster than chatbots(18:05) Skill marketplaces, sharing zips, and the security caution(23:10) OpenClaw/Open-source talk: the 4 “levels” (chatbot → cowork → code → open source)(28:05) Hardware reality: Mac Minis, Apple silicon, and “processing power” as leverage(31:05) Content system: Source → Structure → Format → Polish (newsletter example)(38:30) Click.ai membership, team training, and closing thoughts on revenue/employee—Connect With Brett: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thebrettcurry/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@omgcommerce Website: https://www.omgcommerce.com/ Request a Free Strategy Session: https://www.omgcommerce.com/contact Relevant Links:Russ's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russhenneberrytheCLICK: https://theclick.ai/Digital Marketing for Dummies: https://www.amazon.com/Digital-Marketing-Dummies-Business-Personal/dp/1119235596Past guests on eCommerce Evolution include Ezra Firestone, Steve Chou, Drew Sanocki, Jacques Spitzer, Jeremy Horowitz, Ryan Moran, Sean Frank, Andrew Youderian, Ryan McKenzie, Joseph Wilkins, Cody Wittick, Miki Agrawal, Justin Brooke, Nish Samantray, Kurt Elster, John Parkes, Chris Mercer, Rabah Rahil, Bear Handlon, JC Hite, Frederick Vallaeys, Preston Rutherford, Anthony Mink, Bill D'Allessandro, Stephane Colleu, Jeff Oxford, Bryan Porter and more
Most bar owners spend years chasing better sales, better systems, and better data.But very few stop and ask two uncomfortable questions:Do you actually love your bar anymore?And does your business still bring you joy?In this episode we are talking about a topic most hospitality leaders avoid, the emotional side of running a bar.Because when a bar owner stops loving their business, it shows up everywhere:in leadership, in team culture, and in the guest experience.This episode breaks down how mindset, leadership, and culture all start with the same foundation, whether or not you still care about the business you're building.If you're a bar owner, hospitality leader, or restaurant manager, this conversation will challenge the way you think about leadership, burnout, and what it really takes to build a bar people love working in and visiting.
In this solo episode, Michael reflects on the biggest lessons he's learned over the past 30 days—from the state of the multifamily market to the power of relationships, networking, and emerging technologies like AI. Drawing from recent conferences, conversations with industry leaders, and personal experiences, he shares key insights that could shape how investors approach the next phase of the market cycle.Michael discusses why many experts believe multifamily is near the bottom of the cycle, why diversification beyond real estate matters, and how building community and meaningful relationships can dramatically impact both business success and personal fulfillment. He also shares why he believes artificial intelligence will fundamentally transform productivity and entrepreneurship in the years ahead.Whether you're an active investor, aspiring syndicator, or simply looking for clarity in a shifting market, this episode delivers practical insights and mindset shifts that can help you navigate the next stage of your investing journey.Key TakeawaysWhy many industry experts believe the multifamily market may be at or near the bottom of the cycleThe role of interest rate stability and supply constraints in shaping the next phase of growthWhy absorption rates and concessions are becoming key indicators to watch in apartment marketsHow diversification into other asset classes—and even operating businesses—can strengthen your portfolioThe unexpected opportunities that come from networking and getting out of your comfort zoneWhy investing in your closest relationships may be the most important investment you makeHow artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming productivity, analysis, and entrepreneurshipWhy building community is becoming increasingly important in a world with declining online trustConnect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael BlankFor full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session514/
What if the slowest hours in your bar could become some of the most profitable?If your afternoons feel quiet and the seats sit empty until happy hour, you're not dealing with a traffic problem, you're dealing with unused revenue.There's a growing crowd of remote workers looking for a place to settle in, and your bar may already be the perfect fit.In this episode, we break down the Work-from-Bar Pivot and show you how to turn slow afternoon hours into daytime sales and early happy hour momentum.If you've been writing off the middle of the day, this episode might make you see your bar completely differently.
Running a bar or restaurant right now isn't just hard, it's overwhelming.Costs are up, regulations keep shifting, and somehow you're still expected to master tech, lead a team, control inventory, and deliver unforgettable service at the same time. The truth? Most owners were never taught the business fundamentals before jumping in and the failure rate shows it.In this episode, Jay Ashton and Domenic Pedulla, hosts of the Late Night Restaurant Podcast, share what they're seeing from the front lines of hospitality across Canada and beyond.They break down government pressure, rising alcohol taxes, tech resistance, lack of execution, and why education (not hustle) is the real separator between operators who survive and those who shut their doors.If you care about profitability, longevity, and building a bar or restaurant that doesn't become another statistic, this conversation will challenge the way you think about running your business.Connect with Jay and Domenic and check out the Late Night Restaurant Podcast
In this solo episode, Michael Blank shares the exact moment he pivoted from flipping houses and single-family rentals into multifamily investing—and why it became the single best financial decision of his life. He breaks down the math, the scalability, the risk profile, and the long-term wealth-building power of apartment syndications compared to other strategies like flips, short-term rentals, and pad splits. If you're wondering how to truly scale real estate without burning out, this episode lays it out step by step.Key Takeaways Single-family investing doesn't scale efficiently — replacing income requires dozens of properties and constant effort.Multifamily syndications create multiple profit centers: acquisition fees, asset management fees, cash flow, and equity at sale.You get paid when you buy in multifamily—something no other strategy offers at scale.Professional property management makes multifamily more passive, allowing faster growth with less day-to-day involvement.Risk is reduced through diversification — 100 tenants are safer than one.Long-term housing shortages and declining new construction permits support strong multifamily fundamentals.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael BlankFor full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session513/
Your dashboard tells you what happened.It doesn't tell you why.If revenue is slipping, labor is climbing, or regulars are quietly disappearing, your KPIs are showing symptoms, not causes.In this episode, we break down The Human Audit, a simple 15-minute monthly system for bar owners to reduce staff turnover, improve guest experience, and protect profit by asking five direct questions.You'll learn:Why KPIs are lagging indicatorsThe five questions to ask your team every monthHow to spot turnover risk earlyHow to catch guest experience leaks before they cost youHow to fix culture issues before they hit your numbersIf something feels off in your bar, this is how you figure out why.
Creative volume isn't the unlock. Better messaging is.In this episode of eCommerce Evolution, Brett sits down with Nate Lagos (CMO of Adapt Naturals, former Head of Growth at Original Grain) to break down how great storytelling drives real performance.From selling wooden watches through emotional positioning… to increasing AOV by reframing gift messaging… to building ads that scale without “fatigue” — this episode is a masterclass in understanding why customers actually buy.If you're a DTC founder, CMO, or operator tired of launching more ads without improving results, this conversation will recalibrate how you think about copy, positioning, and brand personality.—Sponsored by OMG Commerce - go to (https://www.omgcommerce.com/contact) and request your FREE strategy session today!—Chapters: (00:00) Intro(05:05) Nate's origin story, and why storytelling became a “performance lever”(07:40) Selling the story behind the materials (10:30) Customer motivation deep dive: status, identity, and gift-giving (15:05) Creative quantity vs quality(19:05) Finding the real “why”: research methods (23:10) Brand as “personality”(30:10) Testing surprises + valence/intensity framework(37:15) Practical frameworks: adjective formula—Connect With Brett: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thebrettcurry/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@omgcommerce Website: https://www.omgcommerce.com/ Request a Free Strategy Session: https://www.omgcommerce.com/contact Relevant Links:Nate's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natelagosAdapt Naturals: https://adaptnaturals.comOriginal Grain: https://www.originalgrain.com/Past guests on eCommerce Evolution include Ezra Firestone, Steve Chou, Drew Sanocki, Jacques Spitzer, Jeremy Horowitz, Ryan Moran, Sean Frank, Andrew Youderian, Ryan McKenzie, Joseph Wilkins, Cody Wittick, Miki Agrawal, Justin Brooke, Nish Samantray, Kurt Elster, John Parkes, Chris Mercer, Rabah Rahil, Bear Handlon, JC Hite, Frederick Vallaeys, Preston Rutherford, Anthony Mink, Bill D'Allessandro, Stephane Colleu, Jeff Oxford, Bryan Porter and more
In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with capital-raising expert Steve Libman to discuss what it really takes to attract investors in today's challenging market. From building credibility and long-term trust to navigating objections and resetting expectations, Steve shares practical strategies for raising equity when fear and uncertainty are high. This conversation is a masterclass in relationships, resilience, and playing the long game in syndication.Key Takeaways Capital raising is a long-term relationship business, not a transactional one.Investors are more cautious than ever, requiring transparency, conservative underwriting, and consistent communication.Your track record is built during downturns, not bull markets.Education reduces fear — the more investors understand market cycles, the more confident they become.Follow-up and consistency matter more than charisma when building investor trust.The operators who survive this cycle will emerge stronger, with deeper investor loyalty and credibility.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session512/
In this candid and wide-ranging conversation, Michael Blank reconnects with Rod Khleif, multifamily investor, educator, and entrepreneur, to unpack what's really happened in real estate over the past few years. Together, they discuss the current multifamily downturn, rising expenses, distressed assets, and why pain in the market often creates the greatest opportunities. The episode also explores alternative asset classes, operating businesses, syndication beyond apartments, and how investors can position themselves for what's coming next.Key Takeaways Multifamily is going through a real reckoning, driven by rising interest rates, expenses, and maturing debt—not a broken asset class.Separating the past from the future is critical — what happened over the last two years doesn't define the next cycle.Syndication is the transferable skill, applicable to real estate, senior housing, self-storage, and even operating businesses.Distress creates opportunity, especially with forced sales, refinancing challenges, and upcoming loan maturities.Partner selection matters more than ever — misaligned or weak partners can destroy otherwise solid deals.Diversification across asset classes and strategies can create resilience during volatile market cycles.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael BlankFor full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session510/
In this solo episode, Michael Blank breaks down what really happened in multifamily during 2025 and what investors should expect in 2026. He unpacks supply and demand trends, rent growth, interest rate expectations, and the affordability crisis shaping renter behavior. While the last few years have been challenging, Michael explains why 2026 is likely a year of stability that sets the stage for long-term growth—and why today's risk-adjusted returns may be better than they've been in years.Key Takeaways2025 was a year of absorption, not growth — record demand was offset by an unprecedented wave of new supply, keeping rents flat to down. New construction is falling sharply, with permits dropping and high interest rates making most projects uneconomical. Affordability favors renting, as buying a home now costs significantly more than renting, supporting long-term rental demand. 2026 consensus outlook is stability with modest rent growth, likely around 2%, setting up normalized growth in 2027 and beyond. Interest rates are expected to be flat to slightly down, a meaningful shift from the uncertainty of the past three years. Lower leverage and better pricing improve risk-adjusted returns, making today's environment healthier than the frothy market of 2021–2022Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session509/
In this episode, Michael sits down with Derrick Lind, a structural engineer with 25 years of experience who transitioned from single-family rentals into multifamily syndication. Derrick shares how his analytical mindset both helped—and initially held him back—as he navigated analysis paralysis, conservative underwriting, and fear of taking action. He also discusses how mentorship, networking, and ultimately writing a book (Real Estate Investing for Engineers) helped him break through and close larger deals with confidence.Key Takeaways Analytical strengths can become liabilities — engineers and professionals excel at analysis but often struggle to take action without perfect information.Single-family rentals become inefficient at scale, leading many investors to multifamily for better operations, valuation control, and professional management.You don't need 100% certainty to move forward — real estate is forgiving, and most deals allow room to adjust after closing.Mentorship and networks accelerate growth by providing experienced perspectives, deal flow, and partnership opportunities.Being overly conservative can prevent deals entirely — it's better to manage risk than avoid it altogether.Authority builds credibility — writing a book positioned Derrick as a trusted expert and opened doors with investors and partners.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session508/
In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with Hal Elrod, bestselling author of The Miracle Morning, to talk about habits, mindset, and resilience. Hal shares how a near-fatal car accident, cancer, and financial collapse reshaped his philosophy on success—and why personal development is the foundation of financial freedom. This conversation explores how investors can use intentional daily routines to build clarity, discipline, and long-term fulfillment both in business and in life.Key Takeaways Morning routines shape long-term success — how you start the day determines focus, energy, and results.Adversity is neutral — meaning comes from the perspective you choose, not the circumstance itself.Personal development is non-negotiable — investing in yourself accelerates every other area of life.Small daily habits compound over time, creating massive long-term impact.Success without fulfillment is failure — aligning goals with purpose matters more than achievement alone.Consistency beats intensity — sustainable routines outperform short-lived motivation.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session507/
In this solo episode, Michael Blank pulls back the curtain on why he's expanding beyond multifamily real estate into business acquisitions and private equity. He breaks down how buying operating businesses can complement real estate investing, diversify investor portfolios, and create strong cash flow without day-to-day operations. Michael shares the exact framework, buy box, and risk-mitigation strategy he's using as Nighthawk Equity cautiously enters this space—and why this move is about long-term stability, not abandoning multifamily.Key TakeawaysBusiness acquisitions can provide strong cash flow and diversification alongside real estate investments.Michael evaluates businesses using a simple three-bucket framework: talent, customers, and cash management.The focus is on stable, recession-resistant businesses with experienced leadership already in place.Conservative use of debt—and often seller financing—is key to managing downside risk.Unlike multifamily, business acquisitions offer higher cash flow but fewer tax advantages.This strategy is about complementing multifamily, not replacing it, with a long-term investment mindset.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael BlankFor full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session506/
In this special and deeply personal episode, Michael sits down with his wife, Vivian Blank, to talk about life beyond real estate. From spending off-season time at Hilton Head to navigating marriage, goal-setting, communication, and long-term partnership, this conversation explores what it really takes to build a meaningful life together while pursuing ambitious goals. Whether you're married, building a business, or thinking about long-term alignment with your partner, this episode offers honest insights and practical wisdom.Key TakeawaysShared goal-setting strengthens relationships — regularly discussing goals creates accountability, clarity, and deeper connection.You don't need to work side-by-side to work together — support, communication, and alignment matter more than traditional roles.Saying goals out loud increases follow-through — verbal commitment makes achievement more likely.Communication is the foundation of conflict resolution — addressing issues early prevents resentment from building.Intentional retreats create space for reflection — stepping away from daily routines helps couples reconnect and reset.Strong partnerships require flexibility and humility — marriage, like business, is an ongoing work in progress.Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael's Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal AnalyzerGet the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session505/