In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler dive into the Top 10 Mistakes in Self-Directing Your IRA —and how to avoid them. Whether you're just getting started or already managing self-directed investments, this episode outlines the most common pitfalls that can derail your retirement strategy, including prohibited transactions, improper deal structuring, and UBIT traps. Mat and Mark not only break down each mistake but also provide practical guidance on how to ...
Jun 30, 2025•35 min
Ready to get started? Book a call with one of our IRA specialists!: https://directedira.com/appointment/ If you’ve got an old 401(k) or IRA collecting dust, it’s time to take control. In this episode, Mat and Mark explain how to move your account into a self-directed IRA—without triggering taxes or penalties—and why it matters. You’ll learn what you can invest in, from real estate to startups, and how to avoid costly mistakes. Mat and Mark also share real examples and walk you through the steps ...
Jun 23, 2025•22 min
Ready to get started? Book a call with one of our IRA specialists!: https://directedira.com/appointment/ In this episode, Mat Sorensen and special guest David McAlvany explore how to buy gold, silver, platinum, and palladium in your IRA. They explain the rules, benefits, risks, and strategies—whether you’re seeking portfolio diversification, inflation protection, or long-term growth. Learn how precious metals can fit into your retirement plan and what mistakes to avoid. 📌 Key Chapters: 00:00 – ...
Jun 02, 2025•58 min
Learn how to take control of your retirement - https://directedira.com/ In this episode, Mat and Mark dive into one of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of retirement and estate planning— who should be the beneficiary of your IRA? Should it be your spouse? Your kids? Or your trust? They break down the tax implications, legal requirements, and best practices to ensure your wealth is passed on efficiently and securely. With real-life stories and clear action steps, this episode is a must-li...
May 27, 2025•13 min
To book a call with an IRA specialist!: https://directedira.com/appointment/ In this episode, Mat and Mark break down the powerful strategy of using a Self-Directed IRA for private money lending. Learn how your retirement account can act like a bank—lending money to real estate investors or businesses, earning interest and points, all while growing tax-free or tax-deferred. 0:00 - Introduction to Private Lending with a Self-Directed IRA 1:20 - What is a Self-Directed IRA and How It Works 3:00 - ...
May 19, 2025•38 min
In this podcast, Mat breaks down how he used his retirement account to purchase a real, physical rental property—and how he paid zero taxes on the rental income and six-figure profits when he sold. Most people think their retirement is locked into Wall Street investments, but Mat shows how you can use a Self-Directed IRA to invest in assets you know and trust—like real estate. He walks through the exact steps he took, the financial results, and how you can start taking control of your financial ...
May 14, 2025•10 min
In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, I sat down with Adam Hooper and Ryan Sudek from Sage Investment Group to dive into a high-impact real estate strategy: converting underutilized hotels into naturally affordable housing. We explored how this model delivers strong investor returns while addressing the affordable housing crisis—without relying on government subsidies. With over 20 successful conversions and more in the pipeline, this episode is packed with insights on real estate investi...
May 14, 2025•55 min
Thinking of opening a Self-Directed IRA? Open an account today https://directedira.com/open-accounts/ In this exclusive live audience podcast, recorded at the Self-Directed IRA Summit, @MarkJKohler and I talk about how powerful the tool of self-directing is. Enjoy as we are accompanied by live attendees going over REAL self-directed investing scenarios. Directed IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/ Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRA Book a Call: https://direct...
May 07, 2025•53 min
In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen breaks down one of the most powerful tools for building long-term, tax-free wealth: the Backdoor Roth IRA. Many high-income earners believe they’re ineligible for Roth IRAs due to income limits—but that’s where the backdoor strategy comes in. Mat walks you through how the Backdoor Roth IRA works in 2025, including the three-step process of contributing to a traditional IRA, making it non-deductible, and then converting it to a Roth. He co...
Apr 07, 2025•8 min
Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler are back with another episode of the Directed IRA Podcast—this time answering the most frequently asked questions about self-directed IRAs. Mat, the CEO of Directed IRA, requested this episode himself because he’s tired of hearing the same questions over and over(Cleary we're kidding). So, he and Mark are tackling them head-on in this special "Getting Started" series. Listeners will get clear answers on what they can invest in, what they should invest in, and the ...
Mar 31, 2025•39 min
In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast , Mark Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down the mechanics of partnering your IRA with others in deals . Whether it’s pooling funds from multiple IRAs, combining accounts within a family, or structuring investments to comply with IRS rules, they cover the do’s and don’ts of co-investing. Tune in to learn how to structure partnerships, avoid prohibited transactions, and maximize your self-directed retirement investing strategy . Directed IRA Homepage: http...
Mar 26, 2025•26 min
In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mark and Mat break down how to use your self-directed IRA or 401(k) to invest in private businesses, funds, and startups. We’re not talking about running another business yourself—we’re talking about leveraging your expertise to identify valuable investment opportunities. Most people think investing with an IRA means buying stocks, but what if you could invest in the next big thing before it goes public? Whether it’s a local business you know has pote...
Mar 17, 2025•28 min
Jamison Manwaring joins Mat Sorensen in the podcast to discuss a unique foreclosure deal that Neighborhood Ventures is acquiring. With rising interest rates and lenders tightening their grip, a prime multifamily property in Arcadia, Phoenix, recently went through foreclosure. Originally purchased for $18.25 million, Neighborhood Ventures secured it for $11 million, presenting a significant opportunity. Jamison explains how the property, already 91% occupied and recently renovated, was undervalue...
Mar 10, 2025•33 min
In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast , Mark Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down the key steps to setting up and funding a self-directed retirement account. If you have an existing IRA, 401(k), or another retirement account and you're wondering how to transition into self-directing, this episode is for you. Mark and Mat discuss the importance of understanding what type of retirement account you already have, how to take inventory of your funds, and what options are available for rolling ove...
Mar 05, 2025•22 min
Is it possible to invest in crypto completely tax-free? Yes—if you use a Roth IRA! In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen breaks down how you can use a self-directed Roth IRA to invest in cryptocurrencies like XRP while avoiding capital gains taxes. Most people assume Roth IRAs are limited to stocks, bonds, and mutual funds through major brokers like Fidelity or Schwab. But with a self-directed Roth IRA, you can invest in alternative assets—including crypto. Mat walks you thro...
Feb 18, 2025•11 min
Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler break down the IRA LLC, also known as the Checkbook IRA, explaining how it works, when it makes sense, and how to avoid common pitfalls. As experienced tax attorneys, they clarify the rules, discuss asset protection benefits, and share real-world use cases. Whether you're investing in real estate, private loans, or other alternative assets, this episode gives you the key information to keep your self-directed IRA compliant while maximizing flexibility. Learn More ...
Feb 10, 2025•32 min
Finding real estate deals is the #1 challenge holding back Self-Directed IRA investors—but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, Mat sit's down with Shenoah Grove from Texas REIAs to share proven strategies for uncovering off-market opportunities. They discuss: Why traditional MLS listings aren’t the best option for investors How to use the Notice of Substitute Trustee to get ahead of foreclosures Marketing tactics to connect with motivated sellers The mindset shift investors need to find deal...
Feb 03, 2025•44 min
In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler continue their deep dive into self-directed IRAs, focusing on the rules you need to follow. This is part two of their ten-part series, where they discuss what you can and cannot invest in using your IRA. They explain prohibited transactions, disqualified persons, and how the tax code impacts your investment decisions. The episode also clarifies common myths, such as the idea that self-directed IRAs are overly complex or...
Jan 21, 2025•30 min
Wall Street isn’t telling you the whole story about your retirement accounts—they tell you what works for them. In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast , Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler kick off a 10-part series covering everything you need to know about self-directed IRAs. What is a self-directed IRA? How does it work? And why is Wall Street reluctant to share these options with you? Mat and Mark dive into the power of self-directing, explaining how you can invest in assets beyond the stock...
Jan 13, 2025•41 min
Are you wondering how to spot a great investment opportunity in today’s real estate market? In this video, we dive into the current state of the real estate industry, focusing on multifamily properties, interest rate impacts, and strategies to navigate a challenging market. Join us as we discuss: ✔️ Why Arizona’s multifamily market is facing unique challenges and opportunities. ✔️ The effects of rising interest rates on property values. ✔️ How distressed opportunities are creating value for savv...
Dec 30, 2024•39 min
Did you know you can use your IRA to invest in cryptocurrency? In this video, I’ll walk you through how to buy crypto like Bitcoin, Solana, and XRP using your IRA and explain the incredible tax benefits that come with it. Whether you're looking to diversify your portfolio, capitalize on crypto's growth potential, or take advantage of the tax-free or tax-deferred benefits of an IRA, this strategy can be a game-changer. Ready to get started? Open a crypto IRA account today: https://directedira.com...
Dec 26, 2024•1 hr 4 min
In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler break down everything you need to know about using a crypto IRA or crypto 401(k) to invest in top tokens like Bitcoin , Solana , and XRP . Learn the step-by-step process to open an account, fund it, and start trading—all within tax-advantaged vehicles like a Roth IRA. Discover why thousands of investors trust Directed IRA to streamline this process and how you can achieve tax-free gains on your crypto investments. Don’t...
Dec 16, 2024•17 min
Don't Miss These Year-End Retirement Deadlines! In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J Kohler break down the five crucial actions you need to take before December 31st to maximize your retirement and tax strategy. From Roth conversions to required minimum distributions (RMDs), we cover what you must know to avoid missing out on key opportunities and facing unnecessary penalties. Highlights: - Roth Conversions: Why you should act before year-end to lock in your tax b...
Dec 02, 2024•24 min
Podcast Description: In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler answer listener-submitted questions in an open forum! They cover key topics like managing Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) within IRA LLCs, strategies for Roth conversions, and the ins and outs of rolling over a Roth 401(k) to a solo 401(k). They also discuss critical considerations for maximizing Social Security benefits and avoiding Medicare penalties. Tune in for expert insights and practica...
Nov 25, 2024•49 min
Join Mat Sorensen and special guest David Feingold, CEO of Broad Street Private Equity, for an insightful discussion on private equity investing. In this Directed IRA webinar, they break down what private equity is, how it works, and why it's becoming a popular asset class for self-directed IRA investors. With over 100 accounts investing in Broad Street deals, David shares his 34 years of experience and expertise in managing private businesses and navigating the world of alternative investments....
Nov 21, 2024•43 min
Discover the journey of real estate developer and entrepreneur Cody Sperber as he joins Mat Sorensen to discuss the art of scaling businesses, real estate development, and thriving in competitive markets. In this episode, Cody reveals his transition from wholesaling and flipping houses to tackling luxury home developments and his strategic pivot into commercial and manufactured housing. Learn how Cody leveraged partnerships to break into development, built eco-friendly homes tied to charitable c...
Nov 18, 2024•1 hr 10 min
In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen joins forces with Mark J. Kohler to break down essential retirement strategies for high-income earners. They discuss the critical $2.5 million retirement target, the importance of "employee after-tax contributions," and how to maximize retirement accounts with over $100,000 in contributions annually—even for W-2 employees. Mat and Mark debunk common myths about retirement planning and explain why growing your retirement account doesn’t ha...
Nov 07, 2024•33 min
In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat and Mark explore the hidden benefits of the Roth IRA that many investors overlook. While most people know about the tax-free growth advantage, there’s much more to this retirement account that makes it a must-have for any financial strategy. From the backdoor Roth IRA to the flexibility of withdrawing contributions without penalty, Mat and Mark unpack five surprising benefits that can help you maximize your retirement savings. Tune in to learn why...
Oct 03, 2024•19 min
In this episode of the Directed IRA podcast, Mat and Mark give unique strategies to supercharge your 401(k) and take control of your retirement savings. They explore how self-directing your 401(k) can open up investment opportunities beyond stocks and mutual funds, such as real estate, private businesses, and even cryptocurrency. Plus, they discuss the powerful "match and out" strategy to maximize your employer's contributions and why it’s crucial to take control of your retirement funds. Whethe...
Sep 26, 2024•26 min
In this episode, Mat dives into one of his favorite retirement strategies—the Solo 401(k). Whether you're a full-time entrepreneur or running a side hustle, this account is designed specifically for self-employed individuals with no employees. The Solo 401(k) allows you to contribute up to $69,000 per year, with options for both Roth and traditional dollars. We'll break down everything you need to know, from qualifying for a Solo 401(k) to setting it up and managing it. How does it compare to a ...
Sep 19, 2024•32 min
