I think it's time we rethink our portfolios, especially from that 60/40 recommendation of the past. In this episode, I talk about why it’s time to add 20-30% in alternative investments—think real estate, lending funds, and even franchises—to balance your growth and give you more control. Diversifying outside just stocks and bonds can help you sleep better at night and potentially boost your returns. I also share how to use self-directed IRAs and why a Roth IRA should be top of mind. 3 takeaways ...
Jul 30, 2025•14 min
If you’re interested in multifamily real estate investing with a manager who truly does things differently, this one’s worth your time! There are HUNDREDS of multifamily (apts) investors out there, but this one stands out. Matt Incitti from Hamilton Point joins us to share what makes Hamilton Point special. Key takeaways: 🔹 Ethics and Alignment Matter Hamilton Point stands out in the crowded multifamily space for their strong ethical track record and investment alignment with investors. The fou...
Jul 15, 2025•23 min
If you're curious about how farmland can diversify your portfolio, act as an inflation hedge, and support a healthier planet, you’ll find plenty in this episode. Michelle is joined by Chris Zuehlsdorff, CEO of Iroquois Valley Farmland REIT. Iroquois Valley supports experienced organic farmers through long-term leases and mortgage financing, helping to preserve farmland and build a more resilient food system. Key takeaways: Farmland as a Diversifier & Inflation Hedge: Investing in organic far...
Jul 08, 2025•31 min•Season 1Ep. 76
This week we have real estate investor, Jesse Lang on the show to talk about investing in real estate without your own money. Jesse started her journey accidentally through house hacking, and within just 36 months, she scaled from 11 to 70 rental doors—all without using her own money. Her focus on the BRRRR method (Buy, Renovate, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) is a game-changer for anyone feeling like they can't get into the real estate game. Here are the biggest takeaways: 🔑 Leverage over Capital Je...
Jul 01, 2025•28 min•Season 1Ep. 75
In this solo episode, Michelle gets into the topic of money psychology and the impact of emotions on financial decisions. With 20+ years of experience as a financial planner, Michelle shares her observations and opinions about balancing the emotional and logical sides of managing wealth. Key Topics Covered The Emotional Side of Money Investment Decision-Making The Value of Accountability Budgeting & Emotional Spending Learning from Losses Take the quiz - How Alternative Assets Can Fit in You...
Jun 24, 2025•19 min•Season 1Ep. 74
Wondering how you can trust an investment? 📈 In this episode of the podcast, I share my personal “litmus test” for evaluating alternative investments and private placements. If you’re exploring real estate, private funds, or other non-traditional opportunities, here are my top three takeaways to keep in mind: ✅ Do they have real skin in the game? Always ask if the managers are investing their own money, not just raising funds and charging fees. When their money is on the line, their interests a...
Jun 17, 2025•15 min•Season 1Ep. 73
I sat down with Braden Hudson, CFO and cofounder of Trellis Energy, to talk about an oil and gas investment opportunity. Trellis isn’t your typical operator—they specialize in fractional ownership of wells alongside major names like Chevron and EOG, giving accredited investors direct access to proven energy projects. With a focus on downside risk, diversified deals, and strong tax benefits, their fund offers an alternative growth platform outside traditional markets. If you’re looking to diversi...
Jun 10, 2025•25 min•Season 1Ep. 72
We're diving into a new area of interest: Oil & Gas Investing. If you’ve ever wondered about the differences between drilling programs and royalty programs, how to spot a quality operator, or why oil and gas remain such a compelling option for accredited investors seeking both tax advantages and portfolio diversification, this conversation is for you. Brad Updike, LLM, JD joins us from Mick Law PC, a premier oil and gas due diligence firm, to explain. Key highlights you don’t want to miss: O...
Jun 03, 2025•29 min•Season 1Ep. 71
🔒 Financial fraud is on the rise — how can you protect yourself? There's been a sharp uptick (25% increase!) in financial fraud this year. In this episode, I go over some strategies to recognize and protect yourself from scams. Key takeaways: Watch for red flags: Be wary of unsolicited calls (even when they appear to come from legitimate institutions) that create urgency, ask for sensitive info, or pressure you to act quickly. Always hang up and call back using a verified number you found on th...
May 20, 2025•15 min•Season 1Ep. 70
If you’re looking for an alternative investment opportunity that’s well outside the usual suspects, this one is worth a look. Industrial Outside Storage, think equipment or supply storage for companies that have large items to store or operate. There are a few reasons this might be a good fit: Fragmented Market: Over 80% of industrial outdoor storage assets are owned by non-institutional (mom and pop) operators. This creates tremendous potential for portfolio consolidation and value creation, es...
May 14, 2025•26 min•Season 1Ep. 69
Downsizing or transitioning to a new living situation can be especially overwhelming for seniors and their families. In my recent episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Zach Gariti, founder of Reavanti, a company specializing in senior move management. Here are 3 key takeaways: A Personalized, Stress-free Approach: Reavanti manages every aspect of a senior’s transition—from sorting and packing, to donating and selling unwanted items, all the way to recreating familiar home environments in ...
Apr 22, 2025•20 min•Season 1Ep. 68
In this solo episode, Michelle gets into the nuts and bolts of investing in alternative assets. If you’ve ever wondered how difficult the logistics are to invest outside your traditional brokerage, this episode is for you. Michelle breaks down the logistics of alternative investing—from setting up self-directed IRAs to filling out subscription agreements—so you can feel confident taking the next step toward portfolio diversification. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The Basics of Alternative I...
Apr 15, 2025•17 min•Season 1Ep. 67
With interest rates on the rise, private credit funds are gaining popularity among investors seeking alternative opportunities. In this episode of The Unconventional Investor , we talk about the fundamentals of asset-backed lending, the innovative structure and strategy of The Bedrock Fund—a private lending platform for home flippers—and discuss how it offers accredited investors stable, non-traditional returns. Joining us is Mark McKeller, Principal & Director of Originations at The Bedrock...
Apr 02, 2025•25 min•Season 1Ep. 65
Software engineer & developer, Andy Woodward joins us to give an update on cyptocurrency and it's place in our financial markets. As someone who's been following the crypto space since 2018, Andy provides a wealth of insights into the world of cryptocurrencies. Key Takeaways: Understanding Crypto's Resilience : Andy highlights how, despite the buzz around meme coins, the top cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum have remained relatively consistent over the years. It's crucial to look pa...
Mar 11, 2025•40 min•Season 1Ep. 64
If you're interested in learning more about the potential of Manufactured Housing Communities (mobile home parks), listen to this episode! Hansel Rodriguez, Principal of COARE Communities, joins us as we get into the world of Manufactured Housing Communities (mobile home parks). Hansel shares his expertise on diversified investment strategies, the significant returns and tax benefits associated with mobile home park investments, and the critical role these communities play in providing affordabl...
Mar 04, 2025•23 min•Season 1Ep. 63
Ever dreamed of traveling the world for less? This week, I chat with Julian Kheel, founder of Points Path and travel expert, about how to unlock the power of airline miles and credit card points. Julian explains the often-confusing world of travel rewards, sharing his 15+ years of experience and turning the complex system into an exciting game. Learn how to leverage credit card perks, maximize sign-up bonuses, and strategically use flexible cards to earn and redeem rewards for travel deals. Juli...
Feb 25, 2025•37 min•Season 1Ep. 62
Take the quiz - How Alternative Assets Can Fit in Your Portfolio Ready for the next step? Subscribe to the Podcast: pod.link/1671924778 Don't forget to leave a review! Follow Michelle for more financial tips: YouTube: youtube.com/@theunconventionalinvestor Instagram: michelle.e.moses Website: www.mefinancial.net Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional financial advice. Always consult with a qualif...
Feb 18, 2025•16 min•Season 1Ep. 61
In this episode, we're talking about the world of self-directed accounts with our guest, Michelle Thomas from CNB Custody. 🎙️ If you're looking to invest in alternative investment strategies beyond the traditional stock market, this episode is a must-listen! Here are three key takeaways: 🔹 Understanding Self-Directed Accounts : Self-directed accounts offer the flexibility to invest in alternative assets like real estate, LLCs, and REITs, beyond publicly traded stocks and bonds. 🔹 Why Custodia...
Feb 11, 2025•25 min•Season 1Ep. 60
The podcast is pivoting to focus on something I'm extremetly passionate about - alternative investments. 🎙️ As a Certified Financial Planner and independent financial advisor, I've witnessed the growing desire for investment strategies beyond the traditional stock market. Our revamped podcast aims to guide accredited investors toward alternative investment opportunities that diversify their portfolios while adding financial strategies not often seen in the marketplace. Here are three key takeaw...
Feb 04, 2025•15 min•Season 1Ep. 59
Are you looking to expand beyond the stock market into alternative investments? The Unconventional Investor is the place for you. Hear what the show covers and if it's a match for you.
Jan 20, 2025•1 min
No matter how much you make, tracking your spending not only helps you feel better, but allows you to make informed decisions. A budget isn't there to cut costs or live like a miser, it's there so you know what's going on in your financial life. 3 takeaways from this episode: Focus on Large Items: Cars, homes, loans - keeping the cost of these items low, allows you to spend more freely in other areas. Embrace Financial Awareness - Track!: Use a software like YNAB (You Need a Budget), will help y...
Nov 26, 2024•18 min•Season 1Ep. 58
Thinking about leaving a legacy? The SECURE Act changed the rules for inheriting IRAs, potentially impacting your financial plans. Learn how you can change your savings strategy to minimize taxes for your heirs. What You'll Learn: The 10-Year Distribution Rule: Understand how the SECURE Act affects how beneficiaries access inherited IRA funds. The Power of Roth IRAs: Discover why Roth IRAs are even more important now for tax-free retirement income. Strategic IRA Withdrawals & Alternatives: E...
Nov 19, 2024•14 min•Season 1Ep. 57
We've all seen that long list of options your employer hands you. Do you need all of them? Which ones are worth it? In this episode, Corina Vakira Delugos, MBA, EA talks to us about which benefits can save you in taxes - so you're spending tax-free money for your expenses. Corina is a financial services professional with over 25 years of experience in tax, mortgage, and insurance planning. Key Takeaways: Utilize Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) Wisely: Depend Care FSA : Set aside up to $5,000 p...
Oct 22, 2024•22 min•Season 1Ep. 56
Have you had a hard time finding a tax preparer, or been less than happy with the match? Many people make the mistake of picking a tax advisor without asking the right questions, only to face unexpected bills or inadequate service when IRS issues arise. To help us navigate this, we have Corina Vakira Delugos, MBA, EA. Corina is a financial services professional with over 25 years of experience in tax, mortgage, and insurance planning. In this episode, Corina shares tips on the important question...
Oct 15, 2024•26 min•Season 1Ep. 55
Have you written off Roth IRAs because of income limits? There's a legal way to max it out every year - the Backdoor Roth IRA. Get tax-free retirement growth and income with the Backdoor Roth IRA. Learn exactly how to do it (it's easier than you think) in this solo episode. We'll break down the benefits, legality, and even explore the Mega Backdoor Roth option. Listen now and discover how a Backdoor Roth IRA can boost your retirement savings. Ready to ditch the financial stress? Subscribe to the...
Oct 09, 2024•9 min•Season 1Ep. 54
Did you know the government now requires certain businesses to disclose their ownership? If you haven't filed your Beneficial Ownership Report (BOI) with the government, you need to listen to this episode! Shruti Gurudanti, a lawyer specializing in corporate and transactional law, joins me to explain the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its impact on your business. In this episode, you'll learn: Who needs to file a BOI report (e.g., LLCs, corporations) How easy (and important) it is to file ...
Oct 01, 2024•17 min•Season 1Ep. 53
Feeling overwhelmed by unrealistic expectations? This solo episode is close to my heart and all about reminding you that you're doing great just as you are. I discuss the pressure of social media and societal messages, especially when it comes to finances and lifestyle. Let's recognize your achievements, manage expectations, and appreciate the good in your life. Sit back, take a listen, and leave feeling more relaxed and grateful for what you have and have done! This episode is perfect for you i...
Sep 24, 2024•10 min•Season 1Ep. 52
Ever feel overwhelmed by all the financial advice out there? For years, I haven't been able to recommend many books, but that changed with No Worries: How to Live a Stress-Free Financial Life by Jared Dillian. This book cuts through the noise with just three key principles to focus on, so you can forget the rest. It has easy-to-manage strategies you only need to check on once a year . In this episode, we discuss: Why most financial advice is overwhelming The 3 key principles to financial freedom...
Sep 17, 2024•13 min•Season 1Ep. 51
Tired of high mortgage rates? Assumable loans can help you buy a home at a lower interest rate. Join us as Mike Roberts explains the ins and outs of taking over someone else's loan. In this episode, you'll learn: How assumable loans can benefit both buyers and sellers in a transaction. Which loans are eligible to be taken over and how to do it. How assumable loans differ from subto or seller financing. Subscribe to the Me Financial Podcast to hear more and don't forget to leave a review! Follow ...
Sep 11, 2024•17 min•Season 1Ep. 50
Have you ever wondered how real estate investors protect their properties from lawsuits? Join us as we explore high-level asset protection strategies with Scott Royal Smith, an experienced real estate investor and attorney. In this episode, you'll learn: How to purchase properties anonymously within a company structure to minimize lawsuit risks. The importance of compartmentalizing assets to protect your investments. How to simplify your taxes through disregarded entities. Subscribe to the podca...
Aug 20, 2024•32 min•Season 1Ep. 49