In this episode of the PETE Podcast, I sit down with Clifford Walker—aka "The Cowboy Closer"—to talk about how he went from truck driving to full-time real estate investor and coach, all while bringing his family into the business and building a legacy of generational wealth. Clifford shares his journey, mindset shifts, and the real talk new investors need to hear before jumping into their first deal.

We dig into the fundamentals of getting started in real estate, the importance of picking your lane, and how to work with your spouse or business partner without stepping on each other's toes. If you've ever hesitated to take that first step, Clifford's story and his practical advice might be just the push you need.

Episode Highlights

[0:00] – Introduction

[2:21] – Clifford shares his markets: Texas, Ohio, Georgia, North Carolina—and why he focuses on wholesaling

[3:43] – Why wholesaling is simple but not easy—and how it compares to flips and buy & hold

[4:41] – The power of "picking a lane" and avoiding shiny object syndrome

[6:03] – Why destiny demands development—and how beginners should embrace the learning curve

[7:35] – The best advice Clifford got from Ed Mylett before a big keynote: "Give yourself some grace"

[9:03] – What to do when your first deal flops—or when the check isn't as big as you hoped

[11:16] – The truth about who can succeed in real estate (hint: it's anyone willing to put in the work)

[13:14] – No money? No problem. Why mindset, community, and resourcefulness matter more than capital

[17:50] – How Clifford's leap of faith led to his entire family joining the business

[21:40] – Real talk on college, mindset, and how each step—good or bad—can lead to your purpose

[25:49] – How a podcast Clifford heard while truck driving sparked his entire real estate journey

[27:06] – Is out-of-state investing possible? Clifford shares how he does it with relationships and partners

[28:49] – Final thoughts on mentorship, coaching, and building a business that builds others

5 Key Takeaways

1. Real estate works—when you do. Clifford emphasizes that every strategy works if you're willing to commit and stay focused.
2. Don't wait to be perfect. Start now, give yourself grace, and learn by doing—even if that means hitting a few curbs.
3. Build community, not just capital. Your network can unlock deals, partnerships, and the confidence to keep going.
4. Mindset is everything. Whether you're broke, scared, or brand new—how you think shapes what's possible.
5. Leave a legacy. Clifford's story proves that real estate isn't just about wealth—it's about impact, family, and freedom.

Links & Resources

• Connect with Clifford Walker and join his investor community: https://linktr.ee/cowboycloser

Closing Remark

If this episode lit a fire under you—or helped you realize it's time to finally get started—do me a favor: rate, follow, share, and review the PETE Podcast. Clifford's story is a reminder that where you start doesn't define where you finish. Let's go build something real.