In this live episode of the Collective Genius podcast, recorded at the CG Select and Elevate event in Sarasota, I sit down with one of my favorite humans, Jesús Toledo. Jesús, co-founder of 8020 REI, shares his incredible journey from real estate investor to data and marketing powerhouse. We dive into how he and his partner Felipe built a business that helps investors close more deals using predictive data and custom lead generation strategies.

Jesús gets real about how a nudge from a trusted mentor launched their pivot into the data space, how word-of-mouth from high-level investors fueled their growth, and why collaboration is at the heart of every venture he touches. We also touch on the importance of business partnerships, the power of mastermind communities like CG, and giving back through shared missions. This episode is packed with inspiration and insight—don’t miss it!

Episode Timeline:

[0:00] Introducing Jesús Toledo and his impactful presence in the CG community

[2:06] Jesús shares how 8020 REI evolved from a passion for data into a thriving business

[3:43] The pivotal moment when a mentor recognized their potential and urged them to launch a new venture

[5:20] How 8020 REI stands out by tailoring predictive data to each investor’s unique needs

[8:07] From quiet buzz to explosive growth—how word-of-mouth and results built their reputation

[13:15] Expanding into mail, CRM, and talent solutions by leveraging strong partnerships

[16:19] Key takeaways from the CG event and the importance of relationships over results

[18:20] The power of a strong business partnership and building a foundation of trust and communication

[21:05] Why Jesús believes CG is the ultimate mastermind for real estate professionals

[22:40] How giving back through CG’s outreach programs strengthens teams and connections

Key Takeaways:

1. Tailored, predictive data can drastically improve lead generation and reduce waste in real estate marketing.

2. Strong partnerships rooted in trust, communication, and complementary skill sets are critical to long-term business success.

3. Mastermind communities like Collective Genius offer not just business strategies, but life-changing relationships and collaboration opportunities.

Links & Resources:

• 8020REI.com

• TheCollectiveGenius.com

• TheCGPodcast.com

If you enjoyed this episode, do us a favor—rate, review, and share the podcast! Don’t forget to follow so you never miss a powerful conversation with the nation’s top real estate investors and thought leaders.

Welcome back to the Collective Genius Podcast. I’m your host, Leon Barnes, and in this episode, I’m joined by CG member Chris Miles from Money Ripples. Chris shares how he broke free from traditional financial advising to become a financially independent real estate investor—not once, but twice. We unpack why many investors stay stuck in transactional income, how to transition to building true passive cash flow, and how strategies like Infinite Banking can supercharge your ability to scale and protect your wealth.

If you’re an investor wondering how to turn high active income into sustainable passive streams or how to protect your capital from market shifts, this conversation is a must-listen. Chris shares actionable strategies, mindset shifts, and cautionary tales that can make or break your financial future.

TIMELINE SUMMARY

[0:00] – Introduction

[2:31] – Chris details his path from financial advisor to real estate investor seeking freedom

[5:01] – The pivotal moment with his father that revealed flaws in traditional retirement planning

[7:10] – Lessons from debating stocks vs. real estate and the mindset shift to cash flow

[9:05] – Building passive income through rentals, hard money lending, and more

[10:27] – Why relying solely on active income in transactional businesses is risky

[12:51] – How passive income streams carried investors through market slowdowns

[18:15] – Chris’s framework for vetting partners: integrity, experience, and handling failure

[24:33] – Trends in private lending and why there’s more opportunity now for flippers

[31:16] – How Infinite Banking works, how it protects cash, and its unique tax benefits

[39:00] – Using Infinite Banking for liquidity, better loan terms, and strategic opportunities

[47:37] – Lessons from 900+ interviews on freedom, impact, and creating a ripple effect

[49:13] – Why real estate investors must blend offensive and defensive strategies

[50:56] – The importance of making investors whole even in failed deals to build lifelong trust

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Cash Flow First – Building streams of passive income is essential for weathering market downturns and creating true freedom.

2. Vetting Matters – Bet on character and experience; always ask operators about their worst deals and how they handled them.

3. Liquidity as Power – Storing liquid cash in vehicles like Infinite Banking can let you pounce on opportunities while earning tax-free returns.

4. Be Your Own Bank – Infinite Banking allows you to use your own money efficiently, earning compounding interest while investing elsewhere.

5. Character Over Deals – Reputation and integrity are everything; those who protect investors, even during losses, build lasting relationships.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Money Ripples: moneyripples.com

• Infinite Banking information: https://moneyripples.com/infinite-banking/

• Collective Genius Podcast Website: https://thecgpodcast.com/

CLOSING REMARK

Thanks for listening to the Collective Genius Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and share the show—and don’t forget to leave us a review. It helps us bring more impactful conversations to help you grow and scale your investing business. See you next time!

In this special episode of the Collective Genius Live Podcast, I sit down with Jeremiah Dalton just before he steps on stage at our CG Select event in Sarasota. Jeremiah, a high-end fix-and-flip investor from Long Island, opens up about his powerful journey of personal and professional growth—from navigating a crisis in 2022 to transforming himself physically and mentally, and becoming a more effective leader and marketer.

We discuss his early days joining Collective Genius during the COVID pandemic, the challenges he faced when the market shifted, and how CG helped him develop strategies to buy properties at the right price and build stronger relationships. Jeremiah also previews his impactful main stage presentation about how prioritizing health and self-care unlocked new levels of performance in his life and business.

This conversation dives into the mindset shifts that helped him soften his approach, expand his network, and make a meaningful impact on others—including inspiring fellow members to transform their own lives.

[0:00] - Introduction

[0:35] - Jeremiah shares his background in high-end fix-and-flips and new builds on Long Island, New York.

[1:30] - How social media and friends led him to discover Collective Genius, and why CG Select was the perfect fit during the pandemic.

[3:20] - Lessons learned from CG: mastering marketing strategies to secure deals at the right price and evolving as a leader.

[5:46] - The story of the Go-Giver Belt and how toning down his aggressive style helped him connect better and provide more value.

[8:59] - Shifting from “punching people with value” to delivering insights in a way that others could actually absorb.

[10:09] - Jeremiah describes the rock-bottom moment in 2022 when multiple business and personal crises hit simultaneously—and how a decision to focus on his health became the catalyst for change.

[13:49] - How his physical transformation helped him lead by example, improve his brand, and deepen relationships with peers and clients.

[17:48] - Insights from Eric Brewer on unexpected market changes and the importance of staying adaptable, even at the top of your game.

[19:58] - Why a community like Collective Genius is essential for investors who want to surround themselves with like-minded, ethical, and growth-minded people.

[21:32] - Reflections on the value of engaging consistently with peers and leaders in the group to challenge assumptions and stay sharp.

1. The Right Relationships Multiply Results

   Building authentic, relatable connections within a trusted community can unlock opportunities that marketing alone can’t provide.

2. Personal Growth Drives Professional Success

   Investing in your health and mindset isn’t just self-care—it’s a strategic move that can dramatically improve your leadership, confidence, and resilience in business.

3. Stay Humble and Adaptable

   Even top investors can get blindsided by market shifts; staying engaged in a community of high-level peers helps you see around corners and pivot effectively.

• Collective Genius Membership Info – Learn more about CG Select and Elevate.

• CG Podcast – Subscribe and catch all episodes.

If you enjoyed this episode and gained valuable insights, please rate, follow, and review the Collective Genius Podcast. Share it with a fellow investor who could benefit from Jeremiah’s story. We’d love to hear your feedback—visit our website or social channels to let us know what you think, and stay tuned for more impactful conversations!

In this live edition of the Collective Genius Podcast, I sat down with Fuquan Bilal, founder of NNG Capital Fund, to dive deep into the world of raising private capital and scaling smartly in real estate. Broadcasting straight from our Sarasota event, this episode brings an insider look at what it takes to structure and grow a capital-raising business the right way—without cutting corners.

Fuquan shares the mindset and systems behind consistently raising funds, how to avoid common legal pitfalls, and why relationship-building is the cornerstone of sustainable success. Whether you’re new to fundraising or already managing millions, his practical advice and generous insights will show you how to take your capital game to the next level.

[0:00] – Introduction

[0:59] – Meet Fuquan Bilal and learn about his journey from real estate investor to capital fund founder.

[2:42] – The presentation that “blew minds”—Fuquan’s core mission to give back and deliver value.

[3:10] – Why raising capital is all about building relationships, not quick transactions.

[4:51] – The case for scaling smart: how private capital accelerates growth and marketing.

[5:58] – What to do first if you’re serious about starting a fund (hint: talk to an SEC attorney!).

[7:07] – The legal risks of raising money the wrong way—and how to avoid them.

[12:25] – A single breakfast conversation that led to a $10M credit line—why community matters.

[14:15] – Market trends in New Jersey luxury spec homes and how Fuquan’s adapting.

[16:43] – Smart sourcing: using relationships to lock in pricing and storage with suppliers.

[17:13] – Fuquan’s heartfelt call to action on joining a powerful real estate investing community.

1. Relationship Over Transaction – Raising capital successfully hinges on long-term trust and frequent communication—not just quick pitches.

2. Do It Right from Day One – Avoid costly mistakes by structuring your fund legally and working with a qualified SEC attorney.

3. Community is a Catalyst – One meaningful connection can unlock millions in funding and transform your business trajectory.

• https://thecollectivegenius.com/

• NNG Capital Fund: https://nngcapitalfund.com/

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate, follow, and review the podcast. Share it with a friend who’s looking to grow their real estate business the right way. Thanks for listening, and see you on the next CG LIVE!

In this episode of the Collective Genius Podcast, I sit down with Lon Welsh, a seasoned real estate investor and entrepreneur from Denver, Colorado. Lon takes us on his remarkable journey from aspiring radiologist to founder of Colorado's largest independent real estate brokerage, Your Castle Real Estate. We dive deep into how he strategically scaled his business, navigated the 2008 financial crisis, and transitioned into launching Ironton Capital, a private equity firm focused on passive real estate investments.

Lon shares insights on data-driven decision-making, market cycles, and why having a calculated approach has been pivotal to his success. Whether you're in the early stages of your investing career or looking to scale into commercial real estate or private equity, this episode is packed with value, real-world advice, and inspiration to keep pushing forward through challenges.

Timeline Summary:

[0:00] - Introduction

[2:06] - How Lon built Colorado's largest independent brokerage and transitioned into private equity

[4:06] - Childhood ambitions and early exposure to business and investing through his father

[8:27] - Discovering economics and finance in college and pivoting from pre-med to business

[10:12] - The financial epiphany that led Lon to explore real estate over traditional investments

[13:16] - Building a data-driven brokerage model with algorithmic analysis of Denver neighborhoods

[17:11] - How the 2002 market crash pushed Lon into full-time real estate entrepreneurship

[22:17] - Lessons from the 2008 housing crisis and identifying opportunities in distressed properties

[25:18] - Scaling the brokerage during the downturn using judo strategy and investor training

[34:13] - Selling Your Castle Real Estate and launching Ironton Capital

[38:00] - The process of vetting operators and building a robust investment fund

[43:03] - The two main types of investors Ironton Capital serves today

[45:45] - Preferred asset classes and strategies for long-term capital preservation

[48:18] - Biggest wins and lessons learned from syndication and value-add commercial projects

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Start with Data: Lon's approach to real estate has always been rooted in data. By analyzing neighborhood trends and using algorithms, he identified prime investment opportunities that others missed.

2. Pivot with Purpose: From medicine to business to real estate, Lon's career shifts were driven by clarity and deliberate choice, showing the value of reassessing your goals.

3. Crisis Breeds Opportunity: Lon scaled his brokerage and expanded his portfolio by leaning into downturns and creatively solving market problems.

4. Invest in Systems and People: Rapid scaling became possible because Lon prioritized hiring strong talent early and building systems that could run independently.

5. Educate and Elevate: Whether through books, classes, or investor relationships, Lon continuously adds value to others, which in turn grows his own ventures.

Links & Resources:

• Learn more about Collective Genius: CG Podcast Website

• Ironton Capital: irontoncapital.com

• Your Castle Real Estate: yourcastle.com

Closing:

If you found this episode insightful, please take a moment to rate, review, and follow the Collective Genius Podcast. Share it with fellow real estate professionals and entrepreneurs who could benefit from Lon Welsh's incredible journey and wisdom!

In this live episode of the Collective Genius Podcast, recorded straight from our CG Select and CG Elevate event in Sarasota, I sit down with mainstage presenter Tommy Harr. Tommy shares his evolution from inspecting homes in Columbus, Ohio, to flipping them—and eventually scaling a multimillion-dollar real estate business. His story is filled with grit, growth, and game-changing insights for anyone navigating the highs and lows of real estate investing.

We talk about the power of staying in your lane, learning from failures, and using setbacks—like losing $350K in crypto—as fuel for long-term success. Whether you’re doing 10 deals a year or scaling to 100, Tommy’s transparency and practical advice offer something every investor can relate to.

3 Key Takeaways

• Stick to Your Lane: Diversifying too early or chasing trends (like crypto) can derail progress—focus and mastery create momentum.

• Leverage Community: The right network accelerates growth; Tommy’s leap from Select to Premier was fueled by connections, mentorship, and real talk.

• Consistency Wins: Whether building a social media following or a flipping business, consistency over time builds brand, trust, and deal flow.

Timeline Summary

[0:00] – Introduction

[1:02] – Tommy’s Ohio roots and how a home inspection background sparked a real estate journey

[2:10] – Building a 60-person business from winterizing homes and servicing REOs

[3:16] – Instagram envy becomes inspiration: realizing the value of flipping

[4:00] – Why sharing failures is as valuable as sharing wins

[5:00] – Losing six figures in crypto and what it taught Tommy about sticking to your lane

[6:46] – How Tommy tailors his presentation for different levels of real estate experience

[7:52] – Building a social media presence with intention—and turning it into deal flow

[10:08] – How Collective Genius helped Tommy level up through connections and community

[12:00] – Networking through basketball? How intentional engagement fast-tracked trust

[16:40] – Tommy’s advice for anyone considering joining CG: it’s a no-brainer

Links & Resources

• Follow Tommy Harr on Instagram: @tommyharr

• https://thecgpodcast.com/

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to rate, follow, and review the podcast! Share it with a fellow investor who’s ready to scale—and we’ll see you on the next episode of CG Live.

In this episode of the Collective Genius Podcast, I sit down with longtime CG member Bryan Driscoll, a real estate investor, digital marketing expert, and author of The Goodness Game. Bryan shares how he went from hustling SEO gigs before sunrise to building a lead generation company that serves real estate investors nationwide. More than business, though, Bryan opens up about a powerful moment of personal transformation that ignited his mission to pay it forward through everyday acts of kindness.

We explore the evolution of Bryan’s real estate strategy, his transition from corporate insurance to entrepreneurship, and the foundational values that drive his work today. This episode blends tactical advice with heartwarming inspiration, perfect for entrepreneurs looking to align purpose with profit.

Timeline Summary

[0:00] – Introdcution

[0:55] – Bryan’s dual identity as investor and service provider

[3:05] – Vetting the CG community and why skepticism is smart

[6:15] – From Pittsburgh to digital lead generation for real estate pros

[10:15] – SEO side hustle beginnings and first rental property struggles

[17:00] – A Greyhound ticket, an angel in Orlando, and a life-changing encounter

[26:33] – “The Goodness Game” begins: a Craigslist post, a road trip, and random acts of help

[33:35] – Creating a personal framework for giving based on energy and passion

[37:12] – Why Bryan only invests in one zip code and learned to outsource management

[40:01] – How CG feedback shifted his business model to paper-lead

[44:07] – Tips for evaluating digital lead providers and optimizing lead conversion

[48:10] – The critical role of follow-up and CRM systems in closing deals

5 Key Takeaways

1. Start Where You Are – Bryan’s journey proves you don’t need a perfect plan to start. He began with a Craigslist ad and turned it into a viral movement and a business model.

2. Help Comes Full Circle – A stranger’s act of kindness inspired Bryan to dedicate his life to helping others, proving that even small gestures can ripple outward.

3. Know Your Strengths (and Weaknesses) – Bryan realized he wasn’t a great landlord—and delegated accordingly. Self-awareness is key in scaling effectively.

4. The Right Community Matters – Vetting your network and being intentional about who you learn from can elevate your business faster than any tactic.

5. Speed + Systems = Deals – Whether it’s PPC or paper-lead, fast response times and solid CRM follow-ups are critical for converting digital leads.

Links & Resources

• The Goodness Game by Bryan Driscoll – https://www.amazon.com/goodness-game-World-Better-Awesome/dp/0984189017

• Learn more about CG and apply: https://thecollectivegenius.com/

• Motivated Leads: motivatedleads.com

Enjoyed the episode? Be sure to follow, rate, and review the Collective Genius Podcast. And don’t forget to share it with someone who could use a mix of business smarts and a reminder that doing good still matters.