Uncontested Investing

REI Ink Magazine
  • 5.0 (24)
  • Investing
  • Updated Weekly

Uncontested Investing is your no-frills real estate podcast, hosted by Nate Zielinski and Suzanne Andresen. Designed for small to medium investors looking to scale their business, this podcast delivers practical advice that makes a difference. Each episode dives into the strategies, successes, and challenges of real estate investing, with Nate, Suzanne, and occasional expert guests sharing their insights. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting to grow your portfolio, tune in every Tuesday for actionable tips, valuable lessons, and the motivation to take your investing to the next level.

  1. 1d ago

    Building a Property Services Empire: Scaling, Strategy, and Leadership with Bryan Lysikowski

    In this episode of Uncontested Investing, we sit down with Bryan Lysikowski, President of Property Services at Genstone, to talk about what it really takes to build and scale a vertically integrated real estate services company. Bryan shares his journey from starting ZVN Properties in 2005 on the field services and property preservation side, to navigating the challenges of COVID, taking on a strategic investment, and ultimately rebranding more than a dozen companies under the Genstone umbrella. It's a candid conversation about what happens when growth meets growing pains, and how leadership, integrity, and the willingness to get uncomfortable are what separate companies that survive from those that thrive. We also get into Bryan's philosophy on customer service across multiple verticals, how Genstone approaches AI and tech adoption, the origin story behind Acree Cabinetry, and what year two at Genstone looks like as the team shifts from laying the foundation to executing on it. Bryan also shares a passion project close to his heart, a nonprofit aimed at helping young entrepreneurs who may not follow a traditional college path but have the drive to build something of their own. If you're in property management, field services, or any service-based real estate business, this conversation is a strong reminder that the core fundamentals of integrity, accountability, and team-first leadership never go out of style no matter how much the market changes.   Key Talking Points of the Episode [00:00] Introduction [00:39] Bryan's start in field services and property preservation [01:06] Building Genstone's vertical integration strategy [01:56] ZVN Properties, the COVID crossroads, and joining Genstone [02:34] Core tenants of successful property management [04:08] Dealmaker/Dealbreaker: Pivoting through adversity [04:59] What leadership means to Bryan [05:39] Delivering world-class customer service at scale [06:21] How Genstone approaches AI and technology adoption [07:14] The story behind Acree Cabinetry [08:38] What's the Word: "Inspect what you expect" [09:18] Team as the foundation for 2026 success [09:52] Speaking on panels and advice for complex projects [11:21] Grading year one at Genstone and the road ahead [12:43] Passion project: A nonprofit for young entrepreneurs   Quotables "Success sometimes comes out of struggle." "Inspect what you expect." "What we're trying to do can't be accomplished by a single individual — it takes the entire team operating in unison."   Links Genstone www.genstonecompanies.com RCN Capital https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/ info@rcncapital.com REI INK https://rei-ink.com/

    15 min

  2. Jun 16

    Building a Real Estate Brand Through Social Media

    In this episode of Uncontested Investing, Nate Zielinski and Suzanne Andresen conclude their series on the many paths to success in real estate investing by examining the role social media plays in today's market. They discuss how investors can leverage platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube, and X to build credibility, attract opportunities, and strengthen relationships. The conversation highlights the value of combining industry experience with the skills of younger professionals who understand emerging technologies and digital marketing. Nate and Suzanne also cover content creation, paid advertising, analytics, community engagement, and how a strong online presence can help investors expand their reach while maintaining authenticity and local connections.    Key Points From This Episode: [00:00:00] The growing influence of younger professionals and social media in real estate investing.   [00:01:29] Understanding the social media landscape and choosing the right platform for your goals.   [00:02:08] Using Instagram for visual storytelling, renovations, team culture, and short-form content.   [00:04:14] Leveraging Facebook for community engagement, marketplace opportunities, and local networking.   [00:05:29] Building professional credibility and partnerships through LinkedIn.   [00:06:08] TikTok's role in brand awareness, viral content, and attracting new audiences.   [00:07:14] Using YouTube and X for education, market commentary, and audience engagement.   [00:08:30] Matching social media platforms to specific investing objectives.   [00:09:01] Creating a strong online presence through consistent branding.   [00:10:03] Expanding reach through engagement, commenting, and reposting content.   [00:10:49] Optimizing social media profiles to showcase credibility and experience.   [00:11:45] Building authenticity by sharing challenges, lessons learned, and behind-the-scenes moments.   [00:13:07] Creating engaging content that balances value and authenticity.   [00:14:05] Using property transformations, walkthroughs, and personal stories to connect with audiences.   [00:14:59] Debunking industry myths through educational content.   [00:15:34] Making content easy to consume through strong visuals, captions, and storytelling.   [00:16:09] How paid advertising can amplify successful content and business growth.   [00:17:37] Strategic uses for paid ads, including capital raising, recruiting, and partnership development.   [00:18:11] Starting small with advertising budgets and scaling based on results.   [00:19:51] Monitoring analytics to measure engagement, shares, leads, and watch time.   [00:21:45] Letting performance data guide future content strategy.   [00:23:36] Conducting regular reviews to align content with business goals.   [00:24:00] Using social media to engage with local communities and strengthen market presence.   [00:26:12] Sharing local market knowledge, trends, and neighborhood updates.   [00:27:43] Building trust, referrals, and deal flow through authentic community engagement.   [00:28:28] Combining experience and digital expertise to create long-term investing success.   [00:29:10] Recap of the series on multiple paths to success and the traits of successful investors.   Quotables: "Show the entire journey, not just the wins. It's that human aspect that makes you real." "Marrying the two generations and being open to new ideas they can bring is going to allow you to succeed in the industry for years to come." "It's consistent branding over time that wins out."  Links: RCN Capital: https://rcncapital.com/ REI Ink: https://rei-ink.com/

    30 min

  3. Jun 11

    Decisiveness, Risk Tolerance, and Building Investor Momentum (Part 2 of 2)

    In this episode of Uncontested Investing, Nate Zielinski and Suzanne Andresen pick up where they left off, diving deeper into the traits that separate average investors from consistently successful ones. Focusing on how risk tolerance, risk management, decisiveness, and problem solving work together, they break down the decision-making framework that drives real results in real estate. Through practical scenarios including foundation issues, competitive offers, financing hiccups, and unexpected vacancies, they show how prepared investors find opportunity where others walk away. The conversation also covers the role of confidence, trusted vendor relationships, and a resilient mindset in building long-term momentum. Listeners will come away with a clearer picture of how combining these traits helps them act faster, negotiate smarter, and stay ahead through any market condition. Key Takeaways: [00:00:05] How risk tolerance, risk management, decisiveness, and problem solving work together to form a complete investor framework. [00:01:02] Using property issues uncovered during inspection as negotiating leverage against the competition. [00:01:22] Why decisiveness is the catalyst that allows all other investor traits to shine through. [00:01:58] How these combined traits create a decision-making engine that accelerates momentum and compounds growth. [00:02:16] The way confidence and momentum shape how investors are perceived and how deals get done. [00:02:55] Why success in real estate comes from managing and navigating risk rather than avoiding it. [00:03:39] Building a repeatable playbook for success by working through obstacles instead of around them. [00:04:09] How decisiveness builds confidence and problem solving builds resilience over time. [00:04:27] Recognizing opportunity in properties with foundation problems, roof damage, or structural challenges. [00:05:07] Real-world examples of how decisive investors win in competitive markets and financing setbacks. [00:05:56] Protecting your investment through proper tenant screening instead of rushing to fill a vacancy. [00:06:12] Planning ahead for weather-related damage, unexpected vacancies, and tenant relocation needs. [00:06:44] How risk tolerance helps investors dig deeper on distressed properties and negotiate better prices. [00:07:09] Why having trusted contractors and vendor relationships in place before problems arise matters. [00:07:36] Merging analytical thinking, networking, and problem solving to turn difficult deals into profitable ones. [00:08:23] Why running the numbers means nothing without the decisiveness to act on what they show. [00:09:07] How confidence, preparation, and clear execution position investors to win more transactions. [00:09:34] What separates top-tier investors from average ones and how listeners can close that gap. [00:10:08] Final thoughts on staying competitive through action, preparation, and the right investor mindset. Quotables: "Success doesn't come from avoiding all risk. It comes from understanding, preparing, and navigating risk better than others." "Decisiveness is going to build confidence and problem solving is going to build resilience." "Not every decision is based on price. Most of them are the person who's going to get the win — the one who walks in and says here's what it's going to take to fix this, here's how fast I can do it, and here's the price." RCN Capital https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/ info@rcncapital.com REI INK https://rei-ink.com/

    10 min

  4. Jun 9

    Risk, Readiness, and Real Estate Decision-Making (Part 1 of 2)

    In this episode of Uncontested Investing, Nate Zielinski and Suzanne Andresen continue their discussion on the characteristics that contribute to long-term success in real estate investing. They examine the relationship between risk tolerance and risk management, emphasizing how successful investors balance confidence with preparation. The conversation covers due diligence, financial reserves, disaster preparedness, portfolio diversification, and the importance of having multiple exit strategies. Nate and Suzanne also discuss how decisiveness can help investors capitalize on opportunities, while strong problem-solving skills can transform challenges into value-adding opportunities. From managing unexpected setbacks to uncovering hidden potential in unique properties, they share practical perspectives on handling uncertainty and building a resilient real estate portfolio. Key Points From This Episode:   [00:00:00] Why risk tolerance is essential for success in real estate investing. [00:01:10] Understanding uncertainty as a natural part of investing and avoiding inaction. [00:01:59] The difference between risk tolerance and risk management. [00:03:07] Using due diligence, insurance, and preparation to protect investments. [00:03:49] Why elite investors balance risk-taking with strong downside protection. [00:05:40] Conservative underwriting and multiple exit strategies as risk management tools. [00:06:30] Disaster preparedness planning and protecting rental income. [00:07:00] How risk management supports faster and more confident decision-making. [00:08:11] Why sellers, brokers, and partners gravitate toward decisive investors. [00:09:12] The cost of analysis paralysis and the importance of taking action. [00:10:00] Problem-solving as a critical skill for handling real estate challenges. [00:11:05] Turning deal breakers into deal makers through creative problem-solving. [00:11:34] Finding value in unique properties that other investors overlook. [00:12:38] Unlocking the potential of older homes through renovation and restoration. [00:13:29] Identifying opportunities in properties with structural challenges. [00:13:47] Recap of risk tolerance, risk management, decisiveness, and problem-solving before Part Two.   Quotables: "Risk tolerance helps you say yes to opportunities most people are too afraid to consider." "Confidence will help you build more confidence as you go down the path." "Being decisive and having that problem solving nature about you — that's not just helpful in this industry. It's what's able to separate the average investor from the top tier and consistently successful ones."   RCN Capital https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/ info@rcncapital.com   REI INK https://rei-ink.com/

    14 min

  5. Jun 4

    Problem Solving, Risk Management, and Winning More Deals (Part 2 of 2)

    In this episode of Uncontested Investing, Nate Zielinski and Suzanne Andresen continue their discussion on the characteristics that help real estate investors succeed. Focusing on decisiveness, problem solving, risk tolerance, and risk management, they explain how these traits work together to create a strong decision-making framework. Through practical examples, including foundation issues, unexpected vacancies, financing challenges, and competitive market conditions, they demonstrate how successful investors identify opportunities, manage uncertainty, and maintain momentum. The conversation also highlights the importance of confidence, preparation, trusted vendor relationships, and resilience when overcoming obstacles. Listeners will learn how combining these qualities can help them make better investment decisions, negotiate more effectively, and build long-term success in real estate investing.    Key Points From This Episode: [00:00:00] How risk tolerance, risk management, decisiveness, and problem solving work together to create successful investors. [00:01:02] Using inspection findings and property issues as leverage during negotiations. [00:01:22] Why decisiveness helps investors secure opportunities before competitors act. [00:01:58] Building a decision-making engine that compounds momentum and growth. [00:02:16] How confidence and momentum influence reputation, networking, and deal flow. [00:02:55] Understanding that success comes from managing risk rather than avoiding it. [00:03:39] Building confidence by overcoming obstacles and creating a repeatable playbook for success. [00:04:09] How decisiveness builds confidence while problem solving creates resilience. [00:04:27] Finding opportunity in foundation problems, roofing issues, and structural challenges. [00:05:07] Real-world examples of decisive action in competitive markets and financing challenges. [00:05:56] Managing rental vacancies through proper tenant screening and long-term thinking. [00:06:12] Planning for vacancies, weather-related property damage, and tenant relocation strategies. [00:06:44] Using risk tolerance to uncover value in properties with major foundation issues. [00:07:09] The importance of trusted contractors, vendors, and professional partnerships. [00:07:36] Combining analytical thinking, networking, and problem solving to turn challenges into profitable investments. [00:08:23] Why analysis alone is not enough without the confidence to act decisively. [00:09:07] Using preparation, confidence, and execution to win more transactions. [00:09:34] How decisiveness and problem solving separate average investors from top performers. [00:10:08] Episode wrap-up and final thoughts on staying ahead through action and preparation. Links RCN Capital https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/ info@rcncapital.com REI INK https://rei-ink.com/

    12 min

  6. Jun 2

    Turning Uncertainty into Opportunity in Real Estate Investing (Part 1 of 2)

    In this episode of Uncontested Investing, Nate Zielinski and Suzanne Andresen continue their discussion on the characteristics that contribute to long-term success in real estate investing. They examine the relationship between risk tolerance and risk management, emphasizing how successful investors balance confidence with preparation.  The conversation covers due diligence, financial reserves, disaster preparedness, portfolio diversification, and the importance of having multiple exit strategies. Nate and Suzanne also discuss how decisiveness can help investors capitalize on opportunities, while strong problem-solving skills can transform challenges into value-adding opportunities.  From managing unexpected setbacks to uncovering hidden potential in unique properties, they share practical perspectives on handling uncertainty and building a resilient real estate portfolio.  Key Talking Points of the Episode [00:00:00] Why risk tolerance is essential for success in real estate investing. [00:01:10] Understanding uncertainty as a natural part of investing and avoiding inaction. [00:01:59] The difference between risk tolerance and risk management. [00:03:07] Using due diligence, insurance, and preparation to protect investments. [00:03:49] Why elite investors balance risk-taking with strong downside protection. [00:05:40] Conservative underwriting and multiple exit strategies as risk management tools. [00:06:30] Disaster preparedness planning and protecting rental income. [00:07:00] How risk management supports faster and more confident decision-making. [00:08:11] Why sellers, brokers, and partners gravitate toward decisive investors. [00:09:12] The cost of analysis paralysis and the importance of taking action. [00:10:00] Problem-solving as a critical skill for handling real estate challenges. [00:11:05] Turning deal breakers into deal makers through creative problem-solving. [00:11:34] Finding value in unique properties that other investors overlook. [00:12:38] Unlocking the potential of older homes through renovation and restoration. [00:13:29] Identifying opportunities in properties with structural challenges. [00:13:47] Recap of risk tolerance, risk management, decisiveness, and problem-solving before Part Two. Links RCN Capital https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/ info@rcncapital.com REI INK https://rei-ink.com/

    15 min

  7. May 28

    How the Right Relationships Can Bring You Endless Deals & Opportunities (Part 2 of 2)

    In this episode of Uncontested Investing, we continue our conversation on one of the most underrated drivers of long-term real estate success: strong networking and relationship skills. In Part 1, we talked about trust, reciprocity, off-market opportunities, and why the best investors are usually the ones who hear about deals first. In this follow-up, we go deeper into the connection between networking and adaptability, because in a market that changes fast, the investors who stay open, stay connected, and stay flexible are usually the ones who keep winning.     We break down how investor communities expose you to new ideas, why being receptive to other people's strategies can strengthen your own portfolio, and how to build real systems to maintain relationships over time instead of only reaching out when you need something. We also talk through practical ways to strengthen these skills, from local meetups and online communities to quarterly strategy reviews, AI-assisted deal analysis, and staying open to partnerships that fill your blind spots.    If you want to become the kind of investor who adapts faster, builds better connections, and creates a more resilient portfolio over time, this episode gives you the framework.    Key Talking Points of the Episode   00:00 Introduction 01:08 How adaptability enhances professional networking 02:07 Collaborating with diverse partners to reduce risk 03:32 Tips for strengthening local networking skills 04:57 Building authentic connections and providing value 06:02 Implementing systems for relationship maintenance 07:16 Strategies for staying top of mind through micro-communications 08:06 Engaging with online investor communities effectively 09:30 Continuous education and challenging your strategy 11:11 Leveraging AI for deal analysis and rent scenarios 12:52 Periodic strategy reevaluation and internal critiquing   Quotables   "Relationships expose new ideas."   "Adaptability makes networking more productive."   "Investing in success isn't only about capital or finding the perfect deal. It's about people."   Links   RCN Capital https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/ info@rcncapital.com   REI INK https://rei-ink.com/

    17 min

  8. May 26

    Building Strong Networking & Relationship Skills (Part 1 of 2)

    In this episode of Uncontested Investing, we kick off a new theme on one of the most underrated advantages in real estate investing: strong networking and relationship skills. After our recent conversation with Scott Brown from Steadily, it became even clearer that real estate is still a relationship-driven business at every level. Deals, referrals, off-market opportunities, strategic partnerships, and even smoother closings often come from the quality of your network long before they ever show up in a listing feed. If you want to win in real estate, you cannot just know numbers. You need to know people.     We talk about why networking is more than just collecting contacts, how trust and reciprocity create real competitive advantages, and why adaptability matters so much in a shifting market. We break down how better relationships can help investors hear about deals sooner, reduce risk, solve problems faster, and stay resilient when markets tighten. We also get into practical examples around agents, wholesalers, contractors, surveyors, tenants, vendors, and community relationships, because in this business, the right connection at the right time can change everything.    If you want to become the investor who gets the first call instead of the leftover deal, this is where that conversation starts.   Key Talking Points of the Episode   00:00 Introduction 01:15 The importance of referrals and market engagement 02:08 Gaining a competitive edge with off-market deals 03:15 Networking as a two-way street: Giving and reciprocity 04:08 Reducing investment risk through relationships 05:19 The value of personal gestures and tenant appreciation 06:18 Networking advantages in competitive markets 07:13 Navigating negotiations and difficult conversations 08:25 Leveraging relationships for faster problem solving 10:45 The importance of adaptability and flexibility in shifting markets 12:49 Using networking as a source of motivation 13:57 Pivot strategies for long-term portfolio resilience 15:23 Broadening your network: From tenants to community   Quotables   "Deals and opportunities in partnership often emerge from relationships before they even hit the MLS."   "Your contact book be another weapon in their arsenal." "People you trust are sending you solid deals."   Links   RCN Capital https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/ info@rcncapital.com   REI INK https://rei-ink.com/

    18 min
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About

Uncontested Investing is your no-frills real estate podcast, hosted by Nate Zielinski and Suzanne Andresen. Designed for small to medium investors looking to scale their business, this podcast delivers practical advice that makes a difference. Each episode dives into the strategies, successes, and challenges of real estate investing, with Nate, Suzanne, and occasional expert guests sharing their insights. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting to grow your portfolio, tune in every Tuesday for actionable tips, valuable lessons, and the motivation to take your investing to the next level.

Information

  • Creator
    REI Ink Magazine
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    225
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2022 RCN CAPITAL
  • Show Website
    Uncontested Investing