The Lo-Down

Lorenzo Mercado

The Lo-Down brings you conversations with extraordinary individuals from all walks of life who are relentlessly pursuing success. Hosted by Lorenzo Mercado, a registered nurse turned real estate investor, this podcast dives into the stories behind the grind and uncovering the mindset and strategies that drive growth. From entrepreneurs and season investors to business owners and visionaries, every guest shares a unique perspective on what it takes to achieve success. Whether you're building a business, chasing a dream, or striving for personal growth, The Lo-down is your source for inspiration, actionable insights, and the motivation to level up. Please share, favorite and leave a 5 Star review to help the podcast grow! Thank you and hope you enjoy. IG- Lorenzo.mercado_Youtube - TheLo-Down

  1. 8月29日

    Airbnb Arbitrage: How To Make A Million Dollars Without Owning Property | Kevin Leong E33

    What if you could build a 184-unit Airbnb portfolio without owning a single property in just two years? In this episode, I sit down with Kevin Leong, who scaled from 0 to 184 Airbnb arbitrage units in just two years. At his peak, his business pulled in over $1.1M in a single month. After grinding through the early days, Kevin built systems, hired a team of 20+ VAs, and now runs the entire operation in under 10 hours a week. We dive into how Kevin went from a cannabis warehouse job and side hustles to building one of the fastest-growing Airbnb arbitrage companies out there. He shares the credit card hacks that helped him fund his first deal, the 200+ cold calls it took to land his first “yes,” and the mistakes new operators should avoid. If you’re into real estate, Airbnb, or just want to learn how to scale a business fast—this one’s a masterclass. ----- We talk about: How Kevin scaled from 0 to 184 Airbnb arbitrage units in two yearsUsing 0% interest credit cards to fund growthThe grind of 200+ rejections before his first dealBuilding systems and SOPs to scale without burnoutHiring VAs and stepping back to a 10-hour workweekWhy arbitrage can be the perfect stepping stone to long-term wealth----- 🎯 Follow Kevin Leong Instagram: @kevinleong_bnb 🚀 Connect with Lorenzo Mercado Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_/ Website: www.mercasaventures.com  www.AscentCapital.llc 🎙️ Listen to The Lo-Down 🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761  🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3 Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado ----- 💬 Like this episode? Share it with a friend who needs to hear it! ----- Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Airbnb Arbitrage 02:49 Understanding the Business Model 05:38 Revenue Insights and Financials 08:35 Background and Early Career 11:25 First Deal Experience 14:01 Choosing Locations and Market Research 17:08. Scaling the Business 20:02 Operational Strategies and Team Structure 22:55 Challenges and Learning Lessons 25:39 Future Plans and Vision 28:45 Final Thoughts and Advice

    1 小時 9 分鐘
  2. 8月4日

    He’s Building 3D-Printed Homes in California And Changing Real Estate Forever | Nan Lin E32

    What if homes could be printed instead of built? In this episode, I sit down with Nan Lin, founder of 4DIFY and Kaizen Capital, who built California’s first fully permitted 3D-printed housing community. We get into how he went from mortgage lending to real estate investing, and how that journey led him to launching a company that’s changing how we think about construction. Nan shares how they got local approvals, solved major problems in housing, and built something no one thought was possible. If you're into real estate, construction innovation, or just love bold ideas—this one’s a must-listen. ----- We talk about: -How 3D printing could solve labor shortages and reduce build costs -What it took to get city and county approval for something no one’s seen before -Raising capital from people who believed in the vision -The mindset it takes to bet big on innovation ----- 🎯 Follow Nan Lin Instagram: @nanunlimited 4DIFY Website: https://www.4dify.com 🚀 Connect with Lorenzo Mercado  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_  Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com   🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761  🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3 Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado ----- 💬 Like this episode? Share it with a friend who needs to hear it! ----- Timestamps: 00:19 – Introduction to Nan Lin and Fortify 01:49 – The Genesis of Fortify: From Idea to Reality 07:54 – The 3D Printing Process: Building the Future of Homes 13:40 – Navigating Permits and City Approvals 19:08 – Financial Insights: Costs and Profitability 25:00 – Raising Capital: Strategies and Advice 26:56 – Expanding Horizons: Multifamily and ADUs 28:37 – Collaborative Design Challenges in Construction 31:23 – Future Vision: Scaling Fortify's Operations 32:34 – Investment and Operational Challenges in 3D Printing 33:43 – Nan Lin's Journey into Real Estate 39:15 – Lessons from Early Real Estate Investments 49:53 – Founding Kaizen Capital: A Collective Investment Approach 52:12 – Building a Team: Hiring for Success 54:06 – Mindset and Philosophy for Continuous Improvement

    1 小時 2 分鐘
  3. 7月21日

    SoLo: Two Years of Sobriety - The Best Decision I've Ever Made | E31

    In this deeply personal soLo episode, I share the raw, unfiltered story behind one of the best decisions I’ve ever made: quitting alcohol and all other drugs — and how that choice transformed every area of my life. From blacking out in Vegas to losing myself to weekend benders, drinking was more than just a habit… it was my identity. But two years ago, everything changed. In this episode, I dive into:  • When and why I started drinking   • The night that finally broke me  • The social pressure and FOMO of sobriety  • How I handled cravings and temptation  • The myths people believe about sober life  • And how going alcohol-free helped me become a better husband, entrepreneur, and human being Whether you’re sober curious, struggling with balance, or just love a story of personal growth — this one’s for you. 🔗 If you’ve ever questioned your relationship with alcohol, I hope this episode brings clarity, encouragement, and hope. Please give a 5 STAR REVIEW on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and SHARE this episode. ----- 🚀 Connect with Lorenzo Mercado Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_ Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com   🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761 🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3 Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado ----- 💬 Like this episode? Share it with a friend who needs to hear it! ----- Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sobriety Journey 01:02 The Struggles with Alcohol 03:52 Life Before Sobriety 06:42 The Challenges of Going Sober 09:37 Transformations After Sobriety 12:20 Myths About Sobriety 13:08 Encouragement for Those Considering Sobriety

    19 分鐘
  4. 6月18日

    Turning a 3.5% Down FHA Loan into a Multifamily Cash Machine | Nick Rossi E30

    In episode 30 of The Lo-Down, Lorenzo Mercado sits down with Nick Rossi — a former chief engineer on tugboats, turned real estate investor and construction business owner — to unpack how he leveraged grit, mentorship, and a 3.5% FHA loan to break into multifamily real estate and scale a construction company. Nick shares practical advice on managing contractors, buying or building businesses, and using hands-on experience to fuel growth. If you're in real estate, construction, or just looking to transition into entrepreneurship, this is your episode. We cover: Nick’s journey from tugboats in Alaska to real estate investingHow he used an FHA loan to kickstart his first multifamily dealManaging contractors the right way: scope, systems, and communicationLessons from building a scalable painting and construction businessThe pros and cons of acquiring a business vs. starting from scratchWhy education, networking, and time management are game changersThe transition into short-term rentals and the future of hospitalityPlease give a 5 STAR REVIEW on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and SHARE this episode. ----- 👥 Connect with Nick Rossi:  Instagram: www.instagram.com/nlrossi 🚀 Connect with Lorenzo Mercado  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_  Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com   🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761  🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3 Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado ----- 💬 Like this episode? Share it with a friend who needs to hear it! ----- Chapters 01:14 – From Tugboats to Real Estate: A Unique Journey 05:18 – Transitioning to Real Estate: Finding a Mentor 12:00 – Building a Construction Business: Lessons Learned 17:54 – Managing Contractors: Communication is Key 23:53 – Navigating Business Growth: Learning from Mistakes 28:56 – Buying vs. Starting a Business: Insights on Acquisition 31:00 – Navigating Non-Compete Clauses 31:30 – The Journey of the First Multifamily Deal 33:21 – Lessons Learned in Real Estate 34:41 – Financial Insights from the First Deal 36:50 – Advice for First-Time Investors 38:06 – Permitting and Construction Challenges 40:58 – Transitioning to Short-Term Rentals 42:28 – Exploring Hospitality Opportunities 45:52 – Hotel Acquisition Strategies 50:02 – Advice for Aspiring Hotel Owners 52:36 – Time Management for Multiple Ventures

    59 分鐘
  5. 5月27日

    How To Legally Pay Less in Taxes With The CPADude | Tony Hoong E29

    In this episode of The Lo-Down, Lorenzo Mercado sits down with Tony Hoong — better known as The CPA Dude — to break down practical, legal tax strategies that can help you keep more of what you earn in 2025 and beyond. Whether you’re a W2 employee, side hustler, small business owner, or real estate investor, this episode is packed with actionable tips your CPA probably isn’t telling you. Stick around to the end so you don't miss any key strategies that could save you thousands of dollars.  We cover: -The Building of the CPADude Tax Firm -How W2 workers can reduce taxes -Deductions most people miss and how to audit-proof your finances -How to use the Augusta Rule to rent your home to your business — tax-free -Real estate investor strategies like bonus depreciation and cost segregation -Property Business & Entity Formation Tony simplifies the complex and delivers strategies you can start implementing today. Please give a 5 STAR REVIEW on Spotify or Apple Podcast and SHARE this episode. ----- 👥 Connect with Tony Hoong:  Website: https://thecpadude.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheCPADude_ 🚀 Connect with Lorenzo Mercado  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_  Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com   🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761  🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3 Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado ----- 💬 Like this episode? Share it with a friend who needs to hear it! 💡 Ready to stop overpaying the IRS? Hit play.

    1 小時 26 分鐘
  6. 5月19日

    This Açaí Brand Is Taking Over California: Palmetto Superfood's CEO and Founder | Charles Lee E28

    In this episode of The Lo-Down, Lorenzo Mercado sits down with Charles Lee, founder and CEO of Palmetto Superfoods — one of the fastest-growing açaí bowl brands in California. What started as a single store in San Francisco has quickly become one of the most talked-about health food brands in California. Charles shares how he went from concept to execution, the mindset it took to scale brick-and-mortar, and why a focus on product quality over hype has been the key to long-term growth. From lessons in branding and leadership to scaling a brick-and-mortar business the right way, this episode is packed with insight for anyone looking to build a multi-million dollar brand from the ground up. If you're an entrepreneur, real estate investor, or aspiring founder — this one's for you. Topics Include: The early days of launching a food concept from scratchWhy obsessing over the product is more important than marketingLessons learned from opening multiple physical locationsBranding vs. experience: how to get both rightBuilding a team and company culture in food & beverageThe biggest myths about starting a food business----- 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on Real Estate, Business, and Taking Action: 👥 Connect with Charles Lee:  Website: https://www.palmettosuperfoods.com  Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/chacharleslee/ 🚀 Let’s Connect:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_/ Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com 🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761 🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3 Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado 💬 Like this episode?  Leave a five star review on your favorite streaming platform and share with a friend who would find value.

    1 小時 1 分鐘
  7. 4月27日

    How Two Brothers Turned $15k into a Multi-Million Dollar Valet Parking Company | Jonathan & Clay Velarde E26

    In this episode, Lorenzo Mercado sits down with Clay and Jonathan Velarde—brother entrepreneurs who turned a $15K investment into Parking Pros, a thriving valet and parking shuttle company. They share how they went from working in their father’s valet business to launching their own operation during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation dives deep into their growth journey, the challenges of standing out in a competitive industry, and the strategies that helped them scale. Clay and Jonathan open up about the power of teamwork, customer service, and adapting to market shifts. They also talk about documenting their startup journey on social media, making smart investments, and the importance of marketing in business success. Plus, they share wild stories from the valet world—and a few game-changing books that shaped their entrepreneurial mindset. If you're building a business, thinking about starting one, or just love real stories about grit and growth—this one’s for you. Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Lo-Down, drop a 5-star review, and share it with someone who would find value. Thanks for tuning in. --- 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on Real estate, Business, and Taking Action👥  Connect with Jonathan Velarde: Website: https://valetparkingpros.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parkingmogul Connect with Clay Velarde: Website: https://valetparkingpros.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clayvelarde Listen to the Get After It Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2H4HRXUN8IEhs79vtgmcaU?si=7bdb6d0500574763 ----- 🚀 Let’s Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_/  Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3 Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado

    44 分鐘
5
(滿分 5 顆星)
20 則評分

簡介

The Lo-Down brings you conversations with extraordinary individuals from all walks of life who are relentlessly pursuing success. Hosted by Lorenzo Mercado, a registered nurse turned real estate investor, this podcast dives into the stories behind the grind and uncovering the mindset and strategies that drive growth. From entrepreneurs and season investors to business owners and visionaries, every guest shares a unique perspective on what it takes to achieve success. Whether you're building a business, chasing a dream, or striving for personal growth, The Lo-down is your source for inspiration, actionable insights, and the motivation to level up. Please share, favorite and leave a 5 Star review to help the podcast grow! Thank you and hope you enjoy. IG- Lorenzo.mercado_Youtube - TheLo-Down