The IRA Cafe

American IRA
  • 0.0 (0)
  • INVESTING
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to The IRA Café, the podcast where retirement planning feels as warm and inviting as your favorite coffee shop. Hosted by Kyle Moody of American IRA, this show is all about making your financial future approachable, empowering, and maybe even a little fun. When you’re saving for retirement, you’re investing—it’s as simple as that. But did you know you have a choice about what your money is invested in? While most traditional plans keep your funds in the stock market through mutual funds and individual stocks, sometimes it pays to think outside the stock market. That’s where The IRA Café comes in. This podcast is your guide to exploring alternative investments through self-directed IRAs. Whether you’re a beginner dipping your toes into retirement planning, an experienced saver ready to diversify, or an entrepreneur looking for innovative ways to grow your wealth, this show is for you. Our mission is simple: to demystify alternative investing and make it accessible to everyone. Each episode breaks down the intimidating concepts of self-directed IRAs and opens the door to exciting opportunities like real estate, private equity, precious metals, venture capital, hedge funds, oil and gas interests, private lending portfolios, and more. But it’s not just about the technical details—we’re here to change how you think about your money. We’ll share real-life success stories, actionable strategies, and insights that fit your unique financial journey. With straightforward tips and zero financial jargon, we make retirement planning feel like a conversation with a friend. Whether your dream retirement includes financial independence, the freedom to travel, or the chance to leave a legacy for your loved ones, The IRA Café will help you get there. Tune in every other week as we break down the rules of self-directed IRAs, explore creative investment options, and make planning your financial future a little easier—and a lot more enjoyable. Your path to retirement should be as unique as you are, and The IRA Café is here to help you chart the course. Pull up a chair, grab your favorite brew, and join us for a fresh take on retirement planning.

  1. The Power of Private Lending in Self-Directed IRAs with John Ford

    1D AGO

    The Power of Private Lending in Self-Directed IRAs with John Ford

    Welcome to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast, hosted by Kyle Moody and powered by American IRA! In this engaging edition, Kyle sits down with John Ford, the founder and CEO of Bel Air Lending, for an in-depth look at private lending as an alternative investment for self-directed retirement accounts. Listeners will be walked through John’s journey from accidental landlord to the leader of a $44 million private lending enterprise, discovering how his background, team, and investment philosophy have fueled Bel Air Lending's impressive growth. Along the way, John Ford introduces his company’s unique approach, leveraging property-specific lending trusts and pledging his own net worth to ensure investor security, while also sharing personal stories—including the inspiration behind the company’s name and their beloved golden retriever mascot, Goldie. Throughout the conversation, Kyle and John explore the versatility of self-directed IRAs, the advantages of private money lending, and the diverse backgrounds of Bel Air’s over 300 investors from across 25 states and even Ecuador. John Ford demystifies how even those with limited time or experience can gain access to high-yield, real-estate-secured investments through an easy, hands-off process. If you’ve been curious about growing retirement funds beyond traditional real estate or stock market options, this episode offers both inspiration and practical insights. Key takeaways: Private Lending as an IRA Strategy: Self-directed IRA investors aren't limited to owning physical real estate; they can participate as private money lenders, either funding loans directly or investing in entities like Bel Air Lending, allowing for more passive, diversified involvement.Bel Air's Unique Structure and Safety: Bel Air Lending operates through over 100 property-specific lending trusts instead of a pooled fund. They maintain investor safeguards by never directly touching client funds and pledging their own net worth as an additional layer of protection—resulting in no investor losses across 550+ loans.Diverse, Hands-Off Opportunities: Both new and seasoned investors can participate, with minimums starting at $10,000 for American IRA referrals, and investments accommodating a wide range of account types—personal, business, 401(k), and more. Clients range from retirees to young children with educational savings accounts, and even include professionals like doctors, hedge fund managers, and a Blackhawk helicopter pilot.Team Strength and Operational Excellence: John’s background as a licensed general contractor and the support of a well-rounded team (including legal, marketing, and operational experts) allows Bel Air to respond quickly to borrower challenges, manage risk effectively, and ensure a streamlined experience for investors.Real Estate Returns Without the Hassle: Private lending with Bel Air offers investors access to real estate-backed returns (typically 10–13%) without the need to actively manage properties. This approach allows professionals, retirees, and anyone with limited time to put their money to work efficiently while benefitting from the company’s experience and hands-on risk management. Tune in to learn how John Ford and Bel Air Lending can help you make your retirement funds work smarter while maintaining control, flexibility, and peace of mind. Whether you’re new to alternative investing or seeking new opportunities for your self-directed IRA, this episode provides valuable insights to expand your financial toolkit!

    38 min
  2. A New Investor’s Guide: Real Estate Lessons from Rodrigo Afanador

    JAN 29

    A New Investor’s Guide: Real Estate Lessons from Rodrigo Afanador

    Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! Host Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, sits down with Rodrigo Afanador, owner and broker in charge of Vesta Property Management, for an insightful and inspiring conversation. Rodrigo shares his personal journey from growing up in Bogota, Colombia and Canada, to establishing himself as a master networker, real estate investor, and property management entrepreneur in Asheville, North Carolina. In this episode, Kyle and Rodrigo delve into the realities of getting started in real estate and private lending, regardless of age or background, and how leveraging self-directed IRAs can be a powerful tool on the investment path. Rodrigo reflects on his own growth from humble beginnings and the setbacks he faced, offering real-world lessons and advice for listeners who may doubt their ability to break into the investment game. The episode highlights Rodrigo’s story, from his first mobile home deal—funded by a credit card cash advance and fraught with learning curves—to building a portfolio, mentoring others, and shaping a property management business focused on data, transparency, and empowering property owners. Listeners will discover how to expand their investment knowledge, tap into retirement funds for real estate, and stay resilient on their own journey. Whether you’re curious about how to get started, looking for strategies to avoid common pitfalls, or want to hear what differentiates a hands-on property manager, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration. Key takeaways: Real Estate Is Accessible at Any Age: Rodrigo Afanador began his investment career in his early twenties while holding down multiple jobs, showing that you don’t need to wait until retirement age or have large sums of money to get started in real estate.The Power of Mentorship and Taking Action: Rodrigo’s progress was fueled by seeking advice from local experts, faithfully acting on guidance, and maintaining a strong feedback loop with mentors—emphasizing the value of learning from others and doing the work.Lessons from Early Setbacks: Rodrigo’s first real estate purchase, a mobile home in a 55+ park, became a costly learning experience, teaching him the importance of assessing multiple outcomes and potential restrictions before committing to a deal.Building Success through Ownership and Private Lending: Over time, Rodrigo transitioned from wholesaling and flipping to owning rental properties and also working as a private money lender, highlighting different paths and strategies within real estate investing.Data-Driven Property Management: Rodrigo’s approach at Vesta Property Management centers on detailed tracking, transparency with owners, and empowering clients to use their own resources, setting his firm apart from traditional property management companies and providing additional value for investors using self-directed IRAs. Tune in to this episode to demystify the investment process, hear a firsthand account of what it takes to scale up in real estate, and learn how you can use your own journey—no matter where you start—to build financial security and freedom.

    38 min
  3. How to Start and Grow Your Rental Portfolio with Expert Insights from Christina Wright

    JAN 15

    How to Start and Grow Your Rental Portfolio with Expert Insights from Christina Wright

    Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! Join your host Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, as he sits down with Christina Wright, investor relations lead at Branch Wealth Partners, for an insightful discussion about property management, real estate investing education, and how self-directed IRAs can power your way into real estate. In this episode, Christina shares her own journey from an executive assistant role in the corporate world to becoming a licensed realtor and passionate real estate educator in the Charlotte and Concord, NC area. Together, Kyle Moody and Christina explore how Branch Wealth Partners is redefining the investor experience by providing a one-stop shop for everything from property management to investor mentorship and consulting. Whether you’re looking to buy your first rental property, wanting to scale your portfolio, or just curious about creative funding options including using retirement accounts this conversation delivers valuable insights every step of the way. Christina outlines the different services and pathways Branch Wealth Partners offers, from beginner educational programs to tailored consulting and seasoned property management. She also demystifies the tenant screening process and emphasizes the importance of building relationships with both property owners and tenants alike. Plus, the episode highlights collaborative community-building, from monthly deep-dive workshops to ongoing mentorship, ensuring investors have the support and knowledge they need to build lasting wealth. Key takeaways: Branch Wealth Partners is more than just a property management or brokerage firm—it’s a comprehensive resource for real estate investors at any stage, offering property management, consulting, education, and strategic planning all under one roof.Christina Wright’s own career path exemplifies how anyone, regardless of background or age, can get started in real estate with the right mindset, guidance, and access to supportive communities and mentors.The firm emphasizes mindset and goal setting as the foundation for investment success, focusing on honest expectations and personalized strategies whether you’re new to real estate or looking to accelerate your growth.Property management at Branch means building strong, responsive relationships with both tenants and owners—diligent tenant screening, consistent communication, and a personal touch set them apart in the marketplace.Funding your real estate deals can be more approachable than you think, as Branch Wealth Partners and American IRA partner to educate investors on how to use self-directed IRAs and old 401(k) plans to purchase investment properties and grow wealth tax-advantaged. Whether you’re a seasoned investor ready to scale, a first-time landlord, or simply curious about leveraging retirement savings for real estate, this episode is packed with practical advice, relatable stories, and inspiring encouragement to help you take your next step!

    48 min
  4. Simplifying Estate Planning and Leaving a Lasting Legacy with Carter Wilcoxson

    JAN 1

    Simplifying Estate Planning and Leaving a Lasting Legacy with Carter Wilcoxson

    Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! In this dynamic installment, Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, sits down with special guest Carter Wilcoxson, founder of Epic Services Company. Carter shares his personal journey into estate and family succession planning, detailing how a family experience inspired him to launch Epic and make advanced estate planning accessible to everyday Americans, not just the ultra-wealthy. Together, Kyle and Carter discuss how Epic’s platform streamlines the process for advisors, attorneys, and clients, offering a one-stop shop approach and providing tools for professionals to simplify and modernize estate planning while strengthening their client relationships. You’ll also learn about the integration of American IRA with Epic’s services, including how self-directed retirement accounts and charitable giving strategies can expand client options. Carter emphasizes the importance of values alongside financial legacy, encouraging clients to preserve their stories and wisdom for future generations. Whether you are an advisor looking to better serve your clients or an individual navigating your own estate planning journey, this episode delivers both insight and inspiration. Key takeaways: Family-Centered Planning: Carter Wilcoxson founded Epic based on first-hand experience with family fracturing after a loss, underscoring the importance of proper succession planning for preserving harmony and protecting loved ones.Advisor Empowerment: Epic provides financial advisors with a comprehensive suite of tools—combining estate planning attorneys, onboarding specialists, and more—allowing them to act as the quarterback for clients’ legacy planning needs and look like the "hero of the story."Digital Transformation: Epic began offering digital estate planning solutions before COVID, positioning the company to adapt seamlessly during the pandemic; its platform now blends online and live events to maximize education and outreach.Seamless Integration with Self-Directed IRAs: The partnership between Epic and American IRA gives clients a powerful way to use qualified retirement funds for a range of investments, including private equity, real estate, and capital raises, enhancing control and flexibility.Legacy Stories and Values Preservation: Beyond financial assets, Epic’s platform enables clients to document their personal histories and core values, ensuring that future generations inherit both wealth and the wisdom that created it, anchored by its innovative “Legacy Stories” onboarding process. Tune in to this episode for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of estate and legacy planning, how education is at the heart of these services, and why your values matter as much as your valuables. Whether you’re preparing to protect your family’s legacy, interested in self-direction for your retirement accounts, or looking to empower your clients, there’s valuable information here for everyone on their journey.

    47 min
  5. Land Investing for Quick Cash and Long-Term Wealth with Clay Hepler​

    12/19/2025

    Land Investing for Quick Cash and Long-Term Wealth with Clay Hepler​

    Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! Join Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, as he sits down with this week’s special guest, Clay Hepler, a dynamic seven-figure land investor, coach, and the driving force behind Landman LLC. In this inspiring conversation, Kyle and Clay delve into the transformative journey of building a real estate empire focused on land—bypassing the traditional investment in houses and buildings to discover “the dirt” as an arena for scalable, sustainable, and remote-friendly investment opportunities. Clay candidly shares how necessity—not glamour—pushed him from house flipping and rentals into land deals when sudden setbacks struck, including a loss of household income and daunting property management challenges. In just under three years, he turned this adversity into a thriving business, complete with a robust, international team and a multitude of successful development and flip projects. You’ll learn not only about Clay’s unique path and the structuring of his business, but also get actionable insights into the mechanics of land acquisition, structuring deals for investors, and the critical lessons learned from mistakes along the way. If you’re considering leaving your 9-to-5, looking for ways to use your self-directed IRA for alternative investments, or simply want to hear how focus and clear goal-setting can drive extraordinary success, this episode is for you. Key takeaways: Transformative Beginnings: Clay Hepler transitioned into land investment out of necessity after experiencing cash flow crises and personal setbacks in managing old rental properties, illustrating that adversity can spark innovation and business success.Building a Scalable Team: In less than three years, Clay built Landman LLC from a solo enterprise into a comprehensive team including acquisition, marketing, underwriting, dispositions, and social media functions, all designed for efficient and remote operations.Strategic Land Investing: The appeal of land includes its simplicity, lower competition (the “blue ocean” approach), and the absence of headaches like tenants or major property repairs—a business model that allowed for lean, virtual acquisition and growth.Emphasis on Due Diligence: One of Clay’s greatest lessons came from a costly deal involving a non-perkable Tennessee lot and a meth lab discovery—stressing the need to triple-check due diligence and always safeguard investor trust by making them whole, no matter what.Clear Goals and Consistent Execution: Success in land investing (or any venture) depends on goal clarity, realistic expectations, and sustained focus on revenue-generating activities.Clay advises that setting specific targets, understanding one’s financial needs, and starting with adequate capital are essential to building not a “prison” but a business that aligns with your lifestyle and financial aspirations. Whether you’re an aspiring investor or a seasoned professional seeking new perspectives on alternative assets, don’t miss this episode’s wealth of practical advice, inspiring stories, and detailed breakdowns of the inner workings of a modern land investment business.

    37 min
  6. How Bitcoin Mining Works: Business and IRA Strategies with Beau Turner

    12/04/2025

    How Bitcoin Mining Works: Business and IRA Strategies with Beau Turner

    Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! In today’s conversation, Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, sits down with Beau Turner, co-founder and CEO of Abundant Minds, to demystify the world of Bitcoin and Bitcoin mining, and explore how these emerging technologies can be integrated with self-directed IRAs.  Kyle and Beau guide you through the basics of Bitcoin—from its history and distinctions from traditional assets like gold, to the mining process and what makes Bitcoin truly unique as a monetary protocol grounded by energy. Beau shares his personal journey from engineering to real estate to building a seven-figure land investing and Bitcoin mining business in Oregon, recounting the ups and downs that led him to develop Abundant Minds’ turnkey mining solution for investors seeking passive income and exposure to crypto assets.  Together, they dig into practical considerations for those interested in mining, such as equipment ownership, facility operations, and leveraging renewable energy for sustainability. The episode also examines the security advantages of the Bitcoin network, how self-directed IRA clients can structure investments in mining, and what sets Abundant Minds apart in the industry. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned investor, this episode provides a comprehensive overview and actionable steps for expanding your portfolio into digital assets. Key takeaways: Bitcoin as Engineered Money: Beau explains that Bitcoin is a digital, energy-bounded asset engineered to embody all characteristics of sound money. Unlike gold (which is naturally scarce), Bitcoin’s supply is finite, verifiable on an open ledger, and highly resistant to counterfeiting or manipulation.Mining Process and Passive Income: Mining is likened to a manufacturing process that converts energy into Bitcoin, securing the network and validating transactions. Abundant Minds enables investors to own and host their mining equipment in Oregon, earning passive Bitcoin income while benefiting from depreciation.Sustainable and Secure Operations: Abundant Minds powers its mining data centers with a mix of renewable energy—primarily hydropower and nuclear—providing clients with stability, efficiency, and a strong sustainability profile. Facilities are monitored around the clock and designed for optimal uptime and security.IRA Integration and Flexibility: Self-directed IRA clients can invest in mining equipment via LLCs set up specifically for retirement accounts. This structure allows for seamless, tax-advantaged acquisition of Bitcoin, with American IRA supporting setup, funding, and compliance to safeguard retirement savings.Standout Client Service and Innovation: What sets Abundant Minds apart is its educational approach, transparent business model, and unique hash rate redirect service. If a client’s miner goes offline, Abundant Minds temporarily reallocates its own hash power to ensure uninterrupted Bitcoin earnings, aligning client and provider incentives while minimizing downtime. If you’re considering adding crypto exposure to your retirement accounts or want to learn more about the mechanics of Bitcoin and mining, don’t miss this episode—and stay tuned for Beau Turner’s upcoming educational webinar to dive even deeper into this transformative asset class.

    44 min
  7. Breaking Financial Barriers: Real Advice from Linda Grizely on Self-Directed IRAs

    11/20/2025

    Breaking Financial Barriers: Real Advice from Linda Grizely on Self-Directed IRAs

    Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! In this engaging installment, host Kyle Moody, from the American IRA business development office, sits down with personal finance expert Linda Grizely. Linda is a financial educator, keynote speaker, podcast host, and personal growth coach who specializes in empowering everyday people—especially women—on their financial journeys. The conversation begins with Kyle and Linda reflecting on their recent meeting at a financial education conference, and delves into Linda’s powerful life story, from her modest upbringing and experience as a single teen mom to her progression through the financial services industry, and ultimately, her mission to serve those who feel left out of traditional financial planning. Linda shares her innovative, judgment-free approach to financial coaching, describing how she meets clients wherever they are in their journey and provides a wide range of resources, courses, and group experiences. She discusses how her focus isn’t just on dollars and cents—it’s about uncovering and transforming personal money mindsets, self-worth, and the psychological barriers that hold people back. Listeners will learn about Linda’s signature “Me Money” method, a program designed to help individuals intentionally budget for themselves and shed guilt associated with personal spending. Linda offers insights on how anyone can start their financial transformation, regardless of age, background, or perceived setbacks. She tops off the episode with practical advice for getting started on your financial goals now, rather than waiting for the “perfect” time, and introduces her podcast platform, “Real Money, Real Life,” where real-world financial challenges and solutions are explored with a variety of guests. Key takeaways: Linda Grizely’s coaching and educational approach is judgment-free and tailored for anyone feeling “behind” on their financial goals, with a special focus on women but open to all.Money mindset and personal stories play a critical role in financial decision-making; understanding the roots of financial behavior is essential for lasting change.Linda’s “Me Money” method encourages clients to intentionally budget for themselves, leading to greater self-worth and more empowered financial choices.She offers a range of services, including courses, group and individual coaching, and free consultations, meeting clients at their unique starting point without pressure or unnecessary upselling.Financial progress is not reserved for those with perfect timing, large resources, or complete information—Linda encourages everyone to “just get started” and keep making daily steps toward their goals. From real-life stories to practical strategies, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable steps for anyone looking to advance their financial well-being—no matter where they are on their journey. Tune in to learn how authenticity and a growth mindset can transform your relationship with money and create lasting results!

    36 min
  8. Elevating Retirement Portfolios: Self-Directed IRAs and Turnkey Real Estate Rentals

    11/06/2025

    Elevating Retirement Portfolios: Self-Directed IRAs and Turnkey Real Estate Rentals

    Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! This week, Kyle Moody is joined by Gregg Cohen, co-founder of JWB Real Estate Capital in Jacksonville, Florida. In this episode, Kyle and Gregg explore the journey from humble beginnings to building a thriving real estate investment company that serves clients from 49 states and 13 countries, managing over $1.3 billion in real estate assets.  Gregg shares the pivotal moment that started his investing career, the importance of education and mentorship in real estate, and the power of leveraging self-directed IRAs for building passive income through single-family rental properties. Listeners will learn about JWB’s vertically integrated turnkey approach for landlords, why Jacksonville is poised to become the next great American downtown, and how self-directed retirement accounts unlock unique opportunities for investors.  The episode also highlights JWB Cares, the company’s community-driven initiative focused on affordable housing and resident homeownership. Whether you're new to real estate investing, interested in using retirement funds to diversify your portfolio, or drawn to opportunities for community impact, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiration. Key takeaways: The Importance of Education and Mentorship: Gregg credits his early success in real estate to investing in education and relationships, which enabled him to master smart debt and navigate challenges despite starting out with limited funds and experience.Turnkey, Vertically Integrated Investing: JWB Real Estate Capital offers a fully integrated, hands-off approach—handling land purchase, new construction, tenant placement, property management, and long-term leasing all under one roof—allowing investors to be truly passive.Leveraging Self-Directed Retirement Accounts: Both speakers highlight how investors can use self-directed IRAs and solo 401ks to invest in real estate and other alternative assets, often unlocking capital and achieving tax-deferred or tax-free growth.Why Jacksonville Stands Out: Jacksonville is showcased as a high-opportunity market, with positive cash flow, above-average appreciation potential, and rapid growth—making it a prime destination for real estate investors looking for both income and long-term value.Commitment to Community: Through JWB Cares, Gregg and his team have raised over $1 million to support affordable housing. Their unique programs empower renters to become homeowners, reinforcing JWB’s mission to make a lasting local impact beyond financial returns. Tune in to discover how you can build your own portfolio, overcome barriers to entry with the right partners, and even contribute to community progress— all while planning for your financial future with self-directed investing!

    50 min
See All (31)

Trailer

About

Welcome to The IRA Café, the podcast where retirement planning feels as warm and inviting as your favorite coffee shop. Hosted by Kyle Moody of American IRA, this show is all about making your financial future approachable, empowering, and maybe even a little fun. When you’re saving for retirement, you’re investing—it’s as simple as that. But did you know you have a choice about what your money is invested in? While most traditional plans keep your funds in the stock market through mutual funds and individual stocks, sometimes it pays to think outside the stock market. That’s where The IRA Café comes in. This podcast is your guide to exploring alternative investments through self-directed IRAs. Whether you’re a beginner dipping your toes into retirement planning, an experienced saver ready to diversify, or an entrepreneur looking for innovative ways to grow your wealth, this show is for you. Our mission is simple: to demystify alternative investing and make it accessible to everyone. Each episode breaks down the intimidating concepts of self-directed IRAs and opens the door to exciting opportunities like real estate, private equity, precious metals, venture capital, hedge funds, oil and gas interests, private lending portfolios, and more. But it’s not just about the technical details—we’re here to change how you think about your money. We’ll share real-life success stories, actionable strategies, and insights that fit your unique financial journey. With straightforward tips and zero financial jargon, we make retirement planning feel like a conversation with a friend. Whether your dream retirement includes financial independence, the freedom to travel, or the chance to leave a legacy for your loved ones, The IRA Café will help you get there. Tune in every other week as we break down the rules of self-directed IRAs, explore creative investment options, and make planning your financial future a little easier—and a lot more enjoyable. Your path to retirement should be as unique as you are, and The IRA Café is here to help you chart the course. Pull up a chair, grab your favorite brew, and join us for a fresh take on retirement planning.

Information

  • Creator
    American IRA
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 American IRA
  • Show Website
    The IRA Cafe