Directed IRA Podcast

Hosted by Mat Sorensen and Mark Kohler

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230

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Aug 2026

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About the show

The Directed IRA Podcast , hosted by attorneys Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler, is the leading source for investors navigating the world of self-directed IRAs and 401(k)s. As co-founders of Directed IRA & Directed Trust Company ( directedira.com ), Mat and Mark have helped thousands of clients invest in alternative assets using tax-advantaged retirement accounts. Episodes cover topics related to self-directing retirement accounts, such as Roth IRAs, Solo 401(k)s, real estate, private equity and venture funds, promissory notes, private placements (PPMs), start-ups, IRA/LLCs (Checkbook IRAs), and the UBIT/UDFI tax rules. The podcast also addresses prohibited transactions and shares real-world examples from investors who have successfully self-directed their retirement for decades. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just getting started, this podcast offers practical, expert-level insights into building wealth through self-directed strategies. Mat Sorensen is an attorney, best-selling author of The Self-Directed IRA Handbook , and CEO of Directed IRA & Directed Trust Company, a leading self-directed IRA custodian with nearly $3 billion under administration. He is a national expert on self-directed retirement strategies and a Senior Partner at KKOS Lawyers. Mat also co-hosts The Main Street Business Podcast along with Mark J. Kohler. Mark J. Kohler is a CPA, attorney, best-selling author of six books, and a nationally recognized authority on small business tax and legal strategies. Mark serves as a Senior Partner at KKOS Lawyers and Board Member at Directed IRA Trust Company, which manages over $3 billion in assets. As the founder of the Main Street Certified Tax Advisor Program, Mark has trained thousands of CPAs and Enrolled Agents nationwide, helping millions of small business owners better navigate tax and legal strategies. Mark also co-hosts The Main Street Business Podcast along with Mat Sorensen.

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August 26, 2026Episode 1126 min

Investing in Litigation Finance with Your IRA

Take control of your retirement strategy. BOOK A FREE CALL with DirectedIRA and learn how to put your IRA to work beyond Wall Street! Download the slide deck here! In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, host Mat Sorensen sits down with Kris Kjolberg , Managing Director & Head of Capital Strategy at Pravati Capital, to break down litigation finance—a growing alternative asset class that many investors may not be familiar with. Mat and Kris discuss how litigation finance works, why law firms need access to capital, and how private lenders can step into a space where traditional banks often can’t. Kris explains the difference between financing individual litigation cases and providing portfolio financing to law firms, along with the potential returns, underwriting process, risks, and what investors should understand before considering this type of investment. In This Episode, They Cover: What litigation finance is and how this emerging asset class works The difference between single-case litigation finance and law firm portfolio finance Why traditional banks often cannot lend against law firm receivables and cases The potential 16–24% industry yield range discussed for law firm portfolio financing How litigation finance can provide non-correlated exposure within an alternative investment portfolio How Pravati Capital evaluates law firms and investment opportunities The importance of underwriting, diversification, case duration, and concentration risk Pravati Capital’s experience across 8,000+ transactions and 250+ law firms The risks investors should consider, including extension risk, regulatory risk, and repayment risk How litigation finance can potentially fit into a self-directed IRA What the investment process looks like, including the investor data room and due diligence Accredited investor and qualified purchaser requirements Fund structure, investment minimums, and the track record discussed during the episode To learn more about Pravati Capital go to pravaticapital.com Connect With Kris Kjolberg Email: kris@pravaticapital.com Phone: (623) 521-7343 Disclaimer This podcast and its content are provided for educational and informational purposes only and are not intended to provide investment advice. Nothing discussed in this episode should be considered a recommendation, solicitation, or endorsement to invest in any particular investment, fund, or asset. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Viewers and listeners should conduct their own due diligence and consult with qualified financial, legal, and tax professionals before making any investment decisions. Directed IRA does not provide investment advice or recommend specific investments. For questions or to learn more about this episode's topic, book a call with an IRA specialist here: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Interested in learning more about alternative investments? Join us this year at the Alternative Asset Summit October 22 & 23, where you'll hear from industry experts and connect with like-minded investors exploring new ways to build wealth: https://altassetsummit.com/ Other : Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com Mark J. Kohler: https://markjkohler.com/ KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.com Main Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

August 20, 2026Episode 1016 min

The Rule of 72 Explained - How to Double Your Money

Tired of paying more to the IRS on your investment gains? A self-directed IRA can help you take advantage of tax-advantaged investing while giving you more control over where your retirement dollars go. Book a free 15-minute call with Directed IRA to learn more and get started In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mark and Mat Sorensen break down the Rule of 72 and explain how investors can use this simple calculation to understand the power of compounding and the time it can take for an investment to double. The conversation explores how rate of return, taxes, fees, and the type of investment account can significantly impact long-term wealth. Mat and Mark use real-world examples to compare different rates of return and demonstrate how even seemingly small differences can create substantial gaps in portfolio growth over time. They also discuss how self-directed IRAs can give investors greater flexibility to choose from a broader range of investments, including real estate, private lending, private funds, precious metals, cryptocurrency, and other alternative assets. The episode highlights the importance of considering not only potential returns, but also tax efficiency and investment costs when evaluating long-term strategies. In this episode, they discuss: How the Rule of 72 estimates the time it takes for an investment to double Why compounding can have such a significant impact on long-term wealth How different rates of return can change the trajectory of an investment The potential impact of taxes and fees on investment growth Why tax-advantaged accounts can help reduce the impact of taxes on investment returns How self-directed IRAs provide the flexibility to invest beyond traditional Wall Street assets The importance of evaluating investment opportunities based on long-term growth rather than short-term performance The episode ultimately focuses on a simple question for investors: How can their money work harder for them over the long term? For questions or to learn more about this episode's topic, book a call with an IRA specialist here: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Interested in learning more about alternative investments? Join us this year at the Alternative Asset Summit October 22 & 23, where you'll hear from industry experts and connect with like-minded investors exploring new ways to build wealth: https://altassetsummit.com/ Other : Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com Mark J. Kohler: https://markjkohler.com/ KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.com Main Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

August 13, 2026Episode 91 hr 0 min

Passing Down Your IRA or 401(k) Tax-Free with an Inherited IRA

If you've recently inherited an IRA or need help getting the account established, Directed IRA can help you through the process and get your Inherited IRA opened: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Need help establishing your estate plan? KKOS Lawyers can help you coordinate your estate plan, retirement accounts, beneficiary designations, trusts, powers of attorney, and other important estate-planning documents so your assets are positioned to pass according to your wishes: https://kkoslawyers.com/ In this special collaboration between Directed IRA and KKOS Lawyers , Mat Sorensen, CEO of Directed IRA and Senior Partner at KKOS Lawyers, sits down with Senior Attorney Ryan Tosto to break down what happens to your IRA or 401(k) when you die and how to make sure your retirement assets pass to the people you intend to receive them. Mat and Ryan cover the differences between spousal rollovers and inherited IRAs , the options beneficiaries have after inheriting an account, and how the 10-year rule can impact the timing and taxation of distributions. They also discuss important distinctions between inherited Traditional and Roth IRAs, including strategies for managing distributions and allowing tax-advantaged assets to continue growing. Other key topics include: How to properly open and handle an inherited IRA after someone passes away Why the beneficiary designation form is one of the most important documents when it comes to passing down retirement accounts How trusts can be used to provide greater control over when and how beneficiaries receive inherited wealth Planning for minor children and beneficiaries who may not be financially prepared to receive a large inheritance How beneficiary designations should be coordinated with your overall estate plan The differences between Traditional and Roth inherited IRAs Required minimum distributions and how they can affect inherited Traditional IRAs How inherited IRAs containing real estate or other alternative assets can be handled Common estate-planning mistakes involving divorce, remarriage, children, trusts, and outdated beneficiary designations The goal is to help investors and families better understand the rules surrounding inherited retirement accounts and take the necessary steps before and after an inheritance to avoid unnecessary taxes, mistakes, and complications. For questions or to learn more about this episode's topic, book a call with an IRA specialist here: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Interested in learning more about alternative investments? Join us this year at the Alternative Asset Summit October 22 & 23, where you'll hear from industry experts and connect with like-minded investors exploring new ways to build wealth: https://altassetsummit.com/ Other : Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com Mark J. Kohler: https://markjkohler.com/ KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.com Main Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

August 5, 2026Episode 851 min

Roth IRA vs Roth 401(k) - Where Should You Put Your Money?

Looking to take control of your retirement and want to use your IRA or 401K dollars to invest in alternative assets? Book a call with my team at Directed IRA to get started: https://directedira.com/appointment/?utm_source=live&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=wohl_rothira_roth401k In this episode, I break down the key differences between a Roth IRA and a Roth 401(k) so you can decide where to put your money for maximum long-term, tax-free wealth. We cover contribution limits, the core tax rules that make Roth accounts the most powerful retirement vehicle available, and the critical differences in withdrawal flexibility between the two accounts. We also walk through income limits on Roth IRA contributions, the backdoor Roth IRA strategy for high earners, and how to use both a Roth 401(k) and a Roth IRA at the same time to maximize every tax-free dollar you can legally protect. One of the most underutilized strategies we cover is self-directing your Roth account — instead of being limited to stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, you can invest your Roth dollars into real estate, private companies, private equity, and crypto. An IRA can invest in these alternative assets as long as it is held at a custodian like Directed IRA. For questions or to learn more about this episode's topic, book a call with an IRA specialist here: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Interested in learning more about alternative investments? Join us this year at the Alternative Asset Summit October 22 & 23, where you'll hear from industry experts and connect with like-minded investors exploring new ways to build wealth: https://altassetsummit.com/ Other : Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com Mark J. Kohler: https://markjkohler.com/ KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.com Main Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

July 23, 2026Episode 712 min

New Legislation Targets Self-Directed IRAs

Looking to take more control of your retirement investments? Directed IRA helps investors diversify beyond traditional stocks and mutual funds by investing retirement funds into alternative assets like real estate, private funds, private lending, startups, crypto, and more. Schedule a call to get started: https://directedira.com/appointment/ We've also published a detailed breakdown of the proposed legislation and what it could mean for self-directed IRA investors: https://directedira.com/new-legislation-targeting-self-directed-iras/ Self-directed IRAs have helped investors build wealth by investing in alternative assets like real estate, private companies, private lending, crypto, and more. Now, a newly proposed bill in Washington, D.C. has sparked concerns about the future of retirement accounts. In this video, we break down the proposed legislation, why it was introduced, who it targets, and what it could mean for self-directed IRA investors. We also discuss what the proposal does not change, including the ability to continue self-directing your retirement account under current law. Whether you're already investing with a self-directed IRA or just exploring your options, this episode will help you understand the facts behind the headlines and what to watch as the proposal moves through Congress. In this video, you'll learn: • What the proposed legislation aims to change • Who could be affected by the bill • Why retirement accounts over $10 million are being targeted • What remains unchanged for most self-directed IRA investors • What to keep an eye on as the proposal develops Follow for more education on self-directed IRAs, alternative investments, and retirement strategies to help you invest with confidence. For questions or to learn more about this episode's topic, book a call with an IRA specialist here: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Interested in learning more about alternative investments? Join us this year at the Alternative Asset Summit October 22 & 23, where you'll hear from industry experts and connect with like-minded investors exploring new ways to build wealth: https://altassetsummit.com/ Other : Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com Mark J. Kohler: https://markjkohler.com/ KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.com Main Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

July 23, 2026Episode 625 min

Trump Accounts and How To Optimize Them

If you're a business owner looking to give your child a head start with their retirement, book a call with Directed IRA to learn more about the Kid's Roth!: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Open a Trump Account here: https://trumpaccounts.gov/ In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast , Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler break down one of the newest retirement savings vehicles available to families: the Trump Account . They explain who qualifies, how the account works, and why they believe it has the potential to become a powerful long-term wealth-building tool for children. The discussion goes beyond the basics, covering tax strategies, Roth conversion opportunities, employer contribution rules, and how parents can use these accounts to teach their children the importance of investing from an early age. Main Topics Covered What a Trump Account is and who is eligible to open one. How the government's $1,000 contribution works for qualifying children. Annual contribution limits and who can contribute to the account. Why starting to invest early can lead to significant long-term growth through compounding. The tax treatment of Trump Accounts and why Roth conversions can dramatically improve long-term outcomes. How to navigate the "kiddie tax" and strategies for minimizing taxes during Roth conversions. Employer contribution opportunities and how business owners can potentially create tax deductions while funding a child's account. How Trump Accounts compare to the Kids Roth IRA strategy and when each may make sense. Why investment flexibility after age 18 can create even greater wealth-building opportunities through self-directed IRAs. The importance of teaching children about investing so they understand how to preserve and grow their retirement savings for the future. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or business owner, this episode provides practical strategies for helping the next generation build wealth while taking advantage of new tax-advantaged opportunities. For questions or to learn more about this episode's topic, book a call with an IRA specialist here: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Interested in learning more about alternative investments? Join us this year at the Alternative Asset Summit October 22 & 23, where you'll hear from industry experts and connect with like-minded investors exploring new ways to build wealth: https://altassetsummit.com/ Other : Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com Mark J. Kohler: https://markjkohler.com/ KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.com Main Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

July 18, 2026Episode 559 min

Investing in Physical Gold & Silver with Your IRA

If you're ready to invest in precious metals with your IRA or have additional questions about getting started, book a call with our team at Directed IRA: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Interested in learning more about alternative investments? Join us at the Alternative Asset Summit, where you'll hear from industry experts and connect with like-minded investors exploring new ways to build wealth: https://altassetsummit.com/ Gold and silver have become some of the most talked-about investment assets, but how do they fit into a self-directed IRA? In this webinar, Mat Sorensen is joined by special guest David McAlvany, CEO of McAlvany Precious Metals, to discuss why investors are increasingly turning to precious metals, how gold and silver can help diversify a retirement portfolio, and the strategies experienced investors use to build long-term wealth. Throughout the conversation, Mat and David cover the current outlook for precious metals, the impact of inflation, interest rates, central bank buying, and market volatility, as well as how investors can own physical gold and silver inside a self-directed IRA. They also discuss precious metals trading strategies, storage requirements, common mistakes to avoid, Roth conversions, and answer live audience questions about investing in precious metals with retirement accounts. Want to learn more about investing in gold and silver? Connect with the experts at McAlvany Precious Metals to explore your options: https://mcalvany.com/metals/ For questions or to learn more about this episode's topic, book a call with an IRA specialist here: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Interested in learning more about alternative investments? Join us this year at the Alternative Asset Summit October 22 & 23, where you'll hear from industry experts and connect with like-minded investors exploring new ways to build wealth: https://altassetsummit.com/ Other : Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com Mark J. Kohler: https://markjkohler.com/ KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.com Main Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

July 8, 2026Episode 416 min

Investing with your Self-directed HSA

To learn more about opening a self-directed HSA and how you can use an HSA to invest in what you know, click the link to connect with my team at Directed IRA: https://directedira.com/appointment/ In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen explains how a self-directed Health Savings Account (HSA) can become one of the most powerful long-term wealth-building tools available. Instead of treating an HSA as simply a place to save for current medical expenses, Mat discusses how investors can use a self-directed HSA to invest in alternative assets like real estate, private companies, cryptocurrency, private lending, and more—all while taking advantage of the HSA's unique triple tax benefits. Mat walks through how to open and fund a self-directed HSA, the investment rules, prohibited transaction rules you MUST know, and strategies like using an HSA LLC for greater investment control. He also explains why allowing your HSA investments to compound over time can help cover one of retirement's largest expenses...healthcare. For questions or to learn more about this episode's topic, book a call with an IRA specialist here: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Interested in learning more about alternative investments? Join us this year at the Alternative Asset Summit October 22 & 23, where you'll hear from industry experts and connect with like-minded investors exploring new ways to build wealth: https://altassetsummit.com/ Other : Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com Mark J. Kohler: https://markjkohler.com/ KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.com Main Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

July 2, 2026Episode 314 min

Why You Shouldn't Buy Real Estate in Your IRA

To invest in real estate using your IRA, book a call with our team at Directed IRA to get started!: https://directedira.com/appointment/ In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler take on one of the most common misconceptions surrounding self-directed retirement accounts. They break down why many financial influencers discourage investing in real estate through an IRA, examine the role depreciation actually plays in real estate investing, and explain why maximizing long-term, tax-advantaged growth should be the primary objective. The conversation explores when real estate does and doesn't make sense inside an IRA, the advantages of using a Roth IRA for real estate investments, and why your investment strategy should be based on your knowledge, experience, and long-term retirement goals rather than common myths. Whether you're considering your first investment property or looking to diversify your retirement portfolio, this episode provides practical insights to help you make a more informed decision. Download our Beginner's Guide: Investing in Real Estate with Your IRA - https://directedira.com/beginners-guide-investing-in-real-estate-with-your-ira/ Buy your tickets to the Alternative Asset Summit: https://altassetsummit.com/ For questions or to learn more about this episode's topic, book a call with an IRA specialist here: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Interested in learning more about alternative investments? Join us this year at the Alternative Asset Summit October 22 & 23, where you'll hear from industry experts and connect with like-minded investors exploring new ways to build wealth: https://altassetsummit.com/ Other : Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com Mark J. Kohler: https://markjkohler.com/ KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.com Main Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com

June 23, 2026Episode 259 min

When Should You Use an IRA/LLC or Checkbook IRA?

To establish an IRA/LLC, schedule a call with our team at Directed IRA to get started!: https://directedira.com/ira-llc/ Get a consult with a tax attorney at KKOS Lawyers to see if an IRA/LLC is right for your situation: https://kkoslawyers.com/services/irallc/ One of the most common questions we receive from self-directed investors is: Do I need an IRA LLC? The answer depends entirely on what you’re investing in and how you plan to invest. For some investors, an IRA LLC can provide speed, flexibility, and greater control over investment activity. For others, it may add unnecessary complexity and cost. In this special Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Ashley Burr (Senior Attorney at KKOS Lawyers) will discuss when an IRA/LLC makes sense, when it doesn’t, and the key legal and compliance considerations investors should understand before setting one up. w e’ll cover: What an IRA LLC is and how checkbook control works The types of investors and investments that commonly use IRA LLCs Situations where a standard self-directed IRA may be the better option Real estate, lending, private funds, and other common IRA LLC use cases How IRA LLCs are formed and funded Prohibited transaction risks and common compliance mistakes Questions investors should ask before creating an IRA LLC Whether you’re considering your first IRA LLC or trying to determine whether one fits your investment strategy, this session will provide the framework for making the decision. Download the IRA/LLC slide deck here!: https://directedira.com/when-should-you-use-an-ira-llc-or-checkbook-ira/ For questions or to learn more about this episode's topic, book a call with an IRA specialist here: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Interested in learning more about alternative investments? Join us this year at the Alternative Asset Summit October 22 & 23, where you'll hear from industry experts and connect with like-minded investors exploring new ways to build wealth: https://altassetsummit.com/ Other : Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com Mark J. Kohler: https://markjkohler.com/ KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.com Main Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com