My Cash Flow Academy's Investors Corner

Hosted by Athena Paquette Cormier

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Jul 2026

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About the show

Real estate investing can mean so many different things to people working in so many different areas of real estate. One thing they can all agree on is that the journey always starts out with the rush, the thrill of making a new investment, the anxiety of wanting – and needing – to find your first deal and hope it’s a winner.But is there a way out of the rat race?Welcome to My Cashflow Academy’s Investors Corner. In this program, you will learn from other real-life real estate investors sharing their tales of how they finally got out of the rat race and lived to tell the tale.Our guide through this journey is Athena Paquette Cormier, a mortgage broker by profession and the Founder of My Cashflow Academy. Through her interviews of top experts and regular people just like you, you will discover how they got out of the rat race, inspiring and guiding you to your own goal of financial independence. Every path to financial freedom is different so listen in to their stories, pick up their strategies and discover what path you might take that you never thought of AND get the tools to get there.As the founder of My Cashflow Academy, Athena is no stranger to educating people about finance and investment, and with her impressive résumé, that shouldn’t come as any surprise. In fact, Athena has been out of the rat race twice now (once before going through a devastating divorce only to rebuild and get out stronger the second time) and wants to help as many people as she can do the same.Besides being a government mortgage underwriter for the FHA 203k rehab program and guiding both borrowers and realtors in rehabbing properties in the 1990s to acquiring her MA in psychology. Athena has the tools necessary to best impart the knowledge you need to succeed in the field of real estate investment.As for experience, Athena’s got plenty! Athena has had over 30 years in the mortgage brokerage business, and even more in finance in general. She’s a dedicated property investor who’s owned and managed all kinds of real estate assets from short term rental condos, to apartment buildings to plexes and notes in several states.Before My Cashflow Academy, Athena owned and operated Crestwood Mortgage Company in Torrance, California. After eleven years, she eventually transitioned to even greater things. Now, she juggles a host of other real estate-related positions on top of her work with My Cashflow Academy. Since 2003, Athena has been the President of Mortgage Bootcamp Inc., which provides educational and expert advice to industries inside and outside real estate, even choosing to study for the Series 7 and 66 exams, pass them with 90%, and become a financial advisor for ten years before refocusing on real estate.With My Cashflow Academy, she has made a living educating and advising people on making wise investments, and this show is an extension of that. My Cashflow Academy’s Investors Corner is for anyone trying to create passive income from cash flowing properties so that you too can get out of the rat race and stay out and live the life you wish to, not the one you have to. Fueled by the individual stories of each guest that comes through the show, each episode contains something new to learn, something you might not even have heard about up before!There are so many things you can put your hard-earned money into. Choose your investments wisely so it can grow. Whether you’re in your 20s or your 60s, real estate investment is something you can do – and you can do it well with the help of Athena!Are you ready to invest? Come join us on My Cash Flow Academy’s Investors Corner because we’re ready to help you find the right path to attaining success.

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July 14, 20261 hr 1 min

Rent to Retire and Invest in Knoxville TN with Mike Weatherford

Can real estate investing help you retire earlier, build passive income, and create the lifestyle you've always wanted? In this episode, host Athena Paquette interviews Mike Weatherford , a seasoned real estate investor who shares how he transformed his retirement plans by investing in East Tennessee. After years of living and investing in Southern California, Mike discovered that Knoxville offered the affordability, cash-flow opportunities, and quality of life he had been searching for. Mike explains how his "Rent-to-Retire" strategy allowed him to purchase investment properties before relocating, creating passive income while preparing for retirement. He also discusses why East Tennessee has become a destination for investors seeking strong rental demand, lower costs, and long-term appreciation. Whether you're planning for retirement, looking for your first investment property, or exploring ways to generate passive income through real estate, this conversation provides practical strategies and real-world experience. In this episode you'll learn: Why Mike chose Knoxville, Tennessee for investing and retirement How the "Rent-to-Retire" strategy works Building passive income with rental properties What makes East Tennessee attractive for real estate investors How affordability impacts long-term wealth building Common mistakes new investors should avoid Tips for evaluating investment properties Why planning years ahead can accelerate retirement goals Current opportunities in the Tennessee real estate market How to transition from working full-time to financial independence If you're interested in real estate investing, passive income, retirement planning, cash flow, rental property investing, financial freedom, East Tennessee real estate, or wealth building , this episode is packed with practical advice you can apply today. Connect with Mike Weatherford 📞 Phone: (865) 233-8609 (Knoxville, Tennesse Athena@athenapaquette.com, 310-218-6588 If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone interested in real estate investing and creating financial freedom through rental properties. #RealEstateInvesting #PassiveIncome #RetirementPlanning #FinancialFreedom #RentalProperties #CashFlow #KnoxvilleRealEstate #EastTennessee #RealEstateInvestor #WealthBuilding #RentToRetire #InvestmentProperty #RealEstatePodcast #AthenaPaquette #MikeWeatherford Disclaimer: Athena Paquette offers educational information so you can make an informed investment decision. We do not endorse any particular investment, and we do not provide tax, legal, accounting, investment, or other professional advice. Please know that investing in any assets involves risk and you should therefore consult tax, legal and financial experts before investing as individual results may vary.

July 14, 20261 hr 4 min

Building Wealth Through Notes, Seller Financing - Nathan Turner

How do professional investors create consistent passive income without owning rental properties? In this episode, host Athena Paquette sits down with Nathan Turner , a nationally recognized expert in mortgage note investing and founder of Earnest Investing, to discuss how buying and selling mortgage notes can generate long-term cash flow while helping homeowners stay in their homes. Nathan shares his journey from seller financing his own properties to building a business around performing and non-performing mortgage notes. He explains how investors can purchase mortgage debt, collect monthly payments like a bank, reduce many of the headaches associated with rental properties, and build wealth through predictable cash flow. Whether you're a real estate investor, mortgage professional, financial advisor, or simply looking for alternative investment strategies, this conversation provides practical insights into one of real estate's lesser-known wealth-building opportunities. In this episode you'll learn: What mortgage note investing is and how it works The difference between performing and non-performing notes Why many investors choose notes instead of rental properties How seller financing creates investment opportunities Risk management strategies used by experienced note investors How note investors can help borrowers while earning attractive returns The role of bank statement loans, DSCR loans, and refinancing in the note business Why diversification is essential for long-term financial success Common misconceptions about note investing Current trends and opportunities in today's real estate finance market Nathan also discusses the importance of education, due diligence, and building systems that create sustainable wealth rather than chasing short-term gains. If you're interested in passive income, real estate investing, seller financing, mortgage notes, private lending, financial freedom, cash flow investing, or alternative investments , this episode is packed with valuable information you won't want to miss. Athena Paquette, 310-218-6855, athena@athenapaquette.com Nathan Turner 312-860-3747 https://earnestinvesting.com/consulta... EarnestInvesting.com DiversifiedMortgageExpo.com 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone interested in building wealth through real estate investing. Connect with Athena Paquette for more interviews with leading experts in real estate, investing, lending, and financial education. #MortgageNotes #NoteInvesting #PassiveIncome #RealEstateInvesting #SellerFinancing #CashFlow #PrivateLending #AlternativeInvestments #FinancialFreedom #MortgageInvesting #DSCRLoans #RealEstateFinance #WealthBuilding #InvestmentStrategies #AthenaPaquette #NathanTurner Disclaimer: Athena Paquette offers educational information so you can make an informed investment decision. We do not endorse any particular investment, and we do not provide tax, legal, accounting, investment, or other professional advice. Please know that investing in any assets involves risk and you should therefore consult tax, legal and financial experts before investing as individual results may very.

June 19, 20261 hr 2 min

The Student’s Guide to Financial Freedom – Helping Young People Build Wealth, Avoid Debt, and Create a Meaningful Life - Dr. Paris Woods

In this episode of Women in Investing , host Athena Paquette welcomes back author, educator, and financial literacy advocate Dr. Paris Woods to discuss her newest book, The Student’s Guide to Financial Freedom: A Real-World Money Guide to Help Young People Build Wealth, Avoid Traps, and Plan for Freedom. About Dr. Paris Woods Dr. Woods shares her inspiring journey from growing up in poverty in St. Louis, Missouri, to becoming a first-generation college graduate. Through academic excellence, determination, and a powerful vision for her future, she earned admission to both Harvard and Yale and ultimately graduated from Harvard without student loan debt. She later earned advanced degrees and dedicated her career to helping others achieve educational and financial success. Key Themes Discussed 1. The Power of Dreaming and Vision Dr. Woods emphasizes that financial success begins with having a vision for your life. As a young person growing up with limited resources, she surrounded herself with positive influences, inspirational books, and goals that seemed impossible at the time. She believes that young people must first imagine the life they want before they can create a financial plan to achieve it. Key takeaway: Money should support your dreams—not become the dream itself. 2. Education as a Pathway to Opportunity Raised by a mother who stressed the importance of education despite financial hardships, Dr. Woods viewed school as her pathway out of poverty. She discusses how curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to pursue opportunities helped her navigate a challenging educational journey. She encourages students and parents not to self-eliminate from opportunities based on assumptions about cost, background, or competitiveness. Key takeaway: Apply for opportunities even when they seem out of reach. You never know what doors may open. 3. The Three Biggest Financial Mistakes Young People Make Mistake #1: Taking on Too Much Debt Dr. Woods explains that many young adults accumulate significant debt shortly after turning 18 because borrowing money has become normalized. Student loans, credit cards, and car loans often feel like the default option. Her advice: Pause before signing financial agreements. Explore alternatives. Research scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and other funding sources. Consider whether debt is truly necessary. Key takeaway: Just because debt is common doesn't mean it's the best choice. Mistake #2: Making Money the Goal Instead of Life Satisfaction Many young people choose careers solely based on income potential. Dr. Woods warns that tying self-worth to income can create a never-ending pursuit where success never feels sufficient. Instead, she encourages people to focus on: Personal fulfillment Purpose Strengths and interests Quality of life Key takeaway: A meaningful life should drive financial decisions—not the other way around. Mistake #3: Failing to Create a Financial Plan Early Although not discussed as a formal third point in the early portion of the interview, both Athena and Dr. Woods stress the importance of planning ahead, saving intentionally, and understanding how today's financial decisions affect future freedom. Key takeaway: Financial freedom comes from thoughtful planning, not impulsive spending. Discussion on Social Mobility and Opportunity Dr. Woods reflects on how luck, hard work, supportive mentors, and educational opportunities all contributed to her success. She acknowledges that many talented students never receive the same opportunities and believes society should do more to simplify pathways to success for future generations. Lessons for Parents and Young Adults The conversation repeatedly returns to one central idea: Young people need financial education before they begin making major money decisions. Dr. Woods wrote The Student’s Guide to Financial Freedom to provide practical guidance that many students never receive in school, including: Avoiding financial traps Understanding debt Building wealth early Making intentional career decisions Creating a vision for the future Major Takeaways Financial freedom starts with a clear vision for your life. Education remains one of the most powerful tools for upward mobility. Debt should be approached carefully and strategically. Don't let money become the sole measure of success. Curiosity and persistence often open unexpected opportunities. Young adults benefit tremendously from financial education before entering adulthood. Building wealth is about creating options and freedom—not simply accumulating money. Overall Message Dr. Paris Woods delivers a powerful message of hope, intentionality, and empowerment. Her story demonstrates that background does not determine destiny, and that with education, planning, and the right mindset, young people can build lives of both financial stability and personal fulfillment. This interview serves as both an inspirational success story and a practical roadmap for students, parents, and anyone seeking long-term financial freedom.

June 13, 20261 hr 4 min

Removing the Hidden Blocks to Money, Abundance and Success - Shelly Stockwell-Nicholas Ph.D

Podcast Summary: In this insightful conversation, host Athena Paquette sits down with renowned hypnotherapist, author, and educator Dr. Shelly Stockwell-Nicholas to explore the mental and emotional barriers that prevent people from creating the wealth, abundance, and life they truly desire. Drawing on decades of experience in hypnosis, psychology, and personal development, Dr. Stockwell-Nicholas explains how many people unknowingly operate from limiting stories rooted in past experiences. These outdated beliefs often become invisible obstacles that affect financial success, relationships, confidence, and personal fulfillment. Key topics discussed include: How subconscious beliefs shape financial outcomes The connection between personal identity and abundance Why focusing on what you want is more powerful than focusing on what you don't want The role of imagination, intention, and sensory perception in creating results How to release old narratives that no longer serve your future The importance of developing a compelling vision for your life Dr. Stockwell-Nicholas also shares her remarkable personal journey—from working as a flight attendant to becoming a nationally recognized author, television personality, educator, and leader in the field of hypnosis. Her story serves as a powerful example of how clarity of purpose and belief can transform a dream into reality. Athena contributes her own experiences with visualization and manifestation, illustrating how intentional focus helped her achieve important goals in her life. Together, they emphasize that abundance is not merely about money—it is about aligning your thoughts, beliefs, and actions with the future you want to create. This episode offers practical wisdom and inspiration for anyone seeking greater prosperity, personal growth, and a deeper understanding of the mind's role in shaping success. Guest: Dr. Shelly Stockwell-Nicholas Host: Athena Paquette Main Takeaway: The stories you tell yourself become the reality you experience. When you consciously choose a vision of possibility rather than limitation, you create the conditions for abundance to emerge. https://www.hypnosisfederation.com/ ihf@cox.net athena@athenapaquette.com 310-218-6855

April 29, 20261 hr 15 min

5 Ancient Laws of Money That Still Work Today - Rabbi Deborah Schuldenfrei

A thought-provoking conversation with Rabbi Deborah Schuldenfrei and host Athena Paquette exploring the deeper relationship between money, abundance, and spiritual principles. This episode moves beyond spreadsheets and traditional financial advice to examine how beliefs, energy, values, and mindset can shape wealth and financial outcomes. They discuss why some high earners struggle financially while others create lasting stability, the role of community and purpose, and how ancient wisdom can still guide modern money decisions. A meaningful listen for anyone interested in personal growth, investing, and creating a healthier relationship with money.

June 7, 202542 min

Mortgage Insurance Protection and Who it Benefits!

Athena Interviews Sean Boatman, owner of Boatman Insurance. Sean discusses how Mortgage Insurance Protection can be used as a powerful financial planning tool. Sean Boatman can be reached at: www.boatmanagency.com LICENSED IN: WA, CA, LA, NY, OH, TN, TX, VA, DE, NM, ID, MD, KY, WV, SC, RI, PA, NH, NC, MI, FL sean@boatmanagency.com 253.691-6151 https://calendly.com/boatmanagency/quote

April 9, 20241 hr 2 min

Unshackled - The Black Girl's Journey to Getting Financially Free - Author Dr Paris Woods

Dr Paris Woods EdD grew up in a single parent low income household and knew from a young age that education was her way out of poverty. What she didn't learn was about how money works. Hear her story of getting buried in debt at 18 and thinking this is normal, to many other poor choices following poor advice, to her sharing her tips on how she got out of $70k in debt, to living mortgage payment free, to becoming a Doctor while staying debt free and now making a life she chooses to live instead of being trapped in a life she has to live. She believes in the FIRE movement and encourages you to #unshackle yourself from debt and live FREE. She has a mission and life purpose of showing black women that they too can be FREE. Be sure to check out her book A Black Girl's Guide to Financial Freedom #blackwomen #FIRE #debtfree #househack #womenshistorymonth #unshackled

December 15, 202354 min

Create massive cash flow with your home with this new law

Create massive cash flow with your home with this new law Women in Investing Network (WiIN) Gloria is a partner in Riechers Engineering. They help homeowners create more housing and more profit through Additional Dwelling Unit, ADU’s and lot splitting to create more affordable housing allowed as part of California Senate Bill #SB9 with 25 lot splits under their belt, they can tell you the pros and cons, and just how it gets done! Gloria Riechers is the CEO of Riechers Engineering, a unique Civil Engineering firm that has created its own niche in the residential development landscape of California. Gloria and her father started this business in 2021 as soon as California passed a new state law, Senate Bill 9. With this revolutionary new state law, homeowners are now allowed to subdivide their properties, gaining access to incredible opportunities and value that was not accessible before. Gloria has been an entrepreneur for most of her life, previously specializing in the health and wellness industry. email: Gloria@riechersengineering.com #SB9 #gloriariechers #athenapaquette

October 28, 20231 hr 0 min

5 Biggest Mistakes Landlords Make - Eileen Kendall Esq

Eileen Kendall, Esq. and founder of Kendall Law, is a highly experienced California real estate attorney with a proven track record of success. She is the proud owner of a thriving law firm that started with just her in October of 2016. Eileen’s dedication and commitment to her clients are evident in the time and effort she puts into every aspect of their legal needs. Since being admitted to practice law in California, Eileen has focused her practice on litigation, with an emphasis on real property and business matters. Kendall Law represents a variety of clients ranging from property management companies to individuals, and real estate professionals. Key Topics We Will Cover -Avoiding Million Dollar Lawsuits -Doing It Right -Top 5 Lawsuit Triggers https://www.kendalllaw.net/ #realestateinvesting #problemsinrealestate #realestatedisputes #tenantlaw #passiveinvesting #landlords #californiarealestate #larealestate

September 8, 20231 hr 6 min

Build Your Affordable #prefab #tinyhouse home in 4 Hours with Robotics!

Build Your Affordable #prefab #tinyhouse home in 4 Hours with Robotics! Go green and catch the affordable housing wave! Build a factory built 1 bed 1 bath home in 8 hours! Join me as I chat with Joe Basel CEO of Practical Revolution, a tiny home builder, and village developer. A new movement is dawning out of the success and observed shortcomings of the Housing First approach. He is designing communities that lift people up toward a life of hope, purpose, and happiness. Practical Revolution brings vulnerable individuals who are coming thru and out of serious trauma into the embrace of wraparound support services and healing housing. They also help facilitate intentional healthy community and relationships. All for a fraction of the cost of current permanent supportive housing, in a rapidly scalable platform. Radical Affordability These homes are radically affordable. We are budgeting for rents as low as $300/month all in non-subsidized for an SRO unit. The current developments are coming online for between $50,000 and $70,000 per door all in even after purchasing land and full infrastructure build-out. With sponsored land, cooperative utility companies, and helpful planning and zoning authorities, they can do even better. At this cost, they are able to quickly scale to a meaningful number of homes in a short time frame. Hundreds or even thousands of units built in months, not decades. #ADU #communityfirst #modularhome #prefab #realestate #AI #realestateAI #threeDrealestate #factoryhomes #transitionalhousing #homeless #affordablehousing