Pucks To Properties

Hosted by Bob Lachance and Tom Mele

Business Entrepreneurship

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Latest episode

Jun 2025

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EN-US

About the show

🏒2️⃣🏠 Welcome to the Pucks to Properties Podcast! Pucks to Properties is a podcast that focuses on former professional hockey players who have made the transition into real estate. We dive into the reasons why they decided to get into real estate and how life is after hanging up the skates. Hosted by former professional hockey studs Bob Lachance and Tom Mele. www.PucksToProperties.com Follow Us! Facebook: https://facebook.com/puckstoproperties Instagram: https://instagram.com/puckstoproperties Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIgkiNE1xmJCqcPf0IRoKXQ

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44 recent

June 6, 2025Episode 4636 min

Greg Wolfe | Overtime Grind: The Real Estate Rise After Pro Hockey

In this heartfelt and grounded episode, we sit down with Greg Wolfe—former pro hockey player turned real estate investor and youth coach. After playing professionally and wrapping up his career in Toledo, Greg made a purposeful transition into real estate while balancing a growing family and coaching future hockey stars.He shares how a finance degree, early mentorship, and a W2 job helped him test the waters before diving into entrepreneurship. Now with 11 rental units and a role at USA Hockey’s NTDP, Greg is building wealth and giving back—all while scratching his hockey itch.From cold calls to coaching drills, Greg opens up about the fear of leaving the game, building confidence post-retirement, and the importance of starting before you feel ready. His advice to players on the verge of transition? Talk to people, explore options, and take action—even if it’s scary.Connect with Greg: Instagram (@socialhousegreg)https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-wolfe-a732568a/Greg@socialhousegroup.com Pucks to Properties is powered by REVA Global Virtual Assistant Services. REVA Global is the premier provider of highly-trained real estate Virtual Assistants that allow real estate professionals to get their time back and focus on the money-making activities that grow their businesses. Pucks to Properties Socials:Pucks To Properties PodcastPucks To Properties PodcastInstagram (@puckstoproperties)Pucks To Properties Podcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/company/pucks-to-properties-podcast/ REVA Global Socials:Highly Trained Real Estate Virtual Assistants - REVA Globalhttps://www.facebook.com/trainedvirtualassistantsInstagram (@revaglobalva)https://www.linkedin.com/company/reva-global-llcREVA Global Virtual Assistants on TikTok

May 28, 2025Episode 4533 min

Loren Barron & Bobby Tyson | Roommates to Real Estate Moguls: The Eastwood Realty Story

From college roommates at Quinnipiac to co-founders of a thriving Texas-based real estate company, Bobby Tyson and Loren Barron join Pucks to Properties to share how blind faith, hustle, and a few Craigslist deals laid the foundation for Eastwood Realty.In this episode, they walk us through their early days — from flipping furniture and living in a warehouse, to building custom homes, cold-calling prospects, and eventually growing a diverse real estate portfolio across development, brokerage, and property management. With no formal background and everything on the line (including their wedding funds), Bobby and Loren built a business rooted in resilience, shared vision, and a relentless work ethic learned on the ice.They also break down how they’ve tapped into the hockey community for networking, talent, and even future investment opportunities — proving that life after hockey can be just as dynamic and fulfilling as life on the rink.Connect with Loren & Bobby: Instagram (@eastwoodrealty)https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-tyson-1537a1138/https://www.linkedin.com/in/loren100/Bobby@eastwoodrealty.comLoren@eastwoodrealty.com__Pucks to Properties is powered by REVA Global Virtual Assistant Services. REVA Global is the premier provider of highly-trained real estate Virtual Assistants that allow real estate professionals to get their time back and focus on the money-making activities that grow their businesses. Pucks to Properties Socials:Pucks To Properties PodcastPucks To Properties PodcastInstagram (@puckstoproperties)Pucks To Properties Podcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/company/pucks-to-properties-podcast/ REVA Global Socials:Highly Trained Real Estate Virtual Assistants - REVA Globalhttps://www.facebook.com/trainedvirtualassistantsInstagram (@revaglobalva)https://www.linkedin.com/company/reva-global-llcREVA Global Virtual Assistants on TikTok

April 22, 2025Episode 4429 min

Erik Condra | Skates Off, Suits On: Erik Condra’s Shift into Commercial Real Estate from Pro Hockey

In this episode of Pucks to Properties, former NHL forward Erik Condra joins Bob Lachance and Tom Mele to discuss his transition from the ice to the investment world. With over 370 professional hockey games under his belt, Erik dives into how he leveraged his playing days and network to launch a new chapter in commercial real estate.Now working as Director of Business Development at Schafer Richardson, Erik shares the behind-the-scenes of managing a half-billion-dollar real estate investment trust, his lessons from building spec homes, and how he used hockey-fueled discipline to navigate his post-playing career. The guys also dig into the value of networking before retirement, creating structure during uncertain times, and finding the right culture fit in business.Whether you’re a current athlete or a former pro exploring what’s next, this episode is packed with insight on building your second career with purpose.Connect with Erik: Instagram (@econdra22)https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-condra-76a47641Econdra@gmail.com__Pucks to Properties is powered by REVA Global Virtual Assistant Services. REVA Global is the premier provider of highly-trained real estate Virtual Assistants that allow real estate professionals to get their time back and focus on the money-making activities that grow their businesses. Pucks to Properties Socials:Pucks To Properties PodcastPucks To Properties Podcasthttps://instagram.com/puckstopropertieshttps://www.youtube.com/@puckstopropertieshttps://www.linkedin.com/company/pucks-to-properties-podcast/ REVA Global Socials:Highly Trained Real Estate Virtual Assistants - REVA Globalhttps://www.facebook.com/trainedvirtualassistantsInstagram (@revaglobalva)https://www.linkedin.com/company/reva-global-llchttps://www.tiktok.com/@revaglobal

April 3, 2025Episode 4327 min

Dante Zapata | The Athlete's Advantage: Dante’s Approach to Real Estate Success

In this special in-house edition of Pucks to Properties, the team highlights one of their own: Dante Zapata. After a successful collegiate career and a brief stint in professional hockey, Dante made the difficult decision to retire from the sport and fully transition into real estate. Recruited through a former coach, Dante moved across the country to join the team in Cheshire, CT—demonstrating the same dedication and work ethic that defined his time on the ice.Dante shares how his hockey background helped shape his approach to real estate, from managing emotions under pressure to staying persistent through challenges. He walks through his early days of learning the business, the quick pivot from acquisitions to dispositions, and how he's grown into a key member of the team. His story offers valuable insight into the mindset, adaptability, and drive needed to succeed in real estate after sports.This episode is a powerful look at how athletes can successfully translate their competitive edge and discipline into new careers—and how the Pucks to Properties platform is helping make that possible. Connect with Dante: Instagram (@dantezapata6)https://www.linkedin.com/in/dante-zapata-a49701227/__Pucks to Properties is powered by REVA Global Virtual Assistant Services. REVA Global is the premier provider of highly-trained real estate Virtual Assistants that allow real estate professionals to get their time back and focus on the money-making activities that grow their businesses. Pucks to Properties Socials:Pucks To Properties PodcastPucks To Properties PodcastInstagram (@puckstoproperties)Pucks To Properties Podcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/company/pucks-to-properties-podcast/ REVA Global Socials:Highly Trained Real Estate Virtual Assistants - REVA Globalhttps://www.facebook.com/trainedvirtualassistantsInstagram (@revaglobalva)https://www.linkedin.com/company/reva-global-llcREVA Global Virtual Assistants on TikTok

March 27, 2025Episode 4238 min

Tim Brent | From 12 Years in Hockey to Building a Real Estate Empire

Tim Brent joins Pucks to Properties to share his journey from a 12-year professional hockey career to building a successful real estate business. Drafted twice by the same NHL team, Brent played in the AHL, NHL, and KHL, winning a championship under Iron Mike Keenan. After bouncing between teams, including Anaheim, Pittsburgh, and Toronto, he eventually made the difficult decision to retire on his own terms. Rather than continuing to chase contracts, he turned down a three-year deal in Sweden to transition into real estate.Brent reflects on how he started investing in real estate at just 20 years old, buying and renting out properties while still playing. His approach to financial security and career planning early on allowed him to leave the game without the uncertainty many athletes face. His move into commercial real estate came through a mentor who guided him into the industry, helping him understand the fundamentals of land investment, development, and market strategy. He started as a broker, worked under a national real estate firm, and then took the leap to start his own company, Longleaf Industrial, where he now specializes in industrial real estate development.He shares what it was like stepping into business without experience, cold calling from his truck out of fear of failing in front of others, and how his hockey work ethic allowed him to quickly adapt and succeed. His current projects include a major ground-up industrial development in Raleigh, and he is looking to expand his team. Brent talks about why athletes make great business professionals, how hockey gave him the ability to sniff out bad deals and bad people, and why he believes real estate is the ultimate wealth-building tool. His story is a blueprint for athletes wondering what comes next and a must-listen for anyone thinking about transitioning out of a lifelong career into something new. Connect with Tim: Instagram (@brenter_37)https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-brent-0b7bb452__Pucks to Properties is powered by REVA Global Virtual Assistant Services. REVA Global is the premier provider of highly-trained real estate Virtual Assistants that allow real estate professionals to get their time back and focus on the money-making activities that grow their businesses. Pucks to Properties Socials:Pucks To Properties PodcastPucks To Properties PodcastInstagram (@puckstoproperties)Pucks To Properties Podcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/company/pucks-to-properties-podcast/ REVA Global Socials:Highly Trained Real Estate Virtual Assistants - REVA Globalhttps://www.facebook.com/trainedvirtualassistantsInstagram (@revaglobalva)https://www.linkedin.com/company/reva-global-llcREVA Global Virtual Assistants on TikTok

March 12, 2025Episode 4127 min

Nate Thompson | 800 NHL Games Later: Nate Thompson’s Shift from the Ice to Business

In this episode of Pucks to Properties, we sit down with former NHL veteran Nate Thompson, who played over 800 games across nine NHL teams. Nate shares his journey from professional hockey to entrepreneurship, highlighting the challenges of transitioning out of the sport and into the business world.After an 18-year professional career, Nate co-founded 44 Concierge, a high-end concierge service catering to professional athletes. He discusses how the business helps players navigate everything from relocation logistics to luxury experiences, making their off-ice lives smoother so they can focus on their careers.The conversation dives into the mental and financial preparation needed for life after hockey, the importance of having a plan early, and how NHLPA mentorship played a role in his post-career mindset. Nate also touches on his brief stint as a coach and his new journey into sports broadcasting, sharing what excites him about this next chapter.Throughout the episode, Nate reflects on the lessons from his playing days, the impact of mentorship, and how he's leveraging his experiences to build a successful business beyond the rink. Whether you're an athlete planning for life after sports, an entrepreneur, or just a hockey fan, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and valuable advice. Connect with Nate: Instagram (@nthompson44)https://www.linkedin.com/in/natethompson44__Pucks to Properties is powered by REVA Global Virtual Assistant Services. REVA Global is the premier provider of highly-trained real estate Virtual Assistants that allow real estate professionals to get their time back and focus on the money-making activities that grow their businesses. Pucks to Properties Socials:Pucks To Properties PodcastPucks To Properties PodcastInstagram (@puckstoproperties)Pucks To Properties Podcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/company/pucks-to-properties-podcast/ REVA Global Socials:Highly Trained Real Estate Virtual Assistants - REVA Globalhttps://www.facebook.com/trainedvirtualassistantsInstagram (@revaglobalva)https://www.linkedin.com/company/reva-global-llcREVA Global Virtual Assistants on TikTok

February 24, 2025Episode 4041 min

Ed Stulak | Branding, Business & Big Moves: How Ed Stulak Went from Hockey to Real Estate Success

In this episode of Pucks to Properties, hosts Tom and Bob welcome Ed Stulak, a former hockey player turned social media branding expert and real estate powerhouse. Ed shares his unique journey from playing hockey at Penn State, dealing with a career-ending injury, and struggling to find his path—before ultimately discovering his passion for branding, marketing, and real estate.Ed dives into how he built his personal brand from scratch, starting by working behind the scenes with influencers, learning the ins and outs of social media, and eventually transitioning into real estate. He explains the importance of personal branding, networking, and leveraging social media to grow a business, revealing the strategies that helped him amass over 80,000 followers and land high-profile speaking engagements alongside industry giants.Throughout the episode, Ed emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships online, using video messaging to connect with new followers, and taking calculated risks—like saying “yes” to last-minute speaking gigs that changed the trajectory of his career. He also highlights the lessons he learned from hockey, including discipline, resilience, and the ability to adapt—key traits that have helped him succeed in the competitive world of real estate.For real estate agents, entrepreneurs, and former athletes looking to pivot into a new industry, Ed’s story is packed with valuable insights on branding, content creation, and the power of social media in today’s digital world.Connect with Ed:https://www.instagram.com/edstulak/?hl=enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-stulak-07b112100https://edstulak.comhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCE5TbhJXo64E1KqNzQEt3tA__Pucks to Properties is powered by REVA Global Virtual Assistant Services. REVA Global is the premier provider of highly-trained real estate Virtual Assistants that allow real estate professionals to get their time back and focus on the money-making activities that grow their businesses.Pucks to Properties Socials:https://www.puckstoproperties.comhttps://facebook.com/puckstopropertieshttps://instagram.com/puckstopropertieshttps://www.youtube.com/@puckstopropertieshttps://www.linkedin.com/company/pucks-to-properties-podcast/REVA Global Socials:https://www.revaglobal.comhttps://www.facebook.com/trainedvirtualassistantshttps://www.instagram.com/revaglobalvahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/reva-global-llchttps://www.tiktok.com/@revaglobal

February 18, 2025Episode 3939 min

Zane Schartz | From Locker Rooms to Boardrooms: Zane Schartz’s Path to Wealth

On this episode of Pucks to Properties, we talk with Zane Schartz, a former professional hockey player turned commercial real estate investor. Zane shares his journey from playing in the CHL, ECHL, and overseas in Europe to building a career in real estate, where he has been involved in managing $800M in assets and now runs his own investment fund, Freedom Commercial Real Estate.Zane breaks down how he strategically prepared for life after hockey while still playing, gaining hands-on experience through internships in real estate private equity. He explains the importance of relationships in deal-making, how he sources and acquires stabilized, cash-flowing properties, and the process of raising capital for large-scale investments.In addition to real estate, Zane shares the exciting story of how he became a co-owner of a professional hockey team, diving into the business of sports franchise ownership and what it takes to turn a struggling team into a profitable investment.If you’re an athlete looking to transition into business, an investor seeking passive cash flow, or someone curious about what it takes to own a pro sports team, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Connect with Zane:Instagram (@zaneschartz)https://www.linkedin.com/in/zaneschartzFreedom Commercial Real Estate__Pucks to Properties is powered by REVA Global Virtual Assistant Services. REVA Global is the premier provider of highly-trained real estate Virtual Assistants that allow real estate professionals to get their time back and focus on the money-making activities that grow their businesses. Pucks to Properties Socials:Pucks To Properties PodcastPucks To Properties PodcastInstagram (@puckstoproperties)Pucks To Properties Podcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/company/pucks-to-properties-podcast/ REVA Global Socials:Highly Trained Real Estate Virtual Assistants - REVA Globalhttps://www.facebook.com/trainedvirtualassistantsInstagram (@revaglobalva)https://www.linkedin.com/company/reva-global-llcREVA Global Virtual Assistants on TikTok

February 10, 2025Episode 3838 min

Max Motew | How a Former Hockey Goalie Built a Real Estate Empire in Chicago

On this episode ofPucks to Properties, we sit down with Max Motew from Chicago, a former goalie turned real estate professional. Max shares his journey from playing prep school and college hockey to building a career in property management, leasing, and real estate investment.After playing at Hebron Academy, Berwick Academy, and Plymouth State, Max faced a tough transition out of hockey, battling injuries and personal struggles before finding his way into real estate. He opens up about how he got his start in property management, learning the business from the ground up, and how his hockey background shaped his work ethic in the industry.Max dives into the importance of leasing, retention, and zero-vacancy strategies, explaining how he keeps occupancy high in Chicago’s competitive rental market. He also discusses his shift into construction and development, where he’s now involved in large-scale renovations and raising capital for real estate deals.Throughout the episode, Max emphasizes the value of mentorship, learning from those more experienced, and the power of networking—especially within the hockey community. His advice to former players? Humble yourself, start from the bottom, and surround yourself with the right people to build long-term success.If you’re a former athlete looking to transition into business, interested in real estate investing, or just love a good story about perseverance, this episode is a must-listen. Connect with Max:Instagram (@mo2goalie)https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxmotewMax Motew | Mo2 Properties__Pucks to Properties is powered by REVA Global Virtual Assistant Services. REVA Global is the premier provider of highly-trained real estate Virtual Assistants that allow real estate professionals to get their time back and focus on the money-making activities that grow their businesses. Pucks to Properties Socials:Pucks To Properties PodcastPucks To Properties PodcastInstagram (@puckstoproperties)Pucks To Properties Podcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/company/pucks-to-properties-podcast/ REVA Global Socials:Highly Trained Real Estate Virtual Assistants - REVA Globalhttps://www.facebook.com/trainedvirtualassistantsInstagram (@revaglobalva)https://www.linkedin.com/company/reva-global-llcREVA Global Virtual Assistants on TikTok

January 21, 2025Episode 4036 min

Luke Rivera | From the Ice to Industrial: Crafting a Career in Commercial Real Estate

In this episode of Pucks to Properties, we sit down with Luke Rivera, a former college hockey player who transitioned seamlessly from the rink to a thriving career in industrial real estate. Luke shares how his upbringing, surrounded by a legacy of real estate expertise from his grandfather, father, and uncles, shaped his path and inspired his pivot to commercial real estate after hanging up his skates. Now a Senior Director at Cushman & Wakefield, Luke discusses his rise through the ranks, from an unpaid internship to a senior leadership role. He highlights the parallels between hockey and real estate—discipline, teamwork, and resilience—and how the lessons learned in the rink prepared him to navigate the grind of starting in a competitive industry. Luke also reflects on the challenges of balancing personal goals with familial support, emphasizing the importance of persistence, goal-setting, and adaptability. Whether you're a hockey enthusiast, an aspiring real estate professional, or someone contemplating a career pivot, Luke’s story offers valuable insights into leveraging athletic discipline for long-term success in business. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about grit, growth, and finding purpose after sports. Connect with Luke: Instagram (@luke_rivera_industrial_re) https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-rivera-aa4995156/ __ Pucks to Properties is powered by REVA Global Virtual Assistant Services. REVA Global is the premier provider of highly-trained real estate Virtual Assistants that allow real estate professionals to get their time back and focus on the money-making activities that grow their businesses. Pucks to Properties Socials: Pucks To Properties Podcast Pucks To Properties Podcast Instagram (@puckstoproperties) Pucks To Properties Podcast https://www.linkedin.com/company/pucks-to-properties-podcast/ REVA Global Socials: Highly Trained Real Estate Virtual Assistants - REVA Global https://www.facebook.com/trainedvirtualassistants Instagram (@revaglobalva) https://www.linkedin.com/company/reva-global-llc REVA Global Virtual Assistants on TikTok