Real Estate Hustlers with Josh Appelman

Hosted by Josh E. Appelman

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Episodes

174

Latest episode

Apr 2026

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EN-US

About the show

On the Real Estate Hustlers Podcast, host Josh Appelman interviews real estate investors and entrepreneurs about successes, failures, and hard-earned lessons. Through in-depth conversations, 1-on-1 listener coaching calls, and news analysis, you’ll get a breakdown of real strategies that work for different niches and experience levels. Tune into the #1 real estate investing podcast every week to stay in the know.

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60 recent

April 29, 202620 min

From Ironman Triathlons to Multifamily Real Estate with Nick Delmonico| Episode 176

🔥Live Podcast Alert🔥🔥On this Real Estate Hustlers Podcast episode, we will talk with Nick, who is the CEO and founder of IronFocus Investments, a firm specializing in acquiring multifamily real estate. With a background in finance and prior roles at JPMorgan and Bloomberg, he brings a data-driven, strategic approach to identifying and managing high-performing investment opportunities.His journey into real estate is rooted in a deep understanding of financial markets and shaped by his passion for endurance sports. As a dedicated Ironman triathlete, Nick applies the same principles of discipline, resilience, and long-term focus to every investment decision.At IronFocus, he is committed to sourcing and managing investments that deliver strong cash flow, tax advantages, capital appreciation, and risk-adjusted returns. He works primarily with busy professionals looking to grow their wealth passively through strategically acquired and actively managed multifamily assets. Outside of work, you’ll likely find him training for his next race or traveling with friends and family.Takeaways: Multifamily real estate investmentsFirst deal challenges and lessonsAssisted living market growthAI's impact on the job marketLender-owned asset opportunitiesNetworking in real estateConnect with Nick:LinkedIn: Nicholas DelmonicoInstagram: nickdel140.6Visit us at:Investor Portal: ⁠https://appelmangroup.investnext.comWebsite: ⁠https://lnkd.in/g66wqQ7g⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://lnkd.in/g2Fu2BZD⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://lnkd.in/gVjbUi3p⁠

April 20, 202619 min

BOUNCE with JD| Episode 175

🔥Live Podcast Alert🔥🔥On this Real Estate Hustlers Podcast episode, we will talk with On this Real Estate Hustlers Podcast episode, we talked with JD Allen, a highly educated professional who began his career in Software Engineering. Originally working in the manufacturing arena as a Senior Director, he transitioned into Bank operating software as a Director for nCino to expand his knowledge of the banking industry. Mr. Allen started his Real Estate journey with multiple duplexes and triplexes before transitioning to multifamily. For the past 9 years, Mr.Allen has been buying and selling both multifamily apartments and mobile home parks, as well as multiple houses. He has an extensive understanding of banking and systems. James has also built a decent Real Estate portfolio. During the past few years, Mr. Allen has purchased, renovated, and created cash-flowing assets.Takeaways:Buy, improve, then sell/refinance value-add assets based on qualityDue diligence is everything—don't let deal excitement blind youDon't get paralyzed by analysis — just get started Don't chase passive income—operate and get in the weeds.Don't limit to one vertical—explore commercial, hotels, warehousing, etcConnect with JD:LinkedIn: JD AllenInstagram: the_bounce_methodVisit us at:Investor Portal: ⁠https://appelmangroup.investnext.comWebsite: ⁠https://lnkd.in/g66wqQ7g⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://lnkd.in/g2Fu2BZD⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://lnkd.in/gVjbUi3p⁠

April 14, 202622 min

How to Invest in Today’s Market with Monika Jazyk | Episode 174

🔥Live Podcast Alert🔥🔥On this Real Estate Hustlers Podcast episode, we will be talking with Monika Jazyk, a real estate investor, wealth strategist, and co-founder of RPI Education, a community dedicated to helping everyday people learn how to build wealth through strategic investing. Since 2010, she has worked with a national network of experts to provide education and guidance on real estate investing, tax-efficient wealth strategies, and long-term financial planning, with a mission to help individuals invest with confidence and build lasting financial independence.Takeaways:Monica's real estate journey: condo to homes, multifamily in Northern Ontario.Discussed real estate markets, A+ areas, AI's role versus human expertise.Monica advises new investors: set goals, active/passive, ROI; hotels blend assets.Monica emphasized real estate's active demands, even in "passive" investing—stay vigilant to dodge pitfalls.Connect with Monika:LinkedIn: Monika JazykFacebook: Real Property Investments Education Inc.Instagram:rpieducationVisit us at:Investor Portal: https://appelmangroup.investnext.com/Website: https://lnkd.in/g66wqQ7gLinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2Fu2BZDFacebook: https://lnkd.in/gVjbUi3p

April 1, 202621 min

From Real Estate Law to 700+ Units: Building a High-Performing Multifamily Platform with Justin Spillers| Episode 172

🔥Live Podcast Alert🔥🔥On this Real Estate Hustlers Podcast episode, we will talk with Justin Spillers, the Co-Founder of Real Estate Alpha, a real estate investment firm with 700+ multifamily units across Ohio. With a background as a licensed real estate and corporate attorney, Justin spent years advising hundreds of businesses on how to grow, protect, and structure their wealth. After scaling two startups to 8-figure assets and over 9-figures in lifetime revenue, he shifted his focus to building predictable, scalable income through multifamily real estate. Today, he leads company-wide operations while helping accredited investors earn 12% fixed annual returns via Real Estate Alpha's Preferred Equity Fund. The fund’s unique tax-advantaged structure makes its 12% fixed return equivalent to a 15-19% taxable yield.Takeaways:The Importance of Learning from Setbacks and Challenges in Real Estate Investing. Justin's journey illustrates that the first investment propertyJustin mentions that Real Estate Alpha is transitioning from AppFolio to a new platform called EliseT AI.AI is being utilized to automate various tasks within the organizationJustin mentions the importance of virtual team members who support various functions from afar, primarily in the Philippines. Justin highlighted AI tools that analyze historical data to forecast trends like turnover rates and maintenance needs.Connect with Justin:LinkedIn: Justin SpillersTwitter: @jspillers33Visit us at:Investor Portal: ⁠https://appelmangroup.investnext.comWebsite: ⁠https://lnkd.in/g66wqQ7g⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://lnkd.in/g2Fu2BZD⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠https://lnkd.in/gVjbUi3p

March 20, 202631 min

If You’re Not Doing These 3 Things, You’re Falling Behind Financially with Dan Brisse | Episode 171

🔥Live Podcast Alert🔥🔥On this Real Estate Hustlers Podcast episode, we will talk with Dan Brisse, the Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Granite Towers Equity Group, where he provides strategic leadership and oversees the company's operations, acquisitions, and crucial investor relations. His background is rooted in real estate investment, with a focus on optimising asset performance in multifamily properties, and successful capital raising and capital markets execution.Dan is a highly accomplished former professional athlete. As a professional snowboarder for over 13 years, he took home multiple X-Games gold medals and was recognised as one of the top urban snowboarders in the world. His seamless transition from the high-stakes world of professional sports to real estate investment demonstrates his drive, discipline, and commitment to success. Dan's athletic excellence and focus on execution directly translate into Granite Towers' real estate portfolio.He is also an active voice in the real estate community, serving as the Co-Host of the podcast, Keeping It Real-Estate, and the Co-Author of 4 Steps to Successful Passive Investing. A resident of Southern Washington, Dan is married with three children.TakeawaysDan Brisse transitioned from professional snowboarding to real estate investing. Requires consiste the journey to successnt effort and a burning desire.Understanding how to manage and invest money is crucial for financial success.Passive income is essential for financial stability, especially for athletes.Timing the market is important; buying at the right time can lead to significant gains.Building relationships with brokers and investors is key to finding good deals.Understanding tenant profiles can help in making informed investment decisions.Avoid over-improving properties beyond what the market can bear.AI is becoming increasingly important in real estate operations and investor relations.The real estate cycle influences investment strategies and opportunities. Connect with Dan:LinkedIn: Dan BrisseInstagram: danbrisseVisit us at:Investor Portal: ⁠https://appelmangroup.investnext.comWebsite: ⁠https://lnkd.in/g66wqQ7g⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://lnkd.in/g2Fu2BZD⁠Facebook: ⁠https://lnkd.in/gVjbUi3p

February 26, 202631 min

Multifamily and Alternative Investment Insights with Tom St. John | Episode 170

🔥On this Real Estate Hustlers Podcast episode, we will be talking about how Thomas began his investor journey with nothing but an endless determination to succeed and an eagerness to learn from those who have succeeded before. For over 20 years, he has developed systems to improve efficiency and maximize the operations of his real estate portfolio. In the last 10 years, he has purchased several multifamily apartment buildings and returned substantial profits for investors by understanding how to recognize stable assets, increase NOI, improve efficiency, and add value. He has owned, operated, and self-managed hundreds of units during his career and has a great ability to multitask. He has extensive experience in managing projects and people, including tenants, maintenance personnel, and professional associates. Over the last 6 years, Thomas has taken an even deeper dive into the world of private alternative investments and has helped hundreds of investors as a Fund Manager by placing their money into high-performing assets and funds with the most knowledgeable, skilled, and top-tier operators across the country. Thomas is a former Toledo Firefighter with multiple certifications in emergency response and public service.TakeawaysIt took me nine years to get started.The hunt for the next deal is exhilarating.Building a track record is crucial for financing.High-interest loans can be risky but necessary.Understanding operational experience is key to success.Private lending offers flexibility in financing.Asking for help sooner can accelerate growth.Celebrating wins fosters collaboration and growth.Networking with like-minded individuals is essential.Real estate investing requires patience and strategic planning.Connect with ThomasLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-st-john/Visit us at:Investor Portal: https://appelmangroup.investnext.comWebsite: https://lnkd.in/g66wqQ7gLinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2Fu2BZDFacebook: https://lnkd.in/gVjbUi3p

February 24, 202631 min

How Vertical Integration Powers Investment Edge with Dwight Dunton | Episode 169

🔥Live Podcast Alert 🔥🔥On this Real Estate Hustlers Podcast episode, we will be talking with Dwight Dunton, the Founder and CEO of Bonaventure, one of the Mid-Atlantic’s most respected multifamily investment management firms. Since 1999, he’s led Bonaventure through multiple economic cycles while investing over $590M+ of personal and employee capital alongside investors. Bonaventure is not just a multifamily operator – they are strategic advisors solving complex problems for family offices and high net worth clients to build and preserve long-term wealth through multifamily real estate. As a vertically integrated investment manager, his team focuses on development, investment and management, as well as long-term, tax-advantaged real estate strategies including 1031s, DSTs, and 721 exchanges across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast.With Bonaventure’s focus on smart, long-term, fixed-rate debt profile (93% fixed, 3.9% avg rate, 19-year avg term), vertically integrated operating model, and tax-advantaged strategies, Dwight offers a masterclass in playing the long game in multifamily real estate.Takeaways:Dwight's journey in real estate began with a 378-unit apartment complex.Perseverance and networking were key to securing financing for his first deal.Excel models are useful but often inaccurate in predicting real estate outcomes.Understanding market dynamics is crucial for successful investing.AI is transforming the real estate industry and job market.Value-add opportunities are essential for driving cash flow growth.Long-term wealth creation requires strategic partnerships and planning.Real estate investing is not passive; it requires active management.Market conditions and supply growth significantly impact rent growth.Investors should prepare for multiple future scenarios in their business plans.Connect with Dwight:LinkedIn: Dwight DuntonVisit us at:Investor Portal: ⁠https://appelmangroup.investnext.comWebsite: ⁠https://lnkd.in/g66wqQ7g⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://lnkd.in/g2Fu2BZD⁠Facebook: ⁠https://lnkd.in/gVjbUi3p

February 12, 202625 min

Remote Investing 101, With Matt Cox | Episode 168

🔥Live Podcast Alert 🔥On this Real Estate Hustlers Podcast episode, we will betalking with Matt Cox, the founder and managing member at Saucetown Properties LLC. You may have heard him on the "Saucetown Investor" podcast or read his writing on the "Saucetown Investor" blog. Matt got his start in real estate as a cold caller at a real estate investment firm in Portland, OR. While there, he bought his first investment property in 2018 and since thenhas quickly scaled the Saucetown rental portfolio. He has built a network of realtors, lenders, contractors, wholesalers, and investors in the State of Oregon who are passionate about creating value for clients in the Oregon Real Estate market. TakeawaysStarted investing in real estate during COVID-19.Utilized the BRRRR strategy to scale his portfolio.Emphasizes the importance of taking action over justlearning.Investing remotely requires building a strong local team.Market expertise is crucial for successful investing.Avoid investing in unfamiliar markets without a competitiveadvantage.Focus on properties with underperforming rent rolls.Self-management of properties can lead to better oversight.Raising capital from investors has helped scale operations.The current market presents opportunities for cash-flowingdeals.Connect with Matt:Facebook: Matthew Forest CoxLinkedIn: Matthew Forest Visit us at:Investor Portal: ⁠https://appelmangroup.investnext.comWebsite: ⁠https://lnkd.in/g66wqQ7g⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://lnkd.in/g2Fu2BZD⁠Facebook: ⁠https://lnkd.in/gVjbUi3p

February 5, 202629 min

Why NNN Leases are the Best kept Secret in Real Estate with Ash Patel | Episode 167

🔥Live Podcast Alert 🔥🔥On this Real Estate Hustlers Podcast episode with Ash Patel, after spending 15 years in the corporate world and launching several businesses along the way, Ash bought his first mixed-use building and immediately saw the opportunity in non-residential commercial real estate. That deal changed everything—he's since built a lean team that acquires and self-manages value-add retail, flex, mixed-use, land, and office properties across the Midwest and Southeast.Ash is the Managing Partner of Invest Beyond Multifamily and co-host of Beyond Multifamily on The Best Ever Real Estate Show (40M+ downloads). He has been featured on podcasts such The Real Estate Syndication Show, How to Scale Commercial Real Estate, The Conscious Investor, and is a frequent speaker at events like the Best Ever Conference, BRRRR360, and Cash Flow Summit. He also runs a nationwide mastermind for commercial investors and advises several small businesses as an active investor.Takeaways:- Commercial tenants can enhance property value by investing in improvements.- Reading every detail of lease agreements is critical to avoid costly mistakes.- A balanced tenant mix can limit risk and maximize returns.- Active management is essential for successful property operations.- Thoroughly vet syndicators and their track records before investing.Connect with Ash:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-patel-95b1a25/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ash.patel.5811Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/ashpatel_official/Visit us at:Investor Portal: https://appelmangroup.investnext.comWebsite: https://lnkd.in/g66wqQ7gLinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2Fu2BZDFacebook: https://lnkd.in/gVjbUi3p

January 14, 202622 min

From 2008 crash to $356M deals, 1,000+ units—generational wealth with Brian| Episode 166

🔥Live Podcast Alert 🔥On this Real Estate Hustlers Podcast episode, we will be talking with Brian H. Ferguson, the Managing Partner and Founder of Fergmar, a real estate investment company based in Victoria, Texas. Since founding the company in 2006, Brian has completed over $356 million in transaction volume, including 1,000+ multifamily units and 500,000+ square feet of retail space. Brian built his portfolio with his own capital for nearly two decades before accepting outside investors in 2022. Having survived and thrived through the 2008 recession, he brings a conservative, cycle-tested approach to underwriting and asset management that prioritises protecting investor capital while delivering strong returns.Today, Fergmar operates with a full leadership team under the EOS framework, managing acquisitions, asset management, investor relations, and property operations across Texas. Brian's long-term focus is building generational wealth for his four children — a mission that drives every investment decision he makes.When he's not analysing deals or leading his team, Brian can be found on the ski slopes or at a football game with his kids.Takeaways:Buy Distressed Assets Cheap: Post-2008 crash, target foreclosed properties at deep discounts to build portfolio foundations.Scale with Rentals & Flips: Focus on multifamily units and single-family rentals for steady cash flow during recovery.Leverage Conservative Financing: Use fixed-rate loans and low LTV ratios to weather market volatility.Target Supply-Constrained Markets: Invest in high-demand areas with limited new supply for rent growth rebounds.Act Boldly in Downturns: Early, decisive moves from ruin led to $356M transactions and 1,000+ units—generational wealth unlocked.Connect with Brian:Facebook: Brian H FergusonLinkedIn: Brian FegursonVisit us at:Investor Portal: ⁠https://appelmangroup.investnext.comWebsite: ⁠https://lnkd.in/g66wqQ7g⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://lnkd.in/g2Fu2BZD⁠Facebook: ⁠https://lnkd.in/gVjbUi3p