Podcast
Directed IRA Podcast
Hosted by Mat Sorensen and Mark Kohler · EN
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.
41episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Rentals, Lending, and Flips in your Self-Directed IRA
Mar 1000:36:54Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler break down how investors can use a self-directed IRA, HSA, or solo 401(k) to invest in real estate and private lending. They cover the core strategies—rental properties, flips, land deals, and hard money loans—and explain how these accounts can be used to build wealth in a tax-advantaged way.Mat and Mark also share real-world examples from their own investing experience, including buying rental properties inside retirement accounts, structuring private loans secured by real estate, and using Roth funds for high-growth opportunities. Along the way, they walk through the basic steps to get started, when an IRA/LLC may make sense, and the key prohibited transaction rules every investor needs to understand.Whether you are brand new to self-direction or looking for a simple episode to share with someone who wants the big-picture overview, this is a practical introduction to investing retirement funds in assets you know and believe in.For questions or to learn more about this episode's topic, book a call with an IRA specialist here: https://directedira.com/appointment/Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.comMark J. Kohler: https://markjkohler.com/ KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com
Transcribe →Crypto Market Reset: What To Do Now
Mar 401:03:12Tap to summarizeAfter every major run-up comes a correction – and after every correction, serious investors ask the same question:What should I be doing now?Directed IRA founder Mat Sorensen will host Tillman Holloway, Founder & CEO of Arch Public, and Arch Public co-founder Andrew Parish for a practical conversation on the current state of crypto markets and how disciplined investors are thinking about portfolio positioning after recent volatility.In this session, we’ll cover:- What historically happens after major crypto market corrections- How algorithmic trading strategies respond to volatility- Risk management considerations for digital asset portfolios- Portfolio allocation between BTC, ETH, and other assets- Using IRAs and Solo 401(k)s for tax-advantaged crypto exposure- Common mistakes investors make after sharp pullbacksThis will be a focused, data-driven discussion about structure, discipline, and long-term strategy.If you currently hold crypto, or are evaluating your allocation, this is a timely conversation you won’t want to miss.Arch Public Home: https://archpublic.com/?v=0b3b97fa6688Directed IRA's Crypto IRA: https://directedira.com/cryptocurrency/SDIRA Summit: https://sdirasummit.com/Directed IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRABook a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com
Transcribe →Private Money Lending in a Self-Directed IRA
Feb 1801:27:41Tap to summarizeIf you’re looking to generate passive income and steady returns from your retirement account, this is a strategy you need to understand.Join Directed IRA’s VP of Sales, Nate Hare, along with co-host Daniel Tercey, for a live training on Private Lending in a Self-Directed IRA.Private money lending has become one of the most popular strategies among self-directed investors, but it must be structured correctly to stay compliant.We’ll cover:- How to structure loans using promissory notes and trust deeds- Which borrowers and assets your IRA can (and cannot) lend to- The prohibited transaction rules that can disqualify your IRA- How interest income flows back to your IRA tax-deferred or tax-free- 10 key considerations before deploying retirement funds- What happens in the event of foreclosure- Real client case studies showing how note terms can be structured creatively and predictably At Directed IRA, we’ve helped thousands of investors put over $3 billion into real estate, private funds, notes, and more, all inside tax-advantaged retirement accounts. Our team of experts and streamlined platform make it easy to invest with confidence.Directed IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRABook a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com
Transcribe →Solo 401(k) Basics, Rules, and Contribution Deadlines
Feb 1801:15:33Tap to summarizeIf you’re self-employed and want to put more money away for retirement, the Solo 401(k) is one of the most powerful tools available, but the rules and deadlines matter.In this live webinar, Mat Sorensen will walk through the Solo 401(k) basics, including who qualifies, how it’s set up, and the special strategies that make it so effective compared to IRAs and SEP IRAs. He’ll also cover the key 2025 contribution limits and deadlines you need to understand before the 2026 tax filing season.We’ll cover:- What a Solo 401(k) is and how it differs from IRAs, SEP IRAs, and traditional employer 401(k)s- Who qualifies (and who doesn’t)- How a Solo 401(k) is set up and what has to be in place to maximize contributions- 2025/2026 contribution limits, including employee vs. employer contributions and how they’re calculated- Key deadlines to know before the 2026 tax filing season- Special features unique to Solo 401(k)s- Common mistakes and misconceptions that can create tax or compliance issuesWhy Directed IRA?At Directed IRA, we’ve helped thousands of investors put over $3 billion into real estate, private funds, notes, and more, all inside tax-advantaged retirement accounts. Our team of experts and streamlined platform make it easy to invest with confidence.Click or tap the link below to download the slides from this webinar:https://directedira.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Solo-401ks-2026.pdfDirected IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRABook a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com
Transcribe →Open Forum Q&A on Self-Directed IRAs
Jan 3000:35:50Tap to summarizeHave questions about self-directed IRAs or alternative investing?In this live, open forum webinar, we answer some of the most common questions people have when starting their self-directing journey, with clear, practical answers. Our Senior Account Executive and Relationship Manager, Daniel Tercey, will cover topics such as:• Common self-directed IRA questions from investors• Investing in real estate, private funds, startups, precious metals, crypto, and other alternative assets• IRA rules, prohibited transactions, and compliance pitfalls to avoid• UBIT, UDFI, and when tax filings may apply• Custodial processes, account administration, and best practices• Recent trends and questions we’re seeing from investorsVisit our links Daniel discusses at the end of the webinar:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRABook a call: https://directedira.com/appointment/Directed IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRABook a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com
Transcribe →Should I Set Up a Trump Account for My Kid?
Jan 1200:30:39Tap to summarizeRead more about Trump Accounts Here: https://matsorensen.com/trump-retirement-accounts-explained/If you have kids under age 18, this episode could change how you think about their financial future.In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler dive deep into Trump accounts, a brand-new savings vehicle launching in 2026. Mat explains why he believes Trump accounts can be a powerful long-term wealth-building tool for kids, while Mark pushes back, arguing parents may be overlooking better options already available.Together, they break down how Trump accounts work, who they are best suited for, and how they compare to Coverdell ESAs, kids Roth IRAs, and 529 plans. The conversation covers college planning, trade schools, retirement savings, Roth conversions, and how families can stack multiple strategies based on income and goals.They also explain the biggest game changer of all: how Trump accounts convert into traditional IRAs at age 18 and can later be converted into Roth IRAs, potentially creating millions in tax-free retirement wealth for the next generation.Whether you are a parent, grandparent, or business owner looking to give kids a financial head start, this episode lays out practical strategies, pros and cons, and real-world planning considerations to help you decide what makes sense for your family.Chapters:0:08 – Welcome And Topic Reveal0:48 – Politics Aside: Use The Law3:52 – What A Trump Account Is6:20 – Control Limits And Fee Cautions6:24 – College Needs vs Long-Term Wealth9:10 – How Early Withdrawals Actually Work12:02 – Parent Playbook: Stack The Accounts18:56 – Pay Your Kids Through Business21:07 – Rentals As A Small Business22:06 – The Roth Conversion Strategy24:20 – 529 To Roth: Sister Strategy26:18 – Pro Rata Rules And Math28:20 – The 8.8 Million Illustration29:55 – Mindset, Access To Education, ClosingDirected IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRABook a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com
Transcribe →Retirement Account Resolutions for 2026: New Contribution Limits, Key Deadlines, and Live Q&A
Jan 200:53:28Tap to summarizeThe start of a new year is one of the best times to reset and realign your retirement strategy. New contribution limits, new rules, and new deadlines in 2026 can all impact how much you’re able to save and how effectively you plan.In this webinar, Directed IRA COO Aaron Halderman and VP of Sales Nate Hare will host a practical 101-style session focused on retirement account planning for 2026, including an open Q&A to address common questions as the new year begins.We cover:- 2026 retirement account contribution limits and what changed- Key tax deadlines to know in 2026 for IRAs and retirement plans- Core planning strategies for IRAs, Roth IRAs, HSAs, and Solo 401(k)s- Common mistakes to avoid as you start the new year- Open Q&A to help you set clear retirement account goals for 2026This session is designed to help you start the year with clarity, avoid early missteps, and build a smarter retirement plan going forward.Directed IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRABook a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com
Transcribe →Year-End Retirement Account Strategies
Dec 1800:58:34Tap to summarizeTo learn more on year-end retirement account strategies read our new article: https://directedira.com/year-end-retirement-account-strategies/?utm_source_youtube_socialmedia&utm_year_end_strategies_webinarYear-end is one of the most important windows for retirement planning. Some moves must be completed by December 31, while others can wait until the tax filing deadline – and new rules coming in 2026 will change how much you can save and whether certain contributions must be Roth.In this live webinar, Directed IRA’s CEO, Mat Sorensen, will walk through the most important retirement account strategies to understand before year-end and how to position yourself for 2026. You’ll Learn- Which retirement account moves must be done by December 31…and which can wait- How to optimize 401(k), IRA, Roth IRA, HSA, and Solo 401(k) strategies at year-end- When Roth conversions make sense now vs. pushing them into 2026- Backdoor Roth and mega backdoor Roth strategies to know before year-end- Key 2026 rule changes that may impact contribution limits and Roth requirementshis session is designed to help you avoid missed opportunities, reduce taxes, and make informed decisions before the year closes.Why Directed IRA?At Directed IRA, we’ve helped thousands of investors put over $3 billion into real estate, private funds, notes, and more, all inside tax-advantaged retirement accounts. Our team of experts and streamlined platform make it easy to invest with confidence.Directed IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/ Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRA Book a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com
Transcribe →Year-End Roth Strategies
Dec 1100:19:13Tap to summarizeKKOS Webinar: Solo 401(k) Tax Credit for New and Existing PlansMark and Mat return to the Directed IRA Podcast with holiday cheer, quick-fire banter, and a stocking stuffed with three Roth strategies that can transform your long-term wealth. This is the year-end roadmap every proactive investor needs.They break down how to time Roth conversions for maximum tax efficiency, how a Kid’s Roth IRA can quietly grow into a seven-figure legacy, and how the mega backdoor Roth lets both employees and small business owners pump serious dollars into the tax-free zone.If you want your money growing tax-free, your strategy dialed in, and your year-end planning wrapped with confidence, settle in for this quick, insightful, and entertaining episode.Chapters: 0:00 - Warm Welcome And Light Banter1:12 - Roadmap: Three Year-End Roth Strategies1:54 - Strategy One: Roth Conversions And Chunking4:20 - Brackets, Deductions, And Timing The Tax7:16 - Backdoor Roth Clarified For High Earners8:04 - Strategy Two: Kids Roth IRA Mechanics11:18 - Paying Kids Legitimately And Funding Options15:02 - Early Compounding And Grandparent Angle18:27 - Strategy Three: Mega Backdoor Roth OverviewDirected IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/ Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRA Book a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com
Transcribe →Prohibited Transactions in a Self-Directed IRA (You Know It's a Prohibited Transaction When...)
Dec 100:20:15Tap to summarizeFor more details on prohibited transactions download the Self-Directed IRA Handbook (look for chapters 4, 5, 6, and 7): https://directedira.com/the-self-directed-ira-handbook/In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J Kohler break down the single most important rule in the world of self-directed IRAs, the prohibited transaction rule. Before your IRA buys real estate, a private company, crypto, or any other alternative asset, you need to understand who your IRA can transact with and how to avoid accidental mistakes that can blow up your entire account.Mat and Mark explain the three core varieties of prohibited transactions in a simple and memorable way, using real client examples along with their usual energy, humor, and clever comedy bits. You will learn why certain family members are off limits, what happens if you try to stay in your IRA owned Airbnb, how sweat equity can accidentally trigger a self dealing violation, and how to safely buy rentals or businesses in your retirement account with confidence.The hosts also sprinkle in a series of fun “you know it is a prohibited transaction when” jokes that make the topic easy to remember and surprisingly entertaining. By the end, you will understand how to stay compliant, make smarter investment decisions, and unlock the real power of a self-directed IRA.Perfect for real estate investors, business owners, and anyone using an IRA for alternative assets, this episode gives you the clarity you need to protect your account and maximize long term gains.Chapters: 0:06- Welcome And Why This Matters0:12 - Defining Prohibited Transactions2:16 - What IRAs Can And Can’t Own2:54 -It’s About Who And How, Not What2:59 - Per Se Prohibited Transactions Explained4:34 - Disqualified Persons And Family Traps7:25 - After You Buy: Use And Benefit Rules8:17 - Renting To Family And Self-Dealing10:26 - Sweat Equity And Fixer Upper Pitfalls12:49 - Managing Vs. Working: The 50 Percent Line16:13 - Facts, Circumstances, And Case Law17:49 - Practical Guardrails And Flexibility19:36 - Resources, Book, And Professional Help19:51 - Closing Remarks And DisclaimersDirected IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/ Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRA Book a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com
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