From Adversity to Abundance

Turning Lending Into Leverage: Will Harvey on Hard Money Funds and Building a Scalable Income Machine

In this episode of From Adversity to Abundance, host Jamie Bateman sits down with Will Harvey of Harvey Capital for a practical, in-depth conversation on private lending, hard money, and what it really takes to run a real estate fund. Will shares his journey from working in the mortgage business to flipping houses—and ultimately finding his niche in private lending and fund management. As he prepares to launch his first 506C fund, Will breaks down how these structures work, why he chose to focus on lending, and how his strategy compares to Jamie’s approach in the note investing space.But this episode goes beyond strategy. Will opens up about a painful $70,000 loss on a deal that didn’t go as planned, unpacking the critical mistakes and lessons that reshaped how he evaluates risk and opportunity. From discipline in deal selection to building scalable systems and raising capital, this conversation is packed with real-world insights for both active and passive investors looking to navigate the lending and fund space more effectively.Guest Introduction: Will Harvey Will Harvey is a real estate investor and founder of Harvey Capital, a hard money lending business based in Virginia. After starting his career in the mortgage industry in 2015, Will transitioned into house flipping and eventually private lending, where he now focuses on running funds and deploying capital through short-term real estate loans. He is currently preparing to launch his first 506C fund, designed to provide passive investment opportunities while scaling his lending operations.Episode Highlights:The Shift to Private Lending – Why Will moved from flipping houses to focusing on hard money lending and fund management.Launching a 506C Fund – How Will is structuring his new fund and key differences compared to other lending funds.A Costly $70K Mistake – The deal that went wrong and the hard lessons learned about discipline and risk.Scaling a Lending Business – Building systems, raising capital, and positioning a fund as a bond alternative.Key Takeaways:Hard money lending can provide consistent opportunities, but success depends on disciplined underwriting and deal selection.Fund structures like 506C can offer scalability, but require clarity in strategy and investor communication.Losses often come from stepping outside your proven model—staying within your expertise is critical.Building a successful fund is as much about operations, systems, and capital raising as it is about finding deals.Learn More about Will Harvey:Website: harvey-capital.comTwitter: x.com/wharvey1993Learn More about Labrador Lending:Integrity Income Fund:labradorlending.com/passive-investors/Labrador Mentorship:labradorlending.com/active-investors/Asset Management Service:labradorlending.com/hybrid-investors/—Purchase Jamie’s Book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGTWJY1D?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860—Leave us a REVIEW: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-adversity-to-abundance/id1618672867?mt=2&ls=1www.adversity2abundance.com/reviews/new/Connect with usWebsite: www.adversity2abundance.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/labradorlending/Instagram: www.instagram.com/labradorlendingllc/LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/labrador-lending/?viewAsMember=trueYoutube: www.youtube.com/channel/UChYrpCUlqFYLy4HngRrmU9QConnect with JamieLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-bateman-5359a811/Twitter: twitter.com/batemanjames

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From Divorce and Financial Rock Bottom to CEO of Self-Directed IRA Powerhouse with Kaaren Hall

3w ago00:52:38Tap to summarize

In this episode of From Adversity to Abundance, host Jamie Bateman sits down with Kaaren Hall, Founder and CEO of UDirect IRA Services, to unpack an incredible journey that began in the depths of the 2008–2009 financial crisis. From being a single mother navigating divorce and job loss to building a company that now oversees more than $1.3 billion in assets, Kaaren’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and long-term vision.What started with just $2,000 and a small office setup grew into one of the most recognized self-directed IRA custodial services in the country. Along the way, Kaaren faced major personal and professional challenges—including regulatory scrutiny and an FBI investigation—before ultimately being fully cleared and continuing to scale UDirect into a trusted platform for alternative retirement investing.Guest Introduction: Kaaren HallKaaren Hall is the Founder and CEO of UDirect IRA Services, a self-directed IRA custodian she launched in 2009 during the Great Recession. Starting from extremely humble beginnings as a recently divorced mother with limited resources, she built the company into a leading platform in the self-directed retirement space, now servicing over $1.3 billion in assets.She is also an author of The BiggerPockets Guide to Self-Directed IRA Investing and an active educator in the alternative investing space, helping investors understand how retirement funds can be used for real estate, mortgage notes, and other non-traditional assets.Episode HighlightsFrom Crisis to Founding UDirect IRA Services – How Kaaren launched her company during the 2008–2009 financial crisis with only $2,000 and a strong belief in the opportunity within self-directed IRAs.Personal Rock Bottom to Business Breakthrough – Navigating divorce, job loss, and financial instability while building the foundation for her entrepreneurial journey.Regulatory Scrutiny and FBI Investigation – The challenges of being investigated after client-related fraud cases and how she was ultimately fully exonerated.Making Self-Directed IRAs Accessible – Breaking down how IRA custodians work, what investors can (and can’t) do, and how UDirect supports alternative investing strategies like real estate and mortgage notes.Key TakeawaysMajor financial and personal setbacks can become the foundation for long-term entrepreneurial success when paired with resilience and execution.Self-directed IRAs open the door for alternative investments like real estate and mortgage notes, but require proper structure and compliance.Even experienced operators can face regulatory scrutiny—having strong processes and integrity is critical for long-term trust.Education is still a major gap in the retirement investing space, creating opportunities for investors willing to learn and act. Learn More about Kaaren Hall:Website: https://udirectira.com/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/kaaren.hallLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaarenhall/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/ladybossgritgrowthgenerosity/Learn More about Labrador Lending:Integrity Income Fund:labradorlending.com/passive-investors/Labrador Mentorship:labradorlending.com/active-investors/Asset Management Service:labradorlending.com/hybrid-investors/—Purchase Jamie’s Book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGTWJY1D?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860—Leave us a REVIEW: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-adversity-to-abundance/id1618672867?mt=2&ls=1www.adversity2abundance.com/reviews/new/Connect with usWebsite: www.adversity2abundance.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/labradorlending/Instagram: www.instagram.com/labradorlendingllc/LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/labrador-lending/?viewAsMember=trueYoutube: www.youtube.com/channel/UChYrpCUlqFYLy4HngRrmU9QConnect with JamieLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-bateman-5359a811/Twitter: twitter.com/batemanjames

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Why Focus and Relationships Beat Opportunity: Matt Stevens on Real Estate Failure and Franchising Success

Apr 2100:53:24Tap to summarize

In this episode of From Adversity to Abundance, host Jamie Bateman sits down with Matt Stevens, known as “the franchise guy,” for a candid conversation about business, real estate, and the realities behind both. Matt shares his early entrepreneurial success—building a painting franchise to 5,000 hours in just three months—before opening up about his much tougher experience in real estate, where fires, insurance issues, and other setbacks led to roughly $50,000 in losses. This episode offers a grounded perspective that challenges the idea of any “perfect” investment strategy.After stepping away from real estate, Matt refocused on his franchise consulting business, where clarity and focus led to massive growth—ultimately increasing his revenue sixfold. He breaks down his relationship-first approach to helping clients find the right franchise opportunities, along with practical insights on financial requirements, time commitments, and what makes a strong candidate. The conversation also explores industries poised for growth, particularly service-based and healthcare sectors, making this episode both a reality check and a forward-looking guide for investors and entrepreneurs.Guest Introduction: Matt Stevens Matt Stevens, known as “the franchise guy,” is a franchise consultant and business strategist who helps individuals identify and invest in franchise opportunities aligned with their goals. With decades of experience across industries, he focuses on relationship-driven guidance, helping clients make informed, strategic decisions about business ownership.Episode Highlights:Real Estate Reality Check – Matt shares how he lost around $50K due to fires, insurance issues, and property challengesEarly Entrepreneurial Success – Growing a painting franchise to 5,000 hours in just three monthsThe Power of Focus – How cutting distractions led to a 6x increase in revenueFranchising as a Path – How Matt helps clients find the right business opportunitiesRelationship-Driven Business – Why Matt prioritizes people over transactionsKey Takeaways:No investment strategy is foolproof—real estate comes with real risksEarly success doesn’t guarantee long-term wins without the right systems and protectionsFocus and simplification can dramatically accelerate business growthFranchising can be a viable path, but requires alignment with financial and lifestyle goalsStrong relationships and honest conversations drive better long-term outcomesLearn More about Matt Stevens:LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamthefranchiseguy/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/heisthefranchiseguy/Website:https://heisthefranchiseguy.com/Learn More about Labrador Lending:Integrity Income Fund:labradorlending.com/passive-investors/Labrador Mentorship:labradorlending.com/active-investors/Asset Management Service:labradorlending.com/hybrid-investors/—Purchase Jamie’s Book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGTWJY1D?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860—Leave us a REVIEW: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-adversity-to-abundance/id1618672867?mt=2&ls=1www.adversity2abundance.com/reviews/new/Connect with usWebsite: www.adversity2abundance.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/labradorlending/Instagram: www.instagram.com/labradorlendingllc/LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/labrador-lending/?viewAsMember=trueYoutube: www.youtube.com/channel/UChYrpCUlqFYLy4HngRrmU9QConnect with JamieLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-bateman-5359a811/Twitter: twitter.com/batemanjames

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Why Real Estate Sucks: Dr. Adam Link on Losing $800K, Breaking the Wealth Myth, and Rethinking Investing

Apr 700:53:47Tap to summarize

In this episode of From Adversity to Abundance, host Jamie Bateman sits down with Dr. Adam Link, certified financial planner and founder of Fireweed Capital, for a candid conversation about the realities of investing and building wealth. Adam shares his journey from post-2008 financial adversity to becoming a multimillionaire, including high-profile career roles at Coinbase and multiple entrepreneurial ventures. He dives into his personal investment challenges, having lost over $800,000 across various real estate deals—including syndications and fraud—offering hard-earned lessons for navigating risk and operational pitfalls in real estate.Beyond real estate, Adam discusses the importance of identifying your investor avatar, understanding risk capacity versus risk tolerance, and aligning investments with personal financial goals. The episode also explores career pivots, salary negotiation strategies, and how leveraging both hands-on experience and professional expertise can support long-term wealth. With insights on AI in finance and practical guidance for tech professionals seeking wealth growth, this conversation blends inspiration with actionable advice for any investor looking to avoid costly mistakes and think critically about their financial journey.Guest Introduction:Dr. Adam LinkDr. Adam Link is a certified financial planner and founder of Fireweed Capital. With experience in tech, finance, and entrepreneurship—including a key role at Coinbase—Adam has navigated both significant financial wins and losses. He is the author of Why Real Estate Sucks, sharing lessons learned from his $800,000 in investment setbacks, and works closely with clients, particularly tech professionals, to grow and manage wealth strategically.Episode Highlights:From Adversity to Abundance – Dr. Adam Link shares his journey from post-2008 financial struggles to becoming a multimillionaire financial planner and founder of Fireweed Capital.High-Stakes Real Estate Lessons – He recounts losing $50,000 to fraud and $600,000 in a multifamily syndication, offering practical takeaways on due diligence and risk.Investor Avatar & Philosophy – Adam explains the importance of aligning investments with personal risk capacity versus risk tolerance, especially for tech professionals.Career & Wealth Insights – Discussion of career pivots, negotiation strategies, and how AI and hands-on portfolio management play into long-term wealth building.Key Takeaways:Losses and setbacks are part of investing; learning from them is critical to long-term success.Choosing reliable partners and understanding operational risks is essential in real estate syndications.Identifying your investor avatar before choosing asset classes ensures strategy aligns with personal goals and risk capacity.Career moves, negotiation skills, and leveraging professional expertise complement investment strategies for building lasting wealth. Learn More about Adam Link:LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamlink/Website:https://fireweedcapital.com/Company LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/fireweedcapital/Learn More about Labrador Lending:Integrity Income Fund:labradorlending.com/passive-investors/Labrador Mentorship:labradorlending.com/active-investors/Asset Management Service:labradorlending.com/hybrid-investors/—Purchase Jamie’s Book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGTWJY1D?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860—Leave us a REVIEW: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-adversity-to-abundance/id1618672867?mt=2&ls=1www.adversity2abundance.com/reviews/new/Connect with usWebsite: www.adversity2abundance.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/labradorlending/Instagram: www.instagram.com/labradorlendingllc/LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/labrador-lending/?viewAsMember=trueYoutube: www.youtube.com/channel/UChYrpCUlqFYLy4HngRrmU9QConnect with JamieLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-bateman-5359a811/Twitter: twitter.com/batemanjames

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Know Yourself First: Jamie Bateman on Discovering Your Investor Avatar

Mar 300:44:04Tap to summarize

In this episode of From Adversity to Abundance, host Jamie Bateman shares a presentation from the 8th Annual Cash Flow Expo, where he breaks down one of the most overlooked steps in real estate investing: identifying your investor avatar. Too often, investors jump straight into mortgage note investing, rental properties, or passive deals without first asking a critical question—what type of investor am I? Skipping this step can lead to frustration, misaligned strategies, and unnecessary risk.Drawing from his experience at Labrador Lending, Jamie outlines the three primary investor avatars they serve and explains how to determine which approach best fits your goals, risk tolerance, time availability, and desire for control. Whether you focus on notes, rentals, commercial real estate, or passive income opportunities, the principles in this episode will help you align your strategy with who you are—so you can make clearer, wiser investment decisions.Guest Introduction: Jamie BatemanJamie Bateman is a mortgage note investor, fund manager, and founder of Labrador Lending. He is also the host of From Adversity to Abundance, where he helps real estate investors build mental fitness and make informed investment decisions. Through his work with both active and passive investors, Jamie focuses on helping individuals align their investment strategy with their goals, resources, and risk tolerance.Episode Highlights:• The Cash Flow Expo Presentation – Jamie shares insights from his talk at the 8th Annual Cash Flow Expo.• Why Most Investors Skip This Step – The dangers of jumping into deals without first identifying your investor avatar.• The Three Investor Avatars – A breakdown of the core investor types Labrador Lending serves.• Aligning Strategy with Personality – How time, risk tolerance, capital, and control preferences impact your investment approach.• Active vs. Passive Investing – When each path makes sense—and when it doesn’t.• Avoiding Misalignment – How self-awareness can prevent costly investing mistakes.Key Takeaways:• Not every investment strategy is right for every investor.• Identifying your investor avatar creates clarity and confidence.• Self-awareness is a competitive advantage in real estate investing.• Active and passive strategies both work—but only if aligned with your goals and resources.• The best investment strategy is the one that fits you, not what’s trending.Learn More about Labrador Lending:Integrity Income Fund:labradorlending.com/passive-investors/Labrador Mentorship:labradorlending.com/active-investors/Asset Management Service:labradorlending.com/hybrid-investors/—Purchase Jamie’s Book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGTWJY1D?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860—Leave us a REVIEW: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-adversity-to-abundance/id1618672867?mt=2&ls=1www.adversity2abundance.com/reviews/new/Connect with usWebsite: www.adversity2abundance.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/labradorlending/Instagram: www.instagram.com/labradorlendingllc/LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/labrador-lending/?viewAsMember=trueYoutube: www.youtube.com/channel/UChYrpCUlqFYLy4HngRrmU9QConnect with JamieLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-bateman-5359a811/Twitter: twitter.com/batemanjames

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Burned by Financial “Experts”: Robert Rolih on Financial Independence and Ownership

Feb 1700:47:23Tap to summarize

In this episode of From Adversity to Abundance, host Jamie Bateman sits down with Robert Rolih, an international bestselling author, financial educator, and entrepreneur living in Slovenia. This conversation takes a different turn than many past episodes, focusing on financial ownership, personal responsibility, and the hard lessons that come from trusting the wrong “experts.” Robert shares how growing up without much money shaped his drive to build a web development and software business from a young age, finally becoming profitable after five years of persistence.That success, however, was followed by a major setback. After reinvesting nearly all of his business profits with financial experts and gurus, Robert suffered significant losses — forcing a powerful mindset shift. In this episode, he breaks down the three key steps he took to educate himself on investing, how he rebuilt and grew his portfolio, and what he learned along the way. The discussion spans stocks, crypto, and real estate, while also calling out Wall Street and guru culture. Today, Robert runs a lifestyle-focused business that allows him to work flexibly, travel with his family, and experience a level of financial abundance that didn’t feel possible before.Guest Introduction:Robert RolihRobert Rolih is an international bestselling author, financial educator, and entrepreneur based in Slovenia. After building and selling software and web-based businesses, Robert experienced major financial setbacks by relying on financial experts and gurus. That turning point led him to take full ownership of his investing education, rebuild his portfolio, and design a lifestyle-centered business that prioritizes freedom, flexibility, and financial abundance.Episode Highlights:Growing Up Without Money – Robert shares how his early financial background shaped his mindset.Building a Business from Scratch – Five years of persistence before finally becoming profitable.Costly Lessons with “Experts” – What Robert learned from trusting financial gurus.Taking Ownership of Investing – The mindset shift that changed everything.Three Steps to Financial Education – How Robert re-educated himself and rebuilt his portfolio.Rejecting Wall Street & Guru Culture – Why Robert is skeptical of traditional financial systems.Designing a Lifestyle Business – Creating flexibility, freedom, and family time through smarter investing.Key Takeaways:Outsourcing financial responsibility can be costly if you don’t understand what you’re investing in.Taking ownership of your financial education is critical to long-term success.Financial setbacks can become turning points when paired with the right mindset.You don’t need gurus or Wall Street to build financial abundance — education and accountability matter most.A lifestyle-driven approach to investing can create both freedom and fulfillment.Learn More about Robert Rolih:Website:robertrolih.comTwitter:x.com/RobertRolihInstagram:www.instagram.com/robertrolih/Facebook:www.facebook.com/robert.rolihYoutube:www.youtube.com/c/RobertRolihLinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/in/robert-rolih-685a6893/Learn More about Labrador Lending:Integrity Income Fund:labradorlending.com/passive-investors/Labrador Mentorship:labradorlending.com/active-investors/Asset Management Service:labradorlending.com/hybrid-investors/—Purchase Jamie’s Book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGTWJY1D?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860—Leave us a REVIEW: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-adversity-to-abundance/id1618672867?mt=2&ls=1www.adversity2abundance.com/reviews/new/Connect with usWebsite: www.adversity2abundance.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/labradorlending/Instagram: www.instagram.com/labradorlendingllc/LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/labrador-lending/?viewAsMember=trueYoutube: www.youtube.com/channel/UChYrpCUlqFYLy4HngRrmU9QConnect with JamieLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-bateman-5359a811/Twitter: twitter.com/batemanjames

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Rebuilding After Life Disruptions: Dan Deppen on Career Transitions, Family, and Freedom

Jan 2000:51:36Tap to summarize

In this episode of From Adversity to Abundance, host Jamie Bateman sits down with Dan Deppen, owner of Call the Underwriter, a company that works closely with seller-finance and owner-finance real estate investors to help create loans for owner-occupied borrowers. But this conversation goes well beyond underwriting and real estate mechanics.Dan opens up about a season of personal and professional transition that many listeners will find deeply relatable. He shares his experience navigating a recent divorce while simultaneously moving between life as a W-2 employee and entrepreneurship—more than once. Rather than framing these shifts as failures, Dan reflects on how each transition shaped his perspective on work, stability, and what real abundance actually looks like.Today, Dan is building Call the Underwriter with intention, balancing the demands of scaling a business with the priorities of family, flexibility, and freedom of choice. This episode explores the emotional and mental side of entrepreneurship, the realities of starting over, and how abundance isn’t always about doing less—but about having alignment, options, and purpose. Listeners can expect practical wisdom, grounded insights, and an honest look at what it means to redefine success on your own terms.Guest Introduction:Dan Deppen is the owner of Call the Underwriter, a company that supports seller-finance and owner-finance real estate investors by helping structure loans for owner-occupied borrowers. With experience moving between W-2 employment and entrepreneurship, Dan brings a grounded, real-world perspective to business ownership, personal resilience, and redefining abundance through family, freedom, and flexibility.Episode Highlights:Dan’s journey through divorce and major life transitionsMoving from W-2 employment to entrepreneurship—and back againLessons learned from rebuilding professionally and personallyWhat “abundance” looks like beyond money and business growthScaling Call the Underwriter while prioritizing family and flexibilityFinding stability, purpose, and clarity through changeKey Takeaways:Career paths are rarely linear, and transitions don’t equal failureAbundance can be defined by freedom, choice, and alignment—not just incomeEntrepreneurship comes with seasons of rebuilding and recalibrationPersonal challenges often shape stronger, more intentional businessesTrue success is about designing a life that supports what matters mostLearn More about Stephen Predmore:Website:https://fusionnotes.com/LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dandeppen/Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-note-investor-podcast/id1480182717Learn More about Labrador Lending:Integrity Income Fund:https://labradorlending.com/investors/passive-investors/Labrador Mentorship:labradorlending.com/investors/active-investors/—Haven Financial Services:Learn more: jamie.myfinancialhaven.com/—Purchase Jamie’s Book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGTWJY1D?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860—Leave us a REVIEW: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-adversity-to-abundance/id1618672867?mt=2&ls=1www.adversity2abundance.com/reviews/new/Connect with usWebsite: www.adversity2abundance.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/labradorlending/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/labradorlendingllc/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/labrador-lending/?viewAsMember=trueYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChYrpCUlqFYLy4HngRrmU9QConnect with JamieLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-bateman-5359a811/Twitter: twitter.com/batemanjames

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The Wake-Up Call That Changed Everything: Stephen Predmore on Gaining Stability, Clarity, and True Wealth

Jan 600:53:10Tap to summarize

In this episode of From Adversity to Abundance, host Jamie Bateman sits down with Stephen Predmore, a long-time engineer who discovered firsthand how fragile job security can be—and how real estate investing can provide true financial stability.After decades in a W-2 role, Stephen described himself as “fat, dumb, and happy,” comfortable in his career until an unexpected financial blow upended everything he thought was secure. In an instant, his primary income source dried up, forcing him to rethink his entire approach to wealth and security.Instead of retreating, Stephen took action. He began building multiple streams of income through single-family and multifamily real estate investments—first as an active investor, and later by helping others invest passively. Today, he focuses on empowering fellow engineers and professionals to diversify their income and invest with confidence.This episode is deeply relatable and practical, showing how adversity can serve as the wake-up call that pushes us toward abundance. Stephen’s journey highlights how anyone—no matter their background—can take control of their financial future with the right mindset and plan.Guest Introduction: Stephen PredmoreStephen Predmore is a veteran engineer turned real estate investor who helps professionals, particularly engineers, transition from relying solely on W-2 income to building wealth through real estate. Having experienced sudden job loss himself, Stephen now invests in both single-family and multifamily assets and mentors others on creating passive income streams.Episode HighlightsThe Wake-Up Call – How Stephen’s sense of financial security vanished overnight and forced him to take control.From Active to Passive Investing – Why Stephen shifted from hands-on property management to multifamily syndications.Diversifying Income Streams – How he built stability by creating multiple sources of income.Helping Other Engineers Invest – Stephen’s mission to guide fellow professionals toward financial independence.Mindset Shift After Adversity – The lessons that transformed how he views money, risk, and opportunity.Key TakeawaysJob security can be an illusion—diversification is essential for true financial freedom.Real estate investing offers practical ways to build stability outside your W-2 job.Adversity can be the turning point that fuels growth and clarity.Helping others invest can multiply your own sense of purpose and abundance.Learn More about Stephen Predmore:Website:http://www.TalbottInvestments.comInstagram:http://instagram.com/stephenpredmoreFacebook:http://facebook.com/stephen.predmore.7LinkedIn:http://linkedin.com/in/stephen-predmoreLearn More about Labrador Lending:Integrity Income Fund:https://labradorlending.com/investors/passive-investors/Labrador Mentorship:labradorlending.com/investors/active-investors/—Haven Financial Services:Learn more: jamie.myfinancialhaven.com/—Purchase Jamie’s Book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGTWJY1D?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860—Leave us a REVIEW: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-adversity-to-abundance/id1618672867?mt=2&ls=1www.adversity2abundance.com/reviews/new/Connect with usWebsite: www.adversity2abundance.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/labradorlending/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/labradorlendingllc/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/labrador-lending/?viewAsMember=trueYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChYrpCUlqFYLy4HngRrmU9QConnect with JamieLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-bateman-5359a811/Twitter: twitter.com/batemanjames

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Rebuilding After the 2008 Crash: Brad Andrus on Entrepreneurial Drive, the Power of People, and the Future of AI

Dec 2300:56:58Tap to summarize

In this episode of From Adversity to Abundance, host Jamie Bateman sits down with Brad Andrus, a Texas-based entrepreneur who’s built, lost, and rebuilt multiple businesses across both real estate and other industries. Brad’s journey is a powerful story of perseverance, adaptability, and the enduring value of strong relationships.After building a net worth of nearly $1 million by his late 20s, Brad was hit hard by the 2008 financial crash—losing nearly everything and finding himself deep in debt. But instead of walking away, he rebuilt from the ground up. Today, Brad owns and operates several successful companies, proving that setbacks don’t define you—your response to them does.Jamie and Brad explore how early success shaped his mindset, what he learned from losing it all, and how he’s leveraged lessons from failure to grow into a seasoned entrepreneur. Toward the end of the episode, the conversation takes an exciting turn into the world of AI, where Brad shares how he’s helping businesses harness artificial intelligence—without needing to be the “AI expert in the room.”More than anything, this episode underscores the importance of people—how healthy, win-win relationships and collaboration can drive long-term success and fulfillment.Guest Introduction: Brad AndrusBrad Andrus is a Texas-based entrepreneur, investor, and podcast host who has founded and managed multiple businesses in and outside of real estate. After losing nearly everything in the 2008 financial crisis, Brad rebuilt his wealth and continues to innovate—most recently through ventures exploring the practical use of AI in business. His story embodies grit, reinvention, and the power of relationships.Episode Highlights:Losing It All in 2008 – How the financial crash took Brad from millionaire to nearly broke—and the lessons it taught him.Rebuilding from Zero – The mindset and strategies Brad used to climb back and create multiple thriving businesses.Beyond Real Estate – Why Brad expanded into non-real-estate ventures and how diversification fuels his entrepreneurial drive.The Power of Relationships – How genuine, mutually beneficial relationships became Brad’s greatest asset.AI and the Future of Business – Insights from Brad’s new ventures helping companies integrate AI effectively.Entrepreneurial Fulfillment – Why Brad continues to build, create, and lead even after achieving financial freedom.Key Takeaways:Setbacks are inevitable—but how you respond determines your long-term success.Relationships and community are often more valuable than money or strategy.Diversification can lead to greater resilience in business and life.You don’t have to be an AI expert to start using it meaningfully in your business.True abundance comes from creating value, helping others, and staying adaptable.Learn More about Brad Andrus:Website:https://northbridge.inc/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-andrus/Learn More about Labrador Lending:Integrity Income Fund:https://labradorlending.com/investors/passive-investors/Labrador Mentorship:labradorlending.com/investors/active-investors/—Haven Financial Services:Learn more: jamie.myfinancialhaven.com/—Purchase Jamie’s Book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGTWJY1D?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860—Leave us a REVIEW: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-adversity-to-abundance/id1618672867?mt=2&ls=1www.adversity2abundance.com/reviews/new/Connect with usWebsite: www.adversity2abundance.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/labradorlending/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/labradorlendingllc/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/labrador-lending/?viewAsMember=trueYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChYrpCUlqFYLy4HngRrmU9QConnect with JamieLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-bateman-5359a811/Twitter: twitter.com/batemanjames

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The Three Paths to Mortgage Note Investing: How Labrador Lending Serves Passive, Hybrid & Active Investors

Dec 900:23:43Tap to summarize

In this episode of From Adversity to Abundance, host Jamie Bateman takes listeners deep into the world of mortgage note investing—an often overlooked but powerful alternative for investors seeking stability, clarity, and predictable income.If you've ever said: “I want steady income without the volatility.…” “I want control, but not another job…” “I want hands-on upside with real stability.…”—this episode answers that exact call.Jamie breaks down the three types of investors Labrador Lending serves—Passive, Hybrid, and Active—and explains how each can participate in mortgage notes without the confusion or overwhelm that often stops people from getting started. Unlike the inspirational guest interviews the show is known for, this is a highly actionable, clarity-driven episode designed to help investors make informed decisions and take their next step with confidence.Episode Highlights• Why Mortgage Notes Offer Stability & Control Jamie explains why mortgage notes provide predictable returns, reduced volatility, and freedom from property management headaches.• The Three Types of Investors Labrador Lending Serves A breakdown of Passive, Hybrid, and Active investors—and how Jamie determined these categories through real client needs.• The Integrity Income Fund Explained How accredited investors earn an 8–10% preferred return, why the fund has never missed a monthly distribution, and what makes note-backed assets so durable.• Introducing the Asset Management Service Why hybrid investors often get stuck—and how this new service helps them own notes while outsourcing the operational heavy lifting.• One-on-One Mentorship for Active Investors What active investors need to succeed, why many fail without guidance, and how mentorship provides clarity, systems, and mistake avoidance.• Why Mortgage Notes Beat Stock Market Volatility Jamie breaks down what makes notes both stable and scalable for the everyday investor.• Moving From Inspiration to Practical Action Jamie shares why he shifted the podcast toward more actionable episodes and how this one is designed to give listeners a “next step.”Key TakeawaysMortgage note investing offers stability, security, and predictability—without the headaches of managing tenants.Labrador Lending serves three distinct investor profiles, ensuring that nearly anyone interested in notes has a clear path forwardThe Integrity Income Fund provides hands-off monthly income with consistent, transparent reporting.The new Asset Management Service supports investors who want to own notes but prefer experienced operators to manage them.Mentorship accelerates learning, helps avoid costly mistakes, and empowers investors to build long-term systems and confidence.Today’s episode shifts from inspiration to practical clarity—giving listeners real direction for choosing their investing path.Learn More about Labrador Lending:Integrity Income Fund:labradorlending.com/passive-investorsAsset Management Service:labradorlending.com/hybrid-investorsLabrador Mentorship:labradorlending.com/investors/active-investors—Haven Financial Services:Learn more: jamie.myfinancialhaven.comIdeal Project Analyzer:Learn more: labradorlending.com/ideal-project-analyzer—Purchase Jamie’s Book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGTWJY1D?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860Checkout Our Blogs:labradorlending.com/blog—Leave us a REVIEW: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-adversity-to-abundance/id1618672867?mt=2&ls=1www.adversity2abundance.com/reviews/new/Connect with usWebsite: www.adversity2abundance.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/labradorlending/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/labradorlendingllc/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/labrador-lending/?viewAsMember=trueYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChYrpCUlqFYLy4HngRrmU9QConnect with JamieLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-bateman-5359a811/Twitter: twitter.com/batemanjames

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The Three Paths to Mortgage Note Investing: How Labrador Lending Serves Passive, Hybrid & Active Investors