In this episode, we break down how Mike Zlotnik, known as “Big Mike,” went from a corporate career and chess strategy mindset to becoming a full-time real estate investor, lender, and fund manager. Mike shares how thinking like a chess player helped him navigate risk, structure deals creatively, and build wealth through multiple real estate cycles.

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In this episode, we break down

• How Mike transitioned from corporate life into real estate investing
• Why thinking like a chess player gives investors a massive edge
• The difference between being a lender vs being an owner
• How to evaluate risk in uncertain market cycles
• Lessons from investing through multiple market downturns
• Why capital preservation is just as important as returns
• How private lending funds actually work behind the scenes
• What passive investors misunderstand about real estate funds
• The importance of strategy over speed in investing
• How to “play the long game” in real estate wealth building

Time stamps

00:00 Mike’s background and corporate career
04:20 Why chess strategy applies to real estate investing
09:35 Transition into private lending and fund management
15:10 Understanding market cycles and risk management
22:40 Difference between lenders and operators
29:15 Lessons from past downturns and investor mistakes
36:50 How passive investors should evaluate opportunities
44:30 Capital preservation vs chasing high returns
51:10 Playing the long-term game in real estate
57:40 Final advice for strategic investors

Guest Bio
Mike Zlotnik, also known as “Big Mike,” is a real estate investor, lender, and fund manager with decades of experience navigating multiple market cycles. He specializes in private lending and structured real estate investments, helping investors grow wealth while prioritizing risk management and capital preservation.

Connect with Mike Zlotnik
Website: https://tempofunding.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/popular/mike-zlotnik/

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Podcast Guest Application: https://launchrei.co/podcast/guest-apply/
Mastermind: https://launchrei.co/mastermind
YouTube: youtube.com/@VinceCrane
Website: https://launchrei.co

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LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/vincecrane

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