Strength in Numbers with Marcus Crigler

The most dangerous place you can be in the business is being in the middle. There are only two winning strategies: one is to stay small and lean, and the other is to get really, really big.In this episode, Marcus Crigler explains why many real estate entrepreneurs get stuck in what he calls the "middle-class business" trap. He shares why businesses often become less profitable during the scaling phase, the hidden costs of growth, and he also challenges listeners to rethink what success really looks like.Listen and enjoy the show!You'll Learn How To:Recognize when business growth is hurting profitability.Decide whether staying lean or scaling is the right strategy for you.Understand the hidden costs and risks of growing a business.Focus on building long-term wealthWhat You'll Learn in This Episode:(01:35) The "middle-class business" has become the most dangerous place for entrepreneurs(03:02) The two business models he sees succeeding today(05:17) Shield to defend yourself in the middle ground(06:16) More stress and risk, less money as you scale(07:02) The hidden cost of hiring, expanding your team, and investing in growth(08:07) The middle is a trap(09:24) There may not be a big exit waiting at the end(12:42) It is not about growing a big business but about growing wealth to reach freedom(13:15) The opportunity to build a great cash-flowing business(13:39) Every growth decision should start with a clear plan and financial projections(15:17) Importance of choosing your path intentionallyWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors who are thinking about scaling their business.Entrepreneurs who are trying to balance growth with profitability.Business owners who are looking to build long-term wealthWhy You Should Listen:If you're planning your next stage of growth, this episode will help you think through the trade-offs before making your move.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

There's no race to being a millionaire. It is a matter of being intentional with your steps, and that intentionality leads you to build more of the life you actually want rather than chasing things that don't really matter. In this episode, Marcus Crigler sits down with real estate entrepreneur Jesse Nguyen.Jesse didn't have the success path that a lot of real estate investors see right off the bat, but he came, struggled, persevered, and now runs a successful hard money business.Listen as they discuss why steady growth beats chasing rapid success, the value of great coaching, and how staying intentional has shaped Jesse's approach to business and investing. Enjoy the show!You'll Learn How To:Build a stronger foundation for long-term business growthAvoid common mistakes that new real estate investors makeKnow when to expand into new opportunitiesGrow your business at a sustainable paceWhat You'll Learn in This Episode:(02:54) Jesse's wholesale flipping business(04:07) The biggest mistakes that nearly caused his business to fail(05:30) How mentorship, accountability, and paying attention to the numbers helped him(07:55) Business is like playing professional sports(08:31) Slow, steady growth creates a stronger business(09:55) Transition to make the business successful(10:53) Finding coaches who are active business operators(11:55) Building a profitable hard money lending business(14:20) The 80/20 approach explained(18:27) The biggest challenges his business is facing today(21:28) Challenge of affordability in today's market(26:13) Keeping cash in the business to build reserves and long-term stability(27:38) Maintaining healthy cash reserves to survive slower months(28:35) Importance of due diligence in every deal(29:38) Jesse's advice on being patient and intentional(31:02) Connect with Jesse NguyenWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors building a wholesale business.Entrepreneurs working through difficult seasons in business.Investors interested in hard money lending.Business owners looking for sustainable, long-term growth.Why You Should Listen:If you're working to build a real estate business that lasts, this episode offers practical lessons you can apply right away.Connect with Jesse Nguyen:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaiIMJesse/ Contact Number: 856-777-6688Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

The number one issue Justin Lovett sees right now is that a lot of times people don't really dig into the numbers deeply or underwrite them correctly.In this episode, Marcus Crigler sits down with Dallas-Fort Worth real estate investor Justin to dive into one of the biggest mistakes investors make today by failing to properly underwrite deals.Listen as they discuss how shifting market conditions forced him to rethink his business and the strategies that have helped him stay profitable through changing markets. Enjoy the show!You'll Learn How To:Adapt your real estate businessReduce risk by underwriting deals more accuratelyBuild wealth through real estateWhat You'll Learn in This Episode:(02:45) What does Justin's business look like?(03:55) The Price Launch Partnership Program(05:39) Why he shifted away from relying solely on fix-and-flips(10:11) Navigating the market that didn't go your way(14:03) Never lose money(14:40) Longevity vs trying to avoid every loss(16:50) The key to getting the deal is to understand the deal(18:02) The two skills Justin believes every successful fix-and-flip investor must master(19:33) His construction experience(20:40) Importance of numbers in construction(23:39) Building wealth through real estate(24:42) Wealth building is using seller financing(27:34) Poor underwriting is still the biggest mistake investors make todayWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors who are navigating a changing marketFix-and-flip investors who are looking to reduce costly mistakesEntrepreneurs who want to build a more resilient real estate businessWhy You Should Listen:Justin Lovett shares practical lessons from years of experience, explaining why adaptability, disciplined underwriting, and smart decision-making are what keep investors successful over the long run.Connect with Justin Lovett:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-lovett-08074a13/ Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

Many business owners have heard the advice: "Don't take business advice from your accountant."But is that really true?In this episode, Marcus Crigler takes a closer look at that common belief and explains why the right accountant should be more than someone who prepares tax returns.Marcus shares why some of the world's most successful entrepreneurs started their careers in accounting, and why combining financial insight with business vision can be a powerful advantage for real estate investors and business owners alike.You'll Learn How To:Understand why the best accountants go beyond filing tax returnsBuild a stronger relationship with your accountantUse financial data to make better business decisionsFind an advisor who helps you growWhat You'll Learn in This Episode:(01:58) Common myth: Don't take business advice from your accountant(03:02) The common criticism that accountants only look at the past(05:02) Should accountants give business advice?(07:13) Successful business leaders who started as accountants(09:53) Why accounting isn't just about math(10:57) The "sixth sense" experienced accountants develop(11:22) The problem of staying silent when problems are obvious(13:25) Accountants not giving business advice is the problem(14:57) The future belongs to accountants who become true business partnersWho This Episode Is For:Business owners looking for more than tax preparationAnyone frustrated with an accountantEntrepreneurs who want better financial insightWhy You Should Listen:This episode explains why that perspective matters and why working with an advisor who helps you understand your numbers can make a significant difference in your long-term success.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In this episode, Marcus Crigler joins the Collective Genius podcast live from Dallas, Texas, to share the financial principles that separate successful real estate entrepreneurs from those who stay stuck in the hustle cycle.Drawing from years of working with top investors across the country, Marcus explains why building wealth isn't just about doing more deals but about managing your money the right way.He introduces the "Straight Line Wealth Formula" and shares why securing your financial foundation is the step many entrepreneurs skip before trying to scale.You'll Learn How To:Build financial stability before scalingStop confusing revenue with real profitUnderstand the difference between hustling and building wealthFocus on net profit instead of just growing revenueWhat You'll Learn in This Episode:(02:04) Translating deals into profit(02:24) Financial peace vs. financial freedom(03:47) Why so many people struggle with the basics as an entrepreneur(04:15) Why entrepreneurs overcomplicate business(05:37) Money creates financial peace(06:43) The importance of staying lean(08:13) The Straight Line Wealth Formula(09:02) The missing step between hustling and scalingWho This Episode Is For:Real estate business owners who are looking to scaleEntrepreneurs who are struggling with cash flowBusiness owners who are focused on long-term wealthAnyone who wants to build a financially healthy businessWhy You Should Listen:If you are ready to move beyond the hustle and build a business that truly supports your life, this conversation is worth listening to.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In this final episode of this tax strategy series, Marcus Crigler and tax partner Kaden Hackney wrap things up by sharing the process they use to help real estate entrepreneurs reduce taxes and build long-term wealth.Listen as they explain why every tax strategy is different, why the right business structure matters, and how smart planning can create better financial decisions.Enjoy the show!You'll Learn How To:Build a tax strategy that fits your businessMaximize tax-saving opportunitiesFocus on wealth-building instead of simply paying less in taxesMake informed financial decisionsWhat You'll Learn in This Episode:(02:15) 2026 is where real tax planning begins(05:30) The three-step tax planning process(06:02) Entrepreneur tax strategies explained(07:19) Paying zero taxes isn't always the goal(11:37) Entity structure comes first in the process of tax-saving strategies(13:31) How technology is improving tax planning(14:16) 70 major tax-saving categories and strategies(16:32) Communication effectiveness tool(18:03) Every tax strategy is unique(20:43) The biggest takeaway from the seriesWho This Episode Is For:Entrepreneurs who are looking for overlooked tax-saving opportunitiesReal estate owners who are facing high tax billsBusiness owners who want a proactive approach to tax planningWhy You Should Listen:Marcus and Kaden explain how a solid business structure, proactive planning, and informed decision-making can help real estate entrepreneurs keep more of what they earn and build wealth over time.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

You can unlock valuable tax savings even if you are building something inside your real estate business, like your own software, AI tools, or internal systems.In the final episode of this tax strategy series, Marcus Crigler is joined by tax partner Kaden Hackney to break down one of the most overlooked opportunities available to real estate entrepreneurs.Listen as they explain what the Research & Development (R&D) Tax Credit is all about,  how it can apply to innovative real estate businesses, and what kinds of projects may qualify.Enjoy the show!You'll Learn How To:Understand what the R&D Tax Credit isIdentify projects inside your business that may qualifyTrack development time and expenses correctlyTake advantage of recent tax law changesWhat You'll Learn in This Episode:(03:49) What the R&D Tax Credit is(05:31) What type of expense is an R&D type expense(07:34) AI tools, software, and custom systems can create tax opportunities(09:46) How business owners can document their own development time(11:05) Applying this tax strategy in 2026(12:35) Recent tax law changes that make R&D deductions more valuable(14:00) Final thoughts from the seven-part tax strategy seriesWho This Episode is For:Real estate investors building custom business systemsHouse flippers using AI or automationBusiness owners creating internal toolsEntrepreneurs looking for overlooked tax-saving opportunitiesWhy You Should Listen:If you are developing software, AI workflows, or proprietary systems inside your business, you may qualify for deductions and tax credits that could significantly reduce your tax bill. This episode explains the basics, highlights recent tax law updates, and helps you understand whether it's worth exploring with your CPA or tax advisor.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In Part 6 of the Tax Strategy Series, Marcus Crigler explains how the choice between cash-basis and accrual-basis accounting can affect when income is recognized and taxed.Listen as Marcus breaks down the differences between cash and accrual accounting in simple terms, explains how coaching revenue is treated under each method, and shares why some business owners may be paying taxes on income before they've fully delivered their services.You'll Learn How To:Understand the difference between cash-basis and accrual-basis accountingRecognize how coaching revenue is taxed under each methodIdentify situations where accrual accounting may lower current-year taxable incomeEvaluate whether changing accounting methods could benefit your businessWhat You'll Learn in This Episode:(03:40) The growing connection between real estate and coaching businesses(05:01) Cash basis vs. accrual basis accounting explained(06:16) How accrual basis accounting works for coaching businesses(07:37) Evaluating what strategy could work for you(08:51) Important limitations before making the switchWho This Episode is For:Real estate investors who offer coaching servicesEntrepreneurs who receive large upfront payments for servicesCoaches interested in improving tax efficiencyWhy You Should Listen:Even if this approach doesn't apply to your business today, understanding the difference between cash and accrual accounting can help you make smarter financial decisions in the future.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

Most investors assume that once the tax year is over, there’s nothing left they can do to reduce their tax bill.In this episode of Marcus Crigler's Tax Strategy Series, he shares another powerful tax strategy that can help real estate investors uncover deductions they may have missed.Marcus breaks down the often-overlooked "263A adjustment" and explains how certain holding costs may be deducted now rather than waiting until a property is sold.Listen and enjoy the show!You'll Learn How To:Understand what a 263A adjustment isIdentify holding costs that may qualify for immediate deductionsReduce taxable income even after the tax year has endedFind overlooked deductions hiding on your balance sheetWhat You'll Learn in This Episode:(02:00) How to reduce your taxable income(03:42) What a 263A adjustment actually means(05:44) The holding costs many investors miss(06:47) Who qualifies for this tax strategy(07:50) A real-life example that saved $20,000 in taxes(09:41) Tax savings can fuel future growth(10:45) The investors who should pay attention to this strategyWho This Episode Is For:Rehabber and developer holding inventory propertiesInvestors who are looking to reduce tax liabilitiesEntrepreneurs who want better cash flow and tax planningWhy You Should Listen:This episode highlights a strategy that could uncover thousands of dollars in missed deductions and help reduce your tax burden.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

Most real estate investors focus on finding more deals, scaling faster, and growing revenue. But according to CPA and CFO Marcus Crigler, many entrepreneurs skip the financial foundation needed to build lasting wealth.In this episode, Marcus joins Brandon Bateman to break down the common mistakes investors make when scaling, the importance of having a clear wealth-building strategy, and why cash reserves matter.If you are a real estate entrepreneur looking to strengthen your finances, improve cash flow, and build long-term wealth, this episode offers practical advice you can apply immediately. Listen and enjoy the show!You'll Learn How To:Build a strong financial foundation before scaling your businessCreate a wealth-building strategyManage cash flow more effectivelyAvoid common scaling mistakes that hurt profitabilityWhat You'll Learn in This Episode:(01:15) Marcus’ background in real estate accounting(03:58) The financial foundation most investors overlook(04:40) First part of financial foundation: Cash(05:14) Second part of financial foundation: Debt(06:19) Good debt vs bad debt(07:19) Four phases of entrepreneurship(09:10) Wealth-building strategy investors should follow(10:28) The three-times fixed expense rule(13:35) What counts as a fixed expense(16:14) Paying yourself consistently as a business owner(19:20) Industry profitability trends(27:25) The key reasons real estate businesses struggle with cash flow(30:23) Why fix-and-flip businesses need a financing arm(34:09) Running wholesaling and flipping as separate businesses(36:27) The most underrated investment for business owners(38:41) The three expense categories every entrepreneur should trackWho This Episode is For:Real estate investors looking to improve cash flowEntrepreneurs preparing to scale their businessBusiness owners who are looking to build a stronger financial foundationWhy You Should Listen:This episode provides a practical framework for managing cash, reducing risk, and building a business that supports long-term financial freedom. Marcus shares real-world lessons from working with hundreds of real estate entrepreneurs and offers strategies that can help you grow without sacrificing stability.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

Many investors replace roofs, HVAC systems, flooring, windows, and other major building components without realizing they may still be depreciating the old assets they removed years ago.In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler reveals one of the most overlooked tax-saving opportunities available to real estate investors: partial disposition elections.Today, he explains how a partial disposition strategy can help investors write off the remaining value of retired assets, resulting in significant deductions that can reduce current-year tax liability.Listen and enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Identify hidden deductions in your rental property portfolioUse partial disposition electionsMaximize deductions from capital improvementsWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(02:12) Strategy for reducing 2025 tax liability in 2026(04:16) The overlooked deduction in replaced property components(05:00) What a partial disposition election actually does(06:29) Writing off the remaining value of an old roof(07:40) Applying the strategy to flooring, HVAC systems, countertops, and more(08:24) The partial dispositions strategy can eliminate future depreciation recapture(10:05) Partial dispositions must be elected annually(11:02) Documentation and records needed to support the deduction(12:19) Investors can still use this strategy before filing their 2025 returnsWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors with rental property portfoliosLandlords who replaced roofs, HVAC systems, flooring, or windowsProperty owners looking for additional tax deductionsWhy You Should Listen:Marcus explains how investors can uncover deductions that may already exist in their portfolios, reduce taxable income, and potentially avoid future depreciation recapture, all by properly accounting for assets that have already been removed and replaced.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler shares another strategy that you need to be aware of to save money in 2025.He reveals one of the most overlooked tax-saving opportunities available to real estate investors, how investors can potentially unlock years of missed deductions without amending prior tax returns, and why strategic tax planning is about much more than simply reducing taxes today.Listen and enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Recover missed depreciationUse Form 3115 to claim deductionsTurn old properties into new tax-saving opportunitiesStrategically time deductions to maximize tax savingsWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(01:24) There are still tax-saving opportunities after the year ends(03:12) Proactive tax planning versus reactive tax strategy(04:44) A real-life case study of an investor facing a large tax bill(06:29) Recovering over $340,000 in missed depreciation(07:08) What Form 3115 and a Section 481(a) adjustment actually do(08:17) Review your depreciation schedule(09:20) Form 3115 and 481A adjustment explained(12:05) Important filing deadlines(14:11) Older properties can still generate valuable deductions(16:30) Tax planning is not about one year; it is about multiple yearsWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors who own properties purchased years agoEntrepreneurs facing high tax billsAnyone looking to maximize deductionsWhy You Should Listen:This episode is a great reminder that smart tax planning isn’t just about filing returns. It is about understanding how and when to use the tools available to build wealth more efficiently.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler continues his tax strategy series by diving into one of the most overlooked ways real estate investors can reduce their tax liability.Marcus explains the critical difference between capitalizing expenses and deducting them immediately, and why understanding that distinction can have a major impact on both your current tax bill and your long-term wealth-building strategy. He also breaks down several IRS safe harbor rules that may allow investors to write off expenses today rather than depreciate them over decades.This episode is full of practical examples that will benefit real estate investors. Listen and enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Maximize deductions across your rental portfolioUnderstand the difference between capitalization and expensingUse IRS safe harbor rules to write off more expensesReduce future depreciation recapture issuesWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(01:31) Strategy number two for reducing 2025 tax liability(03:36) Getting your rental property deductions maximized(04:04) Capitalized vs expensed(05:02) Understanding depreciation recapture(06:53) Repairs and maintenance deductions matter(07:11) Three rules in deducting expenses from your rental portfolio(07:43) The De Minimis Safe Harbor Rule(08:58) The Routine Maintenance Safe Harbor(09:35) The Small Taxpayer Safe Harbor Rule(10:47) How multiple safe harbor rules can work together(11:29) Real-world examples of expenses that may qualify for immediate deductions(12:07) How to review your properties for overlooked write-offsWho This Episode Is For:Landlords managing property repairs and turnoversInvestors preparing their 2025 tax returnsReal estate entrepreneurs looking to maximize deductionsWhy You Should Listen:In this episode, Marcus walks through practical tax strategies that can help investors maximize deductions, reduce taxable income, and potentially avoid future depreciation recapture issues.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

Part 1Today's episode marks the start of a new tax strategy series that will help real estate investors uncover tax-saving opportunities.Listen as Marcus Crigler breaks down one of the most powerful tax strategies in real estate. He also explains how recent tax law changes have reopened opportunities for investors who purchased property in 2025 and why filing under extension can create valuable planning opportunities.Enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Use cost segregation to accelerate depreciation deductionsTake advantage of 100% bonus depreciationReduce your 2025 tax billDetermine whether a cost segregation strategy is right for your situationWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(01:48) Introducing the new tax strategy series to save money on your 2025 tax bill(02:55) How post-year-end tax planning can maximize deductions(04:58) Understanding the impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill(06:26) You can decide how you depreciate your properties(07:50) Accelerated bonus depreciation explained(09:26) How bonus depreciation works(10:26) What a cost segregation does(12:13) How investors can generate large deductions from real estate(13:26) Cost segregation isn't always the right move every year(13:57) Who this strategy is best suited for(14:56) When the strategy may be a mediocre fitWho This Episode Is For:Investors looking to reduce large tax billsProperty owners interested in cost segregation strategiesEntrepreneurs who want to build wealth through tax planningWhy You Should Listen:If you're looking for practical ways to keep more of your money working for you instead of going to taxes, this episode is a great place to start.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

Most real estate investors think the only way to build wealth is to buy more real estate. Brent Daniels disagrees, and he has paid close to a million dollars in taxes in a single year to prove it.In this episode of Strength in Numbers, Brent shares how he went from losing everything during the 2008 financial crisis to building multiple successful businesses.He discusses the lessons he learned from real estate wholesaling, why conversations are the foundation of every successful business, and how he approaches money, taxes, investing, and long-term wealth creation. Brent also shares why he prefers building profitable cash-generating businesses over chasing complicated growth strategies.You’ll Learn How To:Use conversations as the foundation for growing your businessBuild a profitable business without overcomplicating operationsDevelop a simple wealth-building strategyFocus on opportunities that generate cash flow fasterWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(02:25) How Brent rebuilt his life and business after losing everything(05:18) Getting into wholesaling real estate(06:40) The "Talk to People" philosophy(07:51) Talking to people solve 90% of business problems(10:42) Why successful entrepreneurs spend more time communicating than most people realize(14:30) Importance of learning construction in real estate investing(15:27) The difference between fee income, flips, and long-term investing(18:20) Brent's perspective on taxes: Earn more than avoid it(22:25) His simple investment strategy and why he favors the Nasdaq(24:10) The formula he uses to turn businesses into cash-generating machines(26:29) How he balances business growth with family life(30:54) Entrepreneurs should focus on building wealth through simple, repeatable systems(33:28) Wholesaling as an art of finding good deals(36:32) Google PPC as one of the most powerful marketing channels in real estate(40:22) Brent's advice for entrepreneurs: make the call you've been avoiding(41:20) Connect with Brent DanielsWho This Episode is For:Real estate investors who are looking to simplify the path to successEntrepreneurs who are looking to increase profitabilityAnyone interested in building long-term wealth through business ownershipWhy You Should Listen:Brent Daniels offers a refreshing perspective on entrepreneurship. Instead of chasing complicated systems, he focuses on simple principles like talking to people, solving problems, staying profitable, and investing consistently.Connect with Brent Daniels:Website: https://www.talktopeople.com/ Website: https://www.wholesalinginc.com/ Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

There's a lot of white noise in your financials that doesn't matter for anything. A lot of the time, it is what many CEOs are going after.In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler talks with an entrepreneur and financial expert to talk about the hidden financial traps that many business owners fall into while trying to scale.Listen as David Phelps shares why understanding your numbers goes far beyond reading financial statements, and why tracking the right KPIs and recognizing the warning signs are important in your business. These and more in this episode, enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Identify the financial “white noise” distracting youUse KPIs and dashboards to catch financial problemsSeparate ego-driven decisions from long-term financial freedomUnderstand why scaling can become a dangerous trapWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(01:47) Real estate investors are struggling with hidden financial problems(04:36) CEOs are being forced back into operations(08:00) What happens when businesses hit a growth ceiling in their market(09:56) Maximize existing opportunities in your area(11:49) The financial reality behind scaling into multiple locations or markets(13:13) The scaling trap many entrepreneurs fall into(14:28) Understanding your numbers as the biggest advantage in business(16:27) Translating financial statements into key numbers as an alert(18:16) Comparison pushes entrepreneurs into unhealthy growth decisions(19:52) Ego as the real reason most people start a business(21:20) Financial freedom and ego are often confused in entrepreneurship(23:11) The role advisors play in helping business ownersWho This Episode is For:Entrepreneurs who are feeling pressure to growBusiness owners who are struggling with profitabilityReal estate investors who are dealing with financial uncertaintyWhy You Should Listen:This conversation is a reminder that success is not just about scaling but about building a business that supports the life you want. This episode offers a practical and honest perspective that many entrepreneurs need to hear.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

Why do so many business owners still struggle financially even while making good money?For today's episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler answers this question while he shares practical advice on bookkeeping, cash flow, hiring, forecasting, and building long-term wealth the right way.He also explains why financial systems matter and how small mistakes in money management can quietly destroy a growing business.Listen and enjoy!You’ll Learn How To:Build a financial system that supports business growthUse bookkeeping to make smarter decisionsForecast cash flow and plan financiallyAvoid common money mistakes high-income entrepreneurs makeWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(02:19) The real foundation of a successful business is your books and records(03:07) The biggest mistake bunch of coaches make in their books(04:43) The “three-box” wealth-building system(05:27) Magic in building wealth(06:50) The importance of forecasting(09:29) The “3X Rule” to hire safely(11:25) Reserves matter more than most entrepreneurs realize(13:31) The importance of accountability even when the business is doing well(14:17) How to attract clients on a day-to-day basis?(17:15) The financial systems entrepreneurs need before scaling(18:19) Marcus’ biggest takeaway from the Coaching Inc event(20:26) Entrepreneurship can feel lonely without the right community(22:06) Connect with Marcus CriglerWho This Episode is For:Real estate entrepreneurs who want to scaleEntrepreneurs scaling past inconsistent incomeBusiness owners who are struggling with financial systemsWhy You Should Listen:This episode is a strong reminder that making more money doesn’t automatically solve financial problems. Marcus explains why systems, reserves, forecasting, and discipline matter just as much as revenue growth.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In this episode of Strength in Numbers, Marcus Crigler and Kaden Hackney break down the growing buzz around the “Kwong refund” and why it could mean significant money back for taxpayers, especially real estate investors.The discussion centers around a major court ruling involving penalties and interest that the IRS may have been charged illegally during the federally declared COVID-19 disaster period.Listen as they explain what the ruling means, who could qualify for refunds, and why investors shouldn't wait to take action.If you've ever paid late filing penalties, late payment penalties, or IRS interest between 2020 and 2023, this episode is for you.You'll Learn How To:Understand what the Kwong court ruling meansFind out if you may qualify for an IRS refundAvoid mistakes when filing refund claimsWhat You'll Learn in This Episode:(03:43) Marcus introduces the Kwong court ruling(04:28) Over $500,000 in potential refunds for clients(05:34) Tens of millions of taxpayers may qualify for Kwong refunds(07:38) How one taxpayer challenged the IRS(10:03) What does IRS Code Section 7508A mean(12:38) The important timeline for Kwong refunds: January 2020 through July 2023(14:57) Why real estate investors are more likely to be affected than traditional employees(16:52) The IRS is not automatically sending refund checks(17:29) The IRS appeal process and why timing still matters(18:39) Filing a protective claim for refund helps secure your refund rights(19:32) Proper filing procedures are critical when dealing with the IRS(20:24) The July 10, 2026, deadline(21:45) Your CPA should already be discussing this opportunity with you(22:55) How their team helps real estate investors review potential claimsWho This Episode is For:Real estate investors who may have paid IRS penalties/interest during the COVID periodEntrepreneurs who want to know their rights regarding the Kwong refundAnyone curious if they qualify for refundsWhy You Should Listen:Marcus and Kaden simplify a complicated tax topic into a practical conversation that helps investors understand the opportunity, the risks, and the next steps for the Kwong refund. If you have ever wondered whether you have overpaid the IRS, this episode gives you a good reason to check.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler Know more about the Kwong Court Ruling: https://reikwongrefunds.com/ 

In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler sits down with real estate investor and entrepreneur Thach Nguyen to talk about what most investors get wrong when building rental portfolios.Thach shares how he went from selling real estate in Seattle in the early '90s to building a long-term portfolio through BRRRRs, multifamily projects, and ADUs. He also explains why focusing too much on passive income too early can slow people down financially.If you are trying to build wealth through rentals without getting overleveraged or stuck chasing bad deals, this episode is filled with practical advice and real-world perspective. Listen and enjoy!You'll Learn How To:Build long-term wealth through rentalsUse active income to buy and hold real estateUse ADUs and development strategies to maximize property valueManage and evaluate a growing rental portfolio strategicallyWhat You'll Learn in This Episode:(02:29) How Thach built his Seattle real estate business(05:27) Choosing real estate investing over other industries(06:50) From being an agent to becoming a realtor(08:37) The “make money, save money, invest money” mindset(09:24) The real difference between earned income and passive income(11:06) Why Thach believes investors should maximize active income first(14:07) Relying heavily on syndications can become risky(17:15) Generational wealth isn't about giving but teaching(21:58) The biggest challenge investors face today is finding good deals(25:20) ADUs are becoming one of the biggest opportunities in real estate(30:00) Adapting and reinventing strategies as market changes(33:13) How Thach and his wife actively manage and review their portfolio(36:41) How Springboard to Wealth grew into a nationwide investing community(40:48) Obsession and deep market knowledge matter in real estate investingWho This Episode is For:Real estate investors building rental portfoliosEntrepreneurs focused on long-term wealth creationAnyone trying to balance active income with passive income goalsInvestors looking for a smarter approach to scaling real estateWhy You Should Listen:Thach Nguyen keeps the conversation simple, direct, and experience-driven. He discusses what has worked for him over the past 30 years in real estate.Connect with Thach Nguyen:Website: https://springboardtowealth.com/ Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

Self-storage is both a business and a commercial real estate investment. You can double down on both and make it more passive with the right systems in place.Joining us in this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast is a self-storage investor and educator, Bree Hartman, to talk about how she built an $8 million self-storage portfolio starting with one deal she found while pregnant with her daughter.Bree shares how she went from working a W-2 job and running a gym to buying self-storage facilities using SBA loans, partnerships, and simple operational systems. She also breaks down why self-storage can become a strong monthly cash flow business when you focus on finding underperforming facilities and adding value over time.This episode gives a practical look into how self-storage investing works. Listen and enjoy!You'll Learn How To:Use SBA loans and partnerships to buy larger assetsCreate recurring monthly cash flow with self-storage unitsBuild systems that make self-storage more passiveFind good storage deals through Google MapsWhat You'll Learn in This Episode:(02:43) If you want to go fast, find a community, and insert yourself(04:30) Building an $8 million self-storage portfolio in under six years(05:57) From W-2 job to entrepreneurship(07:49) Buying a $3.1 million facility while becoming a new mom(10:06) How to make a self-storage facility a successful model?(10:40) Utilizing SBA loans to acquire your first storage facility(12:18) Turning self-storage into a scalable business with systems(14:06) The truth about “passive income” in self-storage investing(15:24) The three-part framework and operations for storage facilities(17:34) Myths surrounding self-storage investing(19:45) Self-storage works as a subscription-based business(21:15) The “7-11” strategy for increasing rental income(24:05) How Bree finds storage deals using Google Maps(30:20) The importance of learning underwriting and market analysis(31:11) “A storage owner can’t say yes to an offer they don’t have in their hands.”(33:23) Deal finding cheat sheet and storage offer calculatorWho This Episode is For:Real estate investors who want to move from traditional real estate investingBusiness owners who want to explore self-storage investingAnyone who wants to build long-term cash flowWhy You Should Listen:Bree keeps the conversation practical and straightforward. She explains how self-storage investing really works without making it sound overly complicated.Connect with Bree Hartman:Website: https://www.selfstorageschool.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bree.theinvestor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Bree.TheInvestor Get your storage offer calculator by calling 916-579-7209.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

The people who pay the most in taxes are often those who fail to plan, while those who pay the least are typically those who plan all year long.In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler breaks down the real tax strategies that investors and entrepreneurs use to legally reduce what they owe while building long-term wealth through real estate.Listen as he explains the difference between depreciation and cost segregation, and the difference between passive and active real estate investing. He also explains why planning is more important than last-minute filing, and how the tax code rewards entrepreneurship and investment.Enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Use depreciation to reduce taxable incomeUnderstand the difference between passive and active real estate investingOffset passive income with real estate lossesUse tax planning strategiesWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(01:43) How real estate depreciation works(03:15) The difference between cost segregation and bonus depreciation(04:53) Understanding passive vs active investing(06:05) Investing matters more than simply saving money(07:15) What qualifies someone as a real estate professional(08:57) Passive investors still receive major tax advantages(10:08) About Passive Income Generators (PICs)(11:26) Where to find passive income and losses on your tax return(12:52) How spouses can use real estate professional status strategically(14:55) Depreciation is a tax deferral strategy(17:26) How lower future income can create tax arbitrage opportunities(18:44) The tax code favors entrepreneurs and investors(20:28) Why entrepreneurship opens the door to more tax strategiesWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors looking to maximize tax advantagesEntrepreneurs focused on building long-term wealthAnyone interested in reducing taxes legallyWhy You Should Listen:Marcus breaks down how real estate tax benefits work in the real world, why planning matters, and how entrepreneurship and investing can create opportunities that traditional W-2 income simply doesn’t offer.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler continues the conversation on the hidden financial problems that quietly destroy real estate businesses.Listen as they break down why so many investors stay stuck in the hustle cycle, how expanding too fast creates cash flow problems, and why reserves matter more than revenue. They also talk about today’s “earn it” market, where operators can no longer rely on luck and instead need sharper systems, tighter operations, and stronger financial discipline.You’ll also hear practical insights on business ratios, forecasting, taxes, cash flow timing, and what separates investors who survive from those who thrive.Enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Build reserves before scaling your businessTrack the right financial ratios to protect your profitsAvoid cash flow traps that kill businessesCreate a stronger business in today’s marketWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(01:30) The pattern every entrepreneur goes through(02:16) Most investors stay stuck in the hustle phase(03:02) Getting out of the hustle phase(03:43) The “secure phase” in your business(04:44) Why expansion becomes easier with reserves in place(05:06) You grow your expenses with reserves(06:33) The long-term investment stage that real estate investors want to reach(07:09) The problem of expanding the business too fast(09:10) The “earn it” market for investors(14:47) Why today’s market still creates opportunities for strong operators(18:14) Better products and smarter upgrades attract buyers faster(20:50) Lower-priced homes are struggling in today’s market(23:44) The “wine fridge” strategy explained(26:13) Studying the buyer instead of running on autopilot(28:39) Using KPIs and ratios to spot problems early(30:00) Three distinct expense categories in a business(32:26) Understanding current ratio and working capital(34:40) Why forecasting is critical in real estate investing(36:15) The importance of reserves(39:32) How tax strategy changes as income grows(40:34) Bonus depreciation and cost segregation explained(44:47) A real client story about saving taxes while increasing liquidityWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors who are trying to improve profitabilityHouse flippers and operators managing growthEntrepreneurs stuck in survival modeBusiness owners who want stronger cash flow and reservesWhy You Should Listen:This episode is a practical breakdown of what causes financial stress inside growing real estate businesses and how disciplined operators avoid it. Marcus and his guest share real-world strategies around reserves, forecasting, hiring, profitability, and tax planning that can help investors build businesses that survive changing markets.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

There is a hidden financial issue that can kill real estate investors. It is not about deals, funding, or market conditions.In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler sits down with James to unpack a problem most real estate investors don't see coming until it's too late. Poor bookkeeping, unclear cash flow, and a lack of planning eventually led to a painful moment: a tax bill they didn’t expect and couldn’t afford.Listen as Marcus breaks down why this happens, how real estate entrepreneurs unknowingly put themselves at risk, and what it takes to run a real business and not just hustle for deals.Enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Avoid surprise tax bills that can wreck your cash flowUnderstand your numbers to keep your profitsBuild a real financial systemWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(01:47) What a fractional CFO actually does(03:38) Accounting is really about simplifying your life(05:35) The real reason behind the name of the BEC CFO(07:40) The problem with first-time business owners in real estate(08:47) Requirements of the business(09:32) "Box of receipts" doesn't work anymore for sophisticated business owners(11:15) Accounting as the “language of business.”(14:24) Why having the right financial team changes everything(16:29) The common mistake of hiring cheap bookkeeping help(18:31) When to outsource vs. build an in-house finance team(19:33) How a full financial back office supports long-term growth(21:23) Waiting too long to fix your numbers creates bigger problems(22:58) Successful-looking investors still struggling financiallyWho This Episode Is For:Entrepreneurs who don’t fully understand their numbers yetReal estate investors who deal with tax or cash flow issuesAnyone building a real estate business who wants to do it rightWhy You Should Listen:This episode is a wake-up call. Fixing your numbers this early can save you from costly mistakes and set you up for long-term success.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Eddie Speed breaks down a hard truth most real estate investors don’t want to hear. Many landlords with 20, 50, or even 100 properties are still stuck, underpaid, and overwhelmed.Listen as he shares how he built his career by focusing on note investing instead of traditional landlording. He also explains the real math behind rentals, the hidden problem of trapped equity, and why many investors are working harder for smaller returns.Enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Get started with note investingAvoid the common traps that keep landlords stuckTransition from active income to scalable and passive incomeThink like a bank instead of a traditional investorWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(03:01) Introduction to Eddie Speed and his background in note investing(04:49) The reality of “rocks in the road” and why most people quit(06:32) What an owner-financed note actually is(07:08) Working with real estate investors(07:30) The difference between compliant vs risky seller financing(08:50) Some notes are assets and others are liabilities(10:28) Liquidity matters when creating notes(13:50) The tax trap: depreciation and recapture explained(15:15) Seller financing can improve tax strategy(17:21) Rental math vs note math(20:01) Why being the bank can double your income(23:08) The power of reinvesting and compounding income(24:12) Hustler vs investor(26:49) Different ways to structure and sell notes(28:38) The “underserved” buyer market(31:20) The Mortgage Credit Availability Index(34:04) How to seller finance with an existing mortgage(39:06) The future of notes and blockchain technology(45:21) People who don't know their numbers don't know their businessWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors with growing rental portfolios but low returnsLandlords who are feeling burned out from managing propertiesInvestors looking to increase cash flowAnyone curious about note investing and seller financingWhy You Should Listen:This episode challenges one of the biggest assumptions in real estate. Eddie offers a clear alternative path through note investing and seller financing. If you want to stop chasing small returns and start building a scalable, predictable income, this conversation will open your eyes to a different way of investing.Connect with Eddie Speed:Website: https://eddiespeed.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoteauthority/ Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

If your business feels tighter than usual with less cash, slower deals, and more pressure, this episode is a must-listen!For today's episode of Strength in Numbers Podcast, Marcus Crigler sits down with real estate investor Bentley Pugh to unpack what’s going on behind the scenes when a business starts to feel squeezed.Listen as he discusses taking full accountability, resolving cash flow issues, and returning to the fundamentals that built his business in the first place. He also breaks down how he’s restructuring deals, improving financial visibility, and why strong operators win by adjusting when the market changes.Enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Manage cash flow during a business slowdownAdjust deal structures to bring in faster cashBuild multiple income streams within real estateStay disciplined with proper cash managementWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(01:48) Introducing Bentley Pugh and his background(04:34) How infill lot development works in Seattle(05:59) Why rising interest rates slowed the market(07:31) Adapting your business instead of blaming the market(09:44) Land deals are more complex than traditional flips(11:57) Competition and challenges in land acquisition(13:29) Avoiding shiny object syndrome in business(15:09) Vertical integration and deal optimization(16:33) How Bentley got into private lending(19:24) Bentley's "One Big Deal"(20:28) Choosing cash flow over quick profits(25:07) The importance of detailed budgeting per property(26:55) Creating a forward-looking cash flow tracking system(30:08) Bentley's advice for better results in businessWho This Episode is For:Real estate entrepreneurs who are tired of being brokeInvestors dealing with slower deals or tighter marginsEntrepreneurs who feel plateaued in their businessAnyone struggling with inconsistent cash flowWhy You Should Listen:This episode serves as a real-world reminder that small decisions can add up. Taking your foot off the gas, ignoring your numbers, or bending your own rules can slowly create pressure in your business.Connect with Bentley Pugh:Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bentley-pugh-b180504/ Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

Most investors think real estate is all about cash flow. But the ones who actually build wealth? They understand the tax game.This episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast breaks down one of the most misunderstood topics in real estate: depreciation, and how it can legally reduce your tax bill in a big way.You will learn why buying and holding real estate is key, how an appreciating asset can still generate paper losses, and how to utilize these strategies effectively. If you’ve ever heard terms like “cost segregation” or “bonus depreciation” and felt confused, this conversation finally clarifies them.Listen and enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Understand why passive investing isn’t a disadvantageUse depreciation to reduce your taxable incomeAvoid common mistakes that kill your tax strategyThink long-term with strategies like 1031 exchangesWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(00:56) How exactly does bonus appreciation or depreciation work to shelter income?(02:22) What qualifies you as a real estate professional(04:24) Cost segregation explained in simple terms(06:55) Bonus depreciation and how it’s changing over time(09:28) Why cost seg can still work(12:20) The “tipping point” depends on your income level(13:39) Why zero taxes isn’t always the smartest goal(16:30) Other strategies beyond depreciation(17:34) The 1031 exchange that builds long-term wealth(21:47) Cheap properties don’t give real tax advantages(23:26) Powerful strategy: spouse as a real estate professional(27:28) The short-term rental loophole explainedWho This Episode is For:High-income earners who are tired of seeing huge tax billsReal estate investors who want a better strategyW-2 professionals looking to transition into investingCouples exploring ways to optimize income and tax structureWhy You Should Listen:If you are serious about building wealth through real estate and keeping more of what you earn, this episode is one you don’t want to skip.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

If money is coming in, why does it still feel like something’s off?In this episode, Marcus Crigler and Kaden Hackney break down one of the most misunderstood parts of a real estate business: your marketing and sales numbers.Listen as they discuss marketing, one of the hidden secrets in the field, and why marketing is more than just graphics.This episode is all about knowing your numbers, fixing what's broken, and making smarter decisions backed by data. Enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Track your real return on ad spendBreak down your sales funnel from lead to closeUse data to fix your marketingImprove conversions without overspendingWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(03:00) Marketing is a numbers game(05:27) What does a sales funnel look like?(06:01) Why ROAS matters(08:14) The real estate funnel(11:02) How bad data leads to bad decisions(13:29) Maximizing your return on ad spend(13:52) Tracking performance by marketing channel(15:27) Treating marketing like a science experiment(21:32) What “good” conversion rates actually look like(24:03) How to identify what’s really broken(27:03) Real example: fixing a drop in appointment rates using data(32:10) Closing deals, not just contracts, is what really matters(34:40) The role of integrity and reputation in long-term successWho This Episode is For:Real estate investors who feel stuck or inconsistentBusiness owners who don’t fully understand their numbersAnyone spending on marketing but unsure what’s workingWhy You Should Listen:This episode helps you zoom out, and if you understand where the breakdown is: marketing, sales, or operations, you can fix it fast and stop guessing.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler sits down with Haim Palman, a seasoned real estate investor who manages his U.S.-based business from Israel. Haim shares his incredible story of running operations even while navigating the daily realities of war and seeking safety in bomb shelters.The two discuss Haim’s professional evolution from a kinesiologist and security director to a full-time real estate entrepreneur. Haim breaks down his transition through various strategies—rentals, wholesaling, and high-end flipping—before finding his "sweet spot" in private money lending. He provides a masterclass on how to transition from an operator to the "bank," prioritizing return on time and emotion to build a predictable, drama-free lifestyle.You’ll Learn How To:Pivot between real estate strategies by identifying when a model (like rentals or wholesaling) no longer serves your desired lifestyle or financial goals.Transition into private money lending with limited capital by utilizing "co-lending" strategies to fund larger deals and increase your ROI.Evaluate deals through three specific lenses: return on money, return on time, and "return on emotion" to reduce business-related stress.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:(03:03) Haim's journey from moving to the U.S. for education to starting a real estate career in San Francisco.(07:07) Why Haim decided to leave a stable career in security to pursue time freedom through real estate.(08:11) The evolution of a portfolio: Moving from California rentals to out-of-state investing and virtual wholesaling.(09:36) The "Independence Day" moment: Firing the boss and the challenges of scaling a high-volume wholesaling operation.(11:10) Shifting to the "Money Side": Why private money lending became the ultimate predictable cash flow model.(20:51) The mechanics of lending: Using co-lenders and points to double your money without needing millions in the bank.(26:00) Risk management in lending: Focusing on single-family homes, specific LTV ratios, and lender-friendly "red" markets.(29:08) The power of repeat borrowers: How to build a system where 95% of your business comes from established relationships.Who This Episode Is For:Real estate investors who feel like they have "created another job" for themselves and are looking for more passive, predictable income streams.Entrepreneurs interested in the mechanics of private money lending and how to act as the bank in real estate transactions.Why You Should Listen:If you are tired of the "headaches" of physical real estate—like the $1,700 water heater that kills four months of cash flow—this episode offers a roadmap to a more streamlined business. Haim Palman proves that with the right systems and network, you can run a highly profitable real estate engine from anywhere in the world, even under the most extreme circumstances.Connect with Haim Palman:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haimmpalman?igsh=N2RxbzR5OGxsZXAw Youtube: https://youtube.com/@hmamane59?si=MZIuiBLSG4Kyg_sN Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: Marcus Crigler on LinkedInFacebook: Marcus Crigler on Facebook

There are only four things that really drive profit in a business. These four spots drive real profitability in your business.In this episode, Marcus Crigler breaks down the four core drivers of profit in any real estate business. Listen as he walks through how small improvements across cost, people, capital, and advertising can quickly double your profit, the practical ways to reduce expenses, avoid costly mistakes, and build a more efficient, scalable operation.Enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Identify the four core levers that drive profitReduce the cost of goods sold without sacrificing qualityIncrease margins by improving systemsAvoid common mistakes that kill your profitabilityWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(01:26) Advertising as a core for-profit driver(03:34) Symptoms that don't tell you the root problem(05:11) What does the cost of goods sold really mean in real estate(06:13) The four main components of COGS(07:38) Overly detailed financials can hurt decision-making(09:28) How to improve margins starting with the purchase price(10:38) Buy box explained(12:39) Why staying in your “buy box” matters(14:10) Maximizing the cost of goods sold(16:48) Why having a standardized materials list saves money(20:15) In-house vs outsourced teams(22:15) Reducing the cost of materials and labor(23:18) Cheap labor often costs more in the long run(27:09) Getting an accounting firm to diagnose your business decisionsWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors looking to increase profitBusiness owners who feel stuck despite strong revenueFlippers who want better control over their costsEntrepreneurs who want efficient and scalable operationsWhy You Should Listen:This episode simplifies what drives profit. Instead of chasing more deals or bigger numbers, Marcus shows how to fine-tune what you already have and turn small improvements into major financial wins.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Krigler sits down with Jason Macht, founder of Whitespace Solutions and an expert in direct mail automation and AI integration. Jason shares his journey from working as an engineer to building multiple streams of income through real estate and tech consulting.They dive deep into how real estate entrepreneurs can leverage AI to streamline operations, reduce overhead costs, and turn unstructured data into actionable insights. Jason breaks down the practical applications of AI agents, the critical importance of secure data management, and why fixing your core business foundation must happen before adding technology. Listen and enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Implement AI to solve actual bottlenecks instead of just chasing the latest tech trendsUse AI agents as a "chief of staff" to monitor systems, score sales calls, and generate daily reportsNavigate the security risks of AI and protect your company's data infrastructureWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(02:51) Jason's transition from an engineering W-2 to real estate entrepreneurship(07:00) Building Whitespace Solutions and addressing the tech gap in real estate(10:37) The three main buckets where AI adds immediate value to operations(16:27) Why AI won't fix a broken sales process or bad business foundation(20:08) Using AI to replace redundant tasks and combat rising labor costs(27:33) The evolution of AI agents and how to train them like real employees(32:47) Navigating the security risks of AI, self-hosted models, and prompt injection(37:59) The first step to making better decisions: centralizing your dataWho This Episode Is For:Real estate business owners looking to reduce overhead and scale through technologyEntrepreneurs wanting to move past Google Sheets and build a secure, data-driven operationWhy You Should Listen:If you feel like your team's costs are skyrocketing while efficiency is dropping, this episode reveals how the right AI tools can act as your ultimate operational lever, helping you make better decisions and build a highly scalable real estate machine.Connect with Marcus Krigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.criglerConnect with Jason Macht:Website:https://www.jasonmacht.com/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonmacht/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jmshoe/

In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler sits down with Amanda Holbrook to break down one of the most underutilized wealth-building strategies available today: self-directed, tax-advantaged accounts.Amanda shares how investors can take control of their retirement funds and use them to invest in what they already know, whether that’s real estate, lending, or other opportunities, all while growing wealth tax-free or tax-deferred.They also dive into practical strategies like HSAs, Roth IRAs, and Solo 401(k)s, and how these “buckets” can be used not just for retirement, but as powerful tools for building long-term, generational wealth.If you’ve ever wondered how to keep more of what you earn and make your money work harder for you, this episode is a must-listen.You’ll Learn How To:Build wealth using self-directed retirement accountsInvest in real estate and other assets using tax-advantaged “buckets”Leverage HSAs, Roth IRAs, and Solo 401(k)s for long-term growthWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(03:27) Amanda’s background and how she got into self-directed investing(06:07) What self-directed accounts actually are and how they work(09:44) Why HSAs are one of the most overlooked wealth-building tools(11:34) How Roth IRAs can be used for flexibility and tax-free growth(17:26) Using Roth IRAs for kids and building generational wealth(22:48) Paying your children and turning income into tax-free investments(28:11) The power of Solo 401(k)s for business owners(30:31) How to invest retirement funds into real estate and lending deals(34:48) Rules to follow when using self-directed accounts(37:16) Amanda’s biggest advice: start now and take actionWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors looking to reduce taxes and build long-term wealthBusiness owners who want more control over their investmentsAnyone who wants to grow wealth faster using tax-advantaged strategiesConnect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler Connect with Amanda Holbrook:Website: https://specializedtrustcompany.comEmail: [email protected]: 505-514-0587Amanda Holbrook

In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler and Kaden Hackney break down the final stage of the wealth-building journey: the invest phase. This is where your business stops being your only income source and starts fueling real, compounding wealth.They walk through the differences between expanding and inflating your business, and how to properly separate your income, reserves, and investments, as well as more about this phase. Listen and enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Build a business that consistently generates investable cashAvoid investing too earlySeparate business income, personal income, and wealth-building capitalWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(01:42) Recap of the hustle, secure, and expand stages(03:00) Investing early is bad advice for entrepreneurs(04:00) Treating real estate like inventory, not trophies(05:56) The importance of diversification beyond real estate(07:25) A real example of overleveraging and getting stuck(09:54) The difference between true investing and survival mode(11:34) Expand vs inflate(13:15) Step 1: Getting money from the business to you individually(13:30) Step 2: Making money from that money(14:14) Turning $100K/month into $80K investable capital(15:27) How assets start creating more assets(17:08) Building an asset engine(19:15) The 4 key business levers that drive growth(22:16) The power of saying “no” to the wrong opportunitiesWho This Episode Is For:Investors who feel overleveraged or financially stretchedBusiness owners who are trying to transition from active income to wealth-buildingAnyone who wants a clear path from income to long-term financial freedomWhy You Should Listen:If you want to build real wealth and not just stay busy, this episode is the shift you need to hear.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Rich Rice shares how a $60,000 wholesale deal ended up being a wake-up call that completely changed how he approached real estate.Listen as he breaks down the difference between making money and building wealth, why so many investors get stuck chasing income, and how shifting to a buy-and-hold strategy can change your financial future.In addition, he also talks about the moment a mentor showed him he may have traded away a million-dollar opportunity.Enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Shift from flipping and wholesaling into long-term wealth buildingDecide when to sell and hold propertiesBuild a rental portfolio even while needing active incomeLeverage community and partnerships to grow fasterWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(03:10) Rich Rice’s background and transition from corporate to real estate(06:02) The $60,000 wholesale deal that changed everything(07:30) Finding financial allies and funding deals creatively(09:31) Starting with just one rental property(10:49) How rental portfolios create compounding wealth over time(11:39) The snowball effect of holding properties(14:42) Lifestyle inflation and the trap of fast money(18:42) The reality behind “looking rich” vs being wealthy(19:38) What most people actually want: simplicity and freedom(21:12) Inside the FIRE Center(23:57) Collaboration beats competition(25:54) The abundance mindset in real estate(30:11) Common traits of investors who succeed long-term(32:11) The importance of asking for helpWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors who are stuck in the deal-to-deal cycleWholesalers and flippers who are thinking about long-term wealthBeginners who want to build a strong foundationEntrepreneurs who want financial freedomWhy You Should Listen:This episode breaks down the mindset shift from chasing income to building real and lasting wealth. You will also learn that holding assets, not just flipping them, is what creates true financial freedom.Connect with Rich Rice:Website: https://firecenterhq.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/firerichrice/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firerichrice/ Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

How much money do you actually need to make in life?In this episode, Kris Kohlstedt breaks down a question most entrepreneurs avoid but desperately need to answer. Instead of chasing bigger deals, more flips, or endless income goals, Kris shares a different approach. It is to define your number, build toward it, and design a life that makes sense.Listen and enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Define your personal “enough” numberShift from chasing deals to creating real long-term wealthUse better financial systems to make smarter decisionsStay profitable even when the market shiftsWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(03:11) What Kris Kohlstedt does in the real estate space(04:17) The mindset shift from chasing profit to helping sellers(05:45) The “commission breath” trap(08:20) Inside their current operation: ~9 deals/month with a lean team(09:34) The “Core Six” concept(11:28) How to stay lean(13:01) Measuring value in non-sales roles(15:49) Practices to improve the financial situation(20:15) What to do when flips stop selling(21:24) Small upgrades that make properties sell faster(23:23) Introduction to the “Aji” philosophy(25:45) How much money do you need to live your life?(30:18) The real goal in the real estate business(31:45) The value you give determines the value you receive(34:04) Better decisions = better results(34:49) The uncommon knowledge defined(35:51) Connect with Kris KohlstedtWho This Episode is For:Entrepreneurs who are trying to figure out their end goalAnyone who are tired of chasing moreBusiness owners looking to run lean without sacrificing growthWhy You Should Listen:This episode offers a different perspective. One where you build intentionally, make smarter decisions, and create a business that supports your life, not the other way around.Connect with Kris Kohlstedt:Website: https://krisandcody.com/ Website: https://propertybuyersar.com/ Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In Part 3 of this series, Marcus Crigler and Kaden Hackney break down what it really takes to achieve consistent $ 100,000 months and why most business owners get stuck before they ever reach that goal.For today's episode, they focus on the expansion phase, where growth becomes intentional, not just with more deals, but with smarter decisions, better systems, and the right people in place.They also call out one of the biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make and the misconceptions about expansion.Listen and enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Scale your business toward consistent $100K monthsUse reserves the right way when hiring and investingStay focused on what’s already workingBuild the right team to support your growthWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(01:26) Expansion phase explained(02:36) Growing business through wise investment(03:21) The difference between revenue and actual cash flow(04:37) You should only grow expenses when you have reserves(08:13) The “right move at the wrong time” problem in business(10:57) Stay in your lane: expand what already works(12:34) The three-legged stool in marketing(15:08) How taxes change when you hit higher income levels(16:54) Why expansion is the time to bring in experts(20:23) Managing profits and moving from monthly to quarterly decisions(22:28) Your goal should be 6 months of reserves or $1M in the bank(24:00) Thinking beyond the deal in front of you(26:00) Growth is uncomfortableWho This Episode is For:Business owners who are making money but not building real wealthAnyone trying to scale without burning cashOperators who are ready to grow smarterWhy You Should Listen:This episode shows you how to expand the right way by protecting your cash, doubling down on what works, and building a business that supports your life.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

Connections are one of the biggest things in the real estate business. Some conversations will be with people that are tire kickers and then some will be actually useful and helpful to you.In this episode, Marcus Crigler sits down with Kirby Nie, a young realtor and note investor who’s early in the game but already thinking long-term. From building connections to shifting into passive income through notes, Kirby shares what he’s learning as he builds his business from the ground up.You’ll Learn How To:Build real connections that lead to dealsShift from chasing income to building long-term wealthUnderstand what note investing is Create opportunities without relying on paid leadsWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:03:42 - Getting started in real estate05:53 - Joining into a brokerage team07:12 - What working hard looks like: Answering your phone, and having conversations09:45 - The problem with paid leads11:52 -  Daily posts, reels for visibility, stories for connection.15:02 - Goals for the year: 24 home sales and 5 notes17:55 - "Rentals are jobs."18:52- What note investing really is20:34 - Real example of a note deal24:20 - How can beginners get started with notes27:53 - The power of small habits28:37 - Connect with Kirby NieWho This Episode is ForReal estate agents who are tired of inconsistent incomeEntrepreneurs who feel busy but not profitableAnyone who is curious about note investingWhy You Should ListenThis episode is a good reminder that working harder isn’t always the answer. Kirby’s story shows that you don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to start building the right habits early.Connect with Kirby Nie:Telephone Number: 417-299-8665Website: https://www.revoirgroup.com/agents/kirby-nie/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/kirby_nie_Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler and Kaden Hackney continue their conversation about what it really takes to build a real estate business that produces $100,000 per month in profit.They started off last week discussing how to build a business to a hundred thousand profit a month through the hustle phase. Now, they are diving into the secure phase.This is the phase most entrepreneurs skip. Instead of strengthening their financial foundation, many businesses jump straight into expansion. This is a must-listen episode. Enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Build a financial foundation for long-term growthAvoid the common mistake of skipping the secure phaseCreate reserves that protect your businessEliminate bad debt and strengthen financial habitsWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(02:03) What is the secure phase, and why do most entrepreneurs skip it(02:58) Choosing safety first accelerates long-term growth(03:52) The marshmallow experiment and the power of delayed gratification in business(06:00) Key steps involved in the secure phase(06:27) The importance of holding three times the business expenses in reserves(07:55) Reserves protect you when the market shifts(09:36) What counts as fixed expenses inside your business(10:18) Marketing should always be treated as a fixed expense(11:16) Why does short-term debt require additional financial reserves(13:26) The risks of carrying large inventories with little cash(16:03) Playing to win vs playing not to lose(16:42) Eliminating bad debt and what qualifies as bad debt in business(21:20) Discipline for risk tolerance(22:03) Getting yourself paid(23:08) Avoiding the “good month vs bad month” lifestyle(25:30) Tax strategies entrepreneurs should begin implementing earlyWho This Episode Is For:Real estate entrepreneurs who are trying to stabilize their incomeInvestors who want stronger financial systemsEntrepreneurs who want to scaleWhy You Should Listen:If you want to grow your business without constantly feeling like you are one bad month away from starting over, this episode will show you the financial habits that make long-term success possible.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

The feast-or-famine cycle is one of the most common frustrations for real estate entrepreneurs, but the reality is that these are the opportunities to get better.In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler sits down with business coach Gary Harper from Sharper Business Solutions to talk about the feast-or-famine cycle.Listen as Gary explains why the cycle isn’t random or caused by bad luck but a result of missing metrics, poor pipeline management, and a lack of operational discipline. He also shares how strong operators track the right numbers to grow during good markets and stay stable when the market shifts.You’ll Learn How To:Break out of the feast-or-famine cycleIdentify where deals are being lost in your sales processMeasure the ROI of your team members and marketing channelsAdapt your business when the market starts to shiftWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(01:58) Introducing Gary Harper and Sharper Business Solutions(03:22) The good days and bad days of entrepreneurs(05:54) Early mistakes in real estate and the impact of the 2008 crash(08:44) Returning to real estate through wholesaling and scaling quickly(11:17) The Rise Business Framework and building companies responsibly(13:11) The feast-or-famine reality many operators are facing(14:23) Downturns are the best time to prune a business(15:40) The lesson behind the book Who Moved My Cheese(18:24) Why the businesses embracing change are the ones winning(19:38) The problem with hiring too many executives instead of producers(22:01) Compensation should be tied to business performance(23:12) The importance of hiring the right people and placing them in the right seats(24:21) Most important metrics in a real estate company(26:39) People problems vs process problems(27:45) The “heart, head, hands, feet” framework(30:07) Purpose and profit indicators(32:21) The conversion benchmarks Gary recommends for healthy businesses(35:28) Tracking daily process indicators vs performance indicators(36:43) Understanding the cash conversion cycle(38:45) The role of the “innovator” inside a business(41:16) Fixing people and processes first before the marketing channel(43:11) Getting better, not bigger(44:30) The “become the box” concept for analyzing how deals move through a system(45:36) Connect with Gary Harper.Who This Episode Is For:Real estate investors who deal with inconsistent deal flowWholesalers who try to stabilize their businessEntrepreneurs who want visibility over their numbersBusiness owners who want to improve systems before scalingWhy You Should Listen:If you want more predictable growth and fewer surprises in your business, this episode breaks down the operational mindset that makes it possible.Connect with Gary Harper:Website: https://sharperbusiness.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-harper-37148967 Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

The tax code isn’t designed to punish investors; it is designed to reward those who understand how to use it effectively.In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler and Kaden Hackney break down a concept most entrepreneurs completely miss when it comes to taxes and wealth building.Listen as Marcus gives a preview of a presentation he’s preparing for a national real estate conference, and the four financial stages every entrepreneur goes through. He also explains why poor bookkeeping creates the “chaos tax,” why reserves matter more than revenue when it comes to expenses, and how the right entity structure can completely change your tax strategy.Enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Play the long-term tax gameAvoid the “chaos tax” that costs entrepreneurs thousandsBuild proper personal and business reservesStructure your business so tax strategy worksWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(02:35) The real purpose behind tax deferral strategies(03:38) Preview of Marcus’s upcoming presentation(05:01) The common problem entrepreneurs face when trying to grow wealth(07:07) The seven rules of the tax game(08:16) Why the tax game only matters if you’re playing the wealth game(08:55) Different stages of the wealth game and different rules of the game(11:16) The danger of comparing your journey to other investors(12:02) Rule #1: Entrepreneurs win the tax game(13:20) Rule #2: Avoid the “chaos tax.”(14:53) Why don’t many investors realize how much money they actually made(16:03) You can't do strategy without clarity(19:05) The secure stage and why most entrepreneurs try to skip it(19:26) Building business reserves before expanding(20:38) Bad debt must eventually be eliminated(22:21) Rule #3: Structure is strategy(26:27) Rule #4: Taking advantage of the entrepreneur’s tax gifts(27:06) Examples of simple tax strategies most people overlook(29:06) Partial dispositions explained(30:05) Moving from the secure stage into the expansion stage(30:48) Expenses should grow with reserves, not just revenue(31:24) The rule of three months of reserves before making new hires(34:30) Introducing the concept of the “tax ladder.”(38:32) Marginal tax brackets matter more than most people realize(39:39) Rule #6: Understanding and using Real Estate Professional (REP) status(40:32) What is a tax shelter?(41:38) Rule #7: Tax savings should fund wealth, not lifestyleWho This Episode Is For:Real estate entrepreneurs who want a better tax strategyBusiness owners who are trying to scaleInvestors who want to build long-term wealthEntrepreneurs who want to understand how the tax system worksWhy You Should Listen:In this episode, Marcus and Kaden explain the framework behind that strategy and the financial stages every serious entrepreneur has to move through to win the long game.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Leon Barnes sits down with CPA and fractional CFO Marcus Crigler to break down what the new “Big Beautiful Bill” means for real estate entrepreneurs.While many investors are celebrating the return of 100% bonus depreciation, Marcus explains why the real story is more nuanced.Listen as Marcus walks through the biggest financial mistakes real estate entrepreneurs make while scaling, why cash generation should come before wealth multiplication, how the new tax rules could create major opportunities for investors in higher tax brackets, and how applying these strategies incorrectly could cause others to pay more taxes.You’ll Learn How To:Use cash generation as the foundation for real estate investingAvoid the common scaling mistakesUse bonus depreciation strategically to accelerate wealthWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(02:06) What Marcus’s firm does for real estate entrepreneurs(03:51) Why working with a real estate tax specialist matters(07:36) Things people miss the most as they are scaling(08:10) About cash multiplication(09:04) The scarcity that makes you miss out on an opportunity(10:49) The four phases every entrepreneur goes through: Hustle, Secure, Expand, Exit(11:27) Most investors skip the “secure” phase and create long-term problems(14:58) The importance of having a strategy(16:32) Clean books alone are not enough; you must understand the numbers(17:35) Using cash flow forecasting to make better business decisions(18:30) The 52-week cash flow forecast(20:18) Challenges from real estate investors on the financial side(22:01) It is easier and faster to scale up than to scale down(25:54) Breaking down the “Big Beautiful Bill.”(27:41) Why a $100K property can create around a $25K tax deduction(35:49) How the new tax brackets reduce overall tax liability(36:49) The larger standard deduction benefits most taxpayers(38:15) The importance of the Qualified Business Income deduction(39:07) How entrepreneurs can claim a 20% deduction on business income(45:50) The least successful people(49:48) The issues concerning the new billWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors who are scaling their businessesEntrepreneurs who want to reduce taxes legally while building assetsInvestors who are trying to understand the new tax lawWhy You Should Listen:This conversation breaks down the real implications of the new tax rules and shows how smart investors use them to accelerate wealth.Connect with Leon Barnes:Website: https://thecollectivegenius.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leon-barnes-79a71652/ Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

A lot of entrepreneurs say they want to hit $100K per month, but when you look at it, most aren’t building a business that can support it.In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler and Kaden Hackney have an honest conversation about what keeps people stuck. They break down what they call the “Hustle Phase,” where you are making money but still feel chaotic.If you want a clear system for managing cash, visibility into numbers, and an intentional tax strategy, this episode is for you.You’ll Learn How To:Move from hustle to structure in your businessSet up a clean financial foundationCreate profitabilityBuild systems that support long-term wealthWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(01:09) Common goal for a lot of real estate entrepreneurs(03:36) The different paths for entrepreneurs(04:39) Not seeing the business from a financial standpoint(07:35) Why most real estate businesses aren’t truly sellable assets(09:06) What the Hustle Phase looks like(09:31) Entity mistakes that quietly cost investors money(12:45) The tax problems most people don’t see coming(16:43) Cash flow is everything in the early stages(17:18) The three core bank accounts every investor should have(18:34) Banking system vs cash management vs accounting system(21:28) Using financial statements to make decisions(25:10) Structure is a discipline, not a one-time setup(27:10) Tax compliance as a growth strategy(29:41) The trap of chasing “sexy” tax strategies too soon(34:30) Weekly scorecards and tracking the right numbers(35:03) How to know you’re moving out of the Hustle Phase(36:39) Insecurity, comparison, and why entrepreneurs sabotage growth(41:06) The process to make revenue matters moreWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors who are tired of inconsistent incomeEntrepreneurs who are making money but feeling financial pressureOperators who want to scaleAnyone serious about building real wealthWhy You Should Listen:If you’re working hard but still not at consistent $100K months, this episode explains why.Connect with Kaden Hackney:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaden-h/ Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, Marcus Crigler and Kaden Hackney break down what it takes to build real wealth and why tax strategy has to be part of the equation from the beginning.The conversation starts with having a clear financial target, and from there, they connect the dots between income, reserves, investing, and using tax strategies to accelerate the path.They also introduce the new Tax Strategy Showroom, real case studies that show how real estate, equipment leasing, and other structured investments can create both wealth and significant tax savings when used strategically.You’ll Learn How To:Set a realistic wealth target that produces financial freedomUse tax strategy to accelerate your pathBuild liquidity and reserves before scaling aggressivelyLeverage structured investments to reduce taxesWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(02:34) The $5 million wealth target(04:35) How $5M at 7% produces $20,000 per month after taxes(09:36) The connection between $20K/month and long-term freedom(10:53) The hustle, secure, expand, and invest phases tie together(12:18) Introducing the Tax Strategy Showroom(14:41) Showing case studies about certain key tax strategies(15:33) Case study #1: Turnkey BRRR strategy(20:16) Case study #2: Mobile home park(23:18) Equipment leasing strategy: Leveraged deductions and 6% returns(26:10) Oil & gas investments: When tax benefits enhance long-term upside(30:00) Charitable strategies and conservation easements done the right way(32:32) Software investments: 6% cash flow plus outsized deductions(34:40) Film investments: speculative returns with major deductions(36:39) Crypto tax loss harvesting and capturing paper lossesWho This Episode Is For:Real estate entrepreneurs who are working toward financial freedomHigh-income earners looking to reduce tax exposureInvestors exploring structured tax-advantaged opportunitiesWhy You Should Listen:If you understand how the tax code works, you can use it to compound wealth. This episode gives you a broad look at what’s possible and why having options and structure makes a difference.Connect with Kaden Hackney:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaden-h/ Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

If you are a full-time real estate investor doing 10 deals a month and you want to get to 20, you need to get in a room with someone doing 20.In this episode of Strength in Numbers, Marcus Crigler sits down with Leon Barnes, VP of Membership at The Collective Genius, to break down what a mastermind really does.Listen as he shares how Collective Genius grew from a single-tier group of 100+ operators to over 500 members across four tiers, and why most entrepreneurs think they need more strategies when what they actually need is better systems, stronger leadership, and the right room.Enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Choose the right room for your current level of businessFocus on revenue-producing activitiesUse peer groups as protection against regulatory and market shiftsBuild leadership systems that support long-term growthWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(02:32) How Leon went from corporate sales to real estate operator to CG leadership(09:27) Joining Collective Genius and were humbled fast(11:38) Growing from 100+ members to 500+(14:24) Attracting the individual you wanted to attract(17:05) What a mastermind actually is and why most investors misunderstand it(19:14) Why you should be in a room slightly ahead of you(22:28) How CG monitors the “pulse” of the industry in real time(24:03) The growing regulatory pressure on wholesalers and investors(28:05) Real examples of laws that could shut businesses down overnight(31:27) The real “secret sauce” members want right now(34:25) Entrepreneur vs. business owner(36:37) The "gunslinger" trap(39:11) The “Valley of Death” most operators hit in years 3–5(41:52) Get around like-minded individuals(43:13) The simple acquisition metrics that drive predictable growth(45:15) Why CEOs are back to running appointments(47:11) How to make better decisions using your own board of advisors(49:17) Connect with Leon BarnesWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors who want to level upOperators who are stuck in the hustle phaseEntrepreneurs navigating market shiftsInvestors considering joining a mastermindWhy You Should Listen:If you want better decisions, better systems, and better long-term results, this episode will show you why you shouldn’t try to build alone.Connect with Leon Barnes:Website: https://go.thecollectivegenius.com/explorecgmembership/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/leon-barnes-79a71652 Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

In this episode of the Strength in Numbers podcast, David Shaw shares how he went from international real estate development to scaling a high-volume fix-and-flip business and eventually transitioning into private lending. But the real takeaway isn’t just the evolution of his business but the philosophy behind it.Listen as he breaks down the simple wealth formula that every real estate investor needs to understand. He also explains why lifestyle matters more than ego, the investor avatar that should shape your business decisions, and the Deferred Sales Trust to simplify your portfolio while compounding returns in the long term.Enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Use debt strategically to accelerate wealthBuild scale the right way in a buy-and-hold portfolioTurn active income into long-term passive incomeSimplify your portfolio without triggering massive taxesWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(02:38) Introducing David Shaw and his background(04:54) How David made more money passively than his corporate job and decided to go all in(06:57) Scaling a fix-and-flip business(07:42) Why lifestyle has always been the priority(10:36) How investors naturally evolve through different financial phases(12:24) Why owning too many small rentals eventually creates fatigue(13:27) Lending produced higher returns than rentals(16:29) Making money vs managing money(18:30) Why most investors eventually transition into lending(21:00) Designing your life first, then building the business around it(23:01) The real monthly income number most families need(26:21) The rule of 5 million bucks(30:53) The wealth formula: Debt × Time × Scale(31:35) Debt is the real asset(35:14) How a Deferred Sales Trust works and why he’s using it(41:29) Pivoting quickly when interest rates killed the flip model(42:46) Listening to your investor base instead of forcing a product(46:23) Success is a marathon, not a sprint(49:16) The key to better decisions: educate yourselfWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors who are focused on buy-and-hold wealthFix-and-flippers who are thinking about their long-term exitEntrepreneurs who want freedomAnyone building toward financial independence through real estateWhy You Should Listen:David’s story is a full-cycle example of what a real estate career can look like, from hustle to expansion, to passive income to strategic investing.Connect with David Shaw:Website: https://fullcyclefunding.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidshaw_rei/ Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

When things are great, everybody likes to stare at the P&L because it looks pretty. Revenue is up, profit looks solid, and things feel good. But according to Marcus Crigler, that’s exactly when entrepreneurs get into trouble.In this episode, he breaks down why the real danger isn’t on your profit and loss statement, but it’s on your balance sheet. Specifically, it’s your cash position and liquidity that determine whether you stay secure or slide backward into survival mode.You’ll Learn How To:Improve your liquidity and current ratioAvoid skipping the “secure” phase before expandingKnow when to slow down and strengthen your foundationUse a CFO to make forward-looking decisionsWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(03:18) What Marcus is seeing in today’s capital markets(05:28) Buy-and-hold looks different with today’s interest rates(06:44) Shorter hold times and lower risk strategies in uncertain markets(08:05) More equity is required in today’s deals(11:22) Marcus on financing real estate properties(14:06) The market’s shift toward strengthening balance sheets(14:43) What the current ratio is and why it matters(16:16) The four phases: Hustle → Secure → Expand → Exit(16:56) The secure phase is the most overlooked step(19:02) The biggest mistake entrepreneurs make before expanding(20:02) How bad debt keeps you stuck in a cycle(23:32) Important role of a good CFO(25:06) Why you need a KPI dashboard with green, yellow, red indicators(28:51) Why you can’t delegate wealth building to a financial advisor(30:20) Understanding the tax consequences of investments matters(30:53) The fear entrepreneurs face during exit(33:21) The expand phase is the right time to prepare for exit(55:39) The power of masterminds and surrounding yourself with strong operatorsWho This Episode Is For:Real estate entrepreneurs who are focused on revenue but tight on cashBusiness owners who are preparing to scaleOperators who have grown quickly but lack financial structureEntrepreneurs thinking about long-term wealth and exitWhy You Should Listen:This episode is a reminder that real wealth is built on a strong foundation. If you skip the secure phase, ignore liquidity, or expand without structure, you risk undoing years of progress.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

The people who win in the business think and live in net, they don't talk about gross. They live in simplicity, not complexity, and they treat hustle as a season, not a lifestyle.In this episode, Marcus sits down with Tom Krol to unpack a hard truth most entrepreneurs don’t want to hear: if you don’t know how to keep money, earning more of it will only amplify the problem.This conversation goes deep into money habits, pressure, scaling myths, stewardship, diversification, and why most entrepreneurs are chasing the wrong metrics.You’ll Learn How To:Stop obsessing over gross revenue and start thinking in netAvoid the “income trap” that keeps entrepreneurs stuckUse simple allocation instead of complicated budgetingBuild wealth without scaling yourself into stressWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(02:43) Who is Tom Krol?(04:28) The biggest mistake young entrepreneurs make with money(05:55) Data, not drama: Why your P&L tells the real story(09:27) Being a good steward of money(11:02) Tom’s personal wealth allocation model (50-20-20-5-5)(12:15) Why diversification matters(13:39) Debt is often misunderstood(14:15) Speak, think, and live in the net(17:15) The number one predictor of entrepreneurial success(17:46) The difference between success and wealth(23:15) Most online flexing is financial smoke and mirrors(24:19) Hustle is a season, not a permanent identity(28:06) You can’t exit hustle without mastering money basics(28:59) The shift from chasing and convincing to attracting and repelling(31:18) Scale vs leads(32:28) What makes someone a great coach(36:27) Coaching business is more scalable, sellable, and profitable(39:10) Things to consider if you want to be a coach(41:23) The simple daily order of operations: Revenue → Fulfillment → KPIsWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors who are stuck in the "make more” cycleEntrepreneurs who are scaling revenue but not building wealthBusiness owners living deal-to-dealCoaches or aspiring coaches who want to build it the right wayWhy You Should Listen:If your lifestyle rises with your income, you’ll always feel behind. But if you master allocation, stewardship, and simplicity, you can build real wealth without building a monster business that owns your life.Connect with Tom Krol:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coaching_inc/ Website: https://coachinginc.com/ Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

Most real estate entrepreneurs expand too fast and pay for it later. They add expenses, hire people, and scale operations before their cash position can support it.In this episode of Strength in Numbers, Marcus Crigler breaks down the 3X Rule: why you should have at least three times your fixed monthly expenses in cash before you expand.He explains how skipping this step can lead to stress, poor decisions, and fragile businesses, and why cash is essential for growth.You’ll Learn How To:Build a cash buffer that protects your businessDecide when you are actually ready to expandStop confusing expenses with growthThink about spending as ROIWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(03:43) What tax strategy really is(06:49) Why year-end tax scrambling no longer works(07:53) Understanding marginal vs effective tax rates(10:15) The simplest bookkeeping setup for new investors(11:31) Separating personal and business finances is non-negotiable(14:43) How experienced operators are shifting in today’s market(17:26) Flipping remains essential to housing supply(21:15) When new construction actually makes sense(24:53) Cash creates opportunity in every market(26:04) Smart places investors are parking cash today(28:18) The four phases of business: Hustle, Secure, Expand, Exit(29:15) You are not a real business owner until you pay yourself consistently(30:19) The 3X Rule explained using real numbers(31:45) “Low is smooth. Smooth is fast.”(32:27) How ROI thinking simplifies every business decisionWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors who are trying to scale responsiblyEntrepreneurs who are feeling cash pressure despite growthOperators who want a predictable incomeWhy You Should Listen:If you have ever felt stretched thin after expanding or unsure when to take the next step, this episode gives you a simple, practical rule to grow with confidence.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

Providing value is a requirement for making money. If you can't provide value, the rest of it doesn't matter. But you also have to understand that the concept of timing is money.In this episode of Strength in Numbers, Marcus Crigler explains why time isn’t what creates wealth but timing.He walks through his own journey from financial stress and six figures of debt to building a business that runs without him, and lays out the four-phase framework that helps real estate entrepreneurs build wealth faster and with less burnout.Listen and enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Stop confusing effort with progressFocus on timing instead of chasing more hoursMove through the four phases of wealth in the right orderBuild toward a clear exit instead of endless growthWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(01:15) Why “time is money” is the wrong mindset for entrepreneurs(02:09) Providing value is required, but not enough(03:09) Focusing on your economy instead of the economy(03:49) Marcus’ early career and financial struggles(06:32) Why getting closer to revenue is the first real shift(08:48) The moment finances finally came under control(10:16) The pattern every entrepreneur goes through(11:51) The straight-line wealth framework explained(14:01) Phase 1: Hustle and finding one repeatable profit model(16:37) Personal financial stability comes first(17:31) Phase 2: Secure. Why does skipping it create chaos?(20:35) Phase 3: Expanding based on reserves, not revenue(23:23) Phase 4: The exit phase(23:54) Why $5M in equity is the real finish line for most investorsWho This Episode Is For:Real estate entrepreneurs who are feeling stuck in a constant hustleInvestors who want financial peaceBusiness owners who are ready to scale without burning outAnyone who wants a clear path to long-term wealthWhy You Should Listen:If you are working harder every year but feel like you are running in circles, this episode will show you how the right timing and the right order can help you reach real financial freedom.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

Many real estate investors blame the market or timing when the numbers don't hit. More often than not, the real issue is a lack of accountability.In this episode of Strength in Numbers, Marcus Crigler breaks down why a lack of accountability keeps investors stuck living deal to deal. He explains the difference between being accountable to actions versus being accountable to results, and why that distinction determines whether your business creates stability or constant stress.You’ll Learn How To:Stop blaming uncontrollable factors for missed numbersShift from action-based accountability to results-based accountabilityIdentify where accountability breaks down in your businessHold yourself and your team to higher standardsWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(02:01) A real-world example of failed leadership under pressure(02:41) Why being the “better team” doesn’t guarantee winning(03:36) Blaming uncontrollables destroys accountability(04:28) The hidden cost of ignoring execution failures(05:08) Why uncontrollable factors are never an acceptable reason(06:27) Accountability to results vs accountability to actions(07:31) The long-term cost of ignoring repeated performance issues(08:39) Why CEOs lose businesses despite being “good at their job.”(10:15) The importance of accountabilityWho This Episode Is For:Business owners who are tired of missing financial targetsLeaders who want better execution and better resultsEntrepreneurs who are ready to take full ownership of outcomesWhy You Should Listen:If you feel like your income keeps rising and falling no matter how hard you work, this episode will show you how true accountability creates stability, clarity, and long-term wealth.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler 

Property management is one of the most misunderstood and most demanding businesses in real estate.In this episode of Strength in Numbers, Marcus Crigler breaks down what it really takes to manage your own properties or run a property management company profitably. He explains why most property management companies struggle and the hidden costs that investors often overlook.You’ll Learn How To:Decide whether managing your own properties makes senseUnderstand the real skill sets required to run property managementAvoid the common financial mistakes property managers makeKnow when a property management business becomes profitableWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(01:30) The most common question investors ask about property management(02:40) The key questions to ask before starting a management company(03:01) The two very different skill sets in property management(04:24) Why owners rarely rave about outsourced property managers(04:47) Where the property management industry falls short(06:07) Property managers don’t operate as fiduciaries(06:44) The truth about profitability in the first 300 units(08:44) Why property management is not a get-rich-quick play(09:12) Buying vs starting a property management companyWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors who are considering self-managing their portfolioOperators who are planning to start a property management companyBusiness owners who want more control over their assetsWhy You Should Listen:If you have ever wondered whether running your own property management is worth the effort, this episode gives you the unfiltered truth.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler