Unconventional with Bill Tessar

Success doesn’t come from doing everything, it comes from doing the right things, with intent and with purpose.   Today’s guest, Alex Bekeza, Loan Originator at Investor Property Loan embodies that philosophy. From his early days in restaurant management to originating over $250 million in DSCR loans, Alex made a rapid and intentional career change into the mortgage industry, rooted in his mission to create long-term security and opportunity for his family.   This conversation dives into saying "yes" to a new opportunity, how to thrive as a loan originator in the world of real estate investing, and why discipline is a true driver of growth. Alex also shares how becoming a father—and raising a child with autism—reshaped his definition of success, pushing him to build not just a career, but a future designed to support the people who matter most.   This is a story about: Making a high-stakes career pivot with confidence Building a thriving business in investment property DSCR loans branding himself as the BRRRR lender Redefining success through family, responsibility, and long-term vision How he got started with his own BRRRR strategy during the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic   If you’re considering a career change, growing in the mortgage or real estate industry, or looking for inspiration on how to align your work with what matters most—this episode is for you.   Get in touch with Alex here: [email protected] Instagram: @alexbekezathebrrrrlender   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on what’s possible.   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/

In this episode of Unconventional with Bill Tessar, Kevin Kim, Partner and Head of Corporate & Securities at Fortra Law, shares how a Craigslist job ad led him into private lending and ultimately to becoming one of the industry’s most trusted legal minds.   Today, Kevin is a nationally recognized expert in mortgage fund formation and a trusted advisor to lenders, fund managers, and investors across the country.   While Kevin’s expertise lies in the legal world, he’s equally known for being a community builder in the industry. Through industry events and his podcast, The Lender Lounge, he’s built a reputation as a connector—someone committed to helping lenders, investors, and operators form meaningful relationships across the private lending space.   You can find Kevin's podcast, The Lender Lounge, here: https://open.spotify.com/show/4hWAoKllVgUQmWJX9elIzo Connect with Kevin via email at: [email protected]   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on what’s possible.   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/

What does Trump’s “big, beautiful” new tax bill really mean for real estate professionals and business owners?   In this special edition episode of webinar-turned-podcast episode, CV3 Financial Services CEO, Bill Tessar, sits down with Tony Watson, renowned real estate tax expert and Managing Partner at Robert Hall & Associates, to break down the most impactful changes in the new tax legislation and why they matter right now. From potential tax advantages to strategic planning opportunities, Tony explains how savvy real estate professionals and business owners can position themselves to benefit.   Whether you’re an investor, broker, or entrepreneur, this conversation offers clear insights, practical takeaways, and expert perspective on how this sweeping tax bill could reshape your financial strategy.   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on what’s possible.   -- If you're interested in getting a free 30 minute online or in-person consultation, head to RobertHallTaxes.com and click on new consultation! -- You can also reach out to Tony here: [email protected]   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/   Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the program participants and do not necessarily reflect the official position of CV3 Financial Services, LLC. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. Please consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisor for tax advice.

When legal expertise meets technology, transformation follows.   In this episode of Unconventional with Bill Tessar, Nema Daghbandan, Partner at Fortra Law and CEO of Lightning Docs, shares his journey from practicing law in the early days of private lending to pioneering a technology-driven revolution in how deals get done.   When the financial crisis hit, Nema’s first job in law school disappeared overnight. But that setback led him to a new opportunity — one that placed him at the forefront of an emerging financing sector: private lending. What began as a pivot soon became a defining moment, helping shape the modern private lending industry as we know it today.   Now, he’s leading the charge again — this time with Lightning Docs™, a next-generation platform that uses AI and automation to streamline loan documents, reduce risk, and unlock new levels of efficiency for lenders nationwide. Nema’s story is proof of the challenges that disrupt us often become the opportunities that define us.   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on what’s possible.   For information on Lightning Docs email: www.lightningdocs.ai For more information on Fortra visit: https://fortralaw.com/ Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/   Unconventional with Bill Tessar is a podcast powered by CV3 Financial Services.   . . .   About CV3 Financial Services CV3 Financial Services, LLC (CV3) is a private lender providing business purpose loans for non-owner-occupied properties to real estate investors in 47 states. Financing options include bridge, fix-and-flip rehab loans, rental property financing, and new construction loans. With a digital lending platform designed to simplify the loan process, and all processing, underwriting, funding and servicing handled under one roof, CV3 delivers direct answers and quick closings for clients’ real estate investment financing needs. For more information, visit https://www.cv3financial.com.

Some people chase success; others build lives around purpose... Freeman Sawyer is proof of what happens when you do both. In this episode of Unconventional with Bill Tessar, Freeman Sawyer, Regional Vice President at CrossCountry Mortgage and Founder of Heroes Ranch, shares a his journey of grit, gratitude, and giving back.   From his early days selling cars to becoming one of the nation’s top mortgage producers, Freeman’s path took a dramatic turn after a near-death experience that reshaped his perspective on life and leadership. Fueled by his upbringing on a military base and his family’s deep ties to the armed forces, Freeman founded Heroes Ranch — a 450 acre refuge where veterans, first responders, and families with special needs can recharge and experience a variety outdoors adventures, free of charge.   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on what’s possible.   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/ To support Heroes Ranch: https://www.helpingheroeshunt.org/ For financing support visit: americandreamteam.com

What happens when you take a world built on numbers, data, and analytics — and infuse it with heart, vision, and purpose? In this episode, Bill Tessar sits down with Sean Morgan, Co-Founder and CEO of Forecasa, to explore how data-driven insight and entrepreneurial mindset can transform an industry from the inside out.   From his early days building analytics platforms in oil and gas to launching one of the most talked-about private data platforms in the private money lending industry, Sean shares how he’s turned numbers into narratives — and information into impact.   Together, Bill and Sean dive into the mindset it takes to scale a startup, the power of seeing patterns others miss, and how to use data not just to drive performance, but to build connection and purpose.   Connect with Sean: Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-morgan-05898062/ Website: https://www.forecasa.com/   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/

What if the worst moments of your life became the very experiences that shaped your purpose? In this episode of Unconventional with Bill Tessar, Andrew Reamer—Managing Partner of Carstensz Capital—opens up about surviving an avalanche, a near-fatal boating accident, battling addiction, and clawing his way back from $1.5 million in debt by his twenties. More than a real estate investor or capital strategist, Andrew is a survivor, builder, and relentless seeker of meaning. Packed with gripping stories, hard-earned lessons, and fresh perspectives on resilience, leadership, and success, this conversation will challenge how you think about both business and life.   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on what’s possible.   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/

Not everyone gets a second act—and even fewer choose to create one when they don’t have to. In this episode of Unconventional with Bill Tessar, Anthony Geraci, Founder and CEO of Geraci LLP, shares how he’s redefining what legacy and leadership mean. With over two decades of experience as an attorney, entrepreneur, pilot, father, and mentor, Anthony has built businesses and is always finding new ways to connect the people around him. Now, as he re-launches his practice with a renewed vision and a familiar name, he’s charting a bold new course in private lending and legal innovation. Packed with insights on resilience, growth, and continuously raising the bar for yourself, this conversation is a masterclass in expanding success beyond titles and achievements.   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on what’s possible.   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/

In this episode of Unconventional with Bill Tessar our host sits down with Terry Thayer, Owner of Thayer Homes, to talk about his journey from working as a carpenter in his father’s business from a young age to building a company of his own alongside his wife and daughter (full circle moment)!   Terry shares how early lessons from his dad laid the foundation for his own entrepreneurial path, how he built a family-run business alongside his wife and daughter, and how systems and strategy helped him scale with intention. From their journey with home renovations and new construction homes to rebuilding an entire neighborhood to bring more safety - Terry and his wife have built a business rooted in purpose.   Now, beyond building high-performance homes, Terry channels his experience into coaching aspiring real estate investors—compressing decades of hard-won lessons into fast-tracked results for others.   You can find more information about Thayer Homes here -> https://thayerhomes.com/   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on what’s possible.   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/

In this episode of Unconventional with Bill Tessar, we sit down with Meredith Hawkins—a powerhouse entrepreneur, real estate investor, and philanthropist—who’s rewriting the rules of success. Meredith shares how she built a portfolio of high-end rental properties across the globe, used strategic debt as a tool for financial freedom, and crafted a life fueled by purpose and smart investing.   From transforming fixer-uppers into cash-flowing assets to launching her nonprofit, GIVE: Girls Who Inspire, Volunteer and Empower, Meredith opens up about her journey, her mindset, and her mission to give back. Tune in for an inspiring conversation packed with lessons on legacy, financial independence, and living life on your own terms.   You can get in touch with Meredith here -> https://linktr.ee/meredithhawkins   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on what’s possible.   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/

What's one thing that we all have in common? Taxes.   Just in time for tax season, our CEO sits down with Tony Watson, Managing Partner at Robert Hall & Associates to talk tax strategies, predictions for the new administration, and so much more in this month's episode of Unconventional with Bill Tessar.   Like a good book you can't put down or a show you can't look away from, this episode of Unconventional is packed with important things every taxpayer should know. Watch now on YouTube, or listen on Apple Podcast and other podcast platforms.   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on what’s possible.   If you're interested in getting a free 30 minute online or in-person consultation, head to RobertHallTaxes.com and click on new consultation! You can also reach out to Tony here -> [email protected]   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/

In this episode of Unconventional with Bill Tessar, we're joined by Eddie Wilson, CEO of Think Realty and Chairman of American Association of Private Lenders. He shares his story and insights into the world of real estate and business. From over 4,000 doors as a real estate investor to successfully exiting more than 120 businesses, Eddie's story is nothing short of extraordinary.   Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a real estate enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights and actionable takeaways that will leave you motivated.   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on redefining what’s possible.   Want to attend the Think Realty conference coming up on March 27 in Phoenix, AZ? Our Unconventional audience can get 20% off with code: CV3 https://thinkrealty.com/events/tickets/   Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dwrm0ShJLuw   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/  

In this episode of Unconventional with Bill Tessar, we're joined by Bo Belmont whose journey to success is anything but ordinary. Bo shares how a life-altering event—his incarceration—became a turning point, fueling his drive to redefine success and create opportunities for others. He dives into how he used his real estate expertise as a tool to keep himself safe while in one of the most dangerous prisons in the United States.   Bo’s unfiltered account of his struggles and triumphs is as inspiring as it is Unconventional. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a real estate enthusiast, or simply someone who loves stories of transformation, this episode is packed with insights and actionable takeaways that will leave you motivated.   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on redefining what’s possible.   Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWkeYvNsm27ToY5VCYNbK0YyvuL5HsG0r&si=QW1-dQw-fBp6B-XZ   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/

In this episode of Unconventional with Bill Tessar, we're joined by Kip Adkins, a trailblazer whose journey to success is anything but ordinary. Kip’s path in real estate started in the trenches, handling REO dispositions for GMAC and navigating the tough world of evictions. But he didn’t stop there. With an unwavering belief in himself and a true leap of faith, Kip made a bold move when most were backing away—he launched his own real estate brokerage at the peak of the financial crisis.   With no income guarantees, a family to support, and a market in freefall, Kip was chips all in on his vision. His story is a powerful testament to the grit, resilience, and willingness to embrace risk that defines true entrepreneurship. Join us as Kip shares how he transformed obstacles into opportunities and built Diversified Financing Solutions from the ground up. Get ready to be inspired by Kip's Unconventional path to success!   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on what’s possible.   Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWkeYvNsm27ToY5VCYNbK0YyvuL5HsG0r&si=QW1-dQw-fBp6B-XZ   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/  

In this episode of Unconventional with Bill Tessar, we’re joined by Brad Cook, successful entrepreneur and founder of Prestigious Construction and Prestigious Rentals. Brad's career in real estate began years ago when he was a plumbing contractor and started working on real estate projects. He realized that he could use this learned trade and go bigger. With his attention to detail, his discipline, and ability to lead a team - Brad has successfully bought, sold and/or held over hundreds of properties.   Tune in as we explore Brad's unconventional journey, from his humble beginnings to his current role as a business owner, real estate investor and now builder, and discover the key decisions and moments that helped shaped his success.   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on what’s possible.   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/

In this episode of Unconventional with Bill Tessar, we’re joined by Dan Yonker, the driving force behind Yonker Construction Capital and one of Arizona’s top luxury developers. Dan’s career in real estate began 20 years ago as a buyer's agent, and through sheer determination, innovative thinking, and an eye for high-end development, he has risen to the top of the industry. Tune in as we explore Dan’s unconventional journey, from his humble beginnings to his current role as a leading developer, and discover the key decisions and moments that shaped his success.   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on what’s possible.   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/   Connect with Dan: Instagram: @yonkerconstructionaz @yonkergroupaz Email: [email protected] Website: https://yonkergroup.com/

Ever felt like the rulebook for life and business is a little…well, conventional? You’re not alone. Join Bill Tessar, CEO of CV3 Financial Services, as he launches “Unconventional.” In this premiere episode, Bill is joined by his longtime colleagues and friends, Gina Comeaux, VP of Communications, and Matt Flores, EVP of Digital Innovation. Together, they ditch the suits and ties for an honest conversation about the inspiration behind the podcast and dive into Bill's very own Unconventional story that's led him to where he is today. Tune in to learn how Bill rewrote the rulebook on creating your own success, and get inspired to do the same.   About the Podcast: Unconventional inspires wealth through real estate by sharing the raw, unfiltered success stories forged outside the lines. Prepare for a masterclass in overcoming obstacles, defying conventions, and shifting your perspective on what’s possible.   Learn more at: https://cv3financial.com/unconventional/