The Flipside with Blake Shultz

How AI, Interior Design & Market Trends Are Shaping Colorado Real Estate | Erica KalkofenIn this episode, we sit down with Erica Kalkofen, a seasoned real estate agent and interior designer with over 16 years in design and nearly a decade in the Colorado real estate market. Erica shares how she blends interior design expertise with real estate strategy to help buyers, sellers, and investors unlock hidden value in properties.We dive deep into the evolving Colorado market, including Denver investment opportunities, new construction trends, housing shortages, and the realities of buying and selling in today’s shifting economy. Erica also discusses how AI in real estate is transforming listing descriptions, market analysis, and even design concepts — and what agents and investors need to know to stay competitive.If you’re interested in:Real estate investment opportunitiesConstruction trends and housing supplySki resort properties like Winter Park and Park CityHome remodeling to increase property valueThe future of real estate agents’ compensation modelsUsing AI tools in real estate and design…this episode is packed with actionable insights.Find Erica online at:ekkitchensanddesign.com  / mymountainrealestate     / ekhome  🔔 Subscribe for expert insights and valuable knowledge🔔    / @blake.shultz  FOLLOW ME TO GET MORE UPDATES!========================================Facebook:   / blake.shultz.9  Instagram:   / blakeshultz  TikTok:   / blakeshultz  ========================================

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Ari Rastegar to unpack his unconventional journey from earning a law degree to becoming a leading voice in commercial real estate investing and entrepreneurship.Ari dives deep into the mindset shifts required to scale, why resilience and failure are non-negotiable, and how health, wellness, and nutrition directly impact long-term business performance. From investment strategies and risk management to building strong teams and cultivating an adaptive company culture, this conversation is packed with insight for investors, founders, and high performers alike.Whether you’re transitioning from residential to commercial real estate, growing a business, or working on personal development, this episode delivers real-world lessons you can apply immediately.🔑 Topics Covered:Commercial real estate investing & entrepreneurshipMindset shifts for scaling and long-term successResilience, failure, and risk managementHealth, wellness, and nutrition for peak performanceBuilding strong teams and business systemsCreating a culture of agility and innovation🔗 Head to rastegarcaptial.com or rastegarinvest.com to learn about some of his team's investment opportunities, as well as @rastegar on social media!🔔 Subscribe for expert insights and valuable knowledge🔔 FOLLOW ME TO GET MORE UPDATES!========================================Facebook:   / blake.shultz.9  Instagram:   / blakeshultz  TikTok:   / blakeshultz  ========================================

In this episode of The Flipside Podcast, host Blake Shultz sits down with Chad Shultz (CEO) and Rob (CTO), the co-founders of Swyvvl, a new nationwide real estate platform designed to make buying and selling homes more transparent, efficient, and cost-effective.Swyvvl is rethinking how buyers, sellers, and real estate agents connect—by reducing unnecessary middle layers, lowering client acquisition costs for agents, and allowing buyers and sellers to share in commission savings. Chad brings decades of real-world experience as a broker operating in the trenches of real estate, while Rob provides the tech and startup perspective behind building a scalable PropTech platform.In this conversation, we cover:-How Swyvvl works and what makes it different from traditional real estate portals-The real costs agents face when acquiring clients—and how Swyvvl addresses them-How buyers and sellers can receive a portion of agent commissions-The “share experience” model and agent bidding explained in simple terms-Why education, transparency, and fairness matter in modern real estateWhat Swyvvl’s beta launch looks like and how agents can join nationwideThe future of PropTech, including AI, blockchain, and innovation in real estateWhether you’re a real estate agent, brokerage owner, home buyer, home seller, or someone interested in real estate investing and technology, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at where the industry is headed—and how new platforms like Swyvvl aim to improve the process for everyone involved.👉 Learn more or sign up: Swyvvl.com👉 Interested agents: Nationwide beta access available now📌 Subscribe to The Flipside Podcast for more conversations on real estate, investing, entrepreneurship, and industry innovation.👍 Like, comment, and share if you found this episode valuable.FOLLOW ME TO GET MORE UPDATES!========================================Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blake.shultz.9Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blakeshultzTikTok: https://www.instagram.com/blakeshultz========================================

In this episode of The Flipside Podcast, Blake interviews real estate investor and entrepreneur Cris Auditore Zimmermann, who began his journey by buying 25 apartments at just 19 years old. Cris reveals how thinking big, investing long-term, and surrounding yourself with mentors and partners can transform your real estate career.We explore the powerful advantages of the German real estate market— including how long-term properties can become tax-free after 10 years— and why cash flow is the foundation of every successful deal. Cris also shares his transition into private equity, the creation of the Medici community, and how lessons from the historic Medici family shaped his approach to legacy and impact.If you're interested in real estate investing, generational wealth, private equity, global markets, networking, or business strategy, this episode delivers massive insight.00:00 Introduction to Cris Auditore Zimmermann05:31 Cris's Journey into Real Estate Investing11:46 The Importance of Thinking Big in Real Estate14:02 Long-Term Investment Strategies in Germany17:40 Navigating Funding and Bank Relationships20:30 Expanding Beyond Apartments: Diversifying Investments22:10 Transitioning to Private Equity Investments26:11 Building a Business Community: The Medici Community28:23 Lessons from the Medici Family30:26 The Value of Mentorship and Partnerships33:00 Cultural Insights from International Experience37:59 The Role of Family in Business and Legacy43:51 Philanthropy and Impact through the Family Foundation47:04 Cris's Books and Closing Thoughts🔔 Subscribe for expert insights and valuable knowledge🔔 Listen to latest episode on YouTube!https://www.youtube.com/@Blake.ShultzFOLLOW ME TO GET MORE UPDATES!========================================Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blake.shultz.9Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blakeshultzTikTok: https://www.instagram.com/blakeshultz========================================

In this episode of The Flipside, Blake reconnects with an old high-school friend whose path has been anything but ordinary. Meet Dr. Viet Vo — Endodontist, former U.S. Naval Officer, and nuclear engineer who served aboard a ballistic submarine before teaching future officers at UVA. Today, he’s a specialist in endodontics practicing in Amarillo, Texas… and a dad of three.Viet shares how his childhood inspiration to pursue dentistry was temporarily put on pause when he entered the Naval Academy, how service shaped his discipline and grit, and how becoming a father pushed him to realign his career with the lifestyle he envisioned years earlier.We dive into:⚓ Life aboard a nuclear submarine and the reality of long deployments👨‍🏫 Teaching and leading future Naval officers🦷 The pivot back to dentistry and the grind of prereqs, dental school, and endodontic residency🤯 Why the mouth is way more complex and sensitive than people realize🧠 How Botox plays a role in treating orofacial pain, TMJ, migraines, and bruxism📈 The business side of dentistry—marketing, patient experience, and competing in a growing market💪 The discipline, structure, and perseverance the military instilled👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The sacrifices his parents made running a small business and how that perspective shapes his own family journeyThis episode is a mix of career twists, family, resilience, and the science behind pain, sleep, and oral health. If you love stories about service, entrepreneurship, healthcare, or navigating big career pivots, this one’s for you.🔔 Subscribe for expert insights and valuable knowledge🔔    / @blake.shultz  FOLLOW ME TO GET MORE UPDATES!========================================Facebook:   / blake.shultz.9  Instagram:   / blakeshultz  TikTok:   / blakeshultz  ========================================

What does it really take to raise over $50M in real estate capital, survive the 2008 crash, and come back even stronger?In this episode of The Flipside, Blake Shultz sits down with Fuquan Bilal, CEO of NNG Capital Fund, to unpack his 26-year journey in real estate—from fixing and flipping in Newark, NJ, to building funds, buying notes, and scaling into impact-driven multifamily across the Southeast.Fuquan shares how he:-Accidentally stumbled into real estate and replaced his salary in just months-Rode the FHA/first-time homebuyer wave pre-2008, then had to completely rebuild after the crash-Used personal development, mindset work, and his family as anchors during the darkest seasons-Transitioned from small multis in New Jersey to larger assets in markets like Macon, GA and Birmingham, AL-Builds communities, not just complexes—partnering with nonprofits, offering financial literacy, and serving low-income and Section 8 residents-Structures owner finance, bridge debt, and Fannie/Freddie loans, plus how his funds work for accredited investors-Raises private money the right way—through relationships, education, integrity, and over-communicationYou’ll hear practical strategies on:-How to rebuild after a major setback (like 2008)-The mindset shift needed to responsibly use other people’s money (OPM)-Single-asset vs. pooled funds and which structure fits which investor-Stabilizing value-add multifamily vs. building high-end luxury spec homes-Simple marketing tactics (including social media ads) to fill C-class units faster-Whether you’re a new investor, a seasoned operator thinking about starting a fund, or a busy professional who just wants to invest passively with trusted operators, this conversation is packed with both strategy and soul.Connect with Fuquan Bilal🔗 Learn more & explore offerings: nngcapitalfund.com(Details on minimums, returns, and accredited investor requirements are on his site.)FOLLOW ME TO GET MORE UPDATES!========================================Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blake.shultz.9Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blakeshultzTikTok: https://www.instagram.com/blakeshultz========================================

PropTech isn’t always kind to outsiders—and that’s exactly why so many great ideas come from insiders. In this episode, Blake sits down with Andrew Ackerman—strategic advisor and head of REACH Labs at Second Century Ventures (the venture capital arm of the National Association of REALTORS®)—to unpack how real estate pros are turning pain points into venture-scale startups.Andrew shares his zig-zag path from consulting to founding startups, running Dreamit’s accelerator, and now helping NAR-backed programs scout and scale construction tech and property tech worldwide. We also dive into his new book, The Entrepreneur’s Odyssey: A Novel Guide to Startup Success—a “business fable” that shows what entrepreneurship feels like when your bank account is shrinking and the product isn’t quite there… yet.What we cover:-Why proptech/construction tech favors industry insiders—and how realtors can leverage that edge-Second Century Ventures & REACH: how the NAR ecosystem connects startups to customers, distribution, and credibility-VC vs. bootstrapping vs. debt: making the right capital choice (and why “skin in the game” matters)-Underwriting a startup without collateral: betting on problem, solution, and team—together-Pricing models explained with a subway ride (freemium, per-use, RBP, share-of-savings)-Building hardware in proptech: smart units, sensors, and heavy equipment realities-The book behind the mic: why Andrew wrote a novel for entrepreneurs (and who it’s for -- The Entrepreneur's Odyssey available on Amazon)🔔 Subscribe for expert insights and valuable knowledge🔔 FOLLOW ME TO GET MORE UPDATES!========================================Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blake.shultz.9Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blakeshultzTikTok: https://www.instagram.com/blakeshultz========================================

In this episode of The Flipside Podcast, host Blake Schultz sits down with Brent Green, founder of Alpha Roofing, to unpack his journey from medical sales to running a multi-million-dollar roofing company.Brent shares how flipping houses led him to launch Alpha Roofing, how he scaled from side jobs to $1M in revenue, and what he learned managing crews, clients, and contracts along the way. From navigating commercial roof coatings and GC licensing to partnering with Sherwin-Williams on large-scale projects, Brent breaks down the mindset and systems that turned his small operation into a thriving business.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, real estate investor, or contractor, this episode is packed with insight on sales, scaling, leadership, and risk-taking—and why betting on yourself might just be the best investment you can make.Check out Alpha Roofing!🔗 http://alpharoofpros.com 🔗 https://www.facebook.com/alpharoofing...🔔 Subscribe for expert insights and valuable knowledge🔔 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrvG...FOLLOW ME TO GET MORE UPDATES!========================================Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blake.shultz.9Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blakeshultzTikTok: https://www.instagram.com/blakeshultz========================================

In this episode of The Flipside, we sit down with Kristen Schmitt-Dykes (Detroit Av) about small business consulting, entrepreneurship, side hustles, and real estate investing. Learn how Kristen scaled and exited a million-dollar business, built a nonprofit, transitioned through corporate, and now helps founders launch with a clear business plan, SWOT, and real accountability.Guest links: detroitav.com | detroitaveconsulting@gmail.comBooks: Mind Your Business; Think and Grow Rich#Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #SideHustle #RealEstateInvesting #StartupTips #TheFlipSidePodcast🔔 Subscribe for expert insights and valuable knowledge🔔    / @blake.shultz  Listen to latest episode to your favorite podcast player!https://open.spotify.com/show/0RQANhu...FOLLOW ME TO GET MORE UPDATES!========================================Facebook:   / blake.shultz.9  Instagram:   / blakeshultz  TikTok:   / blakeshultz  ========================================

Thomas Cox joins The Flip Side with Blake Shultz to unpack how a simple investing habit—$1,000 upfront and $20/month—grew into capital for his first apartment complex. We cover his journey from Birmingham college football coach to entrepreneur: launching MealFit and Table & Time, building a profitable hospital-vending machine business, and scaling into multifamily real estate. Thomas breaks down dollar-cost averaging, cash flow vs. restaurants, property management strategy, and how faith, family, and financial discipline shape smarter decisions—plus a look at infinite banking (cash-value life insurance) as a liquidity tool for investors.👉Fuel Your Business, Feed Your Soul | Helping you focus on the three most important F's in your life: Family, Finances, and Food -- Thomascox.co👉Subscribe to Thomas Cox on YouTube -- https://www.youtube.com/@thomascox4141/featured🔔 Subscribe for expert insights and valuable knowledge🔔 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrvGM0tyK5kzhMcq3uO_FJg?sub_confirmation=1FOLLOW ME TO GET MORE UPDATES!========================================Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blake.shultz.9Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blakeshultzTikTok: https://www.instagram.com/blakeshultz========================================

🚨 New Episode of The Flip Side Podcast! 🚨This week, Jordan shares her powerful story of resilience, perseverance, and financial growth. At 17, her family faced deportation when their visas expired—leaving them with $25,000 in transitional visa costs. From delivering pizzas 🍕 to cleaning houses 🧹, Jordan’s journey is one of sacrifice, grit, and breaking generational cycles.We dive into:✨ Overcoming family challenges & limiting beliefs✨ Becoming the first to graduate & buy a home 🏡✨ How a $100 down payment changed everything✨ Navigating high school struggles, social media scrutiny & building trust through proof of promises✨ The journey from bank teller to mortgage broker, unlocking financial freedom through real estate 💼Jordan’s story reminds us that resilience and resourcefulness can lead to success—even against overwhelming odds.👉 Watch the full episode now on YouTube & Spotify!#TheFlipSidePodcast #RealEstateJourney #ImmigrantStory #FinancialFreedom #Resilience #BreakingCycles #OvercomingAdversity #InspiringStories #PodcastLife #RealEstateInvesting

Join father–daughter duo Matt and Maggie Bearden for an inside look at mortgages, real estate, and smart money moves! 🏡💼Matt brings decades of mortgage industry experience, while Maggie—an intern at ARC Realty and a University of Alabama student—shares her journey from lifeguard to real estate. Together, they reveal how to:✅ Qualify buyers the smart way – starting with your personal budget to set the right monthly payment.✅ Navigate mortgage rates – learn why lenders, brokers, and banks all draw funds from the same source and why rates often look the same.✅ Understand market dynamics – from Fannie Mae’s influence to marketing budgets and sales strategies.✅ Master real estate contracts – practical tips and real-world examples for faster learning.Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a real estate student, or a seasoned investor, this conversation will help you make informed decisions and close deals efficiently.#MortgageRates #RealEstate📲 Subscribe to The Flipside for more expert real estate advice, insider mortgage tips, and career inspirationFOLLOW ME TO GET MORE UPDATES!========================================Facebook:   / blake.shultz.9  Instagram:   / blakeshultz  TikTok:   / blakeshultz  ========================================

🎙️ New Episode of The Flip Side!This week, I’m joined by the incredible Ann March as she shares her exciting transition to the Margaritaville Resort—a major move with big energy! 🌴☀️ But that’s not all…✨SURPRISE! Ann and I are officially teaming up! We’re launching something powerful together, rooted in the concept of *The Golden Handoff*—and we can’t wait to share it with you.You won’t want to miss this one. Hit play and get ready for inspiration, insight, and a big dose of collaboration magic. 🎧💼#TheFlipSidePodcast #GoldenHandoff #PartnershipGoals #MargaritavilleResort #RealEstateTransition #PodcastDrop #AnnMarch #BigNews #FlipSideSurprise

From job security to pipe dreams turned reality—meet Hunter, a former employee who took a bold leap and built his own plumbing business from the ground up. 💧In this episode, we dive deep into:Why he left his "safe" jobHow he started in plumbing with limited resourcesThe challenges of being a first-time business ownerHis advice for anyone thinking of starting a trade businessThis is more than just a plumbing story—it’s about taking risks, betting on yourself, and building a life on your own terms. 💼🔥👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more real-world entrepreneurial stories!📢 Watch now and get inspired to start your own journey.#theflipsidepodcastshow sidepodcast #plumbingbusiness #entrepreneurjourney #quityourjob #smallbusinessowner #plumberlife #startyourbusinesstoday #hunterstory #podcasthighlights 🔔 Subscribe for expert insights and valuable knowledge🔔 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrvGM0tyK5kzhMcq3uO_FJg?sub_confirmation=1

In this episode, I sit down with my executive assistant Amber to unpack what really makes a real estate team thrive. From streamlining systems to building strong partnerships, we dive into the behind-the-scenes work that drives big success. If you're building a team or thinking about scaling, this one's for you.

From capturing once-in-a-lifetime wedding moments to making real estate listings pop, Jamison Skinner has done it all. In this episode, we talk about the passion behind photography, the power of delegation in a creative business, and how AI is shaking up the industry. Whether you're a photographer, entrepreneur, or just love great visuals, this one's for you!

Residential and commercial real estate may share the same foundation, but the game is completely different. In this episode, we break down the key differences, how to transition into commercial investing, and why putting in the groundwork early sets you up for long-term success. Whether you're looking to scale up or start fresh, this is your roadmap to making big moves in commercial real estate!

Chandler Howard went from teaching music to building a thriving real estate investing career—all by embracing mentorship, social media, and relentless hustle. In this episode, Blake and Chandler dive into the power of partnerships, learning as you go, and turning a level 10 worth ethic into a level 10 business. Tune in for an inspiring story of transformation and strategy!

In this episode, Blake Shultz welcomes Jake Maddox, a former athlete turned insurance agency owner, to discuss the intersections of sports, business, and personal growth. Jake shares his inspiring story of moving from a small town to Birmingham, navigating the challenges of college life, and eventually building a successful insurance agency. Listeners will gain insights into the following key takeaways: 1. Embracing Change: How Jake transitioned from a sports career to the business world. 2. Customer Service Excellence: The importance of going the extra mile for clients. 3. Entrepreneurial Spirit: Why Jake chose to create his own insurance agency. 4. Lessons from Sports: How athletic discipline translates into business success. 5. Navigating Challenges: Strategies for overcoming obstacles in both personal and professional life.

In this engaging episode, Thomas Holloway takes us through his remarkable journey from being a military officer to establishing himself in the mortgage industry in Birmingham. The conversation covers: 1. His upbringing in Alabama and the decision to attend the prestigious West Point military academy, where he played football and received his officer's commission. 2. His extensive travels and deployments during his six and a half years of active service, including stints in Texas, South Korea, Arizona, and Georgia, providing a glimpse into the life of a military officer. 3. The challenges of transitioning from a military career to civilian life and the process of deciding to settle in his hometown of Birmingham with his wife and children. 4. His initial apprehensions about entering the sales and mortgage industry and the support he received from his network in exploring career opportunities in Birmingham. 5. The pivotal role played by his friend in introducing him to the mortgage industry, leading him to his current path as a mortgage professional.