The Lo-Down

What does it really look like to build generational wealth while being a present parent?In this episode of The Lo-Down Podcast, I sit down with Stephanie Lombardo, a real estate investor who has completed 200+ house flips, scaled a rental portfolio across multiple states, and intentionally built ownership not just for herself—but for her daughter.Stephanie breaks down:• How she bought her 3-year-old daughter a cash-flowing rental property• The exact BRRR strategy she used with zero personal capital• How she scaled 15+ flips at a time• Raising private money and using OPM (Other People’s Money)• Building a high-performance team using virtual assistants• Balancing entrepreneurship, motherhood, fitness, and identity• How to raise a wealthy child without creating entitlementThis episode is a must-watch if you’re an entrepreneur, real estate investor, or parent thinking long-term about time freedom, legacy, and impact.👇 Subscribe for more real conversations on wealth, business, and life.Connect with Stephanie Lombardo:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thestephlombardo/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thestephlombardo/Connect with Lorenzo Mercado:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercadoWebsite: https://www.mercasaventures.com | www.AscentCapital.llc Listen to The Lo-Down Podcast 🎙Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lodown/id1764777761🎙Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983

Serg Lupescu went from living in his car to owning 255 licensed assisted living beds.In this episode of The Lo-Down, Serg shares the raw truth about walking away from nursing to build an assisted living business from the ground up. He opens up about the sacrifices, mistakes, and lessons learned while scaling from his first small facility to a multi-location operation.This conversation goes beyond surface-level success and dives into what it actually takes to choose a harder path, stay resilient through uncertainty, and build something real over time.What we cover:Why he left a stable nursing career for entrepreneurshipThe reality of living in his car while starting his first facilityHow he chose assisted living as his niche and why it mattersScaling from 5 beds to 255 and the systems that made it possibleLocation, licensing, and regulations most people misunderstandPreventing burnout in healthcare-focused businessesUsing social media to build credibility and attract opportunitiesWhy taking action beats perfect planningWhether you’re in healthcare, real estate, or simply questioning the traditional path, Serg’s story is a powerful reminder that the right niche paired with relentless action can change the trajectory of your life.Connect with Serg Lupescu:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/serg.lupescuYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnasdyxsKn0ULRpS4Zi7ZwConnect with Lorenzo Mercado:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercadoWebsites:https://www.mercasaventures.comhttps://www.ascentcapital.llcTimestamps1:20 From Nurse to Entrepreneur5:40 Living Out of a Car While Getting Started13:25 Choosing Entrepreneurship Over Stability21:59 Why Assisted Living Became the Right Niche32:53 Lessons From the First Facility40:39 Thinking Bigger Than the First Win47:38 Transitioning Into Commercial Assisted Living54:45 What New Assisted Living Investors Miss59:01 The Real Challenges of Scaling1:01:58 Building a Positive Workplace Culture1:07:20 How Social Media Changed the Business

Lorenzo Mercado sits down with Hemant Mahajan—Bay Area real estate developer, hard money lender, founder of Newbridge Equity, and author of Buying Back Your Life—to explore what really changes when you operate as both the lender and the investor.Hemant breaks down how seeing deals from both perspectives completely transforms risk assessment, deal structure, exits, and long-term wealth creation. With 15+ years of experience, nearly 100 funded deals, and millions deployed across residential, commercial, and development projects, he shares hard-earned lessons most investors only learn the painful way.This conversation covers:Hard money lending explainedHow lenders actually think when deals go sidewaysStructuring joint ventures using both debt and equityReal-world examples of complex, high-risk dealsBiggest investing mistakes and mindset shiftsBuying back time using real estate and passive incomeIf you want to understand how experienced capital really moves in real estate, this episode is essential.Connect with Hemant:New Bridge Equity: https://newbridgeequity.netlify.app/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meetrajum/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hmahajan/Connect with Lorenzo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercadoWebsite: https://www.mercasaventures.com | www.AscentCapital.llc Listen to The Lo-Down Podcast 🎙Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lodown/id1764777761🎙Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983---Chapters:Chapters:00:00 – Seeing deals as both a lender and investor01:14 – Guest introduction: Hemant Mahajan02:01 – Why Hemant started as a lender, not an investor03:03 – Learning without a mentor in early hard money lending04:20 – What hard money lending actually means05:11 – Interest rates then vs now in hard money06:14 – How borrowers earn better rates over time07:05 – What lenders look for in first-time investors08:30 – Trust, equity, and win-win lending09:12 – When and why Newbridge Equity was formed10:20 – Licensing, usury laws, and scaling lending legally11:24 – What separates Newbridge Equity from other lenders12:17 – Combining debt and equity in joint ventures13:51 – Case study: 9-townhome development deal15:44 – Why flexible lenders matter in construction delays18:03 – Avoiding foreclosure through smarter deal structure19:34 – Why Hemant avoids “lend-to-own” strategies20:29 – How new investors earn JV opportunities22:04 – Red flags that stop Hemant from funding deals23:12 – Why real estate beats stocks and crypto for him25:20 – What most investors overlook in deals26:34 – “Hairy” deals others avoid and why he targets them28:19 – Buying distressed property during active litigation30:25 – Why complex deals offer higher upside31:05 – Biggest real estate loss and lessons learned33:47 – Why losses teach more than wins34:24 – Building resilience and long-term mindset36:39 – Creating freedom with passive income38:31 – From CDs and savings to real estate wealth39:41 – Best advice for W-2 employees starting in real estate40:21 – House hacking and first investment strategies42:48 – Using debt intelligently to grow wealth43:07 – Writing Buying Back Your Life45:16 – Turning money into your employee46:20 – Buying back time through joint ventures48:21 – How many hours Hemant actually works49:14 – Should beginners start as lenders or investors51:23 – Using 401(k)s and passive lending52:27 – Vision for the next 3–5 years54:07 – Why happiness is about the present, not milestones

In this episode of The Lo-Down, Lorenzo sits down with trader and educator Kam Dasani, who became a millionaire by 30 and now trades seven-figure prop-firm capital without risking his own money. But this conversation isn’t about hype or shortcuts — it’s about the mindset, emotional control, and disciplined decision-making that separate the top 1% of traders from everyone else.Kam opens up about the habits that helped him grow a $700K personal account, why 99% of traders lose, and how he built a system that can be executed in under a minute a day. He also breaks down how prop firms actually work, why emotional regulation matters more than strategy, and how Bitcoin’s four-year cycles shape long-term wealth.This is a raw, grounded look at what it really takes to succeed in an industry where most people fail — and how the lessons from trading apply to life, business, and personal growth.KEY TOPICSThe mindset and discipline behind top 1% tradersWhy most traders fail before they even startTrading with $0 of your own capital through prop firmsHow Kam built a $700K personal accountEmotional control, rules, and decision-makingThe truth about “passive trading”Bitcoin cycles and long-term wealth frameworksMentorship, accountability, and escaping the corporate pathConnect With Kam: Instagram: @profitwithkam(https://www.instagram.com/profitwithkam/?hl=en)LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kam-dasani-937005101/Connect with Lorenzo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercadoWebsite: https://www.mercasaventures.com | www.AscentCapital.llc Listen to The Lo-Down Podcast 🎙Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lodown/id1764777761🎙Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983Chapters:0:00 – Intro to Kam: millionaire by 30, unique trading approach1:00 – Why 99% of traders fail2:30 – Emotional control and trading psychology4:00 – Gambling vs trading: what separates pros from amateurs6:20 – Kam’s $700K portfolio + $1M+ prop-firm capital7:00 – How prop firms REALLY work: the catches and advantages10:00 – Exclusive partnership: funding traders in-house12:00 – Who Kam trains and why beginners succeed faster14:00 – Time freedom, remote lifestyle, trading anywhere in the world17:00 – How much time you actually need to trade daily18:00 – Can trading become passive? Where it can and cannot20:00 – If Kam had to invest everything into one thing today22:00 – Bitcoin cycles and why Kam never sells25:00 – How Kam handled family and friends thinking he was crazy28:00 – Kam’s “why” for building wealth and proving doubters wrong30:00 – Empowering others through trading education33:00 – College debt, corporate life, and why most people stay stuck36:00 – Why now is the best time to invest38:00 – Entrepreneurship loneliness vs corporate comfort41:00 – Circle shrinking: why you can't tell everyone your dreams45:00 – Advice for beginners: how to start trading today47:00 – What working with Kam looks like (options + futures training)50:00 – How he used $92K of credit to change his life53:00 – Choosing between active income vs passive income54:00 – Where to find Kam & how to work with him

Darius McClelland has lent out over $620,000 of his own money and built a six-figure passive income business doing it. In this conversation, he breaks down exactly how private money lending works, how he made $20,000 on his first deal without lifting a finger, and why this strategy might be one of the most overlooked wealth-building tools in real estate.He also reveals how one Instagram post helped him raise over $600,000, his exact process for vetting borrowers and protecting his capital, and why transparency is everything when it comes to raising money online.Whether you're sitting on cash you want to put to work, curious about becoming the bank instead of going to one, or just want to understand how private lending actually works behind the scenes, this episode delivers.What You'll Learn:How Darius built a six-figure lending business by deploying $620KThe mechanics of private money lending explained simplyHis step-by-step process for vetting deals and protecting investmentsRed flags to watch for when someone asks to borrow your moneyWhy private lending can outperform rental properties for cash flowHow he raised $600K from a single Instagram reelPayment structures: monthly, quarterly, and balloon optionsScaling from individual loans to starting a fundHow to use social media to raise capital and build trustThe mindset shift required to show up online consistentlyKey Topics:Private money lending | Real estate investing | Social media for capital raising | Building trust online | Self-directed IRAs | Starting a fund | Passive income systems | Lifestyle freedomConnect With DariusInstagram:@dariusmcclelland (https://www.instagram.com/dariusmcclelland/)Connect with Lorenzo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercadoWebsite: https://www.mercasaventures.com | www.AscentCapital.llc Listen to The Lo-Down Podcast 🎙Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lodown/id1764777761🎙Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983

What if you could buy real estate with friends or even strangers without needing $100K upfront or dealing with endless paperwork?In this episode of the podcast, host Lorenzo sits down with Stella Han, Co-founder & CEO of Fractional, to uncover how she’s changing the game of real estate investing.Fractional allows anyone to co-own real estate legally and easily through investment clubs, no accreditation required, no crazy legal costs. Stella shares how the platform has helped investors raise over $400 million, what makes the model SEC-compliant, and how you can start investing smarter today.If you’re an aspiring real estate investor, operator, or entrepreneur, this episode will teach you how to raise capital, build trust online, and grow a community of active investors around your deals.Why Watch This Episode:• Learn how Fractional makes real estate investing accessible for everyone• Discover the future of real estate ownership through community capital• Understand how to build trust and transparency when raising money online• Get inspired by Stella’s story of turning a $50K loss into a $5M startup.-----Connect with Stella Han:Instagram: www.instagram.com/hellastellah/Learn more: www.fractional.app/Connect with Lorenzo:Instagram: www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lorenzo.mercadoWebsite: www.mercasaventures.comwww.AscentCapital.llc -----🎙Listen to The Lo-Down Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lodown/id1764777761Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983-----Timestamp0:00 - Intro: The new way to own real estate1:00 - What is Fractional and how it works3:00 - Raising $400M through community capital6:00 - Why investment clubs beat syndications10:00 - The legal side of Fractional investing14:00 - Typical returns and success stories20:00 - Mistakes new investors make24:00 - Hot asset classes for 202529:00 - Stella’s journey from failure to YC success39:00 - Pivoting from consumers to operators42:00 - The mindset for raising capital47:00 - What’s next for Fractional

After eight years as a travel nurse, Ian Duffy — better known as Scrubs2Estates — walked away from the bedside to pursue real estate investing and multifamily development. In this conversation, we dive into the reality of nursing burnout, the toll healthcare can take on your health and life balance, and the pivotal moments that pushed Ian to step away from a “safe” career to bet on himself. He opens up about the lessons learned from failures, what it really takes to transition into entrepreneurship, and how he’s building long-term wealth and freedom through development projects.If you’ve ever felt stuck in your W-2, questioned whether nursing (or any job) is sustainable for the long haul, or wondered if there’s a path to more freedom, this episode will resonate. Ian’s journey is proof that you don’t have to spend a lifetime in a career that doesn’t fulfill you — and that with action, education, and community, you can build a new life outside of scrubs.-----Things We Talk About in This Episode:Ian’s journey from eight years of travel nursing to leaving the bedside for real estateThe hidden realities of nursing burnout and life inside healthcare during COVIDHow injuries, worker’s comp, and system flaws impact nurses on the front linesThe turning point that pushed Ian to pivot from scrubs to estatesEarly mistakes in real estate and the lessons that shaped his approachWhy multifamily development is a long game — and how to break into itBuilding wealth and freedom by raising capital and creating housingThe importance of community, mentorship, and betting on yourself-----🎯 Follow Ian Duffy Instagram: @Scrubs2EstatesIan's Email:Personal: IanPatrickDuffy@gmail.comBusiness: Ian@Scrubs2Estates.comIan's Website:Scrubs2Estates.comIan's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scrubs2estates-podcast/id1788976707-----🚀 Connect with Lorenzo MercadoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_/Website: www.mercasaventures.com & www.ascentcapital.llc🎙️ Listen to The Lo-Down🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761 🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado-----💬 Like this episode?Give a 5 Star & Share it with a friend who needs to hear it!-----Chapters00:00From Nursing to Real Estate: A Journey of Change03:05The Reality of Nursing: Challenges and Insights07:46The Impact of COVID-19 on Healthcare Workers19:43A Pivotal Moment: Realizing the Need for Change24:39Healthcare Misconceptions: A Nurse's Perspective26:41Empathy in Nursing: Lessons from the ER28:00The Decision to Leave Nursing: A Personal Journey30:24Discovering Real Estate: A New Path32:48Transitioning from Nursing to Entrepreneurship35:44Overcoming Doubts: The Importance of Self-Belief38:06Life After Nursing: Finding Peace and Purpose40:30Owning Your Time: The Freedom of Entrepreneurship43:04Skills from Nursing that Benefit Business44:14Choosing Real Estate Development: A Strategic Decision46:55Understanding Development Deals: From Single Family to Multifamily51:04Innovative Housing Solutions53:42Navigating the Development Process57:52Lessons from Experience01:02:05The Value of Risk and Resilience01:07:35Vision for the Future

What if you could build a 184-unit Airbnb portfolio without owning a single property in just two years?In this episode, I sit down with Kevin Leong, who scaled from 0 to 184 Airbnb arbitrage units in just two years. At his peak, his business pulled in over $1.1M in a single month. After grinding through the early days, Kevin built systems, hired a team of 20+ VAs, and now runs the entire operation in under 10 hours a week.We dive into how Kevin went from a cannabis warehouse job and side hustles to building one of the fastest-growing Airbnb arbitrage companies out there. He shares the credit card hacks that helped him fund his first deal, the 200+ cold calls it took to land his first “yes,” and the mistakes new operators should avoid.If you’re into real estate, Airbnb, or just want to learn how to scale a business fast—this one’s a masterclass.-----We talk about:How Kevin scaled from 0 to 184 Airbnb arbitrage units in two yearsUsing 0% interest credit cards to fund growthThe grind of 200+ rejections before his first dealBuilding systems and SOPs to scale without burnoutHiring VAs and stepping back to a 10-hour workweekWhy arbitrage can be the perfect stepping stone to long-term wealth-----🎯 Follow Kevin Leong Instagram: @kevinleong_bnb🚀 Connect with Lorenzo Mercado Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_/Website: www.mercasaventures.com www.AscentCapital.llc🎙️ Listen to The Lo-Down🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761 🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado-----💬 Like this episode?Share it with a friend who needs to hear it!-----Chapters00:00 Introduction to Airbnb Arbitrage02:49 Understanding the Business Model05:38 Revenue Insights and Financials08:35 Background and Early Career11:25 First Deal Experience14:01 Choosing Locations and Market Research17:08. Scaling the Business20:02 Operational Strategies and Team Structure22:55 Challenges and Learning Lessons25:39 Future Plans and Vision28:45 Final Thoughts and Advice

What if homes could be printed instead of built?In this episode, I sit down with Nan Lin, founder of 4DIFY and Kaizen Capital, who built California’s first fully permitted 3D-printed housing community.We get into how he went from mortgage lending to real estate investing, and how that journey led him to launching a company that’s changing how we think about construction. Nan shares how they got local approvals, solved major problems in housing, and built something no one thought was possible.If you're into real estate, construction innovation, or just love bold ideas—this one’s a must-listen.-----We talk about:-How 3D printing could solve labor shortages and reduce build costs-What it took to get city and county approval for something no one’s seen before-Raising capital from people who believed in the vision-The mindset it takes to bet big on innovation-----🎯 Follow Nan LinInstagram: @nanunlimited4DIFY Website: https://www.4dify.com🚀 Connect with Lorenzo Mercado Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_ Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com 🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761 🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado-----💬 Like this episode?Share it with a friend who needs to hear it!-----Timestamps:00:19 – Introduction to Nan Lin and Fortify01:49 – The Genesis of Fortify: From Idea to Reality07:54 – The 3D Printing Process: Building the Future of Homes13:40 – Navigating Permits and City Approvals19:08 – Financial Insights: Costs and Profitability25:00 – Raising Capital: Strategies and Advice26:56 – Expanding Horizons: Multifamily and ADUs28:37 – Collaborative Design Challenges in Construction31:23 – Future Vision: Scaling Fortify's Operations32:34 – Investment and Operational Challenges in 3D Printing33:43 – Nan Lin's Journey into Real Estate39:15 – Lessons from Early Real Estate Investments49:53 – Founding Kaizen Capital: A Collective Investment Approach52:12 – Building a Team: Hiring for Success54:06 – Mindset and Philosophy for Continuous Improvement

In this deeply personal soLo episode, I share the raw, unfiltered story behind one of the best decisions I’ve ever made: quitting alcohol and all other drugs — and how that choice transformed every area of my life.From blacking out in Vegas to losing myself to weekend benders, drinking was more than just a habit… it was my identity. But two years ago, everything changed.In this episode, I dive into: • When and why I started drinking  • The night that finally broke me • The social pressure and FOMO of sobriety • How I handled cravings and temptation • The myths people believe about sober life • And how going alcohol-free helped me become a better husband, entrepreneur, and human beingWhether you’re sober curious, struggling with balance, or just love a story of personal growth — this one’s for you.🔗 If you’ve ever questioned your relationship with alcohol, I hope this episode brings clarity, encouragement, and hope.Please give a 5 STAR REVIEW on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and SHARE this episode.-----🚀 Connect with Lorenzo Mercado Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_ Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com 🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761 🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado-----💬 Like this episode?Share it with a friend who needs to hear it!-----Chapters00:00Introduction to Sobriety Journey01:02The Struggles with Alcohol03:52Life Before Sobriety06:42The Challenges of Going Sober09:37Transformations After Sobriety12:20Myths About Sobriety13:08Encouragement for Those Considering Sobriety

In episode 30 of The Lo-Down, Lorenzo Mercado sits down with Nick Rossi — a former chief engineer on tugboats, turned real estate investor and construction business owner — to unpack how he leveraged grit, mentorship, and a 3.5% FHA loan to break into multifamily real estate and scale a construction company.Nick shares practical advice on managing contractors, buying or building businesses, and using hands-on experience to fuel growth. If you're in real estate, construction, or just looking to transition into entrepreneurship, this is your episode.We cover:Nick’s journey from tugboats in Alaska to real estate investingHow he used an FHA loan to kickstart his first multifamily dealManaging contractors the right way: scope, systems, and communicationLessons from building a scalable painting and construction businessThe pros and cons of acquiring a business vs. starting from scratchWhy education, networking, and time management are game changersThe transition into short-term rentals and the future of hospitalityPlease give a 5 STAR REVIEW on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and SHARE this episode.-----👥 Connect with Nick Rossi: Instagram: www.instagram.com/nlrossi🚀 Connect with Lorenzo Mercado Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_ Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com 🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761 🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado-----💬 Like this episode?Share it with a friend who needs to hear it!-----Chapters 01:14 – From Tugboats to Real Estate: A Unique Journey 05:18 – Transitioning to Real Estate: Finding a Mentor 12:00 – Building a Construction Business: Lessons Learned 17:54 – Managing Contractors: Communication is Key 23:53 – Navigating Business Growth: Learning from Mistakes 28:56 – Buying vs. Starting a Business: Insights on Acquisition 31:00 – Navigating Non-Compete Clauses 31:30 – The Journey of the First Multifamily Deal 33:21 – Lessons Learned in Real Estate 34:41 – Financial Insights from the First Deal 36:50 – Advice for First-Time Investors 38:06 – Permitting and Construction Challenges 40:58 – Transitioning to Short-Term Rentals 42:28 – Exploring Hospitality Opportunities 45:52 – Hotel Acquisition Strategies 50:02 – Advice for Aspiring Hotel Owners 52:36 – Time Management for Multiple Ventures

In this episode of The Lo-Down, Lorenzo Mercado sits down with Tony Hoong — better known as The CPA Dude — to break down practical, legal tax strategies that can help you keep more of what you earn in 2025 and beyond.Whether you’re a W2 employee, side hustler, small business owner, or real estate investor, this episode is packed with actionable tips your CPA probably isn’t telling you. Stick around to the end so you don't miss any key strategies that could save you thousands of dollars. We cover:-The Building of the CPADude Tax Firm-How W2 workers can reduce taxes-Deductions most people miss and how to audit-proof your finances-How to use the Augusta Rule to rent your home to your business — tax-free-Real estate investor strategies like bonus depreciation and cost segregation-Property Business & Entity FormationTony simplifies the complex and delivers strategies you can start implementing today.Please give a 5 STAR REVIEW on Spotify or Apple Podcast and SHARE this episode.-----👥 Connect with Tony Hoong: Website: https://thecpadude.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheCPADude_🚀 Connect with Lorenzo Mercado Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_ Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com 🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761 🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado-----💬 Like this episode?Share it with a friend who needs to hear it!💡 Ready to stop overpaying the IRS? Hit play.

In this episode of The Lo-Down, Lorenzo Mercado sits down with Charles Lee, founder and CEO of Palmetto Superfoods — one of the fastest-growing açaí bowl brands in California.What started as a single store in San Francisco has quickly become one of the most talked-about health food brands in California. Charles shares how he went from concept to execution, the mindset it took to scale brick-and-mortar, and why a focus on product quality over hype has been the key to long-term growth. From lessons in branding and leadership to scaling a brick-and-mortar business the right way, this episode is packed with insight for anyone looking to build a multi-million dollar brand from the ground up.If you're an entrepreneur, real estate investor, or aspiring founder — this one's for you.Topics Include:The early days of launching a food concept from scratchWhy obsessing over the product is more important than marketingLessons learned from opening multiple physical locationsBranding vs. experience: how to get both rightBuilding a team and company culture in food & beverageThe biggest myths about starting a food business-----🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on Real Estate, Business, and Taking Action:👥 Connect with Charles Lee: Website: https://www.palmettosuperfoods.com Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/chacharleslee/🚀 Let’s Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_/Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com 🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761 🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado💬 Like this episode? Leave a five star review on your favorite streaming platform and share with a friend who would find value.

In this solo episode, Lorenzo Mercado pulls back the curtain on his latest moves in real estate. He shares real lessons from his recent house flips—including costly delays—and how those setbacks are shaping his mindset. Lorenzo also dives into his next big play: boutique hotel investing. He breaks down why he’s making the shift, what he’s learning, and how it fits into his long-term vision of building wealth and freedom. The episode wraps with a candid Q&A where Lorenzo answers listener questions on flipping mistakes, turning pro, and what success really looks like.-----Like what you hear?Subscribe to The Lo-Down, drop a 5-star review, and share it with someone who would find value. Thanks for tuning in.🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on Real estate, Business, and Taking Action👥 -----🚀 Let’s Connect:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_/Website: https://www.mercasaventures.comPodcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado

In this episode, Lorenzo Mercado sits down with Clay and Jonathan Velarde—brother entrepreneurs who turned a $15K investment into Parking Pros, a thriving valet and parking shuttle company.They share how they went from working in their father’s valet business to launching their own operation during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation dives deep into their growth journey, the challenges of standing out in a competitive industry, and the strategies that helped them scale.Clay and Jonathan open up about the power of teamwork, customer service, and adapting to market shifts. They also talk about documenting their startup journey on social media, making smart investments, and the importance of marketing in business success. Plus, they share wild stories from the valet world—and a few game-changing books that shaped their entrepreneurial mindset.If you're building a business, thinking about starting one, or just love real stories about grit and growth—this one’s for you.Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Lo-Down, drop a 5-star review, and share it with someone who would find value. Thanks for tuning in.---🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on Real estate, Business, and Taking Action👥 Connect with Jonathan Velarde: Website: https://valetparkingpros.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parkingmogulConnect with Clay Velarde:Website: https://valetparkingpros.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clayvelardeListen to the Get After It Podcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/2H4HRXUN8IEhs79vtgmcaU?si=7bdb6d0500574763-----🚀 Let’s Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_/ Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado

This week on The Lo-Down, we dive into the powerful journey of a Alex Kamenetsky, who went from heroin addiction and hitting rock bottom… to rebuilding his life with clarity, purpose, and action.It wasn’t real estate that saved him—it was his brother, who stepped in when no one else could, and a rehab program in Israel that gave him a second chance. Once sober, he poured himself into learning the ins and outs of creative finance. That knowledge laid the foundation for where he is now: flipping houses, staying clean, and using his story to inspire others.This episode is about more than real estate. It’s about redemption, second chances, and what’s possible when someone refuses to stay stuck in their past.If you are someone who’s struggling with addiction, thinking about getting sober, or just ready for a change—this conversation is for you. You’re not alone. There’s hope, and there’s help. And no matter how far gone you feel, your story isn’t over.-----👥 Connect with Alex Kamenetsky: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexkamenetsky/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-kamenetsky-6a3611230/🚀 Let’s Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_/ Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com 🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761 🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3💬 Like this episode?Please leave a 5 star review and SHARE with someone who would find value.

In this episode of The Lo-Down, I sit down with Abbas Mohammed, founder of RemoteLeverage.com and a powerhouse real estate entrepreneur. Abbas shares his journey from humble beginnings as a real estate agent to becoming one of the top producers in the Bay Area, CA—all by working smarter, not harder.We dive into how Abbas used virtual assistants (VAs) to multiply his productivity, build systems, and scale his business beyond what he could have imagined. He walks us through the exact ways VAs helped him gain back his time, increase efficiency, and ultimately grow a multi-seven-figure operation.We also talk about the inspiration behind starting Remote Leverage, his VA staffing company, and how business owners across different industries can benefit from hiring VAs—whether it's for lead generation, admin tasks, marketing, or beyond.If you're a real estate professional, entrepreneur, or just someone looking to optimize your business and reclaim your time, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won't want to miss. Please SUBSCRIBE, SHARE AND GIVE A 5 STAR REVIEW for the show if you found any value. -----👥 Connect with Abbas Mohammed: Website: https://remoteleverage.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbasmohammedre 🚀 Let’s Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_ Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com----- 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on Real estate, Business, and Taking Action: https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761 🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3-----💬 Like this episode?Please share or give a 5 star review on the listening platform of your choice!

In this episode of the Lo-Down, I sit down with Neil Shah, who brings 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry and now owns 10 hotels. We dive into his journey from hotel management to ownership and what it really takes to build and operate successful hospitality businesses.Neil breaks down the differences between independent, soft-branded, and flagged hotels, and shares the pros and cons of each. We also talk about the importance of guest experience, team retention, and having a long-term vision when it comes to portfolio growth.He shares how his financing strategies have evolved over time, what he looks for in investment partners, and why treating real estate like a serious business is key. If you're interested in hospitality or want to scale in real estate, there’s a ton of value in this one.💥 If you got value from this episode, please share it with a friend who's interested in real estate or hospitality, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss the next one. Please give a thumbs up or 5 Star Review for the Podcast.-----👥 Connect with Neil Shah: Website: www.inntechhospitality.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nilang007/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nilangs/🚀 Let’s Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_ Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com-----🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on Real estate, Business, and Taking Action: https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado 🎙️ Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761 🎙️ Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3----Chapters00:00Introduction to Neil Shaw and His Portfolio02:45Understanding Hotel Branding: Independent, Soft, and Flagged05:55Pros and Cons of Different Hotel Types08:48Transitioning Between Hotel Types11:59Starting in Hospitality: Neil's Journey15:08Key Traits for Potential Hotel Partners18:10The Importance of Guest Experience20:55Mindset Shift: From Manager to Owner24:06Common Pitfalls for New Hotel Owners26:12Building a Serious Business Structure27:32Effective Management and Staff Retention30:43Challenges in Scaling Operations34:48The Importance of Patience in Growth37:28Evolving Financing Strategies40:51Navigating Market Opportunities43:31Long-Term Vision and Portfolio Management45:09Defining the Ideal Investment Criteria47:38Unique Experiences in Hospitality50:09Final Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Investors

In this episode of The Lo-Down, Lorenzo Mercado sits down with hotel investor and entrepreneur Alex Kang, who shares his inspiring journey from a 15 year career in consulting and tech into full time real estate and business ownership.Alex opens up about his transition into short-term rentals 🏡, scaling into hotel acquisitions 🏨, and the critical lessons he's learned along the way—from raising capital 💰 through friends and family, building your business in public, navigating complex seller financing structures, and dealing with the realities of hotel operations.Alex also dives into:🔑 Why scalability matters in real estate investing🤝 The power of trustworthy partners and broker relationships🧠 The value of experienced mentors and teams📢 Building in public and effective communication for fundraising🕒Alex's bold leap into full-time entrepreneurship and how he manages time and focus to build wealthIf you're curious about hotels, this is your episode ! If you found value or loved the episode, please give a FIVE STAR REVIEW and SHARE the show. Thank you and enjoy!Follow Alex Kang on instagram @s.alex.kanghttps://www.linkedin.com/in/salexkang/-----Follow Lorenzo Mercado on instagram @lorenzo.mercado_

Join in on this episode of The Lo-Down as we welcome Kristiana Torregosa, a passionate Filipina fitness coach who transitioned from corporate to thriving fitness entrepreneurship. With over seven years in bodybuilding and powerlifting, Kristiana reveals how fitness and a disciplined mindset directly enhance your productivity and success in business. 🚀🏋️‍♀️In this episode, we discuss:-Kristiana’s inspiring corporate-to-fitness journey -Why prioritizing fitness supercharges your business performance -Crafting personalized fitness & nutrition plans -Proven strategies for growing a successful online coaching business -Tips for building a personal brandPacked with actionable advice, motivation, and practical strategies, this episode shows why investing in your health is the best thing you can do for yourself and your business. If you enjoy the show, please LIKE, SHARE, SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5 STAR review on your favorite streaming platform. Enjoy!Follow Kristiana Torregosa on IG @kristianaliftssFollow Kristiana on Youtube @kristianatorregosa-----Follow Lorenzo Mercado on IG @Lorenzo.Mercado_