We will provide you with up-to-date side hustles and business tips to help you operate a successful side hustle or business. You will learn how to manage your business while working full-time or having very little time to contribute to building your business. This podcast will supply you with the roadmap that leads to financial security. We will give you step-by-step actionable tips that you can implement in your everyday life to find success through side hustles, small businesses, part-time, or even full-time endeavors.
We will provide you with up-to-date side hustles and business tips to help you operate a successful side hustle or business. You will learn how to manage your business while working full-time or having very little time to contribute to building your business. This podcast will supply you with the roadmap that leads to financial security. We will give you step-by-step actionable tips that you can implement in your everyday life to find success through side hustles, small businesses, part-time, or even full-time endeavors.
Building wealth through real estate doesn’t require leaving a demanding career. In this episode of the Moonlight Real Estate Side Hustles & Syndication Show, Ashlee Edwards—an attorney, real estate investor, and business consultant—shares how she built financial security alongside her W-2 through disciplined systems, intentional savings, and private money lending.
Ashlee grew up in Los Angeles and was exposed early to homeownership and strong saving habits. During the pandemic, layoffs and pay cuts revealed how fragile job security can be, motivating her to pursue financial stability without abandoning her legal career.
How to Invest in Real Estate While Working or Operating Another Business Full-Time
Ashlee began by learning through podcasts, books, and structured education. Rather than waiting to feel ready, she built her entity, opened accounts, and completed coursework while working full-time.
By 2022, she acquired three properties—a townhome and short-term rental in North Carolina, and a two-flat in Chicago—using savings protected from lifestyle creep. Her approach is simple: one calendar, strict time-blocking, and focused work outside job hours to protect job performance.
Key Takeaways for High-Income Earners and Business Owners Investing on the Side of a W-2 or Main Business
Consistency beats intensity. You don’t need endless hours—just protected, focused time. Ashlee uses her calendar to manage both tasks and priorities while minimizing distractions and maintaining clear boundaries.
Building Financial Security Through Private Money Lending While Working Full-Time
Ashlee transitioned into private money lending for clearer risk and lower time involvement. Her criteria include lending only to businesses, short loan terms under eight months, mid-teen returns, and avoiding states requiring lender licensing.
If You Are Starting With Little Time or Capital While Working a Demanding Job
Saving came before investing. By avoiding lifestyle inflation, Ashlee built confidence and flexibility. She also notes real estate’s slower pace makes it well-suited for busy professionals.
Why Investing Passively in Real Estate Is So Powerful for Busy Professionals
Passive investing allows professionals to exchange capital for time, gaining real estate exposure without daily operational demands.
Coaching Round
Books Recommended for Active and Passive Investors
Education played a key role in turning awareness into action.
This episode offers a clear roadmap for professionals building real estate wealth while keeping their careers intact
Website: https://ericlindseyml.com/
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey
Building a Portfolio While Working Full-Time ⏱️
Ashlee Edwards is a full-time attorney who built an eight-property portfolio while maintaining a demanding career. She began investing during the pandemic after realizing how fragile income can be when it depends on one employer.
What she did:
• Kept her full-time attorney role while buying properties ⚖️
• Used downtime to learn through podcasts and books 📚
• Invested in real estate education 🎓
• Built entities, accounts, and systems early 🧱
• Saved aggressively instead of upgrading lifestyle 💰
How you can apply it:
• Use downtime intentionally
• Learn while executing
• Build systems early
• Avoid lifestyle creep
Protecting the Income That Enabled Her Growth 🛡️
Ashlee focused on financial security and treated her income as leverage.
What she did:
• Maintained stable employment
• Used steady income for down payments
• Avoided moves that weakened lending strength
How you can apply it:
• Protect income funding deals
• Use your job as leverage
• Delay risky transitions
Using Savings Discipline as a Competitive Advantage 🏦
Disciplined saving allowed Ashlee to act quickly.
What she did:
• Practiced structured saving
• Increased savings as income grew
• Used capital for early deals
How you can apply it:
• Treat saving as a skill
• Save before spending
• Shorten timelines
Operating Real Estate With a Demanding Schedule 📆
Ashlee reduced chaos by using one system.
What she did:
• Ran all tasks through one calendar
• Scheduled real estate like appointments
• Focused on one task at a time
How you can apply it:
• Use one calendar
• Time-block investing tasks
• Eliminate multitasking
Eliminating Distractions to Increase Focus 🔕
Ashlee protects focus by limiting interruptions.
What she did:
• Turned off non-essential notifications
• Used focus and DND modes
• Set communication windows
How you can apply it:
• Silence distractions
• Work in focused blocks
• Accept delayed responses
Early DIY for Education 🛠️
She used action as education.
What she did:
• Learned systems by doing
• Built confidence through execution
• Used early action to learn
How you can apply it:
• Treat DIY as training
• Learn before delegating
• Move from doing to managing
Why She’s Now Focusing on Private Money Lending 💼💵
As her portfolio matured, Ashlee shifted to time-efficient growth.
What she did:
• Leveraged experience into private lending
• Focused on sustainability
• Managed risk using legal knowledge
How you can apply it:
• Explore lending as a low-time strategy
• Scale experience first
• Match strategy to time limits
The Real Foundation Behind Her Growth 🧠
Her success came from discipline and consistency.
What she did:
• Stayed patient during slow periods
• Built confidence through repetition
• Prioritized systems over speed
How you can apply it:
• Expect compounding progress
• Stay consistent
• Build systems that fit your schedule
Website: https://ericlindseyml.com/
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey
Steven built his portfolio while working 10–12 hour retail shifts, then dedicating nights and weekends to real estate. His early focus was education, mentorship, and disciplined deal analysis. He carved out consistent time instead of trying to do everything at once.
Rather than letting real estate interfere with his job, Steven protected his work performance so income remained stable. That steady paycheck became the engine behind his growth, allowing him to reinvest and scale methodically.
🏗️ How Steven Built His Portfolio While Still Employed
Steven’s primary strategy was buying distressed properties, completing mostly cosmetic renovations, increasing rents, refinancing, and repeating the process. Early on, he used creative financing — including a credit card cash advance — which he paid off after refinancing.
To maximize buying power, he lived at home until he surpassed 100 units and reinvested nearly all profits. His days were long, but structured. The takeaway: building on the side requires planning, not endless free time.
📍 What He Bought and Where He Invested
Steven focused on:
• Single-family homes
• Duplexes and triplexes
• Small apartment buildings (generally 10 units or fewer)
He invested across Central North Carolina, between Raleigh and Charlotte, targeting middle- to upper-lower-class neighborhoods. He avoided luxury markets and high-risk areas, choosing locations where cash flow and tenant demand were more predictable.
📊 Key Takeaways for High-Income Earners and Business Owners Investing on the Side
Steven evaluates deals by focusing on purchase price, value creation, and real cash flow — not headlines or interest rate noise. His long-standing goal has been roughly $300 per unit per month after expenses, with enough cushion to handle vacancies and repairs.
He emphasizes knowing every number, building reserves, and underwriting conservatively so real estate supports life — not the other way around.
⏱️ If You Are Starting With Little Time or Money
Steven believes real estate is uniquely suited for busy professionals. Even a few focused hours per week can create momentum if used intentionally. Education, mentorship, and patience mattered more than speed early on.
🤝 Why Passive Investing in Real Estate Is So Powerful
Passive investing allows professionals to participate in real estate without day-to-day operations. Steven explains that partnering with experienced operators can provide exposure to cash flow and long-term wealth while preserving time for careers and family.
🧭 Coaching Advice For Active and Passive Investors Buying Real Estate Part-Time (Steven Andrews)
• For new investors: Build the foundation first. Understand the numbers before buying anything.
• On balance: Shift from living to work toward working to live. Growth should be sustainable.
• With limited time or money: Be consistent and methodical. Planning beats rushing.
• On underwriting: Never guess. Run the numbers carefully and double-check assumptions.
📚 Books Recommended for Active and Passive Investors
• Building Wealth — Russell Whitney
• The New American Dream — Steven AndrewsWebsite: https://ericlindseyml.com/
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey
Building a Portfolio While Working Full-Time
Steven built a 300-unit portfolio while working 10–12 hour retail shifts.
What he did:
• Worked retail days and handled real estate at night
• Pushed through 14–15 hour days early on
• Lived at home to reinvest everything
• Used DIY only for learning
• Followed his mentor and Building Wealth
• Bought the worst house on the block to force appreciation
How you can apply it:
• Use early mornings, nights, and weekends
• Treat your job as part of your investment strategy
• Reinvest heavily at the start
• Lean on mentorship to avoid mistakes
Protecting Income to Stay Lendable
What he did:
• Kept his job stable for five years
• Used job income to qualify for loans
• Lived frugally to reinvest more
• Avoided decisions that hurt lending
How you can apply it:
• Maintain strong income while you scale
• Build relationships with lenders
• Keep expenses low to stay bankable
Delegation as a Scaling Tool
What he did:
• Started with DIY
• Shifted to contractors as he grew
• Focused on decisions, not labor
How you can apply it:
• Learn the basics, then outsource
• Build your contractor list early
• Protect your time
Early DIY for Education
What he did:
• Learned repairs, pricing, and contractor language
• Only DIY’d long enough to get educated
How you can apply it:
• Use early DIY as temporary training
• Learn enough to evaluate bids and avoid overpaying
Designing a Low-Risk Buy Box
What he did:
• Targeted middle/upper-low-class areas
• Bought the worst cosmetic house
• Sought overlooked value-add deals
How you can apply it:
• Choose areas where dollars go further
• Focus on cosmetic value-add
• Avoid overinflated neighborhoods
How He Funded His First Deals
What he did:
• Used a credit-card cash advance for his first down payment
• Borrowed 85% from a local bank
• Made cosmetic improvements with more credit
• Refinanced to pull out capital
• Recycled the same money repeatedly using BRRR
How you can apply it:
• Use creative funding if you lack cash
• Recycle capital whenever possible
• Judge lenders by structure, not rate
• Run your numbers carefully
The Real Sacrifice Behind His Growth
What he did:
• Worked 14–15 hour days
• Juggled retail, rentals, and relationships
• Faced burnout
• Stayed disciplined for five years before leaving his job
How you can apply it:
• Expect short-term sacrifice
• Build systems to protect your health
• Pace yourself to avoid burnout
• Set realistic timelines for your season of life
Website: https://ericlindseyml.com/
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey
Many investors feel pressure to scale fast — but Jacob Carroll proves the opposite. Despite a demanding full-time job, raising kids, relocating, and running a household, Jacob built his portfolio slowly and intentionally… one property at a time.
His philosophy: consistency beats speed, and you can build wealth without sacrificing your career, family, or peace of mind.
💼 How Jacob Invests While Working a Full-Time Job
Jacob still works a demanding W-2, so he relies on disciplined routines. He checks his buy box daily, runs numbers consistently, and targets just 1–2 properties per year — a pace that supports family life and financial stability.
He invests in Minneapolis/Twin Cities long-term rentals and is adding a short-term rental buy box for family visits. His strategy fits his life — not the other way around.
🏘️ A Recent Transaction: Minneapolis Long-Term Rental
After moving to San Diego, Jacob bought a Minneapolis rental through local agents, underwrote it remotely, and used a portfolio loan (25% down, 7.5% interest). His wife walked the property and filmed videos, and together they built a reno plan.
Jacob did two weeks of DIY work, then relied on his carpet installer, handyman, and local partners. The property was leased within a weekend.
📊 How Jacob Underwrites Rentals
Jacob’s top metric is payback time — not cash-on-cash. Inspired by Payback Time by Phil Town, he checks whether cash flow will repay his investment in 8–10 years.
His underwriting includes:
• Purchase price
• Down payment
• Interest rate
• Taxes, insurance, HOA
• Utilities
• Renovation budget + timeline
Higher rates may mean thin cash flow early on — and he’s okay with that if the fundamentals are strong.
🧹 Tenant Placement & Property Management Systems
Jacob’s “secret sauce” is property management. He:
• Remodels units to B+/A- quality
• Uses Zillow Rental Manager
• Defines an ideal tenant profile
• Sticks to clear criteria
• Charges slightly higher rents to filter out poor leads
This results in low-maintenance tenants — especially important when managing remotely.
🧭 Moonlight Coaching Portion — Coaching Advice From Jacob Carroll
⭐ What Every New Investor Should Know
Real estate isn't passive. Get your financial house in order first: eliminate debt and build reserves.
⭐ How to Balance Business, Life, and Real Estate
Grow slowly. Start with a single-family home. Join local meetups to stay grounded when emotions run high.
⭐ If You Have Little Money or Time
House hack. Save 5–10% for your first place. Use your W-2 for momentum and partner with trusted people if needed.
⭐ Knowing Your Numbers
Keep clean bookkeeping, separate accounts, and get a mentor to review your numbers. “Measure twice, cut once.”
📚 Books Recommended for Active and Passive Investors
The ABCs of Property Management — Kim McElroy
A foundational guide to operations, customer service, and long-term management success.
Website: https://ericlindseyml.com/
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey
1. Building a Portfolio While Working Full-Time 💼⏳
What he did:
How you can apply it:
2. Protecting the Income That Keeps Financing Easy 💵🏦
What he did:
How you can apply it:
3. Delegation as a Breakthrough for Scaling 🧰🤝
What he did:
How you can apply it:
4. Early DIY for Education, Not Savings 🔧📘
What he did:
How you can apply it:
5. Designing a Low-Risk Buy Box 🏡📍
What he did:
How you can apply it:
6. How He Actually Funded His First Deals 💰📈
What he did:
How you can apply it:
7. The Real Sacrifice Behind His Growth 🌙💪
What he did:
How you can apply it:
Website: https://ericlindseyml.com/
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey
Many professionals want to build wealth through real estate, but long work hours and busy lives make it feel nearly impossible. Today’s guest, Gurshan Bansal, proves that a demanding career doesn’t have to stop anyone from building a strong portfolio. As a strategic tech sales leader, he built nearly 300 units on the side using evenings, weekends, and disciplined time management — growing from a house hack to large multifamily syndications.
Gurshan began in 2013 while working at a restaurant. His first Memphis house hack sparked the journey, and after moving to Atlanta and building a career in tech sales leadership, a real estate seminar pushed him to start educating himself. His first BRRRR deal returned most of his capital and gave him the confidence to scale.
💼 How to Invest in Real Estate While Working a Demanding Career
Gurshan initially dedicated 10 hours per week to learning, networking, and analyzing deals. Today, he invests just 3–4 hours weekly by using systems, checklists, and time-blocking.
He kept his W-2 job as his financial engine, working on deals only during evenings and weekends. His journey proves that consistency — not volume — drives long-term progress.
🏘️ The BRRRR Deal That Sparked His Growth
His first BRRRR in Memphis — purchased for $55K, renovated for $15K, and refinanced at $90K — taught him underwriting, networking, and contractor management. This led to more single-family rentals and a five-unit property in Cleveland.
When interest rates rose in 2023, he pivoted to apartment syndications instead of slowing down.
🏢 Recent Deal: 244-Unit Apartment Syndication
Gurshan and his partner raised $780,000 for a 244-unit direct syndication with Matanza Capital.
Deal Snapshot:
• Acquisition: $21.6M
• Total Equity: $10.4M
• Projected Return: Turn $50K → $90K in three years
• Current Performance: 30% above projections
The team focuses on operational improvements, interior upgrades, and rent growth — with high tenant retention.
🎯 Rules of Thumb for Balancing Business & Life
• Put every real estate task on the calendar
• Take one meaningful action per week
• Avoid pressure — this is a long-term game
• Keep your W-2 income as leverage
• Build systems so issues don’t interrupt your workday
🧭 Moonlight Coaching Portion
For New Syndication Investors
Vet the operator thoroughly. Meet them multiple times, review their underwriting, and evaluate their character. You’re trusting them with your reputation.
Balancing Career, Life & Real Estate
Intentional time > busy time. One podcast, conversation, or chapter per week builds real momentum.
If You Have Little Time or Money
Lean on the community — attend meetups, join groups, study others, and add value where you can.
Why Passive Investing Works
It trades money for time. Operators do the work while investors keep career stability and build long-term wealth.
Click On This Link For Our Free E-Book "An Introduction Into Apartment Syndication: https://moonlightcre.com/ebook_download/
Website: Moonlightcre.com
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey
Some investors wait for the “perfect time.” Joe Danza built his portfolio during one of the worst—right after the 2008 crash—using credit cards, borrowed money, and sheer determination to never rely on promotions again. Today, though he could quit his job from passive income, Joe keeps his W-2 to accelerate growth, buy more assets, and stay in control. His story proves a demanding career can fuel real estate success, not compete with it.
How to Invest While Keeping Your W-2
Joe, an IT program manager for the Navy, manages a diversified portfolio by building a strong team:
• Hire people smarter than you.
• Prioritize trustworthiness over experience.
• Create systems and processes so the business runs without you.
He starts his day at 4 AM, reviews tasks from U.S. and offshore members, and empowers them to handle daily operations while he focuses on strategy. This lets him expand across markets without sacrificing job or family time.
A Real-Life Deal: Short-Term Rental Above Market
Joe bought a short-term rental $180,000 higher than his last unit in the same building—and it still worked because:
• It was off-market, sourced through relationships.
• Comparable rentals showed strong revenue.
• Cash flow from other properties funded the deal.
Even with 8–10% rates, the property nets $50,000 per year. Joe credits strong lender relationships—multiple closings in 60 days were possible because lenders knew his track record.
Rules of Thumb for Balancing Business and Life
• Not everything is urgent—some tasks can wait.
• Something will “slip”—career, business, or personal life.
• Delegate and let your team execute.
• Give yourself grace; scaling takes trade-offs.
Early on, Joe admits business took priority—he refused to lose the $50,000 he invested in 2008.
Key Takeaways for High-Income Earners
• Use your W-2—banks value stable income.
• Diversify (STRs, long-term holds, syndications).
• Keep strong cash reserves.
• Always have multiple exit strategies.
• Strong teams + smart systems = scale without burnout.
Coaching Round: Joe’s Advice
For New Investors: Define goals early—know if you’re active or passive.
Balancing Career & Real Estate: Focus on what you enjoy and outsource the rest.
Starting with Little Time or Money: Network nonstop—mentors and masterminds create opportunity.
Why Passive Investing Works: It’s not “hands-off,” but syndications offer diversification, steady returns, and tax perks.
Recommended Read
• Rich Dad Poor Dad – Robert Kiyosaki
Final Thoughts
Joe Danza proves you don’t need to quit your W-2 to build wealth. With smart people, solid systems, market diversification, and strong lender ties, he built a business that thrives—even in high-interest markets. His journey is a roadmap for high earners seeking financial freedom, not job dependency.
Most people dream about the day they can walk away from their 9-to-5, but Joe Danza shows there’s another way. As a full-time IT Program Manager for the Navy, Joe has already built enough passive income through real estate to leave his job—but he’s choosing to stay. Why? Because he sees his W-2 income as a growth tool, not a limitation. While most people chase the exit, Joe’s using his steady paycheck to fuel faster expansion, buy more assets, and keep full control of his deals.
Joe’s story started in 2008, one of the worst real estate markets in history. With the economy in free fall, he maxed out credit cards, borrowed from his parents, and invested anyway. What gave him confidence wasn’t luck—it was grit and perspective. He saw firsthand from his parents that real estate could create generational wealth if done right. Over 15 years later, that decision to start when everyone else froze has paid off. Today, Joe manages rentals, syndications, and short-term properties—all while maintaining his career and family life.
💼 What You Can Learn from Joe’s Journey
If you’re trying to build wealth while holding down a full-time job, Joe’s strategy is pure gold:
Use your paycheck as a launchpad. Don’t rush to quit—use your income to fund deals, build reserves, and invest in systems.
Leverage smart people. Joe built a trustworthy team that handles day-to-day operations while he focuses on growth. He hires for integrity and intelligence—not just experience.
Build systems that buy your time back. Joe starts his mornings early, communicates with his team, and delegates. He doesn’t try to do it all—he builds processes that run without him.
Stay grounded. Joe’s approach isn’t about flash or ego—it’s about balance. He knows freedom isn’t just about quitting a job; it’s about creating options for the long run.
🏠 How This Applies to You
If you’re a high-income professional trying to figure out how to invest without losing focus at work, Joe’s story proves it’s possible.
If you’re just starting out with limited capital, it’s a reminder that discipline and creativity can beat perfect timing.
And if you’re looking for passive income, it’s proof that partnering with strong operators—people like Joe—lets you grow without sacrificing your career.
The lesson is simple: you don’t have to quit to win.
Start using your job as leverage, build systems that free up your time, and grow your portfolio on the side—just like Joe Danza.
Most people think you need the perfect exit strategy before leaving corporate America — but Shaletha Litt Colbert shows how setbacks can spark success. After being laid off just five months postpartum, she and her husband transformed adversity into a thriving international real-estate business built on determination, faith, and strategy. Starting with only two properties and a dream to live life on their own terms, they created a system that now generates income across borders. 🌎🏡
💼 How to Invest While Keeping Your W-2 (or After Losing It)
Shaletha began her journey as a sales professional and former mortgage loan officer who used her W-2 income to buy her first home and a second rental in 2020. When her job ended unexpectedly, she leaned into her real-estate license to build something no employer could take away. By combining short-term and mid-term rental models — what she calls Flexi-Rentals — she learned to turn risk into reliability. Her story is proof that job loss doesn’t have to mean financial loss — it can be a launchpad to freedom. ⚡
🌴 A Real-Life International Deal: Investing in Costa Rica
While watching Beachfront Bargain Hunt during the pandemic, Shaletha and her husband became intrigued by overseas real estate. They visited Costa Rica “just to look” — and within two weeks, they were under contract for two beach-town properties on the Pacific Coast. Despite not speaking Spanish, they built local partnerships, paid cash, and created consistent income through a mix of Airbnb and mid-term rentals. Shaletha even earned her Certified International Property Specialist designation to help others invest abroad. ✈️💰
🏘️ What Is the Flexi-Rental Strategy?
A Flexi-Rental is a single property designed to operate under multiple rental models — short-term and mid-term — maximizing occupancy and minimizing stress. The concept was born when Shaletha rented one of her units to international students needing temporary housing. That experience showed her how longer stays reduce wear-and-tear while still generating high income. Today, she lists on Airbnb, VRBO, Zillow, and Apartments.com, but often converts guests to direct bookings — saving them fees and keeping more profit in-house. 💡📅
💡 Key Takeaways for High-Income Earners and Business Owners
• Use your W-2 stability to qualify for as many loans as possible before going full-time.
• Diversify not just by asset type — but by geography to hedge against U.S. market risks.
• Buy for cash flow, not speculation. Each purchase should “buy income.”
• Stay flexible — the ability to pivot between mid-term, short-term, or long-term keeps you profitable.
• Remember: a setback can be the spark for your greatest breakthrough. 🚀
🎯 Coaching Round: Shaletha’s Advice for Active & Passive Investors
For New Investors: Know your why. It’s the anchor that keeps you steady during uncertainty.
Balancing Career, Family, and Real Estate: Treat investing as a marathon, not a sprint. Embrace seasons of growth and rest.
If You’re Starting with Little Money or Time: Try co-hosting Airbnbs or wholesaling deals to earn while you learn.
Knowing Your Numbers: “Pay now or pay later.” Track your income, expenses, and reserves from day one.
Book Recommendations:
• Think and Grow Rich — Napoleon Hill
• Three Hours a Day — Knolly Williams
📚 Final Thoughts
Shaletha Litt Colbert’s journey proves that resilience and creativity can turn disruption into destiny. By blending smart systems, global vision, and fearless action, she built freedom for her family and future. Her story is a powerful reminder: you don’t have to quit to win — but if you do, build something no one can take away. 💪🏠✨
Most people think you need to quit your business to scale in real estate — Beth Januzzi Underhill proves otherwise. After 25+ years running an outdoor construction company in Cincinnati, she expanded into student housing syndications during COVID — without stepping away from her main business. Her story shows that with strong partnerships, clear roles, and focus, you can build serious wealth without giving up your day job.
🏗️ How to Invest as an Active GP While Running a Business
Beth uses partnerships and systems to scale without burnout. Each of her six partners owns a lane — underwriting, capital, debt, investor relations — creating efficiency. Skills from her construction business (subcontractor management, processes, systems) translate directly to real estate.
She blocks time for investor relations and capital raising, proving you don’t need 40 hours a week — just structure and the right team.
🏘️ Real-Life Student Housing Deal Near UGA
One of Beth’s key deals is a student housing property near the University of Georgia with retail space and full leasing on both sides. Her team sourced it via brokers, closed in Dec 2023, and saw nearly 10% rent growth in year one. Location and mixed-use income make it a strong performer.
📏 Beth’s Student Housing Investing Rules
🎯 Key Takeaways for Business Owners & High Earners
🧭 Beth’s Advice to Active & Passive Investors
New Investors: Set clear goals. Know if you want to be a GP or LP. Vet operators early.
Balancing Life & Real Estate: Be consistent. Block weekly time. Focus on what energizes you.
Starting With Little Time/Money: Network and add value — earn into deals.
Why Go Passive: Enjoy cash flow, tax benefits, and long-term growth without active management.
📚 Beth’s Book Picks
📈 Final Thoughts
Beth proves you don’t need to quit your business to succeed in real estate. With discipline, the right partners, and focused buying, she’s grown a student housing portfolio — while running her company full-time. Her story shows busy professionals can build wealth and freedom without walking away from what’s already working.
Website: https://ericlindseyml.com/
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey
Most people assume you must quit your job to win in real estate. Jack Bosch shows another path. A German immigrant who spent five years traveling nonstop for a software job, he and his wife Michelle (also immigrants) built a land-flipping business on the side—starting with a $400 lot that sold for $4,000 the next day. Two weeks later, another deal netted $9,500. They closed 63 deals in year one and became millionaires within 18 months, later scaling to eight figures—all while Jack was still flying and working late nights.
🛠️ How to Invest in Real Estate While Working Full-Time
Jack’s system minimized phone time and meetings. He used direct mail to reach landowners, an answering machine (now a call center) to gather info, and mailed written offers—no showings, locks, or contractors. Today, a low-cost call center can take calls under your company name, email leads, and let you analyze and send offers after work.
📦 The Model That Works on the Side
Why land? No repairs, tenants, or property visits—ideal for busy people. Jack targets three types:
With 3,007 U.S. counties and few active land flippers (~3,000), competition is low compared to houses.
💵 Deal Breakdown: $5K In, Income for 20 Years
Example: an infill lot where a four-plex once stood. Bought for $5,000, listed on MLS, got a $64,000 offer with 10% down and 15% seller financing for 20 years ($486/month). The down payment covered the cost, leaving $6K/year in cash flow—about $112K total.
📈 Reasonable Expectations for Busy People
With 10 hours/week, expect 10–20 deals/year using vendors (mail house, call center, software). More automation and a solid listing agent can push results higher; Jack’s top coach does ~50 deals/year in 5 hours/week (exceptional).
🎯 Key Takeaways for High-Income Earners & Business Owners
• Use direct mail + call center to stay flexible.
• Mail offers—no in-person negotiations.
• Focus on analysis and follow-up; outsource the rest.
• Start in lower-competition areas (path-of-growth & mini-ranch land).
🧭 Coaching Round (Actionable, Side-Hustle Focused)
Set clear goals and treat this like a long-term career, not a quick win. Work in seasons—push hard to hit targets, then recharge. Starting with little time or money? Try the Zillow tactic: offer ~50% of market value on old listings, then relist to build early capital. As profits grow, reinvest into rentals or multifamily for lasting income.
📚 Books to Read
• Unreasonable Hospitality — Will Guidara. Short, practical chapters on business, sellers, and team culture.
📌 Final Thoughts
Jack Bosch built a location-independent land business from hotel rooms by simplifying lead generation, outsourcing calls, and mailing offers. For busy professionals, the blueprint is simple: choose a niche that fits your schedule, systematize relentlessly, and use active profits to grow—into more land or passive investments over time.
Website: https://ericlindseyml.com/
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey
How to Build a Real Estate Side Hustle While Working Full-Time
Ashley worked as a senior project manager in corporate America for 15 years before a layoff pushed her into full-time investing. While still employed, she ran successful flips on the side by managing contractors remotely, setting clear weekly check-ins, and using her W-2 income to secure funding and build credit.
🏘️ A Real-Life Fix-and-Flip: From Corporate Paycheck to Profit
Her early flips in Dothan, Alabama showed how choosing a lower-cost market and hiring a trustworthy general contractor can make out-of-state investing practical. She used Kiavi (formerly LendingHome) for financing, store credit cards for materials, and focused on light cosmetic rehabs—paint, flooring, and kitchens—to stay fast and profitable.
💼 Lessons Learned from a Corporate Layoff
Instead of panicking, Ashley saw her layoff as freedom. With a few properties under her belt, she realized flipping could replace her salary. Her disciplined systems and risk management mindset helped her shift smoothly into full-time real estate without missing a beat.
🔑 Key Takeaways for W-2 Professionals and Business Owners
Start investing before you need the income.
Treat your contractors like partners—they make or break your business.
Use your W-2 to build credit and qualify for loans.
Keep your job performance high while your side hustle grows quietly.
🧭 Coaching Round: Ashley’s Advice for New Investors
For New Investors: Learn how to calculate ARV yourself—don’t depend on agents or wholesalers.
Balancing Work, Life, and Real Estate: Build a trustworthy team so you can step back and focus on strategy.
If You’re Starting with Little Money: Focus on credit—good credit opens doors when cash is tight.
Why Passive Investing Can Be a Smart Start: Earn while you learn—cash flow and tax benefits make real estate one of the most powerful long-term wealth vehicles.
📚 Book Recommendations
Eat That Frog – Brian Tracy
Mindset – Carol Dweck
The Hands-Off Investor – Brian Burke
Most people think you must quit your job to succeed in real estate, but Andrew Freed proves otherwise. From using a HELOC on his Boston condo to scaling 240+ units, he shows how W-2 professionals can balance careers while building wealth through multifamily, syndications, and creative financing.
📘 From W-2 to 240+ Units
Andrew started as a project manager on the W-2 path. During COVID, Rich Dad Poor Dad sparked a mindset shift. Realizing his net worth was tied to one condo, he tapped a $200K HELOC, house-hacked, JV’d into small multifamily, and expanded into syndications—growing from 30 to 240+ units in 3.5 years.
⏳ Investing While Keeping a W-2
Andrew focused on time management with 7 Habits, prioritizing urgent/important tasks and cutting wasted hours. He used his W-2 income to qualify for loans and house hacks, building bank credibility. His advice: don’t rush to quit—use your job as leverage.
🏘️ A 39-Unit Deal
In Worcester, a 39-unit portfolio projected $1.5M equity but hit turbulence when a bank changed terms, demanding a full year of reserves in escrow. Andrew pivoted to private lending, closed in weeks, and is stabilizing for a $7M refinance. Lesson: even “perfect” deals need flexibility, creativity, and strong partnerships.
💡 Rules Before Quitting Your Job
🎯 Key Takeaways
🧭 Coaching Round
📚 Books
📚 Final Thoughts
Andrew Freed proves you don’t need to quit your W-2 to thrive in real estate. By leveraging time, systems, and partnerships, he turned a condo HELOC into 240+ units. His journey—both wins and setbacks—offers a roadmap: don’t chase job security, chase financial security.
Website: https://ericlindseyml.com/
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey
Guest: Hayato Hori, Managing Partner at Red Brick Equity
Focus: How to start and scale real estate investing on the side—actively or passively—while keeping your W-2 or main business strong.
Starting Out: From W-2 to Real Estate
At 21, Hayato bought his first rental in Memphis while working at Hyperloop. The $200/month cash flow wasn’t enough, so he shifted to wholesaling, scaling to 10–15 deals a month.
The Shift: From Wholesaling to Wealth Building
Watching institutional buyers scale to $1B+ by holding properties, Hayato pivoted to multifamily. Now, as co-founder of Red Brick Equity, he targets Midwest multifamily, recently closing a 26-unit in Chicago with a 24-unit pipeline.
How to Invest While Working Full-Time
Active vs. Passive
Case Study: 26-Unit Chicago Deal
Key Takeaways for High-Income Earners
Coaching Round
Books:
Website: https://ericlindseyml.com/
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey
In this episode, Eric Lindsey sits down with Amber Gage, a third-generation entrepreneur, strategic marketing expert, and author with more than 20 years of experience helping companies scale and exit successfully. Amber shares her remarkable journey from running her family’s multimillion-dollar plumbing company to launching and scaling her own agency—culminating in a private equity exit.
You’ll discover:
How to systemize your business so it’s no longer dependent on you.
The key steps to position a company for acquisition.
Proven insights on branding, marketing, and leadership that empower companies to thrive.
The role of AI, localized marketing, and storytelling in scaling companies in 2025.
Why passion and profitability must go hand in hand for long-term success.
Whether you’re running a multimillion-dollar operation or planning your eventual exit, this conversation gives you a clear playbook on how to operate efficiently, scale strategically, and prepare for acquisition.
Amber also shares her favorite frameworks—from Profit First to Donald Miller’s StoryBrand method—and practical strategies you can implement today to make your company more profitable, scalable, and attractive to buyers.
Website: https://ericlindseyml.com/
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey
Roberto Carbetta’s journey shows you don’t need millions or to quit your job to succeed in real estate. He began as a Toronto bank teller, later ran a contracting business, and then shifted to multifamily and senior living in Florida. Today, he manages a $25M+ portfolio, focusing on senior living as demand grows with the aging population.
🚤 How to Invest While Working Full-Time
Roberto built on the side—buying single-family homes every 18 months while running his company, then moving into U.S. multifamily and senior living. His message: set clear goals, keep learning, and partner with the right teams.
🏘️ Senior Living Deal in Georgia
Roberto’s team bought a Claxton, GA facility for $2.5M using debt, seller financing, and $750K from investors. By raising rents, they nearly doubled NOI, delivering returns far above expectations.
📈 Current Focus
90% of Roberto’s time is on senior living, targeting mom-and-pop owners ready to exit. With new units costing $300K but existing assets under $100K, he sees massive opportunity as 10,000 people turn 65 daily.
🎯 Key Takeaways
• The hardest deal is the first—start now.
• Use job/business income as leverage.
• Partner with strong operators to learn.
• Focus on undeniable demand, like senior living.
• Protect your time by teaming with pros.
🧭 Investor Advice
Trust is #1—know the operator, deal, and market. Once in, capital stays tied up until refinance/sale. For passive investors, real estate offers cash flow, appreciation, and tax perks without operational stress.
📚 Books
• Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell – learn to delegate and scale.
📚 Final Thoughts
Roberto’s path—from W-2 worker to $25M+ investor—shows you can grow in real estate without quitting your job. Focus on education, partnerships, and consistent action.
Website: https://ericlindseyml.com/
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey
Intro — for busy pros & business owners:
Roberto Carbetta didn’t wait for retirement to invest—he built his real estate journey alongside long work hours, proving steady action drives results. Starting as a Toronto bank teller, he learned from wealthy clients tied to real estate, bought his first deal at 21, ran a construction business for over a decade, and now helps manage a $25M portfolio in multifamily and senior living. 🚀
🎙️ Episode Snapshot — What’s in this conversation
🛠️ How to Invest in Real Estate While Working Full-Time
Roberto worked 12-hour days on job sites, then researched evenings and weekends. His cadence: one purchase every ~18 months, hitting six by 30. For busy pros, he suggests passive investing—know the operator, market, deal, and numbers, then get back to your main business. 💼
🧩 Why Senior Living Caught His Attention
A senior living deal projected ~3.2× returns over five years. With “silver tsunami” demand, limited supply, and assets under $100K/unit (vs. $300K to build), the numbers made sense. 🧓🏽🏢
💵 At-Risk Capital 101
To break into GP teams, Roberto put up earnest money and risk capital. These cover due diligence and can be lost if a deal doesn’t close—so strong documents, trust, and confidence are critical. 💸
🔑 Key Takeaways for High-Income Earners
📌 Final Word
From Toronto bank teller to Florida syndicator, Roberto proves consistent effort, partnerships, and calculated risks can build wealth—without quitting your career. 🙌
Website: https://ericlindseyml.com/
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey
Most people assume you need to quit your job to build wealth in real estate, but Scott Kidd proves otherwise. After 20 years as a yacht captain, he built a portfolio of multifamily properties and syndications—all while managing luxury yachts full-time. His journey shows how demanding professionals can still scale by leveraging partnerships, systems, and mindset.
Scott’s start was simple: buying a single-family home and rolling that into more deals. A chance conversation on the beach with an investor who flipped a 46-unit property was his turning point. From there, he leaned into meetups, joint ventures, and partnerships that led him to multifamily. Today, he’s active in syndications, capital raising, and investor relations—all while continuing his yacht career.
🚤 How to Invest in Real Estate While Working or Running a Business Full-Time
Scott balances his yacht career with real estate by focusing on what he can do remotely—investor calls, analysis, and relationships—while relying on partners for management. Tools like DocuSign and Starlink let him close a 13-unit deal from The Bahamas. His message: you don’t have to be on the ground daily to succeed.
🏘️ Lessons from an 8-Unit Deal in Florida
An early multifamily deal in West Palm Beach tripled returns in just eight months after unexpected challenges pushed the team to sell. That success shifted Scott’s focus toward raising capital for larger, more stable properties.
📈 Current Focus: Scaling Through Syndications
Scott and his partners are now working on a 72-unit in Columbus, Ohio, chosen for its strong fundamentals: Ohio State University, corporate HQs, and major investments from Intel, Honda, and Amazon. He believes today’s market favors newer investors since many larger players are sitting out. His advice: keep looking—if the numbers work, it’s a good time to buy.
🎯 Key Takeaways for High-Income Earners and Business Owners
🧭 Coaching Round: Scott’s Advice for Investors
For New Investors: Define Goals Early
Choose if you want to be active (finding/running deals) or passive (providing capital and earning returns).
Balancing Career, Family, and Real Estate: Play to Strengths
Focus on what excites you—networking, analysis, or investor relations. Passion makes balancing easier.
Starting with Little Money or Time: Network Nonstop
Join groups that align with your goals. Add value by sourcing deals, underwriting, or raising capital.
Why Passive Investing Works
Steady cash flow and tax benefits like depreciation. (Always check with a CPA.)
Books for Active and Passive Investors
📚 Final Thoughts
Scott Kidd proves you can thrive in real estate without quitting your career. By leaning on partners, focusing on strengths, and using technology, he built a portfolio that secures his family’s future. The takeaway: you don’t need to quit your job—you just need the right plan, the right partners, and the drive to act.
Website: https://ericlindseyml.com/
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey
Bill Ham joins the Moonlight Real Estate Syndication Show to share real talk on coaching programs, investing, and building your business while working a full-time job or running another business. With nearly 20 years in real estate, his perspective helps investors cut through noise and avoid costly mistakes.
He breaks down how big-name coaching outfits work, why many investors get disappointed, and what to look for if you want one-on-one mentorship that fits your goals. For busy professionals or side-hustling business owners, this episode is packed with insights to protect your time, money, and focus while building wealth.
🔑 Things Discussed
⚠️ Coaching Pitfalls
✅ Bill Ham’s Coaching
📚 Resources
🌙 Moonlight Coaching Round
🚀 Key Takeaways
Website: https://ericlindseyml.com/
Click On The Link Below To Schedule A Call With Eric:https://calendly.com/moonlightequitiesgroup/scheduled-conversation
Click On The Link Below For More Information About Eric Lindsey:
https://linktr.ee/ericlindsey