Episodes
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đ Access ALL the resources mentioned in this podcast for FREE on my Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/offmarketmethod/about?ref=791b3644f63045c9a6d3d8634e57c1f1
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In this solo episode, Iâm sharing the five biggest lessons I wish I had known when I first started my real estate investing journey nearly a decade ago. These are the things that couldâve saved me time, money, and a whole lot of stressâlessons that came from doing hundreds of deals, building teams, navigating partnerships, and learning the hard way.
Whether you're just getting started or scaling your operation, I break down the truths no one told me upfrontâlike why partnerships often fail, how sourcing your own deals is a million-dollar skill, and why focus is everything in this business.
Hereâs what I cover:
⢠The real reason most partnerships donât lastâand what to look for instead
⢠Why your word matters more than your contract
⢠How focusing on personalization beats mass marketing every time
⢠The math behind why sourcing your own deals is critical to long-term success
⢠Why chasing every strategy is killing your momentumâand what to do insteadThis is the episode I wish someone had handed me in my first year. Take it with you on your commute, during your workout, or wherever you listenâand let it help you make better moves, faster.
As always, I appreciate the listens, shares, and reviews. Letâs grow togetherâand remember, youâre only one deal away.
Connect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
đ Access ALL the resources mentioned in this podcast for FREE on my Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/offmarketmethod/about?ref=791b3644f63045c9a6d3d8634e57c1f1
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In this episode, we unpack the real-world strategies behind scaling a real estate investing business to $3 million in revenue. I'll share the exact blueprint that took my company from modest beginnings to a seven-figure operation, focusing on hiring smart, building systems, and staying focused on high-ROI activities.
Youâll learn:
⢠How to structure your team for scale without burning cash
⢠Why simplicity in systems often beats complexity
⢠The key hires that unlocked growthâand when to make them
⢠What metrics to watch to avoid scaling the wrong way
⢠Lessons learned from mistakes made during rapid growthWhether youâre flipping homes, wholesaling, or building a rental portfolio, this episode offers a tactical playbook for ambitious investors ready to level up.
đ Donât just hustleâscale smart.
Connect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
Missing episodes?
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đ Access ALL the resources mentioned in this podcast for FREE on my Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/offmarketmethod/about?ref=791b3644f63045c9a6d3d8634e57c1f1
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In this episode, we dive deep into whatâs working right now for real estate investors when it comes to sales, acquisitions, and navigating a softening market.
We kick things off with a quick update on our rebrand to The Deal Engineâa shift that reflects how weâre not just helping you generate leads anymore. Weâre building full acquisition systems and helping you master the one skill that moves the needle: SALES.
Tucker shares lessons from being a licensed GC for over 15 years, including the insane permitting hurdles heâs facing while building luxury homes in Naples, FL. We also talk about how most of the best deals we're seeing right nowâyes, even the big flipsâare hiding in plain sight on the MLS. Itâs not about having a secret source. Itâs about asking the right questions and spending real time in your pipeline.
We dig into:
⢠How one client is converting at 1 deal per 30 leads by simply hammering the phones
⢠Why most investors grossly neglect their lead pipelinesâand how weâre fixing that
⢠The importance of categorizing leads into hot, warm, and coldâand working all three daily
⢠Why mastering a few simple skills outperforms constantly chasing new tactics
⢠Whatâs coming as rates drop and why now is the time to sharpen your edgeIf youâve been bouncing from strategy to strategy, waiting for the market to change, or assuming the big players have some magic advantageâyouâll want to hear this. We break down exactly what separates those who scale from those who stall.
This episode is for the investors, wholesalers, and agents who are serious about building a real business, not just closing one-off deals. Weâre here to help you stay consistent, confident, and competitiveâbecause youâre only one deal away.
Connect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
đ Access ALL the resources mentioned in this podcast for FREE on my Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/offmarketmethod/about?ref=791b3644f63045c9a6d3d8634e57c1f1
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In this episode, we pull back the curtain on how weâve taken a unique approach to real estate investingâand why blending education with entertainment (what we call âedutainmentâ) is such a powerful strategy.
We share the story behind our content philosophy, why we prioritize transparency over polish, and how we create an authentic connection with our audience while still delivering solid, actionable insights.
We also talk about the importance of showing the real behind-the-scenes of the business: the wins, the challenges, and the day-to-day decisions we make as investors. If you're tired of overly slick sales pitches and want to hear how we're building trust through honest, practical valueâthis one's for you.
Whether you're a seasoned investor or just getting started, you'll walk away with a clearer sense of how to stand out in this industry by simply being real, being consistent, and genuinely caring about your audienceâs success.
Connect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
In this episode, we answer real-world questions straight from the trenches â covering the critical crossroads many real estate agents and investors face.
Here's what you'll learn:
â How to navigate seller meetings when you wear both the agent and investor hat
â The best way to avoid confusing sellers â and close more deals
â When it's actually time to quit your W2 job and go full-time into real estate
â Smart decision-making on whether to wholesale or flip â without getting stuck
â How your professional background (sales, engineering, construction) influences your real estate journey â and where it doesn't
â Why velocity of money matters more than ever in today's market
â The real truth about "easy" paths in real estate entrepreneurship (spoiler: there arenât any!)
Cole and Tucker pull from years of coaching, investing, and building businesses to share no-BS insights that help you move faster and smarter.Whether you're just starting out, debating your next big leap, or scaling a six-figure business â this episode is packed with lessons you can use today.
đ Access ALL the resources mentioned in this podcast for FREE on my Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/offmarketmethod/about?ref=791b3644f63045c9a6d3d8634e57c1f1
Connect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
When I was 19, I thought the goal was simpleâmake a lot of money, fast. I wanted freedom, autonomy, and proof that I could do it on my own. What I didnât realize then was that chasing money for the sake of it will leave you just as broke as being without it.
In this episode, I sit down with Ryan and Cory for a deep, honest, and often hilarious conversation about what really matters in business and life. We unpack my early days: dropping out of college, getting my real estate license, failing miserably as an agent, and eventually stumbling into wholesaling. I walk through the deal that changed everythingâa $105k check at 19âand how that moment shifted my mindset from "make a quick buck" to "build something sustainable."
We dive into why financial freedom isnât a dollar amountâitâs a lifestyle shift. I share how $20-30K/month with complete control over your time might make you feel wealthier than a 7-figure salary working for someone else. We talk about the ego traps of big business, why more employees and revenue doesnât always mean more happiness, and how I found peace in running lean and living intentionally.
The guys and I also talk about identityâwhy so many entrepreneurs wrap theirs around their business or bank accountâand how dangerous that can be. I share the story of how I got into the right rooms early, paid $15K I barely had to go to a mastermind in Maui, and ended up building lifelong relationships with people who changed the trajectory of my career.
Whether youâre just getting started or deep into the game, this conversation is about more than money. Itâs about freedom, self-awareness, and doing the work that actually mattersâto you. No fluff, no flexingâjust a real conversation with people whoâve been through it.
đ Access ALL the resources mentioned in this podcast for FREE on my Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/offmarketmethod/about?ref=791b3644f63045c9a6d3d8634e57c1f1
Connect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
In this episode, we are diving into one of the biggest traps we see in the real estate space â and itâs something weâve both dealt with personally and seen way too often in our community calls: the never-ending education loop.
You know the drill â buying course after course, joining mastermind after mastermind, chasing every strategy that pops up on your feed: Subto, seller finance, novations, development, you name it. We get it. Early on, we did the same thing. It feels like progress⌠but for most investors, itâs just mental masturbation.So in this episode, weâre getting brutally honest about:
Why buying more education wonât fix your businessHow to actually identify and solve your real constraint (hint: itâs usually leads or sales)What weâve seen happen when people chase strategies before theyâve even mastered the basicsHow Cole approached his first flip without blowing up the businessTuckerâs step-by-step framework for transitioning from wholesaling to flipping â the smart wayWhy most real estate partnerships donât work, and what makes the rare ones actually lastAnd the hardest truth of all: you need more patience than you thinkWeâre sharing personal stories â the good, the bad, and the ugly â from early flips, failed partnerships, and those moments where we thought the next course would finally be âit.â Spoiler: it wasnât.
If you're stuck in the cycle of constant learning and zero implementation, or you're trying to figure out what path makes the most sense for you, we hope this episode gives you the clarity and confidence to take real action.
Weâre not gurus. Weâre just guys whoâve been through the grind â and weâre here to tell you the truth.
Because at the end of the dayâŚ
đ Youâre only one deal away.đ Access ALL the resources mentioned in this podcast for FREE on my Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/offmarketmethod/about?ref=791b3644f63045c9a6d3d8634e57c1f1
Connect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
What does it take to build a business that stands the test of time?
In this episode, we dive into a rich conversation about long-term thinking in business. We'll share key lessons learned from growing and sustaining a company over decadesâtouching on everything from hiring for the long haul, staying grounded in your mission, and navigating challenges without chasing every trend.
Youâll hear about the mindset shifts required to focus on impact over ego, how to maintain trust with customers and teams, and why slow, intentional growth often beats hyper-speed scaling. Whether you're a startup founder or a seasoned operator, this episode offers timeless principles for building something that lasts.
Join the Off Market Method Community:
https://www.myeasybuttoninvestor.com/off-market-methodConnect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
In this episode, we challenge the common belief that bigger teams always lead to better results.
Exploring lean operations, smart delegation, and the power of small, focused teams, we uncover how businesses and startups can thrive without unnecessary complexity.
We'll share real-world insights on maximizing efficiency, building a strong culture, and achieving more with less. Whether youâre an entrepreneur, a manager, or a team leader, this conversation will change the way you think about scaling.
Join the Off Market Method Community:
https://www.myeasybuttoninvestor.com/off-market-methodAccess Easy Button Leads:
https://easybuttonleads.com/Connect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
In this episode, we dive deep into the strategies behind building a high-performing real estate team with Brandon Turner, a renowned investor and entrepreneur.
Brandon shares his insights on leadership, delegation, and creating a culture of excellence within a real estate business. From hiring the right people to fostering an environment of trust and accountability, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to scale their investment operations.
Whether you're an aspiring investor or an experienced professional, Brandonâs wisdom will help you unlock the full potential of your real estate team. Tune in to discover the mindset, systems, and leadership tactics that can take your business to the next level!
Join the Off Market Method Community:
https://www.myeasybuttoninvestor.com/off-market-methodConnect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
We hear the term passive income everywhereâon social media, in real estate circles, and from so-called business gurus. But is it real, or just a myth that leads people down the wrong path?
In this episode, we break down what passive income really means, why so many people chase it, and the hard truth about building long-term wealth. We share real-life stories, including one about a flashy entrepreneur who sold the dream of easy moneyâonly to end up in jail. We also dive into the common pitfalls of real estate investing, why rental properties and Airbnbs arenât as âhands-offâ as people think, and how the old-school, get-rich-slow approach is the real key to success.
If youâve ever wondered whether thereâs a way to make money without putting in the work, this episode is for you. We get honest about what it takes to build financial freedom and why true entrepreneurs never really âretire.â Tune in and letâs set the record straight on passive income once and for all.
Join the Off Market Method Community:
https://www.myeasybuttoninvestor.com/off-market-methodConnect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
In this episode, we break down the biggest mistake that causes real estate investors to lose moneyâand how to make sure it doesnât happen to us.
Too many investors rush into deals without fully understanding their market. Weâve seen it over and overâbuying in the wrong area, missing key details about permits and zoning, or taking on projects that are way too risky. Some learn the hard way, while others donât recover at all.
But the investors who succeed? They know their market inside and out. Today, weâre sharing real experiences, lessons learned, and simple strategies to make smarter deals and build a real estate business that lasts.What We Cover:
The #1 mistake that causes investors to failHow professionals choose the right deals (and avoid the bad ones)The unseen risks that can turn a great deal into a disasterHow to grow the right wayâwithout overextendingThe simple steps to truly understand a market before investingJoin the Off Market Method Community:
https://www.myeasybuttoninvestor.com/off-market-methodConnect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
In this episode, weâre cutting through the noise to help you master off-market lead generation in real estate investing. Whether youâre just getting started or trying to scale, understanding marketing channels is critical. We dive deep into the differences between inbound and outbound marketing, the pros and cons of each, and how they fit into your ideal business model.
Key takeaways from this episode:
â Why thereâs no one-size-fits-all marketing channel.
â How to choose between inbound (like PPC and mailers) and outbound (like cold calling and texting).
â The importance of aligning your marketing with the businessâand lifestyleâyou actually want.
â Why consistency and patience are essential for success in any channel.
â How to avoid the common trap of adding unnecessary complexity.
Join the Off Market Method Community:
https://www.myeasybuttoninvestor.com/off-market-methodConnect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
In this episode, we dive into the hotly debated topic of nationwide investing in real estate. Should you expand beyond your local market, or is staying focused the smarter move? We break down why investing in multiple states often leads to confusion, inefficiency, and lost profits.
We'll share our personal experiences, hard-learned lessons, and why brand equity, deep market knowledge, and strong local relationships are the keys to building a sustainable, high-profit real estate business. Whether you're just starting out or considering expansion, this episode is a must-listen!Join the Off Market Method Community:
https://www.myeasybuttoninvestor.com/off-market-methodConnect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
In this episode, we talk about why building a personal and business brand is essential for real estate success in 2025. I'll break down how posting content online can remove friction in key areas like hiring, raising capital, finding deals, and forming partnerships.
I'll take you back to when I had just 200 followers and how a strategic partnership helped me build a recognized brand in the real estate space. We'll also talk about overcoming imposter syndrome, the importance of consistency, and how to create content that connects with your audience.
Whether you're just starting or have been in the industry for years, these insights will help you stand out in a crowded market. Learn how to go from feeling awkward on camera to becoming a trusted voice in your industry.
Join the Off Market Method Community:
https://www.myeasybuttoninvestor.com/off-market-methodConnect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
In this episode, we discuss a common trap in real estate investingâchasing deal volume instead of focusing on real profit and a sustainable business.
We'll share personal stories of scaling too fast, burning out, and ultimately learning the hard way that more deals donât always mean more money (or happiness). From big offices to high-stress operations, we unpack the costly mistakes we've madeâand how we've rebuilt our businesses with a smarter, more sustainable approach.
Join the Off Market Method Community:
https://www.myeasybuttoninvestor.com/off-market-methodConnect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the real estate education industry. Why do so many so-called "gurus" rise and fall so quickly? How do they build massive followings without real business experience? And most importantlyâhow can you avoid falling for their hype?
We break down the patterns weâve seen over the years, from influencer marketers with no real deals under their belt to those who pivot from real estate to crypto, e-commerce, and beyond as soon as the market shifts. Plus, we discuss what it actually takes to build a real long-term investing business and how Easy Button Investor is doing things differently.
Join the Off Market Method Community:
https://www.myeasybuttoninvestor.com/off-market-methodConnect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
Growing a business isnât easyâespecially when you hit roadblocks that slow you down.
In this episode, we break down the three biggest challenges entrepreneurs face when trying to scale: finding enough customers, building the right team, and managing systems effectively. Weâll share practical strategies to overcome these obstacles, avoid common mistakes, and keep your business growing without losing momentum. Whether youâre just starting out or looking to take things to the next level, this episode is packed with insights to help you scale smarter and faster. Tune in and letâs get to work! đ
Join the Off Market Method Community:
https://www.myeasybuttoninvestor.com/off-market-methodConnect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
In this episode, we explore the power of focus and why doubling down on whatâs already working can be the key to sustainable business growth.
Discover the practical framework of compound, augment, and leverage to scale effectively without chasing distractions or falling into the trap of constant reinvention. Whether you're navigating the challenges of growth or feeling the pull of "shiny new ideas," this episode will help you stay on track and maximize your potential.
Join the Off Market Method Community:
https://www.myeasybuttoninvestor.com/off-market-methodConnect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson -
In this episode, we break down what "distress" really means in real estate.
Weâll clear up common misunderstandings, talk about what makes a seller or property truly distressed, and share tips on how to spot the best opportunities. Whether youâre a seasoned investor or new to the game, this episode will give you practical advice on dealing with distressed properties and making smart investment decisions. Tune in to learn how to turn challenges into opportunities!
Join the Off Market Method Community:
https://www.myeasybuttoninvestor.com/off-market-methodConnect with Cole Ruud-Johnson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coleruudjohnson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coleruudjohnson - Show more
