When Real Estate Gets Real

When Real Estate Gets Real is a behind-the-scenes podcast for real estate operators who’ve already closed a deal and discovered that the spreadsheets weren’t the hard part.
Hosted by Stephen Lee-Thomas, the show explores what actually changes after the first close when real money, real investors, and real pressure enter the picture.
Each episode goes beyond tactics to unpack the decisions, mistakes, leadership challenges, and personal growth that define the shift from “I did a deal” to “I’m a real operator now.”
This podcast is for operators past their first close who want truth over hype, clarity over noise, and systems that support long-term scale.
When Real Estate Gets Real is a behind-the-scenes podcast for real estate operators who’ve already closed a deal and discovered that the spreadsheets weren’t the hard part.
Hosted by Stephen Lee-Thomas, the show explores what actually changes after the first close when real money, real investors, and real pressure enter the picture.
Each episode goes beyond tactics to unpack the decisions, mistakes, leadership challenges, and personal growth that define the shift from “I did a deal” to “I’m a real operator now.”
This podcast is for operators past their first close who want truth over hype, clarity over noise, and systems that support long-term scale.
Episodes
Episodes



Wednesday Sep 25, 2024
From Rejection to Real Estate Success: Jon Steenburgen’s Inspiring Journey (Part 1)
Wednesday Sep 25, 2024
Wednesday Sep 25, 2024
In Episode 6 of the Stephen Lee-Thomas Show, we talk to Jon Steenburgen, a real estate entrepreneur who went from receiving a college rejection letter to building a successful career in real estate. In Part 1, John shares how his struggles in high school led him to the Army, where he found new purpose, and how his journey into real estate began after discovering podcasts. Hear about Jon’s pivotal moments, including how he secured his first real estate deal and the lessons he learned from failure that set the foundation for his future success.
What You'll Learn:
The mindset shift that helped John overcome rejection and failure
How Jon’s time in the Army influenced his approach to real estate
The critical steps to securing his first real estate deal
Episode Highlights:
[00:01:00] Introduction to Jon Steenburgen and his story of rejection and resilience
[02:00] College rejection and spiraling downward: how Jon’s rock bottom pushed him into the Army
[06:30] Jon’s transformative experiences in the Army and the decision to leave for a better future
[10:00] Frustrations with a 9-to-5 life and discovering real estate through podcasts
[16:00] How Jon secured his first real estate deal and the hard lessons learned
[23:30] End of Part 1: Jon discusses not wanting to get stuck in a cycle of inaction.
Guest Info:
Jon Steenburgen is a dedicated real estate entrepreneur who turned failure into fuel for his real estate journey. His experience spans from military service to becoming a full-time real estate investor, leveraging mentorship, podcasts, and networking to scale his success.Ways to Connect with John Steenburgen:
Facebook: Posh Property Solutions
LinkedIn: Jon Steenburgen
Instagram: @Poshpropertysolutions
Website: Posh Property Solutions
Subscribe to The Stephen Lee-Thomas Show: Stay updated with our latest episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform.
Visit www.skool.com/multfamilymasteryhub and fast-track your way to becoming a full-time real estate entrepreneur today!
Connect with Us:
Skool Community
Website
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
YouTube
Support the Show: Enjoy our content? Share with your family and friends and anyone who will benefit with the insight we shared today. Leave us a review on your preferred platform to help us grow or any suggestion.
Join Our Community: Become a part of our exclusive Skool community, Capital Raising Mastery Hub. Get valuable resources, engage in discussions, and receive support for real estate entrepreneurs. Join Now! We are live!
Contact Us: For inquiries, guest appearances, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at info@raisegenius.ai.



Friday Aug 09, 2024
Going All-In on Real Estate with Anthony Bishop
Friday Aug 09, 2024
Friday Aug 09, 2024
In Episode 5 of the Stephen Lee-Thomas Show, we sit down with Anthony Bishop, a seasoned real estate investor who transitioned from a full-time day job to becoming a successful real estate entrepreneur. With over 14 years in the real estate industry, 11 of those full-time, and over 220 transactions under his belt, Anthony shares his journey, insights, and strategies for thriving in the competitive world of real estate. Discover how Anthony's determination, mentorship, and innovative approach to house flipping have propelled him to achieve remarkable success, including a $10.5 million volume in single-family homes. Tune in to learn valuable tips on mindset, mentorship, and the importance of perseverance in real estate investing.What You'll Learn:
The mindset required to transition from a full-time job to full-time real estate investing
The importance of burning your ships and fully committing to your goals
Insights into flipping houses and balancing sales with investments
Episode Highlights:
[00:01:30]: Introduction to Anthony Bishop and his background in real estate
[00:05:00]: Anthony’s early years and the decision to go full-time in real estate
[00:10:15]: The concept of "burning your ships" and its impact on Anthony’s success
[00:18:45]: The importance of hard work and building a routine
[00:25:00]: Anthony’s transition into house flipping and real estate investing
[00:35:30]: Key advice for new investors and the role of mentorship
[00:45:00]: The power of affirmations and maintaining a positive mindset
Guest Info: Anthony Bishop is a dedicated real estate investor with 14 years of experience in the industry. He has successfully transitioned from a part-time realtor to a full-time investor, focusing on single-family homes and house flipping. Ways to Connect with Anthony Bishop:
Facebook: Anthony Bishop
LinkedIn: Anthony Bishop
Instagram: Anthony Bishop
Subscribe to The Stephen Lee-Thomas Show: Stay updated with our latest episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform.
Connect with Us:
Skool Community
Website
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
YouTube
Support the Show: Enjoy our content? Share with your family and friends and anyone who will benefit with the insight we shared today. Leave us a review on your preferred platform to help us grow or any suggestion.
Join Our Community: Become a part of our exclusive Skool community, Capital Raising Mastery Hub. Get valuable resources, engage in discussions, and receive support for real estate entrepreneurs. Join Now! We are live!
Contact Us: For inquiries, guest appearances, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at info@raisegenius.ai.



Friday Aug 09, 2024
Navigating Real Estate Challenges: Lessons from Brandon Martinez
Friday Aug 09, 2024
Friday Aug 09, 2024
In this episode of the Stephen Lee-Thomas Show, we welcome Brandon Martinez, a dynamic real estate investor who has successfully navigated the ups and downs of the commercial real estate market. Starting as a passive investor in 2018 and becoming a general partner in 2021, Brandon has been involved in six deals totaling over a thousand units. Brandon shares his journey, the importance of having a strong mindset, and the critical role of CapEx management in real estate. Tune in to learn how Brandon has thrived in a challenging market and his advice for aspiring investors.What You'll Learn:
The importance of mindset in navigating market challenges
Strategies for effective CapEx management
How to add value as a boots-on-the-ground partner
Tips for new real estate investors on finding their niche
Episode Highlights:
[00:01:30]: Introduction to Brandon Martinez and his journey from passive investor to general partner
[00:05:00]: The role of CapEx management in real estate deals
[00:12:45]: The significance of being boots on the ground and building relationships
[00:18:20]: Maintaining a positive mindset and turning setbacks into opportunities
[00:25:00]: Advice for new investors and the importance of understanding your strengths
[00:35:30]: Brandon’s upcoming CapEx Academy and future plans
Guest Info: Brandon Martinez is a real estate investor and CapEx manager who started his investing journey in 2018. He has since expanded his portfolio to over a thousand units and has been instrumental in implementing business strategies for over 50 properties. Brandon is known for his expertise in CapEx management and his ability to thrive in challenging market conditions.Ways to Connect with Brandon Martinez:
Facebook: Brandon Martinez
LinkedIn: Brandon Martinez
Instagram: Brandon Martinez
Website: CapEx Partners
Subscribe to The Stephen Lee-Thomas Show: Stay updated with our latest episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform.
Connect with Us:
Skool Community
Website
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
YouTube
Support the Show: Enjoy our content? Share with your family and friends and anyone who will benefit with the insight we shared today. Leave us a review on your preferred platform to help us grow or any suggestion.
Join Our Community: Become a part of our exclusive Skool community, Capital Raising Mastery Hub. Get valuable resources, engage in discussions, and receive support for real estate entrepreneurs. Join Now! We are live!
Contact Us: For inquiries, guest appearances, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at info@raisegenius.ai.



Friday Aug 09, 2024
Friday Aug 09, 2024
In this episode of the Stephen Lee-Thomas Show, we welcome Eddie Esparza, a remarkable real estate investor who has managed to acquire $13 million in assets, including a 133-unit apartment complex in Arlington, Texas, all while maintaining a full-time W-2 job. Eddie shares his inspiring journey, from his early days working with his father's residential properties in Chicago to his successful leap into multifamily investing. Discover how Eddie balances his dual careers, the strategies he employs, and the importance of mindset and education in achieving real estate success. Whether you're an aspiring real estate investor or looking to scale up, Eddie's story offers valuable insights and motivation.What You'll Learn:
How to balance a full-time job with real estate investing
The importance of mindset in achieving real estate success
Strategies for transitioning from single-family to multifamily properties
How to structure and close a multifamily syndication deal
Episode Highlights:
[00:01:30]: Introduction to Eddie Esparza and his real estate journey
[00:03:45]: Eddie's background in real estate and his start in single-family homes
[00:08:30]: Transitioning from single-family to multifamily properties
[00:15:00]: The story behind the $13 million, 133-unit Arlington, Texas deal
[00:25:30]: The role of education and mentorship in Eddie's success
[00:32:00]: Eddie's daily routines and work-life balance
[00:40:00]: Advice for new investors looking to enter the multifamily space
Guest Info: Eddie Esparza is a seasoned real estate investor with $13 million in assets under management, including a recently closed 133-unit property in Arlington, Texas. Despite maintaining a full-time W-2 job, Eddie has successfully transitioned from single-family homes to large multifamily properties, showcasing his expertise and dedication to real estate investing.Ways to Connect with Eddie Esparza:
Website: epicpropertyventures.com
Facebook: Eddie Esparza
LinkedIn: Eddie Esparza
Instagram: Eddie Esparza
Subscribe to The Stephen Lee-Thomas Show: Stay updated with our latest episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform.
Connect with Us:
Skool Community
Website
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
YouTube
Support the Show: Enjoy our content? Share with your family and friends and anyone who will benefit with the insight we shared today. Leave us a review on your preferred platform to help us grow or any suggestion.
Join Our Community: Become a part of our exclusive Skool community, Capital Raising Mastery Hub. Get valuable resources, engage in discussions, and receive support for real estate entrepreneurs. Join Now! We are live!
Contact Us: For inquiries, guest appearances, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at info@raisegenius.ai.



Friday Aug 09, 2024
From W-2 to $88 Million in Assets: The Journey of Gabriel Craft
Friday Aug 09, 2024
Friday Aug 09, 2024
In this episode of the Stephen Lee-Thomas Show, we are joined by Gabriel Craft, a real estate powerhouse with $88 million in assets under management and over 2,200 units acquired. Gabriel shares his inspiring journey from a secure W-2 job to becoming a full-time real estate investor. Discover the strategies Gabriel used to navigate market challenges, the importance of mindset, and his advice for aspiring investors. Whether you're new to real estate or looking to scale, Gabriel's story offers valuable insights and motivation.What You'll Learn:
Strategies for transitioning from a W-2 job to full-time real estate investing
The importance of mindset and productivity in achieving real estate success
Key advice for new investors on avoiding common mistakes and finding the right team
Episode Highlights:
[00:02:00]: Introduction to Gabriel Craft and his impressive real estate journey
[00:05:30]: Discussion on the challenges and mindset required for success
[00:12:45]: Gabriel's hands-on approach and recent project insights
[00:25:00]: Key advice for new investors and the importance of mentorship and teamwork
Guest Info: Gabriel Craft is a seasoned real estate investor and entrepreneur with a portfolio boasting $88 million in assets under management and over 2,200 units. His company, Craft Capital Investments, specializes in value-add opportunities in the DFW area.Ways to Connect with Gabriel Craft:
Website: craftcapitalinvestments.com
Facebook: Gabriel Craft
LinkedIn: Gabriel Craft
Instagram: Gabriel Craft
Subscribe to The Stephen Lee-Thomas Show: Stay updated with our latest episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform.
Connect with Us:
Skool Community
Website
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
YouTube
Support the Show: Enjoy our content? Share with your family and friends and anyone who will benefit with the insight we shared today. Leave us a review on your preferred platform to help us grow or any suggestion.
Join Our Community: Become a part of our exclusive Skool community, Capital Raising Mastery Hub. Get valuable resources, engage in discussions, and receive support for real estate entrepreneurs. Join Now! We are live!
Contact Us: For inquiries, guest appearances, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at info@raisegenius.ai.



Friday Aug 09, 2024
Overcoming Real Estate Challenges: Insights from Charlie Hardage
Friday Aug 09, 2024
Friday Aug 09, 2024
In this premiere episode of the Stephen Lee-Thomas Show, we explore the realm of real estate investing with our special guest, Charlie Hardage. Charlie, a full-time real estate investor, recounts his transition from the corporate sector to managing over a thousand units across six properties. We delve into the critical role of mindset in overcoming the hurdles of real estate investing, particularly during market downturns. Join us to discover how to sustain a positive mindset, adapt to market fluctuations, and implement long-term strategies for achieving financial freedom.What You'll Learn:
The importance of mindset in real estate investing
Strategies to overcome market downturns
Long-term approaches for financial freedom
Episode Highlights:
[00:02:00]: Introduction to Charlie Hardage and his impressive real estate journey
[00:05:30]: Discussion on the challenges and mindset required for success
[00:12:45]: Charlie's transition from corporate life to real estate investing
[00:25:00]: Key advice for new investors and the importance of mentorship and teamwork
Guest Info: Charlie Hardage is a seasoned real estate investor managing over a thousand units across six properties. He has successfully transitioned from the corporate world to full-time real estate investing, focusing on mindset and long-term strategies. Ways to Connect with Charlie Hardage:
Website: hkigllc.com
Facebook: Charlie Hardage
LinkedIn: Charlie Hardage
Subscribe to The Stephen Lee-Thomas Show: Stay updated with our latest episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform.
Connect with Us:
Skool Community
Website
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
YouTube
Support the Show: Enjoy our content? Share with your family and friends and anyone who will benefit with the insight we shared today. Leave us a review on your preferred platform to help us grow or any suggestion.
Join Our Community: Become a part of our exclusive Skool community, Capital Raising Mastery Hub. Get valuable resources, engage in discussions, and receive support for real estate entrepreneurs. Join Now! We are live!
Contact Us: For inquiries, guest appearances, or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at info@raisegenius.ai.









