Know Your Why Podcast with Dr.Jason Balara

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with John Azar, founder of Peak 15 Capital, for a candid and timely conversation about navigating one of the most complex real estate environments in recent memory. John shares how his team has responded to market volatility through strategic diversification across multifamily, land, and industrial assets, and why patience and disciplined risk mitigation have become more important than ever for private equity investors. The conversation also introduces John's new coaching program, Forja, built around deal cycles, community, and the belief that sharing knowledge is just as valuable as generating returns.Key Highlights:John's perspective on current market conditions and why he believes the economy may already be in a recessionHow Peak Fifteen Capital has navigated volatility through diversification across multifamily, land, and industrial asset classesWhy distressed assets and opportunistic investing are among the most compelling strategies in today's environmentThe role of patience and disciplined risk mitigation when market conditions make it tempting to force dealsInsights on fund management, liquidity events, and how John is positioning his portfolio for the road aheadHow rising prices — up 20 to 30 percent in key markets — are reshaping investment thresholds and underwriting assumptionsAn introduction to Forja, John's new coaching program focused on deal cycles, community building, and knowledge sharingWhy legacy and reputation, not just financial returns, are the ultimate measure of success for long-term investorsJohn's approach is a masterclass in playing the long game. In a market that rewards patience over impulse and diversification over concentration, his insights offer a grounded and strategic perspective for any investor navigating uncertainty — and a reminder that the most enduring success in real estate is built on reputation as much as returns.Get in touch with John:Email: [email protected]: https://www.peak15cap.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/jjazar/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jalalazar/If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  Audio Track:Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with Georges Hanna, an entrepreneur who lost everything in 2013 and used that devastating setback as the catalyst for rebuilding a stronger, more intentional business. Georges brings a refreshingly honest perspective on what it truly takes to recover from failure — and how understanding human psychology became the cornerstone of his entire approach to marketing, sales, and business growth. From the mindset shifts that made his comeback possible to the content marketing strategies that drive consistent results, this conversation goes deep on what separates entrepreneurs who bounce back from those who don't.Key Highlights:Georges' journey from losing everything in 2013 to rebuilding a thriving and sustainable businessWhy mindset and personal growth are the true foundations of lasting business successHow understanding human psychology transforms the way entrepreneurs approach marketing and salesThe role of emotional versus logical decision-making in how customers buy — and how to market to bothWhy effective sales is less about pushing and more about pulling the right people toward youHow content marketing and consistency build the trust and visibility needed for long-term business growthThe connection between cash flow and personal development — and why the business reflects the person running itKey lessons Georges learned from rebuilding that every entrepreneur facing adversity needs to hearGeorges' story is a powerful reminder that rock bottom can be the most clarifying place an entrepreneur ever stands. When failure strips away everything that isn't working, it creates the rare opportunity to rebuild with intention — and his journey is proof that the right mindset, paired with a deep understanding of human psychology, can turn even the most devastating loss into a platform for extraordinary growth.Get in touch with Georges:Website: https://smartincomelifestyle.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoachGeorgesHannaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachgeorgeshanna/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachgeorgeshanna/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CoachGeorgesHannaIf you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  Audio Track:Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with Casey Jacox, a former corporate sales leader turned coach and podcaster, whose philosophy on success is built on a foundation that most salespeople overlook — winning the relationship, not the deal. Casey shares the six core principles that have guided his journey from the competitive world of corporate sales to coaching leaders and building genuine human connections through storytelling and curiosity. From the art of asking great questions to showing up authentically as both a leader and a father, this conversation is a masterclass in the kind of humble, curious, and relationship-driven approach that creates lasting success in business and in life.Key Highlights:Casey's journey from corporate sales to leadership coaching and podcastingThe six core principles he lives by for building meaningful relationships and long-term successWhy humility and vulnerability are not weaknesses in leadership — they are the foundation of trustHow asking TED-based questions and practicing active listening transforms the quality of every conversationThe philosophy behind "win the relationship, not the deal" and what it means for sales and leadershipThe role of storytelling and authenticity in coaching others toward meaningful personal developmentHow Casey balances the demands of entrepreneurship and coaching with his commitment to fatherhood and familyPractical strategies for fostering genuine human connection in a world that often prioritizes transactions over relationshipsCasey's message is both simple and profound — the most successful people are not necessarily the most technically skilled, but the most genuinely curious and relationally intelligent. His insights offer a refreshing and actionable framework for anyone looking to lead with more heart, ask better questions, and build a life defined by meaningful connection.Get in touch with Casey:Website: https://www.caseyjacox.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theqbdadcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseyjacox/Win the Relationship, Not the Deal (Book):  https://a.co/d/006vwldWPodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/quarterback-dadcast-intentional-fatherhood-leadership/id1492347381If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  Audio Track:Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with Brandon Smith, who stumbled into the construction industry by accident and turned that unexpected entry point into a thriving business and a passion for coaching others in the trades. Brandon shares the real story behind scaling a construction business — from the leadership challenges that catch most contractors off guard to the marketing principles that help trades businesses communicate their value and attract the right clients. The conversation also explores how AI is beginning to reshape the construction industry and what entrepreneurs in the trades need to know to stay ahead.Key Highlights:How Brandon's accidental entry into construction led to building a successful business and coaching careerThe most common obstacles trades businesses face when trying to scale and how to overcome themLeadership lessons learned from growing a construction company beyond the founder's direct involvementWhy marketing in the trades is fundamentally about communicating value — and how to do it effectivelyClient acquisition strategies that prioritize relationships and long-term trust over transactional sellingHow AI is beginning to influence construction businesses and where the biggest opportunities lieKey mindset shifts contractors and trades entrepreneurs need to make to grow beyond the job siteBrandon's journey is proof that success in the trades is about far more than technical skill. Building a thriving construction business requires the same intentional approach to leadership, marketing, and growth as any other industry — and his story offers a practical and inspiring roadmap for contractors ready to level up.Get in touch with Brandon:Website: https://newvisionprojects.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newvisionprojects/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buildwithbsmith/If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  Audio Track:Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with Allie Stark, founder of Allie Stark Wellness and co-founder of Noria, whose path into integrative health and leadership coaching began with a deeply personal health crisis that the conventional healthcare system failed to resolve. Allie shares how that experience opened her eyes to the power of holistic wellness — treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms — and ultimately shaped her mission to connect people to their source and purpose. From navigating the challenges of being a multi-hyphenate creative to building two businesses simultaneously, Allie brings a refreshingly human perspective on what modern leadership, delegation, and entrepreneurial growth really look like in practice.Key Highlights:How a personal health crisis became the catalyst for Allie's journey into integrative health and holistic wellnessWhy the conventional healthcare system often falls short by addressing symptoms rather than root causesThe core principles of integrative health and how treating the whole person leads to more lasting transformationWhat it means to be a multi-hyphenate creative — and the unique challenges that come with juggling multiple roles and businessesWhy modern leadership must prioritize humanity, connection, and a more evolved approach to guiding teamsThe critical role delegation plays in sustaining both business growth and personal well-beingWhy understanding your finances is a non-negotiable responsibility for every founder and entrepreneurHow Allie thinks about new business acquisition as a core function of her role as the face of both Allie Stark Wellness and NoriaAllie's story is a powerful reminder that personal transformation and professional purpose are rarely separate journeys — they are deeply intertwined. Her work across integrative health and creative leadership reflects a singular mission: to help people expand, connect, and lead from a place of wholeness.Get in touch with Allie:Website: https://www.alliestarkwellness.com/Website: https://hellonoria.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allie_stark_wellness/?hl=enIf you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  Audio Track:Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with Ron Kmetovicz, an engineer, entrepreneur, and financial mentor whose journey from a Pennsylvania farm to the halls of HP Labs and beyond shaped a uniquely practical approach to business strategy and financial independence. Ron shares how a lifetime of entrepreneurial influences — combined with deep technical expertise and a passion for mentorship — led him to dedicate himself to empowering young people with the financial literacy tools they need to build wealth early. At the heart of his mission is a deceptively simple concept: the "ghost account," a strategy designed to help young individuals create a second source of income and lay the foundation for lasting financial independence with minimal debt.Key Highlights:Ron's path from growing up on a Pennsylvania farm to building a career at HP Labs and transitioning into consultingHow his engineering background shaped the technical and business insight that drives his consulting and mentorship workWhy confidence in oneself is one of the most underrated foundations of entrepreneurial successThe "ghost account" concept — what it is, how it works, and why starting it in your teens or twenties can lead to significant long-term wealthThe power of combining minimal debt with multiple revenue streams as a strategy for achieving financial independenceWhy teaching financial literacy to young people early is one of the highest-impact forms of mentorshipHow building passive income streams can eventually create a life of financial freedom and flexibilityRon's mission is refreshingly straightforward — pass on simple, proven strategies that the next generation can act on today. His work is a powerful reminder that financial independence isn't reserved for the privileged few, but for anyone willing to start early, stay disciplined, and make informed decisions about money.Get in touch with Ron:Ron’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Ghost-Money-Pathway-Financial-Independence/dp/B0FT1F3242If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  Audio Track:Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara reconnects with Brian Briscoe, a military veteran turned multifamily investor, for an honest and grounded conversation about navigating one of the most turbulent periods in recent real estate history. Brian reflects on the lessons learned from economic headwinds that tested even experienced investors, and shares how those challenges reshaped his approach to market selection, debt strategy, and operational control. From his pivot toward Salt Lake City to rethinking how risk is managed at the deal level, this conversation offers hard-won insight for anyone serious about building a resilient multifamily investment portfolio.Key Highlights: Brian's journey from military service to building a multifamily investment portfolioWhy he shifted his market focus from the Southeast to Salt Lake City and what drove that decisionHow recent economic headwinds exposed vulnerabilities in multifamily investments and what investors can learn from themThe critical role of debt structure and the often-overlooked impact of prepayment penalties on investment outcomesStrategies for maintaining operational control as a key lever for risk mitigation in multifamily investingKey lessons Brian took away from navigating market downturns and how they reshaped his investment approachHis outlook on where multifamily real estate is headed and which market dynamics investors should be watching closelyBrian's story is a testament to the value of adaptability and hard-won experience. The economic headwinds of recent years have been a difficult teacher for many investors, but for those willing to reflect, adjust, and apply the right lessons, the path forward in multifamily investing remains full of opportunity.Get in touch with Brian:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-briscoe-ut/Free trial: https://www.thetribeoftitans.com/plans/206500?bundle_token=1e99da9eb2927e932c28134c822174d8&utm_source=manualIf you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  Audio Track:Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with August Biniaz, co-founder of CPI Capital, who shares his remarkable journey from Iran to Canada and ultimately into the US real estate market. August offers a candid look at how he developed his investment philosophy across multifamily and build-to-rent sectors, and what Canadian investors need to understand before entering US markets. From navigating cross-border legal and tax structures to identifying the right partners on the ground, this conversation is an invaluable guide for any investor looking to expand their real estate strategy across borders and asset classes.Key Highlights:August's personal journey from Iran to Canada and how real estate became his professional language early onKey legal and tax considerations every investor must address before structuring a cross-border investmentHow the build-to-rent sector evolved post-Global Financial Crisis and why institutional involvement has fueled its growthThe demographic and lifestyle trends driving demand in the build-to-rent space and how it differs from traditional multifamilyCritical differences between Canadian and US real estate markets, including how rent control laws impact investment strategyWhy partnering with local experts and developers is essential for reducing risk in cross-border real estate dealsHow Canadian investors can structure access to US syndication and multifamily opportunities through limited partnership modelsThe importance of defining your personal "why" as the foundation of a clear and sustainable real estate investment strategyAugust's story is a powerful example of how curiosity, cross-border thinking, and the right partnerships can open doors that most investors never consider. Whether you're a seasoned syndicator or just exploring US markets for the first time, his insights offer a practical and strategic roadmap for building wealth through real estate on an international scale.Get in touch with August:Website: https://cpicapital.com/LinkedIn: ​​https://www.linkedin.com/in/augustbiniaz/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/augustbiniaz/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soheil.biniazIf you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  Audio Track:Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with Dean Curtis, CEO of Ingage, who took an unconventional path from math teacher to tech entrepreneur to build a platform transforming how home improvement companies approach sales. Dean shares how his background in education shaped his approach to sales training and content enablement, and why so many home services companies struggle to scale without a structured, repeatable sales process. From virtual appointments to pre-qualification strategies, this conversation offers a practical look at what it takes to modernize and measure sales effectiveness in the home improvement industry.Key Highlights:Dean's unconventional career journey from math teacher to CEO of a SaaS sales enablement platformHow Engage is transforming the home improvement sales process through content and structured trainingThe role of virtual appointments and pre-qualification in creating a more efficient home services sales experienceWhy a scalable, repeatable sales process is the foundation of growth for both small and large home improvement companiesHow content enablement tools help sales teams deliver more consistent and compelling presentationsThe importance of measuring sales process effectiveness and using data to drive continuous improvementKey lessons from Dean's transition into tech entrepreneurship and building a platform from the ground upDean's journey is a reminder that some of the best entrepreneurs come from the most unexpected backgrounds. His ability to translate the principles of teaching into a scalable sales training and content platform is a testament to the power of applying transferable skills in new and innovative ways.Get in touch with Dean:Website: https://ingage.io/Email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/deancurtis23/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanc23/If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  Audio Track:Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with Rick Ivanovich, a seasoned entrepreneur and leadership guide who has spent decades helping founders and CEOs not just survive change — but shape it. Rick shares his personal entrepreneurial journey, from early failures to finding purpose, and introduces the powerful metaphor of building a personal and professional "castle" as a framework for life balance and resilience. Drawing on lessons learned through COVID-19 and decades of navigating volatile business environments, Rick unpacks what it truly means to lead with purpose during what he calls "business as unusual" — and the practical playbooks he has developed to help leaders thrive in an unpredictable world.Key Highlights:Rick's entrepreneurial journey from early failures to building a platform for founder and CEO developmentThe "building a castle" metaphor as a practical framework for achieving balance across life and businessLeadership lessons drawn from navigating crises, including the seismic shifts brought on by COVID-19How the evolution of work in a post-pandemic world has redefined what effective business strategy looks likeThe story behind Rick's book Business as Unusual and the insights that inspired itPractical playbooks and resources Rick has developed specifically for founders and CEOs facing volatilityWhy discovering your personal "why" is the essential foundation for purposeful and resilient leadershipRick's message is a timely one — in a world where change is the only constant, the leaders who thrive are those who build strong foundations, embrace innovation, and lead with a clear sense of purpose. His resources and frameworks offer a real-world roadmap for any entrepreneur ready to turn uncertainty into opportunity.Get in touch with Rick:Website: https://rickyvanovich.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickyvanovich/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/RickYvanovichTwitter: https://twitter.com/RickYvanovichFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/yvanovichInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/RICKYVANOVICH2/If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  Audio Track:Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/