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In this episode of the Next Level Income Show, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the one and only Mike Zlotnik, also known as “Big Mike.” Mike is a seasoned real estate fund manager, mathematician, chess enthusiast, and third-degree black belt in Taekwondo. Yes — he brings a truly unique perspective to investing.
We explored how strategic thinking from chess and poker can directly translate into smarter investment decisions. Mike shared how his analytical mindset helps him approach real estate with discipline and clarity — two things that are critical in today’s unpredictable market.
One of the most powerful takeaways from our conversation was the concept of building your personal “buy box.” Mike explained that successful investors don’t chase shiny objects — they define exactly what fits their strategy and say no to everything else. This kind of focus allows you to avoid distractions and stay aligned with your goals, risk tolerance, and long-term vision.
We also dove into the current macro environment, from inflation to interest rates and Fed policy. Mike believes the next 12–18 months may bring rate cuts and increased investor tailwinds — especially with tools like 100% bonus depreciation coming back into play. For those prepared, this could be a great setup for real estate investing.
Mike isn’t just talking theory — he’s actively investing in multifamily with strong equity spreads, open-air shopping centers in prime markets like San Diego, triple-net industrial assets, and private credit lending. He’s focused on real cash flow, downside protection, and positioning for long-term upside — all while staying nimble and data-driven.
If you’re ready to sharpen your investing game, think more strategically, and prepare (not predict) for what’s next in the market — this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
Listen To The Podcast Here:
In this episode of the Next Level Income Show, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the one and only Mike Zlotnik, also known as “Big Mike.” Mike is a seasoned real estate fund manager, mathematician, chess enthusiast, and third-degree black belt in Taekwondo. Yes — he brings a truly unique perspective to investing.
We explored how strategic thinking from chess and poker can directly translate into smarter investment decisions. Mike shared how his analytical mindset helps him approach real estate with discipline and clarity — two things that are critical in today’s unpredictable market.
One of the most powerful takeaways from our conversation was the concept of building your personal “buy box.” Mike explained that successful investors don’t chase shiny objects — they define exactly what fits their strategy and say no to everything else. This kind of focus allows you to avoid distractions and stay aligned with your goals, risk tolerance, and long-term vision.
We also dove into the current macro environment, from inflation to interest rates and Fed policy. Mike believes the next 12–18 months may bring rate cuts and increased investor tailwinds — especially with tools like 100% bonus depreciation coming back into play. For those prepared, this could be a great setup for real estate investing.
Mike isn’t just talking theory — he’s actively investing in multifamily with strong equity spreads, open-air shopping centers in prime markets like San Diego, triple-net industrial assets, and private credit lending. He’s focused on real cash flow, downside protection, and positioning for long-term upside — all while staying nimble and data-driven.
If you’re ready to sharpen your investing game, think more strategically, and prepare (not predict) for what’s next in the market — this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
🔗 Learn More from Mike Zlotnik & Tempo Funding
Want to dive deeper into Mike Zlotnik’s investment strategies and see what his team is working on?
👉 Visit TempoFunding.com to learn more about Mike’s real estate funds, current offerings, and expert investment approach rooted in data, discipline, and decades of experience.
📘 Grab the Free Special Report:
Mike has also put together a powerful Special Report that breaks down how savvy investors are navigating today’s high-interest rate environment, avoiding common mistakes, and finding value in overlooked deals.
→ Download it here: tempofunding.com/special-report-2
Whether you’re a passive investor or looking to actively grow your portfolio, these resources are a great place to start.
I hope you found this episode valuable. Check out https://chris-larsen.mykajabi.com/coachingprogram to learn more about our coaching program and read some testimonials from our previous students. You can also book a call with us to learn more and find out if this program is good fit for you.
I have one more thing to give you. Visit our website to get a free copy of my book, audiobook, and much more. I’ll send you a copy of my book and cover all the shipping costs as a thank you for listening to the show. Also, please like, share, and take 90 seconds to give us a rating on Apple Podcasts.
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Christopher Larsen is the founder and Managing Partner of Next-Level Income. Since “retiring” after 18 years in the medical device industry he dedicates his time to helping others become financially independent through education and investment opportunities. Chris has been investing in and managing real estate for over 20 years.
While completing his degree in Biomechanical Engineering and M.B.A. in Finance at Virginia Tech, he bought his first single-family rental at age 21. Chris expanded into development, private-lending, buying distressed debt as well as commercial office, and ultimately syndicating multifamily properties. He began syndicating deals in 2016 and has been actively involved in over $500M of real estate acquisitions.
In addition to real estate, Chris has invested in equities, oil & gas, and small business lending, as well as being active in Venture South, one of the nation’s Top 10 Angel Investing groups. Chris lives with his wife and two boys (and Viszla, Lucy!) in Asheville, NC where he loves spending time with them in the outdoors and enjoying the food and culture that the region has to offer.
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