Subscribe to The Next-Level Income Show
Access to capital is one of the biggest hurdles small business owners face when trying to grow. Traditional bank loans can be slow, restrictive, and often out of reach for entrepreneurs who don’t fit neatly into rigid lending criteria. On the Next Level Income podcast, we explore smarter, more flexible ways to build wealth and scale businesses. In this episode, we sit down with Ian Samlin, CEO and Founder of REIL Capital, to unpack how private credit is becoming a powerful growth tool for small business owners.
Ian’s journey into finance is rooted in both education and real-world experience. After earning his degree in Finance from Towson University, he went on to build deep expertise in business development and capital markets. Rather than following a traditional corporate path, Ian chose to build REIL Capital from the ground up with a clear mission: deliver tailored financial solutions grounded in trust, transparency, and long-term client success.
In the conversation, Ian explains what private credit really is and why it’s gaining traction. Unlike traditional lending institutions, private credit providers can move quickly, customize terms, and evaluate opportunities with a more holistic view of a business’s potential. For small business owners, this means fewer roadblocks and more opportunity to act on growth opportunities when timing matters most. Whether it’s expanding to a second location, purchasing equipment, or managing cash flow during a growth phase, private credit can offer speed and flexibility that conventional banks often can’t.
One of the key themes of the episode is strategic use of capital. Ian emphasizes that access to funding alone doesn’t guarantee success—it’s how business owners deploy that capital that makes the difference. He encourages entrepreneurs to think of private credit as a tool to accelerate smart decisions, not a shortcut to mask operational challenges. When paired with a clear growth plan and disciplined execution, private credit can be a catalyst for meaningful, sustainable expansion.
Beyond the numbers, Ian’s approach stands out because of his focus on relationships and community impact. He shares how REIL Capital prioritizes long-term partnerships over one-off transactions, aligning incentives with the success of the businesses they serve. This people-first mindset extends into Ian’s role as a community leader, where he actively supports local organizations and philanthropic initiatives. For him, financial growth and community growth go hand in hand.
If you’re a small business owner navigating today’s competitive landscape—or an investor looking to understand how private credit is reshaping entrepreneurial growth—this episode offers practical insights and real-world perspective. Tune in to hear how flexible capital solutions, paired with the right strategy and values, can help businesses move to the next level.
Resources & Links
Listen To The Podcast Here:
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.
Important Links:
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.
Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
Join the Next- Level Income Show Community today:
Follow Us On Social Media:
Tagged: Group 4
Subscribe to The Next-Level Income Show