How does a preacher’s son go from painting houses and analyzing startups to building a thriving real estate investment business? In this episode, Dave Ferris shares his unconventional journey into real estate—starting with side hustles and ending with a full-time investing career. He opens up about the lessons learned during the 2008 financial crisis, why cash flow is king, and how strong partnerships have helped him scale. If you’re looking for real-world insight on flipping, holding, and leading with integrity in real estate, this conversation is packed with gold.

5 Takeaways to Level Up Your Investing:

• Dave’s entrepreneurial roots started with a painting business before diving into rental properties, showing that foundational skills build future momentum.

• Living through a market crash emphasized the importance of sustainable cash flow and financial discipline.

• Collaborating with trusted partners allowed Dave to expand operations and launch a cash-offer program that buys multiple houses per month.

• Dave’s business evaluates each property based on current market conditions, flipping some, holding others, and selling turnkeys to investors.

• Grounded in values from his upbringing, Dave sees ethical decision-making as a cornerstone of long-term success in real estate.

About Dave Ferris:

A graduate of Iowa State University in Entrepreneurship and Finance, Dave Ferris began his career in tech and business analysis before stepping into real estate investing in 2004. In 2020, he left his W2 job to go full-time. Today, he co-leads an investment company alongside partners Junior Ibarra and Ryan Cahoy, running a successful cash-offer program and mentoring other investors. With a passion for building wealth through real estate—and helping others do the same—Dave is as committed to growth as he is to giving back.

Contact Info:

Email | dave@teamirg.com

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/dave.faris.923

What does a Gyro stand, a vineyard, a bar, and a multimillion-dollar portfolio have in common? They’re all chapters in Todd Millang’s real estate story. In this episode, Todd shares how he went from a curious college student to Senior VP at CBRE, unpacking the highs, lows, and everything in between. From restaurant ownership to farmland investing, Todd’s journey proves that relationships, resilience, and reinvention are just as important as returns. Whether you’re in brokerage, investing, or simply exploring your next move—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

What You’ll Learn:

• Todd opens up about his first investment, the lessons learned from deals that went sideways, and how failure can become your best teacher.

• Learn how Todd transitioned from early brokerage challenges into a multifaceted real estate career spanning restaurants, agriculture, and long-term portfolio growth.

• Why your network—mentors, partners, and peers—can be the most valuable investment in your success.

• Todd and Neil reflect on how real estate ambition must be balanced with wellness, community, and life beyond the office.

• Discover how technology, collaboration, and community impact have reshaped the real estate industry—and how Todd is staying ahead of the curve.

About Todd Millang:

Todd Millang is Senior Vice President at CBRE, one of the nation’s leading commercial real estate firms. Over his career, Todd has completed 450+ commercial transactions totaling more than $1 billion. Known for his deep integrity, strategic thinking, and relationship-first approach, Todd brings a unique mix of market savvy and entrepreneurial spirit. His portfolio spans office, retail, restaurants, and even farmland—proof that success in real estate is about more than square footage; it’s about building something that lasts.

Contact Info:

Email | todd.millang@cbre.com

Phone | (515) 988-8810

What do a gym whistle, short-term rentals, and house hacking have in common? For Ryan Hoover—broker, investor, and all-around real estate enthusiast—they’re all key stops on the journey from PE teacher to powerhouse property pro. In this episode, Ryan dives into the decisions that changed his life, the lessons he learned from growing up on a farm, and how he turned hustle, humor, and heart into a thriving real estate business. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your portfolio, this conversation is packed with strategy, motivation, and a few good laughs.

What You’ll Learn:

• How Ryan’s small-town roots and early lessons in discipline and teamwork shaped his real estate leadership style.

• Why house hacking and short-term rentals weren’t just income strategies—they were stepping stones to long-term vision and freedom.

• Ryan breaks down how enthusiasm, relatability, and a bit of humor help him build trust and lasting client relationships.

• From teaching to finance to founding a brokerage, Ryan shows how following your curiosity can lead to unexpected success.

• Visualization, intentional goal-setting, and surrounding yourself with opportunity-rich communities like Ankeny can fast-track growth in real estate and life.

About Ryan Hoover:

Ryan Hoover is the Broker/Owner of Weichert, Realtors – The 515 Agency, serving clients across Iowa with offices in Ankeny and Algona. With a background in physical education and financial services, Ryan brings a rare mix of heart, humor, and hustle to every transaction. A skilled investor and seasoned agent, he’s passionate about empowering others to take control of their financial futures—one property at a time.

If you’re ready to approach real estate with more purpose, energy, and fun—this episode is your playbook.

Contact Info:

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/ryan.hoover.984

| https://www.facebook.com/515RealEstate

Phone | (515) 341-3849