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

What happens when a trusted real estate attorney takes the reins of one of Des Moines’ most influential development firms? You get Gerry Neugent—visionary leader, community builder, and strategic thinker. In this episode, Gerry opens up about his transition from practicing law to leading Knapp Properties through decades of growth, market shifts, and city transformation. With a deep commitment to legacy and integrity, Gerry shares his reflections on leadership, land development, and why real estate is a long game rooted in relationships.

What You’ll Learn:

• How Gerry’s legal background helped shape his strategic approach to risk management and decision-making in real estate.

• Why land acquisition and infrastructure planning are key to long-term city development—and Knapp Properties’ future vision.

• Gerry shares why the evolution of the office market isn’t a setback, but an opportunity to reimagine how we use space.

• Discover how community service, philanthropy, and integrity are deeply woven into Gerry’s leadership philosophy.

• A reflection on the city’s transformation since the 1990s—and the strategic patience it takes to make an enduring impact.

About Gerry Neugent:

Gerry Neugent is the Co-Chairman of Knapp Properties, LC, a legal expert turned executive with a lifelong dedication to real estate development and community growth. With a JD from Drake University and decades of legal and executive experience, he’s guided some of the most significant commercial projects in Iowa. Outside of the boardroom, Gerry’s commitment to civic leadership is unmatched, serving on dozens of boards and receiving numerous accolades for his contributions to Greater Des Moines.

This episode is a masterclass in leadership, foresight, and the true meaning of building something that lasts.

Contact Info:

Website | https://www.naproperties.com/

What do you get when an agricultural engineer mixes hustle, strategy, and a bit of “Rich Dad Poor Dad” wisdom? Chad Daniel. From a small-town Iowa upbringing to leading a growing real estate investment group, Chad shares how he turned his commute-time audiobook inspiration into a diversified, multi-state portfolio. In this episode, he unpacks the power of collaboration, the challenges of shifting markets, and how syndications are shaping his next big move.

What You’ll Learn:

•How Chad and his wife Krissy scaled their portfolio using the BRRRR method and naturally evolved into turnkey providers for out-of-state investors.

•Why starting an investment group helped Chad move faster, share risks, and grow collectively with like-minded peers.

•How shifting economic conditions prompted Chad’s group to pivot from buying to strategic selling.

•Chad breaks down how syndications work, who they’re for, and why they’re becoming the next step in his investing journey.

•From third-party property managers to vetted contractors, Chad shares how the right team makes scaling possible—without burnout.

About Chad Daniel:

Chad began his real estate journey while still working full-time as an engineer. What started with a single property in Des Moines has expanded into a multi-market portfolio across several states. Alongside his wife Krissy, he’s used the BRRRR strategy and turnkey approach to generate cash flow and help other investors do the same. Now, with eyes set on syndications, Chad’s passion for education, adaptability, and teamwork is taking his investing to the next level.

Whether you’re new to real estate or ready to expand beyond single-family homes, this episode offers the roadmap—and mindset—you need to grow with purpose.

Contact Info:

Email | chad@turnkeyiowa.com

What happens when a successful roofing entrepreneur from Canada dives headfirst into the U.S. real estate market? Brian Audia is living that answer. In this episode, Brian shares how he transitioned from a multimillion-dollar contracting business to building a thriving real estate investing operation in the Midwest and Southeast. From note investing and creative finance to remote renovations and mentorship, Brian breaks down the real-world strategies that fuel his success—and the mindset it takes to win in today’s market.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why Brian left his roofing company behind to pursue financial freedom and flexibility through real estate.

• How note investing became a powerful strategy for creating recurring income and flexible deal structures.

• How Brian helps buyers and sellers find common ground when traditional financing falls short.

• The importance of understanding comps, cash flow, and market conditions before making a move.

• How networking, coaching, and consistent action have accelerated Brian’s real estate growth.

More About Brian Audia:

Now based in Iowa, Brian operates a successful real estate investing business focused on single-family homes in strategic U.S. markets. He’s also active in fix-and-flip and ground-up development projects in Des Moines. With 18 years in the roofing industry and a consulting background in private equity and M&A, Brian brings a rare mix of blue-collar grit and high-level strategy to the real estate game. Off the clock, he’s a proud dad of three, gym regular, and summer cyclist who’s always chasing the next adventure.

This episode is a masterclass in reinvention, creative finance, and building long-term wealth—don’t miss it.

Contact Info:

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/brian.audia.3

From long hours in the food industry to flipping houses and building a real estate empire—Bexaida Dominguez proves that all it takes is courage, creativity, and a commitment to community. In this episode, Bexaida opens up about her bold leap into real estate, her first wholesale deal, and how she’s now helping others unlock financial freedom through innovative strategies and fearless action.

What You’ll Learn:

• How Bexaida left the food industry behind and found purpose (and profit) in real estate.

• The highs, lows, and lessons from her first house flip—and why every misstep was a step forward.

• How she’s helping clients who don’t fit the traditional lending mold get into homes and investments.

• Why collaboration with city officials and fellow investors is a key part of her success.

• Bexaida’s mission to teach others the path to financial freedom and early retirement—one creative deal at a time.

More About Bexaida Dominguez:

In just under three years, Bexaida has flipped eight houses, purchased a commercial building, and carved out her space as a rising force in Iowa’s real estate scene. She’s passionate about breaking down barriers for first-time buyers and investors—especially those overlooked by the traditional system—and she’s not slowing down anytime soon.

This episode is packed with heart, hustle, and inspiration. Tune in and learn how you can flip your mindset—and your future.

Contact Info:

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/ybexaida.dominguez.9

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/ybexaida/

What does it take to breathe new life into an entire town? Real estate power duo Dwan Bent-Twyford and Bill Twyford are proving that with the right strategy, vision, and perseverance, it’s possible. In this episode, we dive into their ambitious revitalization of downtown Clinton, Iowa—how they’re leveraging opportunity zones, building generational wealth, and turning real estate into a tool for community transformation.

What You’ll Learn:

• How tax incentives are fueling Clinton’s resurgence and making long-term investments even more rewarding.

• Why community involvement and local relationships are key to successful real estate revitalization.

• The Twyfords’ strategy for managing large-scale projects, even from a distance.

• How one investment can spark economic growth, attract businesses, and revitalize entire neighborhoods.

• From single-mom struggles to multimillion-dollar deals, Dwan and Bill’s journey proves that resilience, action, and the right mentors can change everything.

More About Our Guests:

Dwan Bent-Twyford started her real estate journey as a broke single mom, knocking on doors with a baby on her hip. Bill Twyford transitioned from a successful painting business to real estate after a health scare forced him to pivot. Together, they’ve completed over $500M in transactions, mentored over 500,000 students, and are now taking on their biggest project yet—rehabbing an entire town in Clinton, Iowa.

Get ready for an inspiring conversation about vision, action, and the true impact of real estate!

Contact Info:

Websites | https://dwanderful.com/
| https://investorsedgeuniversity.com/