Directed IRA Podcast

40 Episodes
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By: Mat Sorensen and Mark Kohler

The Directed IRA Podcast, hosted by attorneys Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler, is the leading source for investors navigating the world of self-directed IRAs and 401(k)s. As co-founders of Directed IRA & Directed Trust Company (directedira.com), Mat and Mark have helped thousands of clients invest in alternative assets using tax-advantaged retirement accounts.Episodes cover topics related to self-directing retirement accounts, such as Roth IRAs, Solo 401(k)s, real estate, private equity and venture funds, promissory notes, private placements (PPMs), start-ups, IRA/LLCs (Checkbook IRAs), and the UBIT/UDFI tax rules. The podcast also addresses prohibited transactions and shares...

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Investing in Venture or Startups with a Self-directed IRA
#14
Yesterday at 11:00 AM

If you’re ready to invest in venture or a startup with your IRA, book a call with Directed IRA today to learn more!: https://directedira.com/appointment/

Tell USVC about your situation and their team will follow up individually with the right path: https://usvc.com/ira

In this special episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, host Mat Sorensen, CEO of Directed IRA, sits down with Ankur Nagpal, General Partner at USVC by AngelList Asset Management and founder of Carry, to discuss venture capital, startup investing, and how retirement accounts ca...


Roth IRA vs Roth 401(k) — 5 Differences That Cost People Money
#13
09/17/2026

Get the FREE BEGINNER'S GUIDE to self-directing an IRA and learn how to put your Roth dollars into real estate, private funds, startups, and crypto!

Ready to build your tax-free bucket the right way — BOOK A FREE CALL with DirectedIRA and get the Roth IRA or Roth 401(k) accounts you need set up today!

Roth IRAs and Roth 401(k)s share a first name and the same tax-free growth, but almost every rule that governs them is different — and picking the wrong one for your next dollar can cost you real money. Wealth lawyer and real...


ROBS vs Self-Directed IRA
#12
09/04/2026

If you're ready to explore investing your retirement savings outside of traditional Wall Street investments, a Self-Directed IRA may be an option worth considering.

Ready to open a Self-Directed IRA? Book a call with my team at Directed IRA to get started and explore your options.

In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler break down the ROBS (Rollover as Business Startups) strategy and compare it to using a Self-Directed IRA to invest in a business. With so much...


Investing in Litigation Finance with Your IRA
#11
08/26/2026

Take control of your retirement strategy. BOOK A FREE CALL with Directed IRA and learn how to put your IRA to work beyond Wall Street!

Download the slide deck here!

In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, host Mat Sorensen sits down with Kris Kjolberg, Managing Director & Head of Capital Strategy at Pravati Capital, to break down litigation finance—a growing alternative asset class that many investors may not be familiar with.

Mat and Kris discuss how litigation finance works, why law firms need access to cap...


The Rule of 72 Explained - How to Double Your Money
#10
08/20/2026

Tired of paying more to the IRS on your investment gains? A self-directed IRA can help you take advantage of tax-advantaged investing while giving you more control over where your retirement dollars go. Book a free 15-minute call with Directed IRA to learn more and get started 

In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mark and Mat Sorensen break down the Rule of 72 and explain how investors can use this simple calculation to understand the power of compounding and the time it can take for an investment to double.


Passing Down Your IRA or 401(k) Tax-Free with an Inherited IRA
#9
08/13/2026

If you've recently inherited an IRA or need help getting the account established, Directed IRA can help you through the process and get your Inherited IRA opened: https://directedira.com/appointment/

Need help establishing your estate plan? KKOS Lawyers can help you coordinate your estate plan, retirement accounts, beneficiary designations, trusts, powers of attorney, and other important estate-planning documents so your assets are positioned to pass according to your wishes: https://kkoslawyers.com/

In this special collaboration between Directed IRA and KKOS Lawyers, Mat Sorensen, CEO of Directed IRA and Senior...


Roth IRA vs Roth 401(k) - Where Should You Put Your Money?
#8
08/05/2026

Looking to take control of your retirement and want to use your IRA or 401K dollars to invest in alternative assets? Book a call with my team at Directed IRA to get started: https://directedira.com/appointment/?utm_source=live&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=wohl_rothira_roth401k

In this episode, I break down the key differences between a Roth IRA and a Roth 401(k) so you can decide where to put your money for maximum long-term, tax-free wealth. We cover contribution limits, the core tax rules that make Roth accounts the most powerful retirement vehicle...


New Legislation Targets Self-Directed IRAs
#7
07/23/2026

Looking to take more control of your retirement investments? Directed IRA helps investors diversify beyond traditional stocks and mutual funds by investing retirement funds into alternative assets like real estate, private funds, private lending, startups, crypto, and more. Schedule a call to get started: https://directedira.com/appointment/

We've also published a detailed breakdown of the proposed legislation and what it could mean for self-directed IRA investors:
https://directedira.com/new-legislation-targeting-self-directed-iras/

Self-directed IRAs have helped investors build wealth by investing in alternative assets like real estate, private companies, private lending, crypto, and more. Now...


Trump Accounts and How To Optimize Them
#6
07/23/2026

If you're a business owner looking to give your child a head start with their retirement, book a call with Directed IRA to learn more about the Kid's Roth!: https://directedira.com/appointment/ 

Open a Trump Account here: https://trumpaccounts.gov/

In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler break down one of the newest retirement savings vehicles available to families: the Trump Account. They explain who qualifies, how the account works, and why they believe it has the potential to become a powerful long-term w...


Investing in Physical Gold & Silver with Your IRA
#5
07/18/2026

If you're ready to invest in precious metals with your IRA or have additional questions about getting started, book a call with our team at Directed IRA: https://directedira.com/appointment/

Interested in learning more about alternative investments? Join us at the Alternative Asset Summit, where you'll hear from industry experts and connect with like-minded investors exploring new ways to build wealth: https://altassetsummit.com/

Gold and silver have become some of the most talked-about investment assets, but how do they fit into a self-directed IRA? In this webinar, Mat Sorensen is joined by special...


Investing with your Self-directed HSA
#4
07/08/2026

To learn more about opening a self-directed HSA and how you can use an HSA to invest in what you know, click the link to connect with my team at Directed IRA: https://directedira.com/appointment/

In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen explains how a self-directed Health Savings Account (HSA) can become one of the most powerful long-term wealth-building tools available. Instead of treating an HSA as simply a place to save for current medical expenses, Mat discusses how investors can use a self-directed HSA to invest in alternative assets like real estate...


Why You Shouldn't Buy Real Estate in Your IRA
#3
07/02/2026

To invest in real estate using your IRA, book a call with our team at Directed IRA to get started!: https://directedira.com/appointment/

In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler take on one of the most common misconceptions surrounding self-directed retirement accounts. They break down why many financial influencers discourage investing in real estate through an IRA, examine the role depreciation actually plays in real estate investing, and explain why maximizing long-term, tax-advantaged growth should be the primary objective.

The conversation explores when real estate does and...


When Should You Use an IRA/LLC or Checkbook IRA?
#2
06/23/2026

To establish an IRA/LLC, schedule a call with our team at Directed IRA to get started!: https://directedira.com/ira-llc/

Get a consult with a tax attorney at KKOS Lawyers to see if an IRA/LLC is right for your situation: https://kkoslawyers.com/services/irallc/

One of the most common questions we receive from self-directed investors is: Do I need an IRA LLC?

The answer depends entirely on what you’re investing in and how you plan to invest. For some investors, an IRA LLC can provide speed, flexibility, an...


Getting Started with a Self-Directed IRA
#1
05/29/2026

To begin investing in real estate, small business, crypto, precious metals, & other alternative assets with a self-directed IRA: https://directedira.com/appointment/

In this episode, I break down self-directed IRAs and how investors can use retirement funds to build wealth beyond traditional stocks and mutual funds. You’ll learn the basics of SDIRAs, the types of alternative assets you can invest in, key IRS rules to avoid costly mistakes, and strategies for using retirement accounts to invest in real estate, private deals, and more. Whether you’re new to self-directed investing or looking to expand your retirement stra...


Investing in Real Estate with your Self-Directed IRA: Step-by-Step
#18
05/22/2026

To begin investing in real estate with a self-directed IRA, schedule a call with our team at Directed IRA: https://directedira.com/appointment/

In this special episode of the Directed IRA Podcast,  we had Nate Hare (Vice President at Directed IRA) walk through the step-by-step process of buying real estate inside a self-directed IRA. This episode covers how self-directed IRAs work, funding your account, purchasing property correctly, handling expenses and rental income, avoiding prohibited transactions, using non-recourse financing, and when an IRA/LLC or Checkbook Control IRA may make sense. Whether you’re new to self-directed investing or...


Roth IRA v. HSA: Which is Better?
#17
05/14/2026

To open a self-directed Roth IRA, book a call with our team at https://directedira.com/roth-ira-account/

To open a self-directed HSA? Book a call with our team at https://directedira.com/hsa-accounts/

On today's episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat and Mark step into the ring for a debate over two of the most powerful tax-advantaged accounts for building wealth: the Roth IRA vs. the HSA. Throughout the episode, they go punch-for-punch breaking down the key differences, tax benefits, contribution strategies, inheritance rules, and real-world investing opportunities inside each account. Whether you’re de...


What is an IRA LLC (or Checkbook Control IRA)?
#16
05/07/2026

Download our getting started guide to learn more about IRA LLCs: https://directedira.com/beginners-guide-ira-llc/

In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler break down the Self-Directed IRA LLC, also known as the “Checkbook IRA LLC,” and explain how investors use it to buy real estate and alternative assets with greater control and flexibility.

They cover how the structure works, what you can and can’t do as manager of the LLC, common mistakes investors make, and why proper setup matters for staying compliant with IRS rules and protecting your r...


How To Buy Real Estate in Your Self-Directed IRA
#15
04/30/2026

Download our getting started guide to investing in real estate with your IRA here: https://directedira.com/beginners-guide-investing-in-real-estate-with-your-ira/

In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler break down how to invest in real estate using your IRA, Roth IRA, 401(k), or HSA.

They explain how self-directed accounts allow you to buy rental properties, invest in syndications, and build tax-advantaged wealth outside of traditional stocks and mutual funds. Sharing real examples from their own deals, they highlight the potential for stronger returns, cash flow, and long-term growth.

They...


Real Self-Directed IRA Deals (Show and Tell with Mat and Mark)
#14
04/28/2026

To get started download our getting started guide: https://directedira.com/beginners-guide/

For questions or to open an account book a call with an IRA specalist here: https://directedira.com/appointment

In this episode, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler record live from the Self-Directed IRA Summit and take a “show and tell” approach to real investments from their own self-directed retirement accounts.

They highlight a short-term real estate lending deal and discuss how experienced investors evaluate opportunities, structure transactions, and stay disciplined when deploying retirement capital.

The episode also...


Self-Directed IRA Prohibited Transaction Rules
#13
04/23/2026

For questions or to get started self-directing book a call with an IRA specalist at Directed IRA here: https://directedira.com/appointment/

Schedule a consultation with KKOS Lawyers to structure your entities, optimize your tax strategy, and ensure your investments are properly protected: https://meetings.hubspot.com/kkos-lawyers/15-minute-client-advisor-interview

In this episode, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler break down one of the most important rules in self-directed investing: prohibited transactions.

Self-directed IRAs provide significant investment flexibility, but that flexibility comes with responsibility. Understanding and adhering to these rules is essential to protecting...


Transfers, Rollovers, & Contributions for Your Self-Directed IRA
#12
04/14/2026

Download our Beginner’s Guide to Transfers and Rollovers: https://directedira.com/beginners-guide-transfers-rollovers/

Have you ever wondered how to fund an IRA? Do you have money in an old 401(k) that you want to move into an IRA?

In this episode, Mat Sorensen and Mark Kohler break down what it actually takes to move money into your account, and why this step can be easier or more frustrating than people expect.

They cover the three primary ways to fund a self-directed IRA: transfers, contributions, and rollovers. Along the way, they explain why IRA-to-IRA tr...


How to Find, Vet, and Invest in Private Funds with a SDIRA (ft. Bridger Pennington)
#12
04/07/2026

Visit Bridger's website: https://www.bridgerpennington.com/

On this episode, Mat Sorensen is joined by Bridger Pennington, founder of Fund Launch, to walk through how investors can actually find, evaluate, and invest in private funds.

They begin by establishing the role private funds play in today’s market and why capital continues to shift toward private assets, before turning to how investors are gaining access, including through self-directed IRAs, and what separates a well-structured fund from a poor one in manager selection.

They cover key diligence factors like audits, fund administrators, fee structures, an...


BREAKING - U.S. Dept of Labor Releases New Landmark Rule Allowing Alternative Assets in 401(k) Plans
#11
04/06/2026

In this special "Breaking News" episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat breaks down new guidance from the Department of Labor that could expand 401(k) access to alternative investments like private equity, real estate funds, and crypto.

Mat explains why alternatives have largely been excluded—fiduciary liability under ERISA—and how the proposed rule shifts the focus to a prudent, process-based standard centered on risk-adjusted returns.

Mat also discuss what the DOL’s “neutral” stance means for plan sponsors, what’s coming next from the SEC, and how this could reshape retirement investing.

Most importa...


What is a Self-Directed IRA?
#10
03/31/2026

What is a self-directed IRA, and how does it actually work?

In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler break down the most foundational concepts in self-directed investing. If you have ever felt limited by traditional retirement accounts or wondered if you can invest your IRA in assets outside of Wall Street, this episode is for you.

As part of our Self-Directing 101 series, this conversation is designed to simplify the concept, clear up common misconceptions, and help you understand how to take control of your retirement strategy.

...


Open Forum Q&A
#9
03/31/2026

Self-directed IRAs allow investors to go beyond traditional markets, but using them properly requires understanding the rules, structure, and process involved.

In this live session, Directed IRA Vice President of Sales Nate Hare, along with co-host Daniel Tercey, start with a brief overview of how self-directed IRAs work before opening the discussion to a live Q&A.

This format gives attendees the opportunity to ask practical questions and get straightforward answers about using retirement accounts to invest in alternative assets.

This is not intended to be a deep legal or tax presentation. Instead...


Self-Directing 101: The 5 Golden Rules of Self-Directing
#8
03/19/2026

What if your retirement account could invest in anything you believe in?

Welcome to Directed IRA's new podcast series, Self-Directing 101. In this series, Mat and Mark will be covering everything you need to know to get started when it comes to self-directed investing. 

Today's Episode: The 5 Golden Rules of Self-Directing

From finding your own deals to avoiding costly mistakes, Mat and Mark cover what actually separates successful investors from the ones who fall off the “magic carpet ride."

If you’re serious about building wealth with a self-directed IRA, this episode is yo...


Rentals, Lending, and Flips in your Self-Directed IRA
#7
03/10/2026

In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler break down how investors can use a self-directed IRA, HSA, or solo 401(k) to invest in real estate and private lending. They cover the core strategies—rental properties, flips, land deals, and hard money loans—and explain how these accounts can be used to build wealth in a tax-advantaged way.

Mat and Mark also share real-world examples from their own investing experience, including buying rental properties inside retirement accounts, structuring private loans secured by real estate, and using Roth funds for high-growth opportunities. Alon...


Crypto Market Reset: What To Do Now
#6
03/04/2026

After every major run-up comes a correction – and after every correction, serious investors ask the same question:

What should I be doing now?

Directed IRA founder Mat Sorensen will host Tillman Holloway, Founder & CEO of Arch Public, and Arch Public co-founder Andrew Parish for a practical conversation on the current state of crypto markets and how disciplined investors are thinking about portfolio positioning after recent volatility.

In this session, we’ll cover:
- What historically happens after major crypto market corrections
- How algorithmic trading strategies respond to volatility
- Risk...


Solo 401(k) Basics, Rules, and Contribution Deadlines
#4
02/18/2026

If you’re self-employed and want to put more money away for retirement, the Solo 401(k) is one of the most powerful tools available, but the rules and deadlines matter.

In this live webinar, Mat Sorensen will walk through the Solo 401(k) basics, including who qualifies, how it’s set up, and the special strategies that make it so effective compared to IRAs and SEP IRAs. He’ll also cover the key 2025 contribution limits and deadlines you need to understand before the 2026 tax filing season.

We’ll cover:
- What a Solo 401(k) is and how...


Private Money Lending in a Self-Directed IRA
#5
02/18/2026

If you’re looking to generate passive income and steady returns from your retirement account, this is a strategy you need to understand.

Join Directed IRA’s VP of Sales, Nate Hare, along with co-host Daniel Tercey, for a live training on Private Lending in a Self-Directed IRA.

Private money lending has become one of the most popular strategies among self-directed investors, but it must be structured correctly to stay compliant.

We’ll cover:
- How to structure loans using promissory notes and trust deeds
- Which borrowers and assets your IRA ca...


Open Forum Q&A on Self-Directed IRAs
#3
01/30/2026

Have questions about self-directed IRAs or alternative investing?
In this live, open forum webinar, we answer some of the most common questions people have when starting their self-directing journey, with clear, practical answers. 

Our Senior Account Executive and Relationship Manager, Daniel Tercey, will cover topics such as:
• Common self-directed IRA questions from investors
• Investing in real estate, private funds, startups, precious metals, crypto, and other alternative assets
• IRA rules, prohibited transactions, and compliance pitfalls to avoid
• UBIT, UDFI, and when tax filings may apply
• Custodial processes, account administration, and best practices
• Recen...


Should I Set Up a Trump Account for My Kid?
#2
01/12/2026

Read more about Trump Accounts Here: https://matsorensen.com/trump-retirement-accounts-explained/


If you have kids under age 18, this episode could change how you think about their financial future.

In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler dive deep into Trump accounts, a brand-new savings vehicle launching in 2026. Mat explains why he believes Trump accounts can be a powerful long-term wealth-building tool for kids, while Mark pushes back, arguing parents may be overlooking better options already available.

Together, they break down how Trump accounts work, who...


Retirement Account Resolutions for 2026: New Contribution Limits, Key Deadlines, and Live Q&A
#1
01/02/2026

The start of a new year is one of the best times to reset and realign your retirement strategy. New contribution limits, new rules, and new deadlines in 2026 can all impact how much you’re able to save and how effectively you plan.

In this webinar, Directed IRA COO Aaron Halderman and VP of Sales Nate Hare will host a practical 101-style session focused on retirement account planning for 2026, including an open Q&A to address common questions as the new year begins.

We cover:
- 2026 retirement account contribution limits and what changed
...


Year-End Retirement Account Strategies
#38
12/18/2025

To learn more on year-end retirement account strategies read our new article: https://directedira.com/year-end-retirement-account-strategies/?utm_source_youtube_socialmedia&utm_year_end_strategies_webinar

Year-end is one of the most important windows for retirement planning. Some moves must be completed by December 31, while others can wait until the tax filing deadline – and new rules coming in 2026 will change how much you can save and whether certain contributions must be Roth.In this live webinar, Directed IRA’s CEO, Mat Sorensen, will walk through the most important retirement account strategies to understand before year-end and how to posi...


Year-End Roth Strategies
#37
12/11/2025

KKOS Webinar: Solo 401(k) Tax Credit for New and Existing Plans

Mark and Mat return to the Directed IRA Podcast with holiday cheer, quick-fire banter, and a stocking stuffed with three Roth strategies that can transform your long-term wealth. This is the year-end roadmap every proactive investor needs.

They break down how to time Roth conversions for maximum tax efficiency, how a Kid’s Roth IRA can quietly grow into a seven-figure legacy, and how the mega backdoor Roth lets both employees and small business owners pump serious dollars into the tax-free zone.

If...


Prohibited Transactions in a Self-Directed IRA (You Know It's a Prohibited Transaction When...)
#36
12/01/2025

For more details on prohibited transactions download the Self-Directed IRA Handbook (look for chapters 4, 5, 6, and 7): https://directedira.com/the-self-directed-ira-handbook/

In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J Kohler break down the single most important rule in the world of self-directed IRAs, the prohibited transaction rule. Before your IRA buys real estate, a private company, crypto, or any other alternative asset, you need to understand who your IRA can transact with and how to avoid accidental mistakes that can blow up your entire account.

Mat and Mark explain the three core...


Opening a Self-Directed IRA And Understanding Prohibited Transactions
#35
11/26/2025

For the full video webinar visit: https://directedira.com/opening-a-self-directed-ira/
For more details on prohibited transactions download the Self-Directed IRA Handbook (look for chapters 4, 5, 6, and 7): https://directedira.com/the-self-directed-ira-handbook/


Most Self-Directed IRA investors worry about choosing the right asset, but the real danger is accidentally breaking an IRS rule you didn’t even know existed. Watch Mat Sorensen (CEO, Directed IRA) and Lindsay Mersino (Executive Director of Operations) host a brand-new session that breaks these rules down clearly, simply, and with real examples you won’t find anywhere else.
     
You’ll Learn
- What a...


Tax-Free Crypto Investing With a Roth IRA
#34
11/20/2025

Crypto continues to be one of the fastest-moving asset classes — and when you combine it with the tax-free power of a Roth IRA, it becomes one of the most compelling long-term wealth strategies available.

Join Mat Sorensen (CEO, Directed IRA) and Aaron Halderman (COO, Directed IRA) for a live training session where they break down everything you need to know about investing in crypto inside a Self-Directed Roth IRA. You’ll learn how the structure works, how to access 60+ supported assets, when conversions make sense, when an IRA/LLC is appropriate, and how to stay compliant while maxi...


What You Need to Know When Buying Oil & Gas With an IRA
#33
11/04/2025

Mat Sorensen sits down with Troy Eckard, founder and chairman of the board at Eckard Enterprises, for a clear look at how investors use self directed IRAs to buy mineral rights and participate in oil and gas cash flow. They break down the three lanes in this asset class, minerals, drilling, and midstream, and explain where each fits in a smart portfolio. You will hear why many IRA owners favor minerals for steady income and lower risk, when drilling can make sense with taxable dollars, and how to evaluate operators with real world due diligence that protects you from...


Self-Directed HSA: It's Enrollment Time
#32
10/30/2025

In this episode, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler dive into one of the most underrated wealth-building tools out there: the Health Savings Account (HSA). With open enrollment around the corner, it’s the perfect time to rethink your healthcare strategy and unlock the triple-tax advantages of this incredible account.

Mat and Mark break down how an HSA can save you thousands in taxes, how to qualify for one, and how to self-direct your HSA into assets you actually believe in. From real estate and crypto to precious metals and private businesses, they share real examples, walk th...