The Blueprint with Brad Rice

In this episode of The Blueprint, we delve into the real estate market as we approach the end of 2025. Learn why listing your property during the typically slow months of November and December might give you an edge, with less competition and motivated buyers. We'll also cover current mortgage rates, the impact of governmental actions, and future projections for interest rates. Tune in for expert advice and real-world examples...

In this episode of the Blueprint, we dive into the world of Non-Qualified Mortgages (Non-QM) with Eric Olson, an experienced area sales manager at Angel Oak. Host Brad welcomes Eric, detailing his vast experience and expertise in the mortgage business. They discuss the origin and evolution of Non-QM loans, their distinction from traditional mortgages, and the benefits they offer, especially to self-employed individuals and real est...

Join Brad Rice on this episode of The Blueprint as he dives deep into the world of non-QM loans with seasoned mortgage professional Stewart Oroz. With over 30 years of experience, Stewart sheds light on the top reasons borrowers might choose non-QM loans, how they differ from subprime loans, and the kinds of properties and borrower profiles that typically benefit from these unique products. Learn about DSCR loans, the role of whole...

In this episode of The Blueprint, host Brad welcomes Adelfo Emanuele, a seasoned veteran in the mortgage industry with over 30 years of experience. Currently serving as the regional manager for Dart Bank, Adelfo shares his extensive knowledge on the evolution of mortgage products, the benefits of adjustable rate mortgages (ARMs), and how to choose the right loan. They delve into the history of mortgage products, discuss the financi...

Join Brad Rice in an exhilarating episode of 'The Blueprint' as he dives deep into the world of artificial intelligence with Pete Lunenfeld, founder, CEO, and CTO of CurrentWave AI. Discover how AI is revolutionizing knowledge management in businesses, the evolution of generative AI, and the advancements in AI technology that are shaping the future. Learn about the intriguing concepts of reasoning models, dark factories, ...

In this episode of The Blueprint, join host Brad Rice and guest Micah Pedersen as they delve into the current real estate market landscape. They discuss what to expect as we approach the end of the year, with a focus on interest rates, opportunities for first-time home buyers, and the broader changes impacting real estate transactions. Learn about the recent effects of multiple lawsuits and the latest updates on major companies lik...

Welcome back to The Blueprint for a special mortgage edition featuring reverse mortgages. Join us as we sit down with Erica Bernard-Webb, an experienced mortgage expert with over three decades in the industry. Learn everything you need to know about reverse mortgages—from their basic principles and different structuring options to their benefits and common misconceptions. Erica shares her in-depth knowledge and unique insights, inc...

In this episode of The Blueprint, we sit down with Rick Roussin, founder of Coast to Coast Computer Products. Discover Rick's inspiring journey from founding a company in a rented bedroom with a $2,500 investment to scaling it into a national organization with $55 million in annual revenue. Learn about Rick's unique growth strategies, including offering second chances to employees and transitioning the company to employee...

Join Brad Rice in this unique and entertaining episode of The Blueprint, where he interviews Beanie the Frenchie. Beanie, who is more popular on Instagram than Brad, shares valuable home buying tips with a humorous twist. From avoiding common mistakes to the importance of home inspections and the benefits of purchasing versus renting, Beanie's 'Bark of Wisdom' is both informative and amusing. Don't miss the fun ...

In this episode of The Blueprint podcast, we welcome back Airbnb expert Patryk Swietek , known as the 'King of Airbnbs' in Joshua Tree, California. Patryk shares his journey and strategies for dominating the short-term rental market, including how he leveraged social media to boost his visibility and cut out platform fees by engaging directly with consumers. We also dive into practical advice on making your short-term ren...

Join host Brad Rice as he sits down with Mikey Taylor—pro skateboarder turned entrepreneur, investor, and Thousand Oaks City Council member. In this episode, Mikey shares his journey from a two-decade skateboarding career to co-founding St. Archer Brewery, building Commune Capital, and making an impact in real estate and local government.
Discover how Mikey navigated the challenges of reinventing his identity, the lessons he le...

In this special edition of the Blueprint, the Brad Rice sits down with his cameraman and social marketing manager Micah for a candid discussion about various topics including personal and business challenges, a bicep injury and recovery journey, current real estate and interest rate market trends, and the complexities of buying a home in Southern California, especially as a 24 year old. They delve into first-time homebuyer programs...

In this episode of the Blueprint Podcast, host Brad introduces guest Alex Ramirez, a third-generation entrepreneur and mortgage expert from Simi Valley. Discover Alex’s journey from a personal banker to a social media influencer with a growing local following. They discuss the intricacies of the mortgage industry, including the impacts of the 2007-2008 crash, and Alex’s strategies to overcome financial challenges. Learn about Valor...

In this episode of 'The Blueprint,' we sit down with Vahe Mardigian, CEO of Western Allied Electric (WAE), a Southern California-based construction company specializing in ADUs and water and fire damage restoration. Vahe shares his expertise on hiring and working with contractors, obtaining fair bids, and ensuring project quality. We discuss innovative construction techniques, navigating the bidding process, and practical...

In this episode of 'The Blueprint,' our host welcomes Serge lupescu, a managing partner at Valley A.L.F Ventures specializing in assisted living and behavioral health facilities. Serge shares his journey from starting his first assisted living facility at age 22 to overseeing over $20 million in assets. He discusses the challenges he faced, including being scammed and learning the nuances of the industry. Serge also delve...

In this ad hoc edition of The Blueprint, join us as we dive into essential real estate topics like loans, first-time home buying, and navigating the current market. With no guest this week, Cesar steps in to offer his daily expertise on loan products and buying strategies. Discussions cover the importance of pre-qualification, the evolving interest rates, and new down payment assistance programs. Cesar and our host also explore the...

In this episode of The Blueprint with Brad Rice, special guest Murali, the CEO and founder of Vault Edge, shares his journey in the tech and mortgage industries. Murali discusses his background at Oracle and IBM, his transition into entrepreneurship, and the creation of Vault Edge, a FinTech company that automates loan processing using AI. The conversation explores the challenges of starting a company, the mechanics of AI and machi...

In this riveting episode of The Blueprint, host Brad welcomes special guest Kassidy Warren, a boutique hotel investor and short-term rental mogul. Kassidy shares his incredible journey from renting out a $35-a-night bedroom to building a $13 million real estate portfolio. Discover how he transitioned from a 12-year engineering career to real estate entrepreneurship, even cashing out his 401k and living in a van to make his dream a ...

In this re-run episode, we sit down with John Mallon, a certified health coach and CEO of West Side Integrative Medicine. John shares his invaluable expertise on health, fitness, chronic inflammation, and metabolic medicine. The discussion spans from John's intriguing background in entertainment to the science behind peptides, NAD therapy, and the impact of lifestyle on health. We also delve into the controversial topics of TR...