In this episode of Valley Investors, Nathan Erickson interviews Kory Leadon, CFP, senior lead advisor at Brighton Jones. Kory shares his journey from growing up in Yakima, Washington, to his long tenure at Brighton Jones. He discusses the firm's unique approach to wealth management, the importance of tax planning, and how they integrate personal CFO services for their clients. Kory also delves into his community involvement and the personal philosophy that drives his commitment to helping others. Tune in to learn about investment strategies, the role of a personal CFO, and the vibrant community life in Phoenix.

Key Discussions in This Episode:

[00:00:58] Kory Leadon's background and education

[00:03:41] Founding and growth of Brighton Jones

[00:06:10] Opening the Scottsdale office

[00:07:18] Investment philosophy and approach

[00:09:24] Cash needs and risk management strategies

[00:12:24] Tax-aware investing

[00:14:32] Changes in investment strategies over the years

[00:19:09] Private equity and private credit investments

[00:22:41] Comprehensive financial services beyond investment

[00:24:32] Future outlook and managing client expectations

[00:27:15] Community involvement and charitable activities

[00:33:12] Life and community in Phoenix

Links:

Brighton Jones

Kory Leadon on LinkedIn

Nathan Erickson on LinkedIn

In this episode, Nathan Erickson welcomes Boots Dunlap, CEO and Co-founder of RRA Capital. Boots shares his journey from the military to real estate, detailing how his family’s deep roots in Arizona shaped his career. He discusses the evolution of Arizona’s economy, the intricacies of real estate cycles, and the innovative strategies behind RRA Capital’s success in private credit and bridge lending. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the current real estate market and the future of investment in Phoenix.

Key Discussions in This Episode:

[00:01:19] Boots Dunlap's family history and connection to Arizona

[00:03:15] Transition from military service to real estate

[00:04:41] Impact of the Great Financial Crisis on his career

[00:05:56] Founding RRA Capital during economic downturns

[00:09:14] Evolution and diversification of Arizona’s economy

[00:12:05] Distinctions between real estate equity and debt

[00:16:29] Strategies in private credit and bridge lending

[00:19:27] Geographic and product diversification in real estate investing

[00:24:00] Examples of adaptive reuse and space arbitrage

[00:31:27] Market dynamics in hospitality, retail, and industrial sectors

[00:39:10] Insights on private credit market trends

[00:52:54] Importance of volunteer work and community engagement

Links:

RRA Capital

Boots Dunlap on LinkedIn

Nathan Erickson on LinkedIn

In this episode of Valley Investors, host Nathan Erickson welcomes Mark Steed, Chief Investment Officer at the Arizona Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS). Mark shares his journey from Michigan to Arizona, delving into his background in Latin American studies and his experience in microfinance. The discussion highlights the unique aspects of pension management, the challenges of asset allocation, and the integration of AI in investment decision-making. Listeners will gain insights into the evolving role of pension funds, the importance of community engagement, and the future of finance.

Key Discussions in This Episode:

[00:01:08] Mark's background and journey to PSPRS

[00:02:14] Microfinance and poverty economics

[00:04:11] The role of PSPRS as a pension system

[00:07:26] Differences between pension plans and other institutional investors

[00:08:25] The importance of assumed returns in pension systems

[00:10:14] Innovations at PSPRS and the Allocators Choice Award

[00:11:59] PSPRS's decision-making process and internal culture

[00:18:51] Asset allocation and portfolio construction at PSPRS

[00:24:43] The impact of liquidity on investment strategies

[00:31:12] Institutional approaches to alternative investments

[00:37:01] Democratization of alternative investments

[00:47:38] The role of AI in pension management and investment decisions

[00:50:15] The importance of community engagement for PSPRS

[00:52:07] Mark's commitment to Arizona and its community

Links:

PSPRS

Mark Steed on LinkedIn

Nathan Erickson on LinkedIn