• Can Passive Investing Provide the Relief Landlords Seek?
    Sep 11 2025

    In this episode of Commercial Connections, host René Nelson joined by Karen Templeton of Forest Wealth Strategies, the conversation delves deep into the intricacies of 1031 exchanges and Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs). Karen explains the benefits and potential pitfalls of DSTs, illustrating how these structures can help property owners transition from active management to passive investments, all while managing tax liabilities. The episode is packed with valuable insights on estate planning, cash flow strategies, and the importance of due diligence in identifying reliable DST sponsors.


    EPISODE THEMES 📝
    00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic

    00:22 Meet Karen Templeton: Real Estate Expert

    01:14 Understanding Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs)

    03:24 The Mechanics of 1031 Exchanges

    08:22 Strategies for Transitioning to Passive Real Estate

    09:57 Navigating the Challenges of Being a Landlord

    11:43 Coaching Property Owners on Selling

    13:53 Legacy Planning and DSTs

    17:47 Risks and Considerations with DSTs

    21:11 Case Study: Diversifying with DSTs

    22:35 Breaking Up Large Investments

    23:35 Hands-Off Management and Client Involvement

    25:31 Understanding DST Returns

    28:58 Evaluating Sponsors and Asset Classes

    29:48 Geographical Preferences for DSTs

    32:31 Investment Timelines and Strategies

    34:39 Navigating the DST Market

    39:19 The Origins and Evolution of DSTs

    41:04 Final Thoughts and Advice⁠⁠


    FREE GIVEAWAYS 💰

    ➡️ Due Diligence Giveaway:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WVvYPiwASy76exh2tludjyeZ9Sfuvpl4QqD20V_HHRw/edit?usp=drive_link

    ➡️ Free Pro Forma Template: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12x1eUtdEUySKsrbQ0ELpCw3X79TPFh3Z/view?usp=sharing


    CONNECT WITH KAREN 🔗

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karentempleton/

    Website: https://forrestwealthstrategies.com/

    Email: karen@forrestwealthstrategies.com

    CONNECT WITH RENÉ NELSON 🎙️

    Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.eugene-commercial.com/

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@renenelsonccim1031/videos

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renenelsonpacwestcommercialrealestate/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renenelsonrealestate

    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/commercial-connections-investing-with-confidence/id1828000587

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574316732608


    Book a 15 min Complimentary Discovery Call with René: https://calendly.com/renenelsonccim/cashflow-autopsy

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    42 mins
  • From Brewpubs to Buyouts: The Insider’s Guide to Selling a Business with Rob Cohen
    Sep 3 2025

    In this episode of Commercial Connections, host René Nelson, a Commercial Real Estate Broker in Eugene, Oregon, sits down with special guest Rob Cohen. With over 25 years of experience in launching, running, and selling businesses, Rob shares insights from his career. Topics include his journey from New York to Eugene, the challenges of running restaurants and breweries, the intricacies of business brokerage, and trends in various industries. Rob also discusses the importance of proper financial documentation, the value of owning real property, and the impact of the SBA and financing on business sales. Aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners alike will find value in Rob's expert advice and experiences.

    EPISODE THEMES 📝

    00:00 The SantaCon Side Hustle

    00:29 Introducing Rob Cohen: Business Expert

    01:44 Rob's Journey from New York to Eugene

    03:56 Challenges in the Restaurant Industry

    04:50 The Competitive Brewery Market

    06:31 The Impact of Cannabis on the Alcohol Industry

    07:54 Labor Challenges in the Restaurant Business

    10:47 Rob's Secret: Never Cooked in His Own Restaurants

    11:22 Business Brokering and Consulting

    16:54 Preparing a Business for Sale

    20:28 Misconceptions About Selling a Business

    20:34 The Global Market for Business Sales

    23:15 The Role of Real Estate in Business Transactions

    24:12 Navigating Lease Assignments in Business Sales

    25:16 The Importance of Owning Property for Business Owners

    26:31 Current Market Trends and Challenges in Business Sales

    28:42 High-Demand Industries and Business Opportunities

    32:49 The Rise of Ghost Kitchens and Food Delivery Services

    36:54 Advice for Selling Your Business

    38:26 Reflecting on Business Success and Favorite Sales

    45:28 Expanding Business Brokerage and Client Success Stories

    48:28 Conclusion and Future Plans⁠⁠

    STAY AHEAD IN CRE 💌📬 Stay Sharp in Commercial Real Estate

    Want smarter insights, market trends, and strategies delivered straight to your inbox?

    Join the Commercial Connections Newsletter — a quick, actionable read for brokers, investors, and CRE professionals.

    👉Subscribe Now: https://pacwest.kit.com/f88edb7056FREE GIVEAWAYS 💰➡️ Due Diligence Giveaway:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WVvYPiwASy76exh2tludjyeZ9Sfuvpl4QqD20V_HHRw/edit?usp=drive_link➡️ Free Pro Forma Template: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12x1eUtdEUySKsrbQ0ELpCw3X79TPFh3Z/view?usp=sharing


    CONNECT WITH ROB COHEN 🔗

    Phone: (541) 520-8012Website: www.rjcforbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-c-971506187/

    CONNECT WITH RENÉ NELSON 🎙️Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.eugene-commercial.com/

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@renenelsonccim1031/videos

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renenelsonpacwestcommercialrealestate/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renenelsonrealestate

    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/commercial-connections-investing-with-confidence/id1828000587

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/27QhtoMTeooaEHJgu91VfGFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574316732608


    Book a 15 min Complimentary Discovery Call with René: https://calendly.com/renenelsonccim/cashflow-autopsy

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    49 mins
  • Lessons from Losing $1.3M: Prospect Smarter with AI and Compliance First
    Aug 27 2025
    In this episode of Commercial Connections, host René Nelson, a Commercial Real Estate Broker in Eugene, Oregon, chats with David Monroe, a multifamily investor consultant and CCIM instructor. David shares his journey from a helicopter mechanic to a real estate investor and the development of his AI-powered software designed for commercial brokers. The discussion covers federal regulations, the impact of AI on the real estate industry, and tools like the CRE prospecting script generator and document analyzer within the AI software. David also shares a cautionary tale about the potential pitfalls of texting property sellers and the advantages of leveraging sophisticated AI tools for market analysis and deal underwriting. Listeners will gain insights into reshaping their approach to real estate investments using advanced technology.EPISODE THEMES 📝00:00 The Million Dollar Mistake00:24 Introduction to Commercial Connections Investing01:09 Meet David Monroe: From Helicopter Mechanic to AI Innovator03:10 Strategic Partnering and Building Wealth in Real Estate04:10 The AI Revolution in Real Estate06:40 Focusing on the 98%: Building Relationships in Multifamily08:47 AI Tools for Commercial Brokers14:53 The Evolution of AI and Its Impact on Real Estate17:32 Acquisition Pro: Features and Benefits22:48 Ownership and Content Control23:12 Automation Tools and Support24:08 Consultation and Success Stories24:48 Email Marketing Pitfalls27:48 AI and Proprietary Information31:20 Text Messaging Regulations38:50 Acquisition Pro and Masterclasses40:33 Introducing CRE Brokerage Pro43:54 Conclusion and Contact Information⁠⁠STAY AHEAD IN CRE 💌📬 Stay Sharp in Commercial Real EstateWant smarter insights, market trends, and strategies delivered straight to your inbox?Join the Commercial Connections Newsletter — a quick, actionable read for brokers, investors, and CRE professionals.👉Subscribe Now: https://pacwest.kit.com/f88edb7056FREE GIVEAWAYS 💰➡️ Due Diligence Giveaway:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WVvYPiwASy76exh2tludjyeZ9Sfuvpl4QqD20V_HHRw/edit?usp=drive_link➡️ Free Pro Forma Template: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12x1eUtdEUySKsrbQ0ELpCw3X79TPFh3Z/view?usp=sharingCONNECT WITH DAVID MONROE 🔗LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmonroe45/ Company: davidmonroeccim.comYoutube: youtube.com/@strategicconsultant Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/brokeragetoconsultingEmail: david@davidmonroeccim.com CONNECT WITH RENÉ NELSON 🎙️Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.eugene-commercial.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@renenelsonccim1031/videosLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renenelsonpacwestcommercialrealestate/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renenelsonrealestateApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/commercial-connections-investing-with-confidence/id1828000587Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/27QhtoMTeooaEHJgu91VfGFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574316732608 Book a 15 min Complimentary Discovery Call with René: https://calendly.com/renenelsonccim/15min
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    45 mins
  • Not All Money is Created Equal: Lending in 2025 with Justin Huelshoff
    Aug 20 2025
    In this episode of Commercial Connections, host René Nelson, a Commercial Real Estate Broker in Eugene, Oregon, sits down with Justin Huelshoff, a commercial lending expert with over 25 years of experience. Justin discusses the key differences between commercial bankers and brokers, emphasizing his client-first approach. He delves into the challenges of navigating the current lending environment, particularly with SBA and conventional loans. The episode covers various topics, including securing financing for apartment complexes, understanding liquidity, and preparing a financial package for lenders. Justin shares his insights on the complexities of SBA loans, the importance of obtaining multiple financial opinions, and encourages potential investors to thoroughly research and understand the loan process.EPISODE THEMES 📝00:00 Introduction to the Art of the Deal00:39 Meet Justin Shaw: Commercial Lending Expert01:39 Banker vs. Broker: Key Differences03:20 Navigating the Lending Landscape06:47 Understanding the Financial Package10:52 SBA Loans: Challenges and Changes18:28 Advice for Aspiring Investors25:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts⁠⁠STAY AHEAD IN CRE 💌📬 Stay Sharp in Commercial Real EstateWant smarter insights, market trends, and strategies delivered straight to your inbox?Join the Commercial Connections Newsletter — a quick, actionable read for brokers, investors, and CRE professionals.👉Subscribe Now: https://pacwest.kit.com/f88edb7056FREE GIVEAWAYS 💰➡️ Due Diligence Giveaway:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WVvYPiwASy76exh2tludjyeZ9Sfuvpl4QqD20V_HHRw/edit?usp=drive_link➡️ Free Pro Forma Template: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12x1eUtdEUySKsrbQ0ELpCw3X79TPFh3Z/view?usp=sharingCONNECT WITH JUSTIN HUELSHOFF 🔗Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-huelshoff-57a00453/Email: jhuels1029@comcast.net Phone: (503) 502-3154CONNECT WITH RENÉ NELSON 🎙️Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.eugene-commercial.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@renenelsonccim1031/videosLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renenelsonpacwestcommercialrealestate/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renenelsonrealestateApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/commercial-connections-investing-with-confidence/id1828000587Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574316732608 Book a 15 min Complimentary Discovery Call with René: https://calendly.com/renenelsonccim/15min
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    27 mins
  • Why Your Insurance Just Got Canceled with Gary Kelley
    Aug 13 2025

    In this episode of Commercial Connections, host René Nelson, a Commercial Real Estate Broker in Eugene, Oregon, sits down with Gary Kelley, a risk management consultant and partner at PCF Insurance, to discuss the rapidly changing dynamics of commercial property insurance. They delve into the reasons behind sudden insurance cancellations and inspect requirements, particularly in light of the increased frequency of extreme weather events and the financial impacts of COVID-19. Gary provides practical advice on how property owners can prepare for inspections, handle non-renewal notices, and manage claims to maintain and improve their insurance coverage. The discussion also touches on the importance of relationships in the insurance industry and how investors can navigate the current hard market to manage their risks effectively.


    EPISODE THEMES 📝

    00:00 The Impact of COVID-19 on Real Estate

    00:31 Introduction to the Episode

    00:36 Insurance Cancellations and Coverage Challenges

    01:27 Understanding the Surge in Insurance Claims

    10:05 The Role of Underwriters in Insurance

    20:04 Proactive Measures for Property Owners

    22:11 Handling Insurance Cancellations

    25:04 The Importance of Relationships in Insurance

    29:49 The Underwriting Process

    31:33 The Changing Landscape of Insurance Requirements

    33:20 Impact of Credit Scores on Commercial Insurance

    35:08 The Importance of Long-Term Relationships with Insurance Agents

    38:08 The Pitfalls of Shopping for Insurance Annually

    44:02 When to Report a Claim and When to Pay Out of Pocket

    47:26 The Significance of Water Claims in Underwriting

    50:10 Subprime Insurance and State Fair Plans

    52:36 Final Thoughts and Advice for Property Owners⁠⁠

    STAY AHEAD IN CRE 💌📬 Stay Sharp in Commercial Real Estate

    Want smarter insights, market trends, and strategies delivered straight to your inbox?

    Join the Commercial Connections Newsletter — a quick, actionable read for brokers, investors, and CRE professionals.

    👉Subscribe Now: https://mailchi.mp/1031guru/s9ue8qa0d4


    FREE GIVEAWAYS 💰

    ➡️ Due Diligence Giveaway:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WVvYPiwASy76exh2tludjyeZ9Sfuvpl4QqD20V_HHRw/edit?usp=drive_link

    ➡️ Free Pro Forma Template: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12x1eUtdEUySKsrbQ0ELpCw3X79TPFh3Z/view?usp=sharing


    CONNECT WITH GARY KELLEY 🔗

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyjkelley/

    Email: Gary@riceinsurance.com

    Phone: (360) 734-1161


    CONNECT WITH RENÉ NELSON 🎙️

    Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.eugene-commercial.com/

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@renenelsonccim1031/videos

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renenelsonpacwestcommercialrealestate/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renenelsonrealestate

    Apple:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/commercial-connections-investing-with-confidence/id1828000587

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574316732608

    Book a 15 min Complimentary Discovery Call with René: https://callwithrene.as.me/InitialCall

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    59 mins
  • From $50K Homes to $81M Portfolio—Logan’s First Flip at 19
    Aug 6 2025

    In this episode of Commercial Connections, host René Nelson, a Commercial Real Estate Broker in Eugene, Oregon, sits down with podcast producer Brittny to welcome Logan DeVos, an accomplished real estate investor and CEO of SMI Fund Management. Logan shares his journey from beginning in real estate as a young broker in 2007 to managing an impressive $81 million commercial real estate portfolio. He discusses his investment philosophy, focusing on value-add acquisitions, and provides insights into scaling a real estate portfolio by transforming underperforming assets. Logan also delves into detailed renovation strategies, the importance of market cycles, and risk mitigation, showcasing his extensive experience and success in the industry. The episode concludes with a promise for Logan's return to discuss more in-depth topics such as his legacy fund.


    EPISODE THEMES 📝

    00:00 Introduction to Value Add Real Estate Investing

    00:47 Meet Logan DeVos: Real Estate Mogul

    02:19 Logan's Early Entrepreneurial Ventures

    03:49 Scaling Up: From Single Family Homes to Multifamily Units

    05:03 Understanding Value Add Acquisitions

    09:01 Gross Rent Multiplier and Investment Strategies

    12:08 Lessons Learned in Real Estate

    14:48 Repositioning Underperforming Assets

    15:13 Case Study: Vicinity Apartments in Corvallis

    24:38 Challenges and Strategies in Student Housing

    33:10 Cost and Efficiency in Renovations

    37:00 Hickory Lake Property: A Success Story

    38:25 Conclusion and Contact Information⁠⁠⁠


    STAY AHEAD IN CRE 💌

    📬 Stay Sharp in Commercial Real EstateWant smarter insights, market trends, and strategies delivered straight to your inbox?


    Join the Commercial Connections Newsletter — a quick, actionable read for brokers, investors, and CRE professionals.


    👉Subscribe Now: https://mailchi.mp/1031guru/s9ue8qa0d4


    CONNECT WITH LOGAN DEVOS 🔗

    Phone: 541.990.3795

    Email: info@smire.com

    Website: https://smifundmanagement.com/


    CONNECT WITH RENÉ NELSON 🎙️

    Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.eugene-commercial.com/

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@renenelsonccim1031/videos

    LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/renenelsonpacwestcommercialrealestate/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renenelsonrealestate

    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/commercial-connections-investing-with-confidence/id1828000587Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574316732608

    Book a 15 min Complimentary Discovery Call with René: https://callwithrene.as.me/InitialCall

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    42 mins
  • Speed, Strategy, and Staying Relevant in CRE with Bo Barron & Michael Hironimus
    Jul 2 2025
    In this episode of Commercial Connections: Investing with Confidence, host René Nelson, CCIM, and producer Brittny sit down with Bo Barron, CCIM (host of Commercially Speaking) and Michael Hironimus, CCIM, creator of Implementing AI in CRE: A Practical Guide.They explore how AI is transforming commercial real estate—from accelerating deal flow and marketing to reshaping the role of junior brokers. Bo shares how launching a podcast expanded his visibility and deal opportunities, while Michael breaks down practical ways brokers can use AI tools to gain a competitive edge.EPISODE THEMES 📝00:00 Introduction and Podcast Benefits00:42 Meet the Hosts and Guests02:21 The Power of Podcasting06:31 AI in Commercial Real Estate09:46 Leveraging AI Tools15:12 AI in Education and Training26:35 Future of AI in Real Estate28:40 The Future of Junior Brokers in Real Estate29:03 AI's Impact on Commercial Real Estate29:47 The Importance of Mentorship in a Tech-Driven Industry32:24 Educational Systems and AI Integration34:32 Practical AI Applications for Brokers36:01 The Art of Prompting AI43:35 SEO and AI: The Changing Landscape50:55 Commercial Real Estate: Real or Ridiculous?01:01:58 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSTAY AHEAD IN CRE 💌📬 Stay Sharp in Commercial Real EstateWant smarter insights, market trends, and strategies delivered straight to your inbox?Join the Commercial Connections Newsletter — a quick, actionable read for brokers, investors, and CRE professionals.👉Subscribe Now: https://mailchi.mp/1031guru/s9ue8qa0d4FREE GIVEAWAYS 💰➡️ Due Diligence Giveaway:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WVvYPiwASy76exh2tludjyeZ9Sfuvpl4QqD20V_HHRw/edit?usp=drive_link➡️ Free Pro Forma Template: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12x1eUtdEUySKsrbQ0ELpCw3X79TPFh3Z/view?usp=sharingCONNECT WITH BO BARRON 🔗Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4omTZAPlCBYgJrqBuXrdCG?si=1a41ae1a0fb04b13 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/commerciallyspeaking X: https://x.com/comspeakpod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobarron/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@commerciallyspeaking Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/commerciallyspeaking/ CONNECT WITH MICHAEL HIRONIMUS 🔗Implementing AI in CRE: https://www.implementingaiincre.com/ PropTech Integrations: https://www.proptechintegrations.com/ CONNECT WITH RENÉ NELSON 🎙️Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.eugene-commercial.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@renenelsonccim1031/videosLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renenelsonpacwestcommercialrealestate/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renenelsonrealestateFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574316732608 Book a 15 min Complimentary Discovery Call with René: https://callwithrene.as.me/InitialCall
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Avoid These Costly Mistakes in Commercial Real Estate
    Jun 19 2025

    In this episode of Commercial Connections, host René Nelson, a Commercial Real Estate Broker in Eugene, Oregon, sits down with podcast producer Brittny. René shares critical advice on avoiding bad conduct, the worst advice clients have received, and why having a professional CPA is crucial for 10 31 exchanges. The discussion explores the complexities and risks of seller financing, creative financing strategies like self-directed IRAs, and practical advice for newcomers in the real estate market. René emphasizes the importance of building long-term client relationships and the need to address unethical behavior promptly for a smoother and more transparent transaction process.


    EPISODE THEMES 📝

    00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome

    01:03 Worst Advice in Commercial Real Estate

    02:19 Importance of Having a CPA

    04:13 Seller Financing Risks and Considerations

    11:58 Creative Financing Strategies

    18:19 Advice for Young Investors

    23:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


    STAY AHEAD IN CRE 💌

    📬 Stay Sharp in Commercial Real Estate

    Want smarter insights, market trends, and strategies delivered straight to your inbox?

    Join the Commercial Connections Newsletter — a quick, actionable read for brokers, investors, and CRE professionals.

    👉Subscribe Now: https://mailchi.mp/1031guru/s9ue8qa0d4


    FREE GIVEAWAYS 💰

    ➡️ Due Diligence Giveaway: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WVvYPiwASy76exh2tludjyeZ9Sfuvpl4QqD20V_HHRw/edit?usp=drive_link

    ➡️ Free Pro Forma Template: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12x1eUtdEUySKsrbQ0ELpCw3X79TPFh3Z/view?usp=sharing


    CONNECT WITH RENÉ NELSON

    🎙️Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.eugene-commercial.com/

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@renenelsonccim1031/videos

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renenelsonpacwestcommercialrealestate/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renenelsonrealestate

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574316732608

    Book a 15 min Complimentary Discovery Call with René: https://callwithrene.as.me/InitialCall


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    27 mins