In this episode of Millionaires Unveiled, we sit down with Brandon, founder and CEO of Thor Metals Group, to explore his journey from investment banking to building a multimillion-dollar empire in the world of precious metals. With a net worth north of $17.5 million, Brandon shares how he built his fortune through gold, silver, and strategic stock investments—while choosing to rent his home instead of buying.

Brandon opens up about his philosophy that real estate can be a liability, why he believes gold is the “secret investment” most people overlook, and how fulfillment, not just money, drives his decisions. From early entrepreneurial ventures (including a trash business) to launching Thor Metals Group, his story blends financial mastery, life lessons, and a refreshingly honest take on success and happiness.

• Brandon Thor’s net worth sits around $17.5 million, much of it in physical gold and silver.

• He believes real estate is often a liability—he rents his high-value home instead of owning.

• His philosophy: “Gold is a quiet store of power” in a noisy investment world.

• Thor Metals Group was born from a desire for transparency and fairness in the metals trade.

• Brandon invests in both precious metals and select stocks, including a micro-betting company.

• Fulfillment and purpose drive his business decisions more than monetary goals.

• He warns against extravagant spending and emphasizes gratitude and personal growth.

• Spirituality and self-awareness play a growing role in how he defines success.

• “I have about $17.5 million net worth.”

• “I think real estate’s a liability.”

• “I made $150 grand last month.”

• “I want to change this industry.”

• “It’s very humbling when you see your stack of gold tubes.”

• “Fulfillment is more valuable than wealth.”

• “I had a trash business — and I learned more from that than I ever did in banking.”

In this episode of Millionaires Unveiled, host Jace Mattinson sits down with real estate investor and educator Lane Kawaoka to talk about what happens when your net worth takes a 50% hit — and how to climb back stronger.

Lane opens up about the impact of recent market shifts on his portfolio, the lessons he’s learned from holding through tough cycles, and the importance of understanding your “floor” in the wealth-building process. From workforce housing to multifamily syndications, he shares real strategies for navigating today’s volatile economy and building long-term stability.

He also introduces his new book, The Wealth Elevator, a guide for accredited investors who want to move up the financial floors strategically, safely, and with purpose.

Whether you’re just starting in real estate or already managing millions, this conversation delivers hard-earned insights — with a dose of humility and humor along the way.

• The 50% net worth drop and what caused it

• How to think through market cycles and holding periods

• Why diversification and patience are key in downturns

• Understanding “floors” in the Wealth Elevator model

• The future of workforce housing investments

• Rebuilding confidence and strategy after a financial hit

“We’re in a housing shortage.”
“You have to have 110% running your business.”
“You need to figure out what floor you’re on.”

Lane Kawaoka
Real Estate Investor | Educator | Author of The Wealth Elevator
🌐 SimplePassiveCashflow.com
📘 The Wealth Elevator – Now Available

Millionaires Unveiled reveals the real stories, numbers, and lessons behind everyday millionaires. Hosted by Jace Mattinson, each episode explores how high achievers build, preserve, and grow their wealth — through both wins and setbacks.

In this episode, Jesse and Ellie return to share their financial journey from a net worth of $800,000 to over $1.3 million in just two years. They discuss their investment strategies, the impact of parenthood on their financial decisions, and the transition to a single income household. The couple reflects on lifestyle changes after reaching millionaire status, their approach to teaching financial literacy to their children, and their future retirement plans. They also emphasize the importance of community giving and share valuable advice for aspiring millionaires.

• • Their net worth increased from $800,000 to $1.3 million in two years.
  • They prioritize maxing out their Roth IRAs and TSP contributions.
  • They have hit their coast fire number, allowing them to invest less if desired.
  • Community giving has become a focus for them since reaching millionaire status.
  • They celebrate financial milestones with small treats and personal spending.
  • Transitioning to a single income was manageable due to their high savings rate.
  • Travel spending has increased, but they still prioritize experiences over extravagance.
  • They teach their children about money through chores and saving.
  • They maintain a consistent investment strategy, even during market downturns.
  • Living on less than they make is a core principle of their financial philosophy.
• 🗣️ Quotes & Soundbites
  • "We've started being more giving."
  • "We just bought a cake first."
  • "Live on less than you make."

Sponsored by:

Prizepicks.com Code: Millionaire