Introduction

💼 Raising capital isn’t just about numbers—it’s about relationships, mindset, and grit. On the Right About Now with Ryan Alford podcast, guest Brad Blazar, a seasoned entrepreneur and oil business veteran, shares his journey and strategies for raising over $2 billion in capital. If you’ve ever wondered how to harness other people’s money (OPM) to build wealth, this one’s for you.

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Why Every Entrepreneur Should Learn Capital Raising

Many entrepreneurs overlook the importance of capital raising, assuming they’ll never need it. But as Brad puts it, “Every entrepreneur should have the skill of raising capital in their toolkit.” Even if you’re not actively looking for investors, understanding the dynamics of capital can position you for future opportunities.

And yes, OPM (Other People’s Money) is the secret sauce! Why work alone when you can leverage the resources of others? According to Brad, “There’s wealth all around us—you just need to know how to ask for it.”

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A Business is a Business—Even Real Estate

Brad takes a refreshing approach to real estate: “It’s not just about property; it’s about running a business.” Whether you own an apartment complex or an ad agency, the principles remain the same: serve customers well, manage cash flow, and maximize profits. Brad emphasizes how the same capital-raising methods can apply to buying businesses like laundromats or HVAC services—“boring but profitable” ventures.

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From the Oilfield to Wealth Creation

Brad’s journey from an architecture student to oil magnate wasn’t linear. “I didn’t plan on being in oil,” Brad admits. But after answering an ad and finding success, he learned a powerful lesson: bet on yourself. With determination, he started his own oil company and later pivoted into capital raising, building an empire along the way.

His philosophy? “Knowledge is power, but execution is key.” He’s worked with multi-billion-dollar firms, private equity, and venture capital, proving that experience and a solid team matter most to investors.

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Life Lessons: Big Risks, Bigger Rewards

Brad shares a hilarious story of winning over a reluctant investor: “It only takes two things to invest in oil—big brass balls and a lot of money. Which one are you missing?” That bold move closed the deal and earned him a lifelong investor. 🤣

Similarly, Brad’s experience with hiring an unconventional salesperson—“a real-life Joe Dirt”—illustrates the importance of mindset and transformation. After giving the guy a makeover, Brad saw him raise $25 million in a year!

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The Importance of Execution and Mindset

Brad warns about the dangers of “hopium”—the addiction to hope without action. Success doesn’t come from dreaming alone. You need to develop a solid execution plan and surround yourself with the right people. “Gossipers talk about people. Ballers talk about ideas,” Brad says. 💡

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Global Impact and Capital School

Through his Capital School, Brad teaches students across the globe how to raise capital and achieve their dreams. “We have people from Australia to the UK learning these skills,” Brad notes. His goal is to empower others to pursue their dreams—whether it’s buying real estate, starting a business, or investing in existing ones.

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Closing Thoughts

Whether you’re looking to start a business, invest in real estate, or simply learn the ropes of capital raising, Brad’s insights are invaluable. His journey proves that success lies in learning, executing, and surrounding yourself with the right people.

Ready to ditch hopium and dive into the world of OPM? Visit BradBlazar.com to learn more about Capital School and his upcoming events. 🚀