Listen "From Prison to Property Development with Kolaiah "Fuzzy" Jardine, Ep. 756"
Episode Synopsis
Kolaiah "Fuzzy" Jardine is a real estate developer, author, and co-founder of Hui Mastermind, a Hawaii-based community focused on empowering Native Hawaiians to build generational wealth. His journey took him from serving time in federal prison to creating a multimillion-dollar real estate portfolio and developing affordable housing for local families. As the author of Priced Out of Paradise, Fuzzy is on a mission to teach others how to invest "the Pono way"—with integrity, community, and purpose. Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Fuzzy's transformation from prison to property developer shows the power of mindset and purpose. "The crab in a bucket" mentality, surrounding yourself with the wrong people, keeps you stuck. Taking bold, decisive action (even when broke) can change your trajectory. Investing education is priceless when you're ready to implement it. "The Pono Way" means people before profit—help others first, and wealth follows. Topics From Prison to Property Developer Fuzzy grew up in Oahu's multigenerational households, surrounded by love but also by poverty and addiction. After a prison sentence for drug-related charges, he discovered real estate through a white-collar inmate who taught classes on investing. Determined to change his life, Fuzzy came out of prison with a new mindset and a mission. Finding Purpose and Building Mindset Initial jobs included window washing, surfing instruction, and valet parking—three jobs just to survive in Hawaii. Realized hard work alone wasn't enough; financial education was key. Discovered Rich Dad Poor Dad and began pursuing real estate investing as a way to create generational wealth. The Turning Point: Fortune Builders While preparing to become a pilot, he heard a radio ad for a real estate training event and pivoted immediately. Borrowed $20K through a native Hawaiian loan and maxed out credit cards to join the program. His conviction came from being "sick and tired of working three jobs" and seeing his parents face foreclosure. Worked for free to gain hands-on experience and eventually became the go-to construction and development partner for other investors. Building Affordable Homes and a Legacy Now leading 60+ projects focused on affordable housing on Hawaii's Big Island. Emphasizes integrity and "The Pono Way": helping families in distress before thinking of profits. Sees real estate as a means to restore opportunity for locals priced out of their own communities. 📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here. Round of Insights Failure that set Kolaiah up for success: Going to prison—being forced to reevaluate his life gave him clarity and purpose. Digital or mobile resource: TruePeopleSearch.com. Great for finding owners of distressed properties to connect directly. Book recommendation: Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki. Daily habit: Prayer, expressing gratitude daily for where he is and the opportunities ahead. #1 insight for building generational wealth: Dial in your "why." Once you know it, nothing can stop you from achieving success. Favorite restaurant in Honolulu, HI: Zippy's. Next Steps Get Fuzzy's book Priced Out of Paradise on Amazon.com Visit fuzzyjardine.com to learn about his projects and mentorship opportunities Follow him on Instagram for real estate education and community impact stories Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you're enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you do not miss an episode.
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