Episode Overview
In this episode of Blue Collar StartUp, hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster catch up with returning guest Brad Lewis, executive director of the Troy Community Land Bank. Tune in as Brad shares his seasonal work strategies, real estate investments, cash flow insights, and more!
Learn how Brad bought a house for $100 here: https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/capital-region/housing/2021/04/20/troy-foreclosed-properties-open-house
Learn more about Brad and the Troy Community Land Bank on their website troycommunitylandbank.org or follow their Facebook page.
Time Stamps
0:00 Host Introduction: Mike Nelson and Derek Foster
0:49 Chicken Coop Struggles in the Rain
2:37 Sponsor Acknowledgments
3:25 Guest Introduction: Brad Lewis
4:15 Boston Marathon and Running Passion
5:54 Balancing Family and Work
7:14 From Trades to Real Estate
8:12 COVID’s Impact and Business Pivot
10:10 Troy Community Land Bank Executive Director Role
11:25 Scaling Down Landscaping Operations
13:13 Entrepreneurial Journey Reflections
14:58 Troy Community Land Bank’s Mission
16:55 Property Acquisition and Rehab Process
18:34 Investing in Local Contractors
20:53 Building Sales and Community Impact
22:20 Land Bank Financial Model
27:48 Seasonal Work Strategies
29:32 Opportunities in Property Auctions
33:39 Nonprofit Cash Flow Challenges
36:22 Cash Flow Management Tips
40:56 Where to Learn More About the Troy Community Land Bank
42:24 Episode Wrap-Up and Thanks
Details
Hosts
Mike Nelson & Derek Foster
Guests
Bradley Lewis
Runtime
42 mins, 53 secs
Airing Date
October 1, 2025