In this episode of the Financial Freedom Podcast, Erik and Gelerie Stenbakken share the next chapter of their inspiring real estate journey. From saving for their dream home to transitioning into real estate investing, they reveal how they scaled from long-term rentals to a thriving short-term rental business. Discover how they built lasting relationships with vendors, optimized their systems, and found more time for family—all while pursuing financial freedom.

Whether you’re starting out or looking to scale your real estate business, Erik and Gelerie’s experience is packed with actionable insights to help you achieve your own investing goals.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Scaling Systems for Short-Term Rentals

• How they built efficient processes to manage multiple properties.

2. Optimizing Vendor Relationships

• The importance of building partnerships with trusted vendors and companies.

3. Short-Term vs. Long-Term Rentals

• The key differences and what to expect from each.

4. Family Time and Gaining Freedom Through REI

• How real estate investing gave them more quality time as a family.

5. The Value of Giving Back

• Why improving the lives of others is part of their mission.

6. Getting Started in Real Estate

• How to take your first step into real estate investing.

7. Professional Status & Property Management

• What it means to pursue real estate professional status and manage rental properties effectively.

Resources Mentioned:

• BiggerPockets
• The Millionaire Next Door
• The Real Estate Pessimist Podcast
• Follow Erik’s Podcast Page on Instagram
• STR in an hour course

Listener Takeaways:

• Systems and relationships are crucial for scaling your business.
• You don’t need a huge budget to get started—just a willingness to learn and take action.
• Short-term rentals offer unique opportunities but come with their own set of challenges.
• Prioritizing family and giving back can be key drivers of long-term success.

Connect with Us:

• Host: Dr. Disha Spath, The Frugal Physician

• Guests: Dr. Gelerie and Erik Stenbakken

Thank you for tuning in! Be sure to share this episode with anyone thinking about investing in real estate.

This episode is sponsored by

Reza & Sharif CPAs - They provide more than just tax returns and financial statements—they deliver strategic financial solutions tailored to your needs. Whether you're a business owner, physician, or investor, they help you navigate complex tax laws, maximize savings, and build long-term wealth.

With expert tax planning, accounting, and advisory services, they ensure your finances work for you—not the other way around.

Take control of your financial future today. Visit rezasharif.com to see how they can help.

This episode is also sponsored by

Set for Life Insurance – Providing more than just insurance policies—they deliver personalized coverage and expert guidance tailored to your needs.

Whether you're looking for life, disability, or long-term care insurance, their team ensures you get the best protection at the most cost-effective rates.

With priority underwriting, special discounts, and access to top-rated insurers, they make securing your future simple and stress-free.

Take the next step in protecting what matters most. Visit setforlifeinsurance.com or call 1-888-553-3559 today.