Episode 33: Why Most CPAs Won't Tell You About Self-Directed IRAs (And How They Work)
Episode 33: Why Most CPAs Won't Tell You About Self-Directed IRAs (And How They Work)  
Podcast: Strength in Numbers with Marcus Crigler
Published On: Tue Jan 20 2026
Description: Most investors are doing exactly what their CPA told them to do, and still paying far more in taxes than they should.In this episode of Strength in Numbers, Marcus Crigler joins the show to break down how self-directed IRAs and 401(k)s work, why most traditional CPAs never bring them up, and how real estate investors can use them to build long-term, tax-advantaged wealth.The conversation delves into real-world use cases, including private lending, real estate investing, Roth conversions, and the rules you absolutely cannot ignore.Listen and enjoy the show!You’ll Learn How To:Understand what a self-directed IRA really isUse retirement funds to invest in real estate and private lendingAvoid prohibited transactions that trigger penaltiesDecide when a Roth conversion actually makes senseWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:(02:41) Introducing Marcus Crigler and his approaches to accounting(05:14) Why tax strategy must happen before the year ends(08:28) What “self-directed” actually means for retirement accounts(09:25) Why real estate fits so well inside self-directed IRAs(11:53) When and how 401(k) money can be used for private lending(12:39) Why most W-2 employees can’t self-direct their 401(k) yet(17:03) When a Roth conversion is worth paying taxes upfront(22:02) The real friction points with self-directed accounts(26:51) Common IRS rules and prohibited transactions to avoid(29:27) What Financial Liberation University is and who it’s for(33:35) Connect with Marcus CriglerWho This Episode Is For:Real estate investors who are tired of reactive tax planningInvestors who are curious about self-directed IRAs and Roth strategiesAnyone who wants more control over their retirement moneyWhy You Should Listen:If you’ve ever felt like your CPA only looks backward instead of helping you plan ahead, this episode will change how you think about taxes, retirement accounts, and long-term wealth strategy.Connect with Marcus Crigler:Website: https://beccfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler