The Self-Directed Circle Monthly Meetup
About this Event
The Self-Directed Circle – August Meetup
📍 The Ridge Bar & Grill – 7414 Janes Avenue, Woodridge, IL 60517🗓️ Tuesday, August 12, 2025🕕 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM🎟️ Free to attend | Food & drinks available for purchase
🔑 A community for taking control of your retirement.
Whether you’re actively self-directing your retirement accounts or simply curious how to move beyond mainstream options, this group is for you.
The Self-Directed Circle is a friendly, monthly meetup where local investors, business-builders, and lifelong learners unite to swap ideas, ask questions, and learn from real-world experiences—without any sales pitch.
You’ll meet others who are:
- Managing their Self-Directed IRAs / Solo 401(k)s
- Exploring real estate, lending, or alternative investments
- Seeking practical, transparent strategies
- Ready to take action on their financial futures
Hosted ByEd Thelen, founder of 79th AVE lending, a private money lending platform focused on short-term real estate-backed opportunities.
Ed has been a Self-Directed Enthusiast since 2017, using retirement accounts to fund over 75 private money loans across dozens of real estate projects. He spends his free time researching, reading, and listening to some of the foremost voices in the space, including:
- Damion Lupo (QRP authority)
- Mat Sorensen (SDIRA legal expert)
- Tom Wheelwright (Tax strategist for investors)
- Mark J. Kohler (Legal + tax planning for self-directed investors)
His passion? Helping everyday people unlock smarter, more empowered control of their retirement accounts—without Wall Street noise.
About the VenueThe Ridge Bar & Grill7414 Janes AvenueWoodridge, IL 60517
This cozy neighborhood spot (right off I-355) is perfect for casual, purpose-driven meetups. The staff is friendly and attentive, the menu is broad and satisfying, and parking is painless. Food and beverage service is available for purchase.
Who Should AttendPerfect for anyone with a 401(k), IRA, or QRP who wants more control over their future—whether you're just getting curious or you've been self-directing for years.
This group brings together a mix of newcomers, active investors, and seasoned SDIRA veterans who value transparency, community, and actionable conversations.
Bring a question. Bring a story of success. Or just bring an open mind and a willingness to listen.No obligation, no pitch—just real people talking real strategies.
🎯 RSVP now to secure your spot on Tuesday, August 12 at 6:00 PM.Let’s take control—together.
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