Option Alpha Podcast Top Trader Interviews

Some traders build their lives around the market. Others build trading into the life they already have. This episode explores how lessons from illiquid, long-term investments translate surprisingly well to short-duration options strategies, and why curiosity, consistency, and self-awareness matter more than finding the “perfect” setup.

We want to give a big thank you to Jack Krupey from JKAM Alternative Investments for taking the time to share his experience

Building a trading routine that fits your life

Long-time Option Alpha member Jack Krupey shares how a background in real estate and private equity shaped a calm, methodical approach to options trading. Rather than chasing constant excitement, Jack's focus has always been on building systems that work across market cycles and fit naturally into a daily routine. Options trading isn’t treated as a separate activity, but as an extension of broader investing principles—risk awareness, patience, and adaptability.

From real estate and private equity to options trading

Before options ever entered the picture, Jack's investing foundation was built in real estate and private equity—markets where patience is mandatory and outcomes unfold slowly. That background shaped a mindset focused on cycles, risk control, and staying neutral through changing conditions.

Options trading came later, after discovering Option Alpha's free options education. Instead of replacing earlier investing experience, options became another tool for Jack—one that could complement long-term thinking with flexibility and defined risk.

A mindset that works across market cycles

Volatility isn’t unique to options. Real estate, private equity, and public markets all move through expansions and contractions, just on different timelines. That perspective makes it easier to avoid reacting emotionally to short-term noise.

The core philosophy here is market neutrality—building strategies designed to function regardless of direction. Rather than predicting outcomes, the goal is to structure trades that can adapt as conditions change.

Strategy choices and risk management

Iron condors play a central role, offering a way to generate income while keeping risk clearly defined. Many trades are managed through Option Alpha’s autotrading platform, which makes staying consistent easier—even while traveling or away from screens.

Risk is kept intentionally small, often using a 2–3% loss guideline. Profit targets tend to fall in the 40–50% range, aligning with well-known short-premium best practices. While most trades are longer-duration, there’s occasional use of 0DTE strategies, with growing interest in one-day setups positioned further out-of-the-money to reduce exposure.

How trading fits into daily life

Trading isn’t treated as an all-day event, but as a steady process. Jack checks the market regularly, and adding theta is part of the routine—not something that requires constant monitoring.

Curiosity stands out as the most valuable habit. Staying open to learning, adjusting when needed, and avoiding rigid thinking has helped trading remain sustainable rather than stressful.

Advice for traders just getting started

There’s no single “right” way to trade. What works best is the approach that fits your personality, risk tolerance, and lifestyle. Trying to copy someone else’s strategy without understanding yourself often leads to frustration.

Jack's biggest takeaway is ownership. Trading is one of the few areas where individuals can directly shape their financial future, but only if they take responsibility for their decisions and stay patient through the learning curve.