Here's the link to join the discussion group (note: This isn't my group; I'm just a lurker there).Then there's also another, even more active, group for STL-style investments (locally known as Alojamente Local): AL English.

Get on the meetup app or facebook groups and look for realtor events and try to become a vendor at one.

You have some good comments above but I would also suggest to try some local real estate meetup groups.

That's because it's the group I help run and I was one of the speakers last month.The markets you mentioned are generally considered fourth-tier markets.

Join an RE group. 

I see benefit to having accountability partners, and coaches, but have had a difficult time finding a successful group.

That's doubly so for traveling with a group.

I don't plan to hire an outside group. 

because there are two groups - those who are out buying real estate and doing deals and those who are marketing a lifestyle or dream to get people to pay for something that rarely if ever happens.

You can also find real estate investing groups through meetup.com, Facebook, or a Google search.