When I first entered into learning about real estate, I found a mentor who told us to own nothing and control everything. 

Holders of fractionalized interests in the same deed of trust share lien priority rights as to other junior or senior lien holders, but not as to each other.As "co-tenants" or holders of interests in fractionalized trust deeds, they don't necessarily have any priority (to the extent of lien priority rights) over each other.  

I want to be the example, the mentor and the catalyst for new ways of living.

The best thing you can do when jumping from renting to rehabbing/flipping is build a strong team around you (investor friendly broker, general contractor, mentor, investor, etc.).

Based on some of the information you shared in your post, is it safe to say you aren't working with a mentor?  

Well, I figured this would be a great place to start my networking with others.I am excited to say that I will be attending a mentoring class on Monday and my "official" journey into REI begins.    

I'm just getting started in wholesaling (I have been helping do bird dogging and marketing for my mentor) and I would eventually like to get involved with buying/flipping and buy & hold investment properties.When/where are the best REIA meetings?

I feel comfortable with straight forward purchases of 1-4 units, knowing that I'm using professional management, agents and reliable mentors to bounce questions off of.  

I am looking for a mentor to help me get started as a real estate broker/investor. 

First start out by picking a niche, such as fix and flip, wholesaling, or note investing.Second, buy books on the topic and learn as much as possible.Third, seek out a mentor or person in that specific area.Fourth, try to work for this mentor or advisor.Fifth, continue your education and don't quit if the first transaction does not go your way