Travis Makes Money

In this episode, Travis and producer Eric break down how to think about pricing across products and services so you stop guessing, undercharging, or racing competitors to the bottom. They walk through how to find a healthy price point, when to go premium instead of cheap, and why your rates should reflect the value and outcomes you deliver—not how long the work takes. On this episode we talk about: Why “charge what you’re worth” is useless advice without understanding perceived value, buyer outcomes, and your actual close rate. How to think about pricing physical products, when to follow the market, and when to intentionally position yourself as the premium option. Using close-rate percentages as a feedback loop to know when you’re underpriced, fairly priced, or simply bad at sales and positioning. Why hourly billing traps service providers and creatives, and how to shift into offer-based, results-based pricing instead. The importance of early testing, discounted beta clients, and iterating your prices up as demand and proof-of-results increase. Top 3 Takeaways Stop tying your prices to hours and start tying them to outcomes; clients pay for a result, not your calendar time. Use your sales close rate as a live diagnostic: very high close rates usually mean you’re underpriced, not “amazing at sales.” Early on, treat your pricing as a test—get paying clients, prove the result, then ratchet prices up until you encounter meaningful resistance. Notable Quotes “There’s no prize for being the second-cheapest option, but there is a real advantage to being the most expensive with a better offer.” “It doesn’t matter if it takes you 30 minutes or three months—the value is the value, and the client is paying for the result.” “Selling your time by the hour lets people rent you; selling offers and outcomes is what eventually buys your time freedom.” ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Filmmaker and tech founder Drew Schettler shares how he went from a strictly ministerial college path and church media work to running a production company and building Atlas, a modern all‑in‑one workspace for filmmakers. He talks about learning business the hard way as a creative, navigating burnout and feast‑or‑famine freelance cycles, and then spending seven months using AI and no‑code tools to ship a real SaaS product for his own industry. On this episode we talk about: Growing up in a ministry “bubble” and how Drew slowly leaned into photography and filmmaking Building a freelance video business serving churches, nonprofits, and commercial clients Discovering AI/no‑code app tools and deciding to build Atlas for filmmakers Product–market fit, MVPs, and iterating based on user feedback instead of over‑polishing Why creators need to think like entrepreneurs and how to escape the freelance hamster wheel Top 3 Takeaways 1. Creatives who want to go full‑time have to think in systems, margins, and client outcomes—not just in terms of making beautiful work.2. You do not need a massive dev team to validate a software idea; a scrappy, AI‑assisted MVP is enough to start selling and get real feedback.3. The most sustainable path is often using your high‑ticket services as a cash‑flow engine while you build scalable products that can eventually overtake client work. Notable Quotes "You have to lead with how you’re solving the client’s problem, not just how good your video looks." "If everyone has the cheat codes with AI, it stops being cheating—it’s just who executes better and faster." "Most creatives are trying to impress other creatives instead of building something that actually moves the needle for a client." Connect with Drew Schettler: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drew.schettler/ https://atlasfilm.io/ ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis and producer Eric break down the real skills behind meaningful networking, from first impressions and handshakes to group text intros and double opt-ins. They explore how to treat “networking” like making real friends, why bad introductions can damage trust, and how to thoughtfully connect people in a way that actually adds value. This episode is a tactical, relatable guide to becoming someone others are genuinely glad to meet and be introduced to. On this episode we talk about: Why basic body language, eye contact, and a simple “Hi, I’m Travis” beat over-rehearsed pitches when you meet someone new. How to navigate handshakes, daps, and hugs without creating awkward moments (or accidental crotch-hand sandwiches). Why networking events feel sleazy when you treat them like in‑person cold calling and how to shift into genuine curiosity and friendship-building. The right way to stay in touch—why business cards usually suck, and why Instagram or phone numbers are better for real follow‑up. How to make introductions the right way using “double opt‑in” intros, proper context, and thoughtful framing so both people feel respected and excited. Top 3 Takeaways Great first impressions are mostly about energy, body language, and making people feel good—not delivering the perfect elevator pitch. Treat networking like making friends: ask genuine questions, listen closely, look for common ground, and resist the urge to immediately pitch or sell. Introductions are powerful value-adds only when you get consent from both sides and frame the connection with context that makes each person look like the best version of themselves. Notable Quotes “People won’t remember what you said, but they will remember how you made them feel after meeting you.” “Going to events and treating every human like a prospect is the fastest way to make sure nobody actually wants to talk to you.” “Always get the double opt‑in on intros—otherwise you’re not adding value, you’re just creating awkward obligations for your friends.” ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jimmy Rex is a top-producing former real estate agent who closed over 400 transactions in his final year in the business and built a portfolio of more than 50 investment properties. He now runs “We Are The They,” a men’s mastermind and leadership group focused on helping high-performing entrepreneurs build better lives, not just bigger businesses, through experiences, coaching, and community. Jimmy is known for his relentless work ethic, his willingness to say what others won’t, and his ability to both make money and put it to work through disciplined investing.​ On this episode we talk about: Growing up broke, getting the entrepreneurial itch early, and how selling lemonade and T‑shirts as a kid shaped Jimmy’s sales mindset.​ Using a Mormon mission and door‑to‑door meat sales as “the world’s greatest sales training program” and how that translated into real estate success.​ The exact prospecting systems, scripts, and daily routines that took Jimmy from a few closings to 60–98 homes per year and 400+ annual transactions with his team.​ Why most agents and entrepreneurs hide in “creative avoidance,” how to fall in love with boring consistency, and why a ruthless 3‑hour daily prospecting block changes everything.​ Lessons from losing big in private deals, why Jimmy now favors index funds and real estate over chasing “sexy” investments, and how he’d rebuild from zero in 2–3 years through sales.​ Top 3 Takeaways Boring, consistent effort beats talent; a simple plan executed every day—like 3 hours of focused prospecting—will outperform almost everyone who won’t do the work.​ Sales is the most portable money-making skill; if you can sell and you’re willing to outwork others, you can rebuild your life in any market or industry.​ For most people, slow and steady investing in real estate and broad index funds will outperform gambling on private deals, meme coins, or “hot” opportunities driven by FOMO.​ Notable Quotes “Successful people have merely learned to do the things that unsuccessful people don’t want to do.”​ “Fall in love with the monotonous routine; the grind itself has to be the win, not just the outcome.”​ “If you’re not making at least 200 grand a year, your best investment isn’t the stock market—it’s your own skills and your network.”​ Connect with Jimmy Rex: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmyrex​ Twitter/X: https://x.com/JimmyRex​ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjimmyrex​​ ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis sits down with his producer Eric for a fun, practical breakdown of whether speaking at events is actually worth it for entrepreneurs and creators. From horror-movie cold opens to hard-nosed math on time, travel, and ROI, this episode digs into when to say yes to a stage, when to walk away, and how to think about “paid to speak” vs “pay to speak” opportunities in a sane, strategic way. On this episode we talk about: Whether speaking at events is a vanity play or a real growth lever for your business How your goals (professional speaker vs business owner vs personal brand builder) change the calculus on saying yes to a stage The tradeoffs between local, niche rooms and big stages with thousands of people Hidden costs of speaking—travel, lost work time, opportunity cost—and how to factor them in When it can actually make sense to pay to be on stage and how to evaluate those offers like ad spend Top 3 Takeaways Speaking is almost always valuable if it aligns with a clear goal—professional speaking, lead gen, or brand building—but not every stage is worth your time. Quality of the room (who’s in the audience, who’s hosting, who’s backstage) beats quantity of people; a small room of serious buyers can outperform a crowd of thousands. Paying to be on stage isn’t inherently a scam—it’s a marketing decision; you need clear numbers, clear expectations, and a plan to work the room and follow up afterward. Notable Quotes "It depends on your goal—if you want to be a professional speaker, you should be on any stage that’ll have you." "Sometimes 22 multi-millionaires in a small room are a better use of time than 2,000 random people in an arena." "Once you’re paying to speak, it’s not magic anymore—it’s just ad spend, and you’ve got to treat it like a marketing channel." ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Veena Jetti is the founding partner of Vive Funds, an innovative commercial real estate firm specializing in conservative investment opportunities. With over $1 billion in real estate transactions and a dynamic career that spans education, community building, and thought leadership, Veena brings a unique blend of deep market expertise and a passion for empowering new investors. As a multifamily syndicator, philanthropist, and Forbes Council Member, her story stands out for its hard-earned lessons, focus on abundance, and drive to create financial independence—especially for women.​​ On this episode we talk about: How Veena transitioned from single-family to multifamily real estate Mindset shifts required for successful investing The importance of joining networks and communities for growth Building wealth with limited capital and practical entry points Empowering women to build financial independence and legacy​​ Top 3 Takeaways Community and mentorship are the "easy button" for real estate success—being in the right rooms saves money and accelerates growth.​​ Mindset is the most significant barrier; overcoming analysis paralysis lets you take action and build wealth. Multifamily real estate is accessible to non-billionaires—start somewhere, build the right network, and leverage free educational resources.​​ Notable Quotes “The biggest problem with getting started in multifamily isn’t money or knowledge—it’s mindset. Overcoming overwhelm is key.”​ “Multifamily is a team sport. You need a community; doing deals alone is just riskier and slower.”​ “My focus for 2026 is teaching women how to achieve financial independence—money as power, not the end goal.”​ Connect with Veena Jetti: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veenajetti​ Twitter/X: https://x.com/veenajetti​ Instagram: https://instagram.com/veenajetti​ Website: https://vivefunds.com​ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo-style episode, Travis sits down with his producer Eric for an introspective conversation using the “rocking chair test,” a thought experiment where you imagine advice from your much older self at the end of your life. Instead of featuring an external guest, this episode turns the spotlight on Travis’s own mindset around regret, failure, and what he wishes he’d stop (and keep) doing in business and life. On this episode we talk about: How the “rocking chair test” helps you see your current life from the perspective of your 88–108-year-old self Why most people regret what they didn’t do more than what they did “wrong” Travis’s tendency to downplay wins, fixate on failures, and how that has held him back How his upbringing and internalized beliefs still shape his self-talk and response to criticism The story of building a 7-figure business, losing it, and struggling to own his successes afterward Why podcasting is the thing he’s most proud he stuck with, despite years of low direct financial return The tension between chasing novelty and doubling down on what you’re genuinely great at Using your future self as a filter to judge fears about embarrassment, judgment, and starting over How meditating on death and limited time can create urgency to take bigger swings now Top 3 Takeaways Your future self will almost always regret the risks you never took more than the attempts that didn’t work out. Fixating on failures while dismissing your wins can quietly cap your potential, even when you’ve built real results. Doubling down on your core strengths for income, while using side projects to satisfy curiosity and novelty, is a powerful way to build both wealth and fulfillment. Notable Quotes "I tend to significantly downplay the successes I’ve had and highlight the failures I’ve had, and that’s held me back in a lot of ways." "People on their deathbed usually regret the things they didn’t do far more than the things they did that didn’t work out." "Life is short, and in 200 years none of this will matter—so why not just go for it and take another big swing?" ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fernando Angelucci is a self-storage investor and syndicator who’s transacted on over $200M worth of self-storage facilities across dozens of states in just six years. After starting in house painting, flipping, and multifamily, he ditched the “three T’s” (tenants, toilets, trash) and went all-in on self storage, where he now specializes in wholesaling, value-add deals, and creative seller-financed structures—while spending most of the year living abroad.​ On this episode we talk about: Fernando’s journey from immigrant parents and a Fortune 50 corporate job to full-time real estate investor How he used 60 credit cards and $97K in high-interest debt to launch his flipping business (and why he doesn’t recommend it) Why he pivoted from flipping and rentals into self storage and what makes the asset class so attractive How to wholesale self-storage deals step-by-step, from building lists to skip tracing to talking with owners The key underwriting metrics he uses (supply index, price per square foot, occupancy, and competition) How he structures creative seller-financed deals (multiple offer structures, master lease options, and more) The importance of reps, rejection, accountability, and public goals in getting your first deal done Top 3 Takeaways Self storage is a powerful, scalable niche. With roughly two-thirds of facilities owned by mom-and-pop operators, there’s a massive opportunity to buy under-managed properties, modernize operations (web presence, pricing, tech), and quickly increase NOI. Wholesaling self storage is a low-capital way to start. By buying data, skip tracing owners, building relationships, and assigning contracts, you can generate large fees without taking title or raising huge amounts of capital—while learning the business from inside the deal flow. Creative financing unlocks deals banks won’t touch. By really listening to an owner’s “why” (retirement income, grandkids’ tuition, travel), you can craft seller-financed structures, second-position notes, and master leases that solve their problem and allow you to acquire cash-flowing assets with minimal money down. Notable Quotes “Once you get comfortable with people saying no and failure, then you just realize it’s reps. That’s all you gotta do—reps.” “If you’re always 100% full, that’s not a good thing in self storage. It means your rents are too low.” “Too many people rush to get a contract. Slow down and find the why behind the why—then structure the deal around that.” Connect with Fernando Angelucci: Website / Investing: https://ssse.com​​ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestoragestud​ ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Michelle K. Johnston is a bestselling author, top executive coach, and leadership professor at Loyola University New Orleans who specializes in connection-driven leadership. She’s the author of The Seismic Shift in Leadership and the new book The Seismic Shift in You, co-written with legendary coach Marshall Goldsmith, where she unpacks seven powerful shifts leaders must make to deepen connection and drive results in an AI-driven world.​ On this episode we talk about: Michelle’s first “real” dollar, early jobs at Fuddruckers and a cookie shop, and what they taught her about people and money Why high-volume, people-facing jobs (restaurants, sales, customer service) are underrated training grounds for success The core ideas behind The Seismic Shift in Leadership and The Seismic Shift in You How AI and digital overload are changing leadership—and why “productivity without connection equals emptiness” The loneliness epidemic, why entrepreneurs (especially men) are so isolated, and how to intentionally build community Practical ways leaders can rewire meetings, calendars, and priorities around connection The concept of “connection dinners” and why entrepreneurs should curate rooms where people actually get real Top 3 Takeaways Connection is the new competitive advantage. Old-school command-and-control leadership no longer works; leaders who build cultures of connection outperform by creating trust, psychological safety, and real loyalty.​ You must connect with yourself first. If your own cup is empty—no self-care, no boundaries, no time on your calendar for what matters—you won’t have the energy or presence to build meaningful relationships at work or at home.​ Entrepreneurship doesn’t have to be lonely. By intentionally building community—through curated spaces, small-group dinners, and regular in-person connection—entrepreneurs can combat isolation and create the kind of support that fuels both impact and income.​ Notable Quotes "Productivity without connection equals emptiness." "You’re not good at connecting with anybody unless you first prioritize yourself." "If your most important relationships aren’t on your calendar, they’re not really your priorities." Connect with Dr. Michelle Johnston: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-johnston-0264b5b​ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellekjohnston Website: https://michellekjohnston.com​ Podcast: The Seismic Shift with Michelle K. Johnston – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-seismic-shift-with-michelle-k-johnston/id1625361801​ ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis is joined by his producer Eric for a rapid‑fire, no‑guest episode built around funny, candid questions about purchases, regrets, and money habits. Eric keeps Travis on his toes, pushing him to “bring the receipts” on everything from embarrassing Amazon orders to the masterminds and franchises he has invested in.​ On this episode we talk about: The most embarrassing Amazon purchases Travis would hate to see leaked. Under‑$50 buys (like “The Almanack of Naval Ravikant”) that genuinely improved his life.​ The pricey Vegas group dinner he barely ate at and instantly regretted. Subscriptions and trials (sports, streaming, live TV) that keep renewing long after they’re useful.​ “Boring” purchases like chargers, docks, and phone accessories that quietly deliver value every day. Early‑20s mistakes like buying a brand‑new car versus a lightly used one. How much money Travis has ultimately spent with past podcast guests through masterminds, investments, and franchises.​ Top 3 Takeaways Paying for experiences or group status you do not actually enjoy (like a late‑night Vegas dinner you barely touch) is one of the fastest ways to waste money and energy. The best purchases are often unsexy: books that change how you think, tech that reduces daily friction, and used cars that avoid the steepest depreciation curve.​ Recurring subscriptions and “free trials” can quietly drain thousands over time, so using reminders, assistants, or apps to cancel aggressively is a simple but powerful money move.​ Notable Quotes "It felt like I paid $100 a bite for that dinner—and I still left hungry." "I used to think eating out was a splurge; now the real flex is not wasting cash on stuff that doesn’t move the needle." "Money only solves your money problems, but it is a lot easier to solve everything else when you actually have some in the bank."​ ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency.​ 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform.​ 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis​ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, Travis Chappell sits down with his producer Eric for a fun but revealing “check your contacts” game that exposes how much your network shapes your opportunities, decisions, and problem-solving capacity. Instead of focusing on tactics alone, they use real names from Travis’s phone to unpack what makes a relationship actually valuable beyond social proof or status.​ On this episode we talk about: The one professional contact Travis would keep if he had to delete everyone else from his phone Who he’d bet $1,000 will pick up the phone every time he calls Which friend he hasn’t talked to in years but knows would still show up if he needed help The first “celebrity” and first true household-name contact that made his network feel different Who he’d choose as his only coach if he had to start a new business tomorrow The worst “client” call of his career and the red flags it revealed The best call he’s ever received and how it turned into a defining podcast interview moment Why your network multiplies your ability to solve problems, Henry Ford–style Top 3 Takeaways A contact is only as valuable as their willingness to respond; reliability and generosity matter more than fame or follower count. Strong relationships built over years—even with long gaps in communication—can still be some of the most dependable when life or business goes sideways. Your network is a force multiplier: like Henry Ford and modern ultra-learners, you do not need to know everything yourself if you can quickly reach people who are true experts in their domains. Notable Quotes "Your contacts are only as good as the people who actually text back and pick up when it counts." "You can solve bigger and more complex problems when you know who to call, not just what to do." "Your contact list will largely dictate how successful and how helpful you are in life—so don’t neglect the work of building real relationships." ✖️✖ ✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency.​ 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform.​ 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis​ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesse and Gabi Merl are a married power couple who rebuilt from bankruptcy and six-figure student loan debt to consistent multi–six-figure months through content, social selling, and smart investing. Jesse is a multi-exit tech entrepreneur turned YouTube creator behind “Jesse ON FIRE,” while Gabi is a hormone and cortisol-focused coach and social seller who built a thriving business from scratch using short-form content.​​ On this episode we talk about: How Jesse went from teen restaurant jobs to real estate, loans, a sports gaming startup, and ultimately a brutal acquisition that wiped out his stock and forced bankruptcy What it was like for Gabi to be pregnant with their third child, unable to practice acupuncture in a new state, and staring down six-figure student loans while deciding to jump into social selling How they rebuilt from absolute zero to over $140K/month in combined income by focusing on liquid wealth, real estate, and avoiding flashy lifestyle creep The content strategies behind “Jesse ON FIRE” and Gabi’s Instagram/TikTok growth: niche selection, volume, repelling to attract, and showing up as an amplified version of yourself on camera Why most creators fail because they underestimate the time horizon (at least a year) and posting volume required before platforms reward them with real reach Top 3 Takeaways Rebuilding from zero is possible if you’re willing to kill your ego, take the “soul-sucking” job when necessary, and then methodically build leverage through content and business again. Platforms reward consistency and volume; think in terms of posting multiple times per day for months, not a few posts per month, and commit to at least a year before expecting meaningful traction. The fastest way to stand out is to be specific: know your avatar, be willing to repel the wrong audience to attract the right one, and tell your story like you’re talking to close friends—just slightly amplified for the camera. Notable Quotes "You have to repel to attract; if no one is a little mad, no one is truly magnetized to you." "The platforms are testing if you’re going to be a consistent creator before they give you reach." "Content is just building relationships at scale—one story, one reaction, one video at a time." Connect with Jesse & Gabi Merl: YouTube (Jesse): https://www.youtube.com/@RealJesseONFIRE​ Twitter/X (Jesse): https://twitter.com/realjesseonfire​ Instagram (Jesse): https://www.instagram.com/realjesseonfire​ Instagram (Gabi): https://www.instagram.com/gabriellecarolyn​ TikTok (Gabi): https://www.tiktok.com/@gabriellecarolyn​ ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency.​ 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform.​ 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis​ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode of the Travis Makes Money Podcast, Travis and his producer Eric react to a hot take by John Gafford. John Gafford is a highly successful entrepreneur in the Las Vegas metropolitan area and a recognized authority in the real estate industry. Before venturing into real estate, he carved out a remarkable path as an entrepreneur, leaving a lasting impact across various industries including hospitality, insurance, and technology. His extensive experience and visionary leadership in real estate have made him a popular podcast host and he is frequently called upon as a contributor, speaker, and consultant, sharing his wealth of knowledge and insights with others in the industry. ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

French-Canadian real estate investor, designer, and developer Natalie Cloutier shares how she and her husband Rob went from broke 20-year-olds in a basement condo to building 50+ rental units and a multimillion-dollar portfolio using a no-money-down build-to-rent strategy. With a background in architectural technology and a focus on new construction, Natalie has turned sweat equity and creative financing into a full-time business, and recently distilled her approach into her book, “The Build-to-Rent Strategy: A Guide to a Successful Rental Property Construction.”​ On this episode we talk about: How Natalie and Rob built their first home and basement rental suite with essentially $0 down using sweat equity and construction financing The mechanics of build-to-rent/“BRRR 2.0”: Build, Rent, Refinance, Repeat—and how it differs from the traditional BRRR strategy What work they took on themselves vs. what they always hired out (electrical, drywall, finishes vs. structural, foundation, and plumbing) Why they prefer smaller infill projects like six-plexes instead of large, high-risk developments with heavy permitting costs How they manage leverage, cash flow targets per door, and why they’re choosing to pause, de-stress, and reassess what “enough” looks like after a decade of grinding Top 3 Takeaways You do not always need 20% down to get into real estate—using construction-to-perm style loans, sweat equity, and smart design, you can create deals by building rather than competing for existing inventory. Staying intentionally underleveraged and focusing on real cash flow per unit is often safer than chasing maximum refinancing or unit count, especially in volatile interest-rate environments. Your portfolio should support your life, not the other way around; periodically pausing to evaluate stress, health, and family priorities is just as important as growing doors or equity. Notable Quotes "We didn’t have money, so instead of buying someone else’s house, we built our own and used our work as the down payment." "BRRR 2.0 is the same idea as BRRR, but instead of ‘Buy, Renovate, Rent, Refinance, Repeat,’ it’s ‘Build, Rent, Refinance, Repeat.’" "It’s not about how many units you own; it’s about how much money those properties actually make and whether the grind is worth it for your life." Connect with Natalie Cloutier: linktr.ee/thenewbuildcouple ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis and producer Eric react to a viral video from Vivian Tu (“Your Rich BFF”) breaking down three popular “get rich quick” strategies that actually cost most people money: whole life insurance as an investment, day trading, and “passive” side hustles like wholesale real estate, Amazon dropshipping, and affiliate marketing. They use the clip as a springboard to talk about discipline, risk, and why most people should stick to simple, boring money moves instead of gambling their future on complex schemes they barely understand.​ Top 3 Takeaways For most people, the simplest play—buy term life insurance for protection and invest consistently in diversified, long-term stock market holdings—beats complicated insurance and trading schemes. Day trading is statistically stacked against you; unless you treat it like gambling with true “play money,” your odds of long-term success are far worse than just buying and holding quality assets. “Passive income” buzzwords around real estate, dropshipping, and affiliate marketing hide the reality that these are real businesses requiring time, effort, and often capital—especially when you’re just getting started. Notable Quotes "If you’re just starting out, whole life and infinite banking shouldn’t even be on your radar—it’s a distraction sold hard because the commissions are huge." "Don’t pretend you’re an expert trader when even the best hedge fund managers in the world tell you not to time the market." "People keep looking at these advanced strategies as the thing that’ll make them rich, instead of realizing they only really make sense once you’re already rich."​ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at https://gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rachel Zaslansky Sheer and Lori Zuker Briller are the co-founders of The Grapevine, a premier corporate and domestic staffing firm known for placing top-tier talent with high-profile executives, households, and leading companies. With 20+ years of recruiting experience across entertainment, tech, finance, real estate, fashion, and more, they’ve built a referral-driven “job matchmaking” agency and recently coauthored “Straight From the Grapevine: How to Crush Your Job Search,” a practical guide to modern career strategy and job hunting. Their backgrounds as former entertainment assistants and development executives give them a rare, inside-out view of both sides of the hiring table—what makes candidates stand out and what employers actually need.​ Top 3 Takeaways Early, “small” jobs matter: they build work ethic, professionalism, and people skills that compound into better opportunities, references, and confidence later in your career. Great candidates treat every role like it matters—showing up with excellence, initiative, and a good attitude—because that’s how you get noticed, recruited, and referred into the dream jobs you actually want. In today’s noisy job market, understanding how recruiting really works, presenting a sharp résumé, and mastering basic etiquette (clear emails, context, professionalism) are major unfair advantages. Connect with Rachel & Lori (The Grapevine): ​https://www.thegrapevineagency.com/ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at https://gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis and producer Eric dive into breaking sports media news: ESPN and Penn Entertainment unwinding their $2 billion, 10-year ESPN Bet partnership just two years after launch and pivoting into a new multi-year deal with DraftKings. They unpack what this says about ESPN’s fading dominance, DraftKings’ position as the default sportsbook brand, and how Barstool founder Dave Portnoy continues to land on his feet after Penn sold Barstool back to him and rebranded to ESPN Bet. Along the way, they draw parallels to Disney’s evolving “family-friendly” branding strategy, the broader shift from legacy TV to social-first sports media, and why product quality and user behavior matter more than just a big name.​​ On this episode we talk about: The stunning early termination of the ESPN–Penn Entertainment $2B, 10-year ESPN Bet deal, effective December 1, 2025, after ESPN Bet failed to crack meaningful market share.​ Why ESPN Bet reportedly struggled to get above ~5% market share and never hit “top three” sportsbook status despite ESPN’s massive brand and distribution.​ Penn’s prior Barstool Sports era, regulatory pushback tied to Portnoy’s persona, and how Penn sold Barstool back to Dave Portnoy as it pivoted to the ESPN Bet rebrand.​​ Portnoy’s reaction on his own show, why he thinks time will tell if this is a good move for DraftKings, and his hint that Disney CEO Bob Iger made unflattering comments about Barstool behind the scenes.​ How Disney’s move from “no R-rated content” on Disney+ to hosting edgier, R-rated films via the Hulu integration shows a slow but real shift away from a strictly squeaky-clean image.​ Why even a giant like ESPN can’t just slap its logo on a product and win—especially when users already love DraftKings and other established betting apps.​ The rise of social-native sports brands like House of Highlights and Barstool Sports, and how short-form content has replaced traditional SportsCenter viewing for many fans.​​ Jake Paul’s “Betr” (Better) and other creator-led betting and media plays, and how having the ear of younger fans changes the balance of power in sports media.​ Why product quality, UX, and habit lock-in often beat legacy branding, even when legacy outlets still dominate live rights and TV distribution.​ A quick detour into the best sports movies of all time—Hoosiers, Remember the Titans, Warrior, Rocky, Moneyball, and more—and what they reveal about the nostalgia we still attach to sports storytelling. Top 3 Takeaways Big legacy brands like ESPN and Disney can no longer rely on their name alone; in crowded categories like sports betting, sticky products and fan-favorite platforms like DraftKings are extremely hard to displace.​ Controversial personalities like Dave Portnoy can create regulatory and brand headaches, but they also build cult followings and resilient IP—Barstool’s rebound and Portnoy’s “$1 buyback” remain a masterclass in leverage.​​ The future of sports attention is social-first and creator-driven: fans increasingly get their highlights, hot takes, and sometimes even betting cues from digital-native brands rather than traditional TV networks.​​ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at https://gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rod Khleif is a Dutch immigrant, multifamily investor, and high-performance mentor who has owned over 2,000 single-family homes and thousands of apartment units across the U.S. He hosts “Lifetime Cash Flow Through Real Estate Investing,” one of the largest commercial real estate podcasts, where he teaches investors how to use multifamily, senior housing, and other commercial assets to create long-term wealth. After watching his net worth jump $17 million in 2006 and then losing roughly $50 million in the 2008–09 crash, Rod rebuilt by focusing on mindset, goal setting, and identity work—turning that “seminar” into a blueprint he now shares with students worldwide.​ On this episode we talk about: Rod’s journey from broke Dutch immigrant kid in Denver to watching his mom buy a $30,000 rental that appreciated $20,000 and realizing real estate could change his life. Getting his broker’s license at 18, struggling for two years, then jumping to over $100k in income after discovering the power of mindset, psychology, and the right mentor. Building a massive portfolio of single-family and multifamily properties, seeing his net worth rise by $17 million in one year, and then losing around $50 million in the 2008 crash. How Rod reframed that loss as a “$50 million seminar,” refused to let real estate become his identity, and used aggressive goal setting and identity statements to rebuild. The current state of commercial real estate, including distressed multifamily deals due to interest rate shocks, emerging opportunity in senior housing/assisted living, and why he’s cautious on office but bullish on other asset classes. Top 3 Takeaways Your business is just a vehicle—if it fails, you are not a failure; separating identity from outcomes is essential if you want to recover from big losses and take bigger swings. Clear, emotionally charged goals combined with “I am” identity statements and massive action create the momentum needed to push through fear, limiting beliefs, and comfort zones. Right now is a rare window for prepared buyers in commercial real estate and small business acquisitions, with distressed multifamily assets and retiring Baby Boomer owners creating outsized opportunities. Notable Quotes "They’re only failures if you don’t get back up—otherwise they’re just very expensive seminars." "Anything you put the words ‘I am’ in front of becomes an identity statement, and your life will rise or fall to match it." "Don’t fear failure; fear regret—because not living the life you’re capable of is the real nightmare." Connect with Rod Khleif: Rodkhleif.com Rodspodcast.com 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at https://gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis Chappell dives into the mindset shifts that separate effective salespeople from those who plead for clients’ attention. With a focus on the photography industry as a case study, he breaks down common mistakes creatives make when marketing their services and shares actionable strategies to connect authentically with clients. On this episode we talk about: The difference between pitching yourself and pleading for validation in business How creative entrepreneurs often overemphasize their personal passion in marketing Techniques to discover what clients truly want through effective questioning Why building trust can sometimes mean turning away business Applying sales lessons from photography to any industry Top 3 Takeaways Stop making your marketing about how much you love what you do—focus on the value you provide to clients. Ask questions first to uncover client pain points, then tailor your pitch to solve their specific problems. Building trust may require walking away from business that isn’t a fit, which can lead to stronger opportunities later. Notable Quotes "At a certain point, it shifts from 'I love what I do' to 'hire me so I’ll feel fulfilled,' and it can easily turn into ‘pick me.’" "Your craft speaks for itself—focus your conversations on the client’s experience, not your personal fulfillment." "If you can better explain somebody’s problem to them than they can, they’ll automatically assume you have the solution." ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With over two decades of real estate, sales, and professional coaching experience, Jeremy Herider's mission is to assist agents in building careers worth having, businesses worth owning and lives worth living. https://harvist.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this candid and relatable episode, Travis and his producer Eric share personal experiences about starting in podcasting and content creation while grappling with imposter syndrome. They discuss how it's okay not to be an expert at first and how interviewing others can be a powerful way to create valuable content. Travis reflects on his own journey starting solo and the benefits of learning from others. They explore how comparison can either motivate or hold you back and emphasize the importance of embracing the learning curve, persisting through early struggles, and getting addicted to progress rather than perfection. On this episode we talk about: The challenges of feeling qualified to share your perspective early in content creation.​ How podcasting allows you to start by interviewing experts and grow your voice over time.​ The difference between writing a book and creating content in terms of commitment and flexibility.​ The dangers of comparison and how to use it as inspiration rather than a source of discouragement.​ The value of embracing imperfection and expecting to "suck" initially as part of mastery.​ Mentality shifts to get addicted to progress, even the small wins, in any skill-building journey.​ Top 3 Takeaways 1. You don’t need to be an expert to start creating meaningful content—just start somewhere.​2. Interviewing and sharing others’ expertise can provide immediate value to your audience.​3. Expect initial failures and imperfections as a natural and necessary part of growth.​ Notable Quotes "Just start putting stuff out there—you’ll learn quickly what holds water and what doesn’t."​ "Comparison should kick you forward, not kick you down."​ "If you don’t suck at the start, you should have started years ago."​ Connect with Travis Makes Money: Website: travischappell.com​ Instagram: @travischappell​ YouTube: Travis Makes Money​ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is powered by High Level — the all-in-one marketing platform built for agencies. 🎁 Try it free for 30 days at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

JT Mestdagh shares his extraordinary journey of resilience overcoming multiple complex medical challenges from birth and severe dyslexia to becoming an adventurer and inspirational author. His book No Bad Days: Turning Your Biggest Challenges into Your Greatest Opportunities encourages young adults and everyone to view obstacles as opportunities for growth and to live a positive, purpose-driven life. JT also founded a charity supporting children with medical needs and literacy programs, intertwining his passion for adventure with giving back. On this episode we talk about: JT’s lifetime medical battles with VACTERL syndrome and how he manages daily bowel care through innovative surgeries.​​ The emotional and educational struggles with severe dyslexia and how finding the right learning program was life-changing.​​ How JT’s positive mindset, faith, and support from his tribe fueled his drive to climb Kilimanjaro, race the Grand Canyon, and start charitable work.​ The creation of his motivational book No Bad Days as an encouragement for youth and others facing adversity.​ JT’s foundation’s mission to supply medical and educational resources to children with similar needs.​ The importance of community, sharing one’s story, and finding joy and purpose despite hardships.​ Top 3 Takeaways 1. Positivity and faith are powerful tools in transforming hardship into opportunity.​​2. Finding and nurturing a supportive tribe is crucial for motivation and growth.​3. Sharing personal stories inspires connection and helps others overcome their challenges.​ Notable Quotes "There are no bad days, only hard days that we get through together."​ "Your story shapes you daily and can be used to support and uplift others."​ "Every day is a blessing to keep going, to keep sharing smiles and joy."​ Connect with JT Mestdagh: Website: nobaddaysbook.com​ ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is powered by High Level — the all-in-one sales and marketing platform built for agencies. 🎁 Try it free for 30 days at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis and his producer Eric delve into how Gen Z approaches financial advice, heavily relying on social media platforms for guidance. They discuss the impact of the lack of traditional financial education, how social media has democratized access to financial info, and the risks and benefits of following influencers online. The episode highlights generational differences in financial behavior, trust in advice sources, and the crucial role of critical thinking in navigating abundant but sometimes misleading digital financial content. On this episode we talk about: Gen Z’s preference for social media as a source of financial advice over traditional education.​ The top platforms Gen Z uses for finance info: YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, X (Twitter), and Facebook.​ Most searched personal finance topics by Gen Z: budgeting, taxes, credit card debt, wealth building, and student loans.​ The prevalence of financial scams on social media and how it affects young people’s trust.​ The importance of discerning credible advice from marketing and misinformation.​ Generational differences in financial interests and skepticism, especially regarding crypto and MLMs.​ Why building trust through consistent, unbiased financial content is crucial for long-term influence.​ Top trusted sources for financial advice: parents/family, financial institutions, and friends.​ Top 3 Takeaways 1. Social media is a dominant channel for Gen Z’s financial education but requires strong critical thinking skills due to misinformation risk.​2. Budgeting and credit card debt are central concerns for young people starting their financial journeys.​3. Trusted advice still comes mainly from family and well-established financial institutions, highlighting the ongoing role of personal relationships.​ Notable Quotes "77% of Gen Z actively seek financial advice on social media, but a quarter have been scammed there."​ "Social media advice can be positive if you know how to sift through noise and marketing gimmicks."​ "Trust comes from giving consistent value without direct financial incentives."​ Connect with Travis Makes Money: Website: travischappell.com​ Instagram: @travischappell​ YouTube: Travis Makes Money​ ✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brandon Steiner, known as the king of sports memorabilia, shares his journey from a sports-crazed Brooklyn kid with $4,000 to a transformative figure in sports marketing. As founder and president of Collectible Exchange and Steiner Sports, Brandon discusses how he revolutionized the memorabilia industry and built a $50 million empire with exclusive partnerships with legendary athletes like Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, and Muhammad Ali. He reflects on the fundamentals of business, the importance of delivering value, and the power of genuine relationships in building a successful sports marketing business. On this episode we talk about: Brandon’s early entrepreneurial experience and lessons from working at top companies before starting his own business.​ The creation and growth of Steiner Sports, focusing on fundamentals, customer value, and brand loyalty.​ The process of building relationships with influential clients based on giving value first and expecting nothing in return.​ The founding of Collectible Exchange to help collectors manage and sell their memorabilia efficiently.​ Advice for young entrepreneurs on fundamentals, resilience, and maintaining authenticity in business.​ The critical role of enthusiasm and faith in persevering through challenges and competition.​ Top 3 Takeaways 1. Strong foundational business principles and fundamentals are key to long-term success.​2. Building authentic, value-driven relationships fosters sustainable business growth.​3. Passion combined with strategic giving and resilience creates lasting influence and opportunity.​ Notable Quotes "Making money is easy; staying authentic and keeping your brand on track is the hard part."​ "Put yourself in the customer’s shoes to understand what they really need."​ "Do as much as you can for as many people as you can, as often as you can, and expect nothing back."​ Connect with Brandon Steiner: Website and Books: brandonsteiner.com​ ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis shares a personal story about his experience with a challenging out-of-state real estate flip that resulted in a significant loss initially, but also valuable lessons for long-term investing and property management. He discusses the complexities of managing properties from afar, unexpected costs like property taxes, and the emotional factors that influence buying and selling decisions. The episode also covers practical advice for navigating real estate investments, including the importance of local market knowledge and having trustworthy property managers. On this episode we talk about: The risks of out-of-state real estate investing and the need for trusted local support.​ Unexpected expenses like property tax increases after ownership transfer.​ How market timing can be unpredictable and the value of long-term holding.​ Strategies for managing rental properties, including using mother-in-law suites and Airbnb for supplemental income.​ Emotional aspects of real estate decisions versus logical financial planning.​ Practical tips for those new to real estate investing, especially regarding boots-on-the-ground knowledge.​ Top 3 Takeaways 1. Out-of-state real estate investing demands extensive local market knowledge and trustworthy management to mitigate risks.​2. Unexpected costs, such as increased property taxes, can drastically affect profitability.​3. Long-term holding of properties often outperforms attempts to time the market, especially with a reliable tenant paying the mortgage.​ Notable Quotes "Better research could have avoided a lot of this loss—I didn’t know what I didn’t know at the time."​ "You can’t time the market; buy real estate and wait—it will be worth more in the future."​ "If you can afford it, holding properties even without a tenant can be like putting money into a savings account that grows."​ ✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stefan Feuerstein is a leadership expert recognized by Oprah Winfrey as part of her inaugural Super Soul 100 list of awakened leaders elevating humanity. With over two decades of high-stakes leadership experience in humanitarian and private sectors, Stefan has led thousands globally. He is the author of the book "ABC Delegation," which teaches managers and leaders how to leverage delegation to drive engagement, accountability, and outsized returns in business and life. On this episode we talk about: Stefan’s early experiences and the life-altering impact of humanitarian work in Honduras that shaped his leadership philosophy​ The power of mentorship and how leaders can grow through mutual development relationships​ Stefan’s ABC Delegation system: clarifying responsibilities and commitments to foster team performance and autonomy​ How managers can avoid micromanaging and empower teams with trust and accountability​ The high cost of disengagement in teams and how effective delegation can reverse that trend​ Practical advice for leaders on communication, responsibility, and fostering growth in employees​ Why decision-making and unique human perspectives remain crucial in the age of AI and automation​ Top 3 Takeaways 1. Delegation is a key leverage point for business growth, built on clear responsibilities and mutual accountability.​2. Active mentorship and genuine listening transform team engagement and individual performance.​3. Managers who avoid investing time in delegation risk costly disengagement and turnover within their teams.​ Notable Quotes "Your responsibility is to comply with this. In exchange, I will help you grow and give you more responsibility."​ "If you're not doing this, your team is disengaging, and that’s very expensive for you."​ "Delegation is not just about tasks; it’s about how we interact daily to drive results and growth."​ Connect with Stefan Feuerstein: Website and Book: https://abcdelegation.com​ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefan-feuerstein-0b35a7117​ ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode features a lighthearted and insightful conversation between Travis and his producer Eric, blending humor with practical advice about managing business finances. They discuss the importance of tracking net profit and operating expenses as critical financial metrics, the challenges of cash flow management, and the nuances of personal versus business finance. Through witty banter and relatable stories, they explore how founders can improve their financial literacy and make smarter decisions for their businesses. On this episode we talk about: Why net profit has become the most important metric for business sustainability​ Balancing cutting costs with increasing income to optimize profitability​ The significance of managing cash flow carefully and strategically over time​ How personal financial management differs from business finance in priorities and metrics​ The value of engaging a fractional CFO or accountant early to build financial competency​ Fun anecdotes and humor about business, subscription spaces, and conference jokes​ Top 3 Takeaways 1. Net profit and operating expenses are key indicators of business health and require close monitoring.​2. Proper cash flow management means timing payments to maintain a clear financial picture and operational flexibility.​3. Engaging financial experts as coaches can accelerate financial understanding and avert costly mistakes.​ Notable Quotes "The only place where they celebrate high churn would be at like a butter convention."​ "Managing cash flow is one of the most underrated parts of running your business."​ "Charge enough to overdeliver for your customers because it always costs more to deliver than you expect."​ Connect with Travis Makes Money: Website: travischappell.com​ Instagram: @travischappell​ YouTube: Travis Makes Money​ ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Matt Putra is a fractional CFO and founder of Eightx, specializing in helping e-commerce and consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies scale profitably and sustainably. With over a decade of experience, Matt has supported businesses generating $5 million to $100 million in revenue, expertly managing cash flow, raising capital, and building financial systems that empower founders to make data-driven decisions confidently. On this episode we talk about: Matt’s unconventional path to becoming a CFO, including working in manufacturing and private equity before founding Eightx​ The challenges and strategies for scaling a business that heavily depends on personal expertise and trust​ Why Matt chose e-commerce and CPG niches and how he built his client base primarily through LinkedIn and referrals​ The importance of setting and tracking key financial metrics tailored to each business team for proactive management​ Managing cash flow with weekly 13-week forecasts to foresee and handle financial challenges​ Taking calculated financial risks as a founder and balancing ambition with cash flow realities​ Advice for founders on understanding finance versus outsourcing critical financial functions​ How Matt continues to build and scale Eightx with a growing team of CFOs, analysts, and accountants​ Top 3 Takeaways 1. Key financial metrics and consistent cash flow forecasting are crucial tools for business longevity and scaling.​2. Scaling a fractional CFO business requires careful hiring and trust-building with skilled financial professionals.​3. Founders should focus on core finance understanding but outsource complex financial functions to experts like fractional CFOs.​ Notable Quotes "If you can figure out your top 20 financial metrics, you’re very likely to succeed."​ "The most boring activity that exists in finance today is updating your 13-week cash flow forecast every week, but it makes you a better cash flow manager."​ "Charge enough to overdeliver for your customers because it will cost more to deliver on your promises than you expect."​ Connect with Matt Putra: LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/mattputra​ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattwjputra/​ Website (Eightx): https://eightx.co​ ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode features a candid conversation between Travis and his producer Eric, diving into the realities of investing in organic content creation for business growth. They unpack the costs, strategies, and mindset shifts required to build a successful content engine, using real-world examples from comedians and entrepreneurs to illustrate the importance of budgeting for organic growth. On this episode we talk about: The hidden costs behind successful comedians and podcasters who appear to “do it all themselves”​ The importance of investing in content creation, editing, and social media management for long-term business growth​ How paid advertising and organic content work together to build a brand and drive results​ The value of outsourcing tasks to free up time for high-impact activities​ Real numbers from top creators, including how much they spend monthly on organic content​ The trade-offs between doing everything yourself and hiring experts to scale your business​ Top 3 Takeaways 1. Organic content creation is not free—successful creators invest heavily in teams and tools to produce and distribute content.​2. Outsourcing non-core tasks allows entrepreneurs to focus on what they do best, maximizing both time and revenue.​3. Building a brand through organic content pays exponential returns over time, far outpacing paid advertising alone.​ Notable Quotes "It's not just because he says good stuff. It's because he spends multi six figures a month on content creation."​ "You have to do it. It's not a negotiable for anybody now."​ "The more content you put out online, the more ability AI has to be able to suggest your stuff."​ ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Julee Gracey is a certified business coach, speaker, and author specializing in building confidence, overcoming self-doubt, and empowering entrepreneurs to unlock personal and financial freedom. Her background spans international modeling, TV hosting, and multimillion-dollar real estate deals, bringing an edge and authenticity to her work with high-achieving business owners and those seeking practical transformation. Her book, "Highly Confident," encapsulates her coaching philosophy and actionable frameworks for living and working boldly.​ On this episode we talk about: How Julee started her first business as a crafty kid selling wire rings in elementary school​ The lessons of growing up with hardworking, entrepreneurial parents and early confidence-building experiences​ Breaking away from the traditional life path, taking risks, and building a modeling career that led to TV and business coaching​ The real story behind being a briefcase model on Deal or No Deal and why money decisions matter​ Why confidence and courage are developed through action, not just positive thinking or "mirror affirmations"​ The connection between physical discipline, health, and showing up confidently in every part of life​ The role of boundaries, saying “no,” and not overextending yourself as a leader and entrepreneur​ How Julee’s coaching and her book teach decision frameworks that help clients clarify goals, overcome imposter syndrome, and build lasting confidence​ Top 3 Takeaways 1. Confidence is built by taking courageous action and learning through small wins, not just by waiting for permission.​2. Physical health and movement directly influence confidence and business performance—a disciplined body supports a focused mind.​3. Setting clear boundaries and learning to say “no” is essential for sustainable success and healthy relationships.​ Notable Quotes "If you're going to fail, fail spectacularly—do it really big and glorious."​ "Confidence does not come from shouting self-affirmations in the mirror. It comes from showing up and doing the work."​ "People don’t want the overextended, stressed-out version of you."​ Connect with Julee Gracey: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juleegracey/ Website: https://juleegracey.com​ Book: highlyconfidentbook.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis and Eric break down the viral news about Donald Trump’s floated idea of introducing 50-year mortgages. They unpack the financial realities, the math, the pros and cons, and why this proposed change sent shockwaves through social media—especially in the real estate world. From bank incentives to equity timelines to whether long-term loans actually help buyers, this is a practical and surprisingly entertaining deep dive into what the future of homebuying could look like. ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis On this episode we talk about:Top 3 TakeawaysNotable QuotesConnect with Travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is Ben Zweig — economist, data scientist, founder of Revelio Labs, and NYU Stern professor specializing in the future of work. With a PhD in economics and a career spanning IBM’s Chief Analytics Office, hedge fund strategy, and groundbreaking research on labor markets and occupational mobility, Ben brings a rare blend of academic rigor and real-world insight. His work allows him to see patterns in the job market before they happen — and understand where the biggest opportunities to make money are emerging. On this episode we talk about: Ben’s first sales job on the streets of New York and how “rejection therapy” shaped his career Why thick skin and empathy are two of the most valuable skills in any high-paying field How economics became the lens Ben uses to understand behavior, markets, and opportunity Why getting a PhD changes your identity — and how deep expertise creates new income paths The evolving nature of work and what signals actually matter for future money-making trends Top 3 Takeaways Sales skills compound everywhere. Early experiences dealing with rejection and reading people become an unfair advantage in higher-paying industries. Economics is a framework for decision-making. Understanding incentives, equilibrium, and behavioral patterns helps you spot opportunities others miss. Deep expertise transforms your earning potential. Immersing yourself in a field — academically or professionally — shifts how you think and positions you for unique career paths. Connect with Ben Zweig: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-zweig Website: https://www.reveliolabs.com/ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals — all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, Travis sits down with Sebastien Page, author of The Psychology of Leadership and Chief Investment Officer at T. Rowe Price. With over 20 years of experience managing $500 billion in assets, Sebastien brings deep insight into finance, leadership, and performance psychology. He combines academic research, practical investing experience, and a passion for teaching financial literacy to provide unique perspectives on money, stress, and personal growth. On this episode we talk about: Sebastien’s early experiences making money and the influence of his parents on his financial mindset. How to teach kids about money, compound interest, and investing in a way that sticks. The psychology of stress and how to use it to improve performance rather than avoid it. Lessons from sports psychology applied to leadership and high-stakes decision-making. Surprising insights from research on intelligence, grit, and lifelong financial success. Top 3 Takeaways Understanding and optimizing stress is crucial for peak performance—stress isn’t the enemy, it can be fuel. Teaching children financial literacy early creates lasting habits and empowers them to make smarter decisions. Success in life and money is influenced more by personality, resilience, and grit than raw intelligence. Connect with Sebastien Page: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastien-page Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sebastienpagebook/ Other: Book: The Psychology of Leadership ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis Chappell is joined by his producer Eric. Together, they break down some of the wildest viral success clips on the internet—from astrology-based basketball theories to Grant Cardone proclaiming you “can’t live” on $400K a year—and explore the real lessons hiding underneath the noise. On this episode we talk about: Why absurd “success hacks” go viral, including the astrology clip about Michael Jordan The difference between motivation, marketing, and manipulation in the online guru world Whether Grant Cardone is right—or way off—when he says $400K isn’t enough How polarizing personalities weaponize attention for growth What “thinking bigger” actually means (and what it doesn’t) Top 3 Takeaways Viral guru content often succeeds because it's theatrical, not because it’s true. Income numbers are meaningless without personal context—freedom math > flex math. You can embrace big thinking without adopting the extremes or gimmicks of online gurus. ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nelson Repenning and Don Kieffer are longtime collaborators and professors at the MIT Sloan School of Management. With nearly 30 years of combined research, leadership experience, and hands-on work inside major organizations, they specialize in fixing broken systems, developing leaders, and helping teams operate at peak performance. They are co-authors of the new book There’s Got to Be a Better Way, a practical, field-tested guide to improving how people work. On this episode we talk about: How Nelson and Don each earned their very first dollar Why early childhood experiences shape lifelong money habits Practical ways parents can teach kids about money today The surprising paths that led both professors into higher education How a chance meeting at Harley-Davidson sparked a 30-year collaboration Why fixing knowledge work is harder than fixing factory work The origin story behind their new book and why it finally came together What teaching leaders revealed about how people actually learn Why improving work makes companies more profitable and people happier Top 3 Takeaways Improving work isn’t about grinding harder — it’s about designing systems that allow people to succeed. Kids learn more from watching how adults handle money than from any formal lesson. Long-term collaboration thrives when partners bring different strengths but share the same mission. Notable Quotes “If you want better results, you don’t fix the people — you fix the work.” “Kids learn about money by seeing how you treat it, not by what you tell them.” “The moment we started teaching our ideas, we realized how much more we had to learn.” Purchase a Copy of "There's Got To Be a Better Way" https://www.amazon.com/Theres-Got-Be-Better-Way/dp/1541704622 ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis and producer Eric break down the modern “buy back your time” culture—everything from viral clips glamorizing $400/month haircuts to outsourcing every basic task. Eric brings his media and production perspective, while Travis adds years of entrepreneurial insight, creating a practical, funny, and eye-opening look at what actually matters when it comes to time, money, and priorities. On this episode we talk about: The rise of “alpha bro” outsourcing content and why so much of it is performative When paying to save time is genuinely smart—and when it’s just a flex The psychology behind choosing what to do yourself vs. hiring it out Why cooking at home, reading books, and doing the obvious can be a real competitive advantage How Travis evaluates whether a time-saving purchase is actually worth it Top 3 Takeaways Not every “time-saving hack” is a hack—some are expensive distractions disguised as productivity. Buying back your time only works when you reinvest that time into something meaningful or profitable. Common sense executed consistently beats flashy shortcuts every single time. Notable Quotes “Your time is your only non-renewable asset—so spend money intentionally, not impulsively.” “Some of these viral hacks aren’t hacks… they’re just flexes with a motivational caption.” “Doing the obvious becomes a superpower when everyone else is looking for shortcuts.” ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, Travis reacts to an old video of his 26-year-old self giving advice to young people in their late teens and early 20s. Eric—Travis’ producer—plays the video for him, and together they break down what young Travis got right, what he’d revise today, and why early career decisions matter more than most people realize. On this episode we talk about: Why “getting a job” isn’t selling out—and how to earn while you learn The value of working for someone you admire instead of a random employer Why your 20s should be a decade of experimentation, skill stacking, and trying new things The importance of spending money on experiences and learning instead of flashy purchases How communication skills (door-to-door, telemarketing, network marketing) can transform your career Top 3 Takeaways Early career jobs are an opportunity to get paid to learn, especially when you align yourself with people you admire. Your 20s should be used for experimenting broadly so you don’t lock yourself into the wrong path too early. Invest in experiences, relationships, and skill development—not things that depreciate and don’t move your life forward. Notable Quotes “Earn while you learn—don’t underestimate the value of having a job.” “Skill stacking in your 20s helps you out-earn everyone else in your 30s and 40s.” “Travel is one of the most underrated personal development activities out there.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sean O’Brien is a serial entrepreneur, Shark Tank alum, and founder of Swingzy, a golf training tool designed to help players make smoother, more consistent swings. He’s also the former CTO and CMO of Autio, a venture-backed startup co-founded by Kevin Costner and supported by major brands like Camping World and Snapchat. Known for turning down one of the biggest offers in Shark Tank history, Sean has built and sold multiple companies while staying at the forefront of tech, marketing, and product innovation. On this episode we talk about: How Sean turned rejection from Goldman Sachs into his first million-dollar business The wild story behind his eight-figure company that started with a beach chair in storage The mindset shift that turns rejection into motivation How he landed the Entrepreneur Magazine cover by sheer persistence Working with Kevin Costner and other celebrity partnerships The creation and growth of Swingzy and its impact on the golf industry Top 3 Takeaways Rejection can be your greatest motivator—if you use it as fuel instead of failure. Execution always outweighs ideas; what matters is taking consistent, bold action. Reinvention is the key to long-term success—keep evolving with each new opportunity. Notable Quotes “If you get rejected, your job is to make the people who passed on you look stupid. That’s the fuel.” “Ideas are worthless until you execute. Everyone’s got a million-dollar idea, but almost no one acts.” “Every setback I’ve ever had eventually turned into my biggest opportunity.” Connect with Sean O’Brien: X – https://x.com/gatsby LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanob Company — https://www.swingzy.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis Chappell sits down with his producer Eric for a candid conversation on money mindset, investing, and why “playing it safe” can sometimes be the riskiest move of all. Together, they unpack what it really means to make your money work for you—and why saving alone won’t build long-term wealth. On this episode we talk about: The truth behind Grant Cardone’s “cash is trash” mentality When saving money becomes a liability instead of a strength How to balance liquidity with long-term investing Using debt as a tool for leverage rather than a burden Why calculated risk is essential to escaping financial stagnation Top 3 Takeaways Cash has a purpose—but it’s not growth. Savings should be a safety net, not a strategy. Good debt accelerates progress. When used intentionally, debt can be the difference between staying stuck and scaling up. Smart risk-taking builds wealth. The biggest financial wins come from understanding and embracing measured risk, not avoiding it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Betsy Fore is a serial entrepreneur, CEO, and investor with nearly 20 years of leadership experience. She’s the author of Built on Purpose: Discover Your Deep Inner Why and Manifest the Business of Your Dreams, founding partner of Velveteen Ventures, and a trailblazer in consumer products for children and the planet. Notably, Betsy scaled Tiny Organics past $13 million in revenue in just 24 months, took Wonder Woof! from scrappy startup to Oprah’s Favorite Things, and was the first Native American woman to raise a Series A for a consumer food startup. On this episode we talk about: Growing up in a small Midwestern town, working every day since 13, and becoming a leading business creator Turning a garage-tinkering childhood into a career as a toy inventor, then product startup founder How relentless optimism, reinvention, and standing atop “a mountain of failures” led to big wins Advice for founders: building with community, manifesting vision, securing funding, and the importance of thinking big—even if you’re starting small Behind the scenes of Tiny Organics’ explosive first-year growth, building a cult following, and scaling product through grass-roots founding families Top 3 Takeaways Every breakthrough product stands on a mountain of failed attempts; grit and adaptability win. Community-first feedback loops create true brand evangelists and drive authentic scale. Dreaming big isn’t just mindset—it’s a practical approach to manifesting opportunity and wealth wherever you start. Notable Quotes “For every success, there’s a mountain of failures you’re standing on.” “You have to feel your deep inner ‘why’ to reveal it and build on it.” “Not every company needs to be venture-backed, but every founder can build generational wealth by manifesting their vision.” Connect with Betsy Fore: Website: betsyfore.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thomas Nitzsche is a financial educator, media spokesperson, and Vice President of Media and Brand at Money Management International — the largest nonprofit credit counseling agency in the U.S. After facing his own financial struggles during the Great Recession, Thomas turned his hardship into purpose, helping thousands of Americans overcome debt, rebuild their credit, and regain control of their financial lives. On this episode we talk about: Thomas’ journey from a small Illinois farm to becoming a national voice for financial literacy The emotional toll of debt and why financial shame keeps people stuck How to choose between debt management and debt settlement programs The biggest money mistakes people make when trying to get out of debt What Thomas learned after cashing out his 401(k) — and what he’d do differently today Top 3 Takeaways You can’t budget your way out of shame. Financial freedom starts with removing the emotional barriers around money. Debt management isn’t failure — it’s strategy. Knowing your options can save you thousands in interest and fees. Financial health takes time. Getting out of debt is a process, not an overnight success story. Notable Quotes “You didn’t get into debt overnight — you’re not going to get out of it overnight.” “Hope is not a financial plan.” “Money doesn’t define your worth — but understanding it can define your future.” Connect with Thomas Nitzsche: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomaspnitzsche Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bonnie-Jill Laflin is a trailblazer in the world of sports — the first and only female NBA scout in history, a former NFL cheerleader for the Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers, a sports broadcaster, and founder of the nonprofit Hounds and Heroes. From modeling at age three to scouting for the Lakers dynasty under Phil Jackson, Bonnie-Jill has shattered glass ceilings in some of the most male-dominated spaces in sports and media. On this episode we talk about: How Bonnie-Jill became the first and only female NBA scout The behind-the-scenes reality of being an NFL and NBA cheerleader Lessons learned from sports legends like Jerry Jones, Jerry Buss, and Phil Jackson The business and branding genius behind the Cowboys Cheerleaders How discipline, mindset, and mental toughness shape lasting success Top 3 Takeaways Breaking barriers takes preparation, persistence, and confidence — not permission. Branding and business savvy are just as important as athletic skill in the world of sports. True leadership blends intellect, mindfulness, and empathy — lessons Bonnie-Jill learned firsthand from Phil Jackson. Notable Quotes “I didn’t want to just be around sports — I wanted to be in sports.” “Phil Jackson didn’t just coach players; he taught them how to think.” “The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders were one of the biggest brands in the world — we just didn’t get paid like it.” Connect with Bonnie-Jill Laflin: https://hoo.be/bonniejill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Travis Makes Money Podcast, Travis and producer Eric dive into 10 rapid-fire questions about purchases, investments, and regrets — with two minutes on the clock for each answer. From Travis’ best investment ever to the truck that literally lost a wheel days after buying it, this one’s full of laughs, lessons, and hard-earned financial wisdom. Travis opens up about: His best and worst purchases (from real estate to portable chargers) The six-figure mistake that taught him how to invest smarter How a wheel falling off a truck turned into one of his best financial decisions Why he stopped spending money on travel — and what changed The power of generosity and the first time he realized money could help others The non-financial investment that completely changed his health and mindset Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rebecca Matchett is a serial entrepreneur, fashion innovator, and now tech founder who’s built her career around solving real-world problems. From co-founding Alice + Olivia to developing a patented women’s sizing system called TrioFit, Rebecca has consistently combined creativity and practicality to build impactful businesses. Now, she’s channeling that same drive into Synchrony—a new social app designed to help neurodivergent adults connect and combat loneliness in meaningful ways. On this episode we talk about: How Rebecca transitioned from fashion and retail into tech entrepreneurship The story behind founding Alice + Olivia and what she learned about branding and innovation Why ideas alone aren’t enough—and how to validate your market before launching The challenges and benefits of self-funding vs. outside investment How Synchrony is using technology to address the loneliness epidemic among neurodivergent adults Top 3 Takeaways Great businesses start by solving problems you truly understand—personal experience is a powerful indicator of market need. Validation matters more than inspiration. Don’t build before you know who actually wants your product. Bootstrapping gives you control, focus, and creative freedom that investors often limit. Notable Quotes “Ideas are easy. Execution and validation are what separate entrepreneurs from dreamers.” “When you solve a problem for yourself, you’re often solving it for thousands of others.” “Connection is the most human need we have—and we’re building a tool to make that accessible again.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jen Powell is the innovative CEO of JP Inc, a talent management agency revolutionizing influencer licensing with offices in LA, Nashville, and New York. With over 20 years of experience in modeling and influencer marketing, Jen has transformed the traditional fashion industry by embracing influencer-driven commerce early on, making her a unique leader in this space. On this episode we talk about: Jen’s transition from a top modeling agent to a pioneer in influencer marketing Early success stories of monetizing fashion blogs through sponsorships The challenges and opportunities within traditional modeling agencies Founding JP Inc and growing it into a national influencer talent agency The future of modeling, including digital/AI models and the enduring need for human connection Creator brand development and licensing as a low-risk business strategy Details about Jen’s course, "The Creator’s Path to Product" Top 3 Takeaways Social media followership is now a critical factor in hiring talent within the modeling and influencer industries. Licensing allows creators to retain ownership of their intellectual property while scaling their brands with less risk. Despite advances in digital and AI models, authentic human connection remains vital in storytelling and marketing. Notable Quotes "If there’s two models up for a job and one has 3 million followers and one has 5,000, the model with 3 million followers is going to get the job." "It’s better to make everybody think you’re dumb than to speak up and remove all doubt." "Human connection matters more than people think it does in modeling and storytelling." "Licensing your creator business offers a less risky path while you build your brand and audience." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Elmore is the founder of Growing Leaders, a nonprofit dedicated to developing emerging leaders, with over 20 years of experience working alongside leadership expert John C. Maxwell. He is a prolific author of 40 books on leadership, including his latest, The Future Begins with Z, which explores innovative strategies for leading Generation Z as they disrupt the modern workplace. Tim’s insights into generational differences, leadership challenges, and entrepreneurship make him a valuable voice for anyone navigating today’s rapidly changing workforce. On this episode we talk about: The unique characteristics of Generation Z compared to Millennials How Gen Z’s relationship with technology and social media influences work habits The rise of micro-entrepreneurship among young people and economic shifts Leadership strategies for coaching and connecting with Gen Z rather than commanding The changing nature of work ethic and purpose across generations Top 3 Takeaways Connection and coaching are more effective than authority when leading Gen Z. Gen Z values purpose and flexibility in work, often seeing jobs more like hobbies. Micro-entrepreneurship is growing rapidly as many young people seek autonomy and reject traditional corporate models. Notable Quotes "Generation Z is the sandpaper on my leadership. I did not know I needed. We become better leaders because of them." "Your connection gives you the right to influence, not your position." "We’ve got to lead from bridges we build, not badges we wear." Connect with Tim Elmore: LinkedIn: Tim Elmore LinkedIn Twitter/X: @TimElmore Instagram: @timelmore Website: timelmore.com Growing Leaders nonprofit: growingleaders.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode features a candid conversation between Travis and his producer Eric, diving into the ways that religious backgrounds shape money mindsets and personal finance decisions. Travis reflects on his own experiences growing up in a large, well-resourced church and how both healthy principles and harmful attitudes have impacted his financial outlook over time. Through personal stories and playful banter, Eric and Travis explore the tension between gratitude, ambition, and the reality of pursuing financial stability. On this episode we talk about: Money lessons learned in church environments How religious upbringing impacts beliefs about wealth Church paradoxes regarding money and religious leaders Harmful vs. helpful financial mindsets from faith backgrounds Advice Travis would give his younger self about money Top 3 Takeaways Your spending reveals what truly matters to you—track where your money goes to understand your priorities and values. Religious environments often transmit complex and conflicting attitudes about money, sometimes discouraging the active pursuit of wealth while still praising and seeking it when helpful to institutional needs. The pursuit of money itself is not inherently wrong; examine your beliefs and recognize that financial empowerment offers options and flexibility that can benefit both you and your family. Notable Quotes "Where your money is, that's where your heart is. You can examine your expenses to quickly see your true priorities." "Churches talk about money as if it's evil, but they also highly value it when it serves their purposes—that dissonance can mess with your mindset." "Money is an amplifier of who you are. It by itself is not intrinsically good nor bad. Choose to see it as a tool for good and an option creator." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emma Rainville is a fractional CEO and operations strategist with over a decade of experience transforming seven, eight, and nine-figure businesses behind the scenes. Known as the "integrator by DNA," she specializes in moving founders from burnout and cash bleed to scalable, profitable growth. Emma’s reputation rests on her blunt, practical approach and her obsession with execution—not just theory—and on her proven ability to architect systems that protect profits and foster company culture. With her trademark SCOPE model and Wave Vision process, Emma helps businesses create sustainable systems that unlock new levels of efficiency and profit. On this episode we talk about: Emma’s first entrepreneurial hustle at age eight and early lessons in leverage The hidden pitfalls founders face with unchecked expenses and chaotic systems Why most business owners fail to understand their true numbers—and how to fix it The critical role of SOPs: why written processes and automation trump hiring How AI and automation are disrupting labor-intensive businesses, from landscaping to admin work Emma’s journey through the IDF, ER trauma nursing, and operations leadership—plus the real secret behind her career pivot Highest-leverage automation opportunities business owners miss The key mindsets and habits of growth-focused founders Top 3 Takeaways Unchecked expenses silently destroy profit—regular, ruthless review of every expense can unlock 3-4% profit instantly. Most business owners don’t know actual unit-level profitability; tracking this granular data enables better decisions, higher margins, and less work. Strong businesses scale with written SOPs and automation, not by hiring; processes should come before people. Notable Quotes “Sales is king.” “Every dollar needs to have a name, and every person should know the numbers that matter.” “You can’t automate chaos—get your processes right, then use AI and automation to scale.” Connect with Emma Rainville: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/?hl=en Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rob Dyrdek, entrepreneur, producer, and former pro skateboarder, is best known for creating and hosting "Ridiculousness," the viral video clip show that dominated MTV from 2011 to 2025. His relentless work ethic, innovative approach to the clip show format, and deep understanding of changing TV and streaming habits helped drive the show to unprecedented success, spanning 46 seasons and over 1,700 episodes. Dyrdek’s business savvy made him not only a staple on TV but also one of the most well-compensated talents on the network, earning over $32 million a year in recent seasons. In this episode, Travis and Eric break down the recent news that "Ridiculousness" has been canceled after 14 years, explore the show’s legacy, and share Dyrdek’s insights from his past interview about content creation, business strategy, and media evolution.​ On this episode we talk about: The unprecedented cancellation of Ridiculousness after 46 seasons on MTV Why the show’s viral format succeeded across all demographics and became a TV staple Rob Dyrdek’s strategy for negotiating big business deals and content syndication The future of MTV and potential impacts of the Paramount merger on creative programming How Dyrdek adapted to shifts from traditional television to streaming and social media Top 3 Takeaways The relentless volume and fast-paced format of Ridiculousness helped the show thrive even as cable viewership habits changed and streaming dominated.​ Rob Dyrdek’s approach to building, negotiating, and owning production allowed him to capitalize on market timing, adapt to new trends, and maximize personal earnings.​ MTV’s shift towards curated, experimental content signals a major change in the network’s strategy, reflecting broader media trends and the challenges of legacy cable brands competing in the streaming era.​ Notable Quotes "There’s a lot of miraculous things that sort of happened over time that led to [Ridiculousness dominating MTV]." – Rob Dyrdek "You’re the right man, right vision, legs – and created something and then made it work. But then you got lucky along the way, and market factors that you could have never even seen coming." – Rob Dyrdek "Market factors, market timing, getting lucky and things working at the right time is where a lot of this really unexplainable high level of success comes from." – Rob Dyrdek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a grab bag episode of the Travis Makes Money podcast, where Travis and producer Eric riff on the reality behind success—highlighting why business is the great equalizer for anyone willing to put in the work. Rather than featuring a singular guest, this episode is a candid discussion between Travis and Eric, full of humor, pop culture, and philosophical digs about work ethic, optionality, the nature of talent, and actionable (if often ignored) business wisdom. They use standup comedy and pop references as a lens on entitlement, the “special snowflake” myth, and the sometimes mind-numbing monotony behind real progress. On this episode we talk about: Why most people settle for being a cog and what it actually takes to “opt out” Daniel Tosh’s take on employment, entitlement, and the myth of guaranteed fame The difference between success in business versus creative arts: luck, timing, and talent Why simple, repetitive business actions (doing the boring work) are the true formula for income The reason people mock Gary Vee’s advice, but why doing the basics still actually works Top 3 Takeaways Most people are held back not by talent or opportunity, but by their own acceptance of mediocrity and avoidance of repetitive, boring work that creates options and freedom. Business is fundamentally a learnable, math-like skill: boring, repeatable actions generate income better than “waiting for your shot.” Freedom requires you to learn how to make money outside of a paycheck—otherwise, you’ll always be forced to trade your time for someone else’s goals. Notable Quotes "The barrier to entry isn’t talent; it’s being willing to do the boring, repetitive work that most people constantly avoid." "For creative fields like acting or music, sometimes world-class talent never gets a shot—business isn’t a zero-sum game that way." "You have to put yourself in a position to have options. Staying broke is another way of saying you decided to let someone else define your ceiling." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices