Travis Makes Money

Travis Chappell and producer Eric break down YouTuber Markiplier's self-financed horror film Iron Lung, which grossed over $20M (7x its $3M budget) and topped box office charts—without Hollywood backing. Their casual chat celebrates indie success while roasting studio "slop," low actor pay, and why creators with audiences have a massive edge. On this episode we talk about: Iron Lung's unicorn success: $3M self-funded, zero marketing budget, #1 at box office vs. big studio flops Hollywood's shady side: Missing box office charts, low actor pay ($2-5K/episode after cuts), no royalties Creator advantages: Built-in audiences = free marketing; YouTubers like Radio Silence (A24 hits) proving the model Why constraints breed better art: Low stakes, passion projects outperform bloated $100M+ budgets Lessons for creators: Make what excites you; democratized access means anyone can bypass gatekeepers Top 3 Takeaways Existing audiences are the ultimate marketing hack—Markiplier's casual promo beat Hollywood's $50M+ spends. Low-budget passion projects often outperform high-stakes slop because creators prioritize art over profit. Hollywood's math sucks for most: After agents/taxes, "star" roles pay peanuts—build your own leverage first. Notable Quotes "Iron Lung... has already done over $20 million in the box office and has been the number one movie through the weekend." "They just write somebody else... [so] rather than look at it as giving me $2200 an episode, how much money are they putting into marketing the show?" "Stop making [content] like a chore... what would I want to record that would be like a shining light in my calendar?" Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: https://x.com/traviscchappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Other: https://travischappell.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

Neil Patel is the co-founder of NP Digital, a New York Times bestselling author, and one of the most influential marketers in the world. Recognized by The Wall Street Journal as a top web influencer and named a Top 100 Entrepreneur by President Obama and the United Nations, Neil has spent decades building software companies, agencies, and media brands. In this episode, Neil shares how he made his first $20K/month at age 16, why he chose the “boring” agency path over venture-backed startups, and how founders can build real wealth without sacrificing their lives. On this episode we talk about: How Neil landed his first SEO clients as a teenager—and what sparked his entrepreneurial journey Why he believes agencies and “ugly businesses” are often better opportunities than flashy startups The real reason most founders fail (and why 10-year thinking changes everything) How lifestyle creep quietly kills financial freedom Where opportunity still exists for new entrepreneurs in an AI-driven world Why patience, persistence, and passion matter more than any single tactic Top 3 Takeaways There’s money in almost every industry—the key is finding something you enjoy enough to stick with for a decade. You don’t need venture capital or billion-dollar exits to win; profitable, bootstrapped businesses often create more freedom and wealth. Controlling lifestyle creep preserves optionality—real success comes from building a life you don’t want to escape from. Notable Quotes “There’s money in boring businesses—sometimes that’s where the biggest opportunities live.” “If you think in 10-year timelines instead of 12-month timelines, everything changes.” “It’s not worth making millions if you’re miserable, unhealthy, and disconnected from the people you love.” Connect with Neil Patel: Website / Agency: https://npdigital.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/neilpatel LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilkpatel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neilpatel/ 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 Chappell breaks down why time is the most valuable asset you have and how treating it that way can radically change your income and lifestyle. In this solo episode, he shares the mindset shifts and investments that helped him go from door-to-door sales to full-time online entrepreneur and podcaster.​ On this episode we talk about: Why time is more important than money (and how your actions reveal what you really value)​ How investing in coaching and education can massively shortcut your learning curve​ Specific examples of using relationships and platform features to grow a podcast faster (Stitcher, Castbox, and more)​ Why money is a renewable resource but time is not—and what that means for your decisions​ How to use a 5–10 year sprint of working smarter and harder to buy back your time and design a life you actually want​ Top 3 Takeaways The best early investment you can make is in yourself—skills, knowledge, access, and relationships compound far more than most other expenses.​ Money is renewable; time is not, so use money to either make more money or buy back more of your time.​ A focused 5–10 year period of working both smarter and harder can create the optionality to spend most of your time on meaningful work and relationships.​ Notable Quotes "If you don't have a lot of money to invest, then probably the best thing that you can invest in is yourself."​ "Money is only as valuable as what you can exchange it for—and the ultimate use of money is to buy back your time."​ "Show me somebody who spent their time doing something they love with people they love, and I'll show you somebody who lived a mostly regret-free life."​ Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell​ Twitter/X: https://x.com/traviscchappell​ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell​ Other: https://travischappell.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

Eric, producer of the Travis Makes Money podcast, joins Travis in studio to break down how creator-led films are disrupting Hollywood’s old guard. He shares firsthand impressions from seeing YouTuber Markiplier’s horror film Iron Lung, highlighting why this low-budget, creator-driven project is such a big win for filmmakers, investors, and content creators looking to turn attention into real revenue. Eric’s enthusiasm and eye for story, audience behavior, and distribution make this conversation a must-listen for anyone serious about monetizing content at scale.​ On this episode we talk about: Why Iron Lung is “crazy good news” for the film industry and creators​ How Markiplier produced, wrote, starred in, and directed a profitable sub-$3M horror film​ The power of built-in distribution and preselling tickets through a loyal YouTube audience​ Why horror and action are often the smartest low-budget genres for indie filmmakers​ How creator–Hollywood crossovers (like Iron Lung and Happy Gilmore 2) are reshaping funding, casting, and IP strategy​ Top 3 Takeaways Creator-led projects with a passionate audience and clear distribution can outperform traditional studio films, even with a fraction of the budget.​ Horror and action films are often cheaper to make yet have broad appeal, making them ideal vehicles for indie and creator-driven projects.​ It’s no longer “YouTuber vs. actor”—creators who build real IP and care about the underlying story can unlock new paths into film, funding, and long-term opportunities.​ Notable Quotes “You have a film project that 4Xes on opening weekend—you have to start taking a look at that.”​ “What Hollywood is missing right now is what creators have, which is attention—unbridled attention.”​ “Get started doing something, because you never know what it’s going to end up being.”​ Connect with Travis: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell/ Other: travischappell.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

Anne Cocquyt is a Silicon Valley operator, educator, and bestselling startup author who helps founders turn ideas into real businesses—fast. She’s the Founder & CEO of The Guild and The Guild Studio, an award-winning instructor at UC Berkeley, and a trusted advisor to accelerators around the world. In this episode, Anne breaks down how “vibe coding” and AI-powered tools are radically changing entrepreneurship—making it possible for anyone (even non-technical founders) to build MVPs, validate ideas, and reach market in days instead of months. On this episode we talk about: What “vibe coding” is and how non-technical founders can build MVPs in minutes Why traditional startup development (and million-dollar dev budgets) are becoming obsolete How AI is shrinking feedback loops and accelerating product-market fit The skills founders actually need in an AI-first world Practical ways to test ideas, validate demand, and market early-stage products Top 3 Takeaways You no longer need a big dev team or massive funding to launch—AI tools let founders build and iterate MVPs in days, not years. The real differentiator isn’t code anymore—it’s critical thinking, understanding users, and building something people actually want. Entrepreneurs who succeed will be “umbrella-skilled generalists,” able to build, test, market, and adapt quickly as technology evolves. Notable Quotes “Code is no longer a moat—the little dragon is the vibe coder.” “It’s not a question anymore if you can build it. It’s a question if you should build it.” “Unless you can wear multiple hats, it’s going to be very hard to defend just one skill.” Connect with Anne Cocquyt: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annecocquyt Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/annecocquyt Other: Website: https://annecocquyt.com The Guild Studio: Letsguild.com/studio 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 is a solo deep dive with Travis, host of Travis Makes Money, breaking down how motivational interviewing—a communication method created by psychologists William R. Miller and Stephen Rollnick—can become a powerful tool for persuasion in business, sales, leadership, and personal growth. He shares personal stories, research-backed examples, and practical scripts that show how shifting from “convincing” to “uncovering” dramatically improves outcomes. On this episode we talk about: What motivational interviewing is and why most people persuade the wrong way. The real problem behind inaction: ambivalence, not lack of information. How addiction and healthcare studies prove this method works better than advice-giving. Using the 1–10 scale question and “Why is it not a two?” in sales conversations. Applying motivational interviewing with clients, employees, partners, and even your kids. Top 3 Takeaways People rarely change because you tell them to; they change faster when it feels like their idea, and motivational interviewing is designed to create that internal motivation. Asking precise questions like “On a scale of 1–10, how ready are you?” and “Why is it not a two?” pulls reasons for change out of the other person instead of pushing your arguments onto them. In sales and leadership, if you can explain someone’s problem back to them better than they can, they’ll assume you have the solution—so ask more questions, summarize clearly, and let them articulate their own standards and desired outcomes. Notable Quotes “Most people already know what they should do. The problem isn’t information, it’s ambivalence.” “People don’t change because they’re convinced; they change because they feel understood and they allow themselves to articulate the truth.” “Stop pitching and start pulling—talk less, ask better questions, and let them talk themselves into change.” Connect with Travis: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell/ Other: travischappell.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 and his producer Eric riff through classic quotes from figures like Ben Franklin, Thomas Edison, Jim Rohn, Epictetus, and even the Joker’s mom, using each line as a launchpad to talk about money, time, self-education, and what opportunity really looks like in real life. They blend humor, movie references, and personal stories to challenge conventional wisdom and show why rethinking your relationship with learning, work, and wealth is essential if you want to build a life you actually enjoy. On this episode we talk about: Why “time is money” is incomplete and why time is actually more valuable than money How Warren Buffett illustrates the tradeoff between wealth and years of life The difference between formal education and self-education (and why school can make you hate learning) What opportunity really looks like, and why it usually shows up disguised as hard work and skill-building Stoic ideas about wealth, wanting less, and why money is a terrible master but an excellent servant Top 3 Takeaways Time is your most valuable asset, more important than money or status, and no amount of cash can buy back lost years. Self-education, driven by curiosity and discipline, is what creates real fortunes and career breakthroughs—especially once you realize school barely scratched the surface. Opportunity rarely appears as a dream job handed to you; it shows up as hard work, skill development, and adding value long before any big payoff. Notable Quotes "Time is the most valuable asset that we have, so it's actually greater than money." "Most people think education stops, but everything in my career started when I realized I didn’t know anything and had to go learn it myself." "People have this idealistic version of what opportunity looks like, but lack of opportunity is not what stands between you and success." Connect with Travis:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/travischappell• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell• Other: travischappell.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

Ian Stanley is a veteran online entrepreneur and one of the most respected email copywriters in the game. He built his reputation writing copy that has generated millions in sales, then used that skill to create a lifestyle business that funds his love for travel and stand-up comedy. In this episode, Ian breaks down how he went from broke college kid clicking on sketchy “make money online” offers to becoming the go-to guy for email copy—and how that one decision to master a single skill changed everything. On this episode we talk about: How Ian made his first $118.34 online during a college final—and why that moment convinced him he’d never need a “real job” again The decision to go all-in on email copywriting while everyone else tried to do everything and stayed broke Why your early 20s shouldn’t be “grind only” and how you actually lose the skill of having fun if you over-optimize for hustle Using a “learn while you earn” job in your 20s to get paid to acquire rare skills and see real numbers, ad spend, and data from the inside How Ian helped scale companies from low to mid eight figures by obsessing over copy, email, and split tests The reality of pursuing art (like stand-up) vs. business—and how money buys you the freedom to go all-in on the thing you actually love Whether copywriting will still matter in an AI world and how to use AI without outsourcing your thinking Why writing is still the foundation of all great communication, speaking, and content—even if AI tools can draft your first version The trap of trying to automate yourself out of all “hard work” and why you only get paid for the work you don’t want to do Top 3 Takeaways Master one valuable skill first—like copywriting or email marketing—before you try to build a complex business. Depth beats dabbling, especially early on. Your 20s are for both: have fun and develop skills. If you sacrifice fun completely, you risk becoming successful but miserable; if you sacrifice skills, you stay stuck. AI is a powerful amplifier, not a replacement for thinking. The winners will be those who understand good marketing, strategy, and ideas—and then use AI as a tool, not a crutch. Notable Quotes “Everybody online was trying to do everything and they were all poor. I decided I’d just get really good at copywriting.” “If you’re in your 20s, you should be able to drink until 4 a.m., wake up at 7, and still get good work done. That’s the time to do it all, to have fun.” “You only get paid for the work you don’t want to do. If you outsource the one thing that actually matters in your business, what are you even here for?” Connect with Ian Stanley: Instagram (Comedy): https://www.instagram.com/ianstanleycomedy Instagram (Business/Marketing): https://www.instagram.com/almostpassiveincome Email List & Resources: https://getonmyfuckinglist.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 episode, Travis shares hard-won lessons from Paulo Coelho’s classic book The Alchemist and connects them to entrepreneurship, parenting, and the journey of building a meaningful life and business. He distills years of publishing over 1,500 podcast episodes, reading 200+ books, and countless hours of listening into a focused breakdown of why the adventure—not the outcome—is what truly matters. On this episode we talk about: What The Alchemist is really about and why it resonates with entrepreneurs The concept of a “personal legend” and how it applies to your goals and dreams Why settling for a “good enough” life keeps you stuck and resentful How to think about risk, comfort, and the closed fist vs. open hand mindset Parenting as preparation: helping your kids face struggle, fear, and their own adventure Top 3 Takeaways If you are not willing to risk what you have for what you want, you will probably never get it. Settling for a “good enough,” dream-adjacent life slowly turns into resentment toward people, opportunities, and the belief that there’s not enough out there. The real treasure is who you become on the journey—whether in business or parenting—and your job is to engineer struggle, growth, and adventure, not just comfort. Notable Quotes "If you're not willing to risk what you have to get what you want, then you probably won't get it." "It's not about having the thing. It's about who you become along the way of pursuing the thing." "The adventure is what makes life worth living." Connect with Travis: • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell • Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/travischappell • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell • Other: travischappell.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

Travis Chappell and producer Eric dive into whether "being good with money" can actually trap you in poverty by over-prioritizing frugality over life enjoyment. They debate Dave Ramsey-style saving vs. smart risks, using real stories like driving cars into the ground and delaying dream purchases until it's too late. On this episode we talk about: Trading mental health for frugality—driving 260k-mile cars as a "badge of honor" that backfires The Porsche 911 regret story: Waiting until 70 to buy your dream car, only to trade it with 2k miles Balance over extremes: Don't YOLO into debt, but don't delay family trips to Europe for "cash-only" rules Giving early and often—tips, GoFundMe, or urges—not rigid 10% church rules or corrupt nonprofits Why tipping feels best (direct impact) vs. tipping culture's annoying expectations at movie theaters Make more money as the real solution: Enjoy now and secure your future without sacrifice Top 3 Takeaways Frugality becomes toxic when it sacrifices mental health—buy the reliable car or family trip if you can afford it now, not at 72. Give generously when led to (tips, personal causes), not from guilt or rigid formulas; build the habit early regardless of income. Money's only value is what you exchange it for—prioritize experiences and peace today while protecting tomorrow by earning more. Notable Quotes "You don't want to wait till you're 72 to drive your dream car, because it's not as fun to drive when you're 72 as it is when you're 41." "If you don't build the habits when you have almost no money, you're probably not going to do it when you have some money." "Money is only useful for the things that you exchange it for." Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/travischappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Other: travischappell.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 http://gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ashley Herd is the founder of Manager Method, former Head of HR North America at McKinsey & Company, national keynote speaker, top 10 business podcast host, and a LinkedIn Top Voice who has trained over 250,000 managers. With a background that spans law, HR, and corporate leadership across global companies like McKinsey and Yum! Brands, Ashley brings a rare blend of practical wisdom and real-world empathy. Her new book, The Manager Method, provides a simple, powerful framework—Pause, Consider, Act—to help managers lead with confidence, avoid burnout, and create high-performing teams. On this episode we talk about: How Ashley made her first dollar as a Subway “sandwich artist” and the lessons it taught her about leadership Why she left a high-profile role at McKinsey to build her own leadership training business The surprising similarities between corporate leaders and front-line managers How social media helped her reach millions with practical management advice Ashley’s three-step “Pause, Consider, Act” framework from her book The Manager Method What it’s really like to write and publish a book with Hay House Top 3 Takeaways Great management isn’t about titles or degrees—it’s about practicing empathy, communication, and self-awareness. Social media can democratize leadership training, giving valuable education to people at every level. Pausing before reacting—whether as a leader, coworker, or entrepreneur—can turn a difficult moment into a growth opportunity. Notable Quotes “The smartest people in the world often need practical training just like everyone else.” “Whether it’s a McKinsey partner or a McDonald’s manager, everyone deserves access to good leadership training.” “Sometimes the hardest thing about leadership isn’t knowing what to do—it’s taking a breath before you do it.” Connect with Ashley Herd: LinkedIn: Ashley Herd on LinkedIn Twitter/X: @managermethod Instagram: @managermethod Website and Book: managermethod.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

Travis Chappell delivers a solo masterclass on gaining influence—the essential skill for entrepreneurs, networkers, and anyone looking to close more deals or build authority. Drawing from Robert Cialdini's Influence, his podcast booking agency that hit $1M in 8 months, and years of relationship-building, Travis shares three proven paths to become undeniably influential without gimmicks or scams. On this episode we talk about: Why "be interested, not interesting" is half the networking equation—becoming a person of interest first "Badass bullets": How unique accomplishments (ultras, stadium tours, epic feats) make you a must-interview guest Value = influence: Give practical advice, entertainment, or insights to earn trust and obedience Examples from Gary Vee, MrBeast, and The Rock—how consistent value creation turns into massive business wins The power of frequency over volume: Short-form consistency builds long-term trust faster than you think Top 3 Takeaways Become a person of interest—stack unique life experiences (adventures, feats, stories) so others evangelize you naturally. Deliver value relentlessly; it doesn't have to be profound—entertainment or quick wins create loyal followers who act on your word. Stay consistent over time; frequency breeds trust, turning one-off interactions into lifelong influence. Notable Quotes "Value equals influence. The more value that you give, the more influence that you have." "People who do really interesting, cool things... become the evangelists for them just by very nature." "Be interested, not interesting... [but] being interesting is actually still a really valuable piece of the equation." Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/travischappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Other: travismakesmoney.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 http://gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis Chappell teams up with his longtime friend and collaborator Eric for a fun, unfiltered episode of the Travis Makes Money podcast. Eric reads provocative quotes from thinkers like Naval Ravikant and Benjamin Franklin, challenging Travis to agree or disagree with context from his own life and business journey. Packed with laughs, banter, and real talk on fame, education, saving vs. earning, and designing your own life path.​ On this episode we talk about: Travis's massive nicotine stash and why he has a year's supply in his desk drawer​ How close friendships lead to knowing each other's stories too well (door-to-door sales, anyone?)​ Agree/disagree: "Life is a single player game" – owning your path without overvaluing others' opinions​ Agree/disagree: "You want to be rich and anonymous, not poor and famous" – podcast micro-fame vs. nightmare celebrity​ Agree/disagree: "The overeducated are worse off than the undereducated" – why street smarts often beat degrees​ Roasting Ben Franklin's "A penny saved is a penny earned" – earn more, don't obsess over coupons​ Top 3 Takeaways You're the main character in your own "single player game" – question inherited paths and design a life that fulfills you, not others' expectations.​ Aim for "rich and anonymous" over fame; meaningful connections with a niche audience build sustainable businesses without public life hassles.​ Focus on earning more money rather than extreme frugality – redirect "coupon-clipping" energy into income generation for real freedom.​ Notable Quotes "You're the only person that has to wake up every day and be you."​ "Spend that free time figuring out a way to make extra money and you don't have to worry about where you fill up."​ "Would you rather be right or would you rather be successful?"​ Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell​ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/travischappell​ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell​ Website: https://www.travischappell.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 http://gohighlevel.com/travis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mikey Margolin is the founder of Etho Wellness Club, a social platform that's thrown 33 wellness events in Las Vegas in just eight months, drawing thousands with cold plunges, saunas, movement, music, and brand partners like Ever Bowl. Growing up in Vegas' party culture, he left a sports betting job to build healthier social spaces after battling drugs, alcohol, and gambling personally. Now he's creating the "third space" locals crave—fun without vices—while turning community demand into a scalable wellness ecosystem. On this episode we talk about: Why Vegas' traditional nightlife (partying, gambling, drugs) isn't sustainable, and how Mikey spotted demand for healthy social events blending music, movement, and recovery. His personal rock bottom in the gambling industry that forced him to quit and go all-in on Etho as his only path forward. Highs of massive community support (33 seamless events, inbound brand partnerships) vs. lows of thin margins and labor-intensive operations. Tactics for high-volume events: build a visionary team, keep marketing simple (flyers at gyms, word-of-mouth), and let great experiences drive organic growth. How post-COVID population booms and mindset shifts from California/Texas transplants are making Vegas ripe for wellness as the new "capital" of health. Top 3 Takeaways Start with community over business models—throw grassroots events to test demand, gather feedback, and let partnerships/revenue streams emerge organically (like Mikey's Puma/Lululemon deals). Overcome "closed fist" fear by surrendering to the mission; opportunities like venues and sponsors appear when you create real value first, even if margins start slim. Build the "third space" people crave (beyond home/work): accessible wellness clubs for daily hangs, not elite/exclusive, to foster belonging and health without vices. Notable Quotes "Why does it always have to be the healthy ones sacrificing? Let's create environments where healthy behavior is celebrated." "Everyone believed in what we were doing, but 'how will this pay the bills?'—we surrendered, threw the first event, and doors opened we never imagined." "Vegas is shifting: casinos' gambling/drinking numbers are down because people want healthier, happier lives." Connect with Mikey Margolin: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethomikey/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justlikemikey/?hl=en Website: ethoclub.com (events, email list) 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, Travis breaks down how to “cut the line” in life and business using the same principle behind amusement park fast passes. Drawing from his own journey—from hating long lines to hacking his way into faster growth—he explains the mindset and identity shifts that let you skip years of unnecessary waiting. If you’ve ever felt stuck, behind, or like success is taking too long, this episode lays out a practical roadmap to move quicker toward the life and income you actually want.​ On this episode we talk about: Why Travis always buys the Fast Pass at theme parks and how that applies to life and money​ The power of changing your identity before your actions and habits​ Why valuing time over money is a critical shortcut to success​ How expanding your comfort zone unlocks your next level​ Reframing fear from rejection and embarrassment to long-term regret​ The importance of upgrading your circle to people who’ve “been there, done that”​ Top 3 Takeaways Change your identity first. Decide who you are (reader, runner, entrepreneur, leader) and let your actions follow that new identity instead of waiting for evidence before you believe it.​ Value time more than money. Money is only useful for what you exchange it for, and using it to buy back time is one of the fastest ways to accelerate your growth.​ Upgrade your environment—your comfort zone, your fears, and your circle. Getting around people ahead of you can save you months or years of trial and error with a few simple “tweaks.”​ Notable Quotes “We have a psychological desire to act in consistency with who we believe ourselves to be.”​ “If you’re not actively using your money to buy back your time, you’re probably using both ineffectively.”​ “Would you rather be right or would you rather be successful?”​ Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell​ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/travischappell​ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell​ Website: https://www.travischappell.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 http://gohighlevel.com/travis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis and producer Eric break down a viral tweet questioning Dave Ramsey's $200M net worth and "no debt" advice, revealing why he's likely worth over a billion and how he built a debt-free empire preaching timeless financial basics. On this episode we talk about: A tweet claiming Dave Ramsey got rich selling "no credit card" advice he never followed himself. Ramsey Solutions' massive scale: 10M EveryDollar app users, $300M+ annual revenue, $300-400M in paid-off real estate. Why similar apps (TrueBill/Rocket Money) sold for $1.275B, proving Ramsey's hidden billionaire status. How to vet advice from "sellers" like coaches/authors without dismissing all profitable wisdom. The power of repeating simple truths (like "spend less than you make") for decades like Ramsey or Gary Vee. Top 3 Takeaways Practice beats preaching. Ramsey lives debt-free, owns everything outright, and scaled to billions without outside capital—proving his advice works at massive scale. Question financial incentives, but don't auto-discount. If someone's advice only makes them richer via high-ticket coaching, probe deeper; low-price scalability (books/courses) is often more legit. Boring repetition builds empires. Dave's said "spend less than you earn" for 30+ years; Gary Vee's hammered social/content for 20—find your core truth and repeat relentlessly. Notable Quotes "Dave Ramsey didn't get to $200 million by never using a credit card... He got to $200 million by selling that idea to you." "EveryDollar is a multi-billion dollar company. Rocket Money (TrueBill) sold for $1.275B with 10M users—Ramsey owns it 100% debt-free." "He's been preaching the same message for 30 years and still debt is at an all-time high... but he's made a big dent for tons of people." Connect with Travis: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell/ Other: travischappell.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

Charles Steel spent two decades at top-tier firms like Goldman Sachs, The Carlyle Group, and Ares Management, working closely with management teams to build companies and deploy capital at scale. He later advised Tony Blair in Jerusalem, chaired Save the Children UK, and most recently authored The Curious Mind of Elon Musk: Nine Ways He Thinks Differently, where he dissects how the world’s most driven entrepreneur approaches risk, purpose, and problem-solving. Across finance, policy, and philanthropy, Charles brings a rare, multi-angle perspective on how big money and big ideas actually get made. On this episode we talk about: How a hectic teenage restaurant job taught Charles camaraderie, stoicism, and the confidence that “we’ll figure it out and get paid by the end of the day.” The path from a middle-class upbringing and studying history at Cambridge to landing at Goldman Sachs and learning what true excellence looks like. Why he wishes he’d fed his curiosity more at university—and how he’s become a student again later in life. The workload and culture at elite investment banks in the late ’90s, and the tradeoffs of chasing excellence at 80–100 hour weeks. How curiosity pulled him from private equity into advising Tony Blair in the Middle East and chairing Save the Children UK. Why Elon Musk is so hard to categorize and the three “ingredients” Charles believes truly explain him: existential anxiety, hyper-rational engineering, and unusual creativity. How Musk reframes risk, probability, and failure—and what regular entrepreneurs can learn from that mindset. Why embracing your “strangeness,” feeding your curiosity, and doing intricate, carefully made work can be a powerful (and profitable) life strategy. Top 3 Takeaways Curiosity is not just about asking questions; it’s about caring enough to explore deeply, cross disciplines, and stick with difficult, intricate work long enough to make something truly valuable. Elon Musk’s advantage isn’t just IQ or work ethic—it’s the way he reframes risk, failure, and the future as a range of possible outcomes he can influence by backing himself and acting boldly. You don’t need to copy Musk to benefit from his thinking; you can apply the same principles by betting on yourself, embracing hard problems, and leaning into what makes you different instead of trying to be “normal.” Notable Quotes “At Goldman Sachs, I learned what excellence really was.” “I wanted to understand what really drove him—what drives the most driven person in the world.” “Don’t worry so much about being normal. Embrace your differentness.” Connect with Charles Steel: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-steel-3804397b/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/crasteel Other: Website – https://charlessteel.com (links to his book The Curious Mind of Elon Musk: Nine Ways He Thinks Differently and other work) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis delivers a solo masterclass on the "Credibility Code," sharing the top five proven ways he's used to build massive trust in his personal brand and business, even when he wasn't the "best" at what he did. Drawing from his own journey, he explains why the most successful people often win through perception and proof rather than just skill alone.​ On this episode we talk about: The "celebrity effect" and why credibility often trumps raw talent in getting business.​ Why PR and publications are still the lowest-hanging fruit for instant third-party validation.​ Building a massive library of testimonials and case studies tailored to different customer avatars.​ Creating high-volume content and guest appearances to overwhelm skeptics with evidence.​ Associating with "undeniable" influencers (like Shaq) to borrow their trust and skyrocket your brand.​ Top 3 Takeaways Stack social proof relentlessly. Don't just add one or two testimonials—build a library matching every possible customer scenario so prospects see themselves in your results.​ Volume creates conviction. Flood Google with your name through guest spots, podcasts, and backlinks until anyone researching you finds overwhelming evidence you're legit.​ Associate to accelerate. Share the stage with "Shaq-level" names in your niche; their endorsement transfers instant trust, often more powerfully than PR logos alone.​ Notable Quotes "The people who got the most business were not necessarily always the best at what they did. They were just the ones who were well known for doing it."​ "If anybody researched who I am... you're going to find so much volume... it's going to be overwhelming... that you can't avoid the idea that I'm credible."​ "Nike spends tens of billions a year in endorsements. They're basically just buying trust with their ideal audience. That's all it is."​ Connect with Travis: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell/ Other: travischappell.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

Travis is joined in the studio by his producer Eric for a fun but honest conversation about body image, fitness culture, and what it really means to optimize your life for long‑term health and happiness instead of just aesthetics. Together they unpack a viral Arthur Brooks clip about why the “happiest men over 40 are 25 pounds overweight,” and connect it to money, family, and the pressure to perform. On this episode we talk about: How a viral Arthur Brooks clip reframes what “healthy” and “happy” actually mean after 40. Why extreme fitness goals can quietly become another form of unhealthy obsession or body dysmorphia for men. The trade‑offs behind bodybuilding, steroids, TRT, and chasing the “movie superhero” physique. Balancing physical health with relationships, shared moments (like pizza night), and being present with your family. Applying the same optimization idea to money, careers, and success so you don’t sacrifice your whole life for one metric. Top 3 Takeaways Optimize across your whole life, not just one metric. Abs, money, or career status are only a few variables in the bigger equation that also includes relationships, spiritual life, joy, and service, and over‑optimizing one can wreck the others. Chasing an “ideal body” can become as dangerous as chasing money for its own sake. When your identity is tied only to a look or a number on the scale, you start making unhealthy sacrifices that actually move you away from true health and happiness. Enjoy the process and the people, not just the result. Whether it is eating carbs with your family on a trip, sharing dessert at grandma’s, or having a slice of pizza with your spouse, those small moments often matter more than perfect macros or picture‑perfect abs. Notable Quotes “You have to optimize across more than one variable. You have your abs, joy in your relationships, and spiritual transcendence—all different variables you’re trying to optimize simultaneously.” “To pursue the result at the expense of your personal health along the way is the opposite reason most of us started doing this in the first place.” “Money only solves your money problems, but it is easier to solve the rest of your problems when you’ve got money in the bank—so let’s solve that one first.” Connect with Travis: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell/ Other: travischappell.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, and get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cameron Herold is the mastermind behind the exponential growth of hundreds of companies worldwide and is often called the CEO Whisperer. He’s the founder of the COO Alliance and the Invest In Your Leaders training program, and the former COO of 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, where he helped scale revenue from 2 million to 106 million in just six years. He’s also the author of several influential business books, including Vivid Vision and Free PR, and hosts The Second in Command podcast. On this episode we talk about: How Cameron’s first “business” at seven years old collecting and reselling coat hangers sparked a lifelong entrepreneurial journey. Why entrepreneurial thinking (spotting opportunities, selling, leading, problem-solving) matters for every kid—even if they never start a company. How to practically “raise entrepreneurs” by letting kids run real mini-businesses without helicopter parenting. The difference between being an entrepreneur and being entrepreneurial, and why not everyone is wired to be a founder (and that’s okay). Cameron’s Vivid Vision framework, why most mission statements fail, and how to actually get your team aligned around the future. How founders can regain clarity when their original vision no longer fits, and where to turn when you feel “stuck” strategically. Why real relationship-building beats old-school “networking,” and how to put yourself in the right rooms with the right people. How to think about media and podcasts using the “digital trifecta” so every interview or feature keeps paying dividends for years. Top 3 Takeaways Raising entrepreneurial kids is less about forcing them to start companies and more about giving them reps in leadership, sales, negotiation, problem-solving, and time management—without rescuing them every time they struggle. A Vivid Vision is a detailed 3–5 page description of what your company looks, feels, and acts like three years in the future, and your job as a founder is to communicate that picture clearly and repeatedly so others can help build it. Media appearances (press, podcasts, features) only matter if you actively repurpose, promote, and reshare them; the long-term leverage comes from what you do with each “log on the fire,” not from the hit itself. Notable Quotes “We don’t need to raise our kids to be entrepreneurs, but we do need to raise them to be entrepreneurial.” “The Vivid Vision is a four- or five-page description of what every part of your company looks like, acts like, and feels like three years from now.” “It’s not about what podcast you’re on; it’s what you do with that podcast afterwards.” Connect with Cameron Herold: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/coo-alliance/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/CameronHerold Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cameron_herold_cooalliance Other: Website – https://cameronherold.com (includes links to books, COO Alliance, Invest In Your Leaders, and his Second in Command podcast) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this solo episode of Travis Makes Money, host Travis Chappell shares strategies from his "Explode Your Network" course on crafting balanced networks across success levels—basement (beginners), first-story (peers), second-story (slightly ahead), and cloud-level (ultra-successful). He explains how unbalanced networks breed complacency or ego traps, and reveals how to design "houses" of relationships for health, finance, and fulfillment. On this episode we talk about: Building a well-rounded network across four levels: helping those behind you, collaborating with peers, learning from those slightly ahead, and tapping abundance mindsets from the ultra-successful. Dangers of unbalanced networks—like complacency when surrounded only by beginners or limited advice from those just ahead who secretly root against your surpassing them. Crafting specialized "houses" for life areas (health, finance, fulfillment) with tailored relationships at each success ladder level. How your environment shapes your habits, beliefs, and actions—curate podcasts, social media, and inputs to redesign yourself without physical relocation. Starting content like podcasts to contribute to beginners while accelerating your own growth through teaching. Top 3 Takeaways Balance your network across success levels to avoid stagnation, ego-driven limits, or irrelevant advice—help those behind, peer effectively, learn selectively, and seek top-level abundance thinking. Design multiple "houses" of relationships for health, wealth, and fulfillment to build well-rounded success, not just one-dimensional wins. Own your environment: virtual inputs like podcasts and YouTube become your outputs, giving you control over who you become even without changing locations. Notable Quotes "They're rooting for you to be successful until you hit the limit that makes you then more successful than they are." "If your environment is what controls who you're going to be and you have control over your environment, then ultimately you have control over the person that you're going to be." "The inputs that you have will eventually become your outputs." Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/travischappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Other: https://travischappell.com ([email protected]) 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 of Travis Makes Money, Travis and his producer Eric break down a wild new headline: top TikTok creator, Khaby Lame, reportedly selling his company and full AI likeness rights—face, voice, and behavior—for a staggering $900 million. They riff on what that means for creators, the ethics and upside of licensing your digital twin, and how AI is reshaping content, Hollywood, and the value of attention. Along the way, they veer into everything from Japanese conglomerates that make both bulldozers and magic wands to why practical filmmaking still matters in an AI-saturated world. On this episode we talk about: Khaby Lame’s rise from 2020 pandemic creator to 160M+ TikTok followers and a $900M likeness deal What it really means to authorize your face, voice, and behavior for AI “digital twin” use The difference between using AI as a tool (editing, simulation) versus fully replacing human talent How AI content, deep fakes, and fake “news” clips are eroding trust in what we see online Why practical filmmaking tricks and imperfect, human moments still matter more than flawless AI shots Top 3 Takeaways The value of attention is exploding, and top creators can now monetize not just sponsorships and licensing, but their entire digital twin for generational wealth. There’s a huge ethical and creative gap between using AI to support production (editing, simulations) and using it to fully replace human performers, likenesses, and original work. For most creators and entrepreneurs, the actionable move is simple: consistently create and publish, because you have no idea how valuable your personal brand and IP might become in a few short years. Notable Quotes “He sold his likeness for $900 million. I don’t even know what to say. That breaks my brain.” “Churches are businesses and evangelizing is marketing and sales—but this AI likeness deal is like selling your soul on hard mode.” “If you’re not creating content, you could be missing out on $900 million. You never know what one simple idea might turn into.” Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/traviscchappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Website: https://travischappell.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

Travis is joined by fractional CFO Pam Jordan, who helps entrepreneurs understand their numbers and build profitable, sustainable businesses. Pam brings a data-driven lens to the Travis Makes Money podcast P&L, breaking down exactly how the show generated $450,000 in 2025 and what that really means after costs and profit margins.​ On this episode we talk about: How the Travis Makes Money podcast generated $450,000 in 2025 and the three revenue streams behind it (ads, coaching, concierge growth services).​ Why ad and sponsorship income made up 70% of revenue and how aggressive publishing (up to 2–3 episodes per day) drove those results.​ The role of podcast coaching as a 14% revenue stream and how Travis helps entrepreneurs launch and grow shows that drive business.​ Concierge growth services (16% of revenue) and how getting booked on other podcasts can lead to clients, book deals, and big opportunities.​ The true cost structure of the podcast (30% direct production costs, 20% advertising) and why a 35% net operating income makes this a healthy media business.​ Top 3 Takeaways You can build a real, profitable income directly from a podcast, but it typically takes years, consistent content, and a strategic approach to revenue (not just downloads).​ Publishing more frequently—paired with dynamic ad insertion—can dramatically increase total monthly impressions and sponsorship revenue, often faster than trying to grow downloads per episode.​ Podcasting is more than ad dollars; it’s a business development engine that creates content, sharpens communication skills, builds relationships, and can lead to coaching, services, and other high-margin offers.​ Notable Quotes "For 2025, Travis Makes Money podcast brought in $450,000, and 70% of that was ads and sponsorship income."​ "It proved a really big thing to me, which is that it is possible to turn the podcast itself into a full-time income."​ "It's not what you make that matters, it's what you keep."​ Connect with Pam Jordan: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamjordan/​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PamjordanCFO/​ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pamjordancfo​ Other: Website – https://pamjordan.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 solo episode of Travis Makes Money, host Travis Chappell shares three simple—but not easy—habits that create a massive competitive edge: showing up, doing what you say, and embracing boring consistency. He draws from his journey leaving door-to-door sales for online business, explaining how these "duh" principles separate top performers from the pack.​ On this episode we talk about: How just showing up consistently at key events and opportunities builds trust, relationships, and unexpected doors—like Travis flying to Australia for a podcast conference.​ Why doing what you say you'll do—even to yourself—builds unshakeable confidence and reputation, while breaking promises burns bridges.​ The power of getting "prolifically comfortable" with boring, repetitive tasks like daily cold calling or lead gen that compound into massive results.​ Overcoming modern barriers like the "indoor epidemic" of phones and Netflix that make showing up feel harder than ever.​ How anyone can apply these to fields like real estate, sales, or online business for outsized success without fancy degrees or rich parents.​ Top 3 Takeaways Show up everywhere opportunities happen—even if it's inconvenient like flying halfway around the world—because half the battle is just being there when others aren't.​ Do what you say you're going to do with everyone, including yourself, to build trust, confidence, and avoid self-sabotage from broken promises.​ Get predictably comfortable with boring consistency in lead gen or daily tasks; the first months suck, but compounding separates the top 1% from everyone else.​ Notable Quotes "If you're willing to do the things that other people are not willing to do, then you can live a life that nobody else can live."​ "Showing up is just half the battle... usually more opportunity is going to come your way."​ "Get prolifically comfortable with boring consistency... those activities will compound."​ Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/traviscchappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Other: https://travischappell.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 of Travis Makes Money, Travis and his producer Eric break down how growing up doing church evangelism and door-to-door ministry directly built the skills that now drive their success in sales, business, and live events. They connect boldness, public speaking, and persuasive event design from the church world to modern seminar businesses, high-ticket offers, and entrepreneurship. On this episode we talk about: How knocking doors for church as a kid builds boldness, courage, and comfort with rejection. The parallels between churches and businesses: evangelism as marketing and sales, discipleship as fulfillment, and church growth as a sophisticated funnel. How youth conferences, altar calls, and engineered environments mirror modern seminar and event-based business models. Why public speaking is one of the most powerful skills you can give your kids and how Travis and Eric developed it in church. How event companies like Aspire use massive, break-even events to feed a back-end engine of services for entrepreneurs. Top 3 Takeaways The exercise of boldness in evangelism—asking uncomfortable questions on doorsteps—translates directly into overcoming fear of rejection and confidently asking for the sale. Churches often run like sophisticated businesses, using events, emotional environments, and clear calls-to-action in ways that mirror high-performing seminar and funnel-driven companies. Early, repeated reps in public speaking and performing in front of people create an unfair advantage in leadership, sales, and content creation later in life. Notable Quotes "Churches are businesses… evangelizing is marketing and sales. That's literally what it is." "Boldness and courage are wildly underrated aspects of success in any business venture." "You did all this work…and you're not going to ask for the business?" Connect with Travis: Travis LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/traviscchappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Website: https://travischappell.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

Vinny Brusco is an insight and perspective coach, community builder, and podcast host who helps men cultivate clarity, connection, and purpose. After 16 years in the car business, he walked away from a lucrative but misaligned career to build a life and business rooted in what matters most to him: authentic brotherhood, mental and spiritual health, and intentional living. As the founder of Agora Social Club and host of The Council of Dudes podcast (with over 500 episodes), Vinny creates spaces where men can drop the performative self-help act and actually live in alignment instead of autopilot. On this episode we talk about: Leaving a high-income, misaligned career for a more meaningful path How sales skills become a “break glass in case of emergency” safety net Why fulfillment in the pursuit matters more than status or titles The loneliness epidemic among men and entrepreneurs Building real, local community through Agora Social Club and long-form conversation Top 3 Takeaways You can be making great money and still be completely out of alignment—and no number in your bank account will fix that internal mismatch. Learning to sell is one of the most valuable “forever skills” you can develop, giving you the confidence to take bigger risks in pursuit of a life you actually want. Deep, in-person community and long-form conversation are antidotes to modern male loneliness, especially for entrepreneurial men who often feel isolated at the top. Notable Quotes “This isn’t a weekend hobby; it’s a heart-and-soul project that needs a life force behind it.” “If you’d still do it even if you never became ‘the best’ at it, you’re probably on the right path.” “The transaction is just an energetic byproduct of a real, authentic conversation.” Connect with Vinny Brusco: Instagram (personal): @vinnybrusco Agora Social Club website: agorasocialclub.com Instagram (club): @agora_westchester Podcast: The Council of Dudes 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 solo episode of Travis Makes Money, host Travis Chappell breaks down the three core levers that determine the overall quality of your life and, ultimately, your long-term success. Drawing from his own journey as a podcaster, entrepreneur, and student of personal development, Travis shares practical frameworks you can apply immediately to upgrade your thinking, your routines, and your relationships. On this episode we talk about: Why the quality of your life is shaped by three core factors: questions, habits, and relationships. How asking better questions leads to better answers, deeper self-awareness, and clearer direction. A practical exercise for sitting down with a blank page and writing questions that guide your next steps. How to think about discipline as a “bank account” and use it to systematically build powerful habits. Why your long-term happiness and success are most strongly tied to the depth and quality of your closest relationships. Top 3 Takeaways The quality of your questions—both to yourself and to others—determines the quality of your answers, your beliefs, and ultimately your actions. Discipline resets daily like a bank account, so focus on using it to build small, sequential habits that eventually appear effortless to outsiders. Over the long run, the depth and strength of your key relationships are the single biggest predictor of your happiness and fulfillment. Notable Quotes "Ask better questions, you get better answers." "Show me your habits now, and I'll show you who you'll be in five years from now." "Relationships plus nothing equals everything to me." Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/traviscchappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Other: https://travischappell.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 of Travis Makes Money, host Travis Chappell and co-host Eric dive into the art of authentic sales — how to close deals without turning into the stereotypical pushy salesperson. From viral TikTok sales videos to lessons learned in door-to-door, they explore how humor, confidence, and clarity can elevate your sales game and help you build long-term trust with clients. On this episode we talk about: Why entertaining content can make you a better salesperson The right (and wrong) way to use assumptive language How to handle price questions early in a sales call Why offering too many options kills conversions The importance of having one clear call to action Top 3 Takeaways Sales isn’t manipulation — it’s communication. Confidence and clarity lead to better conversions. Limit your prospects’ choices. One clear offer beats a dozen confusing ones every time. You’re not just selling to anyone — you’re choosing clients who are the right fit for you. Notable Quotes “Sales is just communication, and it happens in everyday life.” “If you’ve done your job right, the close should be the natural conclusion to the presentation.” “Your job is to create certainty, not confusion.” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: twitter.com/travischappell Instagram: instagram.com/travischappell Website: travischappell.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

Katie Fortunato is the co-founder and EVP of Platform Innovation and Strategy at Hire Innovations, where she’s fixing a broken talent acquisition system with a human-centric AI platform that cuts through bots, ghosting, and phantom job posts. With a background leading brand experiences and business development at MTV, AOL, and The Wall Street Journal, she’s spent years at the intersection of traditional media and the creator economy. Now she’s helping entrepreneurs, brands, and creators turn job seekers and “work content” into real revenue while connecting Gen Z and millennial talent with AI-resistant, high-value roles. On this episode we talk about: How creators can monetize job-related content for the first time What “the ShopMy of job content” is and how it works Why most great jobs never hit LinkedIn or Indeed How brands can turn employees into a powerful referral and creator network What today’s talent really wants: culture, fair pay, impact, and values alignment Top 3 Takeaways Job content is an untapped revenue stream for creators, newsletters, and communities whose audiences are anxious about layoffs, AI, and career uncertainty. Referral-style hiring is still king—turning your employees and creator partners into a scaled referral network beats sifting through hundreds of unqualified applicants. The strongest employer brands lead with culture, fair compensation, training, and real social impact, then back it up with values they actually live, not just words on a wall. Notable Quotes “We’re basically democratizing access to referrals—anyone can refer anyone to a job.” “You can’t outsource culture. It has to start at the top and be lived every day.” “People want to feel part of something bigger—what role is your company actually playing in society?” Connect with Katie Fortunato: Website / Platform: https://getjobstream.com/ Company: https://hireinnovations.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katieclarkfortunato/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, Travis dives deep into one of the most powerful success principles he’s observed in hundreds of high-achieving entrepreneurs — delayed gratification. Drawing on lessons from personal experience, top performers like Grant Cardone and Kevin Hart, and timeless studies like the Marshmallow Experiment, Travis breaks down why learning to wait for bigger rewards later can completely change your financial, physical, and personal life. On this episode we talk about: How delayed gratification sets the foundation for lasting success The Marshmallow Test and what it teaches about life outcomes Avoiding the “Jones Effect” and unnecessary spending Why choosing short-term comfort leads to long-term struggle Finding balance between enjoying the present and building for the future Top 3 Takeaways Success often comes down to your ability to delay gratification — trading short-term pleasure for long-term gain. Living below your means today gives you the freedom to live on your terms tomorrow. Balance is key: allow yourself small rewards now while you continue building for future success. Notable Quotes “You can have everything you want — just not now.” “Choosing struggle now gives you control over how your life turns out later.” “If you’re constantly optimizing for pleasure today, you’re sacrificing your peace of mind tomorrow.” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: twitter.com/travischappell Instagram: instagram.com/travischappell Website: travischappell.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 of Travis Makes Money, host Travis Chappell is joined in studio by his producer Eric for a candid conversation about ditching hustle culture and getting truly productive. They unpack how Travis learned to ruthlessly prioritize his time while launching a software company, and why shifting from “busy” to “effective” helped his team break seven figures in revenue. Along the way, they break down frameworks from EOS, Traction, The One Thing, and lessons from leaders like Sharan Srivatsa, Ed Mylett, and the Hormozis on using your time like a real CEO. On this episode we talk about: Why people confuse being busy with being valuable—and how that sabotages real progress. How Travis redefined his role as a CEO around talent, cash, and vision instead of doing everything himself. Using EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), Traction, and The One Thing to reverse engineer high‑leverage daily priorities. The real message behind Ed Mylett’s “21 days a week” concept and why most people only work 2–4 truly productive hours a day. Practical ways solopreneurs can time‑block their day, audit their activities, and turn three “days” of output into one. Top 3 Takeaways Your worth is not measured by how busy you look; it is measured by the results you create from a few high‑leverage actions done consistently. A CEO’s job is to recruit and retain talent, keep cash in the bank, and cast vision—everything else should be delegated or eliminated as fast as possible. Compressing time by stacking focused blocks of deep, productive work over months and years completely changes your business trajectory and quality of life. Notable Quotes “At some point, you have to ruthlessly prioritize what makes it onto your calendar or you’ll do a bunch of stuff and get nothing done.” “The idea that more hours equals better output is false; it is what you do with the hours you actually work that moves the needle.” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/traviscchappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Other: https://www.travismakesmoney.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

Evan Marks is a Wall Street veteran with 25 years of experience in trading and market psychology, and the founder of M1 Performance Group. He helps high performers master decision-making under pressure, turning mindset and emotional control into consistent, measurable financial results. Known for his work on risk, discipline, and clarity, Evan has used his own performance frameworks to generate $50–100K months in realized income while coaching traders, hedge fund managers, and ambitious professionals. On this episode we talk about: How Evan went from hedge fund veteran to performance coach The difference between impulsivity and true intuition in decision-making Using emotions as data instead of trying to suppress them Why consistent decision frameworks beat random “gut feelings” over time The “callous building phase” and staying in the game long enough to see results Top 3 Takeaways You can’t make great decisions by ignoring your emotions; you need to understand and use them as data inside a clear decision-making framework. High performers aren’t magically decisive — they practice slowing down mentally, creating space, and then responding quickly with intention. Progress feels invisible at first, but if you stay consistent through the “callous building phase,” your evidence and confidence compound over time. Notable Quotes “We’re always in the game of best decision-making — we don’t know if it’s right, only time tells you that.” “You can’t tweak inconsistency; you need a repeatable model before you can improve it.” “There’s a bridge between nervousness and excitement, and that bridge is belief based on evidence.” Connect with Evan Marks: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanmarks-m1/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emarks72/ Website: M1PerformanceGroup.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 solo episode, host Travis Chappell breaks down one of the core values that has transformed his life and business: radical responsibility. Drawing from his background in door-to-door sales, leadership, and entrepreneurship, Travis shares hard-earned lessons about refusing to blame circumstances and instead reclaiming control over outcomes. Through real stories—from struggling sales reps to young first-time employees and heavy life situations like health crises—he lays out a practical, mindset-first framework for taking ownership so you can actually change your results. On this episode we talk about: Why adopting your own values (instead of inherited beliefs) is essential to growth. What radical responsibility really means and how it differs from simple self-awareness. The difference between “producing results” and “producing excuses” in sales and business. How taking ownership (even when it doesn’t feel like your fault) gives you power and control back. Why fault and responsibility are not the same—and how this applies to unfair or painful life circumstances. Top 3 Takeaways Radical responsibility is the starting point for becoming the person you want to be; if nothing is ever your fault, there is no path to improvement. You are always producing something—either results or excuses—and only those who own their mistakes can actually learn, adjust, and win long term. Something can be “not your fault” and still 100% your responsibility; you can’t control the cards you’re dealt, but you can control how you play them. Notable Quotes “Everybody produces. You’re just either producing results or you’re producing excuses.” “Blame feels good, but it destroys all agency. Responsibility gives you your power back.” “You can’t control the cards that you get dealt, but it is your responsibility to play them to the best of your ability.” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/traviscchappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Other: https://www.travischappell.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 Chappell sits down with his co-host for a lively and surprisingly deep conversation that begins with TV banter and ends with some serious money talk. From dissecting White Lotus characters to breaking down what true financial security really means, Travis shares insights on why confidence in your ability to earn beats any number in the bank. Known for helping creators and entrepreneurs master income generation, Travis blends humor, vulnerability, and actionable advice that’ll leave you rethinking your relationship with money. On this episode we talk about: Why confidence in your earning ability matters more than your savings balance The $10 million security number—does it really mean freedom? Why “comfortably” living in America now means a six-figure income How scarcity can actually fuel productivity and focus The mindset shift that keeps entrepreneurs resilient through financial risks Top 3 Takeaways Financial security isn’t tied to a number—it’s rooted in your confidence to generate income when needed. Comfort looks different today: for most families, living well now requires over $100K a year in virtually every U.S. state. Investing in yourself and your ability to earn is far more valuable than stockpiling money in a savings account. Notable Quotes “My security stems from my confidence that I can generate money out of nothing.” “If you can wake up tomorrow and know you can earn, you already have real financial security.” “Money only solves your money problems—but it’s a lot easier to solve the rest when you’ve got some in the bank.” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/travischappell Instagram: instagram.com/travischappell Website: travischappell.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 Chappell sits down with legendary NFL agent Ben Dogra, one of the most influential figures in modern sports representation. Over a three-decade career, Ben has represented a record-breaking 54 NFL first-round draft picks and helped build what Sports Business Journal once called the most dominant player-representation practice in the business. From immigrating to the U.S. as a five-year-old with hardworking parents to quietly shaping locker rooms and boardrooms at SFX Football and later CAA, Ben’s story is a masterclass in work ethic, humility, and strategic thinking.​ On this episode we talk about: How Ben went from immigrant kid washing dishes at 10 to top NFL agent with 54 first-rounders The unconventional path: 52 law school rejections, one yes, and working for free to get in the door Why he chose to avoid the spotlight and build power through quiet influence, not personal fame How agents really make money, and why billionaires and athletes live in different financial universes Why athletes go broke, the power of the right team around you, and what it actually takes to win long term Top 3 Takeaways You do not need the “front man” role to make life-changing money; becoming the indispensable strategist behind the scenes can be just as lucrative and often more sustainable.​ Work ethic plus strategic positioning beats raw talent alone—Ben leveraged his mind, research, and persistence to win in a space where he had no traditional advantages.​ Whether you are an athlete, entrepreneur, or professional, chasing mastery and the right opportunities—not quick cash or fame—is what leads to lasting wealth and leverage.​ Notable Quotes “If I can outwork you and I love what I do, I should make money in any field.”​ “I didn’t chase the limelight; I chased the work. I wanted to be the guy in the back room that nobody could replace.”​ “Don’t try to keep up with the billionaires. They’re rich; you can be wealthy in your own lane if you stop chasing their game.”​ 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 solo episode of Travis Makes Money, Travis breaks down the mindset and habits required to deserve the success you say you want, not just wish for it. Using stories from his early podcasting days and his transition out of door-to-door sales, he explains how shifting from “this is what I want” to “this is what I deserve” changes how you think, act, and build your environment. On this episode we talk about: Why the show now releases three episodes every day and how each format (solo, co-hosted, interview) serves listeners The difference between wanting success and actually deserving it The “rat race” of chasing success versus becoming someone success is drawn to The core question: “How can I become someone who deserves the success that I desire?” The three pillars of deserving success: beliefs, actions, and relationships The origin and impact of the quote “Be so good they can’t ignore you” in Travis’s career The role of “delusional optimism” and belief, especially for younger people Why your environment and closest relationships can quietly shape your results Top 3 Takeaways Success isn’t just about setting big goals; it’s about becoming the kind of person for whom those goals are a natural byproduct—someone who truly deserves them. Beliefs, actions, and relationships form a stack: powerful beliefs fuel massive action, and the right environment reinforces both, making your desired success far more likely. You must dramatically increase your volume of action—so much that it would be unreasonable not to get results—while staying flexible about how your dreams ultimately come to life. Notable Quotes “How can I become someone who deserves the success that I desire?” “Be so good they can’t ignore you.” “In the absence of clarity, take action. The clarity comes from taking the action.” Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: https://x.com/travischappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Website: https://travischappell.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

Travis is joined by his producer Eric for an unfiltered, off-the-cuff conversation that was never planned to be an episode—but absolutely needed to be one. What starts as a story about being blocked by the Instagram account Baller Busters turns into a deeper discussion about truth, intellectual honesty, online call-out culture, platforming controversial voices, and the responsibility that comes with “exposing” people online. This episode pulls back the curtain on how narratives are formed, how echo chambers are built, and how creators can disagree without becoming destructive. On this episode we talk about: The rise of exposure accounts and the dangers of online echo chambers What happened after Eric was blocked by Baller Busters for a neutral comment Intellectual honesty vs. outrage-driven content When coaching, investing, or online business crosses into “scam” territory How Travis decides who to platform—and why good-faith conversations matter Top 3 Takeaways Truth requires multiple perspectives. Blocking dissenting voices doesn’t protect people—it reinforces narratives without accountability. Not every failure equals a scam. Coaching, investing, and entrepreneurship involve risk, and outcomes vary widely. Good-faith conversations beat outrage every time. If the goal is growth, connection, and learning, intent matters more than agreement. Notable Quotes “If you’re going to expose people, you owe it to their lives and families to be intellectually honest.” “Blocking everyone who disagrees with you doesn’t create truth—it creates an echo chamber.” “Money only solves your money problems, but it’s easier to solve the rest with money in the bank.” Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/traviscchappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell/ Other: https://travischappell.com Travis Makes Money is made possible by HighLevel – 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

Lauren Cobello is the CEO and founder of Leverage with Media PR, a boutique public relations agency that helps authors, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders use media strategically to build authority, credibility, and growth. Before launching her agency, she spent nearly two decades building her own personal brand as a personal finance expert, becoming a three-time author and regular national TV personality on shows like The Today Show, Good Morning America, Dr. Oz, and Rachael Ray. After scaling her personal brand to seven figures, she sold that company and bootstrapped Leverage with Media PR from zero to a million-dollar agency in just 10 months.​ On this episode we talk about: How Lauren paid off 40,000 dollars in debt and built a personal finance brand from a couponing blog.​ How national TV appearances became top-of-funnel “ads” that fueled her seven-figure business.​ Why she sold her first company, downsized her lifestyle, and went all-in on starting a PR agency debt free.​ The truth about the PR industry, including low-quality agencies, profit-first models, and why so many founders feel burned.​ How traditional media, podcasts, and social platforms now work together to build authority in 2026.​ Why relationships and senior-level publicists are the real differentiators for landing meaningful TV and podcast placements.​ The realities of getting on top podcasts like Joe Rogan and why most entrepreneurs need a more strategic, ego-free media plan.​ Top 3 Takeaways Media is a multiplier: When used strategically, every TV appearance, podcast, or feature should act as top of funnel that drives people into a sales ecosystem and builds trust before you ever enter the room.​ Not all PR is created equal: Most agencies optimize for profit, staffing junior or outsourced teams, while the firms that actually move the needle rely on senior publicists with deep relationships and clear KPIs.​ Traditional media isn’t dead—it's leveraged: In 2026, the strongest brands blend traditional TV, podcasts, social, and newsletters, using prestigious earned media (like major TV shows) for credibility and association that makes everything else easier.​ Notable Quotes "Every single TV appearance that I did became top of funnel—an ad that went into my sales funnel and got people to trust me before I even walked in the room."​ "PR is not marketing, and most PR agencies are full of it because they sell promises junior teams can’t fulfill."​ "You probably aren’t going on the top five podcasts you’re dreaming about, but the right ‘smaller’ shows can move the needle more than the ones with fake followers and vanity metrics."​ Connect with Lauren Cobello: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/leveragewithmediapr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leveragewithmedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauren_cobello Other: Leverage with Media PR 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 kicks off a new solo format for Travis Makes Money, focusing on personal development and how becoming your best self is the real foundation for making more money and living well. He draws on years of relentless self-education—hundreds of books and countless podcast episodes—to share lessons from his own growth journey as a dad, entrepreneur, and competitor. In this episode, he uses parenting as a lens to explore legacy, habits, and the kind of person you must become if you want your kids to thrive. On this episode we talk about: Why the show is shifting to three episodes a day and what each format will cover How solo episodes will focus on personal growth and lessons from Travis’s own journey The core question: “Would I be proud if my kids became me?” How kids absorb behaviors instead of advice, and what that means for parenting Balancing competitiveness with learning how to lose well (and what UNO reveals about character) Why your true legacy is your values, habits, and self-talk—not your bank account The danger of trying to spare your kids from pain and the importance of their “adventure” The “live like you’re being watched” mindset for becoming a better human Top 3 Takeaways Your kids won’t become who you tell them to be; they’ll become who you are. The most powerful parenting tool you have is your daily behavior. The best inheritance isn’t money—it’s your self-talk, habits, standards, and values. Those intangibles will serve your kids far longer than any cash you pass down. Live as if your life is being filmed and copied by a billion people. If everyone lived like you did today, would the world be better or worse? Let that question guide your choices. Notable Quotes “Kids absorb behaviors, not advice. Your kids won’t do what you say—they’ll do what you do.” “Would I be proud if my kids became me?” “The best inheritance your kids can get from you is your self-talk, your habits, the standards by which you live your life.” Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: https://x.com/travischappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Website: https://travischappell.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 unpack how “being the nice guy” can quietly cap your income, dilute your message, and keep you from standing up for what you really believe. They blend humor, personal stories, and hard-earned lessons from faith, content creation, and business to explore the difference between being nice and being truly kind. On this episode we talk about: Why “being too nice” can hurt not just your income, but your confidence and identity. Growing up unable to take credit for your wins and how that impacts self-belief as an adult. The shift from wanting to be “the nice guy” to focusing on being genuinely kind and honest. Navigating criticism, audience crossover, and the impossibility of making everyone like you. How to choose your “hills to die on” and stop suppressing yourself just to keep the peace. Top 3 Takeaways If your main goal is to be known as the “nice” person, you’ll struggle to do anything meaningful that requires you to take a stand or risk disappointing people. You can’t win the game of being liked by everyone; trying to do so forces you to hide parts of yourself and builds shallow relationships based only on curated versions of who you are. Healthy growth lives in the middle: care about what the right people think, interrogate feedback, but stop reshaping your life to please people who aren’t truly invested in you. Notable Quotes "If you're known for being the nice guy, then you're not known for anything else." "You can never win the game of everybody liking you all the time." "Don't make being the nice guy your pursuit. Be kind to everybody, but if you're looking to be the nice guy, then that's all you'll ever be." Connect with Travis: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell/ Other: https://travischappell.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 his producer Eric dive into the tradeoffs between fame, money, and relationships, sharing stories from content creation, comedy, sports, and their own careers. Their candid conversation explores why chasing status alone can backfire and how a smaller, highly engaged audience can be far more powerful than mass popularity.​ On this episode we talk about: Why being rich and anonymous can beat being poor and famous.​ How fame functions as a metric (not the goal) in Travis’s business.​ The importance of consuming on a platform (like YouTube) before trying to create for it.​ The concept of “1,000 true fans” and building a small audience of the right people.​ How relationships and reputation open doors that money alone can’t buy.​ Top 3 Takeaways Fame is only useful when it serves your larger goals—chasing attention for its own sake leads to compromises and status games you probably don’t want.​ You don’t need millions of followers; a focused group of true fans and the right relationships can build an excellent lifestyle and long-term career.​ Relationships, trust, and access to the right rooms often create more opportunity than a quick cash infusion, because they keep paying off over time.​ Notable Quotes "In terms of a metric for success, almost none." (on how much fame matters to Travis personally)​ "You don't have to be Joe Rogan famous."​ "It could be a small audience of the right people. And if you have that, then you have a foundation to build whatever you want to build."​ Connect with Travis Chappell: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell/ Other: https://travischappell.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 dive into a rapid-fire round of thought-provoking quotes — from business legends like Elon Musk, Peter Thiel, Alex Hormozi, Thomas Sowell, and Grant Cardone. Each quote sparks a deeper conversation about work ethic, competition, mastery, and what it really means to “make money.” Expect sharp insights, playful banter, and surprisingly practical takeaways that’ll change how you think about success, side hustles, and even home ownership. On this episode we talk about: Why “40 hours a week” isn’t enough to change your life The balance between competition and collaboration Why most “solutions” are really trade-offs in disguise How to master new skills in 20 focused hours Why success often comes down to sheer reps and resilience Whether your house is actually an asset How luck, effort, and timing fuel long-term success Top 3 Takeaways 1. Mastery comes from volume — do enough reps that failure becomes unreasonable.2. Buying a house can be smart, but it’s not always the golden ticket to wealth.3. There’s no one formula for success — just honest trade-offs and relentless effort. Notable Quotes * “Nobody ever changed the world on 40 hours a week.” – Elon Musk* “You can get good enough at almost anything in 20 hours; most people just never start.” – Josh Kaufman* “Do enough reps that it’s unreasonable for you to fail.” – Alex Hormozi* “Houses are assets for asses.” – Grant Cardone (and why Travis disagrees) Connect with Travis Chappell: * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell* Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/traviscchappell* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell* Website: https://travischappell.com Travis Makes Money is powered 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 dive into the modern debate over side hustles — are they still the key to building wealth, or has the hustle culture gone too far? Travis shares how he’s shifted from saying yes to everything to learning how powerful “no” can be, especially when focusing on what truly moves the needle. The conversation touches on money, fulfillment, and finding purpose both in and outside of work — with plenty of laughs along the way. On this episode we talk about: Why Travis stopped saying yes to every opportunity The truth about side hustles in 2026 — overhyped or necessary? How to build wealth and fulfillment without burnout When to trade free time for extra income (and when not to) The real difference between financial need and purposeful work Top 3 Takeaways 1. Side hustles matter when they create freedom — not just when they create dollars.2. Urgency drives progress. The future version of you is counting on what you do today.3. Fulfillment beats hours worked; purpose counts more than overtime. Notable Quotes * “What will I need to have done today to avoid the pain I’ll feel five years from now?” – Travis Chappell* “Doing something — even the wrong thing — beats doing nothing every time.” – Travis Chappell* “You don’t need to work 95 hours a week to be fulfilled. You just need to do work that matters.” – Travis Chappell Connect with Travis Chappell: * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell* Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/traviscchappell* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell* Website: https://travischappell.com Travis Makes Money is powered 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 his producer Eric tackle an uncomfortable truth — most people don’t have a money problem, they have an honesty problem. Drawing surprising parallels between tracking calories and tracking finances, Travis explains why awareness and discipline are the real keys to building wealth (and staying in shape). This one brings plenty of laughter, practical insight, and even a few food confessions along the way. On this episode we talk about: Why most “money problems” start with self-deception The dieting analogy that reveals your real financial habits How small, “invisible” expenses quietly sabotage your goals What lifestyle creep is — and how to stop it for good Why tracking every dollar is the first step to freedom Top 3 Takeaways 1. Honesty beats income — you can’t manage what you don’t measure.2. The “BLTs” (bites, licks, and tastes) in your diet are just like the untracked charges on your credit card.3. More money doesn’t fix bad habits; awareness and discipline do. Notable Quotes * “You can’t make progress until you’re brutally honest about what’s actually going in your mouth — or your bank account.” – Travis Chappell* “It’s not usually that you need more money, it’s that you don’t know where your current money is going.” – Travis Chappell* “Before you build wealth, build awareness.” – Travis Chappell Connect with Travis Chappell: * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell* Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/traviscchappell* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell* Website: https://travischappell.com Travis Makes Money is powered 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 talks with co-host Eric about how creators and entrepreneurs can confidently set and raise their prices — without losing clients or underselling themselves. Travis draws on lessons from three of the internet’s most well-known business voices — Alex Hormozi, Chris Do, and Gary Vaynerchuk — breaking down what their pricing advice really means and how to apply it today. On this episode we talk about: How strong branding allows you to charge premium prices The pros and cons of building a clothing brand in 2026 Why hourly pricing punishes expertise How to handle client objections with confidence Proven strategies for raising your rates without losing loyal customers Top 3 Takeaways 1. Strong branding creates pricing power — build trust and authority before you sell.2. Your price reflects your skill, not your time. Don’t undervalue experience that took years to build.3. When raising prices, communicate early and confidently. Clients who value results will stay. Notable Quotes * “Charging by the hour punishes me for being good.” – Chris Do* “You can charge whatever you want when you can overdeliver on the result.” – Travis Chappell* “Your clients don’t care about saving a few hundred bucks; they care about solving a big problem.” – Travis Chappell Connect with Travis Chappell: * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell* Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/traviscchappell* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell* Website: https://travischappell.com Travis Makes Money is powered by High Level – the all-in-one sales and 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

When it comes to money, status, and stuff, the line between “progress” and “pointless flex” can get blurry fast. In this episode, Travis and Eric break down the psychology behind big purchases, status signaling, and those subtle (and not-so-subtle) money games people play at dinners, events, and in their DMs. From buying a truck that literally lost a wheel to splitting a $400-per-head Vegas dinner he barely ate, Travis shares the real lessons behind spending, signaling, and staying sane around wealthy people. On this episode we talk about: The truck purchase that felt like “making it” but really wasn’t Why some “level-up” buys are actually just expensive distractions Chasing status in high school with phones, Beats, and gadgets How rich dinners, bottle service, and bill-splitting mess with your head What Travis would actually hate to sell if he had to clear out his life Top 3 Takeaways The feeling from a flashy purchase is temporary; the money you spent is gone forever. It’s better to pursue the ability to buy anything you want than to obsess over specific status items. Generosity at the table (picking up the bill, being fair about splitting) builds real social capital that outlasts any flex. Notable Quotes “That feeling was fleeting, but the money was gone forever.” “I stopped caring about the thing and started caring about my ability to go buy the thing.” “If I have the money, I don’t need the company to bless me with a trip to The Bahamas—I can just go to The Bahamas.” Connect with Travis: Instagram: @travischappell Website: travischappell.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 producer Eric dive into the wild world of door-to-door selling—reacting to some of the most painfully awkward sales videos on the internet. From cringe-worthy “Karen” interactions to clueless pitches, the two unpack what not to do when trying to close a deal. With laughter, role-playing, and a little sales therapy, they uncover why emotional intelligence still beats any script. On this episode we talk about: The worst door-to-door sales tactics caught on camera Why self-awareness matters more than a sales pitch The art of knowing when to walk away from a “no” How not to represent your business online The hilarious (and humbling) lessons from Travis and Eric’s own early sales days Top 3 Takeaways Confidence is good—persistence without awareness is just annoying. Filming your bad interactions doesn’t make you authentic; it makes you unhireable. Good sales come down to respect, timing, and tone—not endless rebuttals. Notable Quotes “There’s a difference between bugging the hell out of people and doing your job right.” “If someone tells you to leave, just move on—there’s another door next to it.” “If your whole sales pitch goes viral because it’s bad, that’s not marketing, that’s a red flag.” Connect with Travis: Instagram: @travischappell YouTube: Travis Makes Money Website: travischappell.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 producer Eric turn up the heat as they break down the real vs. fake side of the business influencer world. From internet gurus to billion-dollar founders, they ask the tough questions most podcasts avoid—like who’s pretending, who’s giving bad advice from their ivory tower, and who would actually survive starting over from zero. On this episode we talk about: The difference between a real entrepreneur and an online persona Why so much business advice only works if you’re already rich The influencers who couldn’t rebuild if they lost everything The fine line between helpful inspiration and harmful messaging How flashy “success stories” twist the meaning of ethics and authenticity Top 3 Takeaways Many creators give advice that sounds profound—but only makes sense once you’ve already made your millions. Real entrepreneurs lead with integrity and consistency. Their offline life should match their online brand. Before acting on anyone’s advice, ask yourself: “Does this apply to my current reality?” Context matters more than charisma. Notable Quotes “It’s easy to say ‘just be happy’ when you’ve already got millions in the bank.” “Too many people copy characters they built online and forget who they really are.” “I filter everything through two questions: Is it useful, and does it hurt other people?” Connect with Travis Chappell:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/traviscchappell• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell• Other (Website): https://travischappell.com Travis Makes Money is brought to you 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 dive deep into the minds of today’s top business influencers and creators — Gary Vaynerchuk, Alex Hormozi, Naval Ravikant, and Sharran Srivatsaa. Eric shares his take on what makes each one powerful, influential, and sometimes… a little overrated. With humor, hot takes, and honest reflection, this episode uncovers the truth behind influencer hype and what actually creates long-term business success. On this episode we talk about: Which business influencers truly earn their hype Why copying creators like Alex Hormozi misses the real point The underrated genius of Sharran Srivatsaa How context matters when following Gary Vee’s advice The psychology behind imitation, credibility, and influence Top 3 Takeaways Imitating someone’s style—like Alex Hormozi’s yellow-text captions—won’t make you successful. Imitate their work ethic and strategy instead. Gary Vee’s “hustle” mindset only works if you understand the deeper message of self-awareness and finding what you love. True influence doesn’t come from virality. It comes from credibility, consistent value, and playing the long game. Notable Quotes “Copying someone’s font or video format doesn’t build authority—it’s the thousand hours of mastery behind it that matter.” “It’s dangerous to take any advice out of context, especially if you haven’t done the real work behind the scenes.” “When Alex Hormozi came on the scene, it wasn’t luck. It was a grenade of credibility, volume, and great content all hitting at once.” Connect with Travis Chappell: • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell • Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/traviscchappell • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell • Other (Website): https://travischappell.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 of Travis Makes Money, Travis and Eric have a fun, insightful conversation about their personal “Mount Rushmore” of business influencers and how those voices have shaped the way they think about work, money, and success. From early inspirations like Gary Vaynerchuk to deep thinkers like Naval Ravikant, plus polarizing giants like Grant Cardone, they unpack what these leaders get right, what people copy wrong, and which ideas are actually worth modeling in your own life. On this episode we talk about: Why Gary V is still a no-brainer top spot on Travis’s business influencer Mount Rushmore How Naval Ravikant blends real-world success with philosopher-level clarity The difference between thinkers (like Adam Grant) and doers (like operators and founders) Why people misunderstand Alex Hormozi and Grant Cardone—and what they actually do well How Travis and Eric each define their own Mount Rushmore of business and productivity mentors Top 3 Takeaways The best influences are a mix of operators and thinkers—people who’ve actually built businesses and can clearly explain how they did it. Copying someone’s routines, style, or “persona” rarely works; the real leverage comes from adopting their principles, not their aesthetics. You should build your own Mount Rushmore based on what truly shifts your behavior and mindset, not on who is the most popular or least controversial. Notable Quotes “You’re looking in the 20% of their productivity for your 80%, and that’s not where the real results come from.” “You can order Chipotle all you want, but it’s not going to make you Alex Hormozi.” “Money only solves your money problems, but it’s easier to solve the rest when you’ve got money in the bank.” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/traviscchappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Other (Website): https://travischappell.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices