Build Your Network

Mark Divine is a retired U.S. Navy SEAL commander, entrepreneur, and founder of SEALFIT and Unbeatable Mind. After 20 years leading elite special operations teams, he transitioned into entrepreneurship, building multiple businesses and training top executives in leadership, resilience, and peak performance. A New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, Mark blends military discipline with mindfulness practices to help others unlock their full potential. On this episode we talk about: Why entrepreneurship—not corporate life—was the natural path after the Navy SEALs The hard lessons from building and losing businesses (including a 90% revenue drop in 2008) How following passion (not just profit) led to building SEALFIT and a global platform Why building an audience and authentic relationships is critical for monetization today The importance of hiring the right operators so founders can step out of the day-to-day Top 3 Takeaways Building a strong foundation—skills, character, and experience—is more important than chasing fast success. If you want to make money from a personal brand, focus on engagement and trust before trying to scale. Founders must eventually get out of their own way and bring in the right people to grow the business. Notable Quotes "If you don't have a platform, you don't have anything." "That instant success comes after years of building the foundation." "If you give 90% value and ask for 10% in return, people will support you." Connect with Mark Divine: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markdivine/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markdivineofficial/ Other: https://markdivine.com | https://unbeatablemind.com A Word from Our Sponsor: Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this solo episode, Travis shares candid stories from his own entrepreneurial journey, walking through more than a dozen ventures that didn't work out the way he hoped before his podcasting business took off. From childhood side hustles and landscaping to MLMs, door-to-door sales, and water purification, he breaks down how repeated “failures” created the skills, resilience, and opportunities that ultimately built his income today. On this episode we talk about: Why fear of failure and fear of embarrassment keep people from even taking the first swing at their goals How our social wiring, threat detection, and negativity bias make us over-index on what others might think The difference between temporary failure and the only real failure: quitting and pulling yourself out of the game Travis's long list of experiments: landscaping, college side hustles, multiple MLMs, door-to-door solar, alarms, water machines, and more How just 3–4 of roughly 17 different ventures produced about 90% of his income over the last decade The transition from sales and MLM into podcasting, masterminds, courses, and live events Why leveraging other people's time (hiring help) was a key early lesson in building leverage instead of just trading hours What the entrepreneurial path actually looks like emotionally: ups, downs, and the necessity of stepping back up to the plate Top 3 Takeaways The fear of other people's reactions to your failure is often more paralyzing than the failure itself, and it's usually based on imaginary scenarios that have never happened. Entrepreneurship is inherently experimental; most attempts won't be home runs, but a small percentage of ventures can drive the majority of your long-term income. A failure only becomes permanent when it causes you to quit — as long as you keep getting back in the game, each “loss” becomes data, skill-building, and positioning for the next win. Notable Quotes "A failure is not a failure at all unless it causes you to quit. The only version of failure that's permanent is the one that pulls you out of the game." "You're creating a situation in your mind that has never happened and then reacting to the reactions of other people about a situation that has never happened." "Out of those 17 things, probably three or four of them are responsible for 90% of the income that I've made in the last decade." Connect with Travis: Instagram: https://instagram.com/travischappell Other: https://travischappell.com A Word from our Sponsor:Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Travis and producer Eric dive into an in-depth discussion about Tony Hawk's legendary decision to turn down a $500,000 buyout from Activision in favor of royalties on the Tony Hawk Pro Skater video game franchise. They explore the financial wisdom behind knowing when to bet on yourself versus taking guaranteed money, and how keeping your lifestyle expenses low creates the flexibility to take calculated risks. On this episode we talk about: Tony Hawk's decision to reject a $500,000 buyout from Activision before the launch of Tony Hawk Pro Skater in 1999 How the franchise went on to generate over $1.4 billion in sales and earned Hawk royalties in the eight-figure range The importance of keeping lifestyle expenses and burn rate low to maintain financial flexibility Why financial stability allows you to take bigger risks on opportunities that could have outsized rewards The challenge of determining when to bet on yourself versus taking guaranteed money upfront Top 3 Takeaways Keep your lifestyle burn low to maintain flexibility. Tony Hawk was able to turn down $500,000 because he had manageable expenses, good endorsements, and a profitable skate company. Low expenses give you the freedom to take calculated risks without being handcuffed by financial constraints. Ask yourself: "If this fails, will I still be okay?" The decision to bet on yourself should depend on whether you can survive the worst-case scenario. If failure means losing everything, take the guaranteed money. If you can weather a downturn, the upside may be worth the risk. Focus on whether you'll regret not taking the risk. Rather than trying to predict the future, consider whether you'll regret passing on the opportunity. Make the best decision you can with the information available, then accept the results and move forward without second-guessing yourself. Notable Quotes "I'm going to take a risk because I'm doing okay and I don't need that money right now... that was definitely the best financial decision of my life." - Tony Hawk (from audio clip) "The beauty of making smart financial decisions over a longer period of time is that you have the flexibility. You can stay nimble." - Travis "When you're looking at a decision of whether or not to bet big on yourself, the decision's going to come down to how much pain am I currently in? And if the answer is not a lot, then you can make those bigger bets and take the bigger risks." - Travis Connect with Travis: Instagram: @Travis Chappell Website: https://travischappell.com A Word from our Sponsor:Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Owen Barrett is the founder of a solar company that has generated over $50 million in revenue in just three years. Before building his solar empire, Owen spent a decade in the energy efficiency space, eventually discovering a massive gap in the multifamily real estate market: operators were ignoring solar as a value-add strategy. After trying and failing to convince syndicators to adopt solar, Owen bought his own apartment buildings, proved the model worked, built proprietary software to eliminate complexity, and then sold the solution back to the industry. On this episode we talk about: Owen's journey from failed businesses (recycling, nonprofit soccer equipment) to building a multi-million dollar lighting company How he identified a major blind spot in multifamily real estate investing: solar as an untapped value-add strategy Why decreasing operating expenses by $100K can increase property value by $2 million in multifamily The technical challenge of installing and monitoring 300 individual solar systems on a single apartment building Building proprietary software to automate billing, monitoring, and maintenance for tenant-meter solar installations Top 3 Takeaways Find problems you've experienced firsthand and solve them. Owen's most successful businesses came from identifying inefficiencies he encountered personally—whether it was wasted soccer equipment in college, unused grant money in California schools, or ignored energy costs in multifamily real estate. For every dollar you increase net operating income (NOI) in multifamily, you increase property value by roughly $20. Solar installations can slash operating expenses by $100K+, creating $2M+ in instant equity without the headache of traditional unit renovations. If you can't convince people, prove it yourself first. When multifamily operators wouldn't listen to Owen's solar pitch, he partnered with a real estate company, bought 650 units worth $75M, installed solar himself, and showed the industry it worked—then built software to scale the solution. Notable Quotes "I noticed nobody was going after the smaller school districts or charter schools where they still had like $500K, a million dollars, $2 million... so we just set out on this campaign to get in touch with as many small school districts and charter schools as humanly possible." "If you're in that 1% where you feel like you're a change agent and you can get shit done, it's kind of selfish to not do anything." "You guys are pulling out your hair renovating units, dealing with subcontractors, like all this stuff that just annoys everyone. And meanwhile, you're leaving probably the easiest value-add strategy on the table." Connect with Owen Barrett: LinkedIn: Owen Barrett Shine: https://www.getshine.com/about A Word from our Sponsor:Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode features an in-studio conversation with Travis's producer, who brings a unique perspective on financial decisions and lifestyle choices. The producer shares personal stories about weight loss, childhood experiences with "husky" uniforms, and honeymoon budgeting, creating an authentic dialogue about money management at different life stages. On this episode we talk about: The trade-off between buying luxury items versus investing in appreciating assets like real estate How frugal parenting and early financial lessons shape long-term money habits Logan Paul's strategy of making massive purchases as motivation to keep earning Why self-awareness is crucial when deciding whether to make big purchases The importance of keeping lifestyle expenses low to maintain career flexibility and pursue passion projects Top 3 Takeaways Keep purchases reversible and within cash-payment capability - Only finance something if you could theoretically afford to pay cash for it, ensuring financial security if circumstances change unexpectedly. Big purchase motivation only works if you love what you do - Using expensive purchases as accountability partners can be effective for creators and commission-based workers who control their income, but it's dangerous if you're stuck in a job you dislike with fixed income. Prioritize experiences over things, but stay within parameters - While material items rarely provide lasting satisfaction, meaningful experiences contribute to a good life—just ensure they don't compromise your financial flexibility or future opportunities. Notable Quotes "I just can't bring myself to buy a car for 40,000 when I know I could go buy a house for 40,000."  "I think it's important to reward yourself... but not to the degree where you are limiting your own potential to be able to reward yourself further later on." "Money only solves your money problems. Priorities will solve the rest of your problems when you got money in the bank." Connect with Travis: Website: travischappell.com Instagram: @Travis Chappell  A Word from our Sponsor:Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yasmin Cheyenne is a three-time HarperOne author and Today Show wellness expert who has guided hundreds of thousands of people back to their authentic selves through her writing, workshops, and teachings. After serving five years in the Air Force and working in the JAG (legal) department, Yasmin spent nearly a decade balancing a government job with her growing coaching and writing business before making the leap to full-time entrepreneurship in 2021—just days before the Today Show reached out for her first major media appearance. On this episode we talk about: The strategic decision-making process behind leaving a stable nine-to-five job to pursue entrepreneurship full-time Why seeing a financial advisor before quitting your job is essential, even if you think you can't afford one The difference between setting healthy boundaries and becoming unreasonably selfish How reconnecting with your inner child can help you rediscover what you truly want from life The concept of the "comeback era" and why midlife discomfort is actually a gift, not a crisis Top 3 Takeaways Do the human work before making the leap - Consult a financial advisor (many banks offer this free), calculate all expenses including taxes and health insurance, and ensure your business income can sustain your entire family's needs—not just your current bills. Don't make major career decisions from overwhelm or sleep deprivation. Consider whether your passion can handle the pressure of paying bills - Some people love their creative work but don't want it to be the thing they rely on financially, as it changes the relationship with their gift. Be honest with yourself about whether you can emotionally handle your passion becoming your primary income source. Learn from children's natural boundaries - Kids have no problem saying no to things they don't want to do, even when it would help someone else. While adults can't be completely unreasonable, reconnecting with that willingness to disappoint others occasionally helps you identify where you've been people-pleasing at your own expense. Notable Quotes "I knew that I was not going to take on hundreds of thousands of dollars of debt in an economy where people were not being hired. And so that's where entrepreneurship kind of became the only option for me. It felt like if there's so much of a risk here, then I might as well take the risk on myself." "I want you to follow those things [like gut feelings and dreams], but I also want you to do your human work, which is the numbers. And so we have to make decisions from both places." "To feel that discomfort is actually a gift and it's an opportunity to explore how you can make the changes that you want. I think it's actually an opportunity for a comeback." Connect with Yasmin Cheyenne: Instagram: @yasmincheyenne Website: https://yasminecheyenne.com/ Book: The Comeback Era pre-order now for May 18th! A Word from our Sponsor: Are you ready to start your own creator journey and make it big? Visit www.fanvue.com today and launch your career! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis Chappell and producer Eric dive into a candid conversation sparked by Dave Portnoy discussing his relationship with his ex-wife on Shannon Sharpe's podcast. The discussion evolves into a thoughtful exploration of marriage, prenups, business partnerships, loyalty, and what it really means to build a life together. Travis shares personal reflections on getting married young, growing wealth alongside a spouse, and why nuanced conversations matter more than one-size-fits-all advice. On this episode we talk about: Dave Portnoy's viral comments about trusting his ex-wife with his wealth The pros and cons of prenups in marriage and business partnerships Why building wealth together changes the dynamics of relationships Survivor bias and the danger of giving universal relationship advice Navigating difficult conversations before relationships or partnerships fall apart Top 3 Takeaways A prenup doesn't necessarily signal distrust — it can simply create clarity and protect both parties before emotions complicate decisions. Relationships and business partnerships both benefit from proactively discussing “what if” scenarios before conflict arises. There's no universal formula for successful marriages or partnerships; every relationship has different dynamics, sacrifices, and expectations. Notable Quotes “You're either a team or you're not a team.” “You have a prenup regardless of whether you sign one — one's written by the state and the other one's written by you.” “Money only solves your money problems, but it's easier to solve the rest of your problems with money in the bank.” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: Travis Chappell on LinkedIn Instagram: Travis Chappell on Instagram Other: https://travischappell.com A Word from our Sponsor: Are you ready to start your own creator journey and make it big? Visit www.fanvue.com today and launch your career! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if one of the world's most solvable problems remains unsolved… simply because most of us never have to think about it? In this preview episode of Travis Makes Friends, Travis sits down with Scott Harrison, founder of Charity: Water, to unpack a staggering reality: 700 million people still lack access to clean water—and the biggest barrier isn't technology, it's attention and funding. Scott shares how his organization has already helped over 21.6 million people across 29 countries, and why that progress, while meaningful, is still just a fraction of what's possible. Scott breaks down the evolution of the clean water movement—from early challenges around sustainability and infrastructure to today's highly effective, locally tailored solutions. With a portfolio of over a dozen technologies, from wells to solar-powered systems, the problem is no longer how to deliver clean water—it's how to scale it. And according to Scott, the number is surprisingly within reach: about $100 billion could bring clean water to everyone on Earth in as little as a decade. The conversation highlights the hidden cost of water scarcity, especially for women and girls. In many communities, they spend hours each day walking to collect unsafe water—time that could otherwise go toward education, work, or building businesses. Scott shares powerful data and stories showing how access to clean water can reduce disease by up to 80%, keep girls in school, and unlock entire local economies almost overnight. Travis and Scott also explore why this crisis remains so underfunded. In developed countries, clean water is so accessible that it's virtually invisible—something we use dozens of times a day without a second thought. That disconnect, Scott explains, is the core challenge: people don't rally around problems they've never experienced. You'll also hear how charity: water is rethinking philanthropy through initiatives like The Spring, a subscription-style giving model that allows everyday donors to contribute monthly and see exactly where their money goes. With billions of dollars sitting in donor-advised funds, Scott makes the case that solving the global water crisis is less about innovation—and more about mobilization. If you've ever wondered how one resource could impact health, education, gender equality, and economic growth all at once, this preview offers a compelling answer—and a clear call to rethink what's possible. Hit play to hear why the solution to one of humanity's oldest problems might already be in our hands—and what it would take to finally finish the job. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Caitlin Clark has become one of the biggest stars in professional sports, transforming the WNBA's popularity and sparking major conversations around athlete pay, league growth, and the future of women's basketball. In this episode, Travis and producer Eric break down the “Caitlin Clark Effect,” explore how one player can completely reshape a sport's economics, and debate what it really takes to grow a professional league. On this episode we talk about: Caitlin Clark's impact on WNBA attendance, ratings, and merchandise sales Why WNBA salaries have historically lagged behind other professional sports The economics behind athlete pay and league profitability How superstar players elevate entire sports leagues Why shooting ability and “must-watch” talent matter more than ever in basketball Top 3 Takeaways Caitlin Clark's popularity has dramatically increased WNBA ratings, ticket sales, and overall league revenue. Professional sports salaries ultimately depend on the revenue a league generates, not just talent alone. Being exceptionally skilled at something unique — “so good they can't ignore you” — creates leverage and opportunity in any field. Notable Quotes “Be so good they can't ignore you.” “Caitlin Clark has brought so much viewership because she does stuff that is unbelievable to watch.” “Money only solves your money problems, but it's hard to solve the rest of your problems without money in the bank.” Connect with Travis: Instagram: https://instagram.com/travischappell Other: https://travischappell.com A Word from our Sponsor:Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bestselling author, journalist, and podcast creator Jo Piazza joins Travis to break down the realities of building a career as a modern writer. From working gossip columns in New York City to publishing bestselling novels, launching hit podcasts, and navigating today's AI-driven content landscape, Jo shares the unfiltered truth about storytelling, publishing, audience building, and why creators need to think like entrepreneurs. With books published in multiple languages and millions of podcast downloads, Jo brings a candid, funny, and deeply practical perspective on making a living through creativity. On this episode we talk about: How Jo broke into journalism and built a writing career during a collapsing media industry Why mentorship and hard work still matter in creative careers The rise of self-publishing, Substack, and creator-owned audiences How AI-generated content is impacting books, publishing, and attention spans The business realities behind book deals, podcasts, and film adaptations Top 3 Takeaways If you want to be a writer or creator, start building your audience immediately instead of waiting for permission from traditional gatekeepers. Creative careers require constant adaptation — the pathway to success changes, but opportunities still exist for people willing to hustle. Owning your platform, audience, and intellectual property creates long-term leverage and financial opportunity. Notable Quotes “If you want to be a writer, you just have to be writing.” “The traditional path that was available to me is not available anymore.” “I adore writing books. It's also a job. This is what pays my mortgage.” Connect with Jo Piazza: Instagram: @JoPiazzaAuthor Website: Jo Piazza Official Website Newsletter: Over the Influence Podcast: Under the Influence Podcast A Word from our Sponsor:Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis and his producer Eric discuss actress Shannon Elizabeth's remarkable OnlyFans success, where she earned $1.2 million in her first seven days on the platform. The conversation explores the economics of creator platforms, celebrity access, and the power of owning your audience versus working through traditional Hollywood gatekeepers. They also dive into the harsh realities for average OnlyFans creators and what it really takes to succeed in the creator economy. On this episode we talk about: Shannon Elizabeth's $1.2 million OnlyFans launch in seven days and how it exceeded her combined earnings from American Pie, Scary Movie, and Love Actually The average OnlyFans creator earnings ($131/month) versus the top 1% who capture 33% of all platform revenue How celebrities like Sophie Rain and Drea De Matteo have used OnlyFans to earn millions or save themselves from financial ruin The economics of direct fan access through platforms like OnlyFans, Cameo, and podcasts versus traditional Hollywood deals The risks and realities of paying big money for celebrity podcast guests and whether it actually moves the needle Top 3 Takeaways Owning your own distribution channel and audience gives you far more control and earning potential than relying on traditional gatekeepers—Shannon Elizabeth made more in one week on OnlyFans than she did from all her major film roles combined Platform economics heavily favor the top creators—while the top 0.1% of OnlyFans creators average $146,881/month, most creators make under $50/month, with the median earning just $24/month Paying for celebrity access doesn't guarantee success—whether booking guests for podcasts or events, the draw of the person asking questions matters just as much as the celebrity in the room Notable Quotes "For decades other people controlled the narrative and outcome of my career. This allows me to connect directly with my audience, create my own terms and just be free. I really do think this is the future." - Shannon Elizabeth "It's crazy that all those gatekeepers of her being able to just go like... you can go on cameo and say, oh, I love this show, is there somebody from the boys on cameo and I can get them to answer a question... it's selling access. There's a real economy behind just connecting people together" - Eric "Money only solves your money problems, but it's easier to solve the rest of your problems with money in the bank. So let's start there." - Travis Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Website: https://travischappell.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/travischappell A Word from our Sponsor:Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Keller is the CEO and co-founder of Rora, a company focused on creating innovative, easy-to-use water filtration systems designed to improve health without requiring complicated plumbing. After discovering that a filtered shower head dramatically improved his daughter's eczema, Brian became obsessed with understanding water quality and building products that families could trust. Prior to launching Rora, Brian co-founded the mission-driven apparel brand Love Your Melon, scaling it over a decade before a successful exit. In this episode, Brian shares how identifying a personal pain point led to building an eight-figure business in less than a year. On this episode we talk about: How Brian turned his daughter's health issue into a fast-growing business opportunity The importance of product development and spending years perfecting a product before launch Building an audience and generating demand before a product even exists Raising capital for a physical product company and pitching investors pre-revenue Why branding, design, and customer trust matter in highly competitive industries Top 3 Takeaways The best business ideas often come from solving a real personal problem that deeply matters to you. Building trust through transparency, education, and credible partnerships can accelerate growth in crowded markets. Pre-launch marketing and audience building can create massive momentum from day one of a product launch. Notable Quotes “Everything's a problem and a solution. It's just about how quickly you can find the solution.” “If we can make it beautiful and easy to use, people are going to drink more water and ultimately be healthier.” “When you're investing early stage, pre-product, pre-revenue, it ultimately comes down to whether people believe the founders can execute.” Connect with Brian Keller: Instagram: @rorrawater LinkedIN: linkedin.com/in/briandavid7 Other: Rorra Official Website A Word from our Sponsor:Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, Travis is joined in studio by his producer Eric for a hilarious and surprisingly insightful conversation about fast food, self-control, and how subscription models are changing the way restaurants make money. They riff on Travis's former “big back” days, his love of junk cereal and late-night drive‑thrus, and then pivot into a real discussion about what an “all you can eat” McDonald's subscription would mean for both customers and the company. Along the way, they unpack how chains like Taco Bell, Panera, and others are already using subscription offers to drive recurring revenue and loyalty. On this episode we talk about: Travis's past life at 250 pounds and how fast food and junk cereal fueled it. A 30‑question fast food photo quiz that proves how well he knows major chains by sight alone. The viral rumor about McDonald's testing a $54/month “unlimited food” subscription and why that price makes no sense. How other brands like Taco Bell and Panera have already rolled out subscription-style offers that actually work. Why restaurant subscriptions can be powerful recurring revenue plays and why Travis wishes Chipotle would roll one out. Top 3 Takeaways Overconsumption is easy when access is cheap and convenient, which is why a low-priced “all you can eat” fast food subscription would be disastrous for both health and margins. Subscription models in restaurants work best when they drive frequent visits and incremental spend (like a taco‑a‑day pass) rather than unlimited everything. For operators and franchisees, subscriptions are a powerful way to build predictable monthly revenue and customer loyalty, but they have to be structured carefully to protect profitability. Notable Quotes “Doing whatever you want whenever you want is usually not a great strategy.” “If there's $54 a month all‑you‑can‑eat McDonald's, I'll die at 35.” “I always loved that Chipotle is the healthy fast food option… I wish I could pay up front and just get this many meals at a discounted rate.” Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Other (Podcast & resources): https://travischappell.com Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Hunter is the co-founder of Four Loko and the founder behind Koia, one of the fastest-growing plant-based protein beverage brands in the country. From disrupting the alcohol industry in the early 2000s to building a multi-nine-figure health beverage company carried in over 35,000 retailers, Chris has mastered the art of spotting trends, scaling brands, and staying ahead of consumer demand. In this episode, he shares lessons from decades in the beverage industry, the realities of entrepreneurship, and why curiosity is one of the most valuable traits a founder can have. On this episode we talk about: The evolution of Koia from refrigerated protein drinks to shelf-stable products Why protein and creatine are becoming mainstream for women's health How Chris identifies consumer trends before they explode The brutal realities of building a beverage company Why most successful operators don't spend all their time building personal brands Top 3 Takeaways The best entrepreneurs stay deeply curious and constantly pay attention to changing consumer behavior. Building a successful company rarely follows a straight path—every business requires pivots, patience, and resilience. Simplicity wins: the strongest brands are often built around one clear and easy-to-understand idea. Notable Quotes “What we're inherently good at is not always obvious to us because we only know it as something that we inherently do.” “Finding that curiosity in the middle road has been valuable to me.” “The reason a lot of successful operators don't have huge personal brands is because they're busy actually building companies.” Connect with Chris Hunter: LinkedIn: Chris Hunter on LinkedIn Instagram: Chris Hunter on Instagram Other: Blackout Punch: An Entrepreneur's Journey from Chaos to Clarity Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis Chappell is the host of the Travis Makes Money podcast and a content creator who transformed from a 24-year-old door-to-door sales guy with zero content experience into a successful podcaster and entrepreneur. His journey has been guided by principles that helped him build an audience and create meaningful content in a crowded digital landscape. On this episode we talk about: Why treating an audience of one like an audience of a million is essential for growth The importance of being so good at your craft that people can't ignore you How to determine whose advice you should actually follow Building quality content habits from day one, regardless of metrics The mindset shift from scarcity to abundance when creating content Top 3 Takeaways One is greater than zero - Every listener, viewer, or audience member deserves your best effort because you're competing with all content everywhere, not just your niche, and treating small audiences with respect is how you earn larger ones. Be so good they can't ignore you - Focus on continuously improving your skills, learning from the best, and creating unignorable content rather than chasing vanity metrics or waiting for a bigger platform to give your best effort. Don't take advice from people you wouldn't trade places with - Seek guidance from those who have achieved success in the specific area you're trying to improve, not just from people who care about you, because love doesn't equal correct advice. Notable Quotes "If you don't treat the audience of one as though it's the audience of a million, then you'll never gain the audience of a million either." "Every minute of a listener's time is earned. Every second of a viewer's time is earned." "Just because somebody loves you does not mean that the advice that they're giving you is right." Connect with Travis Chappell: Instagram: @TravisChappell Website: https://travischappell.com Other: gohighlevel.com/travis (for free 30-day trial) Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visit www.fanvue.com today and launch your career! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis and his producer dive into the fascinating financial strategy and global influence of MLB superstar Shohei Ohtani. While there's no traditional guest, the conversation highlights what makes Ohtani one of the most unique earners in sports history—blending elite performance, international appeal, and long-term thinking. From endorsement dominance to contract structuring, this episode unpacks how one athlete is redefining what it means to make money. On this episode we talk about: How Shohei Ohtani earns over $100M annually from endorsements alone Why Ohtani deferred $680M of his $700M contract—and what that means The power of global markets (especially Japan + U.S.) in building wealth How star power translates into measurable business impact Why creating value is the key to earning more (on and off the field) Top 3 Takeaways If you create massive value, you earn the right to capture massive income—Ohtani is a perfect example. Delayed gratification (like deferring salary) can lead to greater long-term success and legacy. Global reach matters—expanding influence beyond one market can multiply earning potential. Notable Quotes "If you create that much epic value in the world, then you deserve to get a slice of the value that you create." "He's in such a unique position because he's going to make so much money off the field." "The more you win, the bigger the market becomes—and the more money follows." Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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 Are you ready to start your own creator journey and make it big? Visit www.fanvue.com today and launch your career! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis sits down with Guy Winch—an internationally renowned psychologist, bestselling author, and TED speaker whose talks have amassed over 35 million views. Guy is a leading voice in emotional health, known for translating complex psychological research into practical, everyday strategies. His latest book, Mind Over Grind, explores how modern work culture hijacks our well-being—and how to take control back. On this episode we talk about: The concept of “mind over grind” and how work culture leads to burnout Why emotional health is just as important as physical health The surprising ways stress at work impacts your relationships How to maintain work-life balance without sacrificing ambition The role of “delusional confidence” in achieving long-term success Top 3 Takeaways Burnout doesn't just affect you—it spills over into your relationships, impacting partners and family more than you might realize. True work-life balance isn't about adding small habits—it's about being present and protecting your identity outside of work. Success often requires “delusional confidence,” but it must be paired with real action and effort to be effective. Notable Quotes "If you have a dream, do whatever you need to do to get there." "People slowly amputate parts of their identity because there's no time for anything but work." "You don't just need emotional intelligence—you need to actually use it." Connect with Guy Winch: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guywinch Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guywinch Other: https://guywinch.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 Are you ready to start your own creator journey and make it big? Visit www.fanvue.com today and launch your career! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, Travis breaks down the double-edged sword of optimism—one of the most powerful drivers of success that can also quietly sabotage your progress. Drawing from psychology, entrepreneurship, and personal experience, he explores how blind optimism can distort decision-making, and how to properly “calibrate” your mindset to make smarter, more effective moves in business and life. On this episode we talk about: The four dangerous forms of optimism: anesthesia, entitlement, bad math, and identity protection Why positive fantasies can actually reduce motivation and execution How to separate belief in the mission, yourself, and your current plan The “optimism dial” framework for making better decisions Key questions to evaluate risk, feedback, and control before acting Top 3 Takeaways Optimism is most powerful when applied to vision and possibility—but dangerous when applied blindly to plans and data. The key to better decisions is calibration: match your level of optimism to factors like risk, reversibility, and feedback speed. The goal isn't to become pessimistic—it's to practice “optimistic execution,” combining belief with honest data and consistent action. Notable Quotes "Optimism is not belief in the future—it can be anesthesia against the facts of the present." "You can be wildly optimistic about the future and still brutally honest about this month's numbers." "The question is not whether you believe—the question is whether the decision can survive your belief being wrong." Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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 Are you ready to start your own creator journey and make it big? Visit www.fanvue.com today and launch your career! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis and his producer Eric break down financial advice circulating online and react to contrasting perspectives from popular finance personalities. They unpack the practicality of investing strategies like Roth IRAs versus real estate, while also diving into fascinating money stories—like how blockbuster filmmaker deals can generate massive long-term income. With a mix of humor and real-world insight, this episode blends financial education with entertaining commentary on wealth-building strategies and big-money opportunities. On this episode we talk about: The pros and cons of investing in a Roth IRA versus real estate Why simplicity often wins for beginner investors Common misconceptions about taxes, retirement accounts, and withdrawals The power of intellectual property and long-term deal structures How massive businesses (like theme parks and casinos) generate and scale revenue Top 3 Takeaways Simple investing strategies—like consistently contributing to a Roth IRA and index funds—are often the most effective for the average person. Real estate can be powerful, but it requires significantly more knowledge, effort, and risk tolerance to succeed. Long-term deals tied to intellectual property (like Spielberg's theme park agreement) can create enormous, passive income streams over time. Notable Quotes "You don't need expertise to start investing—just consistency and a simple plan." "There's always risk, but some strategies are a lot safer and easier to execute than others." "Money only solves your money problems—but it makes everything else easier to figure out." Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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 sits down with Cynthia Thurlow, a nurse practitioner, TEDx speaker, and expert in women's metabolic health. Cynthia shares her unconventional journey from aspiring lawyer to clinician to thriving entrepreneur, explaining how she walked away from a successful medical career to build a mission-driven business. With deep insights into mindset, personal growth, and monetization, Cynthia breaks down what it really takes to create impact—and income—by aligning your work with your values. On this episode we talk about: Cynthia's pivot from traditional medicine to entrepreneurship Why lifestyle-based health approaches changed her career path The importance of mindset and investing in personal growth How to transition careers despite fear and sunk cost bias Building multiple income streams through podcasting, programs, and speaking Top 3 Takeaways Aligning your work with your values is essential—long-term success comes from doing work you truly believe in. Investing in yourself only works if you take action—implementation is everything. Mindset and environment are critical; surrounding yourself with the right people can accelerate growth exponentially. Notable Quotes "I knew I would be successful—I just had to figure out the next step." "You can read 100 books, but if you don't take action, it's a waste of your time." "Entrepreneurship is high highs and low lows—you have to be able to weather both." Connect with Cynthia Thurlow: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-thurlow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cynthia_thurlow_ Other: https://www.cynthiathurlow.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 dives deep into the concept of optimism—breaking down why it's one of the most powerful drivers of success and, at the same time, one of the most dangerous traps. Drawing from conversations with over 1,000 high performers, Travis explores the fine line between useful self-belief and harmful delusion. He blends personal insight with psychological research to help listeners understand how to harness optimism as fuel—without letting it become fog that clouds judgment and prevents action. On this episode we talk about: Why successful people often appear “delusionally optimistic” The difference between productive optimism and harmful overconfidence The science behind self-belief, hope, and behavioral change How optimism impacts action, persistence, and resilience Practical ways to balance belief with reality and take meaningful action Top 3 Takeaways Optimism is powerful only when it drives action—belief without execution leads to stagnation. The most effective mindset is “calibrated optimism”: believing in the outcome while actively pressure-testing your path. Waiting for proof before starting is a trap—action creates the evidence needed to reinforce belief. Notable Quotes "The goal is not to become more optimistic—the goal is to become more calibrated." "Childish optimism says this will be easy. Useful optimism says this will be hard, but I can figure it out." "Where in your life are you waiting for proof that only comes after you begin?" Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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 break down a surprising case study in modern monetization using reality TV personality “Big Ed” from 90 Day Fiancé. While not a traditional guest interview, the conversation highlights how everyday people can turn unexpected exposure into serious income. Through humor, pop culture, and real-world examples, they unpack what makes someone profitable in today's attention economy—and why authenticity and timing matter more than ever. On this episode we talk about: How reality TV stars actually make money (and why it's not from the show itself) The power of platforms like Cameo and monetizing attention at scale Why authenticity is the key to standing out in content and media The dangers of “performing” instead of being real on camera How to capitalize on momentum and maximize short windows of opportunity Top 3 Takeaways Attention is the real asset – The biggest money isn't in the platform (like TV), it's in how you leverage the exposure afterward. Authenticity wins long-term – Audiences can tell when you're forcing a persona. Being real is what creates lasting connection and opportunity. Strike while the iron is hot – When momentum is on your side, double down. Work harder during “winning seasons” to prepare for inevitable slowdowns. Notable Quotes "What made you famous is that you didn't know what you were doing—you were just being yourself." "When things are going well, that's not the time to relax—it's the time to push even harder." "You have to build up your wins so you can survive the seasons when nothing seems to work." Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell/ Instagram: https://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

David Epstein is a number one New York Times bestselling author whose books The Sports Gene and Range have sold millions of copies worldwide. A former senior writer at Sports Illustrated and investigative reporter at ProPublica, David studies how people succeed in complex, high-stakes environments. His new book, Inside the Box: How Constraints Make Us Better, reveals how narrowing your options, drawing clear boundaries, and embracing limits can actually unlock greater creativity, execution, and long-term success. On this episode we talk about: Why David wrote Inside the Box as the “now what?” answer for readers of Range who have broad skills but struggle to focus How spending a full year on research and architecture (and zero writing) led him to turn this book in early instead of at the last minute The monastery “hermitage” retreat where he printed 100,000 words of notes, read them in solitude, and forced himself to outline the book on a single page Why constraints, deadlines, and structure often increase creativity, freedom, and performance instead of killing them How monotasking, attention training, and smarter boundaries around email and notifications can dramatically improve your work and reduce stress Top 3 Takeaways Broad experience is powerful, but without clear constraints and boundaries you end up overwhelmed and unfocused; structure is what turns a wide-ranging background into meaningful achievement. Front-loading your projects with deep research, thinking, and architecture (“think slow, act fast”) makes execution dramatically faster, cleaner, and less stressful than rushing into action and trying to fix it later. Constraints at every level—personal routines, project scope, even societal rules—can be “wise restraints that make us free,” freeing up mental energy, boosting creativity, and making collaboration with others more predictable and productive. Notable Quotes “I was broadly curious with broad skills and experiences, but I had a ton of trouble focusing my projects.” “I spent a year doing zero writing—only research—and then forced myself to outline the whole book on one page; if it wasn't on that page, it wasn't in the book.” “Our brains are pretty much built to be lazy, so if you want creativity you often have to block the convenient solutions and force yourself to work inside smarter constraints.” Connect with David Epstein: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidepsteinauthor Newsletter: https://davidepstein.substack.com Website: https://davidepstein.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DavidEpsteinAuthor Book: https://davidepstein.com/inside-the-box/ Travis Makes Money is made possible 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

In this solo episode, Travis wraps up his deep dive into context and clip culture by focusing on practical strategies to retrain your brain and think more clearly. He explains how intentional long-form consumption, better questioning, and curating high-quality information sources can dramatically improve your judgment, relationships, and decision-making. Drawing on real-world examples and personal experiences, Travis shows how developing context awareness can become a powerful competitive advantage in today's attention economy. On this episode we talk about: Why balancing short-form and long-form content is critical for mental performance How to retrain your brain using intentional long-form consumption habits The “three context questions” that improve critical thinking and decision-making How to curate better information sources and avoid low-context content traps Why context awareness is a major competitive advantage in business and life Top 3 Takeaways Treat your content consumption like a diet—too much “junk” content weakens your thinking, while long-form builds mental strength. Asking simple questions like “What's missing?” and “Who benefits?” can instantly improve your judgment. Developing context awareness puts you ahead of the majority who react emotionally instead of thinking critically. Notable Quotes "Clips are like candy—long-form content is protein for your brain." "If you're going to form a strong opinion, you owe it to yourself to get more context." "If you can think clearly when others are triggered, you gain a massive advantage." Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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 a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation about discipline, fitness, and personal growth. While there's no traditional guest, the episode offers a raw and relatable look at how high performers think about habits, consistency, and long-term success. Travis shares practical insights from his own fitness journey and connects those lessons directly to business, money, and life optimization. On this episode we talk about: Why extreme challenges (like 75 Hard) can backfire if they aren't sustainable The concept of habit stacking and how to build momentum with small wins How fitness mirrors success in business and making money The importance of creating systems you can maintain long-term Why you can't outsource the thinking when it comes to growth and success Top 3 Takeaways Sustainable habits beat short-term intensity—focus on what you can maintain for years, not just weeks. Start small to build momentum—consistency matters more than going all-in and burning out. You can't outsource critical thinking—true growth comes from understanding what works for you, not blindly following someone else's system. Notable Quotes "The installation of the habit is more important at the beginning than the accomplishing of the goal." "Do whatever you're going to continue doing—that's the best plan." "You can't outsource the thinking." Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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

Fred Marshall is a pioneer in identifying the behavioral patterns of top performers and scaling them across global organizations. Having worked with companies like Apple, Pfizer, and Genentech, Fred has trained over 130,000 professionals in 14+ countries and helped launch dozens of biopharma brands generating billions in revenue. In this episode, he shares how entrepreneurs can think strategically about growth, innovation, and building businesses that actually work. On this episode we talk about: Fred's early entrepreneurial experiments and what they taught him about scaling Why combining fun and work leads to better long-term success The “Uncle Bill strategy” for gaining experience before starting a business How unit economics determine whether a business succeeds or fails Leveraging AI, delegation, and systems to scale beyond yourself Top 3 Takeaways If your unit economics don't work, your business doesn't work—no matter how great the product is. Work for others strategically to learn the model, then improve and build your own version. The key to scaling is shifting from “How can I do this?” to “How can this get done?” Notable Quotes “Instead of asking how can I do this, ask how can this get done.” “If you're not enjoying your work, you should rethink what you're doing—this is most of your life.” “Every bit of knowledge is useful—you just never know when it will pay off.” Connect with Fred Marshall: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredric-marshall-1984bb/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialfredricmarshall/ Other: https://thrivefutureyou.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 explores how neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to rewire itself—can either become your greatest advantage or your biggest liability in a world dominated by distraction. He breaks down how constant multitasking, short-form content, and emotional reactivity are reshaping our thinking, relationships, and even reputations. More importantly, he shares practical strategies to help you regain control, think critically, and operate with clarity in a culture that rewards extremes. On this episode we talk about: How neuroplasticity shapes your brain based on your daily habits and attention patterns The hidden cost of multitasking and “half attention” on thinking and comprehension Why clip culture erodes trust, nuance, and meaningful conversations How out-of-context content can damage reputations and relationships Practical strategies like the “full clip rule” to regain control of your thinking Top 3 Takeaways Your brain is constantly being trained—if you practice distraction and shallow thinking, those become your default. Living in a world of clips weakens your ability to think deeply, form opinions, and engage in nuanced conversations. Simple habits like seeking full context before reacting can dramatically improve your judgment and decision-making. Notable Quotes "If you train your brain to jump from thing to thing, it gets worse at doing the opposite." "If you don't control context, someone else controls your conclusions." "The little habit of living on clips isn't neutral—it reshapes how you think over time." Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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 is joined by his producer Eric for a candid and entertaining breakdown of the business behind the Jackass franchise. While there's no traditional guest, the conversation dives deep into the surprising economics of entertainment, how opportunity can outweigh upfront pay, and what it really takes to turn exposure into long-term wealth. With humor, real numbers, and personal reflections, this episode offers a unique lens on risk, reward, and monetizing unconventional paths. On this episode we talk about: How much the Jackass cast was actually paid (TV vs. movies) The surprising lack of residual income despite massive success Why exposure and opportunity can outweigh initial compensation The ethics of paying talent when “anyone would do it for free” Risk tolerance, personal limits, and the real cost of entertainment Top 3 Takeaways Opportunity can be more valuable than upfront pay — Many performers leveraged exposure into long-term careers, even when initial compensation was shockingly low. Ownership and backend deals matter — Without equity or residuals, even wildly successful projects don't guarantee lasting wealth. Risk vs. reward is personal — Whether in business or life, understanding your limits and making calculated decisions is key to long-term success. Notable Quotes "You could become a millionaire off of $10,000 — it's not the money, it's what you do with the opportunity." "They weren't getting paid for the pain — they were getting paid for the platform." "As soon as the risk goes from ‘this is scary' to ‘I might die,' I'm out." Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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

FranBridge is led by its Founder, Jon Ostenson, a top 1% Franchise Consultant in the US, and frequent contributor on franchising across a variety of outlets and publications. Jon is a multi-brand franchisee himself, and along with his business partners, he has great operators leading these ventures. As a result, he is able to commit over 90% of his time to helping others achieve their own dreams of freedom and wealth generation through business ownership. Prior to FranBridge, Jon was the President of ShelfGenie, a national franchise system with 200 locations. Before he had his start in franchising with ShelfGenie, Jon spent 15 years in the corporate world, most recently as the Vice President of Sales for Carter's Inc., responsible for over $350M in annual sales. Jon began his career as a Consultant with Accenture, often working Internationally on behalf of clients. Jon serves on the Board of the Entrepreneurs Organization and is active in supporting charitable organizations such as Growing Leaders and Hope International. Jon has BBA and MBA degrees from the University of Georgia and lives in Atlanta where he and his wife, Jenny, have 3 children and are very active in the community. Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, Travis breaks down the hidden cognitive costs of living in a short-form, scroll-heavy world. Building on the idea of context, he explores how constant “context switching” from rapid-fire clips is quietly eroding memory, focus, and decision-making. Backed by emerging research and real-life examples, Travis explains why this isn't just about distraction—it's about protecting your brain, your judgment, and ultimately your ability to make money. On this episode we talk about: How rapid “context switching” from short-form content damages your brain The link between scrolling habits and declining memory, focus, and productivity Why out-of-context content is one of the most powerful forms of misinformation How false ideas stick in your brain—and why corrections often fail to fix them The real-world consequences of poor context on money, relationships, and decision-making Top 3 Takeaways Constant scrolling and context switching weaken your memory, focus, and ability to follow through on intentions. Out-of-context clips aren't harmless—they're one of the most effective ways misinformation spreads and sticks. Your ability to focus and think deeply is becoming a rare (and highly valuable) advantage in today's economy. Notable Quotes "Your brain isn't built to jump between 15-second stories all day—it comes at a cost." "The lie gets a head start, and the truth shows up late and out of context." "Focus is the superpower of this decade—and distraction is the enemy of success." Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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 solo-style episode, Travis is joined in-studio by his producer Eric for a candid and practical conversation about one of the most underrated skills in business: decision-making. From chasing every opportunity to learning when to pivot or walk away, they break down the real-world lessons entrepreneurs face when balancing growth, focus, and timing. Through personal stories and examples, this episode dives into how saying “yes” or “no” at the right moment can make—or cost—you millions. On this episode we talk about: The dangers of saying yes to too many opportunities (shiny object syndrome) Why entrepreneurs struggle to quit—and when quitting is actually the right move How to evaluate opportunities based on timing, focus, and long-term value The difference between quitting vs. pivoting in business and life Missed opportunities, regret, and how to make better decisions moving forward Top 3 Takeaways You don't need a “good reason” to say no—protecting your focus is reason enough. Quitting isn't failure if you're using feedback to pivot toward a better opportunity. Many people fail not because they quit too early, but because they hold on too long to the wrong thing. Notable Quotes "You don't have to justify your no—you can just say no." "Quitting the path isn't quitting the game." "A 10 out of 10 skill set in a 4 out of 10 opportunity will always be a struggle." Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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

Amberly Lago is a USA Today bestselling author of Joy Through the Journey, an internationally recognized speaker, and host of the top 1% podcast The Amberly Lago Show. Known for her powerful story of overcoming adversity—including a life-altering motorcycle accident and years of recovery—Amberly inspires audiences around the world with her message of grit, resilience, and finding joy through life's toughest challenges. From humble beginnings to building a thriving career, her journey is a testament to perseverance and purpose. On this episode we talk about: Amberly's journey from poverty and early hustle to becoming a professional dancer in Los Angeles Overcoming doubt, criticism, and fear when chasing big dreams The role of grit, hard work, and environment in achieving success Her life-changing motorcycle accident and the long road to recovery How gratitude, connection, and joy create sustainable success in business and life Top 3 Takeaways Grit alone isn't enough—pairing hard work with the right relationships and environment is what creates true resilience. Practicing daily gratitude can completely shift your mindset and help you navigate even the toughest circumstances. Success is more sustainable when you intentionally cultivate joy along the journey, not just at the destination. Notable Quotes "Pain pushed me until purpose pulled me." "Grit without connection feels like resistance." "It's not your circumstances that shape you—it's how you view them." Connect with Amberly Lago: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amberlylago Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberlylagomotivation Other: https://amberlylago.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 dives deep into a topic he's been reflecting on for years: the importance of context in a world dominated by short-form, out-of-context content. Drawing from personal notes, observations, and research, he breaks down how “clip culture” is shaping the way we think, judge, and remember—and why developing a discipline around context might be one of the most valuable skills you can build today. On this episode we talk about: What “context” really means and why it's essential for understanding information How short-form content and “clip culture” distort meaning and fuel misinformation The way your brain fills in missing context—and why that can lead to false conclusions How context influences memory, perception, and decision-making Practical ways to build “context discipline” in a fast-paced digital world Top 3 Takeaways Your brain is wired to crave context—when it's missing, it automatically fills in the gaps, often with bias. Short-form, out-of-context content can distort reality, leading to misinterpretation, poor judgment, and false memories. Developing a habit of seeking full context before forming opinions gives you a major edge in a world driven by quick reactions. Notable Quotes "If you don't control context, somebody else is going to control the conclusions that you come to." "Your brain doesn't just accept missing context—it fills it in, and that's where the trouble starts." "We live in a world that runs on 10-second clips, but your brain was built for full stories." Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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 take a deep dive into a fascinating business debate sparked by In-N-Out Burger's long-standing refusal to embrace delivery apps like DoorDash. Through a mix of humor and real-world experience, they unpack the tension between convenience and brand integrity—and what it means for entrepreneurs trying to build lasting businesses. Drawing on Travis's firsthand experience as a franchise owner, this episode breaks down how customer loyalty, product quality, and strategic decisions shape long-term success. On this episode we talk about: Why In-N-Out has resisted delivery apps for over a decade The pros and cons of platforms like DoorDash for business owners How brand perception and customer experience impact long-term growth Real insights from running a franchise and managing delivery platforms The importance of repeat customers vs. one-time transactions Top 3 Takeaways Protecting your brand experience can be more valuable than short-term revenue gains from convenience channels. Delivery platforms can drive awareness, but they often come with trade-offs like lower margins and less control. Building repeat customers is the foundation of a sustainable business—loyalty beats volume over time. Notable Quotes "A brand is how people feel about what you do—and convenience can't come at the expense of that." "You don't just want more customers—you want the right customers who keep coming back." "If your product isn't great, no amount of marketing or discounts will save you." Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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 Jorgenson is the CEO of Scribe Media, the industry's largest professional publishing service, dedicated to helping entrepreneurs, executives, and experts write, publish, and market their books. Eric is also the bestselling author of The Almanack of Naval Ravikant and The Anthology of Balaji, with over a million copies sold. Beyond his publishing expertise, Eric is an investor in deep tech startups and an influential blogger and podcaster. His unique journey from author and curator to CEO-especially after helping revive Scribe Media from bankruptcy-makes him a fascinating guest with deep insights into the evolving world of book publishing, authorship, and leveraging books for business growth. On this episode we talk about: – The origin story behind The Almanack of Naval Ravikant and why Eric created it – The rise, fall, and rebirth of Scribe Media-and Eric's path to CEO – Key differences between traditional publishing, hybrid, and self-publishing models – How books can serve as powerful business assets beyond just royalties – The critical importance of quality and professionalism in publishing – Navigating advances, control, and intellectual property as an author – Why marketing and personal networks now drive book sales more than ever – The realities of bookstore placement, bestseller lists, and the modern publishing landscape Top 3 Takeaways 1. A book is more than a business card-it's a credential. A well-written, high-quality book can serve as a lifelong asset, building trust, authority, and opening doors for speaking, consulting, and business opportunities. 2. Control and flexibility matter. Traditional publishing can offer credibility and advances, but often at the cost of creative and financial control. Many authors now succeed by self-publishing or using hybrid models, retaining rights and maximizing ROI. 3. Marketing trumps distribution. In today's landscape, personal networks, podcasts, and word-of-mouth drive more book sales than traditional media or bookstore placement. Demonstrated demand online is what gets books into stores-not the publisher's logo. Notable Quotes “A good book is much more like a PhD. It's a credential you should be proud to put in front of whoever the most important person in your network is.” “Half-professional is unprofessional. If you're not proud to put your book in front of someone, you didn't invest enough time and effort.” “What really matters most is a great book. Your readers don't care who published it-they care about the value inside.” Connect with Eric Jorgenson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erjorgenson Website: ejorgenson.com Scribe Media: scribemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this solo episode, Travis Chappell breaks down his personal investment philosophy after a decade of wins and painful losses in the market. He shares why most people are effectively gambling when they chase hot tips and viral clips, and explains the simple rules he now follows to build long-term wealth. Travis uses real stories—from friends blowing up their accounts to his own experience with crypto, real estate, and the S&P 500—to show listeners how to avoid common mistakes and invest with confidence. On this episode we talk about: Why chasing social media stock tips is basically legal gambling. A real story of a friend who put all their cash into one stock and lost 40%. The four core rules of investing Travis follows today. How to think about day trading vs long-term investing. Why most of your money should be in simple, long-term vehicles like the S&P 500. How Travis approaches crypto (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana) as a long-term bet vs alt-coins as pure “play money.” Top 3 Takeaways Your first and most important investment—especially if you have under 50k net worth or make under 100k a year—should be in yourself: your skills, knowledge, and connections. Invest for the long term in assets and companies you genuinely believe will be worth more in 10 years, and treat short-term, speculative bets as gambling with a very small percentage of your portfolio. Make decisions based on data and on things you actually understand, not emotion, hype, or someone else's interpretation of information you can't properly read yourself. Notable Quotes "The investment in yourself will always pay great returns." "If you're hoping for a quick three-month cash grab, you're not investing—you're gambling." "Ninety percent of what you invest should be long term, and the other ten percent can be fun money you're totally okay losing." Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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 is joined in-studio by his producer for a candid and entertaining conversation about celebrity-backed brands and what actually makes them successful. From billion-dollar exits to surprising under-the-radar wins, they break down the real mechanics behind these businesses—and why you don't need A-list fame to replicate the model on a smaller, profitable scale. On this episode we talk about: The rise of celebrity-backed brands and why beverages dominate the space Real examples of massive exits (and why they're rarer than you think) How stars like Ryan Reynolds and The Rock go beyond just “slapping their name” on products Why brand-building matters more than ever for entrepreneurs today How everyday creators can leverage niche audiences to launch successful products Top 3 Takeaways You don't need celebrity status to build a successful brand—just a loyal, engaged audience in a specific niche. The biggest wins come when creators are actively involved in marketing and storytelling, not just passive endorsers. Building a personal brand today creates long-term leverage, making it easier to launch and validate products in the future. Notable Quotes "You don't have to be The Rock to build a brand—you just need people who trust you." "Even if you don't build a billion-dollar company, you can build a great lifestyle business off your audience." "If you're not posting and building your brand, you're missing out on one of the biggest advantages available today." Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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

Keren Eldad is a renowned executive coach, thought leader, and founder of The Club-a community for leaders, entrepreneurs, and coaches striving to reach their fullest potential. With a client roster that includes Olympic athletes, politicians, Hollywood stars, and global organizations like Estée Lauder, JPMorgan, and Nike, Keren specializes in guiding high achievers out of the endless grind and into true success and fulfillment. Her unique approach blends mindset mastery, wealth consciousness, and actionable strategies, making her a sought-after voice on building both happiness and wealth. On this episode we talk about: Why the traditional path to financial success is broken-and what's replacing it How Keren shifted from scarcity to abundance thinking (and grew her business 600%) The real meaning of “wealth consciousness” and how to develop it The importance of happiness and gratitude in building lasting wealth Actionable steps to reset your mindset and environment for financial growth Top 3 Takeaways Wealth is as much about mindset as it is about money-developing an abundance mentality is foundational to lasting success. Happiness and financial achievement are not mutually exclusive; building wealth holistically leads to greater fulfillment. Your environment and inputs-what you read, watch, and who you spend time with-directly impact your ability to create wealth. Notable Quotes "No unhappy journey has a happy ending." "Real wealth consciousness is not 'I have.' It's 'I can make it.'" "You have the ability to craft your own environment, which means you control who you become." Connect with Keren Eldad: LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/keren-eldad/recent-activity/all/?trk=public_post_follow-articles⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/coachkeren/#⁠ Website: ⁠https://kereneldad.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this solo episode, Travis shares hard-earned insights from nearly a decade of content creation and over a thousand interviews, breaking down how to strategically use a podcast to generate real revenue long before you have a big audience. Drawing from client stories and his own experience, he explains how to engineer conversations that open doors to investors, partners, and high-value clients, and why this “guest-facing” monetization model is often more predictable and dependable than chasing downloads. On this episode we talk about: Why podcasting is a powerful discovery tool if you're just getting started and don't know how to make money online. How to turn your podcast into a content engine that fuels all your social media without scripting “3 steps” videos. The “guest-facing” monetization strategy that lets you turn conversations into cash flow, especially for high-ticket, high-trust businesses. A real case study of a real estate syndicator who raised over $5 million from podcast conversations before ever launching the show. How to use your podcast to build partnerships and referral relationships in industries like home services and e‑commerce. Practical ways to nurture relationships with past guests—dinners, private newsletters, group chats, and more—without being spammy. Top 3 Takeaways You don't need a large audience or big download numbers to monetize a podcast; you can generate significant revenue by intentionally having high-quality conversations with the exact people you want to do business with. For high-ticket, high-trust businesses like real estate syndications, financial services, or insurance, a podcast is a strategic excuse to build rapport and trust with ideal investors or clients long before they write a check. The real long-term leverage comes from curating and nurturing a community of past guests—staying in touch via dinners, thoughtful updates, and value-driven introductions so more people are quietly conspiring for your success over time. Notable Quotes “What you need is an excuse to build rapport and trust with the people who you value the most in your business.” “If you're waiting for 50,000 or 100,000 downloads a month to start monetizing, you're playing the wrong game.” “Podcasting is the perfect opportunity to take people who didn't know who you were before and prove over time that you're someone worth continuing to build a relationship with.” Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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, Travis's producer, joins this episode to break down the real cost of a “simple” family day at Universal Studios and what it reveals about how we spend money. Eric is a lifelong Universal fan, a dad, and a storyteller who's willing to put actual numbers behind the “theme park bleed” most families feel but never calculate. His mix of dad-anxiety over lanyards and big-picture perspective on experiences vs. stuff makes this a fun and surprisingly insightful money conversation. On this episode we talk about: The true, itemized cost of a one-day Universal Studios trip for a family Whether express/fast passes are worth it and when to skip them How parents think about “sanity taxes” like hotel choices, parking, and alcohol Why spending on experiences can be a better use of money than buying more things Using price comparisons (like cruises or Disney) to decide what feels “worth it” Top 3 Takeaways A “day” at a major theme park can easily become a roughly $2,300 experience once you include tickets, express passes, food, souvenirs, parking, and a nearby hotel—so plan with that full number in mind, not just the ticket price. Express or fast passes are often worth the money when time is limited or kids are involved, but you can save a lot by pairing off-peak days (like Wednesdays) with regular tickets instead. Many “annoying” small expenses (lanyards, refillable cups, parking) hurt more emotionally than the big-ticket items, but if the experience creates great memories with your family, it may still be a justified and intentional spend. Notable Quotes “We added it all up… it was $2,296.98 for a day—and I would do it again.” “If you're going to spend money, spend money on experiences instead of things.” “I'm spending like two grand, but the thing that's bothering me is the lanyards and this freaking Minion cup.” Connect with Travis: Instagram: https://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

Nick Jonsson is the co-founder and Managing Director of Executives Global Network Singapore, Malaysia & Indonesia, Southeast Asia's largest confidential peer group network for senior executives. A #1 international bestselling author, award-winning keynote speaker, and top 2% Ironman triathlete, Nick has transformed his darkest struggles with isolation, bankruptcy, and addiction into a powerful mission: helping leaders overcome executive loneliness and build holistic, authentic lives. On this episode we talk about: Nick's entrepreneurial journey from selling Commodore 64 computers at age 14 to climbing the corporate ladder across Asia The hidden epidemic of executive loneliness affecting 33% of workplace leaders (and why 75% won't seek help) How hitting rock bottom—bankruptcy, depression, and alcohol addiction—became the catalyst for transformation The five pathways to overcoming isolation: Surrender, Purpose, Connection, Goals, and Discipline Why opening up about struggles creates a "V-shaped recovery" and the power of community support Using triathlon training, sobriety, and authentic relationships as tools for holistic leadership The dangerous reality that loneliness can be as harmful as smoking 14 cigarettes a day Top 3 Takeaways Executive loneliness is pervasive and dangerous, yet stigma keeps leaders silent. Research shows 33% of executives experience workplace loneliness, but 75% won't seek professional help due to fear of judgment or career consequences. However, the simple act of opening up—surrendering to vulnerability—can trigger rapid recovery and restore hope. The five pathways to holistic leadership provide a practical roadmap out of isolation. Start with Surrender (honest self-audit and awareness), reconnect with your Purpose (beyond work KPIs), build authentic Connection (to self, others, and something greater), set balanced Goals (across all life areas, not just career), and maintain Discipline (accountability systems to measure progress). Loneliness isn't just an emotional issue—it's a serious health crisis. Studies show that broken connections and prolonged isolation can be as dangerous as smoking 14 cigarettes a day. Leaders must treat loneliness with the same urgency as any physical health condition and intentionally build support systems, peer groups, and safe spaces for authentic conversation. Notable Quotes "A problem shared is a problem halved. By just speaking the words, all that tension was released." "I climbed all the way up to the top of the corporate ladder. I had it all, everything I dreamt of. But once I was there, I wasn't happy. I found myself lonely, isolated, questioning everything." "It's lonely at the top. The higher you go, the lonelier it gets. If you become the managing director, you are the only one at your level." "I traded my gym membership for basically a bar stool. My healthy diet suddenly fell into fast food and pizza. I gained about 60 pounds and fell into depression, yet I was in denial about it." "We all have something—perhaps some bad habits. Try to be honest with them, note them down, and start to seek help. That's the first step." Connect with Nick Jonsson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-jonsson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonssonnick/ Website: https://www.nickjonsson.com Book (Amazon & Audible): Executive Loneliness: The 5 Pathways to Overcoming Isolation, Stress, Anxiety & Depression in the Modern Business World EGN Singapore: https://egn.com/about/nick-jonsson 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 continues breaking down the concept of leverage inspired by Naval Ravikant's teachings from "The Almanac of Naval Ravikant," with a focus on media, content, and distribution as powerful modern tools of leverage. He explains why creating content is no longer optional if you want to build wealth and opportunity, and how a single podcast, video, or post can scale your impact far beyond the limits of your own time. On this episode we talk about: Why media and content are leverage: one piece of work (a podcast, tweet, YouTube video, book, or short-form clip) can be consumed by millions with no additional effort from you. How media fits into permissionless leverage alongside code—you build once and can distribute or sell infinitely at near-zero marginal cost. Why online content enables scalable businesses through courses, sponsorships, and products while driving down customer acquisition costs over time. The upside of content leverage: it's the most accessible form of leverage because you can record, edit, and publish from a smartphone without technical expertise or a software engineering partner. The downside of content leverage: algorithm dependency, platform risk, and winner‑take‑most dynamics where a tiny fraction of creators capture the majority of revenue and attention. The Matt Rife example: how TikTok's algorithm helped explode his career to stadium tours and tens of millions in income, and how platform shifts later reduced his reach despite audience demand. Why the abundance of creators makes competition fierce and attention scarce, and why most creators will never reach massive scale even though the tools are available to everyone. How to approach content strategically: get clear on whether you want to be a massive creator or simply drive enough traffic to support a profitable, lifestyle business. Why content is still worth it despite the risks, and how consistency, thoughtfulness, and skill-building help you stand out in a noisy market. Top 3 Takeaways Your real job is to develop strong judgment and attach it to powerful leverage—the difference between wealth and poverty isn't hours worked, but whether those hours are leveraged. More people doesn't always mean more productivity; labor leverage requires strong systems and clear SOPs, otherwise coordination costs can slow down projects instead of accelerating them. Software and code represent permissionless leverage with near-zero marginal costs, and AI is democratizing access to this type of leverage, potentially removing traditional skill barriers in the near future. Notable Quotes: "Leverage is not just talking about debt anymore in a capital stack. It's talking about anything that multiplies your output without multiplying your input." "Forget rich versus poor, forget white collar versus blue collar. It's leveraged versus unleveraged." "Even if you didn't sleep, you would still only have 24 hours a day, seven days a week to put into this project. But if you had 100 people working on it eight hours a day, that's significantly more time invested." Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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 co-host episode, Travis and his producer, Eric, break down the latest data on financial stress in America and shares his unfiltered perspective on what it really takes to improve your financial situation. With a mix of humor, real-world examples, and hard truths, they challenge listeners to stop waiting for external solutions and start building skills that create income and independence. On this episode we talk about: The latest SurveyMonkey data on rising financial stress and affordability challenges Why blaming the government won't fix your personal financial situation Practical ways to make more money through skills, promotions, and side hustles How to use extra cash (like tax refunds) to create long-term income The mindset shift required to take ownership of your financial future Top 3 Takeaways The biggest lever you can pull isn't cutting expenses—it's increasing your income through valuable skills. Waiting for external solutions (like government policy changes) delays progress you could be making right now. Investing in yourself—your skills, knowledge, and earning ability—creates lasting financial stability, not temporary relief. Notable Quotes "Nobody has as much control over your financial situation as you do." "You can only cut your expenses to zero, but there's no cap on how much you can make." "Even if it's not your fault, it's still your responsibility." Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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

Joseph Moore is an author, investor, and historian who spent over a decade studying how Americans actually built wealth across 300 years of history. Rather than just researching, Joseph personally tested many of these strategies—from house hacking to unconventional investing—to see what still works today. His insights challenge modern financial “rules” and reveal that many widely accepted ideas about money are surprisingly new, incomplete, or even misleading. On this episode we talk about: Why most modern financial advice (like compound interest) is relatively new How Americans historically built wealth without stocks or long-term investing The surprising truth about real estate, inflation, and mortgages Why side hustles have always been essential—and when to stop doing them The biggest lesson from history: solving other people's problems creates wealth Top 3 Takeaways Building wealth isn't about optimizing your own finances—it's about solving problems for others at scale. Many “proven” strategies like compound interest or buy-and-hold investing only work in specific modern conditions. Side hustles are powerful for gaining momentum, but long-term wealth comes from focusing deeply on one high-value skill or opportunity. Notable Quotes "If you want to get rich, you have to solve other people's problems—not just your own." "You can beat the market, but it's usually a terrible use of your time." "A paid-off home is a poor man's strategy in a rich person's world." Connect with Joseph Moore: Free Chapter of new book: https://www.josephmoorebooks.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 breaks down the concept of leverage inspired by Naval Ravikant's teachings from "The Almanac of Naval Ravikant." He explores why some people can build massive wealth with the same 24 hours while others struggle, examining the fundamental difference between leveraged and unleveraged work. On this episode we talk about: The fundamental definition of leverage and how it multiplies output without multiplying input The distinction between permissioned leverage (requiring approval) and permissionless leverage (deployable on your own) Labor leverage: using other people's time to scale beyond your personal capacity Capital leverage: deploying money to make more money and why it amplifies both gains and losses Code and software leverage: creating zero-marginal-cost products that scale to millions of users Top 3 Takeaways Your real job is to develop strong judgment and attach it to powerful leverage—the difference between wealth and poverty isn't hours worked, but whether those hours are leveraged More people doesn't always mean more productivity; labor leverage requires strong systems and clear SOPs, otherwise coordination costs can slow down projects instead of accelerating them Software and code represent permissionless leverage with near-zero marginal costs, and AI is democratizing access to this type of leverage, potentially removing traditional skill barriers in the near future Notable Quotes: "Leverage is not just talking about debt anymore in a capital stack. It's talking about anything that multiplies your output without multiplying your input" "Forget rich versus poor, forget white collar versus blue collar. It's leveraged versus unleveraged" "Even if you didn't sleep, you would still only have 24 hours a day, seven days a week to put into this project. But if you had 100 people working on it eight hours a day, that's significantly more time invested" Connect with Travis: • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell • 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 is joined by Eric for a deep-dive conversation into one of the most controversial topics in tech today: AI and intellectual property. Rather than featuring a traditional guest, this episode unpacks a major lawsuit involving a massive YouTube creator and explores what it means for creators, capitalism, and the future of content. With a mix of humor, skepticism, and real concern, Travis and Eric break down complex legal and ethical issues in a way that's both engaging and thought-provoking. On this episode we talk about: A major class action lawsuit against AI companies for scraping YouTube content How AI models are trained using creator content without consent or compensation The legal gray areas around “free” content on platforms like YouTube Ethical concerns around generative AI replacing human creators Real-world examples of AI in media, including controversial uses in film Top 3 Takeaways AI is currently operating in a legal “Wild West,” and lawsuits like this will likely shape future rules around content ownership and compensation. There's a major ethical distinction between opt-in AI training (with compensation) and unauthorized scraping of creator content. Generative AI poses a real threat to creators by potentially replacing original work with derivative, machine-generated content. Notable Quotes "It's basically a professional copyright infringement machine." "You'd think the last thing robots would take from us is our creativity—but here we are." "If you have to rotate IP addresses to do it, you probably know it's shady." Connect with Travis: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell/- Instagram: https://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

What if your real calling has been with you since you were a kid—and you've just forgotten how to hear it? In this preview episode, former Navy SEAL turned bestselling thriller author Jack Carr sits down with Travis to unpack where certainty of purpose actually comes from, and why your most honest clues are often buried in what you were obsessed with between ages eight and eighteen. From growing up surrounded by his late grandfather's World War II maps, medals, and Marine Corps aviation memorabilia, to getting hooked on black‑and‑white “frogman” films and library books about early Naval special operations, Jack shares how the stories, artifacts, and heroes of his childhood quietly imprinted a lifelong desire to test himself and serve something bigger than himself. Jack explains why humans are wired to prove their value to the “tribe,” and how, in a world of comfort and convenience, that ancient drive to hunt, fight, and contribute hasn't disappeared—it's just been numbed. He and Travis explore the idea of an inner “voice” or sixth sense that pushes you toward challenge, risk, and service, and how ignoring it in favor of safer, more socially acceptable paths can leave you feeling lost as an adult. They also dig into why the books, movies, and TV you binge when you're young work like a time machine: they don't just entertain you, they program your sense of identity, possibility, and what a meaningful life looks like. You'll hear how Jack's early immersion in classic thrillers and 80s action heroes didn't just inspire his SEAL career; it became a stealth education in storytelling—structure, pacing, character, and theme—long before he ever wrote a sentence. He breaks down why reading physical books as an active participant hits your brain differently than passively consuming content on screens or through audiobooks, and how that deliberate input helped him transition from special operations to a second career as an author without ever feeling like he needed a “Plan B.” The conversation also turns to parenting and the modern “wild west” of algorithms, social media, and what Jack bluntly calls “manipulation devices.” As a dad, he shares how he thinks about mentors, cultural influences, and the difference between choosing your heroes—like Rocky or classic war stories—and being fed influencers and content you never asked for. He and Travis wrestle with how to help kids trust their instincts, protect their attention, and still hear that inner calling in a world where the loudest voices are often coming from bots, brands, and foreign actors instead of real mentors. If you've ever felt disconnected from your purpose, wondered when you lost touch with the most unapologetic version of yourself, or questioned whether it's too late to follow that nagging inner voice, this preview will give you a powerful lens: look back at what lit you up before the world told you who to be.  Hit play to hear why Jack believes the best futures are built by those who stay students for life, trust their gut, and are willing to test themselves in service of something greater. Check out the full episode on Travis's Youtube HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this solo episode, Travis Chappell breaks down some of the most popular self‑help tropes and explains why they often keep you stuck instead of helping you win in business and life. He pulls from research, expert debates, and his own experience in podcasting and entrepreneurship to show what actually moves the needle: deliberate practice, critical thinking, and a ruthless bias toward action. On this episode we talk about: Why the “10,000 hour rule” is oversimplified marketing, not a universal law of mastery. The difference between clocking hours and doing true deliberate practice with feedback and focus. How low-barrier, high-reward fields like podcasting and real estate expose fake “experience.” Why most self-help content doesn't transform your life and how to interrogate every piece of advice. The real role of visualization, routines, and motivation—and why none of it matters without action. Top 3 Takeaways Mastery comes from deliberate practice, not just time served. It is high‑quality, structured, feedback‑rich reps in the right domain that create world‑class skill, not simply logging 10,000 random hours. Consume self‑help critically and focus on behavior change. Most popular advice is untested or debunked, and books or courses only matter if your behavior looks different 30–90 days later. Tools like visualization and morning routines only work when tied to action. Routines, mental imagery, and motivation can actually become sophisticated procrastination if they replace doing the real work that creates results. Notable Quotes “Some people don't have 20 years of experience; they have one year of experience lived 20 times because there's no rich feedback loop.” “Do not treat men like gods—interrogate the advice you're getting, even if it comes from someone you really like.” “Measure a book or a course by the behavior change after 30 to 90 days, not by how hyped you feel the weekend you finish it.” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell 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 is joined by his producer Eric for a candid and entertaining conversation about taxes, refunds, and the realities of earning more money. From the benefits of hiring a CPA to debates around flat taxes and government policy, they break down complex financial topics in a relatable way—while sharing personal experiences and insights that highlight how everyday earners can better navigate the system. On this episode we talk about: Why hiring a CPA becomes essential as your income streams grow How tax systems work (and why they feel overly complicated) The debate between flat tax vs. progressive tax structures Recent increases in average tax refunds and what's driving them How most people are using their tax refunds (and what they should do instead) Top 3 Takeaways As your income becomes more complex (side hustles, business income, 1099s), a CPA can save you significantly more than they cost. The tax system can unintentionally discourage earning more due to higher marginal rates and complexity—understanding how brackets actually work is key. Most people use tax refunds to pay off debt or save, but proactively managing taxes year-round is more powerful than relying on a refund. Notable Quotes "When you start making more money, a CPA is worth their weight in gold." "Anything that disincentivizes growth and betterment seems like a strange system." "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/- Instagram: https://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 sits down with Mesh Gelman, founder and CEO of Cumulus Coffee Company. With a career spanning entrepreneurship, retail innovation, and leadership at Starbucks—including running retail partnerships and its innovation incubator—Mesh brings decades of experience to the world of coffee. After years of R&D, he launched Cumulus to solve one of the biggest challenges in coffee: delivering high-quality cold brew at home in seconds. His journey blends curiosity, resilience, and a relentless drive to build something truly differentiated. On this episode we talk about: Mesh's unconventional path from teaching to textiles to coffee innovation Lessons learned scaling a retail business and landing major partners like JCPenney What he learned working closely with Starbucks and Howard Schultz The massive shift from hot coffee to cold brew and what it means for the market The 4+ year R&D journey behind building Cumulus Coffee Top 3 Takeaways Curiosity and asking better questions can open more doors than having all the answers. Building your own brand—and owning the customer relationship—is critical for long-term stability. The best innovations often come from solving operational pain points that others overlook. Notable Quotes "The smartest people I knew were asking questions, not just giving answers." "The world will be fine tomorrow without us—we have to earn our business every day." "It's the hardest job I've ever had—and it brings me more joy than anything I've done." Connect with Mesh Gelman: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meshgelman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meshgelman/ Other: https://cumuluscoffee.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 breaks down some of the most overused and under-examined self-help tropes that can quietly sabotage your finances, fulfillment, and decision-making. Drawing on research, real-world examples, and his own experience taking big swings in business, Travis separates what's psychologically useful from what's pure pseudoscience so you can build wealth and a meaningful life on solid ground—not wishful thinking. On this episode we talk about: Why the constant pursuit of the “best version of yourself” can reinforce a harmful belief that you're never enough. How the law of attraction and manifestation culture drift into pseudoscience and prosperity-gospel thinking. The real (and risky) financial behaviors correlated with strong manifestation beliefs, including overestimating upside and underestimating constraints. The difference between healthy optimism and toxic positivity—and why “just think positive” often backfires. How realistic optimism, grounded in action, problem-solving, and behavioral change, actually helps you make more money and improve your life. Top 3 Takeaways Belief without behavior is useless: Delusional self-belief only matters if it changes how you structure your day, the actions you take, and the skills you develop over time; it's the behavior, not the belief alone, that creates outcomes. Manifestation can be financially dangerous: Strong belief in manifestation and “the universe will deliver” can push people into poorly vetted, high-risk financial decisions, increasing susceptibility to serious losses and even bankruptcy. Realistic optimism beats toxic positivity: Positive thinking is powerful only when it helps you acknowledge real problems, process difficult emotions, and then take better action; denying reality or skipping the hard work makes things worse, not better. Notable Quotes “This is not the universe's version of Amazon Prime—thinking about something hard enough doesn't mean it's going to show up in two days on your front door.” “I've never met one wildly successful person who just believed hard enough and then woke up with all their dreams fulfilled; the belief only mattered because it drove a massive amount of consistent action.” “Optimism is healthy when it helps you face hard things and take better action—not when it tricks you into pretending that nothing is wrong.” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/traviscchappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/traviscchappell/ 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