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Guests: Rob & Melissa Stephenson — Founders of Flea Market Flipper, full-time eBay resellers and educators Getting Started in Flipping: Rob began flipping nearly 30 years ago, inspired by his parents selling yard sale finds in the newspaper classifieds—long before eBay existed. Melissa joined the business 17 years ago after marrying Rob, initially unsure but quickly realizing the side hustle's earning potential as Rob “always found a way to pay for everything.” What began as a part-time venture became their full-time business in 2016, jumping from ~$42,000/year (part-time) to $133,000 in their first year full-time. Making the Leap to Full-Time: A turning point came when a change in Rob's day job benefits forced them to decide whether to search for another job or go “all in” on flipping. Committed to scaling, they switched from low-value, high-volume items to a high-profit, low-volume model—focusing on big-ticket items with $1,000–$2,000 profit per sale. How They Source and Sell: They look for high-retail-value used goods—commercial appliances, gym equipment, cooktops, and other hard-to-find, high-end items—that are undervalued in local markets but sell quickly on eBay to a national/global audience. Classic finds include a $5,000 parking lot security tower bought at auction and flipped for $25,000, and a $500 bus wash resold for $14,500. They source from Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp, local auctions, garage sales, and thrift stores, then leverage eBay (global reach) for sales. Education & Flea Market Flipper: In 2015, Rob & Melissa launched their blog and eventually the Flipper University course to teach others their system. Their community has grown to over 1,500 students; many members have built part-time or even full-time incomes through flipping. Top Advice for Beginners: Start by flipping unused items around your house to get a feel for platforms and shipping without any risk. Build 50+ positive feedbacks on eBay with smaller items before jumping into high-ticket sales. The “secret weapon”: Learn to fix/repair items with YouTube or local help—often a simple repair makes an item much more valuable. “The money is made in the buy”—always look for great deals, not just selling skills. Industry & Business Model Insights: COVID and Gary Vee's embrace of flipping brought a surge in public interest, but the space is much more competitive and “noisier” now. Rob & Melissa focus on high-touch, high-value flipping to keep their business defensible against both AI/digital disruption and cheaper/lower-value competitors. Flipping teaches valuable life skills: negotiation, logistics, shipping, sales, research, and business management. Connect with Rob & Melissa: https://fleamarketflipper.com/

Guest: Scott Leese — Fractional CRO, 12 unicorns, 13 exits, six-time sales leader, five-time founder, three-time author, major LinkedIn community builder, newsletter publisher, and creator of multiple businesses. Early Days & First Hustles Grew up in a non-entrepreneurial household; sold baseball cards as a kid, had entrepreneurial “side hustles” in college. Spent much of his 20s battling and recovering from a life-threatening illness. Four years hospitalized, nine surgeries, struggled with painkiller addiction, read hundreds of books — which planted the seeds for future business curiosity. How He Got Into Sales & Startups First tech sales job at 27, encouraged by a friend who noticed Scott's resilience, competitiveness, and leadership. Sales led to VP/CRO roles at high-growth startups, where Scott built and scaled revenue teams, eventually leading to multiple exits and unicorn valuations. Lessons on Sales as a Career Sales is a pure meritocracy: “If you produce, you get paid. If you don't, you're cut — just like athletics.” Outproducing others shouldn't just lead to the same pay — sales rewards top performers more than most fields. Why Just Being a High-Paid Employee Isn't Enough Even top execs at successful startups rarely see transformational wealth (example: after a $500M+ exit, the founder gets $20M+, a C-suite leader gets $500K). True wealth comes from moving from “employed” to “owner” — writing books, building communities, conferences, consulting, investing in real estate, launching multiple income streams. The Coming Disruption & Opportunity from AI The rise of AI means most entry-level sales/tech/white-collar jobs will disappear or change radically. The era of corporate security is ending; individuals must think entrepreneurially, diversify income, own their brand, and quickly adapt. Future sales: Only high-level, complex, relationship-driven roles will survive; all “boiler room”/transactional sales will be automated or handled by agents. As commerce increasingly digitizes, the most acute personal/professional needs will be (1) “inner work” (purpose, mental/spiritual health) and (2) experiences/community. Optimism & The New Wave Exponential growth in personalized medicine & health/longevity businesses (AI-powered diagnostics, genetic-driven treatment, biohacking). Massive new opportunities for anything that promotes genuine human connection or personal growth (retreats, mastermind events, experiential learning, spiritual/purpose-driven work). In an automated world, experiences and community will be more valuable (and defensible) than ever. Scott's Personal Projects & Where to Connect https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottleese/

 Dr. Jeff Gross — Board-certified neurological surgeon, biochemist, biohacker, founder of Celebrate Regenerative Medicine, and longevity/biohacking consultant based in Las Vegas & Southern California. Medical & Health Longevity Background: Dr. Gross trained at UC Berkeley (Biochemistry & Molecular Biology), George Washington University School of Medicine, UC Irvine (Neurosurgery), and UNM (Spinal Biomechanics). He has decades of frontline experience in spine surgery, sports injuries, regenerative medicine, and now consults on biohacking and longevity. Biohacking & Longevity: Biohacking is essentially circles back to ancient wellness wisdom (eat well, sleep, exercise)—but enhanced by modern science (measuring phytonutrients, leveraging tech like red light, hyperbaric therapy, protein timing, etc). Emphasizes that “prevention” is still the number one defense against the four top causes of death in Western countries; early proactive screening and lifestyle habits remain critical. There is increasing crossover between “traditional medicine” and “naturopathic”/“functional” approaches—Dr. Gross sees this convergence as positive and overdue, but notes resistance still exists in mainstream medicine. Emerging Business Opportunities in the Wellness Space: IV centers, cryotherapy, and retail biohacking clinics (hyperbaric O2, red light therapy, peptides, weight loss clinics, etc.) are booming, especially in health-conscious cities. Low-barrier options: health coaching, nutrition consulting, affiliate/online influencer businesses—Dr. Gross notes people he knows personally earning seven figures as wellness affiliates. Innovations: Short-form EMS (electro-muscular stimulation) workouts, “blood flow restriction” exercise systems, and more. Cancer screening clinics: Now possible with advanced genomics and blood-testing—these are in demand but not widely available through traditional doctors/insurance, opening more avenues for direct-to-consumer providers. Supplementation & Biohacking Basics: “Non-negotiables” for almost everyone: Vitamin D3 (& often K2): Most people are deficient; optimal blood levels promote longevity, reduce inflammation, and lower all-cause mortality. Magnesium: Especially at night for recovery and cellular repair. Creatine: Improves muscle mass, heart health, and brain health; well correlated with longevity. Probiotics: Modern lifestyles make gut health challenging—good probiotic support is important. Nicotine: Can be a cognitive enhancer in low doses and proper delivery (gum/patch, NOT smoking)—but is highly addictive. Other Business/Money Ideas: Successful affiliate and influencer businesses for those passionate about health and wellness. Emphasizes supplement sales (with high trust and real value), personalized coaching, and education are evergreen opportunities. Industry Critique: Criticizes health insurance as a “legal mafia,” noting it often adds cost and hassle while limiting real preventive care. Encourages listeners to be their “own best advocate” for health—don't rely only on five-minute mainstream doctor visits. Connect with Dr. Jeff Gross: https://recellebrate.com/

Dr. Klaus Kleinfeld – the only person to serve as CEO of two Fortune 500 companies on different continents (Alcoa in the US, Siemens in Germany), global advisor, founder of K2 Elevation, angel investor, and author of Leading to Thrive. First Dollars & Early Hustle: At 12, worked illegally at a supermarket in Germany, later launched a Santa Claus business delivering gifts (and family messages!) on Christmas Eve. Early work taught the value of money, the realities of management at all levels, and why people must create and be paid for value. Mindset Developed by Adversity: Father died at age 10, grew up with a strong sense of self-reliance and urgency to earn. Immigrant family background; learned that “money is freedom” and that every dollar earned created options. Time spent with East German relatives instilled the lesson that money only matters if it can actually buy value. Spiritual & Emotional Energy: Foundation in faith (Protestant roots) was a crucial “anchor” through hard times and later in life. Dr. Kleinfeld's new book, Leading to Thrive, stresses the four types of energy: physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. Advocates for not shying away from love, gratitude, and faith even in the corporate world—even if those topics are often taboo at the boardroom level. Career Guidance & Advancement: Career wasn't about status, but about maximizing freedom and value creation. The path to more money: “Money comes in exchange for creating value—become indispensable and you'll gain negotiating power.” Focus less on salary and more on skill acquisition; become a self-starter and continually improve. Key mantra: “Love it, change it, or leave it.” Life is too short to waste in situations without progress or fulfillment. Overcoming Fear and Stagnation: Don't let fear (False Expectations Appearing Real) keep you “stuck”—analyze the true risks, and realize that most bad outcomes never materialize. Lessons from high performers: It's about energy management (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual), not mere time management. Embrace continuous experimentation and agile adjustments—failure is just feedback and learning (Edison paradigm: every failed attempt is progress). Legacy and Regret: Biggest regrets from those at the end of life: not being truer to themselves and not choosing happiness sooner. See happiness as a daily, conscious choice, not something to seek only at the end. Dr. Kleinfeld's Actionable Advice: Focus on increasing your value to others—money follows value. Regularly reassess: “Love it, change it, or leave it.” Invest in managing your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual energy. Don't let fear dictate your story—break it down and act despite uncertainty. Read and learn from others (“Books condense a lifetime into a few hours—take the shortcut!”). Connect with Dr. Klaus Kleinfeld: https://www.leading-to-thrive.com/

Are you ready to take control of your health and uncover the truth about what's holding you back? In this powerful episode of the Travis Makes Friends podcast, host Travis Chappell sits down with health and science journalist Max Lugavere, New York Times bestselling author of Genius Foods, Genius Life, and Genius Kitchen. Together, they dive deep into the four major killers threatening your future—heart disease, Alzheimer's, type 2 diabetes, and cancer—and reveal practical, science-backed strategies to prevent them. From debunking nutrition myths to exposing fraudulent research, Max shares eye-opening insights on brain health, insulin sensitivity, and the real impact of diet on your longevity. Plus, learn why creatine might be the game-changer you've overlooked and how to cut through the noise of diet culture. Don't miss this life-changing conversation—hit play now and start majoring in the majors for a healthier, stronger you! Full episode: https://youtu.be/lfpe01LDqAo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

George Stefanou – First-generation Greek-American, Forbes “Best in State” Next Gen Wealth Advisor (2023, 2024), author of Two Comma Wealth, and founder of the financial planning firm Two Comma Wealth. Early Hustle: Grew up working flea markets, managing a coffee stand by 14, learning firsthand about hard work and margins (selling hundreds of cups from a single bulk bag of beans). Family stress on work ethic over formal education (first in his family to finish high school/college). Mindset & Upbringing: Dad: 4th grade education, Greek immigrant roots, championed U.S. for its opportunity. Education wasn't pressured but encouraged as a path out of manual labor — “you can make a lot more money owning the business than swinging the hammer.” Professional Beginnings: Started at CVS (Florida): progressed from cashier to store management, realized the corporate grind wasn't for him. Discovered financial advising, took the risk, and built a book of clients from scratch despite early financial hardship. Career in Financial Planning: Earned numerous certifications (to build trust while young). Stresses need for lifelong learning and combining IQ and EQ for real success with clients. About Two Comma Wealth (the book): Written for both consumers and industry peers. Focuses on actionable strategies for surpassing $1M net worth, but especially on what changes after you cross that threshold: Complexity, emotional swings with market volatility, nuances around distributions, withdrawal rates, taxes, and estate planning. Challenges of first-generation wealth (scarcity mindset, fear of spending, finding balance between living now and preserving legacy). Aims to demystify wealth management for “everyday millionaires.” Certified Financial Planner Career Path: Entry routes: Broker/dealer, fee-only/RIAs, or hybrid. Education/licensing: Can get entry-level securities licenses in months; advanced credentials (CFP, CFA) take years but build a valuable career “moat.” Highly front-loaded: Most start with low/no pay, lots of cold prospecting, high attrition/turnover. Significant success and six/seven figures possible for those that break through. Modern firms now offer more support, salary, and training versus the old eat-what-you-kill model. The Power of Having a Moat: High difficulty of becoming a trusted CFP means fewer competitors once you succeed, and deeper, more meaningful client relationships. Final Takeaways: CFPs and financial planners can have massive, positive multigenerational impact—if they combine technical skill with empathy and true service. The field is very challenging at first but extremely rewarding. Barriers to entry and trust are a signal that the opportunity is real. Connect with George Stefanou: Book: Two Comma Wealth Contact: Find George on all major social media or email directly (contact in show notes)

Trent Lee — #1 ranked business broker in the U.S. seven years in a row, with 600+ closed sales totaling over $200M in deals and more than $15M in personal commission. Early hustle: Painted address numbers on neighborhood curbs and mowed lawns — learned value creation early. Current role: Licensed business broker & appraiser. Specializes in small to mid-sized businesses, valuations, and finding qualified buyers through cash, SBA loans, or seller financing. How he got here: Inspired watching his father sell his 700-employee company (private equity deal). Learned firsthand how CPAs, attorneys, and buyers operate in M&A. Started and sold businesses (financing consulting & medical alert response center). Frustrated with brokers he worked with → became one himself. How to become a business broker: Licensing depends on the state (some require real estate + broker permit, others none). Associations like IBBA help standardize training/education. Strong background in accounting, contracts, negotiations, and marketing is essential. Challenge: takes 12+ months before first commissions hit; most fail because they run out of money before their first big close. Earnings potential: Smaller deals: 8–15% commission. Larger/private equity deals: lower %. First year = expect $0 while building pipeline. Year 2+, even a few deals ($500K–$2M businesses) → six figures+. Industry is older (often second careers), but huge opportunity for those who survive the ramp-up. Why brokerage over ownership? Trent opts not to buy businesses himself. Brokerage gives income without employees, leases, or headaches. He's built wealth through business sales commissions, investing proceeds into 24 fully paid rental properties. Why so few business brokers? Most owners don't even know brokers exist (unlike real estate). Lack of awareness & high skill bar keeps supply small — which means big opportunity for specialists. For Buyers: Buying an existing business = easier path to cash flow than startups. Zero-money-down deals are rare clickbait; you'll usually need ~10% down. Can come from: personal cash/savings, self-directed retirement accounts, equity partner, or combination of buyer + seller financing. Buying with 0% down = 100% leverage → dangerous if market fluctuates. Better: leverage smartly so downturns = inconvenient, not devastating. Brokerage is a lucrative but long game; plan financially for the first year with no income. For buyers, don't chase unicorn “zero down” structures — get creative but realistic with 10% in. Buying an existing cash-flowing business is almost always better than starting from scratch. Email: trent@fcbblv.com 

Eva Yazhari — Managing Partner of Beyond Capital Ventures, early-stage investor, author of The Good Your Money Can Do, and advocate for conscious capitalism. Her funds have backed 50+ equity and 9 debt investments, reaching over 100 million customers across Africa and India. First and most recent dollar: First job: Working at a Staten Island bread shop. Today: Managing partner of a venture + private credit fund investing in emerging markets with LP capital. Family background & mindset: Father grew up in Tanzania; grandfather a medical doctor working with Catholic missions — early exposure shaped her view of Africa as opportunity, not risk. Parents were artists — exposure to art trained her in pattern recognition, now one of her investor superpowers. Education & mindset pivots: Started pre-med at Columbia → realized it was toxic competition. Pivoted to math, discovering both aptitude and love of problem solving. Training in mathematics = fluency in patterns, language of money, and risk analysis. Early career: VP at Entrust Capital (fund of hedge funds). Employee #2 → helped scale from $200M → $4.8B AUM. Managed relationships with activist hedge fund giants like Bill Ackman and Carl Icahn. Learned portfolio building, risk management, and fundraising skills that later became core to her VC work. Why venture capital in Africa & India? By 2050, 1 in 4 humans will be African; India today has the world's largest working-age population. 53% of the next decade's growth will come from these regions. Saw contrarian “alpha” opportunity most Western investors still dismiss. Sectors of focus: Healthcare Fintech Mobility Agtech (selectively) All are tech-enabled, solving essential problems for fast-growing middle classes. Conscious capitalism lens: Portfolio companies think beyond profits → align incentives with customers, governments, communities. Example: Rwanda's first licensed online pharmacy; startup scaling e-motorbikes after gas bikes banned. Beyond Capital gives founders a share of fund profits — equitable ownership model. Fundraising lessons: Fundraising is sales math: Eva raised her second fund after 550+ investor meetings → ~30–40 LPs. Funnel has to be very wide. Mindset matters: Rejections happen, but abundance mindset drives momentum. Referrals are gold: “Every dud knows a stud” — rejections often connect you to your best investors. Exude confidence from a clear strategy — investors back comfort + conviction. Personal insights: Considers herself an entrepreneur, not just an allocator. Believes leadership skills are as critical as financial acumen. Thinks of her fund as her “third child.” Alternate career: Pop star. Dream chat: Emma Grede (helped Kardashian brands scale). Learning style: Podcasts, audiobooks, physical books. Reading now: The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle. Her book: The Good Your Money Can Do. Pump-up song: The Rapture Pt. 3 by Black Coffee. Weakness: Moving slowly — always in motion. https://www.instagram.com/consciousinvestor/?hl=en

John Dwyer — founder of The Institute of Wow, direct response marketing expert, and creator of standout campaigns (including a rare Jerry Seinfeld deal) that help businesses win without competing on price. Key Points: Theming sells: Inspired by Disney, JD uses evergreen, public domain themes (wildlife, outer space, dinosaurs) to make offers irresistible year‑round. Free IP example: Attack of the Dinosaurs collectible promo netted $500K in 4 weeks. Seinfeld home loan campaign: Replaced rate discounts with a free vacation, resulting in billions in extra loans. Incentives over discounts: Low‑cost/high‑perceived‑value rewards take focus off price — must match what the audience wants. Turf farm + premium beer bonus = sold out in days. Loyalty rewards swapped for movie vouchers boosted response. Ultimate incentive — travel: Access to unsold hotel rooms sold as bulk vouchers (~$48 special). Works for big‑ticket and demo offers; Harley dealers see ~3.5 sales per 10 test rides. Same cost as a 10% discount, far more pulling power. Doesn't work for every sector (e.g., funerals). JD's Principles: Don't discount — differentiate with irresistible offers. Match incentive to customer desires, not product features. Use free IP themes to avoid licensing costs. Focus on high perceived value / low actual cost. Connect with John: vacationsincentive.com (email for 2‑for‑1 podcast listener deal) Email: john@theinstituteofwow.com⁠

Garrett Gunderson is a New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Killing Sacred Cows and What Would the Rockefellers Do?. He's built and sold an Inc. 500 financial firm, published ten books, created a comedy special on Amazon Prime, and now helps entrepreneurs grow their income, keep more of what they make, and design a life they love. In this episode, Garrett and Travis catch up on his last six years and dive into strategies for creating—not cutting—your way to wealth. Top 3 Takeaways: Expanding your means is as critical as budgeting and efficiency — you can't scrimp your way to wealth. Invest first in yourself — skills are compounding assets that make every other investment more profitable. Cash flow buys freedom — when expenses are covered by assets, you can focus on creating and innovating. Connect with Garrett Gunderson: Instagram: @garrettbgunderson — DM “Travis” for a free audiobook copy of Money Unmasked.

Ann Pells shows aspiring entrepreneurs how to acquire already profitable, professionally managed small businesses that can net $10K/month—while requiring only about an hour a week to oversee. Drawing on her own journey from financial crisis to portfolio business owner, Ann explains how to find, fund, and operate recession-resistant companies without becoming a full-time operator yourself. On this episode we cover: From pink slip to passive ownershipYears ago, Ann's family was blindsided when her husband was laid off—their only income source at the time. With three young kids, she vowed never to rely on one job again. After trying time-intensive real estate investing, she realized she needed teams and systems to create income without 60–80 hour work weeks. The turning pointFive years ago, she discovered a funding and management team (via a 5‑minute YouTube video) that helped her pay off her house in five years and access $200K for business acquisitions. That same team now helps her—and her clients—find, vet, fund, and manage those businesses. First acquisition Type: Water delivery service (home essentials niche) Structure: Partnered with ~10 existing investors, stepped into a deal mid-process with management team in place. Why that industry: Recession-resistant necessity (like plumbing, HVAC, medical, funeral homes, etc.). Deal sourcing Common public marketplaces: BizBuySell, Website Closers, etc. Ann's management team does the research, shortlists candidates that match her criteria, and later operates the business post-close. Location can be local or remote if a strong manager is in place. Buyer criteria Target: ~25% profit margin Industries with steady demand regardless of economy. Prefer businesses already running well—opportunities to add tech or optimization for increased value at resale. Always buy with an exit strategy in mind (3–5 year horizon), even if planning to hold long term. Financing approaches Revenue-based financing: Loans underwritten on the target business's financials, not the buyer's personal credit. Seller financing where possible. Partnering to share risk and split profits. Her current portfolio 4 operating businesses Purchasing 2 more now Leverages same management/funding network for all deals Practical Advice for Aspiring Acquirers: Think recession resistance: Focus on “needs” industries like home services, healthcare, essentials. Use other people's expertise: Partner with existing managers and acquisition pros—don't try to play every role. Let the numbers guide you: Profit margin, stable cash flow, and solid P&L history matter more than “charm” or trendiness. Ask “How can I?” not “Can I?” — Shifts your brain into solution-finding mode. Top 3 Takeaways: Buying beats building: Acquire something already working with cash flow and processes in place. Partnering & management = leverage: You don't need to personally operate the business to benefit from it. Funding is out there: Revenue-based and seller financing can drastically reduce or eliminate upfront out-of-pocket costs. Notable Quotes: “Instead of telling ourselves we can't, ask: How can I?” “We don't buy to give ourselves another job—we buy with management teams in place so it's hours a week, not hours a day.” “Recession-resistant means: people need it whether the economy booms or busts.” Connect with Ann Pells: Website: lifegiverlegacy.com

In this unfiltered episode of the Travis Makes Friends podcast, host Travis Chappell reunites with comedian and podcaster Zach Justice for a hilarious and heartfelt chat. They dive into Zach's decision to end his hit show Dropouts after five years, wild blind dating mishaps (including a fentanyl-fueled park interruption), navigating fame, entrepreneurship lessons from family and mentors like Alex Hormozi, and musings on life, relationships, and even starting a satirical Bible app. Packed with laughs, raw stories, and insightful advice, it's a must-listen for fans of unfiltered conversations! Watch the full episode on the Travis Makes Friends Podcast: https://youtu.be/D1LUd15OslE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Josh Molina is the co‑founder and CEO of Makers & Finders, founder of Take It Easy Roasters, and a first‑generation Colombian‑American entrepreneur who's generated over $30M in lifetime sales. With 100+ employees and multiple Las Vegas locations, Josh has built beloved food & coffee brands from scratch while also mentoring students and supporting community nonprofits. Lessons & Practical Advice for Aspiring Café Owners: Be endlessly curious. Call the planning, building, and fire departments before you sign anything — learn the build‑out hurdles and code requirements. Mind the capital needs. A proper commercial kitchen hood and grease trap can run $80–100K alone. Save aggressively and protect your credit so you can bring capital to the table. Right‑size your space. Start smaller than you think; lower costs and keep it feeling full. Start small & build presence. Consider a coffee cart/truck or popup to prove your concept and audience before a full‑scale lease. Adapt to your market. Each neighborhood has distinct customer behavior — don't assume what works in one location will in another. Top 3 Takeaways: Niche + Experience = Differentiation: Pairing underrepresented cuisine with a service model Vegas didn't have created a clear market position. Location choice is strategy, not luck: Cheap rent in an up‑and‑coming area gave room to survive the early years and grow with the neighborhood. Systems before scaling: You can add locations faster than you can add process — but you'll regret it if you do. Connect with Josh Molina: Makers & Finders: makerslv.com

Nick Fowler is a Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer turned viral marketing coach and TikTok Shop expert who's helped generate over $9.5M in sales through affiliate content. What started as a few free products and a $180 commission in his first week turned into a one‑month blowout—$350K in sales and $59K in commissions. Now Nick teaches aspiring creators how to grow, monetize, and go viral on TikTok without needing a huge following. Top 3 Takeaways: TikTok Shop is still a Blue Ocean: The platform is barely two years old, with low competition in many product categories. Volume + Hooks = Sales: Consistent posting with curiosity‑driven openers and problem‑solving demos drives clicks and conversions. Start broad, then niche: Test everything early—double down on categories where your videos convert best. Notable Quotes: “The hook at the beginning is everything—if you lose them there, nothing else matters.” “I made my yearly salary in the military in one month on TikTok.” “Pick products you can visually solve a problem with—it's easier to sell what you can show.” Connect with Nick Fowler: TikTok: @thenickfowler

Marissa Rodriguez is an e‑commerce growth expert who's helped clients generate over $100 million in online revenue. After leaving a decade‑long corporate career in fashion, she built a location‑independent business, eventually relocating to Greece in 2021. Through her company, Through Experience, she mentors entrepreneurs on building high‑revenue e‑commerce brands that support personal freedom. Top 3 Takeaways Act Entrepreneurially—Even in a Job: Find problems no one else is fixing, deliver unexpected value, and make yourself indispensable. Play the Long Game: Short‑term “step‑backs” in pay or title can massively expand your future market value if they build new capabilities. Design for Freedom: If your work is location‑agnostic, challenge assumptions about where and how you “must” live to be successful. Notable Quotes “I didn't see a ceiling in terms of earning potential—I just asked, ‘Where can I create value no one else is?'” “You can never be worse off by investing in your ability to learn and expand your capabilities.” “Sometimes you don't need the whole plan—you just need to take the next right step.” Connect with Marissa Rodriguez / Through Experience: Website & Programs: throughexperience.com

Brian Sloan is a true outsider entrepreneur—a former lawyer turned unconventional inventor and e-commerce mogul. Best known for launching the AutoBlow (the world's best-selling robotic male pleasure device), Brian has built a multi-million dollar business at the strange intersection of crowdfunding, product invention, adult e-commerce, and viral marketing. With over 20 patents and stunts covered everywhere from TechCrunch to Playboy, his story is a lesson in how creativity and opportunism can outperform more “vanilla” high-earning careers. Top 3 Takeaways Embrace Unconventional Niches: Some of the most lucrative opportunities are in spaces “polite” society ignores—if you can spot supply/demand gaps and bring professionalism, the rewards can be enormous. Learn by Doing, Iterate Relentlessly: You don't need every skill in-house. Build on existing products, use global suppliers, and aggressively learn the skills you need to move forward. If You Can't Buy Attention, Earn It: In “taboo” or restricted industries, PR stunts, viral content, and direct response marketing can build a brand when paid ads won't touch you. Notable Quotes “Everyone asked—are you sure? What if you fail? What will you fall back on? But I knew I wanted to compete on my own terms.” “It's not about being interested in the niche—it's seeing signals, buyer demand, and then figuring out how to serve it.” “I invented by necessity. If you can get people 70–80% of the way, the right partners can bring it home—and you don't need an engineering degree to do it.” Connect with Brian Sloan: Products: autoblow.com

Dr. Bob Rosen is a globally recognized psychologist, New York Times bestselling author, researcher, and sought-after advisor to CEOs and organizations. With decades spent interviewing hundreds of top leaders around the world, Bob's latest work focuses on a crucial, often overlooked success lever: learning to detach from the mental and emotional baggage that holds us back (the subject of his new book, Detach: Ditch Your Baggage to Live a More Fulfilling Life). Top 3 Takeaways Winning by Letting Go: True success isn't just about effort or ambition—it's about identifying the inner stories, fears, and attachments that keep you stuck, and learning to release them. Abundance and Imperfection are Superpowers: Happiness and agility come from embracing where you are, loving your imperfection, and taking risks—not just chasing the next goalpost. Self-Awareness is the New Competitive Edge: Every meaningful upgrade—in business, money, or life—starts when you become aware of what you're holding onto and choose to change the story. Notable Quotes “The healthiest leaders are deeply self-aware and committed to their development—it's their competitive advantage.” “Happiness comes from embracing what you have right now. Attachment to success, perfection, and stability blocks that happiness.” “Every morning you choose to live the day in love or fear. Fear locks you down; self-love and abundance open doors.” Connect with Dr. Bob Rosen: Website & Digital Learning: bobrosen.com

Delaney William is the founder of Elevated Tech, a coaching and done-for-you service that's helped 120+ professionals (from Meta, Google, Netflix, Airbnb, and more) land high-paying remote jobs—often more than one at the same time. After scaling his own income from $80K to nearly $400K/year by "job stacking," Delaney built a 7-figure business now generating $120K/month, proving you don't need to wait decades for financial freedom if you're willing to think (and work) outside the box. Top 3 Takeaways Stacking jobs is the ultimate “side hustle” for skilled professionals: If you have in-demand skills, you can often double or triple your income—without killing yourself, without building a business from scratch, simply by getting more remote jobs and “work hacking” your calendar. It's a game of volume and ROI: Success is about finding roles that care about output, not hours, and being ruthless about using tech, systems, and (if needed) inexpensive assistants to handle repetitive or low-value tasks. Discipline is key: The real path to freedom comes from keeping your lifestyle expenses in check even as your income rises—invest the surplus, don't inflate your spending. Connect with Delaney William: Website & Done-For-You Services: elevatedtech.us Instagram: @delaneywilliam_

In this preview of the Travis Makes Friends podcast, host Travis dives deep into health, longevity, and biohacking with Dr. Jeffrey Gross, a renowned neurological surgeon and regenerative medicine expert. From the truth about GLP-1 peptides and testosterone therapy to debunking cholesterol myths and exploring stem cell treatments, this conversation unpacks cutting-edge insights for optimizing your health. Tune in for practical tips and a no-nonsense take on navigating modern medicine! Catch the full episode on the Travis Makes Friends Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

JJ Kinahan is the CEO of IG North America, overseeing Tastytrade, Tastycrypto, and Tasty Live, and is a veteran of over 30 years in the financial markets. From his early days shoveling snow for neighbors in Chicago to trading options on the bustling floor of the CBOE, JJ brings real-world experience and a deep understanding of market cycles, entrepreneurship, and the shifting investing landscape. On this episode we talk about: JJ's journey from a fourth-grade snow-shoveling hustler in Chicago to CEO and respected financial educator Lessons from his immigrant family upbringing, navigating a blue-collar path to college (thanks to baseball) and seizing an unplanned opportunity that redirected his career into trading The value of saying “yes” to new experiences—especially early in your career—and why breaking into offices, showing up, and staying open are career-changing moves Why the status and stigma against the trades is fading, with skilled labor now highly respected and compensated (“plumbers charge like lawyers—as they should!”) The evolution of JJ's career: from summer clerk at the options exchange to running trading operations and eventually leading Tastytrade and Tastycrypto Tasty Live's mission of financial education: daily free live content empowering retail investors with practical, actionable trading and risk management education JJ's active investing toolbox: stocks, options, futures, forex, crypto, real estate, and small business investing, plus the importance of “tuition” (learning cheaply when you're new) Step-by-step practicals: how non-professionals can use conservative options strategies like covered calls and puts to enhance returns on stocks they already own The real way to build wealth: small habits over a long time; why “get rich quick” always ends badly, and the importance of financial discipline Why starting small, managing risk, and knowing your downside before you act are the keys to surviving—and eventually thriving—as an investor Top 3 Takeaways Seize Opportunity and Say “Yes” Early: Careers—in trading or elsewhere—are built by showing up, embracing new experiences, and being available when opportunity knocks. Discipline and Risk Management are Everything: Start small, define your worst-case scenario, and don't let emotions (or others' hype) dictate your investments. Wealth is Built Slowly, Not Speculatively: There are no shortcuts. Learn, automate good habits, and put your money to work without betting the farm. Notable Quotes “People will pay you for things they don't want to do themselves.” “If somebody cracks the door, just beat it down and keep going until somebody tells you to stop.” “If anyone's telling you there's an instant way to make money—run. There's always risk and reward.” “Financial discipline is not a game—risk not thy whole lot!” Connect with JJ Kinahan: Free financial markets education: TastyLive.com Brokerage and trading platform: Tastytrade.com

Neil Ghosh is a proven leader who has spent 30+ years launching and scaling both nonprofit and for-profit ventures—all in service of meaningful impact. With work spanning over 50 countries, Neil brings unique experience bridging humanitarian mission and entrepreneurial rigor. His journey is a testament to how passion, adaptability, and value creation fuel both personal fulfillment and real-world change. On this episode we talk about: First hustle and immigrant experience: Neil's first jobs in America were cleaning kitchens and waiting tables—not glamorous, but foundational. As a new immigrant from Calcutta, India, he learned resilience, patience, and the lesson that any work can be a platform for excellence and opportunity. Foundational life lessons: Echoing his mother's mantra, “If you're going to sweep a floor, sweep it well,” Neil developed a career-long commitment to doing the best work possible—no matter the role. Mindset principles for impact and growth: Reinvention: Always strive to become the best version of yourself, regardless of circumstance or job title. Passion as a transferable skill: Carry enthusiasm wherever you go—passion for your work attracts allies, mentors, and opportunities. Mentorship's multiplying effect: Seek mentors and be a mentor. The more you give, the more returns in unexpected ways. Empathy as a strategic advantage: Empathy is not just a “soft” skill—it's a superpower in building trust, partnerships, and team cohesion. Brand (including failure): Authenticity and a willingness to share failures build a personal brand that is relatable and trustworthy. On getting mentorship and opportunity: The best mentors look for mentees who show grit, passion, and a willingness to add value in any position. Exceptional performance, even in “menial” jobs, is what gets you noticed and sponsored. Advice for ambitious newcomers: Don't expect entitlement; own your success by excelling wherever you start. Opportunity follows attitude and effort. Nonprofit vs. for-profit for “doing good” Top 3 Takeaways Do Good Wherever You Are: “Doing good” isn't dependent on working for a nonprofit—you can create impact in any career by showing up, helping others, and standing for something meaningful. Mentorship and Passion Create Results: The combination of a mentor's insight and a mentee's work ethic unlocks opportunity and advancement at every level. Operate with Business Rigor, Even in Nonprofits: Sustainability, efficiency, and accountability are just as important in the impact sector as they are in the for-profit world.

Marc Nudelberg's journey bridges high-level athletics and entrepreneurship. Having started in the pressure-cooker of college football coaching, Marc now leads On The Ball as president, transforming it into a renowned sales and leadership coaching company. His passion: helping individuals and organizations cultivate high-performance cultures, modern business development strategies, and the “1% better every day” mindset. On this episode we talk about: First lessons in helping and performance: Even as a child, Marc instinctively motivated others to move on from past successes and focus on continuous improvement. The power of sweat equity: At Florida State, he sacrificed high-paying family business opportunities to coach football and learn through action—not expecting pay, but investing in growth and relationships. Pursuing passion over profit (at first): Rather than follow the traditional (and easier) route to money, Marc chose to chase what truly interested him—understanding that real value comes from helping others, not simply chasing sales. Navigating big career choices: Given the chance to coach after college (at the poverty line), Marc chose passion over immediate money—knowing it was a now-or-never opportunity. Ten years in coaching = real-world MBA: From the realities of being fired to the requirement of always expanding his network, Marc learned resilience, adaptability, and how to thrive in chaotic environments—lessons that seamlessly translated into business and entrepreneurship. Modern sales mastery: After leaving coaching, he spearheaded business development for ESPN's local markets, winning rookie of the year by deploying modern outbound strategies—using LinkedIn, video, and personalized outreach, not just cold calls/emails. Leadership at On The Ball: Marc and his family have reimagined the company: from marketing agency to a human development, sales, and leadership training firm devoted to building high-impact, high-performance communities. The entrepreneur's edge: True entrepreneurship is about proactively shaping your life—taking personal responsibility, leveraging your network, and turning adversity into opportunity. Marc highlights that this path is now more accessible than ever, but only works if you root what you do in real passion and purpose. **#1 skill for making moreoney today: Communication. Marc emphasizes mastering video, digital presence, and conversational skills as the highest-leverage ability for anyone looking to start, grow, or pivot a business. Step one for side-hustlers: Start talking! Whether your idea is still just an idea or you're refining a side hustle, sharing it (in person, on video, or via email) is the only way to validate opportunities and turn intention into income. Top 3 Takeaways Sweat Equity First, Money Follows: Early-stage investment in skills, network, and helping others lays the foundation for outsized future earnings. Communication Is the Ultimate Multiplier: Video, digital presence, and clear messaging are the fastest path to attention, opportunity, and sales in the modern economy. Tie Profit to Purpose: Only those who connect what they do to what motivates them—personally or professionally—will persist through adversity and build something meaningful. Connect with Marc Nudelberg: https://ontheball.co/

Mike Milan—better known as Cash Flow Mike—is a former state trooper turned serial entrepreneur who's built 14 businesses and helped generate more than $50 million in improved cash flow for clients. His “Home Run Financial System” has been taught to over 25,000 bankers, accountants, and business owners, specializing in unlocking hidden cash, controlling growth, and transforming profitability into real, usable money. On this episode we talk about: Early work ethic: Mike's first jobs included 5+ years as a dishwasher, busboy, waiter, and bartender—roles that forced him out of his comfort zone and developed world-class people skills he credits for much of his later business success. The people advantage: Why real-world, high-contact service jobs (sales, restaurants, bar tending, etc.) build skills and confidence that pay dividends for a lifetime—arguably more than most college classes. Career pivots, family, and mindset: Mike became a Texas state trooper after college, enjoying the physical challenge and structure. But with a rapidly growing family (four daughters!), he soon realized that even a "secure" government job—with mapped-out raises and guaranteed pensions—was never going to match their expenses or aspirations. The leap to entrepreneurship: Despite "golden handcuffs" and the risk of leaving behind a salary, benefits, and security, Mike left his state position at age 29. He candidly discusses the fear, sacrifice, and tradeoffs required—but also the freedom and upside that followed. How he did it: Mike's transition to business owner started with a janitorial company (using military and law enforcement skills for discipline and attention to detail). When a client asked him to help recruit reliable workers, he identified a more leveraged model—staffing and placement for hotels—which allowed him to scale without personally doing all the cleaning. The cash flow difference: Mike explains the practicalities of launching a business as a parent—leaning on savings, maxing out credit cards, and maintaining razor-sharp focus. He underscores how true cash flow (not just accounting profit) lets businesses—and families—survive and thrive. Actionable advice: It is never "too late" to start over. The stories of Dave Thomas (Wendy's) and Colonel Sanders are reminders that the entrepreneurial window is always open if you're willing to take the risk, sacrifice, and learn new skills. The Home Run Financial System: Mike's system transforms intimidating financials into step-by-step strategies for real-world business owners—because profit doesn't pay the bills, cash does. Family, finances, and risk: For listeners with mouths to feed and bills to pay, Mike unpacks how he navigated saving, borrowing, and mitigating risk—acknowledging that while it's never easy, the upside is worth it. Top 3 Takeaways Soft Skills Unlock Hard Money: Jobs that force you to interact with thousands of people (restaurant, sales, service) prepare you for entrepreneurship better than any textbook. You Can't Cut Your Way to Wealth: There's a limit to how much you can save—at some point you must focus on income expansion, risk, and leveraging opportunity. There's No Perfect Moment, Only a Leap: Whether you're 29 (like Mike), 49, or 59, the decision to leave "security" for self-employment is always hard—but it's often the right move, even with a family and established life. Connect with Mike Milan: https://cashflowmike.com/

Darin Roberge is a veteran executive, analyst, and thought leader in the collector and classic car scene. As president of Motor Works Marketing, publisher of the Z 260 newsletter series, and current caretaker of Arizona Car Week, Darin has helped shape the future of America's most iconic car events while championing nonprofit causes and classic car culture. On this episode we talk about: Early hustle lessons: From picking up dog poop at a humane society to refereeing youth basketball, Darin learned early the value of doing work you genuinely care about—and how passion can shape a career. Pursuing what you love: Darin's entire professional life has revolved around his core interests—animals, guitars, cars, and motorcycles. He describes his path not as accidental, but as a blend of deliberate choices and seizing “right place, right time” opportunities. Unusual entry to the car business: After attending car auctions for years, a fateful incident (his girlfriend slipping and falling on a car at an event) led to a backstage introduction to the CEO of Russo and Steele. Within months, Darin went from punk rock frontman and nightclub promotions to a leadership role at one of the industry's major auction houses. Reinvention and loss: The sudden career shift wasn't easy—Darin lost friendships and faced accusations of “selling out.” He discusses the emotional fallout, what it means to outgrow old circles, and why ultimately you're the only one responsible for making decisions that serve your future self. Mindset and skill-building: Darin credits humility, a willingness to learn, and constantly offering value as his keys to success, both in the boardroom and as a leader in car culture. Leveling up in the industry: Now as the head of Arizona Car Week, Darin has tripled the size of the event, rallying the local community to create a car show that includes 30+ events—many of them free—making the culture accessible to everyone, not just millionaire collectors. Community impact: Arizona Car Week is a $300M economic engine for the region, supporting jobs, tourism, schools, and local infrastructure. Nonprofit innovation: Darin's newest ventures—Motor Works Gives and Classic Cars for Nonprofits—offer zero-cost, low-lift fundraising programs to help organizations monetize car donations and auction opportunities, raising over $25M for more than 40 organizations since 2018. Key advice: Life is long, and you're never “locked in.” If you're facing a major (possibly terrifying) change, be tough, stay open, seek positive outside passions (like boxing or music), and surround yourself with people who help you evolve. Top 3 Takeaways Don't Wait for Permission—Make Your Own Luck: Sometimes radical life changes—no matter how uncomfortable—open doors to once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. Community and Flexibility Matter: Listening to your audience, staying humble, and being willing to adapt are essential for building lasting business and personal impact. Work That Means Something—To You and Others: Forget “get rich quick.” If you stay engaged with work you care about and strive to help your community, profit and fulfillment follow. Connect with Darin Roberge: https://www.instagram.com/darinmotorwerks/?hl=en https://motorwerksmarketing.com/darinroberge/

Eli Rubel is a serial entrepreneur, best known as the "Agency Profitability Guy." Since 2020, his portfolio of agencies has produced over $9.8M in profits—all while maintaining part-time hours and full-time freedom. In this episode, Eli breaks down exactly how anyone can build (or scale) a service business—plus what it takes to turn it into a lifestyle asset that runs without you. On this episode we talk about: Eli's entrepreneurial roots: setting up a photo studio in his parents' garage, learning the lessons of low-wage jobs (room service at an hourly motel), and how early initiative shaped his career vision Starting and scaling agencies: from his first agency, Matter Made (a B2B performance marketing shop), to No Boring Design (brand/design for SaaS companies), and Profit Labs (helping agency owners boost profit margins) Why agency services are the ideal scalable side hustle: you can start solo as a freelancer, ramp up to replace (or surpass) your day-job income, and ultimately build a seven-figure company with qualified operators The proven roadmap for new agency founders: identify in-demand services (paid media, design, marketing automation, sales support, cold email, etc.), connect with industry experts, and model the playbook on what works—no need to reinvent the wheel Eli's personal story: pivoting from CEO of VC-backed startups and e-commerce turnarounds to building cash-generating, low-stress agencies that let him spend more time with family ("the tricycle life") The playbook: how Eli went from $0 to $40,000/month in personal net income within three months by leveraging his network, hiring great operators, and focusing on what he does best—relationships, vision, and assembling world-class teams The agency profit formula: stop doing the technical work yourself, hire/partner with people you trust, and empower them to do what you can't (or won't) Why AI is about to disrupt agencies—why you should “make hay while there's hay to be made,” but prepare for a new wave where niche expertise and AI/automation consulting become the next big opportunities How AI agencies (helping local businesses implement and automate with tools like HighLevel) could be the new “social media agency” gold rush for ambitious, young, or tech-savvy entrepreneurs Eli's advice: focus first on what's proven to bring in revenue, then use your earnings and freedom to pursue higher-purpose projects or passion businesses down the road Top 3 Takeaways Agencies Offer Scalable, Flexible Income: Proven models like paid media, design, and marketing are easy to start and scale—no reinvention needed, just execution and networking. Play to Your Unique Strengths: Don't force yourself to do what you hate—partner with those who are better at the technical work, and focus on your unique edge (relationships, vision, operations, deal-making). AI is the Next Massive Opportunity: Traditional agencies will be squeezed by AI, but that creates demand for those who can help small businesses adopt, automate, and run leaner-than-ever operations. Notable Quotes “Within three months we'd already surpassed my goal—$40,000 a month net income—and by three years, we'd produced $7M in profit.” “I have never deployed a single client dollar or been inside of a client's ad account since 2020. My superpower is assembling great people and letting them win.” “Soon, AI will put 80% of agency businesses out of business. But if you get great at implementing it for specific niches today, there are millions to be made.” Connect with Eli Rubel: Website: https://www.elirubel.com/

Steven Perry's story is one of grit, reinvention, and making the leap—from commercial fishing in Alaska at 14, to making nearly $1M/year running Fortune 100 teams, then burning the boats to launch his own recruiting firm. As founder of The Well Recruiting Solutions, he now builds revenue-generating teams for advisory firms, aiming to empower 1,000+ clients by 2030. On this episode we talk about: Early hustle: commercial fishing in Alaska, learning at 14 the difference between working for a check and owning the business His first true entrepreneurial venture—sealing driveways, scaling a six-figure business by the end of college, and the lesson he learned when he simply shut it down instead of selling it Why Steven ultimately turned down a prestigious ROTC scholarship and a Navy career path to pursue entrepreneurship and finance His entry into financial services, starting as an intern at New York Life, becoming a top-producing advisor, and why being surrounded by high performers forced him to level up Lessons from sales and financial advising—mastering rejection, discipline, and the numbers game ("Whoever's willing to be told 'no' the most wins fastest") How being in the right environment and seeing other people succeed reframed what's possible, pushing him to greater heights Reaching financial milestones by 30—making $500K/yr, giving away and saving large percentages, but discovering money alone doesn't bring fulfillment or lasting happiness The personal finance strategy that enabled freedom: maximizing cash value life insurance and variable universal life for tax-free, flexible, and compound growth (plus why he prefers guaranteed accounts over variable for business owners) Navigating the transition out of a lucrative corporate job: searching for purpose, listening to intuition, and eventually being "pushed" into launching his own firm after a job opportunity disappeared How The Well Recruiting Solutions emerged from listening, networking, and recognizing a deep need for white-glove recruiting in wealth management; now scaled to nearly 30 employees with a future goal of $1B in revenue The difference between grinding for someone else and building for yourself—now hiring for his strengths and delegating everything else for maximum impact and fulfillment Top 3 Takeaways Ownership > High Salary: Building long-term wealth and fulfillment comes from owning and growing businesses, not just earning a high paycheck. Skill Stacks Compound: Every job, network, and hard moment (from fishing boats to insurance sales) built the resilience and expertise needed for entrepreneurial success. Freedom is Designed: Smart moves—like flexible, tax-efficient investments—enable you to take risks, start over, and say yes to your true calling without fear. Notable Quotes “I looked up and had a great income, but I didn't own anything. The day I left was the day there was no more equity, no more income.” “Whoever's willing to be embarrassed, to be told no, the most—wins the fastest.” “If you operate in your gifting all day, you'll be more profitable and productive. Now, if I don't want to do something, I can hire someone who does it better and faster.” Connect with Steven Perry: Recruiting for advisory/financial services: The Well Recruiting Solutions https://thewell.solutions/

Larry Puckett is a world-renowned venture capitalist and entrepreneur who's grown businesses from humble beginnings to multi-million dollar companies in finance, technology, distribution, and now all-natural supplements. Despite starting with very little, Larry's career arc is one of persistence, reinvention, and finding repeatable success—especially when life (and business) go sideways. On this episode we talk about: Growing up with hardworking parents, learning about scarcity, and developing a relentless work ethic cutting lawns and hustling for every dollar Learning (by necessity) that hard work doesn't always equal good money—and why working harder for someone else isn't the long-term answer Early entrepreneurial setbacks: pouring money into a golf apparel company without building an audience, failing fast, and picking up critical lessons for the next time The first real business win: starting an industrial lighting company that grew by focusing on client relationships and solving a basic, boring problem better than competitors Missing the “obvious”—the lesson in seeing (or overlooking) the next big vertical when you're too close to your own business Making the leap (twice) from a steady, high-paying job to bet it all on a vision: burning the bridges, sacrificing luxuries, selling personal items, and even delivering groceries to keep the dream alive The challenge and opportunity of entrepreneurship at 50+—why it's never too late to dream bigger or set a new example for your kids (and grandkids) Evolving from MLM to corporate roles, then to launching Theon Global—a debt-free, e-commerce supplement brand that went profitable in its first three days entirely through organic, audience-first marketing Mistakes in business partnerships, trusting too fast, and learning that doing it yourself (with the right people) is often best The importance of a mission-driven business: helping people live healthier lives with all-natural, all-organic alternatives Top 3 Takeaways You're Never “Too Late”: Larry relaunched at age 50+—after big wins and major losses—proving age and circumstance are rarely the true barriers to entrepreneurship. Boring Businesses Can Bring Big Wins: Success doesn't require inventing the next “hot” thing; doing the basics better than anyone else is a winning formula. Risk is Required—But Stack the Deck: Burn the bridges if you must, but minimize regret by preparing financially, learning from every setback, and building around proven audiences. Notable Quotes “We just stopped cold turkey...but about nine months in, it went from a lot of money to nothing. That's when we decided: there's no going back. We're burning the bridge and selling everything.” “You only lose if you quit. And the regret of not doing it will always outweigh the risk of trying.” “Business is about fundamentals: solve real problems, build audiences, create something people need—then serve your customers and your team really, really well.” Connect with Larry Puckett: Website & Products: theonglobal.com

Roger Martin is a seasoned executive, entrepreneur, and co-founder of two national franchise brands—RockBox Fitness and Beam Light Sauna. Over 30 years, he's built a reputation as a sales and marketing leader, C-level operator, and franchise innovator. Now CEO of RockBox, Roger's latest venture is Thrive More Autopilot, which helps brick-and-mortar businesses generate leads, nurture prospects, and convert more strangers into paying customers. On this episode we talk about: Roger's early lessons from his first job at Skippers Fish & Chips and why seeing a scarcity mindset sparked his commitment to continual self-development The evolution from a business/marketing degree to pharmaceutical sales, climbing the ranks in corporate America and eventually shifting to entrepreneurship after losing the “joy in the work” What it's really like to go from corporate security to launching your own business—risks, loss of perks, and why fulfillment often trumps traditional success The founding stories behind RockBox Fitness and Beam Light Sauna: blending fitness, music, and fun to create unique community-focused experiences and franchising them nationally How lessons from music, martial arts, and management shaped Roger's business philosophies What he learned through failure—why losing in business teaches you exponentially more than success, and why you have to keep swinging for the grand slam The importance of paying experts to accelerate your learning curve (and why you should always hire people who have already achieved what you want) The “aha” moment driving Thrive More Autopilot: most fitness/wellness businesses stumble not on lead generation, but on actually getting leads through the door, nurturing them, and converting them to customers Strategies for effective lead gen and sales for brick-and-mortar (and why “working your local network” and in-person community trumps all for many concepts) How Thrive More Autopilot blends AI, automation, and real human follow-up to help small/medium businesses actually monetize their pipeline, plus mindsets and methods for non-salesy sales success Top 3 Takeaways Find—or Build—Work That Gives You Purpose: Corporate success without fulfillment will fizzle; pursue what lights you up, even if it's a risk. Real Growth Means Paying (and Learning) for Speed: Hiring legitimate experts—those who have done what you want—can shortcut years of trial and error. Persistence Outweighs Failure: You'll still lose plenty, but business only requires one “grand slam” to change your life. Stick with it, keep learning, and never quit. Notable Quotes “You always assume the grass is greener… If you don't have joy in the work, go find something else to do.” “You only lose if you quit. If you don't quit, you can't lose.” “You learn nothing by winning—every lesson comes from when you fall on your face.” Connect with Roger Martin: Website: thrivemore.ai Franchise: rockboxfitness.com

Andrew Reichert is the CEO and founder of Birgo Capital, a Pittsburgh-based private equity real estate firm with $330M+ in assets under management and 3,600+ multifamily units. Having raised over $125M from investors, he oversees a team of 100+, is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and podcast host. Andrew embodies the first-generation entrepreneur scaling from small “no money down” deals to leading nine-figure institutional real estate investments. On this episode we talk about: Andrew's beginnings: working restaurant jobs in high school, reading Rich Dad Poor Dad, and buying his first duplex straight out of college—with literally no money, no experience, and no credit Creative real estate deals before the Great Financial Crisis: stacking first and second mortgages for $20K in cash at closing, and holding through 2008 due to conservative numbers Growing from “house hacking” to 20 units while working at PNC Bank—then going all in on real estate entrepreneurship The start of Birgo Capital: launching the first $10M fund (ultimately oversubscribed at $17M) by innovating deal structure and aligning incentives with investors How he raised capital early: putting his own money in every deal, personally guaranteeing debt, and refusing management fees so all profit came from performance and carried interest Evolving capital structures as the company grew, with bigger investors seeking more traditional private equity fee models The “alignment of incentives” philosophy: why reputation, stewardship, and risk-sharing drive trust and investor confidence Mindset: expecting big outcomes, focusing on stewardship, and building toward $1B in assets under management Advice for new investors—how the right deal structure, total transparency, and performance alignment become powerful capital-raising tools Top 3 Takeaways Alignment of Incentives Raises Capital: Early success in raising millions comes from putting your own money on the line, personally guaranteeing loans, and only getting paid after your investors get paid—a structure that's impossible to say no to. From Small Deals to Big Funds: Anyone can start with “no money down”—but scaling to “big money raised” requires obsession with stewardship, track record, and structuring win-win deals for both small and large investors. Growth Is a Mindset: Expecting and planning for outsize results is key—set big goals, focus on serving your people and your capital, and build with humility and discipline. Notable Quotes “Our first deal? No money, no experience, no credit—but I walked away from closing with a $20,000 check.” “We wouldn't make a dime unless the investment performed. Investors got paid first, then we participated in the upside. It made the decision a no-brainer for backers.” “Larger investors want the fees and structure they're used to. But trust still comes down to alignment and stewardship.” “I always expected this to get big—our goal is $1B by 2030. For me, it's about serving more investors and stewarding more assets.” Connect with Andrew Reichert: Company: Birgo Capital (birgo.com)

John Joseph is one of Las Vegas's top real estate sales executives and instructors, renowned for his leadership, productivity, and high standards. As a former branch manager, he led his office to the nation's #1 spot and, as a vice president, inspired over 2,000 agents to reach their potential. Now an author, John's new book, 365 Days of Real Estate Wisdom, delivers actionable strategies for both new and seasoned agents. With decades in the field, John brings hard-won insights into sales, discipline, and professional growth. On this episode we talk about: John's path from the corporate world to real estate and how a “golden parachute” pushed him into a career based on effort and results The challenges and opportunities facing real estate agents today, including market disruptions and commission changes How professionalism and consistent service bridge the gap between agents and consumers in a fragmented industry What separates the top 5% of agents from the rest—and why consistency and mindset trump raw talent The numbers game: how sales, discipline, and relentless lead generation create outsized results The importance of coaching, systemization, and following a proven process for new agents Overcoming distractions in the modern sales world and focusing on high-leverage activities The story behind 365 Days of Real Estate Wisdom—how John's daily mindset messages helped take a team from 180th to #1 in the nation Top 3 Takeaways Discipline Drives Success: Consistent daily actions—like contacting new leads and aggressive follow-up—are far more important than luck or natural talent. Sales is a Mindset Game: 90% of sales success comes from attitude, discipline, and the willingness to keep going, especially when it's hard. Professionalism Bridges the Gap: In a fragmented industry, the agents who treat their work as a business earn more trust, more clients, and ultimately more money. Notable Quotes “In real estate, you get paid commensurate to your effort. Consistency—showing up every day—is what makes the difference.” “Sales is 90% mindset, 5% skills, and 5% dumb luck.” “If you can generate just one lead a day, that's five a week—and real financial freedom is within reach, no matter your starting point.” Connect with John Joseph: Website: iSuccessTraining.com

Sean Tepper is the founder and CEO of Tikr, a software platform empowering everyday people to confidently invest in individual stocks. Before launching Tikr,, Sean mastered a system for generating consistent 15–50% annual returns in the stock market—with some years surpassing 100%. Today, Tikr, serves over 12,000 customers in more than 50 countries, combining technology, smart design, and a value investor's discipline to help regular investors outperform the S&P. On this episode we talk about: Sean's journey from picking strawberries and playing real-time strategy games to building a career in marketing, starting an agency, and investing in stocks The limitations of traditional education for creative and entrepreneurial thinkers—and how gaming taught Sean more about real-world strategy and multiple income streams than school ever could How Sean transitioned from agency work to investing, then eventually built his own SaaS business without raising outside capital The step-by-step process that took him from Excel spreadsheet to global SaaS platform, all while bootstrapping and keeping expenses lean Why businesses (especially SaaS) are more scalable than real estate, and how stock investing in carefully chosen companies can outpace buy-and-hold real estate strategies Sean's approach to value investing, using Tikr, to find and monitor 10–15 high-potential stocks at a time, and switching to index funds for wealth preservation closer to retirement The critical importance of confidence and education for first-time investors—and why most people lose money trading instead of investing How Tikr, works (and doesn't touch your money), using its own green–yellow–red rating system and push notifications to signal when to buy or sell Top 3 Takeaways Start Where You Are, Then Leverage Up: Build skills and income with what you have—then invest in scalable businesses or stocks to create real wealth. Invest, Don't Trade: 99% of traders lose money; all billionaire stock-market fortunes are built through long-term investing, not day trading. Confidence Beats Complexity: Knowledge, a clear process, and the right tools (like TKR) empower anyone—even beginners—to make smart investment decisions and outperform the averages. Notable Quotes “Video games actually taught me more about the real world and how to win at money than school ever did.” “Businesses—and especially the right SaaS business—will scale astronomically higher than real estate.” “The home run is people buying their first stock confidently. That is worth its weight in gold.” Connect with Sean Tepper: • • Website & App: ⁠https://www.tikr.com/⁠ (search for TKR on iOS, Android, or web)

Yousef Benhamida is an American inventor, entrepreneur, and investor who built a multi-million dollar business, Humboldt's Secret Supplies, from his apartment without a degree or external investors. After losing everything, Yousef rebuilt himself through a disciplined mindset and masculine self-leadership. He now dedicates himself to helping men overcome common challenges such as breakups, burnout, and self-doubt with a no-nonsense approach to growth, fitness, life, and business. His book, $1 Million Hot Girls in a Ferrari, shares raw truths about success and attraction. On this episode we talk about: Yousef's first entrepreneurial activities starting in middle school, including buying and selling items on eBay from a young age How early hustles and lessons shaped his entrepreneurial mindset despite coming from a family with limited financial means The brutal realities of entrepreneurship: long years of struggle, dealing with difficult people, and the persistence needed to succeed Developing resilience, pain tolerance, and a mindset that embraces risk and uncertainty as keys to long-term success Insights from The Hard Thing About Hard Things and how sharing the entrepreneurial struggle helped Yousef keep going The mission and evolution of Humboldt's Secret Supplies: creating and manufacturing efficient products for the agriculture space and other industries The value of relationships and competence over appearances in building trust with high-level business partners Yousef's philosophy on managing money: continuously reinvesting, staying hungry, and avoiding complacency Practical advice for those looking to go from a stable salary to entrepreneurship, emphasizing hard work, saving, and creating scalable businesses The importance of investing time and effort to build your own brand and business Fun rapid-fire insights including his love of tennis, admiration for his late father, and preferred methods of consuming information Top 3 Takeaways Resilience is Essential: Success requires enduring setbacks, maintaining pain tolerance, and staying willing to push through uncertainty and failure. Competence Builds Trust: Real competence and knowledge will always open doors and command respect far more than superficial status symbols. Reinvest to Grow: Continuous reinvestment of earned income fuels growth, sustaining hunger and momentum needed to build wealth. Notable Quotes “Entrepreneurship starts with looking up at the ceiling late at night, trying to figure things out because you can't sleep.” “The struggle is guaranteed, but success is not.” “If you're not constantly broke, you lose a little bit of that hunger.” “Money only solves your money problems, but it's easier to solve the rest of your problems if you got some money in the bank.” Connect with Yousef Benhamida: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yousefbenhamida/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/ONE-MILLION-DOLLARS-GIRLS-FERRARI/dp/B0DBFXRBT7

Walli Miller is a first-generation millionaire, financial coach, and early retiree who left her 9-to-5 before age 40. After a career in public service, Walli reached financial independence and now helps high-achieving, primarily first-generation women build wealth, create financial freedom, and design a life they love. Through her private coaching business, Walli empowers others to rewrite their money stories and achieve what once felt impossible. On this episode we talk about: Walli's first job in New York City through the Summer Youth Program and what it taught her about work and money Her transition from public service to financial independence, reaching millionaire status, and retiring early—all on a government salary The generational impact of money mindsets, and why credit, wealth, and financial habits are “hereditary” The “aha!” moment that changed Walli's relationship with money and launched her journey to wealth How she used tax-advantaged accounts, intentional saving, and mindset shifts to build seven figures in her stock portfolio The importance of automating savings, increasing investments gradually, and eliminating mindless spending The difference between math and mindset: why 80% of financial success is mental and emotional Her path from unpaid coaching to a thriving coaching business—helping others, especially women and people of color, break cycles and become work-optional The FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement, and what it looks like to be “work optional” Top 3 Takeaways Financial independence is possible without a massive salary—strategic saving, investing, and automation can build real wealth. Money stories and mindsets inherited from childhood play a huge role in our financial behaviors; changing the narrative is key to breaking cycles. Achieving “work optional” status isn't about deprivation—it's about intentionality, paying your future self first, and living aligned with your values. Notable Quotes “I thought wealth was for somebody in a velvet robe, not for federal employees earning $100,000.” “I realized after years of coaching that about 15% is numbers and 85% is mindset and relationships.” “Paying your future self first—before you spend on anything else—is the most powerful habit for building freedom.” Connect with Walli Miller: Website: financiallythriving.com https://www.instagram.com/financially_thriving/?hl=en

Dr. Erin Nance is a board-certified surgeon, multimedia powerhouse, and serial entrepreneur working at the evolving intersection of medicine, media, and technology. Running a thriving hand surgery private practice in New York City, she's also the founder of Fuel Better Health (the first health-focused social media platform), host of The Medical Detectives podcast (top 0.5% globally), and a top 1% TikTok creator. With a six-figure book deal and television projects in development, Dr. Nance is reshaping how trusted health information is shared and accessed—while challenging the status quo for doctors, patients, and entrepreneurs alike. On this episode we talk about: Dr. Nance's path from family of doctors to launching a solo hand surgery practice in New York City when her initial job offer was rescinded The surprising decline of entrepreneurial doctors: from most physicians owning their practice to 70% now being hospital or private-equity employed The hurdles of starting a practice as a new surgeon—upfront costs, lack of business loans, long payment cycles, and the reality of malpractice insurance Why so few doctors choose entrepreneurship today, and the cost-prohibitive system facing new graduates with high student debt The shift in healthcare economics—the managed care trade-off, insurance company dominance, and a 30%+ drop in physician reimbursements in 25 years How out-of-network and direct-pay models put ownership and care control back in the hands of doctors (and patients), and what it takes to build a brand patients will come to on their own The persistent crisis of medical access, transparency, and patient navigation in the insurance/healthcare system Dr. Nance's drive to create platforms (like Fuel Better Health) and high-impact media to combat health misinformation and connect patients with credible resources and each other Her viral content journey—why millions of people seek out authentic, expert medical stories online, and the urgent threat of unvetted health advice Top 3 Takeaways Entrepreneurship in Medicine is Scarce—but Needed: The modern healthcare landscape makes it nearly impossible for most young doctors to start their own practice, but those who do gain freedom, direct patient impact, and unique influence. Insurance Has Severely Undermined Physician Autonomy: Managed care and fee setting mean less pay for physicians, rushed care for patients, and increasingly complex financial/conflict barriers for all. Credible Health Content & Communities are Critical: The future of health information is expert-driven digital platforms—empowering patients with trustworthy resources and community, not algorithmic misinformation. Notable Quotes “I was only one out of 750 orthopedic surgeons to start their own practice straight out of fellowship.” “Now, 70% of all physicians are employed by either a hospital system or a private equity group.” “For physicians over the past 25 years, reimbursement for the same procedure has decreased by 30%.” “Medical misinformation is probably the most dangerous public health threat we're facing as a society.” Connect with Dr. Erin Nance: TikTok: @littlemisdiagnosed Practice: NanceMD.com

James Turk is an executive coach, keynote speaker, and CEO of The Turk Group—a boutique learning and development firm with over 25 years of experience. James designs and delivers leadership, sales, change management, and strategic planning programs for some of the world's biggest brands, including Spotify, Squarespace, Goldman Sachs, and Equinox. His approach blends a strong foundation in service, life-long learning, and real-world business experience to help leaders become the kind of people others truly want to follow. On this episode we talk about: How James made his first dollar (and learned his first ethical lesson!) selling his sister's belongings—and then launched a legitimate lawn care business as a teenager The value of learning to hustle early, earning the “extras” in life through work and responsibility The importance of thoughtful spending—knowing when to invest and when to enjoy spending for its own sake Why James self-published his book, The Giving Game: Becoming the Leader That Others Want to Follow, and the lessons learned creating a quality product How being of service and adding value shaped his coaching and leadership development philosophy The unique art-meets-business history that shaped James' style, from running a Chicago gallery to acting and performance His advice to parents and entrepreneurs about instilling hustle, grit, and sound financial values Building a referral-based business with high-profile clients and why relationships and service are more powerful than marketing budgets The power of events, comped workshops, and "connector" strategy to maintain long-term business relationships How B2C and B2B strategies can reinforce each other, and why giving to your network always pays dividends over time James' book and free resources for new leaders navigating their first 45 days Top 3 Takeaways Service Drives Success: Approach business and leadership as a “giving game,” not just a guessing game—when you focus on adding value, relationships and opportunities follow. Relationships > Marketing: Doing high-quality work and maintaining great relationships opens doors (and doors within doors). Consistently show up, serve, and keep your word. Be a Connector, Build Community: Hosting events, sharing knowledge, and connecting others multiplies your value and helps you stay top of mind in your network. Notable Quotes “The show is about making more money, but it's also about building real relationships and adding value—that's the real long game.” “Make yourself easy to work with, keep your quality high, and focus on service; good things will follow.” “Every interaction is an opportunity to build your network and your reputation as someone who gives, not just takes.” Connect with James Turk: Website: theturkgroup.com

Stephen Scoggins is a serial entrepreneur, author, coach, and host of the Build podcast. Having once started his business while sleeping in his car, Stephen built his construction company from the ground up and successfully exited in late 2023, selling at just under nine figures. Now, he invests in other entrepreneurs, mentors high-performing founders, and speaks across stages nationwide, sharing practical wisdom on scaling, exits, and personal transformation. On this episode we talk about: How Stephen went from homelessness to building and selling a near nine-figure company The lessons learned from exiting a business: why you should always build as if you plan to sell—even if you never do What buyers really want: systems, predictable cash flow, culture, and efficient operations The importance of restructuring, optimizing, and “going back through with a fine-tooth comb” before an exit Stephen's new focus on family office investing, real estate, equity stakes, and founder mentorship Why a year-long entrepreneur “test period” is Stephen's preferred way to find investible founders The five hidden enemies of entrepreneurs—impatience, arrogance, ignorance, fear, and insecurity—and how conquering them changes the game How to discern between arrogance and confidence, and how confidence comes from consistency, not credentials Tips on hiring for executive roles, including how to vet candidates even if they're smarter or more credentialed than you The value of coaching and mentorship at every stage—even after an exit Practical steps for employees and early-stage entrepreneurs to identify their superpowers, solve real problems, and launch a business with little capital Top 3 Takeaways Build to Sell, Even If You Don't: Always design your business with predictable systems, clear financials, and a scalable team—whether or not you ever plan to exit. Self-Awareness is the Real Secret: The most dangerous enemies in business are internal—impatience, fear, arrogance, ignorance, and insecurity. Master yourself to master your business. Mentorship Multiplies Success and Saves Pain: Investing in coaches and mentors is the cheapest and most powerful way to accelerate growth and avoid costly mistakes. Notable Quotes “If you'll focus on building as if you're going to sell, you'll end up with the kind of company buyers—and you—actually want.” “Arrogance is self-seeking. Humble confidence comes from serving others and showing up with consistency.” “Most of my painful lessons, including losing over a million dollars to embezzlement, could have been avoided by listening to my mentors sooner.” Connect with Stephen Scoggins: Website: stephenscoggins.com

Kirsten Graham is a virtual assistant (VA) and outsourcing expert who helps business owners reclaim their time, boost productivity, and scale smart—primarily through leveraging overseas talent. With a background in real estate, mortgages, and entrepreneurship, Kirsten is passionate about teaching entrepreneurs and professionals how to delegate low-value tasks, streamline their operations, and focus on high-impact activities. As co-founder of Six Figure Business Coaching, she helps her clients move from invisibility to visibility through video marketing, podcast guesting, and skilled virtual support. On this episode we talk about: Kirsten's first dollar earned through babysitting and her early journey into entrepreneurship Moving from real estate and mortgage to running a business that connects clients with remote talent worldwide Why hiring VAs for $6–$8 an hour can transform a business's profitability and owner's freedom The importance of hiring for very specific tasks rather than seeking a “unicorn” VA who does everything How treating remote team members with respect, paid time off, and long-term opportunities leads to retention and success The step-by-step model her company uses: interviewing, hiring, vetting, and training VAs for real estate, coaches, and service businesses Business models in the VA/outsource space: agency-style vs. direct-hire, margin differences, scalability, and how to choose a right-fit path The power of niching down (e.g., offering HighLevel-trained VAs or bookkeeping-specific VAs) and how to grow from a narrow offer Integrating AI: how today's VAs must be AI-fluent and how business owners can multiply efficiency by combining VAs and automation Why “boring” service businesses—like bookkeeping, HVAC, plumbing—are among the most reliable, profitable, and least likely to be automated by AI Buying, not just starting, a business: opportunities in acquiring already-running companies and upgrading them through outsourcing and systems Top 3 Takeaways Outsource for Freedom and Profit: Move all $6–$8/hour tasks off your plate; focus on what grows your business, not what just keeps it running. Niche, Train, and Systematize: Specialize your offer (e.g., marketing VAs, bookkeeping VAs, software-specific VAs) and use robust SOPs and ongoing training for client satisfaction and scale. Combine Talent, AI, and Acquisition: The biggest wins come from integrating skilled remote talent with AI-powered automations—whether you're starting from scratch or buying a business to modernize. Notable Quotes “If you're doing a $6 an hour task, you're doing it wrong. You should have someone else doing those tasks for you.” “It's easier to hire someone and keep them for years than to constantly replace people. Treat your VAs well—they're your team.” “Boring, unsexy businesses—like HVAC, bookkeeping, auto repair—are not going to be replaced by AI anytime soon, but they're always going to be profitable and needed.” Connect with Kirsten Graham: Website: sixfigurebusinesscoaching.com

Gilad Uziely is the co-founder and CEO of Sequence, the all-in-one money OS automating cash flow for small businesses and consumers. Launched in 2024, Sequence has already moved over $750 million, hit 1.5 million in ARR, grown 600% YOY, and raised $15 million from top VCs. Gilad is a serial fintech builder with deep experience in launching data-driven tech companies, and now helps thousands master their money through smart automation. Based in Tel Aviv, Gilad's entrepreneurial journey is a testament to grit, risk-taking, and building tools that truly empower others. On this episode we talk about: Gilad's first business: the classic lemonade stand outside his childhood home in Israel The rise of Tel Aviv's tech scene and why it's become a global startup powerhouse Fundraising in Israel's VC-rich environment and the challenge of selling new ideas to investors Lessons learned from earlier ventures—including raising capital for boutique hotels in Italy and navigating the risks of unconventional startups The importance of choosing the right venture partners, understanding cap tables, and protecting yourself as a founder Sequence's core mission: Making it effortless to automate your cash flow, savings, investing, and financial goals with customizable rules and smart triggers How to build intentional financial habits, protect your downside, and use automation to free up mental energy The psychology of money: why separating funds, paying your future self first, and “working like you're broke” are game-changing Sequence users' creative approaches to saving—whether for starting a business, IVF, travel, or building a true safety net Advice for entrepreneurs: balancing business growth with personal finance, risk tolerance, and taking deliberate steps toward freedom Top 3 Takeaways Automate to Win: Setting up simple, intentional automation for your money removes human error, builds better habits, and gives you the peace of mind needed to take bigger risks and grow your business. Intentional Planning Beats Random Spending: Building financial “maps” (like saving automatically for trips, investments, or your next business) ensures you live life now while planning for the future. Connect, Ask, and Learn: Don't wait for perfection—reach out to experienced founders for help with cap tables or decisions, and always dig your well before you're thirsty (network before you need it). Notable Quotes “Automation can really change the trajectory of your life. We think of Sequence as a fitness app that goes to the gym for you.” “Be intentional. Even if your plan is simple, it's 90% of the work—just start, automate it, and tweak as you go.” “If you don't give your money a job, it'll find a job somewhere else for you.” Connect with Gilad Uziely & Sequence: Website: use.getsequence.io/travischappell Discount code: TRAVIS25 Email: gilad@getsequence.io (offering free support for founders and those struggling with cap table issues)

Dr. Dominic Iacovone is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and founder of Relive Health—a nationwide network of health and wellness clinics started in 2017. With a passion for improving quality of life, Dominic has scaled Relive Health from a single location to over 26 open clinics (and 400 locations sold), offering services tailored to each individual's health needs. As a husband and father, his mission is to empower people to live well, not just get by, using a comprehensive approach to health that includes bloodwork, hormone optimization, medical weight loss, IV and ozone therapy, and much more. On this episode we talk about: Dominic's entrepreneurial story, from high school candy sales and pressure washing to building multiple 7- and 8-figure health businesses The personal loss that drew him to holistic health, and his education in molecular biology and chiropractic care Launching Relive Health before health “biohacking” was mainstream, and navigating skepticism The power of video and social media in building a local clinic into a nationally recognized brand Running lean early, but learning to delegate and invest for scale—transitioning from owner-operator to franchisor Franchise economics: location sizes, profit margins, required medical staff, and the in-depth education Relive Health provides Streamlining real estate selection using data on ideal clientele (income, lifestyle, spend) and neighborhood analysis tools Lifetime value and clinical impact: why hormone optimization is their most valuable (and life-changing) recurring service The realities and responsibilities around HRT (hormone replacement therapy) for men and women—why it's a lifetime commitment, and the need for transparency The myth of “get healthy quick,” and why patient education and expectation-setting are crucial Relive Health's ownership model, partnerships with leaders like Orange Theory founders, and Dominic's refusal to sell out just for an exit Passion, purpose, and impact: finding fulfillment in business that enriches lives Top 3 Takeaways Individualization Wins: A one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work for health or wealth—personalization and comprehensive care create long-term value. Delegate to Scale: Let go of operational roles early; invest in great people to take your business from one location to hundreds. Educate, Don't Just Sell: Success in health, like business, relies on honesty, setting realistic expectations, and investing in customer experience. Notable Quotes “I like nice stuff. I think quality of life is very important... there has to be a reward for your effort, or you'll hate what you do.” “If I'd tried to hold onto everything at my first location, I'd still be there—a half-million-dollar-a-month business but not the legacy I'm building now.” “Starting hormones is a lifetime commitment. If anyone tells you different, they're lying to you. You have to know what you're signing up for, and do it right.” Connect with Dr. Dominic Iacovone: https://www.instagram.com/iacovone/?hl=en Clinic Network: https://relivehealth.com/

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Michael Dodsworth is the founder and CEO of Fanfare, a platform built to help e-commerce brands handle massive product drops without breaking under pressure. With a background as a founding engineer and multiple startup exits—including to Salesforce and Ticketmaster—Michael has spent his career building systems that can handle huge spikes in demand. After years of solving ticketing chaos for live events, he created Fanfare to bring that same reliability to e-commerce, powering launches like SKIMS' $1 million-in-a-minute drop and making high-pressure product launches seamless for brands of all sizes. On this episode we talk about: – Michael's first job delivering newspapers in the UK and how early discipline shaped his work ethic – Discovering coding as a teen and the path from hobbyist to startup engineer – Lessons learned from early-stage startups, rapid-growth environments like Salesforce, and the difference between startup and corporate life – Building and scaling systems for massive ticketing events, including Taylor Swift and Disney, and the pain points of high-demand launches – The origin story of Fanfare: why e-commerce brands struggle with product drops and how Fanfare solves for scale, bots, and customer experience – The value of capturing data from failed buyers and turning negative sentiment into future sales – How relationships and reputation lead to new opportunities in the startup world – The impact of AI on software development, product launches, and democratizing the ability to build apps—even for non-coders – Practical advice for anyone looking to break into tech or launch their own product in the age of AI Top 3 Takeaways 1. Discipline and Action Matter: Early lessons in discipline and showing up every day translate directly to entrepreneurial success—momentum comes from taking the first step, even when the path is unclear. 2. Solve Real Problems at Scale: Fanfare was born from firsthand frustration with broken product launches and ticketing drops. The best businesses address urgent, widespread pain points for both brands and consumers. 3. AI Is Leveling the Playing Field: The latest AI tools make it easier than ever for anyone to experiment, build, and launch products—regardless of coding background. Knowing how to prompt, direct, and design will be as important as traditional engineering skills. Notable Quotes “The more you do it, the more you get used to it, and the more it becomes habit, the easier it becomes.” “At a startup, you just have to fix and chart those paths. There's nothing there—you have to define the process.” “You have to make sure you're ready to capitalize on whatever luck comes your way.” “Being able to direct AI agents to do a particular thing is a real skill. Knowing how products should be laid out will matter even more in the future.” Connect with Michael Dodsworth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-dodsworth Website: fanfare.io

Vince Shorb is the founder of the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC), a social enterprise built from the ground up without external funding or institutional backing. Driven by a passion for financial literacy, Vince turned his vision into a nationally recognized organization, reaching a 2025 run rate of over $1 million and reinvesting more than $10 million into financial education initiatives. His journey is a testament to entrepreneurial hustle, mission-driven leadership, and the power of equipping others with life-changing knowledge. On this episode we talk about: Vince's entrepreneurial roots—hustling cans, running a black-market amphibian business, and learning from family role models The influence of his entrepreneurial grandfather and risk-managing relatives on his approach to business and life Early real estate investments: buying his first rental at 19 and a Huntington Beach condo at 20, and the creative strategies he used to get started The realities of financial services: 15 years in mortgages, funding, and trading, and the turning point that led him to financial education The founding of NFEC and the mission to proactively empower people with financial knowledge—before they hit crisis points The gaps in traditional education: why schools still don't teach the basics of money, entrepreneurship, or career readiness The critical need for financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and real-world skills for today's youth The importance of normalizing conversations about money, value creation, and the realities of work and business ownership How NFEC helps parents, teachers, and communities build local financial wellness initiatives Top 3 Takeaways Financial Literacy is Essential: Everyone needs to understand how to earn, manage, and grow money—because schools aren't teaching it, and life is unforgiving without it. Entrepreneurial Mindset Matters: Even if you don't start a business, thinking like an entrepreneur—solving problems, creating value, and taking initiative—will set you apart in any career. Empowerment Over Entitlement: Success comes from adding value, not expecting it; learning financial and business fundamentals helps you take control of your future, regardless of the economic climate. Notable Quotes “You need to know how to earn money and manage money. Those are the two things you need for survival—and they're completely ignored by our education system.” “I felt like I was putting a Band-Aid on people's problems. I wanted to solve the root issue—empowering people with knowledge before they hit crisis.” “Every working person is a product of entrepreneurship. You either start a business or you work for one—there's no other way to make money.” Connect with Vince Shorb & NFEC: Website: financialeducatorscouncil.org

Justin Goodbread is a multiple-time bestselling author who has sold millions of books, built and exited seven companies ranging from seven to nine figures, and helped countless business owners scale and sell their businesses. Raised by parents who made a conscious decision to change their family's legacy, Justin learned early that entrepreneurship and responsibility go hand in hand. Today, he's on a mission to teach others the frameworks and principles that can transform not just their income—but their entire family's future. On this episode we talk about: – How Justin made his first dollar by mowing lawns after his dad gave him a week to find a job (with strict rules) – The radical decision his parents made to break cycles of dysfunction and raise their kids to be business owners – The power of “deciding” versus just choosing, and how that mindset shift changed the Goodbread family for generations – Lessons from homeschooling before it was mainstream, and being immersed in adult thinking, business, and personal development from a young age – The financial principles Justin's parents taught—giving, saving, investing, and reinvesting in yourself and your business – Justin's journey from landscaping to consulting, insurance, media, and financial advisory, and how he built and sold multiple companies – Why business frameworks work across every industry, and how Justin's Deca Millionaire Way has helped him and others succeed in even saturated spaces – The impact of attitude, integrity, and showing up—how opportunity follows those who do the work with a smile – Where the biggest opportunities are right now (hint: AI and helping businesses adapt to new technology) – Why you don't have to reinvent the wheel to succeed—copy, adapt, and excel in proven business models Top 3 Takeaways 1. Decide, Don't Just Choose: True transformation comes from a decision to cut away all other options and commit fully to changing your family's legacy. 2. Frameworks Over Fads: Business principles and frameworks work across industries—focus on mastering the basics and applying them consistently. 3. Opportunity is Everywhere: In today's world, it's never been easier to make money—but only if you can focus, avoid distractions, and solve real problems for others. Notable Quotes – “You can always make more money for yourself by working for yourself and taking responsibility than you can working for the man.” – “Business is business across every service, retail, and manufacturing industry. There's a framework anyone can use to create generational wealth.” – “If a country boy born and raised on a dirt road can figure this out, anybody can.” Connect with Justin Goodbread: – Website: justingoodbread.com

Rob Finlay is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, serial entrepreneur, and commercial real estate investor who has built and sold four companies and started over 15 ventures. As a father of four, sought-after speaker, and mentor, Rob is known for his forward-thinking solutions, strategic insights, and dedication to education. His latest book, Hey Dad: Everything You Should Have Learned But Didn't, hit the WSJ bestseller list in its first week. Rob's journey is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and building businesses that solve real problems. On this episode we talk about: – Rob's first entrepreneurial leap—mortgaging everything at 29 to start his first company while supporting a young family – The emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, from failures to the surprising challenges of a successful exit – Why “passive income” is often a myth and the real work required to build and sustain a business – The difference between true entrepreneurs and “wantrepreneurs”—and why sweat equity beats throwing money at problems – How Rob built multiple businesses by focusing on a single niche (commercial real estate) and evolving solutions for the same customer base – The power of prioritization, constraint, and solving your own problems as a founder – Trends and opportunities in commercial real estate, especially in the current high-interest rate environment – The two levers for making money in real estate: optimizing the asset and mastering the debt – Why Rob wrote Hey Dad, the lessons he wants to pass on to his kids, and the surprising overlap between business and parenting – The realities of traditional publishing, book marketing, and why writing a book is more about impact than income Top 3 Takeaways 1. Solve Real Problems in a Niche: Sustainable success comes from deeply understanding your customer and evolving your solutions as their needs change—not chasing every new trend. 2. Sweat Equity Beats Easy Money: Throwing money at problems rarely works; the real magic happens when you're forced to get creative and build systems from the ground up. 3. Legacy is More Than Money: The lessons you pass on—about resilience, networking, and being a good human—matter as much as financial success. Notable Quotes – “Your business is what defines you. When you sell it, you have to redefine yourself—and that's a whole new challenge.” – “Passive income is a pipe dream for most people. The real work is in building the business, not just throwing money at it.” – “If you're not going to do a good job—if you don't really care—find something else. Don't just write a book to write a book.” Connect with Rob Finlay: – Website: robfinlay.com – Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robjfinlay/

Dr. Elia Gourgouris—known as America's Happiness Doctor—is a positive psychology expert, executive coach, and bestselling author of Seven Paths to Lasting Happiness. Through his books, keynotes, and coaching, Dr. Elia has helped hundreds of thousands of people achieve happiness and success in their personal and professional lives. He's also the founder of The Kindness Factor International, a movement and soon-to-be film inspiring global acts of kindness. On this episode we talk about: Dr. Elia's journey from driving a taxi to pay for college to becoming a leading happiness expert The difference between being “nice” and being truly kind—and why kindness is a superpower for happiness How money relates to happiness: the threshold effect, survival mode, and why abundance is about mindset, not just bank balance Unlearning limiting beliefs about money and success, especially for those with religious or cultural programming The power of gratitude in adversity and why self-forgiveness is a cornerstone of lasting happiness Practical exercises for self-forgiveness and breaking free from the weight of past mistakes How internal self-talk shapes identity and why treating yourself with compassion changes everything The dangers of scarcity thinking—even for those who “have enough”—and how to cultivate abundance and peace Dr. Elia's upcoming film project on kindness and his mission to inspire a global movement Top 3 Takeaways Money Buys Freedom, Not Happiness: Once your basic needs are met, more money doesn't make you happier—happiness is an inside job, built on gratitude, kindness, and self-acceptance. Self-Forgiveness Sets You Free: Carrying guilt and self-criticism is like wearing a backpack full of rocks. Forgiveness—especially for yourself—is the key to emotional freedom and lasting happiness. Don't Procrastinate Your Happiness: Stop waiting for the next milestone to be happy. Life is precious—choose happiness and kindness now, not “when” you achieve something. Notable Quotes “Money is not the enemy. Money equals freedom—not the love of money, but money itself is necessary in this world.” “Happiness is a choice, but it's also a skill set.” “Forgiveness is freedom. The ultimate act of self-compassion is to forgive ourselves.” Connect with Dr. Elia Gourgouris: Website: https://www.dreliagourgouris.com/

Amanda Northcutt is a six-time executive with 22 years of experience in consulting, startups, and marketing strategy. After leaving a high-paying Silicon Valley role, Amanda saw a gap: creators and subject matter experts with massive potential, but lacking the CEO-level operational expertise needed to scale. As co-founder and CEO of Level Up Creators and Level Up Creator School, Amanda now helps coaches and consultants build boutique, high-impact businesses that generate recurring revenue and generational wealth. On this episode we talk about: Amanda's journey from Silicon Valley to creator consulting—and why she left the tech world on her own terms The mission of Level Up Creators: helping experts and executives turn decades of business experience into thriving consulting and coaching firms Why most creators and consultants struggle with operations, productization, and scaling—and how Amanda's team bridges that gap The ideal client profile: business experts (typically 40–60 years old) seeking legacy, impact, and a business they love for the next decade How to productize services, escape the “time-for-money” trap, and build a business that fits your life goals The importance of targeting painful, pervasive, urgent, and expensive problems for a specific audience How to stand out in a saturated market by developing a proprietary methodology and building deep trust with your audience Why high-ticket, high-touch, low-volume offers are the fastest path to impact and income for most experts The power of partner marketing, niche podcast guesting, and relationship-based lead generation How to structure partnerships and collaborations for maximum leverage and mutual benefit The mindset shift required to start over in a new field and build credibility from scratch Top 3 Takeaways Productize and Specialize: Focus on solving urgent, expensive problems for a specific audience with a clear, proprietary methodology—don't try to be everything to everyone. Go High-Ticket First: Start with high-touch, high-value offers before expanding into lower-ticket products or communities; this maximizes your impact and income with fewer clients. Leverage Partnerships and Niche Media: Build relationships with peers, pursue partner marketing, and guest on niche podcasts to reach your ideal clients—don't chase only the biggest platforms. Notable Quotes “If you're selling vitamins instead of Vicodin, you are not going to make sales—especially in a tough economy.” “You should be spending 80% of your time on only the highest-leverage activities in your business.” “The most successful people are willing to humble themselves and start over in a new field—they don't care about losing status, they just want to do the work.” Connect with Amanda Northcutt: Website: welevelupcreators.com

In this Travis Makes Friends episode, host Travis Chappell sits down in NYC with rising comic Sean Millea, known for his viral Instagram sketches. They dive into how Family Guy and Louis C.K. shaped Sean's comedy, the truth about scripted vs. off-the-cuff humor, and how going viral isn't as glamorous as it seems. If you're grinding in the content world or just love comedy — this one's got raw insights, fast laughs, and uncomfortable truths. If you like this, click subscribe, like and share with a friend. Follow Travis on: Instagram: @travischappell TikTok: @traviscchappell Facebook: /traviscchappell Twitter: @traviscchappell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ilana Golan is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and founder of Leap Academy—one of the fastest-growing professional education companies in America. With a track record that includes helping lead a $300 million exit, scaling a startup to $15 million in annual revenue, and raising nearly $1 million from top Silicon Valley investors, Ilana brings deep experience in both corporate and startup worlds. Her journey is defined by bold leaps, learning from failure, and empowering others to build careers with multiple streams of income and real fulfillment. On this episode we talk about: – Ilana's first entrepreneurial hustle at age four—and her early lessons in value (and parental panic) – The story behind raising $800,000 in weeks, only to be ousted by her co-founder and left with nothing – How hitting rock bottom led to a period of personal and professional crisis—and the steps she took to rebuild her momentum – The power of action over analysis: why doing—even when you don't know what to do—creates clarity and new opportunities – Redefining career success: the shift from a single-track “scripted” career to a dynamic, experimental “portfolio career” – How Ilana built Leap Academy from a small experiment into a multi-million dollar business and top-charting podcast – The importance of failure, resilience, and hunger in founders—and why she bets on entrepreneurs who've been through adversity – Frameworks for evaluating new ventures, both as a founder and investor – How Leap Academy helps mid-to-late career professionals reinvent themselves, build multiple income streams, and thrive in an ever-changing world – The future of professional education, corporate partnerships, and the rise of coaching and community-driven learning Top 3 Takeaways 1. Action Creates Clarity: When you don't know what to do, start doing something—momentum and results follow action, not the other way around. 2. Portfolio Careers Are the Future: Building multiple streams of income and diverse professional experiences is the new path to wealth, fulfillment, and resilience. 3. Failure Fuels Growth: The best founders and leaders are those who've faced—and learned from—major setbacks, not just those with a string of successes. Notable Quotes – “The clarity came from the momentum, not just thinking about it or dreaming about it—the doing created the result.” – “Look at your career as a series of experiments, not a single direction for the next 20 or 30 years. That takes all the fear away.” – “The biggest cost is always the money we're not making—the cost of inaction is higher than the cost of failure.” Connect with Ilana Golan: – Website: leapacademy.com – Portfolio Careers: portfoliocareer.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

Ken Ehrman is the founder and CEO of Halo Collar, the leading GPS dog containment system that's revolutionizing pet safety. With a background in IoT and a history of building tech companies—including taking one public in 1999—Ken teamed up with celebrity dog behaviorist Cesar Millan to create a next-generation “invisible fence.” Since launching in 2018, Halo has quadrupled sales, surpassed $100 million in annual revenue, and sold over 200,000 collars, all while giving pet owners the freedom to create a “backyard everywhere they go.” On this episode we talk about: Ken's entrepreneurial journey from yearbook ad sales to founding and scaling multiple tech companies The early days of IoT, RFID, and what it was like to take a company public with just $3 million in annual revenue How the idea for Halo Collar was sparked by a real family tragedy—and why the market was ready for a better solution The power of partnerships: how Ken connected with Cesar Millan to bring dog expertise and credibility to the product Why Halo's GPS-powered, AI-enabled collar is more than a tracker—it's a portable, wireless fence you can set up anywhere The business lessons behind Halo's exponential growth: leveraging existing demand, innovating on proven products, and solving real pain points for pet owners Smart scaling: how Halo used a direct-to-consumer model, negative inventory, and global fulfillment to fuel rapid expansion The importance of product-market fit, recurring revenue, and building a brand that dog owners trust Ken's framework for evaluating new business ideas and the difference between “nice-to-have” and “need-to-have” products Top 3 Takeaways Innovate Where Demand Exists: Halo succeeded by improving an existing solution (the invisible fence) in a massive, established market, rather than trying to create demand from scratch. Solve Real Problems, Not Just Sell Features: The best products address urgent needs—like keeping pets safe—rather than relying on “nice-to-have” technology. Smart Partnerships and Operations Win: Strategic alliances (like with Cesar Millan), creative fulfillment, and a focus on customer experience enabled Halo to scale quickly and efficiently. Notable Quotes “What's the best solution that there could be? That's always my mindset, whether I'm selling yearbook ads or building a tech company.” “People are already buying fences for their dogs. We just made it portable, smarter, and safer.” “If you can find things people are already buying, you're not pushing a boulder uphill—you're meeting a real need.” Connect with Ken Ehrman: Website: halocollar.com

Dean Kinzer is an ancient coin enthusiast, YouTuber, and entrepreneur on a mission to bring the magic of history—literally held in your hand—to more Americans. What started as a family hobby, inspired by his collector father, has grown into a side business and educational passion. Dean is the founder of Kinzer Coins and co-host of the Ancient Coin Hour podcast, where he helps collectors and history buffs discover the stories and value behind ancient coins. On this episode we talk about: – Dean's journey from growing up with a collector dad (who owned 13 Yugos!) to becoming obsessed with ancient coins – The “tribute penny” of Tiberius—possibly the coin referenced by Jesus in the Bible—and how affordable ancient coins can actually be – The wild stories behind some of history's most fascinating coins, like Brutus's “Ides of March” gold coin and the emperor who bought his throne for 66 days – How ancient coins are more than metal—they're pieces of art, history, and conversation starters – The surprising abundance of certain ancient coins (you can literally buy Roman bronze coins by the pound!) – Why the U.S. market for ancient coins is still wide open, and how Dean is working to popularize the hobby – The business side: consignments, inventory, and the challenge of parting with pieces that tell powerful stories – How to avoid scams, spot counterfeits, and start collecting with confidence – The magic of holding a 2,000-year-old coin and the deep connection it creates to human history – Monetizing your hobby in the digital age—YouTube, podcasts, and building a business around your passion Top 3 Takeaways 1. History in Your Hand: Ancient coins aren't just collectibles—they're tangible links to the past, each with a story that can spark conversation and curiosity. 2. Monetize Your Passion: You can turn even the most niche hobby into a side business or educational platform with the right approach and a willingness to share. 3. Start Smart, Avoid Pitfalls: Learn the basics, connect with reputable sellers, and use resources like Ancient Coin Hour to avoid costly mistakes and enjoy the hobby. Notable Quotes – “There's something different about holding something that's 2,000 years old. It's a connection to history you can actually feel.” – “Every coin tells a story—some are worthy of a Hollywood movie.” – “The U.S. market for ancient coins is wide open. There's opportunity for collectors, investors, and storytellers alike.” Connect with Dean Kinzer: Website: kinzercoins.com Instagram: @kinzercoins

Ty Allan Jackson is an award-winning children's book author, youth motivational speaker, literacy advocate, and honorary doctorate recipient. A three-time TEDx presenter, Ty travels the US inspiring children to read and educating adults about the impacts of illiteracy. Born and raised in the Bronx, Ty's mission is deeply influenced by his personal background and the power of representation in children's literature. On this episode we talk about: Ty's journey from the Bronx to becoming an award-winning children's book author and literacy advocate The inspiration behind writing children's books focused on financial literacy and representation Challenges and successes in self-publishing and selling over 350,000 copies The importance of fostering a love of reading in children and creative parenting strategies The impact of hip-hop culture and personal background on Ty's mission and message Advice for parents on encouraging reading and education in the digital age Top 3 Takeaways Representation matters: Creating children's books with diverse, relatable protagonists fills a critical gap. Persistence pays off: Overcoming 147 rejections to self-publish and sell hundreds of thousands of books. Reading is a gateway: Encouraging children to read by making it fun and part of family culture fosters lifelong learning. Notable Quotes "The two most important days of your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why." "Children rarely listen to their parents but never fail to emulate them." "If you want your child to be a reader, they need to see you reading." Connect with Ty Allan Jackson: Website: tyallanjackson.com