Podcasts about marketing platform

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

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

This episode features a candid conversation between Travis and his producer Eric, diving into the realities of investing in organic content creation for business growth. They unpack the costs, strategies, and mindset shifts required to build a successful content engine, using real-world examples from comedians and entrepreneurs to illustrate the importance of budgeting for organic growth. On this episode we talk about: The hidden costs behind successful comedians and podcasters who appear to “do it all themselves”​ The importance of investing in content creation, editing, and social media management for long-term business growth​ How paid advertising and organic content work together to build a brand and drive results​ The value of outsourcing tasks to free up time for high-impact activities​ Real numbers from top creators, including how much they spend monthly on organic content​ The trade-offs between doing everything yourself and hiring experts to scale your business​ Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Organic content creation is not free—successful creators invest heavily in teams and tools to produce and distribute content.​2.  Outsourcing non-core tasks allows entrepreneurs to focus on what they do best, maximizing both time and revenue.​3.  Building a brand through organic content pays exponential returns over time, far outpacing paid advertising alone.​ Notable Quotes   "It's not just because he says good stuff. It's because he spends multi six figures a month on content creation."​   "You have to do it. It's not a negotiable for anybody now."​   "The more content you put out online, the more ability AI has to be able to suggest your stuff."​ ✖️✖️✖️✖️

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

In this episode, Travis and Eric break down the viral news about Donald Trump's floated idea of introducing 50-year mortgages. They unpack the financial realities, the math, the pros and cons, and why this proposed change sent shockwaves through social media—especially in the real estate world. From bank incentives to equity timelines to whether long-term loans actually help buyers, this is a practical and surprisingly entertaining deep dive into what the future of homebuying could look like. ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️

Today's guest is Ben Zweig — economist, data scientist, founder of Revelio Labs, and NYU Stern professor specializing in the future of work. With a PhD in economics and a career spanning IBM's Chief Analytics Office, hedge fund strategy, and groundbreaking research on labor markets and occupational mobility, Ben brings a rare blend of academic rigor and real-world insight. His work allows him to see patterns in the job market before they happen — and understand where the biggest opportunities to make money are emerging. On this episode we talk about: Ben's first sales job on the streets of New York and how “rejection therapy” shaped his career Why thick skin and empathy are two of the most valuable skills in any high-paying field How economics became the lens Ben uses to understand behavior, markets, and opportunity Why getting a PhD changes your identity — and how deep expertise creates new income paths The evolving nature of work and what signals actually matter for future money-making trends Top 3 Takeaways Sales skills compound everywhere. Early experiences dealing with rejection and reading people become an unfair advantage in higher-paying industries. Economics is a framework for decision-making. Understanding incentives, equilibrium, and behavioral patterns helps you spot opportunities others miss. Deep expertise transforms your earning potential. Immersing yourself in a field — academically or professionally — shifts how you think and positions you for unique career paths. Connect with Ben Zweig: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-zweig Website: https://www.reveliolabs.com/ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️

On this episode, Travis sits down with Sebastien Page, author of The Psychology of Leadership and Chief Investment Officer at T. Rowe Price. With over 20 years of experience managing $500 billion in assets, Sebastien brings deep insight into finance, leadership, and performance psychology. He combines academic research, practical investing experience, and a passion for teaching financial literacy to provide unique perspectives on money, stress, and personal growth. On this episode we talk about: Sebastien's early experiences making money and the influence of his parents on his financial mindset. How to teach kids about money, compound interest, and investing in a way that sticks. The psychology of stress and how to use it to improve performance rather than avoid it. Lessons from sports psychology applied to leadership and high-stakes decision-making. Surprising insights from research on intelligence, grit, and lifelong financial success. Top 3 Takeaways Understanding and optimizing stress is crucial for peak performance—stress isn't the enemy, it can be fuel. Teaching children financial literacy early creates lasting habits and empowers them to make smarter decisions. Success in life and money is influenced more by personality, resilience, and grit than raw intelligence. Connect with Sebastien Page: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastien-page Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sebastienpagebook/ Other: Book: The Psychology of Leadership ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️

In this episode, Travis Chappell is joined by his producer Eric. Together, they break down some of the wildest viral success clips on the internet—from astrology-based basketball theories to Grant Cardone proclaiming you “can't live” on $400K a year—and explore the real lessons hiding underneath the noise. On this episode we talk about: Why absurd “success hacks” go viral, including the astrology clip about Michael Jordan The difference between motivation, marketing, and manipulation in the online guru world Whether Grant Cardone is right—or way off—when he says $400K isn't enough How polarizing personalities weaponize attention for growth What “thinking bigger” actually means (and what it doesn't) Top 3 Takeaways Viral guru content often succeeds because it's theatrical, not because it's true. Income numbers are meaningless without personal context—freedom math > flex math. You can embrace big thinking without adopting the extremes or gimmicks of online gurus. ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️

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

In this episode, Travis and producer Eric break down the modern “buy back your time” culture—everything from viral clips glamorizing $400/month haircuts to outsourcing every basic task. Eric brings his media and production perspective, while Travis adds years of entrepreneurial insight, creating a practical, funny, and eye-opening look at what actually matters when it comes to time, money, and priorities. On this episode we talk about: The rise of “alpha bro” outsourcing content and why so much of it is performative When paying to save time is genuinely smart—and when it's just a flex The psychology behind choosing what to do yourself vs. hiring it out Why cooking at home, reading books, and doing the obvious can be a real competitive advantage How Travis evaluates whether a time-saving purchase is actually worth it Top 3 Takeaways Not every “time-saving hack” is a hack—some are expensive distractions disguised as productivity. Buying back your time only works when you reinvest that time into something meaningful or profitable. Common sense executed consistently beats flashy shortcuts every single time. Notable Quotes “Your time is your only non-renewable asset—so spend money intentionally, not impulsively.” “Some of these viral hacks aren't hacks… they're just flexes with a motivational caption.” “Doing the obvious becomes a superpower when everyone else is looking for shortcuts.” ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️

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

Jason Wright is a speaker, author, entrepreneur, real estate investor, and digital marketing architect known for designing intelligent AI agents and automation solutions for business owners. After starting as a teenage lawn care entrepreneur and enduring a tumultuous journey through corporate HR, sales, and safety roles, Jason carved his own path by embracing the ups and downs of self-employment. Today, he runs Intentionally Inspirational, specializing in AI-driven marketing and automation for real estate investors and fellow entrepreneurs, helping them scale efficiently while keeping a sense of humor and authenticity at the forefront. How humble beginnings (mowing lawns for fishing tackle) sparked Jason's entrepreneurial bug—and why he rebelled against the "get a degree, find a boss" script.​ The struggle of his first business launch, running out of money, and being forced to ask family for support—and why hitting bottom forged business resilience.​ Pivots through jobs (cars, mortgages, publishing), freelancing on Upwork, and finally building a niche business serving real estate investors with automated marketing solutions.​ The essential mindset shifts: the world doesn't owe you anything, ego means nothing, and success requires adapting to rejection and uncertainty.​ Why discipline, over motivation, is key to entrepreneurship—and how the habit of working through difficult periods produces long-term results.​ Jason's advice for leveraging AI now, niching down, and automating the parts of business that drain your energy.​ Top 3 Takeaways You must earn your entrepreneurial credibility through setbacks, pivots, and doing the grunt work—even without recognition or immediate financial reward.​ Automate, outsource, and delegate aggressively; focus only on the work that maximizes your unique value and happiness.​ Embrace failure as a necessary precursor to growth—your timeline is unpredictable, and your highlight reel will be built on low points.​ Notable Quotes "The world doesn't owe you anything. Your ego doesn't mean anything in the entrepreneurial world."​ "Motivation is not required to get things done—even if you're not motivated, do it anyway."​ "Most business owners overestimate the value of their time, and underestimate the importance of discipline and automation."​ Connect with Jason Wright: Website: intentionallyinspirational.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

This episode flips the mic to dissect iconic movie sales scenes—especially the legendary real estate monologue from "Glengarry Glen Ross"—with Travis and producer Eric swapping stories from the trenches of commission sales. They break down the psychology of high-pressure closing, how silence can be an indispensable tool, and why consultative selling beats boiler room tactics for long-term success. What real sales moments get right—and wrong—in famous movies The thrill and dread of securing deals in 100% commission environments Why holding the silence is harder (and more effective) than most people realize The difference between authoritative vs. assumptive closes—and why discovery sets you up for the sale The emotional rollercoaster of sales jobs, from adrenaline rushes to crushing self-doubt Use silence as leverage; resist the urge to talk past your own close—let the prospect sit with the decision. Great sales begins with genuine discovery and honest self-selection—you want lifetime clients, not regret-fueled chargebacks. The close should be the natural conclusion to a quality conversation—practice assumptive and options-based closing for better results. "Most people just can't stand the awkward silence, but in sales, that's your friend—it gets the prospect thinking, and helps you avoid talking yourself out of a deal." "Don't overcome objections that haven't been spoken—otherwise, you talk yourself out of the sale." "Consultative selling doesn't force the close; it builds trust, clarity, and repeat business in the long run." ✖️✖️✖️✖️

In this episode, Travis and producer Eric react to viral financial influencer Brandon Carter, aka King Keto's, raw and relentless advice for young people on how to save their first $100K. Brandon's story of grinding through multiple low-paying jobs and side hustles for 12 hours a day, 7 days a week in New York City is a wake-up call on the power of hustle, discipline, and focus. On this episode we talk about: The reality behind making $100K in your 20s through sheer hard work, sacrifice, and multiple jobs Why using free time strategically—avoiding distractions like partying, clubs, and frivolous spending—is key to wealth-building The value of creating a savings gap between income and expenses to fund your entrepreneurial dreams How Brandon's early hustle primed him for success when he launched his first business with capital already saved The balance between hustling hard and burning out—listeners reflect on their own work-life tradeoffs Advice on staying focused vs. scattershot hustling and the benefits of developing clear career clarity over time Top 3 Takeaways Hustle isn't glamorous, but it's effective: relentless work for sustained periods builds financial runway. Sacrifice short-term pleasures to create long-term financial freedom and opportunity to pursue what truly matters. Real success comes with focus and clarity, which often takes years to develop—don't rush, but don't waste precious time either. Notable Quotes “Work 12 hours a day, 7 days a week, and save half your income. It's not for the soft or the punk.” “Using your free time effectively is the difference between building wealth or watching YouTube all night.” “Most 20-somethings have more free time than they realize—use it or lose it forever.” ✖️✖️✖️✖️

On this episode, Travis and Eric dive into a viral clip from financial podcaster Caleb Hammer, known for brutally honest, entertaining, and accessible advice that puts real-life financial struggles under the microscope. Together, they unpack Hammer's take on emergency funds—and the problems with generic one-size-fits-all advice in personal finance. On this episode we talk about: Why $1,000 in emergency savings rarely works—and the psychological trap of feeling secure with too little cash How Dave Ramsey's famous “starter emergency fund” may work in theory, but often isn't enough in practice, especially for those with significant debt The real meaning of building financial discipline: Knowing your risk level, running the numbers, and tailoring your strategy How Travis approaches emergency savings for entrepreneurs vs. employees—and why life always costs more than you expect Tips for keeping your money liquid, accessible, but not so visible you lose your financial hustle Top 3 Takeaways Personal finance isn't one-size-fits-all—generic playbooks don't address your actual risks or needs. A starter emergency fund (like $1,000) is better than nothing, but long-term security needs three to six months of expenses—especially if your income is volatile. Financial discipline means both protecting yourself from unexpected setbacks and making your money work for you—don't let “safe” dollars stop you from growing. Notable Quotes “Life will always demand more money than you think it will.” “Past a certain dollar amount, every extra dollar should be out working for you. Money in a savings account loses value over time.” “You want that feeling of urgency when you look at your accounts—you should be hustling, not getting comfortable.” ✖️✖️✖️✖️

In this special episode, Travis is joined by his producer, Eric, for a fun break-down of the worst financial advice out there—reacting to viral clips and sorting the truly terrible from the merely misunderstood. They cover everything from “buy low, sell high” myths to the dangers of credit cards and the unpredictable path of moving to NYC for your dreams. On this episode we talk about: Listening (and laughing) through clips of supposed “awful” financial advice—from cash hacks to leveraging credit as a college student Why “buy low, sell high” sounds easy, but almost no one—except 1% of day traders—actually wins playing that game over time The power of environment and why moving to a “dream city” could either ignite your career or send you financially underwater When using credit can make sense for disciplined business owners—but why most people should stick to cash Travis's ranking of the worst, most misleading, and situational money advice people keep hearing Top 3 Takeaways “Buy low, sell high” is not a strategy—it's gambling, and 99% of would-be day traders lose money over time. Your environment shapes your success; place yourself where the most opportunity exists, but only with a concrete, disciplined plan. Cash keeps you disciplined, but leveraged credit can be a useful tool—if you treat it like investment capital and avoid consumer traps. Notable Quotes “You're not going to beat the S&P 500—over 96% of funds and day traders fail to outperform the market.” “Don't confuse play money with nest egg money—it's fun until you gamble away your future.” “Environment shapes you, but most people never shape their environment.” ✖️✖️✖️✖️

James Oliver is the founder of Atlas Bar, a clean, high-protein snack company built around real ingredients, adaptogenic superfoods, and a purpose-driven mission to help people unlock their full potential. While still a college student at Tufts University, James started experimenting in his kitchen and turned his early prototypes into a multimillion-dollar business that's thriving in the ultra-competitive nutrition space. On this episode we talk about: Why he jumped into an overcrowded market and how he found his niche by making real food first protein bars What it actually costs to start a brand—how he went from $5,000 to $1.5 million in revenue with zero outside funding The “freedom framework” of time, location, and financial choice that drove his entrepreneurial path Why Amazon is his secret weapon for scaling fast without the overhead of traditional retail The power of focusing relentlessly on product quality and iterating one improvement at a time Top 3 Takeaways There's always room for the best—crowded markets reward innovation, not imitation. A small starting capital and strong execution can outperform heavy investment when paired with discipline and product obsession. Great marketing starts with a great product; if people truly love it, word-of-mouth will do the rest. Notable Quotes “I started Atlas with $5,000 and a goal—to build freedom, not just a company.” “Every ingredient you see on the label is something you could find in your own kitchen.” “If you build a great product, people will tell other people about it—it's the purest form of marketing.” Connect with James Oliver and Atlas Bar: Website: atlasbars.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

William Vanderbloemen is the founder and CEO of Vanderbloemen Search Group, one of the leading executive search firms serving churches, nonprofits, schools, and values-based businesses. A former pastor and now a trusted advisor to mission-driven organizations, William has helped over 3,000 clients find leadership talent that aligns both in competence and character. He's also a Forbes contributor and the author of Work How You're Wired, Be the Unicorn, and Next: Pastoral Succession That Works. On this episode we talk about: How polishing his grandmother's silver as a kid sparked his entrepreneurial streak Lessons learned from ministry leadership that translated into building a multimillion-dollar faith-based search firm The moment he left job security to launch a business from scratch — in the middle of the 2008 financial crisis Why pursuing your deeper mission matters more than any financial metric The role of relationships, purpose, and wiring in long-term success How understanding your natural strengths can transform your leadership, career, and team dynamics Top 3 Takeaways You'll never have perfect clarity before you start—take the first step and let the next one reveal itself. Success looks different when you're doing work aligned with your unique wiring and purpose. No relationship is accidental—treat every connection as an opportunity to serve and grow. Notable Quotes “Work how you're wired. Everyone has unique lanes that make them better at what they do.” “If you wait until it's clean to take the first step, you've already missed your chance.” “You can do good and do good business at the same time.” Connect with William Vanderbloemen: Website: vanderbloemen.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Dan Simons is the co-owner of Farmers Restaurant Group, a mission-driven hospitality company behind the award-winning Founding Farmers brand, in partnership with the North Dakota Farmers Union. The group operates eight sustainably run restaurants, a distillery, and a catering company, all with one goal: to drive profits back to American family farmers while redefining how restaurants can serve people, planet, and profit in equal measure. On this episode we talk about: How Dan fell in love with teamwork and hospitality in college bar jobs His corporate climb from restaurant manager to VP and the turning point that pushed him into entrepreneurship Going broke—twice—before building a $100M restaurant business The three-year stretch living in his mother-in-law's basement while starting over Lessons from failed ventures, debt, and the mindset shift that built a thriving farmer-owned enterprise Why creating a people-centric culture is not just good ethics—it's good business Top 3 Takeaways Success is built through failure; each failure is an ingredient in your eventual success recipe. Find your deeper “why.” Profit is what happens when your purpose solves real problems for people. There's never a perfect time or enough money—start smart, stay lean, and play the long game. Notable Quotes “You'll never have enough money. So stop waiting and start building.” “We gave customers what we thought they needed—not what they wanted. That's how we failed our first restaurant.” “Failure isn't the opposite of success—it's part of it.” Connect with Dan Simons: https://www.dansimonssays.com/ ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Shane Barker is the Founder and CEO of TraceFuse, the first Amazon-approved system for removing fraudulent negative reviews. With more than 25 years of marketing experience supporting Fortune 500 brands, Shane is a leading voice in digital influence and e-commerce integrity. His mission now: to protect honest Amazon sellers from fake reviews that destroy small business reputations—and give power back to real entrepreneurs. On this episode we talk about: The dark side of online reviews and how companies like Yelp and Amazon impact small business survival Why TraceFuse became the first Amazon Terms of Service–compliant solution for negative review removal The two-year grind it took to “crack the code” building TraceFuse from scratch Lessons learned from earlier startup failures and how to decide whether to quit or double down The danger of burnout, managing personal finances, and hiring a team that can keep you grounded How mentorship can shortcut the expensive learning curve for new entrepreneurs Top 3 Takeaways Review manipulation crushes small businesses—but true innovation means fixing broken systems without breaking the rules. Entrepreneurs often mistake constant growth for success; real wealth comes from clarity, focus, and sustainable scaling. Mentorship is a shortcut to mastery—paying for expertise can save years of trial, error, and wasted money. Notable Quotes “Yelp is like the mob—they'll tell you, ‘Pay us, or those reviews stay hidden.'” “It took two years to figure out how to do it right, but now we've removed over 14,000 fake reviews.” “If you're going to bet on something, bet on yourself. But get someone who's already done it to help you place that bet smarter.” Connect with Shane Barker: Website: ShaneBarker.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Patrick Leddin is a leadership expert, bestselling author, decorated Army veteran, and founder of two successful companies. As a former Airborne Ranger and 82nd Airborne officer, senior consultant at KPMG and Franklin Covey, and Vanderbilt professor, Patrick has coached thousands of people to lead through challenge and change. He's the author of The Five-Week Leadership Challenge and, with James Patterson, the new book Disrupt Everything: Win and Take Control of Your Future. On this episode we talk about: Patrick's unlikely journey from floundering college dropout and Army recruit to multimillion-dollar entrepreneur and bestselling author How the military taught him discipline and the value of following clear steps and systems Building and exiting a consulting company with his wife—from side hustle to full-time to acquisition Why “betting on yourself” can unlock more security and fulfillment than any traditional “safe” career path Insights from “Disrupt Everything”: Defining purpose, thriving under adversity, and finding opportunity in uncertainty Behind the scenes on co-authoring with James Patterson, blending powerful storytelling with actionable business wisdom Top 3 Takeaways Most “overnight” entrepreneurs start with side hustles, lots of hours, and calculated risk—build your skillset, then leap when the moment is right. Define your mission, values, and purpose early, and you'll weather any disruption or crisis thrown your way. True opportunity is often found in chaos—if you're willing to pivot and act when everyone else hesitates. Notable Quotes “If you can fail at what you don't want, you may as well take a chance on what you love.” “At some point, you need to ask, do you want a safe job—or would you rather bet on yourself?” “Times of uncertainty are fertile ground for opportunity—if you're clear on your purpose, you can disrupt everything and win.” Connect with Patrick Leddin: Website: patrickleddin.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Scott Harris is the founder of Magnetic Real Estate and a Wall Street Journal Top 150 agent, with over $2 billion in New York City residential sales. Creator of the Magnetic Method, Scott has guided clients through some of the most complex deals in America's most competitive market. In this episode, he shares his journey from warehouse shifts and music tours to building a seven-figure real estate career—and reveals what it really takes to thrive in real estate, no matter the market. On this episode we talk about: How growing up around family businesses built his work ethic and networking skills The pivotal leap from music and performing to top-tier real estate success What it actually takes to stand out (and survive) in a hyper-competitive city like NYC Why adding value and making authentic connections lead to repeat business and powerful referrals Building your schedule, handling time-wasters, and why agents who “go all in” thrive long-term The truth about timing, mindset, market cycles, and why now might be the best time to jump in Top 3 Takeaways Most success in real estate comes from sheer volume, discipline, and relentless networking—not luck or unique ideas. Relationship building, genuine curiosity, and giving without expectation are the real differentiators in crowded markets. Don't let market conditions scare you—some of the greatest fortunes are made in tough economies when others get scared off. Notable Quotes “If you add enough value and connect people, it always comes back. That's just the law of reciprocity.” “87% of agents wash out before year five—but if you're willing to do the volume, you'll beat the odds.” “Every market has opportunity; your belief, vision, and action matter more than interest rates.” Connect with Scott Harris: pursueyourhome.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Mitch Matthews is a bestselling keynote speaker, podcast host, and business coach who has taught over 1,000 coaches and speakers how to build seven-figure businesses through speaking, training, and corporate sponsorships. From selling bicycles as a kid to running a multimillion-dollar coaching business, Mitch has built a life around helping others unlock their potential, scale their influence, and make more money by mastering the art and mindset of sales. On this episode we talk about: Mitch's journey from bike shop stalker to professional speaker and business coach Lessons learned from tough B2B and pharmaceutical sales environments How to transition from corporate to entrepreneurship (the “side hustle to full launch” blueprint) Why selling is one of the purest forms of service when done right The mental shifts needed to stop seeing sales as manipulation and start seeing it as value creation Top 3 Takeaways Sales is not slimy—it's an art form that creates win-win outcomes when rooted in authenticity and curiosity. Every successful entrepreneur must learn to sell—because if you can't sell your idea, product, or service, no one will. True sales mastery is built on reps, rejection, and resilience—every “no” brings you closer to the right client. Notable Quotes “I started with a passion for bikes but quickly shifted to a passion for entrepreneurship.” “If you rush the sale, you build walls. If you serve first, you build trust.” “Half the world benefits from someone selling something every day—they just choose not to call it sales.” Connect with Mitch Matthews: Website: MitchMatthews.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

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

Sun Yong Kim-Manzolini is a lifestyle mentor, accomplished options trader, and CEO of Lush Enterprises LLC. Rising from humble roots as an orphan, Sun Yong became a millionaire by combining relentless discipline with smart trading—transforming her husband's $164,000 account into $604,000 in under a year. She now inspires and teaches everyday people how to build skills for real, leveraged wealth through options, mindset, and self-belief. On this episode we talk about: The pivot from medical assistant to self-taught options trader after retirement How Sun Yong learned and practiced trading for over a year before risking any real money The power of discipline, schedule, and goal-setting for consistent financial growth Handling risk and loss with a positive mindset (including her own $50,000 loss—and six-fold gain) Why the barrier to entry is not knowledge, but the willingness to put in consistent work Top 3 Takeaways True financial change demands building new skills, setting daily routines, and investing in personal education. Consistent, disciplined trading with defined weekly/monthly goals creates sustainable results—not lottery wins. Mindset matters as much as strategy; treat money as a tool, not an end, to avoid unhealthy cycles and emotional traps. Notable Quotes “Most people take the freedom of retirement and avoid the work. I chose to create freedom by building new skills.” “If I gave up after losing $50,000, I wouldn't be where I am today.” “Money, used as a tool for opportunity, completely changes your life's trajectory.” Connect with Sun Yong Kim-Manzolini: https://www.instagram.com/author_sun_yong/ ✖️✖️✖️✖️

John Baird and Edward Sullivan are world-class executive coaches, best known for their work with Apple's leadership team and top innovators at companies like Nike. Together, they've coached founders and Fortune 10 executives, helping leaders grow from “Chief-Everything-Officer” to visionary CEO. In this episode, they break down the mindsets and tactical shifts needed to scale—whether running a scrappy startup or a global powerhouse. On this episode we talk about: How the best leaders delegate and coach their teams for sustainable growth Shifting from doing it all to long-term strategy (and why it's so hard to let go) The three priorities of a high-functioning CEO: cash, talent, and vision Practical tactics for transitioning out of daily tasks as the business scales Mentorship, coaching, and the difference between advisor and leader mindset Top 3 Takeaways Scaling requires pushing major decisions down into the org—not hoarding them at the top. World-class CEOs invest in talent and vision as much as product or operations. Great leadership isn't just delegation—it's developing decision-makers at every level. Notable Quotes “As quickly as possible, push strategic decisions down into the organization.” “Your best value is spent on cash, talent, and vision—not clinging to every daily detail.” “Coaching your team to see through your lens is how real scale happens.” Connect with John Baird & Edward Sullivan: Website: VelocityCoaching.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Aleric Heck is one of the world's top YouTube advertising experts. He's spent millions driving results for his clients and teaches entrepreneurs how to use YouTube ads to grow brands and generate real leads. As the founder of AdOutreach and YouTube Ads Academy, Aleric combines paid and organic strategies to help creators boost their YouTube presence—without sabotaging the algorithm or resorting to fake engagement. On this episode we talk about: How paid traffic really affects your YouTube channel (and when it actually harms it) The difference between in-stream and in-feed ads—and which one drives authentic growth Using YouTube's new Boost feature wisely for channel growth Why “buying subscribers” wrecks your watch time and channel authority How to test and amplify top-performing videos for smart channel scaling Top 3 Takeaways Boosting videos is powerful—when you use in-feed ads, not skippable in-stream ads. YouTube's algorithm prioritizes real watch time and retention—not fake views or subscriber spikes. Paid advertising should amplify content that's already performing, not cover up weak videos or content gaps. Notable Quotes “The problem isn't running ads—it's using them the wrong way.” “If your content is weak, no amount of paid exposure will make it last—it actually kills your watch time.” “YouTube's Boost feature just validates what we've known: authentic promotion supports real growth.” Connect with Aleric Heck: Website: AdOutreach.com Instagram: @alericheck ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Dan Martell is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and bestselling author of Buy Back Your Time, a blueprint for entrepreneurs who want to scale their business without losing their life in the process. After building and exiting multiple software companies, Dan shifted into teaching founders how to grow, systemize, and hire effectively—creating more freedom and profitability. His book, traditionally published with Penguin Random House, became an instant bestseller and sparked conversations about entrepreneurship, publishing, and building evergreen content. On this episode we talk about: Why Dan chose traditional publishing for his first book—and why he'd never do it again The realities of book advances, royalties, and creative control in traditional publishing The pros and cons of self-publishing vs going with a major house What it takes to create a perennial seller book that stands the test of time How Buy Back Your Time became an evergreen global bestseller beyond the business niche Top 3 Takeaways Traditional publishers offer credibility—but give away control over how you use your book as an asset. Self-publishing today allows creators to own their IP, control marketing, and build long-term ROI. The best books aren't funnels; they expand their category's body of knowledge and last for decades. Notable Quotes “I didn't need the advance. I just wanted to learn—and, honestly, a little ego.” “Traditional publishing feels great for credibility, but you lose control of your own product.” “I wrote Buy Back Your Time to create something evergreen—something that actually adds to the body of knowledge.” Connect with Dan Martell: Website: DanMartell.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Brenda Snow is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and author who founded Snow Companies, the first-of-its-kind global patient engagement agency. After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis nearly 30 years ago, she turned her personal struggles into a mission to give patients a voice, empower them through education, and improve their treatment experiences. Starting with no funding, she grew the company from just herself and one employee to over 425 staff, nine figures in revenue, and recognition as the gold standard for patient storytelling and support. On this episode we talk about: How Brenda's MS diagnosis inspired the creation of Snow Companies The power of storytelling in patient advocacy and engagement Navigating highly regulated industries while innovating solutions Growing from a one-client consultancy to a 400+ person global agency Why perseverance and hard work—not overnight virality—are the keys to lasting success Top 3 Takeaways Personal challenges can reveal massive gaps and opportunities for impactful businesses. Patient-first storytelling builds trust, connection, and long-term engagement like no marketing campaign can. Scaling from startup to nine-figure success requires years of hard work, culture-building, and strategic hiring. Notable Quotes “To be successful at anything, you have to work damn hard.” “Don't give up on yourself—entrepreneurship is hard, but it's super rewarding.” “The business plan presented itself because I saw so many unmet needs for people with life-changing illnesses.” Connect with Brenda Snow: Website: https://brendasnow.com/ ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Ron Story Jr. is a serial entrepreneur, speaker, and the new owner of Guestio. He's also the founder of SpeakerHub, a global booking platform connecting speakers, podcasts, and event organizers. In the past year alone, Ron has done 125 podcast interviews, 31 speaking gigs, 205 daily webcasts, and written 138 articles—all while adding over $1 million in revenue to his businesses by using speaking and podcasting as growth engines. On this episode we talk about: How Ron generated $1M through podcasting, speaking, and content creation Using lifetime deals to solve churn problems in recurring SaaS models The smartest way to turn software buyers into loyal, long-term customers The mindset shift from selling lottery tickets to selling true business investments Why public speaking and podcast guesting are the fastest trust builders for any entrepreneur Top 3 Takeaways Churn—not customer acquisition—is what kills recurring revenue businesses. Treat your product as an investment in your customer's future, not as a cheap lottery ticket. Speaking and podcasting aren't just about visibility—they create pre-sold leads who already trust you. Notable Quotes “After you sell it, you've got to keep it—that's where the real cost begins.” “People invest in what they understand. The more they engage, the longer they stay.” “Most great speakers speak for free—the money's made when the audience becomes your clients.” Connect with Ron Story Jr.: Website: SpeakerHub.com/Guestio ✖️✖️✖️✖️

John Levy is a behavioral scientist specializing in trust, leadership, and human connection. He's the author of the New York Times bestseller You're Invited and his latest book Team Intelligence: How Brilliant Leaders Unlock Collective Genius. Over the last fifteen years, John has helped thousands of leaders—from Nobel laureates to Olympians—understand how to create meaningful relationships, build trust faster, and foster cultures where teams thrive together. On this episode we talk about: Why relationships and trust are the ultimate currency in business and life The psychology of connection and why small acts build deep trust How to avoid manipulation while using behavioral science for good The difference between status and likability—and why likability always wins long-term How emotionally intelligent teams unlock “collective genius” and outperform talent alone Top 3 Takeaways Trust isn't gained by giving—it's built when others invest effort in you. True connection comes from benevolent intent, not manipulation—use psychology to serve, not to scheme. High-performing teams succeed not because they have the smartest people, but because they have the most emotionally intelligent dynamics. Notable Quotes “We can't buy relationships. The real question is—how do we get people to invest effort into us?” “If I told people how I designed my events, would they feel manipulated or cared for? That's the test.” “The reason we follow someone is simple—they make us believe tomorrow will be better than today.” Connect with John Levy: Website: https://www.jonlevy.com/ ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Bob Chapman is the CEO of Barry-Wehmiller, a $4 billion global capital equipment company and author of Everybody Matters: The Extraordinary Power of Caring for Your People Like Family. Over his 50-year leadership journey, Bob transformed a struggling $20 million family business into a multibillion-dollar enterprise using a blend of sound business design, creative acquisitions, and a culture of truly human leadership. His work proves that success and compassion aren't opposites—they're partners. On this episode we talk about: How Bob turned a near-bankrupt family company into a $4 billion global organization The nine-month period of surviving day-to-day on cash and what it taught him about resilience Why your business model—not metrics alone—is the true engine of wealth creation The strategy behind 150+ acquisitions and how he found value others missed The power of combining common sense, creativity, and positivity in leadership Top 3 Takeaways Cash is the oxygen of business—understanding its flow is fundamental to growth and survival. True leadership requires calm under crisis; your team follows your attitude more than your words. A great business model is your engine, but a caring culture is the premium fuel that makes it perform. Notable Quotes “Cash is the foundation of your ability to be a good steward of your business.” “There's no relationship between what something costs and what it's worth.” “Our business model is the engine, but our culture is the premium fuel.” Connect with Bob Chapman: Website: BarryWehmiller.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Mark Matson is the bestselling author of Experiencing the American Dream: How to Invest Your Time, Energy, and Money to Create an Extraordinary Life, and founder of Matson Money, a firm managing over $12 billion in assets. Known for making Nobel Prize–winning investment science accessible to everyday families, Mark has spent decades teaching people how to invest prudently, avoid speculation, and build wealth that serves a greater purpose. On this episode we talk about: Why most financial advice is based on false promises of predicting the market The dangers of stock picking, market timing, and chasing performance How modern portfolio theory and academic research can guide smart investing Practical asset allocation and the discipline of rebalancing Why having a purpose for your money matters more than money itself Top 3 Takeaways The market can't be reliably predicted—success comes from disciplined asset allocation and rebalancing, not gambling. Emotional decisions in down markets often lock in losses; sticking to your plan yields far greater long-term returns. Money alone won't make you happy—invest with purpose, aligning your finances to your values and life goals. Notable Quotes “All the knowable information about the future is already in the stock price today.” “Leave your money in the market and rebalance—don't pull it out during downturns.” “Money for money's sake never works; it has to serve a purpose greater than itself.” Connect with Mark Matson: Website: MatsonMoney.com Instagram: @MarkMatson1 ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Amanda Goetz is a two-time founder, four-time CMO, and single mom of three who's helping ambitious people redefine what “having it all” actually looks like. She inspires over 150,000 readers each week through her Life's a Game newsletter and her new book, Toxic Grit: How to Have It All and Actually Love What You Have. In this conversation, Amanda shares a grounded, intentional approach to ambition—one that makes space for work, relationships, and personal growth without burning out. On this episode we talk about: Why Amanda believes ambition isn't toxic—it's lack of intention that is How to embrace “and” thinking instead of living life as an “either/or” equation The hidden cost of letting one identity (career, parent, partner) take over your life How to transition between roles, build hierarchy, and avoid constant guilt The five pillars of Amanda's “portfolio career” and how to start building one yourself Top 3 Takeaways The solution to overwork or burnout isn't quitting ambition—it's learning to balance all your “characters” with awareness and structure. A thriving career doesn't have to compete with family, purpose, or rest—it can coexist when you embrace the and. Genuine success comes from self-awareness and human connection—two things that automation and hustle culture can't replace. Notable Quotes “Life isn't an or statement—it's an and. You can chase goals and still build a life you love.” “Toxic grit happens when one character takes over the whole storyline of your life.” “You can't automate your way out of human connection.” ✖️✖️✖️✖️

In this episode of the Travis Makes Money podcast, Travis Chappell sits down with Elina Panteleyva, the founder of DudeWolf, a thriving seven-figure brand for doodle dog breeds. Elina shares her inspiring journey from being laid off to building a successful business in just 15 months, all without a team or prior e-commerce experience. Tune in to discover how Elina's entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approach have helped her create products that doodle owners love. ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️

In this clip, Travis makes friends with Patrick Bet-David, the founder of Valuetainment, as they discuss the DNA of an entrepreneur. Patrick talks about how he can't imagine not building a business, and how it's ingrained in his DNA to see a business grow and individuals succeed as a team. They also explore why this is the case and Patrick shares his story of how he was never someone who would have been predicted to succeed, yet he found his way to success. Join Travis and Patrick in this insightful conversation that delves deep into what it takes to be an entrepreneur and how to succeed against all odds. Learn from the experiences of one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the world and discover the secrets to building a business that can change the world. ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️

Dave Munson is the founder of Saddleback Leather Company, a brand known for building rugged, overbuilt leather bags designed to last 100 years. What started in a small Mexican leather shop grew into a globally recognized business with collaborations alongside Toyota and Martin Guitar. Beyond business, Dave and his wife Suzette also lead Love 41, a nonprofit supporting communities in Rwanda, Mexico, and Texas. His adventurous life has included escaping an assassin, surviving danger in Mexico, and building a family-owned business that became a worldwide success. On this episode we talk about: How Dave turned a need for a durable book bag into Saddleback Leather His first scrappy sales tactics involving homemade signs on his Land Cruiser Moving to Mexico, surviving an assassin encounter, and navigating unexpected dangers How eBay became the platform that validated his business idea The importance of striving to be the best and building products that sell themselves Top 3 Takeaways Sometimes a successful business starts with solving your own problem—in Dave's case, creating a bag he couldn't find anywhere else. Exceptional products don't just sell; they create demand from day one by being designed to last and built with integrity. To stand out as an entrepreneur, choose to be the best at something—even in crowded markets—through expertise, quality, and relentless improvement. Notable Quotes "I told the leatherworker, I want my grandchildren to fight over this when I'm dead." "My first marketing sign was just a sheet of paper taped to my Land Cruiser—‘Cool leather bags for sale.'" "If you're going to do something, don't blend in. Try to be the best at it." Connect with Dave Munson: SaddlebackLeather.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Garrett White is a multi–eight-figure entrepreneur best known for founding the Wake Up Warrior movement. Before that, he rode the highs of the mortgage boom, only to lose everything when the 2008 financial crisis hit. His businesses collapsed, his finances imploded, and his personal life spiraled into addiction and rock-bottom moments. But out of that devastation, Garrett rebuilt his life and business with a new philosophy—one focused on certainty, truth, and becoming a true entrepreneur instead of just a hustler. On this episode we talk about: The difference between being a hustler and truly being an entrepreneur How the 2008 recession exposed weaknesses and reshaped Garrett's mindset Hitting rock bottom with addiction, broken relationships, and financial ruin The role of faith, truth, and what Garrett calls "certainty" in rebuilding his life The beginnings of the Wake Up Warrior movement and lessons for today's uncertain economy Top 3 Takeaways Hustling might get you short-term wins, but building something lasting requires foundation, leadership, and a long-term vision. Real entrepreneurship requires a shift from individual hustle to creating systems, certainty, and "kingdoms" that can withstand chaos. True leadership comes from authenticity and certainty—qualities that can't be faked or purchased. Notable Quotes "We were not entrepreneurs. We were hustlers." "If you have certainty, you can create in chaos. If you don't, you'll be destroyed by it." "Truth is the ember that reignited everything—without it, I had nothing." Connect with Garrett White: https://garrettjwhite.com/ ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Dean Graziosi is one of the world's leading entrepreneurs, multiple New York Times bestselling author, and business partner to Tony Robbins at mastermind.com. In this special replay, Dean shares the powerful story of how discovering Tony Robbins' teachings during his early twenties didn't just make him a millionaire—but gave him the mindset to build, risk, and thrive. From blue-collar hustle to building 13 successful companies, Dean reveals the mindset hacks, risk-taking habits, and wealth foundations that anyone can use to change their story and amplify their results. On this episode we talk about:   How Dean went from small-town tow truck driver and real estate investor to entrepreneur, course creator, and Tony Robbins' business partner   The transformational impact of Tony Robbins—shifting from self-doubt to self-education and masterminds   Why amplifying the right “voices” and controlling your environment are keys to personal and financial growth   Masterminds, risk, and the real secret to success (it's not a tactic—it's matching mindset to the right plan)   Why having a big enough reason—either pain or pleasure—beats talent, luck, or even timing Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Success and risk tolerance aren't about luck or skills—they come from strengthening the right voice in your head, controlling your environment, and fueling a compelling vision for the future.2.  Self-education (books, masterminds, mentors) is the “unfair advantage” that turned a hustler into a multimillionaire—and remains the foundation for exponential growth and resilience.3.  Personal development isn't fluffy: unless you shape your beliefs, you'll never follow through on the best strategy or tactic—mindset plus action is the only proven path. Notable Quotes   “We all have two voices: strengthen the one that says, ‘Let's do this'—the other only grows with inaction.”   “Mindset and foundation, plus the right strategies, is where exponential growth comes from.”   “If you wouldn't risk for your dream, ask yourself if you're willing to stay exactly where you are for the next five years.” Connect with Dean Graziosi:   Instagram: @deangraziosi   Website: deangraziosi.com   Book: Millionaire Success Habits   Mastermind/Training: Mastermind.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Travis and producer Eric break down one of the most polarizing topics in entrepreneurship: is it better to bootstrap a business, or raise outside capital? Drawing on personal experience and lessons from startup culture, Travis reveals the biggest mistakes founders make when chasing VC funding, why Silicon Valley's obsession with investment misleads so many, and the first principles everyone should use to decide how to launch any new company. On this episode we talk about:   The dangers and downsides of raising funding too early—even if the “checklist” seems to fit your business   Why bootstrapping builds discipline, pressure, and actual proof of concept (and how to get creative when money is tight)   When venture capital makes sense—and all the hidden costs of taking outside money, from loss of control to preferential contracts   How AI is changing the software startup equation, and shrinking the need to raise massive amounts of funding   Lessons learned from infamous failures (like Quibi) and the right ways to audit your business before chasing investment Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Bootstrapping is almost always the better first move; it boosts discipline, real market feedback, and keeps control in the founder's hands.2.  Raising outside capital adds pressure, complex contracts, and doesn't guarantee success; cash alone never fixes a business that lacks product-market fit.3.  Use trusted frameworks (like Reid Hoffman's Blitzscaling checklist), consult experienced founders, and remember: don't give away control unless it's truly required for growth. Notable Quotes   “If at all possible, bootstrap first—even just to prove your concept. Outside money makes everything more complicated.”   “Cash doesn't solve all your problems. There are usually bigger issues at play—product, marketing, market fit—that have nothing to do with funding volume.”   “The moment you take other people's money, it gets harder, not easier; discipline and focus will always win.” Connect with Travis Chappell:   LinkedIn: Travis Chappell on LinkedIn   Twitter/X: @travischappell   Instagram: @travischappell   Website: travischappell.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

MichaelAaron Flicker is founder and CEO of XenoPsi Ventures, a brand incubator that generates millions in annual revenue and celebrates four-time Inc. 5000 honors. Launching his business at 14, MichaelAaron has expanded XenoPsi into nine thriving companies—including DTC success story Wellow ($20 million in revenue, self-funded)—while also consulting for Fortune 500 clients and co-authoring Hacking the Human Mind. Flicker's work centers on applying behavioral science to marketing, growth, and brand strategy, making him a go-to advisor for high-growth businesses and political campaigns alike. On this episode we talk about:   Starting and scaling a brand incubator from a teenage side hustle to a portfolio of top-performing businesses   How behavioral science transforms marketing, product, and political campaign strategy (from “Chilean Sea Bass” to iPods)   Critical psychological biases every marketer should know (naming, concreteness, social proof)   The art/science of making products memorable and believable—why one clear message beats a laundry list of features   Applying behavioral insights ethically (and knowing when to simplify so your message lands with real customers) Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Understanding and leveraging behavioral science is key to building memorable brands and driving growth in any industry.2.  One clear, concrete message about your product will outperform complicated “lists”—clarity is persuasive and sticky.3.  Ethical marketing means matching your product's strengths to people's real needs, using behavioral tools to open minds rather than manipulate. Notable Quotes   “The simple words we use make a big difference—the way you describe and brand your offer is as important as the product itself.”   “If people can't picture a result, they won't remember or believe it—concreteness is four times more effective than abstraction.”   “Every business is in the persuasion business—behavioral science is the best way to understand what truly influences people.” Connect with MichaelAaron Flicker:   LinkedIn: MichaelAaron Flicker   Website: XenoPsi Ventures   Book: Hacking the Human Mind   Podcast: Behavioral Science for Brands ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Shannah Game is not your typical money person—she's a certified financial planner, financial trauma specialist, podcast host, and author of Unraveling Your Relationship With Money. With a unique blend of creative and financial expertise, Shannah has built a career helping women (and men!) reframe their beliefs about money, midlife, and reinvention. Eschewing the stiff suits and tired advice, Shannah is known for her real talk: tackling financial trauma, midlife pivots, and the emotions underlying all our money decisions. On this episode we talk about:   Shannah's journey from lemonade stands and arts management to financial planning, media, and bestseller lists   How financial beliefs, not just numbers, keep people stuck (and why budgets alone don't work)   Overcoming scarcity thinking in today's economy, especially for millennials, Gen Z, and women   Learning to prioritize spending on what really matters—without shame, guilt, or comparison   The actual emotional and behavioral tools to heal money trauma and finally build wealth on your own terms Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Money is never just math—it's a mix of early beliefs, emotions, and behaviors we can rewrite at any stage in life.2.  Focusing on what you control (mindset, habits, priorities), not what's out of reach, is key to overcoming financial frustration in an uncertain economy.3.  Your path to financial peace starts by becoming unapologetic about what really matters to you and letting go of status games and outside expectations. Notable Quotes   “Money isn't just about money—real change means understanding your emotional relationship with it, not just the math.”   “If you can get self-aware in your twenties and say no to what doesn't matter, you'll thank yourself for decades to come.”   “What we present on the outside is never the full story—many people with the coolest cars and nicest watches are a financial mess underneath.” Connect with Shannah Game: Instagram: @shannahgame Website: heyshannah.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

In this skills-focused episode, Travis and co-host Eric Kruczynski debate which core competency—sales, marketing, or operations—would make the biggest difference for young professionals and future entrepreneurs. With humorous banter and personal anecdotes, they lay out the case for each skill, reflect on their own career pivots, and highlight why both product-first thinking and communication are more critical than ever for making money in today's economy. On this episode we talk about:   The pros and cons of going deep in sales, marketing, or operations as a foundational skillset   Why Travis wishes he'd doubled down on marketing after cutting his teeth in sales   The hidden importance of learning to communicate and interact with adults from a young age   Why product-led growth beats everything (Naval's hierarchy: Product > Marketing > Sales)   Real examples: Savannah Bananas' ESPN deal, Manscaped, CarMax, and how big brands use these skillsets to win Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Sales is indispensable for young professionals to learn communication, persuasion, and how to speak “adult”—but marketing has the highest earning upside in most modern businesses.2.  Product is king: the greatest companies invest first in world-class product, then marketing, with sales as a fallback if needed.3.  Differentiation is critical—even brands with average products (like early Manscaped) can win if marketing is exceptional, but nothing replaces a truly great offering. Notable Quotes   “Sales is learning to speak the language of adults and persuasion; marketing is sales at scale.”   “Sales is what you do when you've failed at marketing; marketing is what you do when you've failed at product. Product is king.” (paraphrasing Naval)   “Build something so good that people can't help talking about it—organic always beats paid.” Connect with Travis Chappell:   LinkedIn: Travis Chappell on LinkedIn   Twitter/X: @travischappell   Instagram: @travischappell   Website: travischappell.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

David Guttman is a serial entrepreneur, three-time Inc. 500 executive, and business strategist with more than 30 years' experience building, scaling, and exiting multiple eight- and nine-figure companies. He's bought and sold 15 businesses, raised over $25 million, and holds degrees from Brown and Wharton—but as he reveals in this episode, Guttman's most powerful business lessons have all come from hands-on experience, not classrooms. Joined by Anna, a first-time founder going through his new "Anti-MBA" program, David shows how anyone can launch, scale, and exit a real business—no fancy degree or pedigree required. On this episode we talk about:   The difference between academic knowledge and real-world business competence (and why David tore up his Wharton MBA diploma)   How Guttman's new “Anti-MBA” course powers hands-on learning for first-time founders—including an 18-year-old launching a tech-savvy poster company   The secrets of buying, scaling, and selling businesses across 40+ industries, including key lessons from epic failures and wins   How to build winning businesses: bottoms-up budgeting, asking the right questions, and synthesizing knowledge from every team member   Networking, mentorship, and why podcasting is still the “single best tool for building relationships” in the modern era Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Building and scaling companies is about learning by doing, asking questions, testing assumptions, and embracing mistakes—not degrees or credentials.2.  All business victories (and most big lessons) come from execution, pattern recognition, honesty, and the ability to synthesize data and team insights.3.  Owners should treat employees as true owners—make everyone a shareholder, drive open-book management, and prioritize real relationships for long-term wins. Notable Quotes   "I didn't learn anything particularly useful in the classroom. I learned by doing."   "If you wouldn't do the deal on a handshake, don't do the deal—even if contracts look great."   "Podcasting is hands down the single best networking tool ever invented—by galaxies." Connect with David Guttman: https://www.guttmanmedia.com/ ✖️✖️✖️✖️

In this episode, Travis and producer Eric dive into the uncomfortable but crucial world of pricing your services and mastering sales. They discuss real strategies, share personal struggles, and break down Alex Hormozi's now-famous “closed rate pricing gauge cheat sheet.” Whether you're a freelancer, agency owner, or business leader, you'll learn how to stop undercharging for your work, confidently sell your value, and turn price conversations from awkward to awesome. On this episode we talk about:   How to use close rates to determine if your prices are too low (or too high)   Overcoming anxiety around sales and setting prices for friends, family, and clients   Writing scripts and using prep tools (like ChatGPT) to gain confidence before making offers   Sales conversation frameworks—discovery, demo, value-building, and closing   Actionable advice for firing low-value clients, upselling, and navigating new price points Top 3 Takeaways 1.  If your close rate is above 60–80%, you're probably undercharging; double or triple your prices and focus on building real value for the right clients.2.  Good sales is about diagnosing problems and becoming a trusted advisor—not just pitching; scripts, discovery, and prep are your friends.3.  Retention is easier than acquisition, but honesty and transparency are key when raising prices or letting legacy clients go. Notable Quotes   “If you can describe the problem better than they can, people will assume you have the solution.”   “Most people aren't paying for a deal—they're paying for results from someone they trust to deliver.”   “You're either selling stuff or building stuff. Everything else is noise.” Connect with Travis Chappell:   LinkedIn: Travis Chappell on LinkedIn   Twitter/X: @travischappell   Instagram: @travischappell   Website: travischappell.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

On this Q&A episode, Travis and producer Eric break down the true value—and actual dollar ROI—of spending big on conferences, masterminds, and in-person networking events. Travis pulls back the curtain on years of personal investment, revealing why choosing the right room can shortcut years of growth for entrepreneurs and creators. The episode answers tough listener questions about wasted money, picking events, and how to “level up” your network strategically instead of just collecting business cards. On this episode we talk about:   Why Travis has spent six figures annually to get access to high-caliber business rooms   The difference between ROI in cheap conferences vs. elite mastermind groups   How and why real business growth happens outside of structured sessions—often at after-hours meetups   The “ping pong effect”—why you need to challenge yourself by surrounding yourself with people at much higher levels   The most common mistake (and how to avoid wasting your investment by focusing solely on content over relationships) Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Face-to-face conferences and masterminds often provide the best ROI—companies report a 4:1 to 5:1 return according to 2025 industry data, and new business from events still outpaces digital alone.2.  Growth happens fastest when you pay to be uncomfortable and seek out rooms where you're not the expert—proximity to big thinkers shortcuts years of solo effort.3.  The best value comes when you prioritize genuine relationships over just knowledge—one high-value contact can outweigh years' worth of conference notes. Notable Quotes   "When you pay, you pay attention. Money is an amazing accountability partner—if you stretch to get in the right room, you make the most of it."   "All the best business happens after hours, in the relationships and informal meetups that develop outside the official event schedule."   "If you can't find a conference that fits, be the host—creating the community gives you leverage and attracts the best connections." Connect with Travis Chappell:   LinkedIn: Travis Chappell on LinkedIn   Twitter/X: @travischappell   Instagram: @travischappell   Website: travischappell.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Srividya Jandhyala is a renowned professor of management at ESSEC Business School specializing in global strategy, international business, and geopolitics. The author of "The Great Disruption: How Geopolitics is Changing Companies, Managers, and Work" (Cambridge University Press, 2025), Srividya's research has garnered multiple awards and appears in top-tier journals. She is recognized for her ability to distill complex geopolitical shifts into clear, actionable insights for executives and entrepreneurs navigating today's volatile economic landscape. On this episode we talk about:   How global strategy and international business fundamentals are shifting in response to renewed geopolitical volatility   The business risks—and unexpected opportunities—arising from trade wars, sanctions, and national security regulations   Real-world case studies showing how leading companies are adapting to geopolitical shocks in 2025   Why managers and entrepreneurs need to understand geopolitics to make smarter investment, partnership, and growth decisions   How to cultivate resilience and agility amid unpredictable global business trends Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Geopolitical change is now a primary factor in business risk and opportunity—understanding new rules is crucial for survival and growth.2.  Companies must actively adapt strategy, supply chains, and partnerships as nations prioritize security and sovereignty over open markets.3.  Leaders who stay informed and agile—using data, networks, and scenario planning—can turn global disruptions into competitive advantage. Notable Quotes   "A great disruption is underway. Geopolitics is reshaping international business, and managers must navigate a new and changing world."   "There's no going back to the pre-2020 ‘rules'—today, structural shifts call for new levels of creativity and resilience."   "Firms that understand both market and non-market forces will seize the best opportunities amidst uncertainty." Connect with Srividya Jandhyala:   Personal Website: s-jandhyala.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

Josh Pais, actor and founder of Committed Impulse, has starred in 150+ movies and shows (Ray Donovan, Joker, TMNT) but is just as known for his game-changing work teaching creativity, presence, and resilience. Drawing from the worlds of acting, science, and entrepreneurship, Josh helps professionals harness anxiety and fear—not fight it—unlocking deeper authenticity, energy, and real business results. His new book, Lose Your Mind, reveals the step-by-step process for transforming internal resistance into creative fuel in both art and enterprise. Josh's unique upbringing: a mother who was a painter-poet, a father who was a physicist who worked with Einstein—blending creativity and science into his philosophy and approach. The Committed Impulse method: Presence-based, body-centric acting technique that has empowered Oscar-winning actors, Navy SEALs, Fortune 100 execs, entrepreneurs, and professionals to break free of “tyranny of overthinking” and use anxiety as a source of power. Core lesson: Emotions like anxiety, nervousness, fear are neither good nor bad—they are energetic phenomena, and feeling them fully (rather than suppressing) creates truth, spontaneity, and engagement. Why authenticity is business's secret weapon: When professionals (lawyers, doctors, salespeople) connect from genuine experience—rather than perform from a “safe” autopilot—audiences respond, and careers flourish. “Lose Your Mind”: New book offering practical tools and meditations to shift internal energy, supporting creative invincibility for anyone with high-stakes communication needs. Experiencing—not avoiding—fear and anxiety is how world-class creatives, executives, and entrepreneurs achieve breakthrough results. Suppressing emotions is energetically and physically costly; creativity, health, and business engagement all flourish when energy is allowed to flow. The most compelling entrepreneurs, speakers, and leaders show up with their real physical and emotional truth—being present, not perfect, books deals and drives success in today's market. “What people perceive as nervousness is just creative fuel—once I learned to feel every feeling fully, booking jobs and success became effortless”. “The best presenters and actors allow the charge in their bodies—authenticity is speaking from your truth and letting energy move”. “Committed Impulse gives you access to your creative ‘atomic' truth—it's how you build trust, connect, and sell in business as well as art”. Committed Impulse: committedimpulse.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

This episode features Travis and producer Eric tackling one of the biggest, most uncomfortable truths about financial success: most people will never build real wealth—and the core reason isn't luck or the White House, but mindset. Drawing on decades of interviews with self-made success stories, Travis explains why belief in possibility—coupled with intentional action and environment—unlocks opportunities that most people never realize exist. The episode offers a wake-up call for anyone stuck in the “doom loop” of financial frustration and outlines specific, practical steps to break free and design a new future. On this episode we talk about:   Why most Americans will never build wealth (and what the data says about the top 10% vs. everyone else)   The single biggest mental barrier keeping people stuck in financial ruts—belief in what's possible for themselves   How environment, relationships, and content shape financial results (and how to intentionally re-engineer them)   Actionable frameworks for moving beyond circumstances, including the “inputs and outputs” model Travis uses with top performers   Practical advice for dealing with setbacks, self-doubt, and excuses in the wealth-building journey Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Wealth building starts with changing belief—if you don't believe it's possible, you'll never take the sustained action required to succeed.2.  Intentional shifts in environment, daily influences, and relationships are critical for breaking generational or circumstantial cycles of financial struggle.3.  Personal responsibility, not circumstances or politics, is the lever that brings change—everyone has the power to design an environment that shapes who they become. Notable Quotes   "You are now 100% a result of your choices, not a result of the environment that you grew up in."   "Nobody is going to come save you. You have the agency and responsibility to put things in motion to change your life."   "It's easier to take the action you need if everyone around you is doing the same thing—your environment is your secret weapon." Connect with Travis Chappell:   LinkedIn: Travis Chappell on LinkedIn   Twitter/X: @travischappell   Instagram: @travischappell   Website: travischappell.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

From the archive: This episode was originally recorded and published in 2022. Our interviews on Entrepreneurs On Fire are meant to be evergreen, and we do our best to confirm that all offers and URL's in these archive episodes are still relevant. Aurelian Amacker is a French marketer who's been in the industry since 2010. In 2018 he launched systeme.io, an all-in-one marketing platform with 10,000 customers and 200,000 free users. Top 3 Value Bombs 1. If you try to integrate different tools, there is no way you will get a good user experience. 2. Entrepreneurship is not about theory. It's about being pragmatic. It's about reality. 3. Focus on more important things, like creating more offers, driving more traffic, and building your email list. Save 30 percent on your annual plan and get 6 FREE bonuses worth 3,682 dollars. The Easiest and Fastest Way to Grow Your Online Business - Systeme.io Startup Annual Plan Sponsors HighLevel - The ultimate all-in-one platform for entrepreneurs, marketers, coaches, and agencies. Learn more at HighLevelFire.com. Gelt - Your year-round tax partner built for entrepreneurs, business owners, investors, and high net-worth individuals who want to keep more of what they earn. Get a personalized consultation and 10 percent off your first year when you mention Entrepreneurs on Fire. Visit JoinGelt.com/eof. Public - Build a multi-asset portfolio of stocks, bonds, options, crypto, and more. Go to Public.com/fire to fund your account in five minutes or less. All investing involves the risk of loss, including loss of principal. Brokerage services for US-listed, registered securities, options and bonds in a self-directed account are offered by Public Investing, Inc., member FINRA and SIPC. Public Investing offers a High-Yield Cash Account where funds from this account are automatically deposited into partner banks where they earn interest and are eligible for FDIC insurance; Public Investing is not a bank. Cryptocurrency trading services are offered by Bakkt Crypto Solutions, LLC (NMLS ID 1890144), which is licensed to engage in virtual currency business activity by the NYSDFS. Cryptocurrency is highly speculative, involves a high degree of risk, and has the potential for loss of the entire amount of an investment. Cryptocurrency holdings are not protected by the FDIC or SIPC. Alpha is an experimental AI tool powered by GPT-4. Its output may be inaccurate and is not investment advice. Public makes no guarantees about its accuracy or reliability - verify independently before use. Rate as of 6/24/25. APY is variable and subject to change. Terms and Conditions apply.