Travis Makes Money

In this episode of Travis Makes Money, Travis and his producer Eric break down Forbes’ latest list of America’s top 25 philanthropists, using billionaire giving stats as a springboard to talk about generosity, impact, and what “giving back” should actually look like for everyday earners. They explore why MacKenzie Scott’s record-breaking donations grab headlines, how Warren Buffett’s decades-long giving compares to other billionaires, and why most people criticizing the ultra-wealthy aren’t doing anything meaningful with their own money. On this episode we talk about: Forbes’ data on America’s top 25 philanthropists and why the richest people often aren’t the most generous by percentage How MacKenzie Scott gave away roughly 75% of her Amazon shares and over 26 billion dollars in just a few years Why Warren Buffett tops the all-time philanthropist charts with tens of billions given away over his lifetime The tension between donating to nonprofits versus creating value through companies, jobs, and products Why most people overestimate what billionaires “should” give while contributing nothing (or almost nothing) themselves Top 3 Takeaways If you’re not giving when you make 60–80k a year, you almost certainly won’t start when you have millions; generosity is a percentage-based habit, not a net-worth number. Impact isn’t only measured in 501(c)(3) donations—building companies, creating jobs, and expanding access to products and information are also powerful forms of contribution. Instead of obsessing over what billionaires “should” do, focus on what you can control: bake giving into your financial system now, even if it’s just a few dollars, and increase it as your income grows. Notable Quotes “If you’re not doing it when you don’t have a lot, you’re probably not going to do it when you do have a lot.” “It’s easy to point at a billionaire’s net worth, but most people aren’t doing anything meaningful with their own 80k salary either.” “Stop throwing stones in a glass house—build the habit of contribution now, then let your generosity scale with your income.” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/traviscchappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Other: https://travischappell.com Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Miki Agrawal is a visionary entrepreneur and bestselling author known for building disruptive consumer brands that challenge the status quo. She’s the founder behind companies like Tushy, Thinks, and Wild, which have collectively generated over $500 million in revenue. Named one of the most creative people by Fast Company and recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, Miki is now focused on her latest venture, Hero Diapers, which uses plastic-eating fungi to tackle the global diaper waste crisis. In this episode, Miki shares how questioning everyday norms led her to build multiple groundbreaking companies—and why the future of entrepreneurship is regenerative, not extractive. On this episode we talk about: How Miki’s multicultural upbringing shaped her entrepreneurial mindset and willingness to challenge norms Lessons learned from launching New York City’s first gluten-free farm-to-table pizza restaurant The strategy behind building disruptive brands like Tushy and Thinks Why hiring complementary partners and operators is critical for scaling multiple companies The future of regenerative entrepreneurship and solving global waste problems with innovative products Top 3 Takeaways Question everything. Many successful companies are built by challenging everyday norms and asking, “Is there a better way to do this?” Great businesses solve multiple problems at once. The best products deliver value to customers, the planet, and the bottom line simultaneously. Your team determines your scalability. Building strong partnerships with operators who complement your strengths allows founders to launch and grow multiple ventures. Notable Quotes "There’s never just one way to do something—there’s always a better way if you’re willing to question the status quo." "The trifecta of a great business is a better product for the customer, a better outcome for the planet, and real value for people’s wallets." "We don’t need more stuff—we need regenerative products that return to the earth and complete the cycle." Connect with Miki Agrawal: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikiagrawal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikiagrawal Personal Website:  ⁠https://mikiagrawal.com/⁠ Other: https://hirodiapers.com  Other: https://hellotushy.com   Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency.  Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform.  Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, Travis Chappell reflects on the importance of friendship and how meaningful relationships impact our health, happiness, and success. Inspired by a conversation between Simon Sinek and Trevor Noah, Travis shares personal lessons about how chasing business success and carrying burdens alone led him to unintentionally distance himself from friends. He explores the idea that friendship may be the ultimate “biohack” for a better life, dives into the famous Rat Park experiment on addiction and community, and explains why being a great friend is often the key to building deeper relationships. On this episode we talk about: Why Simon Sinek calls friendship the “ultimate biohack” for health, happiness, and longevity The powerful lesson from the Rat Park experiment about community and addiction Why refusing to share struggles with friends can actually damage relationships The balance between vulnerability and becoming the constant “complainer” in a friend group Practical ways to strengthen friendships by creating shared experiences and memories Top 3 Takeaways Friendship is one of the most powerful predictors of health and happiness. Meaningful relationships can impact everything from emotional well-being to long-term longevity. Being a good friend means allowing others to show up for you. Refusing to share struggles can unintentionally rob your friends of the chance to support you. Experiences create stronger friendships than conversation alone. Shared activities and memories build deeper trust and connection over time. Notable Quotes "Friendship is the ultimate biohack that literally fixes everything." "If you don’t allow your friends to be there for you, you’re robbing them of the opportunity to be a good friend." "Stop asking how to make friends and start asking how to become a great friend." Connect with Travis Chappell: Website: https://travischappell.com Podcast: https://travischappell.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell  Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency.  Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform.  Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis Chappell is joined by his producer and co-host Eric for a fast-paced, funny breakdown of what it really looks like to take high-risk, low-paying opportunities—like hosting the Oscars or speaking at events—and turn them into long-term money and credibility plays for your brand. Travis draws on his experience hosting Travis Makes Money and booking thousands of podcast interviews to explain why credibility is often more valuable than the check, especially early in your career. On this episode we talk about: How much Oscar hosts actually get paid versus the massive production budget Why hosting or speaking can be a “low-pay, high-risk, high-credibility” opportunity How to decide if you should cover your own travel or speak for free Why most people overestimate their value and underestimate the power of credibility markers What it really takes to get booked on top podcasts and big stages today Top 3 Takeaways Be willing to take underpaid or even out-of-pocket opportunities when the credibility, footage, relationships, and access you gain can open far bigger (and better paying) doors down the road. Stop overvaluing your “cool story” and start evaluating opportunities from the host or event organizer’s perspective—audience growth, brand alignment, and social proof matter more than you think. In a crowded market where everyone wants the same stages and podcasts, you either start smaller and build from the bottom, or you pay to accelerate access; time or money (often both) will be required. Notable Quotes “You have to be willing to risk the embarrassment of potentially not doing well, but also prepare enough to actually crush the opportunity when it comes.” “Most people are thinking, ‘What’s in it for me?’ instead of, ‘What’s in it for them?’—and that’s why they’re not getting booked.” “In this new realm, you’re starting from the bottom. So build the proper foundation, even if it costs you money, because the credibility you gain is worth it.” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Other (Website): https://travischappell.com Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Ford is the founder of the podcast Self-Improvement Daily, which has surpassed 21 million downloads, and a behavior change expert who helps busy professionals become more consistent, intentional, and accountable in their lives and businesses. With a background in neurobiology and medical device sales, Brian eventually transitioned into entrepreneurship and personal development, building a coaching business around the systems and habits that drive high performance. He’s also the co-founder of the For Purpose Foundation, a nonprofit that has raised over $1.1 million for charity through health and wellness challenges. In this episode, Brian shares how he turned a simple daily podcast into a credibility engine that fuels his coaching business and mission-driven work. On this episode we talk about: How Brian grew Self-Improvement Daily to over 21 million downloads through consistency and podcast SEO Why a podcast can be more powerful as a credibility platform than a direct monetization tool The business model behind Brian’s behavior change coaching and 21-day performance challenge The power of networking, proximity, and building relationships that open doors Why consistency and compounding effort are the foundation of long-term success Top 3 Takeaways Consistency compounds over time. Brian’s success with 2,300+ podcast episodes shows that small actions done consistently can produce massive long-term results. A podcast doesn’t have to be the product—it can be the platform. Brian uses his show as a credibility pillar that leads to speaking, partnerships, and coaching opportunities. Relationships accelerate growth. Meeting people in person, building genuine connections, and leveraging warm introductions can dramatically speed up business success. Notable Quotes "The reason I've reached 21 million downloads is simple—I’ve released over 2,300 episodes. Consistency compounds." "Your podcast doesn’t have to generate revenue directly. It can be the foundation that creates opportunities everywhere else." "If you want to improve anything in your life, you have to track it. You can’t improve what you don’t measure." Connect with Brian Ford: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bford-purpose/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bford.purpose/ Other: https://www.selfimprovementdailytips.com   Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency.  Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform.  Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, Travis Chappell continues his deep dive into the growing loneliness epidemic by tackling one of the biggest questions people are asking: Is social media to blame? Building on insights from the U.S. Surgeon General’s report on social connection, Travis explores how technology—especially social media—impacts the way we connect with others. He breaks down the science of social connection, the benefits and risks of digital technology, and explains why social media may not be the root cause of loneliness—but it can absolutely make the problem worse if we use it incorrectly. On this episode we talk about: The three core components of social connection: structure, function, and quality Why loneliness and social isolation exist on a continuum rather than a simple yes-or-no condition The role technology and social media play in shaping modern relationships Surprising statistics about digital media use, including Americans spending an average of six hours per day online Why social media should be treated as a media activity, not a social activity Top 3 Takeaways Social media isn’t the root cause of loneliness—but it’s a powerful accelerant. The data shows loneliness has been increasing since the 1970s, long before modern social media existed. Social connection has three critical dimensions: the number of relationships you have, how those relationships meet your needs, and the overall quality of those interactions. Social media should never replace real human interaction. It’s best viewed as a form of entertainment or media consumption—not a substitute for genuine in-person relationships. Notable Quotes "Social media is not a replacement for social activity—it’s a replacement for media activity." "Loneliness has been rising since the 1970s, which means social media didn’t create the problem—but it definitely fuels it." "We can’t go backward with technology, but we can solve the new problems it creates." Connect with Travis Chappell: Website: https://travischappell.com Podcast: https://travischappell.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell  Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency.  Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform.  Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis and his producer, Eric, bring you the inside scoop to their ratings and thoughts on the actual Big Arch burger from McDonald's. Check out yesterday's co-host episode to hear more about our thoughts on the whole McDonald's CEO marketing fail turned win. This is a quick, fun listen that may just inspire you to try the Big Arch for yourself. Find more fun and educational content by connecting with Travis on IG and Youtube: IG- https://www.instagram.com/travischappell/ Youtube- https://www.youtube.com/@travischappellclips Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alexis Sikorsky is a strategic advisor to founders who want to scale fast and exit strong, after building and selling his Switzerland-based banking software company, New Access, in a private equity deal worth over $100M. Drawing on decades of hard-won experience (including painful early failures, a 75% revenue collapse in one day, and a long post-crisis grind), he now helps £5–20M+ revenue businesses design exits instead of hoping for them. In his book Cashing Out: The Business Owner’s Guide to Selling to Private Equity, Alexis introduces the APEX methodology, a practical roadmap for founders who want clarity, cashflow, and a life-changing deal beyond their business. On this episode we talk about: Why Alexis calls his early ventures “failures” and how those lessons funded a $100M+ win later The 2008 financial crisis, losing 75% of revenue in a day, and rebuilding New Access without pivoting His grandfather’s trade wisdom and the simple “sell higher than you buy” rule most founders ignore Why raising VC money is usually a sign of commercial failure, not success The APEX methodology for planning and executing a private equity exit (from assessment to “dressing the bride”) Top 3 Takeaways Failure is the tuition you pay for wisdom: Alexis estimates the “cost” of his mistakes at 50 million and five years, and he uses that lens to help founders avoid repeating them. Profit is not optional if you want optionality: you must build a business where costs stay below revenue, instead of relying on endless fundraising to plug operational holes. A premium exit is engineered, not accidental: knowing your goal (lifestyle vs. exit, 100M vs. 1B), tracking real-time numbers, protecting your USP, and becoming “private equity ready” 18–24 months ahead are non-negotiable. Notable Quotes “I have a 100% success-rate, no-failure strategy: just don’t try anything.” “Raising money is very often a commercial failure—your company isn’t good enough yet to be profitable.” “We’re not wealthy enough to buy cheap. If you can’t afford it, don’t buy it—but don’t buy the cheap version either.” Connect with Alexis Sikorsky: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexis-sikorsky-consulting Website / Book: https://www.asikorsky.com/my-book (Cashing Out: The Business Owner’s Guide to Selling to Private Equity) Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, Travis Chappell takes a deep dive into one of the most overlooked crises affecting modern life: loneliness. Drawing on research from the U.S. Surgeon General’s report on social connection, Travis explores the surprising ways loneliness and social isolation impact everything from mental and physical health to workplace performance and the global economy. While this episode doesn’t feature a guest, Travis breaks down complex research in an accessible way and explains why building meaningful relationships may be one of the most powerful investments you can make for both your life and your financial future. On this episode we talk about: The critical difference between loneliness and social isolation—and why that distinction matters Research showing how loneliness dramatically increases risks of depression, anxiety, and suicide The hidden economic cost of loneliness, including billions lost in healthcare and workplace productivity The shocking physical health risks linked to social disconnection, including heart disease, stroke, and premature death Why social connection may be one of the most important predictors of long-term health and longevity Top 3 Takeaways Loneliness and social isolation are not the same thing. You can be surrounded by people and still feel lonely if your emotional needs for connection and belonging aren’t being met. Social connection directly impacts health and longevity. Research across 148 studies shows that strong social connections can increase survival odds by up to 50%. Loneliness has massive societal costs. From $154 billion in workplace absenteeism to billions in healthcare spending, the impact extends far beyond individual well-being. Notable Quotes "You can feel lonely in a crowd of people—that’s the insidious nature of loneliness." "Social connection increases the odds of survival by 50%." "It may be the highest leverage activity you can focus on for your health and longevity." Connect with Travis Chappell: Website: https://travischappell.com Podcast: https://travischappell.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell  Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency.  Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform.  Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis is joined on the mic riffing with his producer about fast food CEOs, viral burger campaigns, and what they reveal about modern content and personal branding. Through a hilarious breakdown of McDonald’s new “Big Arch” burger promo and the competitive responses from Burger King, A&W, and Wendy’s, Travis pulls out practical lessons for entrepreneurs on how to think about content, virality, and brand personality. On this episode we talk about: McDonald’s controversial Big Arch CEO taste-test video and why it blew up. How Burger King, A&W, and Wendy’s “clapped back” with their own CEO burger videos. Why some CEOs should not be the face of their marketing—and when it works. How a simple iPhone video can outperform big-budget ad campaigns in reach and impact. Ideas for piggybacking on trends and turning competitor content into your own marketing angle. Top 3 Takeaways You don’t have to be polished to win on social—an awkward CEO video can generate more awareness than a six‑month, celebrity-backed campaign if people can react to it and share it. Even “failed” content can be a win when it sparks conversation, duets, stitches, and competitor responses that multiply your brand’s reach for free. As a business owner, your skill set is running the company, not necessarily making content—treat content like its own craft, and either develop that skill or get help so the brand doesn’t take avoidable hits. Notable Quotes "Sometimes even when it doesn’t work, it still works." "That cost them zero dollars and about two minutes of time, and it was equal to three or four months of their traditional marketing budget." "They may be really good at what they do for a living, but creating content is a different skill set." Connect with Travis: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell/ Other: https://travischappell.com/ Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lewis Crompton is a finance expert, trading mentor, and self-made millionaire who has spent over a decade trading the financial markets and six years teaching others how to do the same. Growing up on a low income and grinding through long commutes and low-paying corporate work, Lewis used trading as the skill that allowed him to escape the rat race and build real wealth. Today, he runs a global education company helping everyday people generate 5–10% per month in the markets in under 30 minutes a day, with a mission to help one million families reduce money stress through financial education. On this episode we talk about: Why “just save and wait 40 years” is broken advice in an inflationary world The myth of passive income and what real “30 minutes a day” investing looks like How Lewis went from a £25K-a-year retail job and two-hour commutes to self-made millionaire The “three magic beans” (time, money, energy) you must invest to change your life How identity, belief, and personal responsibility shape your income and your future Top 3 Takeaways You can’t save your way to wealth—if your returns barely beat inflation, you’re just treading water, not building real financial freedom. There is no such thing as truly passive income; meaningful returns come from learning a skill, paying attention, and consistently putting in focused 30-minute-a-day effort. Your identity and beliefs about who you are and what you earn act like a ceiling on your results, so shifting from “I’m a 30K earner” to “I’m a high-value, high-earning person” is the first real step to making more money. Notable Quotes “If your money is only matching inflation, you’re just treading water.” “There’s no such thing as passive income; to be a good steward of your money, you have to pay attention.” “It’s not always your fault you’re where you are, but it is your responsibility to get out of it.” Connect with Lewis Crompton: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lewiscrompton Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/withlewiscrompton Other: https://startradingnow.com/ Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis shares his philosophy on networking as friend‑making, not cold prospecting, drawing from his journey from solar sales and door‑to‑door to full‑time online income through podcasting and high‑level relationships. He unpacks hard‑won lessons from cringeworthy event interactions, volunteering at conferences, and adding disproportionate value to mentors like John Lee Dumas. This episode is especially useful if you want to move from transactional “networking” to building real relationships that compound over time. On this episode we talk about: Why networking and making friends are essentially the same skill in business The “Networking Ned” archetype and why traditional networking feels slimy How a botched first impression with Pat Flynn turned into a real friendship over 18 months Specific ways Travis added 51% of the value to mentors long before he “deserved” their time Why you should think in long‑term relational frames instead of short‑term transactions Top 3 Takeaways Treat networking as building genuine friendships with people who are professionally aligned with you, rather than as in‑person cold calling. Always aim to add at least 51% of the value in your important relationships, even if that means investing time, energy, and money without an immediate ROI. Think long term and relationally: you’ll usually have multiple future opportunities to connect with high‑level people, and your frame and reputation matter more than a single “shot.” Notable Quotes “Networking and friend‑making are basically the same thing, and people who separate them usually don’t do either one very well.” “Don’t think, ‘If I don’t talk to this person right now, I’ll never get another chance.’ Most of the time, that’s just not true.” “Always strive to add at least 51% of the value in your relationships, even when you don’t feel like you have much to offer.” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Instagram: https://instagram.com/travischappell Other: https://travischappell.com Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All‑In‑One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since this is a solo episode, Travis dives deep into how self-awareness, intentional choices, and skill-building shape your financial future and overall fulfillment. He wraps up his 25-question series with a powerful set of prompts designed to help you stop living on autopilot, take responsibility for your trajectory, and start building a life you actually want instead of the one others expect from you.​ On this episode we talk about: What you’re pretending not to know about your habits, relationships, and next steps in life​ Whether you’re building a life you actually want or one that other people will applaud​ How your daily choices either reward your highest self or your laziest self​ The difference between social isolation and loneliness—and why loneliness is a hidden health crisis​ Identifying one skill you can master in the next 12 months to disproportionately change your financial life​ Top 3 Takeaways You usually already know what you should do; the real work is stopping the self-delusion and acting on what you’d honestly tell a friend in your same situation.​ Fulfillment comes from building the life you truly want, not the life others scripted for you, and that requires regularly questioning the “mountain” you’re climbing.​ Your future income and opportunities are driven by your skills, so choosing and aggressively leveling up one high-value skill over the next year can radically shift your money situation.​ Notable Quotes "When you're born, you look like your parents; when you die, you look like your choices."​ "Am I building a life I actually want, or the life that somebody else will applaud?"​ "This is going to be like our generation’s smoking—we’ll look back and realize outsourcing our social lives to technology was a really bad idea."​ Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Other: https://travischappell.com Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Travis Makes Money podcast, Travis and producer Eric break down an unlikely entrepreneurial case study: the origin story of Johnny Knoxville and Jackass. What starts as a conversation about a Conan interview quickly turns into a deeper discussion about risk, creativity, loyalty, and the real-life decisions entrepreneurs face when choosing between security and betting on themselves. They explore how Johnny Knoxville went from waiting tables and struggling to support a family to pitching a crazy idea—testing self-defense equipment on himself for a magazine—that eventually became the foundation for Jackass. Along the way, they discuss the pivotal moment when Knoxville turned down an opportunity with Saturday Night Live to keep creative control and build something with his friends. The conversation highlights how many entrepreneurial journeys involve uncertain choices where success isn’t guaranteed—and why the stories we hear are often the rare winners, not the many people who took the same risk and didn’t break through. On this episode we talk about: The surprising entrepreneurial origin story behind Jackass Why Johnny Knoxville turned down a major opportunity with Saturday Night Live The importance of creative control and ownership The role of loyalty and partnerships in building successful ventures How entrepreneurs decide when to take a risk vs. accept a safe opportunity The “rocking chair test” for making big life decisions Why most success stories we hear are examples of survivorship bias Top 3 Takeaways: 1. Big opportunities often come disguised as weird ideas.Johnny Knoxville’s breakthrough came from pitching a bizarre concept—testing self-defense gear on himself—that eventually evolved into one of the most successful stunt franchises ever. 2. Creative control can matter more than immediate opportunity.Turning down Saturday Night Live was risky, but Knoxville valued building something with his own team and maintaining ownership over the concept. 3. You can’t know the outcome—only the decision.Entrepreneurs rarely have perfect information. The best approach is to make the decision that aligns with your long-term values and avoid regretting the chances you didn’t take. Notable Quotes: “You just have to make the decision with the best information you have at the time—and then be okay with whatever happens.” “Most people don’t know whether it’s going to work out. They just take action and keep moving.” “Which decision will you regret more when you’re sitting in the rocking chair later in life?” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell⁠ Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@travischappellclips⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/travischappell⁠ Other: ⁠https://travischappell.com⁠ Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amanda Litman is the co-founder and president of Run for Something, an organization dedicated to recruiting and supporting young, diverse leaders running for local office across the United States. Since launching in 2017, Run for Something has helped thousands of millennials and Gen Z candidates step into leadership roles and reshape what local leadership looks like in America. Amanda is also the author of When We’re In Charge: The Next Generation’s Guide to Leadership and Run for Something: A Real-Talk Guide to Fixing the System Yourself. With experience working on major campaigns including Barack Obama’s re-election and Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign, Amanda brings a unique perspective on leadership, community building, and the power of local politics. On this episode we talk about: Why local government has the biggest impact on everyday life and small business How political campaign marketing strategies translate directly to business The story behind Run for Something and how it grew from 1,000 signups in a week to over 250,000 aspiring candidates Why relationships and community are the most important resources for leaders Authenticity, digital presence, and leadership in the modern remote and AI-driven world Top 3 Takeaways Local leadership drives real change. Issues like housing, schools, infrastructure, and small business regulations are largely decided at the local and state levels. Relationships outperform everything else. Whether in politics or business, trust and community connections are the most powerful drivers of long-term success. Authenticity is the competitive advantage of the next decade. In a world filled with automation and AI-generated content, genuine human connection and leadership stand out. Notable Quotes "You don’t get what you don’t ask for." "Authenticity is the building block of trust, and trust is the building block of community." "The campaign exists to give people the chance to get to know you." Connect with Amanda Litman: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandalitman Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/amandalitman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandalitm Other: https://www.amandalitman.com Run for Something: https://runforsomething.net  Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency.  Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform.  Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis Chappell sits down in-studio with producer Eric for a fun but insightful conversation breaking down famous quotes about money from well-known actors and public figures. As they react to perspectives from people like Will Smith, Jim Carrey, Denzel Washington, and Arnold Schwarzenegger, the discussion dives into deeper truths about wealth, fulfillment, and the role money really plays in building a meaningful life. From consumerism and lifestyle creep to investing in yourself and building valuable relationships, Travis unpacks the mindset shifts that can help you earn more while also living better. On this episode we talk about: Why many people spend money to impress people they don’t even like The real definition of wealth and why free time might be the ultimate status symbol Why fame, money, and success don’t automatically create happiness The core principle that money is a reflection of the value you create Why relationships and investing in people often outperform traditional investments Top 3 Takeaways Money follows value. The more value you create for others—through skills, knowledge, or relationships—the more money you’ll naturally earn. Wealth isn’t just about dollars. True wealth is having the freedom to spend your time how you want, with the people you care about. Money won’t fix internal problems. Financial success can amplify your life, but fulfillment and happiness require intentional personal work along the way. Notable Quotes “Money is a measure of the value you create for others.” “There’s no amount of accomplishment that will fill whatever void you’re trying to fill inside.” “Money only solves your money problems—but it’s easier to solve the rest of your problems with money in the bank.” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@travischappellclips Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Other: https://travischappell.com Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Josh Marsden is a two-time Inc. 5000 entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Arm5 Formula Company, an e-commerce aggregator and AI-driven growth company focused on acquiring, scaling, and operating profitable direct-to-consumer brands. Since entering the e-commerce world in 2013, Josh has generated more than $100 million in online sales and built multiple successful brands across health, wellness, beauty, and consumer products. In this conversation, he shares how a corporate sales job introduced him to the world of online business—and how that eventually led him to build a portfolio of brands with the goal of taking the company public. On this episode we talk about: How a corporate sales job exposed Josh to the world of online entrepreneurship The evolution from running a marketing agency to acquiring e-commerce brands Why focusing on the health and beauty niche creates better growth opportunities The massive impact AI is having on marketing, operations, and e-commerce Josh’s strategy for acquiring profitable brands and scaling them toward a public company Top 3 Takeaways Exposure to entrepreneurial environments can completely shift your career trajectory—even if you start in a traditional corporate job. Specialization is powerful: focusing on one niche (like health and beauty) allows for stronger brand synergies and faster growth. The future of e-commerce operations will combine AI automation with lean teams, dramatically increasing efficiency and scalability. Notable Quotes “Hearing how other business owners were making money completely opened my eyes to what was possible.” “Instead of being broad, we decided to specialize in health and beauty so we could create real synergy across brands.” “Resiliency is the number one trait you need as a business owner.” Connect with Josh Marsden: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshmarsden Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshscale Other: https://arm5formula.com Website: https://joshscale.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

This solo episode with host Travis Chappell dives into his “25 questions to ask yourself to live a better life,” focusing on five powerful prompts that can reshape your habits, relationships, and financial trajectory. Travis shares personal examples from health, marriage, and money to illustrate how better questions lead to better decisions and, ultimately, a more intentional and prosperous life.​ On this episode we talk about: What your 90-year-old self would tell you to cut out of your life immediately​ How the five people you spend the most time with shape your future success and income​ The power of hard conversations in marriages, friendships, and business​ Using a “repeat this day 365 times” audit to evaluate your habits and goals​ Updating old stories you tell yourself about money, career, and what’s possible​ Top 3 Takeaways Your future self is a powerful filter: many habits you justify today (like skipping workouts or certain vices) have no place in the life you actually want, so cut them sooner rather than later.​ You really are the average of the five people you’re around most; you don’t need to “dump” good friends, but you do need to intentionally add higher-level people into your life to grow.​ Avoided hard conversations compound into years of low-level pain, while one uncomfortable but honest conversation can unlock healthier relationships, better culture, and more aligned results.​ Notable Quotes "The quality of your life is determined by the quality of the questions you ask."​ "You can't hang out with high-level people and stay the same person—either you level up or you get pushed out of that group."​ "Most of us are living a life limited by stories we never even thought to question."​ Connect with Travis Shapell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@travischappellclips Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell​ Other: https://travischappell.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis is joined in the studio by his producer, Eric, for a candid conversation about minimum wage, economic realities, and the mindset needed to earn more in today’s world. Rather than offering easy political answers, Travis and Eric explore the complexity of wage policy, small business economics, and personal responsibility. The discussion blends practical entrepreneurship insights with honest reflections on the challenges many people face when trying to make a living—and why building valuable skills may be the most reliable path to higher income. On this episode we talk about: The economic ripple effects of raising minimum wage on small businesses Why increased wages can lead to higher prices and reduced buying power The tension between entrepreneurial thinking and systemic economic challenges How innovation and entrepreneurship can create value where others see none Why developing skills, knowledge, and relationships is the best long-term income strategy Top 3 Takeaways Increasing minimum wage can unintentionally squeeze small business margins, often forcing companies to raise prices—ultimately reducing the purchasing power of higher wages. The most reliable way to earn more isn’t demanding higher pay—it’s increasing the value you bring to the marketplace through skills, knowledge, and innovation. While economic systems are complex and imperfect, individuals can still improve their financial future by focusing on what they can control: learning, building relationships, and creating value. Notable Quotes "You deserve to get paid based on the value you bring to the marketplace." "Life doesn’t owe you your dream life—you have to go build it." "There are a few things the economy can’t take from you: your knowledge, your skill set, and your relationships." Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@travischappellclips Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Other: https://travischappell.com  Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency.  Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform.  Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Erin McGoff is an award-winning filmmaker, content creator, and career advice expert known online as the internet’s “big sister.” Through her Advice With Erin platform, she has built a massive audience of Gen Z and millennial professionals by sharing practical, no-nonsense guidance on careers, communication, and navigating the workplace. A Pulitzer Fellowship recipient and Forbes 30 Under 30 (2025) honoree, Erin’s work has been featured in major publications including the New York Times, Washington Post, and Business Insider. In this episode, Erin shares how she turned filmmaking skills into a thriving creator career, what professionals misunderstand about salary negotiations, and how mastering communication can dramatically increase your earning potential. On this episode we talk about: How Erin transitioned from filmmaking into becoming a viral career advice creator Why authenticity and simplicity helped her build millions of followers online The mindset shift that turns your salary into a “floor” instead of a ceiling Practical strategies for negotiating raises and increasing compensation Why written communication is one of the most valuable workplace skills today Top 3 Takeaways Your salary is the floor, not the ceiling. In today’s economy, professionals should think beyond their paycheck and look for ways to build additional income streams or leverage their skills in new ways. Value drives compensation. Raises don’t come from personal circumstances—they come from demonstrating measurable value to your organization and clearly communicating it. Visibility matters in your career. Many talented professionals go unnoticed because they don’t communicate their impact. Making your contributions visible to leadership can significantly improve career growth. Notable Quotes “Your salary is not the ceiling of what you can earn in a year—it’s the floor.” “Close mouths don’t get fed. If you want something in your career, you have to ask for it.” “The biggest mistake people make when asking for a raise is talking about themselves instead of the value they bring.” Connect with Erin McGoff: Book: The Secret Language of Work  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/advicewitherin Other: https://advicewitherin.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