Podcast
Travis Makes Money
Hosted by Travis Chappell · EN
You can't save your way to your dream life anymore. The truth is, you’re gonna need to learn to make more money. The Travis Makes Money Podcast is not your typical personal finance show. Rather than shaming you for buying a Starbucks coffee or pressuring you to become a billionaire, we focus on empowering you to make more money so you can enjoy life today while preparing for your future. You don’t have to cut back so much that you miss out on the present, and you don’t need to become the next Jeff Bezos either. Hosted by veteran podcaster Travis Chappell, each daily episode features interviews with regular people just like you – yes, you – who have learned how to make more money in unique and unconventional ways. From turning side hustles into an extra six figures to building massive business empires, these conversations dive into the mindset shifts, hard-earned lessons, and simple strategies that helped these individuals succeed. With over 1,000 podcast episodes under his belt, Travis has developed a unique ability to pull out inspiring stories and practical advice you can apply to your own financial journey that you just won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you’re looking for strategies on side hustles, skill building, investing, building generational wealth, or just motivation to take your next steps, this podcast is your resource. Tune in daily for insights, actionable tips, and inspiration from some of the most successful and interesting money-makers on the planet.
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Episodes
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CO-HOST | Make Money by Letting Go: The Business Lesson Hidden in Scary Movie
Yesterday00:27:33Summary readySometimes the biggest business lessons come from unexpected places. In this episode, Travis Chappell and Eric use the new Scary Movie film as a jumping-off point to discuss creativity, ownership, revenge, and resilience. What starts as a humorous movie review evolves into a thoughtful conversation about the Wayans brothers losing control of the Scary Movie franchise, why some battles aren't worth fighting, and how successful entrepreneurs redirect their energy toward building instead of bitterness. On this episode we talk about: Why the Scary Movie franchise became a surprising box office success. The Wayans brothers' experience losing the rights to the franchise they created. Why focusing on new opportunities often beats fighting over the past. How choosing peace over revenge can lead to greater long-term success. The importance of directing your energy toward creating rather than dwelling on setbacks. Top 3 Takeaways Not every battle is worth fighting. Sometimes the greatest win is moving on and investing your energy into building something new. Great creators don't depend on one successful project—they continue creating value, even after setbacks. Bitterness is expensive. Protecting your peace and focusing on what you can control often produces better personal and financial outcomes. Notable Quotes "Not every battle is worth fighting." "Life is your revenge." "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/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell/ Other: Website: https://travischappell.com/ Travis Makes Money Podcast: https://travischappell.com/podcast/ A Word from Our Sponsors: - Visit DrinkAG1.com/TMM to get a free AG1 Travel Case with 7 free AG1Travel Packs in your Welcome Kit with your first AG1 subscription order while supplieslast. - Go to Leesa.com for 30% OFF select mattresses (through July 12, 2026) PLUS get an extra $50 off with promo code TMM, exclusive for my listeners - To learn more about Mode Mobile and its investor community, go tohttps://invest.modemobile.com/travismakesmoney -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
SummaryINTERVIEW | Make Money Building a Billion-Dollar Business: Lessons from Three Founders
Yesterday00:25:53Summary readyBuilding a billion-dollar company requires more than a great idea—it takes customer obsession, disciplined investing, and smart scaling. In this special compilation episode, Travis Chappell brings together insights from three remarkable entrepreneurs: Tomer London, co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Gusto; Jim Lebenthal, Chief Market Strategist at Cerity Partners; and Richard Harpin, founder of HomeServe. Together, they share practical lessons on creating products customers love, investing for the long term, and scaling businesses without losing control. On this episode we talk about: Why solving real customer problems is the foundation of billion-dollar companies. The importance of product development and customer feedback in building lasting businesses. Why long-term investing consistently outperforms trying to time the market. How entrepreneurs should think about fundraising, ownership, and scaling. The systems, metrics, and business models that helped HomeServe grow into a multi-billion-dollar company. Top 3 Takeaways The best businesses begin with a deep understanding of customer pain points and an unwavering commitment to building products that genuinely solve them. Whether investing or building a company, patience and long-term thinking outperform chasing short-term wins. Prove your business model before scaling aggressively. Grow sustainably, maintain ownership whenever possible, and let strong unit economics guide expansion. Notable Quotes "Consumers get amazing technology. Small businesses deserve great technology too." "The best days in the market almost always happen right after the worst days." "Keep it small, prove the model, get to profitability, and then, if you need money to scale, that's when you should bring in an investor." Connect with the Guests: Tomer London LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomerlondon/ Other: Gusto: https://gusto.com/ Jim Lebenthal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-lebenthal/ Book: How to Ride the Subway: Getting Around on Wall Street and Life Other: Cerity Partners: https://ceritypartners.com/ Richard Harpin Book: How to Make a Billion in Nine Steps Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richard_harpin/ A Word from Our Sponsors: - Visit DrinkAG1.com/TMM to get a free AG1 Travel Case with 7 free AG1Travel Packs in your Welcome Kit with your first AG1 subscription order while supplieslast. - Go to Leesa.com for 30% OFF select mattresses (through July 12, 2026) PLUS get an extra $50 off with promo code TMM, exclusive for my listeners - To learn more about Mode Mobile and its investor community, go to https://invest.modemobile.com/travismakesmoney -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
SummarySOLO | Make Money by Solving Problems Before Everyone Else with Lessons from Jeff Fenster
Yesterday00:16:22Summary readyJeff Fenster is a serial entrepreneur who has built and exited multiple companies across completely different industries—from payroll software to digital marketing to the fast-growing superfood franchise Everbowl. In this solo episode, Travis Chappell shares five of his biggest lessons from his conversation with Jeff, covering everything from creative problem-solving and fundraising to relationship capital and building businesses by solving your own problems. On this episode we talk about: How Jeff became the top salesperson at ADP by creating a referral engine instead of relying on cold calls. Why evaluating the worst-case scenario can help you make better business and career decisions. The hidden risks of raising investment capital and protecting your ownership. How solving your own operational challenges can lead to entirely new business opportunities. Why relationship capital consistently creates opportunities that skills alone cannot. Top 3 Takeaways Before solving a problem the same way everyone else does, step back and ask if there's a completely different angle. Innovation often comes from questioning assumptions. When faced with a major decision, compare the worst-case outcomes instead of the best-case scenarios. It often reveals that the risk isn't nearly as scary as it seems. Relationships compound over time. The more value you create for others before asking for anything in return, the more opportunities naturally come your way. Notable Quotes "When you have a problem, stop before you solve it and look for a different angle." "Which would you rather is the most honest decision framework you'll ever use." "People usually bring opportunity. Your competence is what allows you to capitalize on that opportunity." Connect with Jeff Fenster: Full Interview with Jeff Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fensterjeff/ Other: Website: https://jefffenster.com/ Everbowl: https://www.everbowl.com/ The Jeff Fenster Show: https://jefffenster.com/podcast/ A Word from Our Sponsors: - Visit DrinkAG1.com/TMM to get a free AG1 Travel Case with 7 free AG1Travel Packs in your Welcome Kit with your first AG1 subscription order while supplieslast. - Go to Leesa.com for 30% OFF select mattresses (through July 12, 2026) PLUS get an extra $50 off with promo code TMM, exclusive for my listeners - To learn more about Mode Mobile and its investor community, go to https://invest.modemobile.com/travismakesmoney -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
SummaryCO-HOST | Make Money by Understanding Why Adults Are Spending Billions on Toys
2d ago00:22:31Summary readyIn this fun, off-the-cuff episode, Travis is joined by producer Eric to discuss an unexpected financial trend: adults are now the biggest buyers in the toy industry. What starts as a lighthearted conversation about lightsabers, LEGO sets, collectibles, and childhood nostalgia turns into a thoughtful discussion about consumer psychology, discretionary spending, and how businesses can tap into emotional connections to drive sales. Along the way, Travis shares practical advice on balancing hobbies with smart financial decisions. On this episode we talk about: Why adults have become the fastest-growing demographic for toy purchases The role nostalgia plays in consumer behavior and spending habits How businesses can use collectibles and experiences to create stronger customer loyalty The difference between healthy discretionary spending and impulse buying Why hobbies are worth investing in—as long as they fit within your financial plan Top 3 Takeaways Nostalgia is a powerful economic driver, and businesses that create emotional connections often build stronger customer loyalty. It's perfectly okay to spend money on hobbies and collectibles if they fit your budget and don't interfere with your financial goals. Avoid financing wants while carrying high-interest debt—financial discipline should always come before discretionary purchases. Notable Quotes "Don't spend money you don't have on things you don't need." "Money only solves your money problems, but it's easier to solve the rest of your problems with money in the bank." "If you like it and it's not breaking the bank, sure—it's your money." Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell/ Other: https://travischappell.com/ A Word from Our Sponsors: - Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! - To learn more about Mode Mobile and its investor community, go to https://invest.modemobile.com/travismakesmoney -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
SummaryINTERVIEW | Make Money by Becoming Your Own Bank with Joey Mure
2d ago00:28:54Summary readyJoey Mure is the co-founder of Wealth Without Wall Street and co-host of one of the nation's leading financial freedom podcasts. After leaving a successful career in mortgage lending, Joey dedicated his work to helping families escape conventional financial thinking through strategies like the Infinite Banking Concept. In this episode, he joins Travis to explain how becoming "your own bank" can create greater financial flexibility, fund investments more efficiently, and accelerate the path to passive income and financial freedom. On this episode we talk about: Joey's journey from mortgage banker to co-founding Wealth Without Wall Street What the Infinite Banking Concept is—and the misconceptions surrounding it How cash value life insurance can become a tool for funding investments instead of simply serving as insurance Why passive income, not saving alone, is the key to building lasting wealth How podcasting transformed Wealth Without Wall Street from a local business into a national brand Top 3 Takeaways Infinite Banking isn't an investment—it's a cash management strategy that allows you to store capital efficiently before deploying it into cash-flowing assets. Building wealth requires moving beyond simply saving money. Savings should eventually be directed toward investments that generate passive income. Creating valuable content consistently can become one of the most powerful ways to build trust, attract clients, and scale a business. Notable Quotes "I'm not a life insurance guy. I'm a personal freedom guy." "Savings in and of itself doesn't make anybody wealthy. It's just a holding place before it's deployed." "We use the podcast to build trust, share our wins and our losses, and help a million people reach financial freedom." Connect with Joey Mure: LinkedIn Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wealthwithoutwallst Other: https://wealthwithoutwallstreet.com/travismakesmoney A Word from Our Sponsors: - Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! - To learn more about Mode Mobile and its investor community, go to https://invest.modemobile.com/travismakesmoney -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
SummarySOLO | Make Money by Becoming Obsessed, Thinking Bigger, and Ignoring Quitters - Lessons from my Grant Cardone interview
2d ago00:22:51Summary readyGrant Cardone is one of the most recognizable—and polarizing—figures in entrepreneurship. Known for his larger-than-life personality, sales expertise, and real estate empire, Grant has built a brand around thinking bigger and taking massive action. In this solo episode, Travis revisits his in-depth interview with Grant to unpack five of the biggest lessons that have stuck with him over the years. From overcoming addiction through purpose to challenging conventional wisdom about wealth and networking, this episode explores the mindset shifts that can dramatically change the way you approach success. On this episode we talk about: Why boredom is often the root of destructive habits—and how healthy obsession can transform your life Grant Cardone's controversial perspective on the middle class and building real wealth Why you should never take advice from people who gave up on the goals you're pursuing How generosity and "flowing power to power" can unlock powerful networking opportunities The debate over whether your primary home is truly an investment or a financial liability Top 3 Takeaways Channel your energy into meaningful work. Obsession with a worthwhile mission leaves little room for distractions and self-destructive habits. Be intentional about whose advice you follow. Learn from people actively succeeding in the areas where you want to grow—not those who abandoned the journey. The best networking strategy isn't asking for favors—it's creating value first through genuine generosity and service. Notable Quotes "Boredom is the enemy. Obsession is the antidote." "Never take advice from a quitter." "Flow power to power." Connect with Grant Cardone: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grantcardone/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grantcardone/ Other: https://grantcardone.com/ A Word from Our Sponsors: - Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! - To learn more about Mode Mobile and its investor community, go to https://invest.modemobile.com/travismakesmoney -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
SummaryCO-HOST | Make Money by Ignoring Generational Excuses and Taking Ownership
3d ago00:25:26Summary readyIn this episode, Travis and producer Eric dive into a wide-ranging conversation inspired by financial commentator Caleb Hammer's appearance on Joe Rogan. While the episode starts with an unexpectedly deep discussion about the Bring It On movie franchise, it quickly transitions into a thoughtful debate about generational wealth, housing affordability, student loans, personal responsibility, and the opportunities available to different generations. Through humor, pop culture references, and financial commentary, Travis and Eric explore how to navigate today's economic realities without falling into the trap of blame or victimhood. On this episode we talk about: Caleb Hammer's controversial comments about Boomers and financial responsibility The debate over whether older or younger generations have had greater economic advantages Housing affordability and how dramatically the real estate market has changed Why personal accountability still matters despite economic challenges How focusing on opportunities is more productive than blaming other generations Top 3 Takeaways Two things can be true at once. Economic conditions may be more difficult today, but personal responsibility and financial discipline still matter. Avoid generational blame games. Every generation faces unique challenges and opportunities, and success comes from adapting to the environment you're given. Focus on what you can control. Whether it's building skills, increasing income, or improving financial habits, progress comes from action rather than resentment. Notable Quotes "Every generation does it. Every generation worries that the next generation isn't going to figure it out." "You just have to take advantage of whatever opportunities are afforded to you." "Money only solves your money problems. But it's easier to solve the rest of your problems with money in the bank." Connect with Travis Chappell: Instagram: https://instagram.com/travischappell Website: https://travischappell.com A Word from Our Sponsors: Today's episode is brought to you by our incredible sponsors. Their support allows us to continue bringing you insightful conversations about money, entrepreneurship, investing, and personal growth. Be sure to check out the sponsor links in the episode description for exclusive offers available to Travis Makes Money listeners. - Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! - To learn more about Mode Mobile and its investor community, go to https://invest.modemobile.com/travismakesmoney -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
SummaryINTERVIEW | Make Money by Taking Risks, Building Confidence, and Betting on Yourself with Giovanni Vaccaro
3d ago00:24:38Summary readyGiovanni Vaccaro is the co-founder of GlamSquad, the beauty services platform that has delivered nearly two million services and built a network of more than 2,000 beauty professionals across the United States. Starting as a hairstylist with a passion for helping people build confidence, Giovanni transformed his expertise into a category-defining business. Today, he also coaches founders, executives, and high performers through his company Peak Mode, helping them overcome self-imposed limitations, develop stronger leadership identities, and unlock their next level of growth. On this episode we talk about: How Giovanni went from working in his family's pizza business to becoming a successful hairstylist and entrepreneur Why fear, imposter syndrome, and self-doubt often prevent people from pursuing bigger opportunities The mindset shift that turns fear of failure into fear of regret Building GlamSquad from an idea into a nationally recognized beauty platform How to find the right business partners, investors, and relationships for long-term success Top 3 Takeaways The biggest risk is often not taking a risk at all. What feels safe today can quickly become obsolete in a rapidly changing world. When facing a major decision, imagine the regret you'll feel years from now if you never take action—it can be a more powerful motivator than fear. Successful partnerships are built on complementary skill sets, aligned values, trust, and a shared vision for the future. Notable Quotes "The worst possible scenario never happens 93% of the time." "Safety and security are just an illusion." "The fear of regret is ten times more powerful than the fear of actually doing the thing." Connect with Giovanni Vaccaro: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giovannivaccaro Personal Website: https://www.giovaccaro.com/ Business: https://glamsquad.com/ A Word from Our Sponsors: Today's episode is brought to you by our incredible sponsors. Their support allows us to continue bringing you conversations with entrepreneurs, investors, creators, and leaders who share actionable insights to help you make more money and create more freedom in your life. Check out the sponsor links in the episode description to learn more and support the companies that support the show. - Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! - To learn more about Mode Mobile and its investor community, go to https://invest.modemobile.com/travismakesmoney -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
SummarySOLO | Make Money by Building Discipline Before Success Arrives - Lessons from my Brandon Carter interview
3d ago00:15:21Summary readyBrandon Carter, better known as King Keto, is a fitness entrepreneur, online coach, and content creator who built a thriving business after overcoming tremendous adversity. Growing up in a challenging environment and facing family tragedy at a young age, Brandon worked multiple jobs, supported his family, and eventually built a successful online fitness empire. In this episode, Travis shares some of the most powerful lessons from his conversation with Brandon, covering discipline, entrepreneurship, personal branding, and the pursuit of meaningful fulfillment. On this episode we talk about: Why discipline is more important than money when it comes to long-term success How Brandon worked multiple jobs and earned six figures during a recession The safest and smartest way to transition from a job to entrepreneurship Why polarizing content creates stronger personal brands and businesses The difference between pleasure and lasting fulfillment Top 3 Takeaways Build discipline before wealth arrives. Money amplifies your habits and character. Without discipline, financial success can quickly disappear. Do what's required before doing what's desired. Brandon's willingness to work long hours and multiple jobs created opportunities that eventually gave him freedom. Sustainable happiness comes from growth. Lasting fulfillment comes from pursuing your potential, not endlessly chasing temporary pleasures. Notable Quotes "Discipline before the money is the only thing that protects you when the money comes." "Specificity attracts, neutrality disappears." "Hedonism is not enjoyment—it's just sporadically borrowed joy." Connect with Brandon Carter: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kingketo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HighLifeWorkout Website: https://www.brandoncarter.com/ A Word from Our Sponsors: Today's episode is brought to you by our incredible sponsors. Their support helps us continue bringing you conversations with world-class entrepreneurs, investors, creators, and business leaders each week. To learn more about our sponsors and take advantage of exclusive offers for Travis Makes Money listeners, check out the links in the episode description. - Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! - To learn more about Mode Mobile and its investor community, go to https://invest.modemobile.com/travismakesmoney -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
SummaryCO-HOST | Make Money by Protecting Yourself from Bad Actors and Broken Systems
4d ago00:24:38Summary readyIn this episode, Travis and producer Eric dive into one of the wildest business stories on the internet: the alleged theft of a massive LEGO Star Wars collection worth hundreds of thousands of dollars and the corporate, legal, and law enforcement drama that followed. Using a viral YouTube investigation as a jumping-off point, they explore business ethics, franchise risks, legal power imbalances, and what happens when ordinary people find themselves up against organizations with deeper pockets and more influence. On this episode we talk about: The viral LEGO Star Wars collection controversy involving Bricks & Minifigs How franchise businesses can create unexpected risks for owners and customers The power of independent creators and investigative YouTubers in holding organizations accountable Why legal battles often favor whoever has the most resources The broader lessons about ownership, contracts, and protecting valuable assets Top 3 Takeaways Having a contract isn't always enough—enforcing your rights can become expensive and time-consuming when larger organizations are involved. Reputation can be one of a company's most valuable assets, and public trust can disappear quickly when customers believe they've been treated unfairly. Independent creators and online communities can sometimes shine a spotlight on stories that would otherwise go unnoticed. Notable Quotes "The person with the most amount of money and the most contacts wins." "It feels like the opposite of justice." "I'm so glad there's people going to YouTube and holding people accountable." Connect with Travis Chappell: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell Website: https://travischappell.com A Word from Our Sponsors: Today's episode is brought to you by our incredible sponsors. Their support allows us to continue sharing conversations and stories about entrepreneurship, investing, wealth-building, and navigating the business world. Check out the sponsor links in the episode description to learn more and support the companies that support the show. - Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! - To learn more about Mode Mobile and its investor community, go to https://invest.modemobile.com/travismakesmoney -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
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