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.
401episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
CO-HOST | Make Money by Building Better Relationships Through Cigars, Conversation, and Community
Yesterday00:35:40Summary readyIn this special in-studio episode, Travis is joined by producer Eric for a lighthearted but surprisingly insightful conversation about cigar lounges, networking, friendship, and the value of intentional conversations. What starts as a debate about the best cigar lounges in Las Vegas turns into a broader discussion about building meaningful relationships, creating space for great conversations, and why some of life's best business and personal connections happen outside of formal settings. On this episode we talk about: The best cigar lounges in Las Vegas and what makes each one unique Why cigars can create an environment for deeper conversations and networking The importance of atmosphere, community, and shared experiences Balancing business, friendship, and personal growth through intentional downtime The surprising role that hobbies and rituals play in building relationships Top 3 Takeaways Some of the most valuable business opportunities and personal connections happen in relaxed environments where meaningful conversations can develop naturally. The best communities are built around shared experiences, not just transactions or networking goals. Creating intentional space to slow down, connect with people, and have real conversations can be just as valuable as grinding through another hour of work. Notable Quotes "Some of my best conversations have been with friends over cigars." "It's less about smoking and more about being in an environment that promotes conversation." "Money only solves your money problems, not your cigar problems." 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 Turning Restaurant Chaos Into Profit With Roger Beaudoin
Yesterday00:28:04Summary readyRoger Beaudoin is a restaurant entrepreneur, speaker, author, and founder of Restaurant Rockstars. After building, scaling, and selling multiple successful restaurants, Roger now helps hospitality operators increase profits, improve operations, and build stronger teams. In this episode, Roger shares the lessons he learned from launching a restaurant with no prior experience, overcoming major setbacks, and applying business systems to an industry where many owners struggle to work on the business instead of in it. On this episode we talk about: Roger’s first entrepreneurial ventures, from beachside lemonade sales to campus businesses How he launched a restaurant despite having no restaurant ownership experience The costly $40,000 lesson that nearly derailed his first restaurant before it opened The systems and marketing strategies that helped build a highly profitable restaurant business Why most restaurant owners are running restaurants instead of running businesses Building Restaurant Rockstars and helping operators uncover hidden profits How podcasting has become a platform for teaching and connecting with industry leaders Roger’s passion for classic cars and the story behind his Classic Car Guy Podcast Top 3 Takeaways Business systems matter more than industry experience. Roger’s MBA background and focus on operations, marketing, and profitability helped him succeed despite never owning a restaurant before. Unique customer experiences create competitive advantages. Memorable branding, exceptional hospitality, and creative marketing can turn customers into loyal advocates. Entrepreneurs must learn to trust their instincts while staying resilient. Roger overcame a devastating $40,000 scam early in his journey and still built a thriving business. Notable Quotes “The main reason many operators struggle is they’re trying to run a restaurant, not a business.” “Food is expected. Service has to be extraordinary.” “Anything you can do that’s unique, different, or special gives you an advantage over the competition.” Connect with Roger Beaudoin: Website: https://rogerbeaudoin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstars/ Email: roger@restaurantrockstars.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
SummarySOLO | Make Money by Building Trust, Communicating Clearly, and Owning Your Platform - Lessons from my Chris Hansen interview
Yesterday00:13:53Summary readyChris Hansen is an Emmy Award-winning investigative journalist best known for creating and hosting To Catch a Predator. For decades, he has exposed criminal behavior, educated the public about online safety, and helped bring predators to justice through meticulous investigative work. In this episode, Travis reflects on his conversation with Chris and shares some of the most impactful lessons from Hansen's career—from the importance of real-world experience and direct communication to ethical journalism and building independent media platforms. On this episode we talk about: Why real-world experience can be more valuable than traditional education The power of simple, direct communication when pitching ideas How education and awareness help prevent online exploitation Why owning your own platform creates greater freedom and impact The critical difference between ethical journalism and online vigilantism Top 3 Takeaways The best education often comes from real-life experiences that expose you to different people, perspectives, and challenges—not just classrooms and textbooks. Clear, direct communication cuts through confusion and helps people understand and act on important ideas more effectively. Building trust requires discipline, ethics, and a commitment to doing things the right way, even when shortcuts might generate more attention. Notable Quotes "The best education isn't always in a classroom." "Sometimes the right move is to strip all the polish off and say the thing that nobody else is willing to say." "You can't arrest your way out of the problem." Connect with Chris Hansen: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialchrishansen/ Other: https://www.watchtrublu.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 Building Billion-Dollar Businesses Like Tillman Fertitta
2d ago00:23:41Summary readyTillman Fertitta is one of the most successful entrepreneurs in hospitality, gaming, and entertainment. As the owner of the Houston Rockets, the Golden Nugget casinos, and the Landry’s restaurant empire, Fertitta has built billions in value through disciplined operations, strategic acquisitions, and a relentless focus on customer experience. In this episode, Travis and Eric break down Fertitta’s reported acquisition of Caesars Entertainment and explore the business principles that have fueled his extraordinary success. On this episode we talk about: Tillman Fertitta’s reported $17.6 billion acquisition of Caesars Entertainment How Fertitta built a multi-billion-dollar empire without traditional venture capital funding The importance of operational excellence in hospitality and entertainment businesses Why customer experience and financial discipline drive long-term growth The evolution of Las Vegas tourism and the changing economics of the Strip Top 3 Takeaways Great operators win across industries. Fertitta’s success demonstrates that strong business fundamentals can be applied from restaurants to sports franchises to casinos. Customer experience matters. Businesses that forget what originally attracted customers risk losing them when prices rise and value declines. Ownership creates opportunity. Building and maintaining control of successful businesses can create the capital needed to pursue increasingly ambitious acquisitions. Notable Quotes "Tillman Fertitta is one of the most impressive business people I've ever talked to." "He understands the principles of operating a good business where the customer gets a good experience and the business makes a good profit." "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: - 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 Through Business Acquisitions with Saul Cohen
2d ago00:28:33Summary readySaul Cohen is an accountant, acquisitions advisor, and entrepreneur who helps business owners scale, optimize, and successfully exit their companies. With experience at PwC and years of advising founders on tax planning, acquisitions, and valuations, Saul has developed a practical framework for helping entrepreneurs build long-term wealth. In this episode, he shares lessons from his own entrepreneurial journey, why execution matters more than ideas, and how acquisitions can become a powerful wealth-building strategy for business owners. On this episode we talk about: Why execution is more valuable than having a great business idea Lessons learned from building and selling a business while still in university The realities of working at PwC and transitioning into entrepreneurship How tax planning, acquisitions, and business valuations impact long-term wealth Why entrepreneurs should understand acquisitions before preparing for an exit Top 3 Takeaways Ideas are only valuable when paired with execution. Success rarely comes from having the best idea—it comes from consistently executing better than everyone else. Small financial optimizations compound into life-changing results. Even modest tax savings or valuation improvements can create significant wealth over a business owner's lifetime. Understanding acquisitions makes you a better entrepreneur. Whether you're buying, selling, or scaling a business, acquisition knowledge helps increase valuation, create liquidity events, and accelerate growth. Notable Quotes "Your ideas are only as valuable as the execution." "If everyone tried to copy you, they still couldn't do it the way you do it because they're not you." "Small incremental gains can make such a big difference to someone's lifestyle when they finish this game." Connect with Saul Cohen: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cohensaul/ Website: https://theexperteye.co.uk/ 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 Thinking Like a Hall of Famer - Lessons from Paul Pierce
2d ago00:19:14Summary readyPaul Pierce is an NBA Hall of Famer, NBA Champion, Finals MVP, and one of the 75 greatest players in basketball history. In this episode, Travis breaks down the biggest lessons he learned from his conversation with Paul, exploring how elite performers use goal setting, environment design, relentless work ethic, and an underdog mentality to achieve extraordinary success. Whether you're building a business, advancing your career, or pursuing a personal goal, Paul's journey offers valuable insights into what it takes to perform at the highest level. On this episode we talk about: Why short-term goals are the foundation of long-term success How your environment shapes your habits, decisions, and outcomes The difference between talent and the work required to maximize it Using rejection, setbacks, and being underestimated as motivation Why appreciating success in the moment is harder—and more important—than most people realize Top 3 Takeaways Focus on the next step, not the entire staircase. Long-term success is built through a series of achievable short-term goals that create momentum and confidence. Design your environment for success. It's easier to build winning habits when your surroundings support your goals rather than constantly tempt you away from them. Talent only creates opportunity. Consistent effort, discipline, and work ethic are what separate high performers from everyone else at the highest levels. Notable Quotes "Short-term goals are the engine of long-term greatness." "Control your environment before it controls you." "Talent without work is just potential—and potential does not make Hall of Famers." Connect with Paul Pierce: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulpierce Other: Travis's full interview with Paul 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 Betting on Creators Before Everyone Else Does
3d ago00:26:37Summary readyThe entertainment industry is undergoing a major shift, and creators are leading the charge. In this episode, Travis and producer Eric discuss the breakout success of Obsession, a low-budget horror film created by YouTuber-turned-filmmaker Curry Barker. They explore how independent creators are bypassing traditional gatekeepers, building audiences online, and proving that great storytelling can outperform massive budgets. Along the way, they dive into the parallels between comedy and horror, the economics of filmmaking, and why we're entering a new era of creator-driven entertainment. On this episode we talk about: How YouTube creators are successfully making the leap into Hollywood Why low-budget horror films continue to generate outsized returns The surprising connection between comedy and horror storytelling The financial success story behind Obsession and creator-led filmmaking How audience demand is reshaping traditional entertainment industries Top 3 Takeaways Great storytelling beats big budgets. A compelling product can outperform projects backed by vastly larger resources when it resonates with audiences. The barriers between independent creators and traditional media are disappearing, creating massive opportunities for talented people to break into established industries. Word-of-mouth remains one of the most powerful marketing tools in the world—especially when creators build genuine trust with their audiences. Notable Quotes "The thing that makes them good at YouTube also makes them good at this other thing." "Great storytelling doesn't need a massive budget—it needs a great creator." "I just love seeing more and more examples of creators continuously blurring the lines between YouTube and Hollywood." Connect with the Show: 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 bringing you conversations and insights from entrepreneurs, investors, creators, and industry leaders. Check out the links in the episode description to learn more about our sponsors and support the brands that support this 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
SummaryINTERVIEW | Make Money by Building Customer-Centric Brands That Matter with Marc Horowitz
3d ago00:22:28Summary readyMarc Horowitz has built a career across multiple industries—from energy derivatives trading and hedge funds to satellite imagery technology and custom jewelry. After retiring from trading in his early forties, Marc found himself searching for a new challenge that would allow him to build something meaningful. Today, he is the founder of Ilmeo, a jewelry company that transforms photos and impressions of loved ones into personalized keepsakes. In this episode, Marc shares lessons from finance, entrepreneurship, risk-taking, and the importance of creating products that carry emotional value. On this episode we talk about: How a career in energy derivatives trading led to financial independence Why retiring early isn't always the finish line people expect it to be The lessons Marc learned from helping build satellite imagery marketplace SkyFi The origin story behind Ilmeo and turning meaningful moments into a business Building customer-centric brands and navigating the challenges of e-commerce growth Top 3 Takeaways Financial success creates freedom, but fulfillment often comes from building something meaningful and lasting. If you don't know what your edge is, you're probably gambling—not investing. Strong relationships and a reputation for helping others become invaluable assets throughout your entrepreneurial journey. Notable Quotes "The harder you work, the luckier you get." "If you don't know what your edge is, you're gambling." "Money only exists so you can do things you enjoy, build memories, and live a meaningful life." Connect with Marc Horowitz: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-horowitz-83a0b21aa/ Website: https://ilmiojewelry.com/ Email: marc@ilmio.com A Word from Our Sponsors: Today's episode is brought to you by our valued sponsors. Their support helps us continue bringing you conversations with entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators who are finding unique ways to create wealth and build meaningful businesses. Be sure to check out the sponsors in the episode description and support the brands that make this show possible. - 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 Taking Radical Responsibility and Strengthening Your Relationships - Lessons from my Keith Yackey interview
3d ago00:14:07Summary readyKeith Yackey is a real estate investor, entrepreneur, author, comedian, and founder of The Married Game, a coaching company dedicated to helping men become better husbands and reignite connection in their marriages. After nearly losing his own marriage, Keith transformed his life by taking ownership of his shortcomings and rebuilding himself from the inside out. In this episode, Travis shares his biggest takeaways from his conversation with Keith, covering responsibility, relationships, personal growth, and the dangers of complacency. On this episode we talk about: Why taking radical responsibility is the first step toward lasting success How comfort and complacency can quietly damage relationships The warning signs people often miss before a relationship falls apart Why self-improvement—not desperation—is the key to winning someone back The importance of surrounding yourself with people who expand your vision instead of limiting it Top 3 Takeaways If you are the problem, you are also the solution. Accepting responsibility for your circumstances can be uncomfortable, but it gives you the power to create meaningful change. Comfort is where attraction goes to die. Whether in marriage, business, or friendships, relationships require intentional effort and continual growth. Real transformation happens when you focus on becoming the best version of yourself—not when you're trying to manipulate outcomes or control other people. Notable Quotes "If you are the problem, you are also the solution." "The truth will set you free, but first it'll piss you off." "The moment you're outgrowing a room is exactly the moment you need to leave it." Connect with Keith Yackey: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keithyackey Other: https://marriedgame.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 Avoiding Expensive Lifestyle Traps
4d ago00:23:10Summary readyOn this episode, Travis is joined in studio by producer Eric for a conversation that starts with a comedian's joke about an Uber driver financing a luxury Range Rover and turns into a bigger discussion about lifestyle inflation, consumer debt, and making smarter financial decisions. Through plenty of laughs, stories, and friendly banter, Travis shares his thoughts on why buying status symbols before you can truly afford them can hold back your financial future. On this episode we talk about: Why financing luxury purchases with side hustles can be a dangerous financial trap The difference between being a consumer and being an investor How lifestyle inflation keeps people from building long-term wealth The hidden costs of expensive vehicles and status purchases Why planning ahead and using rideshare services is often smarter than driving after a night out Top 3 Takeaways If you need a second job just to afford the payment on a luxury item, it's probably a sign that the purchase is outside your means. Building wealth requires prioritizing investing and financial security before spending on status symbols and depreciating assets. Smart financial decisions often come down to delayed gratification—saving first and buying later instead of financing a lifestyle you can't comfortably afford. Notable Quotes "If you have to get a second job to pay for your car, probably don't get the car." "You bought a twenty twenty-five fully loaded part-time job." "Money only solves your money problems, but it's easier to solve the rest of your problems when you've got money in the bank." 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
Summary