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.
534episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
CO-HOST | Make Money by Avoiding Financial Guilt and Thinking Critically About Giving
Yesterday00:20:29Summary readyIn this roundtable episode, Travis Chappell is joined by producer Eric and guest co-host Brandon Birkmeyer of Brands on Brands for a thoughtful—and often hilarious—discussion about money, generosity, and financial advice. Using viral clips of pastors discussing tithing as a jumping-off point, they explore the ethics of financial messaging, the dangers of guilt-based persuasion, and why context matters when giving financial advice. On this episode we talk about: The difference between healthy generosity and guilt-driven financial messaging Why financial advice should account for individual circumstances instead of one-size-fits-all rules The similarities between church fundraising, business marketing, and high-ticket sales tactics How emotional persuasion can influence financial decisions for better or worse Why balanced, nuanced advice almost always beats extreme viewpoints Top 3 Takeaways Financial advice should always consider a person's unique circumstances—what works for one individual may be harmful for another. Giving should come from generosity and shared purpose, not fear, shame, or pressure. Whether you're a business, nonprofit, or church, honest communication builds more trust than manipulative marketing tactics. Notable Quotes "There's always a balanced approach. Typically, the people preaching one end or the other of the polarity are usually the ones who are incorrect." "Money only solves your money problems, but it's easier to solve the rest of your problems with money in the bank." "I'm not telling everybody here to go take out a bunch of credit cards... I'm saying that's what worked for me." Connect with Brandon Birkmeyer: LinkedIn: https://www.facebook.com/bbirkmeyer/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandonbirkmeyer/ Other: https://www.youtube.com/@BrandsonBrands 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 supplies last. - Go to Leesa.com for 25% OFF select mattresses (through July 26, 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SummaryINTERVIEW | Make Money with Infinite Banking and Passive Income, feat. Anthony Faso and Cameron Christensen
Yesterday00:25:35Summary readyAnthony Faso and Cameron Christensen are the founders of Infinite Wealth Consultants and hosts of the Infinite Wealth Podcast. Anthony, a U.S. Army veteran, former CFO, and recovering CPA, and Cameron, a longtime entrepreneur, have spent nearly two decades helping investors and business owners build wealth outside of traditional Wall Street strategies. In this episode, they break down the Infinite Banking Concept, explain how entrepreneurs can use leverage more effectively, and share the lessons they learned from betting on themselves to build their own business. On this episode we talk about: How Anthony and Cameron transitioned from traditional finance to building their own firm Why passive income changed Anthony's perspective on wealth creation The risks and rewards of leaving a secure job to become an entrepreneur How the Infinite Banking Concept works using specially designed whole life insurance policies When leveraging your own capital can accelerate investing and passive income generation Top 3 Takeaways Passive income creates freedom because your money can continue working even when you're not trading time for dollars. Entrepreneurship often requires taking calculated risks, but betting on your own skills can provide greater long-term security than relying on an employer. Infinite banking isn't about buying life insurance for the death benefit—it's about strategically using policy cash value as leverage while allowing your capital to continue compounding. Notable Quotes "The first time I got passive income... my money was making its own money." "If you want to go fast, go by yourself. If you want to go far, take somebody with you." "The biggest form of security is your own ability to go generate something from nothing." Connect with Anthony Faso & Cameron Christensen: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/InfiniteWealthConsultants Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/infinitewealthconsultants/ Other (Free Resource): https://infinitewealthconsultants.com/travismakesmoney Podcast: https://infinitewealthpodcast.com/ 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 supplies last. - Go to Leesa.com for 25% OFF select mattresses (through July 26, 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SummarySOLO | Make Money by Overcoming Imposter Syndrome Like the World's Top Performers
Yesterday00:18:34Summary readyEven the most accomplished people—from fighter pilots and bestselling authors to entrepreneurs and comedians—struggle with imposter syndrome. In this solo episode, Travis Chappell shares one of the biggest recurring themes he's uncovered after interviewing more than 1,000 high performers. Drawing insights from guests like Michelle "Mace" Curran, Donald Miller, Michael Hyatt, Tanner Chidester, and Nikki Howard, Travis explores why self-doubt is universal, how confidence is actually built, and the practical steps anyone can take to stop imposter syndrome from holding them back. On this episode we talk about: Why imposter syndrome affects nearly every high achiever—even those at the top of their field How confidence is built through evidence and repeated action, not affirmations alone The difference between healthy self-doubt and overconfidence without experience Why focusing on hope instead of worry changes how you approach challenges A simple exercise for creating your own "stack of undeniable proof" to overcome self-doubt Top 3 Takeaways Confidence comes from accumulating evidence through action. Every challenge you overcome becomes proof that you can figure out the next one. Imposter syndrome isn't a sign that you don't belong—it's often a sign that you're growing into something new. Keep an "evidence file" of your accomplishments, wins, and moments of resilience to revisit whenever self-doubt starts creeping in. Notable Quotes "You don't build confidence by speaking affirmations in the mirror—you build a stack of undeniable proof that says you are who you say you are." "Imposter syndrome is not a personal weakness. It is a shared human condition." "Belonging followed the accumulation of the proof, not the other way around." 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: - 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 supplies last. - Go to Leesa.com for 25% OFF select mattresses (through July 26, 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SummaryCO-HOST | Make Money Without Falling for Bad Financial Advice
2d ago00:21:00Summary readyIn this episode, Travis is joined by producer Eric and guest co-host Brandon Birkmeyer, host of the Brands on Brands podcast, to break down a viral piece of personal finance advice claiming you should focus entirely on making more money instead of budgeting. The trio explores where that advice gets it right, where it falls apart, and why lasting wealth comes from balancing income growth with financial discipline. Along the way, Travis shares personal stories about downsizing his lifestyle to pursue podcasting full-time and the lessons he's learned from interviewing hundreds of successful entrepreneurs. On this episode we talk about: Why increasing your income is more powerful than endlessly cutting expenses The importance of budgeting—even as your income grows How lifestyle inflation quietly prevents people from building wealth Travis' story of downsizing his lifestyle to bet on his podcasting career Why creating financial runway gives entrepreneurs the freedom to take bigger risks Top 3 Takeaways Growing your income is essential, but it's only effective if you maintain the financial discipline to keep your expenses under control. Reducing your lifestyle costs can create the runway needed to pursue entrepreneurship or other long-term opportunities. Wealth isn't built by appearances—it's built by consistently widening the gap between what you earn and what you spend. Notable Quotes "Your ability to earn will significantly outweigh your ability to cut—if you've already handled the basics." "Limiting your lifestyle gives you more freedom. Full stop." "Money only solves your money problems, but it's easier to solve the rest of your problems when you've got some money in the bank." Connect with Brandon Birkmeyer: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandonbirkmeyer/ Other: https://www.brandsonbrands.com/ 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 supplies last. - Go to Leesa.com for 25% OFF select mattresses (through July 26, 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SummaryINTERVIEW | Make Money by Thinking Like an Entrepreneur with Sarah Westall
2d ago00:22:07Summary readySarah Westall is an entrepreneur, business strategist, and host of the Business Game Changers podcast. With a background in computer science and telecommunications, she helped build early internet infrastructure before leaving corporate America to launch multiple businesses. In this episode, Sarah shares her entrepreneurial journey, explains why creativity is one of the most valuable business skills, and discusses how she has built and monetized a successful media platform over more than a decade. On this episode we talk about: Why creativity is one of the biggest advantages entrepreneurs have How to transition from a corporate career into entrepreneurship Building financial runway before leaving your full-time job Using podcasting as a business growth and relationship-building tool The evolving media landscape, audience ownership, and long-term monetization strategies Top 3 Takeaways Entrepreneurship is a creative pursuit that requires resilience, adaptability, and a genuine passion for solving problems. Before leaving a steady paycheck, build financial runway and begin generating clients or revenue on the side whenever possible. A podcast is more than a content platform—it can become a powerful engine for building relationships, growing a business, and creating multiple revenue streams. Notable Quotes "Entrepreneurship is a creative endeavor because you're going to have to get creative and figure it out." "Go into something that you really love to do, because you're not going to love it when there are problems." "Everything you do is creating relationships. It's more important than anything else." Connect with Sarah Westall: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RadioHostSarahWestall Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahwestall/ Other: https://sarahwestall.com/ 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 supplies last. - Go to Leesa.com for 25% OFF select mattresses (through July 26, 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SummarySOLO | Make Money by Building an Identity That Outlasts Your Career
2d ago00:18:59Summary readyIn this solo episode, Travis Chappell explores one of the most common themes to emerge from nearly 2,000 podcast episodes: identity. Drawing on conversations with entrepreneurs, athletes, and high performers—including Bonnie Schutz, John Salley, Brendan Schaub, and Tanner Chidester—Travis explains why the people who successfully reinvent themselves don't define themselves by a single job title. Instead, they build an identity rooted in their values, allowing them to embrace change, pursue purpose, and confidently step into new opportunities. On this episode we talk about: Why tying your identity to your career can keep you stuck Lessons from entrepreneurs and athletes who successfully reinvented themselves How purpose-driven career changes lead to greater fulfillment and well-being Why being good at something doesn't mean you have to do it forever Practical ways to separate who you are from what you do Top 3 Takeaways Your career is something you do—not who you are. Building your identity around your values instead of your job title makes it easier to adapt and grow. Reinvention requires letting go of certainty. The most fulfilling opportunities often come after you're willing to leave a familiar identity behind. Long-term fulfillment comes from pursuing meaningful work, not simply achieving external goals or financial milestones. Notable Quotes "This is what I want to do. This is not who I am, but who I am makes me better at what I do." "Just because you're good at something doesn't mean you have to do it." "Don't let your current sense of identity become the anchor that keeps you in a life that no longer serves you." 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: - 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 supplies last. - Go to Leesa.com for 25% OFF select mattresses (through July 26, 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SummaryCO-HOST | Make Money Without Wasting It: Grocery Store Hacks, Dad Life & Everyday Money Traps
3d ago00:23:17Summary readySometimes the biggest opportunities to save money aren't found in investment portfolios—they're hiding in your weekly grocery bill. In this fun, off-the-cuff episode, Travis Chappell is joined by producer Eric and podcast strategist Brandon Birkmeyer for a wide-ranging conversation about grocery shopping, hidden delivery markups, household quirks, childhood nostalgia, and the surprisingly expensive world of organic maple syrup. Along the way, they share practical money-saving tips, parenting observations, and plenty of laughs. On this episode we talk about: How grocery delivery apps quietly increase the cost of everyday essentials The pros and cons of shopping in-store versus using Instacart and Amazon Fresh Funny household habits, dad life, and the debates every family seems to have Why organic products and premium groceries can dramatically impact your budget Childhood memories, Costco hot dogs, and nostalgic trips to Best Buy Top 3 Takeaways Grocery delivery services can significantly increase your total bill through item markups—not just delivery fees. Comparing prices and shopping in person occasionally can uncover meaningful savings on recurring household purchases. Personal finance isn't always about big investment decisions—small, everyday spending habits add up over time. Notable Quotes "Everything was like 25 cents to a dollar more in the app." "That's how they get ya." "Money only solves your money problems, but it's easier to solve the rest of your problems when you've got some money in the bank." Connect with Brandon Birkmeyer: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bbirkmeyer/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandonbirkmeyer/ Other: https://www.brandonbirkmeyer.com/ 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 supplies last. - Go to Leesa.com for 25% OFF select mattresses (through July 26, 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SummaryINTERVIEW | Make Money by Learning Before You Earn with Dean Mathews
3d ago00:25:28Summary readyDean Mathews is the founder and CEO of OnTheClock, a workforce management platform that helps small businesses simplify employee time tracking, scheduling, payroll, and HR. Serving more than 16,000 businesses and 160,000 employees, Dean has built a thriving SaaS company by combining technical expertise with relentless curiosity. In this episode, he shares how repairing lawnmowers as a teenager led to building a successful software company—and why learning from great business owners was the foundation of his entrepreneurial journey. On this episode we talk about: How Dean went from repairing lawnmowers as a teenager to building a successful SaaS business Why working alongside experienced entrepreneurs can be more valuable than earning a degree The "kitchen table" moment that inspired the creation of OnTheClock How SEO, word-of-mouth referrals, and customer-first product development fueled long-term growth Why every SaaS founder is rethinking the future of business in the age of AI Top 3 Takeaways Prioritize learning over earning early in your career by working closely with people who have already built what you aspire to create. Great businesses often begin by solving a real customer problem that others consistently complain about. Long-term success comes from building products customers genuinely love enough to recommend to others. Notable Quotes "The real education begins when you get on the street in business." "Learn. Figure out how to serve people, how to serve customers, provide something of value." "When your customers do it for you, that's invaluable." Connect with Dean Mathews: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-mathews-yes/ Other: https://www.ontheclock.com/ 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 supplies last. - Go to Leesa.com for 25% OFF select mattresses (through July 26, 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SummarySOLO | Make Money by Building Stronger Friendships: Why Loneliness Is Costing You More Than You Think
3d ago00:24:04Summary readyLoneliness isn't just an emotional challenge—it may be one of the biggest hidden threats to your health, happiness, and long-term success. In this solo episode, Travis Chappell unpacks one of the most recurring themes from past podcast conversations, drawing heavily on insights from relationship expert Dr. John Delony. Backed by research, personal experience, and public health data, Travis explores the difference between loneliness and social isolation, why success doesn't guarantee meaningful relationships, and the practical steps you can take to build deeper connections. On this episode we talk about: The critical difference between loneliness and social isolation—and why both matter Why networking and professional success can't replace genuine friendships The surprising research linking loneliness to higher mortality and poor physical health How social media can create the illusion of connection while increasing isolation Practical strategies for building stronger relationships with yourself and others Top 3 Takeaways Loneliness is a serious health risk that deserves the same urgency as other major wellness issues—it impacts both mental and physical health. Building a healthier relationship with yourself is often the first step toward overcoming chronic feelings of loneliness. Strong friendships outside of work and family aren't optional—they're essential for living a healthier, more fulfilling life. Notable Quotes "We're dying of loneliness." "Not having friends is worse than having a drug problem. You have to treat it with that level of seriousness." "Social media is TV dinners—it'll keep you alive until it kills you." Connect with Travis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell/ Other: https://travischappell.com/ 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 supplies last. - Go to Leesa.com for 25% OFF select mattresses (through July 26, 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SummaryCO-HOST | Make Money Without Selling Your Soul to the Clip Economy
4d ago00:20:55Summary readyIn this discussion, Travis Chappell is joined by producer Eric and guest co-host Brandon Birkmeyer for a candid conversation about the modern creator economy. They explore how viral clips, outrage, and sensationalism have reshaped social media—and why creators need to be intentional about building an audience that aligns with their long-term goals. From the dangers of "clip farming" to creating meaningful content that still captures attention, this episode offers valuable insights for podcasters, entrepreneurs, and content creators alike. On this episode we talk about: How the "clip economy" rewards outrage and extreme emotions The difference between creating engaging content and manufacturing controversy Why your audience today determines the opportunities you'll have tomorrow Balancing viral marketing with authentic, long-form conversations Building a personal brand that lasts instead of chasing short-term attention Top 3 Takeaways Don't optimize for views alone—optimize for the audience you actually want to attract over the long term. Great clips should spark curiosity and drive people to the full conversation, not distort or sensationalize it. The content you create today becomes your brand tomorrow, so be intentional about what you're known for. Notable Quotes "Not all views are created equal." "You have to get clear about the audience that you want." "If you're going to create long-form content, make stuff that's meaningful to you and figure out the clipping stuff as you go." 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: - 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 supplies last. - Go to Leesa.com for 25% OFF select mattresses (through July 26, 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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