Afleveringen
-
Chase Chewning joins Travis on this episode of the Travis Makes Money podcast. Chase is an Army veteran, wellness influencer, entrepreneur, and the host of Ever Forward Radio, a podcast he launched in 2017. He’s also the founder of Operation Podcast, a Los Angeles-based podcast studio and production company that’s grown into a multiple six-figure business. Known for his resilience after a serious military injury and his innovative approach to podcast monetization, Chase brings a unique perspective on building businesses that blend passion, expertise, and adaptability.
On this episode we talk about:
Chase’s journey from Army service and injury to entrepreneurship and wellness coaching
The founding and growth of Ever Forward Radio, including its mission and legacy
How Chase monetized his podcast beyond traditional advertising models
The evolution of Operation Podcast from online courses to full-service production and physical studios
Practical advice for podcasters on sponsorships, affiliate deals, and building local partnerships
The business model and economics of running a podcast studio in a major city
Lessons learned about customer service, self-promotion, and adapting to industry trends
Top 3 Takeaways
Monetize Creatively: Don’t rely solely on industry-standard podcast advertising. Combine sponsorships, affiliate deals, and your own products or services to maximize revenue-even with modest download numbers.
Know Your Audience: Understanding your listeners’ demographics and geography lets you pitch relevant sponsors and create valuable, targeted partnerships.
Build for Demand: Pay attention to what your audience and clients ask for. Chase’s pivot from online courses to done-for-you production and then to physical studios was driven by client demand and market trends.
Connect with Chase Chewning:
LinkedIn: Chase Chewning’s LinkedIn
Twitter/X: @chasechewning
Instagram: @chase_chewning
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Steve Selengut is a seasoned investment manager and advisor with over 40 years of experience in the financial industry. He’s managed more than 325 individual portfolios across the U.S. and internationally and is now dedicated to coaching both individuals and other advisors on creating income independence. Steve is the author of “Retirement Money Secrets,” his second book, where he shares practical strategies for building sustainable income and optimizing for retirement. His expertise lies in personalized investment strategies, income-focused portfolios, and demystifying complex financial products for everyday investors.
On this episode we talk about:
– Steve’s early entrepreneurial ventures and lessons learned from childhood businesses
– The influence of family and early exposure to investment principles
– The evolution of Steve’s investment strategy, from stocks and bonds to closed-end funds
– The mechanics and benefits of closed-end funds for generating income
– How to build a diversified, income-focused portfolio with relatively low risk
– The current interest rate environment and its impact on different asset classes
– Actionable advice for both new and experienced investors looking to create passive income streams
– Insights from Steve’s book, “Retirement Money Secrets,” and practical steps for retirement planning
Top 3 Takeaways
1. Income-focused investing can create financial independence at any stage of life. Steve emphasizes the importance of building portfolios that generate consistent income, not just relying on appreciation or speculative gains.
2. Closed-end funds offer accessible, diversified, and often overlooked opportunities for high-yield, relatively low-risk investing. These funds can be purchased by almost anyone, require no accreditation, and can be started with modest amounts.
3. Discipline and rules-based investing-such as setting profit targets and reinvesting income-are key to growing wealth and protecting against market volatility. Steve’s approach stresses the value of taking profits, managing risk, and always looking for ways to make your money work for you.
Connect with Steve Selengut:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/privateinvestmentmanagement
Website: https://theincomecoach.net/book/
Book: Retirement Money Secrets on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Retirement-Money-Secrets-Financial-Independence-ebook/dp/B0CG2DMFW6
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
-
In this episode of the Travis Makes Money podcast, we're diving into some powerful highlights from my conversation with bestselling author and business consultant Donald Miller—originally featured on my other show, Travis Makes Friends.
Donald is the author of Building a StoryBrand, one of the most influential branding books of all time. He’s worked with Fortune 500 companies, consulted for the NSA, and helped countless businesses double their revenue using simple but effective messaging strategies. In this episode, we pull clips from our chat that focus specifically on money, business growth, writing, branding, and even AI’s role in the future of marketing.
We cover:
How Building a StoryBrand sold over 1 million copies
A company that grew revenue by 98% with just one tagline tweak
Why clarity in your message is the key to making money
The future of branding in an AI-driven world
And much more from one of the most insightful business minds out there
🎧 Want the full conversation? Search Travis Makes Friends on your favorite podcast app and check out the full episode!
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Nick Huber is an accomplished entrepreneur and real estate investor based in Athens, Georgia. Best known for building a $30M+ annual revenue portfolio that includes 68 self-storage properties, Nick also owns companies like somewhere.com, Bolt Storage, and RE Cost Seg. He’s recognized for his no-nonsense advice on entrepreneurship, his book The Sweaty Startup, and his focus on building wealth through practical, “boring” businesses rather than chasing flashy startup trends. Nick’s unique perspective comes from real-world experience, not just theory, making him a sought-after voice for aspiring business owners.
On this episode we talk about:
– How Nick made his first and most recent dollar
– The importance of picking the right business “vehicle”
– Why cash is king in real estate investing
– The realities of self-storage and why it’s not truly “passive income”
– Building businesses that solve real problems (like RE Cost Seg and somewhere.com)
Top 3 Takeaways
1. Pick the right business vehicle: Success isn’t just about working hard-it’s about working smart in industries where you can win, even if you’re “average.”
2. Cash matters in real estate: Contrary to popular advice, Nick argues you need capital to succeed in real estate; “no money down” deals are risky and rare.
3. Business is a long game: Building wealth takes years, often generations. Avoid get-rich-quick schemes and focus on boring, proven businesses.
Connect with Nick Huber:
Website: sweatystartup.com
http://www.nickhuber.com/https://x.com/sweatystartuphttps://www.instagram.com/sweatystartup/#https://www.linkedin.com/in/sweatystartup/https://www.youtube.com/sweatystartuphttps://www.tiktok.com/@sweatystartuphttps://www.threads.com/@sweatystartup
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Thoryn Stephens is a leading expert in neurotechnology, longevity, and analytics, specializing in data architecture, consumer insights, and behavioral analytics. As the founder of Brain.1, Thoryn has created a pioneering brain fitness platform that offers the world’s most extensive collection of brain health microhabits and protocols. His unique blend of scientific expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and passion for holistic health makes him a standout voice in the intersection of technology, neuroscience, and personal development.
On this episode we talk about:
– Thoryn’s journey from biotech and molecular biology to entrepreneurship
– The founding story and mission behind Brain.1 and brain fitness protocols
– The importance of personalized health routines and protocols for longevity
– How lifestyle changes can help prevent neurodegenerative diseases like dementia
– The role of community, connection, and purpose in health and wealth
Top 3 Takeaways
1. Optimizing your brain and health is foundational to unlocking higher income and productivity.
2. Personalized health protocols-especially for brain fitness-are the future of preventative medicine and longevity.
3. Community and connection are powerful “biohacks” that significantly impact healthspan and overall well-being.
Connect with Thoryn Stephens:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thoryn
Website: https://brain.one/
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Daniel Packard is a mechanical engineer turned CEO of Full Liberation Technology, known for his groundbreaking work in permanently eliminating anxiety and the fears that hold people back from achieving their goals. After a decade-long personal struggle with anxiety and investing over $1 million in research and development, Daniel engineered a system with a 90% success rate that has helped thousands break free from anxiety, procrastination, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and low confidence. His unique blend of engineering rigor and real-world empathy makes his approach both innovative and practical.
On this episode we talk about:
Why fear is the root cause behind anxiety, procrastination, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and low confidence
The “Funky Five” and how they sabotage your ability to make money and succeed
Why most self-help and personal development tools don’t deliver permanent results
The science behind Daniel’s Nervous System Reset and why the nervous system-not the mind-is the key to freedom
How Daniel’s pay-at-the-end model puts results first and why he believes results matter most
Top 3 Takeaways
The real obstacle to making more money isn’t lack of tactics-it’s unresolved fear rooted in the body, specifically the nervous system.
Most personal development focuses on managing symptoms, not solving the root problem; true change happens when you address the nervous system directly.
Permanent transformation is possible with the right system, and you don’t have to live with anxiety or self-doubt holding you back from success.
Notable Quotes
“You do not have multiple problems. You have multiple symptoms of one thing, which is fear.”
“Results matter. The person you want to trust is the person that actually gets results.”
“If you weren’t taught to take care of your nervous system, does it make sense that eventually over time, it’s going to start to malfunction?”
Connect with Daniel Packard:
Website (Free Training): danielpackard.com
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Drew Norton, known as the Everyday Sales Leader, joins Travis to share his journey from selling Halloween candy as a kid to leading large sales organizations and coaching others to sales success. As a self-development coach, sales consultant, and co-host of the Everyday Leader podcast, Drew brings a wealth of experience across sales, recruiting, leadership, and training. What makes Drew unique is his focus on ethical selling and his belief that sales skills can transform not just your income, but your entire life-even if you’re an introvert.
On this episode we talk about:
– Drew’s unconventional path into sales and entrepreneurship
– Why sales is a high-leverage skill for anyone wanting to control their income
– Overcoming the negative stereotypes and mindset blocks around selling
– How sales skills translate to better communication, empathy, and leadership
– Practical ways to start learning and earning in sales-even part-time
– The best industries for new salespeople to break in and maximize earnings
Top 3 Takeaways
1. Sales is a learnable skill that can dramatically increase your income and opportunities, regardless of your background or personality type.
2. Ethical selling is about solving real problems and building trust, not pressure or manipulation.
3. The mindset you bring to sales-believing in your product and your value-matters more than having the perfect script.
Notable Quotes
"Sales is life. The things I’ve been learning have helped me communicate with my wife, helped me be a better listener."
"You don’t have to be an extrovert to be great at sales. Some of the best salespeople I know are introverts."
"If you really believe in your product, the worst thing you can do is not influence someone to buy it if it’s right for them."
Connect with Drew Norton:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theeverydaysalesleader
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theeverydaysalesleader/
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Marty Strong is a retired Navy SEAL officer, accomplished entrepreneur, CEO, and prolific author. With more than 20 years of military service and decades of business leadership, Marty currently leads multiple companies, including a major healthcare firm. He has written nine novels and three business books, most notably Be Nimble: How the Creative Navy SEAL Mindset Wins on the Battlefield and in Business. Marty is renowned for translating elite military leadership principles into actionable business strategies, and he’s made over 350 media appearances as a thought leader on leadership, resilience, and innovation. His unique blend of battlefield-tested wisdom and executive experience makes him a compelling voice for anyone looking to elevate their business and financial game.
On this episode we talk about:
– How Navy SEAL training shaped Marty’s approach to business leadership
– The transition from military service to entrepreneurship and corporate leadership
– Key lessons from Be Nimble and how to apply them in any industry
– Why adaptability and creative thinking are crucial for business growth
– Strategies for building resilient teams and thriving in high-pressure environments
Top 3 Takeaways
1. Adaptability is a superpower. The ability to pivot quickly and creatively in the face of uncertainty is what separates successful leaders and businesses from the rest.
2. Leadership is about action, not just titles. Marty emphasizes that real leadership is demonstrated through decisive action, clear communication, and empowering others-regardless of your position.
3. Transfer your skills. The discipline, teamwork, and problem-solving skills honed in the military can be powerful assets in entrepreneurship and corporate life.
Connect with Marty Strong:
Website: martystrongbenimble.com
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Eric Jorgenson is the CEO of Scribe Media, the industry's largest professional publishing service, dedicated to helping entrepreneurs, executives, and experts write, publish, and market their books. Eric is also the bestselling author of The Almanack of Naval Ravikant and The Anthology of Balaji, with over a million copies sold. Beyond his publishing expertise, Eric is an investor in deep tech startups and an influential blogger and podcaster. His unique journey from author and curator to CEO-especially after helping revive Scribe Media from bankruptcy-makes him a fascinating guest with deep insights into the evolving world of book publishing, authorship, and leveraging books for business growth.
On this episode we talk about:
– The origin story behind The Almanack of Naval Ravikant and why Eric created it
– The rise, fall, and rebirth of Scribe Media-and Eric’s path to CEO
– Key differences between traditional publishing, hybrid, and self-publishing models
– How books can serve as powerful business assets beyond just royalties
– The critical importance of quality and professionalism in publishing
– Navigating advances, control, and intellectual property as an author
– Why marketing and personal networks now drive book sales more than ever
– The realities of bookstore placement, bestseller lists, and the modern publishing landscape
Top 3 Takeaways
1. A book is more than a business card-it’s a credential. A well-written, high-quality book can serve as a lifelong asset, building trust, authority, and opening doors for speaking, consulting, and business opportunities.
2. Control and flexibility matter. Traditional publishing can offer credibility and advances, but often at the cost of creative and financial control. Many authors now succeed by self-publishing or using hybrid models, retaining rights and maximizing ROI.
3. Marketing trumps distribution. In today’s landscape, personal networks, podcasts, and word-of-mouth drive more book sales than traditional media or bookstore placement. Demonstrated demand online is what gets books into stores-not the publisher’s logo.
Notable Quotes
“A good book is much more like a PhD. It’s a credential you should be proud to put in front of whoever the most important person in your network is.”
“Half-professional is unprofessional. If you’re not proud to put your book in front of someone, you didn’t invest enough time and effort.”
“What really matters most is a great book. Your readers don’t care who published it-they care about the value inside.”
Connect with Eric Jorgenson:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/erjorgenson
Website: ejorgenson.com
Scribe Media: scribemedia.com
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Ross Tomkins is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and business acquirer who has raised over $10 million and acquired nearly 20 businesses across two continents. Originally trained as a physiotherapist in the UK, Ross transitioned from hands-on healthcare to building and scaling companies. He recently launched a holding company in the UAE with the goal of generating half a billion dollars in annual revenue within five years. Ross’s journey is a masterclass in creative deal-making, strategic growth, and the mindset required to succeed in business acquisition.
On this episode we talk about:
How Ross made the leap from employee to entrepreneur by starting a mobile physiotherapy business
The critical role of spousal and partner support in entrepreneurial risk-taking
Lessons learned from losing a major contract and pivoting to acquisitions
Creative deal structures, including 100% seller financing and government-backed loans
The importance of operating experience before buying businesses-and why small business acquisition is riskier than it looks
How to source acquisition deals through networking, brokers, and outreach
The pros and cons of buying small vs. larger businesses
Why healthcare remains a resilient and attractive sector for acquisitions
Top 3 Takeaways
Start with what you know and build credibility. Ross’s journey shows that operating your own business first gives you the credibility and skills needed to succeed in acquisitions2.
Creative financing makes acquisitions accessible. Seller financing and government-backed loans can help you buy businesses even if you don’t have large amounts of cash on hand2.
Operating skills are essential. Acquiring a business is not a shortcut to passive income-understanding sales, marketing, HR, and operations is critical to avoid running a good business into the ground2.
Notable Quotes
“My first dollar was me carrying a bed with me to someone’s house and charging them for physiotherapy.”2
“The best conversation we had at the beginning was, ‘Do you want to do it or do you need to do it?’ I needed to do it for myself and my family.”2
“The success rate of small business acquisition is terrible… If you don’t have the necessary mindset and skill set to manage the money, you could take over a beautiful cash-flowing business and run it into the ground.”2
Connect with Ross Tomkins:
Website: https://rosstomkins.co.uk/
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Keren Eldad is a renowned executive coach, thought leader, and founder of The Club-a community for leaders, entrepreneurs, and coaches striving to reach their fullest potential. With a client roster that includes Olympic athletes, politicians, Hollywood stars, and global organizations like Estée Lauder, JPMorgan, and Nike, Keren specializes in guiding high achievers out of the endless grind and into true success and fulfillment. Her unique approach blends mindset mastery, wealth consciousness, and actionable strategies, making her a sought-after voice on building both happiness and wealth.
On this episode we talk about:
Why the traditional path to financial success is broken-and what’s replacing it
How Keren shifted from scarcity to abundance thinking (and grew her business 600%)
The real meaning of “wealth consciousness” and how to develop it
The importance of happiness and gratitude in building lasting wealth
Actionable steps to reset your mindset and environment for financial growth
Top 3 Takeaways
Wealth is as much about mindset as it is about money-developing an abundance mentality is foundational to lasting success.
Happiness and financial achievement are not mutually exclusive; building wealth holistically leads to greater fulfillment.
Your environment and inputs-what you read, watch, and who you spend time with-directly impact your ability to create wealth.
Notable Quotes
"No unhappy journey has a happy ending."
"Real wealth consciousness is not 'I have.' It's 'I can make it.'"
"You have the ability to craft your own environment, which means you control who you become."
Connect with Keren Eldad:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keren-eldad/recent-activity/all/?trk=public_post_follow-articles
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachkeren/#
Website: https://kereneldad.com/
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Dionne Payn is a trailblazer in ethical property investment and the founder of Women for Homes, an initiative on a mission to inspire one million women to invest $5,000 each to end homelessness by 2030. With over a decade of experience in the property industry, Dionne has developed affordable housing projects, raised more than $45 million for ethical developments, and helped over 40 investors achieve double-digit returns. She is also the author of the Amazon #1 bestseller Ethical Property Investing and a passionate advocate for financial empowerment, especially for women. Dionne’s unique blend of scientific background, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to social impact makes her a standout leader in the world of property investing.
On this episode we talk about:
– Dionne’s journey from pharmaceutical chemistry to ethical property investing
– The pivotal moment that inspired her to pursue financial independence and property ownership
– The challenges and rewards of affordable housing projects
– How Women for Homes aims to democratize property investment and tackle homelessness
– The importance of financial literacy and empowerment for women
– Lessons learned from both successes and failures in property development
– The role of government, developers, and individuals in solving housing crises
Top 3 Takeaways
1. Ethical property investing can generate strong returns while creating meaningful social impact, such as reducing homelessness.
2. Financial empowerment-especially for women-is critical to breaking cycles of disadvantage and creating lasting change.
3. Real estate investing is not without risks, but resilience, resourcefulness, and a willingness to learn from setbacks are key to long-term success.
Connect with Dionne Payn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dionnepayn/?originalSubdomain=au
Website: women4homes.com
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Nigel Tunnacliffe is the founder and CEO of Coastline Academy, the largest driving school in the United States. Starting from teaching students himself at a single location, Nigel has grown Coastline Academy to serve nine states and hundreds of thousands of students. The company has been recognized as the sixth fastest-growing education company in the U.S. by Inc. magazine. Nigel’s journey is a testament to scaling a hands-on service business into a national operation, all while staying mission-driven and customer-focused.
On this episode we talk about:
How Nigel made his first dollar selling Magic: The Gathering cards as a kid
The transition from side hustles and early businesses to founding Coastline Academy
The challenges and pivots involved in launching a mission-driven company
Financing a startup with minimal savings, creative fundraising, and lean operations
The step-by-step process of scaling from a local service to a national brand
Top 3 Takeaways
Start Small, Scale Smart: Begin by doing the work yourself to gain firsthand experience and credibility. Each step up-hiring, management, multi-state expansion-should be built on a solid foundation of understanding the business from the ground up.
Mission Over Product: Focusing on a core mission (in Coastline’s case, eradicating car crashes) allows you to pivot product ideas while staying true to your purpose. Execution and adaptability matter far more than the initial idea.
Creative Survival: Raising just enough money to buy time and cover basic expenses can be enough to get off the ground. Be transparent with investors, get creative with financing (but be cautious), and focus relentlessly on achieving product-market fit before scaling.
Notable Quotes
"The execution against the idea is literally everything. There’s zero value to the idea that you have. What actually matters is working to figure out if somebody is going to vote that they’re on board for this service existing-and not just vote by giving you a thumbs up, but by actually taking their wallet out and paying you to solve this problem."
"For someone just starting out, you don’t need to figure out how to have layers of directors and middle managers and regional operations. You’ve got to figure out how to get enough cash in to cover your costs, and you can do that by just rolling up your sleeves and doing the hard work."
"Success is like a spiral staircase. You can only see the next couple of steps. You can’t see around the corner… but you can see the next two things you’ve got to do. So just focus on doing those two things and do them extremely well."
Connect with Nigel Tunnacliffe:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tunnacliffe
Website: https://coastlineacademy.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coastlineacademy/?hl=en
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Alice Draper is the founder of Hustling Writers, a podcast guest booking agency, and the host of the podcast My Rejection Story. Alice specializes in making publicity accessible for entrepreneurs and authors by reframing rejection and helping clients secure interviews on top podcasts. With a background in freelance writing and a knack for creative pitching, Alice has placed clients on some of the highest-ranked shows in the industry. Her journey from childhood entrepreneur to agency owner is marked by resourcefulness, resilience, and a passion for helping others share their stories.
On this episode we talk about:
How Alice made her first dollar as a child entrepreneur selling snacks and trending items at school
The evolution from freelance writing to founding a podcast guest booking agency
Why podcast guesting is now a powerful form of PR for authors, entrepreneurs, and experts
Practical steps to get started in podcast guest booking-including pitching strategies and using software tools
How to build a six-figure (or more) business by focusing on niche podcast relationships
The importance of crafting standout pitches and leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT
The benefits and challenges of running your own podcast, and why guesting is a great way to start
Top 3 Takeaways
Podcast guesting is a high-impact, accessible form of PR: Getting clients on relevant podcasts can drive book sales, build credibility, and create long-lasting SEO benefits.
Success in podcast booking comes down to strong pitching and niche relationships: Learning to write compelling pitches and focusing on a specific podcast category can help you build a profitable agency-even as a solo operator.
You don’t need a massive team or upfront investment: With the right tools, a small client base, and a good process, you can start a side hustle or full-time business booking podcast guests, scaling as you grow.
Connect with Alice Draper:
LinkedIn: https://ae.linkedin.com/in/alice-m-draper
Website: https://hustlingwriters.com/
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
James Murray-known to millions as “Murr” from the hit TV show Impractical Jokers-joins Travis on the Travis Makes Money podcast. As a founding member of the comedy troupe The Tenderloins, James has spent over a decade turning hidden camera pranks into a cultural phenomenon. Beyond TV, he’s an executive, bestselling author, and live performer. What makes James unique is his journey from TV executive to on-screen star, and his candid insights into the business side of making comedy-and money-in Hollywood.
On this episode we talk about:
– How James and his friends created and sold Impractical Jokers from scratch
– The realities of TV development and why the first thousand ideas are never the best
– How little the cast made in the early seasons-and why they stuck with it anyway
– The turning point that made Impractical Jokers a network-defining hit
– How to leverage TV success into books, tours, and multiple revenue streams
Top 3 Takeaways
1. Persistence pays off: The first thousand ideas are usually bad or already taken, but pushing past them leads to truly original concepts.
2. Start small, think big: Even massive TV hits often begin with low pay and uncertainty-success comes from building on small wins and seizing new opportunities.
3. Leverage your platform: TV exposure can be the “mothership” that launches books, tours, and other ventures-attention is a commodity, so use it to multiply your impact and income.
Website: jamesmurrayofficial.com
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Elijah Lung is a multifamily real estate investor and capital raiser with over 30 years of experience in the industry. Starting his career as a farmhand, Elijah built a multi-seven-figure business in cattle waste management before transitioning into farmland investments and, ultimately, multifamily syndication. His unconventional journey—from managing messy assets to raising millions for large-scale real estate deals—makes him a uniquely insightful guest for anyone interested in building wealth through real estate.
On this episode we talk about:
Elijah’s journey from farmhand to successful business owner and real estate investor
How he built and exited a cattle waste management business
Transitioning from farmland investing to multifamily real estate syndication
The challenges and realities of raising $1 million for a $39 million multifamily deal
Building trust and credibility with investors in the capital raising process
Top 3 Takeaways
Trust and relationships are everything in capital raising—credibility is built over time, not overnight
Success in multifamily investing often comes from persistence, education, and leveraging your network
The realities of raising capital are far more challenging than they appear; cold calls, follow-ups, and handling rejection are all part of the process
Connect with Elijah:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahiung
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Valerie Morehouse is one of the most sought-after vocal coaches in the entertainment industry, renowned for her unique blend of artistry and business acumen. With a BFA in journalism and a background as one of the youngest members of Chapman University’s acclaimed chamber singers, Valerie has worked alongside top ear, nose, and throat surgeons to develop innovative methods for rehabilitating singers from vocal trauma. Her client roster includes chart-topping musicians, actors, and even sports broadcasters, making her a true authority on both the craft and the business of voice. Valerie’s journey from church soloist to industry leader is a masterclass in following your passion—while mastering the business side to build a sustainable, lucrative career.
On this episode we talk about:
– How Valerie made her first and most recent dollar (from singing at church as a child to coaching and publishing a book)
– The science and art behind vocal coaching and rehabilitation
– Why most people can learn to sing—and the rare exceptions
– The importance of combining artistry with business skills to succeed in creative industries
– Building a powerful professional network and landing high-profile clients
– Pivots in career paths: turning passion into a business, even if the dream changes
– The discipline required for success—whether working with actors, musicians, or athletes
– The realities of touring, film work, and managing creative personalities
Top 3 Takeaways
1. Most people can learn to sing with the right training and patience—only about 2% of the population is truly tone deaf, and the voice is an athletic instrument that can be developed over time.
2. Success in creative fields requires both passion and business sense; understanding your strengths, building relationships, and having the patience for long-term growth are key to turning talent into income.
3. Building a strong network and reputation—through integrity, hard work, and word of mouth—can open doors to working with top clients and sustaining a fulfilling career.
Connect with Valerie Morehouse:
Website: valeriemorehouse.com
https://www.instagram.com/officialvalmorehouse
Vocal training tool: bettervoice.co
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
John Hankins is a licensed social worker and Certified Financial Therapist™ with decades of experience spanning social work, IT, and nonprofit leadership. After a long career in the business world, John returned to his passion for helping others by specializing in financial therapy and coaching for middle-aged and older adults. His unique approach blends clinical expertise, real-world financial management, and deep empathy, helping clients understand and transform their relationship with money. John’s mission is to empower people to align their finances with their values, reduce money-related stress, and build a more fulfilling future.
On this episode we talk about:
– What it means to have a “relationship with money” and why it matters
– How childhood experiences and cultural beliefs shape our money mindset
– The three pillars of money mindset: thoughts, feelings, and actions
– Why values—not just goals—should drive your financial decisions
– Real-life stories of clients overcoming money stress and self-sabotage
– The importance of normalizing conversations about money
– How financial therapy differs from traditional financial planning
Top 3 Takeaways
Your beliefs and emotions about money—often formed in childhood—can unconsciously drive your financial decisions and success. Addressing these root issues is foundational to making sustainable changes.
True financial well-being comes from aligning your money habits with your core values, not just chasing higher income or bigger goals.
Open, judgment-free conversations about money are essential. Many people carry money stress for years simply because they feel unable to talk about it—even with those closest to them.
Notable Quotes
“We have kind of three things that we can do as human beings: thoughts, feelings, and actions. When you start to examine those around money, you’ll probably uncover things that are holding you back.”
“You might be holding yourself back from making the money you say you want because your beliefs and actions aren’t aligned.”
“Many people carry money stress for decades without ever having a real conversation about it with anyone. Sometimes, just talking is the first step to relief.”
Connect with John Hankins:
https://www.youtube.com/@johnhankinsfinancialtherapyhttps://www.facebook.com/JohnHankinsFinancialTherapy/www.linkedin.com/in/john-hankins-msswww.financial-therapy.mehttps://financialtherapyassociation.org/find-a-financial-therapist/
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Nicholas Lalla is an urbanist, social entrepreneur, and author who has made a national impact at the intersection of economic development and emerging technology. As the founder of Tulsa Innovation Labs, Nicholas deployed over $200 million to catalyze northeast Oklahoma’s transition from a legacy oil and gas economy to a thriving tech-driven innovation hub. With a track record that includes leading New York City’s ambitious Cyber NYC initiative and authoring the new book Reinventing the Heartland, Nicholas brings a bold, data-driven approach to urban reinvention. His expertise lies in helping mid-sized cities find their unique tech niche, build inclusive growth strategies, and align diverse stakeholders for lasting impact.
On this episode we talk about:
– How Nicholas raised over $200 million to build Tulsa’s innovation economy
– The urgent need for economic diversification in mid-sized American cities
– Strategies for identifying a city’s unique tech niche and growth sectors
– Building high-performing teams and engaging stakeholders for urban transformation
– Lessons in leadership, change management, and challenging the status quo
Top 3 Takeaways
1. Cities must identify and double down on their unique assets to create a tech niche, rather than trying to copy larger tech hubs.
2. Building an innovation economy requires deep stakeholder engagement, public-private partnerships, and a shared vision for growth.
3. Rapid, data-driven action—paired with inclusive leadership—can catalyze transformative change, but sustainable outcomes demand long-term commitment.
Connect with Nicholas Lalla:
– LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholaslalla
Website: https://nicholaslalla.com/
Book: Reinventing the Heartland (HarperCollins, 2025) – available at major retailers and Nicholas’s website
Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Dr. Angela Jackson is the founder of Future Forward Strategies, a labor market intelligence and strategy firm dedicated to helping leaders transform their organizations and develop the human capital needed for long-term competitiveness and positive impact. As a lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, Dr. Jackson shapes the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders in the education marketplace. She was the architect of the Future of Work Grand Challenge, an ambitious initiative that rapidly reskilled 25,000 displaced workers into living wage jobs within 24 months. Dr. Jackson’s expertise in workforce development, organizational strategy, and the future of work makes her a leading voice on how individuals and companies can thrive in today’s rapidly changing economy.
On this episode we talk about:
Dr. Jackson’s entrepreneurial journey from a childhood lemonade stand to bestselling author
How employees can add value in the workplace to increase their income—without a side hustle
The importance of negotiating your salary and understanding your true market worth
Why “power skills” like communication and leadership are essential in the age of AI
Strategies for reskilling, networking, and finding opportunities in high-growth sectors
The mindset shift needed to embrace lifelong learning and overcome fear of failure
Top 3 Takeaways
Know and Communicate Your Value: Track your contributions and use clear metrics to negotiate raises or promotions. Don’t wait for recognition—advocate for yourself and be specific about the value you bring.
Invest in Power Skills and Lifelong Learning: Skills like communication, leadership, and adaptability are increasingly valuable and less likely to be replaced by automation. Cultivate a mindset of continuous learning to stay relevant.
Leverage Your Network and Follow Your Passions: Building genuine relationships and seeking advice from others in your field can open doors. Pursuing work you’re passionate about not only makes earning easier, but also more fulfilling.
Connect with Dr. Angela Jackson:
Website: https://www.readwinwinworkplace.com/
https://www.instagram.com/drangelajackson/
https://www.facebook.com/people/Dr-Angela-Jackson-Author/61562212861226
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-angela-jackson
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices - Laat meer zien
