Travis Makes Money

Mark Rampolla is a visionary entrepreneur who founded ZICO Coconut Water, pioneering the now multi-billion-dollar coconut water category in the U.S. and globally. He took ZICO from startup to a $200 million acquisition by Coca-Cola, before later leading a buy-back of the brand. Mark’s investment firm, GroundForce Capital, backs purpose-driven consumer companies focused on health, wellness, and sustainability. His latest book, An Entrepreneur’s Guide to Freedom, dives deep into the limiting beliefs and inner work necessary for both wealth creation and personal liberation. On this episode we talk about: Mark’s early work and career journey, from dishwashing in Pittsburgh to Peace Corps volunteer in Costa Rica, then a pivot from corporate roles to entrepreneurship Lessons from failure: Why Mark built a “cemetery” for lost investments and business attempts—and how mourning and learning from failure is essential in entrepreneurship The real risk and emotional journey of launching ZICO, enduring years on the edge of bankruptcy, and aligning with his family to manage risk The breakthrough that came from honing a niche “beachhead” market strategy—targeting hot yoga practitioners in NYC and expanding from there What large brands and acquirers look for in fast-growth consumer companies, and why velocity and loyalty in a core market often matter more than national reach Mark’s best advice: Freedom and success start with inner work—addressing limiting beliefs, ownership over failures, and taking full responsibility for your outcomes Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Monumental brand growth comes from relentless niche focus, customer intimacy, and resisting the urge to expand too broadly, too soon.2.  The path to entrepreneurial freedom starts with self-awareness, emotional resilience, and the capacity to mourn losses without getting stuck.3.  When facing risk, build a realistic plan B with your family—optimism helps, but full financial and emotional transparency is vital for long-term success. Notable Quotes “We mourn failures for a reason—if you don’t process and ritualize loss, it will haunt future decisions.” “Velocity in your best market beats scale in many—Coca-Cola wanted ZICO for how it dominated its niche, not just national shelf space.” “Freedom starts and ends inside—you’ll only reach it externally when you break limiting beliefs and take full responsibility.” Connect with Mark Rampolla: Official website and book: markrampolla.co ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jordan Harbinger is the host of The Jordan Harbinger Show, and someone I've been listening to for almost a decade now. Jordan dives into insightful conversations with world-class experts and thought leaders. Listen in for actionable advice on personal development, relationships, entrepreneurship and more. Hope you check it out and enjoy it as much as I do.

On this episode, Travis and Eric go candid on the reputation, reality, and earning potential of door to door sales. From misconceptions about “annoying” sales tactics to the immense training value and income ceiling, Travis explains why D2D still works—and how newcomers can maximize results even in less affluent or small-town markets. Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Door to door sales are thriving, especially in home services—top earners can make six figures or more, often from equal-opportunity commission structures.2.  Persistence and volume matter far more than natural ability; follow the top rep’s process and double your activity to scale results.3.  Success is not location-dependent—pest control, alarms, and similar services offer solid commissions in every market, rural or urban. ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tamara Laine is an Emmy Award-winning journalist turned entrepreneur and the founder of MPWR (mpwr.money), an AI-powered fintech platform built to transform access to credit and capital for gig workers, freelancers, solopreneurs, and business owners outside the traditional W-2 economy. Combining her expertise in brand storytelling, AI innovation, and financial inclusion, Tamara makes it her mission to redesign financial systems so more people—especially those previously left out—can build real wealth. She brings fresh perspective from years in journalism, startup marketing, and scaling positive-revenue tech ventures. On this episode we talk about: Tamara’s journey from teen dance choreographer to Emmy-winning journalist, and her transition into startup tech entrepreneurship. How curiosity, resilience against rejection, and relentless networking set the foundation for entrepreneurial success—regardless of industry or background. Lessons learned launching media and tech startups: staying revenue-positive, finding the intersection of passion, opportunity, and value creation, and building healthy companies before chasing outside investment. The unique challenges gig workers and side hustlers face in accessing credit—and how traditional financial systems fail millions living the “multi-income” reality. The vision behind MPWR: next-generation AI and alternative credit risk modeling, holistic financial coaching through real-time dashboards, and dynamic predictions to help users thrive financially—no matter how nontraditional their work or income. Practical advice for entrepreneurs: prioritize passion only where it meets real market opportunities and your proven skills, and design businesses for positive cash flow (not dependency on investors). Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Build resilience to rejection—success in startups (and wealth building) is about persistence and adaptability, not just having a great idea.2.  In a changing economy dominated by gig work, new fintech platforms like Empower are making real financial inclusion possible for people who’ve historically been left out.3.  Revenue-first entrepreneurship beats chasing unicorn status; healthy businesses attract investment by solving problems and becoming sustainable early. Notable Quotes *  “Your network is your gold—every real opportunity comes through talking to people, learning, and never stopping at the first ‘no.’”*  “Passion alone isn’t enough. Find the place where your skills, your interests, and the real world’s market gaps meet—and build from there.”*  “Empower’s mission is simple: give every solopreneur a real shot at wealth by helping them tell their financial story and access better capital.” Connect with Tamara Laine & Empower: Platform waitlist and launch: mpwr.money Instagram: @tamaralaine_ ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🚀 This podcast 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

Katie Krimitsos is the creator and guiding voice behind the Women’s Meditation Network, a global collection of meditation podcasts empowering millions of women and children to find calm, clarity, and better sleep. Launching her first meditation podcast in 2018 from a closet, Katie has grown the network to over 20 shows, amassing more than 100 million downloads and becoming one of the world’s most successful independent podcasters. In this candid conversation, Katie shares her entrepreneurial journey—from humble beginnings and money mindset shifts to the nuts-and-bolts of scaling a podcast empire. On this episode we talk about: Katie’s background growing up one of six children in a working-class Arizona family, her early odd jobs, and how family beliefs shaped her relationship with money Her career pivot: leaving a successful coaching business to chase a new, untested idea—meditation podcasts for women The step-by-step evolution from her first show (“Meditation for Women”) in 2018 to building a 20-show network reaching millions monthly How the COVID-19 pandemic became her major inflection point for listener growth, product expansion, and innovation Monetization in podcasting: CPM ad models, the journey from relying on agencies to leveraging Anchor/Spotify programmatic ads, scaling to consistent five-figure monthly income, as well as the realities (and pitfalls) of the ad-revenue cycle Growth tactics: organic SEO-driven naming, network-driven niche launches, strategic paid ads, audience cross-promotion, and data-minded iteration The importance of self-awareness, focus, and fulfilling a core mission as new opportunities multiply and the business diversifies Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Podcasting can be both a purpose-driven and highly profitable business when built on audience need, niche focus, and relentless consistency.2.  Sustainable growth comes not from chasing fame, but from doubling down on what works—then creatively spinning off new, targeted shows to meet untapped demand.3.  Transforming mindset, money narratives, and leveraging the “tool” of money allows entrepreneurs to scale both abundance and generosity. Notable Quotes “Money is neither good nor bad—it’s a tool to support your mission and generosity, and you can make more of it by serving real needs at scale.” “The reliability of income—knowing that I can count on revenue from my network—has been a foundational part of scaling up over time.” “Focus on the thing that works, expand methodically, and keep your mission at the heart of it all.” Connect with Katie Krimitsos: Women’s Meditation Network: womensmeditationnetwork.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ 🚀 This podcast 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

Mick Hunt is a trailblazing entrepreneur, executive coach, and motivational leader known for building, scaling, and selling high-performing businesses—including a multi-million dollar insurance agency. As the founder of the Mick Unplugged brand and host of a top self-improvement podcast, Mick is dedicated to helping leaders and entrepreneurs discover their core “because” and build lasting, purpose-driven success. With a career spanning insurance, consulting, podcasting, and thought leadership, Mick has influenced thousands with his insight, transparency, and transformative events. His leadership principles—developed under guidance from figures like Les Brown and Daymond John—focus on character, clarity, and delivering high value to ideal clients. On this episode we talk about: Why Mick jumped from leading a top Nationwide agency to launching his own insurance firm—and selling it within three years for nearly $18M The power of recurring revenue and why business insurance offers unique opportunities for aspiring agents How niche focus (franchise restaurants) and long-term client value unlocked referrals and explosive growth Lessons in sales: empathy, curiosity, referral building, pricing for value (not discounts), and the difference between transactional and transformational business Why the best clients come through service, not slashed prices—and how to build a reputation through overdelivering on solutions rather than chasing commission Mick’s “because” mindset: how purpose drives action, from insurance to international keynote speaking How to break into insurance today: skills, strategies, and red flags for newcomers His passion for opening doors for others—through Mick Unplugged events, mastermind access, and his mission to connect hungry leaders with world-class mentorship Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Recurring revenue is the entrepreneur’s best friend—find a business model (like insurance) where great service today pays dividends for years.2.  Focusing on ideal clients and charging what it takes to overdeliver leads to referrals, reputation, and real wealth; price is rarely the true barrier.3.  True leadership means helping others find their “because”—the deeper purpose that transforms both individual trajectories and business outcomes. Notable Quotes “Being a generalist doesn’t make money. When you know your niche, your value—and price for what you can deliver—success follows.” “The best advice: charge what you think you’re worth. When someone pays it, that’s your new standard.” “Everyone wants the shortcut. But it’s clarity—about your why and your who—that wins over the long term.” Connect with Mick Hunt: Website, podcast, events: mickhuntofficial.com LinkedIn: Mick Hunt Instagram: @mickunplugged X: @MickUnplugged ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis is joined by producer Eric for a rapid-fire Q&A, reacting to three high-impact sales clips from the internet’s best-known sales trainers: Andy Elliott, Grant Cardone, and Brad Lea. From cold doors to cold calls to closing high-ticket deals, Travis unpacks what really works from his years of real-world sales. He shares truths behind the viral advice, what’s hype versus what’s helpful, and how to tailor classic sales tactics to any niche or market. On this episode we talk about: Andy Elliott’s advice on door-to-door sales: why trust matters first and how your look, attitude, and presentation shape the ‘trust barrier’ before you say a word Grant Cardone’s cold-call critique: why your intro should be ultra-short, first name only, and hook-centric; never waste air time on what doesn’t earn attention Brad Lea’s “fast, good, or cheap” close: how to overcome the price objection by putting the client in control, and why great closes guide the buyer—not push them Common pitfalls to avoid: sounding like a salesperson, building too much rapport early, or undermining your value by slashing prices The universal importance of discipline, confidence, and tailoring your sales style to the setting, whether it’s a cold knock, phone call, or live presentation Top 3 Takeaways 1.  First impressions matter more than most realize—your visual cues and energy impact trust instantly, especially when selling door-to-door or in cold approaches.2.  In high-velocity sales, cut the fluff and get to the “reason you’re calling”—the time you waste up front is time for their guard to rise.3.  Great closes like Brad Lea’s third-way choice (“fast, good, cheap—pick two”) empower the prospect to make a confident decision, shifting the conversation from value to what the buyer truly prioritizes. Notable Quotes "Your goal is to take the wall down as quickly as you can—in person, the way you look and carry yourself decides if they trust you before you say anything." "When you’re cold calling, never start with your full name or a drawn out intro; people care why you’re calling and what’s in it for them." "Great salespeople don’t slash prices—they help clients choose the package that fits, preserving both value and the seller’s credibility." ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 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

Full episode here: https://youtu.be/KnsCROZKTZA Join us on this episode of the Travis Makes Friends podcast as we dive deep with Pace Morby, a real estate powerhouse and community builder! From launching the world’s largest real estate community in a Circle K parking lot to helping a homeless woman become a homeowner in just 20 days, Pace shares his journey, creative finance strategies, and why real estate remains the ultimate wealth-building vehicle. Discover how to navigate today’s housing market, the power of in-person community, and the underrated potential of RV parks and co-living. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation packed with actionable insights! Check out Pace’s work at whereispace.com and tune in now! And find out more about Subto HERE ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ ✖️ 🚀 This podcast is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🚀 This podcast 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

Kasim Aslam is a self-made serial entrepreneur who rose from welfare in Albuquerque to become a multi-exit founder and an acclaimed thought leader in digital marketing. He built Solutions 8 into a Google Ads powerhouse (over $100 million in managed ad spend) and now focuses on Pareto Talent and Driven Mastermind, helping entrepreneurs scale with world-class delegation and smarter teams. Kasim is known for his unfiltered honesty, deep operational knowledge, and for championing the power of global talent to unlock life-changing business freedom. On this episode we talk about: Kasim’s journey from hustling candy as a seven-year-old to building (and selling) multiple seven- and eight-figure companies Lessons learned growing up with a blind single mother, finding resilience through relentless failure, and redefining success after setbacks Why most people shouldn’t worry about “the big idea”—and why starting scrappy (even with a humble service like window washing) is the real entrepreneurial launchpad How systemic discipline around earning, saving, and hiring the right people separates fake wealth from lasting wealth The vital difference between being an operator versus a true entrepreneur—and why the only irreplaceable skill is mastering talent: recruiting, motivating, and building world-class teams Kasim’s “quarter principle” and how opportunity only reveals itself once you start moving—even if your first business “fails” How to instantly get Kasim’s new book on hiring for free. Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Don’t obsess over the perfect idea—start where you are, fail small, and extract lessons fast; every real entrepreneur starts with a low-stakes test and levels up by learning in the field.2.  Building true wealth isn’t about income alone. It’s about disciplined money management, playing long-term games, and, most importantly, learning to delegate and attract peak talent for every role.3.  The entrepreneurial game changes at each stage: your “buy box” for opportunities evolves, and the skills to get to seven figures are different from those needed for eight or nine; self-awareness and continuous upskilling are essential. Notable Quotes "I’ve had 100+ failed ventures… failure’s just data; nothing ever bombs 100%. You collect the lessons and level up over time." "Entrepreneurship is not fulfillment; your job is to master talent—not the work itself." "The only real leverage in business is people. Learn to build teams, pay top talent, and you’ll never work a day in your life." "Everyone’s chasing the home run, but the truth is, you earn your first real win after relentless singles, doubles, and pivots." Connect with Kasim Aslam: https://kasim.me/ ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis and his producer Eric dive deep into one of the most common (and misleading) debates in entrepreneurship: is it actually smarter to buy an existing business, or should you build one from zero? Travis brings candid perspective, real stories, and actionable advice—covering who’s really ready for acquisition, when it’s a disguised risk, and why the right answer depends entirely on your background, skills, and life stage. On this episode we talk about: The hidden risks “business buying” gurus don’t tell you about online Why Wall Street MBAs and local blue-collar workers face VERY different realities in business acquisition The true story behind seller financing, ownership transitions, and the “great wealth transfer” from retiring boomers The pitfalls of buying a company with zero operational experience—especially with employees depending on you How to develop entrepreneurial skills the right way: from humble beginnings, mentorship, or free resources like Alex and Layla Hormozi’s content The value of real-world learning, local partnerships, and being brutally honest about risk when families and finances are on the line Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Buying a business is viable for those with real operational, financial, or sector experience—but is highly risky for novices with no background or mentorship.2.  Free educational content (like what’s offered by the Hormozis) and relationships with local business owners offer low-risk ways to get business skills—don’t shortcut this step.3.  Every path is unique: don’t get swept up in romanticized social media pitches. Assess your own knowledge, resources, and risk tolerance before making a major entrepreneurial leap. Notable Quotes "Don’t fall into the trap of social media dreams—what worked for a Wharton MBA may be disastrous for an aspiring entrepreneur in small-town America." "There are multiple ways to win at this game, but skipping the humility and the homework is the fastest way to lose." "If the deal looks too good to be true, ask more questions—and remember, you owe your employees and your family your best preparation." ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 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

Dr. Catharine Arnston is the founder and CEO of ENERGYbits®, a Boston-based wellness company pioneering spirulina and chlorella products for energy, recovery, and whole-body health. After a long career in corporate and entrepreneurship, Catharine was inspired to launch her venture when her sister was diagnosed with breast cancer and advised to adopt an alkaline, plant-based diet. Discovering algae as a nutrition powerhouse—backed by decades of research—Catharine became a thought leader and relentless educator, bringing algae tablets to the U.S. market and appearing on Shark Tank, countless podcasts, and industry stages. Her journey exemplifies perseverance, self-funding, and the power of education-first business. On this episode we talk about: How Catharine’s sister’s cancer diagnosis led to researching plant-based, alkaline nutrition—and discovering algae as a science-backed superfood The challenging early days: bootstrapping, self-funding, and learning every skill from scratch (including packaging design) Building a brand vs. just selling products: patience, persistence, and showing up for years before the breakthrough Her Shark Tank story—and why she never wanted VC money, only greater visibility How COVID shifted wellness priorities and fueled explosive business growth for ENERGYbits The “grind” of entrepreneurship: everyday lessons, constant pivots, and learning when (and how) to hire up Practical financing insight: leveraging working capital lines and e-commerce partners for growth, not just outside investors Her vision for algae on every kitchen counter—and advice for founders on feedback, pivoting, and longevity Top 3 Takeaways 1.  “Patient, persistent, passionate”—lasting success comes from loving the mission, grinding through the setbacks, and adapting with curiosity every step of the way.2.  The best brands lead with education and trust; ENERGYbits’ podcast-driven growth and science-first focus attracted a loyal, informed audience.3.  Capital grows best from customers and careful borrowing; self-funding, small working capital loans, and disciplined re-investment enabled Catharine to maintain control even as the business scaled. Notable Quotes "Success is just a waiting game. Stick with it. Stay with it—you have to keep your costs low and just not give up." "Patient and persistent and passionate—those are the three P's that are really critical." "If something’s not working, feedback is a gift. Pivot on market, product, or team and keep moving forward." "Learning comes from doing and applying yourself and being curious—curiosity is the key." Connect with Dr. Catharine Arnston: Website: energybits.com (use code TRAVISC for 20% off) Instagram: @catharinearnston LinkedIn: Catharine Arnston, PhD Speaking/author: catharinearnston.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis teams up with his producer Eric for an actionable episode on budgeting you’ll actually stick to. Forget the generic advice and unrealistic expectations—this episode tackles the real-life habits, tools, and mental shifts that help you put (and keep) more money in the bank. Travis breaks down the parallels between honest financial tracking and fitness, shares how his own family discovered hidden cash leaks, and discusses proven apps and systems that make saving automatic and attainable at any income level. On this episode we talk about: Why “eyeballing” your budget is like trying to lose weight without tracking calories The surprising expenses (bites, licks, tastes… and subscriptions) that sabotage your savings Lessons Travis learned from catching years of double-billed HOA fees How to identify (and cut) spending that doesn’t actually make life better Hands-on reviews of apps and systems like EveryDollar and Rocket Money, with tips for making them work for you The value of splitting money into separate savings accounts and “paying yourself first” Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Tracking every dollar for even just a couple months will instantly highlight where money is leaking out—and where painless cuts can add up fast.2.  Use budgeting apps (EveryDollar, Rocket Money, or similar) to create intentional systems, not just wishful thinking, and to automate savings for major goals.3.  Developing focus around spending is as important as optimizing income—and the discipline you build budgeting will serve every other area of your financial life. Notable Quotes "If you haven’t tracked every dollar for multiple months, you can’t say you have a real budget—eyeballing always misses key details." "You'll be surprised what you see after looking at the data. Suddenly, it’s obvious what to cut and what to keep.” "Budgeting is about being honest with yourself—a few months of real tracking creates lasting habits and real surplus." ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 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

Mara Dorne is a powerhouse entrepreneur, Fortune 500 sales veteran, and the bold voice behind the BILF (Boss I’d Like to Follow) Podcast. After building a billion-dollar sales career and becoming a self-made millionaire before 40, Mara shifted her focus to empowering others—especially women—to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries. Now leading a nationwide team of more than 1,500 health insurance agents, Mara is on a mission to make health care more affordable, redefine ethical sales, and open the door for a new generation of ambitious professionals. Her story is one of resilience, authenticity, and unwavering determination. On this episode we talk about: Mara’s beginnings: working from age 10, early lessons in money and independence How the 2008 recession and life’s curveballs led her unintentionally into health insurance sales Why health insurance sales is a meritocracy and how perseverance beats pedigree The massive earning potential in health insurance—and what sets it apart from other insurance fields How Mara helped diversify and revolutionize a “pale, male, and stale” industry with ethical, customer-focused sales The critical role of focus, work ethic, and people skills for today’s young agents in a world of endless distraction Her advice on whether young people should attend college or dive into real-world work experience Top 3 Takeaways 1.  The insurance industry can offer life-changing, long-term income and rewards true persistence, ethical sales, and the ability to build relationships—not background or pedigree.2.  Leading with value and customer needs, rather than chasing short-term commissions, is the secret to long-term business and referral success in insurance.3.  For young people, developing people skills and focus—through door-to-door sales, phones, or social media—is more important and profitable than ever in the digital age. Notable Quotes "Perseverance and authenticity shaped my life and became the foundation of my entrepreneurial journey." "There’s no shortcut. You still have to grind it out. The real win is in helping the customer and playing the long game." "It’s not about the struggles you face; it’s about how you overcome them." Connect with Mara Dorne: Instagram: @maradorne Website: maradorne.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis is joined by his producer, Eric, to explore one of the most difficult questions in business, creative work, and personal finance: is it time to double down or to walk away? Using viral memes, classic motivational stories, and plenty of real-world examples, Travis breaks down the difference between grit and the sunk cost fallacy. If you’ve ever wrestled with whether to keep going or to cut your losses, this conversation gives you actionable strategies—and permission—to make your next decision with confidence. On this episode we talk about: The “three feet from gold” story and why it’s not always as motivational as it seems Distinguishing persistence from stubbornness in business and creative pursuits The sunk cost fallacy and how it can keep you on the wrong path for too long Timing, luck, technology, and other factors that determine real success The importance of intuition and asking honest questions when deciding to persist or pivot Annie Duke’s book "Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away" and actionable frameworks for tough decisions Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Legendary persistence stories are rare because so few people actually strike gold—sometimes quitting is the healthiest, wealthiest move. 2.  Set clear metrics and timelines: if you’re not where you need to be by a set date, give yourself permission to step back and reassess. 3.  Intuition is a powerful guide, but so is honest self-inquiry; journaling and brutal self-questioning can reveal when it’s time to change lanes. Notable Quotes "Persistence is great advice—until it’s not. The sunk cost fallacy never made anybody wealthy." "You have to be willing to pivot… sometimes persistence is just a fear of letting go and not knowing what comes next." "Set up a metric in your mind… and then if you’re still banging your head against the wall at the end, you gotta be willing to pivot." ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 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

Sarah Gregg and Jill Ritchie are the co-founders of the Intuitive Psychology Association, the world’s first and only fully accredited intuitive psychology coach training provider. They bring together modern psychology, rigorous accreditation, and deep intuitive wisdom to qualify coaches at the highest level globally. Their mission: transform the coaching industry from social media “certifications” to ethical, evidence-based methods that foster real, lasting personal growth. Sara and Jill’s programs are recognized for blending ancient insights with science, helping clients break repeating patterns and achieve deep-rooted change. On this episode we talk about: Sarah and Jill’s early hustles and lessons in work ethic Why they created a rigorous, accredited intuitive psychology coaching curriculum The pitfalls of unregulated coaching and why credentials matter What intuitive psychology means—and how it transforms coaching and personal development How limiting beliefs and a lack of self-worth sabotage earning potential The role of unconditional belonging, safety, and self-acceptance in personal and financial growth Their approach to business partnership and lessons learned in collaboration Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Intuitive psychology bridges evidence-based psychology with ancient wisdom to create real change—making unconscious patterns conscious for transformation.2.  Limiting beliefs around money typically stem from deep-seated feelings of safety and worthiness; making more money starts with inner acceptance and rewriting root narratives.3.  Open, honest communication is essential for successful business partnerships; shared vision, values, and willingness to confront issues lead to resilient collaboration. Notable Quotes "We work with intuition and the unconscious to break those repeating cycles—95% of behavior is driven by what’s beneath the surface." "Worthiness is linked to conditional belonging… you have to dismantle the old rules and discover unconditional acceptance before true transformative growth." "Entrepreneurship can be lonely, but partnership—with communication and shared vision—creates a bedrock for success." Connect with Sarah Gregg & Jill Ritchie: Website: intuitive-psychology.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis tackles one of the most practical but overlooked routes to building wealth: negotiation. Travis shares actionable strategies and mindset shifts for anyone looking to earn more—whether as an employee, freelancer, or business owner. Drawing on research, stats, and his personal journey, Travis offers a road map for boosting your income and unlocking your true earning potential. On this episode we talk about: Why the biggest mistake is simply not negotiating your salary or rates Statistics showing how negotiating and job switching can add up to 18% or more to your earnings The right way to tie your raise requests to proven value—not just desires Key tactics: preparation, anchoring, and letting the employer speak first in negotiation Understanding when it’s time to seek new opportunities versus remaining loyal Top 3 Takeaways 1.  Failing to negotiate or ask for raises can result in missing out on millions of dollars throughout your career.2.  Demonstrating clear, data-backed value is essential—you must show how your work has saved or made the company real money.3.  Negotiation skills like price anchoring, preparation, and being willing to walk away are crucial for achieving your true worth. Notable Quotes "The biggest mistake is that they don't do it… you're setting yourself up in the future to be missing out on a large percentage of potential income." "You can't go in with demands rather than requests... do the proper research, come in with actual stats and figures, and then relate what you're asking for to the actual value that you provided." "You do not get paid for your time. You get paid for the value that you bring to your organization." ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 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

Vanessa Druskat is an associate professor at the University of New Hampshire’s Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics, and an internationally recognized expert in leadership and team performance. She has spent over 30 years studying what makes teams effective, pioneering the concept of team emotional intelligence. Vanessa’s research has transformed Fortune 500 companies, and her bestselling Harvard Business Review article, “Building the Emotional Intelligence of Groups,” is considered essential reading for leaders around the world. Her latest book, The Emotionally Intelligent Team, offers actionable insights on cultivating high-performing, collaborative, and resilient groups. On this episode we talk about: Vanessa’s early lessons about money and work ethic growing up in a family of educators Her career path from farm work to psychology and team leadership expertise The three core emotional needs every team member has—and why meeting them drives success How entrepreneurs and small business owners can foster strong team culture without big budgets What to do when “bad apples” threaten team culture—and how to know when to let them go Top 3 Takeaways 1.  The raw performance of a team depends more on shared emotional intelligence and clear behavioral norms than individual talent alone.2.  Meeting core social needs—belonging, shared purpose, and sense of control—drives trust, motivation, and collaboration across all generations and settings.3.  Even persistent team problems can be transformed; most “problem people” change when given voice and respect, but lasting non-participation means it’s time for tough decisions. Notable Quotes "The biggest impediment to building great teams is the perspective that these are all adults in the room." "When people feel like they belong and have some control, they're more motivated to contribute." "You can create the environment you want—you're not stuck with an environment." Connect with Vanessa Druskat: LinkedIn: Vanessa Druskat Website: https://www.vanessadruskat.com/ ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🚀 Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform. 🎁 Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices