In this episode of One Percent Better, Jay, Alex, Janae, and Vonte break down the real cost of connection — how friendships, business, and loyalty all operate on an unspoken exchange of value.

They talk about the difference between being used and being useful, and how “doing favors” can turn into manipulation when love gets replaced by leverage.

This isn’t a bitter conversation — it’s a blueprint for building better relationships based on clarity, not confusion.

Vonte shares how he’s learned to separate real support from conditional love, and Jay drives the point home: every relationship is an investment — and not everyone deserves equity.

They explore:

The fine line between favors and expectations

How to stop mistaking manipulation for help

Why reciprocity matters more than recognition

Building relationships that bring value — not just vibes

Understanding emotional ROI (Return on Intention)

Because real friendship isn’t about keeping score — it’s about showing up with purpose.

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