Morgan DeBaun is back with another live advising session featuring frameworks from her new book, Rewrite Your Rules. In this episode, she sits down with Lane, a branding and marketing agency founder who’s entering into the world of startups.

In this episode:

00:00 Introduction and Studio Setup

00:46 Guest Introduction and Background

01:10 Business Overview and Services

04:28 Team Structure and Client Management

08:36 Challenges and Growth Strategies

17:09 Transitioning from Operator to Owner

24:29 Targeting Executive Clients

25:34 Understanding Retainer Packages

26:06 Tailoring Services for Executives

28:10 Creating a Personal Branding Framework

29:59 Launching a Tech Startup

32:31 Overcoming Startup Challenges

36:18 Focusing on Product Development

41:49 Final Advice and Encouragement

In the episode, Lane opens up about the challenges of juggling corporate clients and small businesses and maintaining her own brand’s visibility, despite building brands for others. Morgan advises Lane on the transition from being in the weeds of operations to taking on a more strategic CEO role. She also helps her make time for her dream of launching a tech startup.

Through the conversation, Morgan helps Lane rewrite her rules, from deciding to forgo social media to focusing on product development before funding. Tune in and be inspired to rewrite your own rules and do entrepreneurship your way. Don't forget to order your copy of Rewrite Your Rules, out now!

Order Rewrite Your Rules:

https://www.amazon.com/Rewrite-Your-Rules-Achieve-Freedom/dp/0593725050

Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content:

https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast

Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_

Follow us on Instagram:

https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb

Produced by MicMoguls.

In this live coaching session, Morgan DeBaun sits down with Grant, who outside of his career with a big tech company is a nonprofit leader passionate about social impact. Together, they discuss hiring, systems, and time management to help Grant scale his business as a social impact strategist on his own terms.

In this episode:

00:07 Grant's Nonprofit Journey

00:40 The Decision to Join the Show

01:01 Balancing a Day Job and Nonprofit Work

01:29 Exploring Consulting Opportunities

01:57 Social Impact and Community Work

02:49 Challenges and Future Plans

02:59 Support Systems and Team Building

05:23 Scaling and Strategic Planning

28:29 Content Creation and Personal Branding

31:27 Letting Go of Company Identity

31:42 Building a Personal Framework

32:07 Motivation and Helping Others

32:23 Financial Realities and Privilege

33:27 Content Creation Strategy

42:10 Balancing Non-Profit and For-Profit Work

59:44 Future Goals and Vision

01:01:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In the episode, Grant shares his journey of starting a nonprofit as a way to give back to his community and the challenges he's faced in balancing his day job with his business. Morgan helps Grant realize the importance of hiring administrative support, and provides guidance on leveraging his discretionary income to build sustainable impact. They also discuss the potential for creating content to inspire others and why Grant's goal doesn't have to be to leave his 9-to-5.

Tune in to see the frameworks from Morgan's new book, Rewrite Your Rules, in action! And don't forget to order your copy!

Order Rewrite Your Rules: https://www.amazon.com/Rewrite-Your-Rules-Achieve-Freedom/dp/0593725050

Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast

Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_

Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb

Produced by MicMoguls.

Morgan DeBaun’s new book, Rewrite Your Rules, is all about challenging the status quo and designing a life on your own terms. In this live coaching session, she puts those principles into action, helping Simbi gain clarity and make time for wealth-building as she navigates motherhood and big business decisions.

In this episode:

00:00 Introduction

01:10 Simbi's Journey to Entrepreneurship

02:42 Balancing Motherhood and Business

05:15 Current Business Ventures

08:51 Challenges and Strategies for Growth

13:05 Personal Reflections and Future Plans

25:49 Balancing Personal Freedom and Responsibilities

26:32 Outsourcing and Automating Tasks

27:31 Daily Routine and Time Management

29:46 Finding Time for Self-Care

32:24 Planning for the Future

41:44 Growing the Business

45:53 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

In the episode, Morgan and Simbi discuss the complexities of integrating motherhood into entrepreneurship, and Morgan helps Simbi figure out her CEO tasks vs. operating tasks to determine where she wants to spend her time and energy. They also talk about the benefits and drawbacks of acquiring an agency versus scaling a new business. Morgan coaches Simbi on creating a clear vision for her business and life, and how to make that a reality in the day-to-day.

This episode gives a taste of the frameworks discussed in Morgan's new book, Rewrite Your Rules, so make sure to order your copy to start applying these strategies and mindsets in your own life and business!

Order Rewrite Your Rules: https://www.amazon.com/Rewrite-Your-Rules-Achieve-Freedom/dp/0593725050

Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast

Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_

Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb

Produced by MicMoguls.

This episode is a special preview from my upcoming book, Rewrite Your Rules, dropping April 1st. I’m reading a raw, honest excerpt from Chapter Nine: “Be the Rough Draft: A Better Relationship With Fear.”

In it, I share what it really looked like behind the scenes during one of the most pivotal—and fear-inducing—moments of my career: acquiring Travel Noire. We’re talking investor calls, operational landmines, war rooms, and leading through uncertainty while keeping the bigger vision alive. This isn’t just a story about business—this is about choosing courage over comfort, strategy over panic, and innovation over fear.

Thank you to everyone who’s already pre-ordered. You’re not just supporting me—you’re helping signal to the marketplace that this is a book that matters. And if you haven’t yet, head to wherever you buy books—Amazon, Barnes & Noble, your local indie—and get your copy in.

This episode is for the entrepreneurs, the career pivoters, the side-hustlers, and the everyday leaders navigating uncertainty. Remember: success favors those who rewrite the rules.

Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0593725050?tag=randohouseinc7986-20

Are you stuck in incremental growth, making slow progress toward your business goals? In this special episode of The Journey, Morgan shares the Step Change Growth framework, a powerful strategy for making bold leaps in business and income. Pulled from her WorkSmart program, this behind-the-scenes lesson breaks down how to escape the hamster wheel, optimize your time, and scale smarter.

In this episode:

00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Episode

01:08 Understanding the Step Change Growth Framework

03:17 Incremental Mindset vs. Step Change Growth

04:14 Implementing Step Change Growth Strategies

07:15 Creating Your Step Change Growth Statement

12:20 Running Sprints for Business Growth

16:21 Examples of Effective Sprints

In the episode, Morgan shares the concept of step change growth, explaining why small, steady gains keep you trapped and how to shift into a mindset that fuels rapid growth. She lays out how to write a step change growth statement, and explores how to run effective sprints in your business.

Ready to think bigger and take action for your level-up? Listen now and start setting step change growth goals that push you to new heights! If you love this episode, be sure to leave a review and share your biggest takeaway.

Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/

Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast

Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_

Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb

Produced by MicMoguls.

This week, Morgan DeBaun opens up about how she’s preparing for uncertainty in 2025 — both at home and in business. With the world feeling increasingly unpredictable, Morgan shares the steps she's taking to protect her family and safeguard her business from what's to come.

In this episode:

00:00 Introduction and Current World Events

02:41 Personal Risk Management Strategies

03:33 Food and Resource Preparations

05:05 Emergency Power and Exit Plans

07:05 Water and Basic Necessities

10:41 Business Risk Management

14:38 Media and Advertising Challenges

17:41 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In the episode, Morgan starts off by explaining how she and her family are preparing for potential chaos, from stocking up on essentials to creating an emergency exit plan. She then discusses the need for individuals to stay engaged in what's going on in the world, paying particular attention to sources of media that focus on the truth.

As the CEO of Blavity Inc. and AfroTech, Morgan also dives into how she’s protecting her companies from economic instability, shifting consumer trends, and evolving industry dynamics. She discusses her strategy for building resilient businesses, navigating corporate contradictions around diversity, and doubling down on Black founders and VCs.

If you’ve been wondering how to prepare for an unpredictable future — personally, professionally, or both — this episode is packed with insights and actionable advice to help you along. Tune in, and be sure to leave a rating and review wherever you listen!

Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/

Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast

Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_

Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase.

Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb

Produced by MicMoguls.

This episode originally aired in June 2023 and quickly became one of the most popular episodes of The Journey. Whether you're tuning in for the first time or revisiting this conversation, this episode will help you redefine your wealth mindset!

In this episode, Morgan dives into the true differences between being rich and being wealthy, and how to embrace a true wealth mindset.

In this episode:

00:00 Introduction to the Soft Life Debate

00:38 Welcome to the Morgan DeBaun Podcast

01:09 Rich vs. Wealthy: Understanding the Difference

01:56 The Rich Mindset: A Never-Ending Chase

03:34 Transitioning from Rich to Wealthy

04:37 Morgan's Personal Wealth Journey

06:05 The Importance of a Wealthy Mindset

08:55 Practical Steps to Achieve Wealth

14:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In the episode, Morgan redefines what it means to live a "soft life," explaining that it encompasses more than material possessions and is instead about embracing freedom, independence, and making intentional financial decisions. Morgan shares her wealth journey, and how you can shift from a "rich" mindset to a truly "wealthy" mindset and taking the necessary steps to a life of true abundance.

It's time to reimagine wealth and unlock a vision that transcends monetary value!

Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/

Make sure you are following Morgan on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_

Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast

Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase.

Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb

Produced by MicMoguls. 

Morgan DeBaun is back with another live coaching session, this time joined by Kristi and Laci, two ambitious women navigating career shifts, side hustles, and personal growth. Morgan is getting into everything from dating as a high-achieving woman to knowing when it's the right time to leave your 9-to-5.

In this episode:

00:00 Introduction to the Journey Podcast

01:07 Live Advising Session with Kristi

01:28 Kristi's Career Dilemma

03:29 Balancing a 9-to-5 and Side Hustle

07:24 Maximizing Revenue and Brand Partnerships

11:33 Transitioning to a B2B Focus

15:29 Personal Branding and Business Strategy

18:45 Navigating Dating as a High-Achieving Woman

24:20 Embracing Feminine Energy

31:01 Introduction to Laci

31:48 Laci's Career Journey

33:06 Exploring Passions and Entrepreneurship

34:50 Balancing Stability and Ambition

38:41 Focusing on Wellness and Personal Growth

39:42 Developing Secondary Income Streams

42:17 Fashion and Personal Branding

50:41 Land Development and Generational Wealth

54:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

To start off, Morgan sits down with Kristi, aka "Get Me Hired Kristi," who is torn between her successful corporate career and her passion for helping job seekers in her side hustle. Morgan walks her through the power of keeping her 9-to-5 as a strategic advantage, how to scale her side business through brand deals, and why reinvesting profits into her business is the key to long-term success.

Next, Morgan is joined by Laci, a creative with a love for fashion who is juggling a stable government job, caregiving responsibilities, and a desire to build something of her own. Morgan helps her rediscover her passion, turn content creation into a low-effort income stream, and make strategic moves to build generational wealth through real estate development.

This episode is a masterclass in designing a life that honors your ambitions and your peace. Whether you're craving more impact in your career, trying to figure out the right time to leave your job, or wondering how to attract the right partner, Morgan’s wisdom will help you move forward with clarity and confidence! Make sure to leave a rating and review wherever you listen!

Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/

Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast

Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_

Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase. Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb

Produced by MicMoguls.

What separates the rich from the really rich? In this episode of The Journey, Morgan DeBaun sits down with entrepreneur, creator, and financial strategist Nicholas Crown to break down the key mindset shifts and financial strategies that set successful entrepreneurs and really rich individuals apart.

In this episode:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:27 Nicholas Crown's Entrepreneurial Journey

03:23 The Reality of Entrepreneurship

04:54 Geographical Arbitrage and Cost Management

08:00 The Birth of Rich vs. Really Rich Series

16:39 Navigating Market Response and Iteration

21:59 The Dilemma of Social Media Authenticity

22:43 The Power of Visual Cues in Marketing

23:22 The Struggle with Social Media Validation

24:33 The Journey of Entrepreneurship

25:24 Challenges of Running an Agency

26:39 Introducing Revise: A Retirement Planning Firm

29:13 Understanding Annuities and Their Benefits

38:18 The Importance of Consolidating 401ks

39:35 Final Thoughts on Financial Management

44:29 Connecting with Nicholas Crown

In the episode, Nicholas Crown, who is known for his viral Rich vs. Really Rich series, shares his path from Wall Street trader to digital entrepreneur, and the lessons learned along the way to financial independence. From scaling startups to exiting companies, he reflects on his journey of iteration, failure, and learning to define success beyond just making money.

Throughout the conversation, Morgan and Nicholas discuss the realities of entrepreneurship, including why business success often takes longer than expected, how to recognize when it's time to pivot, and the common mistake of staying in a failing venture for too long. They also touch on the power of social media in business, with Nicholas revealing how he unintentionally built a massive audience through content experimentation.

Nicholas also shares his insights on personal finance, explaining the mistakes many people make, especially when it comes to 401(k)s. He breaks down the steps individuals can take to regain control of their financial investments to prepare for retirement, and explains how his company, Revise, helps people grow their wealth safely through annuities and pension-like investment strategies.

If you’ve ever wondered how to break free from the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle, scale a business successfully, or invest smarter for the long run, this is a must-listen! So grab your headphones and get ready to take notes! Like what you hear? Don't forget to leave a rating and review!

Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/

More from Nicholas:

https://www.nicholascrown.com/

https://www.tiktok.com/@nicholas_crown

https://www.instagram.com/nicholascrown/

https://www.youtube.com/@NicholasCrownYouTube

https://getrevise.com/

Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast

Make sure you are following Morgan's journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_

Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase.

Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb

Produced by MicMoguls.

This episode originally aired in February 2024 and quickly became one of the most popular episodes of The Journey. Whether you're tuning in for the first time or revisiting this conversation, this episode will help you make informed decisions in your business!

Ever thought about raising venture capital for your business? In this episode, Morgan DeBaun breaks down everything a founder should know before diving into the venture fundraising process, sharing her invaluable insights from the perspective of both a fundraiser and an investor.

In this episode:

00:00 Introduction to Venture Funding

00:10 Should You Raise Money?

00:48 Understanding Angel Investors

02:55 The Importance of Traction

05:23 Navigating the Seed Round

06:44 Legal Considerations and Mistakes

08:29 Painting a Big Vision

10:57 Executing Your Plan

11:48 Hitting Milestones and Fundraising Timelines

12:31 The Importance of Momentum

13:31 Series Seed and Extensions

15:16 Navigating Series A

17:29 Series B and Beyond

19:19 Balancing Operations and Fundraising

20:56 Final Tips and Resources

First up, Morgan dives into a crucial question: Should you even raise venture capital for your business? Spoiler alert: More often than not, the answer is no. But for those who do opt for the fundraising path, Morgan warns that the venture capital journey won't be easy.

Through the episode, Morgan breaks down the phases of venture funding, from the Friends and Family and Angel Round to the critical Seed Round, all the way to the Series A, B, and C Rounds and beyond. She shares the benefits and challenges of each round and highlights what founders should pay attention to as they navigate the process. Morgan shares what she looks for in the entrepreneurs she chooses to support as an angel investor: resilience and grit. It's these qualities that often make the difference between success and failure in the cutthroat world of startups. Not sure if venture funding is the right choice for your business? After you listen to the episode, check out Morgan's workshop [link below] which will help you decide if fundraising is the appropriate next step for your startup. Make sure to subscribe to the podcast and leave a rating and review!

Pre-order Rewrite Your Rules: https://worksmartprogram.com/book/

Make sure you are following Morgan on TikTok to follow along with her beauty and wellness journey! https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_

Join the Newsletter for More Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast

Visit Mormatcha.com to make a purchase.

Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb

Produced by MicMoguls.