Ready to rethink how—and when—to make the ask in your relationships? In this powerful preview from Travis Makes Friends, Travis Chappell sits down with entrepreneur and recovery advocate Darren Prince to break down one of the most misunderstood aspects of networking: how to ask for help without damaging trust.

Darren pulls back the curtain on what it really means to build “relationship capital” with high-level people—and why most people get it completely wrong. While the common advice is to always give and never ask, Darren explains that the timing and intent behind the ask is what actually matters. He shares how he’s built relationships with some of the biggest names in business and sports by being hyper-aware of people’s time, never forcing opportunities, and treating relationships like an unspoken bank account—where deposits must far outweigh withdrawals.

You’ll hear why Darren almost never “leverages” his network for personal gain, how he distinguishes between meaningful causes and business opportunities, and why authenticity is the ultimate filter in any interaction. From subtle missteps—like asking too soon—to the long-term consequences of being perceived as transactional, this conversation highlights how quickly trust can be lost in today’s hyper-connected world.

Travis and Darren also dive into the psychology of connection, why most people confuse making a connection with building a relationship, and how genuine curiosity—about someone’s life, family, and interests—creates a foundation that makes business feel natural instead of forced. They explore why modern networking often feels “gross,” how social media has lowered the barrier to access but not improved relationship quality, and why playing the long game is the only strategy that works.

But this episode goes deeper than business. Darren shares how his personal journey through addiction and recovery reshaped his definition of success, fulfillment, and relationships. From a life once driven by external validation—cars, status, and money—to one centered on service, healing, and purpose, he explains how doing the inner work transformed not only his life, but the caliber of people he attracts.

If you’ve ever struggled with when to make an ask, how to build relationships that don’t feel transactional, or how to connect with high-level people without burning bridges, this preview offers a raw and honest look at what it actually takes.

Hit play to learn why the best relationships aren’t built on what you can get—but on who you become.

Check out the full episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-fighting-addiction-to-representing-some-of/id1805226860?i=1000756737046

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices