Travis Makes Money

By Travis ChappellBusiness Entrepreneurship Education Self-Improvement Investing Careers

Travis Makes Money episodes

April 29, 2025 Make Money with Ethical Investing | Dionne Payn
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

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36 min
April 28, 2025Make Money with a Driving School | Nigel Tunnacliffe
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

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34 min
April 27, 2025Make Money with a Podcast Booking Agency | Alice Draper
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

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29 min
April 26, 2025 Make Money by Creating a Hidden Camera Prank Show with Your Friends | James Murray
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

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23 min
April 25, 2025Make Money Through Cattle Waste Management and Real Estate | Elijah Lung
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

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34 min
April 24, 2025 Make Money as a Celebrity Vocal Coach | Valerie Morehouse
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
33 min
April 23, 2025Make Money by Fixing Your Money Mindset | John Hankins
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/@johnhankinsfinancialtherapy
https://www.facebook.com/JohnHankinsFinancialTherapy/
www.linkedin.com/in/john-hankins-mss
www.financial-therapy.me
https://financialtherapyassociation.org/find-a-financial-therapist/

Check out FranBridge Consulting for premier non-food franchise opportunities: travischappell.com/franbridge

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34 min
April 22, 2025 Make Money by Reinventing Cities | Nicholas Lalla
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

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35 min
April 21, 2025Make Money by Building a Win-Win Workplace | Dr. Angela Jackson
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

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36 min
April 20, 2025Make Money from Over $1 BILLION in Exits | Ryan Blair
Ryan Blair is a serial entrepreneur, bestselling author, and one of the most remarkable comeback stories in business. With over $2 billion in sales and $1 billion in exits—including a $792 million exit as CEO of ViSalus—Ryan’s journey from poverty, gang life, and juvenile hall to New York Times bestselling author and Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year is nothing short of extraordinary. His books, Nothing to Lose, Everything to Gain and Rock Bottom to Rockstar, have inspired countless entrepreneurs worldwide. Ryan’s unique perspective comes from having lived in poverty, middle class, and wealth, making his insights on entrepreneurship, risk, and resilience especially powerful.

On this episode, we talk about:
Ryan’s early days hustling for his first dollar and how his father used incentives to teach him about money
Growing up in a turbulent environment, falling into poverty, and the impact of a life-changing mentor
The transition from illegal entrepreneurship to building legal, scalable businesses
Ryan’s first tech ventures, his early exit at 24, and the mindset shift from cash to equity
Acquiring and scaling ViSalus, the lessons (and controversies) of network marketing, and the value of teaching entrepreneurship
The debate around network marketing, compliance, and why leadership and values matter more than ever
The skills sales and entrepreneurship build—and why Ryan would support his own son joining a network marketing company
What Ryan would do if he had to start from scratch today
The importance of authenticity, empathy, and building real relationships in business
Top 3 Takeaways
Resilience and Risk-Taking: Ryan’s willingness to take risks was forged by adversity—he literally had nothing to lose, which freed him to pursue entrepreneurship with relentless drive,
Sales and Equity Matter: Mastering sales and understanding the value of equity (not just cash) are critical for wealth creation. Ryan’s first big win shifted his beliefs about what was possible.
Leadership and Authenticity: Success in business, especially in network marketing, hinges on authentic leadership, strong values, and genuine care for people—not just maximizing profits.
Connect with Ryan Blair:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanblair/
https://www.instagram.com/realryanblair

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46 min

About Travis Makes Money

From the publisher's feed

You can't save your way to your dream life anymore. The truth is, you’re gonna need to learn to make more money. The Travis Makes Money Podcast is not your typical personal finance show. Rather than…