Travis Makes Money

Emma Rainville is a fractional CEO and operations strategist with over a decade of experience transforming seven, eight, and nine-figure businesses behind the scenes. Known as the "integrator by DNA," she specializes in moving founders from burnout and cash bleed to scalable, profitable growth. Emma’s reputation rests on her blunt, practical approach and her obsession with execution—not just theory—and on her proven ability to architect systems that protect profits and foster company culture. With her trademark SCOPE model and Wave Vision process, Emma helps businesses create sustainable systems that unlock new levels of efficiency and profit. On this episode we talk about: Emma’s first entrepreneurial hustle at age eight and early lessons in leverage The hidden pitfalls founders face with unchecked expenses and chaotic systems Why most business owners fail to understand their true numbers—and how to fix it The critical role of SOPs: why written processes and automation trump hiring How AI and automation are disrupting labor-intensive businesses, from landscaping to admin work Emma’s journey through the IDF, ER trauma nursing, and operations leadership—plus the real secret behind her career pivot Highest-leverage automation opportunities business owners miss The key mindsets and habits of growth-focused founders Top 3 Takeaways Unchecked expenses silently destroy profit—regular, ruthless review of every expense can unlock 3-4% profit instantly. Most business owners don’t know actual unit-level profitability; tracking this granular data enables better decisions, higher margins, and less work. Strong businesses scale with written SOPs and automation, not by hiring; processes should come before people. Notable Quotes “Sales is king.” “Every dollar needs to have a name, and every person should know the numbers that matter.” “You can’t automate chaos—get your processes right, then use AI and automation to scale.” Connect with Emma Rainville: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/?hl=en Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rob Dyrdek, entrepreneur, producer, and former pro skateboarder, is best known for creating and hosting "Ridiculousness," the viral video clip show that dominated MTV from 2011 to 2025. His relentless work ethic, innovative approach to the clip show format, and deep understanding of changing TV and streaming habits helped drive the show to unprecedented success, spanning 46 seasons and over 1,700 episodes. Dyrdek’s business savvy made him not only a staple on TV but also one of the most well-compensated talents on the network, earning over $32 million a year in recent seasons. In this episode, Travis and Eric break down the recent news that "Ridiculousness" has been canceled after 14 years, explore the show’s legacy, and share Dyrdek’s insights from his past interview about content creation, business strategy, and media evolution.​ On this episode we talk about: The unprecedented cancellation of Ridiculousness after 46 seasons on MTV Why the show’s viral format succeeded across all demographics and became a TV staple Rob Dyrdek’s strategy for negotiating big business deals and content syndication The future of MTV and potential impacts of the Paramount merger on creative programming How Dyrdek adapted to shifts from traditional television to streaming and social media Top 3 Takeaways The relentless volume and fast-paced format of Ridiculousness helped the show thrive even as cable viewership habits changed and streaming dominated.​ Rob Dyrdek’s approach to building, negotiating, and owning production allowed him to capitalize on market timing, adapt to new trends, and maximize personal earnings.​ MTV’s shift towards curated, experimental content signals a major change in the network’s strategy, reflecting broader media trends and the challenges of legacy cable brands competing in the streaming era.​ Notable Quotes "There’s a lot of miraculous things that sort of happened over time that led to [Ridiculousness dominating MTV]." – Rob Dyrdek "You’re the right man, right vision, legs – and created something and then made it work. But then you got lucky along the way, and market factors that you could have never even seen coming." – Rob Dyrdek "Market factors, market timing, getting lucky and things working at the right time is where a lot of this really unexplainable high level of success comes from." – Rob Dyrdek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a grab bag episode of the Travis Makes Money podcast, where Travis and producer Eric riff on the reality behind success—highlighting why business is the great equalizer for anyone willing to put in the work. Rather than featuring a singular guest, this episode is a candid discussion between Travis and Eric, full of humor, pop culture, and philosophical digs about work ethic, optionality, the nature of talent, and actionable (if often ignored) business wisdom. They use standup comedy and pop references as a lens on entitlement, the “special snowflake” myth, and the sometimes mind-numbing monotony behind real progress. On this episode we talk about: Why most people settle for being a cog and what it actually takes to “opt out” Daniel Tosh’s take on employment, entitlement, and the myth of guaranteed fame The difference between success in business versus creative arts: luck, timing, and talent Why simple, repetitive business actions (doing the boring work) are the true formula for income The reason people mock Gary Vee’s advice, but why doing the basics still actually works Top 3 Takeaways Most people are held back not by talent or opportunity, but by their own acceptance of mediocrity and avoidance of repetitive, boring work that creates options and freedom. Business is fundamentally a learnable, math-like skill: boring, repeatable actions generate income better than “waiting for your shot.” Freedom requires you to learn how to make money outside of a paycheck—otherwise, you’ll always be forced to trade your time for someone else’s goals. Notable Quotes "The barrier to entry isn’t talent; it’s being willing to do the boring, repetitive work that most people constantly avoid." "For creative fields like acting or music, sometimes world-class talent never gets a shot—business isn’t a zero-sum game that way." "You have to put yourself in a position to have options. Staying broke is another way of saying you decided to let someone else define your ceiling." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Travis Makes Money podcast, Travis and producer Eric jump into a mix of thoughtful, funny, and heartwarming clips, landing on a story about comedian Chris DeStefano and the challenge of choosing between earning more money and spending time with family. Chris discusses turning down work to prioritize his kids, sparking a candid conversation about career, sacrifice, and what success truly means at different life stages. On this episode we talk about: Why Chris DeStefano values family moments over chasing every dollar​ How personal circumstances and seasons of life dictate work/family choices​ Navigating parenting, money, and the tradeoffs of financial hustle​ Lessons from upbringings and parental examples, and their impact on work ethic​ Building a life that aligns with personal priorities, not just chasing excess​ Top 3 Takeaways You don’t need all the money—knowing when “enough” is enough lets you choose family and peace over constant hustle​ Life happens in seasons—sometimes you must work extra, but intentional planning lets you cherish key family moments​ Children learn most by watching you; modeling responsible hustle and thoughtful sacrifice is as impactful as time spent​ Notable Quotes “I just feel like I don’t need all of it. I just need enough for me … I don’t want to miss my kids’ lives.”​ “Kids don’t need you there 24/7—they need you present for the moments that matter.”​ “Doing nothing is not the solution. Doing something is, and doing something in volume is even better.”​ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis is joined by producer Eric for a wide-ranging, deeply philosophical episode exploring how beliefs, meaning, and personal philosophy influence the way money, work, and life are experienced. Both hosts share their takes on existential questions (with spontaneous detours into Star Trek, simulation theory, and work ethic), showing how practical mindset shifts are inseparable from financial success. On this episode we talk about: Various mental models that shape work, motivation, and the experience of meaning How philosophy—like Nietzsche’s ‘eternal recurrence’—reframes choices and ambitions The importance of recognizing meaning as self-generated, not assigned by circumstance or others Why evaluating beliefs by their practical usefulness is a key discipline in modern business How accepting truth wherever you find it drives personal growth, resilience, and sharper decisions Top 3 Takeaways Philosophy matters: Questioning and reframing beliefs about meaning and agency lead directly to greater productivity and financial outcomes. Meaning is self-generated—thinking carefully about what keeps you going can reveal your true priorities and help you make better life and money choices. Adopt beliefs and mindsets that are useful for your growth—even if you can’t prove them, lean into what propels you forward and out of ruts. Notable Quotes “Meaning is entirely self-generated. You decide, and it might change over time. So choose wisely.” “If a belief system isn’t useful—if it doesn’t propel you into meaningful action—why keep it?” “Accept truth wherever you find it, regardless of who says it. That’s how growth happens.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, Travis and producer Eric break down why building a career or business in 2025 means leveraging the power of content and relationships on social media. Drawing inspiration from powerhouse voices like Gary Vee, they explore the real tactics, mindset shifts, and simple habits that separate those who get results from those who just “post and ghost.” On this episode we talk about: Why creating content is no longer optional for business owners and sales pros The biggest mistakes new (and seasoned) agents make on social—and how to fix them Why “posting” alone isn’t enough (and why engaging with others matters more) How to start from scratch: practical tips for getting over perfectionism and fear The right approach to building habits, including using accountability tricks and “just doing the thing” Top 3 Takeaways Social media attention is a massive business opportunity, but most people overthink and underact—just post, learn, and iterate in public. Engagement—commenting, DMs, reacting, and showing up in conversations—is what unlocks genuine relationships and leads. Stop screaming at the crowd; start talking to them. Consistency and volume win. Your first attempts might suck, but nobody wins without building the habit of simply creating and sharing. Notable Quotes “The number one thing that will change every person in this room’s life financially is making content for social media.” “Doing nothing is not the solution. Doing something is the solution. And doing something in volume is even better.” “Social isn’t a bullhorn—it’s a cocktail party. If you’re not actively engaging, you’re just the weird guy yelling at everyone." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Erinn Nobel is an innovative real estate leader with over two decades of experience, starting as a solo agent and eventually building a successful team, scaling across state lines, and spearheading global growth for top brokerages like eXp and Real. Now, as co-founder of ENRG Realty, she’s joined by Mark Chappell, a seasoned real estate investor and agent with more than 30 years in the business, who brings hands-on expertise from flipping houses, building teams, and mentoring new agents. Together, they’re at the helm of ENRG Realty—a new brokerage focused on leveraging data, technology, and agent-centric systems to make real estate careers more sustainable and profitable in a rapidly changing market. On this episode we talk about: The real story behind launching a new brokerage (ENRG Realty) in a tough real estate market How Erinn and Mark built their real estate careers—starting as solo agents and enduring slumps and pivots Why data-driven tools and transparent revenue sharing are reshaping brokerage models Advice for aspiring agents on thriving regardless of market timing—what’s myth, what’s reality The unique culture, tech, and support that set ENRG Realty apart for new and veteran agents alike Top 3 Takeaways The best time to start in real estate is now—success depends more on drive, mentorship, and willingness to learn than on perfect market timing. New agent-focused brokerages like ENRG Realty thrive by combining seamless data integration, true agent support, and a share-based rewards system. Real estate rewards relentless action, transparency, and a willingness to adapt, with more people achieving financial freedom through property than any other industry. Notable Quotes "The market is the opportunity you make of it—there’s always business for those willing to do the work." "Nobody owes you a dream life—you have to stop complaining, put your head down, and create it yourself." "We’re building a brokerage that’s agent-first: seamless data, real support, and a culture where everyone’s success is connected." Connect with Erinn Nobel and Mark Chappell / ENRG Realty: Website: https://enrg.realty/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jason Wright is a speaker, author, entrepreneur, real estate investor, and digital marketing architect known for designing intelligent AI agents and automation solutions for business owners. After starting as a teenage lawn care entrepreneur and enduring a tumultuous journey through corporate HR, sales, and safety roles, Jason carved his own path by embracing the ups and downs of self-employment. Today, he runs Intentionally Inspirational, specializing in AI-driven marketing and automation for real estate investors and fellow entrepreneurs, helping them scale efficiently while keeping a sense of humor and authenticity at the forefront. How humble beginnings (mowing lawns for fishing tackle) sparked Jason’s entrepreneurial bug—and why he rebelled against the "get a degree, find a boss" script.​ The struggle of his first business launch, running out of money, and being forced to ask family for support—and why hitting bottom forged business resilience.​ Pivots through jobs (cars, mortgages, publishing), freelancing on Upwork, and finally building a niche business serving real estate investors with automated marketing solutions.​ The essential mindset shifts: the world doesn’t owe you anything, ego means nothing, and success requires adapting to rejection and uncertainty.​ Why discipline, over motivation, is key to entrepreneurship—and how the habit of working through difficult periods produces long-term results.​ Jason's advice for leveraging AI now, niching down, and automating the parts of business that drain your energy.​ Top 3 Takeaways You must earn your entrepreneurial credibility through setbacks, pivots, and doing the grunt work—even without recognition or immediate financial reward.​ Automate, outsource, and delegate aggressively; focus only on the work that maximizes your unique value and happiness.​ Embrace failure as a necessary precursor to growth—your timeline is unpredictable, and your highlight reel will be built on low points.​ Notable Quotes "The world doesn’t owe you anything. Your ego doesn’t mean anything in the entrepreneurial world."​ "Motivation is not required to get things done—even if you’re not motivated, do it anyway."​ "Most business owners overestimate the value of their time, and underestimate the importance of discipline and automation."​ Connect with Jason Wright: Website: intentionallyinspirational.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 The Travis Makes Money podcast is powered by High Level — the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🎁 Get your extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis On this episode we talk about: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode flips the mic to dissect iconic movie sales scenes—especially the legendary real estate monologue from "Glengarry Glen Ross"—with Travis and producer Eric swapping stories from the trenches of commission sales. They break down the psychology of high-pressure closing, how silence can be an indispensable tool, and why consultative selling beats boiler room tactics for long-term success. What real sales moments get right—and wrong—in famous movies The thrill and dread of securing deals in 100% commission environments Why holding the silence is harder (and more effective) than most people realize The difference between authoritative vs. assumptive closes—and why discovery sets you up for the sale The emotional rollercoaster of sales jobs, from adrenaline rushes to crushing self-doubt Use silence as leverage; resist the urge to talk past your own close—let the prospect sit with the decision. Great sales begins with genuine discovery and honest self-selection—you want lifetime clients, not regret-fueled chargebacks. The close should be the natural conclusion to a quality conversation—practice assumptive and options-based closing for better results. "Most people just can't stand the awkward silence, but in sales, that's your friend—it gets the prospect thinking, and helps you avoid talking yourself out of a deal." "Don't overcome objections that haven’t been spoken—otherwise, you talk yourself out of the sale." "Consultative selling doesn't force the close; it builds trust, clarity, and repeat business in the long run." ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 The Travis Makes Money podcast is powered by High Level—the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🎁 Get your extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis On this episode we talk about:Top 3 TakeawaysNotable QuotesConnect with Travis Chappell & Eric: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Travis and producer Eric react to viral financial influencer Brandon Carter, aka King Keto’s, raw and relentless advice for young people on how to save their first $100K. Brandon’s story of grinding through multiple low-paying jobs and side hustles for 12 hours a day, 7 days a week in New York City is a wake-up call on the power of hustle, discipline, and focus. On this episode we talk about: The reality behind making $100K in your 20s through sheer hard work, sacrifice, and multiple jobs Why using free time strategically—avoiding distractions like partying, clubs, and frivolous spending—is key to wealth-building The value of creating a savings gap between income and expenses to fund your entrepreneurial dreams How Brandon’s early hustle primed him for success when he launched his first business with capital already saved The balance between hustling hard and burning out—listeners reflect on their own work-life tradeoffs Advice on staying focused vs. scattershot hustling and the benefits of developing clear career clarity over time Top 3 Takeaways Hustle isn’t glamorous, but it’s effective: relentless work for sustained periods builds financial runway. Sacrifice short-term pleasures to create long-term financial freedom and opportunity to pursue what truly matters. Real success comes with focus and clarity, which often takes years to develop—don’t rush, but don’t waste precious time either. Notable Quotes “Work 12 hours a day, 7 days a week, and save half your income. It’s not for the soft or the punk.” “Using your free time effectively is the difference between building wealth or watching YouTube all night.” “Most 20-somethings have more free time than they realize—use it or lose it forever.” ✖️✖️✖️✖️ 🚀 The Travis Makes Money podcast is powered by High Level — All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency. 🎁 Get your extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices