CO-HOST | Make Money by Marketing Better, Not Begging for Attention
In this fun and insightful roundtable episode of Travis Makes Money, Travis Chappell is joined by producer Eric and guest co-host Brandon Birkmeyer, host of Brands on Brands. The trio dives into a growing trend they call “pity marketing”—using sympathy, disappointment, or public failure to drive attention and sales. From empty book signings to viral “nobody bought my product” posts, they unpack whether this strategy actually works, what it says about your brand, and why creating demand is ultimately a better long-term play.
On this episode we talk about:
What “pity marketing” is and why it has become a common tactic online
The difference between sharing lessons learned and simply asking for sympathy
Why marketing—not just creating—is the key to selling books, products, and events
How speakers, authors, and creators can stand out in crowded markets
Why leading with stories, drama, and audience value works better than begging for attention
Top 3 Takeaways
Creating something isn’t enough—you have to market it. Building a product, writing a book, or launching an event is only step one; consistent promotion is what brings people through the door.
Share lessons, not pity. Audiences connect with stories of growth, experimentation, and improvement far more than they do with public pleas for sympathy.
Differentiate yourself by creating value. Whether you're a speaker, creator, or entrepreneur, your audience, expertise, and unique perspective matter more than credentials or manufactured drama.
Notable Quotes
"If you build it and market the shit out of it, then people will come."
"Nobody cares how hard you worked—they care about the value you provide."
"If you're sharing the story from the perspective of, 'Here's what I learned,' it feels completely different."
Connect with Brandon Birkmeyer:
Instagram:
Other:
A Word from Our Sponsors:
- Visit DrinkAG1.com/TMM to get a free AG1 Travel Case with 7 free AG1Travel Packs in your Welcome Kit with your first AG1 subscription order while supplies last.
- Go to Leesa.com for 25% OFF select mattresses (through August 23, 2026) PLUS get an extra $50 off with promo code TMM, exclusive for my listeners
- To learn more about Mode Mobile and its investor community, go to https://invest.modemobile.com/travismakesmoney
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices