The Journey with Morgan DeBaun

Feeling like you're working hard but your money isn't working for you? You're not alone. In today's episode, I'm breaking down five money moves that will quietly make you very, very wealthy and none of them require you to go viral, get lucky, or grind yourself into the ground. I'm talking dividend stocks (aka mailbox money), building a paid community, creating digital products with AI, setting up your affiliate business, and finally charging people to pick your brain. These are the exact strategies I use across WorkSmart, Afro Tech, and my own personal portfolio — and the math is simpler than you think. This episode is for you if you're part of the 80% who doesn't have a side hustle yet, if you're recommending products without affiliate links (in 2026?!), or if you're letting people pick your brain for free. We're done with that. I'll walk you through real numbers, real platforms, and how to actually get started this week. Links mentioned: Join the WorkSmart community — https://www.patreon.com/MorganDeBaun Get my book, Rewrite Your Rules — https://www.amazon.com/Rewrite-Your-Rules-Achieve-Freedom/dp/0593725050/ ShopMy storefront — https://shopmy.us/shop/morgandebaun TikTok — https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun Money Worksheets & Budgets - https://stan.store/morgandebaun Watch the show on youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MorganDeBaun

Discover how Morgan DeBaun, CEO of Blavity and AfroTech, built her diverse income streams from the ground up. Whether you're starting with little or aiming to diversify your earnings, this episode offers actionable insights to grow your wealth. In this episode: Timestamps: 00:00 - Morgan introduces her nine streams of income and why they matter 01:00 - Starting early: Investing in stocks at age 13 and foundational money lessons 02:30 - Building wealth through W-2 salary, 401k, RSUs, and stock appreciation 04:00 - How Morgan secures brand deals with major tech companies and tips for becoming an expert 05:15 - Generating income via speaking engagements and training sessions 06:30 - Creating and selling educational workshops under the WorkSmart brand 07:45 - Monetizing content through Substack and book writing tips 08:30 - Rental properties as a long-term asset and passive income source 09:15 - Affiliate marketing and small-scale revenue streams 09:50 - Choosing income streams based on capital or time constraints 10:20 - Final thoughts: Building wealth with strategic diversification Resources & Links: Morgan DeBaun's Book: Rewrite Your RulesBlavityAfroTechAI mastery TrainingPassive Income Blueprint TwitterLinkedIn

In this episode of The Journey, Morgan sits down with King Willonius — comedian, screenwriter, and creator of the viral “BBL Drizzy” track — to unpack how AI is transforming creativity, music, and culture. King shares his unconventional path into AI during the writer’s strike, how one playful idea turned into the first-ever AI sample in music history, and why he sees AI as a creative superpower for artists who’ve already put in their 10,000 hours. Together, they explore: - The story behind BBL Drizzy and how it went from a joke to a Drake sample. - Why AI didn’t replace King’s creativity — it amplified decades of work. - The debate: should AI-generated songs be valued the same as human-made music? - The rise of AI-created artists and what that means for representation, ownership, and opportunity. - How AI can democratize creativity, especially for Black creators who’ve been historically boxed out of traditional industries. This is a wide-ranging, funny, and thought-provoking conversation about art, culture, and what it means to create in the age of AI. Order Morgan’s Book, Rewrite Your Rules: https://www.amazon.com/Rewrite-Your-Rules-Achieve-Freedom/dp/0593725050 Join the Newsletter for Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Follow Morgan on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun Follow The Journey on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb

AfroTech is more than a conference—it’s a movement. In this episode of The Journey, Morgan DeBaun pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to scale one of the largest Black tech communities in the world. From its humble beginnings in a San Francisco mall to hosting 20,000+ attendees in Houston, AfroTech has grown into a global ecosystem of technologists, founders, small business owners, and creators. Morgan shares the highs and lows of expansion, how the team chooses host cities, and the new initiatives shaping the future of AfroTech. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, event organizer, or just curious about what it takes to run a world-class experience, this candid behind-the-scenes look will inspire and inform. In this episode: - Why AfroTech moved from San Francisco to Texas - How city infrastructure and community partnerships shape the conference - What’s new in 2025: Health Stack, small business marketplace, creator track, and hardware demos - The role of AI, equity, and community in shaping the future of tech - How AfroTech keeps attendee experience at the center, no matter the scale 👀 AfroTech isn’t just an event—it’s a blueprint for building community, ownership, and innovation at scale.

AI isn’t slowing down — it’s accelerating. Reports warn that up to 50% of entry-level white-collar jobs could be replaced by AI agents and automation by 2030. So what does that mean for you, your career, and your future? In this episode of The Journey, Morgan DeBaun breaks down what AI agents really are, why companies are shifting away from entry-level roles, and how you can future-proof your skills, income, and security. Morgan shares: Why CEOs are quietly replacing workers with AI What AI agents actually do (and how they’re evolving fast) The risk for white-collar and knowledge workers in the next 5 years Why “fractional work” and solopreneurship are becoming the new normal How to position yourself inside your company to avoid layoffs The timeless human skills AI can never replace This is a real talk episode — both a warning and an invitation. You have time to prepare, adapt, and thrive if you act intentionally now. 👀 Don’t just listen. Take action. Be the person who leads change, not the one left behind. Order Morgan’s Book, Rewrite Your Rules 👉 https://www.amazon.com/Rewrite-Your-Rules-Achieve-Freedom/dp/0593725050 Join the Newsletter for Exclusive Content: 👉 https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Follow Morgan on TikTok: 👉 https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun Follow The Journey on Instagram: 👉 https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb

If Morgan DeBaun had to start all over again, these are the 5 businesses she’d launch using AI—and you can too. In this episode of The Journey, Morgan dives deep into real, actionable business ideas that combine AI tools with human expertise—perfect for solopreneurs, side hustlers, and professionals navigating today’s uncertain job market. Whether you're recently laid off, looking to diversify your income, or ready to future-proof your skills, this episode will spark ideas and show you how to take action. In this episode: Why the rise of solopreneurship is accelerating The low barrier to entry for new entrepreneurs 5 specific AI-powered business models you can start now The tools, platforms, and pricing strategies Morgan would use How to pair ChatGPT with your own expertise to build lasting value 👀 This is for the doers, the builders, and anyone ready to use AI to create freedom—not fear. Don’t forget to share your favorite idea on Instagram or tag Morgan with the AI business you’re launching. Order Morgan’s Book, Rewrite Your Rules https://www.amazon.com/Rewrite-Your-Rules-Achieve-Freedom/dp/0593725050 Join the Newsletter for Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Follow Morgan on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun Follow the Journey on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Timestamps: 00:00 — Intro: Why AI + Business Matters Right Now 01:13 — The Rise of Solopreneurs + Job Market Shifts 02:24 — The New Entrepreneur Mindset 03:24 — AI Business #1: Content Creation Agency for Experts 06:58 — AI Business #2: Custom ChatGPT Setup Services 09:50 — AI Business #3: AI Automations for Small Businesses 12:43 — AI Business #4: Coaching or Learning Tools Powered by Your Expertise 15:28 — AI Business #5: AI-Powered Recruitment + Hiring Support 17:09 — Final Thoughts: Use AI + Human Skills to Future-Proof Your Income

If you’re using ChatGPT or other AI tools but still feel like you’re barely scratching the surface, this episode is for you. Morgan DeBaun shares fast, tactical advice to help solopreneurs, small business owners, and creatives actually start using AI smarter—not harder. From audio prompting to smarter context organization, Morgan breaks down simple but powerful strategies to save time, improve your workflow, and stop overthinking how to “use AI the right way.” She also explains why letting AI write your prompts, organizing information into projects, and using tools like Gemini and Otter for meetings can dramatically level up how you work. Whether you’re trying to move faster as a one-person team or scale with a lean crew, this episode will help you unlock new possibilities with AI—without needing to be a tech expert. Listen now to make smarter, faster, more confident moves with AI. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro: Why You’re Probably Using AI Wrong 00:46 – Tip 1: Use Audio Prompts Instead of Typing 01:40 – Tip 2: Let ChatGPT Write Your Prompts for You 03:04 – Tip 3: Understand and Apply Context Engineering 04:08 – The Rise of AI Browsers & Why It Matters (Perplexity, Gemini) 06:17 – Tip 4: Organize Info into Projects (vs. GPTs) 08:25 – Tip 5: Automate Meeting Notes with AI Tools 10:49 – Extra Tip: Tell AI to Be an Expert (Not Just Agreeable) 12:13 – Join the WorkSmart Community + Upcoming AI Edge Summit

Jaclyn Johnson is back with a brand new vision—and this time, she’s rewriting the rules. In this candid and powerful conversation, Jaclyn opens up about what life really looks like after selling your company, healing from burnout, and rediscovering purpose. She and Morgan dive into the rise of angel investing, the power of warm intros, why she launched a platform that’s already helped deploy $1M+ to women and BIPOC-owned businesses, and how investing is about so much more than returns. They also get real about dating as high-powered women, feminine energy, letting go of control, and building partnerships that actually work. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or just someone redefining success on your own terms—this episode will leave you inspired. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 04:15 – Taking a step back to build 07:25 – Investing in women and BIPOC founders 21:04 – Breaking down what it means to be an accredited angel investor 27:05 – Jaclyn’s approach to work-life balance after burnout 29:50 – How Jaclyn spends her exit money: real estate and travel flex 33:25 – Navigating dating post-divorce and balancing masculine/feminine energy 35:37 – The importance of unlearning control and receiving help 42:50 – Being “the cool ex-wife” and managing public perception 46:26 – Final reflections on reinvention and the journey ahead

In this powerful conversation, Morgan DeBaun and Jeff Nelson go deep on one of today’s most pressing questions: what happens to human value in the age of AI? From digital twins and AI agents to wearable tech and the erosion of critical thinking skills, they explore how technology is transforming not only how we work—but how we live. Morgan and Jeff break down the rise of AI agents (what they really are), the reality behind automation hype, and the traits that will keep you relevant no matter how advanced tech becomes. This episode is part philosophy, part career advice, and fully a must-listen if you want to stay ahead of the curve. In this episode: 00:00 The Pleasure Machine Thought Experiment 02:10 Digital Twins + Real-Life Trade-Offs 05:45 The Reality of Clout vs. Fulfillment 09:42 What Are AI Agents (and How Are They Different from Automation)? 13:25 How AI Will Reshape Workflows + Decision-Making 18:00 Why Speed Isn’t Everything—Judgment Still Matters 22:18 The AI Skills Gap: What Will Make You Irreplaceable 26:50 Will AI Erase Critical Thinking? 29:03 Where Humans Still Win: Strategy + Insight 35:40 AI + Wearables: The Next Big Interface 42:15 What It Means to Be a Founder in a New Tech Era 47:00 Announcing AI Edge: A Free Summit for the Community This episode will challenge your perspective and give you tools to navigate what’s next. Whether you’re a creator, tech professional, entrepreneur, or just curious, it’s time to step into the AI era—intentionally. 🧠 The future belongs to those who can think, adapt, and lead. Will that be you? 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 Follow Morgan on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_ Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb

This episode is a must-listen if you're curious about how AI is actually being used in real life—not just by tech insiders, but by everyday professionals, creatives, and founders. Morgan DeBaun is breaking down exclusive insights from a recent AfroTech community survey to reveal the truth about how our community is engaging with AI tools. She shares the most-used platforms, the biggest gaps in understanding, and where people are seeking support—from automating workflows to mastering prompt engineering. Plus, Morgan opens up about how she uses ChatGPT in her everyday life, from solving garden mysteries to debating real estate strategy with her dad. You’ll walk away with real-world examples, tips for getting better at AI, and the confidence to start leveling up your own use of these tools. In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Blavity Fest Recap 00:24 Why AI Use in Our Community Is Often Misunderstood 01:29 AfroTech Survey Results: Familiarity + Daily Use Stats 03:14 Top AI Tools Used in the Community 04:06 Real-Life Use Cases: Writing, Brainstorming, and Productivity 06:06 Why Learning AI Automation Matters Now 07:13 Most Common Question: “Am I Using the Right Tool?” 08:27 The Shift from AI 101 to Deeper Integration 09:31 What Is “Vibe Coding” and Why Morgan Isn’t a Fan 11:05 Morgan’s ChatGPT Garden Moment 14:09 Real Estate vs. Stocks: A ChatGPT Financial Analysis 14:56 Why Prompting Well Is the Real Skill 15:55 Build Your Own Custom GPTs + Level Up Whether you're a beginner or seasoned user, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible with AI and inspire you to start experimenting, optimizing, and building smarter. Let Morgan know how you're using AI by commenting on Instagram or responding to the newsletter. And don’t forget to subscribe to her YouTube channel for more behind-the-scenes content and tools you can actually use. 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 Follow Morgan’s journey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun?_ Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb

This episode originally aired in December 2023 and is a must-listen if you're serious about achieving financial freedom and stability. Morgan DeBaun is breaking down the power of multiple income streams—why relying on just one paycheck is risky, how it limits your freedom, and what you can do to change that today. She opens up about her 8 personal income streams—from stock dividends to salaries to events—and how she built each one with intention. Morgan shares how diversifying your income not only protects you in uncertain times, but also gives you more freedom, creativity, and long-term wealth. In this episode: 00:42 Introduction and Why This Topic Matters 02:03 The Benefits of Having Multiple Streams of Income 05:39 Stream of Income #1- Salary 06:40 Stream of Income #2- Coaching and Advising 08:06 Stream of Income #3- Public Speaking and Hosting 09:04 Stream of Income #4- Brand Deals 09:52 Stream of Income #5- Product Business 11:03 Stream of Income #6- Events 13:07 Stream of Income #7- Book 15:06 Stream of Income #8- Stock Portfolio Dividends 16:48 Closing Thoughts + Call to Action Whether you're an entrepreneur or career professional, this episode will shift how you think about money and inspire you to unlock your own financial potential. You are your biggest money maker—let’s make that work for you. 💡 Let Morgan know which income stream you're working on by commenting on Instagram or responding to the newsletter. And don’t forget to subscribe to her YouTube channel for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes advice! 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

It’s time for some real talk with Morgan DeBaun. In this episode, Morgan DeBaun answers YOUR questions on everything from startup funding to navigating layoffs. Plus, she shares what’s going on behind the scenes with her book launch, pregnancy news, and business shifts. In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Updates 00:15 Impact of Executive Orders on Business 00:59 AfroTech Community Growth 02:14 Book Tour and Reader Feedback 05:35 Exciting Personal News 09:47 Fundraising Tips for Startups 14:05 Finding Co-Founders and Team Members 18:24 First Hires and Business Growth 20:47 Work-Life Balance and Company Culture 26:30 Advice for Laid-Off Workers 31:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts In the episode, Morgan covers everything from navigating pregnancy and scaling AfroTech to reflections on her book, Rewrite Your Rules. She also answers audience-submitted questions, giving her opinions on VC funding in today’s climate, building a team, balancing “soft life” with startup demands, and shifting through motherhood and entrepreneurship. Whether you’re building a business, pivoting careers, or just trying to figure it all out in this wild time, this episode is packed with clarity, honesty, and strategy. Tune in and don’t forget to leave a rating and review! 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.com

This episode originally aired in July 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 help you get unstuck and moving forward in your business and life! Morgan DeBaun is spilling the tea on 7 habits that just might be holding you back from achieving your highest levels of success in business and life. In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:20 YouTube Channel Updates 00:59 Habit 1: Over-Reliance on One-Hour Meetings 04:41 Habit 2: Failure to Delegate 09:03 Habit 3: Neglecting Self-Care 10:25 Habit 4: Overthinking Decisions 12:18 Habit 5: Obsession with Setting Goals 16:00 Habit 6: Overemphasis on Boundaries 18:58 Habit 7: Fear of Mediocrity and Failure 22:07 Conclusion and Call to Action Morgan breaks down the bad habits that many entrepreneurs get caught up in, from defaulting to one-hour meetings and not delegating enough, to overthinking and relying too heavily on goals. Plus she's talking self-care, boundaries, and why failure doesn't need to be avoided at all costs. Take this episode as an opportunity to reflect on your own habits and find new levels of success in your business! Let Morgan know which habits you want to break by responding to the newsletter or commenting in her entrepreneurship channel on Instagram. And make sure you are subscribed to Morgan's YouTube channel to catch exclusive content coming soon! 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.com

This episode originally aired in April 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 get you thinking about healing in a toxic culture. In this episode, Morgan DeBaun sits down with renowned physician, author, and trauma expert, Dr. Gabor Maté, for a thought-provoking conversation about childhood trauma and attachment, the impact of societal norms on parenting, and the healing potential of psychedelics. In this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 01:30 Dr. Gabor Maté's Early Life and Trauma 04:08 Impact of Early Trauma on Adult Behavior 04:56 The Struggles of a Medical Professional 08:22 Parenting Challenges in Modern Society 13:21 The Importance of Attachment in Child Development 21:30 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Parenting 24:03 Building Strong Parent-Child Relationships 24:38 The Impact of Technology on Children 25:36 Balancing Work and Parenting 28:51 The Importance of Secure Attachment 29:49 Understanding Individuation and Socialization 36:40 The Role of Psychedelics in Healing 45:16 Resources and Final Thoughts Dr. Maté opens up about his own childhood experiences as a Jewish infant in occupied Hungary, where abandonment and trauma shaped his early years and later influenced his relationships with his children and career. Through personal reflection, Morgan shares her own experiences of growing up with a father whose demanding career kept him often away, and her tendency towards workaholism. She shares how she intends to do things differently with her own child. As the discussion unfolds, Dr. Maté dives into his belief that we are living in a toxic culture, where stress and societal pressures take a toll on our mental and physical health. He highlights the direct link between our minds and bodies, particularly evident in marginalized groups facing systemic racism. Dr. Maté and Morgan discuss how it is in this context that parents are expected to raise children, and how cultural parenting norms often contradict intuitive caregiving practices, driven by economic necessities rather than emotional well-being. The episode wraps up with an eye-opening discussion on the potential of psychedelics in healing trauma, with Dr. Maté sharing the emerging research and the need for better access to these powerful tools in mental health care. To learn more about Dr. Gabor Maté's work discussed in this episode, check out his books The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness & Healing In A Toxic Culture and Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need To Matter More Than Peers. Tune in to this insightful episode, and make sure to leave a rating and review to show your support for these incredibly powerful conversations being had week after week! More from Dr. Gabor Maté: https://drgabormate.com/ https://www.instagram.com/gabormatemd?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== 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 is back with another live coaching session using powerful frameworks from her new book, Rewrite Your Rules. In this episode, she advises two dynamic entrepreneurs at different life stages: Flo, a corporate professional building a virtual assistant business while balancing family life, and Patrick, an HR leader stepping into screenwriting and consulting during semi-retirement. Morgan helps them clarify their priorities, develop marketing strategies, and map out a path toward financial freedom and personal fulfillment. Together, they dive deep into scaling businesses, embracing creative passions, and setting up a prosperous future on your own terms. In this episode: 00:00 – Introduction and Session Overview 01:20 – Meet Flo: Balancing Corporate and Entrepreneurial Life 05:38 – Flo's Virtual Assistant Business Journey 08:34 – Challenges and Strategies for Scaling Up 10:27 – Enhancing Online Presence and Networking 15:52 – Operational Smoothness and Future Plans 21:03 – Pitching and Perception in the Business World 24:32 – Defining Your Priorities and Pillars 24:54 – Entrepreneurial Stability and Success 25:31 – Focusing on Future Customers 26:20 – Patrick's Career Crossroads 27:24 – Balancing Passion and Career 30:43 – Planning for Retirement 32:00 – Embracing Your Wealthy Vision 39:31 – Breaking Free from Corporate Constraints 45:58 – Taking Action Towards Your Goals 48:22 – Final Thoughts and Reflections Flo opens up about the challenges of scaling while juggling a full-time career and family, while Patrick shares his journey navigating a pivot into creative work and consulting. Morgan offers real-time strategies to get clear on your goals, build your dream future, and create wealth on your own terms. Whether you’re growing a business or reimagining your next chapter, this episode will inspire you to rewrite your own rules—and equip you with the practical steps to get there. Order Rewrite Your Rules by Morgan DeBaun: https://www.amazon.com/Rewrite-Your-Rules-Achieve-Freedom/dp/0593725050 Join the Newsletter for Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Follow Morgan on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun Follow The Journey on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Produced by MicMoguls.

Morgan DeBaun is back with another live coaching session using frameworks from her new book, Rewrite Your Rules. This time, she’s joined by Rachael, a newly engaged recent college grad working a full-time accounting job, building a business, and planning a wedding—all at once. Morgan helps Rachael navigate the pressure of overachievement, cultural expectations, and the chaos of managing multiple life transitions. Together, they dive into practical strategies like theming your weeks, setting clearer priorities, and creating space to actually enjoy the journey. In this episode: 00:00 – Introduction and Episode Overview 00:05 – Meet Rachael: Recent Grad and Bride-to-Be 01:11 – Navigating Life Transitions 02:33 – Defining Priorities and Pacing Life 05:34 – Wedding Planning Challenges 08:58 – Balancing Work, Life, and Faith 12:17 – Structuring Your Week for Success 21:19 – Struggles with Social Media and Self-Comparison 21:51 – Pressure to Achieve and Future Plans 23:12 – Cultural Expectations and Overachievement 25:24 – Reflecting on Life Goals and Success 26:51 – Starting a Business and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 29:43 – Balancing Life, Work, and Personal Goals 38:33 – Commitments and Moving Forward 42:34 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts Rachael opens up about the struggles of doing “all the things”—working, building, loving, and still feeling behind. Morgan challenges her to get clear on what she really wants, separate from society’s timeline, and embrace daily joy instead of constant striving. Whether you're newly graduated or knee-deep in transitions of your own, this episode will speak to your soul—and give you the practical tools to reset. Order Rewrite Your Rules by Morgan DeBaun: https://www.amazon.com/Rewrite-Your-Rules-Achieve-Freedom/dp/0593725050 Join the Newsletter for Exclusive Content: https://worksmartprogram.ac-page.com/thejourneypodcast Follow Morgan on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@morgandebaun Follow The Journey on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejourneybymdb Produced by MicMoguls.

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