290. How Two Friends Used Free Mixes to Build a Multimillion-Dollar Career

This week, Jason is joined by Matt Halper and Eli Sones — the duo behind Two Friends, for a conversation on how they turned a college hobby into one of the most successful independent DJ brands in the world.Starting as best friends making music for fun in middle school and college, Matt and Eli share how they took a leap after graduation with no real income, betting on themselves in an industry dominated by record labels. What began as small gigs paying a few thousand dollars quickly evolved into a global touring business but not without years of uncertainty, financial risk, and reinvestment.They break down the real business of being a DJ today,  revealing why the majority of their revenue doesn’t come from music, but from live shows, brand partnerships, and building an experience-driven brand. From early days barely breaking even to landing six-figure deals and major residencies in Las Vegas, they explain how they scaled strategically while staying independent.They also dive into the viral success of their Big Booty Mixes and why, despite millions of listeners, they’ve never made a dollar directly from them. Instead, they reveal how free content became their most powerful marketing engine, driving ticket sales, brand deals, and a loyal fanbase around the world.Jason and the guys also explore the future of music and technology, including how AI is changing the creative process and lowering the barrier to entry for new artists and what that means for the next generation of creators.Matt and Eli reveal all this and so much more in another episode you can’t afford to miss!Pebl Pebl is an AI-powered global Human Resources platform built for founders, HR leaders, and operators who are hiring and supporting teams around the worldGo to hipebl.ai to get a free estimate.QuinceRight now, go to Quince.com/tradingsecrets for free shipping and 365-day returnsWhatNot Whatnot is the largest dedicated live shopping platform, whether it’s beauty, collectibles, electronics, luxury fashion  — even cookies — sellers are building real, thriving businesses.WhatNot.comMomentous Head to livemomentous.com and use promo code TRADINGSECRETS for up to 35% off your first order

This week, Jason is joined by Jesse Solomon — reality TV star, creator, investor, and now touring musician — for a conversation on what happens when your life, income, and identity all scale at once.After first appearing on Summer House, Jesse shares how his career has rapidly evolved over the last 18 months — walking away from a traditional finance path and stepping fully into the world of entertainment, social media, and entrepreneurship. What started as a TV opportunity has turned into a multi-million dollar business, fueled by brand deals, investments, and a growing digital platform.Jesse breaks down the financial side of fame — from crossing seven figures in annual income to landing brand deals worth six figures for just a handful of posts. He explains how the creator economy really works behind the scenes, why attention is the most valuable asset you can have, and how he’s thinking about long-term wealth through a mix of traditional investments, crypto, and startup equity.He also opens up about the less glamorous side of the business — the pressure of constantly being “on,” the unpredictability of income, and the reality that everything can change overnight.Beyond the numbers, Jesse dives into the mental shift that’s come with being in the public eye — learning to deal with criticism, letting go of validation, and becoming more comfortable being fully himself on and off camera. He reflects on how his mindset has evolved from needing approval to focusing on authenticity, and why that’s been the key to both personal and professional growth.Jesse also shares a transparent look into his newest venture: music. Despite making millions elsewhere, he explains why he’s currently losing money pursuing it — investing heavily in production, touring, and development — and why he sees it as a long-term bet on himself. From sold-out shows that still lose money to the grind of building a fanbase from scratch, he breaks down what it really takes to chase a passion at scale.Jason and Jesse also get into lifestyle and money habits — from why he chooses renting over buying, to how he avoids lifestyle creep despite increasing income, and the importance of maintaining financial discipline even when money is flowing.On the personal side, Jesse opens up about dating, relationships, and what he’s looking for in a partner, as well as how his perspective on life has shifted years after battling cancer — allowing him to live more freely, take bigger risks, and think long-term about his future.From reality TV to real money, and from passion projects to long-term wealth building, Jesse gives a raw and honest look at what it means to capitalize on opportunity while staying grounded through it all.Jesse reveals all this and so much more in another episode you can’t afford to miss!Gusto Try Gusto today at gusto.com/tradingsecrets, and get three months free when you run your first payroll MonarchUse code TRADING at monarch.com for half off your first year. That’s 50% off at monarch dot com code TRADING.Rula  https://www.rula.com/tradingsecrets
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Week 2 brings you deeper into Jason’s big move as he settles into his new home, sharing the wins, challenges, and behind-the-scenes moments you won’t hear anywhere else. Plus, Jason Tartick and the Curious Canadian break down the latest in current events and entertainment news, keeping things fun, informative, and easy to follow in just 30 minutes.

This week, Jason is joined by founder of Wags & Walks Nashville, animal welfare advocate, and his girlfriend, Kathryn Hurley!Born and raised in Plymouth, Michigan, Kathryn shares how her passion for animal rescue started early — from working at her family’s ice cream shop to dedicating her life to saving dogs. After graduating from Eastern Michigan, she followed her instincts into dog rescue, eventually making the leap to Los Angeles to work with Wags & Walks, where she quickly became a key part of the organization’s growth.Kathryn opens up about the financial realities of working in nonprofit — starting out making just $26,000 a year — and the difficult decision to leave for a higher-paying job in sports media, only to return after realizing her true purpose was in rescue. From there, she shares how she built Wags & Walks Nashville from the ground up — starting in her basement, then a storage unit, to now running a full-scale operation with 40+ employees and saving thousands of dogs.She breaks down the business behind animal rescue — from fundraising millions annually just to operate, to the harsh realities of overcrowded shelters, euthanasia rates, and the misconceptions around pit bulls. Kathryn also dives into the medical side of rescue, explaining how organizations like hers step in where the system fails — covering surgeries, saving critically injured dogs, and even reuniting pets with families who otherwise couldn’t afford care.Beyond rescue, Kathryn and Jason share the story of how they met — through Wags & Walks — and how their relationship evolved from adopting Teddy to building a life together. They talk about communication, partnership, social media, and what it really takes to build a strong, healthy relationship.From saving dogs to building a nonprofit from scratch, Kathryn gives an honest look at passion, purpose, and what it means to fight for something bigger than yourself.Kathryn reveals all this and so much more in another episode you can’t afford to miss!Pebl Pebl is an AI-powered global Human Resources platform built for founders, HR leaders, and operators who are hiring and supporting teams around the world. Go to hipebl.ai to get a free estimateQuinceRight now, go to Quince.com/tradingsecrets for free shipping and 365-day returnsUpWorkScaling a business takes the right expertise at the right time. Upwork helps growing teams quickly bring in specialized freelancers—so you can move faster and take the business to the next level Upwork.com

In this fast-paced 30-minute episode of Trading Secrets, Jason Tartick is joined by David Arduin to unpack everything happening behind the scenes. They revisit the latest “Jason Tells All” episode, dive into ongoing Bachelor Nation drama, and share updates on Jason’s new house and evolving chapter of life.Beyond the headlines, Jason opens up on more vulnerable topics that didn’t make it into the Tell All—offering a deeper, more personal look at the challenges, growth, and realities he’s navigating. With candid conversations, honest reflections, and quick-hitting insights, this episode gives listeners an unfiltered perspective on both the public story and what’s happening beneath the surface.

This week, Jason is joined by a very familiar guest — himself — as David Arduin returns to the host chair for the annual JTA recap episode!In this raw and reflective conversation, Jason opens up about what 2025 really looked like behind the scenes — from the emotional chaos he was sitting in during last year’s recap, to the clarity, peace, and confidence he feels now. He looks back on the predictions he got completely wrong, including being convinced he’d be out of Nashville, and explains how life ended up taking a very different turn in the best possible way.Jason shares what changed most in his personal life, why he’s finally stopped overexplaining himself, and how this season feels different from anything he’s experienced before. He talks about finding real alignment, what he now values more than career growth or social media milestones, and why 2026 feels less like survival mode and more like building the life he actually wants.On the business side, Jason breaks down the biggest year yet for both Trading Secrets and Rewired Talent Agency. He shares how the podcast continues to grow beyond Bachelor Nation, why the agency had a record-setting year, and how his own brand generated millions through major partnerships, speaking, and strategic niche positioning. He also gives a brutally honest look at the creator economy, what makes talent marketable, and why follower count means a lot less than most people think.Jason also reveals the details behind buying his first home in Nashville, how he negotiated the deal, why this moment means so much at 37 years old, and what it represents in the bigger picture of where his life is heading. From relationships and self-worth to business growth, money, and long-term vision, this episode is one of the most honest JTA recaps yet.Jason reveals all this and so much more in another episode you can’t afford to miss!Wayfair Find furniture, decor, and essentials that fit your unique style and budget. Head to Wayfair dot com right now to shop all things home. That’s W-A-Y-F-A-I-R dot com. Wayfair. Every style. Every homeWayfair.comWhatNot Whatnot is the largest dedicated live shopping platform, whether it’s beauty, collectibles, electronics, luxury fashion  — even cookies — sellers are building real, thriving businessesWhatNot.comUpWorkScaling a business takes the right expertise at the right time. Upwork helps growing teams quickly bring in specialized freelancers—so you can move faster and take the business to the next levelUpwork.comAir Doctor Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code TRADINGSECRETS to get UP TO $300 off today! AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee, plus a 3-year warranty—an $84 value, free! Get this exclusive, podcast-only offer now at AirDoctorPro.com using promo code TRADING SECRETS

This week, Jason is joined by Olympian, gold medalist, and PWHL star Hayley Scamurra!A key member of Team USA’s women’s hockey team, Hayley opens up about what it took to reach the top of her sport — from years of elite training and representing her country on the biggest stage in the world, to finally bringing home Olympic gold. Growing up in Buffalo with NHL roots, Hayley shares how her dream of becoming an Olympian started early, and how that vision carried her through the grind of college hockey, professional uncertainty, and years of fighting for a real future in women’s hockey.Hayley breaks down the emotional difference between winning silver and winning gold, what it was really like inside the Olympic Village, and the mindset she used to stay calm in the biggest game of her life against Canada. She also shares the business side of women’s hockey — from playing professionally for almost no money, to helping pave the way for the PWHL, navigating trades, free agency, and the continued fight for fair pay and better opportunities for women in sports.She also talks about the support system behind her success, the role mental training played in changing her career, and why she believes athletes should never settle for the bare minimum when they know they deserve more. From gold medal moments to the future of women’s hockey, Hayley gives an honest look at both the dream and the grind behind it.Hayley reveals all this and so much more in another episode you can’t afford to miss!Momentous Head to livemomentous.com, and use promo code TRADINGSECRETS for up to 35% off your first order.Livemomentous.com promo code TRADINGSECRETSNorthwest Registered Agent Don’t pay hundreds or thousands of dollars for what you can get from Northwest for free. Visit northwestregisteredagent.com/TradingSecretsFree and start using free resources to build something amazing.Boll & Branch Upgrade your sleep during Boll & Branch’s Annual Spring Event. Take off 20% sitewide plus free shipping at BollAndBranch.com/tradingsecrets with code tradingsecrets MonarchUse code TRADING at monarch.com for half off your first year. That’s 50% off at monarch dot com code TRADING.

This week, Jason is joined by Amanda Batula, one of the most recognizable and enduring personalities from Bravo’s Summer House!After more than a decade on reality television, Amanda opens up about navigating one of the most public transitions of her life — separating from her longtime partner and redefining who she is both on and off camera. Known for her authenticity and relatability, Amanda shares what it’s like to grow up in the public eye, protect your peace while millions are watching, and learn how to choose yourself without losing compassion for the people who were part of your journey.Amanda breaks down the realities of filming Summer House and the upcoming spinoff In the City, how she’s handled rumors, internet speculation, and the pressure of sharing personal struggles on television. She also reflects on the lessons she’s learned about relationships, financial independence, and why she believes protecting yourself — whether through prenups, boundaries, or simply trusting your instincts — is more important than ever.She also opens up about the mental health journey that changed her life, the confidence she’s found in her thirties, and the creative future she’s building through fashion, design, and new opportunities outside reality TV. From career reinvention to embracing change, Amanda shares the mindset that helped her move forward and prioritize happiness.Amanda reveals all this and so much more in another episode you can’t afford to miss!Function Health Learn more and join Function using my link. Visit www.functionhealth.com/TRADINGSECRETS or use gift code TRADINGSECRETS25 for a $25 credit toward your membership.Upwork Upwork is a one-stop platform to find, hire, and pay expert freelancers across web and software development, data and analytics, marketing, business operations, and more.QuinceRight now, go to Quince.com/tradingsecrets for free shipping and 365-day returnsGusto Try Gusto today at gusto.com/tradingsecrets, and get three months free when you run your first payroll 

This week, Jason is joined by one of the most influential voices in American economics — Austan Goolsbee, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago!In a rare and time-sensitive episode, Jason goes straight to the source on what’s happening in the economy right now — so timely, in fact, the Fed required the episode to be released before their next meeting. Austan breaks down what the Federal Reserve actually does (and what it doesn’t), why Chicago has its own Fed, and how monetary policy decisions get made behind the scenes — from interest rates and inflation to employment and consumer spending.Austan also opens up about his path from University of Chicago professor to the White House, including how a personal connection with Barack Obama turned into a front-row seat during one of the most intense economic moments in modern history. He shares what surprised him most about policymaking in Washington, the pressure of making massive decisions with limited information, and why having diverse perspectives — your own “personal board of directors” — matters more than people realize.They get into why consumers still feel crushed by prices even when inflation cools, what’s driving the strength of the economy, and why housing affordability may be the biggest long-term issue facing younger generations. Austan even reveals what he considers the ultimate trading secret — and why, despite everything that can go wrong in the world, long-term investing has historically rewarded patience and belief in human innovation.Austan reveals all this and more in another episode you can’t afford to miss!Host: Jason TartickCo-Host: David ArduinAudio: John GurneyGuest: Corporate Bro Ross PomerantzStay connected with the Trading Secrets Podcast! Instagram: @tradingsecretspodcast Youtube: Trading SecretsFacebook: Join the GroupPebl hipebl.ai Pebl's AI-powered EOR platform simplifies building and managing teams in 185+ countries, enabling fast, seamless growth across bordersWayfair https://www.wayfair.com/ Wayfair is a leading online home goods and furniture retailer offering millions of products across décor, furniture, and housewares from thousands of global suppliers. It’s built a technology-focused e-commerce platform that makes it easy for customers to find and buy items for every space in their home.Square square.com/go/[tradingsecretsSquare is a financial technology platform that provides businesses with point-of-sale systems, payment processing, and tools to manage operations, payroll, and online sales. Originally known for its easy-to-use card readers, Square now offers a full suite of software and services to help businesses run and grow.Rula https://www.rula.com/tradingsecrets Rula is an online mental health care platform that connects people with licensed therapists and psychiatric providers who accept insurance, often with low average copays. It offers flexible online therapy and support tailored to individual, couples, family, and teen needs