The James Altucher Show

A Note from James: I was honored to be on the Smart Humans Podcast. I’m a big fan of the show, and I was happy they asked me on—especially since I got to talk about things I don’t usually cover here. We discussed my specific predictions for investments like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tau, and stablecoin-related tokens like Curve and Aave. We also explored AI’s role across industries, habits that have helped me build and sell companies, and bad habits that cost me millions. This episode is packed with my thoughts on investing, crypto, AI, and the lessons from going broke—twice. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. Episode Description: In this special crossover episode, James Altucher joins Slava Rubin on the Smart Humans Podcast to talk investing, entrepreneurship, and the habits that make (and lose) fortunes. James shares his journey from early internet entrepreneur to hedge fund manager, bestselling author, and crypto investor—and the times he lost it all along the way. They dive into today’s hottest investment themes, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tau, stablecoins, and the intersection of crypto and AI. James also explains why he avoids bonds and real estate, the power of his “10 ideas a day” practice, and the economic trends he’s watching over the next three years. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: Smart Humans PodcastWebsite@jaltucherChoose YourselfAmazoncurve.fiaave.comethereum.org Today's Advertisers: rugiet.com/JAMES JAMES15% offExpressVPN.com/ALTUCHERhttps://upliftdesk.com/jamesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James: We kept recording because the conversation wasn’t done. Part 1 was about writing and honesty. Part 2? It’s about consequences—what happens when people believe their own hype, when we confuse being loud with being right, and when storytelling gets weaponized. Ryan Holiday has written about ego, stillness, and obstacles. But this part of the conversation gets at something deeper: what happens when power and narrative collide. And how do we live with integrity when the tools we use to create can just as easily be used to manipulate? Episode Description: In Part 2 of their conversation, James Altucher and Ryan Holiday explore the darker side of influence—how public figures lose their grounding, how movements become cults, and how audience validation can steer creators away from their original purpose. They discuss RFK Jr., Jordan Peterson, and Tucker Carlson—not as political figures, but as case studies in how public personas evolve under the pressure of attention. Along the way, they wrestle with their own roles as communicators: when to speak, when to hold back, and what it really means to be useful in a world full of noise. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: ryanholiday.netEgo Is the EnemyAmazon@jaltucherThe Daily StoicDaily Stoic See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James: Ryan Holiday is one of the few writers I consider a peer—not just because of the work he’s done, but because of the choices he's made along the way. We’ve both published a lot of books. We've both dealt with audiences, platforms, and the weight of having a “point of view” in a world that increasingly wants you to pick a side. This episode wasn’t meant to be a debate or an interview. It was just two people trying to make sense of the tension between creativity and truth, honesty and influence, and why sometimes the best thing you can say is nothing at all. Episode Description: In this candid and far-ranging conversation, James Altucher sits down with bestselling author Ryan Holiday to talk about the changing nature of creativity, writing, podcasting, and personal ethics in a polarized media landscape. They discuss the illusion of having to weigh in on every issue, the danger of algorithmic thinking, and how to stay true to your voice without becoming a prisoner to your audience. Whether you're a writer, a creator, or just trying to think more clearly in chaotic times, this episode offers real insight into the forces shaping our thinking—and how to resist them. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: ryanholiday.netThe Daily StoicAmazon@jaltucherAuthor PageWatch hereledzeppelin.comYouTube See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James: When I first said that college was a scam, people thought I was joking—or worse. But I wasn’t. If you’re 18 and listening to this, don’t go to college. And if you’re a parent, don’t send your kid without doing the math. College doesn’t guarantee a better life anymore. In fact, it could cost you years of freedom, tens of thousands of dollars, and saddle you with debt you can’t escape. In this episode, Doug Hill and I talk about why the traditional path of “get a degree, get a job, live happily ever after” no longer holds up. Episode Description: In this second installment of the Crazy Finance series, James Altucher and Doug Hill challenge another major financial assumption: that college is necessary for success. James argues that skyrocketing tuition, guaranteed student loans, and outdated curricula make college a bad financial decision for most people. Doug, who sent four kids to college, shares his own experience and ultimately agrees—except in a few key professions. From alternative education paths to trade school opportunities, this episode breaks down the economics and psychology behind one of the most expensive decisions families ever make. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: @jaltucherAltucher Confidential – Why College is a Scamcoursera.orgkhanacademy.orgcollegescorecard.ed.govTrade-Schools.netfederalreserve.govSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James: Owning a home has been sold to us as the American dream. But what if it's actually a financial nightmare? In this episode, I talk with my friend Doug Hill about why I think buying a house is a bad idea—not just a little bad, but one of the worst investments you can make. Doug and I disagree on some points, and that's the fun part. This isn't about being contrarian for the sake of it. It's about questioning assumptions that most people never even stop to think about. Episode Description: In this premiere episode of the Crazy Finance series, James Altucher and Doug Hill take on one of the most sacred cows in personal finance: home ownership. James argues that buying a house isn’t the milestone of success it’s made out to be—it’s an expensive, illiquid, and overrated investment. Doug offers a counterpoint rooted in emotional and lifestyle value. Together, they break down the numbers, psychology, and cultural narratives that shape the decision to rent or buy. If you’ve ever wondered whether you should buy a house—or regret that you did—this conversation challenges the conventional wisdom with real numbers and uncommon insight. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: @jaltucherCase-Shiller Home Price Index via FREDBankrate.comTax Foundation – Property Taxes by StateChoose YourselfAmazon See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James: So Chef Curtis Duffy—he’s won Michelin Stars, a James Beard Award. He’s been on Netflix’s Iron Chef, was a judge on Top Chef season 21, and he’s even shown up in The Bear. He runs the Chicago restaurants Ever and Grace, and he wrote this incredible memoir called Fireproof: Memoir of a Chef. I could list all the accolades, but what really got me was his story—it's one of the most intense and heartbreaking I’ve ever read. The kind of story that stops you in your tracks. We talk about all of it—the trauma he lived through, the discipline he built, and what it takes to truly be great at anything. If you're chasing excellence in any part of your life, this episode will hit hard. Episode Description: James sits down with acclaimed chef Curtis Duffy for a raw and powerful conversation that goes far beyond the kitchen. From the trauma of losing both parents in a murder-suicide to earning multiple Michelin stars, Duffy shares the personal and professional disciplines that shaped his life. This isn’t just a story about food—it’s about resilience, focus, and the high cost of mastery. Whether you're building a business, learning a craft, or rebuilding your life, Curtis’s story offers something rare: clarity on what it really takes. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: Fireproof: Memoir of a Chef by Curtis DuffyEver Restaurant – ChicagoGrace (Curtis Duffy’s former restaurant)Charlie Benante – Drummer for Anthrax Our Sponsors: https://upliftdesk.com/james See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James: Miesha Tate—at first, I’ve got to admit, I didn’t know much about UFC or MMA. But Miesha was the World Bantamweight Champion, and she fought Ronda Rousey—probably the most famous female fighter in the sport. I watched one of their fights, and honestly, I don’t know how I’d survive even a quarter of a second. But the conversation we had wasn’t what I expected. Miesha opened up about the mindset behind championship success, the weight of public expectations, and how depression can still hit even after you’ve reached the top. We talked about how personal growth sometimes means burning down everything and rebuilding. This wasn’t just about fighting—it was about resilience, reinvention, and figuring out what matters when the title belt doesn’t solve your problems. It was raw, honest, and eye-opening. I look forward to talking with her again. Episode Description: What happens when you reach the top of your field—and it still doesn’t fix what’s broken inside? Former UFC Bantamweight Champion Miesha Tate shares the brutal truth about chasing success, surviving toxic relationships, and rebuilding her life from rock bottom. In this candid conversation, Miesha and James explore the psychology of high performance, the danger of tying self-worth to achievement, and how to know when it's time to walk away—even from something you love. She tells stories from her early wrestling days to her UFC career, opens up about depression, and explains why learning to fail—and rebuilding—might be the most important skill of all. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: Miesha Tate on InstagramMiesha Tate’s Podcast: Built for GrowthUFC Fighter Profile: Miesha Tate“The Weight of Gold” HBO Documentary Our Sponsors: https://upliftdesk.com/jamesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James: One of the funniest guys I’ve ever spoken to—Dave Barry. I always love talking to him. He’s been America’s top humorist since the early ’80s with a syndicated column in 500 newspapers and a long list of bestselling books. This is his third time on the podcast, and his latest book, Class Clown: Memoirs of a Professional Wiseass, is out now. We get into everything—his process, his adventures, and his signature style of humor that’s made him a legend. It’s always fun with Dave. Episode Description: James sits down with Dave Barry to explore the surprising journey behind his new memoir, Class Clown. Dave shares how his humor evolved from playful everyman columns to a more personal, story-driven style. They talk about his outrageous adventures, from picking up his son in the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile to getting booed by telemarketers and dedicating a sewage station in his honor. They also break down the shifting landscape of writing, how syndication shaped Dave’s career, and why modern humor feels trapped in political silos. This is a rare chance to hear how one of America’s greatest humorists built a career by doing things to write about them—and why his readers became his closest allies. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: Class Clown: Memoirs of a Professional Wiseass by Dave BarryThe Kite Runner by Khaled HosseiniNate Bargatze Official WebsiteJim Gaffigan Official WebsiteHunter S. Thompson’s Fear and Loathing on the Campaign Trail ’72P.J. O'Rourke’s Official Website See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Notes from James: I had no idea this conversation would go where it did. I thought we’d talk chess. Instead, we talked about life, trauma, manipulation, redemption… and how one of the world’s most popular games can be both a tormentor and a savior. Episode Description: In this raw and powerful episode, I sat down with Danny Rensch—International Master, Chief Chess Officer of Chess.com, and author of the upcoming memoir Dark Squares—to uncover a story that’s anything but a typical chess tale. Raised in a spiritual cult obsessed with chess, Danny’s path to mastery involved trauma, isolation, and resilience. We go deep into the psychological aftermath of cult life, the beauty and torment of the game that saved him, and how he helped turn Chess.com into a global phenomenon with over 200 million users. This isn’t just an episode about chess. It’s about survival, identity, and how to turn pain into purpose. What You’ll Learn: Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: A Unique Upbringing and Chess Obsession 00:43 The James Altucher Show: Welcoming Danny Wrench 00:58 Danny Wrench's Journey: From Chess Prodigy to Business Success 03:19 The Dark Side of Chess: Cult Life and Personal Struggles 12:38 Chess.com: Growth and Success 14:34 The Impact of COVID-19 and The Queen's Gambit 20:30 Cheating Scandals and Controversies in Chess 26:26 Future of Chess: Technology and Cheating 31:14 Conclusion: Living the Dream Our Sponsors: LandRoverUSA.com/Defenderrugiet.com/JAMES JAMES15% offExpressVPN.com/ALTUCHER See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James: Man, what a fascinating career Robert Rosenkranz has had—multi-billionaire, involved in virtually every part of finance and American industry. He wrote a book called The Stoic Capitalist, and what really stands out is how he's actively applied stoic principles to achieve immense success throughout his career. Even from a young age, stoicism played a crucial role, guiding him through critical business decisions. It's a real pleasure speaking with Robert—an American icon. Episode Description: James welcomes Robert Rosenkranz, author of The Stoic Capitalist: Advice for the Exceptionally Ambitious, to discuss how applying stoicism's timeless principles helped him navigate pivotal career decisions and financial challenges. Robert candidly shares his experiences—from early high-stress deals to launching a private equity firm where he risked his entire net worth—and explains why stoic philosophy remains essential for rational decision-making in business and life. The conversation highlights how embracing uncertainty and questioning assumptions can lead to clarity and resilience in a constantly changing world. What You'll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: The Stoic Capitalist by Robert RosenkranzHow to Think Like a Roman Emperor by Donald RobertsonThe Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday"The Smoot-Hawley Tariff and the Great Depression" - The EconomistOpen to Debate Our Sponsors: LandRoverUSA.com/Defenderrugiet.com/JAMES JAMES15% offExpressVPN.com/ALTUCHER See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Notes from James: When I turned 40, I was depressed. I checked the top 50 chess players and saw only one person around my age: Viswanathan Anand. That moment gave me hope. Episode Description: I met one of my lifelong heroes—five-time World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand—and got to sit down with him at the Norway Summit to unpack what it really takes to stay at the top… for four decades. We didn’t just talk about chess—we talked about life, legacy, improvement, and how to overcome self-doubt at any age. Vishy and I broke down how talent evolves, why confidence matters more than skill early on, and how he battled through plateaus, age, and even failure to remain among the world’s elite players—well into his 50s. This episode is a masterclass in longevity, performance, and reinvention. Whether you're into chess or not, Vishy's insights apply to anyone striving to master their craft, overcome obstacles, and stay in the game. What You’ll Learn: real Timestamps: 00:00 The Relentless Nature of Chess 00:39 Meeting My Hero: Viswanathan Anand 01:12 A Personal Story of Inspiration 02:55 Interview with Viswanathan Anand 06:43 The Evolution of Chess and Personal Growth 28:57 The Role of Youth and Confidence in Chess 31:14 Concluding Thoughts and Future Prospects Sponsors: LandRoverUSA.comNakedWines.com/JAMESJAMESCODE AND PASSWORD.https://upliftdesk.com/jamesnorthwestregisteredagent.com/jamesnorthwestregisteredagent.com/james. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James: So I’ve been doing this podcast for a long time—over 1500 episodes—and I’ve spoken to everyone from billionaires to best-selling authors, athletes to entrepreneurs. But there are a handful of episodes that still ring in my ears years later. One of them was Episode 156 with Gary Vaynerchuk. I was just re-listening to it while pulling together notes for a potential book, and I realized this conversation is timeless. It’s not about hype. It’s about freedom. Gary’s blueprint—learn, build, create community, stay self-aware—is the real deal. No shortcuts. No tricks. Just pure, actionable wisdom. Whether you’re 23 or 53, if you're serious about building the life you want, this one’s worth a listen. Send it to your kids. Your friends. Your future self. Thanks again for listening. Episode Description: In this re-release of one of the most downloaded episodes of The James Altucher Show, James sits down with Gary Vaynerchuk just before the release of his book #AskGaryVee. What unfolds is a candid, highly tactical conversation about business, content creation, self-awareness, and the true meaning of entrepreneurship. Gary breaks down his framework for success—from selling wine via YouTube in the early 2000s to launching VaynerMedia and investing in Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr. He also explains why patience, practicality, and micro-failure are essential ingredients for long-term freedom. This isn’t motivational fluff. It’s the strategy, mindset, and playbook of someone who’s been in the trenches—and is still hungry. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: #AskGaryVee: One Entrepreneur's Take on Leadership, Social Media, and Self-Awareness (Amazon)Gary Vaynerchuk’s TwitterWine Library TV ArchivesVaynerMediaDailyVee on YouTube Our Sponsors: LandRoverUSA.com/Defenderhttps://upliftdesk.com/james NakedWines.com/JAMESAND northwestregisteredagent.com/jamesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James: So the question is, I really feel that in order to get not good at something, but great at something, you have to be obsessed. You can't just wake up and decide to be obsessed—it has to be deep, almost irrational. Obsession is like addiction. It throws your life off balance, and yet... there’s this insane joy when you enter the subculture of your obsession and get better at it. I’ve seen this recently in crypto. I saw it in chess in Norway, commenting on what might’ve been the best chess tournament ever. And I felt it again when I sat down with Dirk Jan ten Geuzendam from New In Chess. We didn’t just talk about chess. We talked about obsession, aging, failing at something you love, and trying to find your place in a subculture that’s moved on without you. If you care about learning, obsession, or just love chess, you’re going to get something out of this episode. Dirk and I recorded this in Stavanger, Norway. I hope you love this conversation as much as I did being a part of it. Episode Description: What does it mean to return to your first love after nearly 30 years away? In this special crossover episode, James Altucher sits down with Dirk Jan ten Geuzendam, editor of New In Chess magazine, to reflect on his lifelong (and recently rekindled) obsession with chess. They explore how obsession shapes mastery, why wisdom sometimes trumps raw skill, and what it’s like to try and reclaim an old identity as an older version of yourself. James opens up about losing games to kids half his age, obsessively chasing improvement, and why it still might be okay to fail—as long as the journey is honest. From teenage blitz tournaments to dinner with Garry Kasparov, from neuroscience to narrative writing, this episode is as much about how to live as it is about how to play. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: New In Chess MagazineNew In Chess PodcastChoose Yourself by James AltucherEric Rosen’s YouTube ChannelChess.comlichess.orgGame Changer by Matthew Sadler & Natasha ReganAndrew Huberman's Podcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James: Michael Dell. Founder of Dell. I remember in college, hearing about this kid who was building computers in his dorm and making millions. I thought it was a myth. It wasn’t. He’s the real thing—and he just kept going. I wanted to understand what drove him, what it felt like to deal with Carl Icahn trying to wrestle his company from him, and what success feels like after decades of being in the game. Also: I had to ask why Dell didn’t invent Google. That, plus how he’s now thinking about AI, cancer, and what “focus” really means. Episode Description: James Altucher sits down with Michael Dell, founder and CEO of Dell Technologies, to trace the entire arc of Dell's career—from building computers in a college dorm room to defending his company against Carl Icahn and taking it private. In this candid conversation, Dell shares how early obsession with tech and business turned into a multibillion-dollar global enterprise, the lessons he’s learned about leadership, and how he’s positioning for the future with AI, cybersecurity, and gene tech on the horizon. This is more than a business story. It’s about risk, conviction, reinvention—and knowing when to walk away from Steve Jobs. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: Play Nice But Win – Michael Dell’s memoir (Amazon)Dell Technologies – Official websiteJudge rejects Icahn's move on Dell buyout – CT InsiderRichard Florida on the future of cities – Vital City NYC interviewWhat is CRISPR? – Broad InstituteHistory of MS‑DOS – Wikipedia See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Notes from James: Most people get stuck at the idea stage. That’s why I’m sharing frameworks—so you’re not staring at a blank screen. These techniques have helped hundreds of people (including me) go from idea to published book in just 30 days. Episode Descriptions: In Part 5 of my 30-day writing series, I unveil four of the most powerful book-writing frameworks I’ve ever used or taught—and they’ve helped hundreds of people write their first book in just a month. These aren’t theoretical. They’re real-world, repeatable methods that have led to bestsellers, media appearances, consulting gigs, and new careers. From the "101 List Technique" to the "Jesus Diet" method, each framework simplifies your creative process, helps you structure your ideas fast, and shows you how to turn your interests into income. I even share how you can write a book using past podcast interviews or unreadable academic research. If you’ve ever thought, “I have an idea, but I don’t know how to turn it into a book,” this episode gives you the blueprint—four times over. What You’ll Learn: Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Excitement 00:17 Bonus Framework: The Podcast Technique 04:43 Framework 1: The 101 Technique 13:30 Framework 2: The Habits Technique 18:30 Framework 3: The Jesus Diet Technique 27:37 Framework 4: The Academic Research Technique 33:00 Conclusion and Encouragement P.S. Want to go deeper? Check out my full course on Udemy or visit chooseyourselfacademy.com: How to Write and Publish a Book in 30 Days – available now. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode Description: James reconnects with entrepreneurs Michael and Kass Lazerow, whose journey spans selling Golf.com for $24 million, launching and pivoting Buddy Media into a $700 million Salesforce acquisition, and now investing in breakout brands like Liquid Death. This episode isn’t about startup clichés—it’s about emotional resilience, firing with kindness, how marriage can (barely) survive co-founding, and how to spot a trend before the world does. They break down their “Go Gauge,” the six-part test they use before investing in a company. They talk about the trauma of being betrayed by family. And they reveal the surprisingly simple cheat codes they’ve used to keep building—and keep loving each other—across decades of risk. Whether you're building a business, looking for one good idea, or wondering what failure really feels like behind closed doors—this episode will give you a few new answers. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: Shoveling Sh*t: A Love Story About the Entrepreneur’s Messy Path to SuccessLiquid DeathSliceCommonwealthVan Leeuwen Ice Cream See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Notes from James: Let’s be honest: most people who write a book never make money from it. Why? Because they stop at the last page. I want you to go further. In this episode, I show you how I turned my books into speaking gigs, consulting work, investment deals, and more. You don’t need a big publisher or a massive budget—just the right strategy. Episode Descriptions: In Part 4 of my 30-day writing series, I tackle one of the biggest questions aspiring authors face: Should you self-publish or go the traditional route? I’ve done both—some of my books were published by big-name houses, others I put out myself. This episode breaks down the pros, cons, and misconceptions of each approach—and how to make the smartest decision for your goals. You’ll also learn exactly what to do after the writing is done. I cover how to market your book, build buzz, land media, grow your audience, and ultimately make your book work for you—financially, professionally, and personally. Whether you're writing your first book or your fifth, this episode lays out the modern publishing roadmap and how to turn your words into real-world results. What You’ll Learn: andbeforeTimestamps 00:00 Traditional vs. Self-Publishing: The Debate Begins 00:41 The Evolution of Self-Publishing 01:10 Benefits of Traditional Publishing 03:17 Challenges with Traditional Publishing 06:58 The Power of Self-Publishing 15:09 Steps to Professionally Self-Publish 16:34 The Importance of Audiobooks 21:15 Marketing Your Book: An Overview 21:53 Building and Utilizing an Email List 24:48 Leveraging Online Platforms for Book Promotion 27:08 The Power of Podcasts and Public Speaking 32:31 Maximizing Social Media for Book Sales 38:47 Final Thoughts on Book Marketing P.S. Want to go deeper? Check out my full course on Udemy or visit chooseyourselfacademy.com: How to Write and Publish a Book in 30 Days – available now. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James: Well, you can't get more information about tariffs and the economy than what I just got and you're about to listen to. Wilbur Ross, who was Secretary of Commerce under the first administration of Trump, just came on the podcast. I got to ask any question I wanted—about tariffs, the economy, everything. Don't forget, in Trump’s first administration, we saw steel and aluminum tariffs, and there were all the same concerns—about the economy, inflation, political blowback. Wilbur Ross was right at the center of it. And now, he’s giving me the full picture on what’s happening today and where it’s all heading. This is a guy who built entire industries, served in the Cabinet, and is worth billions. He’s also the author of Risks and Returns: Creating Success in Business and Life, which I highly recommend. He’s an economic and business inspiration. I learned a lot from this conversation—I’m sure you will too. Please share this episode with anyone who wants to better understand what’s really going on with tariffs and the economy. Enjoy! Episode Description: James sits down with Wilbur Ross, former Secretary of Commerce and seasoned investor, for a candid and highly detailed discussion on tariffs, China, inflation, pharmaceutical policy, and the state of the U.S. economy. Ross offers a firsthand look at the economic strategies being proposed for a possible second Trump administration—explaining why blanket tariffs might make sense, what’s really going on with China and rare earths, and how executive power is being used to bypass bureaucratic gridlock. Listeners will get a rare window into how economic policy is being formed, the political forces shaping it, and what it all means for growth, inflation, and American manufacturing. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: Risks and Returns: Creating Success in Business and LifeLegal summary on IEEPAhttps://www.nakedwines.com/james See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James: So I’ve been podcasting for, gosh, 11 years—over 1500 episodes. And through that whole journey, PodcastOne always stood out to me. They recently went public, and today I’ve got Rob Ellin and Kit Gray joining me. What’s the future of podcasting? If you're thinking about starting a podcast—or wondering how to grow one you already have—this episode's for you. These guys helped shape the entire industry, and they're sharing what works now, what doesn't, and how creators and networks can stay ahead. Episode Description: James Altucher sits down with Kit Gray and Robert Ellin, the powerhouse duo behind PodcastOne, to explore where podcasting is headed next. From YouTube’s dominance to AI-driven analytics, they dissect the changing landscape of content creation, monetization, and brand-building. They also discuss PodcastOne’s public market journey and how creators can turn niche ideas into multi-platform empires. Whether you're a podcast listener, creator, or investor, this episode gives you a real look at how podcasting is evolving from bedroom hobby to billion-dollar business. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: PodcastOne – Official SiteNorthwest Registered AgentBetterHelp Online TherapyLand Rover DefenderEntrepreneurs on Fire by John Lee Dumas This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/james See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Notes from James: This is where a lot of people quit—but you won’t. This episode is about pushing through the dip that comes when writing gets tough. I give you tools I’ve used across 25+ books to keep going, stay motivated, and write better. Episode Descriptions: This is Part 3 of my 30-day writing series—and we’re getting into the real tools that will make your writing not just better, but publishable. If you’ve ever stared at a blank page and felt overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of where to go next, this is the episode that will break that wall down. I walk you through the “6 U’s” that every chapter—and especially your book introduction—must follow to grab readers, hook them emotionally, and sell the value of your book. You’ll also learn the “Warren Buffett 5/25 Rule” and how it helps you figure out exactly what to write about, plus a little-known editing tool (the Flesch-Kincaid score) that will instantly improve your writing’s clarity. If you’ve hit writer’s block, feel stuck mid-draft, or need structure to keep going, you’ll find every tool you need right here. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/JAMES and get on your way to being your best self. What You’ll Learn: Timestamps: 00:00 Crafting a Compelling Book Introduction 01:58 The Six U's of Selling Your Book 07:52 Applying the Six U's to Your Writing 09:34 The Warren Buffett 5/25 Rule for Focus 22:01 The Importance of Readability: Flesch-Kincaid Score 28:27 Introduction to Overcoming Writer's Block 28:54 Nine Techniques to Overcome Writer's Block 36:33 Additional Writing Techniques and Tips 47:57 The Importance of Storytelling in Writing 51:07 Frameworks for Writing and Publishing Your Book P.S. Want to go deeper? Check out my full course on Udemy or visit chooseyourselfacademy.com: How to Write and Publish a Book in 30 Days – available now. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.