The James Altucher Show

Notes from James: What if I told you that we could eliminate the IRS, get rid of personal income taxes completely, and still keep the government funded? Sounds impossible, right? Well, not only is it possible, but historical precedent shows it has been done before. I know what you’re thinking—this sounds insane. But bear with me. The IRS collects $2.5 trillion in personal income taxes each year. But what if we could replace that with a national sales tax that adjusts based on what you buy? Under my plan: NecessitiesStandard goodsLuxury goods And boom—we don’t need personal income taxes anymore! You keep 100% of what you make, the economy booms, and the government still gets funded. This episode is a deep dive into how this could work, why it’s better than a flat tax, and why no one in government will actually do this (but should). Let me know what you think—and if you agree, share this with a friend (or send it to Trump). Episode Description: What if you never had to pay personal income taxes again? In this mind-bending episode of The James Altucher Show, James tackles a radical idea buzzing from Trump, Elon Musk, and Howard Lutnick: eliminating the IRS. With $2.5 trillion in personal income taxes on the line, is it even possible? James says yes—and he’s got a plan. Digging into history, economics, and a little-known concept called “money velocity,” James breaks down how the U.S. thrived in the 1800s without income taxes, relying on tariffs and “vice taxes” on liquor and tobacco. Fast forward to today: the government rakes in $4.9 trillion annually, but spends $6.7 trillion, leaving a gaping deficit. So how do you ditch the IRS without sinking the ship? James unveils his bold solution: a progressive national sales tax—5% on necessities like food, 15% on everyday goods like clothes, and a hefty 50% on luxury items like yachts and Rolls Royces. Seniors and those on Social Security? They’d pay nothing. The result? The government still nets $2.5 trillion, the economy grows by $3.7 trillion thanks to unleashed consumer spending, and you keep more of your hard-earned cash. No audits, no accountants, just taxes at the cash register. From debunking inflation fears to explaining why this could shrink the $36 trillion national debt, James makes a compelling case for a tax revolution. He even teases future episodes on tariffs and why a little debt might not be the enemy. Whether you’re a skeptic or ready to tweet this to Trump, this episode will change how you see taxes—and the economy—forever. What You’ll Learn: Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: Trump's Plan to Eliminate the IRS 00:22 Podcast Introduction: The James Altucher Show 00:47 The Feasibility of Eliminating the IRS 01:27 Historical Context: How the US Raised Money in the 1800s 03:41 The Birth of Federal Income Tax 07:39 The Concept of Money Velocity 15:44 Proposing a Progressive Sales Tax 22:16 Conclusion: Benefits of...

A note from James: I love digging into topics that make us question everything we thought we knew. Fort Knox is one of those legendary places we just assume is full of gold, but has anyone really checked? The fact that Musk even brought this up made me wonder—why does the U.S. still hold onto all that gold when our money isn’t backed by it anymore? And what if the answer is: it’s not there at all? This episode is a deep dive into the myths and realities of money, gold, and how the economy really works. Let me know what you think—and if you learned something new, share this episode with a friend! Episode Description: Elon Musk just sent Twitter into a frenzy with a single tweet: "Looking for the gold at Fort Knox." It got me thinking—what if the gold isn’t actually there? And if it’s not, what does that mean for the U.S. economy and the future of money? In this episode, I’m breaking down the real story behind Fort Knox, why the U.S. ditched the gold standard, and what it would mean if the gold is missing. I’ll walk you through the origins of paper money, Nixon’s decision to decouple the dollar from gold in 1971, and why Bitcoin might be the modern version of digital gold. Plus, I’ll explore whether the U.S. should just sell off its gold reserves and what that would mean for inflation, the economy, and the national debt. If you’ve ever wondered how money really works, why the U.S. keeps printing trillions, or why people still think gold has value, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. What You’ll Learn: Timestamp Chapters: 00:00 Elon Musk's Fort Knox Tweet 00:22 Introduction to the James Altucher Show 00:36 The Importance of Gold at Fort Knox 01:59 History of the Gold Standard 03:53 Nixon Ends the Gold Standard 10:02 Fort Knox Security and Audits 17:31 The Case for Selling Gold Reserves 22:35 The U.S. Penny Debate 27:54 Boom Supersonics and Other News 30:12 Mississippi's Controversial Bill 30:48 Conclusion and Call to Action

A Note from James: Who's better than you? That's the book written by Will Packer, who has been producing some of my favorite movies since he was practically a teenager. He produced Straight Outta Compton, he produced Girls Trip with former podcast guest Tiffany Haddish starring in it, and he's produced a ton of other movies against impossible odds. How did he build the confidence? What were some of his crazy stories? Here's Will Packer to describe the whole thing. Episode Description: Will Packer has made some of the biggest movies of the last two decades. From Girls Trip to Straight Outta Compton to Ride Along, he’s built a career producing movies that resonate with audiences and break barriers in Hollywood. But how did he go from a college student with no connections to one of the most successful producers in the industry? In this episode, Will shares his insights on storytelling, pitching, and how to turn an idea into a movie that actually gets made. Will also discusses his book Who’s Better Than You?, a guide to building confidence and creating opportunities—even when the odds are against you. He explains why naming your audience is critical, why every story needs a "why now," and how he keeps his projects fresh and engaging. If you're an aspiring creator, entrepreneur, or just someone looking for inspiration, this conversation is packed with lessons on persistence, mindset, and navigating an industry that never stops evolving. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: [01:30] Introduction to Will Packer’s Journey [02:01] The Art of Pitching to Will Packer [02:16] Identifying and Understanding Your Audience [03:55] The Importance of the 'Why Now' in Storytelling [05:48] The Role of a Producer: Multitasking and Focus [10:29] Creating Authentic and Inclusive Content [14:44] Behind the Scenes of Straight Outta Compton [18:26] The Confidence to Start in the Film Industry [24:18] Embracing the Unknown and Overcoming Obstacles [33:08] The Changing Landscape of Hollywood [37:06] The Impact of AI on the Film Industry [45:19] Building Confidence and Momentum [52:02] Final Thoughts and Farewell Additional Resources: Who’s Better Than You? by Will PackerWill Packer on IMDbEssence FestivalGirls Trip (Film)

A Note from James: You know what drives me crazy? When people say, "I have to build a personal brand." Usually, when something has a brand, like Coca-Cola, you think of a tasty, satisfying drink on a hot day. But really, a brand is a lie—it's the difference between perception and reality. Coca-Cola is just a sugary brown drink that's unhealthy for you. So what does it mean to have a personal brand? I discussed this with Nick Singh, and we also talked about retirement—what’s your number? How much do you need to retire? And how do you build to that number? Plus, we covered how to achieve success in today's world and so much more. This is one of the best interviews I've ever done. Nick’s podcast is My First Exit, and I wanted to share this conversation with you. Episode Description: In this episode, James shares a special feed drop from My First Exit with Nick Singh and Omid Kazravan. Together, they explore the myths of personal branding, the real meaning of success, and the crucial question: “What's your number?” for retirement. Nick, Omid, and James unpack what it takes to thrive creatively and financially in today's landscape. They discuss the value of following curiosity, how to niche effectively without losing authenticity, and why intersecting skills might be more powerful than single mastery. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: My First ExitChoose YourselfRange: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized WorldRead HereOfficial Site

A Note from James: I've done about a dozen podcasts in the past few years about anti-aging and longevity—how to live to be 10,000 years old or whatever. Some great episodes with Brian Johnson (who spends $2 million a year trying to reverse his aging), David Sinclair (author of Lifespan and one of the top scientists researching aging), and even Tony Robbins and Peter Diamandis, who co-wrote Life Force. But Peter just did something incredible. He wrote The Longevity Guidebook, which is basically the ultimate summary of everything we know about anti-aging. If he hadn’t done it, I was tempted to, but he knows everything there is to know on the subject. He’s even sponsoring a $101 million XPRIZE for reversing aging, with 600 teams competing, so he has direct insight into the best, cutting-edge research. In this episode, we break down longevity strategies into three categories: common sense (stuff you already know), unconventional methods (less obvious but promising), and the future (what’s coming next). And honestly, some of it is wild—like whether we can reach "escape velocity," where science extends life faster than we age. Peter’s book lays out exactly what’s possible, what we can do today, and what’s coming. So let’s get into it. Episode Description: Peter Diamandis joins James to talk about the future of human longevity. With advancements in AI, biotech, and medicine, Peter believes we're on the verge of a health revolution that could drastically extend our lifespans. He shares insights from his latest book, The Longevity Guidebook, and discusses why mindset plays a critical role in aging well. They also discuss cutting-edge developments like whole-body scans for early disease detection, upcoming longevity treatments, and how AI is accelerating medical breakthroughs. Peter even talks about his $101 million XPRIZE for reversing aging, with over 600 teams competing. If you want to live longer and healthier, this is an episode you can't afford to miss. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: [00:01:30][00:03:18][00:06:32][00:09:37][00:14:08][00:19:00][00:25:35][00:31:00][00:36:27][00:41:00][00:50:12][00:56:26][01:03:07] Additional Resources:

A Note from James: "I have been dying to understand quantum computing. And listen, I majored in computer science. I went to graduate school for computer science. I was a computer scientist for many years. I’ve taken apart and put together conventional computers. But for a long time, I kept reading articles about quantum computing, and it’s like magic—it can do anything. Or so they say. Quantum computing doesn’t follow the conventional ways of understanding computers. It’s a completely different paradigm. So, I invited two friends of mine, Nick Newton and Gavin Brennan, to help me get it. Nick is the COO and co-founder of BTQ Technologies, a company addressing quantum security issues. Gavin is a top quantum physicist working with BTQ. They walked me through the basics: what quantum computing is, when it’ll be useful, and why it’s already a security issue. You’ll hear me asking dumb questions—and they were incredibly patient. Pay attention! Quantum computing will change everything, and it’s important to understand the challenges and opportunities ahead. Here’s Nick and Gavin to explain it all." Episode Description: Quantum computing is a game-changer in technology—but how does it work, and why should we care? In this episode, James is joined by Nick Newton, COO of BTQ Technologies, and quantum physicist Gavin Brennan to break down the fundamentals of quantum computing. They discuss its practical applications, its limitations, and the looming security risks that come with it. From the basics of qubits and superposition to the urgent need for post-quantum cryptography, this conversation simplifies one of the most complex topics of our time. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: BTQ Technologies Website

A Note from James: So we have a brand new president of the United States, and of course, everyone has their opinion about whether President Trump has been good or bad, will be good and bad. Everyone has their opinion about Biden, Obama, and so on. But what makes someone a good president? What makes someone a bad president? Obviously, we want our presidents to be moral and ethical, and we want them to be as transparent as possible with the citizens. Sometimes they can't be totally transparent—negotiations, economic policies, and so on. But we want our presidents to have courage without taking too many risks. And, of course, we want the country to grow economically, though that doesn't always happen because of one person. I saw this list where historians ranked all the presidents from 1 to 47. I want to comment on it and share my take on who I think are the best and worst presidents. Some of my picks might surprise you. Episode Description: In this episode, James breaks down the rankings of U.S. presidents and offers his unique perspective on who truly deserves a spot in the top 10—and who doesn’t. Looking beyond the conventional wisdom of historians, he examines the impact of leadership styles, key decisions, and constitutional powers to determine which presidents left a lasting, positive impact. From Abraham Lincoln's crisis leadership to the underappreciated successes of James K. Polk and Calvin Coolidge, James challenges popular rankings and provides insights you won't hear elsewhere. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters:

A Note from James: Probably no president has fascinated this country and our history as much as John F. Kennedy, JFK. Everyone who lived through it remembers where they were when JFK was assassinated. He's considered the golden boy of American politics. But I didn't know this amazing conspiracy that was happening right before JFK took office. Best-selling thriller writer Brad Meltzer, one of my favorite writers, breaks it all down. He just wrote a book called The JFK Conspiracy. I highly recommend it. And we talk about it right here on the show. Episode Description: Brad Meltzer returns to the show to reveal one of the craziest untold stories about JFK: the first assassination attempt before he even took office. In his new book, The JFK Conspiracy, Brad dives into the little-known plot by Richard Pavlik, a disgruntled former postal worker with a car rigged to explode. What saved JFK’s life that day? Why does this story remain a footnote in history? Brad shares riveting details, the forgotten man who thwarted the plot, and how this story illuminates America’s deeper fears. We also explore the legacy of JFK and Jackie Kennedy, from heroism to scandal, and how their "Camelot" has shaped the presidency ever since. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: The JFK Conspiracy by Brad MeltzerClint Hill's Memoir, Mrs. Kennedy and MeThe Life Magazine Camelot InterviewWatch the 1960 Kennedy-Nixon Debates

A Note from James: So, I’m out rock climbing, but I really wanted to take a moment to introduce today’s guest: Roger Reaves. This guy is unbelievable. He’s arguably the biggest drug smuggler in history, having worked with Pablo Escobar and others through the '70s, '80s, and even into the '90s. Roger’s life is like something out of a movie—he spent 33 years in jail and has incredible stories about the drug trade, working with people like Barry Seal, and the U.S. government’s involvement in the smuggling business. Speaking of Barry Seal, if you’ve seen American Made with Tom Cruise, there’s a wild scene where Barry predicts the prosecutor’s next move after being arrested—and sure enough, it happens just as he said. Well, Barry Seal actually worked for Roger. That’s how legendary this guy is. Roger also wrote a book called Smuggler about his life. You’ll want to check that out after hearing these crazy stories. Here’s Roger Reaves. Episode Description: Roger Reaves shares his extraordinary journey from humble beginnings on a farm to becoming one of the most notorious drug smugglers in history. He discusses working with Pablo Escobar, surviving harrowing escapes from law enforcement, and the brutal reality of imprisonment and torture. Roger reflects on his decisions, the human connections that shaped his life, and the lessons learned from a high-stakes career. Whether you’re here for the stories or the insights into an underground world, this episode offers a rare glimpse into a life few could imagine. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: American Made Additional Resources: SmugglerBarry Seal WikipediaAmerican MadeIMDb Link

A Note from James: "Couldn't believe it was possible. I thought the reality show of Election 2024 could not be beat, but it turns out that was just season one, and season two is incredible. Right now, I don't know whether this is insane or the smartest thing possible. So we're going to figure this out right now. Trump just announced that he wants to buy Greenland and so many things to unpack there. The deeper I go, the more of a rabbit hole it became, and the deeper I went." Episode Description: In this episode, James Altucher delves into former President Donald Trump's recent announcement to buy Greenland, exploring the strategic and economic reasons behind the move. The discussion revisits Trump's initial interest in purchasing Greenland in 2019 and examines the geopolitical significance of the island, including rare earth minerals, uranium, and oil reserves. The episode also considers China's control over rare earth minerals and the potential ramifications for U.S. national security. Despite Denmark's refusal to sell, the analysis suggests that acquiring Greenland could benefit both the island's residents and the strategic interests of the United States. What You'll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: [00:00] Introduction: The Unbelievable Reality of Election 2024 [00:21] Trump's Greenland Ambition: A Recap [00:50] Crowdfunding Greenland: A Personal Journey [01:37] Strategic Importance of Greenland [06:25] The Rare Earth Minerals Dilemma [14:35] Historical Attempts to Buy Greenland [18:55] Modern Geopolitical Implications [21:02] Conclusion: The Future of Greenland Additional Resources: James Altcher: Greenland - Let's buy it!James Altucher's Blog

A Note from James: The world's completely changing. Young people, including my five kids, are no longer planning on that one-job, one-career trajectory where you start at General Motors or Procter & Gamble and retire 45 years later with a gold watch. Instead, they’re hustling. They're building side hustles, working from home, and finding ways to make money while traveling. And where do all these opportunities come from? Micha Kaufman, the founder and CEO of Fiverr, joins me today. Fiverr has created millions of jobs and revolutionized the gig economy. It's not just about freelancing—it’s about how you can leverage platforms like Fiverr alongside AI to create opportunities. This conversation could change your life. Let's get into it. Episode Description: In this episode, James Altucher chats with Micha Kaufman, the visionary founder and CEO of Fiverr. Micha shares how Fiverr reshaped the freelance marketplace by making talent accessible to anyone, anywhere. They discuss how the gig economy has evolved, the role of AI in freelancing, and why adaptability is the key to thriving in the modern workforce. Micha’s insights reveal the strategies that made Fiverr a global platform connecting millions while changing how businesses access talent. What You’ll Learn: How Fiverr revolutionized freelancingThe impact of AI on freelancingThe future of the gig economyFiverr’s viral growth strategyThe role of human creativity in the age of AI Timestamped Chapters: [01:30][03:42][05:56][10:18][13:36][20:48][25:49][32:23][40:46][46:16][49:53] Additional Resources: Fiverr - Official WebsiteThe Gig Economy by Diane MulcahyMicha Kaufman on LinkedInJames Altucher’s Blog

Episode Description: Eric Jorgenson’s story with Scribe Media is one of the rare second chances in business. In this episode, James sits down with Eric to discuss how he saved Scribe from its dramatic downfall, brought it back to stability, and is leading it into a promising future. Eric shares the inner workings of the acquisition, the lessons learned from Scribe’s collapse, and how the company is redefining professional self-publishing. Together, they also explore why self-publishing is a vital option for authors, the evolving publishing landscape, and how to create meaningful books in today’s digital age. This episode is packed with actionable insights for authors, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in the intersection of business and creativity. What You’ll Learn: The Fall and Rise of Scribe Media:The Future of Publishing:Leadership Lessons:The Economics of Books:Resilience in Business: Timestamped Chapters: [01:30][03:20][09:26][17:10][24:11][32:14][40:53][50:49] Additional Resources: Eric Jorgenson’s "The Almanack of Naval Ravikant"Scribe Media’s WebsiteJames Altucher’s "Choose Yourself"Tucker Max’s Blog on Scribe’s Collapse

A Note from James: Money GPT. I mean, we've all heard about the incredible potential of AI, and I’ve shared my optimism about its future in many episodes. But today, we have Jim Rickards back on the show, and he’s here to offer a more skeptical perspective. You might remember our earlier discussion where Jim laid out a masterclass on the economy, its history, and what might unfold over the next few years. Now, he’s back with insights from his new book, Money GPT, diving into what we should watch out for when it comes to AI and its impact on the economy. Let’s get into this compelling discussion with Jim Rickards. Episode Description: In this episode, James Altucher welcomes back bestselling author Jim Rickards to discuss his latest book, Money GPT. Jim delves into the transformative power of AI, highlighting both its immense benefits and the potential risks it poses, particularly to the global economy and financial markets. Drawing on his experience building AI models for the CIA, Jim explains how AI is reshaping industries and warns of its unintended consequences. The conversation spans the accelerating role of AI in finance, its vulnerabilities, and its parallels with nuclear decision-making processes. Whether you're optimistic or cautious about AI, this episode will challenge your perspective with fresh insights and historical context. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: [00:01:30][00:03:24][00:06:50][00:11:34][00:19:46][00:23:14][00:39:15][00:47:53] Additional Resources: Money GPTThe History and Future of the Economy with Jim Rickards

A Note from James: If my kids asked me, "What is the one podcast we should listen to to create financial security, wealth, whatever?"—this is the one I’d recommend. Codie Sanchez is so smart, thoughtful about business, and open about her journey to success, including the failures she's overcome. Her book, Main Street Millionaire, highlights how the most boring businesses—laundromats, car washes, and other everyday enterprises—are the true wealth creators. Codie shares her strategies for buying these businesses for little to no money down and scaling them for massive success. This episode is packed with actionable insights, so take notes, and if you have questions, hit me up on Twitter. Here’s Codie Sanchez. Episode Description: James sits down with Main Street Millionaire author Codie Sanchez to explore the art of building wealth through "boring" businesses. Codie explains why chasing trendy industries like AI and crypto might not be the best path to financial freedom, and instead focuses on buying, scaling, and profiting from existing small businesses. They discuss why these overlooked enterprises can be goldmines and how to find, evaluate, and acquire them—even with minimal upfront capital. This episode is a roadmap for anyone dreaming of stepping off the corporate treadmill and building sustainable wealth. What You’ll Learn: Timestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: Main Street Millionaire

A Note from James: "Over a billion people play chess. Even if you’re not into it, think about this: two armies on a board, going to war. It’s the game of kings, and back in the day, kings played chess to strategize without any bloodshed. Although, if you’ve ever lost a chess game, you might feel like someone just wiped you off the board. I’ve been there—sitting for hours, putting your whole brain into it, and then losing. It feels like death. People cry. I’ve cried. But here’s the thing: it’s also the safest way to practice losing and bouncing back in life. That’s why chess is part of our culture—from TV shows like The Queen’s Gambit to the background of every smart character in movies. Chess has helped me in ways I can’t even measure. It got me into college, helped me land jobs, and taught me how to deal with failure. In this episode, I sat down with Peter Doggers, an incredible chess journalist and author of The Chess Revolution. We talked about how chess is taking the world by storm, why it matters so much today, and what makes it more than just a game. If you play chess, know someone who does, or even just want to understand the cultural and intellectual explosion of chess right now, this conversation is for you. Let’s get into it." Episode Description: Chess isn’t just a game—it’s a cultural revolution. In this episode, James talks with Peter Doggers, chess journalist and author of The Chess Revolution, about the global chess boom, AI’s role in shaping modern chess, and why the game has captivated everyone from kids to CEOs. They discuss everything from the addictive nature of chess to its impact on careers, mental resilience, and even Hollywood. Whether you’re a grandmaster or a beginner, this conversation uncovers why chess is more relevant than ever. What You’ll Learn: The Queen’s GambitTimestamped Chapters: Additional Resources: The Chess Revolution: Understanding the Power of an Ancient Game in the Digital AgePeter Doggers' Web Site ------------ What do YOU think of the show? Head to JamesAltucherShow.com/listeners and fill out a short survey that will help us better tailor the podcast to our audience!Are you interested in getting direct answers from James about your question on a podcast? Go to JamesAltucherShow.com/AskAltucher and send in your questions to be answered on the air!------------ Notepd.comSkip the LineYou Should Run for President 2.0jamesaltuchershow.com------------ Thank you so much for listening! If you like this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to “The James Altucher Show” wherever you get your podcasts: Apple PodcastsiHeart RadioSpotifyFollow me on social media: YouTubeTwitterFacebookLinkedIn

A Note from James:"Over a billion people play chess. Even if you're not into it, think about this: two armies on a board, going to war. It's the game of kings, and back in the day, kings played chess to strategize without any bloodshed. Although, if you've ever lost a chess game, you might feel like someone just wiped you off the board. I've been there-sitting for hours, putting your whole brain into it, and then losing. It feels like death. People cry. I've cried.But here's the thing: it's also the safest way to practice losing and bouncing back in life. That's why chess is part of our culture-from TV shows like The Queen's Gambit to the background of every smart character in movies. Chess has helped me in ways I can't even measure. It got me into college, helped me land jobs, and taught me how to deal with failure.In this episode, I sat down with Peter Doggers, an incredible chess journalist and author of The Chess Revolution. We talked about how chess is taking the world by storm, why it matters so much today, and what makes it more than just a game. If you play chess, know someone who does, or even just want to understand the cultural and intellectual explosion of chess right now, this conversation is for you. Let's get into it."Episode Description:Chess isn't just a game-it's a cultural revolution. In this episode, James talks with Peter Doggers, chess journalist and author of The Chess Revolution, about the global chess boom, AI's role in shaping modern chess, and why the game has captivated everyone from kids to CEOs. They discuss everything from the addictive nature of chess to its impact on careers, mental resilience, and even Hollywood. Whether you're a grandmaster or a beginner, this conversation uncovers why chess is more relevant than ever.What You'll Learn:How The Queen's Gambit and the pandemic reignited global interest in chess.The role of AI in transforming the way chess is played and understood.Why losing in chess feels so personal-and what it teaches about resilience.The ongoing battle against cheating in chess and the challenges of AI-driven deception.How chess can boost your career and cultural standing.Timestamped Chapters:[01:30] The cultural explosion of chess.[03:08] The addictive nature of the game.[05:47] Meeting Peter Doggers: From journalist to chess master.[10:20] AI and the future of chess.[17:28] The drama and history of chess rivalries.[22:15] Why chess players keep coming back for more.[30:50] Can adults still improve at chess?[40:47] The impact of streamers on chess popularity.Additional Resources:Peter Doggers' book: The Chess Revolution: Understanding the Power of an Ancient Game in the Digital AgePeter Doggers' Web Site ------------What do YOU think of the show? Head to JamesAltucherShow.com/listeners and fill out a short survey that will help us better tailor the podcast to our audience!Are you interested in getting direct answers from James about your question on a podcast? Go to JamesAltucherShow.com/AskAltucher and send in your questions to be answered on the air!------------Visit Notepd.com to read our idea lists & sign up to create your own!My new book, Skip the Line, is out! Make sure you get a copy wherever books are sold!Join the You Should Run for President 2.0 Facebook Group, where we discuss why you should run for President.I write about all my podcasts! Check out the full post and learn what I learned at jamesaltuchershow.com------------Thank you so much for listening! If you like this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to "The James Altucher Show" wherever you get your podcasts: Apple PodcastsiHeart RadioSpotifyFollow me on social media:YouTubeTwitterFacebookLinkedIn

A Note from James: "Oh my gosh, so many things going on with Bitcoin. Let me just summarize it. Obviously, Gary Gensler resigning is huge for Bitcoin. He was the head of the SEC, and this is the end of a regulatory cloud over crypto. Another major development is the proposal for Bitcoin to be included in U.S. strategic reserves. If the U.S. starts buying Bitcoin, which Senator Carol Loomis has proposed in a bill, Bitcoin could hit a million. I'm not even being too hyperbolic here. Plus, companies are beginning to adopt crypto, and tokenization is taking off. Today's guest is Omid Malekan, an expert in crypto who used to run crypto at Citibank. He's written extensively on the subject, and I love catching up with him to get his unique perspective on where crypto is heading. If you’re curious about Bitcoin’s future, the meme coin phenomenon, or the catalysts that might reshape the world of finance, Omid has a lot of insights to share. And trust me, you’ll want to stick around for this one.” Episode Description: In this episode, James sits down with Omid Malekan, crypto expert and author, to discuss the seismic shifts happening in the world of Bitcoin and cryptocurrency. With Gary Gensler stepping down as SEC chair, what does this mean for the future of crypto? Omid shares his perspective on Bitcoin’s potential to become a strategic reserve asset for the U.S. government and dives into the fascinating, if controversial, world of meme coins. From understanding why tokenization is more than just a buzzword to exploring how stablecoins and decentralized finance are disrupting traditional banking, this episode provides a clear, actionable roadmap for anyone interested in the future of money and blockchain technology. What You’ll Learn: Why Gary Gensler’s resignation matters for Bitcoin’s futureHow tokenization could reshape financial marketsThe role of meme coins in crypto’s evolutionThe promise and potential pitfalls of stablecoinsOmid’s predictions for Bitcoin and Ethereum in a post-regulatory worldTimestamped Chapters: [01:30][02:52][05:25][10:09][20:07][36:17][50:07]Additional Resources: TwitterCoinDesk ------------ What do YOU think of the show? Head to JamesAltucherShow.com/listeners and fill out a short survey that will help us better tailor the podcast to our audience!Are you interested in getting direct answers from James about your question on a podcast? Go to JamesAltucherShow.com/AskAltucher and send in your questions to be answered on the air!------------ Notepd.comSkip the LineYou Should Run for President 2.0jamesaltuchershow.com------------ Thank you so much for listening! If you like this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to “The James Altucher Show” wherever you get your podcasts: Apple PodcastsiHeart RadioSpotifyFollow me on social media: YouTubeTwitterFacebookLinkedIn

A Note from James:"Oh my gosh, so many things going on with Bitcoin. Let me just summarize it. Obviously, Gary Gensler resigning is huge for Bitcoin. He was the head of the SEC, and this is the end of a regulatory cloud over crypto. Another major development is the proposal for Bitcoin to be included in U.S. strategic reserves. If the U.S. starts buying Bitcoin, which Senator Carol Loomis has proposed in a bill, Bitcoin could hit a million. I'm not even being too hyperbolic here. Plus, companies are beginning to adopt crypto, and tokenization is taking off.Today's guest is Omid Malekan, an expert in crypto who used to run crypto at Citibank. He's written extensively on the subject, and I love catching up with him to get his unique perspective on where crypto is heading. If you're curious about Bitcoin's future, the meme coin phenomenon, or the catalysts that might reshape the world of finance, Omid has a lot of insights to share. And trust me, you'll want to stick around for this one."Episode Description:In this episode, James sits down with Omid Malekan, crypto expert and author, to discuss the seismic shifts happening in the world of Bitcoin and cryptocurrency. With Gary Gensler stepping down as SEC chair, what does this mean for the future of crypto? Omid shares his perspective on Bitcoin's potential to become a strategic reserve asset for the U.S. government and dives into the fascinating, if controversial, world of meme coins.From understanding why tokenization is more than just a buzzword to exploring how stablecoins and decentralized finance are disrupting traditional banking, this episode provides a clear, actionable roadmap for anyone interested in the future of money and blockchain technology.What You'll Learn:Why Gary Gensler's resignation matters for Bitcoin's future - and what it means for the regulatory environment.How tokenization could reshape financial markets - from real estate to gold and beyond.The role of meme coins in crypto's evolution - as both protest and possibility.The promise and potential pitfalls of stablecoins - and why they're more than just digital dollars.Omid's predictions for Bitcoin and Ethereum in a post-regulatory world - and which other coins might take off.Timestamped Chapters:[01:30] Bitcoin's Big News: Why Gensler's resignation is a game-changer[02:52] Omid Malekan's take on Bitcoin as a U.S. strategic reserve[05:25] The meme coin phenomenon: From joke to serious business[10:09] What's next for crypto banking and decentralized finance[20:07] Stablecoins: The next big thing for the U.S. dollar[36:17] Ethereum vs. Solana: The battle for blockchain supremacy[50:07] Tokenization and the future of asset ownershipAdditional Resources:Follow Omid Malekan on TwitterLearn more about stablecoins and decentralized finance at CoinDesk. ------------What do YOU think of the show? Head to JamesAltucherShow.com/listeners and fill out a short survey that will help us better tailor the podcast to our audience!Are you interested in getting direct answers from James about your question on a podcast? Go to JamesAltucherShow.com/AskAltucher and send in your questions to be answered on the air!------------Visit Notepd.com to read our idea lists & sign up to create your own!My new book, Skip the Line, is out! Make sure you get a copy wherever books are sold!Join the You Should Run for President 2.0 Facebook Group, where we discuss why you should run for President.I write about all my podcasts! Check out the full post and learn what I learned at jamesaltuchershow.com------------Thank you so much for listening! If you like this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to "The James Altucher Show" wherever you get your podcasts: Apple PodcastsiHeart RadioSpotifyFollow me on social media:YouTubeTwitterFacebookLinkedIn

A Note from James:This week, there's a lot happening with Iran. Some strategies the U.S. has tried with them are just mind-boggling. My guest, Ken Timmerman, says it best: Iran is the biggest issue we face right now, and the closest we've been to World War III. What went wrong? What could go wrong next?Ken has been covering Iran and terrorism for 40 years. In this episode, we unpack his early days as a hostage of terrorists, the state of Iran's nuclear ambitions, and some downright shocking conclusions. I challenge Ken on some of his points, but his insights are hard to ignore. His new book, The Iran House, is a must-read for anyone wanting to understand the history and future of this volatile situation. Here's Ken Timmerman, terrorism expert and author of The Iran House.Episode Description:James sits down with investigative journalist and war correspondent Ken Timmerman to discuss the ongoing threat posed by Iran and its nuclear ambitions. From being held captive by terrorists to winning a $6 billion court judgment against Iran for their involvement in 9/11, Ken's experiences provide unparalleled insights into Middle Eastern politics. The episode explores why Iran's regime remains a global threat, the role of U.S. policy in shaping the region, and what's needed to empower the Iranian people toward meaningful change.What You'll Learn:Why Iran's leadership is considered the most significant threat to global security today.Ken's personal story of surviving 24 days as a terrorist hostage and how faith shaped his outlook.How Iran funds terrorist organizations across Sunni and Shia divides to destabilize the region.The real impact of U.S. policies, from Obama's nuclear deal to Trump's "maximum pressure" campaign.How empowering the Iranian people can lead to regime change without military intervention.Timestamped Chapters:[01:30] James' introduction: Why Iran matters now more than ever.[02:58] Ken's harrowing experience as a hostage in Beirut.[12:27] How Iran's funding spans both Sunni and Shia terrorist groups.[18:00] The controversy of U.S. policies toward Iran: Obama vs. Trump.[39:54] Non-violent warfare: Empowering Iranians for change.[55:16] Iran's nuclear capabilities and global implications.[01:07:23] Final thoughts: A hopeful path forward for peace.Additional Resources:Ken Timmerman's latest book: The Iran House: Tales of Revolution, Persecution, War, and Intrigue.Ken's memoir: And the Rest is History: Tales of Hostages, Arms Dealers, Dirty Tricks, and SpieU.S. Victims of State-Sponsored Terrorism Fund informationA history of Iran's nuclear ambitions from the International Atomic Energy Agency ------------What do YOU think of the show? Head to JamesAltucherShow.com/listeners and fill out a short survey that will help us better tailor the podcast to our audience!Are you interested in getting direct answers from James about your question on a podcast? Go to JamesAltucherShow.com/AskAltucher and send in your questions to be answered on the air!------------Visit Notepd.com to read our idea lists & sign up to create your own!My new book, Skip the Line, is out! Make sure you get a copy wherever books are sold!Join the You Should Run for President 2.0 Facebook Group, where we discuss why you should run for President.I write about all my podcasts! Check out the full post and learn what I learned at jamesaltuchershow.com------------Thank you so much for listening! If you like this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to "The James Altucher Show" wherever you get your podcasts: Apple PodcastsiHeart RadioSpotifyFollow me on social media:YouTubeTwitterFacebookLinkedIn

A Note from James:Oh my gosh. I always feel like my IQ goes up when I talk to Jim Rickards. He has so much knowledge about so many things, but particularly, he's been there, done that when it comes to all things in the economy. Some of his stories about what he's personally seen and done are tied to some of the most famous events in the economy over the past 50 years.Anyway, he wrote a new book, Money GPT, which is about the financial aspects of AI and how it could affect the economy. But we started off with the basics. I just wanted to ask him: What do you think is going to happen in this economy? And we go deep. So, we divided this into two parts.Part one covers everything you need to know about the current state of the U.S. economy. This was a real education for me, and I read a lot about this stuff. So, I'm excited to share it with you. The second part, which will come out later, is all about AI and its effects on the economy.Here's my friend Jim Rickards. I'm sure you're going to enjoy this as much as I did. And, as always, if you have any comments or questions, let me know. And, please, subscribe to the podcast if you haven't already.Episode Description:In this episode, James Altucher sits down with renowned economist and author Jim Rickards to break down the complexities of today's economy. With decades of experience and a front-row seat to some of history's most pivotal financial events, Jim delivers sharp insights into the forces driving economic cycles. This discussion dives into historical parallels, the impact of policy decisions, and what lies ahead for the U.S. economy under potential future administrations.Jim also shares his take on how recession cycles play out, the legacy of interest rate hikes, and why both borrower and lender psychology matter more than Federal Reserve actions. Packed with valuable lessons, this episode offers a rare look at economic trends from a perspective few can match.What You'll Learn:The historical parallels between Reagan-era recessions and today's economic landscape.Why low interest rates aren't necessarily a stimulus and the real drivers of economic growth.How borrower and lender behavior impact recessions more than Federal Reserve policies.The role of government and corporate partnerships in shaping modern economies.What could catalyze a shift from stagnation to growth in today's economic climate.Timestamped Chapters:[00:01:30] Introduction to Jim Rickards and his new book, Money GPT[00:02:17] Overview of the U.S. economy's current state[00:03:16] Historical parallels: Lessons from Reagan-era recessions[00:07:02] Interest rates: Stimulus or symptom of deeper issues?[00:10:14] Depression vs. recession: How the definitions shape our understanding[00:18:33] The psychology of lending and borrowing in recessions[00:27:20] Modern banking, bail-ins, and the Silicon Valley Bank collapse[00:34:21] The Fed's limits: What really moves the economy[00:45:21] Government-corporate partnerships: Are we living in a new era of fascism?[00:58:22] Can Trump's policies truly drain the swamp and drive economic growth?Additional Resources:Jim Rickards' book: Money GPTJim Rickards' previous works: The Death of Money, Aftermath ------------What do YOU think of the show? Head to JamesAltucherShow.com/listeners and fill out a short survey that will help us better tailor the podcast to our audience!Are you interested in getting direct answers from James about your question on a podcast? Go to JamesAltucherShow.com/AskAltucher and send in your questions to be answered on the air!------------Visit Notepd.com to read our idea lists & sign up to create your own!My new book, Skip the Line, is out! Make sure you get a copy wherever books are sold!Join the You Should Run for President 2.0 Facebook Group, where we discuss why you should run for President.I write about...