Anthony Scaramucci's Resilience: Surviving Trump, FTX and Embracing Bitcoin

A Note from James:Today, we have a very special guest, Steve Forbes, who is arguably the world's leading authority on billionaires. Each year, Forbes magazine publishes the Forbes 400, listing the 400 wealthiest people on the planet. Although I sometimes disagree with the list, Steve always provides fascinating insights into what it takes to become a billionaire. Our conversation covers various intriguing topics about wealth, success, and the unique traits that make these billionaires stand out. Let's jump into it.Episode Description:In this episode, originally recorded on August 10th, 2018, James sits down with Steve Forbes, the chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Media, to explore the traits and strategies that define billionaires. Steve shares his wealth of knowledge from years of curating the Forbes 400 list, offering a rare glimpse into the minds and habits of the world's richest individuals. This conversation is not just about money; it’s about understanding the relentless drive, innovative thinking, and strategic decisions that set billionaires apart. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a business leader, or someone fascinated by success stories, this episode offers unparalleled insights you won't find anywhere else. What You’ll Learn:The key habits and mindsets that distinguish billionaires from millionaires.How billionaires maintain agility and innovation even as their companies grow.The role of passion and obsession in achieving monumental success.Insights into the economic and technological trends shaping the billionaire landscape.Real-world examples of how billionaires like Jeff Bezos and Warren Buffett manage their businesses.Chapters:01:30 - Introduction to Steve Forbes and the Forbes 400 list.03:12 - Why billionaires fascinate the public and insights on the self-made nature of most billionaires.05:00 - Discussion on Jeff Bezos hitting the $100 billion mark and the strategies of top billionaires.08:46 - The actual number of billionaires and their strategies for staying under the radar.13:10 - The differences in habits between millionaires and billionaires.18:14 - The importance of passion and seeing opportunities where others don’t.21:11 - The evolution of media and Forbes' approach to digital transformation.25:15 - Inflation, deflation, and the economic impacts of technology and productivity.29:26 - Potential billionaire candidates for the presidency and their political prospects.32:11 - Billionaire Blitz! Quick thoughts on notable billionaires featured in James's book "Think Like a Billionaire."Additional Resources:Forbes 400 ListThink Like a Billionaire by James AltucherI Love Capitalism! by Ken LangoneForbes MagazineThe Two Pizza Rule: How Amazon Delivers High-Impact ResultsTune in for an enlightening conversation that goes beyond the numbers to reveal the essence of what it means to think and act like a billionaire. ------------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: Today, we've got Andrew Gold back on the podcast. He's an investigative journalist and the author of "The Psychology of Secrets: My Adventures with Murderers, Cults, and Influencers" This book is riveting—every page dives into the intriguing world of secrets. What are secrets? What are the big secrets we know of? How do you tell someone’s secrets? From murderers to cults to influencers, Andrew’s insights are fascinating. He also runs the YouTube channel Heretics, which I highly recommend. But for now, let’s get into our conversation about the nature of secrets. Here's Andrew Gold.Episode Description:In this episode, James welcomes back investigative journalist and author Andrew Gold to discuss his latest book, "The Psychology of Secrets: My Adventures with Murderers, Cults, and Influencers." Andrew shares his deep insights into the nature of secrets and their impact on our lives. From the hidden doctrines of cults like Scientology to the subtle ways secrets influence our personal relationships, Andrew reveals the psychology behind why we keep secrets and how they shape our behavior. This conversation delves into the interplay between secrecy and storytelling, the social dynamics of secret-keeping, and the ethical dilemmas of radical honesty.What You’ll Learn:The psychological mechanisms behind why people keep secrets and how they affect our mental health.The role of secrets in cult dynamics, including how leaders manipulate followers by controlling access to secret knowledge.How secrets can both strengthen and destroy personal relationships.The ethical considerations and potential consequences of radical honesty.The impact of AI and data on uncovering and preserving secrets in the digital age.Chapters:01:52 The Fascinating Dynamics of Cults and Influence02:57 Navigating the Complexities of Public Appearances and Media05:51 The Ethical Dilemmas and Impact of AI on Truth25:40 Unveiling the Power of Secrets in Cult Dynamics39:15 The Enigmatic Influence of Secrets on Society and Individual Psyche42:18 The Intricacies of Secrecy and Society43:03 The Evolution of Secrets and Their Societal Impact45:08 The Power of Secrets in Personal and Social Dynamics54:56 Exploring the Psychology Behind Sharing Secrets58:23 The Complex Relationship Between Secrecy, Honesty, and Society01:06:42 Navigating the Challenges of Content Creation and Audience Expectations01:17:43 Reflections on the Journey of a Content CreatorAdditional Resources:Andrew Gold’s YouTube Channel: HereticsThe Psychology of Secrets on AmazonSam Harris' Book: LyingPeter Boghossian’s WorkTrigonometry Podcast  ------------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:Today, we have a remarkable guest, John Mackey, the founder of Whole Foods. Whole Foods is my go-to place for groceries, whether I'm shopping in-store or ordering via Instacart. John’s story is fascinating. He started as a young, hippie-ish guy living in a commune and working in a food co-op. One day, he thought, "Hey, I could do this," and opened his first store, Saferway, humorously named to poke fun at Safeway. Over time, this venture grew into the massive empire we now know as Whole Foods, which was eventually acquired by Amazon.John's journey is detailed in his new book, which captures the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur. Despite his seemingly hippie background, John evolved into an ardent capitalist, recognizing that innovation thrives on the competition capitalism inspires. In our conversation, we delve into how he evolved over the decades and the invaluable advice he shared with me.So, here’s John Mackey with the whole story: adventures in love, life, and capitalism.Episode Description:In this episode, James Altucher welcomes John Mackey, co-founder of Whole Foods Market. John shares his inspiring journey from a young man living in a commune to building one of the most successful grocery chains in the world. This conversation offers a unique perspective on entrepreneurship, competition, and personal growth. John reveals his transition from a "hippie-ish" background to embracing capitalism, discussing how competition fuels innovation. Listeners will gain insights into John’s entrepreneurial spirit, his experiences with Whole Foods’ expansion, and the personal challenges he faced along the way. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone interested in business, personal development, and the philosophy of conscious capitalism.What You’ll Learn:The Origin Story: How John Mackey’s journey from a commune and food co-op led to the creation of Whole Foods.Entrepreneurial Insights: The transition from hippie to capitalist and how competition drives innovation.Cultural Integrity: The importance of maintaining a healthy company culture during rapid growth.Resilience in Business: How setbacks and failures can be opportunities for learning and growth.Future of Retail: John’s thoughts on the future of retail and holistic health with his new venture, Love Life.Chapters:00:01:30 - Introduction to John Mackey00:03:07 - Whole Foods Market headquarters and remote work trends00:04:22 - John Mackey’s departure from Amazon and thoughts on company culture00:06:32 - Love Life: John’s new venture and its holistic approach00:10:04 - Rebuilding after setbacks: The flood and the importance of resilience00:13:32 - The importance of culture in business growth and sustainability00:19:41 - Analogies between company culture and personal culture00:27:15 - Challenges and lessons from early partnership conflicts00:30:38 - The impact of personal relationships on business00:41:52 - Expansion instincts and entrepreneurial foresight00:46:53 - Current economic perspectives and the future of capitalism00:51:23 - Optimism, creativity, and the role of innovation00:58:22 - Recommended reads for understanding progress and optimism01:08:41 - Managing fear and focusing on personal contributions01:09:31 - Conclusion and John’s new venture, Love LifeAdditional Resources:The Whole Story: Adventures in Love, Life, and Capitalism by John MackeyEnlightenment Now by Steven PinkerSuperabundance by Marian TupyCapitalist Manifesto by Johan NorbergThe Rational Optimist by Matt Ridley ------------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:"I've known Anthony Scaramucci for about 15 years. We had breakfast 15 years ago after his first book came out, and I had written a review of it in the Financial Times. At different times, we even thought about working together, about 10 or 15 years ago. He's always been a very interesting guy.Of course, I know him from the hedge fund world, but much later, he got involved in the political world. He became the Communications Director of the White House under Donald Trump for 11 days before he got fired. He later came on my podcast to talk about his time there, and by then, he was more aligned with Biden.Anthony has a problem: both sides of the aisle don't like him. Democrats remember him as a Trump guy, and Trump supporters hate him because he trashes Trump. I like it when people can't figure out what they really are, but love him or hate him, Anthony Scaramucci has been involved in top news events of the past 10-15 years. From Trump to being involved with FTX, where Sam Bankman-Fried tried to buy Anthony's firm SkyBridge and bought a stake in it, which is part of the bankruptcy proceedings.He just wrote a book, 'From Wall Street to the White House and Back,' the Scaramucci guide to unbreakable resilience. We started off by discussing why people either love or hate him. I pointed out that the worst thing you could have for a book is three-star reviews. You want a lot of five-star reviews and a lot of one-star reviews to show you had an impact on people. That's how he is as a person, and I feel like that's how I am sometimes. We had a good conversation.He's been a friend for a long time. Here's Anthony Scaramucci."Episode Description:In this episode, James Altucher welcomes Anthony Scaramucci, a man who has worn many hats—hedge fund manager, White House Communications Director, and now author. Known for his controversial yet impactful presence, Scaramucci shares insights from his new book, "From Wall Street to the White House and Back," offering listeners a unique perspective on resilience, peak performance, and navigating the highs and lows of public and professional life. Whether you love him or hate him, Scaramucci's journey provides valuable lessons on maintaining integrity, finding purpose, and thriving amidst adversity.What You’ll Learn:Navigating Political and Financial Turbulence: How Scaramucci dealt with his brief yet tumultuous tenure in the White House and his involvement in the FTX debacle.Building Unbreakable Resilience: Insights from Scaramucci’s new book on how to cultivate resilience in the face of public and private challenges.Bitcoin and Crypto Insights: Scaramucci's perspective on the future of Bitcoin, the impact of the FTX collapse, and the importance of doing your homework in the crypto world.Balancing Integrity and Ambition: Lessons on maintaining integrity while pursuing ambitious goals in high-stakes environments.The Importance of Being Polarizing: Why having strong opinions that elicit love or hate can be more impactful than being universally liked.Chapters:00:01:30 - Introduction and Background00:04:00 - Early Career and Hedge Funds00:11:49 - Tenure in the White House00:22:27 - FTX and Crypto Insights00:39:30 - Bitcoin and Financial Strategies00:49:33 - Political Views and Voting Decisions01:00:53 - Philosophical Insights and Purpose01:03:34 - Closing Thoughts and Future PlansAdditional Resources:Anthony Scaramucci’s book: "From Wall Street to the White House and Back"SkyBridge CapitalBitcoin and Cryptocurrency Resources ------------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 may be the smartest guy in terms of raw intelligence that I've ever had on the podcast. Sean Carroll is a great physicist and a great writer of physics. He attempts to explain quantum mechanics and the difference between quantum mechanics and classical physics. I make some analogies about how this applies to my personal life and pitch an idea that I think could win the Nobel Prize. If you listen to this podcast, you will know more about quantum mechanics than before.Sean Carroll is a professor living in Maryland, and a superb physicist who has written many books. However, there's another Sean Carroll who also lives in Maryland and is very smart. While preparing for this podcast, I didn't know the difference between the two Sean Carrolls, so I read books by both. Today, we have Sean M. Carroll, but there's also Sean B. Carroll, who wrote "A Series of Fortunate Events," about the science behind the luck of human existence. It was as fascinating as Sean M. Carroll's work. I read both in preparation and only later realized they were different Sean Carrolls. We need to get the other Sean Carroll on the podcast as well.Episode Description:In this mind-expanding episode of The James Altucher Show, we dive into the complex world of physics with none other than Sean Carroll, a renowned theoretical physicist and one of the most thought-provoking scientists of our time. This isn't your standard physics discussion; it's an enlightening exploration of how the fundamental laws of the universe influence our everyday lives. From the nuances of quantum mechanics to the grandeur of cosmology, Sean breaks down the universe's biggest mysteries in a way that's not only accessible but deeply relevant to personal growth and understanding our place in the cosmos.Episode Summary:[00:01:30] - Introduction to Sean Carroll and his expertise in physics and writing.[00:03:17] - Discussion on Sean's books and their approach to explaining complex physics.[00:05:19] - Quantum mechanics vs. classical physics and their applications.[00:06:44] - The holistic view of the universe in quantum mechanics.[00:07:34] - The nuances of gravity and its evolution from Newton to Einstein.[00:12:35] - Electromagnetism and its difference from the Newtonian view.[00:14:25] - Exploring the unity of gravitational fields and magnetic fields.[00:16:05] - Einstein's perspective on gravity as a feature of space-time.[00:18:27] - The role of quantum mechanics in explaining the universe.[00:20:00] - Understanding the Big Bang and the cosmic microwave background radiation.[00:22:42] - Speculative theories about multiple Big Bangs and the creation of new universes.[00:23:15] - Quantum fluctuations and the possibility of new universes popping into existence.[00:27:02] - The famous question in quantum mechanics: Why does observing a particle change it?[00:29:35] - The theory of spooky entanglement and its implications.[00:31:39] - The holistic nature of quantum mechanics and the concept of entanglement.[00:37:00] - The information dimension and the complexity of space in quantum mechanics.[00:40:31] - Sean Carroll's journey into physics and his philosophical approach.[00:42:57] - The ongoing quest for understanding the smallest particles and fundamental forces.[00:45:51] - The challenges and politics of academia and scientific discovery.[00:48:52] - The practical applications of physics and the importance of documenting knowledge.[00:50:50] - The influence of capitalism and creativity in scientific fields.[00:54:55] - Injecting creativity into physics and balancing academic expectations.[00:57:43] - The exciting areas of complexity and emergence in modern physics.Additional Resources:Sean Carroll's Book: The Biggest Ideas in the Universe: Space, Time, and MotionSean Carroll's Book: The Biggest Ideas in the Universe: Quanta and FieldsTune in and expand your understanding of the universe with insights from Sean Carroll! ------------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've been wanting to have this guy on my podcast for literally ten years, ever since I started. I am so impressed with him, and he speaks about a subject near and dear to my heart. Salman Khan, Sal Khan, is the creator of Khan Academy, which was really the first big online academy. It focused on teaching math, coding, and other subjects, effectively reaching people who went through years of school without truly mastering these topics. Khan Academy has had a profound understanding of education and has become a huge phenomenon.150 million students have used Khan Academy, with that number representing monthly users or registered accounts. Sal Khan recently authored a book on how AI will revolutionize education, titled "Brave New Words: How AI Will Revolutionize Education and Why That's a Good Thing." He discusses the use of AI in education for students, teachers, and employers, providing valuable insights into not only education but also AI and its impact on our lives. He addresses common fears about AI, its role in creativity, learning, and whether it will replace jobs or facilitate new employment opportunities.I finally got the chance to interview Sal Khan about Khan Academy and AI. I learned so much, and I hope you will too.Episode Description:In this thought-provoking episode of The James Altucher Show, we embark on an exploratory journey into the future of education with none other than Salman Khan, the visionary founder of Khan Academy. As AI continues to seep into every facet of our lives, its potential to transform educational paradigms stands both as an opportunity and a profound challenge. Salman shares intriguing insights from his latest book, *Brave New Words: How AI Will Revolutionize Education and Why That's a Good Thing*, delving into AI's role not just as a disruptor, but as a potent catalyst for educational equity and innovation.Salman's perspective is not just about theoretical possibilities; it's grounded in the tangible impact Khan Academy has had on democratizing education for millions globally. He recounts the Academy's genesis from humble beginnings — a series of YouTube tutorials for his cousin — to a global phenomenon. What stands out is his belief in AI's potential to further this mission, tailoring learning experiences to meet individual student's needs and inspiring both educators and learners to view AI as a partner, rather than a threat.This episode is a beacon of optimism for educators, parents, and creatives alike, providing nuanced viewpoints on AI's implementation in classrooms, its potential to reshape content creation, and the critical role of humans in steering this technological revolution. Salman envisions a future where AI supports personalized learning journeys, making the exceptional accessible to many rather than a privileged few.James engages Salman in discussions that span the philosophical to the practical, from concerns over AI-induced job displacement to the future of screenwriting in the age of algorithmic creativity. Yet, at its core, this dialogue returns always to the transformative potential of AI in enriching human understanding and connection — whether in interpreting Shakespeare or solving quadratic equations.If you're looking for a blend of futurism with grounded optimism or curious about how technology could enhance human capabilities rather than replace them, this episode is an enlightening listen. As always, James brings his signature mix of curiosity and skepticism, pushing beyond surface-level concerns to uncover the deeper implications of our evolving relationship with AI. Listen in to reimagine what education could become in an AI-integrated world, and perhaps to catch a glimpse of how we might navigate these uncharted waters with wisdom and humanity at the helm.Episode Summary:00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Sal Khan's Impact03:00 Exploring Sal Khan's Personal Background05:12 The Genesis of Khan Academy08:26 Transitioning Khan Academy into a Nonprofit Giant09:53 AI's Role in Revolutionizing Education12:45 Addressing AI and Cheating in Education16:03 The Future of Education and AI's Collaborative Potential24:24 Reimagining the Role of Teachers in an AI-Enhanced World29:43 Rethinking Education Systems for the Future34:56 Personalized Learning and AI's Role40:50 AI's Role in Education: Enhancing Teacher and Student Experiences43:05 The Future of Education: Trends and AI Integration44:37 Revolutionizing Assessments and Personalized Learning with AI54:25 Addressing the Creative Industry's Concerns About AI01:01:42 Parenting in the Age of AI: Opportunities and Challenges01:15:34 The Future of Education Credentials and Access01:20:26 Concluding Thoughts on AI's Impact on EducationLinks and Resources:"Brave New Words: How AI Will Revolutionize Education and Why That's a Good Thing" by Salman Khan and Other Creators - For more information on the book: https://www.amazon.com/Brave-New-Words-Revolutionize-Education/dp/1119824848Khan Academy - A nonprofit educational organization offering free courses on a wide array of subjects: https://www.khanacademy.orgOpenAI and ChatGPT - Creators of the Generative Pre-trained Transformer AI models: https://openai.comTyler Perry - Filmmaker discussing the impact of AI on his industry decisions: https://tylerperry.comDuke TIP (Talent Identification Program) - An example of advanced learning programs for youth: https://tip.duke.edu ------------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:"Get Better at Anything: 12 Maxims for Mastery." I first met Scott Young nearly ten years ago when he completed all the requirements for a four-year MIT degree in computer science in just 12 months. He's an expert at learning things quickly and recently authored the book "Get Better at Anything: 12 Maxims for Mastery."I had the opportunity to sit down and talk with him, as I'm always interested in learning and mastering new skills. Scott Young excels in this area, and we discuss it thoroughly in this episode.Episode Description:In a vibrant dialogue that traverses the breadth of learning, James Altucher and Scott Young dissect the complexities of acquiring new skills across diverse fields. From Scott's pursuit of an MIT degree in a record-breaking year to effective strategies for mastering anything, this episode is a treasure trove for anyone looking to elevate their learning game. James explores the psychological underpinnings and practical applications of learning principles, drawing on examples from chess, writing, acting, and more to illustrate the multifaceted nature of learning and mastery. Scott Young provides insights from his book, offering listeners a blend of storytelling, scientific research, and personal anecdotes. Whether you're a lifelong learner, an educator, seeking to break through personal boundaries, or simply curious about the mechanics of mastering new skills, this episode is a compelling journey into understanding how we learn best.Episode Summary:00:00 Introduction to Mastery and Learning Quickly00:08 Scott Young's Journey and the Art of Ultra Learning01:57 The Science of Learning: Insights and Strategies05:43 Exploring the Role of Talent in Learning06:56 Case Study: Annette Oberstadt's Poker Mastery17:56 The Importance of Quantity and Practice in Mastery24:25 Understanding Chunking and Pattern Recognition29:38 The Power of Variability in Learning33:36 Applying Knowledge: The Challenge of Retrieval35:39 Unlocking the Basics: Starting Your Learning Journey35:51 Deep Dive into Learning Piano: Strategies and Pitfalls38:12 Exploring Creativity in Music and Writing40:41 The Role of Theory in Creative Mastery45:40 Learning Across Lifespans: Adapting and Overcoming46:45 The Power of Procedural Learning and Memory Systems01:01:41 Harnessing Improv for Acting: A Unique Approach01:04:57 Aging and Learning: Cognitive Shifts Over Time01:10:29 The Joy of Learning: Flow, Mastery, and Well-beingScott Young's website: Scott H. YoungGet Better at Anything: 12 Maxims for Mastery by Scott Young: https://www.scotthyoung.com/blog/getbetter/Harlan Ellison: Information about the writer can be found on WikipediaThe Hero With a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell: Find details on WikipediaOctavia Butler: Learn more about the author on WikipediaClarion Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers' Workshop: More information can be found on their official websiteArthur Brooks: Discover more about his work on his official website ------------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:"The Year of Living Constitutionally." I mentioned this episode last week during our discussion with AJ Jacobs, but here we delve into his book, "The Year of Living Constitutionally." AJ not only researched and wrote about the Constitution, but he also spent a year living as if it were 1790, adhering to the U.S. Constitution literally. He even carried a musket and applied to be a pirate in Congress, referencing Article One, which grants Congress the power to commission pirates.The book is filled with facts, debates, and information about the newfound powers of the Supreme Court, Congress, and the President, as well as the pros and cons of states' rights versus federal rights. It covers the reasons behind various amendments and the ongoing debates about the Electoral College.AJ not only researched this; he lived it. I discussed his unique method of immersing himself in his subjects on last week's podcast, a method that has proven successful in creating bestsellers. With his humor, talent, and depth of information, AJ brings a fresh perspective to the U.S. Constitution in "The Year of Living Constitutionally: One Man's Humble Quest to Follow the Constitution's Original Meaning."And here's my good friend, AJ Jacobs.Episode Description:In this compelling episode of 'The James Altucher Show', James sits down with the endlessly curious and ever-experimenting AJ Jacobs, the author behind the intriguing ‘The Year of Living Constitutionally’. Delving into AJ’s unique journey of trying to live by the U.S. Constitution's original tenets, this conversation unfolds a treasure trove of insights, historical quirks, and the profound impact of such an experiment on one’s understanding of democracy and personal freedoms today.James and AJ unpack the myriad lessons learned from this year-long adventure, touching upon the original intent behind the Constitution’s creation, the contemporary relevance of its mandates, and the often humorous, sometimes bizarre challenges of adhering to its original rules in the modern world. From carrying a musket in New York City to applying to become a legal pirate, AJ’s experiences provide a unique lens through which we explore the founding document of the United States.Beyond the historical anecdotes and constitutional debates, this episode shines a light on the dynamic interplay between law, personal belief, and the evolving landscape of American democracy. James and AJ's dialogue ventures into the complexities of freedom of speech, the implications of the Electoral College, and the changing powers of the presidency, offering listeners a nuanced perspective on what the Constitution means in today’s context.More than just a discussion, this episode is an invitation to reflect on the living spirit of the Constitution, encouraging us to consider how its foundational principles influence our lives and society at large.Episode Summary:00:00 Diving Into the Year of Living Constitutionally01:11 AJ Jacobs' Unique Method of Experiencing History02:56 Exploring the Original Meaning of the U.S. Constitution07:09 The Surprising Realities of Early American Laws15:26 The Evolution of Free Speech in America21:11 The Supreme Court's Role and the 14th Amendment23:37 The Growing Power of the Presidency24:21 Historical Debates and the Idea of Multiple Presidents26:04 The Evolution of Presidential Powers29:54 The Founders' Flexibility and the Constitution's Compromises37:49 The Challenges of Federal Regulation and Overregulation42:02 Reforming the Constitution for Modern Times45:42 AJ Jacobs on Writing and Future ProjectsAdditional ResourcesAJ Jacobs: https://ajjacobs.com/The Year of Living Biblically by AJ JacobsThe Year of Living Constitutionally (Link will be added once available)Federalist Papers - Authored by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James MadisonJames Altucher ------------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: AJ Jacobs, who has an upcoming book, "The Year of Living Constitutionally", he's a fascinating writer. He basically, instead of just doing research on a topic "Oh, I'm going to do research on the Constitution, I'm going to do research on living healthy, I'm going to do research on the Bible," instead of just researching something and writing a book, which I consider to be boring, he has a completely different way of exploring a topic, and it turns out,and not by accident, it turns out that this is the formula for writing a bestselling, millions-of-copies kind of book.And it's an interesting way to live life. And what I mean is,  A. J. really lives what he's writing about. So when he wrote his, one of his early books, The Year of Living Biblically, he  lived for a year, literally word by word, as the Bible would suggest he lives. For instance, I'll let A. J. describes and we talk about it in this episode, but in "The Year of Living Constitutionally", which is about to come out he lives the life of someone.Around 1790, living the constitution word for word applying to be a pirate with the Congress. Something which was an article, one of the constitution, if you didn't happen to know. And meanwhile, other books he's had are like, "My Life is An Experiment",  where everything was an experiment.For instance, he outsourced arguments with his wife to an outsourcing agency in India. So this turns out to be not only a fascinating way to live a very curious and adventurous life. But again, as I said earlier, it turns out to be a great formula for writing a bestselling book, the kind of formula AI can't really compete with I will add. First, I want to hear about AJ's method, the AJ method of living a life of experience and using that to create stories, adventures, and of course, bestselling books. And he's a very funny guy, so how he incorporates Humor into that. And then next week, we're going to do a whole episode, fascinating episode, the year of living constitutionally, because there's so many issues about the constitution.I didn't know about it. And so many, so much information about the constitution. I didn't even know about it. I used to think I've read it, but it turns out I hadn't. So first off though, the AJ method on writing his own unique brand style of bestseller and living a life of adventure.Episode Description:In this episode of the James Altucher Show, James engages in a fascinating conversation with AJ Jacobs, an esteemed author known for his unique approach to writing and life. Jacobs discusses his upcoming book 'The Puzzler', delves into his method of immersing himself in his subjects, and shares insights from the Year of Living Constitutionally. Jacobs, known for his adventurous lifestyle and humor, describes past projects including outsourcing arguments with his wife to India and living according to the Bible. The episode also covers his visit to a long-termism conference, discussing potential future challenges and the impact of AI. Additionally, AJ and James ponder over the significance of incorporating puzzles into daily life and explore the concept of improving forecasting abilities through understanding probabilities. Episode Summary:00:00 Exploring AJ Jacobs' Unique Approach to Writing and Living02:47 AJ Jacobs: A Deep Dive into His Life and Works03:31 The Fascinating World of Puzzles with AJ Jacobs03:56 AJ's Hermit Life and the Creative Process04:47 Solving the World's Most Baffling Puzzles17:07 The Art of Creativity and Intelligence in Puzzle Solving27:24 Exploring Long-Termism and Future Challenges31:57 The Unheard Stories of Nuclear Near Misses32:19 Exploring the Shadows of the Cold War33:05 The Petrov Day: A Reminder of Nuclear Threat34:29 Unaccounted Nuclear Weapons: A Lingering Threat34:48 Envisioning a Utopian Future Amidst Doom35:42 The Evolution of Technology vs. Environmental Challenges36:54 The AI Dilemma: Potential and Perils37:50 AI's Unintended Consequences: From Paperclips to Pandemics41:19 The YouTube Algorithm: A Case Study in AI's Impact48:32 Addressing the Threat of Authoritarianism52:58 The Importance of Science and Statistics in Society58:15 Rethinking Education: A Focus on Practical Knowledge01:01:34 Long Termism: A New Perspective on Humanity's Future ------------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:Learning how to be a good interviewer is crucial in life, not just for reporters or podcasters, but because many life situations resemble interviews. Whether you're applying for a job, hiring someone, or meeting someone new at a party, it's beneficial to gather as much information about them as quickly as possible. Additionally, it's important to leave a good impression if that's your goal. Being a skilled interviewer is therefore essential. I'm grateful for my podcast, which has allowed me to study the techniques of some of the best interviewers. Recently, one of the top interviewers, Polina Pompliano, who writes the newsletter "The Profile," shared her insights. She has profiled many remarkable people and I recommend googling her. Polina has also written a book, "Hidden Genius," and in a recent issue of her newsletter, she didn't profile someone but instead shared the top 10 techniques for becoming a great interviewer, drawing from the best in the field.I found this immensely valuable, so I invited her to come on the podcast to discuss these techniques and share stories about what makes a good interviewer. Let me know if you find this helpful, but I'm confident it will be valuable. Here's Polina and our conversation on how to excel at interviewing.Original Article: https://www.readtheprofile.com/p/the-profile-10-interview-techniquesEpisode Description:This episode of The James Altucher Show explores the intricate art of interviewing, broadening its significance from journalism to daily situations like job interviews and social exchanges. Today's interview features a deep dive into interviewing techniques shared by notable figures, including insights from Polina Pompliano's newsletter "The Profile," which covers a diverse spectrum of personalities from billionaires to artists. We explore critical aspects of successful interviews, such as understanding individuals, establishing rapport, the art of storytelling, and mastering public speaking. Ethical considerations in selecting interview subjects and deliberately omitting controversial figures are also discussed. Moreover, the episode examines the importance of connecting with audiences across different platforms, utilizing storytelling effectively, and finding a balance between personal interests and professional development. This in-depth discussion not only captures the essence of interviewing but also emphasizes its importance in improving both personal and professional communication skills.Episode Summary:00:00 Mastering the Art of Interviewing: Insights and Techniques00:51 Polina Pompliano's Insights on Great Interviewing01:35 Exploring Interview Techniques with Polina Pompliano02:19 The Power of Research and Preparation in Interviews03:53 The Art of Interviewing: Learning from the Best05:13 The Impact of Interviewing Skills Beyond Podcasting05:47 Building Intimacy and Trust in Interviews10:37 Overcoming Nerves and Embracing the Interview Process17:24 The Delicate Balance of Challenging and Supporting Interviewees33:42 Joe Rogan's Approach to Engaging Conversations42:05 Decoding David Letterman's Interview Style45:01 The Art of Interviewing: Oprah's Approach47:37 Howard Stern's Unique Interview Technique51:12 Breaking Down Barriers with Sean Evans55:08 Capturing the Essence of a Story: Barbara Walters01:03:44 The Challenge of Interviewing Controversial Figures01:09:21 Exploring Public Speaking and Interview Ethics01:11:53 The Journey of a Masterful Interviewer01:16:52 Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors ------------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