The James Altucher Show
James Altucher is the king of vulnerability and the weirdest looking guy in the entrepreneurial space that I know. That’s only a couple of reasons why I love this guy. I was first introduced to James through his blog and from there, our relationship blossomed. Man crush, yes indeed. He is one guy I’d just love to sit down with and talk to about anything and everything.
Now, that might make it all sound like a bit of a waste of time. However, James is an intelligent dude with incredible stories, experiences and very well connected. He’s a businessman, entrepreneur and angel investor who currently sits on the board of a billion dollar revenue company. James talks openly about making millions by building and selling 8 figure companies and also admits to losing it all several times over. I think what attracts people the most to James is his authenticity.
I first came across Altucher when I stumbled upon one of his blog posts and was blown away by his honesty. There was no bull shit. Compared to many of the other articles I was reading at the time his writing was very fresh and much more real. I liked that. I was just new to this space myself, and I couldn’t stand all the ego, hype and “know-it-all’s” that occupied this area. To read it also didn’t require a massive level of knowledge as he doesn’t clutter his writing with ambiguous language. And there is value in many of the lessons he shares.
After reading that first post I signed up and started to receive new articles to my inbox every day. For some time that was all that I read. It was brilliant. His writing and style have undoubtedly influenced my writing a lot. I’ve since read a few of his books including his bestseller – Choose Yourself. It’s a book about why and how to back yourself in a rapidly changing world so the decisions you make will give you the best chance to live the kind of life you desire. Full of authenticity and ideas.
Then came his podcast. Similar to that of the Tim Ferriss show, perhaps without all the celebrities, Altucher interviews with great curiosity, intelligent, knowledgeable and fascinating guests who inspire and educate. At the moment he’s on a mission to pump out episodes at an increasing rate. I’m selective which ones I listen to now being that they average about one to one and a half hours. Even when I’ve heard the same guest on the Tim Ferriss show or another podcast, I still like to listen to James interview them because of his unique approach.
James is a guy that openly enjoys experimenting with life by trying new things and is also an “idea machine.” The last I heard he sold up everything and now lives out of his suitcase lodging at Airbnb residencies. He has become a minimalist. I think he keeps 50 items on him at any one time with the rule that if he wants something new he has to discard an older article. Kind of a different way to live life especially for a guy that has money in the bank, at least I believe he does.
If you are after an idea or two, you can always rely on Altucher. He shares them like they are going out of fashion. I don’t think I’ve listened to an episode where he hasn’t shared a few with his guests. He is the man behind the “idea machine,” a practice in which you discipline yourself to writing down ten ideas each day about anything at all. Kind of like journaling but with a purpose. It’s a practice that I did start but didn’t hold onto which is a shame because I think there is some real value in it. Perhaps I will start again.
The practice requires one to brainstorm ideas on a particular topic. For example, ‘how to improve a fridge or a toaster’ or ’10 ideas to restyle my podcast episodes.’ It’s a brilliant way to get those creative juices flowing and who knows what ideas you might deploy. I’m starting it up again!
There haven’t been too many guys that I’ve started to listen to and stuck with, but James is one of them. I love his content, ideas, guests and authenticity. Check out his podcast using the links below – I’ve also included a few of his books if you’re interested in picking up a few copies.
Books by James Altucher
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Further Reading and Resources
TED Talks: Ideas worth spreading
Elite Daily: The Voice of Generation Y
Four Hour Work Week: How to escape the 9-5, live anywhere and join the new rich.
The Minimalists: How to pursue a minimalist lifestyle and be happier.
Mind Hacks: Tips and Tricks for Using Your Brain
Rich Roll: Plantpowered Wellness Advocate
The Art of Charm: Build confidence, feel comfortable and networking differently.
The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.
Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.
Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.
Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.
Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.”
Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.
The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.
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