Intro

This chapter explores the journey of a billionaire entrepreneur who thrived in the herbal ecstasy market during the 1990s, successfully navigating legal hurdles without incarceration. The discussion also highlights his pivot to the nootropic sector and his entrepreneurial endeavors as an author and filmmaker on Amazon.

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Episode notes

In this special Asprey Archive episode from 2023, we talk to Shaahin Cheyene.

Today’s guest is nothing short of a modern-day Willy Wonka for Generation X. He built a billion-dollar ecstasy business in the '90s and did not end up behind bars. That's a story you've got to hear. Shaahin Cheyene, not only dabbled in the wild world of herbal ecstasy but also managed to stay out of trouble despite being investigated by seven attorney generals. And get this, he wasn't even 18 when he pulled off these daring feats.

Shaahin's story doesn't stop there. Since those days, he's become an Amazon expert, successfully selling nootropics and a variety of other products on the platform. He's also a filmmaker and author of the book, “Billion: How I Became the King of the Thrill Pill Cult.”

From Fleeing Iran at the age of five to being homeless and living out of his car, Shaahin's journey is nothing short of remarkable. It's safe to say he's one of the most interesting individuals I've had the pleasure of interviewing.

We dive into Shaahin's captivating journey, exploring his transformation from a young criminal to a thriving entrepreneur. You’ll also learn about what went into his groundbreaking herbal ecstasy formula and how he managed to get his business off the ground. Along the way, we discuss the challenges of navigating the bureaucracy of big government, the importance of seeking help when needed, and the valuable lessons Shaahin learned from building and eventually exiting his herbal ecstasy empire.

We also delve into how he managed to run a nine-figure company selling on Amazon, the mindset benefits of Brazilian jiu-jitsu training, the power of curating ideas, and how you can strategically leverage podcasts as an entrepreneur. Join us on a ride you won't want to miss.

(01:47) How Shaahin Became the King of the Thrill Pill Cult

(07:36) Formulating Herbal Ecstasy & Building a Million-Dollar Business

(16:34) Navigating the Bureaucracy of Big Government

(28:04) Pro Tip for Entrepreneurs: Why It’s Important To Ask for Help

(32:09) What Cheyene Learned From Building & Exiting His Business

(37:29) What To Do When You Make Your First Million

(39:21) Scaling a 9-Figure Company Selling on Amazon

(45:05) Lessons From Martial Arts & Our Bets on Musk vs Zuckerberg

(54:03) The Tactical Advantage of Podcasting & Being a Curator of Ideas

(01:03:30) Media Training 101

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