Guy Spier — Wealth, Wisdom & Enlightenment (EP.197)
Jan 11, 2024
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Guy Spier, an investor and author, joins the podcast to discuss differences between Switzerland and the US, unlocking the British class system, lessons learned from Warren Buffett, the allure and dangers of drugs like cocaine and psychedelics, toxic gun control debates, personal experiences and relationships, and the connection between music and math in investing.
Understanding the differences between different locations and cultures can provide valuable insights for personal and professional growth.
Expanding the concept of the golden rule to consider the perspective of others can lead to greater empathy and understanding.
Shifting the focus from outer space exploration to internal exploration may offer new paths for human development and progress.
Deep dives
Understanding Infinite Loops Podcast
The podcast Infinite Loops aims to help listeners reset their thinking on various issues and offer fresh perspectives through discussions covering history, philosophy, art, science, linguistics, and quantitative analysis. Each episode aims to provide a better understanding of why we think the way we think and how we can change our thinking to avoid getting stuck in infinite loops.
Exploring Life and Investing with Guy Speer
In this episode, host Jim O'Shaughnessy engages in a wide-ranging conversation with Guy Speer, a famous value investor and author. They discuss the inner aspects of success in investing, including personal introspection and interactions with life. The conversation delves into topics beyond the nuts and bolts of investing, emphasizing the importance of understanding and interacting with life on a deeper level.
Living in New York and Greenwich, Connecticut
Jim O'Shaughnessy shares his experiences of living in both New York City and Greenwich, Connecticut. He discusses the differences between these two locations, including the appeal of the hustle and bustle of city life and the beauty and tranquility of living in Greenwich. The conversation also touches upon the vibrant restaurant scenes in both areas.
Insights into Swiss Living and Language
The conversation shifts to Jim O'Shaughnessy's experiences living in Switzerland. He discusses the multilingual environment in Switzerland and shares anecdotes about the different languages spoken in various regions. They explore the unique aspects of Swiss culture, the country's taxation system, and the lessons that can be learned from Swiss approaches to governance and the discretion of individuals.
The power of compounding and the importance of treating others well
In a hypothetical speech to the world, the speaker emphasizes the golden rule of treating others as you would want to be treated. They suggest expanding this idea by considering the perspective of others and how circumstances could easily place us in their shoes. They also touch on the concept of global interconnectedness, emphasizing that we are all on the same spaceship called Earth and should be mindful of our actions, as they can have systemic effects on the entire human species. They propose a shift in focus from outer space exploration to internal exploration, reflecting on the possibility that advanced civilizations may have chosen a path of self-realization and miniaturization rather than outward colonization.
Guy Spier runs the Aquamarine Fund, an “investment partnership closely modeled on the original Buffet Partnerships.” He is also a podcast host, YouTube creator, author of The Education of a Value Investor and the host of the annual investment gathering VALUEx. He describes his life’s project as “a quest for wealth, wisdom and enlightenment.” Guy joins the show to discuss the differences between Switzerland and the US, how to unlock the British class system, what he learned from Warren Buffett, and MUCH more! Important Links:
The Differences Between New York, Switzerland & Paris
Exploring the Dark Underbelly of New York Nightlife
Psychedelics, Guns & Regulation
The Advantages of Swiss Democracy
Don’t Short the United States
The Branding Skill of the Royal Family
Unlocking the Rules of the Class System
Life Paths & Premeditation
Luck, Opportunity & Non-Canonical Science
Jim’s Music Taste
Mathematical Shenanigans
Guy as Emperor of the World
MORE!
Books Mentioned:
How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us about Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence; by Michael Pollan
The Hypomanic Edge: The Link Between (a Little) Craziness and (a Lot Of) Success in America; by John Gartner
Write It Down, Make It Happen: Knowing What You Want and Getting It; by Henriette Anne Klauser
Invest Like The Best; by Jim O’Shaughnessy
Outside, the Sky is Blue: The story of a family told with searing honesty, humour and love; by Christina Patterson
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