The James Altucher Show
James Altucher
James Altucher interviews the world's leading peak performers in every area of life. But instead of giving you the typical success story, James digs deeper to find the "Choose Yourself" story - these are the moments we relate to... when someone rises up from personal struggle to reinvent themselves. The James Altucher Show brings you into the lives of peak-performers: billionaires, best-selling authors, rappers, astronauts, athletes, comedians, actors, and the world champions in every field, all who forged their own paths, found financial freedom and harnessed the power to create more meaningful and fulfilling lives.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 29, 2025 • 58min
Former FBI Agent, Eric O’Neill on Spies, Lies, and the Cyber Wars We’re Already Losing
In this enlightening discussion, Eric O'Neill, a former FBI counterintelligence operative known for capturing the notorious spy Robert Hanssen, reveals chilling insights about the dark and deep web. He explores the terrifying realities of cybercrime, including human trafficking and ransomware-as-a-service. Eric emphasizes how hackers exploit human psychology and the need for robust cybersecurity measures, like two-factor authentication. His gripping tales from undercover work and the constant threat of digital compromise will leave you questioning your online safety.
20 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 1h 8min
I Know that She Knows that I Know that She Knows: Steven Pinker on the Mysteries of Money, Power, and Everyday Life
Cognitive psychologist Steven Pinker dives into the fascinating world of common knowledge and social behavior. He unpacks how clues in poker and subtle hints in dating convey deeper meanings. The discussion explores the role of laughter as a social signal and how it fosters equality. Pinker explains how misunderstandings, like toilet paper hoarding, arise from collective expectations. He emphasizes the importance of balancing honesty and politeness in relationships and argues that true wisdom lies in acknowledging our self-deceptions.
9 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 1h 26min
Obsession, Secrets, and Sleight of Hand: Inside the Hidden World of Modern Magicians with Ian Frisch
Ian Frisch, a journalist and author of *Magic Is Dead*, dives into the clandestine world of modern magicians. He shares how obsession fuels mastery in magic and reveals the impact of social media on the art form. Discover the evolution from traditional performances to today's creative, streetwear-clad magicians. Ian narrates his journey into the secretive society known as 'The 52', the crafting of tricks, and the significance of live experiences. He connects magic’s storytelling principles to business skills, blending showmanship with personal growth.
57 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 1h 7min
Morgan Housel on The Art of Spending Money and Why Independence Is the Real Luxury
In this enlightening discussion, bestselling author Morgan Housel shares insights from his works on finance and behavior. He emphasizes that the real purpose of money is to achieve independence and contentment, rather than mere happiness. Together with James, they explore why people often spend to impress others who don’t notice, the dangers of lifestyle inflation, and the value of spending on experiences over possessions. Housel also discusses the importance of a healthy money psychology and how freeing oneself from status traps can lead to a more fulfilling life.
13 snips
Oct 7, 2025 • 40min
Confronting Evil with Bill O’Reilly
Bill O'Reilly, a veteran journalist and bestselling author, explores the dark side of history in his latest work. He discusses the haunting legacy of figures like Hitler and Mao, shedding light on how personal and collective evil manifest today. O'Reilly shares his firsthand experiences reporting on atrocities, emphasizing the dangers of ignoring rising violence. The conversation touches on internet radicalization, the complexities of mercy and justice, and the hope of confronting evil with awareness and action.
17 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 1h 41min
Built for Growth with Miesha Tate: James Altucher on Ideas, Obsession, and Fulfillment
Miesha Tate, a former UFC champion and current host of Built for Growth, dives into resilience and obsession with James Altucher. They discuss how childhood insecurities shape adult identity and the importance of doing hard things. Miesha shares her shift to alternative education for her kids, critiquing traditional schooling. James reveals his journey through loss and rebuilding, emphasizing that experimentation can shortcut mastery. The duo explores the balance between mindfulness and productivity, ultimately highlighting fulfillment as the true goal.
Sep 24, 2025 • 2h 1min
Dark Squares: Danny Rensch on Chess, Cults, and Finding Purpose
Danny Rensch, Chief Chess Officer at Chess.com and author of Dark Squares: How Chess Saved My Life, shares his compelling journey from a cult upbringing in Arizona to finding purpose through chess. He reveals how his talent was co-opted by the cult as a propaganda tool and discusses the psychological impact of separation from his mother. Danny dives deep into the manipulative teachings of the group, addressing themes of trauma, identity, and resilience. His story highlights chess as both a prison and a means of liberation.
44 snips
Sep 20, 2025 • 41min
Finding Connection in a Divided World with 'Super Communicator' Charles Duhigg
In this engaging conversation, Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author known for 'Super Communicators' and 'The Power of Habit', dives into the art of connection in a divided world. He outlines the three types of conversations—emotional, practical, and social—and how mismatches can escalate conflict. Duhigg shares strategies for deeper engagement, like asking profound questions and embracing uncertainty. He encourages listeners to deeply listen to opposing views, fostering understanding amidst polarization. It's a fresh look at bridging divides and enhancing communication.
Sep 17, 2025 • 60min
Inside the Cartel: The Longest Undercover FBI Operation with Martin Suarez and Ian Frisch
Martin Suarez, a former FBI agent with the record for the longest undercover assignment, recounts his decade-long infiltration of Colombian cartels, living as a drug lord named "Manny." Co-author Ian Frisch adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the psychological techniques and moral dilemmas faced in such high-stakes environments. They discuss the nuances of deception in negotiations and how the lessons from cartel infiltration can apply to everyday life. Suarez’s battles with ALS also add a poignant layer to his gripping tale.
14 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 19min
[Bonus] Brian Keating on Humility, Chutzpah, and the Arrow of Time
Brian Keating, a Physics Professor at UC San Diego and author of 'Into the Impossible', shares insights on balancing humility and confidence in the pursuit of success. He delves into how even Nobel Prize winners can experience imposter syndrome and the essential traits needed for achievement—mixing arrogance with humility. The discussion touches on the creative challenges of writing science books and introduces his new project on Chern–Simons Theory, exploring its implications for time and space. It's a candid look at resilience, obsession versus quest, and the dynamics of progress.
