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
35 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.
5 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.
16 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 1h 13min
How to Focus Like a Nobel Prize Winner with Prof. Brian Keating
Brian Keating, a cosmologist at UC San Diego and author of 'Into the Impossible,' shares insights from his interactions with Nobel Prize winners. They discuss the importance of balancing focus and curiosity, revealing that communication is as vital as discovery in science. Keating introduces his 'Keating Test' for AI and emphasizes the need to guard one's time from distractions. Listeners will learn about the power of questioning established ideas to drive breakthroughs and the significance of finding one's unique path to mastery.
29 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 1h 28min
From Deep Blue to Bittensor — Why Subnets Are the Next Internet Boom
Dive into the world of obsession and creativity, where personal stories reveal the fine line between passion and addiction. Learn how decentralized AI, specifically through BitTensor, is paving the way for innovative cryptocurrency applications. Discover the transformative potential of Tau in the AI landscape and explore the surprising journey from Bitcoin skepticism to advocacy. With insights on nurturing various interests, this conversation encourages experimentation and seizing opportunities while mastering the art of obsession.
Sep 4, 2025 • 32min
Rick Harrison: The Pawn Business, Hidden Histories, and the Best Model in Banking
Rick Harrison, star of Pawn Stars and master of the iconic Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, shares his insights into the pawn world. He reveals why pawn shops are the oldest form of banking and discusses the deep emotional connections people have with their items. Harrison explains how storytelling influences value, whether it's a Rolex or a cowboy hat. He dives into the complexities of pricing priceless heirlooms and reflects on the impact of reality TV on his business's success. Tune in for a fascinating look into a unique financial landscape!
53 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 1h 56min
From Zero to World-Class: Tristan de Montebello on the Art of Public Speaking
Tristan de Montebello, a finalist in the World Championship of Public Speaking and co-founder of UltraSpeaking, dives into the world of effective communication. He shares how vulnerability and humor can enhance storytelling, revealing strategies to engage any audience. Tristan tackles the all-important mindset when presenting, offering tips to overcome insecurities and build confidence. With playful games and personal anecdotes, he illustrates that mastering public speaking is not just a technique but an art of connection. Expect laughter and valuable insights!
44 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 1h 2min
Astro Teller on Moonshots, Self-Driving Cars, and the Future of Innovation
Astro Teller, Captain of Moonshots at Alphabet’s X, leads groundbreaking projects like self-driving cars and drone delivery. In this discussion, he unveils the innovative mindset that drives moonshot thinking. Teller explores the transformative potential of technologies like AI and quantum computing, while sharing insights on mapping electric grids. He also delves into the complexities surrounding the evolution of drone delivery and autonomous vehicles, highlighting logistical challenges that can turn fantastical ideas into reality.
43 snips
Aug 23, 2025 • 1h 3min
Matt Smith: Rethinking College with “The Preparation”
Matt Smith, an entrepreneur and co-author of 'The Preparation,' rethinks traditional education. He shares how his son’s hands-on learning journey—from EMT training to running a business—offers a practical alternative to college. Matt argues that instead of conventional paths, skills like firefighting or Muay Thai can better prepare youth for life's challenges. The conversation highlights the importance of creating a personal code and embracing experiential learning, as well as the evolving need for 'expert generalists' in today's job market.
17 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 41min
Case Kenny: Stop “Settling Down” and Start “Settling Up”
In a dynamic chat, Case Kenny, author of 'The Opposite of Settling' and host of 'New Mindset, Who Dis?', shares insights on modern relationships. He challenges the notion of 'settling down', advocating for 'settling up' to enhance personal growth and independence. Case discusses how the 'liking gap' influences dating perceptions and the significant shift from dating for approval to seeking genuine connections. He also emphasizes the charm of being quirky and the role of humor in crafting lasting partnerships.
