Altucher
Early Life
James Altucher was born on January 22, 1968, in New Brunswick, New Jersey. He attended Cornell University, where he received a bachelor's degree in Computer Science in 1989. After graduation, he went on to work at HBO in the IT department.
Career
Altucher's career has been marked by a series of ups and downs, with numerous successes and failures in various fields. He has been involved in entrepreneurship, angel investing, hedge fund management, writing, podcasting, and stand-up comedy.
Entrepreneurship
Altucher founded Reset Inc., a web design firm, in 1996. The company's clients included several major entertainment companies, such as American Express, HBO, and Sony. Reset Inc. was sold in 1998, marking Altucher's first successful exit as an entrepreneur.
He later co-founded StockPickr, a social network for traders and investors, in 2006. The website was sold to TheStreet.com in 2007.
Hedge Fund Management
Altucher has also been involved in hedge fund management. He founded a hedge fund in the early 2000s, which he later closed due to poor performance. He then went on to become a managing director at Formula Capital, an asset management firm.
Writing
Altucher has written several books on entrepreneurship and self-help. His book "Choose Yourself!" was a bestseller and has been praised for its honest and straightforward advice.
He has also written for major media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, The Financial Times, and The Huffington Post. In addition, he maintains a blog where he writes about his personal experiences and shares his thoughts on various topics.
Podcasting and Stand-Up Comedy
In addition to his writing, Altucher hosts a podcast called "The James Altucher Show," where he interviews notable figures in various fields. He has also ventured into stand-up comedy, performing at comedy clubs in New York City.
Personal Life
Altucher has been open about his personal struggles, including his battles with depression and suicidal thoughts. He has also shared his experiences with divorce and financial difficulties.
He is known for his unconventional lifestyle choices, such as choosing to live without a home and instead staying in Airbnbs. He has also spoken about his decision to not own many possessions, a practice he refers to as "minimalism."
Impact and Influence
Altucher's work, particularly his writings and podcast, has had a significant impact on the fields of entrepreneurship and personal development. His honest and often raw insights into his own life and experiences have resonated with many people, and his advice and perspectives have influenced many entrepreneurs and individuals.
Controversies
Altucher has been a controversial figure, with his unconventional ideas and lifestyle choices often sparking debate. He has been criticized for his views on education, with some accusing him of promoting anti-intellectualism. His financial advice has also been questioned, with some critics arguing that his strategies are risky and irresponsible.