The James Altucher Show

A Note from James:

Oh my gosh, every time, this is the second time I've talked to Gladys McGarey. Last year she was 102 years old, this year she's 103 years old. She wrote a book, The Well Lived Life: A 102-Year-Old Doctor's Six Secrets to Health and Happiness at Every Age, and it's coming out in paperback.  And every time I read this book, I've read it twice now, and I talk to her, I almost feel like crying, and I don't really know why. 

It's almost as if she was born with wisdom, but then kept even growing for the next 102 years. Like she drove a Ford Model A car, and now she's talking to me through Zoom on the internet and going on podcasts, writing books. 

She was a doctor her whole life. She's been all over the world. She's had so many amazing experiences and also has suffered, of course, much loss. I don't think you're going to live to be that age and not have an incredible amount of loss that you have to learn to move past and still be positive and still live every day to its fullest. 

She had, she was riding a tricycle and it threw her off into the street and she broke three ribs. And she's now totally healed and on the podcast. I really look up to this woman a lot.

Here's Gladys McGarey. We have a great conversation about all sorts of things and she's the author of The Well Lived Life. 

Episode Description:

In this profound and enlightening conversation, James revisits the remarkable life of Dr. Gladys McGarey, who, at 103 years old, shares her 'six secrets to health and happiness at every age' from her book 'The Well Lived Life'. Reflecting on a life rich with experiences, from caring for patients across the globe to handling personal loss and surviving a recent tricycle accident, Dr. McGarey embodies resilience and wisdom. She discusses the importance of facing challenges, the transformative power of love and life, and how her encounters with notable figures like Milton Erickson shaped her understanding of human potential. Dr. McGarey's perspectives on aging, happiness, and living a meaningful life offer invaluable insights, emphasizing the significance of community, love, and choosing one’s path with intention.

Episode Summary:

00:00 Celebrating a Century of Wisdom with Gladys McGarey

02:04 The Resilience of a 103-Year-Old: Tricycle Accidents and Recovery

05:11 Finding Humanity and Overcoming Loss

06:04 The Power of Love and Life: A Personal Journey

14:44 Exploring the Mind's Influence on Reality

16:31 The Magic of Connection: A Story of a Plant and Dementia

25:39 Embracing Life's Adventures and the Quest for True Humanity

31:29 The Philosophy of Life, Love, and Humanity

36:07 Navigating Life's Challenges with Optimism

37:47 The Power of Choice in Overcoming Adversity

40:39 Turning Pain into Purpose: A Personal Journey

41:47 Action as a Catalyst for Change

42:23 The Interplay of Life and Love

44:13 Embracing Aging with Grace and Wisdom

46:33 The Impact of Stress on Health and Well-being

47:47 Finding Meaning and Joy Amidst Loss

50:42 The Importance of Memory and Presence

56:42 Exploring Spiritual Growth and Self-Discovery

01:02:05 The Role of Technology and Community in Modern Life

01:06:32 Reflecting on a Life Well Lived

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You know, I first had Chris Voss on in 2016. Out of the 1500+ podcasts I’ve done, his is one of the few where I’ve really followed all the advice. His book Never Split the Difference wasn’t just any negotiating book—it’s a survival guide for life, built from his time as the FBI’s lead hostage negotiator. And trust me, if you’re going to take advice from anyone on negotiation, take it from Chris. His tactics don’t just work in life-or-death situations—they work in everyday business, personal relationships, and everything in between.

Today, Chris is back on the show for the third time. We talk about his documentary Tactical Empathy, available on Amazon Prime, and what makes a truly great negotiator. Trust me, whether you’re selling a company or just trying to ask for a raise, you’re going to want to listen closely to this one. Negotiation isn’t just a skill—it’s a way of life, and you’ll learn why here.

In this episode, James sits down with negotiation expert Chris Voss to dig into the real secrets behind successful negotiating. Drawing from his years as an FBI hostage negotiator, Chris reveals how the techniques he developed to save lives can be applied to everyday negotiations, from asking for a raise to making high-stakes business deals. They also discuss the impact of Chris’s documentary Tactical Empathy, which explores the importance of empathy in negotiation. With actionable tips and real-world insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their negotiation game.

• Why empathy is the most powerful tool in any negotiation
• How to use tactical empathy to build trust and get better outcomes
• The difference between tactical empathy and manipulation
• How understanding neuroscience can give you an edge in negotiations
• Key techniques to avoid burnout in high-stress negotiations

• [00:01:30] Introduction to Chris Voss and his journey
• [00:03:00] The importance of tactical empathy
• [00:05:25] Chris’s experience with a suicide hotline
• [00:08:00] How to disrupt manipulation in negotiation
• [00:12:00] Chris’s approach to asking for a raise
• [00:15:00] The role of emotional intelligence in negotiation
• [00:19:30] Neuroscience and how it applies to negotiating
• [00:23:58] Triggering neurochemical responses in negotiations
• [00:27:32] Oxytocin and its role in building trust
• [00:31:10] Manipulative vs. genuine empathy
• [00:36:05] Building relationships and timelines in negotiation
• [00:40:15] How Chris deals with suspects and witnesses in interrogations
• [00:45:20] Evolution of terrorist organizations post-9/11
• [00:50:13] Tools of the trade: go-to techniques for negotiation
• [00:54:45] Using the Ackerman model in bargaining
• [01:00:09] Emotional bandwidth and hostage situations
• [01:05:08] Understanding pronouns and decision-makers in negotiations
• [01:12:26] Using empathy to secure high valuations in business deals
• [01:16:07] The importance of long-term relationships in negotiation
• [01:18:26] Final thoughts on anger and negotiation

• Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss
• Tactical Empathy Documentary on Amazon Prime

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• What do YOU think of the show? Head to JamesAltucherShow.com/listeners and fill out a short survey that will help us better tailor the podcast to our audience!
• Are you interested in getting direct answers from James about your question on a podcast? Go to JamesAltucherShow.com/AskAltucher and send in your questions to be answered on the air!

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• Visit Notepd.com to read our idea lists & sign up to create your own!
• My new book, Skip the Line, is out! Make sure you get a copy wherever books are sold!
• Join the You Should Run for President 2.0 Facebook Group, where we discuss why you should run for President.
• I write about all my podcasts! Check out the full post and learn what I learned at jamesaltuchershow.com

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Thank you so much for listening! If you like this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to “The James Altucher Show” wherever you get your podcasts: 

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"Oh my gosh, I am really interested in the history of the presidents of the United States. These are the guys who have not only shaped the country but to some extent have shaped the world. And I say 'these guys' because, let’s be honest, it’s been all men so far. Who knows? There’s a woman running for president now. We’ll see. Kamala Harris, right? Anyway, today I’m excited because we have someone on the show who knows a ton about presidents—Bill O'Reilly. He’s written about some of the most famous, from Kennedy to Reagan to Trump, and his latest book, Confronting the Presidents, gives a no-spin assessment of their legacies. Some of it’s scandalous, honestly, and it was fascinating to chat with Bill about who did what right and who really missed the mark. Plus, we dive into what’s happening in the political landscape today, from the current election to the economy. It’s a jam-packed conversation you don’t want to miss!"

In this episode, James sits down with Bill O'Reilly, one of the most well-known figures in political commentary and presidential history. With his new book Confronting the Presidents, Bill pulls no punches in evaluating the successes and failures of U.S. presidents—from Polk to Reagan to Biden. What’s particularly captivating about this episode is how Bill’s deep knowledge of history provides context for today’s political climate. You’ll hear about underrated presidents like James K. Polk and get Bill’s uncensored take on why the current administration is struggling. James and Bill also discuss the dynamics of power, leadership, and what we can learn from the past as we approach future elections. It’s an insightful and candid conversation that’ll leave you rethinking what you know about American history and politics.

1. The surprising legacy of James K. Polk: Why Bill O’Reilly ranks him among the top 10 U.S. presidents and what modern leaders can learn from him.
2. How presidential power has shifted: From the days of Jefferson and Washington to modern executive orders and how this impacts our political landscape.
3. Current political divisions: A look at how today’s polarization mirrors the most divisive eras in U.S. history, and why social media has made things worse.
4. What Bill thinks of today's political figures: His thoughts on current leadership, from Trump to Biden, and the factors influencing their legacies.
5. Why past presidents might not crave power like today’s politicians: A discussion on how motivations have shifted over time.

• [01:30] Introduction to presidential history and today's guest, Bill O'Reilly
• [03:32] Underrated presidents: James K. Polk’s surprising impact
• [07:40] The evolving nature of presidential power and why recent presidents fall short
• [17:26] Current political climate: How today compares to the Civil War and Vietnam eras
• [25:29] Trump's political strategy and what Bill would advise him to do differently
• [33:23] Reflections on historical presidents like Lincoln and Teddy Roosevelt

• Confronting the Presidents by Bill O'Reilly
• Killing Lincoln by Bill O’Reilly
• The United States of Trump by Bill O'Reilly
• Watch Bill O'Reilly's daily show, No Spin News 

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• What do YOU think of the show? Head to JamesAltucherShow.com/listeners and fill out a short survey that will help us better tailor the podcast to our audience!
• Are you interested in getting direct answers from James about your question on a podcast? Go to JamesAltucherShow.com/AskAltucher and send in your questions to be answered on the air!

------------

• Visit Notepd.com to read our idea lists & sign up to create your own!
• My new book, Skip the Line, is out! Make sure you get a copy wherever books are sold!
• Join the You Should Run for President 2.0 Facebook Group, where we discuss why you should run for President.
• I write about all my podcasts! Check out the full post and learn what I learned at jamesaltuchershow.com

------------

Thank you so much for listening! If you like this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to “The James Altucher Show” wherever you get your podcasts: 

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Here’s a draft of your podcast show notes based on the Wilbur Ross episode:

Wilbur Ross, the man, the myth, the legend. I’m going to be honest, back in 1999, I remember playing a lot of poker at the Mayfair Poker Club in New York City. There was a guy there who worked for Wilbur Ross, who was running huge private equity funds back then. I was jealous because I wanted to work for Wilbur Ross. He’s been a consistent feature in building businesses decade after decade. Most recently, he served as Secretary of Commerce for all four years of the Trump administration.

Now, Wilbur has a new book out called Risks and Returns, about his 55-year career building businesses and his experiences in government. So, I can’t believe I had the chance to talk with him about this incredible journey.

In this episode, James sits down with Wilbur Ross, one of the most influential business minds of our time. From running one of the largest private equity funds to serving as Secretary of Commerce, Ross has been at the epicenter of some of the most significant economic shifts in modern history. Wilbur shares his insights on building businesses, navigating the complexities of government, and his views on the current economic landscape. His new book Risks and Returns offers a unique glimpse into his 55-year career, and this conversation is filled with the kinds of practical insights that entrepreneurs and investors won’t want to miss.

• The keys to Wilbur Ross’s long-term success in business and government.
• How the American bankruptcy system aids in company rehabilitation, rather than liquidation.
• The challenges and opportunities around rare earth minerals and the semiconductor supply chain.
• Why labor force participation is crucial to economic growth and reducing inflation.
• How government fiscal policy and the Federal Reserve's actions contribute to inflation.

• [01:30] Introduction to Wilbur Ross’s career and private equity legacy.
• [04:37] The scope of the Secretary of Commerce's responsibilities.
• [06:41] The innovations Elon Musk has brought to the space industry.
• [13:19] Wilbur’s early career challenges and lessons learned.
• [20:20] Wilbur's approach to distressed industries and investment strategies.
• [32:15] How the government prints money and its role in inflation.
• [45:14] The national security threat posed by rare earth minerals and semiconductors.
• [50:26] Reflections on the Trump administration and Trump's unique approach to foreign policy.

• Risks and Returns by Wilbur Ross

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• What do YOU think of the show? Head to JamesAltucherShow.com/listeners and fill out a short survey that will help us better tailor the podcast to our audience!
• Are you interested in getting direct answers from James about your question on a podcast? Go to JamesAltucherShow.com/AskAltucher and send in your questions to be answered on the air!

------------

• Visit Notepd.com to read our idea lists & sign up to create your own!
• My new book, Skip the Line, is out! Make sure you get a copy wherever books are sold!
• Join the You Should Run for President 2.0 Facebook Group, where we discuss why you should run for President.
• I write about all my podcasts! Check out the full post and learn what I learned at jamesaltuchershow.com

------------

Thank you so much for listening! If you like this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to “The James Altucher Show” wherever you get your podcasts: 

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Here are the podcast show notes with all the chapters included:

"Sometimes, if you just read the news, it doesn’t always seem like it, but being President of the United States is the highest calling. You have responsibility over the entire economy, the lives of millions, and the direction of the country in war and peace. I’m excited to talk to David Rubenstein today—he’s the head of the Carlyle Group, a $500 billion private equity firm. He also worked for Jimmy Carter, has had presidents work for him, and just published a book called The Highest Calling: Conversations on the American Presidency, where he talks to historians about U.S. Presidents, from George Washington to Nixon and beyond. It’s filled with fascinating insights. Let’s get started."

In this episode, James interviews David Rubenstein about his latest book, The Highest Calling, which dives into the complexities of American presidents through interviews with historians and Rubenstein's own reflections. Rubenstein shares what he’s learned from years of interacting with former presidents, how public opinions on U.S. presidents change over time, and what makes the presidency such a unique role. They also touch on the challenges and achievements of figures like Jimmy Carter, Abraham Lincoln, and Dwight Eisenhower, offering listeners new ways to think about the men who have led the country.

• The evolving reputations of U.S. Presidents and how history changes its mind on who was successful.
• Insights into Jimmy Carter’s presidency and why he is gaining new respect over time.
• The unique challenges that presidents face in foreign policy, with examples from Carter and Eisenhower.
• How third-party candidates can impact U.S. presidential elections, and what history tells us about that.
• Surprising facts about lesser-known presidents and the personal relationships that shaped their leadership.

• 01:30 – The Weight of the Presidency: Why it's the highest calling in America.
• 02:09 – Introduction of David Rubenstein and his work with U.S. Presidents.
• 03:01 – Rubenstein’s New Book: The Highest Calling and why it stands out.
• 03:19 – Changing Opinions: How history re-evaluates past presidents.
• 05:12 – Jimmy Carter’s Presidency: Achievements and controversies.
• 08:37 – Foreign Policy and Perception: How leaders are judged at home and abroad.
• 10:21 – Carter's Unique Strategy in 1976: His rise to the presidency.
• 12:38 – Foreign Policy in the Middle East and the Iran Hostage Crisis.
• 14:03 – Stories Left Out: Surprising anecdotes from U.S. history, like Teddy Roosevelt’s Amazon expedition.
• 21:54 – Coolidge’s Forgotten Legacy: Why he is an underrated president.
• 23:02 – Hoover’s Response to the Great Depression: Was it Coolidge’s fault?
• 25:21 – Eisenhower’s Quiet Success: How peace and prosperity defined his presidency.
• 29:01 – Military Presidents and Their Reluctance to Use Force: Why they preferred diplomacy.
• 32:17 – The President's Club: Why it no longer exists and the political divide today.
• 33:50 – The Role of Fundraising in Political Polarization.
• 36:46 – The Costs of Running a Presidential Campaign: Why it’s so expensive.
• 38:13 – Lincoln’s Path to the Presidency: How he stood out in a crowded race.
• 39:49 – The Electoral College Debate: Should it still exist?
• 42:18 – Third-Party Candidates and Their Impact on Elections.
• 44:06 – Overrated and Underrated Presidents: How Kennedy and Eisenhower are viewed today.
• 49:09 – Nixon’s Fall from Grace: How his tapes ruined his presidency.
• 50:12 – Nixon’s Post-Presidency and Redemption.
• 54:45 – Presidential Debates: How one-liners and debate prep can make or break a candidate.
• 57:40 – The Influence of Speechwriters: Ted Sorensen’s role in Kennedy’s speeches.
• 01:00:04 – Entering Politics: David Rubenstein’s inspiration from Ted Sorensen.
• 01:01:21 – What Presidents Should Know About the Economy.
• 01:03:16 – Unrealized Gains and Tax Proposals: Do candidates really understand the economy?

• David Rubenstein’s book: The Highest Calling.

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• What do YOU think of the show? Head to JamesAltucherShow.com/listeners and fill out a short survey that will help us better tailor the podcast to our audience!
• Are you interested in getting direct answers from James about your question on a podcast? Go to JamesAltucherShow.com/AskAltucher and send in your questions to be answered on the air!

------------

• Visit Notepd.com to read our idea lists & sign up to create your own!
• My new book, Skip the Line, is out! Make sure you get a copy wherever books are sold!
• Join the You Should Run for President 2.0 Facebook Group, where we discuss why you should run for President.
• I write about all my podcasts! Check out the full post and learn what I learned at jamesaltuchershow.com

------------

Thank you so much for listening! If you like this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to “The James Altucher Show” wherever you get your podcasts: 

• Apple Podcasts
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Follow me on social media:

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