The Pursuit of Wealth: Barista to Billionaire - Andrew Wilkinson

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In today’s episode, I sit down with Andrew Wilkinson to discuss his incredible journey from barista to billionaire entrepreneur. We explore his insights on money, success, and happiness and how he has navigated the challenges that come with wealth. Andrew shares the concept of anti-goals and the importance of designing a life that aligns with your values and brings joy. Enjoy 🙂
00:00 The Downsides of Being a Billionaire
01:27 The Power of Delegation
08:53 Challenges Associated with Fame
23:19 Designing a Fulfilling Life with Anti-Goals
28:31 Flow State and Meaningful Work
29:01 The Impact of Money on Relationships and Family Dynamics
35:19 Navigating Social Circles and Status
39:54 The Happiness of Experiences and Time
45:54 Building a Durable Business
01:06:19 Long-Term Success
01:12:03 Building a Personal Monopoly
01:13:56 Monetisation Strategies
01:16:20 Cash Flow
01:29:07 Building Productivity Software
01:37:21 Learning from Mistakes
🔗 CONNECT WITH ANDREW
📖 Andrew’s New Book - www.neverenough.com/
🐦 X (Twitter) - x.com/awilkinson
👥 Linkedin - / awilkinson
🔗 CONNECT WITH ALI
🎥 KZbin Channel - / aliabdaal
🐦 X ( Twitter ) - / aliabdaal
📸 Instagram - / aliabdaal
💻 Website - aliabdaal.com/
👥 Linkedin - / ali-abdaal
📄SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPT
Visit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation - aliabdaal.com/podcast/
🎙️ ABOUT THE PODCAST
Deep Dive is the podcast that delves into the minds of entrepreneurs, creators and other inspiring people to uncover the philosophies, strategies and tools that help us live happier, healthier and more productive lives.Want to start your own podcast? We use Transistor! go.aliabdaal.com/transistor
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[@bellaluce7088]

This was great, thank you! 🤓 Some favorite takeaways: *1) To help create a life that makes you happy, identify what DOESN'T and avoid it* (e.g. being over-scheduled). 2) Focusing on the kind of tasks/work you enjoy and saying no to hustle culture even when first starting out (mentioned influence of Jason Fried's books). 3) Being careful about who you spend time with because what they value will influence your own desires (e.g. falling into the trap of expensive watches and cars before realizing what actually adds value to his life are things like freedom, connecting with people, being a good dad, and giving away money). 4) Intentionally recalibrating your sense of what's enough [and appreciation for what you have] by choosing less expensive/less deluxe options sometimes (e.g.economy flight and cheap hotel, Ali's experience quickly adapting to a basic rental car vs. Tesla). 5) Recognizing that no life is problem-free, and both wealth and celebrity come with their own problems. (Appreciate what you have, be careful what you wish for, and beware of stalkers and property invading pitchmen!)

[@Roberto-Escobar]

First time I heard of Andrew, he sounds so down to earth. He speaks with wisdom. Tired of hearing these millionaires talking about you need a Rolex when in reality, family, God, health, your finances in order matter most. FYI im not into productivity lab. But I would pay for special notes or special access to podcast episodes or community of podcast listener. great advice from Andrew.

[@heyderekj]

AMEN

[@brennan.rogers]

Andrew is the best. Him and I met a few years ago, and shared a super unique r/NoBurp experience, to which he helped me get a procedure that changed my way of life. Forever grateful to have met him, and so interesting hearing him speak about business! Great episode!

[@JonandEva]

This is one of my favorite interviews you've done? Please keep exploring "how to be rich", "what's the point", and "where to stop".

[@vignolivoice]

This interview should have millions of views, please.

[@LouisDillard02]

I'm with Andrew on this one-delegation is an art form. Knowing when to step back and let capable hands take over is crucial for sustainable growth.

[@TAKEADEEPBREATH]

This episode was fantastic (except when you had me on as a guest, obviously!). I learned so much. Andrew is incredible, and I loved the business coaching insights you provided. This was incredibly helpful to listen to. I devoured Andrew's book in less than four days and highly recommend it. He delves much deeper than the podcast, making it well worth the extra time. Thanks, Mike.

[@1littlecoder]

Any MFM fans here?

[@tomcav]

Yessir

[@IAmDiegoMilan]

Yep

[@Animal1467]

Assemble

[@happyhobo2217]

You already know 🔥

[@raymond-andrade]

Me: MFM interviewed him a 5th time? Oh, it's Ali

[@livelifefamilyzone]

I like seeing people who knows they own more than what is needed to live comfortablely. Ideally, humans will find the contentment and focus on enriching and taking care of our planet and all its creatures.

[@KarenMariaAlston]

I truly enjoy listening to Andrew Wilkinson. I first heard of him on another podcast and immediately ordered his book. Thank you for this great conversation and insight. Also you have listeners in the 40s and 50s. Great show and content.

[@V4Wouter]

This was a real eye-opener regarding the cost of internet fame, and wealth fame. Its great to hear about the other side of that lifestyle.

[@catalinagalan]

Absolutely great episode. I love seeing you learn at the same time we do. Great guest, excellent questions and conversation.

[@TheConfusedPangolin]

This conversation made me feel good about my place in life. Sure I still feel desire for more control over my life, but hearing people considered successful tell you that the grass isn't greener is just too good.

[@sorinsecara]

Man, the paradoxical existential pain at 17:03 has been my life for the last 3 years. Great video Ali, Andrew is always awesome to learn from!

[@jakehlebainRE]

Huge fan of Andrew's outlook and mindset. Looking forward to get my hands on the book. Great interview, Ali!

[@AfzalHussein]

Congrats on 500k subs! Great ep.

[@_sash_5511]

Hey Ali and Team, thank you so much for making this video! It's incredible that this information is accessible- I'm so grateful.

[@hollywoodactress]

I have never heard of Andrew and his background before this interview. However, he talks so much sense and is so well grounded. Amazing interview 👍 thank you ❤

[@cristianbacinschi]

Wow, this was I think the best Deep Dive podcast so far, I mean I've never heard of Andrew before, but he speaks so simple, true and convincing at the same time!

[@tysonhutchins]

The latter half of this where you’re essentially letting him advise you and the business was awesome to hear

[@cathyosullivan1719]

love how honest this guy is - it’s refreshing

[@ThinkingCrypto]

Such a great interview!

[@farchionej]

Wow, this was so rich and insightful. Thank you both for publishing what feels like behind-the-scenes advice I’m lucky to have overheard. So much good stuff here

[@noorallawati5390]

Listening to the podcast today. It's making me mega guilty for only waking up now that I'm 30 but still it's motivation. And it's an awesome episode, as always

[@anastasiyatkachenko5368]

One of my favorite videos of all time, thank you!

[@leadavis3815]

Love Andrew! Thanks for this.

[@GenosLifestyle]

I was glued to this video. very mentally appealing

[@user-cl5we1ke6s]

This podcast instead of making me sad and hopeless , made me curious of what else , if not more money is the solution for human's everlasting emptiness. And this is taking me inwards , towards me , and i know i'll get answer pretty soon . Whatever the reality be like , I am going to question everything to its last , and will see where this journey ends , or if reality says otherwise , even that is accepted. Whatever is the truth , that I will accept whole heartedly (even that is not required , as it true) , but only if it true.

[@itstzuwei]

Looking forward to this video. Andrew's one of my heroes!

[@andyatmosphere]

I didn't know Andrew was a billionaire. Super chill dude!

[@oldtownlife]

This was absolutely gold. Thank you.

[@AnnAndNala]

Thank you for this interview. Andrew is such a lovely, interesting, and inspiring person. This is what I wish all billionaires were like. The world would be a much better place.

[@Sunshine-Nina]

Thank you both very much for this very interesting conversation!! I listened all through. 🌺🌺

[@withvung]

I love this episode so much

[@elizabethashinteriors]

Great content. Andrew is full of wisdom. Ali well done

[@amandareylugo]

Wow. He's amazing! Great interview.

[@jg9425]

In terms of billionaires (which the group as a whole is sort of notorious), Andrew might be the most humble, self-aware person I've heard speak. "Grandiose Humility" - I watch HealthyGamer and Dr.K calls this "the ego of not having an ego".

[@chicio9392]

Possibly due to the fact he is nowhere close to being a billionaire...

[@nicduynstee2171]

Could you suggest a Dr. K video where he talks about “the ego of not having an ego”? Sounds like an interesting idea

[@vaizluca]

Alex seems to be a kind overthinker who hasnt quite reliquished his mental chains, which is something so many struggle with. I agree that you carry your brain with you for sure. Thats why you need to deal with your mind and your values and work on yourself and your demons. Money at the very least gives you an opportunity for a great quailty of life - health insurance, food, shelter, a comfortable environment. What you do with that opportunity is in an individual's hands from there. What it doesnt do is automatically change (for the better) your mental state or relationships. So if you have an unhealthy relationship with life or aspects of it, that will be present whether you have wealth or not.

[@alonking4321]

Brilliant, eye opening.

[@emilyinnz]

Great interview such honesty from both of you. What was the quick mention of investing in New Zealand I’m intrigued he said it so casually and quickly. Keep up the great work Ali.

[@josephcookey7992]

Life is a picture and you live in a pixel. And the happiness you get comes from what you do on a day-to-day basis.

[@user-ev7vg7xb8z]

Yes he is right , I'm 28 and I understand I missed a lot of things in moment just want to be happy

[@kevvwarren]

This pod episode is 🔥. I feel like I just sat in on the mentorship meeting of the century lol

[@LennefalkStudios]

Great interview, having a house with a view definitely is a life goal 🏡

[@itsSandanuK]

Holy shit, this guy owns freaking Letterboxd!!!!

[@simonseverino]

Ali I stopped running 4 times while listening to this❤ It is soooo good🎉

[@AtomMelton1022]

When I started listening, I kept thinking, “Pascal already said this”…”Pascal already thought that”…so naturally I lost it when he actually quoted Pascal.

[@markgoh5441]

This is the type of podcast that you listen to after you are rich 😅

[@farid4483]

Although I’m certain that what Andrew says must be genuine, it’s unthinkable to be able to understand his idea that money isn’t in the key of happiness when one doesn’t have money.

[@mariosencario]

Right? It's a really interesting topic. I don't think money will eliminate all of your problems and make you deliriously happy until you die of old age. But it definitely gives you the freedom to create the life you want. As long as you genuinely know what you want. Let's say someone works a 9 - 5 job, and they get a 2x pay rise. Are they happy? Yeah, for a short while, but they still have to work. The big one is when you don't have to go to a job for a living. Then, your happiness definitely has the potential to skyrocket. Unless, perhaps, you had no hobbies before coming into money. Then, you'd just sit around doing nothing until you really gave it some thought. And yes, that'd fall into the definition of a 'problem'. But if you compare the problem of what to do with all your money and free time to the problem of being able to afford food and rent, then there's clearly an obvious preference for which problem you'd rather have. So I get that, while money solves your money problems, it doesn't give you a life you're immediately going to fall in love with. But I agree that it's very hard to empathise. Perhaps the people who make millions through business ventures just like doing business stuff, regardless of how much money they have. So when they're asked if it makes them in particular happy, then the answer is often no, because they still like doing the same thing they were doing before.

[@stanleyzac1648]

There are many other interesting business and stocks in many industries that you might follow. You don't have to act on every forecast, so I'll suggest that you work with a financial advisor who can help you choose the best times to purchase and sell the shares or ETFs you want to acquire.

[@Jakekhalid32]

Dustin Dwain King is the licensed fiduciary I use. Just research the name. You’d find necessary details to work with a correspondence to set up an appointment..

[@laiibrahim7502]

That’s true, I'm cautious about giving specific recommendations as everyone's situation varies. Consider independent financial advisors like Dustin Dwain King I've worked with him for 9yrs & highly recommend him also..

[@Windarti30]

Succeeding in online commerce relies heavily on Dustin Dwain King's strategy, with his management team demonstrating exceptional effectiveness.

[@SamanthaWhite21]

Finding your coach was straightforward. After doing my research diligently and it was a success....

[@AarushSyed]

You are right! I've diversified my portfolio across various markets with the aid of a financial adviser, I have been able to generate a little bit above $450k in net profit across high dividend yield stocks, ETF and bonds.

[@GOATiology]

This is some of the most valuable content on this platform! Wow

[@moseswan44]

I love this

[@imdee9024]

He is right - don't hang out with people who care about Stuff - but but but ... isn't it sad that one needs to first become a millionaire to identify that - they all say the same thing: Money won't make you happy and don't worry about status but then average people hear that and think: yeah, it's easier to say when you have money. All due respect to Andrew - he deserves his success - just mentioning how we think.

[@nazvannorel970]

after listening to Andrew Wilkinson, I am glad that I am not a billionaire:)

[@TheDChung]

Great!

[@tim1873a]

great perspective

[@messingerbreed]

Darlene' Of Barry and Darlene, the truth is, I do not yet have enough? Is the Gather in us put there for our survival I do not believe it will ever go away, now our world is around whom has the most and I believe it is because we are Gathers for our survival and today it is relevant and needed mindset so we need to just do it and be relieved by and for it and in knowing this it will help us put it where it will help each individual today and for their future. Thank you for this share on KZbin for all to see and possibly grow from a great format and Great Minds of Men. Sincerly Darlene

[@jahidurnadim]

It's called B2B: Barista to Billionaire

[@sun3delite]

this is so clever 😂

[@sammusariri5054]

I see what you did there😅

[@SirThorney]

Really surprised to see Andrew on here but very happy he is

[@howtoactuallyinvest]

So good

[@AtomMelton1022]

Also, please interview Luke Burgis. His story and his book *Wanting* would be a great way to follow up on this interview, thematically speaking.

[@nickmills8476]

Where ever you go, there you are.

[@RoseBeeGold]

super interesting

[@saag_io]

Just go on a backpacking trip once in a while and you will appreciate the simplest luxuries in life, like a warm shower.

[@GggatsGggss]

In 96 my mother worked for $11 an hour 50 hours a week and was able to get a 48k mortgage on a 1600sqf home from saving $200 a month for 2 years. Now I make $11 an hour 55 hour work weeks and... I live paycheck to paycheck in Lowe income government assistant housing because renting anything else would eat 2/3 my paycheck. I'll never afford to buy a house..

[@DavidAnyim-hd9by]

I was a stay at Home disabled dad with no money in my IRA or any savings of my which was scary at 53 years of age. Three years ago I got a part time job and save everything I make. After 3 years, I am 56 yo and have put $9,000 in an IRA and $40,000 in my portfolio with CFA, Mrs Elizabeth Marie Hawley. Since the goal of getting a job was to invest for retirement and NOT up my lifestyle, she was able to scale this quickly to $150,000. If I can do this in a year, you can do better.

[@Shanefrancis-vk8ks]

I know this FA, Mrs Elizabeth Marie Hawley Services but only by her of being a former employee at Goldman Sachs; even though she's now involved in managing portfolios and providing investmnt guidance to clients. I have been trying to get in contact since I watched her interview on WSJ last month

[@josephcookey7992]

The best way to feel rich is to have cash flow >> Andrew I think he meant more cash inflows and less cash outflows. An awesome interview overall.

[@marksoberay2318]

The interesting people party idea is genius

[@MaxGDesign]

How's life in paradise? "Meh, it's still life."

[@fiftyseventh]

I’d love to be in his position. I’d build institutions, develop neighborhoods, etc

[@jonadol]

I mean I immigrated to the US and earn okay atm (will become a m/billionaire eventually 🤞) and even I do exercises to make myself stay grounded

[@somtoachu5704]

Yeah Andrew I hear u but I wanna go check it by myself to check if ur correct

[@BrainiousPodcast]

This content seems fascinating. This channel always brings something meaningful. I also started a channel with my husband to educate, love doing it.

[@WillMcCartneyAI]

legend

[@aropmanychol9408]

Ali turned this into a coaching session

[@mostafijur-rahmann]

Amazing ❤

[@RichReportcom]

His business has a negative quarterly Net income -9.42M (losing 9mm year) negative quarterly profit margin -19.24%

[@simmonds3930]

His investor's losses are his billionaire gains. His publically traded company is worth 95% less than when IPO'd. I prefer listening to the Buffetts of this world who have made billions for themselves AND their investors!

[@JayEs31]

Great interview. Absolutely 100% DO NOT START A PRODUCTIVITY BUSINESS

[@antonr786]

The book Andrew mentions is: “How To Get Rich” by Felix Dennis

[@jeepsnow01]

Big fan of Andrew, learned of his success from MFM pod. Great guy.

[@oopskapootz7276]

1:25:0 I wonder why 5 years? Is it related to interest rates and cost of capital?

[@Agent77X]

The host just keeps on talking for 6 minute before he ask the guest a question!😮

[@mohamedalowisi9589]

have you thought about DN PENA as a guest and to explore his business methdology ?

[@Beyondthefields23]

Ali what did you say at 01:19:08 😂

[@chan90s]

What's cooking? Andrew did 3 1hr+ podcasts this week. What's he trying to sell ? Or just that he had more time this week ?

[@Chris..........]

You are asking what the guy who has book coming out what he’s trying to sell?

[@spectacularangular637]

37:00 your tribe, be careful what tribe u join

[@El_Diablo_12]

15:19 building a machine

[@PankajDoharey]

Having a private jet is actually absurd, you have 20x higher chances of dying in a private jet than commercial airliner because the bird is lighter and has to endure more turbulance.

[@CelesteAbril7]

Cash flow and valuation are not separate things.

[@wick9462]

Huh?

[@makaw2006]

To enjoy expensive cars, watches, electronics etc you need to be able to appreciate the detail, engineering, time, expertise and care that went into them. You can't just reduce them to a fashion or power statement. You need to learn to appreciate the sound of V12, or watching your tourbillion, or the beauty of your expensive record player. How these are different than your ocean view 😂

[@movewithivy]

Me listening to rich people problems with no money lol.

[@nelsonang]

buying watches and sports cars to signal membership of a group is problematic… but beware of crossing the line and dissing the craftsmen who produce the finer things in life… especially so when Ali is a creator too… surely your youtube course is different from just watching youtube videos about how to start a channel? and your book is different from wikipedia?

[@saulgood2366]

Yo

[@dr.MadisonSoley]

money borlest forbidden ebook (thank me later)

[@josephcookey7992]

Imagine having so much "chocolate cookies" and not knowing what to do with them.

[@Tkcrypto1]

I can't wait to be a sad billionaire. Lol

[@SECRETPURPOSE]

A billionaire whose voice still cracks like he's going through puberty. You're never too young to get rich

[@anusther8542]

God I want to be so rich that I practice poverty 😭😭😂

[@tree3969]

😂😂😂😂

[@RichReportcom]

If he's a "billionaire" why is his stock down nearly 70% and worth approx 400mm? (Source: Canadian stock market CVE: TINY) 🤡

[@DJjussi1]

I don't really understand the book. Is he saying "don't pursue more, it'll never be enough" or is he saying "let's get more". All I hear is materialistic goods won't make you happy, which frankly, I'd expect more insight from a billionaire.