From Growing Up In Poverty To Becoming A Shark On ABC's Shark Tank w/ Matt Higgins

The Dealroom with Shamus Madan

In this episode, Shamus Madan interviews Matt Higgins, discussing his journey from poverty to becoming the youngest press secretary in history. They delve into topics like self-reliance, the relationship between opportunity and data, and the importance of supportive partnerships. The conversation also touches on personal growth through depression, career advice for young people, and the process of writing a narrative business book. Lastly, they explore the value of risk-taking, building a legacy, and Matt's book recommendations.

Matt Higgins grew up in Queens, New York, but his upbringing was very untraditional compared to other kids. When he was just 16 years old, his mother was disabled, and his family could only afford to eat government cheese.

In addition to attending school full time, he worked overnight at a deli, making as little as $3.75 an hour, walking home with a butterfly knife to protect himself in case he was jumped.

Matt eventually made the tough decision to drop out of high school and get his GED to further support himself and his mother. On the last day of high school, as he walked out the door, Matt's teacher told him, "I'll see you at McDonald's. What a waste."

But he didn't let that get to his head. He was driven to accomplish what others thought he couldn't and reach financial security.

On April 2nd, 2001, he did it. He became the youngest press secretary in history, making over $100,000/year. But it was too late. That same morning, his mother died.

"We are all victimized at some point in our life. But the number one job you have when you are a victim is to not protect or worry about your reputation. It's to heal."

Today Matt is the author of the book Burn The Boats, and to hear his full story to becoming a Shark on Shark Tank, listen to the full interview.

Twitter of Host (Shamus Madan): @mbitpodcast

Twitter of Guest (Matt Higgins): @mhiggins

Learn more about Burn The Boats here.

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(0:00) Introduction and Background of Matt Higgins (1:56) Matt Higgins on Self-reliance and Radical Decisions (8:18) The relationship between Opportunity and Data (11:55) Discussion on Depression and Personal Growth (16:56) Matt's Journey from Poverty to Youngest Press Secretary in History (21:27) Career Advice for Young People (25:33) The Importance of Supportive Partnerships in Life (27:15) Process of Writing a Narrative Business Book and Self-awareness (33:21) Value of Taking Risks and Starting Early (38:22) Building Legacy, Intentionality, and Success Advice (46:02) Book Recommendation and Conclusion