Shaquille O’Neal has built a massive $400,000,000 net worth through his decades of relentless hard work and savvy business decisions. Over the years, Shaq has gained significant knowledge about making big money moves or acquiring wealth through experience.
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The former Lakers superstar is part of over 50 brands, which helps him earn around $60,000,000 in profit annually. Speaking to Gary Vee, Shaq described his experience in various industries and lent crucial advice on dealing with imposter syndrome.
The $60,000,000 that Shaq earns in passive income comes from his various investments and endorsements with famous brands. He has previously endorsed brands like Pepsi, Reebok and also owns around 150 outlets of the Big Chicken franchise. In 2021, he became a minority owner of Reebok following his involvement with the Authentic Brands Group.
Shaquille O’Neal detailed about dealing with imposter syndrome drawing from his own experiences
In 2022, Shaquille O’Neal appeared in a sit-in interview with Gary Vee and answered 18 questions about business, greatness, success, and kindness. This was a special kind of interview, with fans having the opportunity to express their delight or ask questions to Shaq. One fan from Jersey City asked Shaq an essential question about dealing with imposter syndrome. To this, the Big Diesel answered:
“So, when you are invited into a new area, you’re invited there because you’re good. But you feel like an imposted and you should, you’re just getting it. So listen, learn, and then add a little bit of your own flavor. That’s it. Listen to the guy that’s been working there 10 years, see how it worked, learn. Okay, I thought you do it this way and then add a bit of your own flavor.”
Shaquille O’Neal added his flavor to almost all of the business engagements he has participated in. From Epson printers to Papa John’s pizza, all of Shaq’s endorsements had a slight of his own flavor to it. This is what made these brands blow up, given Shaq was able to find the best creative angles from them in his way.
Regarding investments, Shaq does not spend his money on random brands. Instead, he spends significant time researching before putting his money into a deal. Shaq follows the 80/20 rule (aka Pareto Principle), which states that 80% of outcomes come from 20% of your activities. This has helped the big man reap significant benefits from his investments and other business deals.
Gary Vee was stunned by Shaquille O’Neal’s curiosity and fervor for learning
Shaquille O’Neal still considers himself a student of many avenues and subjects. He has an undying curiosity and fervor for learning, which impressed Gary Vee. During the above sit-down interview session, Gary Vee complimented the Big Aristotle’s curiosity, calling it a superpower.
“This guy’s f**king curious, he is inquisitive, and he is humble. Leaning more into curiosity always, always, always puts you in a good spot. And I think that’s why he has foundhimself in many different places…the lack of fear comes along with that. I’ve been inspired to triple down on my curiosity cause I see it in him,” said the $200,000,000 entrepreneur Gary Vee.
Everyone in the basketball community acknowledges Shaq’s acumen as a businessman and a role model. Shaq’s TNT colleague Kenny Smith had once praised him for being one of the wisest businessmen he knows. Smith also claims that Shaq’s business activities helped him learn several industry fundamentals daily.