Inside the $30M Exit of a Socialist Buddhist
If you're a founder doing at least $3M/year in sales, check out Hampton: https://www.joinhampton.com/. Chris Cooke is a socialist Buddhist who sold his company for $30 million… then blew most of it on a weed farm, a beach house, and a comedy club in Thailand. Here’s what we talk about: How Chris accidentally “won” capitalism—despite deeply skeptical views of money What happens when your values, ego, and bank account collide Why he spent nearly his entire fortune in six months—and doesn’t regret it The real estate investments that unintentionally saved him from going broke How Buddhist detachment helped him take huge risks—and make millions Why giving money to friends was harder than it sounds (and cost him relationships) How he's now building a business focused on sustainability, not just growth The real meaning of success for a Buddhist entrepreneur Cool Links: Hampton – Join the Founder Community https://www.joinhampton.com/ Lower Street – Podcast Production https://www.lowerstreet.co/ Chapters: (00:00) Introduction: The Paradox of a Capitalist Buddhist (03:23) Early Life and Entrepreneurial Spirit (06:01) Building and Growing a SaaS Business (11:41) The Decision to Sell and Its Aftermath (17:26) Spending the Fortune: Investments and Losses (22:05) The Comedy Club and Financial Struggles (25:49) Lifestyle Changes and Generosity (27:07) The Downside of Lending Money to Friends (29:56) Reflections on Wealth and Happiness (30:54) The Rollercoaster of Post-Exit Life (36:44) Buddhist Values and Business Success (40:12) Current Financial Situation and Future Plans (44:11) Conclusion and Final Thoughts This podcast is a ridiculous concept: high-net-worth people reveal their personal finances. Inspired by real conversations happening in the Hampton community. Your Host: Harry Morton Founded and runs Lower Street, the leading branded podcast production service in the world. Hampton Member.