‘Think and Grow Rich’ Is a Lie. (But The Advice Still Works)

In this episode, the hosts dive into the story behind Napoleon Hill, the author of the renowned self-help classic 'Thinking Grow Rich'. Known for its success and popularity, the intriguing element revealed is that much of Hill's backstory, including his claims of mentorship by Andrew Carnegie and interactions with historical figures like FDR, is falsified. Hill, who faced multiple legal troubles in his life, created an extensive narrative to bolster the credibility of his work, which remains influential to this day.

The discussion further explores the traits and stories of various self-help personalities, drawing comparisons, notably referencing other figures like Jay Shetty, who also appear to embellish their pasts for a more appealing narrative. This leads into a broader conversation about the self-help industry and the prevalence of dubious backstories among its prominent figures. The hosts emphasize that while many self-help authors may stretch the truth, their content can still offer value and insight to readers.

Moreover, they highlight how the lessons from Hill’s book—goals, persistence, and positive affirmations—have merit, even if his personal history does not hold up. The episode provides a critique of the self-help sector while still acknowledging that some genuine figures exist, sharing personal experiences with people in the industry who have positively influenced their lives.