Shaquille O’Neal is more than an NBA legend—he’s a business powerhouse whose net worth soared after embracing purpose-driven investing. Inspired by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Shaq says he multiplied his fortune by focusing on companies that “change people’s lives.”
“Once I started doing that strategy, I think I probably quadrupled what I’m worth,” O’Neal shared with The Wall Street Journal.
This article is brought to you by Dr. Saeed Behckam, clinical psychologist, counselor, and sex therapist serving clients in Iran (Tehran) and Canada (Toronto, Richmond Hill, and Vancouver).
🚀 From Basketball to Billion-Dollar Bets: Purpose Over Profits
Unlike many celebrity investors who chase hype and headlines, Shaq applies a powerful filter to every business opportunity: Does it create real impact?
He doesn’t invest in what he can’t personally believe in even if the numbers look promising.
🔷 His success is rooted in one powerful idea:
Money follows meaning.
🔑 Shaq’s Game-Changing Investments
✅ Google (early stage)
✅ Ring (acquired by Amazon for $1B)
✅ Apple, car washes, Vegas clubs, and Krispy Kreme
🔷 His investment in Ring began with a personal need for affordable home security. After loving the product, he didn’t just become a customer—he became a backer. That decision turned into one of his biggest wins when Amazon acquired Ring in 2018.
❌ Walking Away from Bad Bets: The Auntie Anne’s Story
Shaq once owned 17 Auntie Anne’s pretzel franchises—but let them go.
“Do I really believe in this? The answer was no, so I let them go.”
This mindset is key: He doesn’t cling to profitless partnerships. Even Krispy Kreme made the cut—because of his lifelong obsession with the brand.
💸 The $100 Million Mistake: Starbucks
O’Neal openly regrets turning down an opportunity with Starbucks, citing his false assumption that Black communities didn’t drink coffee.
“I was wrong,” he admits—highlighting how even great investors miss.
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🌍 Purpose-Led Investing: The Real Billionaire Playbook
Shaq’s story is a masterclass in modern wealth-building:
Don’t just chase trends chase meaning
Invest in brands that align with your values
Admit mistakes, and learn from them
Understand your why before calculating your ROI
🧠 Final Takeaway
The best investments solve real problems.
Shaq didn’t build a $500M empire by luck—he built it on impact, integrity, and intention.
Looking for expert advice on enhancing your mental and sexual health?
If you’re ready to take control of your psychological, relational, or sexual well-being, Dr. Saeed Behckam, one of the top Iranian clinical psychologists and sex therapists in Tehran or in Canada (Toronto, Richmond Hill, and Vancouver), is here to help.
