James Harden’s First Podcast: Billion-Dollar Moves, Transforming Basketball, & Answering Critics

In his first-ever podcast interview, James Harden joins Earn Your Leisure to share an in-depth look at his journey from basketball superstar to a successful entrepreneur. He discusses how his relationship with Jay Z led to the opportunity to join 'The Beard Club' and reveals the story of how he first met Michael Rubin. Harden reacts to Mark Cuban's claim that athletes will eventually earn more than team owners and reflects on the special love he receives from fans in China.

Harden opens up about the challenges of saying "no" to friends and family and shares insights into his long-standing relationship with Adidas, where he has now taken on the role of elder statesman. He talks about handling business challenges, the creation of J-Harden Wine, and his ambitious plan to turn it into a 9-figure business. Harden also shares his thoughts on analysts’ criticism, the current state of basketball, and why the iconic beard wasn’t intended as a marketing tool.

In this candid conversation, Harden dives into the evolution of his team, his thoughts on NBA players designing their own shoes, and his admiration for Michael Rubin. He also reflects on his $500K investment in Body Armor, inspired by Kobe Bryant's advice, which led to the company’s $5.6 billion sale seven years later.

This exclusive interview provides a rare glimpse into the mind of one of basketball’s greatest players as he balances success on the court with thriving business ventures.

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0:00 Intro
0:47 Harden’s Introduction to Entrepreneurship
6:35 Dealing with High Tax Rates & Adidas Deal
9:48 The State of NBA Wages
12:10 The Power of “NO”
13:47 Relationship with Adidas
18:49 Star Players Having Their Own Shoe
21:27 Mike Rubin & Fanatics Partnership
23:28 Harden’s Spirits & Water Business Breakdown
32:37 Continuing Legacy After Basketball
34:11 Staying Hungry in the NBA
36:28 Philanthropic Work
43:27 Building a Winning Team
49:46 Aiming for A Ring
52:06 Harden Ranks Himself
55:10 The State of Basketball
1:02:01 Outro