Inside the $30M Exit of a Socialist Buddhist
Inside the $30M Exit of a Socialist Buddhist  
Podcast: Moneywise
Published On: Tue Mar 18 2025
Description: 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 moneyWhat happens when your values, ego, and bank account collideWhy he spent nearly his entire fortune in six months—and doesn’t regret itThe real estate investments that unintentionally saved him from going brokeHow Buddhist detachment helped him take huge risks—and make millionsWhy 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 growthThe real meaning of success for a Buddhist entrepreneurCool 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 ThoughtsThis 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 MortonFounded and runs Lower Street, the leading branded podcast production service in the world.Hampton Member.