Short Takes with Robert Reich

The truth behind "self-made" billionaires

By Robert Reich

Published May 17, 2026 at 8:35 PM PDT

Elon Musk’s father owned shares in an emerald mine in Africa.

Bill Gates’ mom helped Microsoft get a deal with IBM.

Jeff Bezos’ garage-based start was funded by a quarter-million dollar investment from his parents.

“Self-made billionaires” are a myth.

Listen above or watch below.

The Truth Behind “Self-Made” Billionaires | Robert Reich

Short Takes with Robert Reich

Robert Reich

Robert B. Reich is Professor of Public Policy emeritus at the Goldman School of Public Policy at the University of California, Berkeley. He has served in three national administrations, including as secretary of labor under President Bill Clinton, for which Time Magazine named him one of the ten most effective cabinet secretaries of the twentieth century.

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