In a candid moment during an interview with CNBC Make It, Shark Tank star Mark Cuban shared an intriguing insight into the lucrative side hustle he would embark on if he could turn back the clock to his teenage years. At 66, the billionaire entrepreneur and NBA team owner emphasized the importance of being adaptable and curious in today’s rapidly evolving job market. But it was his bold prediction about the future of artificial intelligence that truly caught attention.
Cuban candidly expressed, “If I was a 16-year-old kid and needed to start a side hustle to make some money, I’d be all in on large language models like ChatGPT and Gemini. I’d be teaching my friends how to prompt these models.” His foresight into AI’s potential reflects a savvy understanding of where the market is headed, underscoring that even the youngest entrepreneurs can harness the power of technology for profit.
The tech titan, who boasts a staggering net worth of $5.7 billion, emphasized the gap in understanding AI among small to medium-sized businesses. “They don’t understand AI yet,” he noted, adding that he’d take it upon himself to educate them, even at 16. “It doesn’t matter if I’m a kid; I’d be teaching them as well.” This proactive approach to entrepreneurship showcases the kind of resourcefulness and initiative that has fueled Cuban’s success.
As one of the prominent ‘sharks’ on ABC’s reality series Shark Tank, Cuban has inspired countless entrepreneurs over the last decade. However, he recently announced that he would be stepping away from the show after its 16th season, reflecting on the valuable lessons it imparts about the American dream. “I love it because it sends the message that the American dream is alive and well,” he explained.
Beyond business, Cuban opened up about his personal life in a recent appearance on The Club Shay Shay podcast, where he humorously recounted the unconventional tests he put his wife, Tiffany Stewart, through before their marriage. “I made her go to White Castle. That was the test!” he revealed, laughing at the absurdity of the situation. “If you really love me, you’ll eat a White Castle burger!” His quirky approach to relationships highlights his playful side, contrasting sharply with his serious business acumen.
In a moment of surprising honesty, Cuban also addressed how he knew Stewart loved him for who he was, rather than his wealth. “Of course you know. She’ll let you hit her with the Dutch oven!” he joked, prompting laughter as he referred to the infamous prank of trapping someone under the covers after passing gas. This lighthearted banter offers a glimpse into the personal life of one of America’s most successful entrepreneurs, revealing that even billionaires cherish the simplicity of genuine love and connection.
Mark Cuban’s reflections serve as a reminder that with the right mindset and a willingness to adapt, even the most unexpected ideas can lead to incredible opportunities. As he prepares to exit the spotlight of Shark Tank, his insights into AI and personal anecdotes continue to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs. Whether it’s through technology or personal connections, Cuban’s journey is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of success.
