Do you have what it takes to be successful — The Benefactor.

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It’s getting close to showtime! Mark your calendars for September 13th! That’s Monday night, and it’s on ABC, before Monday Night Football in most places, afterwards on the West Coast.

I can’t wait. I just cut the title sequence and it really sums up whatI was looking for in picking the winner. It has a little more “pat myself on the back” then I wanted, but the reality is (does this count as a pun :), that I’m not well known outside of the sportsworld, so ABC wanted everyone to know my resume.

Here is what you will hear in the title sequence to a background of pictures and videos that I dug up:

My first business was selling garbage bags door to door at age 12.

I started my first real business with less than 1k dollars and sold it for millions.

My next business was started with less than 5k, and was sold for billions!

My name is Mark Cuban, and I’m a self-made billionaire.

I know what it takes to be successful.

I have lived the American Dream and loved every minute of it.

Now it’s my turn to share the wealth.

I have taken the secrets to my success and turned them into a game.

I’ve invited 16 people to compete in my game.

The game is a series of tests to reveal the qualities that all successful people have.

The game, like the road to success, has challenges, twists, turns and roadblocks.

How you deal with each, can make or break you.

The winner will be creative, competitive, have an entrepreneurial spirit and be able to rise above the competition and prove to me, they have what it takes to become successful.

The winner walks away with a million dollars!

I AM going to change someone’s life FOREVER.

My name is Mark Cuban.

I am the Benefactor.

This pretty much sums up what I was looking for in the game. The tests also reflect this.

The only bad thing so far in everything I have seen, is that because of time constraints on the episodes, we couldn’t use everything. I guess that’s a better problem than not having enough to use!

The tests were meant to look for the qualities thatI think all successful people have. This isn’t about being successful in business, this is about being successful in anything you try, from the arts, to sports, to business to just about everything. You may agree or disagree, but that’s part of what makes the show fun!

I’llgive you examples of the “success tests” that I created:

1. You don’t get a 2nd chance to make a first impression,including a great example of a time when I didn’t make a such a good first impression.

2. Time is more valuable than money. How you use your time is critical.

3. Work hard, play hard. Pushing to be successful always increases stress levels at some point, how you manage that stress creates a foundation for how you’re energized to go for your goals!

The test for this one is great. Watch the sizzle reel for a hint!

4. Roadblocks to success come from the unlikeliest of sources. You have to always expect and be prepared to deal with someone trying to beat you to the punch, or stop you dead in your tracks. How you deal with the unexpected, speaks volumesfor your ability to succeed.

5. Everyone has the ability to be successful. There is something in all of us that makes us special, the hard part is pushing through boundaries and finding it and not being afraid to show it.

6. One of my favorite tests was based on one of my favorite sayings: It’s not if the glass is half empty or half full, it’s who is pouring the water. Knowing whether you are pouring, or whether your glass is being poured for you, iscritical. In this test, I found out how the contestants figured out which side they were on, and dealt with it.

For all thetests, I giveexamples ofhowIhad to face these tests in my life, and how I passed some, anddidn’t do so well at others, and of course how the contestants did with each test, and whyI cut them or let them go on towards the million dollars.

If you are interested in what it takes to be successful, if you are interested in seeing if you have what it takes, maybe you are interested in seeing if you agree with me or not.

If you want to seehow 16 people take on the challenge with their futures and1mm dollarsat stake, you are going toLOVE this show.

63 thoughts on “Do you have what it takes to be successful — The Benefactor.”

  1. I am looking forward to the show. But, I am wondering; when will the Benefactor air in Indianapolis on Sept. 13th? I doubt 7pm, because in Indy our networks tape delay programming (including the 6:30pm news) and play MNF live.

    Comment by Scott -

  2. I’m from L.A. and a big Laker fan and thought that you were a big moron.
    But, after reading through your posts I have a newfound respect for you.
    The posts about how a trade goes down in the NBA are really cool as people in the media always throw around terms, but never really explain them.
    Anyways, I’m really excited over your show now that I’ve read your posts. Good luck with that although I don’t think you’ll need it.

    If you read the comments Mark, I was just curious how much time you spend on this blog?
    It seems a good amount of time goes into the posts and you have the team to run, appearances to make, and the show.
    Much respect.

    Comment by Raymond Tseng -

  3. Wow my post got deleted for pointing out that maybe Mark would admit like Buffett that the rich use every tax loophole possible, so that their tax is actually less than yours or mine.

    Must be some republicans moderating this board, as Tim’s post is still here.

    Comment by Dirk's Saurkraut -

  4. Hey Mark glad to hear you are so excited about your show. TV shows do not excite me much because of the acting that takes place. How about your views on the race for President, are you looking forward to Kerry’s idea that you are not taxed enough and do not know how to spend your own money and that others who do not work for it should be given more?? Or maybe Bush’s idea that if are able to keep more of your money (by Uncle Sam taking less) you could invest more in your business and your employee’s, therefore creating new jobs. I am so tired of hearing people say that if you have an income over $200,000 a year you should give a disproportionate amount to the government to spend for you, and that some how to get that much money you must have stolen it from someone who make less or does not work at all. Thats not the American dream to punish its people for trying to get ahead!!!Mark would you be so brave as to BLOG this most important issue..TNX Tim MFFL

    Comment by Tim Hutchings -

  5. I liked your line “Its not if the glass is half empty or half full, its who is pouring the water”

    How about this:
    It does not matter if the glass is half empty or half full, it matters what the glass is made of (ie, what YOU are made of).

    Mondays on ABC. I’m west coast, so I’m guessing it would be at 9:00 PM (after silly football games that take up NBA space…)

    keep it up…

    Comment by greg -

  6. Mark, I’m a big fan, but I hope this show isn’t cheesy. Right now my favorite reality show is the Joe Schmo show because it’s a fake reality TV show that makes fun of all the other lame shows. Please don’t have a twist, because every reality show has a twist. Every time I hear a commercial that claims “a twist you would never believe” I just throw my remote at the TV because I’m tired of hearing it.

    Comment by Entertainment News -

  7. I can NOT wait to see this show. Looking forward to being inspired. 😉

    Comment by Amber -

  8. “Time is nothing more than an metaphor… an illusion. Luck is a byproduct of time and space. The only time that matters is now!!!

    And, yes… you do not get a 2nd chance to make a 1st impression.

    ** Look forward to seeing the show **

    See you next season for round two (II).

    (P.S. – I definitely want to know who’s pouring the water if I’m drinking it!)

    ===============================================
    MC:

    Missed you at the Dallas auditions, so I figured I might as well gear up for season 2. Feel free to check out my audition video at…

    http://www.onetalentsource.com/796

    “Game On!”

    Ap

    Comment by Ap -

  9. I am glad to see a new post. This board will light up like a Christmas tree
    once the show airs.A suggestion,if you haven’t done it already – Redirect Benafacors comments to a Message board.
    I am sure ABC would want the feedback. That way you won’t have to babysit the blog comments as I am sure there will be comments you don’t want to bother with.
    Anyway, good to see you back.

    Comment by Dan -

  10. I agree …. Keep hope alive!

    Comment by Joe -

  11. Please don’t get all caught up in your benefactor show. We need you to prepare for the real show “2004/05 Mavs Season”. I feel we have slipped and need to make some serious trades to be able to compete for a championship.

    Comment by Mark Soto -

  12. I agree with David. I’ll watch the show well and I’m sure it will be good, but what I really want to hear right now from Cubes doesn’t have to do with televsion shows or dividends, I want to know how he’s going to salvage this offseason and keep the Mavs from falling into the lower half of the West, which is exactly where they’d be if the season started today. Mark, I know you love the Mavs to no end, but please help us fans out and let us know that we have something to look forward to this season other than a lack of talent.

    Comment by Edward -

  13. Hey Mark,
    Make sure the show is distributed to Singapore. Not all of your blog readers are from America. 🙂 “The Apprentice” is currently screening here a couple of months after the series ended in America. I hope you dont make me wait too long.

    Comment by Peter -

  14. I hope that you put in a twist in the end of the show. Something in line with “Trading Spouses” would be nice! After all, it would be great to see to look on the face of the winner after you tell them that America get’s to decide how the spend there cash! Or, better yet you decided…LOL…Just random thoughts.

    Comment by slw1234 -

  15. I hope that you put in a twist in the end of the show. Something in line with “Trading Spouses” would be nice! After all, it would be great to see to look on the face of the winner after you tell them that America get’s to decide how the spend there cash! Or, better yet you decided…LOL…Just random thoughts.

    Comment by slw1234 -

  16. Mark I like the sound of the show but it sounds so unlike you. Usually you’re very innovative and coming up with new and exciting creations and solutions. Now you’re joining the reality craze that started with Survivor, how long ago was that? I don’t know your schedule but it seems like this show took up a good chunk of your time, time that is valuable to the Mavs and your business ventures. I just hope that you do remember that the basketball season starts soon as does your show and that the Mavericks still haven’t gotten the post defense that they so badly need…..

    Comment by Brian -

  17. Mark,
    Here’s an idea –
    Whatever lessons you didn’t get to include in Benefactor 1, use for another show.
    Hey, don’t even offer 1 million, don’t offer a penny.
    I know that if I play and it airs, my winning qualities will reap extrinsic and intrinsic rewards.
    I want to play for the love of this type of self knowledge.
    You would make a great judge/mentor.
    Sign me up!!

    Comment by cheri/benebe -

  18. Mark, the hour before MNF should be a prime spot for your show, looking forward to watching it.

    Don’t know if ABC is already planning on doing this, but I was just wondering if the show will be rerun during the week at other times. Like NBC did with the Apprentice and MTV does with all their shows.

    Comment by Tony Y -

  19. Hey Mark, Glad your shows finally coming on. I have been waiting for it (and my call back that never came) but anyway…..no hard feelings….hope its a success.

    How about the Benefactor 2?

    when can i try out?

    Jeff saunders the gay redneck from Georgia
    770-745-8688
    jwsaunders@yahoo.com

    Comment by jeffrey saunders -

  20. why shouldn’t he gloat? not everyone gets their own tv show.

    Comment by Brian -

  21. at least you’re not gloating…
    wait..
    never mind. you are.

    grrr…

    Comment by kevin -

  22. I for one will be watching this show intently. I was so disappointed when I first saw the commercial for this show, which indicated that you were looking for possible contestants, and went online to register only to find out that the registration period was already over. Like I said, though, I’ll be watching anyway. Thanks.

    Comment by Mike -

  23. If the show is popular, you can always add the cut scenes to a DVD package. That’s what everyone does – load a DVD with “extras” that weren’t deemed worthy enough to make the show. Music artists often times get lazy and package a B-sides CD of cut material, so consider your scrapped material for a DVD collection.

    Comment by JT -

  24. Mark, the show will be great and we all know it, and I can’t wait for it. But what I also can’t wait for is August 24th. Kidd, Carter, Big Z, Dampier, Thomas, ????. You see where I’m going with this right. Lets get our “roster” back in order so we actually have a chance in falling out of the lottery. Mark I know you have it in you, make those trades, bring us that championship, get that vet pg, get a better center instead of 5 or 6 average ones. Us MAVERICKS fans are counting on you to bring us our moneys worth and put Dallas back on the NBA map!

    Comment by David -

  25. I am so tired of hearing people say that if you have an income over $200,000 a year you should give a disproportionate amount to the government to spend for you, and that some how to get that much money you must have stolen it from someone who make less or does not work at all.

    Comment by runescape money -

  26. It’s people like you, who can truly make a difference. You are a positive mentor to so many people, and will continue to be so for a very long time. As long as
    “there is air in your lungs, your voice will he heard”. I’m Canadian born and made…But, I am truly impressed with how far you have come.

    Comment by wow powerleveling -

  27. Do you guys think Mark is reading these comments??? :0) If so I sure would like a chance to win a million I know my famlies life would be changed and a whole lot of other famlies to! We need to rally for The Benafactor 2 as long as it decent, not like the other reality shows that sell sex, that was the main reason I watched. I saw some Morals in the show 🙂 Whom so ever see’s this comment come visit my website at http://tnlsgotexans.00freehost.com

    Comment by Lisa Jones -

  28. Is there going to be another benefactor? If so
    how can get on??

    Comment by Lisa Jones -

  29. Hi!

    I’m really enjoying your show! I think everybody can learn something from it. I hope you walk away from it learning to have more fun! It shouldn’t take strangers, wanting money from you, to show you a good time.

    Comment by Domai -

  30. Writing is a way to get started. You may never get rich, but at least the experience will be rewarding. And if you loose out, then just keep pushing that pen.

    Comment by Shirley Billingsley -

  31. Writing is a way to get started. You may never get rich, but at least the experience will be rewarding.

    Comment by Shirley Billingsley -

  32. I saw the show once it was great and it never aired in south florida fort Lauderdale again it was always sportsjam live We contacted the station but no success any reruns or new shows coming up?

    Comment by Susan Behar -

  33. Mark, Imus and Trump just ripped you up pretty good.

    Challenge Trump to a 100 million dollar head up no limit hold ’em game. Ratings would go through the roof.

    Go Mavs

    Comment by Frank -

  34. Mark I know I have what it takes with my charisma and I am more of a fan of yours than any sports star out here today.

    Comment by Brian Plaster -

  35. HI MARK, FIRST OPF ALL I THINK YPOU ARE VERY KOOL. I THINK THE BENAFACTOR IOS GREAT. CAN YOU GIVE ME SOME INFO ON HOW TO BE ON THE SHOW? THANKS ROBERT

    Comment by robert couch -

  36. i sent an e-mail after the first show aired but never saw it posted or got a response from wither you or your staff. i would like to know how people are picked and where it was promoted ? I never saw anything for it. Another question…why are all the females young? Early 20’s , 30’s? I am 48 and I know I could run circles around these younger women…being around the block a few times has helped. I would love a chance to compete for the “Benefactor 2”. Can you tell me if you plan on having a second show and if so, when will it be made public? Also the show was cancelled in my area last night due to a special on Christopher Reeves.

    Thank you for your time and I hope to get a response to this e-mail

    Comment by Pat Fayo -

  37. Mr. Cuban,

    I haven’t had the chance to watch your show and just wanted to let you know that I am planning to go to my first time ever NBA game and it will be your team.

    Things to accomplish:
    1)go to OU game:) finally (done!)
    2)go to Dallas Maverick game (still in progress)
    3)Be in the Benefactor! (sure, why not!)

    BTW: Nice biography of you! Can’t wait to meet you!

    Comment by Tam -

  38. Mark,,,The Show is very entertaining !!!

    But,,,It would be better viewed on another night, since Monday Night Footall follows it.
    You know yourself,,, as you prepare for wathcing your basketball games do you sit and watch the Apprentice ? No I don’t think so…

    You either going to the game or bar or club or making your popcorn and cracking a beer.

    With all the millions of Fantasy Football and regular football fans gearing up for the game, and whatching at the local clubs and bars ,,,,,,, all will miss your show……

    Consider another night and get more people to watch……..

    If you liked my input,,,, it’s worth 1 million dollars…….I’ll take a bank transfer…
    Send me an email for the information.

    Thanks
    George

    Comment by George Gallant -

  39. Mark,,,The Show is very entertaining !!!

    But,,,It would be better viewed on another night, since Monday Night Footall follows it.
    You know yourself,,, as you prepare for wathcing your basketball games do you sit and watch the Apprentice ? No I don’t think so…

    You either going to the game or bar or club or making your popcorn and cracking a beer.

    With all the millions of Fantasy Football and regular football fans gearing up for the game, and whatching at the local clubs and bars ,,,,,,, all will miss your show……

    Consider another night and get more people to watch……..

    If you liked my input,,,, it’s worth 1 million dollars…….I’ll take a bank transfer…
    Send me an email for the information.

    Thanks
    George

    Comment by George Gallant -

  40. I’m really enjoying your show! I think everybody can learn something from it. I hope you walk away from it learning to have more fun! It shouldn’t take strangers, wanting money from you, to show you a good time.

    Comment by Shellie -

  41. Mark: You’re a trip! The show is great,and I love your unpredictable behavior. Sign me up for Round Two. Put me in coach!

    Michelle

    Comment by Michelle -

  42. I loved the new show. It is quite funny watching what people will do for $$, and what others who have $$ will do to get a reaction.

    Would love to see what, if anything, I would do for 1 million……………thanks, Alex

    Comment by Alex -

  43. Trump has class, Cuban has balls; both great shows! JZ

    Comment by Jim Zucker -

  44. Trump has class, Cuban has ballz!

    Comment by Jim Zucker -

  45. I was just wondering because I would like to start a business, and this would be the quickest way to get the money to do it. Email me if there will be one .. Thanks

    Comment by Adam Snodgrass -

  46. She’s a teacher at an inner-city school – why doesn’t she teach her students instead of buying them things (“…some want things as simple as a kite…”)? Come on! Teach them how to build a kite – there is plenty to learn, including science (weather, engineering, aeronautics), math (measurements), history (importance of kites, balloons and flight), art, confidence, etc. I don’t know the second grade cirriculum where Shawn teaches, but when I was in the second grade, we did build kites (among other things).

    I hope she doesn’t treat her kids the way she comes across (and describes herself).

    Comment by steve -

  47. Great show ! WOW ! How does it feel to be able to play with peoples emotions ? Total power trip?

    Comment by Jon Moseley -

  48. mark, GREAT SHOW. I like the set up. looks like you will have alot of fun. for the libs that think you are just taking a tax loophole (GOP bias) remember you are giving a stranger a cool mil, and some of us thank you for that. if you need a good boot wearing Republican on your next show drop me an e-mail. thanks

    Comment by Brian -

  49. Just saw the show. Loved it! Can’t wait until next week to see what’s in store for those contestants.

    Comment by S. A. Peradoza -

  50. I admit I came here to see about the 25 000$ “chance to win” shown on your show. But to no avail I can’t see where it is located. ( perhaps I’m in the wrong place?” So I take the time to say WOW what a wonderful show! Thus far what has caught my attention is the attention you are drawing to the (what would be obvious to people if they were to “listen” to others)human character of each contestant! Nice to see someone “see through” the fakeness of some. Done with such honesty and in an obviously humorous fashion!! I say the show will go far!! GOOD JOB!!!
    Deborah

    Comment by Deborah Lochhead -

  51. Dear Mark, If you are pouring and I am pouring, is the cup overflowing? m-e
    p.s. Do any charities or real survivor’s benenfit from “the Benefactor” ?

    Comment by Mary-Ellen Golden -

  52. I really am looking forward to watching the Benefactor. I watched your interview on one of the American channels. I was so very inspired. You’ve truly worked hard for all you have. It’s people like you, who can truly make a difference. You are a positive mentor to so many people, and will continue to be so for a very long time. As long as
    “there is air in your lungs, your voice will he heard”. I’m Canadian born and made…But, I am truly impressed with how far you have come.
    Angel Hugz
    Anastazya alwayz

    Comment by (aka) Anastazya (Denise Werner) -

  53. Mark, I’ve been watching the promo’s for the show and it looks great… I can’t wait for the show to come on and we see ratings sky rocket. My question is? Will you be doing this again if the show is able to get viewership that is – and if so, would you be open to hiring a hard worker that’s not on the show??

    I would give my left arm… no wait… I’m left handed… how about my right arm for the oppurtunity to work for you, with you or near you … hehe. I have seven years work expereince. So, give a gal a chance!

    Please please please please write back.

    Take care,
    T

    Comment by Tara -

  54. Mark, I am so disappointed. My roommate is one of the 16 contestants on the Benefacor, and it isn’t even being broadcast in Idaho during primetime. It is being played at midnight on Tuesdays. Isn’t there anything you can do? All her friends are dying to watch. Don’t you think she earned it?

    Comment by Kirsten -

  55. Hi Mark,

    I admire the fact that you had the tenacity to make it happen for you. I relocated from CA to Idaho some four years ago. I started a company that was intended to help the homeland security effort with detection systems and training. Because of the lack of vision from the sate officials, local economic development groups, and the Governor, the company failed.

    Any thoughts on how to make a business work in a state that has no vision. I have a new business (www.homelanddefense.tv) and am trying again. Without private investment, what do you do? What we do will save lives and is very needed. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

    Comment by Bruce J Tedeschi -

  56. Mark,

    Looking forward to the show!

    Comment by commencement speech -

  57. In the title sequence for the show, Mark indicates that “I am going to change someone’s life forever.” In reality, the people who will be truly changed are more numerous. They are all of the participants, and all of those watching, who take to heart the lessons imparted during the contest. In establishing the Fallen Patriot Fund, Mark has allowed many families to transition to full and active pursuit of similar goals. That includes a member of my family. But there are so many other young families who could also take part fully in life with a broader Fund. I implore Mark to forget about the “patting himself on the back” concern, and be vocal about the Fallen Patriot Fund during the run of the show. Let America join you in broadening the number of OIF and OEF families assisted. Let’s change hundreds more lives.

    Comment by Larry Kelly -

  58. I love that analogy re who is filling the glass – it´s those insights that make all the difference for people looking to improve their lives.

    Keep up the good work.

    Comment by Peter -

  59. Congrats on the show Mark, like many others I’ve been anticipating it’s debut.

    In regard to “The Don” busting your chops, I’m sure the slaughtering success of The Benefactor will put him in his place.

    AWSOME AWSOME AWSOME job aquiring Devin Harris at the draft this year. You took the man I was hoping my Raps might pick-up, but I guarantee you won’t need a vet pg for long. Once he finds his groove he’ll be throwin OOps to the Fin and droppin’ floaters in the lane, an excellent pickup.

    WATCH OUT FOR MY TEAM! 2010 IS THE YEAR OF THE RAPTOR!! 😉

    Comment by James Reman -

  60. Can’t wait either

    Comment by Kevin Goldman -

  61. I can’t wait to see your show. Your metaphor of the glass/water and who is pouring was very intriguing and made me think deeper on it. I even wrote a post in my own blog here: http://ronhuxley.blogs.com/privatepracticebuilding/2004/08/the_glasswater_.html

    Comment by Ron Huxley -

  62. Well, Mark, when I first saw the preview for “The Benifactor,” I thought to myself, another person with so much money, giving it away for his own entertainment (and not knowing anything about you, thinking an old man with a lot of doe.) But, my husband told me a little bit about you, and after reading what the show is really about, I was completly wrong. It sounds very interesting, good luck.

    Comment by Christine -

  63. Well, Mark, when I first saw the preview for “The Benifactor,” I thought to myself, another person with so much money, giving it away for his own entertainment (and not knowing anything about you, thinking an old man with a lot of doe.) But, my husband told me a little bit about you, and after reading what the show is really about, I was completly wrong. It sounds very interesting, good luck.

    Comment by Christine -

Comments are closed.