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Chat With Traders is your key to the minds of trading's elite performers. Start listening to learn how a diverse mix of traders went from zero to hero, how they successfully trade markets today, and get their best tips 'n pointers for profitable performance, plus much more. Note: You are responsible for your own trading decisions—this is not financial advice.
David Capablanca shared his story of hitting rock bottom as a trader, living in his car and showering on Skid Row, while simultaneously experiencing his first profitable months. He described this period as a "rollercoaster" during Covid, where he was digging himself out of a financial hole. Capablanca emphasized that his transition into trading required him to completely change his habits and routines, a process that began around 2016.
David Capablanca attributes his trading success to a "burning the boats" philosophy, inspired by Hernan Cortez. This approach signifies total commitment and no retreat, which he applied to his trading mastery. This involved extreme sacrifice, including sleeping in his office, living out of his car, and showering on Skid Row, all while isolating himself from society and renouncing material comforts.
David Capablanca revealed that a life-threatening brain tumor and a near-death experience significantly changed his life direction. He described the experience as traumatic, leading to around 150 staples in his head. This pivotal moment at age 25 forced a change, making him realize that younger individuals might find it easier to adapt and change their ways.
David Capablanca detailed his experience showering on Skid Row during the Covid-19 pandemic, noting that many facilities like gyms and hotels were closed. He mentioned the presence of the National Guard in downtown hotels and protests occurring concurrently. Despite these challenging circumstances, he was having his first profitable months in trading, which he described as life-changing money.
David Capablanca shared that he did not make any money from trading for almost four years, from 2016 to 2020. During this period, he was focused on self-development, stopping alcohol consumption, avoiding negative influences, and consuming any trading material he could find, distinguishing good information from bad.