About Ben Wilson

I was listening to a self-development podcast one day, when I began to wonder… why limit myself to learning lessons from the greatest people who happen to be alive? Why not learn from the greatest leaders of all time?

That question resulted in the birth of my podcast, ‘How to Take Over the World.’ I’ve since discovered that finding your heroes in history is the rocket fuel that has motivated great achievers through the ages. Napoleon was obsessed with Julius Caesar, Julius Caesar was obsessed with Alexander the Great. Steve Jobs was obsessed with Edwin Land.

Learning about the greats gives us motivation, and gives us a blueprint for how to structure our lives.

So, if you've ever wondered about the makings of greatness or pondered the blueprint to leave an indelible mark on the world, you're in the right place. Together, let's explore the lives of those who dreamed big, hustled harder, and in their own unique way, tried to take over the world. Welcome to our shared journey of discovery, inspiration, and perhaps, world domination.

If you are interested, then click here to explore the episodes and see what the podcast is all about.

You can also find me on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Learn More
Our Story
2017

First Episode

Tim Ferriss had already interviewed many of the leading modern thinkers, but the greatest minds of history—Napoleon, Socrates, Churchill, and others—were no longer available for conversation.

I addressed this gap by developing the concept, designing the brand and logo, composing the recognizable intro music, and producing the inaugural episode on Napoleon Bonaparte within a week using modest equipment.

That first episode marked the launch of How to Take Over the World and established the approach and vision that continue to define the podcast today.

2021

My First Million Producer

Sam Parr, the co-host of the top-ranked business podcast My First Million, saw the potential early on and began supporting me by publicly championing the show.

He eventually hired me as a full-time producer, where I not only refined my technical and storytelling skills but also gained firsthand experience in building a podcast with a large and loyal audience.

2023

1 Million Downloads

In April 2024, after six years of dedicated effort, the podcast reached its first million downloads.

Covering countless episodes on figures such as the Rothschilds, Napoleon Bonaparte, and Julius Caesar.

2024

Ecuador Summit

Collaborating with Alex Petkas of Cost of Glory, we hosted an exclusive summit for some of the most influential builders, thinkers, and entrepreneurs in the world.

Set at the stunning Hacienda Zuleta in Ecuador, an estate owned by the family of a former president, the retreat combined breathtaking Andean landscapes with immersive experiences designed to foster genuine connections and big-picture thinking. It was an unforgettable gathering of minds shaping the future.

MrBeast Interview

MrBeast has been an incredible supporter, tweeting “Shut up & Only watch HTTOTW” and appearing on the podcast, the only interview done on HTTOTW to date.

By age, he is on track to surpass Walt Disney in terms of cultural impact. I am extremely grateful to have someone like him as a loyal supporter.

2025

Full Time & Top 100

Through the support of countless fans over the years, HTTOTW has grown into a top 100 podcast, providing opportunities I never imagined.

This growth has allowed me to work on the podcast full time, create a reliable income through premium subscriptions, and engage directly with an incredible community of listeners, all while fully supporting and spending time with my family of 3 kids.

And we're just getting started
I’m on a mission to empower the next generation of world conquerors. You can support the journey by becoming a premium subscriber, getting 1-on-1 coaching, joining The Classical Society, or reaching out below to collaborate through sponsorships, speaking engagements, or partnerships.