In 1997 “Rich Dad Poor Dad” Became a Bestseller. Now Author Robert Kiyosaki Says He is $1.2 Billion in Debt

Renowned businessman and author Robert Kiyosaki, famous for his influential book *Rich Dad Poor Dad*, has reportedly found himself grappling with a staggering debt of $1.2 billion. This revelation, disclosed in a recent Vanity Fair article, certainly raises eyebrows, particularly considering Kiyosaki’s teachings which have long advocated for financial literacy and investment strategies.

Kiyosaki, who is now 79, initially began referencing this impressive amount of debt in 2025. During an episode of *The Hannah Hammond Show*, he defended his financial position, suggesting that the debt is a strategic tool rather than a financial burden. “Debt is money,” he stated, emphasising that traditional advice from figures like his “poor dad” and financial guru Dave Ramsey to avoid debt is outdated according to his “rich dad” philosophy. This perspective advocates for leveraging debt to invest, particularly in real estate.

Kiyosaki’s ex-wife Kim, who remains an active business partner, clarified that while the total debt figure is indeed $1.2 billion, it does not solely rest on Kiyosaki himself. Rather, it encompasses the collective debt of a network of real estate investors with whom they are partnered. “We have a lot of apartment houses with our partners,” she explained, citing approximately 1,500 units attached to this debt, which is, in her view, connected to tangible assets rather than pure liabilities.

The unconventional narrative surrounding Kiyosaki’s financial strategy prompts mixed reactions. Kim remarked that her ex-husband enjoys making statements that provoke thought and surprise. Once the public becomes aware of the debt, Kiyosaki seizes the opportunity to elaborate on why he considers investment-related debt advantageous. He maintains that he adopts a risk-managed approach by borrowing against increased property valuations, all secured through limited liability companies (LLCs).

“If it all comes to hell, you can talk to my attorney,” Kiyosaki told Vanity Fair, underscoring his strategy of utilising “firewalls” to protect himself in the event of financial turmoil. This method aligns with his broader business philosophy which favours calculated risks over traditional financial conservatism.

Kiyosaki’s journey to success began in a rather unremarkable fashion, as he struggled to find his footing after serving in the Marines. It was during a conference in 1981 that he encountered futurist R. Buckminster Fuller, whose insights profoundly influenced Kiyosaki’s outlook on wealth and education. “Bucky always said, ‘Your job is to build an artifact,’ and I didn’t understand what he was saying back then,” Kiyosaki reflected. Eventually, he realised the importance of creating tangible products to teach financial principles. This epiphany led to the creation of the board game *Cashflow*, which formed the foundation for *Rich Dad Poor Dad*.

Since its publication in 1997, *Rich Dad Poor Dad* has transcended its original intent to become a financial classic, selling over 44 million copies and being translated into multiple languages. The book portrays the contrasting philosophies of Kiyosaki’s biological father, who promoted traditional job security, against the more entrepreneurial advice of his friend’s father, whose teachings centred on utilising market opportunities. The book’s success was further bolstered by Kiyosaki’s strategic partnerships, including his collaboration with Amway and a notable appearance on *The Oprah Winfrey Show*.

Beyond *Rich Dad Poor Dad*, Kiyosaki has authored more than 20 additional publications, collaborating with prominent figures like Donald Trump in books such as *Why We Want You to Be Rich*. His ongoing influence is marked by a significant online presence, attracting millions of followers across platforms like Instagram and YouTube, where he continues to share investment strategies aimed at navigating today’s economic landscape.

In a recent YouTube video, Kiyosaki urged his audience to diversify their investments by considering assets like stocks, rental properties, gold, silver, and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. His emphasis on real estate and various forms of investment reveals his confidence in leveraging debts as a means to build wealth, even during tumultuous financial times.

As Robert Kiyosaki faces this hefty debt, the debate continues over the wisdom of his financial principles and the implications of his expansive investment strategies. Whether viewed as a maverick or a misguided risk-taker, Kiyosaki’s influence on financial thought is undeniable and continues to provoke strong opinions across the economic spectrum.