More Hoop Dreams: Earvin Magic Johnson Talks Business
“I’m looking forward to the opportunity to work with SHP’s team on developing healthcare programs focused on the needs of individuals in underserved communities,” states Magic. “I am hopeful that the community, providers and hospitals embrace these efforts.”
Partnerships rule in Magic’s world. He says the right partner can yield anticipated, as well as unexpected, benefits. For instance, “a lot of (our businesses) want scale, but are not ready for it,” says Magic. “Sometimes a partner can help you get to the scale that you want (as in the partnership with SHP).”
Other times, a partnership can help hit a home run, as with the deal struck with the Los Angeles Dodgers this past March. Magic led the group that was able to purchase the club for a record $2 billion. According to Forbes.com, the Dodgers are the second-most valuable Major League Baseball franchise, behind the New York Yankees.
Magic’s involvement in the league has stirred a lot of excitement in fans of all ethnic and racial backgrounds, but he doesn’t take all of the credit.
“We can do a lot together,” he adds.
Happiness on the Home Front
Not only is Magic handling his businesses worldwide, he’s a master on the home front, too. According to Cookie Johnson, Magic’s wife, her man is committed to ensuring that his family spends quality time together. He never misses any of their children’s events, and the Johnsons take two family vacations a year. As a couple, Cookie and Magic have date night every Friday, when they indulge in dinner, a movie or whatever. They also coordinate their travel so they have at least two free weekends every month.
That’s no small feat, considering Magic’s schedule, but when you add Cookie’s activities, it would seem impossible. She now serves as the secretary of the board of the Magic Johnson Foundation. In addition, she is immersed in the everyday business functions of her line of women’s jeans, CJ by Cookie Johnson.
Taking care of home and each other remains a top priority, so they make it work.
“He’s a workaholic,” she confesses. “He loves to work, and he loves to work hard! It’s truly what drives him, but he makes sure he takes the time to rest and rejuvenate.”
More to Come
So what’s next for the Magic man? Tune into Aspire, MJE’s new television network, which launched in June. Magic Johnson Enterprises may also tackle some international ventures this year. For the latest MJE tweets, follow Magic on @magicjohnson, or friend him on Facebook.
Regardless of the final game plan, Magic will surely be at the forefront. For him, it’s a must!
“You can’t rely on anyone else to (run your business),” he says finally. “Your name is on the door, and it’s your brand.”
