Joan Rivers found herself in Weston, Florida on Friday, March 12th. This trip resulted in her new reality show, "How'd You Get So Rich." The idea sprung upon meeting one of Weston's residents, Jamie McDonnell, 46, a once-cocaine addict who turned his life around and become a self-made, successful entrepreneur.
Rivers has the belief that McDonnell's story is what America is all about, an authentic example of bringing one from rags to riches. River's interview with McDonnell was given at his 10,000 square foot 6 bedroom home in Windmill Ranch Estates, found in Weston. 11 cars are parked in the driveway, including a Lamborghini, Bentley, and Rolls Royce, to name a few.
When McDonnell was 25, he was released from a four-year stay in New York City rehab, during which time he was fighting an addiction to cocaine after failing the ninth grade. McDonnell took a job going door-to-door helping his brother to sell one of his inventions, a device used to detect microwave leaks. It was during this time that McDonnell was struck with the inspiration to create one of his own inventions - safety kits used to detect mold, lead, and pesticides in water.
At present time, McDonnell's invention is sold in nine countries, producing a total of $200 million in revenue per year. While his safety kit business flourishes, he has ventured into several other industries, including magazines, advertising, plumbing, and restaurants.
McDonnell's wife is a true believer in the value of hard work, which she knows is the key to her husband's success. While McDonnell receives, he also gives, donating to non-profit organizations such as the YMCA and the Boys and Girls Club.
A number of his businesses are located near his home in Weston - more specifically, in Weston Town Center. These thriving businesses include East City Grill, Azul Bar and Lounge, Libation Wine and Spirits, Del Vecchio's Pizzeria, Stop Burger, as well as local magazine Think Weston and Windmill Advertising Group.
River's reality show, "How'd You Get So Rich" is geared towards those who are self-made successes, those who started from the ground up, rather than those born into wealth. The show's second season starts on May 5th at 10pm. The episode will feature Jamie McDonnell's Weston home and his success story.
For more information about Weston, please contact:
Michelle Farber Ross & Lisa Cordero
Ross-Cordero Realty Group
Waterfront Properties & Club Communities
Direct: (954) 644-4802
Email: Ross-Cordero@wfpcc.com
Website: www.westonrealestate.us
