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PRAISE FOR THE SKY'S THE LIMIT "The American Dream holds that anyone, regardless of background and circumstances, should have the opportunity to lead a life of service, success, and meaning. Few people embody those ideals as much as John Calamos, and his journey showcases what's possible when determination and talent meet opportunity."
-MICHAEL MILKEN, Chairman, Milken Institute "What John Calamos has done for the investment industry has been groundbreaking, but it's his experiences outside the investment world, his passion for philanthropy, and relentless pursuit of excellence that will bring the best out of anyone who reads this book."
-JOHN S. KOUDOUNIS, President and CEO, Calamos Investments "John Calamos changed the investment landscape when he started his firm just as the Chicago options and futures markets gained national attention. His focus on risk mitigation through convertible securities taught my television audience-and me-the difference between calculated investing and wild speculation. Today he is living proof of the long-term value of his strategies!"
-TERRY SAVAGE, Syndicated Financial Columnist and Author of
The SavageTruth on Money "John Calamos embodies the attributes of our proud Hellenic American heritage-humility, courage, family, philanthropy, ambition, and hard work-while always remaining rooted to the values that define the best in us as individuals and humanity. Throughout his life, John has 'made his own luck' and his story is a guide for how to accomplish great things by living a purposeful life characterized by service, moderation, and empathy."
-C. DEAN METROPOULOS, Private Equity Investor and Founder, Metropoulos & Co. "John's courage and commitment to serving our country are an inspiration. Rarely does a story embody the best of what America stands for, delivered with principles for a life well lived."
-MARK CARLSON, Author and Military Historian
List of contents
Preface
1 The American Dream: A Journey Begins 1
2 Stock boy and the Stock Certificates 9
3 Factory Floors to Academic Halls 17
4 Shaping His Vision 23
5 Active Duty 29
6 Red Smoke! 37
7 The Defining Mission 41
8 Back to the States 49
9 Civilian Life Again 53
10 Founding of Calamos Investments 59
11 We Hired PhDs 65
12 A Journey Home 73
13 Strategies for Stability 77
14 A Journey Together 85
15 A Lifelong Passion for Flight 95
16 Calamos Goes Public 103
17 Weathering the Storm 109
18 A New Era Begins 117
19 Reclaiming Control 125
20 From Success to Significance 131
21 Global Influence 139
22 Excellence, Innovation, and Leadership 147
23 Forging a Lasting Legacy 155
From the Desk of John P. Calamos, Sr. 165
Acknowledgments 171
About Joe Garner 173
Index 175
About the author
JOHN P. CALAMOS, SR. is Founder, Chairman, and Global Chief Investment Officer of Calamos Investments. He is a pioneer in the fields of convertible securities and liquid alternative investments, as well as a Vietnam veteran who has flown over 400 missions as a combat pilot and a recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross.
JOE GARNER, deemed the "Ken Burns of the written and recorded word" by talk show legend Larry King, is a six-time
New York Times bestselling author renowned for his innovative storytelling and multimedia approach. His groundbreaking
New York Times bestselling debut,
We Interrupt This Broadcast, pairs pivotal historical moments with authentic news broadcasts and features forewords by Walter Cronkite and Brian Williams. Garner has collaborated with celebrated figures across industries, including Academy Award winner Dustin Hoffman, sports broadcast icon Bob Costas, comedy greats Carl Reiner and Rob Reiner, and NASCAR Hall of Famer Jeff Gordon. With a unique ability to bring history, culture, and personal legacies to life, Garner remains a leader in the world of nonfiction.
