How a Buddhist Monk Turned a Diamond Firm Into a $100M Empire

Michael Roach, a former Buddhist monk, has built a remarkable career in business while applying ancient Tibetan principles. His journey began with spiritual studies before he transformed a small diamond firm into a multimillion-dollar enterprise. He now shares his insights through writing and consulting. Roach first planned to dedicate his life to Buddhism. In 1983, he entered Sera Mey Monastery in Lhasa and later studied under Khen Rinpoche Geshe Lobsang Tarchin in New Jersey. He earned the title of geshe, a master of Buddhist studies, during this time.

He then joined Andin International, an Israeli diamond company, starting as an errand boy. Over 17 years, he rose to vice president and expanded its sales from a $50,000 loan to over $100 million. He attributes this success to a business philosophy rooted in Tibetan wisdom.

Today, Roach serves as a partner and deputy CEO of KORUS Consulting and founded the Sellty platform. His book, The Diamond Cutter, provides practical tools for mindfulness and purpose in work and life. He also advocates daily reflection on death to clarify what truly matters. Roach’s career demonstrates how spiritual principles can shape business success. His approach challenges the idea that money alone should drive professional or personal goals. His methods continue to influence both corporate strategies and individual mindsets.