When I first heard about this guy I was impressed that at 35 he was pulled into all this.

Now learning that he pretty much was handed the whole thing via his connection through his marriage. Unless of course I mis-understand his background - maybe he married into wealth after making great accomplishments?
If you have ALOT of $$ then anything is possible - your pick of education, your pick of career position, etc.
The ones who I am impressed with are those that started with nothing or very little and built it into something incredible and then turn around and find ways to give back or help others.