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Tony Robbins accused of abusing clients; here are 5 things to know

Tony Robbins, 59, hosts seminars on things like “emotional mastery” across the country and world. Buzzfeed shone a spotlight on the self-help guru's treatment of audience members at those seminars and some of his employees. Photo: Dave Kotinsky

From appearances in cult favorite films like "Shallow Hal" to his numerous television appearances, Tony Robbins has been known as a familiar face in media that beckons transformation and self-improvement.

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Robbins, 59, hosts dozens of seminars on things like "emotional mastery" across the country and the world, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported. On Friday, Buzzfeed shone a spotlight on the self-help guru's treatment of audience members at those seminars and some of his employees. In the article "Unlimited Power," Buzzfeed investigated claims of sexual harassment from employees and emotional abuse by former audience members. Robbins has denied the claims.

If you’re not familiar with the celebrity inspirational speaker, here are a few things to know about Robbins.

He got into motivational speaking as a teenager.

Robbins, born Anthony J. Mahavoric in North Hollywood, California, began promoting seminars hosted by author and motivational speaker Jim Rohn at the age of 17, according to the book "Anthony Robbins: A true motivational life." By 1988, he had released his first infomercial, "Personal Power," to promote his services as a "peak performance coach."

He hosts “coaching camps” across the country.

He hosts multiday coach camps dubbed the Robbins-Madanes trainings, according to https://rmtcenter.com/about/.

“We believe that it takes a community to make an individual coach succeed,” a website statement reads. “As an RMT student you will get a community of Master Teachers, fellow students, and expert advisers. We will be your guides, inspiration, your friends, your colleagues and your bouncing board as you learn cutting-edge strategies for creating positive changes in yourself and others.”

He is reportedly worth $500 million.

According to a 2017 Gobankingrates.com article, Robbins' net worth is $500 million. He acquired that wealth through his programs like the "Unleash The Power Within, with tickets selling for $650 and $2,995, books and other speaking engagements.

He has appeared on several television programs and podcasts, including “Oprah’s Super Soul Conversations.”

Robbins has made appearances on several daytime talk shows over the last 30 years. In 2017, Robbins and his wife spoke to Oprah Winfrey about marriage and overcoming suffering for an episode of her podcast "Super Soul Conversations." According to Buzzfeed articles, he has worked with stars like Oprah and former President Bill Clinton through his exclusive membership program.

He claims to have revolutionized millions of lives with this philosophy, while building a multibillion-dollar business and working with celebrities from Donald Trump and Clinton to Oprah and the Kardashians. Access to his most exclusive membership training program, which costs as much as $85,000 a year.

He is slated to make an appearance in Atlanta this summer.

Robbins and "Shark Tank" star Daymond John are scheduled to host the Ultimate Wealth & Achievement Summit on July 27. According to the workshop's Eventbrite listing, the agenda includes lessons on shifting mindset and overcoming self-doubt. Tickets are currently on sale for the event from $29 to $1,397.