Mad Money

How the Great Recession changed Jim Cramer's investing approach forever

The Great Recession changed Cramer's approach forever
VIDEO1:2101:21
The Great Recession changed Cramer's approach forever

Every night, Jim Cramer goes on "Mad Money" with the mission of helping people become better investors. In the past 11 years of the show, the evolution of that mission has transformed to match the surrounding environment.

The show first began as an outgrowth of Cramer's radio show called "Real Money." At that time, people were craving specific investment ideas. Everything changed when the Great Recession of 2008 hit investors and shifted the way they view the market.

During that time, the downturn ravaged many big companies, especially financial companies, while there was a dramatic decline in economic activity.

"That era changed things, and it changed me. It changed the show," Cramer said

Watch the full segment here:

How the Great Recession changed Jim Cramer investing approach forever
VIDEO11:0611:06
How the Great Recession changed Jim Cramer investing approach forever

The show is no longer about just giving stock ideas, because in Cramer's opinion that is not enough anymore. In fact, he now deliberately has minimized highlighting stock ideas. He would rather an investor be taught to understand the process and be able to pick stocks for themselves.

"Ever since we changed the show, we have tried to leave behind the so-called 'new ideas' or 'hot ideas,' and instead tried to give you themes that allow you to invest in more fertile sectors versus others, themes that I hope I can make come alive so you can do the homework on them," Cramer added.

Ultimately, Cramer believes that stocks can be one of the greatest investment vehicles out there. They represent the sum progress of a business and the prospects for that business going forward. They can also share that wealth with shareholders and be very rewarding.

Cramer wants investors to go along for the ride with stocks, but that means doing it in a responsible way. That is why he always suggests an index fund as a safe way to invest.

"The show has changed over time from one where we pick stocks for you, to one where we educate you about stocks so you can understand why an index fund might be worth investing in," Cramer said.

Questions for Cramer?
Call Cramer: 1-800-743-CNBC

Want to take a deep dive into Cramer's world? Hit him up!
Mad Money Twitter - Jim Cramer Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - Vine

Questions, comments, suggestions for the "Mad Money" website? madcap@cnbc.com