#5043

Mentioned in 13 episodes

Power Failure

The Rise and Fall of an American Icon

Book • 2022

William D. Cohan

In 'Power Failure,' William D. Cohan provides a detailed history of General Electric's 130-year journey, from its founding to its current state.

The book delves into GE's innovations, exponential growth through acquisitions and mergers, and its pioneering doctrine of shareholder value.

Cohan also examines the leadership of iconic CEO Jack Welch and the vulnerabilities that were hidden beneath GE's successful facade.

The narrative is enriched by rare interviews with key figures, including Jack Welch, and offers a cautionary tale about the hubris and avoidable mistakes that can afflict even the most iconic corporations.

Mentioned by

Michaela Tendera

Anthony Scaramucci

William D. Cohan

William D. Cohan

Phil Rosenzweig

Mentioned in 13 episodes

Recommended by

Morgan Housel

as a detailed account of General Electric's growth and subsequent downfall, illustrating corporate hubris.

Respecting Each Other's Delusions, Memory Dividends, and What Our Grandchildren Will Enjoy

Mentioned by

Kara Swisher

as one of his books.

Trump's Tariffs: Chaos, Confusion & Consequences

Mentioned by

Michaela Tendera

as the author of a book about the rise and fall of General Electric.

Behind the Money: GE Vernova tries to shake its parent’s problems

Mentioned by the hosts as the source for many stories about GE and Jack Welch.

Did "Neutron" Jack Welch Nuke GE?

Mentioned by

Anthony Scaramucci

when praising

William D. Cohan

’s earlier Wall Street books and noting that he had interviewed him about it.

How Wall Street’s Billionaires Became Untouchable - William D. Cohan

Mentioned by

William D. Cohan

as his new book coming out November 15th, three years in the making.

The Fed’s Dire Warning, Apple's Legal Headache, and Guest Kevin Delaney

Mentioned by

Phil Rosenzweig

as a book he read recently about the decline of General Electric.

#68 Phil Rosenzweig: The Halo Effect

Mentioned in the episode description list of books

Anthony Scaramucci

is reading or recommends on financial history and crises.

Jun 2026 Q&A: Breaking From Trump, Reforming American Democracy & Book Recs

Mentioned by

Derek Thompson

as the author of the book discussing the rise and fall of GE.

A Crypto Catastrophe: The Stunning Fall of FTX—and What Comes Next

Mentioned by

Kara Swisher

as the author of "Power Failure", discussing GE's rise and fall.

The Excruciating Toll of Elon's Stunts

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