Long Run Archives #31 | Recapping World Champs + THE MAMMOTH

Into the Silence by Wade Davis is a meticulously researched narrative that explores the British expeditions to Mount Everest in the 1920s. The book delves into the personal stories of brave men, many of whom were veterans of World War I, who sought redemption and purpose in the Himalayas. It provides a sweeping historical context, from Britain's imperial ambitions to the impact of the Great War on these adventurers.

In 'Bad Blood', John Carreyrou chronicles the story of Theranos, a biotech startup founded by Elizabeth Holmes that claimed to have developed a revolutionary blood-testing technology. However, the technology did not work, and the company's success was built on deceit, intimidation, and manipulation. The book is based on extensive interviews with former employees and other individuals involved in the scandal, revealing the toxic company culture, the misuse of investor funds, and the risks posed to patients due to inaccurate blood test results. Carreyrou's investigation led to the exposure of Theranos's fraud, resulting in significant legal and financial consequences for the company and its leaders.

In 'The Attention Merchants', Tim Wu explores the history and impact of the industries that feed on human attention. Starting from the 19th century with Benjamin Day's penny newspapers, Wu traces the evolution of advertising through various media, including radio, television, and the internet. He argues that the basic business model of 'attention merchants' has remained constant: offering free diversion in exchange for moments of attention, which are then sold to advertisers. The book also examines the societal and psychological effects of this attention economy and the various revolts against it.