PN Deep Dive: Podcast Notes Book Collection: 2024 Edition

Dec 21, 2024

Dive into a vibrant discussion about a curated collection of over 150 significant books, focusing on innovation and personal growth. Explore the intersections of history, ethics, and informed investment. Discover how literature can guide intentional living and minimalism. The power of parenting strategies that nurture emotional intelligence is also highlighted. With insights into groundbreaking science and technology, this conversation emphasizes the transformative potential of books and accessible knowledge.

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ADVICE

Book Recommendations

Use Podcast Notes' 2024 book collection for curated book recommendations.
It features over 150 books from various genres, chosen from numerous podcasts.

insights

INSIGHT

Ethical Success

Success in business doesn't always necessitate ruthlessness.
Biographies of industry titans reveal ethical challenges accompanying power.

insights

INSIGHT

History's Relevance

History provides insights into present and future trends.
Books like "The Great Wave" connect past economic cycles to current events like inflation.

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Insights from Classic Literature on Investment and Ethics

01:38 • 2min

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Exploring Growth Through History and Innovation

03:19 • 5min

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Exploring Literature and the Power of Intentional Living

08:03 • 2min

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Literature, Parenting, and Personal Growth

09:38 • 7min

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Empowering Through Accessible Knowledge

16:24 • 4min

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The Great Wave

David Hackett Fischer

Andrew Carnegie

David Nasaw

David Nasaw's biography of Andrew Carnegie is a meticulously researched and engaging account of Carnegie's life. The book delves into Carnegie's early fortune, his involvement in the steel industry, and his later philanthropic efforts, including his campaigns against American involvement in the Spanish-American War and for international peace. Nasaw uses a trove of new material, including unpublished chapters of Carnegie's Autobiography, personal letters, and extensive correspondence with notable figures, to paint a balanced and robust portrait of Carnegie. The biography places Carnegie's life in cultural and political context, highlighting his contradictions as a ruthless businessman and a generous philanthropist.

The intelligent investor

Jason Zweig

Benjamin Graham

Written by Benjamin Graham, 'The Intelligent Investor' is a seminal work on value investing that has inspired millions since its original publication in 1949. The book emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between investing and speculation, calculating the intrinsic value of companies, and maintaining a margin of safety. The revised edition includes updated commentary by Jason Zweig, who provides modern examples and insights to help readers apply Graham's principles in today's market. Warren Buffett, a disciple of Graham, has praised the book as 'the best book about investing ever written'.

The evolution of civilizations

Carroll Quigley

Carroll Quigley's "The Evolution of Civilizations" is a comprehensive and ambitious work of history that examines the rise and fall of civilizations throughout history. Quigley's analysis focuses on the interplay of various factors, including economic systems, political structures, and cultural values, in shaping the trajectory of civilizations. He identifies recurring patterns and cycles in the development of societies, offering a framework for understanding historical change. The book is known for its vast scope and its insightful analysis of power dynamics and their impact on societies. It has influenced thinkers across various disciplines, including history, political science, and sociology.

The Lessons of History

Will Durant

Written by Will and Ariel Durant after completing the 10th volume of their 'The Story of Civilization' series, 'The Lessons of History' provides an overview of the themes and lessons observed from human history. The book examines history from various perspectives including geography, biology, race, character, morals, religion, economics, socialism, government, war, growth and decay, and progress. The Durants discuss the recurring themes of history, such as the balance between liberty and equality, the role of economics, and the inevitability of human nature's influence on historical events. They argue that while there are no predictable regularities in the course of civilizations, there are common factors that contribute to their growth and decline.

The Alchemist

Paulo Coelho

Paulo Coelho's "The Alchemist" is an allegorical novel that follows Santiago, a shepherd boy, on a journey to fulfill his Personal Legend. The story blends elements of fantasy and realism, exploring themes of self-discovery, following one's dreams, and listening to one's intuition. Along his journey, Santiago encounters various characters and challenges that teach him valuable lessons about life and the importance of perseverance. The book's simple yet profound message has resonated with readers worldwide, inspiring them to pursue their passions and embrace the journey. The Alchemist is a timeless tale of self-discovery and the pursuit of one's dreams.

Zero to One

Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future

Peter Thiel

In 'Zero to One,' Peter Thiel argues that true innovation comes from creating something entirely new, going from 'zero to one,' rather than incrementally improving existing ideas. He emphasizes the importance of vertical progress through technology and the benefits of monopoly in driving innovation. Thiel also discusses the need for long-term planning, the importance of finding the right co-founders, and the power law in startup success. The book challenges conventional wisdom and encourages readers to think critically and aim big to build the future.

Fiat Food

Matthew Lysiak

Million Dollar Weekend

Noah Kagan

In 'Million Dollar Weekend,' Noah Kagan provides a step-by-step guide on how to turn ideas into profitable businesses within a short timeframe. The book focuses on overcoming fear, creating value for customers, and validating ideas quickly. Kagan shares his personal experiences and real-world examples to illustrate how to start and grow a business efficiently. The book advocates for action over excessive planning, encouraging readers to test their ideas with minimal investment and scale based on real feedback. It also addresses the psychological aspects of starting a business and offers practical advice on automation, marketing, and achieving financial freedom.

The Sovereign Individual

Mastering the Transition to the Information Age

James Dale Davidson

William Rees-Mogg

The book explores the greatest economic and political transition in centuries, predicting the shift from an industrial to an information-based society. Davidson and Rees-Mogg argue that this transition will liberate individuals, alter the power of government, and lead to the rise of digital currency and cyberspace. They foresee a future where individuals will be freed from government oppression and prejudice, and where states will struggle to collect taxes due to the ease of transferring assets electronically. The authors also discuss the potential for prosperity and renewal in the face of radical changes in human history as we move into the new millennium.

Dune

Frank Herbert

Dune, written by Frank Herbert, is set in a feudal interstellar society where noble houses control planetary fiefs. The story follows Paul Atreides, whose family is tasked with ruling the inhospitable desert planet Arrakis, the sole source of melange, a substance crucial for extending life and enhancing mental abilities. The novel delves into the intricate politics, religion, ecology, and technology of this futuristic world, as various factions vie for control of Arrakis and its valuable spice. Paul, with his unique abilities and training by the Bene Gesserit, becomes a key figure in this struggle and eventually assumes the role of a messianic leader among the native Fremen people.

AI superpowers

China, Silicon Valley, and the New World Order

Kai-Fu Lee

In this book, Kai-Fu Lee argues that China is poised to become the next tech-innovation superpower due to its unique advantages in AI development, such as abundant data, fewer data protection regulations, and aggressive tech startup culture. Lee discusses the potential economic upheaval caused by AI, the impact on employment, and proposes a social contract to forge a new synergy between AI and human society. The book emphasizes the need for both the US and China to accept and embrace the responsibilities that come with significant technological power.

Home economics

Wendell Berry

In 'Home Economics,' Wendell Berry argues that the health of the planet is directly tied to the health of its households and communities. He critiques modern industrial and economic practices, advocating for a return to local, sustainable economies and a deeper connection between individuals and their communities. The essays discuss themes such as the importance of good workmanship, the dangers of consumerism and industrial farming, and the need for clarity and coherence in our lives and communications. Berry's work is characterized by his clear and insightful prose, offering thoughtful reflections on personal and national issues.

The bitcoin standard

Saifedean Ammous

The Bitcoin Standard analyzes the historical context to the rise of Bitcoin, the economic properties that have allowed it to grow quickly, and its likely economic, political, and social implications. The book takes the reader on an engaging journey through the history of technologies performing the functions of money, from primitive systems to modern government debt. It explains the operation of Bitcoin as a decentralized, distributed piece of software that converts electricity and processing power into indisputably accurate records, allowing users to perform traditional monetary functions without relying on authorities or physical infrastructure. The book also explores common questions surrounding Bitcoin and its potential as a store of value and a network for final settlement of large payments, challenging government monopolies and offering a vision of money extricated from politics and borders.

Free range kids

giving our children the freedom we had without going nuts with worry

Lenore Skenazy

In the second edition of 'Free-Range Kids', Lenore Skenazy provides a compelling and entertaining look at how modern culture fosters excessive worry about children's safety. Using real-world examples, advice, and humor, Skenazy argues that parents and educators can step back to allow children to develop independence. The book includes strategies for rejecting media-driven fear, giving students more independence in schools, and navigating a culture filled with warnings and fears. It also features 'real-world' free-range parent experiences, exercises for parents, and a critique of urban myths about safety risks.

Little, Big

or, The Fairies' Parliament

John Crowley

The novel tells the story of Smoky Barnable, a young man who travels from the City (New York) to Edgewood to marry Daily Alice Drinkwater. Edgewood, a house designed and built by John Drinkwater, serves as a gateway between the human world and the realm of Faerie. The story spans multiple generations of the Drinkwater family, delving into their unique connections with fairies, magical abilities, and the complex, interconnected nature of their world. The narrative is rich in allegory and symbolism, exploring themes of family, love, and the blurring of reality and fantasy.

The Boron Letters

Gary C. Halbert

The Boron Letters are a collection of letters written by Gary C. Halbert to his son Bond during his time in the Boron Federal Prison Camp in the 1980s. These letters provide a comprehensive education on direct marketing, copywriting, and general life advice. Halbert shares his insights on various subjects, including market analysis, headline creation, marketing promotions, and personal health. The letters are known for their practical advice and the fatherly guidance Halbert offers to his son. They have become a cult classic in the world of copywriting and direct response marketing, offering valuable lessons that are still relevant today.

Motherless Brooklyn

Professor of the History of Science Geoffrey Cantor

Jonathan Lethem

J. LETHEM

In 'Motherless Brooklyn', Jonathan Lethem tells the story of Lionel Essrog, a private investigator with Tourette's syndrome, who works for a small-time detective agency in Brooklyn. After his mentor, Frank Minna, is murdered, Lionel sets out to solve the crime, navigating through a complex web of gangsters, corruption, and personal relationships. The novel is praised for its unique protagonist, intricate plot, and Lethem's vivid portrayal of Brooklyn in the late 1990s. It won the National Book Critics Circle Award for fiction in 1999 and the 2000 Gold Dagger award for crime fiction.

Poor Charlie's Almanack

The Essential Wit and Wisdom of Charles T. Munger

Charles T. Munger

Peter D. Kaufman

Originally published in 2005, Poor Charlie's Almanack is a collection of eleven talks delivered by Charles T. Munger between 1986 and 2007. Edited by Peter D. Kaufman, this book draws on Munger's extensive knowledge across various fields to provide a framework for rational and rigorous approaches to life, learning, and decision-making. It is renowned for its sharp wit and rhetorical flair, making it an essential read for investors, entrepreneurs, and anyone seeking to enhance their wisdom and critical thinking skills.

The Tunnel

Bernhard Kellerman

Titan

The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr.

Ron Chernow

This biography by Ron Chernow provides an in-depth look at John D. Rockefeller, Sr., the founder of Standard Oil and one of the most influential figures in American history. Drawing on unprecedented access to Rockefeller’s private papers, Chernow reconstructs Rockefeller’s troubled origins, his single-minded pursuit of wealth, and his profound religiosity. The book also delves into Rockefeller’s philanthropic efforts, including his generous donations to the Rockefeller Foundation, the University of Chicago, and Rockefeller University. Chernow’s narrative synthesizes Rockefeller’s public and private lives, revealing a complex and multifaceted individual who was both a ruthless businessman and a devoted philanthropist. The book captures a pivotal moment in American history, documenting the post-Civil War shift from small businesses to giant corporations and featuring cameos by notable figures such as Ida Tarbell, Andrew Carnegie, and J.P. Morgan.

Storyworthy

Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life through the Power of Storytelling

Matthew Dicks

In 'Storyworthy,' Matthew Dicks provides a comprehensive guide on the art of storytelling. The book is divided into three parts: Finding your story, Crafting your story, and Telling your story. Dicks shares his own stories to illustrate key points and offers tips and exercises to help readers improve their storytelling skills. He emphasizes the importance of identifying a 'five-second moment' of transformation or realization in every story and provides techniques for making stories engaging and memorable. The book is designed to help anyone become a better storyteller, whether for personal or professional purposes, and highlights how storytelling can deepen connections with others and enhance one's own life.

Who Wrote the Bible?

Richard Elliott Friedman

In 'Who Wrote the Bible? ', Richard Elliott Friedman delves into the origins of the Old Testament, specifically the Pentateuch. He argues that the traditional attribution of these books to Moses is incorrect and instead proposes that they were written by at least four distinct authors (designated as E, J, D, and P) and later compiled by a redactor, possibly Ezra. Friedman's work is based on the Documentary Hypothesis, which identifies different writing styles, emphases, and historical contexts that reflect the political and religious divisions of ancient Israel and Judah. The book provides a comprehensive and authoritative answer to the question of who wrote the Bible, enriching the understanding of the text without undermining its significance.

How to Change Your Mind

What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence

Michael Pollan

In this book, Michael Pollan delves into the history of psychedelic drugs, from their rise in the 1960s to their current resurgence in medical research. He combines historical and scientific analysis with personal narratives of his own experiences with psychedelics, such as LSD and psilocybin. The book explores how these substances are being used to treat conditions like depression, addiction, and anxiety, and discusses their potential to revolutionize our understanding of the human mind and consciousness. Pollan's work is a blend of science, memoir, and travel writing, offering a nuanced and engaging look at the therapeutic and spiritual benefits of psychedelics.

Of Wolves and Men

Barry López

Originally published in 1978, this book delves into the intricate and varied interactions between humans and wolves over centuries. Lopez uses a wide range of sources, including personal experiences with captive and free-ranging wolves, to create a compelling portrait of the wolf. The book celebrates scientific fieldwork, dispels folklore that has demonized wolves, explains myths, and honors indigenous traditions. It explores how wolves are perceived differently by various cultures, such as scientists, Eskimo hunters, and Native Americans, and argues for the wolf's preservation. The book also examines the historical and cultural significance of wolves in human imagination and society.

How You Lose a Time War

null

C.L. Clark

Awareness

a de Mello spirituality conference in his own words

Anthony de Mello

In 'Awareness', Anthony de Mello combines Christian spirituality, Buddhist parables, Hindu breathing exercises, and psychological insight to challenge readers to wake up from the go-go-go world of illusion. The book, composed of short chapters and lectures, encourages readers to become aware of their thoughts, actions, and motivations. De Mello argues that true happiness and freedom come from dropping illusions and living in the present, free from the constructs of culture, conditioning, and fear. He emphasizes the need to observe oneself, understand negative feelings, and practice detachment to achieve a more authentic and fulfilling life.

Listen

Five Simple Tools to Meet Your Everyday Parenting Challenges

Patty Wipfler

This book introduces parents to five practical tools: Listening Partnerships, Special Time, Playlistening, Staylistening, and Setting Limits. These tools help parents build a strong, attachment-based relationship with their children, addressing common challenges like tantrums, separation anxiety, and behavioral issues. The book is filled with real-life stories from diverse parents and emphasizes the importance of emotional attunement, empathy, and validation in fostering children's emotional intelligence and well-being.

Superintelligence

Paths, Dangers, Strategies

Nick Bostrom

In this book, Nick Bostrom delves into the implications of creating superintelligence, which could surpass human intelligence in all domains. He discusses the potential dangers, such as the loss of human control over such powerful entities, and presents various strategies to ensure that superintelligences align with human values. The book examines the 'AI control problem' and the need to endow future machine intelligence with positive values to prevent existential risks.

The Exodus

Richard Elliott Friedman

In 'The Exodus: How It Happened and Why It Matters', Richard Elliott Friedman challenges the conventional view that the Exodus was a mass migration of millions of Israelites from Egypt. Instead, he proposes that the Exodus involved a smaller group of Levites who left Egypt around 1200 B.C. and joined the existing Israelites in Canaan. Friedman draws on archaeological, textual, and historical evidence to support his theory, arguing that this smaller exodus formed the basis for the much-embellished biblical account. He also explores the significant implications of this event, including its role in the formation of monotheism and the ethical principles of loving one’s neighbors. The book is written in an engaging and accessible style, making it readable for both scholars and general audiences.

How To Do Great Work

Paul Graham

In 'How To Do Great Work,' Paul Graham explores the intersection of techniques for doing great work in different fields. He argues that great work happens at the intersection of what you're good at, what you care about, and what the world needs. The essay emphasizes the role of curiosity, delight, and the desire to do something impressive as key motives. Graham advises readers to choose fields they are deeply interested in, learn enough to reach the frontier of knowledge, notice gaps, and explore promising areas. He also stresses the importance of consistency, intellectual honesty, and a willingness to take risks and admit mistakes.

What I Talk About When I Talk About Running

Haruki Murakami

In this memoir, Haruki Murakami reflects on his experiences with long-distance running and how it has influenced his writing. He started running in the early 1980s and has since completed over twenty marathons and an ultramarathon. The book delves into the parallels between running and writing, highlighting the discipline, perseverance, and mental fortitude required for both. Murakami shares his training regimens, memorable races, and the philosophical insights he has gained from his running experiences, which have significantly impacted his creative life.

The top five regrets of the dying

Bronnie Ware

In this book, Bronnie Ware shares her experiences from working in palliative care, where she identified the five most common regrets of the dying. These regrets include: 'I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me,' 'I wish I hadn’t worked so hard,' 'I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings,' 'I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends,' and 'I wish that I had let myself be happier. ' The book provides a heartfelt and inspiring account of how these regrets can be addressed while there is still time, promoting a life of greater compassion, honesty, and happiness.

Ask and It Is Given

Learning to Manifest Your Desires

Esther Hicks

Jerry Hicks

Ask and It Is Given presents the inspirational teachings of Abraham, a nonphysical entity channeled by Esther Hicks. The book provides a practical formula for manifesting desires by aligning one's vibrational energy with the desired outcomes. It includes 22 powerful processes to help readers achieve their goals and improve various aspects of their lives, such as relationships, health, finances, and career. The book emphasizes the importance of feeling good now and understanding how Universal laws influence one's reality. It is a comprehensive guide for those interested in the law of attraction and spiritual practicality.

The Strong Family Guidebook

Joe and Mal Hashi

Loving Every Child

Janice Kortschak

Get more notes at https://podcastnotes.org

Business

* Active Listening by Carl R. Rogers

* Key reading for getting better at negotiations

* Source: Chris Voss’s recommendation to Jordan B. Peterson (PN)

* When Helping Hurts by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert

* One of the best books about philanthropy

* Source: Brent Beshore’s recommendation to Shane Parrish (PN)

* Hey, Whipple, Squeeze This by Luke Sullivan

* A simple guide to creating great advertisements

* Source: Chris Beresford-Hill and Tim Ferriss in discussion (PN)

* Words That Work by Frank Luntz

* Mastering the art of words

* Source: Chris Beresford-Hill and Tim Ferriss in discussion (PN)

Economics

* The Creature From Jekyll Island by G. Edward Griffin

* Analysis of bank bailouts

* Source: Michael Saylor and Peter McCormack in discussion (PN)

* Broken Money by Lyn Alden

* “Money” is the biggest total addressable market in the world, and the money now is currently broken

* Source: Dylan LeClair recommendation (PN)

* The Great Wave: Price Revolutions and the Rhythm of History by David Hacket Fischer

* Explores the recurring cycles of price inflation throughout history, connecting economic trends to broader social and cultural changes

* Source: Rudyard Lynch’s recommendation to Tom Bilyeu (PN)

* Fiat Food: How Government, Industry, and Science Manufacture the Foods We Eat by Matthew Lysiak

* Why inflation has destroyed our health and how Bitcoin may fix it

* Source: Matthew Lysiak’s appearance on We Study Billionaires (PN)

Entrepreneurship

* Zero to One by Peter Thiel

* One of the most commonly recommended books for entrepreneurs

* Source: Multiple

* Only The Paranoid Survive by Andrew Grove

* Must read for all entrepreneurs

* Source: Morgan Housel and Chris Williamson in discussion (PN)

* Million Dollar Weekend: The Surprisingly Simple Way to Launch a 7-Figure Business in 48 Hours by Noah Kagan

* The idea of starting a business is often so overly romanticized that people never make the jump into entrepreneurship

* Source: Noah Kagen’s appearance on Deep Questions with Cal Newport (PN)

* Mastery by Robert Greene

* The value of mastering a skill set

* Source: Sam Parr’s recommendation to Andrew Wilkinson (PN)

* Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott

* How to overcome creative roadblocks

* Source: Chris Beresford-Hill and Tim Ferriss in discussion (PN)

* Chase, Chance, and Creativity by James Austin

* Talks about how certain people attract luck and how luck can be created

* Source: Mike Maples, Jr. recommendation to Lenny Rachitsky (PN)

* Fooled by Randomness by Nassim Taleb

* The impact of randomness and luck on success

* Source: Cyrus Yari and Iman Olya book review (PN)

* Skin in the Game by Nassim Taleb

* “You cannot separate knowledge from contact with the ground. Actually, you cannot separate anything from contact with the ground.” – Nassim Taleb

* Source: Cyrus Yari and Iman Olya book review (PN)

* Andrew Carnegie by David Nasaw

* “I got married at Carnegie Hall because of my love for Andrew Carnegie… He did a lot of bad things, but he was mostly amazing” – Sam Parr

* Source: Sam Parr’s recommendation to Andrew Wilkinson (PN)

* Tycoon’s War by Stephen Dando-Collins

* Cornelius Vanderbilt: How his mind worked and why you wouldn’t want to compete against him

* Source: David Senra book review (PN)

* Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr. by Ron Chernow

* Most successful entrepreneurs can be honest family men, too

* Source: Sam Parr’s recommendation to Andrew Wilkinson (PN)

* The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs: How To Be Insanely Great in Front of Any Audience by Carmine Gallo

* Nobody had more compelling presentations than Steve Jobs

* Source: David Senra book review (PN)

* How To Be Rich by J. Paul Getty

* “I would like to convince young businessmen that there are no surefire, quick, and easy formulas for success in business” – J. Paul Getty

* Source: David Senra book review (PN)

* Sam Walton: The Inside Story of America’s Richest Man by Vance H. Trimble

* Discover the rags-to-riches tale of billionaire Sam Walton, founder of the discount chain Wal-Mart and America’s richest man, in this study of old-fashioned values like honesty and hard work

* Source: David Senra book review (PN)

Investing

* What I Learned About Investing From Darwin by Pulak Prasad

* How to beat the market, the biggest mistakes investors make, why history is more important than projections, and how natural selection applies to investing

* Source: Kyle Grieve book review (PN)

* The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham

* Understanding the difference between price and value

* Source: Bill Ackman’s recommendation to Lex Fridman (PN)

* The Algebra of Wealth by Scott Galloway

* “America is a loving, generous place if you have money. It is a rapacious, violent place if you don’t.” – Scott Galloway

* Source: Scott Galloway’s appearance on The Rich Roll Podcast (PN)

* A Mathematician Plays The Stock Market by John Paulos

* Source: John Paulos appearance on Infinite Loops with Jim O’Shaughnessy (PN)

* Poor Charlie’s Almanack by Charlie Munger

* Charlie Munger understood incentives and human psychology, but never used that knowledge to manipulate others

* Source: Warren Buffett’s recommendation to shareholders (PN)