This biography by Walter Isaacson chronicles the life of Benjamin Franklin from his early days as a runaway apprentice to his later years as one of America's most influential Founding Fathers. The book explores Franklin's contributions to science, politics, and literature, including his work on the Declaration of Independence, his diplomatic efforts in France, and his inventions such as bifocal glasses and the lightning rod. Isaacson also delves into Franklin's personal life, including his relationships and his philosophical underpinnings that shaped American society. The narrative highlights how Franklin helped forge the American national identity and his enduring relevance in the twenty-first century.
This book highlights the human aspects of running a business, focusing on personal relationships and self-discipline as key factors for success. It emphasizes that understanding people and their motivations is more crucial than just analyzing data. McCormack shares insights from his experiences in building IMG into a global sports management powerhouse.
This book blends the wisdom of a seasoned mentor with the transformative power of sports, sharing George Raveling's journey from his humble beginnings in segregated Washington, D.C., to becoming a legendary coach and Nike executive. It includes stories of his time at the March on Washington and his role in creating the Air Jordan brand with Michael Jordan. The book serves as a guide for living a life of purpose and potential.
I want to tell you the story of a kid, born in 1937 into segregated Washington, D.C. He’s 9 when his father dies and 13 when his mother has a mental breakdown, disappears, and is institutionalized. He’s effectively orphaned. This is how George Raveling’s story begins.
Despite being dealt one of the worst cards imaginable, George, now 87, went on to become the most revered basketball coach in the world.
He played against Jerry West, the man on the NBA logo. He became only the second black basketball player for Villanova University. And he went on to become the first black coach at several American universities.
He’d go on to coach and mentor players like Michael Jordan. And chances are, you probably would’ve never worn—or even heard of—Air Jordan sneakers if it wasn’t for George.
Yet, in all his decades of coaching, the words Head Coach never appeared on his door. Instead, it always read: “George Raveling, Educator.”
George has had a bit of a Forrest Gump life, somehow showing up at the most important events in American 20th-century history. He stood next to Martin Luther King Jr. at the March on Washington. He met presidents Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, and Harry S. Truman. And he traveled the world promoting basketball as an international sport.
This is a man who made his own breaks, continues to break glass ceilings, and embodies the American dream.
Today on Honestly, Bari Weiss sits down with George to discuss his extraordinary life and his new book, What You're Made For: Powerful Life Lessons from My Career in Sports, which he wrote alongside Ryan Holiday.
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Honestly with Bari Weiss 
