The Musts of 2024

In this book, Dr. Peter Attia draws on the latest science to deliver innovative nutritional interventions, techniques for optimizing exercise and sleep, and tools for addressing emotional and mental health. The book aims to replace the outdated medical framework with a personalized, proactive strategy for longevity, focusing on creating the best individual plan for long-term health. It covers topics such as the limitations of cholesterol tests, underdiagnosed liver conditions, the importance of exercise, and the integration of overall health with relational health.

Die with Zero presents a provocative philosophy and practical guide on how to get the most out of your money and your life. Bill Perkins argues against over-saving and under-living, advocating for investing in experiences early and maximizing positive life experiences. The book introduces concepts like 'time-bucketing,' 'net worth curve,' and 'fulfillment curve' to help readers optimize their life stages and make the most of their resources. Drawing from his own life experiences and insights from psychological science and behavioral finance, Perkins makes a compelling case for living large and accumulating memorable experiences rather than wealth.

The Ministry for the Future is a novel by Kim Stanley Robinson that delves into the urgent issue of climate change. Set in the near future, the story follows the establishment of a UN agency, the Ministry for the Future, whose mission is to advocate for the rights of future generations. The novel is told through multiple perspectives, including those of Mary Murphy, the head of the Ministry, and Frank May, an American aid worker who survives a devastating heat wave in India. The book explores various innovative solutions to climate change, such as the introduction of a new currency called 'carboni' to incentivize decarbonization, and it presents a hopeful yet realistic vision of how humanity might cooperate to mitigate the effects of climate change. The narrative includes a mix of fictional eyewitness accounts, non-fiction descriptions, and diverse writing styles, reflecting the complexity and urgency of the climate crisis.

The Midnight Library follows Nora Seed, a 35-year-old woman who feels trapped in a life filled with regret and disappointment. After a series of devastating events, she attempts to end her life but instead finds herself in the Midnight Library, a limbo between life and death. Here, guided by her childhood librarian Mrs. Elm, Nora can explore countless versions of her life by entering books that represent different paths she could have taken. As she navigates these alternate lives, Nora must confront her regrets, understand the complexities of choice, and discover what truly makes a life worth living. The novel delves into themes of regret, the meaning of life, and the importance of living in the present.

David Brooks's "How to Know a Person" delves into the complexities of human relationships, exploring how we perceive and understand others. The book emphasizes the importance of empathy, active listening, and self-awareness in building meaningful connections. Brooks challenges readers to move beyond superficial judgments and embrace a deeper understanding of themselves and those around them. He argues that true connection requires vulnerability and a willingness to be seen authentically. Ultimately, the book offers a practical guide to fostering richer, more fulfilling relationships.

In 'Who Not How', Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy introduce the 'Who Not How' framework, which challenges the traditional 'how' mindset by encouraging readers to ask 'who' can help achieve their goals. This book teaches how to delegate tasks effectively, find experts who can handle specific challenges, and create transformational relationships. By adopting this mindset, readers can free up time, build supportive teams, and achieve their biggest goals while maintaining personal freedom and reducing burnout.

In 'Same as Ever,' Morgan Housel presents a master class on optimizing risk, seizing opportunity, and living a fulfilling life by focusing on what remains constant in a changing world. Through engaging stories and examples, Housel shows how understanding permanent truths about human behavior can help readers make better decisions and navigate uncertainties. The book emphasizes the importance of recognizing and adapting to timeless principles in finance, business, and personal life, rather than trying to predict specific future events.

Richard Osman's "We Solved Murders" is a captivating mystery novel featuring a group of amateur sleuths. The story unfolds in a charming setting, with a cast of quirky and endearing characters. The plot is cleverly woven, keeping readers engaged with unexpected twists and turns. The novel's humor and heartwarming moments add to its appeal, making it a delightful read for mystery enthusiasts. The book's success has led to a series of sequels, further exploring the lives and adventures of the endearing characters.

Pattern Breakers, written by Mike Maples Jr. and Peter Ziebelman, challenges traditional startup wisdom by revealing the hidden forces that drive extraordinary success. The book is based on extensive research and real-world examples from transformative startups like Twitter, Twitch, and Lyft. It emphasizes the importance of a different mindset and actions to harness developments that others might miss or initially see as crazy. The authors provide practical advice on how to transcend ordinary thinking, capitalize on market opportunities, and build a community of true believers to revolutionize industries.

In this podcast, Anderson Cooper delves into the complexities of grief by sharing his own experiences and interviewing notable guests who have faced significant losses. The series begins with Cooper packing up his late mother Gloria Vanderbilt's apartment and explores various forms of grief, including family of origin, suicide, and partner grief. It aims to provide a platform for discussing the universal human experience of grief and how to live on with loss and love.