This book tells the story of Yvon Chouinard, who brought doing good and having grand adventures into the heart of his business life. It details his journey from his youth as the son of a French Canadian handyman to his ambitious climbing expeditions that inspired his innovative designs for climbing equipment. The book also explores how Chouinard built Patagonia into one of the most respected and environmentally responsible companies, emphasizing the importance of sustainability, personal growth, and unconventional business practices.
This biography by Michael P. Malone explores the complex life and personality of James J. Hill, his activities and interests, and the development of the Great Northern Railway. Hill, born in 1838 near Rockwood, Ontario, rose from humble beginnings to become a key figure in the construction of a transcontinental railroad. The book delves into Hill's contributions to transportation, agriculture, mining, lumbering, and maritime trade in the region, as well as his personal and business interactions that shaped the regional economy[1][2][4].
In 'Am I Being Too Subtle? Straight Talk From a Business Rebel,' Sam Zell shares his life story and business insights. Born to Jewish refugees who fled Poland before WWII, Zell recounts his journey from managing student housing to becoming one of America's leading real estate moguls. The book highlights his key principles, such as assessing downside risks, having a clear vision, and trusting his instincts. Zell also discusses his strategy of targeting troubled assets, his role in sponsoring numerous IPOs, and his unconventional approach to business and life. The book is filled with humorous and insightful stories, making it an indispensable guide for entrepreneurs and investors.
The book delves into the life of Daniel Ludwig, a high-school dropout who became one of the wealthiest men in the world through his ventures in shipping, oil, banking, and real estate. Ludwig's story is marked by his relentless ambition, innovative business tactics, and a penchant for maintaining privacy despite his immense wealth. The biography also explores his philanthropic efforts, including the establishment of the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research.
William Zeckendorf's autobiography chronicles his journey as a visionary real estate developer who reshaped urban landscapes in cities like New York, Denver, and Montreal. With his uncanny ability to make money and his flair for adventure, Zeckendorf built the largest real estate empire in history, only to face bankruptcy that shook Wall Street. The book offers insights into his financial acumen and creative approach to real estate.
What I learned from having lunch with Sam Zell and reading Zeckendorf: The Autobiography of The man Who Played a Real-Life Game of Monopoly and Won the Largest Real Estate Empire in History by William Zeckendorf.
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Episode Outline:
[27:31] Start of episode on Zeckendorf’s autobiography
[27:44] 26 years of work was now moving down the chute.
[28:36] The secret of any great project is to keep it moving, keep it from losing momentum.
[34:55] If you want to understand the entrepreneur, study the juvenile delinquent. — Let My People Go Surfing: The Education of a Reluctant Businessman by Yvon Chouinard. (Founders #297)
[36:21] Zeckendorf: Revisiting the legacy of a master builder
[45:08] This ruthless industry has created far more bankruptcies than it has billionaires. — Risk Game: Self Portrait of an Entrepreneur by Francis Greenburger. (Founders #243)
[48:49] If you want to know whether you are destined to be a success or a failure in life, you can easily find out. The test is simple and it is infallible: Are you able to save money? If not, drop out. You will lose. You may think not, but you will lose as sure as you live. The seed of success is not in you. — James J. Hill: Empire Builder of the Northwest by Michael P. Malone.
[53:20] I brought energy and drive. I became the chief enthusiast.
[1:08:42] I was also deeply in debt. Never, except for rare moments, have I ever had my head very far above the financial water and never have I Iet this trouble me.
[1:10:51] The importance to me of being on the heights was that in an hour I could achieve what previously would've taken a year or more of effort to perform.
[1:11:13] One way to succeed is by aiding and supporting the position of others through new or ingenious ideas or projects. This usefulness to others is in large part the reason for my own success.
[1:14:44] Am I Being Too Subtle?: Straight Talk From a Business Rebel by Sam Zell. (Founders #269)
[1:15:04] The Invisible Billionaire: Daniel Ludwig by Jerry Shields. (Founders #292)
[1:21:28] The Patriarch: The Remarkable Life and Turbulent Times of Joseph P. Kennedy by David Nasaw
[1:25:52] More businesses die from indigestion than starvation. — The HP Way: How Bill Hewlett and I Built Our Company by David Packard. (Founders #291)
[1:29:23] Wisdom is prevention. –Charlie Munger + Be hard to kill. —Paul Graham (Founders #275)
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“I have listened to every episode released and look forward to every episode that comes out. The only criticism I would have is that after each podcast I usually want to buy the book because I am interested so my poor wallet suffers. ” — Gareth
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“I have listened to every episode released and look forward to every episode that comes out. The only criticism I would have is that after each podcast I usually want to buy the book because I am interested so my poor wallet suffers. ” — Gareth
Be like Gareth. Buy a book: All the books featured on Founders Podcast
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