Author Candice Millard on the Moments that Define Great Leaders | You Have To Get To The Outside

May 26, 2021

Candice Millard, a bestselling author known for her biographies of Theodore Roosevelt and Winston Churchill, joins to discuss the defining moments of great leaders. She highlights the significance of understanding historical context and how stepping back can bring clarity. Millard emphasizes the importance of competing with oneself while supporting others and reflects on the parenting dilemmas faced by ambitious leaders. Dive into the complex motivations driving historical figures and the relevance of their legacies in today's world.

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ANECDOTE

Roosevelt's Stoicism

Ryan Holiday discovered Theodore Roosevelt's birthplace and his copy of Epictetus.
This inspired him to read "The River of Doubt" by Candice Millard.

INSIGHT

Garfield's Overlooked Legacy

James Garfield's short presidency contributed to his historical obscurity.
Despite his brilliance, kindness, and significant contributions, he's often overlooked.

ANECDOTE

Garfield's Rise

Garfield rose from janitor to professor at Hiram College, showcasing his brilliance.
He was ambitious, but his primary drive was a genuine love for learning.

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The River of Doubt

Candice Millard

Candice Millard's "The River of Doubt" recounts Theodore Roosevelt's perilous journey down the uncharted River of Doubt in the Amazon. The book details the physical and mental hardships faced by Roosevelt and his team, highlighting their resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Millard masterfully weaves together historical accounts, personal diaries, and scientific research to create a gripping narrative. The expedition's challenges and near-death experiences underscore Roosevelt's adventurous spirit and his ability to overcome obstacles. The book offers a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal moment in Roosevelt's life and the exploration of the Amazon.

Destiny of the republic

A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President

Candice Millard

This book by Candice Millard delves into the life and assassination of James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States. It highlights the dramatic events surrounding his death, including the archaic medical treatments that ultimately led to his demise. The narrative also explores the broader context of the time, including the national mood post-Civil War, the political struggles within Garfield's administration, and the roles of key figures such as Alexander Graham Bell and Vice President Chester Arthur. The book is praised for its engaging storytelling and meticulous research.

Hero of the empire

The Boer War, a Daring Escape, and the Making of Winston Churchill

Candice Millard

This book by Candice Millard chronicles Winston Churchill's experiences during the Boer War, focusing on his capture by the Boers, his imprisonment in Pretoria, and his remarkable escape. The narrative also explores how these events shaped Churchill's future, including his return to the battle and his subsequent rise in politics. The book is praised for its engaging and meticulously researched storytelling, bringing to life historical figures like Rudyard Kipling, Lord Kitchener, and Mohandas Gandhi, and providing a detailed history of the Boer War and its context.

Empire of the Summer Moon

Quanah Parker and the Rise and Fall of the Comanches, the Most Powerful Indian Tribe in American History

S.C. Gwynne

This book spans two astonishing stories. The first traces the rise and fall of the Comanches, who were the most powerful Indian tribe in American history, known for their exceptional horsemanship and warfare skills. The second story follows the remarkable narrative of Cynthia Ann Parker, a pioneer woman kidnapped by the Comanches in 1836, and her mixed-blood son Quanah, who became the last and greatest chief of the Comanches. The book covers a sweeping narrative that includes Spanish colonialism, the Civil War, the destruction of the buffalo herds, and the arrival of the railroads, providing a historical feast for anyone interested in the development of the United States.

No more champagne

David Lough

In 'No More Champagne', David Lough delves into the financial life of Winston Churchill, revealing a history of debt, gambling, and lavish spending. Despite his financial woes, Churchill managed to maintain his lifestyle through writing, investments, and strategic financial maneuvers. The book provides a unique perspective on Churchill's personal life and its impact on his public career.

The obstacle is the way

Ryan Holiday

In 'The Obstacle Is the Way', Ryan Holiday presents a framework for turning obstacles into successes. Drawing from the philosophy of Stoicism and the writings of Marcus Aurelius, Holiday outlines three disciplines: perception, action, and will. He illustrates these principles with historical anecdotes from figures such as John D. Rockefeller, Amelia Earhart, Ulysses S. Grant, and Steve Jobs. The book emphasizes the importance of perception in shaping one's response to obstacles, the need for intentional and creative action, and the cultivation of will to persist through challenges. Holiday argues that by adopting these Stoic principles, individuals can transform their obstacles into opportunities for growth and success.

How to Decide

Annie Duke