Founders Steve Jobs and His Heroes
Discover the profound impact of biographies on entrepreneurial journeys, especially those of Steve Jobs. Explore his transformative years away from Apple, revealing key lessons in talent acquisition and personal growth. The podcast also highlights influential figures like Edwin Land, showcasing how historical innovators shape modern leadership. It's an insightful exploration of how learning from the past can inspire innovation and drive success in today's entrepreneurial landscape.
30:24
Jobs's Inspiration
- Steve Jobs, while working with Walter Isaacson on his biography, revealed his admiration for various founders.
- This led David Senra to explore these influences, creating the Founders podcast.
Learn From History
- Learn from the accumulated experience of smart people across history by reading books.
- Gain valuable insights for a small investment of time and money.
Wilderness Years
- "Steve Jobs and the Next Big Thing" details Steve Jobs's wilderness years after being ousted from Apple.
- It highlights his series of bad decisions, offering lessons on what not to do.
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Intro
00:00 • 5min
The Value of Biographies in Entrepreneurial Learning
05:11 • 3min
Insights from Steve Jobs' Wilderness Years and Beyond
08:36 • 10min
Influential Figures and Learning from History in Entrepreneurship
18:08 • 13min
The Big Score
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David K. Randall
No information available for this title. David K. Randall is known for his non-fiction works on topics such as sleep and historical events.
My Forty Years with Ford
My Forty Years with Ford
David L. Lewis
Samuel T. Williams
Charles E. Sorensen
Reluctant Genius
The Passionate Life and Inventive Mind of Alexander Graham Bell
Charlotte Gray
Reluctant Genius is a biography that explores the life of Alexander Graham Bell, highlighting his inventions and personal relationships, particularly with his wife Mabel. The book delves into Bell's obsessive nature and his contributions to technology and society during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Jony Ive
Leander Kahney
This book provides a detailed portrait of Jony Ive, from his early days as an English art school student with dyslexia to becoming the most acclaimed tech designer of his generation. It explores his collaboration with Steve Jobs and the creation of revolutionary products like the iMac, iPod, iPad, and iPhone. Drawing on interviews with Ive’s former colleagues and Apple insiders, the book offers insights into Apple's design process and innovation culture.
Software
Software
An Intimate Portrait of Larry Ellison and Oracle
Mike Wilson
The Difference Between God and Larry Ellison
Mike Wilson
Finding the Next Steve Jobs
How to Find, Hire, Keep and Nurture Talent
Nolan Bushnell
Gene Stone
In 'Finding the Next Steve Jobs', Nolan Bushnell shares unconventional strategies for identifying and nurturing creative talent. Bushnell emphasizes the importance of hiring passionate individuals, celebrating failures, and fostering a culture of innovation. The book offers insights into creating a workplace that encourages creativity and risk-taking, drawing from Bushnell's experiences as a pioneer in the tech industry.
The Man Behind the Microchip
Robert Noyce and the Invention of Silicon Valley
Leslie Berlin
This book provides a deeply researched and nuanced account of Robert Noyce's life and career. It covers his work at Shockley Semiconductor, the founding of Fairchild Semiconductor, and the establishment of Intel. The biography also explores Noyce's personal life, his contributions to the development of the integrated circuit, and his role in shaping the technology industry. Berlin's work is praised for its thoroughness and its ability to capture both the technical and personal aspects of Noyce's life and legacy.
The General and the Genius
Groves and Oppenheimer—The Unlikely Partnership that Built the Atom Bomb
James W. Kunetka
This book explores the extraordinary collaboration between General Leslie Groves and J. Robert Oppenheimer, who led a team of scientists and engineers in the Manhattan Project. Despite their vastly different backgrounds and personalities, they successfully developed the atomic bomb, changing the course of history. The narrative delves into the scientific, political, and personal challenges they faced during this pivotal period.
The Way
null
Takashi Nagai
The Intel Trinity
How Robert Noyce, Gordon Moore, and Andy Grove Built the World's Most Important Company
Michael S. Malone
The Intel Trinity is the first full history of Intel Corporation, told through the lives of its three most important figures: Robert Noyce, Gordon Moore, and Andy Grove. The book reveals how each of these geniuses contributed differently to Intel's success, making it the world's technological leader and a defining company in the global digital economy. It covers Intel's legendary past and analyzes the challenges the company faces in maintaining its dominance, culture, and legacy. The book is based on unprecedented access to Intel's corporate archives and includes an analysis of the company's impact on personal computers, the Internet, telecommunications, and personal electronics revolutions[1][2][5].
Made in Japan
Guenther Stein
This volume provides an in-depth analysis of the effects of Japanese trade competition on the UK and Europe. It also offers insights into the political and social aspects of Japan's economic policies. Additionally, it explores the roots of Japan's aid policy and its international economic implications.
Return to the little kingdom
Steve Jobs, the Creation of Apple and How it Changed the World
Sir Michael Moritz
This book is an updated version of Michael Moritz's 1984 classic, 'The Little Kingdom: The Private Story of Apple Computer.' It tells the story of Apple's first decade alongside the histories of Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. The book brings readers inside the childhood homes of Jobs and Wozniak, records how they dropped out of college and founded Apple in 1976, and follows the fortunes of the company through the mid-1980s. The new material tracks the development of Apple to the present and offers an insider’s profile of Jobs, whose genius made Apple the powerhouse it is today. The book provides detailed insights into the early days of Apple, including the personal histories of its founders and key players like Mike Scott, Mike Markkula, and Rod Holt[2][4][5].
Swimming Across
A Memoir
Andrew S. Grove
Swimming Across is a poignant memoir by Andrew S. Grove, detailing his childhood in Budapest, Hungary, amidst the Nazi occupation and subsequent Communist regime. The book recounts his experiences growing up in a secular Jewish family, facing anti-Semitism, and eventually escaping to the West during the Hungarian uprising of 1956. Grove's story is a testament to resilience and courage, offering a vivid portrait of a tumultuous period in history.
The Billionaire and the Mechanic
How Larry Ellison and a Car Mechanic Teamed Up to Win Sailing's Greatest Race, the America's Cup
Julian Guthrie
This book tells the incredible story of the partnership between Larry Ellison and Norbert Bajurin as they pursued the America's Cup. It covers their unsuccessful runs in 2003 and 2007, and their eventual victory in 2010. The book provides unparalleled access to Ellison and his team, detailing the design and building of the boats, the management of the athletes, and the bitter rivalries with competitors like Team Alinghi. It also includes their successful defense of the Cup in 2013.
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow
Gabrielle Zevin
Spanning thirty years, 'Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow' by Gabrielle Zevin is a sweeping narrative that explores the lives of Sam and Sadie, two friends united by their love of video games. From their childhood encounters to their adulthood as successful game developers, the book delves into themes of identity, creativity, disability, and the redemptive possibilities in play. It is a coming-of-age story that examines the multifaceted nature of human relationships and the need to connect, love, and be loved. The novel is praised for its mature and nuanced portrayal of characters and its ability to engage readers even without prior knowledge of the video game industry.
I Invented the Modern Age
Richard Snow
This book provides a meticulous and engaging narrative of Henry Ford's life, from his early mechanical inventions to his transformation of American industry with the Model T. It highlights Ford's role in creating the cycle of consumerism and his impact on modern society. The book also explores the lesser-known aspects of Ford's life and legacy.
My life and work
Ford, Henry, Crowther, Samuel
E. Kalita
Mrs Henry Ford
Henry Ford
Samuel Crowther
Ford Henry 1863-1947
Henry Henry Ford
In this autobiography, Henry Ford recounts his early life on a farm in Michigan, his fascination with mechanics, and his journey to becoming a successful businessman. The book covers his innovative approaches to industry and mass production, his views on business, wages, and social concerns, and how he applied his principles to various sectors beyond the automotive industry. Ford also shares his stringent and sometimes controversial views on life, business, and society[1][3][4].
Disney's Land
Walt Disney and the Invention of the Amusement Park That Changed the World
Richard Snow
This book chronicles the period from the conception of Disneyland in the 1940s to its significant additions in 1959. It delves into Walt Disney's innovative vision, the creative efforts of his team, and the financial and logistical challenges they overcame. The narrative includes biographical sketches of key figures involved in the park's design and construction, such as Roy Disney, Ward Kimball, and C.V. Wood. The book also details the park's opening day and its subsequent success despite initial setbacks, showcasing the unique blend of imagination, engineering, and perseverance that defined Disneyland's creation.
The Vagabonds
The Story of Henry Ford and Thomas Edison's Ten-Year Road Trip
Jeff Guinn
The Vagabonds chronicles the decade-long road trips of Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone, and John Burroughs, highlighting their friendships, business ventures, and the transformation of America through automobile travel. The book delves into the personalities of these iconic figures and their role in popularizing automobile camping, which became a defining aspect of American culture.
The instant image
Mark Olshaker
The Instant Image provides a detailed account of Edwin Land's life and his contributions to photography, including the development of the SX-70 camera and his theories on color vision. The book also examines the growth of Polaroid as a company and its influence on the art and business of photography.
Walt Disney
The Triumph of the American Imagination
Neal Gabler
This biography, meticulously researched over seven years with complete access to the Disney archives, provides a detailed and nuanced portrait of Walt Disney. It covers his early life, his transformation of animation into an art form with iconic characters like Mickey Mouse and films such as Snow White, Fantasia, and Bambi, and his expansion into television, theme parks, music, book publishing, and merchandise. The book also delves into Disney's personal life, revealing a complex figure with both remarkable achievements and hidden struggles, including financial problems, a nervous breakdown, and personal controversies. Gabler's work is a masterful exploration of both the work and the man, highlighting Disney's impact on American culture and the power of his imagination.
A triumph of genius
Edwin Land, Polaroid, and the Kodak Patent War
Ronald K. Fierstein
This riveting biography visits the spectacular life of Edwin Land, perhaps the most important yet least known inventor and technology entrepreneur in American history. Land’s most famous achievement was the creation of a revolutionary film and camera system that could produce a photographic print moments after the picture was taken. The book takes you behind the scenes of his discoveries, triumphs, and defeats, including his involvement over four decades with top-secret U.S. military intelligence efforts during World War II and the Cold War. It also details the epic legal battle between Polaroid and Kodak, one of the most significant patent litigations of the 20th century. The book is a biographical legal thriller that offers many lessons for 21st-century entrepreneurs.
Insisting on the impossible
The Life of Edwin Land
Victor K. McElheny
This biography explores the life of Edwin Land, a pioneering scientist and entrepreneur who revolutionized photography with instant film. It delves into his inventions, entrepreneurial spirit, and contributions to science and technology. Land's relentless curiosity and innovative spirit are highlighted throughout the book.
In the company of giants
Rama Dev Jager
This book presents groundbreaking conversations with pioneers of the digital world. It includes interviews with leaders such as Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, T. J. Rodgers, Gordon Eubanks, Steve Case, and others. The interviews cover their experiences, successes, challenges, and visions for the future of technology. The book provides a unique perspective on the human side of these tech giants and the strategies that drove their companies to success. It highlights the importance of customer focus, hiring good people, and mission-driven businesses, as well as the courage and innovation required to shape the digital world[2][5][6].
Land's Polaroid
Peter C. Wensberg
This book offers a detailed account of Edwin Land's life and his role in founding Polaroid, highlighting his innovative approach to science and technology. It provides insights into the development of instant photography and the company's history from its inception to the 1980s.
Insanely simple
The Obsession That Drives Apple's Success
Ken Segall
In 'Insanely Simple,' Ken Segall delves into the culture and strategies that made Apple a leader in innovation. The book highlights Steve Jobs' relentless pursuit of simplicity, which was a key factor in Apple's success. Segall shares personal anecdotes and stories from his time working with Jobs, contrasting Apple's approach with that of other companies like Dell and Intel. He emphasizes the importance of small groups of smart people, minimal bureaucracy, and the power of simplicity in achieving clarity and efficiency. The book provides valuable insights into how simplicity can be a driving force for success in any organization.
To Pixar and Beyond
Lawrence Levy
To Pixar and Beyond is Lawrence Levy's account of how he and Steve Jobs transformed Pixar from a struggling graphics company into a global entertainment giant. The book provides insights into Pixar's creative and business strategies, as well as Levy's personal journey working closely with Jobs. It offers lessons applicable to both professional and personal life.
Creative Selection
Inside Apple's Design Process During the Golden Age of Steve Jobs
Ken Kocienda
In 'Creative Selection,' Ken Kocienda offers a detailed look at Apple's software development process during his 15-year tenure at the company. The book focuses on the 'creative selection' process, a method of iterative development through continuous demos and feedback. Kocienda shares stories of his work on key products like the iPhone, iPad, and Safari web browser, and discusses the essential elements of innovation at Apple, including inspiration, collaboration, craft, diligence, decisiveness, taste, and empathy. The book provides insights into the working culture and decision-making processes under Steve Jobs' leadership.
Instant
The Story of Polaroid
Christopher Bonanos
This book tells the remarkable story of Polaroid, from its origins during World War II to its rise as a technological and cultural icon. Written by Christopher Bonanos, it chronicles the life and work of Edwin Land, the inventor of instant photography, and the company's evolution through its innovative products, including the SX-70 camera. The book also explores Polaroid's interactions with famous artists like Ansel Adams and Andy Warhol, and its eventual decline in the face of digital photography. Bonanos' narrative is engaging and well-illustrated, capturing the essence of Polaroid's influence on photography and popular culture[2][4][5].
Inside Steve's Brain
Leander Kahney
Inside Steve's Brain delves into the intellectual processes and leadership strategies of Steve Jobs, highlighting his focus on innovation, perfectionism, and control. The book provides insights into Apple's product development and Jobs' approach to business, including his emphasis on hiring top talent and creating seamless user experiences. It also explores Jobs' personal struggles and the impact on Apple's future.
Steve Jobs
Walter Isaacson
This biography, based on more than 40 interviews with Steve Jobs and over 100 interviews with family members, friends, adversaries, competitors, and colleagues, provides a riveting story of Jobs' roller-coaster life and intense personality. It highlights his passion for perfection, his ferocious drive, and how he revolutionized six industries: personal computers, animated movies, music, phones, tablet computing, and digital publishing. The book explores Jobs' contradictions, his 'reality distortion field,' and the lessons about innovation, character, leadership, and values that can be drawn from his life and career.
Creativity, Inc.
Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration
Amy Wallace
Ed Catmull
Ed Catmull and Edwin E. Catmull and Amy Wallace
In this book, Ed Catmull shares insights on how to build and maintain a creative culture within an organization. Drawing from his experiences at Pixar, Catmull discusses the importance of open communication, risk-taking, and protecting the creative process. The book includes candid discussions, anecdotes about Pixar's film development, and lessons on managing innovation and creativity. It emphasizes the need for a nurturing work environment and the importance of storytelling in business.
Steve Jobs and the NeXT big thing
Randall Stross
The Innovators
How a Group of Hackers, Geniuses, and Geeks Created the Digital Revolution
Walter Isaacson
This book provides a sweeping narrative of the inventors, engineers, and entrepreneurs who have given the world computers and the Internet. It begins with Ada Lovelace, the world's first computer programmer, and continues through the contributions of Alan Turing, Vannevar Bush, John von Neumann, Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Tim Berners-Lee, and Larry Page, among others. Isaacson emphasizes the importance of collaboration and teamwork in driving innovation, showing how these visionaries built upon and improved the accomplishments of previous generations.
Becoming Steve Jobs
The Evolution of a Reckless Upstart into a Visionary Leader
Brent Schlender
Rick Tetzeli
This book provides a rich and revealing account of Steve Jobs' life, drawing on exclusive access to his family, former inner circle executives, and top people at Apple, Pixar, and Disney. It humanizes Jobs by explaining his behavior and highlighting his growth from a brash founder to a mature and effective leader. The narrative includes stories never told before and offers a fresh perspective on Jobs' career, particularly his time at NeXT and Pixar, and his return to Apple. The authors, who had close relationships with Jobs, detail how he learned to trust his inner circle, became more patient, and developed a more mature management style, ultimately transforming the daily life of billions of people.
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On Steve Jobs
#5 Steve Jobs: The Biography
#19 Becoming Steve Jobs: The Evolution of a Reckless Upstart into a Visionary Leader
#76 Return To The Little Kingdom: Steve Jobs and The Creation of Apple
#77 Steve Jobs & The NeXT Big Thing
#204 Inside Steve Jobs' Brain
#214 Steve Jobs: The Exclusive Biography
#235 To Pixar And Beyond: My Unlikely Journey with Steve Jobs to Make Entertainment History
Bonus Episodes on Steve Jobs
Insanely Simple: The Obsession That Drives Apple's Success (Between #112 and #113)
Creative Selection: Inside Apple's Design Process During the Golden Age of Steve Jobs (Between #110 and #111)
On Jony Ive and Steve Jobs
#178 Jony Ive: The Genius Behind Apple's Greatest Products
On Ed Catmull and Steve Jobs
#34 Creativity Inc: Overcoming The Unseen Forces That Stand In The Way of True Inspiration
On Steve Jobs and several other technology company founders
#157 The Innovators: How a Group of Hackers, Geniuses, and Geeks Created the Digital Revolution
#208 In the Company of Giants: Candid Conversations With the Visionaries of the Digital World
STEVE JOBS'S INFLUENCES
Edwin Land
#40 Insisting On The Impossible: The Life of Edwin Land and Instant: The Story of Polaroid
#132 The Instant Image: Edwin Land and The Polaroid Experience
#133 Land's Polaroid: A Company and The Man Who Invented It
#134 A Triumph of Genius: Edwin Land, Polaroid, and the Kodak Patent War
Bob Noyce and Andy Grove
#8 The Intel Trinity: How Robert Noyce, Gordon Moore, and Andy Grove Built the World's Most Important Company
#159 Swimming Across
#166 The Man Behind the Microchip: Robert Noyce and the Invention of Silicon Valley
Nolan Bushnell
#36 Finding The Next Steve Jobs: How to Find, Keep, and Nurture Talent
Akio Morita
#102 Made in Japan: Akio Morita and Sony
Walt Disney
#2 Walt Disney: The Triumph of the American Imagination
#39 Walt Disney: An American Original
#158 Walt Disney and the Invention of the Amusement Park That Changed the World
J. Robert Oppenheimer
#215 The General and the Genius: Groves and Oppenheimer—The Unlikely Partnership that Built the Atom Bomb
Henry Ford
#9 I Invented the Modern Age: The Rise of Henry Ford
#26 My Life and Work: The Autobiography of Henry Ford
#80 Today and Tomorrow: Special Edition of Ford's 1926 Classic
#118 My Forty Years With Ford
#190 The Story of Henry Ford and Thomas Edison's Ten-Year Road Trip
David Packard and Bill Hewlett
#29 The HP Way: How Bill Hewlett and I Built Our Company
Alexander Graham Bell
#138 Reluctant Genius: The Passionate Life and Inventive Mind of Alexander Graham Bell
Robert Friedland
#131 The Big Score: Robert Friedland and The Voisey's Bay Hustle
Larry Ellison (Steve’s best friend)
#124 Softwar: An Intimate Portrait of Larry Ellison and Oracle
#126 The Billionaire and the Mechanic: How Larry Ellison and a Car Mechanic Teamed up to Win Sailing's Greatest Race, the Americas Cup, Twice
#127 The Difference Between God and Larry Ellison: God Doesn't Think He's Larry Ellison
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