The Knowledge Project with Shane Parrish

Brad Jacobs is a powerhouse entrepreneur, founder of multiple multi-billion dollar companies, and the current Chairman and CEO of QXO. In this discussion, he unveils how to uncover billion-dollar opportunities and shares insights on spotting trends ahead of competitors. Jacobs emphasizes the importance of questioning, adaptability, and the role of M&A in growth strategies. He also discusses the impact of parental influence on confidence and highlights the value of employee feedback in a thriving workplace.

Chris Davis, Chairman of Davis Selected Advisers and board member of Berkshire Hathaway, shares his insights into generational wealth and value investing. He discusses lessons learned from his father and grandfather, highlighting the importance of writing for clarity and the surprising benefits of wearing ties to work. Davis emphasizes strategies for raising non-entitled children, the role of mindful drinking, and his investment philosophy shaped by experiences with Charlie Munger and Warren Buffett. His reflections on family dynamics reveal how wealth can be preserved across generations.

Bryan Johnson, the founder of Braintree and Blueprint, is known for his radical approach to health and longevity. In this conversation, he shares five essential habits for living longer, including insights from his meticulously monitored daily routine. Johnson discusses his controversial decision to give his father plasma and the online backlash he faces for his lifestyle choices. He reflects on the extreme measures he’s taken to achieve remarkable health metrics, reducing his biological age significantly, while offering a candid look at his journey through personal challenges.

Dr. Becky Kennedy, a clinical psychologist and bestselling author known as the 'Millennial Parenting Whisperer,' shares her transformative insights on parenting and relationships. She discusses essential techniques for emotional regulation and boundary-setting that can relieve stress and strengthen connections. Dr. Kennedy emphasizes the importance of effective communication and the AVP method—Acknowledge, Validate, Permit—for fostering healthier interactions. Her practical advice aims to enhance not only parenting skills but also all personal relationships.

Tom Gayner, CEO of Markel Group and director at Coca-Cola, shares invaluable insights shaped by his experiences with Charlie Munger and Berkshire Hathaway. He delves into the nuances of opportunity cost and differentiates between good and bad debt. Gayner candidly discusses the impact of patience in investing and the importance of ethical decision-making. His reflections on navigating crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasize the significance of trust and maintaining a long-term vision, while redefining success through relationships and community impact.

Blake Eastman, founder of The Nonverbal Group and expert in nonverbal communication, shares valuable insights on human behavior and interaction. He discusses how to read nonverbal cues and the significance of understanding personal biases in communication. Eastman emphasizes the importance of refining presentation skills and engaging audiences effectively. He also explores the impact of environment on behavior and the art of asking better questions. Additionally, he reveals how writing can transform self-development and delves into the ethical dilemmas faced by entrepreneurs.

Jack Kornfield, a mindfulness expert, discusses the profound power of intention and mindful living. Carolyn Coughlin emphasizes the art of listening, enhancing communication. Aaron Dignan tackles organizational pitfalls and the significance of feedback. Leadership guru Jim Dethmer shares insights on integrity and responsibility. Ravi Gupta highlights embracing reality for problem-solving. Kevin Kelly talks about the importance of deadlines in creativity. Julie Gurner offers strategies for shifting mindsets from victimhood to empowerment, while Frank Slootman focuses on trust in organizations and Gio Valiante advises on decision-making in the face of desire.

In this conversation, Paul Assaiante, the winningest coach in college sports history, shares insights from his illustrious 30-year coaching career at Trinity College. He discusses the transformative power of confronting fears, advocating for 'running to the roar' instead of avoiding challenges. Assaiante emphasizes the importance of emotional management, resilience, and open communication in both coaching and parenting. He also reflects on the significance of empathy in diverse team dynamics and the deep connections formed through shared struggles.

In this engaging conversation, Todd Herman, a renowned coach and mentor to elite athletes, dives into the transformative power of alter egos for peak performance. He shares insights from his work with legends like Kobe Bryant, revealing how to harness different identities to navigate challenges. Todd emphasizes the significance of patience, mentorship, and community support in achieving success. He also tackles imposter syndrome and explores the dynamic interplay between identity and performance, inspiring listeners to embrace fluidity for personal growth.

Dr. Gio Valiante, a renowned performance psychologist, shares insights from his extensive work with elite athletes and entrepreneurs. He emphasizes the importance of shifting from an ego-driven mindset to a mastery-oriented approach, discussing how fear of failure can hinder growth. Valiante explores the vital relationship between failure and success, advocating for resilience and intrinsic motivation. He also highlights the significance of knowing when to act or hold back in pursuits, all while redefining success as a journey toward genuine happiness and meaningful connections.