

How to Take Over the World
Ben Wilson | QCODE
Anyone who has achieved greatness has, in part, patterned themselves after those who came before. Napoleon learned from Charlemagne, Charlemagne learned from Caesar, and Caesar learned from Alexander the Great. This podcast analyzes the lives of some of the greatest men and women to ever live. By examining their strategies, tactics, mindset, and work habits, How to Take Over the World helps you understand the great ones, so that you can follow in their footsteps.
Episodes
Mentioned books

19 snips
Mar 31, 2022 • 1h 8min
Walt Disney (Part 2)
Discover the fascinating journey of Walt Disney, from his creative genius behind Mickey Mouse to the groundbreaking success of Snow White. Explore the unique challenges Disney faced in animation and the profound impact of sound on cartoons. Learn about his transition from animation to revolutionizing theme parks with Disneyland amidst labor disputes. The discussion also unpacks myths surrounding Disney's legacy while offering valuable insights for future creators.

46 snips
Jan 20, 2022 • 43min
Walt Disney (Part 1)
Explore the childhood of Walt Disney and how growing up in Marceline influenced his creativity. Discover his entrepreneurial spirit amid family struggles and the early passions that shaped his artistic journey. Learn about his foray into animation, including the founding of his studio and the creation of beloved characters. Delve into his remarkable charm and intense focus that set him apart, and understand how embracing failure became a stepping stone on his road to success.

8 snips
Jan 8, 2022 • 11min
Mini-Episode: John Wooden and How to Practice
Dive into the coaching genius of John Wooden as the discussion unpacks his unique approach to practice. Discover why shorter, focused sessions often yield better results than grueling marathons. Explore how intensity and attention to detail can elevate performance, and learn about the delicate balance of planning and creativity in training. These insights not only apply to sports, but can also inspire excellence in any field!

Dec 25, 2021 • 22min
Christmas Special
Delve into the captivating tale of St. Nicholas, the man behind Santa Claus, and his legacy of generosity. Discover the origins of Christmas gift-giving as you uncover how his acts of kindness transformed lives. Learn about prioritization and productivity tips to enhance focus and clarity in your daily tasks. Explore the significance of considering multiple options in decision-making, alongside reflections on political power dynamics and cultural shifts. It’s a festive blend of history, practicality, and personal stories to inspire your holiday spirit.

57 snips
Dec 14, 2021 • 26min
Napoleon Revisited
Discover how Napoleon achieved remarkable feats through strategic work habits and organization, as revealed by his private secretary. The discussion covers his meticulous daily routines, time management, and unique approaches to information gathering. Explore the balance between bold decision-making and risk management that shaped his leadership. Learn practical techniques for enhancing your productivity, including innovative methods for taking notes and capturing insights. Get ready to apply these historical lessons to optimize your own efficiency!

5 snips
Dec 8, 2021 • 35min
Alexander the Great: Endnotes
Uncover fascinating insights about Alexander the Great's life, from his undefeated military strategies to his unexpected love life. Delve into the legacy left behind after his death, highlighting the tumultuous power struggles among his successors. Explore intriguing questions about his striking blue eyes and the film adaptation of his story, including critiques and historical inaccuracies. Plus, discover the complexities of his relationships, particularly with Hephaestion, and how they challenge modern interpretations.

40 snips
Nov 19, 2021 • 52min
Alexander the Great (Part 2)
Explore the tactical genius of Alexander the Great as he conquers Tyre with an ingenious land bridge. Discover his rise in Egypt, where he blends military victory with cultural integration, becoming a revered Pharaoh. Delve into the betrayals and conspiracies that threaten his leadership, highlighting the personal conflicts with trusted allies. Finally, follow his tumultuous campaigns in India, where ambition collides with the realities of command, resulting in mutiny and unforeseen challenges. Alexander's journey is a gripping tale of power, trust, and legacy.

95 snips
Oct 25, 2021 • 54min
Alexander the Great (Part 1)
Discover the incredible journey of Alexander the Great as he transforms his father's kingdom into a vast empire. Explore his fascinating relationship with Aristotle, which shaped his dual identity as a warrior and thinker. Delve into key battles like Granicus and Issus, showcasing his tactical genius against Persian forces. Unravel the legend of the Gordian Knot, symbolizing his bold leadership. Throughout, the discussion reveals the complexities of his motivations and the legacy he left for future conquerors.

17 snips
Oct 6, 2021 • 46min
SPECIAL: Interview on "If I Was Starting Today"
Jim Huffman, the host of "If I Was Starting Today", dives deep into how he came up with his podcast's name and concept. He discusses essential traits for success, emphasizing the energy of top performers and the importance of charisma. Huffman reveals the intriguing idea of being both an insider and outsider in one’s field. They also touch on the unexpected commonalities among leaders and the potential of half-baked startup ideas to spark innovation. This conversation is packed with insights for aspiring founders!

25 snips
Sep 17, 2021 • 31min
How to Raise a Genius: Laszlo Polgar
Discover the intriguing life of a Hungarian psychologist who raised his three daughters to be chess champions against all odds. The conversation highlights unconventional teaching methods and the concept of early specialization in cultivating genius. Dive into the family's unique story, celebrating their remarkable achievements in chess, a traditionally male-dominated sport. Explore the integration of play and learning as a revolutionary approach to education, challenging conventional beliefs about success and happiness.