

Founders
David Senra
Learn from history's greatest entrepreneurs. Every week I read a biography of an entrepreneur and find ideas you can use in your work. This quote explains why: "There are thousands of years of history in which lots and lots of very smart people worked very hard and ran all types of experiments on how to create new businesses, invent new technology, new ways to manage etc. They ran these experiments throughout their entire lives. At some point, somebody put these lessons down in a book. For very little money and a few hours of time, you can learn from someone’s accumulated experience. There is so much more to learn from the past than we often realize. You could productively spend your time reading experiences of great people who have come before and you learn every time." —Marc Andreessen
Episodes
Mentioned books

132 snips
Oct 11, 2020 • 57min
#148 John D. Rockefeller (Autobiography)
Dive into the fascinating world of John D. Rockefeller as he shares episodic memories that shaped his empire. Relationships are highlighted as the foundation of success, emphasizing teamwork and trust. Hear about the importance of preparedness during financial crises, illustrated by a pivotal fire in the refining industry. Discover how Rockefeller's early experiences influenced his work ethic and leadership. Plus, gain entrepreneurial wisdom through practical advice on vision, fairness, and embracing feedback.

33 snips
Oct 5, 2020 • 1h 9min
#147 Sam Colt
Discover the extraordinary life of Sam Colt, a quintessential American entrepreneur who transformed firearms manufacturing. From facing financial ruin to becoming a millionaire, Colt's journey highlights resilience and innovation. His revolutionary six-shooter solved a 400-year-old technological problem, fundamentally changing weaponry. Explore his ambitious travels and relentless determination as he sought success against all odds. The podcast delves into the complexities of his character and the lasting impact of his work on American industrial history.

46 snips
Sep 27, 2020 • 49min
#146 Milton Hershey (Chocolate)
Explore the remarkable life of Milton Hershey, from his challenging childhood to becoming a chocolate giant. Discover how he learned perseverance and innovation, transforming a small caramel business into a chocolate empire. His pioneering production techniques revolutionized the industry, while his philanthropic legacy, particularly the Milton Hershey School, showcases his commitment to helping disadvantaged children. Dive into the fascinating intersection of wealth, community impact, and Hershey's vision for a better future.

64 snips
Sep 20, 2020 • 1h 6min
#145 William Randolph Hearst
Dive into the tumultuous life of William Randolph Hearst, a publishing titan like no other. Discover his innovative approach to media synergy long before it was a buzzword. Explore his charming yet chaotic personal life, including a scandalous affair that rocked his family. Witness the chaotic liquidation of his eccentric possessions—where the absurd met the opulent. Finally, reflect on his remarkable comeback after financial turmoil, revealing the complexities of success and personal failings in the world of media.

103 snips
Sep 13, 2020 • 55min
#144 Ernest Shackleton
Explore the gripping tale of the ship Endurance and the chilling trials faced by Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew in the Antarctic wilderness. Delve into themes of leadership, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit during extreme adversity. Uncover the intense psychological battles against despair, alongside tales of survival against the odds, including a pivotal moment involving a sea leopard. This story illustrates not only the legacy of exploration but also the profound strength found in perseverance and hope.

86 snips
Sep 6, 2020 • 56min
#143 Alfred Lee Loomis (the most interesting man you've never heard of)
Discover the fascinating life of Alfred Lee Loomis, a financier and unlikely scientific hero. His secret lab at Tuxedo Park became a groundbreaking site for military innovations during World War II. A champion of radar technology, Loomis collaborated with Jewish scientists to redefine modern warfare. Learn how his extreme commitment led to significant advancements and why this silent innovator's legacy has been overlooked. His journey from banking to pioneering science showcases the impact of unconventional thinkers in history.

53 snips
Aug 30, 2020 • 51min
#142 Teddy Roosevelt and J.P. Morgan
Dive into the rivalry between Theodore Roosevelt and J.P. Morgan, two titans navigating the turbulent waters of early American capitalism. Uncover how Roosevelt’s commitment to public accountability clashed with Morgan’s authoritative control over industrial power. Explore their contrasting leadership styles and the impact of personal histories on their ambitions. The podcast reveals their tense interactions during financial crises, showcasing the evolving perceptions of both men in a changing economic landscape.

154 snips
Aug 23, 2020 • 1h 3min
#141 Arnold Schwarzenegger (My Unbelievably True Life Story)
Discover an inspiring journey shaped by adversity and ambition. Arnold Schwarzenegger reflects on his disciplined upbringing in post-war Austria, turning hardship into motivation for success. He shares his mindset before competitions, embodying a fierce determination to win. Lessons on time management and productivity underline his path to greatness. Embrace risk without fear of judgment, he advises, as he emphasizes resilience and self-belief. This candid exploration reminds us that every challenge can fuel our drive for excellence.

265 snips
Aug 16, 2020 • 55min
#140 Bill Gates (the Making of the Microsoft Empire)
Discover the relentless ambition that fueled Bill Gates from a young age. Dive into the birth of Microsoft, driven by Gates and Paul Allen's innovative spirit in the face of competition. Learn how Gates' fierce sales tactics and strategic partnerships, particularly with IBM, shaped the software landscape. Explore the evolving dynamics of the industry as Microsoft rose to become a billion-dollar company. Reflect on Gates' personal growth and the branding triumphs that turned products into household names.

142 snips
Aug 9, 2020 • 1h 8min
#139 J.P. Morgan
Discover the fascinating rise and complexities of the House of Morgan, a banking dynasty intertwined with U.S. power structures. Delve into J.P. Morgan's early years shaped by personal hardships and influential mentors. Explore his confrontations with Teddy Roosevelt and how political tides altered his legacy. Examine his role during the financial panic of 1907 and the paradox of his immense wealth juxtaposed with personal struggles. The narrative paints a captivating portrait of a titan of finance and his enduring impact on the banking world.