

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

117 snips
Mar 31, 2020 • 1h 20min
#118 Forty Years With Henry Ford
Explore the fascinating journey of Henry Ford, from his monumental successes to his personal flaws. Discover the secrets behind his single-minded vision and innovative management style. Dive into the rivalry with the Dodge Brothers and his unique approach to leadership. Learn why he emphasized purpose over titles and the importance of adaptability. Uncover the transformative birth of the auto industry in Detroit, showcasing Ford's quest for an affordable car. It’s a blend of triumph, creativity, and valuable lessons for today's innovators.

376 snips
Mar 26, 2020 • 1h 20min
#117 : Chung Ju-yung founder of Hyundai (the most inspiring autobiography I've read)
The podcast uncovers the inspiring life of the Hyundai founder, who overcame profound poverty and adversity. Listeners learn about his relentless work ethic, the importance of a positive mindset, and the transformative power of determination. Anecdotes include his numerous challenges, innovative management style, and how he likened persistence to bedbugs. His journey from menial jobs to building a global enterprise emphasizes resilience, humility, and the pursuit of passion, encouraging everyone to embrace their unique paths.

61 snips
Mar 21, 2020 • 1h 7min
#116 Sam Bronfman (Seagram's and the Bronfman family dynasty)
Dive into the remarkable life of Sam Bronfman, who rose from poverty in Canada to build the Seagram's whiskey empire. Discover his innovative strategies during Prohibition, including a savvy mail order approach. The journey also highlights the family’s escape from Russia and the personal resilience that shaped Sam's character. Learn about his long-term vision, refusal to waste opportunities, and his belief in thinking big. Bronfman’s story is a powerful reminder of how one person's determination can transform a family's legacy.

181 snips
Mar 16, 2020 • 46min
#115 Ben Franklin: An American Life
Discover the remarkable life of Benjamin Franklin, a man of many talents—scientist, diplomat, and entrepreneur. Delve into his formative years as a rebellious apprentice and how his strategic thinking shaped his success. Learn about his quest for self-improvement and how he turned critics into allies. Explore Franklin's midlife shift from wealth to purpose, focusing on meaningful contributions in science and politics. His journey illustrates the balance between ambition and societal betterment, fostering a legacy that inspires generations.

46 snips
Mar 9, 2020 • 1h 20min
#114 The Professor, the Banker, and the Suicide King: Inside the Richest Poker Game of All Time
Dive into the exhilarating world of high-stakes poker where a Texas banker faced off with legends for over $15 million. Discover the psyche of professional players and the intense strategies they employ. Learn about Andy Beal, whose analytical approach to both poker and business made him a formidable competitor. Experience the emotional journey of players facing monumental wins and devastating losses, and see how lessons from the poker table translate into broader entrepreneurial wisdom!

68 snips
Mar 5, 2020 • 1h 8min
#113 A.G. Gaston (Black Titan and the Making of a Black American Millionaire)
A.G. Gaston's inspiring journey from the grandson of slaves to a millionaire exemplifies resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. His military service taught him discipline and hard work, while his ventures, including a funeral insurance company, showcased his commitment to his community. Influenced by figures like Booker T. Washington, Gaston believed in economic independence as essential for civil rights. His story emphasizes the importance of mentorship and the pursuit of excellence, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

58 snips
Feb 24, 2020 • 1h 21min
#112 Frank Lloyd Wright
Dive into the tumultuous life of Frank Lloyd Wright, revealing how personal tragedies molded his genius. His relentless pursuit of authenticity and creativity shines through, even amidst financial struggles. Explore his unique architectural philosophy and the importance of self-belief as he crafted masterpieces like Fallingwater. With a blend of ambition and contradictions, discover the lessons he imparted about individuality and passion, ultimately leaving a complex yet enduring legacy in American architecture.

51 snips
Feb 16, 2020 • 1h 23min
#111 David Geffen
Dive into the complex world of a Hollywood mogul whose journey from humble beginnings to success is nothing short of captivating. Explore how relentless ambition paired with personal struggles shapes a unique path in the entertainment industry. Discover the duality of his character, the influence of a strong mother, and the vital role of 'soul in the game' among founders. Frank discussions shed light on how profound passion drives fulfillment, while the balancing act between ambition and authenticity reveals the true cost of success.

218 snips
Feb 10, 2020 • 1h 26min
#110 Henry Singleton (Teledyne)
Dive into the life of Henry Singleton, a transformative figure in digital technology and founder of Teledyne. Explore his exceptional analytical focus, self-reliance, and innovative strategies that revolutionized corporate growth. Hear insights on his unique investment philosophies, including a preference for partial ownership and stock buybacks. Warren Buffett highlights Singleton's unmatched operating record, calling it a missed lesson in business schools. Discover how his legacy continues to influence the intersection of technology and finance.

42 snips
Feb 3, 2020 • 1h 13min
#109 Adi Dassler (Adidas)
Discover the fascinating story of Adi Dassler, the quiet craftsman behind Adidas, and his celebrated rivalry with his brother Rudolf. Learn how their contrasting personalities shaped the sports footwear industry amidst the turmoil of World War II. Explore the challenges Adi faced in building his brand from makeshift beginnings to Olympic fame. Hear about the unexpected rise of Nike while Adidas and Puma were embroiled in their feud, and delve into the complexities of Adi's life and legacy in the competitive landscape of sports.