The Four is an overview of Amazon, Apple, Facebook, and Google, briefly covering the past, present, and future of each. The most insightful parts for me were the details on the business philosophy of luxury brands such as Apple.
Lessons Learned 2019
Here is my annual list of lessons learned and 'ah-ha moments' for 2019.
Talking to Strangers by Malcolm Gladwell Summary
This is the first Malcolm Gladwell book that I have read, and I loved it. The central focus of Talking to Strangers is trying to understand the circumstances that led to the death of Sandra Bland. The book is heartbreaking and insightful. I strongly recommend reading it.
Best Books of 2019
These are my favorite books read in 2019.
The Willpower Instinct Book Summary
The Willpower Instinct is full of practical advice on self-control and accomplishing goals. The contents are applicable to all people and professions.
What I Learned Losing a Million Dollars Book Summary
There is a lot to like about this book. It has good storytelling and gives a broad overview of various types of investing and investing philosophies. The overarching theme is learning not to lose money, and having a written plan in place before investing.
Purpose Driven Life Book Summary
Here are two of my favorite quotes from the summary. "You have enough time to do everything in God's will for your life." "If you do not have enough time to accomplish everything then maybe you are doing too much or watching too much television."
The Ride of a Lifetime Book Summary
The culture and management of Disney have fascinated me for years. The Ride of a Lifetime is part autobiography with an inside look at the highlights of Bob Iger's tenure as CEO of Disney. I really like the details covering the negotiations and purchases of Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars.
The Third Door by Alex Banayan Summary
The Third Door takes listeners on an unprecedented adventure - from hacking Warren Buffett’s shareholders meeting to chasing Larry King through a grocery store to celebrating in a nightclub with Lady Gaga - as Alex Banayan travels from icon to icon, decoding their success. The one key they have in common: they all took the Third Door.
To Pixar and Beyond Book Summary
To Pixar and Beyond covers the development and execution of Pixar's business plan in the early 1990s, ending in the sale of Pixar to Disney in 2006. The details of Lawrence and Steve Jobs planning their negotiation of a second film contract with Disney were especially fascinating.