We picked the brains of our inspiring and eclectic CFE staff to find out what podcasts, beachside books and publications they’re absolutely loving. We wanted to make sure you keep your entrepreneurial mindset firing on all cylinders throughout the entire summer. So, get ready to dive into some fantastic recommendations that will keep your opportunities flowing, innovation buzzing, and your relationships building.
Vibrant Voices
Ezra Klein Show
Have you heard about this incredible podcast that garnered top accolades in 2021 from Time, Vulture, Esquire, and The Atlantic? Hosted by Ezra Klein, it delves into vital topics every Tuesday and Friday. From climate change solutions to the influence of markets, the future of politics, psychedelics, sci-fi insights, and even our food system’s fairness—this podcast covers it all. Don’t miss out on these thought-provoking conversations that truly matter.
GZero World
This podcast embraces the constantly evolving global geopolitical and economic scene adding fuel to your entrepreneurial fire. It uncovers exciting new market possibilities, helps you navigate regulatory and cultural nuances, and boosts your awareness of awesome collaborative opportunities for startups in international markets.
How I Built This
Check out this awesome podcast hosted by Guy Raz. In each episode, Guy sits down with some of the most renowned entrepreneurs out there and dives deep into their journeys. These are not your typical success stories. They open up about the tough times, the doubts, and the failures they faced along the way. It’s all about those intimate moments that shaped their paths to success. This podcast is like a master-class in innovation, creativity, and leadership. You’ll get insider insights on how to tackle challenges of all kinds .Look no further for inspiration and practical wisdom from the best in the business.
Making (NPR)
Discover this amazing bio-podcast series from WBEZ and NPR that has been receiving a ton of praise. It takes you on a captivating journey, starting from the very beginning and following the rise of iconic figures. From their upbringing to their path to success, it provides an unmatched view into their lives. Initially focusing on legends like Oprah and Obama, it now features a different person in each episode. Learn something fascinating with every listen!
No Such Thing as a Fish
Get ready for a friendly and informative podcast. Each week, they share four random facts from science, culture, and more. The hosts take a humorous approach while diving deep into each topic with references. This podcast is perfect for fostering an entrepreneurial mindset by challenging common wisdom using interesting facts. Take a listen to expand your knowledge and enjoy some laughter along the way!
RadioLab
Radiolab is on a curiosity bender. Asking deep questions and using investigative journalism to get the answers. A given episode might whirl you through science, legal history, and into the home of someone halfway across the world. The show is known for innovative sound design, smashing information into music.
Smartless
Comedic improv meets familiar names. “SmartLess” hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett, is an absolute blast! This podcast is all about bringing people together, no matter where they come from, to explore shared experiences through meaningful conversations and spontaneous hilarity. Here’s the cool part: in every episode, one of the hosts surprises the other two with a mystery guest.And the results are pure gold! The conversations that unfold are completely unscripted and genuine, filled with laughter and a wealth of newfound knowledge to nourish your SmartLess mind. If you’re up for some organic, entertaining dialogue that will leave you both enlightened and in stitches.
Why? The Podcast
It’s time to give “Why? The Podcast” a listen. It’s all about showcasing these incredible individuals who are true pioneers in their own unique ways. Every week, they bring in guests who lead these super unconventional lives, and let me tell you, it’s mind-blowing! They’ve got everything from regular folks who are total innovators, to actual rock stars and even astronauts. The banter between the hosts is off the charts. It’s like eavesdropping on a hilarious conversation between your closest buddies. They keep the energy levels high and the laughter flowing. You won’t be able to resist joining in on the fun!
Wiser Than Me
Julia Louis-Dreyfus is on a mission to figure out why older women’s voices aren’t heard enough, and she’s taking a seat with some incredible guests to learn how to live life to the fullest. From Jane Fonda to Carol Burnett to Fran Lebowitz to more inspiring women! The podcast is filled with laughter, touching moments, and personal stories that will leave a lasting impact. A deep dive into funny and profound conversations with these unforgettable women who are always WISER THAN ME™. Join Julia Louis-Dreyfus on this exciting journey as she shares insights and wisdom from some of the most remarkable women out there.
Valuable Views
MIT Technology Review
Get ready for some serious tech excitement, folks! The MIT Tech Review, a total legend in the game, has been rocking the world of cutting-edge technology, founders, and companies for over a hundred years. Yeah, you heard that right! They’re like the OGs of innovation! Always on the pulse of ‘what’s next,’ this bad boy is guaranteed to turbocharge your entrepreneurial mindset.
Whether it’s mind-blowing inventions or groundbreaking startups, they’ve got you covered.
Beating the Odds – Eddie Brown
Discover Eddie C. Brown’s inspiring journey. This autobiography follows a financial genius who overcame obstacles like the dot-com bust, 9/11, and the Great Recession while maintaining his firm, Brown Capital Management. Through personal anecdotes and valuable lessons, his memoir showcases resilience, triumph, and the power of self-belief.
Chief Joy Officer: How Great Leaders Elevate Human Energy and Eliminate Fear – Richard Sheridan
Get ready for some leadership wisdom. This book offers practical advice on building leadership capacity for joy within any organization. Emphasizing on self-understanding as the cornerstone for essential leadership virtues and highlighting the importance of developing independent leaders. Packed with anecdotes and wisdom, it’s a guide that will bring renewed purpose to make a positive impact on others.
Humor, Seriously – Jennifer Aaker & Naomi Bagdonas
In this awesome book, the authors dive headfirst into the magical world of humor. They share practical insights from behavioral scientists, hilarious comedians, and savvy business leaders on how to infuse more laughter into our lives. By embracing the power of humor, we can not only rebuild connections but also become more confident, authentic, and downright awesome at work. Plus, it sets the stage for a creative and lighthearted culture that will have everyone high-fiving with joy! Get ready to laugh your way to success!
The 48 Laws of Power – Robert Greene
Hang onto your beach towel because “The 48 Laws of Power” is about to fly out from underneath! In this book 3,000 years of power history is distilled into 48 essential laws. Drawing wisdom from legends like Machiavelli and Sun Tzu, as well as real-life figures, they cover everything from prudence to self-preservation. Whether you’re aiming for domination or just want to understand the game, this book is a game-changer. Get ready to dive into the rules of power like never before.
The Alchemist – Paulo Coelho
This book isn’t just a personal reflection book—it’s got game-changing lessons for the business world too. Entrepreneurs, take note! It tells you to follow your passions, trust your gut, and forget about society’s expectations. Obstacles are just bumps on the road to your personal legend. It’s all about living your dream now, not later. So, seize the moment and make your mark.
The Future is Faster Than You Think – Peter H. Diamandis and Steven Kotler
This book is about to blow your mind! Diamandis and Kotler reveal how rapid technological disruption over the next decade will revolutionize our daily lives, industries, and even the way we govern and care for our planet. Get ready for an exhilarating ride into uncharted territories and a world reimagined.
This Could Be Our Future – Yancey Strickler
Hold on tight, because the CEO and founder of Kickstarter has a kickbutt manifesto for you! This fascinating read is about making those long-term decisions in the near term that bring maximum benefits to everyone involved. Get ready to maximize your positive impact with the power of bentoism. It’s time to level up.