Podcasts about book summaries

"When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail"

Send us a text"In this episode of Besties in the Books, hosts Liz and Ashley dive into Spark of the Everflame by Penn Cole, the first book in the Kindred Curse Saga. As a fresh romantasy read from a New York Times bestselling debut author, this novel blends strong female leads, a compelling magic system, and light feminist themes that set it apart in the fantasy genre. The hosts share a spoiler-free review, their personal star and spice ratings, and discuss Penn Cole's thoughtful character development, world building, and tropes like hidden identity and slow burn romance. They also highlight their exclusive spoiler-free interview with Penn Cole—linked below—along with community reactions on their Fable book club and good reads. Perfect for romantasy lovers and fantasy newcomers alike, this deep-dive episode offers layered insight, trope breakdowns, and fun personal updates, all while celebrating one of the genre's most talked-about series."We're finally here to do our deep dive series on Penn Cole's amazing debut Spark of the Everflame! Book 1 in the Kindred's Curse Saga is a fantastic start to an epic slow burn Romantasy series, but is also an examination of the effects of colonialism, classism, racism, and sexism (among other examples of inequality) on a fictional world, and we're here to talk about it!We had the pleasure of interviewing Penn Cole about her thoughts on these topics, on strong female characters and the men that support them, and why these stories about unlikely heroines fighting for justice resonate so much with us. So make sure to check that episode out and then dive right into our talk about book one. We have spoiler free reviews, our spice rating, our five sentence summary of the entire plot, and then all of our likes and dislikes. What tropes did we enjoy? Plot points? Does this book deserve all the hype? And most importantly… what are the feminist themes? And are we excited to keep going? Stick around to find out, to hear all about our faves and fails TV / ½ Marathon edition, and a smash or pass with America's favorite sweetheart and a hell demon. Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday!! (And sometimes Friday!…)Check out these author interviews? ⬇️Penn Cole talks with us about Strong Female Characters, Feminist Themes, and her debut bestselling Spark of the Everflame Series! https://youtu.be/7ukNImyoObw?si=7C3Y9kOUMN4hfcKbWe interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of Split or Swallow! Now a Barnes & Noble & Amazon best seller titled: Kiss of the Basilisk!  https://youtu.be/fknhocSNIKMNeed more ACOTAR in your life? Cook your way through Velaris with the help of Chelsea Cole and her cookbook A Feast of Thorns & Roses. Check out our author interview here! https://youtu.be/fjzmqd-x3OA?si=kNJ4D9cxvUjhp-I____Shop bookish apparel worn in this episode!Ashley is Wearing: Red Starborn Fae Hoodie from @LionheartThreads | * https://go.magik.ly/ml/27ucw/  | Use Code: LIZ15 to save! Liz is Wearing: RYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

"Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It"

Clear Thinking by Shane Parrish - Book Summary

"The Science of Winning Hearts, Sparking Change, and Making Good Things Happen"

Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans - Book Summary

Show notes⁠ / Don't Die is more than just another health book. It mixes philosophy with science. Johnson sees aging as a disease we can beat. Read 1 million books in minutes. For free. Get the PDF, infographic, extended ad-free audiobook and animated version of this summary and unlimited bestselling book insights on the top-rated ⁠⁠StoryShots⁠⁠ app: ⁠⁠https://www.getstoryshots.com/ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Don't forget to subscribe, rate and review the StoryShots podcast now.  What should our next book be? Suggest and vote it up on the ⁠⁠StoryShots⁠⁠ app. IN THIS EPISODE: Tech entrepreneur Brian Johnson proposes a radical, scientifically-backed approach to defeating aging through comprehensive health monitoring, strict lifestyle protocols, and cutting-edge experimental interventions. TOPICS: Longevity, nutrition, health, technology, biology KEY FIGURES: PayPal, Brian Johnson, CRISPR, Braintree, National Institute on Aging, don't die, StoryShots, Dr. Oliver Zollman, Blueprint Protocol SUMMARY: Brian Johnson, a tech entrepreneur and author of 'Don't Die', has developed an extreme approach to longevity that involves meticulously tracking and optimizing his health. At 47, he claims to have the body of an 18-year-old through a rigorous regimen that includes a strict 1,977-calorie vegan diet consumed within a five-hour window, taking over 100 pills daily, and following a comprehensive health protocol called Blueprint that monitors 81 different body systems. Johnson's methodology goes beyond traditional health practices, treating aging as a disease that can be conquered through systematic interventions. He uses advanced health tracking, including DNA methylation testing and inflammation markers, to guide his daily routines. His approach involves experimental therapies like blood exchange with his son and father, gene therapy interventions, and a unique sleep optimization strategy that creates an ideal rest environment. While Johnson's methods are controversial and expensive, costing over $2 million annually, he believes his work will eventually benefit everyone by pushing the boundaries of longevity research. His book 'Don't Die' presents a philosophical framework for understanding aging, emphasizing that most people live in 'slow suicide' by making short-term choices that harm long-term health. Johnson envisions a future where technology like gene editing, AI, and advanced biotechnology will make radical life extension possible and accessible. KEY QUOTES: • "As a species, we accept our decay, decline and death. I want to argue that the opposite should be true." - Brian Johnson • "Johnson says most people live in slow suicide. They make choices that feel good now but hurt their future selves." - Brian Johnson • "Johnson compares our body to computer software. We can update the code." - Brian Johnson • "Change is hard. Being miserable is harder." - Brian Johnson • "Before any decision, ask does this help me not die?" - Brian Johnson KEY TAKEAWAYS: • Brian Johnson views aging as a disease that can be 'solved' through systematic, data-driven interventions, spending over $2 million annually to track and potentially reverse his biological aging • Johnson's 'Don't Die' philosophy involves making every lifestyle choice through the lens of whether it helps or hurts long-term survival, including a strict 1,977-calorie vegan diet consumed within a 5-hour window and taking over 100 supplements daily • Johnson tracks 81 different body systems using advanced biomarkers like DNA methylation and inflammation markers, allowing him to make real-time adjustments to his health protocols • His approach combines cutting-edge experimental treatments like blood exchange with his son and gene therapy interventions, while acknowledging the current scientific uncertainty of these methods... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"How To Start a Conversation, Keep It Going, Build Networking Skills – and Leave a Positive Impression!"

Send us a textWell… Ashley and Liz put a hold on their neverending TBR pile and rearranged the entire podcast schedule to yap with y'all about this book. Silver Elite by “New York Times bestselling author” Dani Francis (

The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman - Book Summary

David and Goliath by Malcolm Gladwell - Book Summary

✨ Welcome back to Zillennials Podcast! In this episode, Kaylee and Lian dive into a discussion of 'Slippery Creatures' by KJ Charles. The hosts share their thoughts on key characters like Will Darling and Kim Secretin, delve into themes such as LGBTQ representation and historical accuracy, and analyze the complexities of relationships portrayed in the book. They also debate Kim's moral standing and consider whether they will continue reading the series. Tune in for an engaging conversation about romance, mystery, and representation.00:00 Welcome to the Zillennials Book Club00:25 Author Bio: KJ Charles01:30 Book Summary and Initial Impressions02:25 Character Dynamics and Relationships03:45 Historical Context and Representation06:03 Discussion on Diversity and Representation11:18 Kim's Character Analysis12:11 Will's Struggles and Companionship16:05 Mystery Elements in Slippery Creatures19:01 Final Thoughts and Recommendations30:00 Upcoming Book Club and Closing Remarks

Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins - Book Summary

How Full is your Bucket by Don Clifton -- This is a book summary

Ultra Learning by Scott H. Young This is a Book Summary

May be you should talk to someone by Lori Gottlieb - Book SummaryBook Summary

The Way of Nagomi by Ken Mogi - Book Summary

Smart Brevity by Jim VandeHei & Mike Alen - Book Summary

Just Keep Buying by Nick Maggiulli - Book Summary

Show notes / PDF & Infographic / Free Audiobook / What if I told you the key to freedom is actually being willing to be disliked? In the next 20 minutes, you'll discover the Adlerian secret to authentic living that's captivated readers worldwide. Read 1 million books in minutes. For free. Get the PDF, infographic, extended ad-free audiobook and animated version of this summary and unlimited bestselling book insights on the top-rated ⁠StoryShots⁠ app: ⁠https://go.getstoryshots.com/free⁠ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Don't forget to subscribe, rate and review the StoryShots podcast now.  What should our next book be? Suggest and vote it up on the ⁠StoryShots⁠ app. IN THIS EPISODE: Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga's book reveals how adopting Adlerian psychological principles can help individuals break free from past constraints, overcome the fear of disapproval, and live more authentically by focusing on personal values and community contribution. TOPICS: Relationships, personal growth, happiness, Self-help, psychology KEY FIGURES: Mark Manson, Man's Search for Meaning, Jordan Peterson, The Courage to Be Disliked, Sigmund Freud,, 12 Rules for Life, Alfred Adler, StoryShots, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck, Viktor E. Frankl, Ichiro Kishimi, Fumitake Koga SUMMARY: The podcast episode explores the key principles of Alfred Adler's psychology as presented in the book 'The Courage to Be Disliked' by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga. The core message challenges traditional psychological thinking by asserting that individuals are not controlled by their past experiences, but rather by their future goals and choices. The book argues that people can liberate themselves by understanding that they have the power to interpret and reframe their life experiences, moving beyond deterministic views of personal development. A central theme of the book is that all problems are fundamentally interpersonal relationship problems, and true freedom comes from developing the courage to be disliked. This means living authentically according to one's values, even if it means facing potential disapproval from others. The authors emphasize the importance of separating tasks in relationships, letting go of the need for external recognition, and focusing on contribution rather than personal gain. The book introduces several transformative mental models from Adlerian psychology, such as horizontal versus vertical relationships, task separation, and the concept of community feeling (Gemeinschaftskefuel). These principles encourage individuals to view themselves as equal members of a community, focus on present-moment living, and find meaning through contributing to others. The ultimate goal is to help readers develop a more authentic, purposeful, and liberated approach to life by challenging societal expectations and internal limiting beliefs. KEY QUOTES: • "What if I told you the key to freedom is actually being willing to be disliked?" - Ichiro Kishimi • "Your life is not something that someone gives you, but something you choose yourself, and you are the one who decides how you live." - Ichiro Kishimi • "Freedom is being disliked by other people." - Ichiro Kishimi • "Happiness is the feeling of contribution." - Ichiro Kishimi KEY TAKEAWAYS: • Your past experiences do not determine your future; you have the power to reinterpret and choose your path forward • Interpersonal relationships are the root of most psychological problems, and understanding relationship dynamics is key to personal growth • Developing the courage to be disliked means living authentically according to your values, even if it means facing potential disapproval from others • True happiness comes from contribution, not recognition - focus on adding value to others and society rather than seeking praise • Practice 'task separation' by clearly distinguishing between your responsibilities and those of others, which creates healthier boundaries in relationships... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The easy approach to smart banking, saving, spending and investing"

"The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us"

Send us a textGuess What? It's officially grey! We are in it. Oh my! It's Fifty shades of May over here on the Besties and the Books podcast. Welcome back to our spring mini episode series all about the extremely popular yet widely discredited book series: Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James. We're officially into book two and things are not exactly going as planned…If you've been following along and watched our “Dark Romance Enters the Chat” episode then you know, we trace romance novels wayyy back to their origin so we can discuss what societal conditions helped to produce this canon of works mostly written by women, for women, with women's stories, pleasure, and lived experiences at the center. We examine what influence romance books have had on literature and the publishing world as a whole, and then specifically discuss what impact Fifty Shades had on the genre! It just happens to be a BIG bonus that Ashley and Liz have never read it before. So this is all new information to us.We think that whether you find these books problematic or not, credit must be given where credit is due. The fact that these books have been stigmatized, criticized, and repeatedly knocked down is indicative (we think) of a larger societal problem: misogyny. Because as a society, it seems we just can't stand it when women are successful… or when they enjoy something. Whether it's objectively “good” or “profitable” or not. Episode 2 covers book 2: Fifty Shades Darker by E. L. James. The first five-ish minutes are spoiler free with our one sentence rapid star and spice ratings. Then we jam pack this mini episode with an entire plot summary in five sentences (with a special classical surprise!), discuss what our faves and fail characters and plot points are, our feelings, notable quotes, red flags, problematic elements, and end with a fun piece of Fifty Shades trivia.Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday… and sometimes Friday! Check out these author interviews? ⬇️We interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! | https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of Split or Swallow! Now a Barnes & Noble & Amazon best seller titled: Kiss of the Basilisk! | https://youtu.be/fknhocSNIKMLooking for your next murder mystery Romantasy? Preview This Monster of Mine with our interview with debut author Shalini Abeysekara! | https://youtu.be/dMoOSLW1vTE?si=n6z3RXxSutNXN2oShop bookish apparel worn in this episode!Ashley is wearing: “The Right Way Isn't The Only Way” Fourth Wing Sweater from @TheBeanWorkshop (use our affiliate code “BOOKBESTIES10”)  | * https://www.thebeanworkshop.store/BOOKBESTIES1Liz is wearing “Praise Me” Tee by @darkanddisturbedshop | Use Code: VEGAN10 to save! | https://darkanddisturbedshop.com/products/praise-me-tee?_pos=2&_sid=81592a902&_ss=rAny link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

"The New Mindset for Innovating Smarter"

Send us a textWelcome to our newest series reading “UnPopular Books by Popular Authors”! Today we're kicking it off with Sarah J Maas and Catwoman: Soulstealer! ***A huge thank you to The Bookish Queen for Sponsoring this episode!*****Check out the ultimate bookish shop and use discount code “BESTIEBOOKS15” to save 15% on your order @ https://bookishqueen.com/discount/BESTIEBOOKS15 Follow and get Inspo from them on Instagram @bookishqueenshop**Have you already read this somewhat “secret” book by Sarah J. Maas and just want to hear more? Or will you now be picking up this book to read it yourself after hearing our reviews?We can't believe booktok and bookstagram forgot to mention this semi secret book by SJM! In this episode we give you our spoiler free reviews and explain why we think this DC Comics collab was a bit of a flop.First we'll set the scene, explaining what type of book Catwoman is, what type of series it's a part of, how the book is rated on Goodreads, and how it stacks up in comparison to SJM's other notoriously successful works. Then we'll get into the deep dive, our 5 sentence book summary, our personal thoughts, some outside reviews, and ultimately if it's worth reading, and if we'll continue the series. You might be surprised at what we found.

"Creating Powerful and Positive Relationships Within the Family"

"What You're Missing and Why It Matters"

>> Get The Book (Buy Back Your Time): ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3pCTG78⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ >> Subscribe to My Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3W2tjp2Stop wasting your time on discipline and willpower. These 15 productivity principles are how I went from an ADHD mess to a hyperproductive $100M CEO... and how you can get sh*t done even when they don't feel like it.They're the same principles I mapped to each chapter in my book, Buy Back Your Time.Start crushing your goals TODAY without the struggle.

"Make Everything in Life Easier"

What happens when leadership loses its way — and work loses its soul, let alone its staff? In S2 Ep37 the impressive Rishad Tobaccowala, futurist, author, and former Chief Strategy / Growth Officer (now Senior Advisor) of Publicis Groupe joins me on Insider Interviews to offer a refreshingly human take on the future of work. And yes, we have a musical interlude.... The author of “Restoring the Soul of Business” and his latest,  "Rethinking Work," explains what it really takes to stay relevant in marketing -- and business in general. As Rishad says, “Change Sucks. But irrelevance is worse!” First, I found out that we are both quadruple espresso fans, so if you wonder where Rishad gets his energy.... THEN I discovered we both had a thing about MATH that changed our respective trajectories*. But, after comparing our coffee rituals we go full steam into how companies need to evolve old leadership styles —from “bossing” to inspiring. Rishad shares why corporate models are in urgent need of a reset, and how flexibility, curiosity, and a human-centered approach must replace outdated hierarchies. Think “fractional workers” and project-based teams meets AI. Rishad urges organizations to stop clinging to legacy systems and start designing for the future. But, as this is primarily a show about media, marketing and advertising, (he is, after all, being inducted in the Advertising Hall of Fame) he also explores how storytelling goes hand in hand with tech and remains a marketing essential — not despite the data age, but because of it. Discover the "5 Cs" of embracing the future in Marketing. Interestingly, as former Chairman of Razorfish, his imprint may have been made on Anthony Yell, who - per Epi 30 - clearly agrees in Collaboration and merging Creativity with tech and storytelling! Of course, we talk brand purpose -- and that theme actually runs through it all, with Rishad explaining how generosity is not just as a personal value, but a business advantage. He shares how this belief drives the Tobaccowala Foundation's work in improving access to education and healthcare in India — and why doing good can, and should, be good business. This episode is a frank but, yes, inspiring look at how to rethink work, reimagine leadership, and build companies that serve people — not just profit. *(FYI: Hear how math impacted the journey of Cadillac CMO Melissa Grady, too!) Key Moments:  01:03 Rishad Tobaccowala's Background and Award-Worthy Achievements! 02:57 The Essence of Rishad's Books - "Restoring the Soul of Business" and "Rethinking Work"   03:28 Combining Story and Data in Business 06:21 The Continuing Impact of Pandemic WFH Mentality and the Impact of AI on Work Lifestyles 07:11 Rethinking Work Now and Near Term Future Trends 11:02 Strategies for Embracing Change (Yes it "Sucks" But so Does Irrelevance!) 13:04 Building a Future-Ready Workforce 22:02 Personal Development Thru Continuous Learning 23:46 Mentorship and Leadership Advice Through Musical Metaphors (AKA: E.B. has to Sing Again) 25:37 The Crisis in Modern Leadership 26:07 Boss vs. Leader: Key Differences 32:06 Generosity as a Strategy 37:39 The Tobaccowala Foundation's Mission 39:45 The Future of Marketing and Creativity (Hint: Does Not Fit in the Containers of the Past!)  46:03 Book Summary and Can't Miss Resources Oh, and you might WIN! ...Add a "like" and a comment on Apple, Spotify or YouTube for this episode, and I'll randomly (okay, those who LOVE the show might have an advantage!) will be entered to win a copy of Rishad's book which I'll announce on or before 4/30/25. BUT to make SURE you get your own, and to learn more about Rishad, visit:  https://rethinking-work.io/whats-inside-2  Follow, Connect & Share the Love Connect with Rishad: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rishadtobaccowala/ Learn about Rishad/Purchase Rethinking Work: https://rethinking-work.io/ Connect with E.B.

Show notes / PDF & Infographic / Free Audiobook / What if I told you that America is showing the exact same warning signs as every fallen empire in history? The U.S. is now 247 years old... and according to billionaire Ray Dalio's research, empires collapse after about 250 years. This isn't a conspiracy theory - it's a pattern that's repeated for centuries. In this 15-minute StoryShots audiobook summary, you'll discover why high debt, money printing, and political division aren't random problems... they're predictable stages of decline that have happened to EVERY major power before us. But here's the good news: once you understand the pattern, you can prepare. Listen to find out how... Ray Dalio's book 'Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order' explores how nations rise and fall through predictable historical cycles. By studying 500 years of global economic history, Dalio reveals a 'Big Cycle' where empires typically emerge, build strong systems, become powerful, and then decline over approximately 250 years. This pattern is characterized by specific stages, including building robust education and technology systems, becoming financially successful, achieving military strength, and eventually facing challenges like excessive debt, wealth inequality, and political division. The book identifies three primary forces driving these historical changes: the debt and money cycle, internal disorder, and external disorder. Dalio analyzes how countries like the United States and China fit into these patterns, highlighting eight key factors that determine a nation's power, including education, competitiveness, innovation, economic output, trade, military strength, financial systems, and reserve currency status. He specifically examines the United States' current position, noting warning signs of potential decline such as high government debt, wealth inequality, political polarization, and infrastructure decay. While the book presents a potentially concerning narrative about global power transitions, it also offers practical advice for individuals, investors, and policymakers. Dalio recommends developing adaptable skills, diversifying investments across countries, learning from historical patterns, and preparing for potential economic shifts. The core message is not one of inevitable doom, but of understanding historical cycles to navigate change more effectively. By studying these patterns, individuals and societies can better position themselves to thrive during significant global transformations. Google, Apple, Facebook, Ray Dalio, Time Magazine, Hyundai, Harvard Business School, Samsung, Bridgewater Associates, Niall Ferguson, Principles for dealing with the changing World order, StoryShots, Life and Work, Empires, economics, China, United States, History, Empires, Economics, History, China, Geopolitics, Investment History follows predictable 'Big Cycles' where empires rise and fall approximately every 250 years, characterized by clear stages of emergence, success, and decline Three major interconnected cycles drive global power shifts: debt/money cycles, internal social disorder, and external geopolitical competition The United States shows multiple signs of potential imperial decline, including massive government debt, wealth inequality, political polarization, and declining infrastructure (00:00) Introduction: America's Warning Signs (00:58) Understanding Historical Patterns (02:30) About Ray Dalio (04:18) The Big Cycle of History (05:50) The Rise and Fall of Empires (07:04) Three Main Forces of Change (10:33) Eight Key Factors of National Power (14:22) The Privilege of Reserve Currency Status (16:12) Signs of American Decline (17:57) China's Remarkable Rise (19:57) Internal Problems Leading to External Conflicts (21:38) Preparing for the Changing World Order (23:20) Final Summary and Reflections (26:26) Criticism and Praise of the Book (27:45) Recommended Reads Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"A Daring Strategy to Change How We Live, Lead, and Love"

Show notes / PDF & Infographic / Free Audiobook / Unleash Your Inner Artist with Rick Rubin's The Creative Act: A Way of Being. Key figures and topics: Creativity, Art, Intuition, Inspiration, Process, Mindfulness, intuition, Process, self-discovery, Creativity, Art, Kanye West, Mandy Moore, Ed Sheeran, Johnny Cash, Rick Rubin, Jay Z, NYU, Lady Gaga, , The Creative Act: A Way of Being, Sterling K. Brown, Chris Sullivan, Def Jam Records, StoryShots, Ego, story shorts, Red Hot Chili Peppers, In the book summary of I Will Teach You to Be Rich by Ramit Sethi, the focus is on developing a personal financial strategy that empowers individuals to take control of their financial futures. The book emphasizes the importance of defining what being rich means to you personally, and encourages conscious spending by tracking expenses and making informed financial decisions. Sethi advocates for prioritizing spending on things you truly love while cutting back on less important expenses. The summary highlights key strategies for financial success, including starting early to leverage compound interest and breaking free from excuses that hinder financial growth. Sethi recommends focusing on macro financial decisions rather than getting caught up in minor cost-cutting measures. The book outlines 12 critical financial strategies, such as automating your money system, maintaining a good credit score, getting employer 401k matches, and negotiating raises. A central theme of the book is creating an automatic money management system that simplifies financial planning and helps individuals stick to long-term financial goals. By setting up multiple accounts for different purposes - including checking, savings, credit cards, retirement, and investment accounts - individuals can more effectively manage their finances. Sethi's approach is practical and non-judgmental, focusing on creating sustainable financial habits that align with personal values and long-term objectives. Key takeaways: Define what being 'rich' means to you personally and practice conscious spending by prioritizing expenses that truly matter to you Start investing and building wealth early to leverage compound interest and establish smart money habits over time Avoid making excuses that prevent financial progress; take action even if your initial steps aren't perfect Focus on macro financial strategies like automating your money system, maintaining a good credit score, and contributing to retirement accounts rather than getting stuck on minor expenses Set up an automatic money management system with multiple accounts (checking, savings, credit card, retirement, investment) to simplify finances and ensure consistent financial habits Prioritize five to ten key financial actions that yield significant results, such as negotiating raises, cutting major expenses, and using credit cards strategically Adopt a mindset of financial growth by being willing to start small and consistently improve your money management skills Challenge conventional financial wisdom by making informed, personalized decisions about spending and investing based on your individual goals (00:00) Introduction to The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin (01:05) About Rick Rubin (01:50) Everyone Is a Creator (02:55) Living Life as an Artist (03:53) Look Inward (04:52) Trust Your Intuition (06:17) Don't Let Doubt Hinder Your Creativity (07:25) Breaking Through the Creative Block (08:21) 10 Small Steps for Shaking up Your Process (10:53) 4 Steps to Bringing Creative Work to Life (12:17) Finding Fulfillment Through Experimentation and Completion (13:48) Final Summary and Review (15:00) Rating Related Book Summaries Creativity Inc. by Ed Catmull and Amy Wallace Discipline is Destiny by Ryan Holiday The War of Art by Steven Pressfield The Good Life by Robert Waldinger The Practice by Seth Godin Never Finished by David Goggins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"A Philosophical Masterpiece on the Boundaries Between Good and Evil" Transcript and written book summary available here for free

Send us a textToday we're discussing the highly anticipated brand new book in the Hunger Games world: Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins. We go back in time (yet again!) to the 50th Quarter Quell, also known as Haymitch Abernathy's Hunger Games to answer all the questions we still have. How exactly did he become a victor and the gruff but lovable mentor we all grew to love in the original trilogy? What happened to Haymitch?!This book is full of so many amazing “easter eggs” and tie-ins to the original trilogy. It fills in SO many satisfying blanks while still leaving a little bit up to interpretation. We're ready to pick this book apart and make all of those connections with you as we celebrate this amazing book and get ready to close this Hunger Games chapter (for now). If you've been following along and watched our “From 1984 to Hunger Games” dystopian themes in media and literature episode then you know we're fascinated with everything about this genre and need to delve into this discussion! It just happens to be a BIG bonus that Ashley had never read it before. The debate currently on the book talk table is whether or not books (and the act of reading) are inherently political. We'd encourage anyone who has a doubt in their mind to read this series… with themes like media control, a totalitarian regime, and rebellion, it's hard to see how it ISN'T political.Episode 5 covers book 5 (or 0.75?): Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins. The first five-ish minutes are spoiler free with our one sentence rapid star reviews. Then we jam pack this mini episode with an entire plot summary in five sentences (yes, with a keyboard…), discuss what our faves and fail characters and plot points are, our feelings, notable quotes, and discuss ALL the easter eggs. Then we wrap this up with some surprise questions and some excitement for next week's final Hunger Games episode because we give our wrap up thoughts, our overall reviews, discuss the movies, and announce our next miniseries starting soon! We can't wait to see you there!  Mentioned Source:“We Already Know How Sunrise on the Reaping Ends. That Doesn't Change Its Impact.”By: Lauren Puckett-Pope | https://www.elle.com/culture/books/a64233635/sunrise-on-the-reaping-hunger-games-prequel-ending-explained-review/Shop bookish apparel worn in this episode!Ashley is wearing “Undead Readers Book Club” Tee by @bookbabedesigns | https://bookbabedesigns.comLiz is wearing “Fire Breathing B*tch Queen” Baby Tee by @chaptercatchers | https://go.magik.ly/ml/2b21c/Any link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast!YouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

"How a Single Chemical in Your Brain Drives Love, Sex, and Creativity – and Will Determine the Fate of the Human Race"