It was late 2017, and I was in the middle of my semester abroad in Shanghai, China.
Light beamed through haze as I arrived at a random park, listening to a podcast my friend Jonathan had recommended to me.
I had never really listened to podcasts before, but all of Jonathan’s excited ravings on his learnings piqued my curiosity.
I still remember walking along the path as the conversation between bestselling author Tim Ferriss and legendary designer Debbie Millman spoke from my headphones into my ears.
As Debbie shared her career story, I couldn’t help but feel this strange sensation.
For the last 20 years, the only information available to me was what I was given in schools, or by random videos on YouTube and Instagram.
This was the moment I realized I could be surrounded by the wisdom of world-class masters, as long as I had a phone.
Physically, my steps were grounded. But mentally, and even spiritually, I felt an untethering.
This was the start of my self-education journey that changed the trajectory of my life, and today I want to share my most treasured resources with you.
Here is a list of authors/creators who I feel have shared lessons I’ve internalized and have carried with me for years, and will continue to for years more.
1.)Tim Ferriss
Arguably the one who started it all for me, this man’s work brings you with him on his relentless search for mastery and fulfillment.
The show where Tim interviews world-class performers in every field to tease out the tips, routines and mindsets they use. If you want to surround yourself with the best, then listening to these conversations is one way to get started.
Tim’s debut bestseller is foundational knowledge for those who don’t want to dedicate their lives to work, but would rather dedicate their work to life. Whenever I feel like I’m spinning my wheels and need guidance, I revisit the 4-Hour Workweek for actionable advice.
2.) Walter Issacson
There is something magical about listening to the stories of outstanding people, especially when told by the right person. Former TIME editor and CEO of CNN, Walter Issacson has documented some of the most exceptional people in history through masterfully crafted biographies. Here are some of my favorites from him:
3.Struthless
An illustrator and YouTube creator who’s taken his years of turbulent experiences, and now transmits them through incredibly well-spoken videos and a charming Aussie accent.
One of my recent favorites of his is hilarious, yet truthful take on combating perfectionism. I'd highly recommend this one.
4. Mark Manson There are few people who have as unfiltered and authentic of a voice as Mark, author of The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck. His book is an excellent and thrilling read, but I honestly think his recent escapades on YouTube are just as if not more impactful.
5. Gary Vaynerchuck
Gary not only speaks loud, but acts loud. His intense communication may not resonate with everyone, but there is no arguing that through his decades of experience building multi-million dollar companies that he has lived what he’s preached.
While Gary has a couple books, my favorite content of his is his podcast, where he takes bites of interviews and talks he has with others so we can listen like a fly on the wall.
Whether or not you’ve heard of these people before, I would highly recommend you go and give those you are most curious about a listen.
The benefits of chasing your curiosity are exponential, and if it does the same to you that it did to me, it will open your world.
Let me know which resources you’re most excited to explore!
Take care friend,
Kai
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