Books
Wires of War: Technology and the Global Struggle for Power by Jacob Helberg
It’s been great reading a new friend’s book and seeing him completely shine an accurate and informed light on many of the problems we face as a nation navigating 21st century conflict. From 2016 to 2020, Jacob Helberg led Google’s global internal product policy efforts to combat disinformation and foreign interference. During this time, he found himself in the midst of what can only be described as a quickly escalating two-front technology cold war between democracy and autocracy. Access and control over our most vital war fronts is not delegated to standard armed conflict anymore, but over the internet and our supply chain. There is a new type of battle being fought and we need to be united around being the one who writes the rules for this type of conflict in order to ensure freedom and security for our nation, and the world.
Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order: Why Nations Succeed and Fail by Ray Dalio
Ray Dalio is one of the most famous and successful investors of our time, founding Bridgewater Associates which currently has $140B AUM. His latest book really captures one of his passions as an investor, understanding the past to understand the future in regards to global economies, markets, and powers. Ray Dalio spends a lot of the book detailing what he entails as cycles (both large and small) that are common threads throughout history. A great book for history buffs and more macro type thinkers like myself. Although I can’t say I entirely agree with all of his sentiments, it is a fantastic read.
Interviews
Marc Andreessen - The Observer
Incredible insights into how one of the greatest investors and entrepreneurs of our time, Marc Andreessen, thinks about a myriad of things. The way he views time and his schedule was very insightful, and I was definitely impacted by his commitment to blocking out time to, well, think. As an investor it’s critical to spend time to think deeply on subjects to develop a view on where things are going and what is happening, but as a person, time to yourself to think helps you ponder your previous actions, your future actions, ways you can improve, where you are grateful, where you should be focused, and so much more. So much of one’s job, and life, can be caught up in the doing. The past 2 years really highlighted how critical this time is and I think we should be thoroughly committed to blocking this time to one’s self out as much as possible. I believe it can make one a better investor, operator, husband, father, and person.
Playing
Halo Infinite - One of the best games I have ever played. A masterpiece that takes all of the best parts from every previous game and blends them together masterfully. Highly recommend playing this game. Halo is back!
TV Shows
The Witcher Season 2
Incredible second season that gave more background on Geralt, Princess Cirilla, the Witchers, the Elves, and the World, all the while progressing the story and characters terrifically.
The Book of Boba Fett Season 1
I am 2 episodes in and really enjoying it as a Star Wars buff. And also, Patton Oswalt apparently is prophetic.