E60: The 2021 Bestie Awards PLUS Jack Dorsey starts the Web3 Wars

In 'San Fransicko,' Michael Shellenberger argues that progressive policies have exacerbated problems like homelessness, drug addiction, and crime in cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Portland. Despite advocating for decriminalization of drugs and affordable housing, Shellenberger discovered that these policies have enabled rather than solved these issues. He contends that the underlying problem is an ideology that designates certain individuals as victims entitled to destructive behaviors, undermining the values necessary for functioning cities and civilization. The book compares the approaches of West Coast cities with those of other cities like New York and Washington D.C. , highlighting more effective strategies for addressing homelessness and addiction.

Em "Changing World Order", Ray Dalio analisa a história econômica e política global, buscando identificar padrões e ciclos que moldam a ordem mundial. Ele argumenta que a compreensão desses padrões é crucial para navegar os desafios e oportunidades do cenário internacional. Dalio apresenta uma perspectiva ampla e interdisciplinar, combinando economia, história e política para explicar as mudanças na ordem mundial. A obra é uma síntese de suas experiências e reflexões sobre a economia global, oferecendo uma visão única sobre os desafios e oportunidades do século XXI. A obra de Dalio gerou debates e controvérsias, mas continua sendo uma leitura fundamental para entender as complexidades do desenvolvimento humano.

In 'Wanting: The Power of Mimetic Desire in Everyday Life,' Luke Burgis delves into the concept of mimetic desire, which is the tendency to imitate the desires of others. Drawing on the work of René Girard, Burgis explains how our desires are mediated by models and how this can lead to rivalry, conflict, and unfulfilling pursuits. The book distinguishes between 'thin' desires, which are superficial and mimetic, and 'thick' desires, which are deeper and more lasting. Burgis provides tactics for identifying and transforming these desires, such as creating a hierarchy of values, finding sources of wisdom that withstand mimesis, and practicing empathy. The book aims to help readers gain control over their desires and find more meaning in their lives by making intentional choices rather than blindly following mimetic forces.

In 'Amp It Up,' Frank Slootman shares his leadership approach for achieving hypergrowth. The book emphasizes the importance of raising standards, aligning teams, sharpening focus, picking up the pace, and transforming strategy. Slootman argues that most leaders can significantly improve their organization's performance without expensive changes to talent, structure, or the business model. He stresses the need for execution, a strong team culture, and a relentless focus on the mission. The book provides practical advice on making conflicted choices, promoting collaboration, and maintaining high standards to avoid mediocrity.

In 'Grinding It Out: The Making of McDonald's,' Ray Kroc recounts his journey from a typical salesman to the businessman behind the world-famous hamburger chain. The book discusses Kroc's discovery of the McDonald brothers' efficient restaurant operation in San Bernardino, California, and how he convinced them to franchise their concept. Kroc's perseverance and business acumen are highlighted as he transformed McDonald's into an international success, revolutionizing the American restaurant industry with standardized menus and assembly-line food preparation. The memoir also touches on Kroc's personal life, including his multiple marriages and his later ownership of the San Diego Padres baseball team.