By Ruth Leacock
Published: 1990
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Chris Dixon is a notable venture capitalist and technology entrepreneur, best known for his influential role as a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz, where he leads investments in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. Before joining the firm, Dixon co-founded two startups: SiteAdvisor, a web security company acquired by McAfee, and Hunch, a recommendation engine acquired by eBay. In addition to his investment career, Dixon is a prolific writer and thought leader on technology and innovation, contributing insightful essays and articles to various platforms such as his personal blog and Medium. His writings often explore the future of technology, the internet, and the impact of blockchain, making significant contributions to contemporary tech literature. Dixon's work has earned him recognition as a visionary in both the tech and literary worlds.
View CollectionAlexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also known as AOC, is a U.S. Congresswoman representing New York's 14th district. She gained national attention after winning her seat in 2018 at the age of 29, making her one of the youngest women ever elected to Congress. Ocasio-Cortez is known for her progressive policies, advocating for issues such as Medicare for All, climate change action, and economic justice. She has become a prominent figure within the Democratic Party and uses social media to engage with constituents and the public. Her rise from grassroots activism to Congress has inspired many young people to get involved in politics.
View CollectionAlicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.
View CollectionAlexis Ohanian is an American entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Reddit, one of the world’s most popular social news and discussion platforms. Ohanian is also a prominent advocate for open internet and net neutrality, and he has invested in numerous startups through his venture capital firm, Initialized Capital. In addition to his work in tech, Ohanian is involved in philanthropy, supporting causes related to women’s rights, education, and social justice. He is married to tennis star Serena Williams, and together they advocate for gender equality and inclusive leadership. Ohanian’s influence in the tech world and his commitment to social impact have made him a respected figure in both business and activism.
View CollectionAlex Honnold is an American professional rock climber, best known for his free solo ascent of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, a feat that was documented in the Oscar-winning film Free Solo. Honnold is renowned for his mental toughness, technical skill, and ability to climb without ropes or safety equipment. His accomplishments have made him a legend in the climbing world, and he continues to push the boundaries of the sport. Outside of climbing, Honnold is a philanthropist, founding the Honnold Foundation, which supports environmental sustainability projects, particularly in solar energy.
View CollectionJessica Gomes is an Australian model and actress, best known for her appearances in Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue and for her work as a brand ambassador for various global brands. Gomes has worked with high-profile fashion houses and beauty brands, becoming one of the most recognized Australian models internationally. She has also branched into acting, appearing in films such as Once Upon a Time in Venice. In addition to her modeling and acting career, Gomes is involved in philanthropy and has supported several charitable causes, particularly those focused on health and education.
View CollectionBarack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View CollectionAileen Lee is a distinguished venture capitalist and founder of Cowboy Ventures, a seed-stage venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology companies. She is widely known for coining the term "unicorn" to describe startups valued at over $1 billion, significantly impacting how the tech industry views high-growth companies. Lee's keen eye for innovation and her advocacy for diversity in tech have made her a prominent figure in Silicon Valley. Beyond her financial acumen, she has authored insightful articles on entrepreneurship and startup culture, contributing valuable perspectives to business literature. Lee's work continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and investors.
View CollectionJamie Foxx is an American actor, comedian, and singer, known for his versatility across various forms of entertainment. He won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Ray Charles in the biopic Ray and has appeared in numerous films, including Django Unchained and Collateral. Foxx is also a successful musician, having released multiple albums and collaborated with top artists in the music industry. His ability to move between comedy, drama, and music has made him one of the most talented and respected performers in Hollywood. Beyond his entertainment career, Foxx is a philanthropist, supporting various causes related to health and education.
View CollectionAlex Blumberg is a renowned American journalist, radio producer, and entrepreneur, best known for co-founding the podcast company Gimlet Media. He gained significant acclaim for his work on the groundbreaking radio show "This American Life," where his storytelling prowess earned him several prestigious awards. Blumberg's notable achievements include his pivotal role in creating the popular podcast "Startup," which provides an insider's look at launching a business. His contributions have significantly shaped the modern podcasting landscape, blending compelling narratives with entrepreneurial insights. Additionally, Blumberg's innovative approach to audio storytelling continues to inspire new generations of content creators.
View CollectionBill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View CollectionCynthia Johnson is a celebrated author known for her poignant novels that explore themes of identity, resilience, and human connection. She gained critical acclaim with her debut novel, "Whispers in the Wind," which won the National Book Award for Fiction. Her subsequent works, including "Echoes of the Past" and "Fragments of Tomorrow," have been praised for their lyrical prose and deeply emotional narratives. Johnson's contributions extend beyond her writing, as she actively mentors emerging writers and advocates for literacy programs in underserved communities. With a career spanning over two decades, she has firmly established herself as a significant voice in contemporary literature.
View CollectionBernie Sanders is an American politician and U.S. Senator from Vermont, known for his progressive policies and his advocacy for economic equality. Sanders ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2016 and 2020, inspiring a movement with his calls for Medicare for All, free college tuition, and a $15 minimum wage. He identifies as a democratic socialist and has been a long-standing advocate for labor rights, environmental justice, and social welfare programs. Sanders’ candidacy energized a new generation of activists and has had a lasting influence on the direction of the Democratic Party. His focus on income inequality and social justice continues to shape political discourse in the U.S.
View CollectionKathryn Minshew is a co-founder and CEO of The Muse, a career development platform that has revolutionized job searching and career advice. She is the co-author of "The New Rules of Work: The Modern Playbook for Navigating Your Career," a bestselling guide that offers practical advice for professionals at every stage of their careers. Minshew's work has empowered millions of people to navigate their professional journeys with confidence and clarity. Her insights have been featured in major media outlets like The Wall Street Journal and Harvard Business Review. As a thought leader in career development, Minshew continues to shape the future of work through her innovative approach and influential writing.
View CollectionKarlie Kloss is a renowned American fashion model and entrepreneur known for her work with top designers and brands, securing her place as one of the industry's most influential figures. While primarily celebrated for her modeling career, she has also made significant contributions to literature through her advocacy for education and women's empowerment in STEM. Kloss founded Kode With Klossy, a nonprofit organization that offers free coding camps for young women, encouraging a new generation of female tech leaders. Her efforts have been documented in various publications, highlighting her impact beyond the fashion world. Kloss continues to inspire through her multifaceted career and dedication to fostering opportunities for women in technology.
View CollectionBenedict Evans is a renowned technology analyst and commentator, acclaimed for his insightful analyses on technology trends and their societal impacts. With a background in venture capital and strategic consulting, Evans has become a prominent voice in the tech community through his thought-provoking essays and presentations. His work often explores the intersection of mobile technology, media, and internet platforms, offering a nuanced understanding of complex tech ecosystems. Evans is widely respected for his ability to distill intricate technological developments into accessible and compelling narratives. His contributions have significantly influenced industry leaders and informed public discourse on the future of technology.
View CollectionKeith Rabois is a prominent American entrepreneur, investor, and author known for his significant contributions to the tech industry and startup ecosystem. He played crucial roles in the early success of companies like PayPal, LinkedIn, Square, and Yelp, earning a reputation as a skilled operator and strategic thinker. As a partner at Founders Fund and later at Khosla Ventures, Rabois has invested in and advised numerous successful startups. In addition to his business ventures, he has written insightful articles and essays on technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation, contributing to the broader discourse on these subjects. Rabois continues to influence the tech world with his strategic insights and thought leadership.
View CollectionArianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.
View CollectionBen Horowitz is a prominent American entrepreneur, investor, and author, best known for co-founding the venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz. He made significant contributions to the tech industry through his leadership roles at Netscape and as co-founder of the software company Opsware, which was later acquired by Hewlett-Packard. Horowitz is celebrated for his insightful business book, "The Hard Thing About Hard Things," which provides candid advice on the challenges of entrepreneurship. His follow-up book, "What You Do Is Who You Are," explores the importance of company culture in business success. Horowitz's works are highly regarded for their practical wisdom and have influenced countless leaders in the tech and business communities.
View CollectionAdam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
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