In 'Weird,' Olga Khazan explores the fascinating science behind what makes us quirky and unconventional. Through a blend of personal anecdotes and psychological research, she delves into the hidden advantages of embracing our oddities. This thought-provoking narrative challenges societal norms and celebrates the beauty of being different. Khazan's engaging writing invites readers to question their own perceptions of normality. Can being weird actually be the key to a richer, more fulfilling life?
By Olga Khazan
Published: 2020
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Daniel Pink is a renowned American author known for his groundbreaking work in the fields of business, work, and behavior. He has penned several bestselling books, including "Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us," which explores the science of motivation and has been translated into over 30 languages. Pink's "A Whole New Mind" and "To Sell is Human" have also received critical acclaim, cementing his reputation as a thought leader. His insightful TED Talks and frequent contributions to major publications further amplify his influence. Pink's work has significantly shaped contemporary understanding of motivation, creativity, and the modern workplace.
View CollectionAlex Lieberman is the co-founder and executive chairman of Morning Brew, a media company that delivers engaging business news. Under his leadership, Morning Brew has grown to reach millions of subscribers, becoming a significant player in modern business journalism. Lieberman is also known for his insightful commentary on entrepreneurship and media trends. His work has significantly influenced the way business news is consumed by younger audiences. Beyond Morning Brew, Lieberman frequently writes and speaks about the intersection of media and technology, further cementing his role as a thought leader in the industry.
View CollectionDarya Rose is a celebrated author and neuroscientist known for her influential work in the field of nutrition and healthy living. She gained widespread acclaim for her book *Foodist: Using Real Food and Real Science to Lose Weight Without Dieting*, which offers a science-based approach to weight management and healthy eating. Rose holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience from the University of California, San Francisco, which lends credibility to her evidence-based recommendations. In addition to her writing, she is the creator of the popular blog Summer Tomato, where she shares insights on food, health, and lifestyle. Rose's work has inspired many to adopt more mindful and sustainable eating habits, making a significant impact on the wellness community.
View CollectionJoe Rogan is a multifaceted American entertainer known primarily for his work as a comedian, podcast host, and commentator. He gained widespread recognition through his immensely popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," which has featured in-depth conversations with a diverse array of guests, including scientists, celebrities, and politicians. Though not primarily known for literature, Rogan has contributed to the field with his thought-provoking discussions that often explore philosophical and intellectual ideas. Additionally, he has authored the book "Mastering the Rubber Guard," which delves into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, showcasing his expertise in martial arts. Rogan's influence extends beyond traditional media, impacting contemporary discourse through his unique blend of humor, curiosity, and critical thinking.
View CollectionRay Dalio is the founder of Bridgewater Associates, one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world. He is also the author of the bestselling book Principles, where he outlines his philosophy on life, leadership, and investing. Ray is renowned for his unique approach to transparency, radical truth, and thoughtful disagreement within organizations. His insights into economics and investing have made him one of the most influential figures in the financial world. Dalio continues to be a thought leader in business, economics, and philanthropy.
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 CollectionDavid Cancel is a prominent entrepreneur and author best known for his influential work in the tech and startup communities. As the CEO and co-founder of Drift, a leading conversational marketing platform, he has revolutionized how businesses engage with their customers online. Cancel has also authored insightful books such as "Hypergrowth," which offers valuable strategies for scaling startups rapidly. His contributions extend beyond literature as he frequently shares his expertise through speaking engagements and his popular podcast, "Seeking Wisdom." David Cancel's innovative ideas and practical advice continue to inspire and guide entrepreneurs worldwide.
View CollectionAndrew Wilkinson is a distinguished author and entrepreneur, best known for his insightful business writings and contributions to the tech industry. He co-founded MetaLab, a prominent design agency that has shaped the user experience of major platforms like Slack and Coinbase. Wilkinson's entrepreneurial journey and his publications provide valuable perspectives on startup culture, innovation, and leadership. His writing, often featured in leading business magazines and his personal blog, has garnered a wide readership for its practical advice and engaging storytelling. Andrew continues to influence both literature and the business world with his unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking.
View CollectionDavid Sinclair is an Australian biologist and professor at Harvard Medical School, known for his pioneering research in the field of aging and longevity. Sinclair's work focuses on understanding the biological mechanisms that drive aging and developing interventions to slow or reverse the process. His bestselling book Lifespan: Why We Age – and Why We Don’t Have To explores the latest advancements in anti-aging science and offers insights into how humans might extend their healthspan. Sinclair's research has led to breakthroughs in areas such as sirtuins, NAD+ metabolism, and cellular reprogramming. He is also the co-founder of several biotech companies, including Sirtris Pharmaceuticals and Life Biosciences, dedicated to translating aging research into practical treatments. Sinclair is a vocal advocate for taking a proactive approach to aging, promoting lifestyle changes and emerging therapies to delay age-related diseases. His work has made him a leading figure in the longevity movement, influencing both scientific and public discourse on the future of health.
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 CollectionJames Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.
View CollectionAlfred Lin is a venture capitalist and partner at Sequoia Capital, where he focuses on investments in consumer internet, enterprise, and mobile companies. Lin is known for his early investments in companies like Airbnb and DoorDash, helping them grow into major global brands. Before joining Sequoia, Lin was an executive at Zappos, where he worked closely with CEO Tony Hsieh to develop the company’s innovative culture and customer service model. Lin’s expertise in scaling businesses and his strategic vision have made him one of the most respected venture capitalists in Silicon Valley.
View CollectionBrian Armstrong is a renowned entrepreneur and author best known for co-founding and leading Coinbase, a major cryptocurrency exchange. His literary contributions include insightful writings on the future of digital currencies and blockchain technology. Armstrong's work has been pivotal in demystifying complex financial systems for a broader audience. Beyond his business acumen, his thought leadership in publications and public speaking engagements has cemented his status as a key voice in the fintech revolution. His dedication to innovation continues to influence the trajectory of global financial systems.
View CollectionEllen DeGeneres is an acclaimed American comedian, television host, actress, and writer. She gained immense popularity with her Emmy-winning daytime talk show, "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," which debuted in 2003 and ran for 19 successful seasons. In the literary world, DeGeneres has authored several bestselling books, including "My Point... And I Do Have One" and "Seriously... I'm Kidding," which showcase her signature humor and candid storytelling. Her work has significantly contributed to discussions on LGBTQ+ issues, especially following her historic coming out in 1997. DeGeneres is also known for her philanthropic efforts, frequently using her platform to support various charitable causes.
View CollectionBrendon Burchard is a high-performance coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, best known for his books High Performance Habits and The Motivation Manifesto. He helps individuals and organizations achieve peak performance through strategies focused on clarity, energy, and productivity. Brendon’s work emphasizes the importance of personal growth and developing habits that lead to sustained success. He has coached Fortune 500 CEOs, Olympians, and other high-achieving individuals. Brendon is also the founder of the High Performance Academy, where he trains people to lead more impactful and successful lives.
View CollectionSeth Godin is a prolific author and entrepreneur, renowned for his influential contributions to marketing and business thought leadership. He has written over 20 bestselling books, including "Purple Cow," "Linchpin," and "The Dip," which have revolutionized modern marketing strategies and inspired countless professionals. Godin's work emphasizes the importance of creativity, innovation, and the power of ideas in building successful enterprises. He is also the founder of altMBA, an online leadership and management workshop, and he consistently shares his insights through his popular daily blog. Godin's impact on the marketing world has earned him a spot in the Direct Marketing Hall of Fame.
View CollectionEmma Watson is a British actress and activist best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the "Harry Potter" film series, which brought J.K. Rowling's beloved books to life. Beyond her acting career, Watson has made significant contributions to literature by promoting gender equality and women's rights through her work with the United Nations, including the HeForShe campaign. She has also curated and shared book recommendations that highlight feminist literature and diverse voices. Watson graduated from Brown University with a degree in English literature, further emphasizing her dedication to the literary world. Her advocacy and influence have made her a prominent figure in both the entertainment and literary communities.
View CollectionCharlamagne Tha God, born Lenard Larry McKelvey, is a prominent American radio personality, television host, and author. He is best known as a co-host of the nationally syndicated radio show "The Breakfast Club," where his candid interviews and commentary have made him a leading voice in contemporary media. Charlamagne has made significant contributions to literature with his New York Times bestselling books, "Black Privilege: Opportunity Comes to Those Who Create It" and "Shook One: Anxiety Playing Tricks on Me," which offer insights into his personal journey and mental health struggles. His works have been praised for their honesty and motivational impact, resonating with a wide audience. Charlamagne continues to influence culture and inspire readers through his candid storytelling and advocacy for mental health awareness.
View CollectionJim Kwik is a renowned brain coach and founder of Kwik Learning, known for his expertise in memory improvement, brain performance, and accelerated learning. He is the author of the best-selling book "Limitless: Upgrade Your Brain, Learn Anything Faster, and Unlock Your Exceptional Life," which has empowered countless individuals to optimize their cognitive abilities. Through his popular podcast, "Kwik Brain," and numerous speaking engagements, Kwik has inspired millions worldwide with practical strategies for mental enhancement. His work emphasizes the potential of lifelong learning and the power of self-belief. Kwik's contributions have significantly influenced both educational methodologies and personal development practices.
View CollectionScott Pape, known as The Barefoot Investor, is an Australian financial advisor and author, best known for his best-selling book The Barefoot Investor: The Only Money Guide You’ll Ever Need. Pape’s simple, no-nonsense approach to personal finance has helped millions of Australians get out of debt, build savings, and invest for the future. His advice is based on practical, straightforward strategies that focus on budgeting, long-term investments, and financial independence. Pape’s work as a financial educator has made him one of the most trusted voices in personal finance, and his book has become one of the most successful financial guides in Australia.
View CollectionGretchen Rubin is a bestselling author and happiness expert, best known for her books The Happiness Project and Better Than Before. She explores the science of habits, happiness, and human behavior, helping readers improve their everyday lives. Gretchen’s popular podcast, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, offers practical advice and personal anecdotes to cultivate a more joyful and meaningful life. Her work emphasizes small, daily changes that can lead to long-term well-being. She continues to be a sought-after speaker on topics of happiness and habit formation.
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 CollectionFrank Chimero is a renowned designer, illustrator, and author best known for his influential book "The Shape of Design," which explores the philosophy and practice of design. His work emphasizes the intersection of creativity and human experience, earning him a respected place in both the design and literary communities. Chimero has contributed essays and lectures that have inspired a new generation of thinkers in the creative industries. He has also been recognized for his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, thought-provoking content. Beyond his writing, Chimero's design projects and illustrations have been featured in numerous prestigious publications and exhibitions.
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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