Michael Bungay Stanier hosts the podcast where brilliant people read the best two pages of a favourite book. Discover the best bits of the best books read by people you admire. Listen as authors, leaders, activists, academics, celebrities, and entrepreneurs dig in with MBS to explore the insights and ideas within. Whether it’s books that inspire leadership, change, self-development and growth, power, strategy, ambition, productivity, or creativity and innovation - this is hand-curated wisdom from people who know. These are the books that change minds, shape lives, and inspire great work and worthy goals.
Dr. Angel Acosta reads from Mustafa Suleyman’s "The Coming Wave," reflecting on the profound impact of advanced AI and biotechnology on society, the paradox between innovation and caution, and the pursuit of healing in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Jeremy Lent reading from the Tao Te Ching and discussing the importance of interconnectedness, the essence of a life-affirming civilization, and finding meaning beyond the material world.
Katherine Morgan Schafler reads from Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Big Magic” and discusses creativity, perfectionism, and trusting yourself.
Raj Sisodia reading from Louis Fischer’s “Gandhi: His Life and Message for the World,” and discussing the principles of nonviolence and truth in leadership, the balance between profit and purpose, and the constant challenge of integrating humanity into business.
Will Guidara reading from Danny Meyer’s “Setting the Table,” and discussing the balance between maintaining high standards and empowering those around you, and the constant tension between hospitality and excellence.
Kumi Naidoo reading from “Dearest MaRiky” by Louisa Zondo.
Marcus Collins reading from Dan Ariely's "Predictably Irrational."
Kassia St. Clair reading from John Day’s “Homing: On Pigeons, Dwellings and Why We Return,” and discussing the tension between putting down roots and being tied down and the fundamental dance between freedom and commitment.
Lauren Crux reading from Mary Ruefle’s The Book, and discussing the concept of home, finding it in oneself, and the importance of nurturing friendships.
W. David reading from Alfred, Lord Tennyson’s Ulysses, and discussing the anxiety of feeling like you peaked early in life and how to ensure that doesn’t become your reality.