If you want to hear ideas, advice, suggestions and viewpoints from some of the smartest people in the United States (OK, the world), you just have to give a listen to the podcast People I (Mostly) Admire, by Steve Levitt, one of the top economists and co-author of Freakonomics. He touches upon a panorama of subjects ranging from business and science to medicine and trivia. Ultimately, you should listen because it’ll help you think more clearly about everything you do.

Podcasts  

People I (Mostly) Admire

Freakonomics co-author Steve Levitt tracks down other high achievers for surprising, revealing conversations about their lives and obsessions. Join Levitt as he goes through the most interesting midlife crisis you’ve ever heard — and learn how a renegade sheriff is transforming Chicago’s jail, how a biologist is finding the secrets of evolution in the Arctic tundra, and how a trivia champion memorized 160,000 flashcards. 

Find it here.  

WorkLife with Adam Grant

Adam Grant is an organizational psychologist and professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. In his podcast WorkLife, he explores the world of work. Episodes provide insights into improving productivity, collaboration, and well-being.

He often interviews experts and thought leaders in various fields to discuss strategies for making work more meaningful and effective. The podcast covers motivation, creativity, decision-making, and building positive workplace cultures.

Find it here. 

The Art of Charm

AJ Harbinger and Johnny Dzubak host this thrilling podcast. The Art of Charm focuses on social dynamics, communication, and personal development.

While not strictly a management podcast, it offers valuable insights into building strong relationships, effective communication, and personal growth. The hosts discuss topics such as networking, charisma, emotional intelligence, and self-confidence, all of which are essential skills for managers and leaders.

Find it here.

Books 

"Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us"
By Daniel H. Pink

Pink challenges the traditional "carrot-and-stick" approach to motivation, arguing that true motivation stems from intrinsic factors like autonomy, mastery, and purpose. This book, from a giant in the field of behavioral economics, should be on everyone’s reading list. You learn how to create a more motivated and productive work environment.

Find it here.  

The Lean Startup: How Today’s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses
By Eric Ries 

This book introduces the Lean Startup methodology, which emphasizes creating and managing successful startups more efficiently and innovatively. Ries outlines principles such as validated learning, iterative product releases, and customer feedback loops to help entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses. It’s an essential guide for anyone looking to start or grow a business focusing on innovation and efficiency. 

Find it here.

  

"Who Says Elephants Can’t Dance?"
By Louis V. Gerstner, Jr.

Gerstner shares his experience when he turned IBM around during the 1990s. He provides a powerful case study about business strategy, leadership and cultural change. The book provides insights into running a business even if your company isn’t a corporate giant. 

Find it here.