My Favorite Books, Podcasts and Personal Productivity Tools
My Favourite Books
I have been an avid and lifelong book reader since an early age (see picture on the right when I was 9 years, reading an encyclopedia), but since 2016, I have taken that to the next level: thanks to my Kindle E-Reader. I try to read an average of 1 or more books a month, for an average of 12-15 books a year. In the last few years since the Covid-19 pandemic, I have read well over 100 books, mostly in the non-fiction category. Here is a list of my top book recommendations and a brief comment on why I recommend each:
- How to Win Friends and Influence People: a timeless classic that has been read by presidents, kings, and many more in between. I recommend this book because it is proven to help you interact better with people and, as a result, get more cooperation, respect, and success in both personal and professional relationships. In fact, if you ask some of the wealthy and most successful people in society about their favourite book, chances are this will be brought up.
- The Simple Path to Wealth: there are a lot of great books written about finance and wealth, but this one stuck with me for one simple reason: it is simple to read and emphasizes the point about ETFs and their simplicity and proven success to build success. Believe it or not, while I have been investing for close to a decade or longer, it took me reading this book to finally get into ETFs.
- The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership: There are thousands of books written about leadership, but John Maxwell is the authority figure on leadership, and this specific book of his is the definitive guide to becoming a more effective and inspiring leader. Every one of his 21 laws is like part of a whole system, and you can't use one without the other ones and so on.
- Rich Dad Poor Dad: Robert Kiyosaki's 'Rich Dad Poor Dad' completely changed my thinking about investing and how every dollar should be put to work as an asset rather than a a liability. The book emphasizes building assets like real estate that generate income, rather than simply spending it on liabilities that drain your wallets. This shift in mindset encourages readers to invest their money in assets that generate income, ultimately achieving financial freedom.
- 10 Pillars of Wealth by Alex Becker outlines key principles and strategies for achieving financial independence and success. The book is structured around ten fundamental pillars, each representing a critical aspect of wealth-building. These pillars include the importance of mindset, leveraging skills, understanding market needs, managing time effectively, and creating scalable systems. Becker emphasizes the importance of taking calculated risks, learning from failures, and continuously adapting to changes.
- Think and Grow Rich: another timeless classic, one that taught me the importance of using my mind to get ahead and manifest my future. The book emphasizes the power of a positive mindset and belief in one's abilities, no matter what the task or problem at hand.
- High Performance Habits: this book by Brendan Bouchard helped me unlock my potential and achieve a higher level of productivity and success. Bouchard outlines six key habits that differentiate high performers from everyone else, offering practical strategies and insights. By implementing these habits, I’ve been able to boost my energy, increase my focus, and maintain a positive mindset, ultimately transforming both my personal and professional life. Highly recommended for anyone looking to elevate their performance and achieve their goals.
In addition to this list of highly recommended books that changed my life, mindset, and perspective, there are many other titles that have made a significant impact on me. However, the focus here is to highlight those with the deepest and most profound influence. This list may be updated in the future as I discover other books that leave a lasting imprint on my mindset and personal growth.
Podcasts I listen to
I have been listening to podcasts since around 2017, but took it to another level during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Since then, I have completely replaced listening to the radio with podcasts. Since 2020 and through the middle of 2024, I have listened to some 3000+ podcast episodes, from hundreds of different hosts and shows, mostly focusing on topics of finance, technology, history, personal growth and more. Here are some of my favourite and most listened to podcast shows:
- "Good Life Project"
- Host: Jonathan Fields
- Description: Conversations about living a meaningful, connected, and fulfilled life.
- "Motley Fool Answers"
- Host: Alison Southwick, Jason Moser
- Description: Personal finance advice and answers to common questions.
- "No Stupid Questions"
- Host: Stephen Dubner, Angela Duckworth
- Description: Insights and answers to everyday questions about psychology and decision-making.
- "Everyday Wealth"
- Host: Soledad O'Brien
- Description: Exploring financial strategies to build and sustain wealth.
- "Modern Wisdom"
- Host: Chris Williamson
- Description: Deep conversations with leading thinkers on self-improvement and knowledge.
- "Choiceology with Katy Milkman"
- Host: Katy Milkman
- Description: A podcast about behavioral science and how to make better choices.
- "The GaryVee Audio Experience"
- Host: Gary Vaynerchuk
- Description: Gary Vaynerchuk’s thoughts on marketing, business, and life.
- "The Jim Fortin Podcast"
- Host: Jim Fortin
- Description: Strategies for personal transformation and improving your mindset.
- "Mad Money w/ Jim Cramer"
- Host: Jim Cramer
- Description: Analysis and investment tips from CNBC’s Mad Money host.
- "Story Tellers and Story Sellers with Vineet Kanabar"
- Host: Vineet Kanabar
- Description: Stories and insights about storytelling in business and media.
- "Cruise Radio"
- Host: Doug Parker
- Description: Cruise industry news, reviews, and tips.
- "Jocko Podcast"
- Host: Jocko Willink
- Description: Discussions on leadership, discipline, and personal growth.
- "30 Animals That Made Us Smarter"
- Host: Various
- Description: Exploring how animals have influenced human innovation and intelligence.
- "Pioneers Podcast"
- Host: Andrew Schwab
- Description: Interviews with influential people in various fields.
- "The Vassy Kapelos Show"
- Host: Vassy Kapelos
- Description: Political news and analysis from a Canadian perspective.
- "Millionaire University"
- Host: Various
- Description: Financial education and wealth-building strategies.
- "Michael Campbell's Money Talks"
- Host: Michael Campbell
- Description: Discussions on financial planning and investment advice.
- "Business Movers"
- Host: Various
- Description: Stories of influential business leaders and their impact on industries.
- "The Rewire Your Mind Podcast"
- Host: Various
- Description: Techniques for mental transformation and productivity.
- "We Study Billionaires - The Investor’s Podcast Network"
- Host: Preston Pysh, Stig Brodersen
- Description: Insights from billionaires and investors on building wealth.
- "The Indicator from Planet Money"
- Host: Various
- Description: Short episodes that explain work, business, and the economy.
- "The Art of Living Big | Subconscious | NLP | Manifestation | Mindset"
- Host: Betsy Pake
- Description: Techniques for personal development and achieving goals.
- "Las Vegas Podcast: Five Hundy by Midnight"
- Host: Various
- Description: Las Vegas news, reviews, and tips.
- "Your Move with Andy Stanley Podcast"
- Host: Andy Stanley
- Description: Leadership and personal growth insights.
- "Own Your Future with Dean Graziosi"
- Host: Dean Graziosi
- Description: Strategies for personal and financial success.
- "The TED AI Show"
- Host: Various
- Description: Exploring the impact of artificial intelligence on society.
- "Build For Tomorrow"
- Host: Jason Feifer
- Description: Innovations and trends shaping the future.
- "Secret Leaders with Dan Murray-Serter"
- Host: Dan Murray-Serter
- Description: Interviews with successful leaders and entrepreneurs.
- "The Jordan Harbinger Show"
- Host: Jordan Harbinger
- Description: Conversations with experts on business, social dynamics, and personal development.
- "The Dan Go Podcast"
- Host: Dan Go
- Description: Insights on entrepreneurship and personal growth.
- "Inner Cosmos with David Eagleman"
- Host: David Eagleman
- Description: Exploring the brain and human experience.
- "Land of the Giants"
- Host: Various
- Description: The impact of major tech companies on our lives.
- "THE ED MYLETT SHOW"
- Host: Ed Mylett
- Description: Interviews with high achievers about success and personal growth.
- "You’re Not Getting Any Younger"
- Host: Various
- Description: Conversations about aging and making the most of life.
- "Business Accelerator"
- Host: Michael Hyatt
- Description: Strategies for accelerating business growth.
- "The Economics of Everyday Things"
- Host: Various
- Description: Examining the economics behind daily life.
- "Now, What’s Next?"
- Host: Various
- Description: Navigating life’s transitions and challenges.
- "The Project Life Mastery Podcast"
- Host: Stefan James
- Description: Strategies for mastering personal and professional life.
- "YouTube Creators Hub"
- Host: Dusty Porter
- Description: Tips and advice for YouTube creators.
- "The Daniel Mac Show"
- Host: Daniel Mac
- Description: Conversations on business, creativity, and success.
- "Valuetainment"
- Host: Patrick Bet-David
- Description: Business and personal development insights.
- "The Marketing Secrets Show"
- Host: Russell Brunson
- Description: Marketing strategies and tips for business growth.
- "Trillions"
- Host: Various
- Description: Discussions on the trillion-dollar industries and their impact.
- "The Good News Podcast"
- Host: Various
- Description: Uplifting and positive news stories from around the world.
- "The Journal."
- Host: Kate Linebaugh, Ryan Knutson
- Description: Stories behind major news events.
- "Under the Influence with Terry O'Reilly"
- Host: Terry O'Reilly
- Description: Exploring the world of advertising and its influence.
- "Freakonomics Radio"
- Host: Stephen Dubner
- Description: Examining the hidden side of everything.
- "Daily Tech Headlines"
- Host: Various
- Description: Daily updates on technology news.
- "Vital Vegas Podcast"
- Host: Scott Roeben
- Description: Las Vegas news, tips, and reviews.
- "The Truth About Real Estate Investing... for Canadians"
- Host: Various
- Description: Real estate investing insights specifically for Canadians.
- "On Purpose with Jay Shetty"
- Host: Jay Shetty
- Description: Wisdom and advice for a purposeful life.
- "Screw The Nine To Five"
- Host: Jill and Josh Stanton
- Description: Strategies for leaving the 9-to-5 grind and building a business.
- "Shit You Don't Learn In College®"
- Host: Various
- Description: Practical advice and life lessons not taught in traditional education.
- "Motivational and Inspirational"
- Host: Various
- Description: Motivational content to inspire and uplift listeners.
- "Moonshots with Peter Diamandis"
- Host: Peter Diamandis
- Description: Exploring bold ideas and innovations shaping the future.
- "Deep Questions with Cal Newport"
- Host: Cal Newport
- Description: Discussions on deep work and productivity.
- "Wisdom From The Top with Guy Raz"
- Host: Guy Raz
- Description: Conversations with top leaders about their career paths and success.
- "This Week in Startups"
- Host: Jason Calacanis
- Description: Updates and insights on the startup ecosystem.
- "Planet Money"
- Host: Various
- Description: Stories about how the economy works and affects everyday life.
- "Rich Dad Radio Show: In-Your-Face Advice on Investing, Personal Finance, & Starting a Business"
- Host: Robert Kiyosaki
- Description: Financial advice from the author of "Rich Dad Poor Dad."
- "In Our Time"
- Host: Melvyn Bragg
- Description: Discussions on historical and cultural topics.
- "The Best One Yet Podcast"
- Host: Various
- Description: Conversations about personal and professional growth.
- "The Working Genius Podcast"
- Host: Patrick Lencioni
- Description: Insights on understanding and leveraging your working genius.
- "The Daily Stoic"
- Host: Ryan Holiday
- Description: Lessons and insights from Stoic philosophy.
- "Dare to Lead"
- Host: Brené Brown
- Description: Insights on leadership and personal development.
- "Beyond Rich"
- Host: Various
- Description: Discussions on achieving wealth and a fulfilling life.
- "The Edge Podcast"
- Host: Various
- Description: Exploring cutting-edge ideas and innovations.
- "Business Wars"
- Host: David Brown
- Description: Stories of
business rivalries and their impact.
- "The Tony Robbins Podcast"
- Host: Tony Robbins
- Description: Strategies for personal and financial success from Tony Robbins.
- "The Happy Hour with Jamie Ivey"
- Host: Jamie Ivey
- Description: Conversations about life, faith, and personal growth.
- "HBR IdeaCast"
- Host: Various
- Description: Insights from Harvard Business Review on business and leadership.
- "The Tim Ferriss Show"
- Host: Tim Ferriss
- Description: Interviews with high achievers on their routines and habits.
- "The Knowledge Project"
- Host: Shane Parrish
- Description: Conversations with thinkers and doers about decision-making and learning.
- "Smart Passive Income"
- Host: Pat Flynn
- Description: Strategies for building passive income streams and online businesses.
- "The School of Greatness"
- Host: Lewis Howes
- Description: Interviews with successful individuals on achieving greatness.
- "The Science of Success"
- Host: Matt Bodnar
- Description: Exploring strategies for achieving success and personal growth.
- "Happier with Gretchen Rubin"
- Host: Gretchen Rubin
- Description: Strategies for leading a happier and more fulfilled life.
- "The James Altucher Show"
- Host: James Altucher
- Description: Discussions on entrepreneurship, creativity, and self-improvement.
- "Optimal Daily Living"
- Host: Justin Malik
- Description: Insights on personal development and self-improvement.
- "The Minimalists Podcast"
- Host: Joshua Fields Millburn, Ryan Nicodemus
- Description: Conversations on living a meaningful life with less.
- "The Life Coach School Podcast"
- Host: Brooke Castillo
- Description: Strategies for personal and professional growth.
- "Marketing Over Coffee"
- Host: John Wall, Christopher S. Penn
- Description: Insights on marketing strategies and tactics.
- "The Dr. Axe Show"
- Host: Dr. Josh Axe
- Description: Health and wellness tips from Dr. Axe.
- "The Goop Podcast"
- Host: Elise Loehnen
- Description: Conversations about wellness, lifestyle, and personal growth.
- "How I Built This"
- Host: Guy Raz
- Description: Stories behind the people who created iconic brands.
- "The Ed Mylett Show"
- Host: Ed Mylett
- Description: Interviews with high achievers about success and personal development.
- "WorkLife with Adam Grant"
- Host: Adam Grant
- Description: Insights into improving work and organizational culture.
- "Dare to Lead with Brené Brown"
- Host: Brené Brown
- Description: Insights on leadership and personal growth.
- "The Indicator from Planet Money"
- Host: Various
- Description: Short episodes about work, business, and the economy.
- "The Daily Stoic Podcast"
- Host: Ryan Holiday
- Description: Daily wisdom and insights from Stoic philosophy.
Tech, Productivity and AI Tools I use
I specialize in helping clients with stress management, time management, and career development. I also offer coaching for those going through major life transitions such as divorce or retirement.
- iCloud: Bet a few expected this to be top, never mind on this list! While not a hard-core Apple fanatic, I have been using an Apple iPhone since 2009 and has been my only smartphone, since switching from a flip phone. As part of using an iPhone, I make use of a host of different applications, and then be able to access them from a desktop through the iCloud , where I am able to do more with my iPhone photos, email, and notes. This ability to remotely access my iPhone from a desktop through iCloud is such a productivity-boosting feature that I don't know how it took me until the last few years to start using it.
- Microsoft Copilot: one of my main and go-to generative AI tools, which I use for a host of things, including text summaries and formatting, research, image generation and so much more. In addition to Copilot, I also use ChatGPT from OpenAI, Gemini and from Google, Adobe Firefly for image generation and a few others including some brand or person specific generative AI chat tools. These include ProfG.AI and Tim Ferris' AI search and generative tool.
- ChatGPT: The GenAI tool has become synonymous with AI, just as Google has been with search for the last 2.5 decades—and rightly so. This tool is simply amazing and great for so many different use cases, whether as a digital assistant, content creator, customer support agent, or even as a tool for learning and development. Its versatility and power have transformed the way we approach tasks, making it an indispensable part of modern technology. In fact, I plan to present a series in my blog section where I give you new and unique user cases for how to use this technology.
- Notes app on the iPhone: to most, it’s a simple app that doesn’t get much thought. For me, however, it’s probably the app I use more than any other on my phone. It serves as the starting point for all my ideas. In fact, this very website began in my Notes app, where I jotted down the idea for what I would do with this domain name—and the rest is history. The Notes app, whether it’s the native iOS one or another app, may seem simple, but it has great potential. For one, it allows you to capture your ideas in one place, and later revisit and work on them. In other words, it helps you lay the foundation for what could become great ideas and projects .
I plan to update this list and add more of the tools that help me stay productive.