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KNOWLEDGE IS THE COMPETITIVE EQUALIZER

Read, listen, observe. I’ve spent years learning from hundreds of books, podcasts, and conversations, building a blueprint that’s shaped my thinking and leadership. Now, I’m sharing it so others can take action. These are tools to help you develop ideas, build businesses, and make an impact. The goal: to give you a competitive edge, so you can dream without limits, move fast, and create something that matters

The Chip Wilson Library

Culture & Development

  • The Psychology of Achievement

    by Brian Tracy

    The Psychology of Achievement

    Why This Book?

    Like the “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” by Stephen Covey, below, this book is a study of actions of successful people and how they subconsciously operate. The key concepts are why people do and do not set goals and the law of attraction setting out that a person attracts into their sphere the same type of person they are. This is an 8-hour audio that distinguishes integrity, communication, family, philanthropy and religion.

  • The 7 Habits of Highly Effective…

    by Stephen R. Covey

    The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

    Why This Book?

    The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen R. Covey: Provides a holistic approach to personal and professional effectiveness by aligning oneself with principles of a character ethic. Covey’s book has become a staple in the self-help genre for its enduring advice on productivity and time management.

  • Legacy

    by James Kerr

    Legacy

    Why This Book?

    This book merely states that an entrepreneur is not someone who is in control of their time and lives. But to build a lasting successful company where the entrepreneur can direct 5 year strategy and not be a slave to operations, the entrepreneur should set the company processes such that the company could be franchised. This is not a book to suggest the company should be franchised.

  • The E-Myth Revisited

    by Michael E. Gerber

    The E-Myth Revisited

    Why This Book?

    This book merely states that an entrepreneur is not someone who is in control of their time and lives. But to build a lasting successful company where the entrepreneur can direct 5 year strategy and not be a slave to operations, the entrepreneur should set the company processes such that the company could be franchised. This is not a book to suggest the company should be franchised.

  • The Tipping Point

    by Malcolm Gladwell

    The Tipping Point

    Why This Book?

    This book describes how a product or brand is used by a very small group of fanatic consumers sometimes described as a tribe. This tribe easily communicates between each other and because of their authenticity slowly leaks the attributes of the products out to people just outside their ring. The ring gets large enough until the whole world suddenly wants the product.

  • The Goal

    by Eliyahu M. Goldratt

    The Goal

    Why This Book?

    This is a fun fiction book and the theory of constraints and is a must read for anyone who manufactures a non digital product. This book provided insights as to how I could use sourcing and production as a competitive tool to manipulate margins. The ideas this book has will be hated by public companies who are incapable of lowering margins to win a long term competitive battle and may be one of the reasons private companies outperform public companies.

  • Good to Great

    by James C. Collins

    Good to Great

    Why This Book?

    Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap…and Others Don’t by James C. Collins: Explores why some companies achieve enduring greatness while others fail, identifying key principles such as the ‘Level 5 Leadership’ and the ‘Hedgehog Concept’. Collins’ research has heavily influenced management practices and leadership development.

  • The Fountainhead

    by Ayn Rand

    The Fountainhead

    Why This Book?

    Is a story of the struggle between a futuristic, functionally creative architect and the offsetting power forces of old media and those who fear change.

  • Atlas Shrugged

    by Ayn Rand

    Atlas Shrugged

    Why This Book?

    Setting aside the political football this book evokes, this book champions the entrepreneurial drive to invent products and run a great company. This includes rewarding employees who are responsible, who do not complain, who move to action and think for themselves as partners and equals. Not that it should matter, but the female protagonist of the book refuses to think of herself as anything but powerful in her business thinking while embracing her femininity and sexual desires as pure nature.

Fiction

  • The Lord of the Rings

    by J.R.R. Tolkien

    The Lord of the Rings

    Why This Book?

    The ultimate fantasy in three novels. I suggest university students should never pick up the first book a week before final exams.

  • The Potato Factory

    by Bryce Courtenay

    The Potato Factory

    Why This Book?

    Chronicles the lives of convicts and settlers in 19th century Tasmania, focusing on the true origins of the Australian criminal underworld. Courtenay’s narrative combines historical detail with compelling storytelling, highlighting the struggles and resilience of early Australian settlers.

  • Doctor Zhivago

    by Boris Pasternak

    Doctor Zhivago

    Why This Book?

    Set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution, this novel tells the story of Yuri Zhivago, a physician and poet, and his struggles with love, war, and loyalty. Pasternak’s work is noted for its profound humanism and historical depiction of a tumultuous period.

  • The Rosie Project

    by Graeme Simsion

    The Rosie Project

    Why This Book?

    A heartwarming novel about an awkward genetics professor’s quest to find love, which explores themes of love and acceptance. Simsion’s story has been praised for its charming protagonist and insightful portrayal of social differences.

  • The Ascent of Rum Doodle

    by W.E. Bowman

    The Ascent of Rum Doodle

    Why This Book?

    A parody of mountaineering literature detailing the humorous exploits of a fictional 40,000-and-a-half-foot peak. Bowman’s work is celebrated for its wit and has become a cult classic among mountaineering enthusiasts.

  • Ready Player One

    by Ernest Cline

    Ready Player One

    Why This Book?

    A dystopian adventure set in a virtual reality universe, reflecting on nostalgia, escapism, and the impact of technology on society. Cline’s novel has become particularly influential in discussions of virtual reality and pop culture.

  • Shantaram

    by Gregory David Roberts

    Shantaram

    Why This Book?

    A novel based on the author’s life as an escaped Australian convict who finds a new life in the underworld of Bombay. Roberts’ tale explores themes of redemption and the complexities of love and betrayal in an exotic setting.

  • The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out…

    by Jonas Jonasson

    The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared

    Why This Book?

    A humorous adventure of a centenarian who escapes his nursing home and embarks on an unexpected journey, reflecting on the absurdity and unpredictability of life.

  • The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto

    by Mitch Albom

    The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto

    Why This Book?

    Tells the story of a gifted musician who changes lives through his magical guitar strings. Albom’s blend of fantasy and music lore invites readers to ponder the transformative power of music.

  • Pachinko

    by Min Jin Lee

    Pachinko

    Why This Book?

    Follows a Korean family for generations, detailing their struggles and triumphs in Japan. This sweeping saga addresses themes of identity, survival, and belonging, highlighting the experiences of Korean immigrants.

  • The Hobbit

    by J.R.R. Tolkien

    The Hobbit

    Why This Book?

    A prelude to the Lord of the Rings, this fantasy novel about Bilbo Baggins’ adventure to win a share of the treasure guarded by the dragon, Smaug is an epic journey of bravery and tenacity. This tale of adventure and self-discovery is a cornerstone of fantasy literature.

  • After On: A Novel of Silicon…

    by Rob Reid

    After On: A Novel of Silicon Valley

    Why This Book?

    Satirizes the tech industry through a tale of a social media startup that accidentally creates a superintelligence. Reid’s novel offers insights into startup culture and the existential risks of AI, wrapped in humor and tech industry inside-jokes.

  • Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy

    by John le Carre

    Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy

    Why This Book?

    A masterful espionage novel featuring George Smiley’s quest to uncover a Soviet mole in the British Secret Service. The book’s complex narrative and deep character studies have redefined the spy genre, influencing subsequent works in literature and film.

  • The Sport of Kings

    by C.E. Morgan

    The Sport of Kings

    Why This Book?

    Explores themes of racism, power, and justice through the legacy of a Kentucky racing dynasty. Morgan’s novel is praised for its ambitious storytelling and incisive examination of America’s past and present.

  • The Grapes of Wrath

    by John Steinbeck

    The Grapes of Wrath

    Why This Book?

    An evocative depiction of the plight of the Dust Bowl refugees during the Great Depression, focusing on the Joad family’s journey westward. The novel is a poignant discussion of economic disparity and migrant labor, still relevant today.

  • The Godfather

    by Mario Puzo

    The Godfather

    Why This Book?

    Chronicles the powerful Corleone mafia family and their criminal empire, offering a stark look at the violence and manipulation within organized crime. The book, and its iconic film adaptation, have profoundly influenced pop culture and views on the American Dream.

  • Stranger in a Strange Land

    by Robert A. Heinlein

    Stranger in a Strange Land

    Why This Book?

    A science fiction novel about a human raised on Mars who challenges Earth’s social norms. Heinlein’s work has influenced the counterculture and was pivotal in questioning issues of religion, government, and individualism.

  • Of Mice and Men

    by John Steinbeck

    Of Mice and Men

    Why This Book?

    This powerful tale of friendship and dreams among America’s downtrodden is renowned for its themes of loneliness and desire for betterment. Steinbeck’s empathetic portrayal of marginalized characters offers a stark glimpse into the hardships of Great Depression-era workers.

  • Middlesex

    by Jeffrey Eugenides

    Middlesex

    Why This Book?

    A bold exploration of a hermaphrodite’s journey through life, blending Greek-American history with a unique coming-of-age story. The book has significantly impacted discussions on gender and identity, praised for its narrative style and depth.

  • Ender’s Game

    by Orson Scott Card

    Ender’s Game

    Why This Book?

    A compelling tale of a young boy groomed to be a military genius in a future where Earth is at war with an alien race. The novel is lauded for its complex discussions on morality, leadership, and the use of force.

  • Catch-22

    by Joseph Heller

    Catch-22

    Why This Book?

    A satirical indictment of military bureaucracy and the madness of war. The novel’s absurdity and circular logic captured the imaginations of many, coining the term “Catch-22” to describe no-win situations.

  • A Prayer for Owen Meany

    by John Irving

    A Prayer for Owen Meany

    Why This Book?

    Chronicles the friendship between John Wheelwright and his friend Owen Meany who believes himself an instrument of God. The novel’s exploration of faith, fate, and forgiveness has left a lasting mark on readers, often cited for its strong narrative voice and themes of destiny.

  • A Passage to India

    by E.M. Forster

    A Passage to India

    Why This Book?

    This novel explores the racial tensions and prejudices between Indians and the British who controlled India. Forster’s work is celebrated for its thoughtful critique of colonialism and its complex portrayal of friendship across cultural divides.

  • Anthem

    by Ayn Rand & Leonard Peikoff

    Anthem

    Why This Book?

    A dystopian critique of collectivism set in a world where individuality is abolished. Rand’s concise narrative has become a rallying cry for the importance of personal identity and freedom, resonating especially with young readers and libertarians.

  • Anna Karenina

    by Leo Tolstoy

    Anna Karenina

    Why This Book?

    A masterpiece of realism, this novel delves deep into the complexities of love, faith, and societal position in 19th-century Russia. Its tragic story of passion and infidelity has profoundly influenced views on love and marriage, offering timeless reflections on the human condition.

  • The Drifters

    by James Michener

    The Drifters

    Why This Book?

    This novel captures the spirit of the 1960s through the eyes of six young people from different nations, drifting across Spain, Portugal, and Africa. Michener’s narrative explores the counterculture movements of the time, examining themes of youth, freedom, and the societal impact of the era.

  • The Power of One

    by Bryce Courtenay

    The Power of One

    Why This Book?

    A compelling coming-of-age novel set in South Africa during the 1930s and 1940s. It follows the life of Peekay, a young English boy who, through his experiences in a society divided by racism and hatred, learns the importance of perseverance and the power of one person to impact the lives of many. The novel explores themes of personal growth, social justice, and the fight against oppression.

  • The Stone Diaries

    by Carol Shields

    The Stone Diaries

    Why This Book?

    This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel traces the life of Daisy Goodwill from birth to death, exploring her seemingly ordinary life through a profound narrative that questions identity and the nature of memory. The novel has been praised for its innovative structure and insightful look at women’s roles through the 20th century.

  • Memoirs of a Geisha

    by Arthur Golden

    Memoirs of a Geisha

    Why This Book?

    A captivating account of a young girl’s rise as a geisha in pre-war Japan, offering deep insights into the secretive world of geisha and the rich history and culture of Japan. The book has significantly influenced perceptions of Japanese aesthetics and the complexities of geisha life.

  • The Kite Runner

    by Khaled Hosseini

    The Kite Runner

    Why This Book?

    A powerful story of friendship and redemption that explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and forgiveness against the backdrop of a changing Afghanistan. The novel’s global success has raised awareness about Afghan culture and the immigrant experience, resonating with a wide audience worldwide.

  • The Pillars of the Earth

    by Ken Follett

    The Pillars of the Earth

    Why This Book?

    Set in the medieval era, this novel revolves around the building of a magnificent cathedral in England, reflecting themes of ambition, power, and struggle. Its narrative has not only entertained millions but also increased interest in medieval architecture and history.

  • Lonesome Dove

    by Larry McMurtry

    Lonesome Dove

    Why This Book?

    This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel redefines the myths of the American West through its narrative about retired Texas Rangers on a difficult cattle drive. The book has deeply impacted American culture with its gritty depiction of the Old West and is cherished for its exploration of friendship, bravery, and the human spirit.

  • The Thorn Birds

    by Colleen McCullough

    The Thorn Birds

    Why This Book?

    An epic tale of forbidden love, set against the backdrop of the Australian Outback across generations. The novel explores the complexities of family, religion, and unfulfilled desires, captivating millions with its dramatic storytelling and was popularized further by a successful television miniseries.

  • The World According to Garp

    by John Irving

    The World According to Garp

    Why This Book?

    A tragicomic novel about the life of T.S. Garp, a writer navigating fame and tragedy. It explores themes of feminism, sexuality, and the unpredictability of life, leaving a significant mark on readers and writers alike by blurring the lines between fiction and reality.

  • 1984

    by George Orwell

    1984

    Why This Book?

    A profound warning against totalitarianism, illustrating a world where the government exercises absolute control over every aspect of life, including thoughts and reality. The novel’s cultural impact is significant, with terms like “Big Brother” and “Thought Police” becoming synonymous with oppressive surveillance and censorship. It serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding individual freedoms and the dangers of allowing unaccountable governments to dominate society.

Non-Fiction

  • Outliers: The Story of Success

    by Malcolm Gladwell

    Outliers: The Story of Success

    Why This Book?

    Investigates the factors that contribute to high levels of success. Gladwell argues that the context of individuals’ lives is just as important as their personal attributes, offering insights into how and why some people achieve success.

  • Flying Blind

    by Peter Robinson

    Flying Blind

    Why This Book?

    A suspenseful behind-the-scenes look at the dysfunction that contributed to one of the worst tragedies in modern aviation: the 2018 and 2019 crashes of the Boeing 737 MAX.

  • Shoe Dog

    by Phil Knight

    Shoe Dog

    Why This Book?

    The founder of Nike recounts the formative days of his startup and its evolution into one of the world’s most iconic, game-changing, and profitable brands. Knight’s memoir is an inspiration for entrepreneurs and business leaders alike.

  • Black Box Thinking

    by Matthew Syed:

    Black Box Thinking

    Why This Book?

    Discusses the importance of an adaptive, learning-focused approach in achieving success. Syed explores how failure can be harnessed as a stepping-stone to success, influencing fields ranging from healthcare to business and sports.

  • The Power of Now

    by Eckhart Tolle

    The Power of Now

    Why This Book?

    Encourages living in the present moment and detaching from the pain of the past or anxiety about the future. Tolle’s teachings have helped millions on their journey toward spiritual enlightenment and personal growth.

  • The Innovator’s Dilemma: The Revolutionary Book…

    by Clayton M. Christensen

    The Innovator’s Dilemma: The Revolutionary Book that Will Change the Way You Do Business

    Why This Book?

    Introduces the concept of disruptive innovation and explains why many companies fail to sustain their market leadership as technology changes. Christensen’s work is seminal in the field of innovation and business strategy.

  • The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide…

    by Don Miguel Ruiz

    The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom

    Why This Book?

    Draws on Toltec wisdom to advocate personal freedom and self-love. The book encourages clear, effective communication as a means to decrease conflict and increase understanding.

  • Titan

    by Ron Chernow

    Titan

    Why This Book?

    A biography of John D. Rockefeller, Sr., detailing his rise in the oil industry and the subsequent philanthropic pursuits. Chernow’s work not only tells the story of one man’s immense influence on the business world but also explores the complexities of his character and the legacy of his corporate and philanthropic work.

  • Out of the Gobi

    by Weijain Shan

    Out of the Gobi

    Why This Book?

    This is the lifetime story of a young boy who struggles through communism with the opportunity to go to university only to get set back via the cultural revolution. The boy ends up at an American university and writes his biography.

  • Rich Dad, Poor Dad

    by Robert Kiyosaki

    Rich Dad, Poor Dad

    Why This Book?

    Offers personal finance education, comparing the financial philosophies of the author’s two fathers. His book has challenged and changed the way millions of people around the world think about money and investing.

  • Mindset: The New Psychology of Success

    by Carol S. Dweck

    Mindset: The New Psychology of Success

    Why This Book?

    Discusses the impact of having a fixed versus a growth mindset on personal and professional outcomes. Dweck’s concept has revolutionized education, business, and sports, promoting the idea that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work.

  • Life Force

    by Tony Robbins, Peter Diamandis & Robert Harari

    Life Force

    Why This Book?

    A book written by three key people behind redefining longevity and health science. Dr. Peter Diamandis from the X-Prize, Dr. Harari who has pioneered placenta stem cell treatment and the motivational speaker Tony Robbins.

  • How to Win Friends and Influence…

    by Dale Carnegie

    How to Win Friends and Influence People

    Why This Book?

    A timeless guide to interpersonal skills and effective communication strategies. Carnegie’s principles have helped countless individuals advance their personal and professional lives by teaching the art of dealing with people.

  • In Search of Excellence

    by Thomas J. Peters

    In Search of Excellence

    Why This Book?

    Highlights practices of highly successful companies, focusing on their adherence to core values and constant innovation. The book has inspired managers to pursue operational excellence and has become a fundamental read in business literature.

  • Zig Ziglar’s Secrets to Closing the…

    by Zig Ziglar

    Zig Ziglar’s Secrets to Closing the Sale

    Why This Book?

    Offers practical advice and effective questioning techniques to help sales professionals close their deals. Ziglar’s strategies are still used today for training in sales and personal development.

  • Execution: The Discipline of Getting Things…

    by Larry Bossidy and Ram Charan

    Execution: The Discipline of Getting Things Done

    Why This Book?

    Emphasizes the critical importance of execution in business success. The authors argue that the ability to execute strategies effectively is what sets successful companies apart from their competitors. They provide practical advice on how to link people, strategy, and operations to achieve desired results.

  • Daring Greatly

    by Brene Brown

    Daring Greatly

    Why This Book?

    This book challenges readers to embrace vulnerability and imperfection, to live courageously, and to engage with their lives fully. Brown’s work has sparked a movement encouraging individuals to pursue authenticity and connection, impacting personal development and leadership.

  • Built to Last

    by James C. Collins

    Built to Last

    Why This Book?

    Delivers a masterful blueprint for building organizations that will prosper long into the future through the practices of visionary companies. The book has become a must-read in the business community for its actionable insights on sustainability and excellence.

  • Blink: The Power of Thinking Without…

    by Malcolm Gladwell

    Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking

    Why This Book?

    Explores the power of the adaptive unconscious, illustrating how decisions made quickly can be as good as those made cautiously and deliberately. This book has influenced various fields, from business to sports, encouraging professionals to trust their instincts.

  • Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the…

    by Ashlee Vance

    Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future

    Why This Book?

    Provides an in-depth look at the personal and professional life of Elon Musk, one of the most intriguing entrepreneurs of our time. Vance’s biography delves into Musk’s ambitious projects and his impact on technology industries.

  • Disunited Nations

    by Peter Zeihan

    Disunited Nations

    Why This Book?

    A geopolitical analysis predicting the decline of global institutions and the rise of national powers. Zeihan’s insights into the future of global politics are valued for their clarity and depth, shaping perspectives on international relations.

  • Guns, Germs, and Steel

    by Jared Diamond

    Guns, Germs, and Steel

    Why This Book?

    A trans-disciplinary analysis of how geographical and environmental factors shaped the modern world. Diamond’s work has profoundly influenced historical and anthropological discussions on global inequality.

  • The Almost Nearly Perfect People

    by Michael Booth

    The Almost Nearly Perfect People

    Why This Book?

    Investigates the reality behind the idyllic view of Scandinavian countries, blending journalism and humor to explore cultural peculiarities. Booth’s insights challenge stereotypes and provide a nuanced view of Nordic societies.

  • Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage

    by Alfred Lansing

    Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage

    Why This Book?

    Chronicles Ernest Shackleton’s legendary Antarctic expedition, a survival story of leadership under unimaginable conditions. The narrative has become a timeless model in leadership studies and crisis management.

  • The Long Walk

    by Slavomir Rawicz

    The Long Walk

    Why This Book?

    A gripping account of the author’s purported escape from a Soviet Gulag and a 4,000-mile walk to freedom in India. This story of endurance and hope has captivated and inspired readers with its testimony to the human spirit’s resilience.

CONSIDER THE HEDGEHOG

In his famous essay, “The Hedgehog and the Fox,” Isaiah Berlin divided the world into two animals. Based upon an ancient Greek parable, “the fox knows many things, but the hedgehog knows one big thing,” the hedgehog concept is developed in the book Good to Great, by Jim C. Collins. A simple, crystalline concept that flows from deep understanding about the intersection of three circles,

  1. What are you deeply passionate about?
  2. What you can be the best in the world at?
  3. What best drives your economic or resource engine?

Transformations from good to great come about by a series of good decisions made consistently with a hedgehog concept, accumulating one upon another, over a long period of time.

  • Good to Great

    by James C. Collins

    Good to Great

    Why This Book?

    Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap…and Others Don’t by James C. Collins: Explores why some companies achieve enduring greatness while others fail, identifying key principles such as the ‘Level 5 Leadership’ and the ‘Hedgehog Concept’. Collins’ research has heavily influenced management practices and leadership development.

hedgehog ven diagram

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