The Power Broker #03: David Sims

Before the White House and The Apprentice, Donald Trump was a real estate mogul whose large-scale projects made him one of the most well-known developers in New York City.

In this autobiography, Trump recounts his early life and career—from building low- and middle-income housing with his father in NYC’s outer boroughs to erecting luxury apartments in Manhattan. Trump outlines the eleven principles that guide his business decisions, and how they played out in the deals that defined his early career, including projects such as Trump Tower in New York, his first casino ventures in Atlantic City, and his gamble on the United States Football League.

Have you ever felt powerless to impact politics? Like the major decisions are all being made by powerful people far away? You’re not alone—and things haven’t always been this way. In The Power Elite, American sociologist C. Wright Mills discusses how a small group of corporate, military, and political leaders has taken over a vast majority of American political and economic decision-making. This class of power elites are unaccountable to the people, can exercise their power broadly, and have exploited many American institutions for their own benefit.

Writing in 1956, Mills explores how the power elite came into existence after the American Civil War and how they solidified their power in the years after World War II. He also discusses who these elites are, how they operate, and what their rule means for the American people. Our guide to The Power Elite will cover his theories while also providing historical examples, dissenting opinions, and context for the era in which the book was written.

Dive deep into the pressing issue of global anti-Semitism with Ben Shapiro in "The Ben Shapiro Show," as he confronts the rise in hostile behavior towards the Jewish community and the media’s apparent indifference. In this intense discussion, Shapiro dissects incidents with anti-Semitic undertones at Harvard Law Review and Georgetown University, putting the spotlight on the lack of accountability in academic circles. Moving beyond academia, Shapiro seeks to untangle the complex web of public perception regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, strongly questioning the media's portrayal of anti-Semitic violence as rooted in Islamophobia and criticizing organizations like CAIR for their stances.

The episode further explores the far-reaching effects of ideological narratives on issues from military conflicts to domestic politics. Shapiro challenges the portrayal of military strategy in the Middle East, brings attention to the cultural sway of figures like Ta-Nehisi Coates, and navigates through the political maneuvering within the U.S. that affects foreign aid to Israel. Moreover, Shapiro juxtaposes the virtues of philanthropy through capitalism against socialism's shortcomings, echoing the thoughtful wisdom of Maimonides. Whether discussing cultural ideologies or political dynamics, the show invites critical thought and discourse, ending with a nod towards future topics and engaging listeners with a promotional invitation to stay tuned for more sharp insights.

Before the White House and The Apprentice, Donald Trump was a real estate mogul whose large-scale projects made him one of the most well-known developers in New York City.

In this autobiography, Trump recounts his early life and career—from building low- and middle-income housing with his father in NYC’s outer boroughs to erecting luxury apartments in Manhattan. Trump outlines the eleven principles that guide his business decisions, and how they played out in the deals that defined his early career, including projects such as Trump Tower in New York, his first casino ventures in Atlantic City, and his gamble on the United States Football League.

Conventional accounts of American history tend to focus on the people at the top—presidents, generals, CEOs, and other influential figures and their struggles, ambitions, hopes, and dreams. But what about average people? The ones who had to live with the consequences of elite decisions, and who often struggled in obscurity? In A People’s History of the United States, historian Howard Zinn aims to tell their story, providing a bottom-up view of American history focusing on Indigenous people, Black Americans, women, laborers, and activists.

Our guide outlines Zinn’s interpretation of significant events, themes, and historical trends in American history. Through our commentary, we’ll provide alternative opinions on the motivations behind and consequences of historical events. We’ll also further explain Zinn’s approach to history and provide additional context for his arguments as well as his perspective on events that happened after the book’s publication.

Elon Musk is one of the modern age’s most controversial figures. He’s made commercial spaceflight a viable business and brought electric cars into public awareness, but the way that Musk presents himself has led many to see him as disruptive toward society. His drive and lack of empathy have stirred up chaos in the companies he owns, and his need for absolute control of his businesses silenced criticism that he may have found useful.

Renowned biographer Walter Isaacson shadowed Musk for two years, gaining access to his thoughts and those of the people closest to him. In this guide, we’ll follow Isaacson on Musk’s journey from a traumatic South African childhood to his founding of SpaceX and Tesla, as well as his takeover of Twitter. We’ll compare the views of Musk’s supporters and detractors while giving context to his innovations and decisions that have shaped the path of technological progress.

A Warning is an inside look at the chaotic Trump administration by a senior Trump administration official writing anonymously. It’s a follow-up to the author’s September 5, 2018, New York Times op-ed piece describing internal efforts to control Trump’s impulses. This is no longer working, “Anonymous” writes. The book depicts an impulsive and corrupt president, who puts his self-interest above the country’s interest, in the process undermining the foundations of democracy and putting national security at grave risk.

“Anonymous” describes the increasingly futile efforts of a handful of principled White House officials to stave off disastrous, often illegal actions. The author warns that the “guard rails” have come off—the principled staffers have mostly been driven away and Trump is uncontrollable. If he wins another four years, he may sink the ship of democracy.

Dive deep into the pressing issue of global anti-Semitism with Ben Shapiro in "The Ben Shapiro Show," as he confronts the rise in hostile behavior towards the Jewish community and the media’s apparent indifference. In this intense discussion, Shapiro dissects incidents with anti-Semitic undertones at Harvard Law Review and Georgetown University, putting the spotlight on the lack of accountability in academic circles. Moving beyond academia, Shapiro seeks to untangle the complex web of public perception regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, strongly questioning the media's portrayal of anti-Semitic violence as rooted in Islamophobia and criticizing organizations like CAIR for their stances.

The episode further explores the far-reaching effects of ideological narratives on issues from military conflicts to domestic politics. Shapiro challenges the portrayal of military strategy in the Middle East, brings attention to the cultural sway of figures like Ta-Nehisi Coates, and navigates through the political maneuvering within the U.S. that affects foreign aid to Israel. Moreover, Shapiro juxtaposes the virtues of philanthropy through capitalism against socialism's shortcomings, echoing the thoughtful wisdom of Maimonides. Whether discussing cultural ideologies or political dynamics, the show invites critical thought and discourse, ending with a nod towards future topics and engaging listeners with a promotional invitation to stay tuned for more sharp insights.

Jimmy Carter isn’t remembered as a great president, but he’s come to be revered for his work as a humanitarian. However, in His Very Best, biographer Jonathan Alter presents a fresh perspective on the groundbreaking work Carter did in Washington. Instead of focusing on the hardships America suffered during Carter’s time in office, Alter draws attention to the long-term effects of what Carter accomplished while president. Alter paints Carter as deeply principled yet politically short-sighted in a way that let him achieve great things while undermining his legacy.

In this guide, we’ll show how Carter’s early life shaped his political career and his journey to the presidency. We’ll look at the various roles he’s played—politician, reformer, diplomat, and global humanitarian. We’ll also explore the political context that shaped Carter’s years in the White House, as well as the conflict between Carter’s values and the compromises required of anyone in high office.

In this comprehensive biography, journalist Ron Chernow describes the life and influence of Alexander Hamilton, arguing that Hamilton has been unfairly overlooked compared to other Founding Fathers. Though he never served as president, he had a profound impact on the structure of the American government and its economy. While Hamilton’s life ended in scandal and a fatal duel, Chernow believes that America today is the realization of Hamilton’s vision, far more so than that of his political rivals like Thomas Jefferson.

This guide will consider Hamilton’s life and legacy, including his unlikely ascension from a poor student from the Caribbean to a trusted advisor of George Washington and leader of one of the US’s earliest political parties. We’ll also discuss additional historical context for the 18th century, how the events of Hamilton’s life have influenced America today, historians’ responses to Chernow’s work, and the book’s adaptation into a hit 2015 musical.

In this comprehensive biography, journalist Ron Chernow describes the life and influence of Alexander Hamilton, arguing that Hamilton has been unfairly overlooked compared to other Founding Fathers. Though he never served as president, he had a profound impact on the structure of the American government and its economy. While Hamilton’s life ended in scandal and a fatal duel, Chernow believes that America today is the realization of Hamilton’s vision, far more so than that of his political rivals like Thomas Jefferson.

This guide will consider Hamilton’s life and legacy, including his unlikely ascension from a poor student from the Caribbean to a trusted advisor of George Washington and leader of one of the US’s earliest political parties. We’ll also discuss additional historical context for the 18th century, how the events of Hamilton’s life have influenced America today, historians’ responses to Chernow’s work, and the book’s adaptation into a hit 2015 musical.

A Promised Land is Barack Obama’s memoir of his early political career and the first two years of his presidency. Obama takes us on his journey from relative obscurity as a biracial kid from Hawaii to becoming a transformative figure as the nation’s first African-American president. At every step of his career, Obama was guided by a deep faith in the fundamental unity of Americans; the potential and promise of America; the necessity of compromise and seeking common ground; and above all, the power of the democratic system to heal our divisions and effect real change for ordinary people.

Jimmy Carter isn’t remembered as a great president, but he’s come to be revered for his work as a humanitarian. However, in His Very Best, biographer Jonathan Alter presents a fresh perspective on the groundbreaking work Carter did in Washington. Instead of focusing on the hardships America suffered during Carter’s time in office, Alter draws attention to the long-term effects of what Carter accomplished while president. Alter paints Carter as deeply principled yet politically short-sighted in a way that let him achieve great things while undermining his legacy.

In this guide, we’ll show how Carter’s early life shaped his political career and his journey to the presidency. We’ll look at the various roles he’s played—politician, reformer, diplomat, and global humanitarian. We’ll also explore the political context that shaped Carter’s years in the White House, as well as the conflict between Carter’s values and the compromises required of anyone in high office.

In "The Daily," hosted by Sabrina Tavernise, hear the harrowing accounts of the Gaza Strip's healthcare workers as they confront escalating bloodshed and grave resource shortages. Dr. Ghassan Abu-Sittah, among other Palestinian doctors, delivers a potent narrative of resilience and desperation from within the besieged hospitals. Through the firsthand experiences of doctors referred to as Drs. E, F, and G, this episode delves into the dire circumstances of medical facilities like Al-Shifa in Gaza City, struggling against the odds to preserve life amid conflict.

These gripping tales of endurance and sacrifice shed light on more than just the physical destruction wrought by war—they explore the emotional and ethical toll on those bound by duty to heal. As the episode reveals the stark contrast between the legal protections theoretically afforded to medical facilities and the grim realities they face, it also offers a brief detour examining U.S. politics and the show's committed production team. Join Tavernise and the courageous voices from Gaza in this moving journey through the frontlines of medicine and warfare.

In a memorable episode of "This Past Weekend," host Theo Von sits down with none other than UFC President Dana White for a captivating exchange on the transformative journey of the UFC and its dynamic role in the world of combat sports. From the raw energy that initially drew fans to the octagon to the parallel rise of slap fighting on social media platforms, White and Von explore how visceral sports experiences are evolving and the UFC's initiatives in promoting fresh talent.

Beyond the spectacle of the fights, White delves into his passion for music and its critical importance in the UFC experience, right down to the fighters' walkout songs. Theo Von commends White for his steadfast leadership during the pandemic, with insight into how a principled stance can steer a global enterprise through crisis. As the conversation shifts from business acumen to familial bonds, White reveals not just the face of a brand, but a leader and father devoted to the integrity of his personal and professional worlds. Join this rich dialogue that traverses the intricate interplay of media, society, and the unyielding spirit of entrepreneurship ingrained in UFC's culture.

In this gripping installment of "The Daily," join Sabrina Tavernise and her guests as they delve into a sordid tale of political intrigue, allegedly featuring Senator Robert Menendez at its core. The discussion hinges on startling accusations that involve wads of cash, gold bars, and a luxury car that have shaken New Jersey's political landscape to its roots. The stakes are high as the episode unpacks the intricate connections between Senator Menendez, his spouse Nadine Arslanian, and an enigmatic Egyptian-American entrepreneur embroiled in an elaborate bribery scheme.

Discover the pivotal moments from the federal raid on Menendez’s residence that unearthed damning evidence, contrasted against the senator's fervent claims of innocence and calls for due process. Tracey Tully and a dedicated Reporter add depth to the narrative as they outline the shock and consternation rippling through the Garden State's political corridors. Listen as various speakers, including federal officials like Damian Williams and political figures like Governor Phil Murphy, articulate the delicate balance between swift accountability and the right to a fair legal process. "The Daily" not only captures the immediate drama but sets the stage for the profound implications this case could have on the wider political realm.

In today’s “hustle culture,” many workers end up ruining their lives in their attempts to get ahead in their careers. They sacrifice the time and energy they should be spending on their lives outside of work. In It Doesn’t Have to Be Crazy at Work, Basecamp founders Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson contend that there’s a better way to work: By establishing more reasonable, sustainable goals and business practices, companies can create a healthy, relaxed work culture that radically improves employees’ lives.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to build an organization employees would be thrilled to work for, without compromising profitability. We’ll detail the three qualifications to look for when scouting for any potential hire and explain why it’s vital to give your employees time to work in private. In our commentary, we’ll provide counterpoints from books such as No Rules Rules and The Cold Start Problem. Additionally, we’ll supplement Fried and Hansson’s productivity-related advice with ideas from books like Deep Work and Indistractable.

From the first home computers to the smartphone revolution, Steve Jobs was a guiding force in the worldwide electronics industry. His innovations, his obsessions, and even his shortcomings impacted the way we use computers today. To understand Jobs’s life is to understand why the modern information landscape functions the way it does.

Walter Isaacson’s biography is considered to be the definitive work on Steve Jobs’s life. He was given full access to Jobs and those who knew him with no limitations on what he might uncover. The result is an intimate portrait of a man who was thoughtful and callous, insightful and blind, and whose passions left a mark on the world.

This guide gives an overview of Steve Jobs’s life, then explores the themes that emerge from Isaacson’s narrative—Jobs’s knack for innovation and his emphasis on design, coupled with a domineering personality and his will to reshape reality to his liking.

Hailed as this one of this generation’s most innovative entrepreneurs, Elon Musk has built several industry-disrupting businesses, and he’s known for shooting for the moon—or more literally, Mars. Technology journalist Ashlee Vance spent almost 50 hours interviewing Musk and talked to around 300 people close to him to produce this biography, which presents new insights into Musk’s life and businesses.

In this guide, we’ll discuss Musk’s childhood and early companies. Then we’ll talk about his roles in SpaceX and Tesla, and later, in SolarCity. Finally, we’ll discuss the traits and management methods that helped Musk succeed throughout his entrepreneurial career. Along the way, we’ll provide updated information about Musk and his companies, as well as perspectives from other experts on business success and key management strategies.

In episode #391 of the Lex Fridman Podcast, Fridman joins guest Mohammed El-Kurd for an in-depth exploration of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, providing valuable insights about its historical context and the present state of affairs. El-Kurd provides a heartfelt commentary on the systemic prejudice experienced by Palestinians and the significant hurdles they face while asserting their land rights in Israeli courts. The episode also delves into the resilience and determination shown by Palestinians in their legal struggles and pursuit of international attention.

Going beyond typical discussions, this episode delves into the intricacies of external influences, particularly the US's role and the Abraham Accords. El-Kurd's poignant critique of American media's portrayal of the conflict and the damaging effects of selective narratives presents an eye-opening examination of the realities on the ground. The episode underscores the power of literature, as shared through El-Kurd's personal experiences, to evoke empathy and understanding for the Palestinian cause amid adversity.

Dive deep into the pressing issue of global anti-Semitism with Ben Shapiro in "The Ben Shapiro Show," as he confronts the rise in hostile behavior towards the Jewish community and the media’s apparent indifference. In this intense discussion, Shapiro dissects incidents with anti-Semitic undertones at Harvard Law Review and Georgetown University, putting the spotlight on the lack of accountability in academic circles. Moving beyond academia, Shapiro seeks to untangle the complex web of public perception regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, strongly questioning the media's portrayal of anti-Semitic violence as rooted in Islamophobia and criticizing organizations like CAIR for their stances.

The episode further explores the far-reaching effects of ideological narratives on issues from military conflicts to domestic politics. Shapiro challenges the portrayal of military strategy in the Middle East, brings attention to the cultural sway of figures like Ta-Nehisi Coates, and navigates through the political maneuvering within the U.S. that affects foreign aid to Israel. Moreover, Shapiro juxtaposes the virtues of philanthropy through capitalism against socialism's shortcomings, echoing the thoughtful wisdom of Maimonides. Whether discussing cultural ideologies or political dynamics, the show invites critical thought and discourse, ending with a nod towards future topics and engaging listeners with a promotional invitation to stay tuned for more sharp insights.

Dive into the heart of Middle Eastern diplomacy with Jared Kushner on the Lex Fridman Podcast, where complexities of politics and peace are unraveled against a backdrop of global tensions. Kushner opens up about his experiences orchestrating the Abraham Accords, an unprecedented effort to foster harmony between Israel and several Arab nations, including the UAE and Bahrain. As he assesses the geopolitical landscape, he acknowledges the mistakes and milestones that have shaped the region, from Israel's Gaza disengagement to strategies aimed at countering threats from factions like Hamas.

Yet, it isn't just about the art of negotiation on the world stage. Kushner gives us a peek into the inner workings of both the Trump and Biden administrations and discusses the unique blend of business acumen and political strategy that guided his contributions. Off the political chessboard, Kushner touches on life post-administration, sharing his investment endeavors aimed at bridging economic divides in the Middle East. Whether discussing family or the marketplace of ideas, Kushner's narrative weaves personal growth with an optimistic vision for a world emboldened by dialogue, technological advances, and a collective aspiration towards non-violent solutions.

Before the White House and The Apprentice, Donald Trump was a real estate mogul whose large-scale projects made him one of the most well-known developers in New York City.

In this autobiography, Trump recounts his early life and career—from building low- and middle-income housing with his father in NYC’s outer boroughs to erecting luxury apartments in Manhattan. Trump outlines the eleven principles that guide his business decisions, and how they played out in the deals that defined his early career, including projects such as Trump Tower in New York, his first casino ventures in Atlantic City, and his gamble on the United States Football League.

Dive deep into the pressing issue of global anti-Semitism with Ben Shapiro in "The Ben Shapiro Show," as he confronts the rise in hostile behavior towards the Jewish community and the media’s apparent indifference. In this intense discussion, Shapiro dissects incidents with anti-Semitic undertones at Harvard Law Review and Georgetown University, putting the spotlight on the lack of accountability in academic circles. Moving beyond academia, Shapiro seeks to untangle the complex web of public perception regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, strongly questioning the media's portrayal of anti-Semitic violence as rooted in Islamophobia and criticizing organizations like CAIR for their stances.

The episode further explores the far-reaching effects of ideological narratives on issues from military conflicts to domestic politics. Shapiro challenges the portrayal of military strategy in the Middle East, brings attention to the cultural sway of figures like Ta-Nehisi Coates, and navigates through the political maneuvering within the U.S. that affects foreign aid to Israel. Moreover, Shapiro juxtaposes the virtues of philanthropy through capitalism against socialism's shortcomings, echoing the thoughtful wisdom of Maimonides. Whether discussing cultural ideologies or political dynamics, the show invites critical thought and discourse, ending with a nod towards future topics and engaging listeners with a promotional invitation to stay tuned for more sharp insights.

A Promised Land is Barack Obama’s memoir of his early political career and the first two years of his presidency. Obama takes us on his journey from relative obscurity as a biracial kid from Hawaii to becoming a transformative figure as the nation’s first African-American president. At every step of his career, Obama was guided by a deep faith in the fundamental unity of Americans; the potential and promise of America; the necessity of compromise and seeking common ground; and above all, the power of the democratic system to heal our divisions and effect real change for ordinary people.