What I learned from Zero to One by Peter Thiel

Uncommon Excellence AI: If you’re tired of settling for average and ready to build something extraordinary, Uncommon Excellence AI is your ultimate tool. Designed to think like a founder, it’s trained on the lessons, books, and mindset that fuel the world’s greatest builders and thinkers. Whether you’re refining a business idea, breaking down a strategy, or tackling your next big move, this AI challenges you to think sharper, act bolder, and unlock your next level. Stop following the crowd—start creating the future. Click here to try Uncommon Excellence AI now

What does it take to create something truly new? In this episode, we break down Peter Thiel’s Zero to One—a masterclass in contrarian thinking, monopoly strategy, and building transformative businesses.

We’ll explore:

• Why competition is for losers and how the best founders dominate by being 10x better.
• The difference between horizontal progress (1-to-N) and vertical progress (0-to-1)—and why the future belongs to those who innovate, not imitate.
• The power of secrets: How uncovering hidden truths can lead to breakthroughs no one else sees.
• Real-world examples from Google, Tesla, and SpaceX that show Thiel’s principles in action.

This episode isn’t just about theory—it’s about action. You’ll walk away with practical takeaways to think contrarian, aim for a monopoly, and build something that lasts.

If you’re ready to stop following the crowd and start creating the future, this one’s for you.

_________________________________________________

Official Sponsors of Uncommon Excellence:

Uncommon Excellence AI: If you’re tired of settling for average and ready to build something extraordinary, Uncommon Excellence AI is your ultimate tool. Designed to think like a founder, it’s trained on the lessons, books, and mindset that fuel the world’s greatest builders and thinkers. Whether you’re refining a business idea, breaking down a strategy, or tackling your next big move, this AI challenges you to think sharper, act bolder, and unlock your next level. Stop following the crowd—start creating the future. Click here to try Uncommon Excellence AI now

Readwise helps me retain the most powerful ideas from every book, article, and highlight—so I can apply them, not just admire them. If you’re serious about learning at the level of the greats, Readwise is non-negotiable. Start your free trial at Readwise

Join the Uncommon Excellence Notes for my notes for every podcast episode and my Top 10 Highlights of each book

What I learned from Captivate by Vanessa Van Edwards

In this episode of Uncommon Excellence, we explore the hidden science behind first impressions, connection, and conversation—drawing from Vanessa Van Edwards’ powerful book Captivate. You'll learn why people make snap judgments in under 2 seconds, how your hands, posture, and eyes send powerful social cues, and the real key to being memorable (hint: it's not about you).

We’ll break down:

The “Triple Threat” of first impressions

The psychology of microexpressions and body language

Conversation openers that spark real connections

The exact gestures that increase trust and likability

What to watch for if you think someone’s lying

Whether you're walking into a job interview, meeting new friends, or just want to level up your presence, this 20-minute crash course gives you science-backed tools to connect more deeply and confidently—with anyone.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a simple set of techniques you can apply immediately to leave a stronger impression and build more meaningful relationships.

_________________________________________________

Official Sponsors of Uncommon Excellence:

Readwise helps me retain the most powerful ideas from every book, article, and highlight—so I can apply them, not just admire them. If you’re serious about learning at the level of the greats, Readwise is non-negotiable. Start your free trial at Readwise

Join the Uncommon Excellence Notes for my notes for every podcast episode and my Top 10 Highlights of each book

My Key Takeaways from The Almanack of Naval Ravikant By Eric Jorgenson

In this episode of Uncommon Excellence, we dive headfirst into the wisdom of Naval Ravikant, unpacking 50 of his most powerful maxims that can transform the way you think about wealth, happiness, and life itself. Naval, the co-founder of AngelList and an early investor in companies like Uber and Twitter, has spent decades mastering the art of living wisely and working intelligently. His insights are a guide to building true wealth—not just money, but freedom.

This isn’t just theory—it’s a practical roadmap for anyone who wants to live a life of purpose, freedom, and excellence. Whether you’re a founder, a creator, or someone hungry to level up, these 50 maxims will challenge you to think bigger, act bolder, and design a life worth living.

_________________________________________________

Official Sponsors of Uncommon Excellence:

Uncommon Excellence AI: If you’re tired of settling for average and ready to build something extraordinary, Uncommon Excellence AI is your ultimate tool. Designed to think like a founder, it’s trained on the lessons, books, and mindset that fuel the world’s greatest builders and thinkers. Whether you’re refining a business idea, breaking down a strategy, or tackling your next big move, this AI challenges you to think sharper, act bolder, and unlock your next level. Stop following the crowd—start creating the future. Click here to try Uncommon Excellence AI now

Readwise helps me retain the most powerful ideas from every book, article, and highlight—so I can apply them, not just admire them. If you’re serious about learning at the level of the greats, Readwise is non-negotiable. Start your free trial at Readwise

Join the Uncommon Excellence Notes for my notes for every podcast episode and my Top 10 Highlights of each book