Recommendations for your holiday week

The Grinding Wheel, vol 4

Nov 23, 2021

Since readers in the US have a holiday this week (Thanksgiving) I’m sharing the latest edition of the Grinding Wheel, a collection of recommendations for you to consider. Wherever you are, take a few minutes this week to reflect on the people and experiences that make your life rich.

To watch

100 Foot Wave (HBOMax, 6-part series) - I loved this documentary about a middle-aged pro surfer who makes it his life mission to surf the largest wave in the world. In chasing his dream he builds a movement.
The Human Factor (film, streaming on Amazon Video) - a moving documentary on Mideast peace negotiations from those who were ‘in the room where it happened.’ The film holds lessons big and small for your own negotiations.

To Read

Working Backwards (book) - an excellent book on the business practices that built Amazon.com. If you only have time for one chapter make it the title chapter #5.
Just Mercy (book) - one of the best books I’ve read in many years. Bryan Stevenson tells stories from his fight for justice on behalf of those who have been sentenced to death by the state. “We are all more than the worst thing we have ever done.”

To Listen to

Chris Sacca on 20 Minute VC (podcast) - Sacca has made it his mission to make addressing climate change profitable. His passion in this interview is infectious. Also worth hearing his strong opinions on parenting, Facebook and managing.
Gen. Stanley McChrystal on Conversations with Tyler (podcast) - McChrystal shares thought-provoking perspectives on leadership, public service and the military, worth a listen even if those topics aren’t always top of mind for you.

To Buy

Five Minute Journal - gratitude isn’t just for Thanksgiving time. This tiny investment can help you build a practice of taking a few minutes at the beginning and end of each day for gratitude. You can also buy this kids version (Happy Me) for the little people in your life to help them build this practice early on. Research shows that practicing gratitude can increase happiness.