In Made in America, Walmart founder Sam Walton shares the story of building the world’s largest retail empire from a single store in Arkansas. Written in Walton’s own words, the memoir reveals his relentless work ethic, frugality, and obsession with customer satisfaction. He reflects on the principles that drove Walmart’s success, including employee empowerment, aggressive expansion, and constant innovation. Candid and down-to-earth, the book also touches on mistakes and challenges. Beyond a business biography, Made in America is an inspiring account of entrepreneurial vision, small-town values, and the competitive drive that revolutionized American retail.
About Frederick P. Brooks Jr.
Frederick P. Brooks Jr. (1931–2022) was a pioneering computer scientist and software engineer best known for managing IBM’s System/360 project and writing The Mythical Man-Month. A professor at the University of North Carolina, Brooks made foundational contributions to software engineering and computer architecture. His writings, especially on the complexity of large-scale projects, introduced influential ideas such as Brooks’s Law. Through both academic research and industry experience, Brooks emphasized the human and collaborative aspects of computing, leaving a lasting mark on the discipline. His work remains essential reading in computer science and project management education.
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My Years with General Motors
In My Years with General Motors, Alfred P. Sloan recounts his leadership of one of America’s most iconic corporations during its rise to industry dominance. Serving as GM’s president, then chairman, Sloan details how he transformed the company through decentralized management, financial discipline, and strategic innovation. His memoir provides deep insight into corporate governance, organizational structure, and long-term planning. More than a personal narrative, the book is a blueprint for modern business practices and executive leadership. It has been widely studied by business schools and executives, offering timeless lessons on scale, efficiency, and adapting to change in a competitive marketplace.
Wise Guy: Lessons from a Life
by Guy Kawasaki
In Wise Guy, tech evangelist and entrepreneur Guy Kawasaki shares personal stories and lessons from his life and career, spanning Apple, venture capital, and startup advising. Rather than a traditional memoir, the book is structured as a series of life lessons—on humility, resilience, work ethic, and innovation. Kawasaki writes with humor, authenticity, and an open heart, offering guidance to entrepreneurs and professionals at all stages. With anecdotes ranging from job interviews at Apple to parenting insights, Wise Guy is a practical and inspiring read filled with wisdom on navigating both business and life.
Built to Last
Built to Last explores what makes companies endure over decades, based on a six-year research project studying 18 visionary firms. Collins and Porras identify key traits shared by long-lasting companies, such as core values, bold missions, and a relentless drive for progress. The book challenges the idea that great leadership or market timing is the key to success, instead emphasizing organizational culture and consistency. Concepts like “clock building” versus “time telling” illustrate how lasting companies focus on systems, not individuals. With timeless lessons and real-world examples, Built to Last is a blueprint for sustainable, principle-driven business success.
Losing My Virginity
In 'Losing My Virginity,' Richard Branson shares an exhilarating account of his entrepreneurial journey, from founding the Virgin Group to building a global brand. Branson's charismatic storytelling reveals his daring adventures, including starting Virgin Records and launching Virgin Atlantic Airways. The book delves into Branson's bold decision-making, his unconventional strategies, and the risks he undertook to transform industries. Readers will be inspired by Branson's resilience, creativity, and passion for innovation. 'Losing My Virginity' is an engrossing memoir that offers valuable insights into entrepreneurship, leadership, and the power of thinking outside the box.