Five Links for April 2023
Every month, I share the most mind-expanding links to read/watch/listen. If you find these interesting, please do share with your friends.
Here are five links worth reading…
A Nirav or a Naval? - that is the question
If you are gonna be a founder, you gotta choose if you are going to be an insider or an outsider. On the central archetypes of founders, and the strengths and weaknesses of each.
How the Biggest Fraud in German History Unravelled
Payments processor Wirecard was one of Germany's top tech companies, until they announced they were missing €2 billion from company accounts. This was a 20+ year old fraud complete with German mobsters, Russian intelligence connections, and a COO with eight passports. Ben Taub is one of my favorite writers and he does not disappoint.
Bonus (Listen): A Deep Dive on Data on Invest Like the Best podcast
Having tried my hand at podcasting, I can say that no one does business podcasts better than Patrick O'Shaughnessy. He guides a deep, thoughtful discussion about the fundamentals of data and data businesses.
Age of Invention: How the Dutch Did it Better
Even in the 17th century, interest rates were a hot topic. How the Dutch kept their interest rates at half those in England, and how the English tried (unsuccessfully) to respond with legislation.
How a shipping error 100 years ago launched the $30 billion chicken industry
Ever wonder why we eat so many chickens? Bok Bok.
How to Learn and Teach Economics with Large Language Models, Including GPT
A guide to using ChatGPT to learn from economists Tyler Cowen and Alex Tabbarock. Excellent for students, teachers, and anyone who wants to better understand how to use AI to learn.
Bonus (Listen): Dr. Nir Barzilai: How to Live Past 100 on World of DaaS podcast
An optimistic conversation about what the most promising and realistic treatments in the world of life extension look like. Dr. Barzilai explains the non-obvious reasons some people live past 100, and makes accessible recommendations for living a longer, healthier life.
Bonus (Watch): Generation Kill
One of the original HBO masterpieces, this miniseries covers a group of Marines through the first 40 days of the Iraq War. Widely regarded as one of the most realistic depictions of the realities of soldiers in combat.
Bonus (Newsletter): The Monthly Flex
If you want more good monthly reading links, check out The Monthly Flex from Flex Capital – great readings on tech and start-ups.
More reading links at https://twitter.com/AurenReads
Most people are actually outsiders. But most high-status people are insiders.
Books:
What’s Our Problem by Tim Urban (must read)
HT: Tim Urban
In Order to Live by Yeonmi Park
HT: Yeonmi Park
Empire of Pain: The Secret History of the Sackler Dynasty by Patrick Radden Keefe
HT: Linda Rottenberg, Hallie Hoffman, Matias Barbero
Auren Hoffman is CEO of SafeGraph (geospatial data on physical places) and GP at Flex Capital ($200M Series A and B VC firm). Engage on Twitter: @auren