Why people recommend it
What It Takes: Lessons in the Pursuit of Excellence by Stephen A. Schwarzman is a memoir and business book offering stories and personal lessons from the author's journey as a leading investor and co-founder of Blackstone. Lex Fridman recommended the book during an episode of the Lex Fridman Podcast featuring Schwarzman as a guest. Fridman praised the work at the beginning of the episode, noting that it shares valuable lessons from the billionaire businessman's personal journey. Later in the episode, Fridman used the book's insights during closing remarks and during a discussion on the importance of listening, identifying major problems for specific individuals or groups, and developing effective solutions. These mentions highlight the book's value as a guide for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders seeking practical advice on problem-solving, leadership, and achieving success in high-stakes industries.
Who recommended it
- Lex Fridman Recommended
Lex Fridman — 3 mentions
“i recommend his recent book called what it takes that tells stories and lessons from his personal journey”
“you discuss in the book on the topic of listening and really hearing people is figuring out what the biggest problem bothering a particular individual group is and coming up with a solution to that problem”
“and now let me leave you with some words from steven schwartzman's book what it takes”
Also mentioned in the same episodes
Other mentions (1: passing, ad reads, own books)
“but uh one of the things i i believe in and put it in the the book what it takes is is if you're going to do something do do something very consequential”