Favorites

Here are a few of my favorite books, movies, series, and podcasts that have shaped my thinking and interests. I hope you find something you enjoy too!

To learn more about each item, click the image.

Favorite books

Atomic Habits by James Clear

Atomic Habits offers a proven framework for improving—every day. James Clear, one of the world's leading experts on habit formation, reveals practical strategies that will teach you exactly how to form good habits, break bad ones, and master the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results.

The Tragedy of Great Power Politics by John Mearsheimer

The Tragedy of Great Power Politics is a book by John Mearsheimer, a political scientist and international relations scholar. The book argues that the inherent nature of great powers leads them to seek dominance over others, resulting in conflict and war. Mearsheimer contends that the international system is anarchic, and that great powers are driven by the desire for security and power.

The Deluge by Stephen Markley

The Deluge is a novel by Stephen Markley that explores the interconnected lives of several characters in a world on the brink of collapse. Set against the backdrop of climate change, political turmoil, and social unrest, the book delves into themes of survival, resilience, and the human spirit.

Favorite movies/series

Don't Look Up

Two low-level astronomers must go on a giant media tour to warn mankind of a comet that will destroy planet Earth. The cast includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, and Meryl Streep.

Pulp Fiction

The lives of two mob hitmen, a boxer, a gangster's wife, and a pair of diner bandits intertwine in four tales of violence and redemption. The cast includes John Travolta, Uma Thurman, and Samuel L. Jackson.

Pantheon

A young woman starts to get messages from an unknown number that claims to be her deceased father. Trying to uncover the truth, she stumbles upon a larger conspiracy involving the singularity.

Favorite podcasts

Scene on Radio

Scene on Radio is a two-time Peabody-nominated podcast from the Kenan Institute for Ethics at Duke University that dares to ask big, hard questions about who we are—really—and how we got this way. The show is produced and hosted by John Biewen, along with collaborators, and distributed by PRX.

Crazy Town

Crazy Town is a podcast that explores the intersection of technology, culture, and society. Hosted by a diverse group of experts, the show delves into the impact of technology on our lives, the ethical implications of innovation, and the future of society in a rapidly changing world.

History of Rome

A weekly podcast tracing the history of the Roman Empire, beginning with Aeneas's arrival in Italy and ending with the exile of Romulus Augustulus.