Staying ahead in the fast-moving world of technology requires more than just catching headlines. To truly understand the shifts shaping industries, influence of emerging startups, and the latest breakthroughs, it’s essential to follow the voices that offer deep, informed perspectives. Tech bloggers have become those voices—breaking down complex innovations, analyzing business strategies, and providing early insights on trends that shape the future of tech.
In this post, we’ll spotlight some of the most influential tech bloggers you should be following for clear, thoughtful commentary on everything from AI and cloud computing to the evolving dynamics of Silicon Valley. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, professional, or someone looking to stay informed, these voices will help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of the tech industry.
Why Follow Tech Bloggers?
Role of Bloggers in the Tech Industry
Tech bloggers play a vital role in making the fast-paced world of technology more accessible. They take the complexity of emerging innovations and break it down into understandable insights that anyone can digest. Whether they’re discussing the nuances of AI, blockchain, or the latest device from a tech giant, bloggers offer clarity in an industry that can feel overwhelming to navigate. Their perspectives often come from years of industry experience or connections that provide an inside look at the trends that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Beyond simplifying the technical side, many bloggers bring a human element to tech discussions. They share stories, interview industry leaders, and often highlight the real-world impact of technological advancements. It’s this personal touch, paired with professional expertise, that makes their content both engaging and informative.
Influence on Tech Trends and Startups
Thought leadership is a powerful force in the tech ecosystem, and bloggers are often at the forefront of identifying emerging trends. When a trusted voice shares their take on new technologies, products, or business models, it can ripple through the industry. Early insights from these bloggers help shape the conversation around where tech is heading and which startups are making the most promising moves.
Beyond trendspotting, tech bloggers are also influential in shaping consumer and industry opinions through their product reviews and analysis. Their in-depth evaluations of new gadgets, platforms, and tools can make or break the perception of a product. For startups, getting noticed by these voices can be a game-changer, offering exposure to a larger, more engaged audience and helping to solidify their place in the market.
Top Influential Tech Bloggers to Follow
a. Ben Thompson
Platform: Stratechery
Why Follow: Ben Thompson’s Stratechery offers a deep dive into the intersection of technology and business strategy. His analysis of how major tech companies make decisions and structure their business models is essential reading for anyone looking to understand the inner workings of the industry. He often focuses on the long-term shifts happening in the tech landscape and provides valuable context for why these changes matter.
Why Follow: M.G. Siegler brings a unique perspective as both a tech writer and a venture capitalist at GV (formerly Google Ventures). His blog, 500ish Words, captures his views on emerging technologies, product launches, and the evolving startup scene. If you’re interested in getting insights from someone who both writes about and invests in the future of tech, Siegler’s blog is a must-follow.
Why Follow: Kara Swisher is known for her no-nonsense style and sharp analysis of the tech industry. Co-hosting the Pivot Podcast, she provides candid conversations about the intersection of tech, culture, and politics. With years of experience covering Silicon Valley, Swisher’s voice stands out for holding tech giants accountable while delivering insightful commentary on how technology shapes our society.
Link: Pivot Podcast
d. Walt Mossberg
Platform: The Verge, Recode
Why Follow: Walt Mossberg has left an indelible mark on tech journalism, particularly in the realm of consumer technology. As a pioneer in tech product reviews, Mossberg shaped how consumers engage with and understand new devices. His contributions continue to influence the way tech is covered in media today. While he’s now retired, his previous work on The Verge and Recode remains highly respected in the industry.
Why Follow: John Gruber’s blog, Daring Fireball, is an essential resource for anyone with a deep interest in Apple and its ecosystem. Gruber is known for his thoughtful, often witty commentary on all things Apple, providing detailed analysis and perspective on the company’s strategy, products, and design choices. His straightforward approach and strong focus on Apple make him a go-to for tech enthusiasts.
Why Follow: Om Malik has been a respected figure in tech journalism for years. As the founder of Gigaom, Malik has a keen sense for both the technical and cultural impacts of technology. Today, through his personal blog, On My Om, he continues to provide thoughtful analysis on the internet, media, and the way technology influences our lives.
Why Follow: Anil Dash is a thought leader when it comes to the intersection of technology and ethics. As an entrepreneur and advocate for ethical technology, Dash consistently brings attention to the cultural and social issues surrounding the tech industry. His blog is a space for exploring how technology can be used for good and how we can build a more inclusive and responsible digital future.
Why Follow: Jason Kottke’s blog, Kottke.org, is a curated collection of interesting and thought-provoking links from around the web. While his topics span a wide range, including design, culture, and science, he frequently touches on technology and innovation. Kottke’s unique approach to content curation provides a broader look at the world, making him a great follow for those who want to see how tech fits into the bigger picture.
Why Follow: Benedict Evans is a must-follow for anyone interested in data-driven analysis of tech trends. His newsletter covers everything from the latest industry shifts to broader macroeconomic trends impacting technology. Evans’ approach is grounded in numbers and backed by research, making his insights particularly valuable for those looking to understand the future direction of tech companies and industries.
Why Follow: Casey Newton focuses on the intersection of social media, tech platforms, and the way they shape society. His independent newsletter, Platformer, digs into the decisions made by major tech companies like Facebook and Twitter, analyzing their broader societal impacts. Newton’s investigative approach and focus on how platforms affect everything from politics to daily life make him an important voice in today’s tech landscape.
How to Get the Most Out of Following Tech Bloggers
Stay Engaged
To truly benefit from following tech bloggers, it’s important to stay engaged with their content. Start by subscribing to their newsletters or RSS feeds. Many of these bloggers offer free and paid versions of their content, and subscribing ensures you don’t miss important insights, whether it’s a deep analysis of a new product or a breakdown of industry trends.
Another way to stay engaged is by following them on social media platforms like Twitter or LinkedIn, where they often share real-time thoughts and participate in conversations with their audience. If they host podcasts, like Kara Swisher’s Pivot, make it a part of your regular routine. Listening during your commute or workout keeps you updated while on the go.
Don’t hesitate to interact with their content. Comment on their blogs, reply to their tweets, and ask questions. Many bloggers appreciate thoughtful feedback and engagement from their readers, and it can help build a more meaningful connection to their work.
Curating Your Tech Feed
With so many bloggers and sources of information, curating a personalized tech feed is essential for keeping up without feeling overwhelmed. Tools like Feedly allow you to organize and aggregate content from your favorite tech bloggers, helping you stay on top of their latest posts in one convenient place. It’s perfect for those who like to consume their information in a streamlined format.
For those who prefer to save articles for later, Pocket is a great tool that allows you to store blog posts, articles, and videos in a personal archive that’s easily accessible on any device. You can even listen to saved articles, which is helpful if you prefer audio formats.
On social media, use Twitter lists to follow your favorite bloggers and other tech influencers. Creating a dedicated list keeps your tech news separate from your main feed, allowing you to check in on industry updates when you have the time.
By staying engaged and using tools to organize your content, you’ll be able to absorb more valuable insights without feeling overwhelmed by the constant flow of information.
Conclusion
Following tech bloggers is one of the most effective ways to stay informed in an industry that never stops evolving. These influential voices offer more than just news—they provide analysis, insights, and expert opinions that help you understand the bigger picture. From product launches to major industry shifts, they break down what matters, why it matters, and what it means for the future.
By staying engaged with their content—whether through newsletters, podcasts, or social media—and using tools to organize your tech feed, you can keep up with the latest trends without feeling overwhelmed. The bloggers we’ve highlighted bring unique perspectives that will deepen your understanding of technology and help you anticipate what’s next. Start following them today to level up your tech knowledge and stay ahead of the curve.
I’ve always been a voracious reader. Ever since I was a kid running my first dropshipping business at 12, I found myself constantly seeking knowledge, hunting for ways to improve my approach, my strategies, and ultimately, my outcomes. But it wasn’t just about hustling—it was about understanding. I still remember sitting in my room, skimming through e-commerce blogs and business books that were way beyond my years. Back then, books were my mentors. They gave me insights I couldn’t get anywhere else, and they were key in shaping the way I approached the world of business and technology.
When I co-founded my blockchain-based e-commerce agency for artists in my mid-20s, the industry was just getting its footing. It felt a lot like being at the forefront of something powerful but unpredictable. And while some of it came from intuition and experience, most of my strategic decisions were heavily influenced by the books I’d read. These books showed me how to adapt in fast-changing environments, embrace emerging tech like NFTs, and think ahead of the curve in a business world that was transforming rapidly.
Purpose
In a world as dynamic and unpredictable as business and technology, you can’t afford to stop learning. What makes books so powerful is that they offer perspectives that go beyond what’s trending today. They take you deeper into understanding the bigger picture, whether it’s how technology shapes industries, how leadership evolves, or how to innovate in ways that push boundaries. For me, books have been instrumental in transforming the way I think, plan, and execute—especially in tech-driven industries where disruption is the norm. Every great entrepreneur and developer knows that staying stagnant is not an option, and books are the fastest way to get a different perspective and stay ahead.
Thesis
Over the years, several books have played a pivotal role in shaping the way I navigate both business and technology. These weren’t just casual reads; they were paradigm shifts. They taught me how to lead teams with empathy, how to scale startups, and how to anticipate the ever-evolving nature of tech. They were like blueprints in my career, offering tools and insights that I’ve applied everywhere from negotiating Series A funding to managing a SaaS product at a blockchain company. In this article, I want to share those books with you—each one a game-changer, helping me stay sharp, forward-thinking, and resilient in an industry where change is the only constant. Let’s dive into the books that have truly impacted how I approach business and technology.
Book 1: “The Innovator’s Dilemma” by Clayton M. Christensen
“The Innovator’s Dilemma” by Clayton M. Christensen. Get it on Amazon.
How It Changed My Perspective
When I first read The Innovator’s Dilemma, it completely reframed how I thought about innovation. Before diving into Christensen’s insights, I used to think that staying ahead meant focusing on continuous improvement—constantly upgrading, iterating, and perfecting what already existed. But this book taught me that the biggest opportunities often come from disruptive innovations—the kind that seem insignificant or niche at first, but eventually change entire industries. Christensen’s theory showed me that sometimes, the most dangerous thing you can do in business is to stick to what works, especially when you’re dealing with fast-evolving tech landscapes. His idea of “disruption” made me realize that real innovation isn’t always about being the best in the current market, but rather about creating something new that eventually overtakes the market itself.
Impact on My Career/Business
This book played a major role when I pivoted my e-commerce and marketing agency into blockchain and NFTs. At the time, a lot of people thought NFTs were just a passing trend or a niche hobby for tech geeks and artists. But Christensen’s work on disruptive innovation helped me see that this seemingly small and misunderstood tech could radically transform how creators and brands interact with their audiences. It wasn’t just about following the market trends—it was about leading the way in an emerging space before it became mainstream. The Innovator’s Dilemma gave me the courage to take risks and invest in blockchain technology, which later became the foundation for my work with artists and brands. It also taught me to constantly look for the next “disruptor” rather than get too comfortable with what’s already working.
Memorable Quote
One quote that stuck with me is: “When new technologies cause great firms to fail, it is not because they were poorly managed; it is because the same management practices that lead to success in the present can result in failure when the market shifts.” This line became my mantra when I started seeing blockchain as the next major shift. It reminded me that even the smartest, most successful companies can lose if they don’t adapt to disruptive changes. This has influenced not just how I manage products, but how I think about the future of every business I’m involved in.
Before reading Lean Startup, my approach to launching new products or services was more traditional: build the perfect product, ensure everything is in place, and then release it to the world. But Eric Ries completely flipped that strategy on its head. The core idea of the “minimum viable product” (MVP) and the “build-measure-learn” feedback loop taught me that success isn’t about perfection from the get-go. Instead, it’s about learning as fast as possible and iterating based on real feedback. That realization was a game changer. Suddenly, I wasn’t chasing the ideal product in isolation anymore—I was co-creating it with the market. This shift to rapid iteration and continuous learning fundamentally changed how I viewed risk, innovation, and product development.
Impact on My Career/Business
I applied Lean Startup principles across multiple ventures, but its most significant impact was during the early days of my blockchain e-commerce agency. Initially, we had grand ideas about the services we’d offer to artists, from NFT marketplaces to full-scale digital marketing suites. But instead of going all-in on those big visions, we started small—focusing on a few key NFT utilities, testing with a select group of artists, and getting their feedback early. This iterative process allowed us to pivot when necessary without wasting time or resources. We learned to embrace “failing fast” to succeed quicker. When I took on a role at a cryptocurrency exchange as a product manager, the Lean Startup approach helped me streamline product launches and allowed me to prioritize what the market actually needed rather than what we thought they wanted. The lessons from this book saved us from potential product flops and helped us scale faster by building with real users in mind.
Memorable Quote
One quote that constantly resonated with me from this book is: “The only way to win is to learn faster than anyone else.” This idea became central to how I lead teams and manage products. Whether we were launching new blockchain tools or negotiating with enterprise clients, it wasn’t about having all the answers upfront. It was about being adaptable, learning through doing, and letting data drive our decisions. That mindset has made all the difference in the fast-paced environments I’ve worked in, where agility and learning truly define success.
Book 3: “The Phoenix Project” by Gene Kim
“The Phoenix Project” by Gene Kim. Get it on Amazon.
How It Changed My Perspective
When I first picked up The Phoenix Project, I didn’t expect a fictional narrative to teach me so much about IT and operations. But the book did exactly that—it completely changed how I viewed the relationship between technology, business operations, and the people involved in making things work. Before reading it, I had a more siloed mindset, where tech teams worked separately from business strategy. But The Phoenix Project drilled into me the importance of collaboration across departments, the necessity of breaking down barriers, and how streamlining processes could unlock huge potential. The book made me realize that successful innovation isn’t just about having cutting-edge technology, but about ensuring that the processes supporting that tech are efficient, agile, and responsive to the needs of the business. It taught me the importance of DevOps principles, which I now apply to nearly everything I build or manage.
Impact on My Career/Business
I applied the lessons from The Phoenix Project most significantly while building the sales and business development department at the Canadian startup where I worked on SaaS and blockchain technology. We were developing software for Intellectual Property protection, and initially, our development team and business side were completely out of sync. Communication breakdowns were leading to delays and product misunderstandings. After reading the book, I realized we needed to align our processes using a DevOps mindset. I introduced the concept of constant feedback loops between tech and business teams, creating a culture where communication was open and frequent. We implemented small, iterative changes rather than waiting for big releases, which not only accelerated product development but also allowed us to be more responsive to our clients—particularly the high-profile enterprise clients and government entities we were working with. This approach transformed how we operated and helped us secure significant deals by delivering solutions that met real-time needs efficiently.
Memorable Quote
One quote from The Phoenix Project that stayed with me is: “Improving daily work is even more important than doing daily work.” This simple but powerful statement made me rethink how I structured my teams and managed my projects. It’s not just about hitting deadlines or delivering products—it’s about constantly improving the processes that allow us to do that work better, faster, and smarter. It pushed me to embrace continuous improvement as a core part of my leadership style and to empower my teams to always think about how we could make things better, not just get things done.
Book 4: “Exponential Organizations” by Salim Ismail
Version 1.0.0
How It Changed My Perspective
When I first read Exponential Organizations, I felt like it was opening up an entirely new world of business growth and scalability. Before this, I had been focused on traditional growth models, where success was tied to the gradual scaling of resources—more people, more capital, more time. But Ismail’s vision of how organizations can grow exponentially by leveraging technology and specific strategies completely shifted my thinking. I realized that to thrive in today’s tech-driven world, businesses don’t need more; they need smarter strategies that harness things like AI, crowdsourcing, and automation to achieve massive scalability without exponentially increasing costs. This was a game-changer for me, especially working in tech-driven industries where rapid growth and adaptability are essential for survival.
Impact on My Career/Business
The lessons from Exponential Organizations directly influenced how I structured my blockchain and SaaS ventures. At the Canadian startup, where I built the Sales and Business Development department, I began to rethink our business processes. Instead of focusing solely on growing the team, I looked for ways to leverage technology and partnerships to scale faster without bloating the organization. For instance, we integrated AI-driven tools for sales and customer management, which allowed us to handle larger client bases with the same resources. I also introduced decentralized work processes that empowered teams to make faster decisions without waiting for top-down approval, which sped up innovation and client responses. This approach didn’t just help us scale; it made us more agile and capable of navigating the complexities of SaaS and blockchain technology, where adaptability and speed are crucial.
Memorable Quote
One quote from Exponential Organizations that really resonated with me was: “To grow exponentially, you need to leverage external resources and focus on the capabilities that make your organization adaptable and scalable.” This quote perfectly encapsulated the shift in my thinking. I stopped looking at growth as a linear process tied to headcount and physical resources. Instead, I started thinking about how to amplify our impact using technology and partnerships, which has been key in managing multiple large-scale projects and negotiating big deals, even with lean teams. It’s a mindset I’ve carried into every business decision since, always asking: how can we scale without adding complexity?
Book 5: “Digital Transformation: Survive and Thrive in an Era of Mass Extinction” by Thomas M. Siebel
“Digital Transformation: Survive and Thrive in an Era of Mass Extinction” by Thomas M. Siebel. Get it on Amazon.
How It Changed My Perspective
Reading Digital Transformation by Thomas M. Siebel hit me at a time when I was already immersed in the blockchain and SaaS space, but it reframed my thinking about the sheer speed and scale at which digital disruption is occurring. Siebel’s insight into how businesses must adapt—or risk extinction—became a wake-up call. The biggest lesson for me was understanding that digital transformation is not just a buzzword; it’s a fundamental shift that requires businesses to reinvent themselves from the ground up. His emphasis on integrating AI, cloud computing, big data, and IoT as critical pillars for business survival showed me that staying on top of trends isn’t enough—you have to actively transform your operations, your thinking, and your strategies around these technologies to thrive. This was a pivotal moment of realization, where I began to see digital transformation as the core of every business strategy moving forward.
Impact on My Career/Business
This book significantly shaped my approach as I took on leadership roles in both SaaS product development and blockchain-based ventures. At the Canadian startup I worked with, where we were protecting intellectual property through blockchain, Digital Transformation helped me understand that simply using new technology isn’t enough—it’s about how you fundamentally reimagine your business model to leverage those technologies. We moved beyond just offering blockchain solutions and started embedding AI and data analytics into our product, making it smarter and more adaptive to client needs. This shift also influenced how I negotiated with enterprise clients and governments. Instead of selling technology as a product, I started framing it as a complete transformation process—helping clients see how these digital tools could fundamentally reshape their operations for better scalability, efficiency, and innovation. Siebel’s insights helped me position our products not just as tech solutions but as integral pieces of their long-term survival and growth in a fast-changing world.
Memorable Quote
A quote from the book that stayed with me is: “Digital transformation is not an option, it is an imperative. Businesses that fail to transform will not survive.” This line encapsulates the urgency that Siebel impresses upon his readers. It became a mantra for me, especially when working with clients who were hesitant to adopt cutting-edge tech or invest in future-proofing their operations. It pushed me to not only innovate within my teams but to also be a stronger advocate for change, knowing that standing still means falling behind in today’s digital landscape.
Book 6: “The Hard Thing About Hard Things” by Ben Horowitz
“The Hard Thing About Hard Things” by Ben Horowitz. Get it on Amazon.
How It Changed My Perspective
The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz was a breath of fresh air in a world filled with business books that only focus on success. Horowitz’s raw, unfiltered look at the realities of building and running a company hit me hard because it was the first time I encountered a book that spoke openly about the real struggles—the times when everything feels like it’s falling apart and the solutions aren’t glamorous or obvious. One of the biggest lessons I learned was that there’s no “recipe” for being a CEO or founder; it’s all about managing chaos, making decisions with imperfect information, and being comfortable with ambiguity. His concept that the hardest decisions don’t come with clear answers made me realize that being a leader isn’t about having all the answers but about having the resilience to make tough calls and live with them.
Impact on My Career/Business
This book couldn’t have come at a better time for me. When I transitioned from managing an e-commerce agency to diving headfirst into the complexities of blockchain and SaaS, I faced decisions that felt impossible—pivots, product failures, team management challenges, and tough conversations with investors. Horowitz’s approach helped me internalize that it’s okay not to have everything figured out. It taught me that every company hits walls, and as a leader, it’s about how you manage through them. For example, during a particularly tough negotiation with a government client for blockchain IP protection, I drew from Horowitz’s guidance on handling high-stakes, no-win situations and focused on transparency and honesty, even when the outcomes were uncertain. This mindset shift allowed me to navigate the pressure without feeling paralyzed by fear of failure.
Memorable Quote
One quote that really stuck with me was: “There are no shortcuts to knowledge, especially knowledge gained from personal experience. Following conventional wisdom and relying on shortcuts can be worse than knowing nothing at all.” This line hit home because, as an entrepreneur, there’s a constant temptation to look for quick fixes or rely on advice from others who’ve “been there.” But Horowitz reinforced that true leadership is about being in the trenches, making hard decisions, and learning from the grit of personal experience. This has been a guiding principle for me in every tough decision, knowing that real growth comes from facing challenges head-on, not avoiding them.
Zero to One by Peter Thiel was one of those books that completely shifted how I thought about entrepreneurship, especially in the tech space. Before reading it, I used to approach innovation as a matter of incremental improvements—building off what was already working, optimizing existing processes. But Thiel’s idea that true innovation comes from creating something entirely new, moving from “zero to one,” was a revelation. It made me realize that aiming to disrupt an existing market is one thing, but building something that creates a new market altogether is what truly sets companies apart. Thiel’s perspective pushed me to think bigger, beyond simply solving problems in the current landscape, and instead, focus on how to create a future that didn’t exist yet. That shift in mindset was huge.
Impact on My Career/Business
When I founded my blockchain-based e-commerce and marketing agency for artists, Zero to One was instrumental in shaping the direction we took. We weren’t just offering marketing services or helping artists sell online; we were creating an entirely new ecosystem where artists could tokenize their work, create NFT collections, and engage with their audience in ways that were impossible just a few years earlier. Thiel’s emphasis on monopolistic advantages, or finding a niche where you can dominate, also resonated with me. Rather than competing with countless traditional marketing agencies, we carved out a space at the intersection of art, technology, and blockchain where we could truly lead. His principle of avoiding competition and focusing on singular innovation helped me frame our services as not just better but different—new, irreplaceable, and forward-thinking.
Memorable Quote
One quote that stayed with me is: “The most contrarian thing of all is not to oppose the crowd but to think for yourself.” That line became a guiding principle as I navigated the fast-moving blockchain space. It reminded me that innovation isn’t about going against the grain for the sake of it but about having the courage to think differently and pursue ideas others might overlook or dismiss. In the tech and business worlds where trends come and go, Zero to One reinforced the importance of pursuing unique, bold ideas that shape the future, not just follow it.
Principles by Ray Dalio was one of those rare books that reshaped not just how I approach business, but how I approach life. The core idea that resonated with me was the power of radical transparency and the importance of having a clear set of principles that guide every decision. Before reading this, I always trusted my intuition and experience, but Dalio made me realize that having a structured set of principles can act as a compass—especially when the stakes are high or when navigating uncharted territories like blockchain or SaaS. His approach of embracing reality, being brutally honest with oneself, and viewing failures as learning opportunities profoundly shifted my mindset. Instead of fearing mistakes, I began to see them as data points in my journey of growth, both personally and professionally.
Impact on My Career/Business
Incorporating Dalio’s principles into my work had an immediate impact, especially in leadership and team management. As I built the product management team at the Canadian startup, I introduced radical transparency into our culture. We held open meetings where every team member was encouraged to voice their opinions, concerns, or ideas, no matter their rank. This created an environment where innovation thrived because people felt heard, and as a leader, I became more receptive to feedback and less defensive about mistakes. In negotiations, whether for Series A funding or sales deals with top-tier clients like government agencies, the principle of “embracing reality” was key. I became more focused on data-driven decisions, always asking, “What is the reality of the situation?” This pragmatic approach helped me stay grounded and negotiate more effectively.
Memorable Quote
One quote from Principles that really stuck with me is: “Pain + Reflection = Progress.” This concept was a turning point for me, especially as I navigated challenging moments in product launches or when deals didn’t go as planned. Rather than getting bogged down by setbacks, I started to view them as essential steps toward growth. It shifted my mentality from trying to avoid pain to actively seeking out lessons in it. This shift has made me more resilient, and more focused on long-term success rather than immediate wins. It’s a principle I carry with me in every project, and it’s shaped how I lead teams and approach innovation in the ever-changing landscape of tech.
Book 9: “Structures: Or Why Things Don’t Fall Down” by J.E. Gordon
“Structures: Or Why Things Don’t Fall Down” by J.E. Gordon. Get it on Amazon.
How It Changed My Perspective
Structures: Or Why Things Don’t Fall Down by J.E. Gordon is a bit of an unexpected addition to a list of business books, but it’s one of the most profound reads that reshaped how I think about building—whether it’s a product, a company, or a team. Gordon’s exploration of structural engineering principles, explaining why some things withstand pressure while others collapse, translated easily to the world of startups and innovation. The key lesson for me was about the importance of strong foundational structures. Just like in architecture, businesses need solid underlying frameworks—clear strategies, resilient leadership, and scalable processes—that can withstand the pressures of growth, competition, and innovation. It was an epiphany: you can’t build anything that lasts without a deep understanding of the forces at play and how to counteract them.
Impact on My Career/Business
Applying these structural principles to my career and business strategies was transformative. When I was building the product management team at the Canadian startup, where we were developing SaaS solutions for blockchain-based IP protection, I approached the challenge with a newfound focus on creating systems that could endure. I realized that every team, every process, and every decision needed to be aligned with the core structure of the company—just like a building’s load-bearing walls. This also shifted my thinking in terms of product design; I began prioritizing scalability and robustness in our tech stack, ensuring that the products we built could withstand rapid scaling and fluctuating demands without “collapsing.” This foundational mindset helped us negotiate high-stakes deals with government clients who valued reliability and foresight in our systems.
Memorable Quote
One memorable quote from the book that stuck with me is: “The human race has had long experience and a fine tradition in surviving adversity. But we now face a task for which we have little experience: the task of surviving prosperity.” This quote resonated deeply as I’ve navigated the ups and downs of building startups. It’s easy to be scrappy and innovative when things are tough, but the real test comes when you’re growing, scaling, and succeeding—can you build structures strong enough to support that success? This idea has remained central to my approach, ensuring that I don’t just focus on growth, but on building something that can stand the test of time and the pressures of success.
Book 10: “The Road to Character” by David Brooks
“The Road to Character” by David Brooks. Get it on Amazon.
How It Changed My Perspective
The Road to Character by David Brooks stands apart from the typical business and tech books I’ve read, but its impact has been just as profound—if not more so. This book made me pause and reflect on the importance of building inner character, not just outer success. In a world driven by achievement, innovation, and rapid growth, it’s easy to get caught up in chasing external markers of success—especially in the high-stakes world of startups and tech. But Brooks’ exploration of what it means to cultivate humility, integrity, and a sense of purpose reshaped my understanding of leadership. It reminded me that true leadership isn’t just about making the smartest decisions or scaling the fastest—it’s about building a life that’s aligned with deeper values. This was a realization that came at a time when I was facing some of the hardest decisions in my career, and it helped ground me in what truly mattered.
Impact on My Career/Business
As I led teams and negotiated high-stakes deals at the Canadian SaaS startup, The Road to Character helped me adopt a more empathetic, grounded approach. I started focusing not just on what we were building, but how we were building it, and how we could bring integrity into every aspect of our work. For instance, as we scaled and secured deals with government clients, I placed a higher value on transparency and authenticity—communicating not just what we could do for clients but also being honest about our limitations. Brooks’ lessons on humility also influenced my leadership style; I became more willing to admit when I didn’t have all the answers and more focused on creating an environment where the team could thrive through collaboration. It’s not always about charging forward at all costs; sometimes, it’s about stepping back and leading with character.
Memorable Quote
A quote that resonated deeply with me is: “We don’t live for happiness, we live for holiness. A person who seeks to have their name inscribed in the Book of Life is concerned not with their resume but with their eulogy.” This line has stayed with me as a reminder that while business success and achievements are important, what matters most in the long run is the character we build and the legacy we leave behind. In the high-pressure world of tech and business, this grounding perspective has been invaluable in helping me make decisions that align with my values, not just the bottom line. It has pushed me to lead with authenticity, build relationships with trust at the center, and keep character at the heart of every venture I pursue.
Book 11: “The 4-Hour Workweek” by Tim Ferriss
“The 4-Hour Workweek” by Tim Ferriss. Get it on Amazon.
How It Changed My Perspective
The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss was a revelation in how I viewed work, productivity, and the concept of success. Early on in my entrepreneurial journey, I was under the impression that success came from working harder and longer hours—essentially trading time for money and progress. But Ferriss challenged that belief entirely. His idea of designing a life around freedom and efficiency, instead of being trapped in the traditional 9-to-5 mindset, made me rethink everything. The biggest takeaway was learning how to automate and delegate, focusing on only the essential, high-impact tasks, and outsourcing the rest. It wasn’t about doing more; it was about doing the right things efficiently and building systems that allowed for personal and professional freedom. That realization was a game-changer, especially as someone who always had a full plate with multiple ventures.
Impact on My Career/Business
I started applying Ferriss’ principles almost immediately in my own businesses. When I transitioned from running a dropshipping business to leading an e-commerce agency for artists and eventually working in blockchain, I saw firsthand how critical it was to automate repetitive tasks. I began delegating more, leveraging freelancers for tasks like content creation and customer service, and building automated systems for marketing and project management. In my role as a product manager for a cryptocurrency exchange, I adopted this mindset further by streamlining workflows, optimizing team collaboration, and using tools to automate reporting and client communication. This approach not only made me more efficient but also allowed me to focus on high-level strategy and vision without getting bogged down in operational details. It shifted my leadership style from micromanaging to trusting systems and people to execute, which ultimately led to faster scaling and more room for innovation.
Memorable Quote
One quote that really stuck with me from the book is: “Focus on being productive instead of busy.” This concept flipped my understanding of work. I had always equated busyness with progress, but Ferriss’ advice to cut out the unnecessary and focus on what truly moves the needle was a lightbulb moment. Since then, I’ve embraced minimalism in my work—focusing on the few critical tasks that bring the highest return on time and energy. This shift has helped me achieve more, while freeing up time to focus on growth, creativity, and personal passions. It’s a principle that I carry with me into every new project, ensuring that I’m working smarter, not just harder.
Common Themes Across These Books
Innovation and Adaptability
A major theme that runs through all of these books is the need for constant innovation and adaptability. Whether it’s The Innovator’s Dilemma showing the power of disruptive innovation or The 4-Hour Workweek advocating for life-design principles that break traditional work structures, each book reinforces the idea that in business and tech, staying stagnant is not an option. These books taught me that innovation isn’t just about new products—it’s about rethinking processes, pivoting when necessary, and always being open to new ideas and technological advancements. They challenged me to view change not as a threat but as an opportunity to evolve. For instance, when I transitioned my e-commerce business into the blockchain space, I embraced the unknown, taking calculated risks that ultimately paid off by leading my business into new territory.
Leadership and Strategy
Another significant theme is how these books reshaped my leadership style and approach to business strategy. From Ray Dalio’s Principles teaching me the power of radical transparency to Ben Horowitz’s The Hard Thing About Hard Things showing that real leadership often means making tough, uncertain decisions, these books redefined what it means to be a leader. Leadership is not about having all the answers—it’s about guiding your team through ambiguity with resilience and empathy. Each book highlighted different aspects of strategic thinking, especially in tech-driven environments where change is rapid. Whether it was Peter Thiel’s Zero to One encouraging me to think beyond incremental improvements or Salim Ismail’s Exponential Organizations showing how technology can be leveraged for massive scalability, these books pushed me to lead with vision and strategy rather than fear or caution.
Practical Application
What makes these books truly impactful is how deeply practical they are. They’re not just abstract theories—they’re filled with actionable insights that I’ve applied directly to my career. Whether it was adopting Ferriss’ productivity hacks to streamline workflows or using Christensen’s lessons to innovate in new markets, these books have been like blueprints for navigating real-world business challenges. They’ve helped me make tangible shifts, like optimizing my business models and improving team collaboration. Books like The Phoenix Project translated directly into how I manage technical teams, and Digital Transformation helped me understand how to future-proof businesses in rapidly changing tech landscapes. These books continue to inform not just my thinking, but my everyday actions in leadership, business development, and product management, showing that the best business advice isn’t just theoretical—it’s actionable.
Conclusion
The books I’ve shared here have been more than just inspiring reads—they’ve been catalysts for change in my personal and professional journey. From shaping how I approach innovation and adaptability, to transforming my leadership style and business strategy, each book has offered a unique perspective that continues to guide my decisions. Whether I’m navigating the complexities of blockchain technology, leading a team through uncertainty, or finding ways to scale a SaaS product, the lessons from these books are ingrained in every step I take.
What stands out the most is how practical and actionable these lessons have been. They aren’t just ideas that sit on a shelf—they’re principles I apply every day to solve real-world problems, adapt to evolving markets, and build businesses that not only survive but thrive in an era of constant change. As entrepreneurs, leaders, and innovators, we need to constantly challenge our thinking, embrace new ways of working, and above all, never stop learning. These books have been my roadmap, and I hope they can offer you the same guidance and inspiration to navigate your own path, no matter how uncertain or complex it may seem.
