How to Take Over the World

Francois de la Rochefoucauld, was an infamous aristocrat who was always scheming, seducing, and fighting. He was equally infamous as a philosopher, a forerunner to Nietzsche with a cynical wit. In this episode, we explore is adventurous life, his dangerous philosophy, and what we can learn from both. 00:00 What is a philosopher? 02:00 A Life of Action and Intrigue 03:00 Introduction 05:03 Early Life and Aristocratic Background 05:40 Political Intrigues and Rebellions 10:15 The Fronde and Its Aftermath 19:00 Literary Achievements and Maxims 22:00 Friendship, Love, and True Virtue 24:00 Strengths, Weaknesses, and Self-Honesty 35:00 Final Thoughts and Reflections ----- Sponsors: Gains In Bulk - Use code Ben for 20% off Austin Lab by Shokworks Speechify - Use code Ben for 15% Speechify Premium

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2025

David Senra of the Founders podcast joins to discuss the most important attributes of great founders, how to find purpose, whether chicken fingers is a worthy dream, and much more! 00:00 Introduction 03:12 Church for Entrepreneurs 06:45 The Power of Consistency and Repetition 18:15 The Importance of AI in Modern Business 39:30 Analyzing Podcast Success 40:15 The Importance of Charisma and Obsession 41:00 Tennis as a Metaphor for Mastery 44:30 Creatine and Gains in Bulk 45:15 Who Can Be a Founder? 51:00 The Unique Genius of Da Vinci 51:47 The Obsession of Inventors 55:30 Fame and Focus 01:07:45 The Value of Private Ownership 01:20:00 The Game of Kings and Modern Power 01:22:45 The Artistic View of Life 01:32:40 The Power of Podcasting 01:47:00 Books Every Young Man Should Read 01:57:12 Final Thoughts ----- Sponsors: ⁠Austin Lab by Shokworks⁠ ⁠Gains In Bulk⁠ - Go to gainsinbulk.com/pages/ben and use code Ben for $20 and a free shaker. ⁠Speechify⁠⁠ - Go to speechify.com/ben to get 15% off Speechify Premium ⁠HTTOTW Premium⁠ - Get all episodes, end notes, mini-episodes, and more at takeoverpod.supercast.com

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2025

On this premium subscriber I talk about how to be more high agency, including how to frame problems, design solutions, and take action. Then I talk about my recent travels to the Bay Area and some thoughts that spurred about a concrete way to take over the world. Links: https://takeoverpod.supercast.com/ https://www.highagency.com/

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2025

Jesus of Nazareth was the son of a carpenter. He never traveled further than 150 miles from his home in his adult life. So how did the movement he founded come to dominate the world, bringing in billions of followers? On this episode, we explore his life, his impact, and how he was able to build such a powerful movement. ----- Sponsors: Speechify - Go to speechify.com/ben to get 15% off Speechify Premium Gains In Bulk - Go to gainsinbulk.com/pages/ben and use code Ben for $20 and a free shaker. HTTOTW Premium - Get all episodes, end notes, mini-episodes, and more at takeoverpod.supercast.com ----- Sources: The New Testament In Its World by NT Wright Jesus: A Biography from a Believer by Paul Johnson The New Testament - The King James Version

Transcribed - Published: 20 April 2025

Polaroid founder Edwin Land is one of the most innovative inventors to have ever lived. Steve Jobs considered him one of his greatest heroes. On this episode we explore the methods and strategies he used to build the beautiful products that he did. 00:00 The Eureka Moment: Birth of the Polaroid Camera 04:30 Early Life: High Agency Behavior 07:00 The Obsession with Polarization 09:30 From Harvard to Independent Research 16:40 Founding Polaroid: The Early Struggles 28:00 Wartime Innovations and Contributions 30:30 Maintaining The Vision 34:10 The Birth of the Instant Camera 37:00 Polaroid's Marketing Genius 38:30 The SX-70: A Revolutionary Camera 42:30 PolaVision: A Catastrophic Flop 45:50 Edwin Land's Legacy and Lessons 46:00 Final Takeaways and Reflections --- HTTOTW Premium - Sign up to get all endnotes and special episodes Gains In Bulk - Use this link and use code Ben for 20% off VanMan - Use code TakeOver10 for 10% off Founders Podcast Speechify.com - Use code Ben for 15% off --- Email me with feedback: [email protected] Need a speaker for your next event or corporate retreat? Email [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 10 April 2025

Despite an incredibly challenging childhood, Coco Chanel revolutionized women's fashion. The episode delves into her humble beginnings, her rise to fame, her relationships, the launch of her fashion empire, and of course, the strategies she used to accomplish it all. 00:00 Introduction to Coco Chanel 01:45 Coco Chanel's Humble Beginnings 03:17 The Power of Self-Creation 07:40 Coco's Early Career and Rise 12:21 The Birth of Chanel's Fashion Empire 22:10 Chanel No. 5: A Perfume Revolution 25:50 The Little Black Dress and Beyond 30:07 Coco Chanel and Great Leadership 31:46 Coco Chanel's Rise in the Fashion Industry 32:29 World War II and Controversial Allegiances 39:11 Post-War Challenges and Strategic Moves 43:59 Chanel's Comeback and Fashion Philosophy 47:44 Final Years and Legacy 48:52 Key Takeaways from Coco Chanel's Life 59:44 Closing Remarks --- HTTOTW Premium - Sign up to get all endnotes and special episodes Gains In Bulk - Use this link and use code Ben for 20% off VanMan - Use code TakeOver10 for 10% off Founders Podcast Speechify.com - Use code Ben for 15% off

Transcribed - Published: 26 March 2025

Donald Trump: real estate mogul, master marketer, and the most polarizing figure of our time. How did he go from a brash young developer in Manhattan to the most powerful man in the world? In this episode of How to Take Over the World, we break down the strategies, mindset, and raw ambition that fueled his rise. ----- 00:00 - Introduction: The Farce and Reality of Donald Trump 02:40 - Who is Donald Trump? 03:55 - Polarizing Figure: Love Him or Hate Him 06:06 - Fred Trump: The Formative Influence 08:56 - Young Donald: Aggression and Military School 14:53 - College Years and Avoiding the Vietnam War 18:31 - Early Real Estate Ventures 25:41 - The Grand Hyatt: A Major Success 35:40 - Trump Tower: Controversy and Prestige 43:45 - Trump's Wollman Rink Success 45:36 - Television City: A Bold Vision 48:01 - The Cringe Factor: Embracing Failure 51:12 - Recap of Trump's Early Success 54:24 - The Downfall Begins: Casinos and Distractions 01:01:35 - Trump's Desperate Measures 01:08:34 - The Apprentice: A Turning Point 01:11:22 - Understanding Trump: The Deal Maker 01:19:24 - Final Thoughts and Controversies ----- Sponsors: HTTOTW Premium - Sign up to get all endnotes and special episodes Gains In Bulk - Use this link and use code Ben for 20% off VanMan - Use code TakeOver10 for 10% off Founders Podcast Speechify.com - Use code Ben for 15% off

Transcribed - Published: 13 March 2025

Captain Cook was one of the greatest explorers of all time. And he also lived on of the most adventurous, exciting lives ever. On this episode we break down his discoveries and the strategies that allowed him to accomplish and discover so much. 00:00 - Introduction 09:00 - Early Life 14:00 - Cook in Canada 26:20 - First Voyage 1:14:00 - Second Voyage 1:25:30 - Third Voyage 1:30:00 - Takeaways --- Sponsors: Gains In Bulk - Use code BEN for 20% off VanMan - Use code TAKEOVER for 10% off Vesto Speechify.com/Ben - Use code Ben for 15% off Speechify Premium HTTOTW Premium - For all endnotes, takeaways, and bonus episode, subscribe to How to Take Over the World Premium --- Stay in touch: Twitter/X: @BenWilsonTweets Instagram: @HTTOTW Email me: [email protected] --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson.

Transcribed - Published: 26 February 2025

The name of Machiavelli is synonymous with deceit, oppression, atrocity, and naked power. But his legacy is much more complicated than that. His thinking shaped the world we live in, and his advice can help anyone get further on their journey to taking over the world. 04:25 - The biography of Niccolo Machiavelli 34:30 - Advice from Machiavelli's works 01:05:30 - How to start a philosophy or movement that takes over the world --- Sponsors: Gains In Bulk - Use code BEN for 20% off VanMan - Use code TAKEOVER for 10% off Vesto Speechify.com/Ben - Use code Ben for 15% off Speechify Premium HTTOTW Premium - For all endnotes, takeaways, and bonus episode, subscribe to How to Take Over the World Premium --- Stay in touch: Twitter/X: @BenWilsonTweets Instagram: @HTTOTW Email me: [email protected] --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2025

Top lessons from 100 lessons of How to Take Over the World and more than 100 biographies on the great leaders of history. Wright's Law Great Leadership Always Wins Vision Demand Excellence Eat Light (Be Obsessed) Pain Is Where the Progress Is Charisma Is In The Eyes Halley's Law Set Simple Goals Two Weeks Can Change Your Life --- Sponsors: Speechify.com/Ben - Use code Ben for 15% off Speechify Premium HTTOTW Premium - For all endnotes, takeaways, and bonus episode, subscribe to How to Take Over the World Premium --- Stay in touch: Twitter/X: @BenWilsonTweets Instagram: @HTTOTW Email me: [email protected] --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2025

Isaac Newton was one of the great geniuses in human history. He established the basic laws of physics, discovered the laws of gravity, invented calculus, and refined the scientific method. On this episode we take a look at how he was able to accomplish so much by analyzing his strategies, tactics, and work habits. --- Sponsors: VanMan.Shop - Use code TAKEOVER for 10% off https://www.vesto.com/ - All of your company's financial accounts in one view Speechify.com/Ben - Use code Ben for 15% off Speechify Premium HTTOTW Premium - For all endnotes, takeaways, and bonus episode, subscribe to How to Take Over the World Premium --- Stay in touch: Twitter/X: @BenWilsonTweets Instagram: @HTTOTW Email me: [email protected] Sources: Isaac Newton by James Gleick --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 January 2025

Charlemagne was a king, emperor, conqueror, reformer, and the father of a united Europe. On this episode we look at how he forged the Holy Roman Empire and built the foundations of western civilization as we know it. --- Sponsors: https://www.costofglory.com/cog-retreats/texas-retreat - Austin Retreat with the Cost of Glory January 23-26. Use code TAKEOVER for $200 off. https://www.vesto.com/ - All of your company's financial accounts in one view HTTOTW Premium - For all endnotes, takeaways, and bonus episode, subscribe to How to Take Over the World Premium --- Stay in touch: Twitter/X: @BenWilsonTweets Instagram: @HTTOTW Email me: [email protected] Sources: Two Lives of Charlemagne by Einhard and Notker Charlemagne From the Hammer to the Cross by Richard Winston King and Emperor: A New Life of Charlemagne by Janet Nelson --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 8 January 2025

Lee Kuan Yew took a crowded, dirty, poor port town, and turned it into one of the world's great cities. How was he able to lead such an incredible transformation of Singapore? --- Sponsors: https://www.costofglory.com/cog-retreats/texas-retreat - Austin Retreat with the Cost of Glory January 23-26. Use code TAKEOVER for $200 off. https://vanman.shop/discount/TAKEOVER - Use code TAKEOVER for 10% off your order https://www.vesto.com/ - All of your company's financial accounts in one view HTTOTW Premium - For all endnotes, takeaways, and bonus episode, subscribe to How to Take Over the World Premium --- Stay in touch: Twitter/X: @BenWilsonTweets Instagram: @HTTOTW Email me: [email protected] Sources: No Man Is An Island: A Portrait of Singapore's Lee Kuan Yew by James Minchin Lee Kuan Yew: The Grandmaster's Insights on China, United States, and the World by Graham Allison, Michael McConnohie, et al. From Third World to First by Lee Kuan Yew Singapore: A Modern History by Michael D Barr --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 24 December 2024

John Williams is the brilliant composer behind film scores like Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Harry Potter, Jaws, Jurassic Park, Saving Private Ryan, Schindler's List, and more. On this episode, we take a look --- Sponsors: https://vanman.shop/discount/TAKEOVER - Use code TAKEOVER for 10% off your order https://www.vesto.com/ - All of your company's financial accounts in one view https://www.costofglory.com/cog-retreats/texas-retreat - Austin Retreat with the Cost of Glory. Use code TAKEOVER for $200 off. HTTOTW Premium - For all endnotes, takeaways, and bonus episode, subscribe to How to Take Over the World Premium --- Stay in touch: Twitter/X: @BenWilsonTweets Instagram: @HTTOTW Email me: [email protected] Sources: Music By John Williams on Disney Plus John Williams Always Settles The Score - Vanity Fair John Williams: The Force Is With Him - uDiscoverMusic The Force Is Still Strong with John Williams - The New Yorker An Interview with John Williams - Symphony.org --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 December 2024

My takeaways and endnotes from the life of Augustus Caesar. Plus a conversation with Alex Petkas, and a review of Gladiator II! ---- Come join us at the Austin Speak Lead Retreat - Use code Takeover for $200 off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 November 2024

How does one go about creating the Roman Empire? That is exactly what Caesar Augustus did, and on this episode, we dive into the strategies, tactics, and approaches that made it possible. --- Sponsors: https://gainsinbulk.com/pages/ben - Use code Ben to get a free shaker and $20 off Vesto - All of your company's financial accounts in one view HTTOTW Premium - For all endnotes, takeaways, and bonus episode, subscribe to How to Take Over the World Premium --- Stay in touch: Twitter/X: @BenWilsonTweets Instagram: @HTTOTW Email me: [email protected] Sources: Augustus: The Biography by Jochen Bleicken Augustus: First Emperor of Rome by Adrian Goldsworthy --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 15 November 2024

Who was Vlad Dracula, and how did he go from Romanian ruler to blood-sucking monster? On this episode we dive into the strategies and tactics that Dracula used to take power, how he became a legend, and what we can learn from him. ----- Sponsors Vesto Becoming The Main Character ----- Follow me on social media: Twitter: @BenWilsonTweets Instagram: @HTTOTW Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 31 October 2024

How did Grigory Rasputin become a close personal advisor to one of the most powerful people on earth, despite having no education, no money, and no accolades whatsoever? On this episode we dive into the strategies and tactics that Rasputin used to become one of the most controversial and influential people in the world, and we discover the truth behind the legend. ----- Sponsors Vesto Becoming The Main Character Cost of Glory Podcast ----- Follow me on social media: Twitter: @BenWilsonTweets Instagram: @HTTOTW Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 October 2024

What was it about Christianity that allowed it to grow from a few dozen believers to a global religion with billions of adherents? On this episode, we go through how Christianity became a global religion and what attributes enabled its rise. ----- Sponsors: Speechify - Go to speechify.com/ben to get 15% off Speechify Premium Vesto - Get all of your company's financial accounts in one view at Vesto.com HTTOTW Premium - Get all episodes, end notes, mini-episodes, and more at takeoverpod.supercast.com ----- Sources: The Triumph of Christianity: How a Forbidden Religion Swept the World by Bart D Ehrman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 October 2024

Constantine the Great united the Roman empire, founded one of the world's great cities, oversaw the creation of Christianity's most famous creed, and laid the groundwork for the widespread adoption of Christianity throughout Europe and the Middle East. How was he able to accomplish so much in one lifetime? On this episode, we explore his life, his impact, and how he was able to build such a powerful movement. ----- Sponsors: Speechify - Go to speechify.com/ben to get 15% off Speechify Premium Vesto - Get all of your company's financial accounts in one view at Vesto.com Gains In Bulk - Go to gainsinbulk.com/pages/ben and use code Ben for $20 and a free shaker. HTTOTW Premium - Get all episodes, end notes, mini-episodes, and more at takeoverpod.supercast.com ----- Sources: The Reign of Constantine, 306–337: Continuity and Change in the Late Roman Empire by Stanislav Dolezal Constantine: Roman Emperor, Christian Victor by Paul Stephenson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 10 October 2024

Simon Peter was Jesus's top guy. But he also denied him three times, and constantly got in trouble for misunderstanding Jesus's message. In this episode we dissect what eventually made him a great follower, and leader. ----- This is a subscriber-only episode. To subscribe, go to takeoverpod.supercast.com. To request a free subscription or to inquire about speaking engagements, email [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 October 2024

Jesus of Nazareth was the son of a carpenter. He never traveled further than 150 miles from his home in his adult life. So how did the movement he founded come to dominate the world, bringing in billions of followers? On this episode, we explore his life, his impact, and how he was able to build such a powerful movement. ----- Sponsors: Speechify - Go to speechify.com/ben to get 15% off Speechify Premium Vesto - Get all of your company's financial accounts in one view at Vesto.com Gains In Bulk - Go to gainsinbulk.com/pages/ben and use code Ben for $20 and a free shaker. HTTOTW Premium - Get all episodes, end notes, mini-episodes, and more at takeoverpod.supercast.com ----- Sources: The New Testament In Its World by NT Wright Jesus: A Biography from a Believer by Paul Johnson The New Testament - The King James Version Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 September 2024

The story of how John Wooden won ten national championships on the way to becoming the greatest coach of all time. ----- Sponsors: Vesto Gains In Bulk - Use code Ben for $20 and a free shaker. How to Take Over the World Premium - For all endnotes, takeaways, and bonus episodes subscribe for only $7/month. ----- Writing, production, and sound editing by Ben Wilson with support from Michael Lackner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 August 2024

The story of how Phil Knight founded one of the great companies - and brands - of all time. ----- Sponsors: HTTOTW Event Founders Podcast Particl - Use code TAKEOVER for a 2-week free trial and 20% off All The Hacks Speechify - Use code Ben for 15% off Speechify Premium ----- Writing, production, and sound editing by Ben Wilson with support from Michael Lackner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 August 2024

"I can accept failure. Everyone fails at something, but I can't accept not trying. I can't accept it." Michael Jordan is one of the greatest basketball players of all time. He's also a great entrepreneur, business owner, and Olympian. In this episode, we cover his remarkable story and talk about the strategies, tactics, and work habits that made him so effective. ----- Sponsors: HTTOTW Event Just Ingredients - Use code TAKEOVER for 15% off Founders Podcast Particl - Use code TAKEOVER for a 2-week free trial and 20% off ----- Writing, production, and sound editing by Ben Wilson with support from Michael Lackner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 July 2024

"Some people create with words or with music or with a brush and paints. I like to make something beautiful. When I run, I like to make people stop and say, ‘I’ve never seen anyone run like that before.’ It’s more than just a race, it’s style. It’s doing something better than anyone else." Steve Prefontaine is one of the great legends of the running world. In this episode, we cover his remarkable story and talk about the strategies, tactics, and work habits that made him so effective. ----- Sponsors: HTTOTW Event Just Ingredients - Use code TAKEOVER for 15% off Founders Podcast Particl - Use code TAKEOVER for a 2-week free trial and 20% off ----- Writing, production, and sound editing by Ben Wilson with support from Michael Lackner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 July 2024

"When I was a child, my mother said to me, If you are a soldier, you will become a general. If you are a monk, you will become the pope. Instead, I was a painter And became Picasso." What made Picasso such a great artist? And what made him such a legend both in his own time, and since his death? On this episode, we explore Picasso's life, his art, his impact, and the strategies he used to take over the art world. ----- Sponsors: HTTOTW Event Just Ingredients Founders Podcast All the Hacks ----- Writing, production, and sound editing by Ben Wilson with support from Michael Lackner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 July 2024

On this mini-episode, I talk about my combined takeaways from the founding father of the United States - Franklin, Hamilton, and Washington - and what the secret was that allowed them to be so successful. Happy Independence Day to all of my American followers! Sponsors: HTTOTW Event Becoming the Main Character Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 July 2024

Topics on the Franklin Guide to taking over the world include: How to convince someone of your viewpoint Why Franklin almost started a swimming school Franklin's love life Was Benjamin Franklin a shallow person? + much more! ----- To subscribe, visit takeoverpod.supercast.com If you want to start a podcast with us, email [email protected] or visit podramp.io. Want to hang out with other people trying to take over the world? We have an event this August. Learn more at https://www.nowheresummit.com/howtotakeovertheworld Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 3 July 2024

Benjamin Franklin was one of the greatest scientists, writers, diplomats, and statesmen of all time. How does one man accomplish so much in one life? Well, he was also the first self-help guru of all time. On this episode, we examine the life of Benjamin Franklin, and the tools he used to become the world's first self-made man. --- Sponsors: Legacy Podcast TryMiracle.com/takeover - Use code takeover for over 40% off. ExpressVPN.com/takeover All The Hacks - Upgrade your life, money, and travel Premium Tier - Subscribe for all my guide episodes, endnotes, and mini-episodes Podramp.io - Work with us to make podcasts - You can send me an email at [email protected] --- Sources: The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin Benjamin Franklin: An American Life --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 July 2024

The ten-step guide to being Alexander Hamilton. In the endnotes section, I also discuss: My review of Hamilton the Musical (👎🏻👎🏻) Whether Hamilton was right-wing or left-wing If Hamilton was gay His family life His relationship with Angelica + more! --- To subscribe, sign up at takeoverpod.supercast.com If you are a student or can't afford a premium subscription right now, email me at [email protected] and we'll get you taken care of. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 26 June 2024

Alexander Hamilton was the greatest and most indispensable of the American founding fathers. On this episode we see how he made such lasting contributions to the US system of government. Points of discussion: The Newburgh Conspiracy The Constitutional Convention The Federalist Papers Hamilton's time as Secretary of the Treasury The Reynolds Affair The Quasi-War The Adams Pamphlet His duel with Aaron Burr + more --- Sponsors: Just Ingredients - Use code TAKEOVER for 15% off Henson Shaving - Use code TAKEOVER for 100 free blades Speechify - Get an edge by processing information faster. Use this link for 15% off Speechify. Premium Tier - Subscribe for all my guide episodes, endnotes, and mini-episodes Podramp.io - Work with us to make podcasts - You can send me an email at [email protected] --- Sources: Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow The Life of Alexander Hamilton by John C Hamilton --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 June 2024

Alexander Hamilton was the greatest and most indispensable of the American founding fathers. (At least that's my contention). On this episode, I begin to describe what made him so great, I talk about his origins and education, and some of the habits and strategies he used to become one of America's leading men before the age of 25. --- Sponsors: Just Ingredients - Use code TAKEOVER for 15% off All The Hacks - Upgrade your life, money, and travel Premium Tier - Subscribe for all my guide episodes, endnotes, and mini-episodes Becoming the Main Character Podramp.io - Work with us to make podcasts - You can send me an email at [email protected] --- Sources: Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow The Life of Alexander Hamilton by John C Hamilton --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson Research assistance by Camille Doom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 June 2024

In this conversation with Alex Petkas of the Cost of Glory podcast, we talk about one of Washington's great inspirations in life: Cato The Younger. We discuss why he was so taken with his life, what it means to be a modern day Cato, some of out top takeaways from the life of Cato and Washington, and more. Enjoy! --- Sponsors: Cost of Glory How to Take Over the World Premium Podramp.io - Work with us to make podcasts - You can send me an email at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2024

What was the key to George Washington's success that made him such a beloved president and leader? On this subscriber-only episode, we dive deeper into his playbook and go through the endnotes - more interesting side stories and random information about Washington and his life. --- To subscribe go to takeoverpod.supercast.com. Like this podcast and want to create one like it? Email [email protected] or learn more at podramp.io Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 May 2024

How did George Washington shape the future of the United States of America as its first president? In this episode, we examine his presidency, his post-presidency, his death, and his legacy. --- Sponsors: How to Take Over the World Premium TryMiracle.com/takeover - Use code takeover for over 40% off. Podramp.io - Work with us to make podcasts - You can send me an email at [email protected] --- Sources: Washington: A Life by Ron Chernow George Washington and the New Nation: 1783-1793 George Washington: Anguish and Farewell 1793-1799 --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2024

George Washington is one of the most celebrated and beloved leaders of all time. What was it about Washington that made him such an effective leader? On this episode, we explore the making of George Washington: How he rose from relatively mundane origins to become the head of the American revolution. --- Sponsors: How to Take Over the World Premium TryMiracle.com/takeover - Use code TAKEOVER for over 40% off. Speechify - Get an edge by processing information faster. Use this link for 15% off Speechify. ExpressVPN.com/takeover - Use code takeover for three months of free protection of your internet data Podramp.io - Work with us to make podcasts - You can send me an email at [email protected] --- Sources: Washington: A Life by Ron Chernow George Washington in the American Revolution (1775-1783) --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson Research assistance by Camille Doom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 10 May 2024

George Washington is one of the most celebrated and beloved leaders of all time. What was it about Washington that made him such an effective leader? On this episode, we explore the making of George Washington: How he rose from relatively mundane origins to become the head of the American revolution. --- Sponsors: HensonShaving.com/takeover - Use code takeover for 100 free blades TryMiracle.com/takeover - Use code takeover for over 40% off. Podramp.io - Work with us to make podcasts - You can send me an email at [email protected] --- Sources: Washington: A Life by Ron Chernow George Washington: The Forge of Experience by James Thomas Flexner On Seriousness --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson Research assistance by Camille Doom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 3 May 2024

What was the key to Ernest Shackleton's success that made him "the greatest leader that ever came on God's earth - bar none?" On this subscriber-only episode, we dive deeper into his playbook and go through the endnotes - more interesting side stories and random information about the journey of the expedition. --- To subscribe go to takeoverpod.supercast.com. Like this podcast and want to create one like it? Email [email protected] or learn more at podramp.io Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2024

When Ernest Shackleton's ship is trapped in Antarctic ice, he and his crew must figure out how to survive and make their way home. On this episode, we explore the dramatic story of The Endurance and the leadership lessons that can be learned from Shackleton. --- Sponsors: FactorMeals.com/Ben50 - Use code Ben50 for 50% off Factor Meals ExpressVPN.com/takeover - Use code takeover for three months of free protection of your internet data --- Sources: Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing South by Ernest Shackleton Shackleton by Ranulph Fieness --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2024

AMA #1 - I answer questions about obsession vs discipline, where my intro music came from, who is coming up next on the podcast, and more. At the end of the episode I also give my review of Dune 2 and explain why I think Denis Villeneuve tried unsuccessfully to undermine his own movie. --- Links: Sign up for premium Ask a question for the next AMA Raise a Genius! Mentava --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 April 2024

Why is Julius Caesar one of the greatest men to have ever lived? What made him so remarkable? And how was he able to accomplish what he did? We unpack his playbook on this episode of How to Take Over the World. --- Sponsors: Henson Shaving - Use code takeover for two free years of razor blades (just make sure to add them to your cart) Incogni - Use code takeover for 60% off an annual plan to protect your data. --- Sources: Caesar: A Sketch by James Anthony Froude --- Writing, research, and production by Ben Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2024

How did Arnold Schwarzenegger train? What was his approach to failure? Why did he just make things up during interviews? Find out on this endnotes episode! --- Sponsors: Premium Feed - To hear every episode as it comes out, including endnotes, bonus episodes, and mini-episodes. --- Sources: Arnold: The Education of a Bodybuilder by Arnold Schwarzenegger Total Recall: My Unbelievably True Life Story by Arnold Schwarzenegger Be Useful: Seven Tools for Life by Arnold Schwarzenegger --- Writing, production, and sound design by Ben Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 March 2024

Bodybuilder. Actor. Governor. Arnold Schwarzenegger has managed to make his way to the top of three wildly different games. On this episode, we outline his epic life journey and share some of the strategies and mindsets that he used. --- Sponsors: FactorMeals.com/Ben50 - Eat like the greats. Get your obsession fuel from Factor. TryMiracle.com/TakeOver - Sleep better with temperature-regulating and self-cleaning sheets. Speechify.com/Ben - Get an edge by processing information faster. Use this link for 15% off Speechify Founders Episode 309 on Arnold Schwarzenegger --- Sources: Arnold: The Education of a Bodybuilder by Arnold Schwarzenegger Total Recall: My Unbelievably True Life Story by Arnold Schwarzenegger Be Useful: Seven Tools for Life by Arnold Schwarzenegger --- Writing and research by Ben Wilson. Production, and sound design by Ezra Bakker Trupiano. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 March 2024

Want to take over the world? Well, how about we start with a country? On today's episode I review Balaji Srinivasan's The Network State where he explains his vision for the future of governance and how you might be able to start your own country sometime in the near future. --- Sponsors: Incogni.com/takeover - Use code takeover for 60% off an annual plan. --- Writing, production, and sound design by Ben Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 15 March 2024

Was John Rockefeller a good man or a bad one? What did he do after he retired? How do his charitable contributions affect us to this day? Find out on this endnotes episode. --- Sponsors: Premium Feed - To hear every episode as it comes out, including endnotes, bonus episodes, and mini-episodes. --- Sources: Titan by Ron Chernow Random Reminiscences of Men and Events --- Writing, production, and sound design by Ben Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 March 2024

How did John D Rockefeller become the richest man of all time, and leverage that wealth into unparalleled influence? On this episode, we trace his rise, his strategies, tactics, habits, and leadership style. --- Sponsors: FactorMeals.com/Ben50 - Eat like the greats. Get your obsession fuel from Factor. Tamba.Digital - For all of your website, web app, and mobile app design needs Big Shot episode with David Rubenstein Premium Feed - To hear every episode as it comes out, including endnotes, bonus episodes, and mini-episodes. --- Sources: Titan by Ron Chernow Random Reminiscences of Men and Events --- Writing, production, and sound design by Ben Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2024

More of my takeaways about obsession, cloning yourself, keeping a schedule, and more. --- New Website: TakeOverPod.com Talk with Ben Ask a question for upcoming AMA episode YouTube Channel To sign up for premium tier, go here. If you are broke and would like to beg for premium tier, send me an email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 15 February 2024

To watch this episode on YouTube, tap here: https://youtu.be/xlwwhAeknkA ----- MrBeast joins the podcast to discuss how he trains and manages his employees, why he didn't take Christmas and Thanksgiving off for more than five years, what separates him from other content creators, and more. ----- 00:00 - Introduction 02:30 - Jimmy's obsession with strategy games 05:15 - Did Jimmy consider himself smart? 08:50 - How does he manage his obsessions? 11:30 - Jimmy's inflection points 12:40 - Pushing himself with stunts 15:00 - Eight years of failure 18:15 - Working on holidays 19:00 - This episode sponsored by Tamba.Digital 19:45 - Jimmy's rise 24:15 - Why does Jimmy work so hard? 28:00 - Why he consistently beats other YouTubers 31:00 - Jimmy's management approach 34:15 - Paying people well 37:30 - Bottlenecks 41:10 - Who he takes inspiration from 45:30 - When will Jimmy take over the world? 55:50 - MrBeast's legacy 58:50 - Lessons learned ----- * Thank you to Talmage Thayne and filmlaab for the awesome video support. * Thank you to this episode's sponsor: Tamba.Digital * To consult with me, go to takeoverpod.com/consult-with-ben * Follow me on Twitter @BenWilsonTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 8 February 2024

In this endnotes episode, I cover Napoleon's psychology, his leadership style, his love life, his children, why France accepted an emperor so soon after ejecting their king, and much more. If you are interested in a premium subscription but can't afford one - email me at [email protected]. Also, check out my new website at TakeOverPod.com - major thanks to Tamba for the redesign. Sponsors: Premium Feed - To hear every episode as it comes out, including endnotes, bonus episodes, and mini-episodes. Tamba.Digital - For all of your website, web app, and mobile app design needs --- Sources: The Mind of Napoleon by J Christopher Herold Napoleon: A Life by Andrew Roberts Napoleon: Soldier of Destiny by Michael Broers Swords Around a Throne: Napoleon's Grade Armee by John Elting The Napoleonic Wars: A Global History by Alexander Mikaberidze --- Writing, production, and sound design by Ben Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 February 2024