As the warm breeze of summer 2024 rolls in, it's the perfect time to make the most of some much-needed downtime. Whether you're planning to relax in the sun, dive into new hobbies, or stay productive, we asked a selection of Members from Criticaleye’s global Community for their summer recommendations.
And with the excitement of the Paris Olympics drawing to an end, there's no better time to plan a summer filled with adventure, personal growth and unforgettable moments.
Their recommendations range from books and podcasts debating the future of AI, the need for psychological saftey and – for a second year in a row – the ubiquitous Taylor Swift makes the list.
Here are their picks:
Ben Freeman, Global Director Accounting Offshore / Country CFO, RWE Renewables UK, RWE Offshore Wind
I would recommend...
Book: The Art of Reading Minds by Henrik Fexeus
It’s a mix between psychology and non-verbal communication that is neatly packaged and even gives a couple of ‘magic’ tricks at the end to impress your friends and family with (my 13-year-old daughter was completely baffled). I wouldn’t classify it as brand new or revelational. However, it is well thought through, well-structured and it may resurface some subconscious, forgotten skills we use in our daily interactions with people.
I would recommend it for anyone leading teams, working in sales or indeed anyone who deals with other people — which is everyone.
I’m looking forward to...
Book: The Year of the Locust by Terry Hayes
This was Terry's long awaited second book … I'm hoping that it lives up to his first book I am Pilgrim. I've read there is a sci-fi twist about 600 pages in, which I am keen to see how he makes work.
I read I am Pilgrim years ago, which is a fast-paced spy novel. The short chapters and relatively simple language give the book good cadence. There are lots of twists and turns throughout — it’s an enjoyable read that grabs your attention from the start.
I am hoping The Year of the Locust follows in the same vein.
Rob Hornby, Head of EMEA, Partner & Managing Director, AlixPartners
I would recommend...
Book: Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI by Ethan Mollick
This is a great read (or listen on Audible in my case). Mollick is accessible to non-specialists: sane, insightful and compact (about four-and-a-half hours as an audiobook).
If you can face further exposure to AI over the summer, then this is worth the investment. I also think he is right — which helps.
Podcast: Frank Skinner’s Poetry Podcast
After living for over 50 years without ever reading a poem by choice, everything changed when I discovered Frank Skinner’s Poetry Podcast last year. The most mesmerising episode so far is the one about Donna Stonecipher’s Model City. Somehow, this poem opened a hatch to a new world that I now can’t get enough of. Never too late.
I’m looking forward to...
Book: The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben
A new perspective on a very old world, it explores the deep interconnectedness of forest life. I have only skimmed it so far, but it seems mind-blowing.
I would recommend...
Book: Turn the Ship Around! by L. David Marquet
My top book is old but one I invariably refer to when guiding organisations through any sort of transformation / change programme. It's a true story of turning followers into leaders. Those who enjoy building successful teams will enjoy this book.
Coming from a military context, I readily identify with the challenge of empowering people at all levels to get the job done. But I have found the lessons equally applicable, perhaps even more so, in non-military environments where there is less of a delineation between leaders and followers. The fact is we all need to be able to do both well.
As a leader, I think it’s important to understand what followers need in order to function well and, if the opportunity arises, how to encourage a follower to become a leader.
The fact it is a true story gives it credibility; it’s also easy to read.
I’m looking forward to...
Book: The Ministry for the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson
A sweeping epic about climate change and humanity’s efforts to try and turn the tide before it’s too late.
I would recommend...
Book: Hit Refresh by Satya Nadella
Anyone interested in transformative leadership and making a positive impact in their organisation will enjoy this book. It’s sprinkled with personal growth and leadership lessons from Satya’s childhood experiences to becoming the CEO of Microsoft.
It provides a deep dive into the significant transformation Satya spearheaded at Microsoft and is a great blueprint for navigating the complexities of technological disruption, while maintaining a human-centric approach.
Podcast: The High Performance Podcast
This is for anyone interested in hearing about the lived experiences of the planet's high performers. It provides a wealth of knowledge and inspiration from some of the most successful individuals. Valuable lessons and strategies are shared to help you excel in life.
The engaging storytelling and practical advice make it a valuable resource for continuous learning and inspiration.
My personal takeaway is the importance of courage, resilience and adaptability for overcoming challenges.
I’m looking forward to...
Book: The Age of AI by Henry Kissinger, Eric Schmidt, and Daniel Huttenlocher
I’m curious about the impact AI will have on our lives now and in the future, so look forward to reading this as it examines the evolution of AI and how it’s being integrated into all facets of life.
I would recommend...
Film: All of Us Strangers (inspired by the Japanese novel Strangers by Taichi Yamada)
This film is a profound exploration of grief and loneliness with glimmers of hope in what appears to be a hopeless world. It is beautifully acted by Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal, whose on-screen chemistry cuts through societal prejudices in the telling of a love story. It is deeply moving, thought provoking and reflective.
I think art can be a vehicle for reaching people with messages they might not otherwise be open to hearing. This film is an opportunity to see things through different eyes and to challenge ourselves to take better care of the things that matter most. I sponsor the LGBTQ+ community at the National Physical Laboratory and I’ve been reminded to seek out opportunities to listen to members more, so I can use my influence to nurture an inclusive and supportive culture with high levels of psychological safety.
I’m enjoying...
Album: Tortured Poets Department by Taylor Swift
I have played this continuously since seeing her perform in June. Try as I might to choose an alternative on Spotify, I find myself drawn back to the poetic brilliance of her song writing which has connected with me in ways I last felt as a teenager. Rarely does one artist inspire a truly global community to make such significant change.
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