121: The 100 Best Books for Work and Life with Publisher Todd Sattersten - Part 1

In this episode, I sit down with my friend and publisher, Todd Sattersten to unpack his brand-new book The 100 Best Books for Work & Life. After spending thousands of hours studying the world's top ideas, Todd distilled them into three massive themes: the core beliefs that shape how we grow, the foundational skills we all need, and the proven strategies for implementation. Together, we explore why purpose matters more than you think, why progress—not perfection—is what keeps us motivated, and how the strongest relationships (both personal and professional) can radically improve your success. We also break down lessons from books on goals, growth, habits, vulnerability, and the surprising science behind becoming your best self.

This conversation skims across decades of research, the best thinkers in the world, and hundreds of lessons that can transform your trajectory. If you've ever wondered what to prioritize, where to focus, or how to build a career and life you actually love, you'll hear ideas you can implement today—along with the stories, examples, and science that make them stick.

Topics We Cover in This Episode: 

• The surprising way Todd chose the "100 best" books—and why categories came after the insights

• The core belief every high performer needs before any real growth can happen

• A mindset shift from one of the world's most famous researchers that proves anyone can improve

• The daily and weekly habits scientifically shown to increase happiness, productivity, and clarity

• Why three layers of your social network influence you far more than you realize

• The uncomfortable—but essential—truth Brene Brown uncovered about connection and professional success

• A story of how following intuitive energy (instead of logic) can redirect an entire career

• The one type of progress that dramatically increases motivation—and how to track it in under 15 minutes

If this episode sparks something in you—an idea, a curiosity, or even the sense that it's time for a shift—I'd love for you to dive into Part 2 where we continue the conversation with generosity, influence, habits, and implementation. And if Todd's insights resonated, check out The 100 Best Books for Work & Life and start building your own roadmap for growth. Your next breakthrough might be waiting in the pages of a single book—or a single idea you hear today.

Resources Mentioned:

Order your copy of Give to Grow

Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow

Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

Bard Press

100 Best Books for Work and Life: What They Say, Why They Matter, and How They Can Help You