In 'The Upstarts', Brad Stone delves into the riveting stories of Airbnb and Uber, two startups that revolutionized their industries. He explores the audacious visionaries behind these companies, their struggles, and the disruptive innovations that challenged the status quo. With a gripping narrative, Stone paints a vivid picture of the risks taken and the triumphs achieved in the face of skepticism. This book is not just a chronicle of success, but a reflection on the cultural shifts these companies initiated. Join the ride through the fast-paced world of tech entrepreneurship, where the future is being redefined.
By Brad Stone
Published: 2018
"In a world where innovation is the currency of success, the true pioneers are those who dare to challenge the status quo and redefine the future."
ONE OF AMAZON'S BEST BOOKS OF 2017 A look deep inside the new Silicon Valley, from the New York Times bestselling author of The Everything Store. Ten years ago, the idea of getting into a stranger's car, or walking into a stranger's home, would have seemed bizarre and dangerous--yet today it is as common as ordering a book online. Companies like Uber and Airbnb have redefined the way we live. And while they have become pervasive in our day-to-day lives, they are not universally celebrated. They are the result of a generation of Silicon Valley entrepreneurs who used technology to upend convention and disrupt entire industries. Led by Travis Kalanick of Uber and Brian Chesky of Airbnb, these are the upstarts, founders with an overabundance of self-confidence and a limitless drive that pushed them to rewrite the rules, better and sometimes for worse. Now with a new epilogue and updated throughout, The Upstarts takes us deep into the origins--and controversy--of these new titans of business.
Showing 8 of 26 similar books
Ev Williams is an American entrepreneur, best known as the co-founder of Twitter and Medium. Williams has a long history in the tech industry, having co-founded Blogger, one of the first blogging platforms, which was later acquired by Google. His work has significantly shaped online communication, giving people platforms to share their thoughts and ideas globally. Williams’ focus on simplicity and user experience has been a hallmark of his career. He continues to lead Medium, a platform that champions quality content and thoughtful discourse.
Elon Musk is an influential entrepreneur and innovator known for founding and leading several groundbreaking companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company. He has played a pivotal role in advancing electric vehicles, space exploration, and renewable energy. Musk's vision extends to colonizing Mars and reducing the risk of human extinction through space travel. In addition to his technological contributions, he has co-authored the book "Spacex: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality," providing insights into his ambitious projects and vision for the future. Musk's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the trajectory of multiple industries.
Drew Houston is an accomplished American entrepreneur best known for co-founding Dropbox, a widely-used cloud storage service, in 2007. As the CEO, he has led the company to serve millions of users worldwide and become a key player in the tech industry. Although not primarily known for literature, Houston has shared his entrepreneurial insights and experiences through various interviews and public speaking engagements, offering valuable lessons to aspiring business leaders. His work has significantly influenced the way people and organizations manage and share digital content. Houston's innovative vision continues to shape the future of cloud computing and digital collaboration.
Walter Isaacson is a renowned American author, journalist, and professor, best known for his detailed biographies of influential figures. He has penned bestselling biographies of Steve Jobs, Albert Einstein, Benjamin Franklin, and Leonardo da Vinci, each acclaimed for their thorough research and engaging storytelling. Isaacson served as the CEO of the Aspen Institute, chairman of CNN, and editor of Time magazine, significantly impacting both media and educational spheres. His works often explore the intersection of genius, innovation, and human nature. Isaacson's ability to distill complex lives into compelling narratives has cemented his reputation as one of the foremost biographers of our time.
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
Garry Tan is a prominent entrepreneur and investor, best known for his influential role in the technology and startup ecosystem. Co-founder of Initialized Capital, Tan has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring numerous successful startups. His contributions to literature primarily include insightful writings on technology, entrepreneurship, and venture capital, which are widely read and respected within the industry. Tan's blog posts and essays offer valuable guidance and have inspired many aspiring entrepreneurs. Additionally, his work at Y Combinator, where he previously served as a partner, further underscores his significant impact on the startup community.
David Cancel is a prominent entrepreneur and author best known for his influential work in the tech and startup communities. As the CEO and co-founder of Drift, a leading conversational marketing platform, he has revolutionized how businesses engage with their customers online. Cancel has also authored insightful books such as "Hypergrowth," which offers valuable strategies for scaling startups rapidly. His contributions extend beyond literature as he frequently shares his expertise through speaking engagements and his popular podcast, "Seeking Wisdom." David Cancel's innovative ideas and practical advice continue to inspire and guide entrepreneurs worldwide.
David Perell is a prominent writer and educator known for his influential work in the field of online education and digital writing. He is the creator of "Write of Passage," an acclaimed online writing course that has helped thousands of students refine their writing skills and build their personal brands. As a prolific blogger, Perell shares insights on topics ranging from technology and culture to productivity and creativity. His thought-provoking essays and articles have garnered a substantial following, establishing him as a thought leader in the digital age. Additionally, Perell hosts the popular "North Star Podcast," where he interviews leading thinkers and creators, further contributing to contemporary intellectual discourse.
Showing 8 of 22 related collections
“In a world where innovation is the currency of success, the true pioneers are those who dare to challenge the status quo and redefine the future.”
The Upstarts
By Brad Stone
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Brad Stone is an acclaimed journalist and bestselling author known for his insightful writing on technology and business. He is the Global Technology Editor at Bloomberg News and has contributed to major publications like The New York Times and Fortune. Stone gained widespread recognition for his books, including "The Everything Store," a comprehensive biography of Amazon's founder Jeff Bezos. His work often explores the intersections of innovation, entrepreneurship, and the impact of technology on society. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Stone continues to shape the narrative around the evolving tech landscape.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Hard Thing About Hard Things," Ben Horowitz shares the gritty realities of running a startup, underscored by his own tumultuous experiences. With brutal honesty, he delves into the tough choices leaders must make when facing insurmountable challenges. From hiring and firing to navigating crises, Horowitz provides raw insights that strip away the romanticized views of entrepreneurship. He emphasizes that there are no easy answers in business, and success often hinges on resilience and sheer determination. This compelling guide not only equips readers with practical wisdom but also ignites a fierce curiosity about the untold struggles behind every great success story.
In 'Blitzscaling', Reid Hoffman and Chris Yeh dive into the high-octane world of rapid business growth, where traditional rules of scaling are thrown out the window. They introduce the concept of 'blitzscaling'—a strategy for rapidly growing a company to capture a market before competitors can catch up. The authors share insights from industry titans like Airbnb and LinkedIn, revealing the challenges and dynamics of pursuing hypergrowth. Packed with practical advice and real-world examples, this book unravels the complexities of navigating the entrepreneur's journey in an ever-evolving tech landscape. Are you ready to discover how to scale quickly and triumph in the startup arena?
In "The Contented Baby’s First Year," renowned parenting expert Gina Ford unveils her revolutionary approach to nurturing infants, promising peace and routine amid the chaos of newborn life. Through tried-and-tested schedules and soothing techniques, she empowers parents to understand their baby's needs while fostering independence from the very start. With practical advice and empathetic insights, Ford reveals how to cultivate a harmonious household while ensuring your little one thrives. Each chapter offers a treasure trove of tips that make sleepless nights and endless uncertainties a thing of the past. Are you ready to transform the first year of parenthood into a blissful journey of discovery and connection?
In 'The Startup Way,' Eric Ries unveils a revolutionary approach to business that transcends traditional corporate frameworks. Drawing on his experiences with startups, he reveals how established companies can harness the innovative spirit of entrepreneurship. Ries introduces the concept of 'innovation accounting' to measure progress and improve outcomes, making it applicable for any organization. With practical insights and compelling case studies, he shows how to instill a culture of agility and adaptability. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to transform their company into a forward-thinking powerhouse.
In '7 Powers,' Hamilton Helmer unveils a groundbreaking framework for business strategy, identifying seven key powers that successful companies leverage for industry domination. Each power, from scale to brand, is meticulously dissected with real-world examples that illustrate their formidable impact. Helmer pairs strategic theory with actionable insights, equipping leaders with tools to navigate competitive landscapes. With a fresh perspective on timeless principles, the book challenges conventional thinking and ignites a quest for deeper understanding. Dive into this compelling exploration and discover what it truly takes to outmaneuver rivals and thrive in today's market.
In 'The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership', authors Jim Dethmer, Diana Chapman, and Kaley Klemp present a transformative guide for leaders seeking to elevate their consciousness and effectiveness. Through an engaging exploration of 15 pivotal commitments, they challenge conventional leadership paradigms and inspire readers to embrace authenticity and vulnerability. Each commitment serves as a stepping stone to foster deeper connections and a culture of trust within organizations. With practical insights and experiential tools, the book invites leaders to dismantle limiting beliefs and ignite their potential. Prepare to uncover a new dimension of leadership that transcends mere management and truly empowers individuals.
In 'The $100 Startup', Chris Guillebeau reveals the secrets of successful entrepreneurs who started with just a small amount of money. Through engaging stories and practical advice, he demonstrates that anyone can create a thriving business without extensive resources. Guillebeau emphasizes the importance of passion and practical skill in building a venture that provides both profit and personal fulfillment. This inspiring guide challenges conventional notions of entrepreneurship, encouraging readers to take action and turn their ideas into reality. Are you ready to discover how to transform your passions into a profitable business?
In 'Better Web Typography for a Better Web,' Matej Latin unveils the transformative power of typography in web design. He delves into the principles of effective type, demonstrating how thoughtful choices can enhance user experience and engagement. The book is packed with practical tips and real-world examples to help designers craft visually stunning and readable websites. Latin's insights challenge conventional norms, urging readers to rethink their approach to typography. This essential guide equips both aspiring and seasoned designers with the tools to elevate their craft and create a more beautiful web.