2022 in Books + Podcasts

This year I haven't done any blog posts focussing on what I watch, read and listen to, so I thought as the year comes to an end to share with you what I read and listened to in 2022. I must be honest, some of these books and podcasts I looked at a while back, (and didn't take many notes!), so the insights may be brief. Nonetheless, I think it's always useful to share your reading and podcast list with others, as most of the books/podcasts I look at are recommendations from my friends and family. If there are any others that you would recommend, feel free to leave it in the comments section at the bottom :) Let's start with the books.

Books

Dreams from my Father - Barack Obama

Before reading this book I had obviously heard of the 44th US President, but had no idea of his story and background. Dreams from my Father was a rich but interesting read (it was very detailed so you had to concentrate pretty hard whilst digesting it!), and goes through Obama's life, from birth to present day. His story takes the book across the globe, meaning insights into different cities, cultures and traditions are shared too. If you like reading memoirs, give this one a go. I often find you can learn a lot from a memoir - the lived experience aspect helps put things in context.

Civilised to Death - Christopher Ryan

What do you think of and associate when you hear the word "progress" or "civilization"? Whatever it may be, this book completely flips those ideas over, and Ryan explores the real price of progress. Civilized to Death has been a great read, but be warned it can feel a bit pessimistic and gloomy at times! This book looks at civilization, humanity and mankind in another light - one which argues that some of the "progress" we've made isn't really progress at all. It does it with science and fact, backing up points using lots of case studies and references, which as an engineer I loved! It discusses topics from colonization, industrialisation & agriculture, to problems we see in modern day like obesity and depression. If you're looking for something different to read, which may leave you with more thoughts than when you start, this is your book.

Built - Roma Agrawal

A light read that highlights the infrastructure and surroundings that we use everyday without ever thinking "how did that end up there?". Built is written by Roma Agrawal, a structural engineer who explores how the built environment we see today came to be. As someone studying for a Civil Engineering degree right now, I was able to relate to a lot of the things mentioned, but I'd say this book is meant to be read by all - regardless of how much you know about engineering! The chapters are well organised such that each one takes you through a specific topic: be that metal, rock, bridges or engineering dreams. Built is a great introduction into better understanding your environment, so next time you take the train or walk across a bridge, you can appreciate it a little more :)

Ultra-Marathon Man - Dean Karnazes

Dean Karnazes definitely puts the ultra in ultramarathon, and in this book he recalls the events, races, training and insights into being an endurance athlete. I think my mum picked up this book at a book swap, so I kind of stumbled upon it. With the new year around the corner, I'm sure some of you are thinking of taking up running as a hobby - this book may be worth a read. Dean is able to shed a light into the world of ultramarathon running, an area which is alien to most people, and I found it really interesting to learn about.

(Forget a Mentor) Find a Sponsor - Sylvia Ann Hewlett

This book will probably spill over into 2023 as I just started reading it, but so far so good! Find a Sponsor goes through the idea of differentiating between someone who is a mentor, and who is a sponsor. From what I've read so far, both are important to have in your life to help with different things, but the latter is what you really need to help with your professional/personal development. I'm looking forward to seeing what the rest of the book says, but I thought I'd still mention it on the list!

Podcasts

WOYM

What's on your mind? - This podcast discusses exactly that! It's only three months old so far, and is hosted by Rahil & Bishr, who are currently two students at Imperial College London. This podcast is a must for any young adult, as it dives into topics that are often on our mind, but we don't talk about. My personal favourites have been the conversations on romantic relationships, friendships & how they change, and confidence. Rahil & Bishr keep the podcast short and sweet - each episode is only 30 minutes long so perfect for those commutes to work or uni.

The Student Inbox

A podcast that I was grateful and fortunate enough to feature on this year was The Student Inbox - hosted by Dylan & Aniruddh. They are both students currently studying for their A-Levels, and this podcast is great for fellow students around that age. It covers a wide range of topics that often cause debate, as well as brining on guest speakers (such as myself!) to share insights and personal stories. You can find the link to my conversation with Dylan & Aniruddh below:

The Lazarus Heist

A great listen, this 10-part podcast series investigates the 2014 Sony Pictures hack. But as you keep listening, the plot thickens, and The Lazarus Heist podcast had me hooked from start to finish. Geoff White & Jean Lee do an excellent job at recounting and retracing the events that followed (including an attempt to steal $1bn!). No more spoilers, but this was a great podcast.

Energy Trilemma

For those interested in learning more about the energy industry and it's huge challenges, Energy Trilemma discusses the issues delivering energy that is renewable, affordable and reliable. Each show brings on CEOs and leaders from different sectors and industries, and shares their views on the future of energy. The podcast is short & concise - consisting of only 6 episodes that are approximately 20 mins each. Again, something good to listen to on your morning commute.

TED Talks Daily

Most of you will have probably heard (and watched) TED talks in the past, but this one made the 2022 podcast list as I started listening to the podcasts more. TED Talks Daily are podcasts on a huge range of topics, meaning there is something for everyone. That's what I've liked about it, the fact that I could be listening to open thing and then the next day something completely different. The variety in podcasts is great, often too much for choice!

The Bare Performance Podcast

I first discovered Nick Bare through his YouTube channel and began watching some of his videos. His content interested me as he promotes the 'hybrid athlete' lifestyle - one which essentially tries to debunk the myth that you can't be a bodybuilder and endurance athlete at the same time. His videos show how he manages to maintain both sides, and has released an epic documentary on the 'Leadville 100' that he completed - an ultramarathon that was (yup, you guessed it!) 100 miles in length. Although I haven't listened to many of his podcast episodes, I've enjoyed the ones where Nick has brought on fellow endurance athletes and has discussed their stories - some inspiring stuff!

That wraps up my reading and podcast list for 2022! If you do end up giving any of the above a go, it would be great to hear your thoughts! Happy reading/listening!

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