BOOK 2

The Third Door illustrates how some of the most successful individuals took unconventional routes to launch their careers. Although his parents hoped he’d become a doctor, Alex Banayan, a former USC alum, set out on a five-year pursuit to interview industry champions like Bill Gates, Warren Buffet, Larry King and more. Yet, Banayan needed to fund his quest. To do so, he aimed to “hack” The Price is Right. By differentiating himself from other potential contestants enough, he was selected to compete then win the sailboat that he would sell for $16,000.

Banayan’s persistence is admirable. To stray away from parents’ expectations is difficult in itself. The author illustrates the hustle necessary to connect with these VIPs. Banayan waited in a bathroom to talk to author and investor, Tim Ferris. He hacked Warren Buffet’s shareholder meeting and even chases Larry King through a grocery store. Banayan highlights the importance of taking risks, sending cold emails, building and using your network. All of which I could improve. 


When reading about Bill Gates, Banayan realized there wasn’t a book that explained how these incredible people reached turned their lives around and sparked their careers. Because of this, he set out to write his own book. He explains how he spent two years trying to connect with Lady Gaga to learn how she went from waiting tables in a restaurant to securing a record deal. While the author’s adventure is motivating on its own, the individual interviews are incredibly fascinating.

Comments

  1. AngadsaysFebruary 3, 2019 at 6:38 PM

    Hey there,
    I certainly agree with the point you make on the importance of networking and risk-taking. I had the opportunity to meet Alex last year and he's definitely a very smart individual. At one point of time, he also shared the distinction of being one of the youngest Venture Capitalists in America,

    Best,
    Angad Singh

    ReplyDelete
  2. EthSBanFebruary 3, 2019 at 9:06 PM

    It makes me happy that you were able to enjoy this book and take away what Alex wanted all his readers to experience. I'm sure it would make him extremely happy if he saw that a student at USC was writing about his book for a class blog, which proves the message from his book, that anybody can get through the third door.

    -Ethan

    ReplyDelete
  3. ghaliFebruary 3, 2019 at 11:53 PM

    This book sounds pretty interesting, and enriching too. Having the courage to do something totally different from what people expect from you, and being successful, is a rare quality. I hope you learned a lot from the interviews and from the Alex's story.

    Ghali

    ReplyDelete
  4. AnonymousFebruary 4, 2019 at 12:00 AM

    As someone who hopes to one day be an entrepreneur, I really appreciated this post and book. I have taken many classes in this field and the theme of courage seems to be consistent across all of them. Seems to be the same with this book. Interesting to hear tangible stories from individuals so recognized for their success today. Thank you for sharing.

    Davis

    ReplyDelete
  5. SandyFebruary 4, 2019 at 12:03 AM

    That man truly shows perseverance. I think when people describe the word "grit", the image of him will pop up in my head.

    I'm curious as to how you discovered his book. And also, why did you choose to read about him?

    ReplyDelete
  6. James Yun BlogFebruary 4, 2019 at 12:42 AM

    This book seems like a great read. I like to read about successful people so this book would be one that I would be highly interested in reading about. I believe there is a lot you can learn from this book and many lessons you can takeaway from these successful people. I hope you learn a lot and find this book helpful!

    ReplyDelete
  7. AnonymousFebruary 4, 2019 at 6:42 PM

    What an interesting read! We got to hear a snapshot of the book in class but your post does it far more justice. I love reading about those who buck the system or go about reaching their goals through unconventional means. These men and women teach and inspire me to never give up when reaching a wall, but instead to get to the other side by any means necessary, whether that means going under, over, or around it. Definitely adding this to my reading list!

    -Grant Nunley

    ReplyDelete

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