The one question Scott Chacon never stops asking is, ‘why?’ It’s this insatiable sense of curiosity that led him to become a certified sommelier, a karaoke expert, and even run for office. It also led him to start Github, which he ended up selling to Microsoft for $7B.

Whenever Dana Fox has encountered a problem or obstacle, she hears the words of her parents; ‘figure it out’. Not only has she figured out a successful career in Hollywood as a screenwriter but she’s also figured out the best way to be a boss, is to be yourself.

Richie Hawtin has been at the forefront of electronic music for the last 30 years. His relentless spirit of innovation has led him to pioneer new ways to connect with his audience whilst on stage. Embracing the unknown and rejecting the status quo is what drives him to create powerful new ideas and live performance experiences.

Tim Raue’s Prussian blue chef’s uniform isn’t just for show. It radically transforms the way he thinks, talks, and works. Tim’s relentless discipline is what helped take him from a dangerous street gang to Germany’s top Michelin-stared chef.

Cedric Dumont makes a living from jumping out of planes and off of buildings. In fact, he’s one of the top extreme athletes in the world. If you think Cedric is fearless, you’d be wrong. Instead, it’s because he’s learned to embrace his fear and harness its potential for growth that’s made him the success that is today.

The first woman to land on the moon may well be NASA astronaut Jeanette Epps. But Jeanette’s journey to the program that will see humans live on the moon by 2024 has not been one without difficulty and setbacks. The key to her getting to where she is today (and one day the moon) is simple: perseverance.

State of Mind is a podcast series that tells the intimate stories of the world's best authors, entrepreneurs, athletes, and artists, through an immersive audio experience. Hosted by Blinkist's co-founder Niklas Jansen. Season 2 out on November 18th.

João de Macedo is a big wave surfer. After decades riding the biggest, most dangerous waves he faced a terrible slump. Mired in negative self-talk, his career almost came to a halt. Learn how 42 year-old João persevered and stayed on top, despite fundamental changes in his sport. To get a free 7-day trial and 25% off, visit blinkist.com/som

Leading the conservative European country of Luxembourg isn't easy. Now imagine you're Xavier Bettel—one of the world's first openly gay Prime Ministers. But he's already on his second term, proving that Bettel's political breath of fresh air is what "modern leadership" can be. To get a free 7-day trial and 25% off, visit blinkist.com/som

Porn director Erika Lust became one of 2019's 100 Most Influential Women by making adult films into a space for dialogue on gender roles and equality on both sides of the camera. Here's how she elevated porn through cinematography and storytelling, while reviving the female gaze. To get a free 7-day trial and 25% off, visit blinkist.com/som

Heading up marketing for American Apparel, Ryan Holiday had—at age 25—success most only dream of. Now 32, he's a best-selling author influencing Silicon Valley moguls and NFL stars. Learn how he found his calling, juggled 2 careers, and let go of idealized success for happiness. To get a free 7-day trial and 25% off, visit blinkist.com/som