As the warm summer months roll in, so does the chance to slow down. It’s the perfect time to recharge, reflect, and explore new ideas. At ESI, we’ve asked our team to share the books and podcasts that have recently sparked their curiosity, challenged their thinking, or simply brought them joy.
Whether you’re soaking up the sun, taking a long walk, or just enjoying some much needed down time, these selections are meant to travel with you—through pages or earbuds.
Podcasts
CitizenCast | The Philadelphia Citizen
More than headlines, CitizenCast dives deep into the people, ideas, and solutions shaping Philly’s future. From bold civic innovations to inspiring local changemakers, this podcast brings you smart, hopeful stories that go beyond the noise. If you care about cities, community, and making things better, this one’s worth a listen.
How I Built This with Guy Raz | Wondery
Behind every big brand is a story. Host Guy Raz sits down with founders of some of the world’s most iconic companies to unpack their journeys: the risks, failures, and the breakthroughs. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or just love a good origin story, this podcast will leave you motivated to build something of your own.
Lex Fridman Podcast
Deep, curious, and unhurried, the Lex Fridman Podcast explores big questions with some of the world’s most fascinating minds—from scientists and philosophers to artists and tech leaders. Fridman’s thoughtful, often philosophical style creates space for conversations that go beyond the surface. If you’re into ideas that make you think, this podcast is a must-listen.
Planet Money | NPR
The economy can be confusing; Planet Money makes it make sense. With sharp storytelling and a healthy dose of humor, this podcast breaks down big economic ideas through everyday stories that are anything but boring. Whether it’s why gas prices jump or how Taylor Swift affects ticket sales, you’ll walk away entertained and a little smarter. Perfect for curious minds who like their learning fun and fast-paced.
Books
Pachinko, by Min Jin Lee
A sweeping, unforgettable story about a Korean family fighting to survive and belong in a country that doesn’t want them. Pachinko is packed with love, betrayal, resilience, and hope—everything you want in a great read. Once you start you won’t want to put it down.
Raw Dog: The Naked Truth About Hot Dogs, by Jamie Loftus
Hot dogs are like pizza: every place you visit has a unique take on them. This book looks at the history of the hot dog, and takes the reader on a cross-country road trip, documenting each stop and ranking each dog. It’s a funny, light read that is sure to teach the reader a thing or two about “how the sausage gets made.”
TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves, by Alison Wood Brooks
Ever left a conversation replaying everything you said? TALK dives into why that happens, and how we can get better at connecting with others. Blending psychology, humor, and real-world insights, this book shows how everyday conversations shapes our lives, relationships, and even our happiness. It’s smart, practical, and fun to read. You’ll finish it feeling more confident, curious, and ready to talk.
How the World Ran Out of Everything: Inside the Global Supply Chain, by Peter S. Goodman
The Big Roads: The Untold Story of the Engineers, Visionaries, and Trailblazers Who Created the American Superhighways, by Earl Swift
You’ve driven them a thousand times, but do you know where they came from? The Big Roads tells the fascinating, story of how America’s interstate highways were imagined, built, and transformed the nation. Packed with quirky characters, bold ideas, and surprising twists, this is a road trip through history that’ll change the way you see every exit sign. A must-read for history buffs, road trippers, and anyone who’s ever wondered how we got from here to there.
The Tipping Point, by Malcolm Gladwell
Written in an engaging and entertaining style, The Tipping Point explores how small actions can speak major change. This portrayal of fundamental economic and social concepts playing out in everyday life is well worth checking out.
Sofia Rebelo, Business Development & Marketing Assistant
Sofia Rebelo is a Business Development and Marketing Assistant at ESI. She is currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing at Drexel University.