Ask Rahul! Books I Read
Books I Read is a reflective podcast where chef and creator Rahul Shrivastava talks through the books that shape his thinking about work, life, food, leadership and creativity. Each episode focuses on one book and one big idea, moving from a quick overview into the stories, lines and questions that stayed with him.
This is not a summary podcast. Instead, Rahul connects each book to real decisions, habits and challenges—from building a career in food and media, to parenting, productivity and personal growth—so listeners can decide whether to read it and how to apply its ideas. Whether you are a busy professional, a student, or a curious reader looking for your next meaningful read, Books I Read gives you calm conversation, clear takeaways and a gentle push to think deeper.
Episodes
10 episodes
9. Book | Radical Candor | Kim Scott
Episode Title: Radical Candor – How to Be Honest Without Being BrutalEpisode Description:How many times have you held back feedback because you did not want to hurt someone's feelings? Or watched a leader tear someon...
8. Book | Drive | Daniel Pink
Episode Description — Drive by Daniel PinkEpisode Title: Drive – The Surprising Truth About What Actually Motivates Your TeamEpisode Description:Have you ever given your team a bonus, a reward, or an in...
7. Book | The Coaching Habit | Michael Bungay Stanier
Episode DescriptionThe Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier — Books I Read with RahulIf you have ever felt like you are doing everyone else's thinking for them, this episode is for you.In this episode of Books I ...
6. Book | Never Split the Difference | Chris Voss,
What if the same techniques used to talk armed kidnappers into releasing hostages could help you close a better vendor deal, handle a tough salary conversation, or stop a star employee from walking out the door?In this episode of Boo...
5. Book | Atomic Habits | James Clear.
Welcome to Atomic Habit Podcast (Books I Read) by Rahul — your go-to podcast for building powerful habits and creating meaningful change through small, consistent actions. Each episode breaks down simple strategies, real-life insi...
a) Interview | J.A. Merkel | Multiverses, Redemption & The Fourth Portal
Episode description: In this episode, we sit down with fantasy and science fiction author J.A. Merkel, a storyteller shaped by a childhood on a farm, a deep connection to nature, and a lifelong love of adventure. We explore how those e...
4. Book | Crucial Conversations | Kerry Patterson
In this episode, Rahul dives into the idea of Crucial Conversations—those high-stakes moments where emotions run strong, opinions differ, and the outcome truly matters. These are the conversations that can shape relations...
3. Book | Influence The Phycology of Persuasion | Rober B Cialdini
Why do some people get an effortless “yes” – from guests, teams, or even senior leadership – while others keep pushing and still hear “no”? Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini is the modern classic that explains ...
2. Book | Tata Log | Harish Bhat
Core ThemesThe book emphasizes Tata’s DNA through real cases, such as navigating recessions without compromising goals and acquisitions like Tetley, while admitting imperfections like the Tata Finance scandal. Stories showcase innovation, l...
1. Book | How Leaders Learn | David Novak
How Leaders Lead with David Novak” features weekly interviews with iconic figures from business, sports, and entertainment. Novak, co-founder and former CEO of Yum! Brands (Pizza Hut, KFC, Taco Bell), draws on his experience scaling global comp...