Clive's Great Reads

Clive's Great Reads

By Clive LeonardHealth & FitnessMental HealthEducationSelf-ImprovementHow To
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Clive's Great Reads episodes

  • The 1 Book Millions Method by Mike Shreeve
    Mike Shreeve's The One Book Millions Method outlines a system for building a highly profitable online business using a short book as a core marketing asset. The book guides readers through creating a short, impactful book, focusing on solving a specific problem for a niche audience. This book acts as a lead magnet, pre-qualifying prospects before higher-priced offers are presented. The method emphasizes simplicity, automation, and building trust with potential clients to achieve significant revenue. The author shares case studies and offers various support options for implementing the system.

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    23 min
  • Unlocking the Power of Meditation by Craig Hamilton

    In the book "Unlocking the Power of Meditation," Craig Hamilton argues that traditional meditation techniques, while beneficial, are often misunderstood and can be ineffective in achieving true enlightenment. He proposes a new approach called "direct awakening," which involves practicing specific inner postures and ways of being to access awakened consciousness directly. In the book, he outlines people's common meditation mistakes and how to avoid them, while his audio lecture explores the core principles of direct awakening.


    The Practice of Direct Awakening is described as a new approach to meditation that differs significantly from traditional techniques. Here are some key distinctions:

    • Direct Access to Awakened Consciousness: The core principle of the Practice of Direct Awakening is the ability to directly access and experience awakened consciousness in the present moment. Traditional meditation methods often focus on practices like mantra repetition, breathwork, or cultivating mindfulness, which are seen as preparatory steps toward an eventual awakening experience that may or may not occur in the future. Direct Awakening suggests that enlightenment is not a future goal but an already existing reality that can be accessed now.
    • Practicing "Being Awake": The emphasis is on practicing the qualities and attributes of awakened consciousness itself, rather than engaging in practices designed to induce a future awakening. This involves embodying the natural tendencies of awakened awareness such as fluidity, flexibility, openness, ease, non-attachment to thoughts and feelings, and non-reactivity to circumstances. Traditional practices often center around techniques to quiet the mind, control thoughts, or achieve specific meditative states [3], which are seen as indirect paths to awakening.
    • Shifting the Goal to the Present Moment: Direct Awakening encourages practitioners to abandon the future-oriented mindset common in traditional meditation where the goal is to achieve a state of enlightenment sometime in the future [7, 8]. It argues that such a perspective can hinder progress as awakening can only be experienced in the present moment. The practice focuses on cultivating an enlightened way of being right now instead of striving toward a future ideal.
    • Embracing All Experiences: Direct Awakening proponents suggest that no experience, whether it be thoughts, feelings, or circumstances, is an obstacle to enlightenment. The practice encourages embracing all experiences without resistance or judgment, recognizing that awakened consciousness is not dependent on achieving a specific mental or emotional state. This contrasts with traditional approaches that often focus on achieving a quiet mind or eliminating negative thoughts and emotions.
    • Not Limited to a Single Technique: While traditional meditation often involves adhering to a specific technique for extended periods, the Practice of Direct Awakening emphasizes the importance of incorporating a variety of approaches to keep the practice fresh and avoid stagnation. This allows practitioners to explore different gateways into awakened awareness and develop a broader understanding of its multifaceted nature.

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    19 min
  • Acres of Diamonds by Russell Conwell
    Acres of Diamonds is a speech given by Russell H. Conwell, an influential American lecturer and author. The speech, originally delivered in the late 19th century, tells the story of Ali Hafed, a Persian farmer who becomes convinced that his farm is worthless and sets off in search of diamonds, only to die in poverty. Meanwhile, the man who bought his farm discovers a diamond mine in his garden, leading to the moral that wealth and opportunity can be found in one's surroundings rather than through the pursuit of elusive dreams elsewhere. The excerpt also includes an introduction by John Wanamaker, a prominent American businessman who was a close friend of Conwell, praising the speech and highlighting its timeless message of self-reliance and opportunity.

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    15 min
  • The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace Wattles

    The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace Wattles, a classic from 1910, argues that getting rich is a science, a matter of understanding and applying certain universal laws. Wattles asserts that we all have the potential to become rich and that the key lies in adopting a creative mindset. He stresses the importance of forming a clear vision of what we want, holding onto it with unwavering faith, and acting in a way that aligns with this vision. This involves working diligently and efficiently, giving more in-use value than we take in cash value, and radiating the impression of increase to others. Wattles also cautions against seeking power over others, emphasizing the importance of a harmonious and cooperative approach. The book is a practical guide that aims to equip individuals with the knowledge and tools to achieve financial abundance.


    The Science of Getting Rich and The Secret share a core concept: the power of thought to shape reality. Wattles' book, published in 1910, predates The Secret and is even cited as inspiration for the film. Both works emphasize the importance of belief, visualization, and gratitude in achieving success and attracting what one desires.

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    21 min
  • Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
    Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill explores the fundamental principles that lead to financial success. Hill, inspired by the teachings of Andrew Carnegie, argues that riches begin in the mind with a burning desire, which, when paired with faith and organized planning, can be transformed into tangible wealth. The text elaborates on various aspects of achieving success, including the importance of imagination, self-discipline, and overcoming fears. Hill provides real-life examples of successful individuals like Henry Ford and Charles M. Schwab to illustrate his principles, demonstrating how they used their minds to accumulate vast fortunes. He emphasizes the critical role of the "Master Mind" - a collaborative effort of individuals with diverse skills and knowledge – in achieving success. Hill concludes by emphasizing the crucial role of the sixth sense, or creative imagination, as the key to unlocking the temple of wisdom and tapping into Infinite Intelligence, a concept essential for both personal and financial growth.

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    20 min
  • A Sense of Purpose by Stephen Covey
    This book, A Sense of Purpose by Stephen R. Covey, guides readers in the process of creating a Personal Mission Statement. It argues that having a clearly defined purpose in life gives greater direction and empowers individuals to lead their lives rather than merely reacting to them. The book breaks down the process of writing a mission statement into several stages, including discovering one’s best self, uncovering personal values, organizing thoughts, drafting and reviewing the mission statement, and finally committing to living it. The book incorporates motivational quotes from various influential figures throughout history, examples of personal mission statements from different individuals, and a list of recommended readings for further inspiration.

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    21 min
  • The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

    The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey explores the concept of effectiveness and personal growth. Covey argues that true effectiveness stems from a principle-centered approach rather than a personality-driven one. The book outlines seven habits that contribute to personal and interpersonal effectiveness, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, proactivity, setting priorities, and building strong relationships based on empathy and win-win solutions. Covey highlights the significance of developing a personal mission statement and effectively managing time, encouraging readers to shift their focus from urgent tasks to important ones, and promoting a paradigm shift from dependence to interdependence.


    Covey explains that a principle-centered paradigm is essential to living an effective life. He compares principles to a lighthouse in the fog, guiding a ship to safety. Principles are natural laws that are unchanging and unbreakable, serving as a foundation for security, guidance, wisdom, and power.


    People often operate based on paradigms centered around things like their spouse, family, money, work, possessions, pleasure, friends/enemies, church, or even themselves. However, all of these centers are flawed because they are based on external factors that are subject to change. For example, someone who is spouse-centered will base their security and sense of self-worth on how their spouse treats them, leaving them vulnerable to changes in the relationship.


    In contrast, a principle-centered paradigm provides a solid, unchanging core. This center empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of life with a sense of inner peace and security, knowing that principles are constant, regardless of external circumstances. This leads to:


    • Security: Knowing that correct principles do not change provides a stable foundation for facing life's challenges.
    • Guidance: Principles act as a compass, helping individuals to make decisions aligned with their values and see the bigger picture.
    • Wisdom: Living by principles provides a true understanding of the world and the ability to make sound judgments.
    • Power: A principle-centered individual possesses the power of self-awareness and independent will, enabling them to act effectively and interdependently.


    Covey emphasizes that a principle-centered paradigm is not about techniques or quick fixes but rather a fundamental shift in thinking. This shift requires examining and aligning one's paradigms with correct principles, which leads to a more accurate perception of the world and the ability to make effective decisions in all areas of life.

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    13 min
  • How to IKIGAI by Tim Tamashiro

    How to Ikigai by Tim Tamashiro, explores the Japanese concept of Ikigai, which translates to "life’s worth" and describes finding your reason for getting out of bed every morning. Tamashiro uses anecdotes and examples to explain the importance of doing what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be rewarded for. He explores the significance of mindfulness, job crafting, and taking an Ikigap year, a year dedicated to personal growth and exploring new passions. The book uses the metaphor of karate belts to illustrate how Ikigai is a journey of self-discovery with multiple stages. Tamashiro encourages the reader to discover their own Ikigai through introspection, meditation, and experimenting with different passions.


    The concept of Ikigai, as presented in the book "How to Ikigai", contrasts sharply with traditional Western views on purpose and fulfillment. While Western societies often equate purpose with career success and financial stability, Ikigai offers a more holistic and intrinsic approach, focusing on finding joy and meaning in everyday life.

    • Western societies typically emphasize a linear path to success: Get a good education, secure a stable job, work hard to climb the corporate ladder, and eventually achieve financial security, which is seen as the key to happiness and fulfillment. This approach prioritizes external markers of success and often delays personal gratification until retirement.
    • Ikigai, originating from Okinawa, Japan, presents a contrasting perspective: It centers on the idea of "life's worth" and emphasizes finding joy and purpose in everyday activities. Ikigai is not about achieving a specific goal or reaching a certain financial milestone; it's about living a life filled with purpose and meaning, starting today.


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    11 min
  • The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari by Robin Sharma
    Robin Sharma’s book, The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, is a self-help novel presented as a fable. The book tells the story of Julian Mantle, a successful lawyer who experiences burnout and embarks on a journey to find meaning in his life. He travels to India, where he encounters a wise sage who teaches him valuable lessons about happiness, success and self-mastery. These lessons are presented as a series of ten rituals for radiant living: the Ritual of Solitude, the Ritual of Abundant Knowledge, the Ritual of Early Awakening, the Ritual of Personal Reflection, the Ritual of Willpower, the Ritual of Purpose, the Ritual of Gratitude, the Ritual of Living in the Now, the Ritual of Live Nourishment, and the Ritual of Opposition Thinking. Through these rituals, the book explores themes of personal development, mindfulness, self-discipline and finding meaning in life.

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    22 min
  • The Art of Being Lazy by James Ferris
    "The Art of Being Lazy" by James Ferris is a guide to productive laziness, arguing that strategic inactivity and efficient methods can lead to greater success, well-being, and fulfilment. It challenges conventional notions of hard work, encouraging readers to embrace rest, simplify their lives, and focus on what truly matters. Ferris explores various techniques and philosophies from around the world, including the Japanese concepts of 'nagomi', 'Ma', and 'wabi-sabi' and the Greek idea of 'schole', demonstrating how embracing laziness can lead to a more balanced, intentional, and satisfying life.

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    22 min

About Clive's Great Reads

From the publisher's feed

This podcast was created to easily consume and share overviews and insights from some of the most inspirational books in the personal development and self-growth space. I refer to these as my…