book and podcast reviews

Looking for something to keep you motivated, focused, and moving forward? You’re in the right place.

Books and podcasts can be powerful tools for personal growth — offering fresh perspectives, practical strategies, and the kind of encouragement that sticks with you long after the final page or episode.

Here, you’ll find a hand-picked selection of titles and episodes that align with the Daily6 mindset. Whether you're exploring goal setting, productivity, mindset shifts, or just need a spark of inspiration, each recommendation has something valuable to offer.

These are the resources I come back to again and again — and I hope they’ll support your journey too.

Let’s dive in — and find the next idea, insight, or tool to keep you moving forward.

“Perception is reality, but it may not be actuality.” — William James

I’ve always known that how you think about something can change how you feel about it. But what if it goes further than that? What if your thoughts and expectations actually change your physical body, your health, your energy levels — even how effective a treatment is?

That’s the core idea behind The Expectation Effect by David Robson, a book that genuinely made me pause and rethink how I talk to myself, how I view the world, and how much power I might have — not in a self-help “manifest it” way, but in a grounded, science-backed, quietly radical way.

This isn’t about toxic positivity or pretending everything is fine. It’s about recognising that our expectations influence how our brains and bodies respond to the world — and that, in turn, can subtly but powerfully shape our reality.

One example that stayed with me was a story from Portugal, where a group of teenage girls started experiencing strange physical symptoms — dizziness, rashes, nausea — all after watching an episode of a soap opera where a similar illness appeared. It wasn’t a coincidence. It was what researchers call a mass psychosomatic event. Their brains, expecting danger, created real symptoms. There was no virus — but their bodies responded as if there was.

That’s not to say the symptoms weren’t real — they absolutely were. And that’s the point: what we expect can genuinely shift how our bodies behave.

Another fascinating chapter looks at placebos — not just the classic sugar pill vs. medicine scenario, but how powerful even an open-label placebo can be. That’s when someone knows they’re taking a fake pill — but still gets better. It’s bizarre, but the evidence is there: if your brain believes in the ritual of treatment, it can kickstart the body’s healing processes anyway. It’s as if the expectation of care becomes the care itself.

There’s also insight into ageing — and this was particularly interesting to me. Studies show that people who believe ageing is a process of inevitable decline tend to age faster — physically and mentally. But those who associate ageing with wisdom, experience and possibility actually perform better on memory tests, walk faster, and live longer. Just because they expect to.

And yes, of course, this idea of expectation goes far beyond the body. If you believe that people aren’t interested in what you have to say, you might speak less in meetings. If you expect your diet to be miserable and ineffective, your body may literally work against it. The narrative we hold in our heads — often quietly, often unnoticed — is playing out in our behaviour, our biology, and the results we get.

Reading this made me reflect on the stories I tell myself. About my health. About my work. About who I am and what I’m capable of. Sometimes we stay stuck not because we lack motivation or discipline — but because deep down, we don’t expect change to work. We don’t believe we deserve it. Or we’ve had enough knock-backs that we’ve come to expect more of the same.

What The Expectation Effect offers isn’t a quick fix — it’s an invitation. To notice the loop you’re in. To catch the internal voice that says “this will be hard” or “you’ve failed before.” And to gently ask: “What if it’s different this time?” That simple shift in perspective can create a very different path forward.

For me, this book was a reminder that mindset isn’t everything — but it is something. And sometimes, that something is enough to create a ripple effect.

 After reading Morgan Housel’s The Psychology of Money: Timeless Lessons on Wealth, Greed, and Happiness, I found myself re-evaluating and transforming my financial habits in profound ways. Housel’s exploration of the psychological aspects behind financial decisions resonated deeply with me, leading to actionable changes in how I approach money.

Behaviour Over Knowledge

One of the most impactful takeaways from the book is the idea that financial success is more about behaviour than knowledge. Housel’s assertion that even limited financial knowledge can lead to significant wealth if paired with disciplined behaviour was a revelation for me. I realized that my past financial struggles were not due to a lack of knowledge but rather to inconsistent financial habits. This insight prompted me to focus more on building consistent, disciplined financial behaviours.

The Power of Compounding

Housel’s discussion on the power of compounding was eye-opening. Using the example of Warren Buffett, Housel highlights that long-term investing and patience are crucial. Inspired by this, I began to prioritize long-term investments over short-term gains. I started contributing regularly to my retirement accounts and embraced a buy-and-hold strategy with my investments, recognizing the immense value of time in growing wealth.

The Role of Luck and Risk

The book’s exploration of luck and risk helped me develop a more balanced perspective on my financial journey. Understanding that luck plays a significant role in financial outcomes allowed me to cultivate humility and resilience. It also made me more appreciative of the role of risk management. I diversified my investments and built a financial cushion to better navigate unexpected challenges.

Frugality and Flexibility

Housel’s advocacy for frugality and maintaining flexibility resonated with me deeply. I started living below my means, cutting unnecessary expenses, and creating a budget that allowed for a margin of safety. This not only provided financial security but also gave me the freedom to seize opportunities without financial stress.

Personal Stories and Anecdotes

Housel’s use of personal stories and historical anecdotes made the book engaging and relatable. These narratives illustrated complex financial concepts in an accessible way. The real-life examples helped me visualize the impact of psychological factors on financial decisions, making the lessons more tangible and applicable to my life.

Accessibility

The book’s conversational style made it easy to understand complex psychological and financial concepts. This accessibility allowed me to apply the lessons immediately, regardless of my financial literacy level.

Timeless Wisdom

Housel’s insights are timeless and universally applicable, which means the lessons are relevant regardless of market conditions. This timeless wisdom helped me build a financial foundation that I am confident will endure through various economic cycles.

Engaging Narrative

The engaging narrative and structure of the book made it a page-turner. Each chapter’s self-contained essays allowed me to digest and reflect on individual concepts, which facilitated incremental changes in my financial habits.

Repetition

At times, I found some points repetitive. While this repetition reinforced key lessons, it occasionally felt redundant.

Lack of Detailed Financial Strategies

For those seeking detailed financial strategies, the book might seem lacking. Housel focuses more on mindset and behaviour rather than specific tactics. However, I found this focus to be a strength, as it laid a strong psychological foundation for any financial strategy.

Reading The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel has been a transformative experience. It has prompted me to make significant changes to my money habits, focusing on disciplined behaviour, long-term investing, risk management, and frugality. Housel’s blend of psychology, finance, and engaging storytelling has provided me with valuable insights that have positively influenced my financial journey.

In summary, The Psychology of Money is not just about understanding money; it's about understanding how to think about money. Housel’s timeless wisdom challenges readers to reconsider their financial habits and attitudes, leading to better financial decisions and a more fulfilling life. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their financial well-being through a deeper understanding of the psychological factors at play.

 You can find this book and many more on audible see the link at the top of the page

In a world where talent is often praised and success seems to come Angela Duckworths book "Grit" offers an enlightening perspective. Duckworth challenges the belief that achievement is solely based on abilities and argues that it's the exceptional combination of passion and perseverance which she refers to as "grit " that truly sets high achievers apart.

Summary;

"Grit" is a captivating exploration of what it takes to accomplish long term goals and find fulfillment. Drawing from a range of research including her studies Duckworth presents a compelling argument, for why grit holds more significance than mere talent. Through examining the lives of individuals across domains – from athletes to artists to business leaders – she reveals the common thread that binds them together; an unwavering dedication, towards their aspirations.

Key Takeaways:

1. Passion and Perseverance: Duckworth defines grit as a combination of passion (the unwavering devotion to a particular pursuit) and perseverance (the ability to stick with that pursuit through adversity). She argues that these two qualities, when combined, are the true predictors of success.
2. The Grit Scale: Duckworth introduces the Grit Scale, a self-assessment tool that helps readers evaluate their own levels of grit. This tool can be an eye-opener, revealing where you might need to cultivate more determination and dedication in your life.
3. Effort Counts Twice: One of the book's key insights is that effort counts twice in the pursuit of success. It not only contributes to skill development but also applies that skill toward achieving goals. Duckworth emphasizes the importance of consistent, deliberate practice.
4. The Growth Mindset: Duckworth delves into the concept of the growth mindset—the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and dedication. This mindset shift can be a game-changer for anyone looking to enhance their grit.

What Makes "Grit" Stand Out:Angela Duckworth's writing is not only grounded in solid scientific research but also delivered in an engaging and relatable manner. She weaves real-life stories of gritty individuals, from teachers in tough neighborhoods to spelling bee champions, into the narrative, making the book both informative and inspirational.

The book also offers practical advice on how to cultivate grit in your own life and in the lives of those around you, whether you're a parent, educator, coach, or leader.

Who Should Read "Grit"? "Grit" is a must-read for anyone looking to overcome challenges, achieve long-term goals, and build resilience. Whether you're a student, an entrepreneur, an athlete, or simply someone seeking personal growth, this book provides valuable insights and actionable strategies.

"Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance" is a thought-provoking and motivating exploration of what it truly takes to succeed. Angela Duckworth's compelling research and storytelling make a strong case for the idea that effort and determination are the ultimate keys to unlocking one's full potential. After reading "Grit," you'll not only have a deeper understanding of success but also a newfound commitment to persevering on your own journey toward greatness.

So, are you ready to embrace grit and unlock your potential? Dive into this book, and prepare to be inspired. book reviews

Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself" by Joe Dispenza is a transformative book that delves into the realm of personal development and self-transformation. This book presents a comprehensive guide to understanding the power of the mind, rewiring negative habits, and stepping into a new version of oneself. With a focus on merging science and spirituality, Dispenza offers readers practical insights and actionable steps to break free from limiting patterns and create positive change in their lives.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Power of Neuroplasticity: Dispenza introduces the concept of neuroplasticity – the brain's ability to rewire itself. He explains how habitual thought patterns create neurological pathways that influence our behaviors and outcomes. By recognizing this power, readers can actively engage in reshaping their brain's wiring to align with desired changes.
2. Thoughts and Emotions as the Architects of Reality: The book emphasizes the profound impact of thoughts and emotions on shaping our reality. Dispenza explains how our internal world directly influences our external experiences. Readers are encouraged to become aware of their thought patterns, identify negative emotions, and replace them with positive, constructive ones to manifest desired outcomes.
3. Meditation and Mindfulness Practices: The author introduces meditation and mindfulness practices as tools to break the cycle of habitual thinking. Dispenza provides step-by-step guidance for readers to engage in meditation techniques that facilitate the creation of new neural pathways. Regular practice of these techniques can lead to increased self-awareness and emotional regulation.
4. Quantum Physics and Conscious Creation: Drawing on concepts from quantum physics, Dispenza illustrates how consciousness and intention play a significant role in shaping reality. The book highlights the idea that our intentions and beliefs can influence the quantum field, leading to transformative experiences. Readers learn to harness the power of focused intention to manifest their desires.
5. Letting Go of the Past: Dispenza emphasizes the importance of releasing attachments to past traumas and negative experiences. He guides readers through exercises that enable them to confront and heal their emotional wounds. By letting go of emotional baggage, individuals can create space for positive change and personal growth.
6. Consistency and Commitment: The book underscores the need for consistency and commitment to the process of transformation. Changing deeply ingrained habits and thought patterns requires dedication over time. Dispenza encourages readers to cultivate patience and persistence, as lasting change doesn't occur overnight.

In conclusion, "Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself" is a thought-provoking book that blends scientific insights with spiritual wisdom to guide readers towards a profound shift in their lives. Through actionable takeaways such as harnessing the power of neuroplasticity, understanding the role of thoughts and emotions, practicing meditation, embracing quantum principles, releasing the past, and fostering consistency, Joe Dispenza provides readers with a roadmap to break free from limiting habits and create a more empowered and fulfilling future. This book serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking personal transformation and growth.

Carnegie's book has remained popular and influential for decades, known for its practical advice on interpersonal skills and effective communication. It offers timeless principles and techniques for building positive relationships, winning people over, and exerting influence in various personal and professional contexts.

The book is divided into several sections, each focusing on different aspects of social interactions. It covers topics such as the importance of showing genuine interest in others, listening actively, praising and appreciating others, avoiding criticism, and finding ways to make people feel valued and important. The book also explores strategies for resolving conflicts, handling difficult situations, and becoming a more persuasive communicator.

Carnegie illustrates his points with real-life examples, anecdotes, and practical exercises to reinforce the concepts. The book's central message is that by understanding human nature, treating others with respect, and mastering certain interpersonal skills, individuals can enhance their personal and professional relationships and achieve greater success.

While the book has received widespread acclaim and has been highly influential, it's important to note that some critics argue it may oversimplify certain aspects of human relationships or overlook individual differences. Nevertheless, "How to Win Friends and Influence People" continues to be regarded as a classic self-help book and has helped numerous readers improve their social skills and interpersonal effectiveness.

 Its a self help classic but we thought we would try "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen Covey as it is a highly acclaimed self-help book that has garnered immense popularity since its publication in 1989. The book has received widespread praise for its insightful and practical approach to personal and professional development.

Covey's writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex concepts easy to understand and apply. He uses real-life examples and relatable anecdotes to illustrate his points, making the book relatable and engaging for readers. Covey's ideas are presented in a logical and systematic manner, allowing readers to follow along and grasp the concepts effectively.

One of the key strengths of the book is its emphasis on character development and principles. Covey argues that true effectiveness comes from aligning our actions with timeless principles such as honesty, integrity, and fairness. By focusing on character and principles, he encourages readers to develop a strong foundation that can lead to long-term success and fulfilment.

The seven habits presented in the book provide a comprehensive framework for personal growth and effectiveness. Covey's habits are practical and actionable, allowing readers to implement them in their daily lives. From being proactive and setting goals to fostering collaboration and continuous self-improvement, each habit is explained in detail with relevant examples and exercises to help readers integrate them into their routines.

Another notable aspect of the book is Covey's emphasis on the importance of interpersonal relationships and communication. He highlights the value of empathetic listening and understanding others' perspectives, promoting effective communication and building stronger connections with others.

While the book has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, some readers have found the content to be a bit dense and repetitive at times. Additionally, some may argue that the book leans heavily towards a Western cultural perspective and may not fully address the complexities of diverse cultural contexts.

Overall, "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" is a highly influential book that has resonated with millions of readers worldwide. Its timeless principles and practical advice make it a valuable resource for anyone seeking personal growth, improved productivity, and enhanced relationships. Whether you're a student, professional, or simply looking to enhance your personal effectiveness, this book offers valuable insights and strategies that can positively impact various areas of your life.

 "Atomic Habits" by James Clear is an insightful and practical book that offers a fresh perspective on habit formation. Clear presents the idea that making small, incremental changes can lead to remarkable transformations over time. The book provides actionable strategies, backed by scientific research, to help readers understand the mechanics of habits and implement positive changes in their lives.

One of the strengths of "Atomic Habits" is Clear's ability to break down complex concepts into simple and understandable terms. He introduces the concept of the habit loop—cue, craving, response, reward—and explains how habits are formed and reinforced through this loop. By understanding the psychology behind habits, readers can gain greater control over their behaviours.

The book offers practical techniques for habit formation, such as habit stacking, which involves linking a new habit to an existing one. Clear also emphasizes the importance of environment design, suggesting that modifying your surroundings can make desired habits more convenient and attractive.

Clear's emphasis on identity-based habits is another standout aspect of the book. He encourages readers to shift their self-image and align their habits with the identity they want to embody. By viewing themselves as the type of person who already engages in the desired habits, individuals can create lasting behaviour change.

Another valuable aspect of "Atomic Habits" is Clear's emphasis on tracking and measuring habits. He emphasizes the importance of keeping a record of progress, as it provides feedback and accountability. Clear provides practical suggestions for tracking habits and offers insights into how to stay motivated and make adjustments along the way.

Overall, "Atomic Habits" is a highly recommended book for anyone looking to understand the science of habit formation and create positive changes in their lives. Clear's writing style is engaging, and the book is filled with practical advice and actionable strategies. By following the principles outlined in "Atomic Habits," readers can develop the tools and mindset needed to build and sustain positive habits that lead to long-term success.