Adam MacDougall's Book Club: What Mad Dog Is Reading

Anyone who knows The Man Shake founder Adam ‘the Mad Dog’ MacDougall will tell you the bloke is a bit of a bookworm.

Despite being a busy entrepreneur, Adam always finds time to sit down and read, which is why he’s often keen to make book recommendations to friends, family and, of course, Man Shakers — particularly if he finds them inspirational!

Check out what Adam currently has sitting on his bookshelf.
 

Co-written by a Harvard professor and talk show superstar, this New York Times bestseller aims to help readers begin a journey towards greater happiness. By explaining cutting-edge science and relaying their personal experiences in an easily relatable way, Winfrey and Brooks will teach readers how to better manage their emotions, how to turn life’s difficulties into growth opportunities, and how to strengthen both existing and new relationships.

Adam says: “I just can’t put this book down or stop talking about it. It really is applicable to anybody at any stage in life.”

In this book, former UK Special Forces soldier and current SAS Australia host Ant Middleton recounts his experiences on the battlefield and discusses his belief that positivity in the face of adversity is the key to future success. According to Middleton, this book will give you the tools needed to become the best possible version of yourself by helping you develop resilience, deal with bullies and live a life with no regrets.

Adam says: “This is a very inspirational and interesting story we can all take the lessons from and apply to daily life.”

Although published in 1946, many of the lessons derived from this book are still relevant today. Austrian psychiatrist Viktor Frankl recounts his experiences as a prisoner in Nazi concentration camps and his observations on the coping methods adopted by his fellow inmates. According to Frankl, it was ultimately the kindest inmates who survived their imprisonment and a positive attitude combined with a desire for meaning and purpose will help us transcend suffering, irrespective of our circumstances.

Adam says: “If you think your life is not going well then this is a great book of inspiration… he [Frankl] realised people can take everything away from you, but they can’t take away your attitude! They say if you don’t have time to read you need to reassess your life! So, when you make the time, this is a must.”

In this book, hedge fund manager and energy trader Bill Perkins contends that people should aim to die with empty bank accounts because they’ve spent all their money living their lives to the fullest. According to Perkins, people generally oversave and consequently miss out on experiences which will ultimately prove more valuable than money stuck in the bank.

Adam says: “Wow! This one will really get you thinking about what real wealth is, and maybe change your current life trajectory. Plus, it's an easy read!”

Nominated by Esquire Magazine as one of the 35 best sports books ever written, Open charts the life and times of eight-time grand slam tennis champion, Andre Agassi. Agassi openly discusses his unusual childhood in Las Vegas, how he hated tennis during his storied career and controversially admits to taking methamphetamine. It has been described as “funny, candid and instructional”.

Adam says: “I do love an autobiography, especially reading about sports stars and athletes. To get to the top takes a unique and highly dedicated person. This one’s a great read.”

Shoe Dog is the memoir of entrepreneur Phil Knight who established the multimillion-dollar Nike empire. Knight discusses how he started off as a 24-year-old selling shoes from the boot of his car, and the trials and tribulations he encountered on his way to amassing a fortune currently valued at $US45 billion. Fellow entrepreneur Bill Gates is a fan, describing Shoe Dog as “an amazing tale, a refreshingly honest reminder of what the path to business success really looks like. It’s a messy, perilous, and chaotic journey, riddled with mistakes, endless struggles, and sacrifice.” One to check out if you’re seeking some inspiration.

Adam says: “I know I’ve recommended it before but once you read the book, the movie ‘Air' is a must-watch.”

In this revolutionary self-help book, James Clear discusses his belief that real changes in people’s habits come from the accumulation of small positive actions rather than monumental changes (think building strength by starting with two push-ups a day rather than immediately beginning with 20). Clear explores cutting-edge psychology and neuroscience to explain the success of building atomic habits, supporting his arguments with inspiring anecdotes involving Olympians, scientists and successful businesspeople.

Adam says: “Atomic Habits by James Clear is a game-changer. As the name suggests, 'Tiny Habits, Remarkable Results' focuses on the one-percenters you can do on a daily basis that change your life forever! It’s an easy read and a book I gift to my friends and family all the time.”

The book written by leadership guru Robin Sharma provides readers with a step-by-step approach to living with greater courage and joy. It tells the fictional tale of a successful lawyer, who has a spiritual crisis and undergoes a life changing journey during which he gives up his lavish lifestyle to become a monk.

Adam says: “This book is a great lesson on life and enjoying the journey, not just the destination. No wonder more than 6 million copies have been sold!'

This book from popular clinical psychologist aims to help everyday mums and dads become the parents they want to be. Dr Becky’s philosophy prioritises connecting with children rather than correcting them and aims to provide parents with practical strategies that help them become confident and effective while dealing with the likes of tantrums, separation anxiety and sibling rivalry.

Adam Says: “It’s very insightful and debunks a lot of the parenting myths! I don’t think I have nailed the parenting thing but like the book says I’m a work in progress. It is applicable to all parents trying to do their best.”

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