Break out of the echo chamber

So often around dinner tables and the braai we swap details of what we are watching on Netflix or DSTV. You must watch....but what about what you are reading or listening to?

In a world where the echo-chamber, created by the algorithms that run social media, search engines and streaming services, is a real thing, it's always good to break out of what you keep being fed – which is more of the same.

Watching, reading about, and learning from disparate and sometimes unrelated fields gets you out of a rut, broadens your knowledge, and challenges your thinking.

What I'm reading

I often have a number of non-fiction books on the go at the same time. Here's what's on my desk and bedside table that you may find enlightening:

• After the Fires written by Nozipho Tshabalala
• The Signs by Dr Tara Swart
• Wicked Smart by Douglas Kruger, CSP
• Survive the AI Apocolypse by Bronwyn Williams and Sharon Pearce

Nozi and I worked together five times earlier this year on an Investec roadshow. She is one of the most accomplished conversation strategists I have worked with. This is her personal story and it's simply 'unputdownable'. After the Fires has given me incredible insights into what it takes to be a high performing, excellence-driven, successful black woman who was born into political unrest in the 80s. This memoir traverses the unfolding of her personal and professional life against the backdrop of a politically evolving South Africa.  

I am a fan of neuroscientist, Dr Tara Swart’s work, and picked up her latest book The Signs after listening to her being interviewed by Steven Bartlett on his podcast, Diary of a CEO, this week. It’s all about the new science of how to trust your instincts as a form of intelligence and guiding wisdom. It's written just the ways she speaks. The Signs is informed by her personal experience of losing her husband very suddenly to illness four years ago, and is backed by science. It changed the way she viewed the world and it may change your perceptions too.

Douglas Kruger is both a friend and a colleague and he is a mean writing and speaking machine. His latest business book, Wicked Smart, focuses on amazing breakthroughs in behavioural economics. What if you could gather all the best ones in one place? This is an entire book filled with 'smart-cuts' versus shortcuts. In his trademark style Doug is a thorough researcher, brilliant storyteller and knows how to pack big insights into concise soundbites. If you want to know how to do just about everything better, you will find the answer in this 'dip in anywhere' type of book. 

You would expect this book to be about  the hows and whats of AI but its focus is  more on value creation and solutionist thinking. The authors assert that AI is a leveller and it's making us more average, creating mediocrity. AI has given us all access to tools which have raised the floor rather than raising the ceiling, for example, now everyone can appear to be able to write well and be smart. You should be less concerned about your job title  and more concerned about the value you are adding which keeps you in the job. This book is a call to action to live on the flipside of fear of the future. 

What I'm listening to

Podcasts provide a quick and easy way of expanding your knowledge and exposing yourself to interesting and different, or new information and perspectives.

Some of my favourites include:

• Diary of a CEO
• Modern Wisdom
• Mel Robbins
• Huberman Lab
• First Time Facilitator
• The Jefferson Fisher Podcast

What I'm watching

TV for me is really more about chilling and relaxing than anything else. Its largely for entertainment purposes. Here are some of my recent favourites.

Watching:

• Landman
• Yellowstone
• The Pitt
• Masterchef
• Dessert Masterchef
• Treason
• Hostage
• Parenthood

Try listening to, reading or watching something different to your usual norm. Break out of the echo-chamber of sameness. Expand your thinking and challenge the algorithm and your perspective.

Make today amazing!

"I had the absolute privilege of experiencing Nikki as a keynote speaker, and I can confidently say she is one of the most captivating voices I’ve encountered on stage.

Nikki has an extraordinary ability to connect with her audience, blending storytelling, insight, and inspiration in a way that not only keeps you engaged but also leaves you with practical takeaways you can immediately apply. She speaks with authenticity, authority, and warmth, making complex topics accessible and compelling. 

Whether she is addressing business leaders, industry professionals, or diverse audiences, Nikki brings a unique energy that elevates the room and challenges people to think differently. She doesn’t just deliver a message; she creates an experience. 

I highly recommend Nikki for any organisation seeking a powerful, engaging, and transformative keynote speaker who will leave a lasting impact on every attendee."

Nomthi Mnisi, MBA, BA (Drama), PD(SA) , Marketing Communications and Events Manager, The South African Medical Technology Industry Association (SAMED)