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What It Takes

Lessons in the Pursuit of Excellence

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What It Takes

By: Stephen A. Schwarzman
Narrated by: Drew Birdseye, Stephen A. Schwarzman
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About this listen

 'This story literally has what it takes: the anecdotes, the insights and, most of all, the values to guide the next generation of entrepreneurs' – Mark Carney

Blackstone chairman, CEO and co-founder Stephen A. Schwarzman shows readers how to build, transform and lead thriving organisations.

Stephen Schwarzman took $400,000 and cofounded Blackstone, the investment firm that manages over $500 billion and invests in hundreds of companies globally. He’s the CEO whose views are sought by heads of state around the world and supports universities with funding for cutting edge research and technology. But behind these accomplishments is a man who has spent his life learning and reflecting on what it takes to achieve excellence, make an impact and live a life of consequence.

Schwarzman’s story is an empowering, entertaining and informative guide for anyone striving for greater personal impact. From deal-making to investing, leadership to entrepreneurship, philanthropy to diplomacy, Schwarzman has lessons for how to achieve success through the relentless pursuit of excellence.

©2019 Stephen A. Schwarzman (P)2019 Simon & Schuster Audio Business Development & Entrepreneurship Entrepreneurship Management Management & Leadership Business Banking Inspiring Thought-Provoking China Capitalism Leadership Taxation Real Estate

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Critic reviews

'The real story of what it takes from a man who could turn dreams into realities.' (Ray Dalio, bestselling author of Principles)

'Steve Schwarzman has lived the American dream: a self-made icon in his field, turned philanthropist, who has long worked with creativity and vision to deepen relationships between individuals and countries. Steve shares the full measure of his personal journey with us in What It Takes - part memoir, part playbook for success in any field. Humble, candid, funny and real, Steve offers wisdom and the gift of much-needed common sense chapter by chapter and experience by experience. A great read!' (John Kerry, Secretary of State 2013-17)
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Truly Great Book! The humility and honesty with which the story is told makes it deeply inspiring for entrepreneurs and business executives

A must-read for entrepreneurs

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Fascinating journey through the life and work of Mr Schwarzman. Delivered above and beyond my expectations , a must read

A WINDOW INTO ANOTHER WORLD

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I enjoyed this book.

A clear high achiever right from his student years, Schwarzman's story was well written and well narrated. Lots of business and a bit of politics, including some very tactful observations about his dealings with Donald Trump!

A principled story of huge success

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I wasn’t that exited to start this book but I ended up finding time in my day to squeeze in an extra 30 mins of listening time here and there because it’s so fascinating and he takes you deep into the story with him.

Such a great book I highly recommend it.

Great story

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Extremely well writing story, that takes you from the bottom to the very top of a life of a successful man and company! A book for all, not just those with interests in finance but willing to battle through there own adversity to thrive in there own career and life. No doubt a return listen very soon

One for all

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I can't express how magical it is reading biographies of people who've made it and who are just like you. you get to see the start, finish, the success, failures, and lessons along the way. this is invaluable, and coming from a billionaire it's an incredible guide on how to imitate and surpass others. thank you.

another fantastic read

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I generally liked it, I wantes it to be more focused in Finance and Investment.

Good book

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Great book, very inspiring character. Schwarzman talks about $40bn dollar deals like they're ten a penny. incredibly inspiring investor with a phenomenal mental endurance. Well worth a read.

Powerful message

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Schwarzman is smart, ambitious and very thoughtful. This book is both a gripping & inspiring read and an amazing insight into the mind of a man who has achieved extraordinary things in his lifetime.

He addresses a number of questions as well such as creating firm culture, hiring and promotions, economic cycles and philanthropy with depth and insight.

Every ambitious young person should read this book

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Really enjoyed this. Learned a lot. Was sad when it ended. Looking forward to applying some of what I’ve learned to my own life.

Loved this!

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