Mindful Monday / Issue #506
Why You Should Open More Yellow Doors
February 2, 2026 · By Ryan Hawk, host of The Learning Leader Show
Welcome to Mindful Monday!
Check out the conversation I had with one of my literary heroes, Dan Coyle, in Cleveland. This is the best one we’ve ever recorded together. Parker Conrad shared a super interesting story about Kleiner Perkins on the brink of failure… There’s a helpful essay from Brad Stulberg/Steve Magness about goals… A deep dive into Super Bowl commercials (and whether it’s worth paying for a spot). And some wise words from George Saunders.
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#673: Daniel Coyle – The Key to Human Flourishing
I met up with Dan Coyle in Cleveland to record this one in person. It was MUCH better because we were together. Dan is the author of The Culture Code. One of the best books ever written on how to build a world-class team. His latest book is called Flourish. I think you’ll enjoy it. During this conversation, we talked about Opening Yellow Doors, Mastering Your Craft, World-Class Storytelling Techniques, Great Questions to Ask, Building Your Community, The Power of Curiosity, and How to Flourish in Life. You can WATCH our conversation on YouTube.
A Firm on The Brink…
Independently and immediately, a flood of people reached the same conclusion: This had to be a mistake. It was the summer of 2017, and as word spread that Mamoon Hamid was joining venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins, some people wondered if it was a joke, or “fake news.” And they didn’t hold back. “I got calls from friends in the venture business, other GPs [general partners], asking: ‘Are you sure this is happening? Is this real?’” Hamid recounts. “People kept asking: ‘What are you doing?’” Here’s the story of Kleiner Perkins being written off… And what they did to come back.
Everything You Need To Know About Goals
Goals are like mountaintops. They are important insofar as they provide definition and direction for our journeys. They serve as targets, offering a wellspring of motivation. They keep us focused and prevent us from aimlessly wandering. Yet nearly all of our growth, development, and meaning occur not at the point of accomplishing a goal but during its pursuit. CLICK HERE to read more.
Deep Dive on the Business of Super Bowl Ads
A fascinating look (written by the CEO) at the economics of running a Super Bowl Ad. Is it worth it? CLICK HERE to read it.
Wise Words
“There’s a vast underground network for goodness at work in this world—a web of people who’ve put reading at the center of their lives because they know from experience that reading makes them more expansive, generous people…” — George Saunders, A Swim in a Pond in The Rain
