Bethany McLean is one of the world’s most prominent financial and investigative journalists. In this episode, we revisit her masterpiece on Enron, the Wall Street darling that suddenly imploded in 2001. We focus on timeless insights and discuss charismatic leaders, breakpoints, math, narratives, lessons from a day with Buffett, and much more.

For more info about the podcast, go to the episode page.

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Episode Chapters

(00:00) Intro to Bethany McLean

(05:50) Intro to Enron and The Smartest Guys in the Room

(08:42) Enron vs Tesla

(10:39) The characters at Enron

(13:26) From math to investigative journalism

(17:49) Breakpoints of frauds and market excesses

(24:55) Lessons from Bethany’s day with Buffett

(28:06) Investigative work and story-telling

(35:30) Carol Loomis, the goddess of Fortune

(37:24 Leader qualities and open-mindedness

(46:30) Bethany’s next book

(47:57) Reading habits and book recommendations

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Articles Mentioned

20 Lessons from Enron - Niklas Sävås (2019): http://www.investingbythebooks.com/columns/2019/8/19/twenty-lessons-from-enron

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Books Mentioned

The Smartest Guys in the Room - Bethany McLean & Peter Elkind (2003)
The Revolt of the Public and the Crisis of Authority - Martin Gurri (2014)
The Aristocracy of Talent - Adrian Wooldridge (2021)
Dune books - Frank Herbert

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Movies Mentioned

The Smartest Guys in the Room - Alex Gibney (2005)

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More on Bethany McLean

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bethanymac12

Podcast, "Capitalisn’t": https://www.chicagobooth.edu/review/capitalisnt

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What is Investing by the Books?

Investing by the Books was founded by Henrik Andersson, Bo Börtemark, Mats Larsson and Michael Persson. It has published hundreds of book reviews in the past 10 years and operates on a non-profit basis.

Visit the website: http://www.investingbythebooks.com/

Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Investbythebook

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What is Redeye?

Redeye is a research-centered boutique investment bank from Stockholm. Founded in 1999, Redeye cultivates investors through timeless knowledge, a humble attitude, and a strong focus on quality.

Visit the website: https://www.redeye.se/

Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Redeye_

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Disclaimer

Notice that the content in this podcast is not, and shall not be construed as investment advice. This information is meant to be informative and for general purposes only. For full disclaimer, visit Redeye.se

#12 Bethany McLean: The Smartest Guys in the Room

Investing by the Books