Uncommon Excellence

Liam Applegate
  • 4.0 (4)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Uncommon Excellence

Discover the uncommon excellence of history's greatest leaders, ideas, and businesses through weekly podcast episodes, each exploring key insights from a must-read book. "I am a voracious reader... I am convinced that the single most important thing you can do is to read and think. The more you read, the more you know, and the better decisions you make." — Charlie Munger

  1. 5D AGO

    #13 The Greatest Rescue Mission in History Part 3

    After nearly 500 days stranded in Antarctica, Ernest Shackleton launched a desperate journey to save his men — navigating freezing seas in lifeboats, sailing 800 miles in a storm-wracked boat, and crossing uncharted mountains on foot. Against impossible odds, he brought back every single man alive. This is a story of leadership, endurance, and the founder mindset under extreme pressure.

    30 min

  2. APR 7

    #12 Endurance Over Ice: Shackleton's Blueprint Part 2

    In this episode of Uncommon Excellence, we dive into one of history’s greatest examples of leadership under extreme adversity: Ernest Shackleton’s ill-fated Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition. Trapped on an ice floe for months with no clear path forward, Shackleton’s ability to lead, make tough decisions without certainty, and maintain the hope and unity of his crew is a masterclass in resilience. Through Shackleton’s story, we explore the difference between hope and blind optimism, the critical decision-making required when no maps or GPS exist, and the unshakeable loyalty that Shackleton inspired in his crew. Learn how his leadership wasn’t just about keeping them alive—but keeping them together in the face of unimaginable odds.

    24 min

  3. MAR 29

    #11 Ernest Shackleton: By Endurance We Conquer (Part 1)

    In this episode, we dive into the legendary Antarctic expedition of Ernest Shackleton and his ship, Endurance. Trapped in ice and facing impossible odds, Shackleton’s leadership turned disaster into one of history’s greatest survival stories—proving that true conquest comes through resilience, adaptability, and an unbreakable will.

    32 min

  4. MAR 23

    #10 Worldwide Excellence: How Four Seasons Conquered the World (Part 5)

    In this episode, we dive into the story of Isadore Sharp and how his unwavering commitment to excellence turned Four Seasons into a global luxury hospitality icon. From navigating cultural challenges to overcoming economic crises, discover how Sharp’s philosophy of prioritizing service and employee empowerment redefined the meaning of true luxury.

    45 min

  5. MAR 16

    #9 Excellence is the Capacity to Take Pain: The Four Seasons Legacy (Part 4)

    In this episode, we dive into the story of Isadore Sharp and the founding of Four Seasons, exploring how excellence isn’t just about success but the capacity to take pain. From a devastating fire at the Inn on the Park to expanding globally, Sharp's unwavering commitment to his values and his willingness to face adversity shaped the luxury hotel empire. We’ll explore how setbacks, sacrifice, and staying true to an unreasonable standard led Four Seasons to become a global icon in hospitality.

    53 min

  6. MAR 8

    #8 Isadore Sharp (Founder of Four Seasons) Part 3

    In this episode, we dive into the story of Isadore Sharp, founder of Four Seasons Hotels, and how he built a global empire by embedding the Golden Rule into his company’s DNA. Learn how Sharp prioritized quality, service, and employee empowerment to create a culture of excellence—and how you can apply these timeless principles to your own life and career.

    20 min

  7. FEB 28

    #7 Isadore Sharp (Founder of Four Seasons) Part 2

    In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Isadore Sharp and the Four Seasons hotel chain. From walking away from a lucrative partnership with ITT Sheraton to stay true to his vision, to finding strength in personal tragedy and the courage to reinvent his business model, Sharp’s story is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and purpose. Along the way, we draw parallels to iconic leaders like Steve Jobs, Elon Musk, and Michael Jordan, exploring how their shared values of integrity, empathy, and bold reinvention can guide us in our own journeys. Whether you’re a business leader, an entrepreneur, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode is a reminder that the greatest challenges often lead to the most profound transformations.

    27 min

  8. FEB 22

    #6 Isadore Sharp (Founder of Four Seasons Hotel) Part 1

    “The reason for our success is no secret. It comes down to one single principle that transcends time and geography, religion and culture. It’s the Golden Rule – the simple idea that if you treat people well, the way you would like to be treated, they will do the same.”- Isadore Sharp

    42 min
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    Ratings & Reviews

    4
    out of 5
    4 Ratings

    About

    Discover the uncommon excellence of history's greatest leaders, ideas, and businesses through weekly podcast episodes, each exploring key insights from a must-read book. "I am a voracious reader... I am convinced that the single most important thing you can do is to read and think. The more you read, the more you know, and the better decisions you make." — Charlie Munger

    Information

    • Creator
      Liam Applegate
    • Years Active
      2K
    • Episodes
      13
    • Rating
      Clean
    • Copyright
      © 2025 Uncommon Excellence
    • Show Website
      Uncommon Excellence

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