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2026 Community Recommendations ​

Community-curated recommendations for quotes, articles, podcasts, videos, and books that moved us forward in 2025. These are resources the IrregularChat community found valuable and recommends for 2026.

Contribute: Have something that changed your perspective this year? Share it in the community or submit a PR to add it here.

What Should I Read/Watch/Listen To? ​

Not sure where to start? Follow the flowchart below to find your next recommendation!

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Quick Reference by Topic ​

I want to understand...Start hereTime
AI & the hypeAI Piledrive Article15 min
China/US relationsThe Avoidable WarBook
Why geography drives conflictPrisoners of GeographyBook
Why government IT failsRecoding AmericaBook
Modern warfare realityUkraine's Counteroffensive2 hrs
Leadership under fireThe Mission, the Men, and MeBook
The soldier's mindsetGeneral Advice5 min
Why we're so dividedThe Righteous MindBook
WWI & fantasy literatureThe War for Middle EarthBook
Sleep scienceWhy We SleepBook
Hacker culture originsPhrack & Hacker Manifesto30 min
Security advice mythsStop Hacklore!10 min
How history repeatsThe Fourth TurningBook
Starting a business/orgHow I Built ThisPodcast
Drone warfare insightsRussian Drone Developer Interview1 hr
Practical life adviceGeneral AdviceBrowse

By Mood ​

"I want something inspiring"
"I want something disturbing (in a good way)"
"I want to learn something practical"
"I want to understand the big picture"
"I want to start something"

Whether it's a business, working group, or new organization:

"I don't know what I don't know"

Perfect. Here's what the community says will blow your mind:

Quotes ​

Looking for practical advice?

See General Advice for community wisdom on tools, career, finances, health, learning, and more.

"Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of things which matter least." — Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

"Perfection is achieved not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away." — Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

"Like a burlesque comedian, I'm abnormally fond of that action, which creates movement." — e.e. cummings

Recommended by Bobby Kava

"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." — Winston Churchill

Recommended by Casey H

"You have not because you ask not." — James 4:2

"In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." — Martin Luther King Jr.

"WARNING: The fastest way to kill something special is to compare it to something else." — @growwithcolby

"You have enemies? Good. That means you've stood up for something, sometime in your life." — Winston Churchill

"If you love something enough, it will reveal itself to you." — George Washington Carver

Curated Reading Lists ​

External reading lists from authoritative sources—regularly updated collections worth bookmarking.

CSA Professional Reading List ​

Source: Army University Press | Updated: Monthly

The Chief of Staff of the Army publishes a monthly recommended articles list covering strategy, leadership, military history, and current affairs. A curated selection of thought-provoking pieces from professional journals, think tanks, and news outlets.

Benjamin Franklin's 13 Virtues ​

Source: Franklin's Autobiography (1791) | Type: Personal Development Framework

At age 20, Benjamin Franklin created a systematic approach to moral perfection—a weekly practice of focusing on one virtue at a time. He tracked his progress in a small book, cycling through all 13 virtues every quarter. Franklin credited this system for much of his success and happiness.

The 13 Virtues:

  1. Temperance — Eat not to dullness; drink not to elevation
  2. Silence — Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself; avoid trifling conversation
  3. Order — Let all your things have their places; let each part of your business have its time
  4. Resolution — Resolve to perform what you ought; perform without fail what you resolve
  5. Frugality — Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself; waste nothing
  6. Industry — Lose no time; be always employed in something useful; cut off unnecessary actions
  7. Sincerity — Use no hurtful deceit; think innocently and justly; speak accordingly
  8. Justice — Wrong none by doing injuries, or omitting the benefits that are your duty
  9. Moderation — Avoid extremes; forbear resenting injuries
  10. Cleanliness — Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, clothes, or habitation
  11. Tranquility — Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accidents common or unavoidable
  12. Chastity — Rarely use venery but for health or offspring, never to dullness, weakness, or injury
  13. Humility — Imitate Jesus and Socrates

Articles & Essays ​

What is Artificial Intelligence? The Definitive Guide ​

Source: MIT Technology Review (2024)

"Probably the best single article I'd recommend"

A comprehensive overview of AI—what it is, how it works, and where it's headed. Essential reading for understanding the technology shaping our world.

OACOK, OKOCA, or OCOKA? Reframing Terrain Analysis for Cyberspace ​

Source: Gray Space Journal (Summer 2025)

"I think it pushes forward the conversation for rethinking how we approach cyberspace as a warfighting domain. It lures in the olds with OAKOC, but then tells them to stop shoehorning things in where they don't make sense."

A fresh look at applying terrain analysis frameworks (OAKOC/OCOKA) to cyberspace operations. Challenges conventional thinking about how traditional military frameworks should—and shouldn't—be adapted for the cyber domain.

Island Blitz: A Campaign Analysis of a Taiwan Takeover by the PLA ​

Author: Major Maxwell Stewart, USMC Source: Center for International Maritime Security (CIMSEC), June 2023

A detailed campaign-level analysis modeling a PLA forceful reunification attempt against Taiwan in Summer 2023. Stewart—a Combat Engineer Officer and Northeast Asia Regional Area Officer with a master's from GWU's Elliott School—examines the operational realities: favorable tidal conditions, Taiwan's anti-ship missile capabilities (Hsiung Feng III, Harpoon systems), ROCN survivability, and PLA force buildup under cover of annual exercises.

Why it matters: Provides a rigorous, unclassified framework for understanding cross-strait military dynamics and Taiwan's defensive posture.

I Will Fucking Piledrive You If You Mention AI Again ​

Author: Ludicity | Source: June 2024

"This really drives home how little our leaders understand about AI."

A data scientist's frustrated takedown of the corporate AI hype cycle. The author argues that most organizations cannot competently deploy basic applications, let alone experimental AI systems—yet executives chase AI projects for thought-leadership status rather than legitimate use cases. Core thesis: "Unless you are one of a tiny handful of businesses who know exactly what they're going to use AI for, you do not need AI for anything."

Why it matters: A blunt counterweight to AI hype, useful for anyone trying to have honest conversations about what AI can and can't do in their organization.

Stop Hacklore! An Open Letter on Outdated Security Advice ​

Source: Hacklore.org | Authors: Group of current and former CISOs

An open letter from security professionals calling for the retirement of six pieces of outdated cybersecurity advice that consume people's time without meaningfully reducing real-world risk:

  1. Public WiFi avoidance — Modern encryption and OS protections make large-scale compromises via open networks "exceedingly rare today"
  2. QR code scanning warnings — "There is no evidence of widespread crime originating from QR-code scanning itself"
  3. Public USB charging prohibition — "There are no verified cases of 'juice jacking' in the wild affecting everyday users"
  4. Disabling Bluetooth/NFC — Wireless exploits are "extraordinarily rare and typically require specialized hardware"
  5. Regular cookie deletion — "Doesn't meaningfully improve security or stop modern tracking"
  6. Frequent password changes — "No evidence it reduces crime, and it often leads to weaker passwords"

Why it matters: Security advice should be "accurate, proportional, and actionable." This letter challenges well-intentioned but outdated guidance and refocuses attention on what actually works: updates, MFA, strong passphrases, and password managers.

Podcasts & Audio ​

The Anti-Humans (Martyrmade Podcast, Episode 19) ​

"Despite the fact it's unbelievably depressing, I'm recommending this because it is 100% how the Russian military, and any undisciplined or totalitarian force, acts to this day. I saw it in person in 2022. I don't think the average person in the free world is close to hard enough against it."

A harrowing examination of Soviet brutality and the psychology of totalitarian systems. Essential listening for understanding the historical patterns that continue to manifest in modern conflicts.

Linux Unplugged ​

Recommended by Matthew Parga-Manasse

A weekly, casual podcast about Linux. Great for staying current with the Linux ecosystem, community news, and practical tips from experienced users.

CyberWire Daily ​

Recommended by Matthew Parga-Manasse

A daily briefing on cybersecurity news, vulnerability disclosures, and threat intelligence. Concise format perfect for staying informed on the rapidly evolving security landscape.

How I Built This ​

Recommended by Chris F

"It's a business-centered podcast but I find it applicable to lots of things, like beginning a new organization, starting a working group, being an entrepreneur, etc."

NPR's Guy Raz interviews founders and innovators about the stories behind the companies and movements they built. Each episode dives into the pivotal moments, setbacks, and breakthroughs that shaped iconic brands—from Airbnb to Patagonia to Wikipedia. The lessons transcend business: how to rally people around an idea, navigate uncertainty, and persist through failure.

Joe Rogan Experience: Renée DiResta ​

Recommended by Luis S

DiResta and Rogan discuss her research into how state actors and others manipulate social media platforms to influence public opinion and spread propaganda. Covers the mechanics of bot farms, the spread of fake news, and how online disinformation can lead to real-world consequences.

The Fat Electrician ​

"Anything with military history is a must. Like The Fat Electrician."

Nicholas "Nic" is a former 68W Combat Medic turned journeyman electrician and Jiu-Jitsu coach who makes military history actually entertaining. Started with viral skit-style reviews on TikTok ("Marine Corps Review," "The A-10 Warthog Review"), then transitioned to long-form deep dives—often 45+ minutes—into American military history, hardware, and the extraordinary stories that get left out of textbooks.

Style: Unlike your average history teacher, he goes out of his way to make it entertaining while maintaining historical accuracy.

Videos & Documentaries ​

Cognitive Biases and Objective Thinking ​

Recommended by David L

"A real eye opener, and deals with the biases that cloud objective thinking. If you think they're going after one political persuasion about halfway in, they flip it on the other side right after."

An exploration of how cognitive biases affect our thinking across the political spectrum—challenging viewers regardless of their perspective.

Whiteboard Crypto ​

A YouTube channel that explains cryptocurrency and blockchain technology using whiteboard-style animations. Breaks down how different cryptocurrencies work and explains the broader ecosystem in accessible terms.

MrBallen ​

Recommended by MysteryDroneMan

Former Navy SEAL who tells stories about the strange, dark, and mysterious. Covers true crime, unsolved mysteries, and unusual events with compelling storytelling. Massive content library.

Why It's So Difficult to Build Things in America (Smarter Every Day) ​

Recommended by Nick F

"A master class in accessible storytelling about how policy, jobs, and national defense are facing a critical turning point in America."

Destin from Smarter Every Day breaks down why manufacturing and building in the United States has become so challenging—and why it matters for national security.

Ukraine's Counteroffensive Documentary ​

Recommended by Bryan S

"What's the largest counteroffensive in European history since World War II grind to a halt, the reality of a ground war today where we are stuck in the purgatory between human and robotic warfighting. Disturbing, and if you've ever been called 'brother' in the trenches, it'll haunt you. A reminder and a promise."

A sobering look at modern ground warfare and the transition point between human and autonomous combat systems.

Interview with a Russian Drone Developer ​

Recommended by Roger O

"This was an interview with a Russian drone manufacturer. It is the only insight I've ever seen like it."

A rare look inside Russian drone warfare from a private developer's perspective. Covers how to survive an encounter with an FPV drone, how to counter fiber-optic drones, and why personal "drone jammers" are practically useless on the battlefield. This video reached over 1.2 million views before being removed from YouTube.

[Documentary Recommendation] ​

Recommended by Troy S

"Absolutely one of my favorite documentaries."

Wanderers ​

Creator: Erik Wernquist | Narration: Carl Sagan

"I've rewatched the clip multiple times over the years and while we may not be exploring the vast expanse that is outer space here in IrregularChat, I do find our community holds the 'wanderers' of our generation."

A stunning short science fiction film envisioning humanity's future expansion into the Solar System. All locations depicted are digital recreations of actual places—moons, planets, and asteroids—built from real NASA photos and data. The narration is Carl Sagan reading from his book Pale Blue Dot.

Books ​

History & Cycles ​

The Fourth Turning: What the Cycles of History Tell Us About America's Next Rendezvous with Destiny ​

Authors: William Strauss & Neil Howe Recommended by MysteryDroneMan

A theory of generational cycles that predicts periods of crisis and renewal in American history. The authors argue history moves in roughly 80-year cycles through four "turnings"—and we're currently in a Fourth Turning (crisis era).

Biography & History ​

Kissinger: A Biography ​

Author: Walter Isaacson Recommended by Casey H

"A good read—just reread it recently since he passed. Great book!!"

Isaacson's definitive biography of one of the most influential and controversial figures in American foreign policy. Essential for understanding modern geopolitics and statecraft.

Six Minutes to Freedom: How a Band of Heroes Defied a Dictator and Helped Free a Nation ​

Authors: Kurt Muse & John Gilstrap Recommended by Casey H

"Old but amazing"

The incredible true story of Kurt Muse, an American businessman imprisoned by Manuel Noriega in Panama, and the Delta Force hostage rescue operation that saved him. A gripping account of courage under captivity and one of the most daring special operations missions in U.S. history.

The War for Middle Earth: Tolkien, Lewis, and the Forgotten World War I ​

Author: Steven M. Engel Recommended by Jasmine

"It's fascinating so far, especially if you love JRR Tolkien's and CS Lewis' work. It details how both of their experiences in WW1 shaped their world views and inspired their writing. Makes me want to go back and read LOTR again."

How World War I transformed two young Oxford scholars into the authors of some of the most beloved fantasy literature ever written. Explores how Tolkien and Lewis's firsthand experiences in the trenches—the horror, camaraderie, and loss—shaped the moral frameworks, battle scenes, and themes of sacrifice that define The Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Narnia, and their other works.

A History of the Crusades (3 Volumes) ​

Author: Sir Steven Runciman

The definitive scholarly history of the Crusades, considered one of the great classics of English historical writing. Runciman overturned the traditional view of the Crusades as a romantic Christian adventure, shifting focus to the East. With verve and drama, he tells the story from the First Crusade through the fall of Acre.

  • Volume I: The First Crusade and the Foundation of the Kingdom of Jerusalem

  • Volume II: The Kingdom of Jerusalem and the Frankish East (1100-1187)

  • Volume III: The Kingdom of Acre and the Later Crusades

  • Amazon: Volume I | 3-Volume Set

Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus: A Devout Muslim Encounters Christianity ​

Author: Nabeel Qureshi

Award-winning memoir of a devout Muslim's intellectual and spiritual journey from Islam to Christianity. Qureshi—who held an MD from Eastern Virginia Medical School and graduate degrees from Biola, Duke, and Oxford—presents both the evidence that challenged his faith and the personal cost of following it. Winner of the Christian Book Award for Best New Author and Best Non-Fiction (2015).

A People's History of the United States ​

Author: Howard Zinn Recommended by Josh G

"An old classic but has a lot of good reminders for how this country formed and the struggles people have been through."

The landmark 1980 book (updated 2003) that tells American history from the perspective of those often left out of traditional narratives—women, factory workers, African Americans, Native Americans, the working poor, and immigrant laborers. With lively prose and scholarly research, Zinn covers from Columbus through the modern era. Runner-up for the National Book Award, with over two million copies sold.

Cultural note: Featured on The Sopranos, The Simpsons, and in Good Will Hunting. A 2009 documentary, The People Speak, was co-directed by Zinn.

Geopolitics & Strategy ​

Wiki Resources

Strategic analysis frameworks: Information Warfare | PMESII-PT | COG Analysis | SATs | TAAW Review

Prisoners of Geography: Ten Maps That Explain Everything About the World ​

Author: Tim Marshall Recommended by George

"A favorite, not tech specific, but a good geopolitics book to frame a world view."

Why do nations act the way they do? Marshall argues that geography—mountains, rivers, seas, and natural resources—shapes political decisions more than ideology or leadership. Through ten maps covering Russia, China, the US, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and more, he shows how physical terrain has determined the fates of nations for centuries. A foundational text for understanding why conflicts happen where they do.

Cold War 2.0: Artificial Intelligence in the New Battle between China, Russia, and America ​

Author: George S. Takach Recommended by Casey H

How AI and emerging technologies shape the modern geopolitical rivalry between democratic and autocratic systems. Analyzes four critical technologies—artificial intelligence, semiconductor chips, quantum computing, and biotechnology—through flashpoints including Ukraine and Taiwan. Concludes with recommendations for how Western democracies should respond.

Chokepoints: American Power in the Age of Economic Warfare ​

Author: Edward Fishman Recommended by Joshua Stison

Frames the present economic warfare dynamic between China and the US in light of the iron triangle—geopolitical competition, economic security, and economic interdependence—highlighting you can only have 2 out of the 3 aspects. His work frames the underlying tensions that will likely further persist and shape the security, economic, and technology environment into the future.

The New Rules of War: Victory in the Age of Durable Disorder ​

Author: Sean McFate

"Awesome book on updated strategies of our time"

A modern look at how warfare has evolved beyond conventional state-on-state conflict. McFate challenges traditional military thinking and offers new frameworks for understanding conflicts in an era of hybrid warfare, private military companies, and strategic ambiguity.

Battlegrounds: The Fight to Defend the Free World ​

Author: H.R. McMaster

"The basis is that you have to understand a country's history to understand why they make the decisions they do. Ie. China and the Silk Road. It's useful for analyzing what our adversaries are likely to do next and why."

McMaster draws on decades of military and national security experience to examine threats from Russia, China, Iran, and others - not just what they're doing, but why based on their historical context.

Ghost Fleet: A Novel of the Next World War ​

Authors: P.W. Singer & August Cole

"Looks at what happens when you're suddenly left fighting with no electronics, such as in a DDIL environment. Who steers the ship? How do you do targeting? How could you survive?"

A techno-thriller that explores modern warfare when advanced systems fail. Particularly relevant for those thinking about resilience, degraded operations, and the fragility of technology-dependent systems.

Street Without Joy: The French Debacle in Indochina ​

Author: Bernard B. Fall

Required reading for American officers heading to Vietnam—a cautionary tale of respecting and not underestimating your enemies. Fall's firsthand account of the French war in Indochina remains essential for understanding counterinsurgency failures and the dangers of fighting an enemy you don't understand.

Gangsters of Capitalism: Smedley Butler, the Marines, and the Making and Breaking of America's Empire ​

Author: Jonathan M. Katz

A history of American economic and military activity from post-Civil War to pre-WW2. Read this and be attuned to cognitive dissonance, particularly towards China and Haiti, and the information warfare challenges they present. Follows Marine General Smedley Butler's career across America's imperial adventures.

The Accidental Superpower: The Next Generation of American Preeminence and the Coming Global Disorder ​

Author: Peter Zeihan

"Focuses on the circumstances that led the US to become the superpower we are."

Zeihan examines how geography, demographics, and energy trends created America's unique position in the world. Near the end of WWII, the US made a bold strategic gambit that rewired the international system—empires were abolished and replaced by a global arrangement enforced by the US Navy. We think of this system as normal—it is not. We live in an artificial world on borrowed time.

The Absent Superpower: The Shale Revolution and a World Without America ​

Author: Peter Zeihan

"Focuses on the retraction of the US's global influence as we withdraw from the Bretton Woods agreement. It puts a LOT of what is happening into a larger perspective."

The sequel to The Accidental Superpower. Zeihan maps out the consequences of American energy independence and withdrawal from global leadership—including Russian aggression in Europe starting with Ukraine (written in 2016). The American shale revolution severs the remaining ties binding America's fate to the wider world, accelerates the global order's breakdown, and triggers military conflicts that will shape the next two decades.

The Avoidable War: The Dangers of a Catastrophic Conflict between the US and Xi Jinping's China ​

Author: Kevin Rudd

"A great look at the relationship between China and US and the background with associated history with personalities and operations. For our line of work, it's important to know the history, so you can better prepare for the impending future."

Former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd—who has studied, lived in, and worked with China for over 40 years and is fluent in Mandarin—offers rare insight into the mindsets of both American and Chinese leadership. Demystifies the actions of both sides, explaining and translating them for the benefit of the other. Proposes "managed strategic competition" as a framework for these two giants to coexist without catastrophic conflict.

Endorsed by: Henry Kissinger and Admiral James Stavridis (16th Supreme Allied Commander of NATO, who called it "an extraordinary tour de force").

The Dragons and the Snakes: How the Rest Learned to Fight the West ​

Author: David Kilcullen Recommended by Chris C

"Required reading for anyone in defense. Filled in serious history/knowledge gaps for why we're in the position we're in militarily. The chapter on info warfare is such a great assessment on current IO strategies from the 3 big powers."

Kilcullen examines how state adversaries ("dragons" like Russia and China) and non-state threats ("snakes" like ISIS and transnational criminal networks) have studied Western military dominance since the Gulf War and adapted to counter it. Explains why the unipolar moment ended and how our adversaries learned to fight us asymmetrically.

Unrestricted Warfare: China's Master Plan to Destroy America ​

Authors: Qiao Liang & Wang Xiangsui Recommended by YJ

A 1999 treatise by two Chinese PLA colonels outlining how China could defeat a technologically superior adversary like the United States through asymmetric means. Covers warfare beyond the traditional battlefield: financial warfare, network warfare, media warfare, psychological warfare, and combinations thereof. The authors argue that "the first rule of unrestricted warfare is that there are no rules."

Historical significance: Written after observing the Gulf War, this book has proven prescient about the nature of 21st-century conflict and remains essential reading for understanding Chinese strategic thinking.

The Kill Chain: Defending America in the Future of High-Tech Warfare ​

Author: Christian Brose Recommended by 5/19th MDD Advisor

"Read it. Then fight like your survival depends on the ideas in it—because it does."

In an era where a single PLA satellite cueing a hypersonic missile can mission-kill a carrier group in minutes, the old assumptions of uncontested forward basing, air superiority, and permissive comms are gone. Brose—former Staff Director of the Senate Armed Services Committee and senior advisor to Senator John McCain—provides the clearest explanation of how America lost its military overmatch and what must happen to get it back.

For SOF and multi-domain teams: This book shows why your ability to operate inside an adversary's kill chain—finding their sensors, breaking their networks, blinding their drones, or turning their data links against them—is now the decisive capability in great-power conflict. Brose details how China and Russia have built integrated, long-range precision-strike complexes designed to find and destroy high-value SOF elements the moment they emit, take off, or turn on a router.

This is not about "big Army" or carrier battles—it's about the future of contested special operations, and why the side that masters cheap, prolific, software-defined systems first will own the battlefield.

Endorsed by: Eric Schmidt (former Alphabet Chairman), General David Petraeus, and Admiral James Stavridis.

Freedom's Forge: How American Business Produced Victory in World War II ​

Author: Arthur Herman Recommended by Gary O

"This is a good book. Kinda like the tech revolution we are in now and attempts at jumpstarting the industrial base."

How two extraordinary American businessmen—automobile magnate William Knudsen and shipbuilder Henry Kaiser—helped mobilize the "arsenal of democracy" that won WWII. In four short years, they transformed America's hollow shell of an army into a truly global force by turning auto plants into aircraft factories and drafting talent from Chrysler, Boeing, Lockheed, GE, and Frigidaire.

Why it matters now: Parallels the current challenge of rebuilding defense industrial capacity and integrating commercial tech innovation into military capability.

The Origins of Victory: How Disruptive Military Innovation Determines the Fates of Great Powers ​

Author: Andrew F. Krepinevich Jr. Recommended by Gary O

The definitive take on the race for military dominance in the twenty-first century. Shows how militaries that successfully pursue disruptive innovation gain major advantages, while those that fail risk catastrophe. The Precision Warfare Revolution the U.S. introduced in the Gulf War gave us a near-monopoly for decades—but now others have these capabilities, and we face an emerging revolution driven by AI, synthetic biology, quantum computing, and additive manufacturing.

Endorsed by: General Jim Mattis ("an analytic tour de force... delivers a graduate degree in military adaptation") and Admiral James Stavridis.

Technology & AI ​

Wiki Resources

AI/ML learning paths: AI Resources | AI Prompting | AI Ethics | AI/ML Learning | Ollama Setup

Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies ​

Author: Nick Bostrom Recommended by Chris Lewis

"Warning of the dangers of AI + Robotics without taking human factors into consideration, or humans in the loop."

The foundational text on AI safety and existential risk. Bostrom methodically explores what happens when artificial intelligence surpasses human capabilities - and why alignment matters before we get there.

Cryptonomicon ​

Author: Neal Stephenson

A sprawling novel weaving together WWII codebreakers and modern-day tech entrepreneurs building a data haven. Part historical fiction, part techno-thriller, with deep dives into cryptography, information theory, and the nature of secrets.

  • Amazon: Cryptonomicon
  • Why it matters: Understanding the history of cryptography and information security through narrative

Beast in the Machine: How Robotics and AI Will Transform Warfare and the Future of Human Conflict ​

Author: Paul Scharre Recommended by Bryan S

"Book good"

An exploration of how robotics and artificial intelligence will transform warfare and reshape the future of human conflict.

The Nvidia Way: Jensen Huang and the Making of a Tech Giant ​

Author: Tae Kim Recommended by Casey H

A current look at how Jensen Huang built Nvidia into the dominant force in AI computing. Essential reading for understanding the company powering the AI revolution.

The AI-Driven Leader ​

Recommended by Casey H

"Not super technical but just a good think on how much we do or should give up of our thought leadership moving forward"

A reflection on leadership in the age of AI—how much decision-making should we delegate to machines?

Psychology & Understanding Others ​

The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion ​

Author: Jonathan Haidt Recommended by JR

An excellent book about how liberals and conservatives see the world differently—and is very respectful of both sides. Haidt uses moral psychology research to explain why we're so divided and how understanding different moral foundations can help bridge gaps.

  • Amazon: The Righteous Mind
  • Why it matters: Understanding opposing viewpoints without demonizing them

Maps of Meaning: The Architecture of Belief ​

Author: Jordan Peterson Recommended by Rob B

"Easily the most applicable book I have ever read to PSYOP."

A dense psychology textbook Peterson wrote in 1999—well before his public fame—examining how humans construct meaning through narrative, myth, and belief systems. Draws on Jung, Nietzsche, neuroscience, and comparative mythology to explain why people believe what they believe and how symbolic systems shape behavior.

Why it matters for influence work: Understanding the deep architecture of belief—how narratives function, why certain symbols resonate, how meaning systems are constructed and disrupted—is foundational for anyone working in psychological operations, strategic communications, or influence. The book is academically rigorous and apolitical, focused on the mechanics of human meaning-making rather than contemporary debates.

Doppelganger: A Trip into the Mirror World ​

Author: Naomi Klein Recommended by Jessica D

"Probably the most well-developed post-COVID discussion I've seen."

Klein explores how she became confused with Naomi Wolf—another public intellectual who veered into conspiracy theories during COVID—and uses this personal "doppelganger" experience to examine something larger: how mirror worlds of distorted reality have emerged, why people fall into them, and what it reveals about our fractured society. Part memoir, part cultural criticism, part political analysis.

The book asks uncomfortable questions about social division: What happens when legitimate grievances get channeled into destructive movements? How do we distinguish real threats from manufactured panic? Why are so many people drawn to alternative realities? Klein doesn't offer easy answers but provides a thoughtful framework for understanding the post-pandemic landscape of polarization and mistrust.

The Laws of Human Nature ​

Author: Robert Greene

A deep dive into the patterns of human behavior—why people act the way they do, how to read their motivations, and how to understand yourself better. Greene draws on history, philosophy, and psychology to decode the forces driving human interaction. Useful for leadership, relationships, and navigating complex social dynamics.

Decision Making & Cognition ​

Streetlights and Shadows: Searching for the Keys to Adaptive Decision Making ​

Author: Gary Klein Recommended by David L

"If there's one book I could get everyone to read, that cuts across all kinds of disciplines including AI, it's this book"

Klein challenges conventional wisdom about decision making, examining why the "rational" approaches taught in textbooks often fail in the real world. Essential reading for anyone working in complex, uncertain environments—from military operations to AI development.

Systems Thinking & Risk ​

Simple_Complexity: A Management Book for the Rest of Us ​

Author: Jennifer Garvey Berger & Keith Johnston Recommended by Josh The Elder

A "management" book with practical applications for planners, leaders, parents, and aspiring entrepreneurs. A very practical introduction to Systems Thinking—something everyone in the community should be learning about.

  • Amazon: Simple_Complexity
  • Why it matters: Systems thinking helps you understand complex problems and avoid unintended consequences

How to Measure Anything in Cybersecurity Risk ​

Authors: Douglas W. Hubbard & Richard Seiersen Recommended by Josh The Elder

Far more about understanding risk than it is about cybersecurity. Has a wonderful balance between theory and practice. Don't let the title fool you—the principles apply broadly to any domain involving uncertainty and decision-making.

Leadership & Organizational Dynamics ​

Wiki Resources

Military leadership resources: Army Evaluations | Awards Guide | Promotion Boards | SSC Quick Links

The Mission, the Men, and Me: Lessons from a Former Delta Force Commander ​

Author: Pete Blaber Recommended by Trey W

"Lessons learned from others on how leaders can assess a situation, use indigenous knowledge to their benefit, and get the most out of themselves and their team"

A former Delta Force commander shares hard-won leadership principles from special operations. Emphasizes putting the mission first, taking care of your people, and then yourself—in that order.

Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win ​

Authors: Jocko Willink & Leif Babin Recommended by Troy S

"Extreme disappointment when you find out who had no interest in doing anything Jocko suggests..."

Combat leadership principles from two Navy SEAL officers who served together in Iraq. The core concept: leaders must own everything in their world—there is no one else to blame. When subordinates fail, it's because the leader failed to train, equip, or lead them properly. A foundational text on accountability and leadership that applies far beyond the military.

Marine Maxims: Turning Leadership Principles Into Practice ​

Author: Colonel Thomas J. Gordon, USMC (Ret.) Recommended by Holiday

Distills 50 leadership principles from three decades of Marine Corps service. Focuses on turning leadership theory into practical application, emphasizing character, courage, and resilience. Each chapter includes "Saved Rounds" of concise tips and recommended readings.

Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage ​

Author: Alfred Lansing

The definitive account of Ernest Shackleton's 1914 Antarctic expedition, where his ship Endurance became trapped and crushed by ice. A masterclass in leadership under extreme adversity—how Shackleton kept his crew alive and motivated through nearly two years of survival in one of the harshest environments on Earth.

Man's Search for Meaning ​

Author: Viktor E. Frankl

A Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist examines how individuals can find purpose and meaning even in the most challenging circumstances. Frankl's logotherapy—the idea that the primary human drive is not pleasure but the pursuit of meaning—emerged from his experiences in Nazi concentration camps.

The Starfish and the Spider: The Unstoppable Power of Leaderless Organizations ​

Authors: Ori Brafman & Rod A. Beckstrom Recommended by Flo

Explains why rigid, ego-driven leaders choke organizations, while decentralized, mission-focused teams thrive. Teaches you how to build small, resilient networks that succeed even when the person in charge is toxic or incompetent.

New Power: How Power Works in Our Hyperconnected World—and How to Make It Work for You ​

Authors: Jeremy Heimans & Henry Timms Recommended by Shawn C

"Perfect to explain why the fast moving, seemingly disconnected Irregular community is actually one of the most powerful assets in the military today."

Explains the shift from "old power" (held by few, closed, leader-driven) to "new power" (made by many, open, peer-driven). Essential for understanding how decentralized communities and movements create outsized impact in the modern world.

The 48 Laws of Power ​

Author: Robert Greene Recommended by Flo

Not a "self-help" book—it's a survival guide for hierarchical, political organizations. Useful for:

  • Navigating egos
  • Avoiding traps
  • Managing optics
  • Reading intent

Great for protecting yourself from leaders who weaponize perception.

The No Asshole Rule: Building a Civilized Workplace and Surviving One That Isn't ​

Author: Robert I. Sutton Recommended by Flo

Legendary research on managing egoistic, abusive, or narcissistic coworkers and leaders. Gives you terms and frameworks to identify repeated abusive patterns and keep your cool.

Military relevance: Essential reading for anyone dealing with toxic leadership in hierarchical organizations.

Government & Policy ​

Recoding America: Why Government Is Failing in the Digital Age and How We Can Do Better ​

Author: Jennifer Pahlka Recommended by Casey H and Devin Q

"A must read for anyone working with the government in the tech space, this book gives concrete examples of bureaucratic missteps when trying to implement technological solutions to real world problems. It also provides an accessible framework for how to overcome administrative roadblocks." — Devin Q

From the founder of Code for America and former Deputy CTO under President Obama. Examines why government struggles with digital service delivery—not just outdated technology, but a rigid, industrial-era culture that prioritizes process over outcomes. Through case studies from the VA, unemployment systems, and more, Pahlka shows how waterfall project management, excessive procurement rules, and disconnected policymaking create dysfunction.

Entrepreneurship & Innovation ​

Wiki Resources

Transitioning out or starting a business? See: Leaving Service | Business Tools | Credentialing Assistance

The Private Equity Playbook: Management's Guide to Working with PE Investors ​

Author: Adam Coffey Recommended by David Rolen

All the govvies should understand the challenges of founding and scaling a business. This book demystifies how private equity works and what it takes to build, grow, and exit a company successfully.

Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future ​

Author: Peter Thiel with Blake Masters

Read this if you're looking to:

  • Build companies that create new value, not copy existing models

  • Understand how to go from nothing (0) to something unique (1)

  • Explore why the biggest opportunities come from contrarian ideas

  • Develop a mindset for seeing what others miss

  • Amazon: Zero to One

Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine ​

Author: Mike Michalowicz Recommended by Pat W

"Hands down, Profit First. Primarily for business owners but very applicable to anyone."

A simple system for ensuring profitability by taking profit first, then running the business on what remains. Flips traditional accounting on its head—instead of Sales - Expenses = Profit, it's Sales - Profit = Expenses.

Company of One: Why Staying Small Is the Next Big Thing for Business ​

Author: Paul Jarvis Recommended by Carrick Longley

Challenges the assumption that success requires constant growth, offering instead a mindset built on agility, intentional focus, and doing better rather than doing more. This perspective aligns naturally with the SOF community's strengths—small, adaptive teams that succeed through clarity of mission, disciplined execution, and the ability to move fast without unnecessary complexity.

For SOF leaders and operators, the book provides a useful lens for both current roles and future ventures. It reinforces the value of staying lean, avoiding mission creep, and building systems that prioritize autonomy and effectiveness. Whether applied to team leadership, special projects, or post-military career design, Company of One offers a practical way to maximize impact while staying true to core purpose.

Philosophy & Foundations ​

The Cathedral and the Bazaar ​

Author: Eric S. Raymond (ESR) Recommended by Cyber Jay

A foundational text on open source software development and decentralized collaboration. Essential for understanding movements and how distributed groups can outperform centralized organizations.

Jonathan Livingston Seagull ​

Author: Richard Bach Recommended by Cyber Jay

A fable about a seagull who refuses to conform to the flock's limitations. A meditation on self-perfection, breaking free from imposed limits, and the pursuit of excellence.

The Gospel of Matthew ​

Recommended by Cyber Jay

"If pressed, I'd say Matthew, due to the fact that probably any number of others might recommend ESR or the seagull book."

For understanding movements, leadership, and the spread of ideas. Part of a larger goal to read ancient/classic works to gain "tools" to process, heal, and return to a state of giving, coaching, and mentoring others.

Meditations ​

Author: Marcus Aurelius Recommended by Cyber Jay

The personal journal of a Roman Emperor practicing Stoic philosophy. Timeless wisdom on resilience, perspective, and maintaining equanimity through difficulty.

  • Amazon: Meditations
  • Why it matters: Tools for processing hardship and returning to a giving mindset

Health & Performance ​

Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams ​

Author: Matthew Walker Recommended by Jon Schmidt

The neuroscience of sleep and why it's so important.

"The shorter your sleep, the shorter your life"

"Sleep is the greatest legal performance-enhancing 'drug' that most people are probably neglecting"

"Sleep is not an optional lifestyle luxury. Sleep is a non-negotiable biological necessity"

"The best bridge between despair and hope is a good night's sleep"

Peak Performance: Elevate Your Game, Avoid Burnout, and Thrive with the New Science of Success ​

Authors: Brad Stulberg & Steve Magness

Not a new book, but valuable for anyone moving from a technical focus to a leadership focus. Science-backed strategies for achieving excellence while avoiding burnout—how to push hard sustainably.

Personal Development ​

Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One ​

Author: Joe Dispenza Recommended by Nicholas Vandre

"We have to get into the basement of your soul from time to time and check your foundation because what got you here won't get you there. Coming to terms with our ego, subconscious and belief system is the ultimate unlock to reach your next level."

Integrates quantum physics, neuroscience, and biology to show how you can transcend predetermined patterns and create meaningful change. Practical techniques for modifying behavior and beliefs.

The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself ​

Author: Michael A. Singer Recommended by Nicholas Vandre

"We have to get into the basement of your soul from time to time and check your foundation because what got you here won't get you there. Coming to terms with our ego, subconscious and belief system is the ultimate unlock to reach your next level."

A spiritual guide exploring human identity and consciousness. Shows how developing consciousness enables dwelling in the present moment and achieving self-realization.

The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness ​

Author: Jonathan Haidt

"For professional development for parents. Let your kids outside unsupervised but monitor like a hawk when they're on their electronics."

#1 New York Times Bestseller. Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt investigates the epidemic of teen mental illness that hit many countries simultaneously. He shows how the "play-based childhood" was wiped out by the arrival of the "phone-based childhood" in the early 2010s—and presents more than a dozen mechanisms by which this "great rewiring" has interfered with children's development: sleep deprivation, attention fragmentation, addiction, loneliness, and social comparison.

The core insight: Overprotection in the real world and underprotection in the virtual world are the major reasons why children born after 1995 became the anxious generation.

The Third Door: The Wild Quest to Uncover How the World's Most Successful People Launched Their Careers ​

Author: Alex Banayan Recommended by Jaime

"This book made me think about HOW can I achieve something rather than IF."

The Three Doors:

  • First Door (Front Door): The typical path everyone uses

  • Second Door (Back Door): Opened by knowing someone—the networking path

  • Third Door: The one you open yourself by carving your own untraditional path

  • Amazon: The Third Door

The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results ​

Author: Gary Keller & Jay Papasan Recommended by Jon H

Focus on the one thing that matters most. A productivity and prioritization framework for cutting through the noise and achieving extraordinary results.

Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World ​

Author: David Epstein

"In my experience, about half of the people who pick it up love it and the other half are threatened by it (or at least don't like it)."

The central theme: broad exposure to ideas and experiences will make you far more successful than focusing on a single task or skill. Resonates with those whose lives have been a collection of diverse experiences—what felt like wandering lost in the desert turns out to be invaluable.

Cybersecurity History & Culture ​

Wiki Resources

Building your cyber skills? See: Traveling DFP | OSCP Guide | GPEN Guide | Red Teaming | Incident Response

The Cuckoo's Egg: Tracking a Spy Through the Maze of Computer Espionage ​

Author: Cliff Stoll Recommended by Marcin Jasiukowicz

A true story from the late 1980s about tracking a hacker through early computer networks. Shows the cross section of IT systems back then, how the idea of cybersecurity was being born, and gives you a roadmap to how systems were built up from there to where they are now—the analogies still exist but are buried deep in current technology.

Connects technology with society and history. Shows the divide of US vs. EU, Western world vs. Soviets, and good vs. bad guys—seen both in the technology used (more modern digital systems in the US vs. analog systems still used in Europe) and the mentality and genius of the hackers.

Historical note: The German side of this story was one of the foundations that spawned computer culture in Germany—the Chaos Computer Club, which exists to this day.

"A perfect fit for the IrregularChat community because of the security topics, historical relevance (back then Soviets vs. US, but now again with war in Ukraine) and overall it's an interesting position for anyone who wants to feed their curiosity."

Phrack Magazine (Issues 1-7, especially Issue 7) ​

Recommended by Ted Spaghetti

"The origin of the Hacker Manifesto and most tradecraft. Still published to this day. Physical copies very hard to come by."

The legendary underground electronic magazine on hacking and phreaking, published since 1985. Issue 7, Article 3 contains "The Conscience of a Hacker" (aka The Hacker Manifesto), written by Loyd Blankenship ("The Mentor") in 1986 after his arrest by the Secret Service.

The Manifesto became a cornerstone of hacker culture, defending hackers as curious explorers rather than criminals: "I am a hacker, and this is my manifesto." It's quoted in the film Hackers (1995), appears on a poster in The Social Network (2010), and is mentioned in Edward Snowden's autobiography Permanent Record.

Cybersecurity & Reverse Engineering ​

The Pentester BluePrint: Starting a Career as an Ethical Hacker ​

Authors: Phillip L. Wylie & Kim Crawley

"I get questions about getting started on the red side and this is generally the book I recommend for new people wanting to get their foot in the door."

A guide for breaking into penetration testing and ethical hacking as a career. Covers the skills, certifications, and career paths for those looking to start in offensive security.

Hands on Hacking: Become an Expert at Next Gen Penetration Testing and Purple Teaming ​

Authors: Matthew Hickey & Jennifer Arcuri

A more basic, hands-on introduction to actually hacking. While The Pentester BluePrint focuses on career guidance, this book focuses on the technical "how to" of penetration testing and purple teaming.

Reverse Engineering For Everyone! ​

Author: @mytechnotalent Recommended by Dominik

"Worth its page length in GOLD"

A comprehensive guide to reverse engineering, accessible to everyone from beginners to experienced practitioners.

Apps & Tools ​

BOOBS CHECK: Iran CDN Detection Technique ​

Author: @hkashfi | Source: X/Twitter

A clever technique to verify if websites behind CDNs are actually hosted inside Iran. Works by exploiting Iran's basic censorship filtering applied to traffic.

How it works:

bash
curl -i https://domain/boobs.jpg

If the response is a 403 with a 10.10.34.x IP in the body, the site is landing inside Iran—the result of censorship filtering applied to traffic regardless of what content actually exists at that path.

Why it matters: Useful for OSINT, infrastructure attribution, and understanding where sites are actually hosted vs. where they claim to be. The technique exploits the fact that Iran's censorship system will intercept and block requests for filtered keywords even when the requested resource doesn't exist.

Learning Resources ​

Reeborg's World ​

Recommended by YJ

An interactive platform for learning programming, particularly Python. Uses a visual robot that you program to navigate mazes and complete tasks. Great for beginners learning programming concepts like loops, conditionals, and functions in a visual, engaging way.

Digital University (DigitalU) ​

Recommended by YJ

The Department of the Air Force's free digital learning platform. Offers courses on emerging technologies, digital skills, and professional development.

Recommended course: 100 Days of Code - A structured Python programming course for building coding habits.

Wiki Pages & References ​

WikiTop ​

A visualization of the most viewed Wikipedia pages, updated in real-time. Fascinating way to see what the world is curious about at any given moment.

List of File Signatures (Magic Numbers) ​

Essential reference for reverse engineering, forensics, and file analysis. File signatures (magic numbers) are the bytes at the beginning of files that identify their format—useful for identifying files regardless of extension, detecting embedded files, and forensic analysis.

List of Reported UFO Sightings ​

For Team Foil Hat! A comprehensive Wikipedia list of reported UFO sightings throughout history. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, it's a fascinating rabbit hole.

Gary Kildall ​

Gary Kildall (1942–1994) was a computer scientist and microcomputer entrepreneur who created CP/M, one of the first operating systems for personal computers, and founded Digital Research, Inc. He is considered a pioneer of the personal computer revolution—and his story is a cautionary tale about business negotiations (he famously missed the meeting with IBM that led to Microsoft's DOS dominance).

Superconducting Super Collider ​

The cancelled American particle accelerator that would have been over twice the size of the Large Hadron Collider. Construction began in Texas in 1991 but was cancelled by Congress in 1993 after $2 billion had been spent. A cautionary tale about big science, politics, and what might have been. Would have most certainly caused a black hole. /s

V/STOL ​

For the aviation buffs! Vertical/Short Take-Off and Landing (V/STOL) aircraft have fascinated engineers and military planners for decades. This Wikipedia page covers the history, technology, and various aircraft designs that achieve vertical or short-field capabilities—from the Harrier jump jet to experimental concepts.

List of Reportedly Haunted Locations ​

For when you need a break from serious topics. A comprehensive list of locations around the world that are reportedly haunted—castles, battlefields, hotels, theaters, and more. Great for planning your next spooky road trip or just enjoying some entertaining rabbit holes.

List of Software-Defined Radios ​

Essential reference for anyone interested in SDR technology. This comprehensive list covers hardware from budget RTL-SDR dongles to professional-grade equipment, with specifications and capabilities for each.

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