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FoundersFebruary 19, 2026

#412 How Roger Federer Works

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Audio URL: https://traffic.megaphone.fm/DSLLC9890521187.mp3?updated=1771462447
About this episode
What I learned from reading The Master: The Long Run and Beautiful Game of Roger Federer by Chris Clarey. Episode
Book mentions
6 book mentions in this episode.
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Books Mentioned

The Master, The Long Run and the Beautiful Game of Roger Federer cover
The Master, The Long Run and the Beautiful Game of Roger Federer
Christopher Clary

“The speaker discusses an incredible book about Roger Federer, highlighting its insights into his career and mindset.”

Sentiment: Deep Dive
Trigger: Roger Federer's mindset
For: Athletes and individuals seeking personal growth
Key quote: “Perfection is impossible. It is only a point.”
The host mentions the book to highlight Roger Federer's insights on mental discipline and resilience in sports and life. The discussion revolves around key takeaways from Federer's commencement address that align with the themes explored in the book.
ASIN: N/A
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Creativity Inc. cover
Creativity Inc.
Ed Catmull

“The speaker references an afterword in Ed Catmull's autobiography that discusses how Steve Jobs changed over time.”

Sentiment: Highly Recommended
Trigger: Steve Jobs and Ed Catmull
For: Entrepreneurs and business leaders interested in personal growth and leadership development.
Key quote: “Catmull emphasized that Jobs learned from the backfires and explicitly told Catmull that he learned from his mistakes.”
The host mentions 'Creativity Inc.' to highlight the profound changes Steve Jobs underwent during his partnership with Ed Catmull. This evolution is paralleled with Roger Federer's growth, emphasizing the importance of self-control and learning from mistakes.
ASIN: 1537499114
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'How to Make a Few Billion Dollars' cover
'How to Make a Few Billion Dollars'
Brad Jacobs

“The speaker quotes Brad Jacobs on the importance of keeping one's head in a good place for success in business and life.”

Sentiment: Passing Reference
Trigger: mental resilience in sports
For: Individuals interested in personal development and sports psychology.
Key quote: “so much of success in business and life is keeping your head in a good place.”
The host mentions Brad Jacobs' book to highlight the importance of maintaining a positive mindset for success. This is illustrated through Roger Federer's journey and his determination to aim for the top despite external doubts.
ASIN: B0CYTRZB9W
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Mamba Mentality cover
Mamba Mentality
Kobe Bryant

“Kobe Bryant said the exact same thing in that book that he wrote called Mamba Mentality. So he talked about the importance of studying the greats.”

Sentiment: Deep Dive
Trigger: importance of studying greats
For: Young athletes and aspiring professionals
Key quote: “Kobe Bryant said the exact same thing in that book that he wrote called Mamba Mentality.”
The host mentions 'Mamba Mentality' to highlight Kobe Bryant's emphasis on learning from the greats in one's field. This parallels Roger Federer's journey and his dedication to understanding the history of tennis and the players who shaped it.
ASIN: N/A
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the Augustine book cover
the Augustine book

“I was actually shocked at how much in this book and the Augustine book, and I'm starting to read on Novak Djokovic too, the emotional pain that these guys go through.”

Sentiment: Deep Dive
Trigger: mentorship in sports
For: sports enthusiasts and aspiring athletes
Key quote: “I was actually shocked at how much in this book and the Augustine book, and I'm starting to read on Novak Djokovic too, the emotional pain that these guys go through.”
The host discusses the importance of mentorship and self-trust in the careers of tennis players, particularly focusing on Roger Federer and his unique approach to coaching. The mention of 'the Augustine book' highlights the emotional struggles athletes face, contrasting them with Federer's ability to manage pressure effectively.
ASIN: N/A
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The Creative Act cover
The Creative Act
Rick Rubin

“This part reminds me of this idea that's in Rick Rubin's book. He talked about that it's really important to find the time that you work best and you protect that time.”

Sentiment: Deep Dive
Trigger: Federer's approach to burnout
For: Athletes and individuals seeking balance in high-pressure environments
Key quote: “Rick Rubin's book... he talked about that it's really important to find the time that you work best and you protect that time.”
The host mentions 'The Creative Act' by Rick Rubin to highlight the importance of personal time and mental health in maintaining performance. Federer exemplifies this by protecting his alone time, which he considers essential for avoiding burnout and sustaining his career longevity.
ASIN: N/A
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