Shiny Objects -- No. 1

Here are a few of the more interesting things that have distracted me this past week: 

1. “Where They Raced: Speed Demons in the City of Angels”: This fun documentary of SoCal race tracks over the past century is currently streaming for free on Hulu. It’s remarkable how many classic tracks peppered the Los Angeles area over the years, only to be overrun by developers.   

Here’s a trailer for the film:

2. The Best American Infographics 2014”: I’ve long believed in the power of great infographics and this terrific collection captures the depth and breadth of prime visual storytelling from around the world. I was given this book for Christmas and am finding it ideal for browsing for a few minutes here, a few minutes there. 

For more on the book and background on infographics, here's Leo LaPorte interviewing editor Gareth Cook on a recent episode of “Triangulation”: 

3. Kern Community Foundation Giving Card: I’ve been giving these as holiday gifts the last two years. Instead of yet another gift card, why not a giving card that benefits local, regional or national charities of your choice? Easy to buy, easy to use. 

4. “Geeks Bearing Gifts”: Media observer and author Jeff Jarvis is publishing his new book “Geeks Bearing Gifts” in regular installments on Medium.com. As always, Jarvis challenges you to think big thoughts. The beauty of these chapter-by-chapter installments is you have time to ponder opportunities instead of rushing to the next chapter, the next idea.

5. “Netflix Culture: Freedom & Responsibility”: Many wise words from Netflix CEO Reed Hastings are sprinkled throughout the 124 slides detailing expectations for Netflix employees. What takeaways can you borrow for your business?

Culture from Reed Hastings

6. “Quarterbacktown, USA: Bakersfield has an exciting new export”: Bakersfield Californian sports editor Zach Ewing takes a deep dive into Bakersfield becoming a hotspot for skilled QBs. David Carr, Derek Carr, Cody Kessler, Cooper Carr ... Cooper Carr? Don't underestimate what's around the corner, particularly since the Carrs have opened a local training facility focused on athletic performance.

7. "Soul Music -- Brothers in Arms": Longtime readers know I'm a music geek, so I adore the stories behind songcraft. I just stumbed onto the BBC Radio4 series "Soul Music" that explores "famous pieces of music and their emotional appeal." This particular 30-minute episode sheds light on Dire Straits' haunting "Brothers in Arms." a song so beautifully powerful that it's become of source of battlefield comfort 30 years after it was first recorded.