Frank Lavin talks with Rebecca Fannin, founder of Silicon Dragon and author of "The New Tech Titans of China," a look at where China is going in tech, with some important messages for the U.S. There are several critical technology segments in which China leads the U.S., but the U.S. has a set of advantages as well. In addition to her book, Rebecca also suggests reading Walter Isaacson's biography, "Elon Musk."

Frank Lavin talks with Ron Drabkin, Japan-hand, venture capitalist, and author of "Beverly Hills Spy," one of the great spy stories of World War II and the inter-war years. In addition to the story of espionage and betrayal, Ron also shines a light on the historical context of World War I and 1920s Hollywood, leaving the reader with a rich cast of characters and a historical tapestry. In addition to his book, Ron also suggests reading Trent Hone's book about Chester Nimitz, "Mastering the Art of Command."

Frank Lavin talks with Barry Strauss, Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution and the author of "Jews vs. Rome" to discuss the complicated history of ancient Rome and its efforts to subdue the Jewish states in its empire. Barry also shines a light on the birth of Christianity and how those events of two thousand years ago continue to shape our world of today. In addition to his book, Barry also suggests reading John William's book, "Augustus."