TJ Strydom is an open book

In this episode of Open Books, acclaimed South African author and financial journalist TJ Strydom takes us behind the scenes of his reading life, writing process, and the books that have shaped both his career and worldview. From literary masterpieces by Cormac McCarthy, Hilary Mantel, and Joseph Heller, to productivity classics like Deep Work and Slow Productivity by Cal Newport, TJ shares the titles he returns to time and again and explains why they continue to influence his thinking.

The conversation explores the art of researching and writing bestselling non-fiction, the discipline behind deep work, the value of long-form journalism, and how reading fuels creativity, travel, and lifelong learning. TJ also reflects on building successful books about South African business icons (such as Christo Wiese, Koos Bekker and Capitec), his fascination with financial history, personal finance, investing, and even his strategic approach to entering game shows.

Whether you're passionate about books, writing, productivity, business, investing, or discovering your next great read, this episode offers thoughtful insights, practical wisdom, and plenty of book recommendations to add to your reading list.

TJ's Book Picks

The Crossing by Cormac McCarthy

The Unconsoled by Kazuo Ishiguro

All the Pretty Horses by Cormac McCarthy

The Ascent of Money by Niall Ferguson

Catch-22 by Joseph Heller

Connect with TJ

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tj-strydom-01407a64/

Follow Insight

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/insight-actuaries-&-consultants/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insight_za/

Website: https://www.insight.co.za/