SHARE THIS POST
Author: John Malone
Genres: Business, Memoir, Technology, Media
Publication Date: September 2, 2025
Publisher: Harper Business
Pages: 432 (Hardcover)
ISBN: 9780063377129
Star Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Estimated Reading Time: 4 minutes
Born to Be Wired: Lessons from a Lifetime Transforming Television, Wiring America for the Internet, and Growing Formula One, Discovery, Sirius XM, and the Atlanta Braves is John Malone’s memoir of a career that reshaped entertainment and communications. This born to be wired john malone book review explores how the “cable cowboy” narrates his role in turning cable TV into a powerhouse, investing in global media, and influencing industries from sports to technology.
Malone recounts his rise from engineer to one of the most powerful figures in American business. The book highlights his leadership at TCI, his deals that shaped Discovery and Sirius XM, and his investments in Formula One and the Atlanta Braves. Alongside industry history, Malone reflects on risk-taking, negotiation, and the technological revolutions that defined the last half-century.
The memoir mixes candid anecdotes with business strategy. Malone writes in a direct, pragmatic style, often grounding his reflections in numbers, deals, and technical innovation. The narrative is less personal confession and more case study, making it particularly appealing for readers interested in media history and corporate strategy.
Strengths: Rich business insights; behind-the-scenes look at landmark deals; strong historical context.
Weaknesses: Technical detail may overwhelm casual readers; limited focus on Malone’s personal life outside business.
On Goodreads, early reviewers praise the blend of history and business lessons, calling it “a masterclass in deal-making.” Amazon readers highlight its value for entrepreneurs and industry professionals, though some note it can feel dense.
Publishers Weekly noted its “unparalleled insider perspective on the media revolution.” Kirkus described it as “a brisk, instructive memoir,” while The Wall Street Journal emphasized its relevance to understanding the future of entertainment and tech industries.
Ideal for entrepreneurs, executives, and students of business history. Perfect for readers fascinated by media, sports ownership, and technology’s role in shaping culture. Less suited for those looking for a personal, emotional memoir.
John Malone, often called the “cable cowboy,” is a billionaire businessman whose leadership of TCI and Liberty Media made him one of the most influential figures in global entertainment. His work spans cable, internet infrastructure, sports, and satellite radio.
Born to Be Wired is a fascinating account of how one man helped wire America and transform the world’s media landscape. While heavy on detail, it rewards readers with practical lessons and a unique historical perspective. Final Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
For more, see Publishers Weekly, Kirkus Reviews, and The Wall Street Journal Books.
Stay on top of your reading with our Reading Tracker.
Subscribe for unbiased reviews and easy-to-use tools that help you choose and track your next read.
SHARE THIS POST
Airbnb 15.5% Host Fee: What It Means in 2025 This guide explains the Airbnb 15.5% host fee, how the single host fee compares with the
Airbnb Service Fee Changes for Hosts 2025 This guide covers Airbnb service fee changes for hosts 2025. It summarizes the shift to a single host
Everything To Know About Airbnb Temporary Phone Numbers in 2025 Airbnb has begun testing a communication change that masks real phone numbers and keeps a
Subscribe for unbiased reviews and easy-to-use tools that help you choose and track your next read.
