

The Founder’s Shelf: Thinking In Bets
Join us for the next gathering of The Founder’s Shelf, Realist Lab’s book club for entrepreneurs who like to think a little deeper about how decisions actually get made.
This quarter, we’re reading Thinking in Bets by Annie Duke, a former professional poker player turned decision-making expert who challenges how we define “good” and “bad” outcomes.
About the Book
Thinking in Bets flips the script on how we judge our decisions. Instead of asking, “Did it work?”, Annie Duke invites us to ask, “Was this a good decision given what I knew at the time?”
The book explores how uncertainty shows up everywhere. In business, leadership, relationships, and life. Duke uses stories from poker, startups, and psychology to show how separating outcomes from decision quality helps us take smarter risks, learn faster, and stay grounded when things do not go as planned.
This is not a book about having all the answers. It is about learning how to think clearly when the answers are not obvious. Especially relevant for founders who are constantly making high-stakes calls with incomplete information.
On March 2nd, we’ll come together to:
Share key takeaways and moments that made us pause
Reflect on how uncertainty shows up in our businesses and leadership
Talk through real decisions founders are navigating right now
Whether you’ve read every page, skimmed a few chapters, or just want to be part of the conversation, you are welcome here.
Grab your copy of Thinking in Bets, start reading, and RSVP to save your spot.
About Realist Lab
Realist Lab is a 501(c)(3) mission-driven organization dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and change makers through education, mentorship, and community-driven initiatives. We provide resources, funding opportunities, and strategic support to help early-stage founders bring their visions to life. Through programs like the Venture Launch Fellowship, we cultivate a thriving ecosystem where entrepreneurs have the tools, connections, and confidence to build sustainable and impactful businesses.