Five Bullet Friday - October 17, 2025

Dear A,

I've been in Washington DC all week conducting a CARVER course. It's been fun to reconnect with old friends in the city I lived in for 20 years.

BOOK I'M READING...

The Secret of Secrets by Dan Brown. Ever since I read The Da Vinci Code years ago, I’ve devoured every Dan Brown novel that’s followed. While the film adaptations have been largely underwhelming, I’ve always enjoyed the Robert Langdon storyline — the mix of history, art, and mystery is unmatched. I’m genuinely excited to dive into this new installment in the series.

RESTAURANT I'M TRYING...

801 Chophouse in Tysons Corner. I had an outstanding meal this week — the lamb chops — while catching up with one of my closest friends at this classic steakhouse. From the moment you walk in, 801 Chophouse envelops you in the feel of a timeless, upscale dining experience with a modern edge. The rich dark-wood finishes, brass accents, and warm lighting create an atmosphere that’s both elegant and inviting.

Though I hadn’t heard of 801 Chophouse before this visit, I left thoroughly impressed. The service was attentive, the food exceptional, and the overall experience exactly what you hope for when you step into a premier steakhouse. I’ll definitely be back.

SOFTWARE I'M USING...

Sora 2. This AI video-generation software is absolutely mind-blowing. If you can imagine it, the software can bring it to life. For example — here’s a clip of Mr. Rogers hanging out with Tupac Shakur. As incredible as the technology is, it also raises serious concerns about how easily reality can now be fabricated. The implications are both fascinating and frightening.

HISTORICAL FIGURE I'M LEARNING ABOUT...

Hedy Lamarr. Hedy Lamarr, best known as one of Hollywood’s most glamorous actresses of the 1930s and 40s, was far more than a movie star. Born Hedwig Kiesler in Vienna, she fled Europe during World War II and built a career in Hollywood — but behind the scenes, she was a brilliant inventor with a lifelong fascination for engineering. Working out of her home lab, Lamarr partnered with composer George Antheil to develop a revolutionary “frequency-hopping” communication system designed to prevent enemy forces from jamming Allied torpedoes.

Though the U.S. Navy initially dismissed her idea, the principles behind Lamarr’s invention later became the foundation for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS technology. She never profited from her creation, but her work has since earned her recognition as one of the most important innovators of the 20th century. As Lamarr once said, “The brains of people are more interesting than the looks, I think.” Her legacy is a reminder that true brilliance often hides behind unexpected faces — and that vision and curiosity can change the world.

QUOTE I'M PONDERING...

“Don’t count the days, make the days count.”

— Muhammad Ali

Thank you for your attention. As always, I welcome your thoughts and suggestions.

Stay safe and vigilant,

Luke Bencie