Blog Archives
The Crucible Principle
The Crucible Principle follows Jackson Cade, a high-powered leader whose world collapses when a corporate crisis exposes not only cracks in the company he built but cracks in his own life. The story tracks his forced sabbatical, his exile in the woods, and his painful unraveling as he confronts the distance he has created with his family, the weight of buried failures, and the truth that leadership means nothing if a man is falling apart inside. Through conversations with mentors, memories that cut deep, and a growing list of words he has avoided for years, the book traces his path from blindness to honesty. It shows how adversity becomes the place where identity is stripped down and rebuilt.
I found myself pulled into the emotional tension more than I expected. The writing is clean and vivid, and the scenes feel authentic. I liked how the author blends storytelling with lessons without turning it into a lecture. The words carry emotional weight. Some passages lingered in my mind, especially the moments with his daughter. They felt real and tender and a little painful. The interactions in the lodge worked well, too. They had a slow rhythm that made me lean in. At times, the metaphors came on a bit thick, yet the honesty in them still made me feel something.
I also appreciated how the book handles the idea of failure. It doesn’t glamorize it. It doesn’t soften it. It lets the reader sit in it. I could feel the ache of regret, the pressure of ego, and the slow, stubborn work of self-reflection. The pacing dips here and there, but the emotional payoff stays strong. The writing avoids jargon, which makes the lessons easy to absorb.
The Crucible Principle is a story I would recommend to leaders, parents, high achievers, and anyone who feels stretched thin and quietly afraid. It is a good fit for readers who want a mix of story and soul searching, wrapped in language that feels simple and relatable. It reminds you that purpose grows in hard places and that the fire you fear may be the thing that saves you. If you liked the raw self-reckoning and emotional grit of The Leader’s Journey, you’ll find The Crucible Principle just as compelling and well worth your time.
Pages: 110 | ASIN : B0G1JC75F7
Life-Long Learning and Growth
Your book explores a critical yet often overlooked skill: the art of receiving feedback and teaches readers how to use feedback to grow and find success. What was the idea, or spark, that first set off the need to write Receptive and Ready?
We have been teaching managers and leaders for over a decade the right skills to deliver feedback but have rarely touched on the best ways to receive feedback. That’s primarily because most of our students are adult learners who already manage people. (We both teach at the Center for Professional and Executive Development, Wisconsin School of Business, University of Wisconsin-Madison). Over lunch, we wondered if we could augment our message about developmental input and what to do with it by focusing on receivers. And that’s how the book was born.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
First, developmental input, when received and implemented, is a personal and career accelerator that should be embraced eagerly. Second, receivers of developmental input are not in control of “when” the feedback arrives and so must be continually prepared with the proper mindset when it does. Third, there are key skills that receivers should develop in order to absorb and practically use feedback, including self-regulation, emotional intelligence, and active listening.
What is one thing that people point out after reading your book that surprises you?
We have some readers comment they didn’t realize how much control they do (or could have) when receiving developmental feedback, and that they (not the feedback provider) had the greater accountability on what to do “next” with it.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Receptive and Ready?
We hope readers will understand that the principles and behaviors highlighted in Receptive and Ready are about life-long learning and growth.
Artell Smith Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Instagram | X (Twitter) | Website | Amazon
Betsy Hagan Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Authors Artell Smith and Betsy Hagan present Receptive and Ready, an empowering companion for transforming feedback into a catalyst for success.
The book is meticulously written and contains skills to help readers absorb feedback confidently and clearly. Amid the noise of distractions, the authors narrow the focus on what is important for your growth, showing you how to recognize and act on valuable input through practical insights and relatable scenarios. They gracefully guide readers on how to navigate less helpful or poorly delivered feedback, extracting key learnings that will help you flourish.
Most of us view feedback as a hurdle and are afraid to take criticism. With this book, you will discover how to see it as a powerful tool to enhance your self-improvement techniques, helping you move forward with your highest aspirations.
Receptive and Ready is an asset that will help you on your path of self-improvement, enabling you to achieve your highest aspirations. It shines a light on what truly matters, ensuring you maximize each interaction in both your professional and personal life. With the skills presented in this book, you’re bound to stay focused and resilient while being prepared to advance in your journey.
The book contains many concepts you can incorporate into your strategies for positive thinking, leadership development, and personal growth strategies. It will help you overcome the fear of failure and develop effective communication skills in the pursuit of career development.
So, what are you waiting for? Sow the seed for success with Receptive and Ready.
Receptive and Ready – How to Thrive on Developmental Input
Receptive and Ready delivers a compelling exploration of a critical yet often overlooked skill: the art of receiving feedback. Artell Smith and Betsy Hagan present a practical guide for transforming feedback into a tool for self-improvement, equipping readers with the mindset and methods to thrive in professional environments. The book distills decades of combined experience into actionable insights, creating a resource that resonates with anyone eager to grow and succeed. Smith and Hagan empower readers to approach feedback with confidence and curiosity. They offer strategies for managing emotional responses, fostering productive dialogue, and embracing growth opportunities.
The book’s strength lies in its multidimensional approach. It blends technical guidance with thoughtful exploration of the emotional and psychological aspects of feedback reception. Interactive elements, such as discussion questions at the end of each chapter, prompt readers to engage deeply with the material and relate it to their own experiences. Real-world examples, like the case study of Rose, demonstrate how to apply feedback analysis tools in practical scenarios, bringing abstract concepts to life. The authors draw inspiration from thought leaders like Stephen Covey, Carol Dweck, and Brené Brown, integrating these foundational theories with their own insights. This synthesis results in a cohesive narrative that balances intellectual rigor with practical relevance. The book’s frameworks are versatile and adaptable, making them applicable across industries and roles, which broadens its appeal to a wide professional audience. Written in a clear, conversational style, Receptive and Ready communicates complex ideas in an accessible way. The tone is empathetic and motivational, reflecting the authors’ genuine desire to help readers unlock their potential. By blending theory with actionable advice, the book strikes a balance that is both thought-provoking and immediately applicable. Although it covers a broad range of topics, the content remains focused and digestible, avoiding the pitfall of overwhelming readers with excessive information. The depth of research and detail in the book underscores the authors’ expertise and dedication. Drawing on established theories while introducing fresh perspectives, Smith and Hagan provide a well-rounded exploration of feedback dynamics. Their guidance extends beyond workplace interactions, offering valuable insights for leaders, professionals, and lifelong learners striving for personal growth.
Receptive and Ready is a standout contribution to self-improvement and leadership literature. Its actionable strategies, relatable anecdotes, and empathetic tone make it an invaluable resource for mastering the transformative power of feedback. Smith and Hagan deliver a clear and engaging guide that inspires readers to embrace feedback as a catalyst for growth.
Pages: 117 | ASIN : B0DNNY3XQ5
Leading to Thrive: Mastering Strategies for Sustainable Success in Business and Life
Leadership is a delicate equilibrium, a dynamic interplay between personal fortitude and organizational strategy. In Leading to Thrive, Klaus Kleinfeld unpacks the intricate balance required to become an effective leader, presenting a nuanced exploration of leadership that merges internal resilience with outward-facing strategies. His holistic approach offers a fresh perspective on achieving sustainable success, emphasizing the interplay of what he terms the “Inner Game” and “Outer Game” of leadership.
The “Inner Game” revolves around cultivating energy, focus, and personal resilience across physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual dimensions. By contrast, the “Outer Game” tackles the practical aspects of leadership, including organizational strategies, decision-making, and achieving high performance. Through these dual lenses, Kleinfeld constructs a framework that is both comprehensive and actionable. Drawing thought-provoking parallels between business leadership and high-performance sports, he underscores the importance of maintaining inner well-being to sustain outward excellence. Kleinfeld addresses contemporary leadership challenges with strategies like energy management and the “Completed Staff Work” decision-making methodology, offering tools that are as practical as they are insightful.
Kleinfeld’s writing style is both engaging and methodical, seamlessly blending storytelling with data-driven analysis. Personal anecdotes and research findings create a narrative that is not only compelling but also relatable, enriched by metaphors that simplify complex concepts without diminishing their depth.
One of the book’s standout features is its emphasis on the “Inner Game,” an often-overlooked aspect of leadership. By integrating principles of self-care, energy management, and spiritual fulfillment into a traditional leadership framework, Kleinfeld fills a critical gap in conventional business literature. This approach challenges outdated notions of leadership as either an innate talent or an acquired skill, instead suggesting that effective leaders are shaped by a dynamic combination of innate qualities and intentional practice.
Leading to Thrive is a must-read for leaders and aspiring leaders seeking a balanced, holistic pathway to success. It serves as both an inspirational guide and a practical roadmap, equipping readers with tools to thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape. Klaus Kleinfeld’s work is a powerful reminder that true leadership begins within and radiates outward, making this book an invaluable addition to any leader’s library.
Pages: 255 | ASIN : B0DKXTS8V9
Differentiation and Innovation
The Robin Hood Method combines motivational narratives with clear, step-by-step instructions for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners, making complex business ideas accessible. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I learned a lot during my disastrous business start-up and during my twenty years in building a $100 million mortgage business. I would like to spare small business owners some of the pain that comes from not knowing how to do it, and provide them with the practical knowledge gleaned from my own experiences, which can be applied to virtually any business.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
First, the competition can kill you, and it can also save you. Second, profitability can be increased without risk, and without any increase in sales. Third, differentiation and innovation can create profound value for even a common product (such as popcorn) or service (such as a restaurant). And tiny, ongoing improvements in the product or services can create a proportionately greater value over time.
What is one piece of advice someone gave you that changed your life?
I learned that the best way to learn was by copying the methods of my most successful competitors, and by collaborating with others in the same business to improve marketing and other processes.
The best advice I received was to ensure that my pricing was at least at the level of the market, though it seemed high to me. I then learned that superb service and effective marketing allow more room for price increases.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from The Robin Hood Method?
The habit of copying from the best has been the foundation of science, sports, and our society as a whole. So how can you go wrong by following the same script in business?
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
A new and different approach is required because only 40% of small businesses are profitable and over 50% fail within five years.
With a relentless emphasis on profitability, the author provides fresh insight into:
– How the Robin Hood Method costs nothing, has no disadvantages, and can cut your learning curve by years.
– Thirteen untapped opportunities to increase prices.
– Four ways to create instant sales momentum for your start-up.
– Six mega marketing options.
– A fun and creative approach for novices to understand business numbers.
The author has experienced the despair of a failing business and can relate to the issues of lack of money, knowledge, and experience. For that reason the book has simple and easy to apply techniques for a business in trouble, mired in mediocrity, or just starting out.
The Intentional Leader – A Guide To Elevate Your Residential Service business
Balancing leadership and management is crucial, and The Intentional Leader offers a comprehensive guide to navigating these roles effectively. The book digs deep into the differences between leading and managing, emphasizing how understanding both can foster a thriving organizational culture. Gauvreau establishes a strong foundation, defining management as the structured, task-oriented side of running an organization, while leadership emerges as the visionary, people-centered force driving motivation and growth. He examines how these functions shape dynamics, influence structure, and cultivate an environment that promotes creativity and inclusivity.
Gauvreau’s writing style strikes a perfect balance—methodical yet approachable. His structured, instructional tone gives readers a clear pathway through both theory and practical guidance. The text feels authoritative but never overwhelming, making it suitable for readers whether they’re new to leadership or seasoned professionals. Gauvreau seamlessly blends theory with actionable advice, offering insights on trust-building, team dynamics, and organizational health. The real-world stories he shares, including personal experiences like his time as a Patrol Sergeant, infuse a sense of authenticity. These anecdotes make complex concepts relatable and engaging, transforming abstract theories into lessons with real-world significance.
What truly makes The Intentional Leader stand out is how it simplifies intricate leadership theories. Gauvreau details different leadership styles, from transformational to autocratic to servant leadership, and connects each one to broader organizational objectives. He explains patiently and clearly, building a strong mental picture for the reader and making complex material digestible and easy to internalize. His reflections invite readers to engage in self-assessment, encouraging them to analyze their methods and pinpoint areas for growth. Gauvreau provides a roadmap for refining leadership styles, expertly integrating essential management strategies to craft a well-rounded approach to leading any organization.
The book’s structure deserves praise. Every chapter builds cohesively on the last, ensuring a smooth reading experience that guides the audience logically through each concept. Gauvreau is mindful of his readers, presenting the content in a way that keeps them engaged and eager to learn. His work feels intentional in itself, designed to inspire readers to lead with purpose and precision, but also with heart.
The Intentional Leader is a standout resource for anyone eager to develop intentionality in their leadership journey. Gauvreau’s blend of clear instruction, relatable storytelling, and insightful reflections creates a powerful guide. It’s a must-read for leaders looking to master the art of balancing leadership with management, offering a toolkit for creating a positive and productive organizational culture.
Pages: 195 | ASIN : B0DL8244SB
What Lights You Up?: Illuminate Your Path and Take the Next Big Step in Your Career
In today’s world, where social media pressures us to conform and fit into pre-defined boxes, recognizing your true self has never been more vital. What Lights You Up, by Mary Olson-Menzel, is a vibrant guide to self-discovery and career fulfillment. Written with an uplifting and engaging tone, the book draws readers in through a blend of personal anecdotes and actionable advice. Olson-Menzel’s writing style feels both warm and motivational, gently nudging readers to identify their passions and chase careers aligned with their authentic selves.
Olson-Menzel’s passion for her subject radiates from every page. Her arguments are compelling, and her ideas are meticulously thought out. From the way she presents her concepts to the strategies she suggests, her expertise on topics like soft skills and the evolving workplace landscape is evident. One standout idea is her emphasis on “ikigai,” the Japanese philosophy that marries purpose and passion. She argues convincingly that finding one’s ikigai leads to joy and fulfillment, a balance between career aspirations and the human need for purpose. Her approach feels refreshing, holistic, and distinctly modern.
The book’s structure is as thoughtful as its content. Olson-Menzel knows how tedious self-help books on career fulfillment can be, and she has taken intentional steps to keep the material engaging and practical. Her organization flows naturally, making the book a breeze to read, while the personal stories she shares add richness and depth to her ideas. The inclusion of interactive worksheets and exercises scattered throughout the chapters transforms the reading experience into a hands-on journey of self-discovery, allowing readers to apply insights in real-time. This interactivity encourages deep reflection, inspiring readers to rethink how they approach both life and career.
What Lights You Up stands out as both inspiring and empowering. The author’s personal approach adds a layer of authenticity that makes her message resonate deeply. The book opens with a heartfelt tribute to Olson-Menzel’s late mother, whose enduring passion for art serves as a poignant reminder that age or adversity should never extinguish one’s inner light. This touching anecdote sets the tone for the book, reinforcing the idea that it’s never too late to rediscover and pursue what makes us come alive. Drawing lessons from her own experiences and the world around her, Mary Olson-Menzel delivers a powerful and valuable resource for anyone — regardless of career stage — looking to design a path that feels both authentic and rewarding.
Pages: 206 | ASIN : B0DJDSFSRC
Layered Leadership: Drive Double-Digit Growth and Dominate Your Competition with Creative Strategies and Execution
Layered Leadership is a comprehensive guide to modern leadership and organizational growth, presented through a unique metaphor of layers. Author Lawrence R. Armstrong shares his personal journey from growing up in Ohio to leading a highly successful architecture firm, intertwining these stories with actionable strategies for leaders across industries. The book unfolds in three parts: laying a foundation, crafting a vision, and driving strategic growth, all aiming to help readers build a leadership style that’s balanced, creative, and effective.
The writing is approachable yet rich with insights. I was drawn in by Armstrong’s storytelling. For example, his vivid descriptions of riding his bike to construction sites as a kid and exploring the layers of architecture and design were charming and grounded the narrative in genuine experience. It’s not just technical advice; it’s a leadership journey laced with universally relatable moments. The story about his first job and the impact of the recession gave a human context to what could have been a dry recounting of economic history. Connecting his childhood fascinations to his later professional principles adds an emotional depth that I don’t often find in leadership books.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the discussion about innovation. Armstrong’s philosophy that creativity must be woven into the company culture and not limited to a specific department really resonated. He presents creativity as something that everyone has as long as they’re given the right environment and opportunities. His examples of strategic innovation, like designing mid-rise office buildings with cost-effective materials, weren’t just clever solutions they were proof of how his layered approach works in practice.
While I appreciated learning about his life, I feel that some sections could have been trimmed without losing their essence. But even then, Armstrong’s passion is evident, and it’s hard not to respect the vulnerability he shows. His story about moving to California with his wife, facing job insecurity, and the pressure of proving himself added stakes and made his eventual success that much sweeter.
Layered Leadership is for anyone who wants to think differently about leading a team, building a business, or developing themselves. It’s perfect for people who appreciate a blend of practical advice and heartfelt narrative. It’s a book that encourages you to bet on yourself, see the world in layers, and take a holistic approach to success.
Pages: 256 | ASIN : B0D3Y12TG2
LITERARY TITAN 