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In The Art of an Enlightened Woman, you guide readers to rediscover what it means to be whole and encourage them to live with purpose. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I just really want to share with women that they have this untapped, undiscovered incredible voice inside of them. Sometimes we hear it and ignore it and sometimes we do not hear it at all-or feel it. We become numb to our existence. There is such incredible power when we are able to weave experience into wisdom and strength and we all have this capability, sometimes we just need a reminder.
The Art of an Enlightened Woman is the reminder that all we need is already inside of us.
Can you share with us a little about the research that went into putting this book together?
I have spent the last 25-30 years working with women of all ages encouraging them on their health journey. So many times I have encountered incredible women with low self-esteem, fear and a lack of courage- to really listen to themselves and learn from their experience. I have 2 daughters, beautiful female friendships, mothers, sisters and aunts and truly believe that empowerment is internal but also comes from encouragement. We become who we surround ourselves with. I want to encourage women around the world that we are all strong and capable and more so when we are all empowered. We can create change one woman at a time by standing up for what we believe in and insist that we are valuedjust by who we are.
I spent hours reading women’s history, women’s rights, studying buddhism, philosophy and reading, reading, reading-health journals, medical research and so much more and loved every minute of it. What a beautiful process.
Did you learn anything about yourself while writing The Art of an Enlightened Woman?
I have learned so much. I have learned that there is so much to know in the world. I have so much to continually learn. I do not ever want to be not curious. I want to understand what it was like for the women who have walked the earth before me-and for those to follow. It was also a reminder that this manifesto is something that even I can return to when my strength is wavering.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from this book?
That you are capable of more than you know. Self-doubt is simply a construct. You have an internal strength and wisdom waiting for you to discover that will guide you to live your best life.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Instagram | Amazon
Leadership Presence
Justin Patton’s Leadership Presence is a passionate guide that challenges traditional leadership models and proposes a fresh, heart-centered alternative rooted in emotional intelligence, authenticity, and, above all, gentleness. Rather than relying on fear, titles, or tactics, Patton encourages leaders to “shake up the world” by showing up fully and leading with trust, empathy, and self-awareness. The book is structured like a conversation with a wise mentor. Intimate, challenging, and hopeful. Patton mixes personal stories, clear frameworks, and direct coaching advice into a motivating roadmap for anyone looking to lead with more purpose and presence.
What really got me hooked was Patton’s fierce defense of gentleness as the foundation of great leadership. That’s not something you hear every day in a business world obsessed with domination and results. He opens with a bold statement: “Gentleness is the essence of leadership presence.” And throughout the book, he proves it with stories. Like the mother on a flight who calmed her disabled son with quiet grace, and the new company president who earned trust not by flexing credentials, but by leading with empathy when questioned by a skeptical employee. They’re not just inspiring, they’re a call to action. I found myself reflecting on how I show up in tough conversations and whether I lead with compassion or control. Spoiler: not always compassion. But this book made me want to try harder.
Where Leadership Presence really shines is in its practicality. The section with “11 Actionable Tips” (like “Act like you belong” and “Vent in private, lead in public”) is gold. Patton doesn’t just preach from the mountaintop, he gets into the mud with us. He admits his own flaws, from defensiveness to over-intensity, and walks us through how he, and his coaching clients, worked to grow. I loved the story about the executive who constantly tried to prove he was the smartest person in the room, only to realize his relationships were falling apart as a result. Patton helped him pivot from transactional behavior to more intentional presence. It’s moments like these that make the book not just informative but deeply human. I felt like I was in therapy for my leadership style, and I enjoyed it.
Leadership Presence made me think hard about how my energy, my words, my silence impact the people around me. It’s the kind of book that leaves you feeling both seen and challenged. I’d recommend it to new managers, seasoned executives, teachers, parents, anyone who wants to be a better human while also being a stronger leader. If you’re ready to trade performance for presence, and power games for real connection, this book will be your guide.
Pages: 85 | ASIN : B08BGXND5H
Pulling Back the Curtain
Secrets of a Social Butterfly is part memoir, part business guide that shares your transformation from a struggling student to a confident global business strategist. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I wrote Secrets of a Social Butterfly because I know what it feels like to doubt yourself, to feel like you don’t quite belong, and to struggle with confidence in professional settings. This book was my way of pulling back the curtain and sharing the lessons I wish I had known earlier. I wanted to show that confidence isn’t something you’re simply born with—it’s a skill you can develop, and it can change the course of your career or business.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I wanted to show that personal growth isn’t a straight line. I’ve had setbacks, doubts, and moments of imposter syndrome. But every challenge brought lessons that helped me grow, and I wanted readers to see that their struggles don’t define them—the way they navigate them does.
What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were younger?
I wish someone had told me: You don’t need to have all the answers to move forward. Just take the next step.
I spent so much time in my early years overthinking, second-guessing myself, and waiting until I felt “ready”—but the truth is, clarity comes from action. Every small step, every new experience, every conversation builds confidence. If I had understood that sooner, I would have trusted myself more and embraced opportunities without so much hesitation. This is also why I launched my popular weekly newsletter Ready Already!
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
If you feel like you don’t quite belong, or you’re unsure of your next step, you’re not alone. I’ve been there. But when you focus on building relationships, staying curious, and showing up as your authentic self, doors start to open. You don’t have to change who you are to succeed—you just need to lean into your strengths and learn how to navigate the world in a way that works for you.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
All of us have experienced those moments of imposter syndrome, struggled to fit in, and have even been bullied for being different. Lynn’s inspiring story takes us on an incredible journey of overcoming setbacks that led to Lynn’s inspiring journey around the world.
Sometimes funny, often poignant, “Secrets of a Social Butterfly” uses storytelling to teach business leaders, founders and anyone really, those ‘unteachable’ skills that we desperately need in this ever changing landscape in which we find ourselves.
This unique narrative nonfiction work blends business insights with learning moments from Lynn’s memoir, offering lessons on going from self-doubt to success.
Secrets of a Social Butterfly
Lynn Bruines’ Secrets of a Social Butterfly is a part-memoir, part-business guide that tells the story of her transformation from a struggling student to a confident global business strategist. She shares deeply personal stories of overcoming imposter syndrome, childhood bullying, and professional challenges, weaving these experiences into valuable lessons about relationship-building, self-empowerment, and personal growth. The book isn’t just about networking; it’s about how human connection, resilience, and adaptability shape our lives and careers.
From the first few chapters, Lynn’s storytelling feels raw and personal. She takes us back to her early struggles in school, where undiagnosed dyslexia and ADHD made her feel like an outsider. Her journey is filled with setbacks like being underestimated by teachers, facing rejection from a top hospitality school, and navigating the social dynamics of the corporate world. Yet, she shares these stories with a mix of humor, humility, and hard-earned wisdom. One of the most memorable moments comes from her road trip back to her childhood schools, where she finally confronts the past that shaped her. The vulnerability in these reflections makes the book incredibly relatable.
Where the book truly shines is in its blend of personal stories and practical takeaways. Lynn doesn’t just tell us how she succeeded, she shows us. The book is filled with moments where she applies real-life lessons, whether it’s using childhood survival tactics to navigate business meetings or leveraging human psychology to build professional relationships. The chapter where she talks about social hierarchies, drawing parallels between corporate networking and the dominance structures in animals, is both insightful and unexpectedly funny. She has a way of making complex ideas feel simple, all while keeping the narrative engaging.
I’d highly recommend Secrets of a Social Butterfly to anyone who has ever felt stuck whether in their career, personal relationships, or self-perception. If you’re an entrepreneur, young professional, or someone navigating a big life transition, this book is packed with wisdom that’s as inspiring as it is practical. Lynn’s journey reminds us that no matter how tough things get, there’s always a way forward.
Pages: 170 | ASIN : B0DNR4Y8YS
Financial Freedom In 100 Months
Imagine waking up with zero financial stress, no nine-to-five grind, and the freedom to live life on your terms. That’s the promise of Financial Freedom in 100 Months, a step-by-step guide to escaping financial dependence in just over eight years. The book walks you through defining financial freedom, calculating your personal “freedom number,” building savings, and investing wisely in stocks, real estate, and even cryptocurrency. It doesn’t stop at money; it explores happiness, simple living, and long-term fulfillment, making it more than just a wealth-building manual.
What I appreciated most was the book’s no-nonsense approach to saving and investing. The chapter Set Your Target and Start Saving for Investment really drives home a critical point: financial freedom isn’t about luck, it’s about discipline. The author emphasizes saving as a non-negotiable habit, cutting unnecessary expenses and making strategic sacrifices early on to enjoy a wealthier future. It’s practical and motivating. The investment advice is solid, especially the sections on stock market fundamentals and real estate investing. The BRRRR Strategy (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) stood out as a particularly insightful approach to building wealth through property investment. It’s clear, actionable, and realistic.
The chapter on cryptocurrency investment felt overly optimistic. While it acknowledges the risks, it leans too much into the idea that crypto is a must-have asset. For someone new to investing, the volatility and uncertainty of crypto could be overwhelming. The book also introduces broad philosophical ideas about happiness, simple living, and career fulfillment, which, while interesting, feel a bit disconnected from the core financial roadmap. These sections could have been tied back to the central strategy more effectively.
I really liked how the book doesn’t just focus on getting rich but also on staying financially free. The chapter Live a Decent Life When You Get Old is a refreshing addition. Many financial books stop at retirement, but this one considers longevity, health, and maintaining happiness in later years. It reminds you that financial freedom isn’t just about having money; it’s about living well with that money. The final chapters tie everything together with timeless wisdom about habits, creativity, and the power of simplicity, which makes the book feel holistic rather than just another “get rich quick” guide.
This book is great for those who are serious about financial independence, especially beginners who want a structured plan. If you struggle with saving or don’t know where to start with investing, this book lays it out clearly. But if you’re already financially savvy, some sections may feel a bit basic. Financial Freedom in 100 Months is an engaging, practical, and motivating read for anyone ready to take control of their financial future.
Pages: 112 | ASIN : B0CZ795H5D
Strategic Planning For a Prosperous Retirement
Retirement planning can be daunting, but Grace Zach’s Strategic Planning for a Prosperous Retirement offers a clear and comprehensive guide to help navigate the process. Zach emphasizes tailoring retirement plans to individual goals and realities. She begins by encouraging readers to envision their ideal retirement lifestyle and follows with a detailed breakdown of financial components, including essential, discretionary, and unforeseen expenses. Key topics like Medicare, inflation, and financial security are addressed with practical strategies.
Zach doesn’t sugarcoat the potential difficulties of retirement planning. Her emphasis on flexibility underscores the need to anticipate change and adjust accordingly. What sets this book apart is Zach’s approachable and empathetic writing style. She blends professionalism with a personable tone, making even complex topics feel manageable. Free of intimidating jargon, the book is accessible to those without a background in finance, yet rich in detail for readers seeking deeper insights. Her systematic exploration of retirement planning ensures thorough coverage, spanning from envisioning an enriching lifestyle to crafting realistic budgets and building emergency funds.
Detailed sections on Medicare and other critical services elevate the book’s utility, particularly for those navigating the unique challenges of retirement in the U.S. Zach’s logical structure and the depth of her content make the guide as practical as it is comprehensive. Zach incorporates relatable examples, thought-provoking questions, and direct calls to action. Readers are not merely absorbing information; they are actively reflecting, planning, and applying insights to their own lives. Exercises and real-world considerations create an immersive experience, making the guide as dynamic as it is informative.
Strategic Planning for a Prosperous Retirement is a masterful resource for anyone seeking to build a retirement plan that reflects their unique vision and needs. Grace Zach has provided a roadmap not just for financial security but for a fulfilling and prosperous retirement.
Pages: 113 | ASIN : B0DF5KTNTD
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
LITERARY TITAN 