Blog Archives
Tech Confidential: The Insider’s Playbook for Daring Entrepreneurs
Tech Confidential by Denise Koessler Gosnell and Kathryn Erickson is part memoir, part survival guide, and part no-nonsense startup playbook. Structured in four “levels,” it blends personal war stories from Silicon Valley with lessons on leadership, resilience, and strategy. The authors pull back the curtain on the tech industry’s chaos, highlighting ego traps, toxic culture, funding realities, and the gritty human side of innovation. It’s blunt, funny, and practical, written to prepare readers for the messy reality of building a career and company in tech without losing their health or their soul.
The writing has a raw and punchy style that keeps you hooked, moving from hard-earned truths to ridiculous anecdotes without losing momentum. I loved that they owned their mistakes as openly as they exposed bad actors. It made the lessons feel earned rather than preached. Some of the analogies are wild, dumpster phoenix and gladiator arena, and yet they stick with you because they capture the absurdity of working in high-stakes tech. It’s not polished in the corporate sense, and that’s exactly why it works.
I enjoyed the balance between cynicism and hope. The authors don’t whitewash the burnout, politics, and plain bad behavior that plague the industry, but they never let it slip into pure bitterness. There’s a steady thread of belief in people’s ability to change, to lead better, and to protect their own boundaries. At times, the bluntness hits hard, and at others it feels like a pep talk you didn’t know you needed. I also appreciated how they mixed in concrete, tactical advice, like how to spot ego traps, how to build real teams, and how to survive acquisitions, without burying you in jargon or theory. It’s written for people, not for résumés.
I’d recommend Tech Confidential to anyone considering a leap into the startup world, to mid-career tech leaders wondering if the next rung up the ladder is worth it, and to anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider in the industry. It’s a book for people who can laugh at the chaos while still wanting to make something meaningful out of it. If you’re looking for a glossy playbook with neat frameworks, this isn’t it. But if you want the messy, funny, and often sobering truth, and a reminder that you’re not alone in the madness, you’ll get a lot out of this.
Pages: 203 | ASIN : B0FM4DZHCR
Data-Driven Decision-Making
The Goldilocks Team is a candid, research-backed guide to building teams that thrive through personal alignment and human connection. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I find the sheer scale of employee disengagement around the world disturbing, understanding the devastating impact it has on the bottom line results of companies and the quality of life of individuals. So when I realized that much of this disengagement is avoidable – that in fact there is a better way to retain, hire, and engage employees – it just became my mission to help eliminate as much of the disengagement as I can.
What moment in your own career made you realize that most hiring strategies are missing the point?
The realization came when I saw the massive disparity between what employers focus on in the hiring process versus what is needed for hiring success. Specifically for hiring success, the following three are needed:
1) Solid capability to do the job. Most employers do a relatively good job trying to assess the ability to do the job from the candidate’s previous experience.
2) Values Alignment for long-term engagement – which means that what the candidate values is delivered by the employer. Yet most companies look for candidates that come in ready to regurgitate their company values and never even consider how well they as employers will be able to meet their future employee’s needs.
3) Interpersonal Alignment for smooth collaboration – which is the natural fit of two people (especially employee with manager). Most organizations focus on scrutinizing the candidates and totally miss the point that collaboration is a two-way street. In addition, they falsely believe that their best interview questions will suss out the character flaws and strengths of the applicant. Unwittingly, most employers hire based on guesswork and gut feelings versus data-driven decision-making.
What’s one popular HR practice you believe is harming team cohesion?
Forced ranking employees is one of the most harmful HR practices that destroys team cohesion.
You emphasize values alignment. How can a team leader practically assess that during the hiring process?
Build a method to capture what candidates actually value without judgment. During interviews, candidates are programmed to play “say the right thing” to get the job and therefore have a near-impossible time expressing what they value. Alternatively, try the OpenElevator platform my team and I have built to help understand values alignment with our bias-free approach.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | LinkedIn | Website | Amazon
In The Goldilocks Team: Master Retention and Hiring, you’ll take an illuminating and entertaining deep dive into the core drivers of employee engagement, the evolution of workplace culture, values alignment, and interpersonal alignment, and learn how to:
• Address the root causes of turnover and improve retention
• Implement practical, immediately actionable tactics to engage your team
• Align your organization’s retention strategies with employee values for lasting success
• Build high-performing teams that deliver for the long-term, without guesswork
Whether you’re a seasoned business leader or a new manager, this provides a clear roadmap to keep your existing team members engaged for the long-term and to successfully hire top talent that is positioned to thrive within your organization.
Ready to build a team that’s high-performing, fully engaged and loyal? This book will show you how.
Your Road to Yes!: How to Build Trust in Yourself and with Others
Your Road to Yes! is a heartfelt and gutsy exploration of what it really takes to build trust—within yourself and with others. This book isn’t just about professional growth; it’s about personal healing too. Author Justin Patton breaks down trust into its moving parts, then rebuilds it with fierce honesty, storytelling, and practical advice. From everyday situations to life-changing revelations, he guides readers through what trust looks like in action, why it fails, and how to rebuild it. If Leadership Presence was about how to show up, Your Road to Yes! is about why showing up matters in the first place.
I liked how deeply personal this book is. Patton doesn’t just teach trust—he lays bare his own journey. In the first chapter, he shares a story about crashing his bike as a kid and how his tough Air Force dad gently carried him home and bandaged his toe. That moment, he writes, was his first real memory of trust. It got me thinking about those rare times in life when someone showed up for me with zero judgment. It’s this emotional openness that gives the book its power. Another example that resonated with me was the anecdote about his mom—how she never gave up on their relationship, even when things weren’t perfect. It made me reflect on how many times I’ve let silence kill trust in my own life because I didn’t want to rock the boat. Patton flips that idea. He says silence is our biggest threat, and that message echoed throughout the whole book like a wake-up call.
From a practical standpoint, this book is a toolbox. Patton outlines what erodes trust (like emotional exhaustion and fear-based leadership), and how to repair it with consistent action, transparency, and tact. I really appreciated how he framed trust as something both given from the heart and earned through the head. That balance stuck with me. He’s not shy about calling out performative leadership or the culture of busyness that drowns real connection. He talks about managers needing to stop hiding behind productivity metrics and actually invest in their people. I especially loved the chapter on trust being your “biggest competitive advantage.” It’s not just a nice idea—he backs it up with research and real-world coaching stories. And yet, it’s written in such a warm, down-to-earth tone.
Your Road to Yes! is equal parts pep talk and soul check. It’s a tough but loving reminder that trust doesn’t just happen—it’s built moment by moment, conversation by conversation. If you’ve ever felt like you were walking on eggshells in a relationship, or like your voice didn’t matter at work, this book will crack something open for you. I’d recommend it for leaders, parents, partners—honestly, anyone who wants deeper, healthier relationships. It’s also perfect for folks feeling stuck or burned out, looking for a more grounded way to lead and live.
Pages: 164 | ASIN : B0B4PFGPJD
Fierce Resilience: Combatting Workplace Stress One Conversation at a Time
Fierce Resilience by Edward J. Beltran is a refreshing and insightful exploration of resilience, offering a blend of practical advice and personal reflection. The book is divided into two sections: the first focuses on understanding the roots of stress and developing strategies to address them, while the second provides realistic scenarios and examples to help readers apply these concepts in real life.
Beltran redefines resilience not as a passive ability to endure challenges, but as an active, intentional process of understanding and overcoming the sources of stress. His method of incorporating biometric intelligence with traditional resilience strategies is particularly innovative, making the book not just informative, but also enormously impactful. Beltran doesn’t just tell readers to be strong—he shows them how to build genuine, lasting resilience. One of the book’s strengths is its personal touch. Beltran frequently references his grandmother’s experiences, which adds depth and a relatable dimension to his discussion. This personal connection grounds the abstract concept of resilience in real-life examples, making the content more accessible and meaningful. His use of real-world stories, like Bethany Hamilton’s recovery after a shark attack, further enriches the book, showing how the principles he outlines are applied in extraordinary circumstances.
The biggest takeaway from Fierce Resilience is that resilience is not merely about bouncing back from adversity; it’s about moving forward, growing stronger, and becoming more adaptable. Beltran has written a powerful guide that encourages readers to take a proactive approach to building their resilience. The book excels in its practical application, offering readers a comprehensive roadmap to navigate the challenges of today’s world. Whether you’re facing personal or professional stress, this book provides the tools and inspiration needed to cultivate fierce resilience.
Pages: 240 | ASIN : B0CTC87SJH
Purposeful Performance: The Secret Mix of Connecting, Leading, and Succeeding
Purposeful Performance is a compelling guide for leaders and professionals seeking to infuse their work with greater meaning and value. The book advocates for a shift from profit-centric models to purpose-driven approaches that prioritize empathy, employee well-being, and community impact. Through practical strategies and insightful anecdotes, Stanley lays out a roadmap for creating sustainable success by aligning business goals with deeper, more meaningful objectives.
One of the standout aspects of the book is Stanley’s emphasis on the importance of cultivating a thriving workplace culture. He argues that companies should prioritize employee well-being as much as financial success, suggesting that a people-focused approach can significantly enhance productivity and loyalty. The book provides actionable advice on how to attract and retain employees who are aligned with the company’s values and purpose.
Another strength of the book is its detailed framework for strategic planning. Stanley introduces the concept of MEAN (meaningful, exact, actionable, and necessary) goals, which he contrasts with the traditional SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time-bound) goals. This fresh perspective encourages readers to aim higher and push beyond perceived limitations, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. I found the discussion on the pitfalls of conventional strategic planning particularly enlightening, as it underscores the need for simplicity and clarity in goal setting.
Stanley’s insights into leadership accountability are also noteworthy. He emphasizes that true leadership involves more than just setting goals, it requires transparent communication, fostering a sense of ownership among employees, and being willing to hold oneself and others accountable for their actions. This approach not only drives performance but also builds trust and engagement within the team. The practical tips for addressing performance issues and supporting team members in achieving their best work are both realistic and inspiring.
I think Purposeful Performance is an invaluable resource for leaders, business owners, and professionals who aspire to create meaningful and lasting impact through their work. Stanley’s practical advice, combined with his passion for purpose-driven success, makes this book a must-read for anyone looking to align their professional goals with deeper personal values.
Pages: 353 | ASIN : B0D7T72P2M
ImmiGRIT: How Immigrant Leadership Drives Business Success
In ImmiGRIT, Ukeme Awakessien Jeter expertly explores the intertwined themes of immigration and leadership, crafting an insightful narrative on the unique advantages that immigrant leaders bring to the table. Unlike many works that treat these subjects separately, Jeter merges them, revealing how the immigrant experience can significantly enhance leadership qualities. This book serves not only as a tribute to immigrant resilience and innovation but also as a practical guide for business leaders aiming to harness the full potential of immigrant talent. The book opens with a historical perspective on immigration, highlighting its profound impact on societal and economic development. From the British settler John Rolfe in the 1600s to modern tech giants like Sergey Brin of Google and Eric Yuan of Zoom, Jeter illustrates how immigrants have been pivotal in shaping industries and driving innovation. These narratives are not merely historical footnotes but powerful reminders of the ongoing contributions of immigrants to the global economy. “Powerful” aptly describes this book.
Jeter also offers a personal perspective from her time as an international student, providing a timeline of her immigrant experience up to her becoming a lawyer and beyond. Her story is a poignant exploration of resilience, adaptability, and determination—qualities that many immigrants embody and that are critical attributes of effective leadership. This personal journey culminates in a compelling argument for the indispensable role of immigrant leaders in today’s globalized society.
Human resource professionals, talent developers, and diversity, equity, and inclusion advocates will find ImmiGRIT to be a treasure trove of insights. Jeter outlines practical tips and real-life examples to create a roadmap for maximizing the benefits of a diverse workforce. Her work is a call to action, inspiring efforts to support immigrant talent, address biases, and facilitate inclusivity in the workplace. One of the most notable aspects of this book is the author’s bravery. Jeter courageously challenges existing leadership paradigms and advocates for a new approach that recognizes and nurtures the unique strengths of immigrant leaders. Her no-holds-barred approach aims to transform how we perceive and cultivate leadership in the modern workplace.
Ukeme Awakessien Jeter’s eloquent and groundbreaking discussion of the immense value of immigrant leadership is a must-read. Her analysis is well-informed, enriched with storytelling, and highly persuasive. This book is both essential and inspiring.
Pages: 196 | ASIN : B0D3M18RHD
A Multidimensional Field
Burst the Bubble offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the pharmaceutical industry, including its different career paths, qualifications, and employment trends. What inspired you to write a book on this topic?
Writing “Burst the Bubble” was driven by my fascination with the pharmaceutical industry’s complexity and its profound impact on our lives. I was particularly inspired by the idea that many people view this sector from a very narrow perspective—either as purely scientific or purely commercial. I wanted to unpack the nuances and explore the myriad career paths, qualifications, and evolving trends that shape this dynamic industry.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
One of the crucial ideas I wanted to convey is the accessibility of pharmaceutical careers. It’s a field often perceived as exclusive to those with a specific scientific background, but in reality, it’s multidimensional, with roles in ethics, policy, marketing, and more. Highlighting these opportunities was essential to me, hoping to inspire a broader audience to consider how they might contribute to this field.
Did you find anything in your research of this book that surprised you?
During my research, I was surprised by the rapid pace of innovation and its implications for employment trends. For instance, the integration of artificial intelligence in drug development and personalized medicine is creating new career paths that didn’t exist a decade ago. This evolving landscape challenges the traditional notions of what it means to work in pharmaceuticals.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Burst the Bubble?
Ultimately, I hope readers take away a deeper understanding of the pharmaceutical industry’s breadth and potential. Whether they are looking for a career change or simply curious about the industry, I want “Burst the Bubble” to challenge their assumptions and encourage them to think about how they could impact this crucial sector.
Author Links: GoodReads
To make the reading experience interactive, the book incorporates question processes that guide readers in discovering the most suitable career within the clinical research landscape. Additionally, it offers a glimpse into the daily routines of specific roles, providing a firsthand account of the challenges and rewards inherent in each position.
The recurring theme of “Benefit or Bust” underscores the importance of understanding the industry’s nuances and making strategic choices for a successful and fulfilling career. Furthermore, the book goes beyond entry-level insights, catering to individuals who have experience in the field but may have only seen it from a limited perspective.
With a commitment to sharing insider knowledge and trade secrets, “Burst the Bubble” aims to empower readers with the information needed to navigate the complexities of the clinical research industry and thrive in their chosen careers. Whether you’re a newcomer eager to break into the field or a seasoned professional seeking a more comprehensive understanding, this book is your guide to unlocking the full potential of a career in clinical research.
Burst the Bubble: A Look Into Careers in the Pharmaceutical Industry
In Burst the Bubble, author Tia Warrick offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the pharmaceutical industry, presenting a nuanced view of both its allure and complexity. Her narrative skillfully demystifies intricate concepts, making them accessible to a broad audience. Warrick infuses her writing with a touch of humor and a flair for idiomatic expressions, effectively balancing the technical nature of the subject.
Warrick adeptly traces the historical development and contemporary transformations within the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. She illuminates their critical contributions to healthcare, notably in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on drug development and biotech funding. Her in-depth analysis provides a clear understanding of these dynamic fields.
Addressing potential career aspirants, Warrick offers a thorough breakdown of employment trends and essential qualifications within these industries. She presents a balanced view, detailing both the rewards and challenges of such careers. This objective approach gives readers a well-rounded perspective on what it takes to succeed in these fields.
Her book is particularly timely, considering the increased public interest in pharmaceuticals and biotech following the pandemic. Warrick avoids a dry, academic tone, instead adopting a more relaxed style that enhances the book’s appeal. She champions these industries with an informative yet balanced analysis.
Burst the Bubble serves as an invaluable resource for anyone intrigued by careers in pharmaceuticals and biotech. Its thoroughness makes it an ideal guide for young individuals exploring future career paths. Warrick’s careful and detailed discussions showcase not only her writing prowess but also cast these industries in a positive light. The book stands as a quintessential guide for those looking to enter and excel in these fields, mirroring the informative essence of a comprehensive career day presentation.
Pages: 124 | ASIN : B0CTHQ8742
LITERARY TITAN 