The best 100 Leadership books

Leadership is crucial for guiding teams towards success, fostering growth, and navigating challenges. Our meticulously selected book list on this topic offers valuable perspectives and strategies for honing leadership skills.

Delve into our collection to gain actionable insights, practical advice, and inspiring stories from top leaders. Ready to elevate your leadership capabilities and make a meaningful impact? Start exploring now!

The best 100 Leadership books
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1
Leadership Books: The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick M. Lencioni

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team

Patrick M. Lencioni
A Leadership Fable
4.5 (1,012 ratings)
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What's The Five Dysfunctions of a Team about?

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team (2002) presents the notion that teams are inherently dysfunctional, so deliberate steps must be taken to facilitate great teamwork. A knowledgeable team leader can do a great deal to make his or her team effective, and the book outlines practical tools for achieving this.

Who should read The Five Dysfunctions of a Team?

  • Anyone interested in the prerequisites of great teamwork
  • Anyone interested in the kind of leadership and management that facilitates great teamwork
  • Anyone interested in the interpersonal dynamics of the workplace

2
Leadership Books: Focus by Daniel Goleman

Focus

Daniel Goleman
The Hidden Driver of Excellence
4.3 (751 ratings)
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What's Focus about?

Focus (2013) is a guidebook for nurturing today’s scarcest resource: attention. Using cutting-edge research, the book reveals that sharpening our focus in a world of endless distractions is the key to professional success and personal fulfillment. What makes Goleman’s contribution special is that the book expands the definition of “focus” beyond mere concentration and calls for a mindful life in which attention is paid to the self, to others and to the planet.

Who should read Focus?

  • Workers and students who wish to improve their focus and productivity
  • Anyone who wants to learn the secret of living a focused, mindful life
  • Leaders who want to channel their vision effectively and improve their relationships with employees

3
Leadership Books: Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek

Leaders Eat Last

Simon Sinek
Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t
4.3 (875 ratings)
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What's Leaders Eat Last about?

Leaders Eat Last explores the influence that neurochemicals have on the way people feel and consequently act, and examines the discrepancies between how our bodies were designed to function and how they function today. Ultimately, we need true leaders to direct us back on the right path.

Who should read Leaders Eat Last?

  • Any leader, CEO or manager of a business or organization
  • Anyone interested in how biological evolution affects our behavior today
  • Anyone interested in leadership techniques

4
Leadership Books: Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace

Creativity, Inc.

Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration
4.2 (402 ratings)
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What's Creativity, Inc. about?

Creativity, Inc. explores the peaks and troughs in the history of Pixar and Disney Animation Studios along with Ed Catmull’s personal journey towards becoming the successful manager he is today. In doing so, he explains the management beliefs he has acquired along the way, and offers actionable advice on how to turn your team members into creative superstars.

Who should read Creativity, Inc.?

  • Anyone interested in successful managerial habits and leadership styles
  • Anyone managing a staff whose work requires creativity
  • Anyone truly committed to building a sustainable creative culture

5
Leadership Books: The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli

The Prince

Niccolò Machiavelli
4.5 (516 ratings)
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What's The Prince about?

The Prince is a 16th century guide on how to be an autocratic leader of a country. It explains why ends like glory and power always justify even brutal means for princes. Thanks to this book, the word “Machiavellian” came to mean using deceit and cunning to one’s advantage.

Who should read The Prince?

  • Anyone who wants to understand how autocratic leaders think
  • Anyone interested in political philosophy/history
  • Anyone who wants to know what truly cold, amoral leadership looks like

6
Leadership Books: 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. Maxwell

5 Levels of Leadership

John C. Maxwell
Proven Steps to Maximize your Potential
4.3 (298 ratings)
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What's 5 Levels of Leadership about?

5 Levels of Leadership is a step-by-step guide to becoming a true leader with a lasting influence. Using engaging real-life anecdotes and inspiring quotes from successful leaders, it describes key pitfalls that may be holding you back and explains how to overcome them.

Who should read 5 Levels of Leadership?

  • Anyone who’s working in a leadership position
  • Anyone who carries responsibility in an organizational context
  • Anyone who wants to influence others

7
Leadership Books: Walmart by Natalie Berg and Bryan Roberts

Walmart

Natalie Berg and Bryan Roberts
Key Insights and Practical Lessons from the World's Largest Retailer
4.5 (88 ratings)
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What's Walmart about?

In Walmart (2012), authors Natalie Berg and Bryan Roberts share key insights and business principles from the company that reveal how it became the biggest retailer in the world. Examining the retailer’s unprecedented success, the authors also discuss Walmart’s future challenges.

Who should read Walmart?

  • Anyone interested in business innovation
  • Anyone who wants to learn about how to run a successful retailer
  • Anyone wondering how Walmart carved its path to success

8
Leadership Books: The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership by Jim Dethmer, Diana Chapman and Kaley Warner Klemp

The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership

Jim Dethmer, Diana Chapman and Kaley Warner Klemp
A New Paradigm for Sustainable Success
4.3 (175 ratings)
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What's The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership about?

The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership (2014) teaches you how to become a conscious leader – a leader who inspires positive change, creates a great work atmosphere and builds close relationships in their personal life. Because leading is about a lot more than just giving orders.

Who should read The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership?

  • Leaders who want to create a great work atmosphere
  • People who want to be more productive
  • Those wanting to strengthen their personal relationships

9
Leadership Books: Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin

Extreme Ownership

Jocko Willink and Leif Babin
How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win
4.5 (783 ratings)
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What's Extreme Ownership about?

Extreme Ownership (2015) is about how Navy SEAL Team commanders lead. These blinks discuss the complex, life-and-death combat situations that Navy SEALs often have to deal with and how you can apply their skills in the world of business.

Who should read Extreme Ownership?

  • Young entrepreneurs, managers and business leaders
  • Readers interested in military leadership and tactics
  • Anyone interested in improving their leadership skills

10
Leadership Books: Multipliers by Liz Wiseman

Multipliers

Liz Wiseman
How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter
4.6 (371 ratings)
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What's Multipliers about?

Multipliers (2010) examines the difference between good leaders, known as Multipliers, who can join any team and make it flourish, and bad leaders, known as Diminishers, who can drain any team of its energy and drive. Author Liz Wiseman explains how to recognize the different types of Multipliers and Diminishers, while comparing the skills you should strive to develop with the ones you should avoid at all cost.

Who should read Multipliers?

  • Leaders and managers looking to get the best from their team
  • Workers concerned about their managers’ leadership practices
  • Anyone looking to understand the dynamics of leadership

11
Leadership Books: Find Your WHY by Simon Sinek, David Mead and Peter Docker

Find Your WHY

Simon Sinek, David Mead and Peter Docker
A Practical Guide for Discovering Purpose for You and Your Team
4.2 (719 ratings)
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What's Find Your WHY about?

Find Your WHY (2017) offers something that every person and business is looking for: a true purpose. The authors provide strategies and exercises that individuals and teams alike can use to discover their most powerful motivations, and their reasons for getting up in the morning and starting the workday. This is a useful guide if you’re searching for the right job, trying to hire the right employees or hoping to gain a better understanding of yourself and the people you live and work with.

 “I think understanding your own why – your raison d’être – and ensuring your actions are consistent with it is a big part of long-term happiness and fulfillment.” – Ben H, Head of Content at Blinkist

Who should read Find Your WHY?

  • Anyone searching for purpose and direction
  • Entrepreneurs in the early stages of launching their businesses
  • Team leaders who want to set ambitious goals

12
Leadership Books: Adaptability by Max McKeown

Adaptability

Max McKeown
The Art of Winning in an Age of Uncertainty
4.2 (162 ratings)
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What's Adaptability about?

Adaptability (2012) examines a skill that’s becoming ever more important in today’s fast-paced and highly fickle business environment: the ability to adapt. It’s what makes the difference between successful innovators who go on to thrive and stick-in-the-muds who struggle to survive – or simply go under. Packed with illuminating portraits of both, these blinks analyze adaptability in action everywhere from the golf course to the battlefield and the boardroom.

Who should read Adaptability?

  • Entrepreneurs and self-starters
  • Managers and strategists
  • Marketplace Machiavellis

13
Leadership Books: The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma

The 5 AM Club

Robin Sharma
Own Your Morning. Elevate Your Life.
4.5 (11,614 ratings)
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What's The 5 AM Club about?

The 5 AM Club (2018) shows how embracing a revolutionary morning routine can deliver epic results. Through the enchanting story of an entrepreneur, an artist, and their eccentric billionaire mentor, it explains how you can use the first hour of your day to drive personal growth and get the most out of life.

Who should read The 5 AM Club?

  • Those who feel they could try and get more out of the day
  • People who want to achieve great things in life
  • Anyone in need of an energizing and positive morning routine

14
Leadership Books: The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek

The Infinite Game

Simon Sinek
4.6 (785 ratings)
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What's The Infinite Game about?

The Infinite Game (2019) is a guidebook to help today’s business leaders get back on the right track to building companies that will last for generations to come. It points out the many pitfalls that leaders fall into in the pursuit of short-term gains and shows how they can put the focus back on practices that lead to strength and stability, as well as more revenue.  

Who should read The Infinite Game?

  • Entrepreneurs and CEOs
  • Managers, supervisors and anyone looking for leadership tips
  • People curious about what makes a long-running business last

15
Leadership Books: Surrounded by Idiots by Thomas Erikson

Surrounded by Idiots

Thomas Erikson
The Four Types of Human Behavior and How to Effectively Communicate with Each in Business (and in Life)
4.3 (1,191 ratings)
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What's Surrounded by Idiots about?

Surrounded by Idiots (2014) offers insight into the four main personality types and provides methods and tips for how to use this insight in order to be more effective in getting your message across to each of them. Different people require different considerations when you’re trying to work alongside them or sell them on an idea. The more you know about each person’s personality type, the more effectively you’ll be able to communicate in your work life and private life.

Who should read Surrounded by Idiots?

  • Executives, managers and human resource workers
  • Anyone with an annoying coworker
  • People who’d like to improve their relationships

16
Leadership Books: Elevate by Joseph Deitch

Elevate

Joseph Deitch
An Essential Guide to Life
4.1 (481 ratings)
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What's Elevate about?

Elevate (2018) is an indispensable guide to upping your game and living your life to the fullest. Whether you’re looking for a career boost or want to bring more meaning and joy into your private affairs, these blinks contain an arsenal of tips and tricks to help you take things to the next level.

Who should read Elevate?

  • Anyone looking to learn important skills for entrepreneurship
  • Anyone who wants to feel more motivated
  • Anyone who wants to enjoy more success and fun in life

17
Leadership Books: Leadership Strategy and Tactics by Jocko Willink

Leadership Strategy and Tactics

Jocko Willink
Field Manual
4.5 (493 ratings)
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What's Leadership Strategy and Tactics about?

Leadership Strategy and Tactics (2020) teaches you how to take the skills of a high-functioning Navy SEAL team and apply them to your workplace. You’ll learn about practices such as Extreme Ownership, and find out why humility is better than arrogance. These tips will help you to leave your ego at the door and to remember that your team’s success should always come before personal success.

Who should read Leadership Strategy and Tactics?

  • CEOs, managers, and team leaders who need some guidance
  • Employees hoping to get promoted to a supervisor position
  • People who work in human resources

18
Leadership Books: Sun Tzu and the Art of Business by Mark R. McNeilly

Sun Tzu and the Art of Business

Mark R. McNeilly
Six Strategic Principles for Managers
4.5 (348 ratings)
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What's Sun Tzu and the Art of Business about?

Sun Tzu and the Art of Business (1996) explains how ancient Chinese general Sun Tzu’s classic text The Art of War applies to the hyper-competitive environment of modern business. These blinks explore how business leaders can integrate Sun Tzu’s battle strategies into their own plans for market domination.

Who should read Sun Tzu and the Art of Business?

  • Entrepreneurs hoping to disrupt their industry
  • Strategy consultants wanting a new angle
  • Business students looking for fresh insights

19
Leadership Books: Leadership Is Language by David Marquet

Leadership Is Language

David Marquet
The Hidden Power of What You Say – and What You Don’t
4.5 (255 ratings)
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What's Leadership Is Language about?

Leadership is Language (2020) is a playbook for successful team management. Written by a former US Navy captain, it teaches leaders how they can change their language and mindsets in order to improve decision-making, empower workers, and achieve better results.

Who should read Leadership Is Language?

  • Team leaders, executives, and managers – current or aspiring
  • People interested in the way human language shapes human behavior

20
Leadership Books: Dare to Lead by Brené Brown

Dare to Lead

Brené Brown
Brave work. Tough conversations. Whole hearts.
4.3 (887 ratings)
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What's Dare to Lead about?

Dare to Lead (2018) explores how to find the inner courage to lead a great team. Drawing on Brené Brown’s research and experience as a leadership coach, it shows how you can harness your emotions, quash your fear of failure, and become a daring leader in an increasingly competitive world. 

Who should read Dare to Lead?

  • Business psychology buffs seeking new insights
  • Leaders searching for fresh ways to connect with their team
  • Anyone trying to build their courage in the workplace

21
Leadership Books: Start With Why by Simon Sinek

Start With Why

Simon Sinek
How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action
4.6 (1,487 ratings)
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What's Start With Why about?

Start With Why (2009) tackles a fundamental question: What makes some organizations and people more innovative, influential, and profitable than others? Based on best-selling author Simon Sinek’s hugely influential lecture of the same name, the third most-watched TED talk of all time, these blinks unpack the answer to that conundrum. As Sinek’s examples show, it’s all about asking why rather than what.

Who should read Start With Why?

  • Managers and team leaders 
  • Entrepreneurs building their brand 
  • Self-starters in need of a bit of inspiration

22
Leadership Books: Radical Candor by Kim Scott

Radical Candor

Kim Scott
Be a Kickass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity
4.6 (767 ratings)
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What's Radical Candor about?

Radical Candor (2017) is a roadmap for leaders looking to establish the best possible relationship with their employees. Its insightful approach to management shows how to create a working environment where great ideas emerge, individuals reach their full potential, and employees are proud to follow their boss.

Who should read Radical Candor?

  • Managers and business leaders
  • Coaches and organizational psychologists
  • Entrepreneurs and self-employed people

23
Leadership Books: Leadership by Henry Kissinger

Leadership

Henry Kissinger
Six Studies in World Strategy
4.3 (430 ratings)
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What's Leadership about?

Leadership (2022) is a detailed analysis of six monumental twentieth-century leaders. By examining both the circumstances that formed these leaders and the strategies they used to shepherd their respective nations through periods of turmoil, it presents invaluable lessons for anyone working to shape the world’s future. From Charles de Gaulle’s strategy of will to Anwar Sadat’s strategy of transcendence and beyond, it serves as a historical debriefing on some of the defining leadership strategies of the last century.

Who should read Leadership?

  • History and politics geeks
  • Aspiring politicians
  • Biography lovers

24
Leadership Books: Mastering Communication at Work by Ethan F. Becker and Jon Wortmann

Mastering Communication at Work

Ethan F. Becker and Jon Wortmann
How to Lead, Manage, and Influence
4.4 (715 ratings)
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What's Mastering Communication at Work about?

Mastering Communication at Work (revised edition, 2021) is a classic guide on leading in the workplace through strong communication skills. It teaches you how to communicate effectively by understanding your listener’s tendencies and motivations.

Who should read Mastering Communication at Work?

  • Managers looking for new communication tactics
  • Employees aiming to make the next step up
  • Executives who want to improve relations with staff

25
Leadership Books: The Art of War (new version) by Sun Tzu

The Art of War (new version)

Sun Tzu
4.0 (1,723 ratings)
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What's The Art of War (new version) about?

The Art of War (fifth century BCE) is a Chinese military treatise that many global figures, including Mao Zedong and Douglas MacArthur, have used to inform their leadership strategies. Along with military tactics that can be applied to culture, politics, business, and sports, it highlights the skills good leaders need to have. 

Who should read The Art of War (new version)?

  • Anyone interested in the foundations of good leadership
  • Those who want to gain a competitive advantage 
  • People who find themselves in confrontational situations

26
Leadership Books: The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell

The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership

John C. Maxwell
Follow Them and People Will Follow You
4.4 (639 ratings)
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What's The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership about?

The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership (1998) collects key rules, principles, and examples from a diverse collection of inspiring leaders throughout history. We often speak about “born leaders,” as if a person either has the special X factor of leadership or they don’t. In fact, leadership is learned –⁠ and by studying what enabled the world’s best leaders to attract followers and make an impact, we too can do the same. 

Who should read The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership?

  • Managers, founders, executives, and CEOs
  • Activists seeking to make an impact
  • Anyone who wants to improve their people skills

27
Leadership Books: Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell

Buy Back Your Time

Dan Martell
Get Unstuck, Reclaim Your Freedom, and Build Your Empire
4.5 (357 ratings)
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What's Buy Back Your Time about?

Buy Back Your Time (2023) teaches entrepreneurs how to hire the right people for the right tasks, so they can free up the time they need to build their empire. Practical advice and success stories guide those who feel stuck in their busy lives out of the tedium of small chores and into the limitless field of pure production.

Who should read Buy Back Your Time?

  • Entrepreneurs who are looking to scale their business
  • Anyone who feels stuck in the daily grind of work
  • Managers trying to find ways to inspire employees

28
Leadership Books: Lord of the Flies by William Golding

Lord of the Flies

William Golding
4.6 (253 ratings)
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What's Lord of the Flies about?

Lord of the Flies (1954) is the allegorical story of a group of young boys stranded on a deserted island and left to fend for themselves and create a society. As the boys struggle with the complexities of leadership, cooperation, and survival, they are forced to face some fundamental questions about human nature and the fragility of civilization.

Who should read Lord of the Flies?

  • Readers looking for fresh eyes on an old classic
  • Literature lovers who somehow never got around to this important book
  • Anyone looking for insight into the nature of society and the humans who build it

29
Leadership Books: The Art of Clear Thinking by Hasard Lee

The Art of Clear Thinking

Hasard Lee
A Stealth Fighter Pilot's Timeless Rules for Making Tough Decisions
3.7 (635 ratings)
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What's The Art of Clear Thinking about?

The Art of Clear Thinking (2023) is a practical guide to decision-making as seen through the lens of a US fighter pilot. It introduces readers to the ACE Helix framework employed by those engaged in air combat while prompting you to consider how the underlying principles could be of benefit in your own life. 

Who should read The Art of Clear Thinking?

  • Key decision-makers in any field
  • Individuals keen to improve their ability to think clearly and critically 
  • People interested in military operations

30
Leadership Books: Competing in the Age of AI by Marco Iansiti & Karim R. Lakhani

Competing in the Age of AI

Marco Iansiti & Karim R. Lakhani
Strategy and Leadership When Algorithms and Networks Run the World
3.5 (214 ratings)
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What's Competing in the Age of AI about?

Competing in the Age of AI (2020) unveils a future where AI is the cornerstone of business. It reveals how AI removes age-old business constraints, enabling a quantum leap in scale, scope, and learning. Step into a realm where strategy is reinvented and the economy is reimagined, offering both unprecedented opportunities and profound challenges for leaders in the digital epoch.

Who should read Competing in the Age of AI?

  • Tech entrepreneurs seeking to disrupt traditional business models
  • Executives exploring the impact of AI on operational and strategic decisions
  • Business strategists interested in digital transformation and innovation

31
Leadership Books: Playing Big by Tara Mohr

Playing Big

Tara Mohr
Practical Wisdom for Women Who Want to Speak Up, Create, and Lead
5.0 (2 ratings)
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What's Playing Big about?

Playing Big (2014) reveals how to overcome the inner barriers that keep you playing small and offers concrete strategies for finding your voice, facing fear, and defining success on your own terms. It provides a transformative framework for stepping boldly into your potential across all areas of life, from career and leadership to community involvement and personal relationships. 

Who should read Playing Big?

  • Emerging leaders hesitant to claim their authority or expertise
  • People-pleasers struggling with setting boundaries at work and in life
  • Anyone experiencing imposter syndrome, battling self-doubt, or feeling stagnant and unfulfilled

32
Leadership Books: Your Next Five Moves by Patrick Bet-David

Your Next Five Moves

Patrick Bet-David
Master the Art of Business Strategy
4.0 (100 ratings)
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What's Your Next Five Moves about?

Your Next Five Moves (2020) focuses on strategic thinking and how to master the art of anticipating future challenges and opportunities. It provides guidance on clarifying goals, understanding oneself and others, and developing a step-by-step plan to achieve success in business and life.  Through practical insights and actionable strategies, it empowers individuals to think multiple steps ahead and make informed decisions that drive long-term success.

Who should read Your Next Five Moves?

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs seeking strategic guidance and business success
  • Business leaders looking to refine their decision-making skills
  • Anyone interested in mastering long-term planning and foresight

33
Leadership Books: University of Berkshire Hathaway by Daniel Pecaut, Corey Wrenn

University of Berkshire Hathaway

Daniel Pecaut, Corey Wrenn
30 Years of Lessons Learned from Warren Buffett & Charlie Munger at the Annual Shareholders Meeting
4.0 (4 ratings)
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00:00

What's University of Berkshire Hathaway about?

University of Berkshire Hathaway (2017) distills three decades of wisdom from the legendary annual meetings of Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger. It offers a glimpse into how their investment philosophy evolved, from buying cheap “cigar butts” to owning some the world’s most profitable businesses – providing a framework for how rational thinking and disciplined investing lead to long-term success.

Who should read University of Berkshire Hathaway?

  • Investors wanting to get inside the masters’ minds 
  • Business leaders seeking wisdom on management and competitive advantages 
  • Business students who want a practical, real-world education

34
Leadership Books: Conversational Intelligence by Judith E. Glaser

Conversational Intelligence

Judith E. Glaser
How Great Leaders Build Trust and Get Extraordinary Results
4.2 (53 ratings)
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00:00

What's Conversational Intelligence about?

Conversational Intelligence (2014) explores how brain chemistry influences the way we communicate, explaining why some conversations build trust while others create barriers. By combining insights from neuroscience with practical strategies, it offers tools to turn daily interactions into powerful opportunities for connection, innovation, and meaningful change.

Who should read Conversational Intelligence?

  • Leaders and managers looking to build more collaborative, innovative teams
  • Negotiators and mediators handling complex conversations
  • Anyone experiencing communication challenges in personal or professional relationships

35
Leadership Books: The First Minute by Chris Fenning

The First Minute

Chris Fenning
How to Start Conversations that Get Results
4.1 (687 ratings)
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00:00

What's The First Minute about?

The First Minute (2020) explores effective techniques for mastering the crucial initial moments of communication, aiming to enhance the impact of spoken interactions. It offers strategies to organize thoughts and deliver messages with clarity and confidence, ensuring that speakers can engage and persuade their audiences from the start.

Who should read The First Minute?

  • Business professionals seeking improved presentation skills
  • Sales representatives working on more effective pitches
  • Team leaders looking to boost meeting productivity

36
Leadership Books: The 12 Traits of the Greats by Dave Martin

The 12 Traits of the Greats

Dave Martin
Mastering The Qualities Of Uncommon Achievers
4.1 (260 ratings)
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What's The 12 Traits of the Greats about?

The 12 Traits of the Greats (2020) explores twelve key characteristics that are essential for achieving greatness in any field. It distills wisdom from the lives and habits of highly successful individuals, offering practical advice and inspiring stories. By examining traits like vision, passion, and discipline, it provides readers with actionable insights to help them cultivate these qualities in their own lives.

Who should read The 12 Traits of the Greats?

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs seeking personal and professional growth
  • Business leaders aiming to enhance leadership skills
  • Students looking to develop success-oriented habits

37
Leadership Books: Principles by Ray Dalio

Principles

Ray Dalio
Life and Work
3.8 (126 ratings)
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00:00

What's Principles about?

Principles (2017) is a comprehensive guide on personal and professional development, based on the author's own experiences as the founder of Bridgewater Associates. Focusing on radical truth and transparency, the book emphasizes how having a set of core principles guiding every action can make decision-making an easy process, no matter what situation you’re in. 

Who should read Principles?

  • Managers who want to become better leaders
  • Entrepreneurs interested in starting their own business 
  • Readers curious about personal growth and improvement

38
Leadership Books: Speak Like a CEO by Suzanne Bates

Speak Like a CEO

Suzanne Bates
Secrets for Commanding Attention and Getting Results
4.3 (266 ratings)
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00:00

What's Speak Like a CEO about?

Speak Like a CEO (2005) offers practical advice for developing a commanding presence, handling various speaking situations, and creating effective self-improvement plans. It includes real-world examples and actionable strategies to help individuals at all levels become compelling communicators.

Who should read Speak Like a CEO?

  • Newly-minted managers seeking to establish a communication style
  • Seasoned CEOs ready to level up their communication skills
  • Aspiring executives who want to speak their way into the top job

39
Leadership Books: Becoming a Person of Influence by John C. Maxwell, Jim Dornan

Becoming a Person of Influence

John C. Maxwell, Jim Dornan
How to Positively Impact the Lives of Others
4.4 (217 ratings)
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00:00

What's Becoming a Person of Influence about?

Becoming a Person of Influence (1997) is a guide to positively impacting others, regardless of your position or title. It explores the four stages of influence – modeling, motivating, mentoring, and multiplying – and how the principles and practices outlined can be used to elevate both personal and professional success. 

Who should read Becoming a Person of Influence?

  • Leaders, managers, and entrepreneurs seeking to expand their influence
  • Coaches and mentors guiding personal and professional growth
  • Anyone seeking to improve communication and leadership skills

40
Leadership Books: The 80/20 CEO by Bill Canady

The 80/20 CEO

Bill Canady
Take Command of Your Business in 100 Days
4.1 (237 ratings)
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00:00

What's The 80/20 CEO about?

The 80/20 CEO (2024) presents a comprehensive operating system for business leadership. It offers a strategic framework designed to help executives guide their organizations toward profitable growth, emphasizing efficiency in achieving business objectives.

Who should read The 80/20 CEO?

  • Entrepreneurs looking to create and scale their businesses
  • CEOs and executives of struggling or underperforming companies
  • Business consultants specializing in turnarounds and growth strategy

41
Leadership Books: Collaborating with the Enemy by Adam Kahane

Collaborating with the Enemy

Adam Kahane
How to Work with People You Don't Agree with or Like or Trust
4.1 (38 ratings)
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00:00

What's Collaborating with the Enemy about?

Collaborating with the Enemy (2017) offers a fresh perspective on tackling complex challenges in an increasingly polarized world. It introduces practical strategies for turning conflicts into opportunities, offering guidance on working effectively with those we may see as adversaries to uncover breakthrough solutions and drive meaningful innovation.

Who should read Collaborating with the Enemy?

  • Leaders managing conflicts within diverse or polarized teams
  • Community organizers and activists working on contentious local issues
  • Professionals seeking creative solutions through unconventional partnerships

42
Leadership Books: Working with Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman

Working with Emotional Intelligence

Daniel Goleman
The Crucial Role of EQ in the Workplace
4.3 (135 ratings)
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00:00

What's Working with Emotional Intelligence about?

Working with Emotional Intelligence (1999) explores how emotional intelligence (EQ) plays a key part in professional success, surpassing cognitive abilities like IQ or technical expertise. It shows that skills like self-awareness, empathy, and social competence are key to career advancement and offers practical insights for anyone looking to enhance their professional life through emotional intelligence.

Who should read Working with Emotional Intelligence?

  • Aspiring leaders who want to enhance their promotion chances by cultivating EQ
  • Managers brushing up on conflict resolution strategies and interpersonal skills
  • HR professionals looking to identify and nurture employees with high EQ levels

43
Leadership Books: This Is Strategy by Seth Godin

This Is Strategy

Seth Godin
Make Better Plans
4.0 (91 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's This Is Strategy about?

This is Strategy (2024) explores strategy as a mindset rather than a rigid plan, encouraging you to embrace adaptability and intentionality in your decision-making. It offers insights on influencing systems and prioritizing long-term goals to create meaningful, sustainable change.

Who should read This Is Strategy?

  • Innovators seeking to influence systems and drive change
  • Problem-solvers creating impactful and sustainable strategies
  • Decision-makers balancing short-term actions with future outcomes

44
Leadership Books: The Purposeful Decision Maker by Pádraig Ó Céidigh

The Purposeful Decision Maker

Pádraig Ó Céidigh
A Guide to Making Great Decisions in Life and Business
3.9 (45 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Purposeful Decision Maker about?

The Purposeful Decision Maker (2024) shares valuable tools and real-world insights to help you make better, more confident choices in both life and business. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just getting started, these tips will transform how you approach your toughest choices with clarity and confidence. It’s time to stop the guesswork and start making strategic decisions. 

Who should read The Purposeful Decision Maker?

  • Leaders looking to make smarter, values-driven decisions
  • Entrepreneurs building purposeful and resilient businesses
  • Anyone seeking personal growth through better decision-making

45
Leadership Books: Momentum by Sam Silverstein

Momentum

Sam Silverstein
How to Avoid Going in the Wrong Direction
4.1 (45 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Momentum about?

Momentum (2024) aims to help people move forward with purpose. If you’re feeling stuck, you’ve come to the right place. Learn how to build momentum and make progress, in both your personal and professional life.

Who should read Momentum?

  • Anyone who feels stuck or directionless
  • Procrastinators
  • People interested in self-development

46
Leadership Books: The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey by Kenneth H. Blanchard, William Oncken, Hal Burrows

The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey

Kenneth H. Blanchard, William Oncken, Hal Burrows
Don’t Take On the Problem if the Problem Isn’t Yours. That Monkey Doesn’t Belong to You!
4.3 (51 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey about?

The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey (1989) is a business parable which explores how managers can improve productivity and reduce stress by mastering the art of delegation. It introduces the concept of “monkeys,” representing tasks or responsibilities that often shift unnecessarily from employees to managers. By keeping these monkeys with their rightful owners, it helps leaders focus on their priorities while empowering team members to take ownership of their work.

Who should read The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey?

  • Managers seeking to improve delegation and time management
  • Team leaders aiming to empower their team members
  • Professionals interested in enhancing leadership efficiency skills

47
Leadership Books: The Seven Tensions of Negotiation by Cash Nickerson

The Seven Tensions of Negotiation

Cash Nickerson
Breathe and Let the Opposition Make the Tough Decisions
3.8 (32 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Seven Tensions of Negotiation about?

The Seven Tensions of Negotiation (2024) explores the fundamental forces that shape every negotiation, from casual conversations to high-stakes business deals. Through examining relationship dynamics, timing choices, power balances, and team interactions, it reveals how understanding and working with tension – rather than against it – leads to more successful negotiation outcomes. 

Who should read The Seven Tensions of Negotiation?

  • Business professionals who regularly engage in negotiations and deal-making
  • Sales professionals seeking to understand the subtle dynamics that influence customer interactions
  • Folks facing important personal negotiations, from family decisions to major purchases

48
Leadership Books: Start with No by Jim Camp

Start with No

Jim Camp
The Negotiating Tools That the Pros Don't Want You to Know
3.8 (18 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Start with No about?

Start with No (2002) offers a bold, unconventional approach to negotiation that applies to everything from high-stakes business deals to everyday family decisions. It introduces a practical framework designed to help negotiators stay in control, prioritize what truly matters, and achieve long-term, meaningful results. By applying these strategies, negotiators can approach both complex agreements and routine conversations with greater clarity, confidence, and effectiveness.

Who should read Start with No?

  • Professionals seeking more effective negotiation results
  • Individuals who dislike aggressive bargaining tactics
  • Leaders seeking to boost their deal-making confidence

49
Leadership Books: Strategic Storytelling by Anjali Sharma

Strategic Storytelling

Anjali Sharma
Why Some Stories Drive Your Success at Work But Others Don’t
4.2 (19 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Strategic Storytelling about?

Strategic Storytelling (2024) is a practical guide for leaders, managers, and communicators looking to transform information into impactful narratives. It provides actionable techniques to craft stories that resonate emotionally, connect with audiences, and inspire meaningful change. By focusing on clarity, relatability, and context, it demonstrates how storytelling can drive decisions, align teams, and turn values and insights into powerful tools for progress.

Who should read Strategic Storytelling?

  • Leaders and managers seeking to inspire action through storytelling
  • Communicators hoping to connect with audiences on an emotional level
  • Professionals looking to turn data and values into impactful stories

50
Leadership Books: The Entrepreneurial Mindset Advantage by Gary G. Schoeniger

The Entrepreneurial Mindset Advantage

Gary G. Schoeniger
The Hidden Logic That Unleashes Human Potential
3.7 (18 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Entrepreneurial Mindset Advantage about?

The Entrepreneurial Mindset Advantage (2024) shows you how to spot hidden opportunities, fuel your creativity, and transform your life. It weaves everyday entrepreneurial insights with motivational science, delivering practical ways to think and act like an innovator. By using these principles, you can tap into a resourcefulness that boosts your success and empowers everyone around you.

Who should read The Entrepreneurial Mindset Advantage?

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs looking to develop a problem-solving mindset
  • Business leaders seeking to foster innovation within their teams
  • Educators and mentors aiming to teach practical entrepreneurial thinking

51
Leadership Books: Why Simple Wins by Lisa Bodell

Why Simple Wins

Lisa Bodell
Escape the Complexity Trap and Get to Work that Matters
4.2 (32 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Why Simple Wins about?

Why Simple Wins (2017) is for anyone who feels like they’re drowning in endless meetings, redundant processes, and unnecessary complexity at work. It reveals how simplifying your organization can unlock creativity, boost productivity, and bring focus to the work that truly matters. Find out how you can escape the chaos and create a culture of clarity and purpose.

Who should read Why Simple Wins?

  • Corporate leaders and executives
  • Managers and team leaders
  • Business consultants and entrepreneurs

52
Leadership Books: How Successful People Lead by John C. Maxwell

How Successful People Lead

John C. Maxwell
Taking Your Influence to the Next Level
4.1 (88 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's How Successful People Lead about?

How Successful People Lead (2013) explores the five distinct levels of leadership and how individuals can progress through each stage to become more effective and influential leaders. It outlines practical strategies for building strong relationships, developing others, and creating lasting impact within organizations. By understanding and applying these leadership principles, you can learn how to inspire greater trust, drive team performance, and achieve long-term success.

Who should read How Successful People Lead?

  • New leaders looking for practical advice on how to be effective
  • Those hoping to grow into positions of leadership and want to hit the ground running
  • Anyone looking to develop and cultivate their leadership skills

53
Leadership Books: The Exceptional Presenter by Timothy Koegel

The Exceptional Presenter

Timothy Koegel
A Proven Formula to Open Up and Own the Room
4.2 (77 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Exceptional Presenter about?

The Exceptional Presenter (2007) is a guide to mastering the art of public speaking and delivering impactful presentations. It provides practical techniques to improve confidence, engage audiences, and communicate effectively in any setting. By focusing on preparation, delivery, and audience connection, it empowers people to present with clarity and authority.

Who should read The Exceptional Presenter?

  • Ambitious professionals seeking career advancement through communication
  • Nervous speakers looking to overcome presentation anxiety
  • Anyone interested in improving public speaking skills

54
Leadership Books: Compassionate Leadership by Paul Axtell

Compassionate Leadership

Paul Axtell
16 Simple Ways to Engage and Inspire Your Team at Work
4.5 (41 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Compassionate Leadership about?

Compassionate Leadership (2021) explores how leaders can cultivate empathy and trust within their teams to create a more engaged and collaborative work environment. It provides practical strategies for improving communication, fostering emotional intelligence, and inspiring individuals to thrive both personally and professionally. Through actionable steps, it encourages leaders to build meaningful connections that enhance team performance and well-being.

Who should read Compassionate Leadership?

  • Aspiring leaders seeking to enhance emotional intelligence
  • Experienced managers aiming to build stronger team trust
  • Anyone interested in cultivating empathy-driven leadership skills

55
Leadership Books: Be a People Person by John C. Maxwell

Be a People Person

John C. Maxwell
Effective Leadership Through Effective Relationships
4.2 (35 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Be a People Person about?

Be a People Person (1989) is a guide to bringing out the best in yourself and others. It focuses on several key qualities required for effective leadership, weaving in biblical references and lessons from Scripture. It posits that anyone can learn to become a people person, regardless of background or current position. 

Who should read Be a People Person?

  • Anyone hoping to strengthen their interpersonal skills 
  • Leaders of organizations, communities, or families 
  • Personal development enthusiasts 

56
Leadership Books: Culture Renovation by Kevin Oakes

Culture Renovation

Kevin Oakes
18 Leadership Actions to Build an Unshakeable Company
4.0 (3 ratings)
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00:00

What's Culture Renovation about?

Culture Renovation (2021) explains how business leaders can transform their corporate culture by taking a strategic "renovation" approach rather than attempting a complete overhaul. It presents a data-driven framework for preserving valuable cultural elements while implementing targeted changes.

Who should read Culture Renovation?

  • CEOs and senior executives seeking to modernize their organizations
  • HR leaders and Chief People Officers managing cultural initiatives
  • Change management consultants and organizational development professionals

57
Leadership Books: The Model Black by Barbara Banda

The Model Black

Barbara Banda
How Black British Leaders Succeed in Organisations and Why It Matters
4.5 (4 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Model Black about?

The Model Black (2022) explores the experiences of successful black British leaders navigating predominantly white workplaces. It highlights the challenges they face, the strategies they use to succeed, and the systemic barriers that persist. By sharing these insights, it aims to foster more inclusive and equitable organizational cultures.

Who should read The Model Black?

  • Ambitious black professionals striving for career advancement
  • Diversity and inclusion advocates driving systemic change
  • Anyone interested in race, leadership, and workplace equity

58
Leadership Books: Buffett and Munger Unscripted by Warren E. Buffett, Charlie Munger, and Alex Morris

Buffett and Munger Unscripted

Warren E. Buffett, Charlie Munger, and Alex Morris
Insights from Decades of Berkshire Hathaway Shareholder Meetings
4.3 (54 ratings)
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00:00

What's Buffett and Munger Unscripted about?

Buffett and Munger Unscripted (2025) distills three decades of legendary Berkshire Hathaway shareholder meetings into a clear, actionable path to lasting wealth. It demystifies successful investing, breaking it down to fundamental business principles rather than complex strategies. Through their timeless wisdom, you’ll gain the mindset and framework needed to make confident, informed investment decisions.

Who should read Buffett and Munger Unscripted?

  • Ambitious investors looking for a structured approach to business analysis
  • Experienced portfolio managers seeking clarity on long-term value creation
  • Business owners aiming to build sustainable competitive advantages

59
Leadership Books: Trust Yourself by Melody Wilding

Trust Yourself

Melody Wilding
Stop Overthinking and Channel Your Emotions for Success at Work
4.4 (40 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Trust Yourself about?

Trust Yourself (2021) explores the connection between sensitivity and high achievement, offering science-backed strategies to help ambitious professionals manage stress, self-doubt, and anxiety. It provides practical tools for setting boundaries, trusting your intuition, and redefining success on your own terms.

Who should read Trust Yourself?

  • High achievers struggling with self-doubt and overthinking
  • Sensitive professionals seeking confidence and balance
  • Ambitious individuals prone to burnout and perfectionism

60
Leadership Books: Weekend Language by Andy Craig, Dave Yewman

Weekend Language

Andy Craig, Dave Yewman
Presenting with More Stories and Less PowerPoint
4.3 (36 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Weekend Language about?

Weekend Language (2013) is a practical guide to bringing your natural storytelling abilities into corporate presentations. It demonstrates how the conversational style we naturally use on weekends is far more effective than the jargon-filled, slide-heavy approach most professionals adopt during the workweek.

Who should read Weekend Language?

  • Nervous executives preparing important presentations
  • Technical experts translating complex ideas
  • Anyone who wants to sound more authentic

61
Leadership Books: The ROI of Thought Leadership by Cindy Anderson, Anthony Marshall

The ROI of Thought Leadership

Cindy Anderson, Anthony Marshall
Calculating the Value that Sets Organizations Apart
3.8 (10 ratings)
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00:00

What's The ROI of Thought Leadership about?

The ROI of Thought Leadership (2025) is built on a data-driven calculation showing that thought leadership delivers 156 percent ROI and influences $265 billion in global spending annually. It also gives you practical frameworks to quantify, improve, and maximize returns from your organization’s own thought leadership investments.

Who should read The ROI of Thought Leadership?

  • Chief Marketing Officers seeking to justify thought leadership investments
  • Communications executives developing content strategies
  • Business consultants looking to quantify their advisory impact

62
Leadership Books: The Thin Book of Trust by Charles Feltman

The Thin Book of Trust

Charles Feltman
An Essential Primer for Building Trust at Work
4.3 (7 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Thin Book of Trust about?

The Thin Book of Trust (2008) provides a framework for building trust at work. By focusing on four different attributes – care, sincerity, reliability, and competence – you can improve your relationships and create a culture of trust in the workplace.

Who should read The Thin Book of Trust?

  • Leaders who want to improve the culture in their workplace
  • People aiming to create stronger, trust-based working relationships
  • Anyone who wants to understand the nature of trust

63
Leadership Books: What You're Made For by George Raveling, Ryan Holiday

What You're Made For

George Raveling, Ryan Holiday
Powerful Life Lessons from My Career in Sports
4.5 (31 ratings)
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00:00

What's What You're Made For about?

What You’re Made For? (2025) explores the life lessons of sports legend George Raveling – and his remarkable journey from hardship to influence. It offers a blueprint for discovering purpose, evolving continuously, and living an impactful life. 

Who should read What You're Made For?

  • Sports enthusiasts interested in the behind-the-scenes wisdom of basketball legends
  • Aspiring coaches and leaders seeking to develop leadership skills
  • Anyone seeking inspiration to persevere through adversity

64
Leadership Books: Pivot to the Future by Omar Abbosh, Paul Nunes, Larry Downes

Pivot to the Future

Omar Abbosh, Paul Nunes, Larry Downes
Discovering Value and Creating Growth in a Disrupted World
4.5 (17 ratings)
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00:00

What's Pivot to the Future about?

Pivot to the Future (2019) explores how companies can achieve sustainable growth by reinventing their existing businesses while embracing new technologies. It introduces the concept of “wise pivots,” strategic shifts that help organizations balance legacy operations with future innovation. Through real-world examples, it demonstrates how businesses can unlock hidden value and stay competitive in an era of constant disruption.

Who should read Pivot to the Future?

  • Forward-thinking business executives seeking sustainable growth strategies
  • Innovation-driven entrepreneurs navigating digital transformation challenges
  • Curious professionals interested in business innovation and adaptation

65
Leadership Books: Shift by Ethan Kross

Shift

Ethan Kross
Managing Your Emotions - So They Don't Manage You
4.2 (86 ratings)
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00:00

What's Shift about?

Shift (2025) is a comprehensive science-based guide to managing – and maybe even mastering – your emotional life. It outlines what emotions are, why they matter, and how they can be tangibly harnessed to help, not hinder, you in pursuit of a life well lived. 

Who should read Shift?

  • Anyone wanting to better manage their emotions  
  • Parents and professionals navigating today’s complex stresses and stressors 
  • Leaders and educators committed to modelling best practice 

66
Leadership Books: Masters of Uncertainty by Rich Diviney

Masters of Uncertainty

Rich Diviney
The Navy SEAL Way to Turn Stress into Success for You and Your Team
4.5 (54 ratings)
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00:00

What's Masters of Uncertainty about?

Masters of Uncertainty (2025) provides a method for training individuals and teams to perform at their peak, no matter the circumstances. It shows you how to turn uncertainty and chaos into opportunities, stay calm under pressure, and leverage innate human capabilities to excel in challenging situations. By mastering this approach, you can improve your performance, whether you work alone or as part of a team.

Who should read Masters of Uncertainty?

  • Professionals facing high-pressure situations
  • Leaders building resilient and adaptable teams
  • Individuals seeking personal growth and adaptability

67
Leadership Books: Next Move, Best Move by Kimberly Brown

Next Move, Best Move

Kimberly Brown
Transitioning Into a Career You'll Love
4.5 (28 ratings)
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00:00

What's Next Move, Best Move about?

Next Move, Best Move (2021) is a practical guide for professionals who want to carve out a rich and rewarding career – not just a string of jobs. It emphasizes understanding your past and present to inform your future, navigating transitions strategically and intentionally, and playing the long game for lasting success.  

Who should read Next Move, Best Move?

  • Recent graduates exploring workplace opportunities
  • Mid-career professionals seeking career advancement or transition
  • Anyone wanting to build a stronger professional brand

68
Leadership Books: Gravitas by Caroline Goyder

Gravitas

Caroline Goyder
Communicate with Confidence, Influence and Authority
4.2 (38 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Gravitas about?

Gravitas (2014) is your guide to becoming a powerful speaker. It provides a formula for gravitas through seven practical principles that balance knowledge, purpose, and passion. Its techniques can be applied to presentations, meetings, interviews, and virtually any situation where you need others to truly listen to what you have to say.

Who should read Gravitas?

  • Professionals seeking to enhance their communication skills
  • Public speakers and presenters hoping to refine their delivery
  • Anyone looking to speak with confidence and impact

69
Leadership Books: Trust Works! by Ken Blanchard, Cynthia Olmstead, Martha Lawrence

Trust Works!

Ken Blanchard, Cynthia Olmstead, Martha Lawrence
Four Keys to Building Lasting Relationships
4.2 (37 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Trust Works! about?

Trust Works! (2013) explores how trust shapes relationships and drives successful teams and organizations. It outlines the simple yet powerful ABCD – able, believable, connected, and dependable – trust model, which you can use to cultivate, maintain, and restore trust. 

Who should read Trust Works!?

  • Leaders and managers responsible for teams 
  • Individuals in charge of building positive company or group culture 
  • Anyone wanting to improve a specific relationship 

70
Leadership Books: Managing Up by Melody Wilding

Managing Up

Melody Wilding
How to Get What You Need from the People in Charge
4.2 (46 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Managing Up about?

Managing Up (2025) offers practical strategies for managing workplace power dynamics and strengthening relationships with leaders. It will provide you with the tools to gain influence, advocate for your needs, and increase your authority without changing job titles. By distilling key workplace challenges into ten essential conversations, it helps you to communicate with confidence, set boundaries, and position yourself for success.

Who should read Managing Up?

  • Career-driven professionals aiming for stability and growth
  • Managers and leaders improving team communication and decision-making
  • Job seekers and career changers planning their next move

71
Leadership Books: 7 Principles of Transformational Leadership by Hugh Blane

7 Principles of Transformational Leadership

Hugh Blane
Create a Mindset of Passion, Innovation, and Growth
4.4 (31 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's 7 Principles of Transformational Leadership about?

7 Principles of Transformational Leadership (2017) explores the mindset shifts necessary for leaders to inspire passion, innovation, and growth within their organizations. It focuses on  seven key principles that help individuals and teams break free from complacency and achieve remarkable results. Drawing from real-world business experiences, it offers clear, practical strategies for building a culture of continuous improvement and high performance.

Who should read 7 Principles of Transformational Leadership?

  • Aspiring leaders seeking to inspire growth and innovation
  • HR professionals focused on leadership development strategies
  • Anyone striving for personal and career growth

72
Leadership Books: The Archetype Effect by James Root

The Archetype Effect

James Root
Unlocking The Six Types of Motivation at Work
4.6 (38 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Archetype Effect about?

The Archetype Effect (2025) reveals why traditional approaches to work – designed for predictability and control – no longer fit today’s workforce. Drawing on research with over 48,000 people across 19 countries, it introduces six archetypes that capture the wide range of motivations people bring to their jobs. It shows how these patterns shape everything from performance and stress to leadership styles, and how redesigning work around what energizes people can unlock deeper engagement, better teamwork, and more meaningful careers.

Who should read The Archetype Effect?

  • People leaders trying to unlock team potential
  • HR and talent professionals redesigning work systems
  • Workers and coaches exploring motivation and career fit

73
Leadership Books: Manager as Coach by Andrew Gilbert, Jenny Rogers, and Karen Whittleworth

Manager as Coach

Andrew Gilbert, Jenny Rogers, and Karen Whittleworth
The New Way to Get Results
3.9 (7 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Manager as Coach about?

Manager as Coach (2012) reshapes leadership by swapping outdated commands for coaching dialogues that ignite engagement and drive results. Learn to cultivate talent without micromanaging, lower stress while boosting performance, and foster a proactive culture where issues are resolved before reaching you. This is a highly effective guide that will help you instill each interaction with capability and trust.

Who should read Manager as Coach?

  • Managers seeking stress-free leadership techniques
  • New supervisors building coaching skills quickly
  • HR professionals creating engagement-focused cultures

74
Leadership Books: Conflict Resilience by Robert Bordone, Joel Salinas

Conflict Resilience

Robert Bordone, Joel Salinas
Negotiating Disagreement Without Giving Up Or Giving in
4.4 (27 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Conflict Resilience about?

Conflict Resilience (2025) blends deep expertise in conflict negotiation with neuroscientific insight to explore why conflict is so deeply rooted in both human biology and modern society. Drawing on this understanding, it presents a proven framework for engaging with conflict in a more constructive and productive way. 

Who should read Conflict Resilience?

  • Anyone feeling stuck in ongoing disagreements with family, friends, or neighbors and looking for a way forward
  • Conflict avoiders who want to build the confidence and skills to engage in difficult conversations
  • Those seeking practical tools to resolve deep, entrenched differences at home, at work, or in their community

75
Leadership Books: What to Do When You Become the Boss by Bob Selden

What to Do When You Become the Boss

Bob Selden
How New Managers Become Successful Managers
4.4 (59 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's What to Do When You Become the Boss about?

What to Do When You Become the Boss (2007) offers practical strategies for effectively managing in all directions: upward, downward, and inward. This accessible manual covers essential management skills from team leadership and performance management to decision-making and self-management, serving as both an introduction for new managers and a reference tool for experienced leaders navigating workplace challenges.

Who should read What to Do When You Become the Boss?

  • New managers seeking guidance on immediate challenges
  • Aspiring managers ready to demonstrate their management potential
  • Experienced managers who want to brush up their team leadership skills

76
Leadership Books: Pig Wrestling by Pete Lindsay, Mark Bawden

Pig Wrestling

Pete Lindsay, Mark Bawden
The Brilliantly Simple Way to Solve Problems and Create Change
3.7 (11 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Pig Wrestling about?

Pig Wrestling (2019) offers a memorable story showing how to approach seemingly impossible problems. Follow a stressed manager guided by an unusual barista through a process for reframing difficulties. The process reveals methods drawn from top performers, helping you handle messy situations with greater clarity.

Who should read Pig Wrestling?

  • Managers seeking fresh ways to handle stubborn team difficulties smoothly
  • Anyone feeling blocked by recurring problems in work or life
  • People facing complex environments who need clearer thinking tools now

77
Leadership Books: The Whole Brain Business Book by Ann Herrmann-Nehdi, Ned Herrmann

The Whole Brain Business Book

Ann Herrmann-Nehdi, Ned Herrmann
Unlocking the Power of Whole Brain Thinking
3.9 (25 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Whole Brain Business Book about?

The Whole Brain Business Book (2015) explores how individuals and organizations can harness different thinking styles to improve performance, communication, and innovation. It introduces the Whole Brain Model, which divides cognitive preferences into four quadrants – analytical, sequential, interpersonal, and imaginative – and shows how understanding these can lead to better decision-making and collaboration. By applying Whole Brain Thinking, it offers a practical framework for solving complex business challenges more effectively.

Who should read The Whole Brain Business Book?

  • Visionary business leaders seeking cognitive diversity
  • Collaborative teams aiming to boost innovation
  • Anyone interested in how thinking works

78
Leadership Books: Leadership Not by the Book by David Green, Bill High

Leadership Not by the Book

David Green, Bill High
12 Unconventional Principles to Drive Incredible Results
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Leadership Not by the Book about?

Leadership Not by the Book (2022) explores how faith-driven values can shape unconventional yet highly effective leadership in business. It shares principles for building a successful company by prioritizing people, generosity, and purpose over profit. Drawing inspiration from Scripture rather than traditional business wisdom, it encourages leaders to challenge standard practices in pursuit of lasting impact.

Who should read Leadership Not by the Book?

  • Faith-driven entrepreneurs seeking purpose-aligned business growth
  • Values-based leaders aiming to inspire their teams
  • Anyone exploring unconventional leadership principles

79
Leadership Books: Good Services by Lou Downe

Good Services

Lou Downe
Decoding the Mystery of What Makes a Good Service
4.5 (4 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Good Services about?

Good Services (2019) defines what makes a service truly effective and provides essential principles for designing services that work well for users. It demystifies the difference between good and bad services, and analyzes the common elements that determine whether services succeed or fail to meet user needs. Suitable for both practitioners and non-practitioners, it serves as the definitive new resource for anyone interested in better service delivery.

Who should read Good Services?

  • Business leaders
  • UX designers
  • Product managers

80
Leadership Books: The Service Organization by Kate Tarling

The Service Organization

Kate Tarling
How to Deliver and Lead Successful Services, Sustainably
3.8 (20 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Service Organization about?

The Service Organization (2023) argues that as all organizations evolve into service providers, their traditional structures and practices prevent successful end-to-end service delivery in our rapidly changing digital landscape. This guide offers practical, accessible tools for transforming underlying organizational conditions rather than simply modernizing individual services. 

Who should read The Service Organization?

  • Organizational leaders seeking to transform outdated service delivery models
  • UX professionals responsible for improving customer experiences
  • Operations managers struggling with fragmented service processes

81
Leadership Books: Digital Transformation at Scale by Andrew Greenway, Ben Terrett, Tom Loosemore, Mike Bracken

Digital Transformation at Scale

Andrew Greenway, Ben Terrett, Tom Loosemore, Mike Bracken
Why the Strategy Is Delivery
4.0 (7 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Digital Transformation at Scale about?

Digital Transformation at Scale (2018) is about how large organizations can deliver better digital services by focusing on practical execution rather than abstract strategies. It draws on lessons from transforming government services in the UK, emphasizing multidisciplinary teams, user needs, and iterative development. It challenges traditional hierarchies and encourages a culture of delivery and continuous improvement.

Who should read Digital Transformation at Scale?

  • Ambitious public sector digital transformation leaders
  • Experienced designers and developers in government teams
  • Professionals interested in large-scale digital change

82
Leadership Books: How to Work with Complicated People by Ryan Leak

How to Work with Complicated People

Ryan Leak
Strategies for Effective Collaboration with (Nearly) Anyone
4.0 (44 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's How to Work with Complicated People about?

How to Work with Complicated People (2025) provides practical strategies for effectively collaborating with almost any difficult individual, by emphasizing empathy, clear communication, and personal accountability. Through actionable advice, it equips readers to transform relational conflicts into opportunities for personal and professional growth. 

Who should read How to Work with Complicated People?

  • Anyone struggling with an interpersonal conflict 
  • Team leaders and managers 
  • Human resources workers 

83
Leadership Books: The Psychology of Leadership by Sébastien Page

The Psychology of Leadership

Sébastien Page
Timeless principles to perfect your leadership
4.4 (9 ratings)
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What's The Psychology of Leadership about?

The Psychology of Leadership (2025) draws on research into several subdisciplines of psychology to offer a framework for successful leadership based on scientific research into happiness. Weaving together real-world examples, personal anecdotes, and research, it presents a framework for harnessing psychological insights in leadership. 

Who should read The Psychology of Leadership?

  • Stressed out leaders at any stage of their careers looking for more satisfaction or meaning in their work.
  • Coaches, consultants, and HR professionals looking to turn around toxic workplace cultures
  • Anyone interested in being happier and healthier at work, while cultivating more success

84
Leadership Books: Conquering Crisis by Admiral William H. McRaven

Conquering Crisis

Admiral William H. McRaven
Ten Lessons to Learn Before You Need Them
4.6 (27 ratings)
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00:00

What's Conquering Crisis about?

Conquering Crisis (2025) draws on Admiral William H. McRaven’s experience leading through global conflicts to offer a blueprint for navigating turbulent times with courage, clarity, and resilience. It distills lessons from history, military strategy, and personal leadership into a guide for individuals and institutions facing unprecedented challenges. Emphasizing adaptability and moral fortitude, it encourages readers to prepare, act decisively, and inspire others in moments of crisis. 

Who should read Conquering Crisis?

  • Entrepreneurs looking for strategies to steer their companies through uncertainty
  • Emergency responders and crisis managers
  • Anyone looking for advice on how to cultivate discipline and resilience under stress

85
Leadership Books: How to Untie a Balloon by Ryan Dunlap

How to Untie a Balloon

Ryan Dunlap
A Negotiator's Guide to Avoid Popping Under Pressure
4.2 (21 ratings)
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00:00

What's How to Untie a Balloon about?

How to Untie a Balloon (2025) offers concrete strategies for managing stress and conflict, and developing emotional strength. It explores how mounting pressure can distort our thinking and behavior, using a balloon metaphor to show how unresolved tension can quietly escalate into harm. It will help you release pressure and defuse conflict before you become destructive.

Who should read How to Untie a Balloon?

  • Business leaders facing high-pressure, conflictual decisions
  • Professionals managing stress while balancing competing demands
  • Anyone who struggles to perform under pressure and wants to regain control

86
Leadership Books: Monday Morning Leadership by David Cottrell

Monday Morning Leadership

David Cottrell
8 Mentoring Sessions You Can't Afford to Miss
4.3 (27 ratings)
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00:00

What's Monday Morning Leadership about?

Monday Morning Leadership (2002) is a practical guide to real-world leadership challenges, offering clear advice and actionable solutions for becoming a more effective leader. Through a series of focused conversations, it delivers direct, no-nonsense guidance on managing people, setting priorities, and leading with integrity. 

Who should read Monday Morning Leadership?

  • New managers seeking practical leadership guidance
  • Team leaders facing performance or motivation issues
  • Professionals wanting clear, actionable management strategies

87
Leadership Books: Build a Business You Love by Dave Ramsey

Build a Business You Love

Dave Ramsey
Mastering the Five Stages of Business
4.6 (19 ratings)
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00:00

What's Build a Business You Love about?

Build a Business You Love (2025) is a game-changing guide to the common challenges business-owners face as their companies grow and evolve. There are five distinct stages that every business, no matter the industry, faces on its way to success – and each comes with its own set of challenges. Fortunately, with a little help, you can anticipate these obstacles, tackle them head-on, and build a business that not only thrives, but leaves a legacy you’re proud of. 

Who should read Build a Business You Love?

  • Current business-owners feeling stuck or confused about what to do next
  • Aspiring entrepreneurs trying to anticipate the challenges ahead
  • Coaches and consultants looking for better understanding of their clients’ positions

88
Leadership Books: Endless Customers by Marcus Sheridan

Endless Customers

Marcus Sheridan
Build Trust, Drive Sales, and Become the Market Leader
4.4 (24 ratings)
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00:00

What's Endless Customers about?

Endless Customers (2025) presents a practical framework for helping businesses become the most trusted and recognized brands in their markets. It shows how aligning content creation, sales strategies, technology, and company culture can drive sustainable growth, especially in an era shaped by AI and digital transformation. It will equip you to build an organization that consistently attracts and retains loyal customers.

Who should read Endless Customers?

  • Business owners who want to build lasting customer trust
  • Marketing teams seeking a proven content-driven growth strategy
  • Sales leaders aiming to reduce friction and close faster

89
Leadership Books: Transformed by Marty Cagan

Transformed

Marty Cagan
Moving to the Product Operating Model
5.0 (1 ratings)
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00:00

What's Transformed about?

Transformed (2024) is a practical guide to the product operating model – a framework used by many of the most successful businesses. By following these expert recommendations, leaders can transform their companies, and start to see real results.

Who should read Transformed?

  • CEOs and other business leaders
  • People trying to drive change within their company
  • Anyone who wants to learn more about the product operating model

90
Leadership Books: The Social Brain by Tracey Camilleri, Samantha Rockey, Robin Dunbar

The Social Brain

Tracey Camilleri, Samantha Rockey, Robin Dunbar
The Psychology of Successful Groups
4.5 (21 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Social Brain about?

The Social Brain (2023) investigates how human connection drives team performance, trust, and resilience in modern organizations. Drawing on insights from psychology, anthropology, and organizational design, it offers practical guidance for shaping group dynamics, building strong relationships, and creating environments where people thrive.

Who should read The Social Brain?

  • Leaders and managers aiming to design human-centered teams
  • Consultants applying behavioral and social science
  • Anyone interested in what research says about human connection

91
Leadership Books: Amazon Unbound by Brad Stone

Amazon Unbound

Brad Stone
Jeff Bezos and the Invention of a Global Empire
4.2 (6 ratings)
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00:00

What's Amazon Unbound about?

Amazon Unbound (2022) traces Amazon’s dramatic transformation from a scrappy online bookstore into a trillion-dollar powerhouse shaping global commerce, entertainment, and cloud computing. Alongside this corporate ascent, it follows founder Jeff Bezos’s evolution – from ambitious tech entrepreneur to one of the most powerful and polarizing figures in business.

Who should read Amazon Unbound?

  • Tech enthusiasts seeking insights into Amazon's innovations and strategies
  • Business professionals interested in corporate leadership and growth dynamics
  • Anyone curious about Jeff Bezos's evolution and Amazon's global impact

92
Leadership Books: Pioneers by Neri Karra Sillaman

Pioneers

Neri Karra Sillaman
8 Principles of Business Longevity from Immigrant Entrepreneurs
4.1 (10 ratings)
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00:00

What's Pioneers about?

Pioneers (2025) explores how immigrant entrepreneurs build enduring, purpose-driven businesses by turning cultural displacement into a source of strategic advantage. It distills this approach into eight guiding principles that emphasize resilience, integrity, and community impact. Drawing on personal stories and case studies, it offers a roadmap for creating value that lasts across generations.

Who should read Pioneers?

  • Immigrants and first-generation professionals navigating identity and ambition
  • Non-immigrant entrepreneurs looking for unconventional wisdom 
  • Anyone seeking sustainable growth for their venture or side hustle

93
Leadership Books: Shatterproof by Tasha Eurich

Shatterproof

Tasha Eurich
How to Thrive in a World of Constant Chaos (and Why Resilience Alone Isn’t Enough)
4.4 (5 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Shatterproof about?

Shatterproof (2025) offers a groundbreaking alternative to traditional ideas about resilience, revealing why mere “bouncing back” from difficulties is not sufficient or sustainable. It provides a practical, four-step roadmap for transforming life’s challenges into opportunities for authentic growth, and fulfilling one’s core psychological needs to emerge stronger than before. 

Who should read Shatterproof?

  • High-achieving professionals experiencing burnout from constantly “pushing through”
  • Self-development enthusiasts interested in evidence-based psychological frameworks
  • Anyone experiencing a major life disruption who wants to grow from the experience

94
Leadership Books: Year Without Pants by Scott Berkun

Year Without Pants

Scott Berkun
WordPress.com and the Future of Work
5.0 (1 ratings)
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00:00

What's Year Without Pants about?

The Year without Pants offers an intimate look at life inside one of the most successful tech companies out there: Automattic, the brains behind sites like Wordpress.com and Polldaddy. By thinking outside the box, abandoning tradition and cutting the fat from your processes, you too can follow Automattic’s example and jumpstart innovation.

Who should read Year Without Pants?

  • Entrepreneurs from any industry
  • Start-up CEOs
  • Employees in tech industries

95
Leadership Books: High Performance by Jake Humphrey, Damian Hughes

High Performance

Jake Humphrey, Damian Hughes
Lessons from the Best on Becoming Your Best
3.6 (8 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's High Performance about?

High Performance (2021) draws on insights from top performers in sports, business, and the arts to reveal the mindsets and habits that drive lasting success. It emphasizes that excellence isn’t innate or exclusive – it’s the result of deliberate, everyday choices. By taking ownership of your responses, committing to clear non-negotiables, and building purpose-driven routines, you can not only elevate your own performance but also inspire those around you to do the same.

Who should read High Performance?

  • Ambitious professionals seeking sustainable peak performance
  • Forward-thinking leaders focused on team culture
  • Anyone interested in personal growth

96
Leadership Books: Smart Startups by Catalina Daniels, James H. Sherman

Smart Startups

Catalina Daniels, James H. Sherman
Tried and True Advice from 18 Harvard Business School Founders
4.5 (6 ratings)
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00:00

What's Smart Startups about?

Smart Startups (2023) uncovers the strategies used to build major companies, direct from 18 Harvard Business School founders. This guide puts to rest the myth of the instant genius and easy investor wins. Instead, you’ll see how practical, even if unconventional, wisdom is needed to turn a great idea into a company that lasts.

Who should read Smart Startups?

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs looking for tips
  • Current founders seeking insights beyond your average business advice
  • Anyone intrigued by how successful HBS founders truly build world-class companies

97
Leadership Books: How to Become CEO by Jeffrey J. Fox

How to Become CEO

Jeffrey J. Fox
The Rules for Rising to the Top of Any Organization
4.3 (6 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's How to Become CEO about?

How to Become CEO (1998) offers practical, no-nonsense advice for professionals aiming to rise to the top of the corporate ladder. It presents 75 concise rules that emphasize personal discipline, strategic thinking, and career ownership. It encourages people to break away from conventional workplace norms and make bold, intentional moves toward leadership.

Who should read How to Become CEO?

  • Ambitious mid-level professionals seeking executive roles
  • Strategic young managers aiming for rapid growth
  • Career-driven people interested in leadership success

98
Leadership Books: No More Sh*t Managers by Jo Wright

No More Sh*t Managers

Jo Wright
Seven steps to a coaching culture
3.5 (2 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's No More Sh*t Managers about?

No More Sh*t Managers (2023) is a practical guide for transforming workplace culture by helping leaders adopt a coaching mindset. It introduces a seven-step framework designed to enhance communication, build trust, and improve performance through effective conversations and honest feedback. By implementing these strategies, organizations can shift from traditional management styles to a more empowering, growth-oriented approach.

Who should read No More Sh*t Managers?

  • Ambitious mid-level managers seeking leadership growth
  • Forward-thinking HR professionals driving cultural change
  • Anyone exploring better management styles

99
Leadership Books: The 7 Commitments of a Great Team by Jon Gordon

The 7 Commitments of a Great Team

Jon Gordon
Transform any team into a powerhouse of collaboration and growth
4.0 (3 ratings)
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00:00

What's The 7 Commitments of a Great Team about?

The 7 Commitments of a Great Team (2025) examines the core principles that turn talented individuals into unstoppable teams. It provides a blueprint for building trust, maintaining positivity, and creating the kind of collaboration that drives extraordinary results. 

Who should read The 7 Commitments of a Great Team?

  • Team leaders and managers looking to improve collaboration and performance 
  • Those transitioning into a leadership role needing foundational team-building skills
  • Anyone seeking strategies to unite diverse skill sets toward common objectives

100
Leadership Books: The Organizational Resilience Handbook by Graham Bell

The Organizational Resilience Handbook

Graham Bell
A Practical Guide to Achieving Greater Resilience
4.0 (2 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Organizational Resilience Handbook about?

The Organizational Resilience Handbook (2020) offers a thorough exploration of organizational resilience, advocating for a comprehensive approach focused on strategic risk. Presenting a deep strategic methodology, it empowers practitioners to cultivate resilience within their organizations and formulate strategies that enhance resilience capabilities at every level.

Who should read The Organizational Resilience Handbook?

  • Senior executives and board members preparing their organizations for the future
  • Entrepreneurs building business models that can withstand changing conditions
  • Business consultants and advisors looking for proven methodologies to help clients build resilience 

Related Topics

Leadership Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Leadership book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard The Five Dysfunctions of a Team as the ultimate read on Leadership.

What are the Top 10 Leadership books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick M. Lencioni
  • Focus by Daniel Goleman
  • Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek
  • Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
  • The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli
  • 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. Maxwell
  • Walmart by Natalie Berg and Bryan Roberts
  • The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership by Jim Dethmer, Diana Chapman and Kaley Warner Klemp
  • Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin
  • Multipliers by Liz Wiseman

Who are the top Leadership book authors?

When it comes to Leadership, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Patrick M. Lencioni
  • Daniel Goleman
  • Simon Sinek
  • Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
  • Niccolò Machiavelli