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At the heart of lifelong growth is the commitment to continuous learning, whether through leadership coaching books, insightful articles, engaging podcasts, or informative videos. 

Inspire & Empower: Essential Reads for Leaders

Every leader’s journey is both distinctly personal and universally resonant. The books selected here aim to broaden your horizons, whether by reinforcing your current understanding or introducing groundbreaking perspectives. They serve as companions in your leadership voyage, offering solace and strength as you navigate the complexities of effective leadership.

“Start Here”

By Eric Langshur and Nate Klemp, PhD

Yes, do Start Here. Leadership is inside out. Leaders who are calm, confident, centered, and compassionate human beings have the greatest success. I refer to this book often as a guide to building habits that increase wellbeing. The authors not only lay out a roadmap for increasing joy in all aspects of life, but they provide the scientific research to support the recommendations and motivate readers to bring about personal change.

Leadership

“Resilience – Hard-Won Wisdom for Living a Better Life”

By Eric Greitens

Eric Greitens’ book Resilience is formatted as a series of letters to his friend and fellow Navy SEAL Zach Walker who is struggling with PTSD and masking his pain with alcohol. Although the stories and examples are often about military experience, Greitens also references ancient philosophers and other modern leaders. This book has sage advice and inspiration for everyone.

Leadership

“Resilience – The Science of Mastering Life’s Greatest Challenges”

By Steven M. Southwick & Dennis S. Charney

Resilience – The Science of Mastering Life’s Greatest Challenges by Steven M. Southwick & Dennis S. Charney includes a terrific blend of storytelling, science and practical information. The book offers ten factors to help anyone become more resilient.

Leadership

The Speed of Trust”

By Stephen M.R. Covey

We hear a lot about the importance of building trust within our relationships and organizations. This book provides fascinating examples and clear descriptions to explain how trust increases business success and leads to better outcomes.

Change

“Language and the Pursuit of Leadership Excellence”

By Chalmers Brothers and Vinay Kumar

As I studied this book, I lived in the paradox of two competing ideas which were 1) intuitively I know this, and 2) this information is revolutionary and mind-boggling. Reading this book clarifies how we create change, results and action through our words. And it provides eye-opening insights into the difference between statements and assumptions.

Change

“Prosilience: Building your resilience for a Turbulent World”

By Linda L. Hoopes

If those wanting to better understand what attributes define personal resilience, and how to increase their own, this book is a straightforward guide.

Change

“The Three Signs of a Miserable Job”

By Patrick Lencioni

I recommend this book for all leaders; and if someone is new to leadership, this is a good place to start. The book is a fable that is quick to read. Through storytelling it illustrates three essential elements for engaging team members.

Wellbeing

“Leadership on the Line: Staying Alive through the Dangers of Leading”

By Ronald A. Heifetz & Marty Linsky

Great leadership requires risk-taking and navigating change. Leadership on the Line offers case studies and guidance on navigating transition successfully. It also speaks frankly about the personal, human struggles of leading and offers strategies to cope.

Wellbeing

"Today a reader, tomorrow a leader."
Margaret Fuller

Impactful Insights Through Media

Transform your routine activities into opportunities for growth with our handpicked selection of inspiring and informative media. While multitasking isn’t always advisable, integrating learning into everyday moments—whether you’re on a run, tackling chores, or commuting—allows you to absorb new insights and innovative strategies seamlessly. Let these visual and auditory experiences enrich your leadership journey.

Your Daily Learning Snack

Explore pivotal leadership themes, from mastering feedback to bolstering resilience, in easily digestible segments. These concise yet potent messages are designed for busy schedules, allowing you to enhance your knowledge and skills in just five minutes. It’s a small investment of time for a significant impact on your leadership journey.

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August 31, 2022

Charlotte CPCU Chapter Topic: Increase Resilience – Preparing Your Organization & Yourself To Respond To Crisis

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March 24, 2022

Lake Norman Rotary Topic: Increase Personal Resilience

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March 10, 2022

Mental Fitness/WSIC Radio Topic: Mindful Leadership from your Best Self

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April 4, 2022

Carolina Tractor Equipment – Women Lead Topic: Own Your Strengths. Build your Value

Change doesn’t have to be overwhelming

Contact Valerie W. Franco to begin your leadership transformation.