Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

Generating out-of-the-box ideas and implementing them in real-life scenarios can be challenging yet immensely rewarding. In Non-Obvious Thinking, Rohit Bhargava and Ben duPont introduce the SIFT framework, a practical four-step blueprint designed to amplify and maximize the power of innovative thinking. These four steps include creating more space, uncovering insights to discover how things actually function, recognizing patterns and focusing on priorities, and adding your own unique twist to a brilliant idea. Through stories and exercises, the authors provide you with all the tools and techniques you need to manifest your best ideas. With this book, you will learn to anchor your attention, embrace and navigate danger, recognize natural wisdom, identify real problems, see the other side, use augmented creativity, take your ideas in an unexpected direction, seek intersections to define your twist, and more.

Authors Rohit Bhargava and Ben duPont present a comprehensive guide to help you stand out among your peers by observing patterns and developing creative ideas, enabling you to chart your own course for success. It's an empowering book that encourages you to take risks and follow your instinctive drive to take the path less traveled. Non-Obvious Thinking is a transformative guide for a diverse range of readers, be it an aspiring entrepreneur or a sports prodigy trying to make it in the professional leagues. The stories featured in this book are engaging and help demonstrate the benefits of Non-Obvious Thinking to the reader. Each topic is explored in depth as the authors explain everything in great detail, making sure readers fully grasp the content. I found the book very motivational and helpful, and I highly recommend it.

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

I Respectfully Disagree: How to Have Difficult Conversations in a Divided World by Justin Jones-Fosu provides a thorough guide to handling contentious discussions with grace and understanding. This book is essential for anyone looking to enhance their communication skills in both personal and professional settings within a culture that often seems irreconcilably divided. Jones-Fosu starts by describing the nature of disagreements and the importance of managing them with respect and empathy. He then presents the concept of “Golden Respect,” an approach that insists on treating everyone with dignity regardless of the disagreement’s intensity. This fundamental concept challenges and broadens the reader’s view on respecting others, even in disagreement.

The book is structured around practical advice and strategies designed to help readers navigate tough conversations without losing sight of humanity and mutual respect. One of the key strengths of Justin Jones-Fosu’s writing is his ability to blend personal anecdotes with actionable advice, making the guidance relatable. The “5 Pillars of Bridging the Divide” offers a structured approach to improving dialogue. These include challenging one’s perspective, being a student in conversations, cultivating curiosity, seeking the gray areas in discussions, and agreeing to respect. Each pillar is explained in detail, accompanied by examples and exercises encouraging active participation and learning. Another important aspect of the book is its focus on understanding the underlying power dynamics and cultural differences that can impact conversations. Jones-Fosu encourages readers to reflect on their own positions and privileges during discussions, promoting a more inclusive approach that recognizes and respects diversity in all its forms. I Respectfully Disagree provides valuable insights and techniques for encouraging more constructive and respectful interactions. It's a timely resource that directly addresses the challenges of our current social climate, providing readers with the tools needed to effect positive change in their communications.

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

The future is unpredictable. Businesses must continue to adapt and evolve to face the challenges of an ever-changing world. Roger Spitz has been an advisor to some of the most reputable organizations in the world. In Disrupt With Impact, the author explores various risks, strategies, and tactics to ensure organizations remain resilient amid major disruptive events, offering practical frameworks and keen insights to help them navigate the tides of change. The book delves into the dual nature of disruption and explores mindsets that can help companies thrive amid uncertainty and disruption. You will also learn about first-principles thinking, scanning and detecting emerging change, developing future intelligence, using disruption to create impact and value, systems-level innovation, navigating climate change, geopolitical upheavals, and digital media, strategic decision-making through AI and the existential threat it poses, and more.

Disrupt With Impact is a comprehensive guide designed to help organizations anticipate disruptive events and make strategic decisions according to the changing environment. Drawing from years of experience in venture capital and investment banking, Roger Spitz provides valuable tools and strategies for companies wanting to thrive amid the uncertainties and ever-changing dynamics of the future. Every concept or topic featured in this book is explored in great depth. The author pays attention to detail and ensures readers can fully grasp the content by using accessible language to explain some of the more technical topics discussed here. How will AI impact organizations as it gets more and more sophisticated to the point that human input becomes near-redundant? You will find answers to these kinds of questions and more in this book. All in all, it's a must-read for executives, managers, shareholders, and business owners.

Reviewed by Cherubimaris Casino for Readers' Favorite

Crypto and Bitcoin: A Millionaire Mindset for Opportunity by author Michael A. Duniec is a comprehensive explanation of the cryptocurrency revolution, from Bitcoin's creation to the diverse crypto-asset landscape we see today. The author's expertise shines through as he unpacks complex concepts like blockchain technology, smart contracts, and decentralized finance in a way that's accessible yet deeply informative. He discusses how crypto could address issues in traditional financial systems. Duniec also gives insights into pivotal moments in crypto history, such as the Mt. Gox hacks and the rise of alternative cryptocurrencies like Ethereum. His firsthand experience as an early Bitcoin miner lends an air of authenticity to the book, making it feel less like a dry financial tome and more like an insider's guide to this fascinating digital frontier.

Because finance is a crucial part of everyday life, I found this book to be an invaluable resource for understanding the potential of cryptocurrency to reshape our global economic landscape. This is an important read for all who have bank accounts, as it suggests strategies for financial inclusion and reducing reliance on centralized institutions. The sections on crypto wallets and exchanges are informative and provide practical knowledge for those looking to dip their toes into crypto waters. While Michael Duniec maintains an optimistic outlook, I appreciated that he doesn't shy away from discussing the risks and challenges associated with this emerging technology. Crypto and Bitcoin has not only expanded my knowledge but also ignited my curiosity about the future of finance. It's a must-read for anyone, regardless of class, race, or gender, who wants to grasp the significance of this digital revolution and its potential impact on our financial future.

Reviewed by Leonard Smuts for Readers' Favorite

For those aspiring to achieve real wealth, Lane Kawaoka has the right formula that will provide financial freedom and all the benefits that go with it. The Wealth Elevator: Real Estate Syndications, Accredited Investor Banking, and Tax Strategies for First-Gen Millionaires uses the analogy of an elevator that goes from the basement to the penthouse and ultimately the rooftop of financial success. Many individuals are fortunate to have accumulated some wealth or earn a high-end salary, yet are left with the feeling of being trapped by the system and lacking true financial freedom. The author shares his experiences on how to overcome this by outlining proven strategies that make maximum use of both monthly savings and existing capital by investing primarily in real estate through a variety of mechanisms. There is also advice on how to free up underperforming assets, plan, become wealthy, and leave a lasting legacy. Readers will learn the basic principles, as well as how to develop relationships with accountants, lawyers, tax strategists, and other investors to form a team that will achieve spectacular growth and minimize the risks. In the author’s words, “Relationships are the currency of the wealthy.”

It is conventional wisdom that to make money you have to have money, and this is the starting point for The Wealth Elevator. It presupposes a healthy income and savings upfront, which can be mobilized to produce both a passive income and provide long-term capital growth. This requires expertise and discipline. All the techniques that Lane Kawaoka advocates are detailed in full, and include vehicles such as property syndication, accredited investor banking, and similar investment opportunities. The legal and tax aspects are well covered, and each step toward the penthouse is fully explained, along with the advantages and pitfalls. The author is a professional engineer and has amassed a real estate portfolio that is now valued at billions of dollars. He continues to share his expertise and is available as a consultant. This work is aimed at higher-income earners, but the underlying principles can assist smaller investors and inspire them to take the first steps toward the elevator of financial freedom. The book is illustrated with graphics that amplify the text, and many examples of the path to success are included. The book is American-orientated in terms of tax and company legislation, but the principles are universal. It will be a meaningful book for aspiring millionaires.

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

In this age of rapid technological development and change, leaders must constantly adapt and evolve to ensure their businesses thrive and continue to attain success. Dave Osh has had a distinguished corporate career with varied roles as a management consultant, CFO and COO of Nasdaq-listed companies, CEO of Qnet, and tech startup Executive. In CEO Potential, the author presents the Potential Framework -- a practical blueprint that leaders can use to transform their personalities and push beyond the limits of their potential. This book introduces you to the seven levels of potential and shows in depth how each level impacts your effectiveness and performance. You will learn about the two tiers of potential, measuring and framing your potential, changing behaviors, upgrading your operating system, integrating for transformation, identifying counter behaviors, establishing values, handling feedback, nurturing a growth culture, and much more.

CEO Potential is a comprehensive guide for leadership to help you adapt and transform to the needs of changing environments and lead your organizations into a thriving future. This book does not seek to maximize your potential but rather help you transcend beyond the boundaries of your fullest potential that you can imagine at any given moment in time. Through personal anecdotes, examples, and practical insights, Dave Osh teaches you how to be an effective leader who is prepared to transform and lead adaptable, resilient, and constantly evolving teams that take their organizations toward success. The author presents the content in an accessible manner that will appeal to a broad range of readers. I found the book engaging, informative, and motivational. In today's ever-changing work environment, being a corporate executive or business leader is not easy. But this book will definitely help you find your way.

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

Over recent years, there has been a growing spotlight on workplace-related harassment and other misbehavior incidents, and rightfully so. Employees deserve fair treatment to flourish and make valuable contributions to the organization they are working for. In Seeking Fairness At Work, business strategist and attorney Hanna Hasl-Kelchner suggests that whenever an organization hires a new employee, an implied social contract arises based on trust and fairness. Fairness involves acting in good faith, providing employees with honest compensation packages, and encouraging safe work competition. Employers must be attentive to reasonable workforce expectations. Five common categories for dispiriting employee engagement are unapproachability, lack of recognition, bias, poor conflict management, and poor workload management. Lack of recognition can be seen in the case of wages, credit stealing, no feedback, microaggressions, and bullying behavior.

With Seeking Fairness At Work, you will gain an understanding of the pivotal role of power in the social contract and learn about practicing awareness and empathy and exercising power respectfully, equitably, and responsibly. According to Hanna Hasl-Kelchner, good faith and fair dealing are synonymous with genuine accountability, reconciling, and improving upon conflicting communication styles. The book also delves into keeping workplace communications professional, cultural safety nets, and structural safety nets that involve negotiating mutually acceptable solutions, using reliable background screening tools during the hiring process, motivating employees with personal and professional development, treating employees as valuable assets, and much more. This workplace guide is a must-read for business owners, managers, executives, and employees and workers alike. Hasl-Kelchner provides in-depth explanations of the topics in a clear-cut, easily understandable manner. Overall, an informative and motivational book that I highly recommend.

Reviewed by Constance Stadler for Readers' Favorite

Top of Heart: How a New Approach to Business Saved My Life and Can Save Yours Too by Grant Muller is a book that upends formulaic get-rich-quick business models and the belief that professional interactions depend on calculated manipulation. Muller contends that success must center on forming authentic relationships, but this extraordinary book is about much more than professionalism; it is about how to live a rewarding life. Muller’s own story, detailing the steps that led to addiction and homelessness, where he relinquished every semblance of integrity, supports his conviction. His evident honesty makes the foundation of his 180-degree change, which leads to exceptional professional success, totally credible. The book demonstrates that leading by feelings or 'heartset' can be transformational.

Top of Heart includes several exercises where the reader can assess what feeling-driven business could mean for them. The results of Grant Muller’s commitment to being present in every interaction support immersion. His dedication to being there for others by being true to himself is a testament to why fulfilling productivity rests on genuine investment instead of the pro forma norm of 'what's in it for me.' Muller’s transparency demonstrates how a different mindset can lead to life-altering change. Against the backdrop of how he lived in a self-made hell and achieved recovery through tremendous effort, the dramatic subtitle of the book is not an exaggeration. Top of Heart is essential reading for those about to start a career and veterans who have anchored themselves in script-driven deceptions.

Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite

Colin C. Campbell shares the highs and lows of his entrepreneurial journey and gives readers the knowledge they need to succeed in their business endeavors. His book, Start. Scale. Exit. Repeat, offers a comprehensive analysis of his right and wrong moves while starting, scaling, exiting, and repeating in his multiple startups. The book also contains insights from serial entrepreneurs and experts gleaned from hundreds of startup interviews, which reveal the smart choices and avoidable errors they made in their entrepreneurial endeavors. We follow stories from various entrepreneurs, examples from today's major successful companies, and the author's business exploits in different countries. Prepare to discover why understanding stories, people, money, and systems is crucial for success in entrepreneurship.

Colin C. Campbell covers every topic thoroughly and engages readers by sharing substantial real-life stories from entrepreneurs and popular brands, including Microsoft and Android. Throughout the book, several intriguing ideas are delivered concisely and neatly highlighted, making it easy to pick the core messages of each chapter and read the book quickly. One key message I got from this book, among many, is that it can take a decade to get my big break—a reminder to be patient and consistent with my efforts. Start. Scale. Exit. Repeat is one of the most revelatory and valuable business resources out there. You will not only learn how to succeed as an entrepreneur but also recognize when a business has run its course. It's a must-read for budding and actual entrepreneurs, as well as individuals working with startups and similar enterprises.

Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite

In Public Speaking with Confidence: How to Overcome Anxiety and Deliver Unforgettable Presentations, Philipp Humm details his journey from anxiety to proficiency in public speaking, offering practical techniques for others to follow. He champions "constructive embarrassment," encouraging deliberate engagement in embarrassing activities to desensitize oneself to social judgment, alongside methods for managing reactions and setting goals. Humm addresses self-limiting beliefs through narrative modification and visualization exercises and addresses the power of positive storytelling. The author introduces accessing the unconscious mind for anxiety relief, recommending relaxation techniques and emotional immersion. Drawing from speaking champions like Cyril Dim and Pauline Brown, he states the importance of thorough preparation, warm-up exercises, and strategies for audience engagement and handling challenges. Humm concludes with a post-speech practice for continual improvement, promoting gratitude, evaluation, and evolution.

Public Speaking with Confidence by Philipp Humm is the book I wish I'd had twenty years ago when I was faced with frequent public speaking, even if it was only with four other people, which to me was panic-inducing. Humm offers a practical guide packed with techniques to enhance speaking and presentation skills. I really liked how Humm emphasizes the power of storytelling and draws on actual research by Jennifer Aaker and Paul Zak to back up his points. If I had to choose one standout piece that truly sets this book apart, it is the emphasis on prioritizing the audience over internal anxieties. By shifting focus from self-doubt to audience engagement, Humm argues, speakers can significantly improve their impact. The writing is clear and accessible, making it easy for readers to grasp and implement the strategies outlined. There's no question that this is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to improve their communication skills and deliver more effective presentations.