In 'Forged in Crisis', Nancy Koehn delves into the lives of five extraordinary leaders who faced seemingly insurmountable challenges. Through their captivating stories, she uncovers the elements that shaped their character and visions during tumultuous times. Koehn reveals how adversity can ignite profound personal and societal transformations. This compelling narrative explores not just the triumphs, but the trials that defined these iconic figures. What lessons can we draw from their struggles and successes to navigate our own crises?
By Nancy Koehn
Published: 2017
""Crises can become the crucible of change, where our true character is forged and where we discover the resilience that lies within us.""
Presents a portrait of five extraordinary figures--Ernest Shackleton, Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Rachel Carson--to illuminate how great leaders are made in times of adversity and the diverse skills they summon in order to prevail.
Showing 8 of 30 similar books
David Cancel is a prominent entrepreneur and author best known for his influential work in the tech and startup communities. As the CEO and co-founder of Drift, a leading conversational marketing platform, he has revolutionized how businesses engage with their customers online. Cancel has also authored insightful books such as "Hypergrowth," which offers valuable strategies for scaling startups rapidly. His contributions extend beyond literature as he frequently shares his expertise through speaking engagements and his popular podcast, "Seeking Wisdom." David Cancel's innovative ideas and practical advice continue to inspire and guide entrepreneurs worldwide.
Andrew Chen is a venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and thought leader in growth marketing, currently serving as a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz. Chen is known for his expertise in network effects, viral growth strategies, and marketplace dynamics, making him a sought-after advisor for startups looking to scale. Prior to joining Andreessen Horowitz, he worked in leadership roles at Uber, helping to grow the ride-sharing platform’s user base and develop key growth strategies. Chen is also a prolific writer, sharing his insights on growth, technology, and startups through his popular blog and newsletter, which has attracted a loyal following in the tech community. His work has helped shape how many startups approach user acquisition, retention, and product-market fit. As a venture capitalist, Chen focuses on early-stage companies in the consumer internet, SaaS, and marketplace sectors, and he has been involved in funding and advising several successful startups. His insights on technology and growth continue to influence both founders and investors alike.
Aaron Rodgers is a renowned American football quarterback, widely recognized for his exceptional career with the Green Bay Packers in the NFL. Although his primary acclaim comes from sports, Rodgers has contributed to literature through insightful writings and interviews that offer a deep dive into the mindset of a professional athlete. His thoughtful perspectives on leadership, teamwork, and personal growth have resonated with readers beyond the sports community. Rodgers’ contributions have been featured in various sports and lifestyle publications, adding a unique voice to the literary world. His ability to articulate the nuances of his experiences has made him a respected figure in both athletic and literary circles.
James Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.
Mark Hart is a prominent hedge fund manager and investor, known for his successful bets against the U.S. housing market during the 2008 financial crisis. Hart is the founder of Corriente Advisors, a firm that focuses on macroeconomic trends and global market strategies. He gained widespread attention for his accurate predictions of market downturns, including his insights into the European sovereign debt crisis. Hart’s investment style is characterized by deep macroeconomic research and a contrarian approach. His work in the finance world has made him a respected figure, particularly for his ability to anticipate large-scale economic shifts.
Brendon Burchard is a high-performance coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, best known for his books High Performance Habits and The Motivation Manifesto. He helps individuals and organizations achieve peak performance through strategies focused on clarity, energy, and productivity. Brendon’s work emphasizes the importance of personal growth and developing habits that lead to sustained success. He has coached Fortune 500 CEOs, Olympians, and other high-achieving individuals. Brendon is also the founder of the High Performance Academy, where he trains people to lead more impactful and successful lives.
Ali Abdaal is a renowned productivity expert, author, and YouTuber known for his engaging content on personal development and effective study techniques. A former doctor, Abdaal transitioned from his medical career to focus on sharing insights through his popular YouTube channel, which has amassed millions of subscribers. He is the author of "YouTube for Doctors," where he explores the intersection of medicine and digital content creation. Abdaal's work is celebrated for its practical advice, blending scientific research with personal anecdotes to help individuals optimize their lives. His contributions have significantly influenced the productivity and self-improvement community, making him a respected voice in the field.
Charlamagne Tha God, born Lenard Larry McKelvey, is a prominent American radio personality, television host, and author. He is best known as a co-host of the nationally syndicated radio show "The Breakfast Club," where his candid interviews and commentary have made him a leading voice in contemporary media. Charlamagne has made significant contributions to literature with his New York Times bestselling books, "Black Privilege: Opportunity Comes to Those Who Create It" and "Shook One: Anxiety Playing Tricks on Me," which offer insights into his personal journey and mental health struggles. His works have been praised for their honesty and motivational impact, resonating with a wide audience. Charlamagne continues to influence culture and inspire readers through his candid storytelling and advocacy for mental health awareness.
Showing 8 of 12 related collections
“"Crises can become the crucible of change, where our true character is forged and where we discover the resilience that lies within us."”
Forged in Crisis
By Nancy Koehn
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Nancy Koehn is a renowned historian and author, currently serving as a professor at Harvard Business School. She is celebrated for her compelling narratives that weave together themes of leadership and resilience in the face of adversity. Her notable works include 'Forged in Crisis: The Power of Courageous Leadership in Turbulent Times,' which examines the lives of historical figures who embody exceptional leadership qualities. Koehn's writing style combines rigorous research with engaging storytelling, making complex historical events accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "EntreLeadership," Dave Ramsey merges the worlds of entrepreneurship and leadership, revealing how to ignite a thriving business culture fueled by passion and purpose. With practical insights and real-world examples, he navigates the reader through the critical intersection of vision and execution. From building strong teams to mastering financial stewardship, Ramsey outlines a roadmap to combat challenges and harness opportunities. Each chapter pulses with motivation, urging leaders to embrace their role as catalysts for change. Unlock the secrets to leading with integrity and effectiveness, and transform your business into a legacy that lasts!
In "The Leadership Challenge," authors James Kouzes and Barry Posner reveal the essential practices that transform ordinary individuals into extraordinary leaders. Drawing on decades of research, they highlight five fundamental behaviors that inspire others and drive positive change. This compelling guide is filled with real-world examples and actionable strategies, inviting readers to embark on their own leadership journey. The dynamic interplay of vision, trust, and collaboration unfolds a roadmap to effective leadership. Are you ready to unlock your potential and lead with purpose?
In "Leadership Wisdom from the Monk Who Sold His Ferrari," Robin Sharma combines powerful life lessons with profound insights on leadership. Following the transformative journey of an ambitious yet disillusioned executive, readers are taken on a path of self-discovery and enlightenment. Through the monk's teachings, Sharma unveils timeless principles for success that transcend conventional business wisdom. Expect to explore the balance of personal fulfillment and professional achievement, challenging your perceptions of what true leadership entails. This book promises to inspire you to cultivate genuine purpose and wisdom in both your life and career—are you ready to unlock your potential?
In 'The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership', authors Jim Dethmer, Diana Chapman, and Kaley Klemp present a transformative guide for leaders seeking to elevate their consciousness and effectiveness. Through an engaging exploration of 15 pivotal commitments, they challenge conventional leadership paradigms and inspire readers to embrace authenticity and vulnerability. Each commitment serves as a stepping stone to foster deeper connections and a culture of trust within organizations. With practical insights and experiential tools, the book invites leaders to dismantle limiting beliefs and ignite their potential. Prepare to uncover a new dimension of leadership that transcends mere management and truly empowers individuals.
In 'Tribal Leadership', Dave Logan and his co-authors unveil the hidden dynamics of workplace cultures, illustrating how tribes shape our everyday interactions. The book categorizes groups into five distinct stages, each with its own language and values, providing insights into how leaders can elevate their teams. Dive into a world where connection and collaboration can transform not just companies but entire communities. Discover practical strategies to ignite passion and purpose within your tribe. Unlock the secrets to level up your leadership and create a thriving environment that fosters growth and innovation.
In 'Leadership Is an Art,' Max Depree contends that true leadership is about nurturing the people within an organization rather than simply managing them. He emphasizes the importance of values, vision, and the human element in creating a thriving workplace. Through insightful anecdotes and reflections, Depree illustrates how leaders can foster an environment of trust and collaboration. The book challenges traditional views of authority, urging leaders to adopt a more empathetic and servant-oriented approach. Ultimately, this compelling read invites readers to reconsider what it means to lead, inspiring them to cultivate their unique leadership style.
In 'The New Gold Standard', Joseph Michelli unveils the secrets behind the legendary customer experience at the Ritz-Carlton. He distills five transformative leadership principles that not only enhance service but also create lasting loyalty. Readers are invited into a world where personalized care and employee empowerment turn ordinary interactions into extraordinary experiences. This book challenges leaders to redefine their approach to customer service while offering practical insights that can be applied across various industries. Prepare to be inspired to adopt a gold standard in hospitality that keeps customers coming back for more!
In 'Reboot', Jerry Colonna invites readers on a transformative journey of self-discovery and leadership. Through candid stories and profound insights, he emphasizes the necessity of embracing vulnerability and authenticity in a world obsessed with success. Colonna's radical approach challenges conventional notions of management, urging leaders to cultivate empathy and connection. As he unpacks the intricacies of personal and organizational evolution, readers are provoked to reconsider their own values and motivations. Prepare to rethink everything you thought you knew about leadership and success.