The Chris Voss Show

Unlocking the Success Code: The 7-Step Process to Succeed in Life and Work by Steve McNicholasp> Stevemcnicholas.com https://www.amazon.com/Unlocking-Success-Code-Process-Succeed/dp/1916167101 DISCOVER THE 7 KEY STEPS TO UNLOCKING THE CODE TO ACHIEVEMENT AND SUCCESS!For over a decade, Steve McNicholas has had a passion to truly understand and capture the “source code” of success. What are those essential elements or components that drive consistent achievement and fulfilment within individuals, teams and organisations? As he researched this question, he began to notice a recurring and consistent pattern emerging. The SUCCESS Code® is a set of 7 sequential steps which, when studied and applied, will help you understand how to achieve any goal you have set yourself, personally or professionally. By taking ownership, developing clarity of purpose and creating goal system frameworks, you will form the foundations of your future success. You’ll also find a variety of tools and techniques to help you overcome limiting beliefs and powerful practices to maintain your progress and success repeatedly.By applying the 7 steps of the SUCCESS Code, you will:- Understand the vital significance of “ownership” and learn to harness this positively- Discover how your purpose is the rocket fuel to propel you forwards consistently- Understand that SMART goals never work — it’s goal SYSTEMS that enable achievement- Learn how to overcome mental blocks that prevent success- Form powerful habits and routines to ensure momentum time and time again

Put Dating back in the box! by Preston Wheeler III, Alonzo Mclittle https://www.amazon.com/Put-Dating-back-Preston-Wheeler/dp/B0DWZQZFJ3 Our book is designed to help our readers who are looking for love in today’s world of 2025,and beyond find it successfully. Dating ,and a lot of relationships in today’s world is horrible.From personal experience ,and observation we believe that there are specific reason’s for why these things are taken place. Those reason’s range from lack of teaching about how real relationship ‘s should go, lack of character development,lack of social skills, no recovery from past issues,selfishness,lack of understanding about the people in the world ( manipulators , deceivers) and how to avoid them ,and so on.No matter of where you are at in life single ,married ,breakup,looking to start a new relationship etc ; we believe that our content can put you on a path of having ,and being in a fantastic relationship . In short , we believe that having good character ,and knowledge along with other factors going into a new relationship are foundational keys to ensure it’s success.In conclusion we hope that our content has a positive impact on your life now leading you to being in a satisfying,and successful relationship then. About the author Hello to all who read my bio. I am a graduate from the University of Arizona Global Campus with a Masters in Organizational Management (2022) , Masters in Business Administration (2018), and a Bachelors in Entreprenuership (2016). I am a Caregiver who strives to live life to the fullest. I am a social person who loves to get out whether its going to the movies, watching football, farmers markets,and other events with my friends I enjoy it all. I love ,and enjoy connecting with people. In closing I want to help people find love ,and be in a satisfying relationship for all of their life.

IT’S CRYSTAL CLEAR AND ALL ABOUT THE DAD by Diane Brooks https://www.amazon.com/ITS-CRYSTAL-CLEAR-ALL-ABOUT/dp/B0FFZY2VL5 ”One daughter’s fight to save her child will unravel everything she thought she knew about family, love… and the father she trusted. Andrea “Andi” Chambers has always believed in the strength of her family. Raised in a loving home with siblings, laughter, and a mother who could fix anything, she cherished the stories her father never told — the ones sealed behind his military silence. But when Andi’s young daughter is diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer, hope hinges on an impossible match. As Andi races against time to find a life-saving donor, a trail of medical records, old photographs, and unanswered questions leads her to a truth more devastating than any diagnosis: her father was not who he claimed to be. And she may not be the only child he left behind. Now, uncovering her father’s double life becomes more than a quest for answers — it’s the key to her daughter’s survival. With help from childhood friend Lynn and a man whose past is tangled with her own, Andi must choose whether to cling to the life she thought was hers… or embrace a future rewritten by secrets, sacrifice, and unexpected love. A gripping, heart-stirring novel about buried truths, the power of motherly devotion, and the unbreakable bonds of chosen family — It’s Crystal Clear and ALL ABOUT THE DAD!! is an unforgettable debut that asks: How far would you go to save the one you love?-”

The Royal We by Roddy Bottum of Fate No More https://www.amazon.com/Royal-We-Roddy-Bottum/dp/1636142699 A founder of the iconic band Faith No More shares his coming-of-age and out-of-the-closet story in pre–tech boom San Francisco THE ROYAL WE is a poetic survey of a time set in a magical city that once was and is no more. It is a memoir written by Roddy Bottum, a musician and artist, that documents his coming of age and out of the closet in 1980s San Francisco, a charged era of bicycle messengers, punk rock, street witches, wheatgrass, and rebellion. The book follows his travels from Los Angeles, growing up gay with no role models, to San Francisco, where he formed Faith No More and went on to tour the world relentlessly, surviving heroin addiction and the plight of AIDS, to become a queer icon. The book is an elevated wallop of tongue and insight, much more than a tell-all. There are personal encounters with public figures like Kurt and Courtney and Guns N’ Roses, and recaps of gold records and arena rock―but it’s the testimonies of tragedy and addiction and preposterous life-spins that make this work so unique and intriguing. Bottum writes about his dark and harrowing past in a clear-eyed voice that is utterly devoid of self-pity, and his emboldened and confident pronouncements of achievement and unorthodox heroism flow in an unstoppable train that’s both captivating and inspirational.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Human Resources: A Concise Guide by Dr. C. Rasmussen https://www.amazon.com/Artificial-Intelligence-Machine-Learning-Resources/dp/B0FWZQXHMG What if a computer could help find the perfect employee or predict who might leave a job? This exciting idea opens the door to a new way of working. Overview This guide explains how artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are transforming human resources (HR). Smart computer programs can quickly review thousands of job applications to find the best candidates, suggest training tailored to employees’ needs, and predict which workers might quit, helping managers take action to keep them. The book includes real-world examples, like how large companies use AI to save time, and covers benefits, such as improved hiring, as well as key concerns, like protecting personal information. At just 61 pages, it’s concise by design, following Richard Feynman’s wisdom: “If you can’t explain something simply, you don’t understand it well enough.” More pages don’t equal more value; in fact, lengthy texts can bury useful insights. Since every organization is unique, this book equips HR professionals and managers with the right questions to ask rather than a rigid roadmap, making it a practical tool for anyone curious about the future of work. About the author Dr. Curtis “Curt” Rasmussen is a leading expert in industrial-organizational psychology with a Ph.D. from Walden University. He specializes in blending human skills with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to make workplaces better and more efficient. With years of experience in research, consulting, and government roles, he helps businesses use data and tech wisely. His career highlights include owning Cyber-Human Performance Tech, LLC, where he advises small and mid-sized companies on adding AI to hiring and daily tasks while keeping things ethical. He also guides students in George Mason University’s Data Engineering program, focusing on AI tools like natural language processing and computer vision. At the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), he led workforce planning as a senior I/O psychologist, creating surveys and frameworks that improved employee satisfaction by 45% and helped with smarter hiring. Earlier, he reviewed AI and data science proposals for the Department of Commerce, National Academy of Medicine, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, making sure projects were strong and fair. Dr. Rasmussen has invented patent-pending tools like the Multidimensional Algorithm Structure (MAS), which picks the best AI methods by checking data and company needs, and the eXplainable Artificial Intelligence Construct (XAIC), which makes AI easy to understand and trust by involving people in decisions. These ideas help fix common AI problems, like failures or hidden biases.

Creative Thinking: A coach’s perspective by André P. Walton

Sneable Sports 5, Meet Tommy Tacklebarry: Team Leader by Jennifer K Rosen https://www.amazon.com/Sneable-Sports-Meet-Tommy-Tacklebarry/dp/B0F52W12PL Meet Tommy Tacklebarry, founder and team leader of The Sneable Sports 5! The Sneable Sports 5 are five friends who come from all over America and joined together as co-founders to create a special organization to share their own unique experiences. Helping kids is what they love to do! Tommy Tacklebarry is the first book in this engaging series featuring talented athletes who are determined to help children navigate any challenges they may face in life. Many types of sports, especially football, have always been easy for Tommy, but sitting still, staying quiet and focused when he was in the classroom was a challenge for him. His football coach, Mr. Bevel and his Teacher Mrs. Angleton, help Tommy learn to use his voice in a positive way and to understand how he learns best in the classroom. With their inspiration, Tommy decided he wants to help others, so he formed the Sneable Sports 5 team with four of his friends. Their goal is to help children through any challenges they may face in life with education, counseling and other various programs. The Sneables all share a desire to help kids just like YOU excel in whatever you do! We know you have many choices in the ever-growing world of children's books, but we believe this series offers something that is different, inspiring and enjoyable for your child and the whole family. At the end of the story, Tommy offers helpful tips about bullying. We want you to know that you don't have to be a star athlete to be a Sneable Sports 5 Team Member, you and your child will find a list of ways they too can become a Team Member with their very own Certificate of Accomplishments! Follow the adventures and experiences of these sports characters.

AmaZin Graceland: An Extra-Ordinary Horse Ranch by Marion M Puzio https://www.amazon.com/-/es/AmaZin-Graceland-Extra-Ordinary-Horse-Ranch/dp/B0FJ9TV2FX To run the race is our Prize! To finish the race is our Victory! The word is out-there's going to be an Extra-Ordinary race today between Star and Spirit, over, around, and through GraceLand Ranch! There will surely be some AmaZin challenges! A raging river stream, a rocky mountain... wow, that sounds dangerous and exciting. I really like challenges and horses too, so I want to see how this race turns out. Let's get this book now because on the count of three, the race will begin! ONE! TWO! THREE!

Unlocking Intuition: Discover Your Inner Wisdom with Kathy Knowles Intuitivestrategies.com About the Guest(s): Kathy Knowles is a seasoned speaker, certified coach, trainer, and spiritual guide with a rich background in human resources. With over 25 years of experience as a Vice President of HR, Kathy transitioned from corporate executive roles to entrepreneurship and intuitive coaching. She is dedicated to helping individuals align their spiritual and human experience, fostering personal growth and deeper connections with oneself. Kathy is also an author and nature enthusiast who advocates for integrating mindfulness and intuition in both personal and professional spheres. Episode Summary: Join Chris Voss on an insightful journey as he delves into the world of spiritual coaching and intuitiveness with his guest, Kathy Knowles. In this episode of The Chris Voss Show, Kathy shares her remarkable transition from a successful corporate career in HR to becoming a spiritual coach helping individuals connect with their intuitive selves. Drawing from her own transformative experiences, Kathy discusses the importance of listening to one's inner voice and the power of intuition in guiding life decisions. Discover how she assists clients in harnessing their intuitive abilities to foster personal growth and fulfillment. Throughout this comprehensive discussion, Chris and Kathy explore the concept of intuitiveness, breaking down its various aspects, including knowing, feeling, and seeing. Kathy shares anecdotes from her life and career that illustrate the profound impact of being attuned to one's inner guidance system. With practical advice, Kathy illuminates the path to accessing one's higher self, encouraging listeners to embrace solitude, meditate, and create mental space for reflection. Whether you're on a quest for spiritual enlightenment or seeking practical strategies for personal development, this conversation is packed with wisdom and actionable insights. Key Takeaways: Harnessing Intuition: Kathy reveals how intuition manifests through knowing, feeling, and sensing and discusses how individuals can become more attuned to their intuitive abilities. The Power of Presence: Emphasizes the significance of being present in the moment, as it can foster deeper connections with oneself and spark intuitive insights. From Corporate to Coaching: Shares personal experiences of leaving a corporate HR career to follow her intuition, highlighting the challenges and rewards of such transitions. Navigating Life's Challenges: Demonstrates how intuitive practices can help individuals navigate life's challenges by finding peace and clarity. Integration of Spirit and Humanness: Explains the concept of integrating spiritual awareness with everyday human experiences for a balanced and fulfilling life. Notable Quotes: "We all have our intuition, and it guides us, whether in personal life or business." "It's really being in a place where you're feeling it or you're knowing it or seeing it, and saying, wow, what is this?" "It's almost, again, talking about vibrational frequency. Our vibration is drops so low that we're in that place of deep sadness." "When you're in that space of curiosity and asking these types of questions, there's just wisdom." "It's making peace with silence and using it as a tool to listen and find answers."

Success: The Inner Treasures of Life by Johnny Henry https://www.amazon.com/Success-Inner-Treasures-Johnny-Henry/dp/0595278396 Johnnyhenryenterprises.com This book is about entering into the new millennium with the discovery of the wonder of "inner treasures of life" that dwell in each of us. Reboot your mind and engage your imagination so that you may cross the threshold of spiritual enlightenment. Release the shackles that bind you on this earthly plane and allow the universal flow of love to connect you to a spiritual realm of infinite joy and peace. The hope of discovering your "inner treasures of life" can create challenges of most daring proportions. This book is designed to help you step out of the paradigm of self to deal with the issues of your success and to help you conger the fear of ignorance.Success: The Inner Treasures of Life is a small book with powerful messages. You must read it with an open and inquiring mind. God has given us the vision of greatness to conceive, believe and achieve understanding so that we may understand the mysteries of life. Let it be the catalyst by which the "inner treasures of life" reveal unto you the infinite wisdom and knowledge that drive the universe. Let God's love be the power that delivers you upon the sandy shores of life's destiny, fulfilling your dreams and unlocking the mysteries of the universe. I hope that reading Success: The Inner Treasures of Life will lead you to a more prosperous and fulfilling life, also adding excitement and adventure to your journey of life as well as discovery and enrichment of character.

Tom Clancy Executive Power (A Jack Ryan Novel) by Brian Andrews, Jeffrey Wilson An international incident may fracture the Ryan family in the latest entry in this #1 New York Times bestselling series. Even in a family of strong individualists like the Ryans, Kyle has stood out as a lone wolf. For years he's gone his own way, joining the DIA rather than the CIA, and disagreeing with his father's politics. Now he's missing in an African country on the brink of a coup. His last message to his handlers, "We're on the wrong side of history." His father, the President of the United States, is about to discover which is more important to him: the interests of his country or the life of his son?

Antoinette Lee's Journey: From Injury to Inspiring New Normals Theamericanadventuresportsclub.org NNBL.blog About the Guest(s): Antoinette Lee, MBA, is an 11-year US Army veteran and a prominent figure in the outdoor industry as an influencer, model, and consultant. She is a health and wellness columnist at Cultures Magazine and the founder of the American Adventure Sports Club, a nonprofit organization. Antoinette is also a motivational health and wellness speaker and hosts the New Normal Big Life blog and podcast. She is recognized for her remarkable recovery journey from a traumatic brain injury, spinal injury, and PTSD, showing others how to create their new normal and dream their best life. Episode Summary: In this captivating episode of The Chris Voss Show Podcast, host Chris Voss welcomes Antoinette Lee, a trailblazer in health and wellness and a decorated US Army veteran. Antoinette shares her inspiring journey from significant health challenges to thriving as an outdoor adventure enthusiast and motivational speaker. Her unique experiences and perspectives are a treasure trove of insights, particularly about overcoming adversity and fostering resilience. The conversation delves into Antoinette's background, discussing her military service and the injuries that changed her life. She elaborates on her journey of recovery and self-discovery, transitioning from a tech CEO to a sponsored adventure sports athlete. Antoinette explains the importance of gratitude, resilience, and the concept of creating a 'new normal.' This episode is rich with keywords like "health and wellness," "resilience," "traumatic brain injury recovery," and "adventure sports," making it a must-listen for anyone looking to embrace life's challenges with vigor. Key Takeaways: Resilience and Adaptation: Antoinette exemplifies how to adapt and thrive despite severe injuries, showcasing the power of resilience. New Normal Concept: The importance of redefining life goals and aspirations after significant life changes, a strategy Antoinette shares from personal experience. Outdoor Adventures for Healing: Emphasizes the role of outdoor activities in personal recovery and health, promoting active lifestyles for mental and physical well-being. Gratitude as a Foundation: Highlights the empowering effects of gratitude as a tool for facing life's toughest challenges. Support through Community: The significance of support networks and community, particularly through her work with youth and seniors in adventure camps. Notable Quotes: "If I make it one more day, I'm gonna figure out why I'm so sick and tired and turn around and help others." "Life is suffering for us all. The beauty of it is because you've gone through some difficult times, you really appreciate the good times." "I wanted it to be a big life. Four years after that vision, I was living that life." "It's how you handle the bad times that positions you to thrive during the good times." "50% of what makes you who you are comes from your genetics, but 40% comes from lifestyle changes."

Legend of Dabi: Volume One by DoDeHi Legend of Dabi: A Fiery Battle Between Good and Evil in a Dystopian World Dive into Legend of Dabi, a gripping supernatural fantasy set in a dystopian wild west with Native American roots. In the broken world of Eden, where injustice, discrimination, and despair reign, a young outcast named Dabi is condemned as a villain. But as dark forces rise, Dabi discovers his true calling—transforming from a weak vagabond into a reluctant hero. In this epic journey of resistance, Dabi must unite the divided and lead a fight against an ancient evil that threatens to consume everything. Filled with rich world-building, Native American influences, and wild western dystopian elements, Legend of Dabi is a must-read for fans of mature fantasy dramas, supernatural battles, and stories of redemption. If you enjoy immersive fantasy worlds like Game of Thrones or The Dark Tower, and powerful tales of resistance, you’ll be captivated by Legend of Dabi.

Only So Many Shopping Days till Christmas: The Ultimate Guidebook on How To Have A Good Time Before You Go by Jane Grecsek, Haley Grecsek https://www.amazon.com/Only-Many-Shopping-Days-Christmas/dp/B0DPPCDPWY "Only So Many Shopping Days Till Christmas" offers a refreshing perspective on the inevitable journey of aging, delivered with a blend of humor, practical wisdom, and candid reflections. This engaging guide encourages readers to face life's challenges with resilience and a hearty dose of laughter. The book opens by acknowledging the inevitability of aging through humorous anecdotes and relatable stories. It sets the tone for a realistic yet optimistic view of getting older, emphasizing that laughter is indeed the best remedy for life's trials. Profanity is sprinkled throughout the book, not just for shock value but because sometimes that's the best way to get the message across. Let's be real: it's about saying what many of us are surely thinking as we face the changes that come with aging. One of the central themes of the book is the idea of meaningful struggle. Life is filled with unavoidable pain and challenges, but finding purpose and meaning in these struggles makes the journey worthwhile. Through various life experiences and reflections, the authors illustrate how to navigate these difficulties with grace and determination, offering both humor and realism to show you how to take the next step. A significant portion of the book focuses on the concept of building the life you want. Drawing from their professional and personal backgrounds, the authors provide practical advice on shaping a life aligned with one's passions and values. This theme is explored in several chapters, offering readers actionable steps to pursue their dreams and aspirations. Another recurring theme is the importance of maintaining a sense of humor in the face of adversity. The authors share personal stories of confronting life's obstacles head-on and finding reasons to laugh even in challenging times. Each chapter is filled with creative ideas and solutions to overcome the perplexities of aging. From the exhilarating thrill of driving a Lamborghini to the audacious fun of planning a big, extravagant funeral party, the book covers a spectrum of activities that range from the practical to the extreme. Readers will find suggestions for taking dance lessons, buying a fabulous wig, and even going skydiving. These activities, while some more extreme than others, are all aimed at inspiring readers to embrace life fully and fearlessly. Throughout the book, the interplay between the authors' perspectives creates a dynamic and engaging narrative. Their intergenerational bond adds depth to the discussions, highlighting how different generations can learn from and support each other. "Only So Many Shopping Days Till Christmas" is a heartfelt celebration of life, resilience, and the power of laughter. It offers readers not only practical advice for navigating adulthood's complexities, but also inspiration to embrace life's journey with joy and optimism. This book is a guide on the attitude and actions you need to take to live fully and authentically. Whether you're seeking guidance or simply a good laugh, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to navigate the ups and downs of life with a bit of profanity, a lot of humor, and an unwavering sense of realism.

A Talent for Giving: Creating a more generous society that benefits everyone by John Studzinski https://www.amazon.com/Talent-Giving-Creating-generous-benefits/dp/1399418793 “A guide for how all of us can make a difference in the lives of others.” Michael Bloomberg “Made me really think about what it means to give, to care, to be generous.” Sir Grayson Perry Reclaim your individual impact with 'entrepreneurial giving'. It's time to democratize generosity and impact so YOU can make a difference. Philanthropy isn't just about wealth - it's about creativity, passion, and using your unique talents to contribute to what you believe in. Visionary investor and humanitarian John Studzinski challenges the traditional notion that philanthropy is reserved for the ultra-rich, revealing how anyone, regardless of financial means, can become a force for change. This groundbreaking book introduces entrepreneurial giving - a hands-on approach to philanthropy that harnesses skills, expertise, and resources. Through thought-provoking insights, A Talent for Giving offers a powerful new roadmap for impact. More than a guide, this book is a call to action. Whether you're an executive, an artist, a teacher, or an activist, your talents have the power to transform lives. The future of giving isn't about writing cheques - it's about reimagining what's possible. And it all starts with you.About the author John Studzinski, CBE is an American-British investment banker and philanthropist. Since September 2018, he has been Managing Director and Vice Chairman of the global investment management firm PIMCO. In his philanthropic activities, he consistently emphasizes the importance of human dignity and the role in philanthropy of mentoring and active networks. In 2008, he was awarded a CBE for his Services to the Arts and Charity and his philanthropy has been recognized with awards from Pope John Paul II, the Prince of Wales (2014) and the Beacon Prize.

Join the Inner Circle: Transform Your Business with Expert Guidance Optimizebusinesssystems.com About the Guest(s): Hector Alvarado is a seasoned Canadian entrepreneur and operations strategist renowned for his expertise in multifamily real estate investment. As the co-founder of Optimized Business Systems (OBS), alongside Willie Smit, Hector boasts 27 years leading large-scale operations for Fortune 500 companies. He turned a company losing $1 million per quarter into a $35 million success, exemplifying his talent in transforming business chaos into structured success. A dedicated family man and lifelong fitness enthusiast, Hector channels his discipline from the gym into his business strategies, emphasizing the power of systems, accountability, and leadership. Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of The Chris Voss Show, host Chris Voss welcomes Hector Alvarado, a Canadian entrepreneur, to delve into the transformative potential of structured business systems. Hector, co-founder of Optimized Business Systems, shares his extensive knowledge in turning chaotic businesses into structured powerhouses. With a background in multifamily real estate investment and a legacy of turning a failing company into a multimillion-dollar success, Hector provides listeners with insights into creating a thriving business environment. The conversation covers the critical role of community and mentorship in entrepreneurship. Hector emphasizes the importance of having a supportive network like the Inner Circle podcast community, where entrepreneurs can share, learn, and grow without judgment. The discussion also highlights the necessity of accountability and the invaluable lessons that can be gleaned from shared experiences. Reflecting on personal anecdotes and market insights, this episode promises a rich learning experience for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey. Key Takeaways: Community and Support: Entrepreneurs benefit immensely from being part of a community where they can share experiences and gain actionable insights without judgment. Structured Systems: The implementation of structured frameworks in businesses can help transform chaos into clarity, enabling sustained success. Learning from Experience: Emphasizes the importance of mentorship and using previous experience to guide and inform business decisions. Mindset Matters: Maintaining a positive mindset and being open to feedback is crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving business success. Scalability: Recognizing when a business is ready to scale and how structured systems can facilitate this process is essential for growth. Notable Quotes: "Leadership is about raising others. And that's why the community was built." - Hector Alvarado "We created a safe space for entrepreneurs to be open and honest about their learning experience and their building experience." - Hector Alvarado "The importance of community allows for learning best practices as well as pitfalls." - Chris Voss "Our approach is mentorship. We believe our pitfalls can teach others to avoid doing those things." - Hector Alvarado "Experience matters. What we bring to the table is not theory; this is real-world stuff." - Hector Alvarado

RESILIENCE by Barak Zilberberg https://www.amazon.com/RESILIENCE-Barak-Zilberberg/dp/B0D8GGKTP9 Barakzilberberg.com In "From Humble Beginnings: The Journey of Barak Zilberberg," embark on an inspiring and compelling tale of resilience, perseverance, and triumph. Barak Zilberberg invites readers to explore his remarkable life story, tracing his roots back to his grandparents who survived the atrocities of World War II and the Holocaust. Despite facing unimaginable adversity, their strength and determination laid the foundation for Barak's journey. Born into a typical Jewish family, Barak’s story is a testament to the power of persistence and the human spirit’s capacity to overcome the odds. With captivating honesty, he reveals the trials and tribulations he faced, mirroring the humble beginnings of renowned figures like Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey, and Howard Schultz. These icons, much like Barak, started with little but their dreams and unyielding willpower.

Midnight Flyboys: The American Bomber Crews and Allied Secret Agents Who Aided the French Resistance in World War II by Bruce Henderson https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1668051419 Brucehendersonbooks.com The untold history of a top-secret operation in the run-up to D-Day in which American flyers and Allied spies carried out some of the most daring cloak-and-dagger operations of World War II. In 1943, the OSS—precursor to the CIA—came up with a plan to increase its support to the French resistance forces that were fighting the Nazis. To start, the OSS recruited some of the best American bomber pilots and crews to a secret airfield twenty miles west of London and briefed them on the intended mission. Given a choice to stay or leave, every airman volunteered for what became known as Operation Carpetbagger. Their dangerous plan called for a new kind of flying: taking their B-24 Liberator bombers in the middle of the night across the English Channel and down to extremely low altitudes in Nazi-occupied France to find drop zones in dark fields. On the ground, resistance members waited to receive steel containers filled with everything from rifles and hand grenades to medicine and bicycle tires. Some nights, the flyers also dropped Allied secret agents by parachute to assist the French partisans. Though their story remained classified for more than fifty years, the Carpetbaggers ultimately received a Presidential Unit Citation from the US military, which declared: “it is safe to say that no group of this size has made a greater contribution to the war effort.” Along with other members of the wartime OSS, they were also awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. Based on exclusive research and interviews, the definitive story of these heroic flyers—and of the brave secret agents and resistance leaders they aided—can now be told. Written in Bruce Henderson’s “spellbinding” (USA TODAY) prose, Midnight Flyboys is an astonishing tale of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice.About the author Bruce Henderson is the author of more than twenty nonfiction books, including the #1 New York Times bestseller AND THE SEA WILL TELL, which was made into a highly-rated TV series. His latest book, SONS AND SOLDIERS: THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE JEWS WHO ESCAPED THE NAZIS AND RETURNED WITH THE U.S. ARMY TO FIGHT HITLER, hit the New York Times Bestseller List in 2018. Henderson's previous books include RESCUE AT LOS BANOS: THE MOST DARING PRISON CAMP RAID OF WORLD WAR II, and HERO FOUND: THE GREATEST POW ESCAPE OF THE VIETNAM WAR, a national bestseller which told the true story of U.S. Navy pilot Dieter Dengler, with whom Henderson served aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ranger (CVA-61) during Vietnam. Henderson is also the author of TRACE EVIDENCE: THE HUNT FOR THE I-5 SERIAL KILLER and FATAL NORTH: MURDER AND SURVIVAL ON THE FIRST NORTH POLE EXPEDITION. An award-winning journalist and author, he has taught reporting and writing at USC School of Journalism and Stanford University.

Shattered Dreams—But Hope: Encouragement for Caregivers of Huntington’s Disease and Other Progressive Illnesses by Laquita Higgs, Elton Higgs https://www.amazon.com/Shattered-Dreams-But-Hope-Encouragement-Huntingtons/dp/1400329523 Shattered Dreams–But Hope by Drs. Laquita and Elton Higgs, is a book of both testimony and advice: testimony born out of the school of trial and suffering, and advice born out of practical experience in being long-term caregivers. Laquita and Elton have for the last 26 years been caregivers to two adopted daughters with early onset Huntington’s Disease (HD), which is hereditary, and they offer a gripping account of their extended experience in adjusting to the challenges of long-term caregiving, followed by sober practical counsel to others who are involved in similar caregiving experiences. A final chapter speaks specifically of the role of Christian faith in coping with the stresses of their long struggle. In the Appendices are a short talk given after Cynthia’s funeral by her older sister Liann and several poems by Elton on the emotional impact of his and Laquita’s relationship with their disabled daughters. The complexity of the story told by the Higgses is heightened by the fact that their two youngest adopted daughters are mother (Cynthia) and biological daughter (Rachel). Elton and Laquita adopted Cynthia as a baby, knowing that she had HD in her background but hoping and praying that she would not develop the disease. Her childhood was normal, but when she became an adolescent, she began to manifest behavioral aberrations that her parents later recognized as being consistent with early onset HD. At age 25, Cynthia was diagnosed as having the disease, and soon afterward she became pregnant with Rachel. Since it was apparent that she could not function as a single mother, Laquita and Elton agreed to adopt Rachel at birth. This action ushered them into a complicated care-giving relationship that has lasted for more than 25 years. Laquita and Elton emphasize the difficult but necessary development of trust in God’s goodness and a deep conviction that He is at work even when we can perceive no immediate evidence of it. Especially poignant is their very personal confession of their mistakes in caring for their HD-affected daughters and their struggles to understand that HD, not mere perversity, was the primary source of their daughters’ irrational and angry behavior. Thus, they had to accept that expecting their daughters to be normally responsible persons was both futile and unproductive. Instead, they had to learn simply to love them with God’s love and to pray constantly for God’s wisdom in carrying out their task. It is from this perspective of learning to survive through hardship that Laquita and Elton tell their story and offer both practical and spiritual counsel for caregivers everywhere. About the author I am a retired professor of English living in Jackson, MI, with my wife of almost 64 years, Laquita, who is also a retired professopr and writer. I was educated and raised in Texas, receiving my undergraduate degree from Abilene Christian College in 1961. I earned a Ph.D in English from the University of Pittsburgh in 1965 proceeded to join the faculty at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, where I spent 36 years. I have written scholarly articles on medieval and Renaissance authors such as Chaucer, Shakespeare, and Milton. I have also published a book of poems entitled “Probing Eyes: Poems of a Lifetime.” My writing is strongly informed by my Christian faith, reflecting my extensive biblical studies and involvement in church life.

Both Sides Now by Colette Tracy https://www.amazon.com/Both-Sides-Now-Colette-Tracy/dp/B09RP7JJ7X How did I get here? This question is far too common for women aged forty and over. You may be living life according to a script - go to school, get a job, get married, have children, etc. You spend decades working to make the lives of others better until you wake up and realize that your life hasn’t been your own. Who are you? What do you do for your own enjoyment? Colette Tracy’s Both Sides Now: Reflections for Women at Midlife invites women to remember and recognize that they are unique individuals not required to conform to images and ideals created for them through advertisements or their mothers’ generations. In it, Tracy hopes to provide women the words and examples needed for them to make room for their own happiness. Through interviews, articles and popular TV shows, Tracy explores: “Comparisonitis” and the difficulty of accepting one’s own beauty “Superwoman” myth or maxim Beauty in “rebuilding and rebirthing” at 40 Both Sides Now doesn’t deny the pain, loss, and hardships that women can find at midlife and beyond. It celebrates the strength, courage, and wisdom gained from a life lived openly and honestly, and how women can call on these attributes to find joy. Colette Tracy’s Both Sides Now illustrates how you can make the second half of your life more joyous than the first!