Why am I passionate about this?

My fascination with the intricate web of influence and its profound impact traces back to my immersion in literature. Through the immersive experience of reading, we embark on a journey into the minds of others, expanding our understanding and evolving our individual perspectives. My professional trajectory has been shaped by a relentless pursuit of understanding the dynamics of influence across people, processes, and technology. Coupled with experiences spanning all seven continents and interactions with tens of thousands of individuals, I've undergone a transformative journey. Yet, it's the collective success of individuals embracing their humanity, both independently and collaboratively within their spheres of influence, that fuels my passion for continual growth and improvement.


I wrote...

Individual Influence: Find the I in Team

By Brian Smith, Mary Griffin,

Book cover of Individual Influence: Find the I in Team

What is my book about?

In this book, authors Brian Smith and Mary Griffin (Father & Daughter) challenge the notion that there's no "I" in…

Shepherd is reader supported. When you buy books, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The books I picked & why

Book cover of Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box

Brian Smith Why did I love this book?

Leadership & Self-Deception is an essential lesson presented through a narrative about the triumphs and tribulations of a business leader. The story highlights a universal challenge—falling into a self-centered mindset, dubbed "being in the box" by the authors.

The book navigates through scenarios that confront readers' perceptions of personal relationships and problem-solving, often prompting uncomfortable introspection. However, its engaging narrative style effectively communicates enduring insights.

Within our organization, we recommend this book to all team members as a foundational resource for developing self-awareness, communication skills, and leadership abilities.

By Arbinger Institute,

Why should I read it?

4 authors picked Leadership and Self-Deception as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

This third edition of an international bestseller--over 2 million copies sold worldwide and translated into 33 languages--details how its powerful insights on motivation, conflict, and collaboration can benefit organizations as well as individuals.

Since its original publication in 2000, Leadership and Self-Deception has become an international word-of-mouth phenomenon. Rather than tapering off, it sells more copies every year. The book's central insight--that the key to leadership lies not in what we do but in who we are--has proven to have powerful implications not only for organizational leadership but in readers' personal lives as well. 

Leadership and Self-Deception uses an entertaining…


Book cover of The Fine Art of Small Talk: How to Start a Conversation, Keep It Going, Build Networking Skills -- and Leave a Positive Impression!

Brian Smith Why did I love this book?

For more than 20 years, we've endorsed this book to both our team members and clients. Effective communication lies at the heart of relationships, and possessing the ability to communicate adeptly in any setting is invaluable.

This book equips readers with essential tools to navigate various social scenarios and overcome inherent anxieties and insecurities, particularly exacerbated by the prevalence of non-verbal communication channels like texting and email.

Whether grappling with speaking or engaging in conversations across diverse situations, this book is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their communication skills.

By Debra Fine,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Fine Art of Small Talk as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

In this bestselling guide to social success, communication expert Debra Fine reveals the techniques and strategies anyone can use to make small talk in any situation.

Does striking up a conversation with a stranger make your stomach do flip-flops? Do you spend time hiding out in the bathroom at social gatherings? Do you dread the very thought of networking? Is scrolling your phone a crutch to avoid interacting?

Help is on the way with The Fine Art of Small Talk, the classic guide that's now revised for the modern era. Small talk is more than just chitchat; it's a valuable…


Book cover of The Celestine Prophecy

Brian Smith Why did I love this book?

I have been reading the Celestine Prophecy since about 1996. The overarching story is that there is more at work in life than just what we understand firsthand. The concept that there are no true coincidences and that most things happen for a reason and lead us to a place where we should be able to fulfill the purpose of our life in any given moment is the biggest takeaway.

I also enjoy the theme that people need to understand what motivates them, and this book does this by using a fable story to bring clear context to these and other key life issues. It is a fictional narrative centered around the discovery of a manuscript in Peru, offering profound insights into various aspects of human existence such as synchronicity and control dramas.

It prompts contemplation on moments of apparent serendipity, questioning whether they are mere chance or indicative of a larger cosmic order. Regardless of individual beliefs, the book posits the existence of a greater underlying truth waiting to be understood.

Exploring interpersonal conflicts, the narrative weaves through the vibrant backdrop of the Amazon jungle, presenting entertaining yet enlightening scenarios. Through its colorful storytelling, it invites readers to ponder deeper meanings and offers opportunities for personal growth and reflection.

By James Redfield,

Why should I read it?

5 authors picked The Celestine Prophecy as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

This extremely readable and addictive parable has become a breakout word-of-mouth hit for its uncanny ability to renew your understanding of life, connections and perspective with fresh vigour. From the multimillion-bestselling author, James Redfield, and perfect for fans of Paulo Coelho and Eckhart Tolle.

'The Celestine Prophecy has already reached cult status... It homes in on the deepest, most urgent search of our times - the search for meaning... This is a book like no other.' - THE TELEGRAPH

'If you've ever wondered what the formula is for an "inspirational" bestseller, with promising potential for cult status, look no further'…


Book cover of The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results

Brian Smith Why did I love this book?

I was introduced to The One Thing by being on their Podcast. What that experience led to was understanding the core concept of the book; understanding that one thing that will aid any individual in reaching their primary goals. What I learned when reading is that the concepts reinforced for me in a different but usable way the practices of goal setting, time blocking, and defining my purpose and vision through the seasons of my influence.

By focusing their energy on one thing at a time, people are living more rewarding lives by building their careers, strengthening their finances, losing weight and getting in shape, deepening their faith, and nurturing stronger marriages and personal relationships.

YOU WANT LESS. You want fewer distractions and less on your plate. The daily barrage of e-mails, texts, tweets, messages, and meetings distract you and stress you out. The simultaneous demands of work and family are taking a toll. And what's the cost? Second-rate work, missed deadlines, smaller paychecks, fewer promotions--and lots of stress.

By Gary Keller, Jay Papasan,

Why should I read it?

8 authors picked The ONE Thing as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

YOU WANT LESS. You want fewer distractions and less on your plate. The daily barrage of e-mails, texts, tweets, messages, and meetings distract you and stress you out. The simultaneous demands of work and family are taking a toll. And what's the cost? Second-rate work, missed deadlines, smaller paychecks, fewer promotions-and lots of stress. AND YOU WANT MORE. You want more productivity from your work. More income for a better lifestyle. You want more satisfaction from life, and more time for yourself, your family, and your friends. NOW YOU CAN HAVE BOTH-LESS AND MORE. In The ONE Thing, you'll learn…


Book cover of 1632

Brian Smith Why did I love this book?

Being a management consultant and thought leader can be a heavy lift, as client issues often stay with me in my mind, even when I am supposed to be focused on personal issues. 1632 is one of those stories that mixes factual history with fiction and creates an alternate reality that entertains, teaches, and allows oneself to escape the daily issues one may face in my area of influence.  

Set in a rural West Virginia town in the year 2000, the narrative takes a captivating turn as the town inexplicably finds itself transported back to 1632 Europe, specifically upper Germany. Navigating the bewildering circumstances of their temporal displacement, the townsfolk grapple with the dual challenge of comprehending the inexplicable event and forging a path forward in a world both alien and strangely familiar.

Their struggles mirror our own reflections on influence, resonating deeply with the complexities of decision-making amidst uncertainty. Amidst personal relationships and profound decision-making dilemmas, the story delves into the stark human issues arising from the collision of a 21st-century community with the tumultuous backdrop of 17th-century Europe, a milieu characterized by violence and upheaval.

By Eric Flint,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked 1632 as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

1632


Don't forget about my book 😀

Individual Influence: Find the I in Team

By Brian Smith, Mary Griffin,

Book cover of Individual Influence: Find the I in Team

What is my book about?

In this book, authors Brian Smith and Mary Griffin (Father & Daughter) challenge the notion that there's no "I" in team, arguing that individual strengths are the backbone of collective success. Through relatable anecdotes and actionable advice, they unveil the power of personal influence within teams and organizations. From embracing one's uniqueness to mastering delegation and mindfulness, the book offers transformative insights for personal and professional growth.

With a blend of humor and wisdom, the Smiths pave the way for readers to redefine success and embrace their potential. Individual Influence is not just a self-help book; it's a roadmap to unlocking unlimited possibilities by harnessing the power of individuality.

You might also like...

Act Like an Author, Think Like a Business: Ways to Achieve Financial Literary Success

By Joylynn M Ross, Falessia Booker (editor),

Book cover of Act Like an Author, Think Like a Business: Ways to Achieve Financial Literary Success

Joylynn M Ross

New book alert!

What is my book about?

Act Like an Author, Think Like a Business is for anyone who wants to learn how to make money with their book and make a living as an author. Many authors dive into the literary industry without taking time to learn the business side of being an author, which can hinder book sales and the money that can be made as an author.

This resource serves as a guide to mastering the art of financial literary success and to help avoid the mistakes that many authors make while learning the ropes on their own. This book helps authors “think outside…

Act Like an Author, Think Like a Business: Ways to Achieve Financial Literary Success

By Joylynn M Ross, Falessia Booker (editor),

What is this book about?

Do you want to make money with your book? Do you want to make a living as an author? There’s more to doing so than simply writing and publishing your book. Many authors dive into the literary industry without taking time to learn the business side of being an author. This could dramatically hinder your book sales and the money you can make as an author. Without a guide such as this, mastering the art of financial literary success can take you years, and you’ll be sure to make mistakes during the learning phase. Some mistakes could cost you money;…


5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in communication, spirituality, and Germany?

Communication 68 books
Spirituality 298 books
Germany 483 books