Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts.
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Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. Audible Audiobook – Unabridged

4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 20,711 ratings

Number-one New York Times best seller.

Brené Brown has taught us what it means to dare greatly, rise strong, and brave the wilderness. Now, based on new research conducted with leaders, change makers, and culture shifters, she’s showing us how to put those ideas into practice so we can step up and lead.

Don’t miss the hour-long Netflix special Brené Brown: The Call to Courage!

Named one of the best books of the year by Bloomberg.

Leadership is not about titles, status, and wielding power. A leader is anyone who takes responsibility for recognizing the potential in people and ideas and has the courage to develop that potential.

When we dare to lead, we don’t pretend to have the right answers; we stay curious and ask the right questions. We don’t see power as finite and hoard it; we know that power becomes infinite when we share it with others. We don’t avoid difficult conversations and situations; we lean into vulnerability when it's necessary to do good work.

But daring leadership in a culture that’s defined by scarcity, fear, and uncertainty requires skill-building around traits that are deeply and uniquely human. The irony is that we’re choosing not to invest in developing the hearts and minds of leaders at the exact same time as we’re scrambling to figure out what we have to offer that machines and AI can’t do better and faster. What can we do better? Empathy, connection, and courage, to start.

Brené Brown has spent the past two decades studying the emotions and experiences that give meaning to our lives, and the past seven years working with transformative leaders and teams spanning the globe. She found that leaders in organizations ranging from small entrepreneurial startups and family-owned businesses to nonprofits, civic organizations, and Fortune 50 companies all ask the same question:

How do you cultivate braver, more daring leaders, and how do you embed the value of courage in your culture?

In this new audiobook, Brown uses research, stories, and examples to answer these questions in the no-BS style that millions have come to expect and love. Brown writes, “One of the most important findings of my career is that daring leadership is a collection of four skill sets that are 100 percent teachable, observable, and measurable. It’s learning and unlearning that requires brave work, tough conversations, and showing up with your whole heart. Easy? No. Because choosing courage over comfort is not always our default. Worth it? Always. We want to be brave with our lives and our work. It’s why we’re here.”

Whether you’ve read Daring Greatly and Rising Strong or you’re new to Brené Brown’s work, this audiobook is for anyone who wants to step up and into brave leadership.

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Product details

Listening Length 8 hours and 10 minutes
Author Brené Brown
Narrator Brené Brown
Whispersync for Voice Ready
Audible.com Release Date October 09, 2018
Publisher Random House Audio
Program Type Audiobook
Version Unabridged
Language English
ASIN B07DJYFLX8
Best Sellers Rank #278 in Audible Books & Originals (See Top 100 in Audible Books & Originals)
#8 in Leadership (Audible Books & Originals)
#14 in Leadership & Motivation
#20 in Motivational Self-Help (Books)

Customer reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
4.7 out of 5
20,711 global ratings
Eh…nothing new here.
3 Stars
Eh…nothing new here.
My entire team was asked to read this book over the course of the summer to learn how to have tough conversations and be vulnerable. Everyone, including our executives and managers, were asked to read the book and reflect weekly in small group sessions. In a sense, this was nice because now everyone speaks the same language of the book and saying things like "let's rumble" has meaning. However, I haven't actually seen it being used as the starter for a serious conversation.I starting reading this book with some reservations. I've read many leadership books and taken many classes on the topic over the course of my career. Most of them promote the same leadership philosophies, but worded a bit differently. I wasn't sure that I would learn anything new, but I read it anyways and went into it with an open mind.I just finished the book a few days ago and I can't honestly say that I learned anything new. There were a few passages that resonated with me because I had been through those experiences before, as someone on the receiving end of gaslighting or shaming behavior. I've been on the giving end too, unfortunately, but this book doesn't provide very practical examples for getting away from that behavior. She essentially says that there are less harsh ways to convey "honest" feedback that aren't so hurtful and to think more carefully about what you're saying. Recognize your own emotions instead of putting the blame on someone else. Easy to say, difficult to do.The examples that she gives are too perfect in the sense that she acknowledges a challenge she faced, but would have a conversation about it and everything would be resolved. I would have preferred if she showed more vulnerability by also discussing when she followed all the principles and things didn't work out, because humans are unpredictable even if you do everything by the book. It's also too easy to fall back into old habits. Brene mentions a direct report who was upset with her because she kept showing up late to 1-on-1 meetings or rescheduling due to client meetings, which made the employee feel like not a priority. This was resolved by pushing the 1-on-1 back 15 minutes, and all was right in the world again. Whereas in my mind (and experience), I just lost 15 minutes of time with my boss and if a client needed to meet during my 1-on-1 time, I’m sure I’d still be deprioritized.Overall, I'd say this book is pretty average when it comes to leadership books. I thought there were too many lists and bullet points within the book, which breaks the flow and makes it difficult to stay engaged. The principles and lists may be good for someone early in career or for people who haven't been through a plethora of leadership training.
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Top reviews from the United States

Reviewed in the United States on June 2, 2023
"Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts." by Brené Brown is an extraordinary book that delves into the realms of leadership and vulnerability. With her signature blend of research, personal anecdotes, and insightful wisdom, Brown offers a transformative guide for leaders who aspire to create courageous, inclusive, and empathetic work environments.

The book begins by debunking common misconceptions about leadership and emphasizes the importance of vulnerability. Brown challenges the traditional notion that leaders must be invulnerable and strong at all times, arguing that true leadership requires authenticity, self-awareness, and the willingness to be vulnerable. She encourages leaders to step into the arena, embrace discomfort, and cultivate a culture of psychological safety where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

Throughout the book, Brown explores various aspects of daring leadership, including trust, empathy, resilience, and the ability to have difficult conversations. She highlights the significance of building trust within teams, fostering genuine connections, and creating an environment where people feel safe to take risks and be themselves. Brown emphasizes the importance of empathy as a leadership skill, reminding us of the power of truly understanding and caring for others.

One of the book's strengths is its incorporation of research and data to support Brown's insights. She draws upon her own extensive research and interviews with leaders from diverse industries to provide evidence-based strategies and practices. The integration of real-life examples adds depth and authenticity to the book, making it relatable and applicable to a wide range of leadership contexts.

What sets "Dare to Lead" apart from other leadership books is its emphasis on the role of vulnerability in effective leadership. Brown skillfully explores how vulnerability can lead to greater innovation, creativity, and connection within organizations. She guides readers through exercises and practices that encourage self-reflection, helping leaders identify their own vulnerabilities and develop the courage to show up authentically in their roles.

Furthermore, the writing style of "Dare to Lead" is engaging and accessible. Brown's warmth, humor, and storytelling ability make the book an enjoyable and compelling read. She effortlessly combines personal anecdotes with research findings, making complex concepts easily understandable and relatable.

The book also provides practical tools and strategies that leaders can implement immediately. Brown offers actionable advice on building trust, navigating difficult conversations, setting boundaries, and embracing failure as a learning opportunity. Each chapter concludes with a "Put It into Practice" section, which provides actionable steps and reflective questions to guide the reader's personal growth and development as a leader.

In conclusion, "Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts." is an exceptional book that challenges traditional notions of leadership and inspires readers to lead with vulnerability, courage, and wholeheartedness. Brené Brown's blend of research, personal stories, and practical guidance make this book a valuable resource for leaders across industries and at all levels of experience. Whether you are a seasoned executive or aspiring leader, "Dare to Lead" will empower you to create transformative change within yourself and your organization.
17 people found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on October 9, 2018
saved me grief and kept me from causing others grief. Dare to Lead is for everyone, not just professional leaders, because everything in this book applies to families and other groups. As Brené states, “I define a leader as anyone who takes responsibility for finding the potential in people and processes, and who has the courage to develop that potential.” In fact, Dare to Lead would be a wonderful resource or curriculum for a required high school class. There is SO much incredible insight, wisdom, and advice that my brain is tired, and it’s been havoc on my tear ducts multiple times.

We all belong to groups, whether it’s at work, in social and community groups or clubs, etc., as members or leaders. And while this book is primarily aimed at leaders in the workplace, any group member would benefit from this knowledge and advice. Over the years, my groups have included my family of origin, my family from marriage, educational groups, event groups, competitive groups, etc. I have always been a good worker, boss, teacher, and leader of different groups. But “good” leaves a lot of leeway for the fact that a few times I have really screwed up in the very ways that Brené discusses. I look back and there were times that my perfectionism, my black-and-white rule-following, and my tendency to sometimes rush to judgement really hurt people. Not to mention, my shame affected my leadership.

As I read Dare to Lead, I kept flashing to situations in my past and a couple of people I would really like to go back apologize to, one lady in particular. (Well, really, I want to travel back in time and not screw up to begin with, but sadly that’s just a fantasy.) A bit of background: I was raised in a very abusive family, physically and emotionally. My family of origin’s modus operandi was to judge, criticize, and belittle each member constantly. Mistakes and weaknesses were never forgiven, but held up, mocked, and laughed about over and over, on top of physical and emotional abuse.

Armed with self-help books (yes, my family mocks my reliance on self-help books) and therapy, I determined to leave all that behind and become a “normal” person very different from my parents. But sometimes that background messes with my current life. (As Brené says: “What’s perhaps most insidious in power over dynamics is that those who are powerless typically repeat the same behavior when the tables are turned and they are promoted into power.” I would add, sometimes against our best intentions.)

There was a time that my insecurity in running a large group led me to take a friend’s reported actions as betrayal. The resulting emotional backlash caused me to handle the situation so badly that I ended up being judgmental and majorly unkind to my friend to such a degree that the title “friend” no longer applies. I should have known better; I should have acted better. It wasn’t just that I hurt my reputation, interfered with how well the group was functioning, looked unprofessional to a hosting facility… The absolutely worst part was that I hurt another person - an innocent person. I broke every tenet I had set for my life because I didn’t take the time to step back and to be a good leader; I just reacted. I went right into shame and blame because I had such an inner fear of being disrespected and betrayed. As a consequence, I disrespected and betrayed my friend by treating her unkindly.

In addition, I almost shut down a service that was helping over 1,000 families over the incident. I let fear rule my actions (“I don’t do vulnerability”) and cut my helpers loose (“I can go it alone”). I curtailed offerings and cancelled events. I had listened to and internalized comments from critics as they touched upon the worthlessness instilled by my parents and siblings. (Many people are eager to criticize, and it takes wisdom and practice to let go of unhelpful criticism and use the helpful input for growth.) My actions influenced some members to take sides in a group that shouldn’t have had “sides.” (“Increased polarization, rampant dehumanization of people who are different from us, and our growing inability to ditch the echo chambers for real critical thinking.”) After working alone for another year or so, I handed off the group to a team of ladies that I knew would do a better job than I was doing.

I believe if I had read Dare to Lead first, I would have had the tools in place to respond appropriately in a way that would have fostered group cohesion, eliminated problems, and just generally been a better leader for my group. In addition, I ponder Brené’s adage that the “courage to be vulnerable is not about winning or losing, it’s about the courage to show up when you can’t predict or control the outcome.” I’ve considered going back and apologizing to my ex-friend many times, but I’ve always been afraid that it would simply set off more negativity. But it was my lack of judgement and responding with emotions from my past that caused the rift, and I’d like her to know that I take full responsibility for that. Is it too late to go back and tell this person how badly I feel about being a leader who truly mishandled the situation? Would it make a difference to her?

I plan to reread this life-changing book with my husband and daughter, both IT professionals, so they can learn from it while I benefit from the review. Dare to Lead contains wisdom to guide leaders who want to nurture safe and effective work groups. It can also benefit leaders and members of any other groups or teams, whether for a sport, church, political group, competitive team, etc. Dare to Lead would also be a great resource for members to use to kindly hold leaders accountable. There is no downside to taking this entire book in as heart knowledge and incorporating it into our lives. And the upside is that we will not only improve the quality of our own lives, but the lives of those we interact with.

Highly recommended for the universe at large. This is the first book I’ve read by Brené Brown; I’ll definitely be reading more!

Edited for clarity.
406 people found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on April 28, 2024
I read this book over a month to allow time to apply my ideas and the book’s concepts in the real world. Also highlighted key takeaways and lessons in the hard copy and later transcribed into a separate manual.

Reading and applying these lessons helped validate my courage, and confidence to obtain a promotion and raise with my employer. It keeps on giving with the lessons learnt and yet to apply.
Reviewed in the United States on April 17, 2024
I love Brene Brown’s work and Dare to Lead is another masterpiece. Brene bravely shares our natural self protection techniques and how they backfire. Then she walks us through the tough stuff - how we can stay fully present and empathetic no matter what.
Dare to Lead shows you the skills you can acquire, monitor, and embody by practicing over and over again.

Top reviews from other countries

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Margarete
5.0 out of 5 stars super helpful
Reviewed in Brazil on January 29, 2023
It’s realistic so it’s really help , I recommend and
I will definitely read it again.
Thank you Brene .
SOPHIE BEAUCHESNE
5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing book
Reviewed in Canada on December 7, 2022
Lots of great information on leading others. Amazing for all leaders who are looking for good tips.
2 people found this helpful
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Diana
5.0 out of 5 stars Lectura obligada
Reviewed in Mexico on November 19, 2022
Este libro es asombroso, la información que contiene ayuda a ver el mundo de otra forma. Te aseguro verás la vida de otra forma después de leerlo.
Maria Guedon
5.0 out of 5 stars Contenido útil y esclarecedor
Reviewed in Spain on July 28, 2023
Adquirí la versión para el Kindle. El contenido es útil y esclarecedor. La lectura no es pesada y realmente ayuda a profundizar en la comprensión de lo que implica la vulnerabilidad realmente y cómo nos potencia en todas las áreas de la vida.
Kirti
5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing book for leaders
Reviewed in India on May 22, 2023
This book is not only useful for leadership but also for teaching life in a proper way.