Somewhat tongue-in-cheek, Dana R. Gordon professes that the book TEAM: Training, Education, and Mentorship was not intended to be a thesis on teamwork and leadership. Instead, he wanted to give the reader a peek into the insights he gained and developed from his stint in the US Navy and his post-military career with his “somewhat autobiographical, but mostly historical” tome. The idea of becoming a bridge builder, a person who creates enduring legacies for others to follow and use the ideas presented in the book and his personal history as a backdrop or inspiration to leap over the obstacles or divides in their lives, whether personal or work-related, speaks volumes of the man the author has become after 29 years of a decorated military career. How he was able to fit his life’s work in a concise 110-page volume is beyond me!
The theme of bridge builder occurs throughout the book and helps the reader understand why it lies at the heart of training, education, and mentorship. Right off the bat, the author remembers with affection the tough love approach of his mentors at Columbia High School that ingrained in him the philosophy of accountability for one’s work and actions. While in the navy, he learned that inclusivity and listening to others who are smarter or subject matter experts are very important and serve one in good stead when making decisions of utmost importance. He reflects on the beauty of diversification in his stint as ship commander of the USS IWO JIMA and believes that respect for the uniqueness of each individual is paramount. When it was time to take on a mentorship role, the author sought out and developed exceptional leaders that made his team the most cohesive and best-performing unit in the navy.
Dana R. Gordon’s natural flair for story-telling (spicy anecdotes interspersed with honest-to-goodness principles of leadership and teamwork) makes his book an interesting and hard-to-put-down read. Real leaders worth their salt and aspiring ones will learn a thing or two.
Bottomline, a team works best when you have leaders brimming with passion and heart
-The Moving Words Review
Imagine a guide that offers lessons on leadership and emphasizes the necessity of integrity, and the value of competition and effort. Such a book could help individuals deal with challenges more effectively. What if this book encourages readers to take ownership of their roles, understand the broader mission, and strive for excellence in all their endeavors? A compelling reminder that true leadership is not just about achieving success, but about empowering others to reach their full potential.
In “LEAD,” Dana Gordon gives a detailed look into the principles of leadership, empowerment, and development, drawn from his extensive career in the United States Navy and later in the corporate world. Gordon’s journey, from his early days as a naval aviator to his time as a commanding officer and beyond, is filled with beautiful anecdotes, practical advice, and a great understanding of what it takes to lead effectively.
The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on different aspects of leadership. Gordon begins with trust, character, and standards, setting the foundation for what makes a successful leader. His emphasis on the importance of every individual’s role within a team resonates throughout the pages. The chapters on patience without procrastination and the need to bring solutions rather than problems are truly noteworthy, highlighting the author’s pragmatic approach to leadership.
The author marries personal experiences with universal leadership principles, making the book useful to readers from all walks of life. His storytelling often brings to life the high-stakes environment of naval operations, while also providing lessons for everyday leadership challenges. The chapter “Explaining ‘The Why’ Always Matters” is a standout, emphasizing the critical importance of clear communication in achieving team buy-in and understanding.
You can really appreciate the book’s focus on character and integrity. Gordon’s insistence that character always matters, regardless of skill level, is a powerful reminder of the ethical responsibilities of leadership. His anecdotes about prioritizing respectful truth over artificial harmony provide valuable lessons on maintaining honesty and transparency, even when it is challenging.
A significant portion of Lead is dedicated to practical advice that can be applied in various contexts. Gordon’s reflections on competition, effort, and winning underscore the importance of creating a competitive yet supportive environment where individuals are motivated to excel. His insights on the importance of setting goals, inspecting what you expect, and the impact of how leaders make their team members feel are not only applicable in a military setting but also in different environments. Additionally, the author thoughtfully included photos that capture key moments and milestones in his career.
One of the most compelling lessons from lead is the emphasis on the “Give a Shit” factor. Gordon argues that true success comes from individuals who genuinely care about their work and are committed to making a difference. It’s particularly relevant in today’s society, where superficial commitment often overshadows genuine dedication. By developing an environment where every team member feels their contribution is valued, leaders can inspire greater engagement and productivity.
“LEAD” by Dana Gordon is a must-read for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills. It’s emphasis on character, clear communication, and the importance of caring deeply about one’s work makes LEAD a valuable guide for leaders at all levels.
– The Moving Words Review
Dana Gordon 