About the book
Jean Case, chairman of National Geographic and a philanthropist, investor and technology pioneer, set out to find what great change makers past and present share. Her answer is not wealth, privilege or genius but five principles: take bold risks, make a big bet, learn from failure, reach beyond one's own bubble, and let urgency conquer fear. She illustrates them with stories from her own life and from others, among them Jane Goodall's work with chimpanzees, chef José Andrés taking his kitchen to hurricane zones to feed people, and Bryan Stevenson's push against unequal incarceration. Airbnb's start from scratch and John F. Kennedy's moonshot are retold from new angles. Practical tips run alongside the stories.
Melinda Gates endorsed it as a source of courage for change-makers, and Eric Schmidt praised its research and stories and said it spells out what it takes to break through. Adam Grant called it an inspiring book by an inspiring leader.
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This book has 4 recommendations
Melinda Gates (Co-Chair/Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation)
If you want to change the world, it helps to be fearless. And if you need a dose of courage, I recommend this powerful collection of stories, evidence, and optimism. Jean Case draws on research and personal experience to provide change-makers with moral support and practical guidance.
Adam Grant (Author)
An inspiring book by an inspiring leader. Jean Case has been in the arena as a technology pioneer and philanthropist, and this book is full of stories and advice to embolden you to take bolder risks and have bigger impact.
Eric Schmidt (CEO/Google)
Jean Case has done what many before her have tried but been unable to achieve: break down the essential qualities and principles that drive success. Her book tells us in no uncertain terms what it takes to break through in an increasingly crowded world of ideas. With legitimately surprising research and compelling stories, Be Fearless inspires us all to take risks we usually wouldn’t, conquer the fears that get in our way, and lead a fulfilling life of clear purpose and maximum impact.
Brad Feld (Co-Founder/Foundry Group)
When the going gets tough, crack open Be Fearless for a jolt of examples of how entrepreneurs and leaders have broken through and to be inspired to keep pushing forward on your own journey to change the world.
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