‘Think Bigger, Lead Better’ is Rick Tollakson’s Blueprint for Transformational Leadership

In his new book, Rick Tollakson presents his eight principles for success. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Think Bigger, Lead Better: Eight to Great Principles for Organizational Success

A fresh take on leadership from Rick Tollakson

In today’s fast-changing business world, leadership can’t be about playing it safe. The most effective leaders are those who think bigger, challenge assumptions, and inspire others to reach new heights. That’s the central message behind Rick Tollakson’s new book, Think Bigger, Lead Better: Eight to Great Principles for Organizational Success. It’s a practical and inspiring guide to building stronger teams, smarter organizations, and more impactful leaders.


Beyond the Bottom Line

Efficient leadership isn’t about maintaining the status quo, it’s about creating meaningful, lasting change.

Drawing from his decades of experience transforming a modest real estate company into a thriving, diversified enterprise, Tollakson shares the “Eight to Great” principles that powered that journey. Through engaging stories and actionable insights, he encourages leaders to move beyond short-term wins and embrace a long-term vision that drives growth and purpose.

Readers will learn how to:

  • Cultivate passionate, high-performing teams
  • Encourage innovation and calculated risk-taking
  • Streamline operations with process-driven thinking
  • Lead with purpose while balancing profitability and impact
  • Build a legacy of leadership that outlasts any single role

Think Bigger, Lead Better is a call to action for CEOs, entrepreneurs, and professionals who refuse to settle for mediocrity. Whether you’re leading a Fortune 500 company or growing a small startup, Tollakson’s proven framework will help you push past limitations and build something truly great.

Are you ready to think bigger?


About the Author

Rick Tollakson is a nationally recognized real estate executive, community leader, and author of Think Bigger, Lead Better: Eight to Great Principles for Organizational Success.

As CEO of Hubbell Realty Company, he has led the organization through transformational growth, expanding its development, construction, property management, and homebuilding operations across Iowa and beyond.

A respected voice in both business and civic circles, Tollakson’s leadership philosophy blends innovation, integrity, and community stewardship. He continues to serve on numerous boards and committees, offering insights that extend far beyond traditional business metrics to include ethical leadership, sustainable development, and meaningful community partnerships.


Why This Book Matters Now

In an era defined by disruption and uncertainty, the need for bold, ethical, and visionary leadership has never been greater. Think Bigger, Lead Better provides the clarity and tools leaders need to navigate change, inspire trust, and create organizations that make a difference.

If you’re ready to elevate your leadership and build a culture of excellence, this book is your next essential read.

📘 Learn more or order your copy of Think Bigger, Lead Better wherever books are sold.


Everyday Justice Made Simple with ‘Your Lovable Lawyer’s Guide to Legal Wellness’

Danny Karon is making legal wellness the next self-help revolution. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Your Lovable Lawyer’s Guide to Legal Wellness

A new book that makes legal literacy accessible—and even fun

Just as self-help books offer guidance to improve your physical or mental wellness, attorney Danny Karon’s new book does the same for your legal wellness. (Newsroom PR, 2025)

That’s Karon’s term for cultivating a healthy working knowledge of your legal rights when confronted with scams and cheaters both large and small.


A “Lovable” Approach to Everyday Legal Problems

Karon, a consumer law expert, gives readers “an ounce of prevention” by teaching practical problem-solving skills to handle the kinds of everyday legal hassles we all face:

  • Airlines that bump you
  • Telemarketers that try to swindle you
  • Fine print that corporations hope you’ll never read

Known as the “Lovable Lawyer” for his approachable style and advocacy for everyday people who might not have a lawyer on retainer, Karon has spent more than 30 years empowering individuals to access justice and protect themselves.


What You’ll Learn

Covering everything from social media defamation to how to fight a traffic ticket, this book delivers useful, entertaining legal advice in clear, straightforward language that’s peppered with real-life anecdotes and humor.

Your Lovable Lawyer’s Guide to Legal Wellness is available in paperback and Kindle editions beginning October 21, 2025.

Here’s a peek at some of the chapters:

  • How big business is out to screw you
  • Putting the airlines in their place
  • How to detect and avoid travel scams
  • How to protect yourself when you’re in an auto accident
  • Keeping your auto insurer honest
  • Fighting back against online offenses: defamation, doxing, and invasion of privacy
  • How to keep an unreasonable landlord honest
  • Identity theft and how to respond to it
  • How to fight a traffic ticket
  • How legal wellness can make our lives happier

Advance Praise

“They say laughter is the best medicine, and Karon uses humor to ease the challenge of conveying practical legal information that will help people through many common and serious situations to the benefit of themselves and their families. Easy and informative, Your Lovable Lawyer’s Guide to Legal Wellness is a highly worthwhile read!”
Richard A. Cordray, former Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau of the United States


About the Author

Danny Karon, based in Cleveland, is a professor, consumer advocate, and the creator of Your Lovable Lawyer. With over 30 years of experience representing both plaintiffs and defendants in class-action and individual cases, Karon is passionate about making the law understandable and approachable for everyone.

He teaches class-action litigation at the University of Michigan Law School and The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, and previously taught complex litigation at Columbia Law School.

In addition to writing a civil justice column for Law360, Karon has published widely on legal access and consumer rights. Observing how many people struggle to find or afford legal help, he founded the Your Lovable Lawyer platform to share clear, useful insights on common legal problems—helping everyone achieve a little more legal wellness.


Author Danny Karon. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Strategies for Success: A Review of ‘Executive Coaching for Black Executives’ by Robert Moment

‘Executive Coaching for Black Executives’ is an invitation to redefine the true meaning of leadership. Photo: Amazon

Robert Moment is a Top LinkedIn Voice in Leadership Development and a powerhouse in the realm of coaching and leadership development. With over 15 years of coaching experience and a solid foundation of 20-plus years in Fortune 500 corporate environments, Robert has sharpened his skills to unlock the full potential of individuals and companies alike. His insightful and transformative approach has made him a sought-after coach for those aiming to elevate their leadership capabilities and achieve peak performance. “Executive Coaching for Black Executives,” his new book, is a guide to unlocking your full potential, achieving fulfillment on your own terms, and leaving a legacy that inspires change. (Amazon, 2024)

“Executive Coaching for Black Executives” offers an exploration of the unique challenges and opportunities facing Black executives in corporate America today. Drawing on his extensive experience as a coach and a corporate leader, Moment provides invaluable insights and practical guidance made specifically to the needs of Black professionals working to navigate and flourish in leadership roles.
Topics include identity, navigating corporate culture, building strategic alliances, and overcoming systemic barriers. He combines personal stories with data-driven analysis, giving the narrative authenticity and authority. His approach is not just about career advancement but also about overall personal and professional development, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, resilience, and continuous learning.

It is divided into 3 parts:
Part 1: Navigating the Landscape
Chapter 1: Decoding the System
Chapter 2: Deflecting Microaggressions
Chapter 3: Building Power and Influence

Part 2: Unleashing Your Potential
Chapter 4: Finding Your Voice
Chapter 5: Cultivating Your Leadership Style
Chapter 6: Embracing Continuous Learning

Part 3: Achieving Peak Performance
Chapter 7: Conquering Imposter Syndrome
Chapter 8: Work-Life Balance for the Black Executive
Chapter 9: Leaving a Legacy
Chapter 10: Navigating Challenges, Embracing Resilience

Moment encourages readers to embrace their unique strengths, confront biases head-on, and leverage mentorship and networking effectively. This book serves as both a mentor and a roadmap, offering practical tools and strategies that empower Black executives to thrive in competitive corporate environments. Each chapter ends with the section “Questions To Ask” to help readers translate the topics discussed into their own lives.

Highlights:
Chapter 2 because he defines microaggressions and advices on how to deflect them to keep the focus on work. “Deflecting microaggressions is not just a self-preservation tactic. It’s an act of defiance against systems that seek to diminish us.”

Chapter 6 where he emphasizes the importance of continuous learning: “…it’s about fostering an unyielding curiosity, adaptability, and the determination to remain a lifelong student.”

This book is a must-read for Black professionals aspiring to leadership roles, as well as for organizations committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion at all levels. It is a timely and valuable resource that contributes to the ongoing dialogue on leadership and representation in the business world. It is recommended readers interested in business books related to leadership, mentoring, management, and coaching.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

New book release: ‘From Heartbreak to Healing’ by Ann Zachariah, M.D.

‘From Heartbreak to Healing’ is the new self help book by Ann Zachariah, M.D. that addresses the topic of ghosting and how to recover, heal, and rebuild trust. Photo: Ann Zachariah, used with permission.

The dating term ‘ghosting’ is fairly new and refers to abruptly cutting off contact with someone without giving that person any warning or explanation for doing so. It is quickly becoming more common and can be emotionally confusing and hurtful to the person who has been ghosted. If you or someone you know has been the victim of ghosting and are looking for a self help book that addresses this issue, consider “From Heartbreak to Healing: OMG! I Just Got Ghosted: Navigating Emotional Storms and Reclaiming Self-Worth” by Dr. Ann Zachariah. It aims to help readers find closure and rebuild trust. Pick up your copy today at Amazon.

Welcome to the world of Dr. Ann Zachariah, a renowned psychiatrist, educator, clinician, and author based in Houston, Texas. Discover how her extensive knowledge and expertise can empower you to make transformative changes and unlock your true potential. (Dr. Ann Zachariah, 2023)

As a psychiatrist, Dr. Ann Zachariah understands the complexities of the human mind. Her compassionate approach and unwavering commitment to mental health have helped countless individuals overcome challenges and find inner peace. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health issue, Dr. Zachariah is here to guide you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.

Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Zachariah’s impact extends to education. She shares her wisdom and insights with aspiring mental health professionals, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to make a difference in the lives of others. Her passion for teaching and mentoring shapes the next generation of compassionate caregivers, ensuring a brighter future for mental health care.

Dr. Zachariah’s captivating books leave an indelible mark on the world. Each page encourages readers to embrace transformative changes and embark on a journey of self-improvement. Her words resonate deeply, inspiring individuals from all walks of life to break free from limitations, discover their true potential, and live a life filled with purpose and fulfillment.

Join the movement of personal transformation ignited by Dr. Ann Zachariah. Whether you seek guidance in your own life or aspire to make a positive impact on others, her expertise, compassion, and empowering words will guide you toward a brighter, more fulfilling future.

Do not wait any longer – start your transformative journey today with Dr. Ann Zachariah’s life-changing books and unlock the extraordinary potential within you. Experience the power of psychiatry, education, and authorship in transforming lives.

“From Heartbreak to Healing: OMG! I Just Got Ghosted: Navigating Emotional Storms and Reclaiming Self-Worth” – Did you just get ghosted? Are you finding closure and trying to rebuild trust? Then you are in the right book! Discover the transformative power of “OMG! I Just Got Ghosted.”

In this illuminating book, you will unravel the enigmatic behavior of ghosting and embark on a profound journey from heartbreak to healing. Packed with insights, strategies, and practical tools, this guide will equip you to navigate the emotional labyrinth of ghosting with resilience, confidence, courage, strength, and self-empowerment.

Key Highlights:

Psychological Insights: Gain a deep understanding of the psychology behind ghosting, allowing you to decode the motives and emotions that drive this perplexing behavior.
Healing Pathways: Navigate the emotional aftermath of ghosting with grace and strength. Discover how to embrace solitude as an opportunity for self-discovery and healing.
Empowerment through Boundaries: Learn to set healthy boundaries that shield your well-being and promote emotional recovery, ultimately restoring your sense of control and self-worth.
Trust Renewal: Rebuild trust, not only in others but also in yourself. Find out how to rekindle trust after heartbreak, cultivating more meaningful connections based on understanding and mutual respect.
Life-Changing Lessons: Extract essential life lessons from your ghosting experience. Elevate your self-esteem, develop personal growth, and harness newfound wisdom that enriches every aspect of your life.

Benefits You Will Gain after Finishing the Book:

Emotional Resilience: Equip yourself with tools to navigate emotional turmoil, empowering you to emerge stronger and more resilient after a painful experience.
Personal Growth: Transform heartbreak into an opportunity for growth. Discover your strengths, weaknesses, and untapped potential, leading to profound personal development.
Healthy Relationships: Develop a deeper understanding of healthy boundaries, open communication, and trust-building, which will positively influence all your relationships.
Inner Healing: Find solace and healing in solitude. Learn how to embrace your emotions, process grief, and embark on a journey of self-renewal.
Empowered Choices: Armed with insights, you’ll make informed choices about your future relationships, allowing you to create connections that align with your values and aspirations.

Sponsored Post

Upcoming book release: ‘Something Major: The New Playbook for Women at Work’ by Randi Braun

Randi Braun’s ‘Something Major: The New Playbook for Women at Work’ will be released March 1, 2023. Photo: Amazon

Randi Braun is an expert at empowering women who have demanding jobs and bold ambitions. As a certified executive coach and the CEO of the women’s leadership firm Something Major, she helps women thrive. In her women’s leadership book “Something Major: The New Playbook for Women at Work,” Braun infuses conversations with life-changing ideas, advancing women leaders one wildly entertaining story at a time. A sought-after thought leader and speaker, Braun’s insights have been featured in The Washington Post, Forbes, and Parents Magazine, and others. Braun has coached women around the globe and partnered with more than 50 organizations across diverse sectors, including the Fortune 500, healthcare, start-ups, Big Law, public relations, entertainment, trade associations, government, non-profits, and others. The book will be released March 1, 2023 and is available for pre-order from Amazon. (Randi Braun, 2023)

“Something Major: The New Playbook for Women at Work” – The book gives Braun’s highly sought-after expertise a more accessible reach, and addresses the real reason why women are not happy at work, and how they can positively turn things around. It includes the true stories of women leaders. Relatable and fresh, it is backed by research and filled with actionable takeaways, as well as dashes of humor.

“Every woman wants to believe she is on the precipice of something major, and this book gives you the tools to get yourself there. Randi Braun has created a fun and practical way forward for women who are looking to channel their inner badass, crack the leadership code and soar!” – Jen Mormile, Chief Business Officer of Condé Nast

“The ideas in my book are meaty, but trust me, it is also a very entertaining read. I include tactical tools so women can make career moves that matter, while also increasing their confidence and overall fulfillment. But I do it conversationally. It’s like we’re sitting down, chatting over coffee and unraveling life-changing strategies together.” – Randi Braun

Braun notes that millions of women have left the workforce, and progress creating meaningful diversity at the highest levels of leadership and on corporate boards is moving too slowly. “The gender pay gap is increasing, and so are women’s levels of burnout. Our system is broken and our old playbook is outdated. That’s why I have written a new playbook to help women thrive— not just survive—as our workplace cultures evolve, even if they’re not evolving quickly enough.”

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