Education – Page 3 – Ryan's Book Blog

The Leadership Style of Jesus

February 28, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in 1986, “The Leadership Style of Jesus” is a non-fiction book written by historian and theologian Dr. Michael Youssef that explores the leadership principles demonstrated by Jesus Christ during his time on earth. The book draws on the teachings of the Bible and the example of Jesus to provide practical insights into effective leadership, emphasizing the importance of servant leadership, humility, and a deep commitment to the well-being of others. Through a combination of biblical analysis and real-world examples, the book offers valuable guidance for anyone seeking to become a more effective leader, whether in business, politics, or any other area of life.

My Thoughts

Honestly, I didn’t like this book. The concepts are fine but I feel like the author goes well beyond the mark to make points. There were a few places where it was obvious he hadn’t done his research and was just speaking out of religious prejudice.

Recommendation

There were a few gems but I was disappointed in the read.

The Body

January 8, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in 2019, “The Body: A Guide for Occupants” is written by author and physician Dr. Bill Bryson. The book is a fascinating exploration of the human body, covering everything from the digestive system and the immune system to the brain and the reproductive system. Drawing on the latest scientific research as well as historical and cultural perspectives, Bryson takes readers on a journey through the many wonders and complexities of the human body. He also delves into some of the major health challenges facing humanity today, such as obesity and antibiotic resistance.

My Thoughts

Bill Bryson did an excellent job of going through the body parts and inserting humor along the way. Mr. Bryson is not a doctor (which my wife correctly pointed out) but a researcher who brought it all under the same topic. I believe he did a good job.

Recommendation

It was worth the time and effort to get through it.

7 Habits of Highly Effective People

January 7, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Originally published in 1989 and since republished several times in many different languages. This book has become the de facto standard in self help in the business sphere.

My Thoughts

This is an outstanding book and I’ve read it several times. It isn’t meant to be read through at one sitting but is better used as a reference. However, I find it is inspiring to listen to and I get more out it each time.

Recommendation

This is a great read for anyone.

Why Marriages Succeed or Fail

October 8, 2021 by Ryan

Background

Originally published in 1994, Why Marriages Succeed or Fail is a book from Dr. John Gottman about warning signs and what to do if your marriage is in trouble. The book has tests and guides for the individual to help tailor their treatment to their needs.

My Thoughts

A great book full of useful information. You can’t help but be nicer to your spouse while reading the book.

It is from the 90’s though so it was interesting to read through some the statements that likely wouldn’t play well today. (E.g. Gender norms and so on.) I believe we have swung pretty far out there and I believe Dr. Gottman’s book to be closer to my belief system.

Recommendation

Classic great book. Worth the time.

1491

August 21, 2021 by Ryan

Background

Published back in 2005, 1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus, is a compilation of information of American life before the Europeans started visiting.

My Thoughts

My thoughts are all over the map on this book. The narrative is so different from that which I was taught that I find myself questioning the sources. However, if true, the information is pretty amazing. The notion of the Americas as a completely settled land and that it was domesticated by the native peoples is pretty amazing. After confirming with my sons in High School, this is indeed what is being taught in the school curricula. I will have to find some supporting information but I did enjoy the book.

Recommendation

An important read.

The Six Keys

August 4, 2021 by Ryan

Background

“The 6 Keys” is a book written by Jillian Michaels that explores the six essential pillars of health and wellness. In this book, Michaels draws on her years of experience as a fitness expert and life coach to provide readers with practical advice on how to improve their physical and mental well-being. The six keys include nutrition, hydration, sleep, mindfulness, movement, and community, and Michaels provides detailed guidance and strategies for how to optimize each of these areas in one’s life. The book is designed to help readers achieve a balanced and healthy lifestyle, leading to increased energy, vitality, and overall well-being. Published in October of 2018.

My Thoughts

I was looking for a book that would help me motivated to lose some weight and exercise. This one did pretty well. While I’m not particularly a fan of Ms. Michaels, I thought she had some good ideas in the book. (There were some things over the top as well such as replacing your furniture with only solid wood due to the harmful effects of “off gassing” from pressed wood.) She attempts to make cellular functions and nutrition understandable and her general approach is close to my personal beliefs of moderation in all things.

Recommendation

A good book for motivation but can be long in places.

How to Think Like a Roman Emperor

May 4, 2021 by Ryan

Background

Published in April of 2020, How to Think Like a Roman Emperor is a study on the meditations of Marcus Aurelius and stoicism in general. The book guides you through the history of stoicism and through some of it’s main tenets.

My Thoughts

I really enjoyed this book and it was a compelling read. I felt the author did a great job of going through the histories and linking them to the present day. I also enjoyed that the author had come to my University and one of my employees had filmed him talking about the book. So I got a little bonus.

Recommendation

Great read and worth the time

Embrace the Suck

May 3, 2021 by Ryan

Background

Published in December of 2020, Embrace the Suck is a book about taking on and overcoming the obstacles in life from the perspective of a former Navy SEAL.

My Thoughts

This was a decent read and pretty motivating. I felt he was a little over the top with some of his descriptions and language but I guess that’s par for the course. He had some practical applications which, had I followed them, would have made the read more impactful.

Recommendation

It was Ok

Thomas Jefferson and the Tripoli Pirates

April 6, 2021 by Ryan

Background

Published in November of 2015, Thomas Jefferson and the Tripoli Pirates gives the story of one of America’s first conflict overseas. It details how we went from paying ransoms to fighting in our own self-defense putting us on to the world stage.

My Thoughts

This was a very interesting book. Given that I work with Marines, you would think I would have been more familiar with this story but there was a lot that surprised me. I knew we paid off the pirates to leave our ships alone until we were ready to defend ourselves but I didn’t know how close that struggle was or the real story. This was a pivotal moment in our history and could have gone very differently.

Recommendation

Great read. I highly recommend it.

Left of Bang

March 10, 2021 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2014, Left of Bang is the book outlining the ideas of the Combat Hunter program in the Marine Corps.

My Thoughts

A very interesting book but I believe the author is correct when he mentions how most people have already learned how to do this. I’ve had many conversations over the years with people who understand and who do not. When you’ve really been to a dangerous place, you tend to continue to be on alert. You continue to watch and observe. The Marines call this “situational awareness” and if they want extra attention put on it they say, “Put your head on a swivel!”

It is a hard concept to teach but a harder one two learn. To quote my old Sensai, “pain makes believers.” It has been interesting to see this program come and go in the Marine Corps.

Recommendation

I’m glad I read it but I’m not sure how much I got out of it. The biggest benefit was the jargon they used for the concepts they were illustrating.