There’s an incredible book I recently came across, though I’m not fond of its title: Might of the Chain – Forging Leaders of Iron Integrity. I’m not a fan of the subtitle either, but the content of the book itself is outstanding. Written by Mike Studeman, a retired Rear Admiral who now works as a national security fellow at MITRE, this book offers a fascinating look into leadership.
One of the most intriguing aspects is its endorsement by Henry Kissinger, who describes it as “thoughtful and engaging.” Initially, I was skeptical about the praise, thinking it might be one of those generic blurbs thrown around. Having worked with John Brockman, a notable New York literary agent, I’ve encountered authors who would write blurbs for any book without much consideration. It reminded me of Alan Watts, the Zen Buddhism author, who was known to write blurbs without hesitation.
However, after reading Might of the Chain, I was completely won over. It’s one of the most thoughtful and insightful books I’ve come across in recent years. Packed with valuable information, especially for those in leadership positions—whether in business or the military—it’s a treasure trove of advice. The book is filled with practical tips and strategies, making it a must-read for anyone looking to strengthen their leadership skills.
Despite my reservations about the title, I highly recommend Might of the Chain by Mike Studeman. It’s a compelling and useful guide, well worth picking up if you’re serious about leadership.
