Why Smart Leaders Do Stupid Things

"Why Smart Leaders Do Stupid Things isn't just clever - it's critical. Michael delivers a sharp, unfiltered diagnosis of the blind spots that derail even the brightest leaders. This book gives you the mindset, tools, and truth serum you didn't know you needed. If you're brave enough to lead with integrity and impact - start here." -Angelique Rewers, CEO, BoldHaus

"A bold and necessary guide for leaders ready to move beyond smart and start leading with purpose, courage, and consistency. This book cuts through the noise with clarity -and that's exactly why it works."-Dr. Darnell Lee, EdD, Chief Human Resources Officer, U.S. House of Representatives

"True leadership is not about authority-it's about awakening the potential within others. Extraordinary leaders unlock greatness in everyone. This book shows that leading with purpose transforms lives, not just careers. By tapping human potential-personally, professionally, emotionally, spiritually-we strengthen individuals, elevate teams, and enrich communities.Too often, leaders overlook the power of their presence, words, and actions. This is a call to refocus, reenergize, and reconnect with the original "why" behind leadership."-Tom Saccomanno, Chief Operating Officer, New York Life (New Jersey General Office)

"Michael's book tackles the hard truths leaders often avoid, showing exactly how to turn missteps into momentum. It's a practical, no-fluff guide to leading with clarity, courage, and lasting impact. Michael uses real-life examples of leadership mistakes that harmed the performance of organizations with practical lists of "Dos" and "Don'ts" aligned with each of the nine vectors of his Legendary Leader Flight Plan⢠that will resonate with the reader."-Alex Rogers, Former Director of Finance, Global Technology Business Planning, Nike

"True transformation starts with the courage to develop the self-awareness needed to face what isn't working. This book gives leaders that mirror-and the tools, examples, and a new model to make the bold changes needed for success. With honesty and heart, Michael reveals why even the smartest leaders can fall short, and how they can unlock their potential to master real and impactful leadership."-Dr. Marcia Reynolds, Author of Coach the Person, Not the Problem and Breakthrough Coaching

"The assessment is worth the price of admission alone: part mirror, part map, it sparks the kind of dialogue executive teams urgently need. Michael combines boldness with real behavioral insight-this is a serious, no-nonsense contribution to the leadership field."-Mike Mears, Author of Certainty, Retired CIA Chief of Human Capital

"A rare leadership book that balances academic rigor with realâ'world impact. The Legendary Leader Flight Plan⢠turns complex theory into a clear, actionable framework any leader can apply-whether in the classroom, the boardroom, or the field."-Dr. Cheryl Wood, Retired Faculty, The George Washington University