Ever feel like you’ve been thrown into the deep end of leadership? One experience stands out for me – standing at the base of a towering volcano in Mexico, a team of expectant faces looking to me for direction and thinking: “Am I really prepared for this?”
That pivotal time – and three decades of leading teams since – has inspired me to capture essential leadership wisdom in a story that resonates with emerging and seasoned leaders alike.
Not Just Another Leadership Book
The Summit Within follows Maria, a young leader who steps into her first leadership position only to discover that technical skills alone won’t get her – or her team – to the summit.
As Maria navigates the challenging terrain of Izta Volcano (and her own self-doubts), you’ll uncover practical wisdom for your leadership journey:
- Leading with authenticity by bringing your whole heart into your leadership role
- Building genuine team connections that foster trust and psychological safety
- Cultivating a “we, not me” mindset that transforms individual contributors into a cohesive unit
- Implementing collaborative problem-solving that ensures all voices are heard
- Embracing transformation through effective coaching and constructive feedback
- Creating supportive processes without sacrificing genuine human connections
Designed for Busy Leaders
If you are balancing multiple responsibilities while developing leadership capacity, you’ll discover actionable steps in each chapter. The included discussion guide and reflection questions make this perfect for:
- Individual leadership development
- Team book studies
- Mentoring relationships
- Leadership training programs
Join the Expedition
Often, the most challenging summit isn’t made of stone – it’s the one within ourselves. Maria’s journey up Izta Volcano offers insights to elevate your impact and personal growth wherever you lead and influence.
The book is available now on Amazon in Kindle and paperback formats. (Spanish and French available soon.)
Join The Summit Within learning cohorts beginning on May 27th. Register below to save your spot.
Chinese (China) 
English 
Chinese (Taiwan) 
French 
German 
Japanese 
Korean 
Polish 
Portuguese 
Russian 
Spanish 
Ukrainian
5人评论了“Read “The Summit Within” – with Learning Cohorts!”
I love the book – not just because it’s a great read but because of the way you’ve woven so much learning into the tale. Love the idea of using it as a springboard to learning with others as well. Thanks Steve!
Thanks Paul for your kind comment. I had someone comment a few days ago that they loved how I wove the Cru values of faith, growth and fruitfulness into the avalanche chapter. I said that was news to me and I had not realized that but I was glad she learned that LOL. I learned something new reflecting on her learning. I wonder if that is the value of story that is non prescriptive. I think it definitely highlights that reading and discussing the book together with others enhances everyone’s learning.
Thanks for your kind words, Paul. Someone commented this week that they loved how I wove our Cru values of faith, growth, and fruitfulness into the avalanche chapter. I responded, “That is news to me, and I am so glad you learned that.” LOL 😂 I learned something new about the book from her that day. I wonder if that is the value of a story. It certainly seems to highlight that reading and discussing with others enhance each other’s learning.
I LOVE the idea of learning by doing a book study together! These could be really great cohort learning experiences. I’m looking forward to it!
Yes, I am looking forward to this new adventure and learning experience, too.