Strong Ground: The Lessons of Daring Leadership, the Tenacity of Paradox, and the Wisdom of the Human Spirit

4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars | 442 ratings

Price: 19.69

Last update: 02-02-2026


Top reviews from the United States

  • Best book yet
    Outstanding. So many important points and the metaphors/analogies you need to make them more accessible. This book is the developing/advanced leader’s bible. If you can internalize everything Brown has to say, you’ll be on your way to leading a thriving organization.
  • Enthusiastically recommend this one along with ALL her works
    Brené Brown is a great speaker. Always re-listen to all her books. Highly recommend and highly respect her insights and research. Really appreciate that she updates results of previously published research. I have found many of her revelations highly relatable. She’s candid and transparent. Recommend ALL her books enthusiastically!!
  • A Masterclass in Courage, Connection, and the Paradox of Being Human
    Strong Ground: The Lessons of Daring Leadership, the Tenacity of Paradox, and the Wisdom of the Human Spirit” is the rare kind of work that meets you exactly where you are—whether that’s standing in the rubble of uncertainty or on the edge of a breakthrough. Drawing on Brené Brown’s signature blend of research, story, and raw humanity, this book (and companion materials) translate the abstract concepts of vulnerability, courage, and leadership into something deeply actionable.

    What sets Strong Ground apart is how practical it is. Instead of lofty inspiration alone, it gives you tools to live differently—how to hold paradox without losing your center, how to lead when the way forward isn’t clear, and how to rise when perfectionism and fear whisper that you can’t. You begin applying these lessons immediately—in how you parent, communicate, lead a meeting, or repair a relationship. It’s a guide for those of us still figuring out how to stay open-hearted in a world that often rewards armor.

    Pros:
    Transforms Brené’s research into real-world practice—you feel it shifting how you show up.
    Deeply relatable storytelling balanced with intellectual rigor.
    Encourages personal reflection without drifting into self-help cliché.
    Perfect blend of leadership theory, emotional intelligence, and spiritual grounding.
    Comparable to multi-thousand-dollar leadership retreats in terms of value and clarity.

    Cons:
    Requires emotional honesty—if you’re looking for quick fixes, this isn’t it.
    Some sections invite slower reading and reflection; not ideal for those seeking a fast read.

    Use Cases:
    Ideal for emerging and seasoned leaders, change agents, coaches, or anyone rebuilding confidence and clarity after a season of doubt. It bridges personal growth and professional leadership with rare authenticity.

    Compared to programs and workshops costing ten times more, Strong Ground delivers equivalent impact in a fraction of the cost—and with infinitely more heart.

    In short: this isn’t just a book. It’s an invitation to come home to yourself—and to lead from that place of grounded strength.
  • Love
    Great book
  • Good, but more business focused
    There were some excellent ideas in this book. I especially appreciated her interacting with the ideas of Adam Grant. Overall, it was a bit more business focused than I would have liked, but it was good.
  • If You’ve Grown with Her Work, You’ll Appreciate This Book
    I've learned a lot from Brené Brown over the years, so I was eager to read Strong Ground when it was first announced—and it did not disappoint.

    One of the things I’ve always appreciated about her work is how her books reflect the evolution of her research. Each one feels like a natural progression, building on what she’s discovered and experienced, and Strong Ground is no exception.

    What makes this book feel especially unique is how she shines a spotlight on the key teachers and researchers who have influenced her along the way. Their inclusion creates a sense of community, and it’s a great example of how Brené uses her platform to amplify other voices. The way she connects their work with her own adds depth and makes the book feel both collaborative and grounded in shared purpose.

    With Strong Ground, Brown continues to evolve as both a researcher and a storyteller, offering readers a layered and collaborative exploration of her latest findings.
  • Paradox: A book for work life and home life
    The book challenges you to rethink and reevaluate how you emotionally and physically move through work life and home life. I like how she frames the term paradox. You like to frame things as binary, when in reality it is often X and Y, as opposed to X or Y. Paradoxes exist through every aspect of our being and it requires strong ground for us navigate. Ms. Brown helps us to understand that we must be intentional in our life choices. The best way to do that is to be a person who is committed to a life of ongoing learning and growing emotionally, physically, and spiritually. In these current times we all need to read this book and follow the directions put forward by Ms. Brown. For those in leadership in corporations and government, they really need to read this book, and take heed.
  • Highly relevant & insightful!
    Highly relevant for corporate leaders and anyone in the midst of transformative work

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