New Book Arrival: "Bridge the Gap: How Leaders Can Revitalize Broken Organizations”, by Michael Rodenberg
It is with great pleasure that I announce the arrival of Michael Rodenberg’s new book: Bridge the Gap: How Leaders Can Revitalize Broken Organizations. It was an honor to write the Forward for Michael (below).
I am so proud of my client, a leader of leaders, and friend.
You can purchase the book here.
Book Forward for Bridge the Gap:
Are you in a make-or-break season of your career?
Perhaps you have been given a shot to lead from the top and win big, but you realize that your business or organization is floundering. Can you bring it back to life? Or perhaps you lead a strong company and you want to keep it that way. If these are your situations, then you’ve picked up the perfect read.
My purpose in life is to help leaders navigate change and thrive. I’ve worked with hundreds of high-impact leaders. In my years of experience, I’ve never met anyone more able to roll with the punches and execute a growth plan—while living out of the core of who he is—like Michael Rodenberg.
Michael took on a challenging corporate turnaround assignment nearly a decade ago. He started that season equipped with rock-solid values, good instincts, and the will to win. In the growth years that followed, Michael gained wisdom that comes only through lived experience. As he revitalized a struggling company, leaders from many sectors (business, government, education, etc.) directly experienced the impact of his success. He organically grew into a sought-after public speaker and mentor. After delivering numerous talks and serving as an advisor to many other leaders and boards, it was only natural for him to write this book.
What can you expect to find in Bridge the Gap?
First, this manuscript is a practical playbook for any leader who has been called to turn around and scale-up an organization. Michael’s four-principle process is easy to follow, actionable, and effective. After reading this book, you will know where to start and what to do next. You will have a roadmap to navigate the complexity that comes with leading change.
Second, you can expect to encounter a challenge. So, if you don’t want to get your hands dirty as a leader, then don’t read this book. Michael will challenge you to “do the things that only a leader can do.” To be a “bridge the gap” leader is to be a gritty, go-and-see-for-yourself kind of leader. Too often leaders who rise to the top believe they have been exempted from the “real work.” This book is an inspiring reminder to stay deeply connected to your organization so that you can earn the precious trust of your team and gain a clear understanding of your company’s actual needs.
Third, by reading this book you will be reminded to focus on your purpose. Michael is a successful CEO and has the resume to prove it. The organization he leads has performed year in and year out. But leadership is about much more than that. Bridge the Gap asks a compelling question: “What does it profit a person to gain the whole world and lose the soul?” Throughout the book, you’ll see the high purpose of leadership: honoring people and building relationships. You’ll be reminded that the local community in which you are headquartered is a key stakeholder in your success; thus, if the community doesn’t win, you don’t win. You’ll be reminded that it takes a team to accomplish anything meaningful. You’ll be reminded that it’s never “just business”—it’s about loving people and serving your fellow humans.
Fourth, you’ll enjoy reading a compelling personal story. Michael shares his heart in these pages. His transparency in storytelling is one of his best qualities. You will sense that as you read about his personal journey. You’ll learn how his grandfather and other close family members and friends inspired him. You’ll learn about his personal struggles and successes. In these pages, you’ll meet the real guy behind the CEO title.
Finally, you’ll learn that being a “bridge the gap” leader is about bringing together all kinds of people to achieve uncommon success. Michael is truly a visionary when it comes to integrating different cultures, generations, and business sectors. He’s lived and worked around the world, but still prefers the small-town life. He can speak numerous languages. (It still freaks me out when he takes a call from Japan and speaks perfect Japanese.) Perhaps his global exposure enables him to see all sectors of society working together. One thing is certain: Michael models for us what it means to be a “bridge the gap” leader, which is the type of leader our world will increasingly need.
I’ve spent a lot of time with Michael. I know his heart and I’ve seen his passion to help others succeed. Take his words to heart and implement the principles put forth in this book. By doing so, you’ll succeed in business, you’ll discover more about who you are, and you’ll bridge the gap for your team and community.
Tony Woodall
Founder and CEO of Rootstock