Post by Andrea Giavarini

Summer is the perfect time to slow down, reflect, and invest in ourselves. Besides my favorite #TheBillSimmonsPodcast (the latest episode on the Jaylen Brown trade had me laughing with the “JB trade colonoscopy” 😂), two books have really stayed with me: 📚 Dare to Lead by Brené Brown reminded me that great leadership starts with “rumbling with vulnerability”—having the courage to embrace difficult conversations and lead with heart. One quote I won’t forget, from Minouche Shafik, is: “In the past, jobs were about muscles. Now they’re about brains. But in the future they’ll be about heart.” That couldn’t resonate more. One of the most meaningful compliments I’ve received recently was when Klaus Hollstein described my communication style as “heartfelt.” If that’s how people experience me, then I’m on the right path. 📚 Big Trust by Dr. Shadé Zahrai (thank you, Irina Polikarpova, for the recommendation!) reinforced another lesson I’ve learned over the years: self-trust is built through action. There were times in my life when self-doubt was louder than self-belief. Endurance sports taught me to trust the process, stay true to my values, and keep moving forward one step at a time. Looking back, that mindset has shaped not only the athlete I became but also the leader I strive to be every day. What are the books inspiring you this summer? I’d love to hear your recommendations. 📚