Summer is the perfect time to catch up on some reading, and we’ve gathered a list of favorite books from industry leaders. These must-reads cover a wide range of topics, from leadership and decision-making to strategic and tactical insights. If you have other suggestions to add to our list, please share them with Claire Guzman at Claire@distinctiveedge.partners. Happy reading!
Recommended by Gavin McCulley, President at Morgan 6
The Art of Intelligence: Lessons from a Life in the CIA’s Clandestine Service by Henry A. Crumpton
“This book provides a deep dive into the world of intelligence operations, offering valuable lessons on strategic thinking and decision-making, which are critical if your focus is on the Special Operations and Intelligence communities.”
Team of Teams: New Rules of Engagement for a Complex World by General Stanley McChrystal
“Written by a retired four-star general, this book offers insights into how modern organizations can adapt to the complexities of today’s world. It’s particularly relevant for understanding how to manage and lead in the dynamic environments of defense and intelligence.”
Recommended by David Rolen, Business Strategy and DoD Acquisition Professional
Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin
“After leaving the service I wanted to read what my business colleagues were reading. Turns out they were reading military themed leadership books. I went into this book with low expectations that I’d learn anything new. I was wrong. Potentially the best book I’ve read that allows the reader to relate and apply these principles. This book reminds me that in all situations I have a direct role and responsibility to act. Some of the best lessons: It’s not what you preach, It’s what you tolerate; Prioritize and Execute; Cover and Move; and Create Luck.”
Recommended by Joy Schoffler, Principal at Distinctive Edge Partners
This is How They Tell Me the World Ends by Nicole Perlroth
“Having worked with clients across the national security and cybersecurity sectors, this book hits home in powerful ways. The quality of storytelling and scenarios that NY Times Cybersecurity Journalist, Nicole Perlroth details rival the best sci-fi dystopian novels. It shines light on how adversaries are using cyber criminals to test vulnerabilities and integrating cyber-attacks in conflict.”
Recommended by Jon Lazar, Director at OUSD(R&E) Innovation & Modernization Office
The Long Run: A New York City Firefighter’s Triumphant Comeback from Crash Victim to Elite Athlete by Matt Long
“Whether you’re facing setback after setback at a DefTech start-up, or dealing with a mind-numbing slog as part of the government bureaucracy, The Long Run provides much-needed perspective at how good you really got it. This book is an unflinching memoir of firefighter and amateur athlete Matt Long, who was critically injured in the prime of his life, and his mental and physical road to recovery. You can’t help but be inspired by Matt’s story and find yourself thankful.”
Recommended by Bharat Patel, Product Lead, Project Linchpin – Sensor AI, PEO IEW&S
The Kill Chain by Christian Brose
“This book encompasses relevant challenges for the current acquisition professional and lays out potential avenues for addressing those challenges. It is a good, thought-provoking read for someone in the acquisition corps.”