Review of Tim Irwin's "De-railed"

I have read an awful lot of books on leadership. Sometimes I feel like I am on a "leadership" overload. I requested this book through the Thomas Nelson Bloggers Review program because I often don't read books on "failed leadership." Some might say it is the cynic in me that wanted to read about the failures, but on the contrary, I was hoping to see some fabulous stories of recovery and learn along the way. This book let me do just that.

Iriwn highlights many recent and familiar business leaders who became "derailed" at some point in their careers. From Robert Nardelli (of Home Depot fame) or Dick Fuld (Lehman Brothers) it appears that each person possessed a character flaw that made even the most successful fail. I appreciate Irwin's candidness at the beginning of the book:

"I chose to write about these particular leaders because they offered highly visible and compelling illustrations of individuals who derailed for the very reasons that we can derailed - a failure of character. I don't mean failed character in the sense of dishonesty that results in fraudulent behavior, but rather compromised character in a broader sense - for example, hubris or being dismissive of others. At the outset, I feel it imperative to make clear that Derailed is ultimately not about the six profiled leaders...it is about us!

I appreciate Irwin's front-end-loaded remark to look for the flaws within each of us, not just see the highlighted stories. I found this book a pleasure to read. It was well researched and Irwin's commentary was profound. I enjoy reading business minded books, so perhaps if that is not "your thing" you might not appreciate the book as I did. But, at the least, we can all appreciate Irwins work to remind us of four important qualities of character — authenticity, self-management, humility, and courage. I found that he did that very well indeed.

The featured product in this post was provided to me free of charge by the author and Thomas Nelson Review program. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company or other endorsement.

Hero

"True heroism consists in being superior to the ills of life, in whatever shape they may challenge us to combat."
Napoleon Bonaparte.

I am not quick to call someone a hero.

Not that I don't think they exist, because on the contrary, I believe they do.
I fear pointing to the heroism of one could cause others to greatly miss the point.
Miss the point that being a real hero, in my opnion, is living like your not one.

Matt Chandler pastors The Village Church in Dallas. I have listened to their podcasts for years now. This large and dynamic church is suffering right now and news of the tragic circumstances have blown up all over the internet.

In the last few weeks, Matt found out he was diagnosed with a tumor located in the frontal lobe of his brain. He entered into surgery Friday to move a good portion of the front lobe of his brain. Doctors could not assure him that everything would be just fine after the surgery. He, his wife and children spent a few days mulling over the reality, that perhaps Matt would not be returning.

In the days before his surgery, Matt recorded this video to be shown at the three campuses of The Village on Sunday morning. Take a moment, if you could and listen.



I am quite certain there are others just like Matt that brave such a plight with fearlessness and faith. I know they have not the platform to communicate their courageous acts. But, in celebrating Matt, I celebrate them all. Those that call all of us to a deeper revelation of what it means to face the unknown and count it worthy of the call.

Matt, and the countless others that face similar circumstances, you are my hero's.