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Table of Contents
About The Book
Philanthropist, investor, and technology pioneer Jean Case brings to life the five Be Fearless principles common to the people and organizations that change the world.
This book is a call to action for those seeking to live extraordinary lives and bring about transformational change.
When National Geographic Chairman Jean Case set out to investigate the core qualities of great change makers, past and present, from inventors to revolutionaries, she found five surprising traits all had in common. They weren’t wealth, privilege, or even genius. It was that all of these exceptional men and women chose to make a “big bet,” take bold risks, learn from their failures, reach beyond their bubbles, and let urgency conquer fear.
Throughout Be Fearless, Jean vividly illustrates these principles through storytelling—from her own transformational life experiences, to Jane Goodall’s remarkable breakthroughs in understanding and protecting chimpanzees, to celebrity chef José Andrés’ decision to be a “first responder” and take his kitchen to the sites of devastating hurricanes to feed the hungry, to Bryan Stevenson’s ambitious efforts to end incarceration inequities, and more. She shares new insights to stories you might think you know—like AirBnB’s tale of starting from scratch to transform the hospitality industry, to John F. Kennedy’s history-making moonshot—and gems from changemakers you’ve never heard of.
Weaving together storytelling, practical tips and inspiration, Be Fearless will teach you how to put the five fearless principles to work so that they too can spark the sorts of remarkable breakthroughs that change the world.
This book is a call to action for those seeking to live extraordinary lives and bring about transformational change.
When National Geographic Chairman Jean Case set out to investigate the core qualities of great change makers, past and present, from inventors to revolutionaries, she found five surprising traits all had in common. They weren’t wealth, privilege, or even genius. It was that all of these exceptional men and women chose to make a “big bet,” take bold risks, learn from their failures, reach beyond their bubbles, and let urgency conquer fear.
Throughout Be Fearless, Jean vividly illustrates these principles through storytelling—from her own transformational life experiences, to Jane Goodall’s remarkable breakthroughs in understanding and protecting chimpanzees, to celebrity chef José Andrés’ decision to be a “first responder” and take his kitchen to the sites of devastating hurricanes to feed the hungry, to Bryan Stevenson’s ambitious efforts to end incarceration inequities, and more. She shares new insights to stories you might think you know—like AirBnB’s tale of starting from scratch to transform the hospitality industry, to John F. Kennedy’s history-making moonshot—and gems from changemakers you’ve never heard of.
Weaving together storytelling, practical tips and inspiration, Be Fearless will teach you how to put the five fearless principles to work so that they too can spark the sorts of remarkable breakthroughs that change the world.
Product Details
- Publisher: Simon & Schuster (January 8, 2019)
- Length: 272 pages
- ISBN13: 9781982115210
Raves and Reviews
“If you want to change the world, it helps to be fearless. And if you need a dose of courage, I recommend this powerful collection of stories, evidence, and optimism. Jean Case draws on research and personal experience to provide change-makers with moral support and practical guidance.”
– Melinda Gates, New York Times bestselling author of Moment of Lift and co-chair, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
“If you want to get back on track, it is time to get fearless.”
– Soledad O’Brien Interviewing Jean Case on Matter of Fact
“An inspiring book by an inspiring leader. Jean Case has been in the arena as a technology pioneer and philanthropist, and this book is full of stories and advice to embolden you to take bolder risks and have bigger impact.”
– Adam Grant, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Originals, Give and Take, and Option B with Sheryl Sandberg
“Jean Case has spent years traveling and meeting Americans from many backgrounds and writes about her formula for overcoming doubts and achieving one's dream.”
– Judy Woodruff interviewing Jean Case on PBS News Hour
“Through compelling storytelling, Jean Case shows how bold decision-making and acts of fearlessness have transformed the world. Be Fearless stresses one of the most critical components of successful entrepreneurship: discomfort. Her very useful roadmap shows budding entrepreneurs how to think independently and move beyond their comfort zone. Starting a business is not easy, but Be Fearless gives entrepreneurs the tools they need to embark—fearlessly—on their own journey.”
– Tory Burch, designer & CEO, Tory Burch LLC
“Just reading the contents page is inspiring … yes this is good!”
– Norah O’Donnell interviewing Jean Case on CBS This Morning
“Jean Case has done what many before her have tried but been unable to achieve: break down the essential qualities and principles that drive success. Her book tells us in no uncertain terms what it takes to break through in an increasingly crowded world of ideas. With legitimately surprising research and compelling stories, Be Fearless inspires us all to take risks we usually wouldn’t, conquer the fears that get in our way, and lead a fulfilling life of clear purpose and maximum impact.”
– Eric Schmidt, former Executive Chairman, Google and Alphabet
“Case's book is a welcome kick in the pants for anyone who feels stuck in their career.”
– Business Insider
“I wish I had Jean Case’s Be Fearless by my side when we were starting Warby Parker. This engaging book highlights stories of ordinary people who end up doing extraordinary things, much to the surprise of others and even themselves, and draws out the “secret sauce” behind success. For anyone looking to make a change, start a company, or change the world, Be Fearless provides both the inspiration and tools to make a real impact.”
– Neil Blumenthal, co-founder and co-CEO of Warby Parker
“Be Fearless is part business how-to, part cheerleader on how to get stuff done. If you’re stuck, need inspiration, or some ideas on how to move any part of an idea or enterprise forward, it’s filled with stories from real people doing incredibly difficult things — from philanthropy to enterprise — and Case’s own tough-love advice on making progress.”
– GeekWire
Resources and Downloads
High Resolution Images
- Book Cover Image (jpg): Be Fearless Trade Paperback 9781982115210
