Converse With Charisma!: How To Talk To Anyone And Enjoy Networking by Made for Success

Converse with Charisma is an audiobook collection of business speakers and experts who each offer different suggestions for how to improve your speaking skills, networking, presentation and improvisational speaking styles.

My big takeaway from this, besides some very helpful hints, is that speaking and networking is a skill that can be learned. It’s not something that some people are just born with and others aren’t. That being said, it would certainly be a step out of my comfort zone to try some of these suggestions.

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For example, one of the sections was a meditative visualization where you see yourself going to a networking event and successfully exchanging business cards with 25 contacts. I’m game for most any meditation, but in this middle of this one, my mind was screaming at me combinations of “WHAT ARE YOU DOING?” and “NOOOOOOO”.

But then again, I’m a self-confessed introvert. I’m trying to step up my presentation game for filming an episode of my family’s YouTube channel and also taking a bigger part in marketing it. These are both skills I think I can master, but it’s scary to try new things, you know?

Anyway, back to Converse with Charisma.

My favorite section was Jim Rohn’s fun, motivational speech on the first disc. As I’ve expressed in a few other reviews, Rohn is a master storyteller and life coach. He lifts you up, empowers you, makes you believe in life-long learning and goal setting. I think this collection may be worth borrowing from the library just to hear his contribution.

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As for new material, the presentation on disc 8 “Thinking on Your Feet” contained a bunch of information I hadn’t heard before. It gives suggestions for soliciting questions from a crowd and leading programs. It also gave a formula for organizing speeches to make a higher impact. I think I’m going to have to listen to that part a couple times to get everything I can out of it.

Recommended for people looking to step up their speaking and presentation game… fellow introverts I’m looking at you.

Thanks for reading!

The Dale Carnegie Leadership Mastery Course: How To Challenge Yourself and Others To Greatness by Dale Carnegie

The version I listened to of The Dale Carnegie Leadership Mastery Course, published in 2001, has not necessarily aged well, but still had some applicable lessons for business leaders.

On the positive side, this audio program encouraged me to examine my own leadership style, something I’d never considered before. Are you a innovative or organizational leader? Do you bring people together or drive them apart, intentionally or unintentionally? What is your risk tolerance and why?

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In addition to introspection, this program asks you to plan for the future based on your strengths and take steps towards those dreams. What are your goals, personally, professionally and for your current company? What would you like to see happen to your company after you die?

It also examines a leader’s entire life with the idea of success isn’t success if you lose your family and important relationships while building your career or vice versa. Are you capable of taking time off? Do you devote time to those who are most important to you at home and at work?

Those are just a few of the positive aspects of this program. On the other end of the spectrum, the music between sections is hilariously dated, almost like motivational elevator music. And there seemed to be what amounted to hero-worship of Dale Carnegie slipped in between the lessons or at the end of sections.

For example, in the lesson on handling disasters and poor decisions as a leader, the program was discussing a CEO’s almost universally hated idea of putting a thermometer on soda dispensers and having the price of a drink go up as the temperatures rose. The narrator closed the section with a statement like: “If Dale Carnegie had been at that meeting, he would have suggested the price of a drink go down as the temperatures went up.” (Cue motivational elevator music.)

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I don’t want to dismiss Carnegie’s extensive contributions to the realm of business and leadership skills, but he was human too. To assume he would have been able to turn around some spectacularly bad corporate decisions with just his mere presence struck me as a bit ridiculous.

In that same vein, some of the fable-like stories put into the lessons for emphasis felt heavy-handed, particularly one where a father expected too much of his son. It was a lesson about empathy but it was over the top.

As I said, I did learn some valuable skills from this audiobook and continue to ponder some of the lessons it presented. At the same time, I did have a few giggles at material that, I don’t believe, was ever intended to be satirical. Recommended for those interested in building their leadership acumen, but prepare yourself for a few misses in the presentation.

If you’re interested in non-fiction, business and self improvement books, here are a few I’ve recently reviewed:

Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time by Brian Tracy

The Lost Prosperity Secrets of Napoleon Hill by Napoleon Hill

The Art of Exceptional Living by Jim Rohn

Thanks for reading!

Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time by Brian Tracy

Brian Tracy gives simple and easily acted-upon suggestions for stream lining and maximizing your productivity. The title itself, Eat That Frog!, refers to completing the biggest, ugliest task you may have on your plate on any given day. If you do whatever that is first (the frog), in the morning when you’re at your most energetic and before anything else distracts you, then at least you can say you got something done today. Most everything else will seem almost easy by comparison… at least, that’s the theory.

At first, I thought all of the ideas in this book sounded almost too simple. But as the short audiobook continued, it became more clear just why Tracy is considered one of the leaders in his field of expertise.

Taken altogether, this book gives someone the tools to turn their life around (if they’re in a bad place) or take them to the next level, if they’re already on their way. It’s not just about learning tools to boost your efficiency, it’s also about discovering what you do best and then prioritizing doing THAT to the best of your ability.

The most intriguing idea in here, to me, was “practice creative procrastination”. As we couldn’t possibly get everything done that we ever have to do in one day, by doing the things that MUST get done, you can procrastinate on the things that won’t sink the ship if they’re left undone. You’re doing things, yet not doing things and feeding the inner procrastinator. It’s like having your cake and eating it too.

I’m not a big procrastinator. What I am is a collector of ideas and methods. I’m always open to improving myself or the way that I do things. In fact, I can be too gung-ho when it comes to implementing some of the ideas I read in self-help books. For example, a couple years ago I changed my life through “the magic of tidying up” and was so successful at removing the knick-knacks littering the house that my husband thought I was moving out.

But seriously, I can take things to the extreme. So, I’m encouraged that this book mainly consists of writing lists, scheduling and prioritizing tasks. That shouldn’t freak out the hubby.

And I do find myself doing other, less important things when a big, fat frog of a chore is staring me in the face. At least now, I’m aware of what I’m doing and knowledge is the first step on the road to change.

Recommended for readers looking for a few simple tips to maximize their productivity.

Thanks for reading!

The Lost Prosperity Secrets of Napoleon Hill by Napoleon Hill

The Lost Prosperity Secrets of Napoleon Hill examines some of Hill’s lesser known newspaper essays. He writes about his life and the workings of the “unseen hand” of the universe within it. He dissects how a series of failures ultimately caused him to succeed.

And he writes about his studies of some of the most successful people of his time, what they have in common and what you can do to become one of them.

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Some of these essays share powerful advice for inner transformation.

I particularly enjoyed Hill’s detailed description of the ’round table method’ that he used to change his personality. I think it is a fascinating mental exercise that can be customized for anyone.

But, at other points in this audiobook, his essays felt a bit heavy-handed in his declarations of his faith and belief in an organizing intelligence. But Hill’s faith seems to have been partially what he credited for his mammoth success… though not at first.

He freely admits that, early on in his career, he was obsessed with the accumulation of money to the cost of all else. It wasn’t until later on, that he realized money was nice, but there are other important goals that should be considered in one’s professional life. He talks about the golden rule and morality.

And Hill talks about how you should treat someone who treats you poorly. He wasn’t alone in some of his most spectacular failures, but the people who used those low moments to get ahead in business did not do well afterwards. Again, Hill credited a higher power for that balance. Some would call it karma, but he did not.

If you liked Think and Grow Rich, you will probably enjoy this audio program.

Thanks for reading!

The Art of Exceptional Living by Jim Rohn

Nearly every house valued over $200,000 has a library in it. Now why do you think that is?

Jim Rohn, motivational speaker and business genius, was a kinder, gentler Tony Robbins. Originally from Iowa, he uses common sense and a storytelling style in an effort to encourage listeners to improve their lives. This audiobook presentation is a mix of live presentations and studio-recorded bits. Personally, I think he was better in front of a live audience, but there was plenty to take away from in both sections.

Here’s some of what he shares in this audiobook:

Read, learn, journal. Write down what works and what doesn’t. Write down your goals and then take a minute to look at the passing days, weeks and months and see what you’ve accomplished.

Eat healthy and take that walk around the block. If you don’t, you may seriously regret it, maybe not today or tomorrow but in the years to come, you’ll wish you took a minute to invest in yourself.

Work hard at your job and you’ll make a living. Work hard on yourself and you’ll make a fortune!

Rohn insists that anyone can be exceptional. He says success in business (and life) comes from small positive steps taken consistently over time. That type of approach really works for most any goal or dream you may have.

Read contracts all the way through, every time. It seems like a simple thing, but it can take you down some dark roads if you don’t read the fine print. He learned that the hard way.

Don’t stop reading and be a lifetime learner. Stay curious. Stay involved.

And take pictures. Part of your legacy to the next generation can be the pictures and documentation you’ve made of your life.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve listened to this audiobook. It’s one of my go-to programs when life has me down. Jim Rohn believed you can accomplish anything that you set your mind to do. He makes listeners believe that too. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to learn “the art of exceptional living.”

Thanks for reading!

Earthwalks for Body and Spirit: Exercises to Restore Our Sacred Bond with the Earth by James Endredy

Earthwalks for Body and Spirit is a handbook of sorts for a shamanistic experience of nature. James Endredy, through various exercises for both the solo and group walker, crafts a system through which the reader can get in touch with nature and, he believes, heal the world through this relationship.

It’s an interesting idea.

I’ve always enjoyed the outdoors for its healing aspect. I’m more of a sun bather than an avid walker but I think that the general principle is the same. If you’re in a funk, go outside for awhile. It clears the clouds from your mind so to speak.

Actually, this is one of the first books I’ve ever read that goes into actual shaman practices. It’s worth the read just for that, really.

I read in What the Most Successful People Do Before Breakfast by Laura Vanderkam that most adults from middle class, dual income families spend less than 15 minutes per week outside in their yards. Stats like that make me a little sad for all of us. Time to go read outside! 🙂

If you enjoyed Earthwalks for Body and Spirit, I’d recommend The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Miguel Ruiz, This Trip Will Change Your Life by Jennifer Monahan, or The Way of the Shaman by Michael Harner.

And, as always, thanks for reading!

Your Beauty Mark: The Ultimate Guide to Eccentric Glamour by Dita Von Teese

In life, there are fundamental skills a gal must master: Walk in heels. Poach an egg. Pen a thank you note. And, most absolutely, without a doubt, create a cat eye. pg 172

Your Beauty Mark by Dita Von Teese is the most inclusive guide to beauty I’ve ever had the chance to peruse. From make-up to perfume to grooming, she leaves no stone unturned in her quest for glamour.

And she’s not afraid to share some secrets. If you read this book, you’ll have the rare privilege of viewing Ms. Von Teese sans her glamour. (Well, and clothes, as she includes some burlesque photos.) She tells about one Halloween when she dressed up as “the girl next door” and no one recognized her because her appearance has literally become her identity.

She also has separate entries by many of her cutting-edge fashion and beauty friends, sharing their lives, struggles and unique brands of beauty. In a world that sometimes tries to push everyone into cookie cutter molds of both appearance and behavior, it is a breath of fresh air. The history of beauty is sprinkled throughout and we learn about the origins of lipstick, heels and more.

This was a book I had to enjoy slowly, otherwise it had moments where I felt overwhelmed by the level of dedication Ms. Von Teese brings to her art, which is, beauty. She eats a certain way, walks a certain way, arranges her hair just so…

I enjoy dressing up, occasionally, as much as the next person, but I don’t think I’ll ever give up the level of comfort I’ve come to enjoy in my footwear. Or dedicate as much time to adorning my body as Ms. Von Teese does. But that being said, it’s fun to dream.

Everyone, male and female, will probably find something to enjoy in this book. They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder and Ms. Von Teese makes herself so easy to love.

Thanks for reading!

Päntsdrunk (Kalsarikänni): The Finnish Path to Relaxation (Drinking at Home, Alone, in Your Underwear) by Miska Rantanen

Päntsdrunk, a satirical self help read, seemed fairly straight-forward to me. To keep your cool, occasionally you should take a page out of the Finnish playbook and put on your most comfy underwear, grab your favorite alcoholic beverage and chill out. But then Miska Rantanen had to write something to fill up the rest of the pages. There was quite a lot of filler material.

Päntsdrunk doesn’t demand over-the-top arrangements. Affordability and democracy are its hallmarks. It’s quick acting and suitable for all who have reached the age of majority.” pg 16

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Rantanen talks about how Finland developed this coping mechanism from a couple of different factors: freezing weather, long distances between cities and towns, and very little sunlight near the winter solstice.

“The Finnish term kalsarikanni is a simple compound word: kalsari (underwear) + kanni (state of inebriation). This pithy idiom crystallizes the essential: at its simplest, pantsdrunk means imbibing alcohol in one’s underwear at home without any intention of going out. The term’s ingenuity lies in everything it doesn’t imply.” pg 21

But pantsdrunk practitioners don’t have to stay in or solitary. You can drink as a couple, with friends, with a couple of friends. As the night wears on, you can go from pantsdrunk to plus pants at the club or bar, if the mood lends itself that way. The trick is to go with the flow of the evening and enter a state of total relaxation.

“As a philosophy, pantsdrunk is not in conflict with lagom and hygge. Au contraire. They all spring from the same Nordic origins and share the same ultimate goals: optimal peace of mind, joie de vivre, comfort, equilibrium, and recuperation as embodied in a snug coziness.” pg 22

Pantsdrunk is not about getting blasted as fast as possible. It’s a slow slide into mellow.

“At its most minimal, pantsdrunk is a device for balancing life and work. It can, however, be expanded into a lifestyle and worldview. The beauty of pantsdrunk lies in its possibilities.” pg 27

I’m not sure about some of the statistics Rantanen cites in his book, but he claims Finland is one of the stablest, safest, most educated countries in the world. And he credits the practice of pantsdrunk with part of this fantastic result.

Heidi, you may say, what could your problem be with pantsdrunk? Anyone who has dealt with an alcoholic can easily point out the potential roadblocks to happiness with this. Also, there’s addiction issues to consider. None of which can be dealt with if you’re indulging in this behavior by yourself and aren’t aware there’s a problem.

Rantanen does say that if pantsdrunk becomes a conscious choice every day to deal with stresses, that a reshuffling of your life may be in order. He also suggests counting bottles or cans to keep tabs on how much you’re consuming. Or gauging how well you’ve managed to balance drunk and relaxed by your hangover the next day.

I’m not entirely convinced this is possible. Rantanen also talks about how pantsdrunk has gotten a bad rap with some films depicting people drinking in their underwear alone as sad and pathetic rather than empowered and relaxed.

One of the most uplifting performances (of pantsdrunk) can be seen during the credits of Bridget Jones Diary (Maguire 2001), when Bridget Jones (Renee Zellweger) belts out the quintessential pajama playback solo while sloshed on red wine. pg 76.

But wasn’t that one of her lowest points?

Recommended for brave readers over 21 who mostly have their lives together, but need to allow themselves to chill out now and then.

For other satirical self-help reads, please see the following reviews:

Get Your Sh*t Together by Sarah Knight

Check out Sarah Knight’s latest self help: You Do You

How to Be Dull by Basil Morley, Esq.

And thanks for reading!

The Herbal Goddess Guide: Create Radiant Well-Being Every Day with Herb-Inspired Teas, Potions, Salves, Food, Yoga, and More by Amy Jirsa

The Herbal Goddess Guide is a beautiful little reference book in which 12 different herbs are examined for physical, mental and spiritual healing purposes.

Amy Jirsa provides recipes, yoga poses, crafts and more to utilize the healing power of the plants in various ways.

This book may not be for everyone as it has a very new age feel. Jirsa discusses magical traditions, honoring a plant’s spirit and more.

However, if you’re into tapping your inner goddess, this may be the perfect book for you.

If you read it and you enjoy it, you may want to purchase The Herbal Goddess Guide for your personal collection because Jirsa suggests “getting to know” each plant for a month and there is a chapter devoted to each.

It could take you awhile to thoroughly digest the information in these pages. (And to try everything!)

My favorite chapter, probably because it is my favorite herb, is lavender. Did you know it is a member of the mint family?

While lavender is known for being relaxing, it can, in some cases, be stimulating, so be sure to check in with your mind, your mood, and your energy level after each recipe.” pg 131.

Some of the yoga poses Jirsa outlines are rather advanced, but she offers modifications for each. If your flexibility isn’t up to snuff, no worries.

Highly recommended for the open-minded reader and non-traditional healers.

For similar, new age/self help books I’ve reviewed, check out:

How to Be Happy, Dammit: A Cynic’s Guide to Spiritual Happiness by Karen Salmansohn

The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Miguel Ruiz

Trance Dancing with the Jinn by Yasmin Henkesh

And thanks for reading!

The Help Desk Book Blog

Sharing reviews and deep thoughts about life.

Category: Self Help

Converse With Charisma!: How To Talk To Anyone And Enjoy Networking by Made for Success

The Dale Carnegie Leadership Mastery Course: How To Challenge Yourself and Others To Greatness by Dale Carnegie

Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time by Brian Tracy

The Lost Prosperity Secrets of Napoleon Hill by Napoleon Hill

The Art of Exceptional Living by Jim Rohn

Earthwalks for Body and Spirit: Exercises to Restore Our Sacred Bond with the Earth by James Endredy

Your Beauty Mark: The Ultimate Guide to Eccentric Glamour by Dita Von Teese

Päntsdrunk (Kalsarikänni): The Finnish Path to Relaxation (Drinking at Home, Alone, in Your Underwear) by Miska Rantanen

The Herbal Goddess Guide: Create Radiant Well-Being Every Day with Herb-Inspired Teas, Potions, Salves, Food, Yoga, and More by Amy Jirsa

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