We asked CLM Members and Fellows: What is on your summer professional development reading list?
“I am returning to a re-read, ‘My American Journey,’ by Colin Powell. This book provides timeless leadership gems that describe his ascent, and engagement in so many historical moments in time. I return to this book for that reason—because some of the practical points that he demonstrates are still valid today, especially in the global environment in which we are operating. Secretary Powell wrote other books, but this one is the crown jewel.”
Carey Bond, Head of US Claims, Lloyd’s. CLM Fellow since 2020.
“My summer reading includes ‘Nuclear Verdicts,’ by Bob Tyson, which I have owned for a while and generally understand the point and message. However, I expect more cases will be tried in the coming year and want to better hone my skills in defending my clients. My list also includes ‘Crucial Conversations,’ by Patterson, Grenny, McMillan, and Switzler. I have always considered myself to be a great communicator and did not make reading this book a priority. However, as my roles and responsibilities have changed and increased over the past few years, I have come to appreciate just how important effective communication is.”
Tami Vail, Managing Partner, Kahana Feld, LLP. CLM Member since 2014.
“I have a few books on my list: ‘Crucial Conversations,’ by Kerry Patterson, et al.; ‘Intrinsic Inclusion,’ by Janet Reid, Ph.D. and Vincent Brown; and ‘Grit,’ by Angela Duckworth. By the end of the summer, I plan to communicate more effectively, be more inclusive, and better able to persevere.”
Margo Meta, Claims Legal Counsel, Grange Insurance Companies. CLM Fellow since 2021.
“Thus far this summer, I’ve read ‘The Wager,’ by David Grann; ‘Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity,’ by Dr. Peter Attia; and ‘Worse than Nothing: The Dangerous Fallacy of Originalism,’ by Erwin Chemerinsky, which happens to be my only legal reading, but it’s very fascinating. Going forward, I have Elliott Page’s memoir, ‘Pageboy’; ‘A Fever in the Heartland,’ by Timothy Egan; and Grann’s ‘Killers of the Flower Moon.’”
Floyd Cottrell, Partner, Rawle & Henderson LLP. CLM Member since 2012.
12
The average number of books ready by an American in a single year.
Source: Gallup Poll
76%
Percentage of millennials who say professional development is essential for a strong company culture.
Source: Zippia