Inspired by Fear

"Kris Jennings weaves together vivid storytelling with concrete tools to show us how to work with (not against) fear. If you're leading change of any kind, you'll want to read this book." -Kristen Lisanti, founder of Radiant Change

"This book succinctly captures what it took me decades to learn about change as an HR professional and leader. The stories accurately depict the rollercoaster of large-scale change and the emotions of people on it. I wish I'd had it in grad school as a quick read that is both thoughtful and theoretical like John Kotter and William Bridges, and deep and powerful emotionally like Bren© Brown. Even now as I launch into new endeavors, I use the distilled wisdom of 'Getting better at leading change requires exploring fear in yourself and your team.' "

-Monica Smith, small business entrepreneur and founder, Mint Canary LLC

"Refreshingly honest and practical, leaders will frequently reference this book for the memorable stories and the proven techniques. By the end, it feels like you've already got a better idea of what's coming and more confidence to lead through it."

-Sarah Strehl, chief human resources officer, ECMC Group

"Inspired by Fear belongs in the same collection as The Five Dysfunctions of a Team and other great Leadership Fables. It's easy to read, engaging, and powerful. Leaders and change managers alike will reap the benefits of this compelling and practical guide. It is a must-read. From the boardroom to 1:1 feedback moments, this book contains perspectives and tools leaders across sectors can equip themselves with to become more empathetic leaders, improve emotional intelligence, and lead teams successfully through change."

-Chrystal Checketts, leadership consultant and executive coach

"Inspired by Fear provides leaders with a guidebook to address one of the most overlooked aspects of leading change - emotions. So often, we hear about the "practical" and the "emotional" as if they are separate entities. Kris Jennings shows us they are one and the same. She provides leaders with concrete actions to acknowledge the fear, anxiety, anger, and wide variety of emotions that arise during change and inspires people to act with their emotions. Highly recommend it to anyone leading change, big or small!"

-Heather Whelpley, keynote speaker and award-winning author of An Overachiever's Guide to Breaking the Rules and Grounded Wildness

"If you feel uncertain about what you're supposed to do in an ever-changing business environment, this is a book you want on your desk. Kris Jennings uses storytelling and everyday examples to break down complex topics that arm you with tools and real-world advice."

-Kristi Norton, vice president, UnitedHealth Group Strategy

"Inspired by Fear is an essential playbook for anyone leading change, offering practical tools and strategies to navigate the human side of transformation. With actionable techniques to help people transition from fear and uncertainty to acceptance and confidence, Jennings equips leaders with the capacity to develop their own and their team's long-term ability to successfully navigate change. A must-read I wish I'd had earlier in my career!"

-Sarah Moran, strategic leadership and development consultant