New Reviews: Personal Growth

In a clear, commanding voice and British accent, narrator James Quinn delivers author Richard Koch's daily messages on applying the 80/20 principle in all aspects of one's life. Koch, the guru of the 80/20 principle, organizes chapters into categorized daily lessons in which he explains the what, why, and how of the concept that 80% of results stem from 20% of causes. Quinn... Read More

Nikolas Salmon's narration ensures that this exploration of Danish workplace culture is digestible as a listening experience. His delivery highlights the contrast between the Danish approach and stressful environments elsewhere. He captures the optimism behind practical solutions for reducing stress and increasing happiness. Salmon's voice remains consistent, making the... Read More

As narrator, author Martha Beck offers an inviting and calming listening experience. She brings clarity and a personal touch to her exploration of anxiety and creativity. Her conversational tone and well-paced delivery make complex ideas, such as the "anxiety spiral" and the transformative "creativity spiral," approachable and relatable. Beck's voice carries the warmth and... Read More

Performing this moving guide to dealing with cold weather and other life challenges, mindset expert Kari Leibowitz sounds like the curious and indomitable researcher she is. The energy in her voice conveys a faith in humanity that works well with her optimistic insights and thoughtful suggestions. She pursued her interest in how the mind influences the body by taking a... Read More

Clinical psychologist Robin Smith and actor Courtney Vance share their experiences and insights about how Black men can deal with the emotional effects of racism in America. They alternate narrating this important memoir/guide, Dr. Smith with empathy for the Black men and families she's treated and Vance with his rich voice and dramatic flair. Their performances are well suited... Read More

Mel Robbins's superpower is transforming common-sense actions into powerful tools for change. She dives into background research, tests concepts in her own life, and shares them with relatable, actionable clarity. This time, Robbins focuses on the core principle of control: understanding what's beyond your grasp--others (them)--and what's within it--yourself (me). Robbins... Read More

In this thoughtful audiobook about women's position in our overachieving, sexist culture, a former editor of TEEN VOGUE uses her career fortunes and misfortunes to make a powerful point: Working women deserve a life defined by what fulfills and pleases them, not the compulsive overachievement, shallow gratifications, and draining quests for success defined by others.... Read More

The author and narrator of this charming guide felt isolated and inferior earlier in life. Here she describes how being honest with herself and other women helped her find self-acceptance. While she doesn't perform with the polish of a voice pro, Johnston has a likable voice, conversational rhythm, and affecting vulnerability. Her vocal sweetness and the funny life episodes she... Read More

Author/narrator Paula Price's gentle, encouraging voice is fitting for this self-help audiobook focusing on happiness for ourselves and others. Non-intrusive background music accompanying Price's thoughts proves compelling as she shares suggestions for finding, maintaining, and sharing joy and life satisfaction during our most challenging times. Internal and external happiness... Read More

A likable teacher who lives with his wife and three daughters in a New York City apartment shares tips for organizing small spaces and complicated families. Tyler Moore's vocal clarity and charisma are wonderful vehicles for his excellent advice. While broad changes in managing one's space and family may be a tough sell for overly busy people, Moore's pleasing delivery gives... Read More

Foulmouthed, straight-talking, and relatable, author and narrator Florence Given wants listeners to stop being chained by socially created restraints and to start living their lives to the fullest. This audiobook explores the barriers and societal oppression festering beneath the everyday advertising and patriarchal mythmaking that keep women from embracing their lives. Given... Read More