Successful Transformational Change in a Fire and EMS Department: How a Focused Team Created a Revenue Recovery Program in Six Months–From Scratch by Robert Avsec

https://www.amazon.com/Successful-Transformational-Change-Department-Months/dp/1990717047

Change is hard. For any organization, successfully developing and implementing a transformational change can be an enormous challenge, one that’s fraught with ups and downs as members of the organization struggle to hold onto the past while the change agents struggle to inform, educate, and assuage the fears and apprehensions of their colleagues. But what about an organization that simultaneously tackled—and succeeded—at implementing TWO transformational changes?

Told from the perspective of a change agent who was there, did that, and saw their efforts come to fruition, Successful Transformational Change in a Fire and EMS Department, will take you through the work done by a focused strategic project management team as they created a fee for emergency-ambulance transportation in a county Fire and EMS department and digitalized the department’s patient care reporting process in six months—from scratch.

About the author
Battalion Chief (Ret.) Robert Avsec served with the men and women of the Chesterfield County (Va.) Fire and EMS Department for 26 years. He’s now using his acquired knowledge, skills, and experiences as a freelance writer for FireRescue1.com and as the “blogger-in-chief” for his blog, Talking “Shop” 4 Fire and EMS. Chief Avsec makes his home outside of Charleston, West Virginia where he enjoys playing golf and alpine skiing when not pursuing his second career as a freelance writer.

If I Don’t Return: A Father’s Wartime Journal by Lieutenant General (Ret.) Mark Hertling

https://www.amazon.com/If-Dont-Return-Fathers-Wartime/dp/1966786727

“This journal was once a gift to our young sons. It is now a gift to anyone who cares to read it.”  

When Major Mark Hertling deployed to Iraq in 1990 as the operations officer of an armored cavalry squadron, his unit was told 50 percent of them would likely sustain casualties. To him, that meant he might not return home and may perhaps never see his family again. To prepare for that potential outcome, he began keeping a journal, hoping that one day, if he didn’t return, his stories and wisdom would be passed to his young sons. 

In an army-issued green notebook, Mark began recording his thoughts and hopes for his boys. He wrote of character, leadership, camaraderie, battles, cultural differences, religion, love, fear, and the things he wanted his boys to know about him and his experiences. In unfiltered, handwritten entries, Hertling captured the reality of combat in Operation Desert Storm: the waiting and missions, the chaos and courage, the brotherhood and grief, and the lessons of duty and humanity forged in war. What began as a father’s private messages became a rare chronicle of leadership and life in preparation for the crucible of battle.

But he survived, returned home, and was able to watch his boys grow into men. Decades later, after both his sons became combat veterans themselves, one of them typed those original pages as a gift to his dad—to preserve the legacy for the family’s next generation. In revisiting those original journal entries, Hertling—having been promoted, having served in various positions, and having returned to the battlefields of Iraq over the next two decades—added reflections drawn from his life. Reflecting on various military assignments, then his post-retirement jobs as a cable news analyst, health care executive, and professor of leadership, these journal entries now provide valuable lessons on character, leadership, and service. 

Part battlefield memoir, part father’s journal, part meditation on the challenges of leadership, If I Don’t Return is the story of a soldier who faced death, returned home, and continued to live a life of service. ‍

Giving Back: In Memory of Pete Way

Fifty percent of the proceeds from this book will be donated to the National Ability Center (NAC) in Park City, Utah—an organization dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities discover their strength, independence, and purpose.

Founded in 1985 as an adaptive ski program for disabled veterans, the NAC has grown into one of the nation’s leading centers for adaptive recreation. Today, it serves people of all ages and abilities, with service members, veterans, and their families making up nearly a third of all participants. Through sport, recreation, and education, the NAC empowers those it serves to build confidence, self-esteem, and lasting skills that restore not only mobility, but meaning.

These contributions are made in memory of U.S. Army veteran Pete Way, a friend who was grievously wounded in Afghanistan but found healing, hope, and renewed purpose through the programs of the NAC. Pete’s courage and resilience reflect the very spirit this book seeks to honor—the will to endure, to grow even through adversity, and to live fully.

If you would like to join in supporting this remarkable organization and the veterans and families it serves, please visit https://discovernac.org/support/

About the author
Lieutenant General (Retired) Mark Hertling, DBA

Lieutenant General (Retired) Mark Hertling served 38 years in the United States Army as a tanker and cavalry officer, culminating as Commander of U.S. Army Europe and Seventh Army.

During his military career, Hertling spent 38 months in combat. He served as a major and operations officer of a cavalry squadron during Operation Desert Storm, as Assistant Division Commander of the 1st Armored Division in Baghdad in 2003–2004, and later as Commander of the 1st Armored Division and Multinational Task Force Iron in northern Iraq during the 2007–2008 surge.

After retiring from the Army in 2012, Hertling transitioned to the private sector as a Senior Vice President at a major healthcare organization. He was asked to design and lead a healthcare leadership program, work that led to his first book, Growing Physician Leaders (2016). His second book, If I Don’t Return: A Father’s Wartime Journal, was published by Ballast Books in 2026.

From 2014 to 2024, he served as a senior analyst for CNN. He currently writes for The Bulwark and appears on MSNBC as a freelance national security analyst.

Mark is married to his wife Sue. They live in Orlando, Florida, and are the proud parents of two sons, grandparents to five grandsons, and step-grandparents to two granddaughters.

How to Say What You Mean Without Being Mean by Jan D Thomas

https://www.amazon.com/How-What-Mean-Without-Being/dp/1964362792

Jandthomasbooksandpaint.com

Your relationships are important and how you communicate with people will determine most aspects of your life. W hen your final word is spoken and your last breath is drawn, nothing will matter except God and those people whom you have loved. Only that love will last an eternity. You will see them again if they are in a right relationship with Christ, but all of those things that you thought were so important to you will be dust and ashes. Nothing more.

About the author
Jan D. Thomas is a New Mexico native. Born at the Santa Rita copper mine near Silver City, he heard the blast of the first atomic bomb test at Trinity Site. Moving later to Los Alamos, the birthplace of the atomic age, he lived for a few years as a child in northern New Mexico, but returned to his birthplace, where he graduated from high school.

After four years in the United States Air Force, he returned from spending nearly three years in Spain to attend the University of New Mexico. He also has an MDiv degree and retired from a career in the New Mexico Corrections Department, where he was a warden. He has worked with prison ministry groups, helped found a faith-based program in New Mexico, and became the first National Director of Celebrate Recovery Inside, the prison application of the program. He was married to his late wife, Fern, for 54 years before she passed away in 2019. He has three children, six grandchildren, and fourteen great-grandchildren.

Having lived in the Mesilla Valley for over thirty years, he spends much of his time painting and writing. As an artist, he has painted over 200 paintings and has published a number of books, poems, and essays.

Dusten Hendrickson: The Passive Income Revolution: Investing in Real Estate Syndication

Mailboxmoneyre.com

About the Guest(s):
Dusten Hendrickson is a seasoned real estate professional with over 20 years of experience in real estate development, design, and construction. He has managed projects totaling over $500 million, specializing in strategic land selection and wellness-focused apartment design. As the founder of Mailbox Money Real Estate, Dustin focuses on providing desirable, affordable housing solutions and strong investor outcomes. His expertise lies in delivering high-quality, strategic real estate options while addressing the affordable housing crisis in the Midwest USA.

Episode Summary:
In this dynamic episode of The Chris Voss Show, real estate guru Dusten Hendrickson dives into his expertise in sustainable development and passive real estate investment. As an accomplished developer and CEO of Mailbox Money Real Estate, Dustin elaborates on how he and his company have revolutionized apartment living by catering to young professionals seeking affordable, wellness-focused apartments in the Midwest. Armed with insights from years of successful projects, Dustin discusses strategic land selection and the advantages of building in less saturated markets.

Throughout this engaging conversation, Dusten Hendrickson dissects why investing in real estate, specifically in the Midwest, is incredibly appealing for accredited investors looking for passive income. Listeners will gain insights into Mailbox Money Real Estate’s efficient building strategies, the benefits of being in the landlord’s seat without the typical responsibilities, and how their business model allows for potential investors to diversify their portfolios through collective ownership. Furthermore, the episode touches on how small-town values and a digital shift post-COVID contribute to the company’s sustainable growth.

Key Takeaways:
Midwest Opportunities: There is significant growth potential in the Midwest real estate market due to less saturation, lower costs, and cultural understanding.
Passionate about Passive Income: Investing through a firm like Mailbox Money Real Estate offers up to 20% returns without the hassles of direct property management or liabilities.
Accredited Investors Only: Opportunities are available for accredited investors who can commit their funds without needing immediate liquidity.
Long-term Strategy: Real estate investments through Mailbox Money Real Estate offer strategic tax advantages and are meant for long-term capital growth and income streams.
Digital Transformation’s Impact: Post-pandemic, conducting business out of major urban centers is more feasible, supporting suburban and exurban residential growth.

Notable Quotes:
“We simply, we build apartments very desirable, wellness-designed modern workforce housing apartments.”
“The Midwest seems to be the best for me. I understand the culture of the best here.”
“Efficiency. I’ve always had this knack for efficiency.”
“Our returns that you’re gonna get are gonna be very similar to what you’re gonna get if you go and do the work yourself.”
“All wealth flows to real estate. Eventually, if you build wealth, you have to put it in real estate.”

Beautiful Souls: The Ways of Wonder by Christopher Adam Rice

Beautifulsoulss.com

https://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Souls-Christopher-Adam-Rice/dp/1970529148

This is an introduction to Beautiful Souls! A beautiful beginning to an inspired vision for all our futures. We at Beautiful Souls inc. believe that changing our lives for the better is held mostly in our perception of it. In this addition of beautiful souls we have taken simple photos of the daily world around us and found a way to perceive it as beautiful or inspiring. Proceeds of book sales will go to our charity Beautiful Souls inc. So we can more good in the world. Our motto ( We seek Beauty and Inspiration in the world so that we may find it within ourselves.)

The Usefulness of Hippopotamus: A Humorous Chapbook for Trying Times by Vincent J. Tomeo

https://www.amazon.com/Usefulness-Hippopotamus-Humorous-Chapbook-Trying/dp/1639886907

Vincentjosephtomeo.com

I am staring at a blank piece of paper, wondering what to write. Where do I begin? My mind begins to wander—pleasant thoughts of Disney’s Fantasia dance in my head. The dancing hippopotamus comes to mind, and this made me laugh. The result: I penned a poem on the hippopotamus from which a chapbook was born: The Usefulness of Hippopotamus: A Humorous Chapbook for Trying Times.

One cannot imagine a world without humor. Without humor, the world will be dark, cold, and a sad place, tragically lacking joy, cheerfulness, and laughter.

Humor is medicine. During rough times, humor will help lighten and lessen physical and mental anxiety.

In challenging times, I chose humor. During the Pandemic, I had to deal with my bladder cancer. In my struggle not to get depressed or dwell in negativity, to find solace, contentment, and peace, I chose to seek out beauty and laugh.

In search of happiness, the humor worked its charm, resulting in a treasure chest of joy. So, I wrote my chapbook, The Usefulness of Hippopotamus: A Humorous Chapbook for Trying Times and discovered humor even among the hippopotami!

You can, too.

Peace & flowers.
Love & light.

Vincent J. Tomeo, Author/Poet

About the author
BRIEF BIO

VINCENT J. TOMEO IS A POET, AND WAS NOMINATED TWICE FOR PUSHCART PRIZE, ARCHIVIST, HISTORIAN, AND COMMUNITY ACTIVIST.

VINCENT, IS PUBLISHED IN THE NEW YORK TIMES, EVENING STREET REVIEW, COMSTOCK REVIEW, MID-AMERICA POETRY REVIEW, EDGZ, SPIRES, TIGER’S EYE, By LINE, MUDFISH, THE BLIND MAN’S RAINBOW, THE NEO VICTORIAN/COCHLEA, THE LATIN STAFF REVIEW, AND GRANDMOTHER EARTH (VII THRU XI), ETC.

TO DATE, MR. TOMEO HAS 1,064 PUBLISHED POEMS/ESSAYS; THE WINNER OF 108 AWARDS; 149 PUBLIC READINGS. AUTHOR OF MY CEMETERY FRIENDS: A GARDEN OF ENCOUNTERS AT MOUNT SAINT MARY IN QUEENS, NEW YORK, AND THE USEFULNESS OF HIPPOPOTAMUS: A HUMOROUS CHAPBOOK FOR A TRYING TIMES.

Stay Faithfully Fit: Minister of Fitness by Linda M. Bolton

https://www.amazon.com/Stay-Faithfully-Fit-Minister-Fitness-ebook/dp/B0GPHFRZ29

https://stayfaithfullyfit.org/

Linda is a Minister of Fitness. Her enthusiasm radiates when she walks into a room. Her energy is contagious, authentic, genuine, and undeniable. Her dynamic messages are infused with grace, wisdom, compassion, and empathy. Her spontaneous, no-nonsense approach is complemented by an intriguing sense of humor that uplifts and inspires her listeners. The catchy phrases she uses, such as “I’m Just Saying” and “Praise Him, I Said,” ignite the moment and capture the audience’s attention as she passionately discusses the four “P’s”: Process, Preparation, Possession, and Promise.

The foundations of Stay Faithfully Fit and its teachings are rooted in her personal and professional experiences as a woman of faith and a Master Physique Champion. Her ability to integrate spiritual, mental, and physical fitness concepts is powerful, compelling, and encouraging. The book reveals a magnetic force that empowers and equips those who dare to pursue their potential, embracing total wholeness and becoming faithfully fit and focused!

Damaged: A First Responder’s Experiences Handling Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder by James Meuer

https://www.amazon.com/Damaged-Responders-Experiences-Handling-Post-Traumatic/dp/1449799558

One man’s journey as a first responder suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. He takes you through real emergency calls; some are graphic and have scarred his heart forever and so has PTSD. He was a hero in the eyes of most, and yet PTSD tried to take that away from him. He’s haunted by what he has seen and by the dreams that follow. The dreams are wicked and prevent him from sleep. Daytime does not ward off the attacks; even small things like a door slam send him into hyper-vigilance. He will lose everything before he will find his way.

About the author
James Meuer was born at Travis AFB California into a military family. He spent his early years in Texas before returning to California. He initially pursued an education to be a doctor becoming a paramedic and firefighter instead. After his sixteen-year career in California he moved to Texas and continued working as a Paramedic. He also served as a Paramedic in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He returned to continue his career in Texas. Shortly after his return, the spinal fractures he suffered years earlier took its toll and being diagnosed with PTSD, he reluctantly retired. His story titled DAMAGED-a first responder’s experiences handling post traumatic stress disorder, is now available. James can be contacted at [email protected]

“My faith simply wraps itself around everything I write and I consider it my mission to encourage First Responders’ with PTSD.”

Howie, The Unusual Bear by Laure Stack

Authorlaurestack.com

https://www.amazon.com/Howie-Unusual-Bear-Laure-Stack/dp/B0FRGGRGDT

Howie wasn’t your average bear. He looked different, acted differently, and did things unlike any other bear. Longing for companionship, Howie sets out on a journey to find a friend who will accept him for the unique bear he truly is. Will he succeed?

About the author
With over 20 years as an educator, Laure Stack has spent her career supporting children through their struggles and dreams. Her deep understanding of young minds leads to her heartwarming stories.

Through Once Upon a Boy, Howie the Unusual Bear and more future books, Laure hopes to inspire children to dream big and never let doubt keep them from reaching their full potential.

Hearing The Voice of GOD: The Exciting life of a Poet by Ivery Savannah

Iveryswordsofpoetry.com

The purpose of this book is share with the world the story of a nine year old little girl who never felt like she fit anywhere in this world. She starts to write to express all that was being bottled up inside her with no one to share her inner most feelings and emotions. As she began writing for her grandmother, then she went on to writing in a diary like most young girls do. But as this young girl grew she started writing poetry. Poetry became her most talented gift of expression. It is truly exciting to be a poet, BUT it is more exciting to hear the voice of her Abba Father, creator, Lord and King. There are many conversations between the writer and God the Father and it is expressed in her poetry and in many of her testimonies. Put on your virtual glasses and take a ride in the Spirit as you read and experience “Hearing the Voice of God, The Exciting Life of a Poet”!!!!

Unseen Leadership: Interrupt the Instincts That Block Your Success by Amy J. Clark

https://www.amazon.com/Unseen-Leadership-Interrupt-Instincts-Success/dp/B0GM67TYS7

We are often told to trust our instincts. But what if those instincts are quietly working against us?

Unseen Leadership: Interrupt the Instincts That Block Your Success challenges what leaders have long been rewarded for. Through decades advising and coaching senior executives, author Amy J. Clark has seen firsthand how instinctive habits that once drove achievement now create blind spots that block progress.

Through powerful stories, insight, and reflection, the book introduces the CARE Leadership Activator™—Curiosity, Adaptability, Resilience, and Empathy, a new measurement of leadership designed for an unpredictable future. These are not soft skills; they are the strategic edge leaders need to stay credible, trusted, and influential when conditions change faster than comfort allows.

This is the shift no one taught you to trust—how to move beyond instinct, interrupt old patterns, and lead with deeper awareness and impact.

Unseen Leadership invites you to redefine how you measure success and lead at the level you are built for.

About the author
Amy J. Clark is an executive advisor, coach, and C-Suite executive who has spent more than two decades guiding senior executives and organizations through complex change. Amy helps leaders interrupt the instincts and patterns that limit their impact and activate the strategic capacity to lead inside uncertainty.

As the author of the best-selling book Growth Point and co-author of Talent Impact, Amy’s work has influenced leaders across Fortune 500 companies, mission-driven organizations, and emerging enterprises. Today, she partners with executives and teams to redefine relevance, build credibility that lasts, and develop leaders for the business they are becoming, not the one they have been.

Her proprietary framework, The CARE Leadership Activator™ (Curiosity, Adaptability, Resilience, and Empathy), helps leaders shift behavior, expand influence, and lead effectively in moments where instinct alone is no longer enough.