Numerous leadership books that seem fantastic in theory but fall short in practice have been read by me. L.E.A.D. Out Loud is unique. Antawn Knight provides a playbook that is immediately applicable and inspirational. The L.E.A.D. model is straightforward but effective; I've already used "Listen with Intent" in a team meeting, with amazing results. This is a useful manual for anyone who wishes to lead with impact and authenticity, not just another leadership book.

I’ve read my fair share of leadership books over the years, some full of theory, others packed with catchy slogans that fade the moment you close the cover. This one felt different. What stood out most was how practical and real it was. As a manager, I’ve often found myself overthinking communication, wanting to sound polished instead of just being clear. Reading this, I caught myself nodding along when the author emphasized that people don’t follow orders, they follow conviction. That line hit home.

The structure is simple but powerful, and I’ve already put a few ideas into play with my own team. Just last week, I tried “listening with intent” during a heated project meeting, and the shift was immediate. Instead of jumping in to fix, I let my team talk it out, and the solution they came to was stronger than anything I could’ve imposed. That felt like a breakthrough moment for me.

What I appreciate most is that the advice doesn’t require some big corporate title or massive team, it applies to real, everyday leadership situations. For me, it was both affirming and motivating. Definitely a book I’ll revisit whenever I need to recalibrate my voice as a leader.