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OPTIMAL

HOW TO SUSTAIN PERSONAL AND ORGANIZATIONAL EXCELLENCE EVERY DAY

Narrator Mike Lenz adeptly guides listeners through the extensive research supporting the concept of emotional intelligence (EI). More than a quarter of a century since the publication of his groundbreaking book, EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE, Goleman and fellow psychologist Cary Cherniss bring together years of academic research and the results of organizational initiatives to demonstrate the impact of emotional intelligence on individuals, teams, and organizations. The authors diverge from the trend of peak performance, advocating instead for optimal performance--a concept emphasizing doing one's best without succumbing to perfectionism. Speaking with care at an appropriate pace, Lenz delivers the audiobook's ideas with conviction, supported by compelling data and illuminating case studies. However, serious learners might find the printed book a more accessible vehicle.

Pub Date: Jan. 9, 2024

Duration: 8 hrs

DD ISBN: 9780063279780

Publisher: Harper Audio

Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026

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    EVERYTHING CHANGES EVERYTHING

    LOVE, LOSS, AND A REALLY LONG WALK

    A resonant, gut-wrenching memoir that may inspire listeners to hit a dusty trail of their own.

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    Kessler, prolific author of nonfiction, intrepidly narrates this immersive memoir of her 500-mile pilgrimage on the Camino Francés after the devastating loss of both her husband and her daughter in the same year. Kessler’s tone is clear, even during the more heartbreaking chapters that revolve around her husband’s cancer and daughter’s drug use. Her tale, which toggles between the depths of grief and musings on consumerism or finding “uncomplicated joy in a Spanish tortilla,” exhibits the kind of harmonious braiding that makes a memoir soar. At the end of some longer sentences, Kessler’s delivery frays with a slight tiredness, but that lends to the big-picture experience of what is, indeed, a really long walk.

    A resonant, gut-wrenching memoir that may inspire listeners to hit a dusty trail of their own.

    Pub Date: Feb. 24, 2026

    Duration: 8 hrs, 42 mins

    DD ISBN: 9781668654361

    Publisher: Hachette Audio

    Review Posted Online: April 1, 2026

    Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 15, 2026

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      KIN

      THE FUTURE OF FAMILY

      Author/narrator Sophie Lucido Johnson brings a conversational tone to her discussion of the importance of close relationships beyond family. Her direct and personal tone, steady pacing, and approachable rhythm guide listeners through reported stories, research, and lived experience. Her easy-sounding narration suits the audiobook's blend of analyses and anecdotes as she shifts naturally between reflective passages and practical examples of shared living, mutual care, and chosen family. Emotional moments are conveyed with warmth, while more informational sections remain grounded and accessible. Johnson's companionable delivery supports her emphasis on connection and helps listeners stay engaged as ideas build. Overall, the author's performance makes this audiobook an intimate, thoughtful, and well-paced experience.

      Pub Date: Nov. 11, 2025

      Duration: 8 hrs

      DD ISBN: 9781797195162

      Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio

      Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026

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