Here is an exciting look at the genetic, psychological, and situational factors that impact how people perform when competing. The abundant research that forms the core of this book covers contests as diverse as ballroom dancing, diplomatic negotiations, and, of course, sports. The authors' snappy writing works well to lay out their discoveries, which include suggestions for generating competitive fire, managing stress, gaining advantages, and tweaking situational variables. As narrator, Po Bronson sounds like he's being too careful with the pacing of his words instead of just spitting them out. His speaking is clear and pleasant enough to make this a winning audio, but it would be exceptional if his energy were on the same level as the book's pop psychology vibe.
Pub Date: Feb. 26, 2013
Duration: 9 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781611130133
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
The readers can't compensate for the unbearably pompous prose style of this extended parable about corporate politics and strategy.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 3 hrs
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Henslee’s warm, unhurried narration makes listeners feel like the next success story could be theirs.
Barbara Henslee narrates with an intimate, upbeat delivery and a sunny Southern warmth that feels like being personally recruited to the Mary Kay empire. Her voice suits the material perfectly, drawing listeners into a bygone era when women built empires through gatherings around kitchen tables and on front porches, long before they could open their own bank accounts. Henslee never oversells, just gently persuades, mirroring the company’s own quiet pitch to millions of women that economic independence and personal transformation were within reach. The balanced treatment of the realities of multilevel marketing, alongside the truly inspirational story of founder Mary Kay Ash, make this a compelling listen for anyone curious about the often mocked world of direct sales.
Henslee’s warm, unhurried narration makes listeners feel like the next success story could be theirs.Pub Date: April 28, 2026
Duration: 14 hrs, 24 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217281879
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: June 9, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: July 15, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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