Positional Authority Ain't Leadership: Behavioral Science for Navigating Bull$hit, Optimizing Performance, and Avoiding A$$ Clownery

by Paul Gavoni

Uncover the Science of Leadership in "Positional Authority Ain’t Leadership"
In a sea of leadership theories and styles, "Positional Authority Ain’t Leadership" stands out as a beacon, guiding readers to understand that the essence of true leadership lies in the principles of behavioral analysis. This book offers more than just theories; it provides a scientific approach to leadership, making it a unique and essential read.

About the "Positional Authority Ain’t Leadership" delves deep into leadership as an art grounded in science. It breaks down the 'four hats of leadership' - leading, training, coaching, and managing - and shows how these roles can be masterfully executed through the lens of behavioral insights. Each chapter is a blend of practical advice and solid behavioral science, providing leaders with the clarity and confidence needed to excel in their roles.
Whether you're a budding leader or a seasoned veteran, this book offers innovative perspectives and tools that will reshape your approach to leadership. It's a concise guide to mastering the art and science of leadership, with relatable and real-life examples, engaging visuals, and a touch of humor that brings the lessons to life.

Praise for "Positional Authority Ain’t Leadership":

Kirkus "Valuable fact-based insights on the dynamics of leadership...Gavoni’s thoughts on all of these issues are presented in great detail and expressed with an appealing confidence. He’s always thought-provoking when discussing the thinking that underlies different workplace problems.” Jane Whitaker, School "Relatable and insightful... The different hats worn were really impactful... When the reader comes away challenged and reflective on things they need to improve, you know you've accomplished your goal. You did just that!”Mike Bonevento, "Broadly applicable... 5 stars for nicely weaving science and best practices into practical examples."Christina Morales, CEO - Piece of the Puzzle Behavior "An easy read packed with relatable examples... If you're stuck in a cycle of frustration, this book is for you."Steve Ward, President - Whole Child "Conveys deep content in simple, lighthearted ways... Strongly recommended to foster a healthy and productive culture."Jamie Daniels, Former Leader at Aubrey Daniels "Those who confuse power with leadership are the ones who never improve... Learn the scientific basis for behavior and master each of the 'hats' Dr. Gavoni teaches in this book."Why Read This Book? "Positional Authority Ain’t Leadership" is more than just a leadership book; it's a transformative journey that equips you with the knowledge and tools to rise above mediocrity in leadership. If you're ready to break free from the cycle of frustration, to stop blaming others, and to refine your leadership skills, this book is your roadmap to success.
In this book, Dr. Gavoni connects theory to practice by getting to the very DNA of leadership. You'll learn to navigate through the complexities of leadership with the ease of someone who understands the scientific underpinnings of human behavior. Whether you're a corporate leader, educational leader, team leader, or someone just stepping into the world of leadership, this book has something for you.

280 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 26, 2024

About the author

An expert in human performance, coaching, and organizational leadership, Dr. Paul "Paulie" Gavoni is a behavior scientist who has worked in education and human services for over two decades. In this capacity, he served the needs of children and adults in a variety of positions including: COO, Director of School Improvement, Leadership Director, Professor, Assistant Principal, School Turnaround Manager, Clinical Coordinator, Therapist, and Behavior Analyst. As Vice President of Organizational Leadership at Brett DiNovi & Associates, Dr. Gavoni is
passionate about applying Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Organizational Behavior Management (OBM) strategies to establishpositive and engaging environments that bring out the best in people.

Beyond his work in education and human services, Dr. Gavoni is also a former fighter and highly respected coach in combat sports. Coach "Paulie Gloves," as he is known in the Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) community, has trained world champions and UFC vets using technologies rooted in the behavioral sciences. Coach Paulie has been featured in the books Beast: Blood, Struggle, and Dreams at the Heart of Mixed Martial Arts, A Fighter's Way, and the feature article Ring to Cage: How four former boxers help mold MMA's finest. He is also an author who has written extensively for a variety of online magazines such as Bloody Elbow, Scifighting, Last Word on Sports, and Bloody Elbow where his Fight Science series continues to bring behavior science to MMA.

Known for his authenticity and practical approaches, Dr. Gavoni is a sought-out speaker at a variety Educational, Sport, and Behavior Analytic Conferences. Co-author of Behavioral Karma: The 5 Scientific Laws of Life & Leadership; Quick Wins! Accelerating School Transformation through Science, Engagement, and Leadership; Deliberate Coaching: A Toolbox for Accelerating Teacher Performance; and MMA Science: A Training, Coaching, Belt Ranking Guide. His current book in development is titled QUICK Responses to Misbehavior for Reducing Misbehavior and Suspensions. Dr. Gavoni is proud to introduce ABA & OBM to a massive audience through his numerous publications.

Reviews

[Bobby Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my expressions I use at work is "If I need my title to get people to respectfully work with me, then I need to do my job better." Dr. Paul Gavoni explains the pitfalls of relying on titles and the supposedly inherent respect that should go with them, totally ignoring that it is the actual behavior of the "leader" in question that makes or breaks how effective the person is in their role. Dr. Gavoni explains the data-based decision-making of applied behavior analysis and describes common mistakes in management behavior, and yes, we are primarily concerned with the behavior of individuals in this book. Dr. Gavoni explains more appropriate and helpful behavior that create real leadership and real fostering of appropriate work relationships. Highly recommended book for anyone who wants to be the leader everyone is glad to see and does their best for, not the one colleagues dread seeing and do the bare minimum and what they can just to avoid being noticed and sanctioned.

[Andrew Wegman · Rating 1 out of 5]

Don’t waste your time. This book is extremely basic and simple. As someone who has seen him present before, I was expecting something much better.

You could’ve gotten all of this information in the first 10 minutes of an ABA class and a leadership class.