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Drownproof: Eight Life Lessons to Keep Your Head Above Water
Not yet published
Expected 14 Apr 26A motivational guide to success and leadership based on the author's experience as a Navy SEAL.
Eight Life Lessons to Keep Your Head Above Water is acaptivating and insightful book that chronicles the remarkable experiences of arenowned Navy SEAL. Drawing from his extensive military career, Stumpf shares hishard-earned wisdom and lessons in leadership. By reflecting on his own journey andoffering advice to a younger version of himself, Stumpf aims to empower readers toavoid costly mistakes and navigate the complexities of leadership with confidence andpurpose.
Over his career,Stumpf has seen countless people who haven’t had the benefit of parents or mentors. Where are the anchors in thesepeople’s lives? Drownproof is Stumpf’s guidebook to staying afloat during life’s mostdifficult circumstances.
This book will provide readers with a vivid and engaging account of Stumpf’s militaryjourney. From the grueling training programs to intense combat situations, he recountsthe highs and lows, the challenges he faced, and the pivotal moments that shaped hisleadership abilities.How can you take the toughest situations in your life and make them the most formativemoments you’ve ever had? How do you take a leap of faith in your life? How can youcombat fear when it comes to crush you? How can you build discipline in your lifeinstead of building regrets? In his down-to-earth, sometimes humorous but alwayshonest voice, Stumpf addresses these questions and more in Drownproof.
Readers of Drownproof
*Understand how they are in control of their destiny
*Grasp how preparation leads to execution
*See the value of planning for the worst-case scenario
*Learn how to approach goals
*Realize why people actually fail
*Discover practical insights learned from the military that apply to
all spheres of life
Eight Life Lessons to Keep Your Head Above Water is acaptivating and insightful book that chronicles the remarkable experiences of arenowned Navy SEAL. Drawing from his extensive military career, Stumpf shares hishard-earned wisdom and lessons in leadership. By reflecting on his own journey andoffering advice to a younger version of himself, Stumpf aims to empower readers toavoid costly mistakes and navigate the complexities of leadership with confidence andpurpose.
Over his career,Stumpf has seen countless people who haven’t had the benefit of parents or mentors. Where are the anchors in thesepeople’s lives? Drownproof is Stumpf’s guidebook to staying afloat during life’s mostdifficult circumstances.
This book will provide readers with a vivid and engaging account of Stumpf’s militaryjourney. From the grueling training programs to intense combat situations, he recountsthe highs and lows, the challenges he faced, and the pivotal moments that shaped hisleadership abilities.How can you take the toughest situations in your life and make them the most formativemoments you’ve ever had? How do you take a leap of faith in your life? How can youcombat fear when it comes to crush you? How can you build discipline in your lifeinstead of building regrets? In his down-to-earth, sometimes humorous but alwayshonest voice, Stumpf addresses these questions and more in Drownproof.
Readers of Drownproof
*Understand how they are in control of their destiny
*Grasp how preparation leads to execution
*See the value of planning for the worst-case scenario
*Learn how to approach goals
*Realize why people actually fail
*Discover practical insights learned from the military that apply to
all spheres of life
- GenresNonfiction
272 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication April 14, 2026
3166 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
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March 15, 2026I don’t rate non fiction/memoir books. It does not make sense to me to rate someone’s life experiences. It’s unfailingly obvious how amazing Alex is as a human. His life is a collection of experiences he has decided to share with the world.
This book is eight chapters of eight things he wants to teach and share. The line between preaching and storytelling is very very thin & the writing itself is not some novelist. It is Alex in all his glory.
All of his teachings are valuable and I was fascinated with his stories. However I do feel like they are things I knew already. For me they served as reminders. When I was nineteen, this would have been incredibly illuminating.
This book is eight chapters of eight things he wants to teach and share. The line between preaching and storytelling is very very thin & the writing itself is not some novelist. It is Alex in all his glory.
All of his teachings are valuable and I was fascinated with his stories. However I do feel like they are things I knew already. For me they served as reminders. When I was nineteen, this would have been incredibly illuminating.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Drownproof
By Andy Stumpf
Pub Date: Apr 14 2026
I have been a fan of Andy Stumpf for years. This book is great. The audiobook is read by the author. This book is packed with personal life lessons that you can learn from.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to read this book early in return for my honest review.
By Andy Stumpf
Pub Date: Apr 14 2026
I have been a fan of Andy Stumpf for years. This book is great. The audiobook is read by the author. This book is packed with personal life lessons that you can learn from.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to read this book early in return for my honest review.
November 17, 2025
Author Andy Stumpf ‘s reflections on his experiences as a Navy SEAL are woven into lessons that can be utilized in all walks of life. I especially enjoyed the chapter on why SEALS quit, and how Andy used this to overcome his own personal difficulties. I found great value and shared the epiphany it presented to me with many people I felt would listen and grow. I hope my loved ones may read specifically chapter 7and find it as inspiring as I did.
Near the end of the book, Andy reflects on changes in perspective as his children grew up and that hit home for me. We are never too young or too old to benefit from thinking productively and there is a reality to the lense we view our life and those we love through.
Thank you to St Martin’s Press for the ARC of Drownproof for review consideration via @NetGalley. All opinions are my own
Near the end of the book, Andy reflects on changes in perspective as his children grew up and that hit home for me. We are never too young or too old to benefit from thinking productively and there is a reality to the lense we view our life and those we love through.
Thank you to St Martin’s Press for the ARC of Drownproof for review consideration via @NetGalley. All opinions are my own
November 25, 2025
Mr. Stumpf writes about what it means personally to be a member of a Navy Seal team.. He reinforces that it is not a thing to be egotistical about, but rather that success is being a part of a team. He also reminds his readers how important it is to take responsibility for personal choices. A point that he repeats often is that it is not things that happen is not as important is the response we make to what happened.. Maybe not the whole book, but there are some pertinent pieces of advice for young people. Thanks to NetGalley for an arc, with no pressure for a positive review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I absolutely loved Drownproof—it’s one of those books that completely pulls you in and doesn’t let go. I couldn’t put it down. While it’s filled with stories from Andy’s life and career as a Navy SEAL, this isn’t a book about being a SEAL—it’s about being human.
What stood out immediately is how thoughtful, funny, raw, and vulnerable his storytelling is. Andy Stumpf has a way of sharing experiences that feel both intense and deeply personal, while still grounding them in lessons that apply far beyond his world. I appreciated how he challenges the idea that SEALs are somehow a different breed. Instead, he brings it back to something much more honest—they’re human, just like the rest of us, capable of the same fears, failures, and emotions.
What really stayed with me, though, was the depth of his message. Beneath the stories is a steady thread of insight, ranging from topics on what we actually control, fear, resilience, and what it means to keep moving forward when things feel uncertain or overwhelming. His reflections don’t feel forced or overly polished—they’re real, earned, and often quietly profound.
There’s a warmth and sincerity in the way he writes that makes it easy to connect with him, even if your life looks nothing like his. That sense of shared humanity came through again and again for me. His story about his mom was incredibly poignant—moving me to tears—and the way he speaks about his love for his children landed deeply in my soul.
He’s not just a compelling storyteller—he’s a meaningful one. He knows how to draw out the lesson without over-explaining it, letting moments land exactly where they need to. It’s that balance of storytelling and insight that makes this book so impactful.
There’s so much wisdom in Drownproof that I already know this is a book I’ll return to. It’s the kind you want to revisit, to sit with, and to absorb more deeply each time.
Absolutely fantastic—and one I highly recommend.
Special thanks to the author, St. Marin's Press, and NetGalley for the gifted copy
What stood out immediately is how thoughtful, funny, raw, and vulnerable his storytelling is. Andy Stumpf has a way of sharing experiences that feel both intense and deeply personal, while still grounding them in lessons that apply far beyond his world. I appreciated how he challenges the idea that SEALs are somehow a different breed. Instead, he brings it back to something much more honest—they’re human, just like the rest of us, capable of the same fears, failures, and emotions.
What really stayed with me, though, was the depth of his message. Beneath the stories is a steady thread of insight, ranging from topics on what we actually control, fear, resilience, and what it means to keep moving forward when things feel uncertain or overwhelming. His reflections don’t feel forced or overly polished—they’re real, earned, and often quietly profound.
There’s a warmth and sincerity in the way he writes that makes it easy to connect with him, even if your life looks nothing like his. That sense of shared humanity came through again and again for me. His story about his mom was incredibly poignant—moving me to tears—and the way he speaks about his love for his children landed deeply in my soul.
He’s not just a compelling storyteller—he’s a meaningful one. He knows how to draw out the lesson without over-explaining it, letting moments land exactly where they need to. It’s that balance of storytelling and insight that makes this book so impactful.
There’s so much wisdom in Drownproof that I already know this is a book I’ll return to. It’s the kind you want to revisit, to sit with, and to absorb more deeply each time.
Absolutely fantastic—and one I highly recommend.
Special thanks to the author, St. Marin's Press, and NetGalley for the gifted copy
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Part memoire, part motivational, yet all relatable, Drownproof is the kick-you-in-the-seat-of-your-pants lecture many of us need.
I found Drownproof to be inspiring while not condescending. Andy has done far more in his years (wise and foolish choices alike) than many I know. He approaches his audience with vulnerability, clarity, and raw humanity.
I received an ARC courtesy of NetGalley; this is my honest review.
Some of my favorite quotes are:
"Until you view yourself as the author of your life you will be the victim of it. You won’t be a participant; you will merely be an observer in what happens to you, and around you."
"What you allow in your presence is your standard."
"You will never be capable of moving when fear is controlling you, when fear is screaming at you to keep your head down, when fear forces you to only consider worst-case scenarios."
"Don’t chase a title, chase a purpose."
"If you want to turn yourself into a beast that will keep its head above water, to truly define being drownproof, you will need to learn to do more than just work hard. You must learn how to ask for help. There is no reason to suffer alone, to suffer in silence, or to think that no one understands what you are going through. Make no mistake, these are merely the lies that we all tell ourselves."
"It takes longer to do things wrong than it does to complete them correctly the first time."
"...your failures forge you, not define you, unless you let them."
"This is a reminder that success has nothing to do with what you have, or what you may have achieved, and everything to do with who you are."
I found Drownproof to be inspiring while not condescending. Andy has done far more in his years (wise and foolish choices alike) than many I know. He approaches his audience with vulnerability, clarity, and raw humanity.
I received an ARC courtesy of NetGalley; this is my honest review.
Some of my favorite quotes are:
"Until you view yourself as the author of your life you will be the victim of it. You won’t be a participant; you will merely be an observer in what happens to you, and around you."
"What you allow in your presence is your standard."
"You will never be capable of moving when fear is controlling you, when fear is screaming at you to keep your head down, when fear forces you to only consider worst-case scenarios."
"Don’t chase a title, chase a purpose."
"If you want to turn yourself into a beast that will keep its head above water, to truly define being drownproof, you will need to learn to do more than just work hard. You must learn how to ask for help. There is no reason to suffer alone, to suffer in silence, or to think that no one understands what you are going through. Make no mistake, these are merely the lies that we all tell ourselves."
"It takes longer to do things wrong than it does to complete them correctly the first time."
"...your failures forge you, not define you, unless you let them."
"This is a reminder that success has nothing to do with what you have, or what you may have achieved, and everything to do with who you are."
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I went into Drownproof expecting a thoughtful exploration of resilience and leadership from someone with truly unique life experience. Andy Stumpf’s background as a former Navy SEAL is undeniably compelling, and even the foreword emphasizes his humility and depth of experience. Unfortunately, that depth doesn’t fully translate into the kind of practical, applicable leadership insight I was hoping for.
Much of the book reads like a self-help guide for former servicemen—particularly around transitioning skills to civilian life— rather than a nuanced discussion of leadership for the general public. The ideas themselves are good, and they are lessons forged from hard-earned experience. I kept waiting for the author to bridge the gap between his elite military background and how those lessons apply to leadership or management in everyday civilian contexts, but I didn't see that connection. Despite the suggestion that this wouldn’t be a “Navy SEAL book,” there is significant content about Mr. Stumpf’s experiences beyond anecdotal storytelling as a vehicle for deeper insight.
Overall, Drownproof is thoughtful, and Stumpf’s experiences are inherently interesting. While I obviously cannot relate to Mr. Stumpf’s experiences, I am in awe of and feel immense gratitude for his (and others’) service and sacrifices.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
Much of the book reads like a self-help guide for former servicemen—particularly around transitioning skills to civilian life— rather than a nuanced discussion of leadership for the general public. The ideas themselves are good, and they are lessons forged from hard-earned experience. I kept waiting for the author to bridge the gap between his elite military background and how those lessons apply to leadership or management in everyday civilian contexts, but I didn't see that connection. Despite the suggestion that this wouldn’t be a “Navy SEAL book,” there is significant content about Mr. Stumpf’s experiences beyond anecdotal storytelling as a vehicle for deeper insight.
Overall, Drownproof is thoughtful, and Stumpf’s experiences are inherently interesting. While I obviously cannot relate to Mr. Stumpf’s experiences, I am in awe of and feel immense gratitude for his (and others’) service and sacrifices.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Drownproof is one of those books that you can instantly respect and appreciate what the author has learned in his life. I love how he came across as a simple man just sharing his life story in hopes of helping his readers to avoid some of life's greatest mistakes. As a person who tries to do the same thing with my blog, I appreciated the author's writing style.
I feel like this is one of those books that plenty would benefit from taking the time to read it. It reminds me of Jethro's rules of life off NCIS, but from another Navy seal's perspective in written form.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me review this book.
I feel like this is one of those books that plenty would benefit from taking the time to read it. It reminds me of Jethro's rules of life off NCIS, but from another Navy seal's perspective in written form.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me review this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
While the introduction to the book promised this wouldn't be just another Navy Seal book, that is pretty much what it is. Not that its a bad thing, but its just another perspective on life based on Andy's experiences. Most of us can't relate to what Navy Seals have experienced but I always enjoy reading their accounts and cant help but feel immense gratitude for their service. Andy tells stories of his experiences in the Seals and relates them to life outside the service...a refreshing look on the inside world of the service and how it translates to the outside world the rest of us live in.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Andy Stumpf is a strong storyteller who shares meaningful life lessons through anecdotes from his time as a Navy SEAL. The stories are engaging and often thought-provoking, helping the reader clearly understand the principles and lessons he’s trying to convey.
I listened to the audiobook version, which is narrated by Andy himself. His delivery is natural, engaging, and easy to listen to, which adds another layer of authenticity to the experience.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys powerful stories paired with practical life lessons.
I listened to the audiobook version, which is narrated by Andy himself. His delivery is natural, engaging, and easy to listen to, which adds another layer of authenticity to the experience.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys powerful stories paired with practical life lessons.
January 21, 2026
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me review this book. This book has some great pointers and insights on life. Life throws us plenty of curveballs and sometimes it can get overwhelming. But there’s always people in your Forbes wanting to help; we just have to reach out and ask for it.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Full of personal experiences that go hand in hand with the advice being given. I certainly have a lot to think about now. Had some repetition to show how various lessons went together and was rather down to earth.
November 25, 2025
Must reading for today's youth and adults! Acknowledgement that discipline is your key to success and wellbeing is a powerful realization!!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Andy’s book is a tremendous resource for leadership, motivation and self awareness and improvements. An easy listen yet full of valuable lessons.
December 11, 2025
This book is a useful guideline to help straighten oneself out.
Whether military experience or not, foundation is the key and the
8 Steps outlines in this book are not only personal, but allows
for the reader to make the wanted adjustments to their lives accordingly.
Thank you for the opportunity to have read this guiding resource.
I received this ARC through a Goodreads Giveaway.
Whether military experience or not, foundation is the key and the
8 Steps outlines in this book are not only personal, but allows
for the reader to make the wanted adjustments to their lives accordingly.
Thank you for the opportunity to have read this guiding resource.
I received this ARC through a Goodreads Giveaway.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews