DAUNTLESS: Leadership lessons from the frontline

by Rach Ranton

I look down at my boots and wait for the humiliation that is sure to come when someone is forced to choose me in their team as the last option. “I’ll take Rach,” says Fred. And with that decision, he changes the whole shape of my military career and everything I think about myself. During chopper flights into unsecured airfields, on the receiving end of a face-ripping, through the hijinks of field life and into the moments before setting off on patrol in Afghanistan, Rach Ranton explores the actions and behaviours of those who led her through the most volatile and unpredictable of situations. Their words and actions echoing through her life, Rach tells the stories of those leaders who lifted her up, encouraged her to be her best and helped her find the purpose in her work. Leaders who were not fearless but who did not shy from facing their fears. Who were authentically themselves, openly sharing their failures and weaknesses. Who were bold, took risks and who were forced to make critical decisions in extreme circumstances. Those who succeed on the battlefield, in the boardroom and in business. Dauntless leaders.

Kindle Edition

Published March 13, 2020

Reviews

[Kris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dauntless: Leadership lessons from the frontline is an excellent, intriguing and easy read . Rach does an amazing job describing leadership traits that have worked for her as a mentor, mentee and through her transition from the Australian Army into the corporate world. An amazing job turning what could be considered a dry subject matter into an entertaining and interesting journey with anecdotal stories to bring the leadership traits to life.

Highly recommend for those in the Military, HR or recruitment.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book. Some great leadership lessons intertwined with engaging storytelling.
The pacing is good and it is quite hard to put down. I have already applied some of the knowledge I took from this book. Literally minutes after I'd finished it.
If you are reading this review, you either have the book, or you should buy it.

[Ange · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great read and couldn’t put it down. Personal insights from the front line and then using the same management skills in the corporate world. A must read for anyone in a leadership role in any sector.

[Marta Katzer · Rating 5 out of 5]

An inspirational book written by an inspirational woman. Rach takes us back through her career in the Army with stints in East Timor and Afghanistan. She provides us with examples of the lessons she learnt from her army life which then leads us into her 2nd career as a bank manager and regional executive with one of our Australian banks. She provides great exercises and leadership tips to assist with our careers. Rach provides us with insightful and meaningful ideas to help us lead and support our work teams. A must read for everyone.