TRUE SOUTH: LEADERSHIP LESSONS FROM POLAR EXTREMES
The Scott/Amundsen race to the South Pole in 1911 is a legendary outdoor misadventure that has captured the imaginations of people the world for over a century. The lessons chronicled in True South are poignant – the difference between getting back and starving - determined by leadership.
“The adventure and intrigue of the race over the endless ice is guaranteed to entertain, but more importantly, leaders and followers alike will find the lessons contained within universally applicable in setting one’s compass towards True South.” Dr. Nido Qubein, President, High Point University
Other epic outdoor adventures can’t compare to the high drama revealed in TRUE SOUTH. Climbing to the 29,029 foot peak of Mount Everest where climbers must contend with extreme cold, high altitude and unpredictable weather conditions; the grueling Iditarod Trail dog sled race through blizzards, sub-zero temperatures and treacherous terrain to the finish line; and the 2,000 mile, Tour de France bicycle race through steep mountains, valleys---both with weather--- and cities in France, during intense competition, rank far behind Antarctica (begging to take your life). Five Englishmen died in their quest to reach true South first at the bottom of the globe and return to McMurdo Sound before Winter returns in March where tardiness has the punch to kill all life.
Antarctica with an average -71 degrees Fahrenheit, with only 6.5 inches of precipitation on average, is the fifth largest continent about 40% larger than Europe, and with 70% of the world’s freshwater reserves, untouched by man until 1896. Antarctica proved to be the perfect Petri dish to compare Scott’s command-and-control leadership with Amundsen’s followership, (different from servant leadership.) Moreover, both polar explorers started at the same time with identical goals.
A FEW OF MANY REVIEWS ABOUT TRUE SOUTH:
“Whether you are looking for a thrilling (and chilling) tale of polar exploration or searching for the cold facts about the path to effective entrepreneurial leadership, TRUE SOUTH provides the GPS coordinates to follow.” Patrick McGurn, the “Most Influential in Corporate Governance” by NACD Directorship.
“Framing leadership via the comparison of Amundsen’s and Scott’s journey to the South Pole makes for an exciting read.” Professor Stan Mandel, Wake Forest School of Business.
“Mr. Johnston has served on five public company boards, was appointed CEO of two NASDAQ companies and CEO for over 10 private organizations. TRUE SOUTH is not only a welcome addition to the boardroom but an adventure story that will astound and fascinate.” Jeffrey M. Cunningham, Author, Founder and Managing Director of NACD Directorship Magazine.
Author J. Phillips L. Johnston J.D. offers a hands-on understanding of leadership as the founder and CEO of a number of technology companies including Cofounder and Vice Chairman of Koolbridge Solar, 15 years as former CEO of two public microelectronic companies and director of five public companies including a NYSE listed company.
