Springfield leaders share favorite books and Ted Talks

How many times have you read a book because a friend raved about it? The Springfield-Greene County Library staff is compiling a list, “Read to Lead,” by asking community leaders about their book recommendations.

We’re continuing this series with an additional focus: TED Talks. In February, the Library was granted the opportunity to stream one day of the live TED Talk International Conference. On July 19, some of Springfield’s most innovative and inspiring people will present their own TEDx Talks at the Library Center. We’ve asked those speakers to share books and TED Talks that are meaningful to them.

Ellen Rohr is a business consultant, franchisor, author, speaker and columnist for the Huffington Post, PHC News, Springfield Business Journal and more. She also has written four business basics books.

Ellen writes, “When I read Michael Gerber's book, ‘The E Myth: Why most small businesses don't work and what to do about it,’ I thought he was sharing my story. I mean, literally, talking about me. I was the woman who was drowning in the business, the endless to dos, and the rising pile of debt. I was the one who didn't have time to go to the bathroom! The broad appeal of this classic business book is that my story is a common tale. Over the last 25 years, this book has had the biggest impact on my philosophy, my tactical approach to business, and my overall success.”

One of Ellen’s favorite Ted Talks is by Simon Sinek. He has a very simple message... ‘Start with Why.’ That's the name of his best-selling book and of his mega-successful TEDx Talk: "What you do and how you do it makes no difference at all until you know why you do it."

Harvard brain scientist Jill Bolte Taylor suffered a stroke and describes the brain trauma and her recovery from her educated vantage point as well as her physical experience. It's an amazing exploration of left brain and right brain functionality as well as spiritual and scientific understanding.”

Submitted by Jessie East, Library Center manager, Springfield-Greene County Library District.