The Dirty Side of Leadership: The Dirty Lessons about Management Coaching and Team Development

I retired from the U.S. Probation Office (Deputy Chief D/NH) before Ron took over at FLETC so I never got to know him well. But I wish I had. His book “The Dirty Side of Leadership” not only brought back some great memories of my own journey into leadership it made me wish I had the benefit of his wisdom early on. I have a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Florida International U in Miami and am a graduate of the Federal Judicial Center’s Leadership Development program where I read numerous books on Leadership. I wish I had Ron’s book back then. If you are new to a leadership position in your organization, or if you’ve been in a leadership positions for years, this book is a must for your library. You and the people who work with you (notice not for) will be better for it.

This book is awesome! So much great advice & the personal stories really help to remember the lessons learned. It is so enjoyable & quick to read. I love the way it is organized with the numbered lessons learned throughout the book & a quick reference list in the back. I think everyone can benefit from the wisdom & humor in this book, not just those in leadership roles. This book would make great gifts for friends, family & co-workers as well.

I am in a leadership position in my organization, have been involved with numerous leadership courses and have read many leadership books over the years, (fun fact: non-fiction is typically NOT my thing...at all).... and I read this book in 3 sittings. The author presents information in the form of personal stories with leadership lessons and tips attached. I felt like we were simply sitting on the porch having a conversation, about childhood, life, the unexpected, the wins and the losses, and it is pretty funny in spots. Whether you are in a leadership position, strive to be, or recognize that in this life, we are all leaders.....this is the book for you. Highly recommended read for you and those around you: coaches, teachers, business leaders, middle managers, aspiring leaders, parents, including adolescents. It’s the holiday season, I can’t think of a better gift for anyone on your list

Ron Ward paints such a clear picture of his experiences through his writing. As I read his stories, I felt like I was alongside him experiencing it too. The way he crafted this book will keep you engaged and wanting more, all the while learning invaluable leadership lessons each time you turn the page. "The Dirty Side of Leadership" is not your typical leadership rule book full of ideas that are hard to implement. As you read, you'll feel like you're hanging out with an old friend, sharing stories and learning from him along the way. I cannot recommend this book enough!

I applaud Ron for writing such a powerful and descriptive book that details the various challenges of being a leader. Ron’s charismatic leadership style and his ability to transform and lead the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center demonstrates his outstanding organizational performance. The normative ideologies regarding leadership are challenged in this book and the “dirty lessons” provide leadership truths that will assist leaders at all levels to become great leaders. One of my favorite leadership truths: DL#72 “Culture begins at the top and trickles down.” Ron absolutely delivers the truth in The Dirty Side of Leadership. Dr. Mark Buckwalter Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Retired U.S. Probation Officer Specialist

Wow! What a highly readable, often entertaining, honest book from someone who has been there and done that. This book leaves all other books on leadership and managing people in the dust. The scenarios set forth are typical of any place where people work together, be it government, retail, churches, etc. People are people. How they are led will determine whether or not they look forward to coming to work every day. Following Ron’s guidance for leadership everyone can be a winner.

I found this book on leadership, and the title caught my eye. Being a fireman and former peace officer in NY, I was pleasantly surprised restructure and delivery therein. This is a great book for all types of managers and leaders! The author uses interesting and challenging stories to hammer home 100 lessons that are relatable to everyone. If you want to improve on life, business or help build a great team, this book is a must!

Without question, the best book on leadership I have read. Ron does not sugarcoat the complexities, rather delivers the truth. Leadership is hard and executive leadership can be brutal. Of course it is also equally rewarding! Anyone aspiring to lead should read this book before pursuing such a position.

Ron did a fantastic job with the presentation of his book. It was enjoyable to read about his memories and life lessons as he advanced his federal career. Enjoyable read and even better lessons to refer to.

Ron Ward's "The Dirty side of Leadership" is a must read for anyone in supervision or managenent. His approach to exploring skills in leadership is uniquely writen and entertaining. He references true life experiences from youth, adulthood & his professional life as related to Leadership skills. This work demonstrates how practical we use Leadership in our daily lives without realizing it. Mr. Ward is no doubt the Mr. Miyagi of leadership training.

I retired from the U.S. Probation Office (Deputy Chief D/NH) before Ron took over at FLETC so I never got to know him well. But I wish I had. His book “The Dirty Side of Leadership” not only brought back some great memories of my own journey into leadership it made me wish I had the benefit of his wisdom early on. I have a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Florida International U in Miami and am a graduate of the Federal Judicial Center’s Leadership Development program where I read numerous books on Leadership. I wish I had Ron’s book back then. If you are new to a leadership position in your organization, or if you’ve been in a leadership positions for years, this book is a must for your library. You and the people who work with you (notice not for) will be better for it.

This book is awesome! So much great advice & the personal stories really help to remember the lessons learned. It is so enjoyable & quick to read. I love the way it is organized with the numbered lessons learned throughout the book & a quick reference list in the back. I think everyone can benefit from the wisdom & humor in this book, not just those in leadership roles. This book would make great gifts for friends, family & co-workers as well.

I am in a leadership position in my organization, have been involved with numerous leadership courses and have read many leadership books over the years, (fun fact: non-fiction is typically NOT my thing...at all).... and I read this book in 3 sittings. The author presents information in the form of personal stories with leadership lessons and tips attached. I felt like we were simply sitting on the porch having a conversation, about childhood, life, the unexpected, the wins and the losses, and it is pretty funny in spots. Whether you are in a leadership position, strive to be, or recognize that in this life, we are all leaders.....this is the book for you. Highly recommended read for you and those around you: coaches, teachers, business leaders, middle managers, aspiring leaders, parents, including adolescents. It’s the holiday season, I can’t think of a better gift for anyone on your list

Ron Ward paints such a clear picture of his experiences through his writing. As I read his stories, I felt like I was alongside him experiencing it too. The way he crafted this book will keep you engaged and wanting more, all the while learning invaluable leadership lessons each time you turn the page. "The Dirty Side of Leadership" is not your typical leadership rule book full of ideas that are hard to implement. As you read, you'll feel like you're hanging out with an old friend, sharing stories and learning from him along the way. I cannot recommend this book enough!

I applaud Ron for writing such a powerful and descriptive book that details the various challenges of being a leader. Ron’s charismatic leadership style and his ability to transform and lead the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center demonstrates his outstanding organizational performance. The normative ideologies regarding leadership are challenged in this book and the “dirty lessons” provide leadership truths that will assist leaders at all levels to become great leaders. One of my favorite leadership truths: DL#72 “Culture begins at the top and trickles down.” Ron absolutely delivers the truth in The Dirty Side of Leadership. Dr. Mark Buckwalter Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Retired U.S. Probation Officer Specialist

Wow! What a highly readable, often entertaining, honest book from someone who has been there and done that. This book leaves all other books on leadership and managing people in the dust. The scenarios set forth are typical of any place where people work together, be it government, retail, churches, etc. People are people. How they are led will determine whether or not they look forward to coming to work every day. Following Ron’s guidance for leadership everyone can be a winner.

I found this book on leadership, and the title caught my eye. Being a fireman and former peace officer in NY, I was pleasantly surprised restructure and delivery therein. This is a great book for all types of managers and leaders! The author uses interesting and challenging stories to hammer home 100 lessons that are relatable to everyone. If you want to improve on life, business or help build a great team, this book is a must!

Without question, the best book on leadership I have read. Ron does not sugarcoat the complexities, rather delivers the truth. Leadership is hard and executive leadership can be brutal. Of course it is also equally rewarding! Anyone aspiring to lead should read this book before pursuing such a position.

Ron did a fantastic job with the presentation of his book. It was enjoyable to read about his memories and life lessons as he advanced his federal career. Enjoyable read and even better lessons to refer to.

Ron Ward's "The Dirty side of Leadership" is a must read for anyone in supervision or managenent. His approach to exploring skills in leadership is uniquely writen and entertaining. He references true life experiences from youth, adulthood & his professional life as related to Leadership skills. This work demonstrates how practical we use Leadership in our daily lives without realizing it. Mr. Ward is no doubt the Mr. Miyagi of leadership training.

Ron takes you on a journey through interesting stories that teach you 100 leadership lessons that can be applied immediately. As an owner of my own company and an author myself of "10 Things You Need To Know About Land", we strive to be successful, and we must all continue to grow our leadership skills and Ron does this excellently. Anyone who wants to better themselves should get this book, it is a great read, not just for work but for life as well.

Each of these lessons leaves you with something immediately applicable, presented in an entertaining and easy-to-read fashion. Recommended.

I’d expect to find this book on the nightstands of today’s titans of industry. The less glamorous aspects of leadership are often glossed-over or not mentioned at all in most leadership books. This gets into the nitty-gritty of the things that give leaders anxiety. Buy several copies to give to your friends because the world needs more leaders and this book will set their shoulders for the privilege of leadership.

This book was very enlightening really has a lot of advice and strategies that can be used in your day to day life. I would recommend this to anyone in or aspiring to be in a management position. I found out long ago of the existence of dirty side of leadership this book and stories within can help anyone facing similar situations!

This is an amazing book that you need to read! You won’t regret it!

The author, the book, amazing. So much great advice with personal stories really brings readers in to remind you that you can achieve anything you put your mind to. This book gives great references and advice for anyone who has been or desires to become more than they are. I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys humor, wisdom, and life lessons. This book is great for all ages!!

Excellent read! It was more personal and less political to me which i really enjoyed. I found the book well written and looking forward to the next one! You will not be disappointed!! 5 stars!!

Excellent book, not only for the manager but for the ordinary person, “the regular Joe”. I am not a manager and found it very helpful in my job as a substance abuse counselor. Helpful anytime you are dealing with people.

I have known Ron Ward for many years. He is the real deal. This book has challenged me to examine my personal and business leadership decisions for my life. Ron has lived by example and not just some pretty words. Not just a book, but lessons to follow.

Excellent book! I would encourage all current and future leaders to read Ron Ward’s book on Leadership!

Fantastic book that blends true life stories with lessons on professional leadership. You get two great books in one! Highly recommend for anyone that wants to excel in their future professional endeavors. The author Ron Ward has a great way of keeping you interested and wanting more!

n The Dirty Side of Leadership Ron Ward takes you on a journey unlike most leadership books. The stories are unique and keep you engaged. They are sometimes funny and tragic but also interesting. There are 100 dirty lessons in the book, and they can be applied to all parts of life. I highly recommend this book!

Ron Ward does an excellent job explaining how anyone can learn leadership skills through their own lessons learned in life. Ron emphasizes “we” and not “me” throughout the book as the best way to be an effective leader. Ward’s 100 point leadership skills in the back of the book is a great references. I highly recommend anyone who wants to succeed too not just read this book but to encourage others to read it as well. One good leader is great but an army of leaders can do the impossible. Enjoy.

Ron hits the nail on the head on his aspect of leading others and navigating through personal growth. The #100 Dirty Lessons listed are quick reminders to reflect on. I throughly enjoyed the book because he shared personal experiences in an easy to read format.

Ron Ward does an outstanding job of illustrating helpful leadership tips in a fun and memorable way. Ron's colorful childhood experiences are hilarious to read. Knowing where he came from drives home the key elements of the book which I highly recommend.

Practical and effective advice presented in an easily digestible way. Helpful to both the emerging and established leader.

Very helpful and insightful! Once I started it I couldn't finish it! Absolute must have!

I could not put this book down!!

Well-round consideration of the many issues facing mangers.

Ron is the real deal. I know because I was one of the team that developed the U.S. Probation Department’s Officer Safety Program in the mid 1990s, which is when I first met Ron. The Program was good when I retired, before the FLETC Academy opened in Charleston. Ron made it better. He didn’t do so alone, but through his ability to motivate those around him to reach for the best in themselves and in others. That is the sine qua non of leadership. The Federal Judicial Center’s Leadership Development Program‘s inaugural class (1992) was responsible for taking me to that leadership position, so I can attest to knowing the subject matter of Leadership. Ron hits the nail on the head by emphasizing the importance of having a clear vision for the organization you are seeking to lead; an uncompromising commitment to pursuing that organization’s mission with integrity; an ability to relate to those within your purview with compassion, all while exercising your courage daily. This book touches on the benchmarks of leadership without bludgeoning you with academic jargon. It is a breeze to read and an inspiration to ponder. I’ve passed my copy on to two worthy aspiring young leaders already.

This book is full of interesting, true stories that help people understand the lessons Mr. Ward tells us about leadership. At first I have to admit I thought the book may not apply to me very much because I don't manage other people for a living, but I was wrong! This book is for everyone from the corporate CEO to the stay at home mom. There are golden nuggets of wisdom throughout this book that can help everyone! Take a step to better yourself and maximize your leadership capabilities in ways you may not expect. I highly recommend it!

Very good book, also I personally know the author where he started to what he has became is proof enough as to his knowledge. Buy it you won't be disappointed!

My supervisor gave me this book to read after I completed an in house career development initiative training program. The initiative involved leadership training & at least two book reviews. I wish this book had been on the list of approved book, however, it hadn’t been published. I will definitely recommend adding it to this list of books for the program. Why? Ron presents lessons in leadership and how to deal with crucial conversations as a leader/manager using real life examples. This is not a book filled with technical jargon, written by someone who really has no leadership experience as a lot of online training modules, etc. are. Ron presents “dirty lessons” throughout and has a personal example of each. If you’re looking for a book that’s easy to understand and identify with as you grow your leadership skills this is a great one to purchase.

I highly recommend this book! I loved its readability and relativity. Written in a very down to earth style. It gives real life examples and practical solutions to challenges not only encountered in management, but in other aspects of life. A real page turner! And there are not many leadership books out there I can say that about! In full transparency, I was Ron’s colleague as part of the management team in the Probation and Pretrial Services Office at the AOUSC for about 5 years, but wouldn’t write this review until I had finished reading it. This is no rubber stamp! First book I’ve read in YEARS for pleasure and I don’t regret a moment. Very well done!

With Ron being my cousin, I have first hand knowledge to his path becoming the manager/leader that he evolved into. Always the leader, I knew he would aspire to great things in life. Our humble beginnings in the coalfields, and the adversities that we faced, were the catalyst that propelled Ron to have a hunger to excel in life. He has always been even-tempered, and very charasmatic. I have always looked up to him, and it is my pleasure to endorse him to the world for qualities that I have always seen. Ron uses his life experiences, and his exceptional character to bring out leadership qualities, and pitfalls that will help any leader/manager in any organization. Truly inspiring book that I enjoyed thouroughly, and highly recommend to read! You will not be disappointed!

I have had the pleasure to work with Ron for several years in various capacities. This book is authentically how Ron is, he wants other to succeed and made it his life’s work to help others. I could hear his voice as I was reading the book, and have been given several of these Dirty Lessons from him in person. This book reads easily and packs a punch in content. The personal stories definitely make this book more engaging than the typically dry leadership book. Thanks Ron, for putting all of these lessons into one place so we can all benefit from your experience. As I am now beginning a new journey in executive leadership, this book came at just the right time.

I loved the book! Wow it is very helpful in every day decision making. If you are a leader or manager or if you just enjoy a good read this book is for you. It’s an easy read and very entertaining. I hope to apply the Dirty secrets I have learned in this book!

I found this book and the writer to be on the cutting edge of the realities of being a leader in today’s society. College classes did very little to prepare me for a position as a leader. The skills and knowledge I discovered in this amazing book would have assisted me as I navigated through the many trials of being a leader. As I found out. Being a leader is not all clean and clear. Sometimes you see the dirty side - let this book be your instruction manual for the dirty side.

I had the opportunity to train with Ron Ward at various times in my career, and I find him to be a gifted instructor and storyteller. Those traits clearly shine through in his enlightening and informative book that will help you whether you are geared towards the management path or just wish to be able to better navigate your life's personal interactions. He combines personal experiences with the lessons in easily understandable segments of material, so it was a pleasure to read even at the end of a long day at the office. You can see that he put his heart into the material with the hope that you will find the deeper meaning in the personal experiences that he shares. For leadership, management, and an overall pragmatic approach to life and problem solving, I highly recommend The Dirty Side of Leadership: The Dirty Lessons about Management Coaching and Team Development by Ron Ward.

Ron's book is more than enlightening--it shares with the reader direct knowledge from lived experience that, when applied, will help anyone interested in being a leader become the very best, possible version of one. Such applied knowledge will take an individual or any organization to a much higher level--the highest quality level possible. I challenge others to share this book with at least 3-5 of those who have the ability to influence and aim to be effective leaders. --Maureen H.

Every young leader needs to read this book. The lessons come in bite sized chunks that can and should be thoroughly chewed on to get the most of the lessons shared. I served for 22 years in the Navy and as a senior leader for 13 of those years. This book would have been so helpful to me during the early days of my leadership journey. Leadership is dirty, but your people are worth getting dirty for.

An amazing leadership book that took me through a personal journey of development, defeat, success, fear and humility. I have read many leadership books that tell me what to do to be great. This is the first book where I connected with the author on areas where I am not so great, he was not so great, yet there are ways to work toward individual greatness. The stories are real and Ron Ward keeps it real.

This is a wonderful book! There's a clear no-nonsense approach to leadership with real life examples. Following the author on his leadership path is funny, sometimes sad, and always meaningful! Great read!

Ron is an engaging storyteller so his lessons are remembered. Excellent and easy read!

This book was well written and very informative! It really does show the dirty side of leadership! It defines the emotions,trials and hard decisions made by upper management while being amusing at times. I have know Ron for many years and lived in the same area as he did. Therefore,I loved reading about his childhood days in Southwest Virginia! Bravo Ron!

This book is unbelievable! It's by far one of the best books on leadership. Ron does an amazing job not sugarcoating anything. His passion really shows through this book. It's an easy read that so enjoyable plus the benefits that can be taken out of it. ANYONE can read this book. Now, take a drink of coffee and order this book!

I loved the Dirty side of leadership. Ron is such an amazing leader. So much about his youth i can relate to. The bullying is so real I love that he worked very hard to be better every day. I recommend this book to everyone. Great job Ron!!!

Great book! Once you pick it up you can’t put it down! Definitely helped even though I’m not in law enforcement it helped my management style!

The Dirty Side of Leadership is a must-read for emerging leaders working to affect healthy and lasting change!

Insightful, inspiring, humorous... A must-read for anyone who desires to become a better leader, regardless of current position/title. This would be an awesome recommendation to use as a PD resource!

This book is very practical. Written for all to understand and grow in leadership. I would encourage all people to get this book. It is funny while teaching life lessons.

" the dirty side of leadership "es un excelente, extraordinario e importante libro de liderazgo felicitaciones al autor de este maravilloso libro

This is an excellent book, it should be a required read for anyone working in a leadership or management role.

I have known Ron Ward for a long time This book so far is awesome. He is an amazing guy

I find it most intriguing. Thanks for a great read. Keep up the good work!