Breaking Through: Communicating to Open Minds, Move Hearts, and Change the World

by Sally Susman Narrated by Sally Susman

Overview

A global pandemic. A roller-coaster economy. Political tensions ready to ignite, and common civility at an all-time low. For leaders, the pressures and the stakes could not be higher. And in such a stormy, often dangerous world, communications can no longer be considered a soft skill. The ability to lead and drive the public conversation is a rock-hard competency.



In this wise and inspiring book, Sally Susman, the renowned head of corporate affairs at global biopharmaceutical giant Pfizer, tells the fascinating story of how the multinational managed the massive communications challenge that came with Covid and the race to produce an effective vaccine. Just as crucial as creating the vaccine itself was the task of winning people's hearts and minds, and Susman highlights the principles that enabled her to break through, connect, and help move people forward, not only at Pfizer but over a stellar career. She shows how clarifying and channeling your intention is an essential first step: What are you trying to say? She illustrates how, in order to be effective, leaders need to muster the courage for candor; and how, in order to connect, they must both disarm with humility and delight with humor. As a gay, married woman, she talks forthrightly about the challenges and opportunities of embracing who you are, both at home and in the workplace.

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

Named one of the Top 50 Business Books of 2023 by The Next Big Idea Club

"Susman's stories will draw you in with their warmth and humanity, and enlighten and motivate you with their insight and passion." — Midwest Book Review

"[Breaking Through] is in part memoir, in part an account of how the new vaccine was introduced to the public, and in part a manual for chief executives and public relations managers. It is this blending of themes and the author's narrative skills that make this an interesting read." — The East Hampton Star

"For those who want to improve their communication skills… [Breaking Through] is a worthy read." — CMSWire

"Breaking Through is a highly readable book, with a surprising amount of current political and cultural insight woven into the business and communications aspect of the content. For those working in corporate communications it might feel familiar in an affirming way; for others, this book can provide helpful guidance in becoming more professional in everyday communication." — Pioneer Press

"Breaking Through: Communicating to Open Minds, Move Hearts, and Change the World avoids the pitfalls of leadership books that can at times be dry and self-serving. Susman offers practical advice from someone who has earned her place as a trusted adviser during crises." — Axios

Advance Praise for Breaking Through:

"Sally Susman knows a great deal about the importance of clear communication to living an authentic life. Her deeply touching and often humorous stories will stay with you and help you navigate and advance in your own professional life." — Indra Nooyi, former CEO and Chairperson, PepsiCo; New York Times bestselling author, My Life in Full

"Breaking Through is a beautifully written, essential work on the importance of communication, full of humor and heart. Sally Susman delivers a commanding master class and a must-read." — Mika Brzezinski, cohost, MSNBC's Morning Joe; founder, Know Your Value

"Sally Susman has devoted her career to bringing clarity to complexity, change, and crisis, and in this book she shares memorable stories and practical insights to help you get heard." — Adam Grant, #1 New York Times bestselling author, Think Again; host,TED podcast ReThinking

"A brave trailblazer in her field, Sally Susman has helped hundreds of careers flourish—and this book will ensure the success of hundreds of thousands more." — Reshma Saujani, founder and CEO, Girls Who Code and Marshall Plan for Moms

"People like Sally Susman have always known that communication isn't a soft skill—it's the bedrock of business and an absolute requirement for success. Putting her principles to work will help you clarify and reach your goals and be a better leader." — Arianna Huffington, founder and CEO, Thrive Global

"The world's best handbook for how to build and maintain trust at work—and why it's essential for any communications you do. No one could write this book but Sally Susman." — Daniel Roth, Editor in Chief and Vice President, LinkedIn

Product Details

BN ID:	2940176712063
Publisher:	Ascent Audio
Publication date:	03/28/2023
Edition description:	Unabridged

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