27 Books, TED Talks, and Podcasts to Inspire Your Service Management Journey
Headed to Service Management World soon? Whether you’re hopping on a cross-country flight or driving a few hours, travel time is the perfect chance to fuel your mind and set the stage for a powerful event experience. Instead of scrolling endlessly or zoning out, why not dive into inspiring service management resources that will get you energized, motivated, and ready to connect?
To help, our HDI community pulled together this curated list of books, podcasts, and TED Talks for service management professionals. From leadership classics to fresh perspectives on innovation, this roundup is packed with ideas to spark growth before you even step foot at Service Management World.
So, grab your headphones, download a new audiobook, or bookmark a podcast for the ride. Let’s get inspired together.
Your Pre-Event Inspiration: Books, Podcasts, and TED Talks for Service Management Pros
Books by Service Management World Keynote Speakers
#1: The Dog Poop Initiative by Kirk Weisler
A funny but insightful take on leadership and initiative. Great conversation starter at Service Management World.
#2: Build For Where the World Is Headed by Adam Braun
A guide to shaping the future in times of uncertainty.
#3: Innovation Leadership: Inspiring People to Think Differently by Steve Lerch
Former Google exec shares practical tools for sparking innovation.
#4: Running for Gold by DeeDee Trotter
A motivational memoir from a three-time Olympian with lessons on teamwork, resilience, and success.
Leadership and Workplace Relationships Resources
#5: Think Again by Adam Grant
Challenge your assumptions and embrace rethinking. Perfect prep before networking at Service Management World.
#6: Leading Relationships by Steve McClatchy
A deep dive into leadership dynamics and building stronger professional relationships.
#7: Crucial Conversations by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, et al.
A timeless playbook for navigating tough conversations—essential for service management leaders.
#8: First, Break All the Rules by Marcus Buckingham
A management classic still relevant today.
#9: Let Them by Mel Robbins
Empowering strategies to reduce stress and focus on what really matters. Pair it with her podcast for double the impact.
#10: Confidence By Choice by Juan Bendana
Practical tools for building leadership confidence. (Don’t miss Juan’s keynote at Service Management World!)
#11: The Follower Effect by Dr. Tony Bridwell
Explores how leadership culture shapes service management success.
#12: Allyship Actually by David Barrow and Lucy Grimwade
An important guide to allyship and inclusivity in the workplace.
#13: Dramatically Honest by Sophie Hussey
A practical guide to authenticity in professional life.
Personal Development and Productivity for Service Management Professionals
#14: Atomic Habits by James Clear
A blueprint for creating small habits that lead to big results.
#15: The Third Door by Alex Banayan
Inspiration for finding unconventional paths to success.
#16: Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin
A powerful leadership philosophy rooted in accountability.
#17: The Progress Principle by Teresa Amabile and Steven Kramer
Reveals how small wins fuel motivation—a must for service management professionals.
#18: Servant Leadership in Action by Ken Blanchard
A foundational collection of essays on servant leadership.
Creativity and Innovation
#19: Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull
Behind-the-scenes lessons on building a culture of innovation.
#20: Experience Inc. by Jill Popelka
Practical strategies for improving customer and employee experiences.
Podcasts and Other Media
#21: The Diary of a CEO
Engaging interviews with leaders across industries.
#22: Simon Sinek’s Optimism Podcast
Conversations that center on purpose and possibility.
#23: TEDx Talks
Bite-sized, idea-rich talks perfect for sparking curiosity. Start with this one from Service Management World keynote speaker Adam Braun: The Five Phrases That Can Change Your Life.
#24: Jocko Willink Clips
Quick, no-nonsense lessons in leadership.
#25: Huberman Lab Podcast
Science-based insights into productivity and performance.
#26: The Bytes and Banter Podcast
Inspiring stories and thought leadership brought to you by the HDI Local Chapters community!
Fiction for Relaxation
#27: Throne of Glass Series & A Court of Thorns and Roses Series by Sarah J. Maas
“Sometimes, a good fantasy is the best way to recharge your brain before a big event,” shares HDI community member Rocky McGuire.
Get Ready to Transform Your Service Management Career
As you prepare for Service Management World, let this list of books, podcasts, and TED Talks for service management leaders fuel your growth. Whether you’re learning a new leadership strategy, sharpening your communication skills, or simply unwinding with a great story, these resources will help you show up energized and ready to connect.
Don’t miss the chance to join the brightest minds in service management at Service Management World. Register today and set yourself up for a year of growth, innovation, and connection.