7 Books to Start 2026 Strong

7 Books to Start 2026 Strong

Author: Kevin Pannell January 1, 2026 Duration: 10:12

In this episode, I share seven books I read, or returned to, in 2025 that helped me stay disciplined, grounded, and clear-headed heading into 2026.

These aren’t trend-driven recommendations. They’re books focused on hardship, meaning, faith, resilience, and personal responsibility. Some pushed me physically, others reshaped how I think about suffering and connection. All of them helped me show up better in my life and leadership.

Books Discussed in This Episode

  • The Stability Equation
  • Discipline Equals Freedom Field Manual
  • The Wim Hof Method
  • What Doesn’t Kill Us
  • Man’s Search for Meaning
  • Lost Connections
  • The Amplified Bible

Read the full post and resources:

https://peopleprocessprogress.com/2026/01/01/7-books-to-start-2026-strong/

Own your mind.

Move your body.

Anchor your spirit.


Kevin Pannell has operated in environments where a single decision carries immense weight. As a former Navy Hospital Corpsman in critical care, a Firefighter/EMT, and now an Enterprise IT PMO leader, he’s learned that meticulous plans are only as good as the moment they fall apart. His People, Process, Progress podcast explores what happens next. This isn't theoretical management advice; it's a deep dive into the frameworks that actually function under pressure. Each episode draws direct lines between the sterile intensity of an ICU, the unpredictable chaos of a 911 call, and the complex political landscapes of modern corporate projects. You'll hear concrete stories and dissected strategies about guiding teams through uncertainty, adapting processes in real time, and finding a path forward when the expected one vanishes. The conversations are built on a simple, powerful premise: true progress isn't about avoiding failure, but about mastering your response to it. For anyone leading teams, managing careers, or simply interested in the mechanics of decisive action, this podcast offers a rare, grounded perspective. Tune in for honest discussions on resilience, leadership, and the practical tools that turn breakdowns into breakthroughs.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

People. Process. Progress.
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