In today’s fast-changing and often uncertain environment, the Central and Eastern European region is facing a unique leadership moment. As economies mature and organizations seek to innovate, the traditional command-and-control style of leadership—still prevalent in many parts of the CEE business culture — is no longer enough. What’s needed is a new kind of leadership: one that builds trust, fosters human connection, and encourages bold thinking.

This is exactly why Dare to Lead matters today — not just for women, but for anyone ready to lead with courage and authenticity. Brené Brown’s work offers a timely, research-based roadmap for shifting from fear-based to trust-based leadership — something the CEE region is more than ready for.

In 2018, fresh off the press and straight into my hands, Dare to Lead by Brené Brown became my own birthday gift.

Here’s the photo proof—me, beaming with excitement,

holding the book that would soon reshape how I think about leadership, vulnerability, and courage:

Based on Brené’s previous books, I knew it would be an inspiring book. What I didn’t know yet was how deeply it would influence the way I show up—not just as a leader, but as a human.

Fast forward to 2021, and I was hosting a Dare to Lead book club with my leadership team at MOL. Not your typical feel-good bonding activity—this was 10 weeks of real talk. We dove into values, fear, empathy, and trust. We got uncomfortable. We grew.

Our team consisted of engineers and geoscientists — most of them not used to talking about vulnerability at work. And yet, by the end, something had shifted. We were more open, more connected, and, without a doubt, more daring.

That experience became a blueprint for what I believe female leadership development should look like.

In the Aspiring Women Leaders program at SEED Executive School, we create that same space — one of reflection, courage, and deep connection. A space where women step out of “proving mode” and step into their authentic leadership power.

As Brené says: “Clear is kind. Unclear is unkind.” Our program helps women get clear—on their values, their vision, and the kind of leader they want to be.

So if you’re ready to lead not with armor, but with courage—start with this book. Or better yet, join our program that helps you live it.

The book review was written by Dr. Anita Csoma, Managing Faculty and Head of Innovation and Program Design at SEED Executive School.