Strengthen Your Leadership Muscles: 12 Must-Read Books to Fuel Success in 2025

Kick off the new year with insight and inspiration from fellow shop owners on their top book recommendations that have helped them stay fit mentally while refining their leadership, operational excellence and customer service strategies.

As the new year approaches, many people make resolutions to hit the gym, adopt healthier routines or level up their fitness goals. But what about fitness for the mind? Just as regular workouts build physical strength, consistently challenging ourselves to read and learn can sharpen our skills. For shop owners and managers, setting time aside for personal and professional development is an investment in their business and themselves. Studies show that 85% of successful entrepreneurs attribute part of their growth to regular reading—a powerful tool to gain new perspectives, spark fresh ideas, and keep competitive.

Picking up a book is like stepping into the gym for the brain—a workout designed to improve leadership, sharpen operational skills, and enhance customer relations. This year, gain some powerful “reps” for your mind with these top recommendations from fellow industry pros.

We asked top industry leaders to share their top picks for the new year, books that promise to sharpen leadership, enhance communication, and refine shop operations.

Rachel Spencer, Spencer’s Auto Repair, Krum, Texas

Spencer emphasizes the power of consistency in reading. She believes reading broadens perspectives and introduces new ways to tackle business challenges, whether for a few minutes each morning or through audiobooks during commutes. Here are her recommendations:

1. “Leaders Eat Last” by Simon Sinek

Sinek’s book redefines leadership by emphasizing trust and empathy. Spencer found it transformative to understand how leaders can build a safe, collaborative space for their teams, enhancing loyalty and long-term success.

2. “Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown

Brown’s insights on vulnerability and courage in leadership resonated deeply with Spencer. The book has helped her navigate tough conversations and build trust, creating a more resilient and connected team environment.

Lucas Underwood, L&N Performance Auto Repair, Blowing Rock, N.C.

For Underwood, reading calms the mind and improves communication skills. He advocates reading before bed to shift focus away from work stress, making him more effective in conversations and decision-making. Underwood recommends these titles:

3. “The Talent Code” by Daniel Coyle

This book explores the science behind learning and team development, a resource Underwood finds invaluable. He uses its insights to understand why specific skills don’t stick and how to improve training and growth within his team.

4. “Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time” by Jeff Sutherland

Although aimed at software development, Underwood sees its relevance for any shop owner looking to streamline processes. The Scrum framework offers valuable strategies to boost efficiency and teamwork in any industry.

Tara Topel, Topel’s Service Center, Lake Mills, Wisconsin

Topel believes in setting an example of continual learning for her team. Reading helps her stay adaptable and constantly improve her operations. Topel’s recommendations include:

5. “Buy Back Your Time” by Dan Martell

Martell’s book has transformed how Topel approaches task management and delegation. It’s packed with actionable tips on freeing up time to focus on what matters most, from key business initiatives to personal well-being.

6. “The E-Myth” by Michael Gerber

Gerber’s classic on small business management hit home for Topel. It clarified essential processes, helping her build a solid structure that supports growth without overextension.

Bruce Howes, Atlantic Motorcar Center, Wiscasset, Maine

Bruce Howes takes inspiration from military discipline and ethics, finding wisdom in books that tie leadership to integrity, resilience, and teamwork. Here are some books that have influenced Howes:

7. “Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win” by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin

Willink and Babin’s insights on accountability have shaped Howes’s leadership approach, reminding him that a strong team relies on collective commitment and personal responsibility.

8. “The Warrior Ethos” by Steven Pressfield

Pressfield’s book, rooted in ancient warrior culture, underscores the value of mental toughness and integrity in leadership. Howes finds it a guiding light for tackling daily challenges with resilience and purpose.

Andrew Marcotte, American Pride Automotive, Yorktown, Virginia

Andrew Marcotte wasn’t a natural reader but has grown to appreciate reading as a tool for personal and professional growth. He reads to broaden his perspective and strengthen connections with his team and clients. Marcotte recommends that you include these on your reading list.

9. “The Mentor Leader” by Tony Dungy

Andrew admires Dungy’s coaching philosophy, which centers on influencing others through empathy and encouragement. The book’s actionable advice helps him inspire his team to be their best selves.

10. “Unreasonable Hospitality” by Will Guidara

Guidara’s approach to customer service set a new standard for Marcotte’s shop. With practical tips on creating memorable experiences, it has encouraged his team to aim for world-class service at every customer interaction.

J.J. Mont, JJ’s Auto Repair, Waldorf Auto Repair, Waldorf, Marryland

J.J. Mont believes in servant leadership, an approach he lives out daily by supporting his team’s growth and fostering a collaborative work environment. Here are titles that Mont would recommend:

11. “The Art of Servant Leadership” by Tony Baron

Baron’s focus on service over authority has reinforced Mont’s commitment to building a supportive and empowering culture. It’s helped him foster trust and teamwork on the shop floor, improving overall morale and performance.

12. “The Intangibles of Leadership” by Richard A. Davis

Davis’s insights on traits like authenticity and emotional intelligence struck a chord with Mont, reminding him that these qualities are vital for effective leadership. The book’s focus on intangible leadership skills has enriched his approach to team-building and decision-making.

These 12 books offer a wealth of knowledge for any shop owner looking to make 2025 a transformative year. From enhancing leadership and refining customer service to improving communication and personal productivity, these reads provide practical advice and inspiring insights tailored to the automotive industry’s challenges and opportunities. Consider adding a few of these to your reading list and see how a few chapters a day can drive meaningful change in your shop.