Emily is a career-driven thirtysomething with big ambitions. She manages to make an impact at her tech company while finding time for her husband Jason and young son Henry-but when the company passes her up for multiple promotions, she finds herself at a loss for what, or how, she could be doing better. Fate answers her in the form of a kind-and surprisingly direct-older man in a coffee shop, who helped her clean up a spill. A well-respected CEO before he retired, David is a treasure trove of leadership knowledge. Emily is at a point in her life where she needs direction. Growing Influence outlines their weekly meetings together, as well as Emily's challenge of putting her lessons from David into practice despite a sexist boss and patriarchal workplace.

Growing Influence is a truly unique book in that it offers readers both solid, practicable advice on how to grow their leadership skills and a relatable account of one woman's personal growth by putting the principles of the book into practice. Unlike nonfiction business books, or business memoirs, this story is a true "business fable" that is both impactful and potentially transformative.