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Saxton Summer Reads: Top Books by Leading Speakers

Georgia Brennan
03 Dec 2024

This summer, the Saxton team is diving into an exciting lineup of books from our talented Speakers. From powerful personal stories to innovative business insights and the occasional gin cocktail to keep you refreshed, these titles showcase the depth and diversity of thought leaders on our roster. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, advice or just a great read, these new releases are sure to captivate. Here’s what we’re reading – and what should be on your bookshelf this season!

Layne Beachley & Tess Brouwer - Awake Academy: Know Yourself, Grow Yourself and Live a Happier, More Purposeful Life

Feeling adrift or seeking a renewed sense of purpose? In Awake Academy: Know Yourself, Grow Yourself and Live a Happier, More Purposeful Life, seven-time world surfing champion Layne Beachley and Tess Brouwer, a positive psychology practitioner, share their transformative journeys from personal and professional upheaval to empowerment. This book offers practical exercises and insights to help you become more centred, connected, and confident. It's an essential guide for anyone ready to unlock their potential and live a more purposeful life.

Matt Jones - Lessons from Gin: Business the Four Pillars Way

Curious about what it takes to build a global brand from the ground up? Lessons from Gin: Business the Four Pillars Way by Matt Jones reveals the secrets behind the rise of Four Pillars Gin, from a humble Aussie distillery to an internationally awarded sensation.

Blending business insights with creative strategy and a splash of humour, Matt shares the triumphs, challenges, and key decisions that shaped their success. Complete with inspiring lessons and even a few gin recipes, this is a must-read for entrepreneurs, innovators, and gin lovers alike.

Gina Chick - We Are The Stars

If you’ve heard Gina Chick speak, you know her story will be raw, fearless, and unforgettable. We Are the Stars invites readers into Gina’s remarkable journey – through a chaotic childhood, the allure of ’90s Sydney nightlife, heartbreak, healing, and the deep connection she found in the wilderness.

Winner of Alone Australia and a masterful storyteller, Gina shares a memoir rich in lessons about resilience, love, and the wisdom found in the natural world. Honest, unflinching, and full of heart, this is a must-read for those ready to embrace the messiness and magic of being human.


Unlike anything I have ever read. I can't wait to give this to everyone I love. Read it. Hugh Jackman

Ben Shewry - Uses for Obsession: A Chef's Memoir

In Uses for Obsession, Ben Shewry, the celebrated chef behind Attica, shares an inspiring account of his journey to the top of the culinary world. This book offers more than recipes and industry insights—it’s a guide to leadership, innovation, and high performance. Through personal stories, Ben reflects on what it takes to lead with authenticity, foster creativity, and overcome challenges. A must-read for anyone looking to ignite passion and purpose in their work.

Deeply thoughtful, unflinchingly honest and heartwarmingly original. Ben's unique creativity is clearly not limited to Attica. Hamish Blake

Dr Norman Swan - So You Want To Know What's Good for Your Kids?

If you trust Dr Norman Swan, you know his latest book will be practical, honest, and full of clarity. So You Want to Know What’s Good for Your Kids? is a must-have guide for modern parenting, tackling the big questions every parent faces. From sleep and screen time to diet and anxiety, Dr Swan cuts through the noise with evidence-based advice and real-world solutions for raising healthy, happy children.

Perfect for parents of kids aged 0-10, this book is your go-to companion for navigating the joys and challenges of parenthood with confidence.

Julie Goodwin - Your Time Starts Now

In Your Time Starts Now, Julie Goodwin, Australia's first MasterChef winner, shares her extraordinary journey from youth worker to culinary icon. This candid memoir shares insights into her experiences with sudden fame, personal challenges, and mental health struggles, offering readers an intimate look at her resilience and passion for food. Filled with humour, heart, and inspiring stories, it's a compelling read for anyone interested in the highs and lows of a life dedicated to cooking and personal growth.

Steve Vamos - Through Shifts and Shocks: Lessons from the Frontline of Technology and Change

Through Shifts and Shocks offers a rare glimpse into the leadership insights of Steve Vamos, a seasoned executive behind some of the world's most successful companies, including Xero, Apple, and Microsoft. Drawing from decades at the forefront of technological change, Steve shares practical lessons for navigating disruption, building resilient teams, and driving meaningful progress.

Part memoir, part leadership manual, this book is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to lead with clarity and purpose in an ever-evolving world. Essential for leaders, innovators, and lifelong learners.

A must-read, sharing inspired insights into what it takes to be a great leader of people and organisations, from one of the best. David Thodey AO

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