Unlearning Book Club: Experts Of Our Potential w/ Brian Fretwell

The trope of the strong but emotionally or intellectually underdeveloped man runs deep in Western mythology and literature. These characters are often physically powerful or brave but lack wisdom, self-awareness, or emotional depth—which leads to their downfall or limits their growth. Some classic examples include, but are not limited to:

1. Hercules (Greek Mythology)

   1. Strength: Unmatched physical power and heroic feats (the Twelve Labors).

   2. Lack of insight: Despite his strength, Hercules is often impulsive and easily manipulated. He famously kills his wife and children in a fit of madness, which is the tragic starting point for his labors.

   3. Emotional development: Minimal—his journey is more about endurance than introspection.

      
      

2. Achilles (Greek Mythology, The Iliad)

   1. Strength: Greece’s greatest warrior.

   2. Flaws: Petty, prideful, and emotionally reactive. He sulks in his tent and lets his comrades die because of a bruised ego.

   3. Downfall: His lack of emotional maturity and inability to reconcile pride with compassion results in prolonged suffering for many.

      
      

3. Macbeth (Shakespeare)

   1. Strength: Brave warrior and competent leader.

   2. Downfall: Lacks moral and emotional clarity. His ambition and susceptibility to manipulation lead him to murder and madness.

And yet, in Experts of Our Potential, this month's Unlearning Book Club pick, a very different hero mythos emerges. One you may not expect—or, like me, may not even catch—until well after you’ve finished the book. (Here’s a hint: think Fight Club...)

I recently sat down with author and Founder of Finding Good, Brian Fretwell, to explore what happens when a seasoned coach is pushed to his limits by a male client on the brink of giving up. Brian shares the behind-the-scenes story of Chris, a driven yet disillusioned client, whose struggles force them both to reexamine everything they thought they knew about success, value, and growth.

This isn't just a story of personal failure or triumph. It’s a new paradigm for how we show up in business, leadership, and life.

Watch Here >

Experts Of Our Potential

by Brian Fretwell

If you've ever felt the gut punch of losing a job, a business, or both and found yourself wondering what to do next, this book is for you. This business coach thinks he's seen it all - until his client, Chris, his toughest client, suddenly finds himself ready to throw in the towel on all his big goals. Their confrontations make the coach question everything. Plagued by crippling failure and dizzying change in the marketplace, Chris drives his coach to the brink, and both men are changed forever. Packed with insights into neuroscience, psychology, business, and behind-the-scenes coaching strategies, it will help you discover the true value in others - and in yourself.