I take refuge in history. It’s not so much an escape as an exploration fueled by an optimistic search for precedents, good or bad, that could shed light on current challenges, big or little. Currently engrossed in Doris Kearns Goodwin’s Team of Rivals, I’m struck by the remarkable leadership skills of Abraham Lincoln that, in the face of perhaps our country’s greatest challenge, matched the occasion. [Side note: Lincoln on Leadership by Donald T. Phillips is a must read for any aspiring leader.]

Undeniably courageous on multiple fronts, Lincoln professed, “It often requires more courage to dare to do right than to fear to do wrong.” With that perspective, we can turn our attention to the challenges of modern marketers, who in their own way must match the occasion and find the courage to help their brands cut through. Admittedly, these individuals won’t be remembered with monuments, but their insights as recorded in our podcasts together may inspire the rest of us to perform our day jobs with a bit more daring.