In this episode of The Business Book Club, we explore Alison Fragale’s groundbreaking work “Likeable Badass”, which redefines what it means to be both kind and confident in leadership. Drawing on her background as a social psychologist and negotiation expert, Fragale reveals how to balance warmth and assertiveness — two traits often seen as opposites — to build influence, credibility, and authentic power.

Throughout the discussion, we unpack the research behind why people who master this balance are the most trusted and persuasive leaders. Fragale offers real-world strategies for speaking up without apology, setting boundaries with confidence, and being taken seriously while still being approachable. The result? A framework that empowers professionals to stop choosing between being liked and being respected — and instead, to be both.

By the end of the episode, listeners walk away with a toolkit for becoming their own version of a “likeable badass” — someone who leads with empathy, communicates with impact, and inspires trust and loyalty in every interaction.