The Eight Sources of Power

What Makes People Follow a Leader?

The Eight Sources of Power: A Tale of Leading with Purpose explores this timeless question through a blend of historical fiction and practical insight. Set in the capital of Siam 1687 AD (now Thailand), the story follows Tao and four classmates as they enter The Siam Leadership Academy. Supported by King Narai and guided by a visionary founder Mongkut, the students learn eight transformative sources of power:

The Power of Invitation - enlisting talented collaborators

The Power of the Open Hand - creating curiosity and innovation

The Power of Framing - turning fear into courage

The Power of Praxis - applying expertise to innovate

The Power of Substitution - replacing uncertainty with confidence

The Power of Solidarity - listening to the stories of others

The Power of Building the Wheel - assembling a team and sharing the credit

The Power of Patience - preparing for the right moment

Much like Patrick Lencioni's The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, you'll enjoy a powerful story while learning practical leadership strategies you can use right now. Guided questions and modern applications steer you to reflect upon your own leadership skills. The Eight Sources of Power introduces timeless wisdom to an unsteady world-where managers, employees, and entrepreneurs search for solutions grounded in purpose.

DAVID C. BAUMAN, PhD is a business professor and chair at Regis University. As a researcher, teacher, and organizational consultant, he brings a unique blend of scholarly depth and real-world practicality to his work. As a seminar leader and speaker, David inspires his audiences to lead with courage and integrity. He lives in Colorado.