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New Book by Preston Poore

How Is Greater Than What

Master the Growth and Leadership Skill Everyone Else Ignores

Every leader struggles to find and communicate their “why.”

Young leaders are struggling to have authentic influence.

Entrepreneurs are on a quest to scale.

Churches and nonprofits follow the latest corporate strategies.

Despite our slogans, we focus on numbers.

And it’s not working.

How is Greater than What will open your eyes to what leaders have been missing— in both the business, church, and nonprofit worlds — with practical lessons on how to grow.

Meet Preston Poore

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I’ve spent 30 years leading in Fortune 500 companies like The Coca-Cola Company, The Hershey Company, and numerous nonprofits—learning what works and what doesn’t.

It’s all about how you lead, not just what you accomplish.

I care about leadership because I care about leaders. Especially those who are new, ambitious, and want to grow without spinning their wheels. That’s why I serve on the Samford University Brock School of Business Advisory Board, helping shape the next generation of business minds. 

Beyond corporate leadership, I believe how you lead matters more than what you accomplish. My work as a Colson Fellow and a board member for Christ Led Communities (CLC) reflects my passion for aligning faith and leadership in ways that create real impact.

I’m a Certified Maxwell Leadership Team Speaker, Trainer, and Executive Coach.

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Drawing from his rich corporate and nonprofit experience, Preston Poore offers transformative insights and exercises that empower leaders to grow personally and professionally, leading with greater integrity, authenticity, and impact.”

— Jordan Raynor
bestselling author of Redeeming Your Time

Endorsements

"How Is Greater Than What is a genuinely engaging journey of personal enlightenment. In a refreshingly candid and self-disclosing style, Preston Poore takes you inside his daily work life, revealing missteps, successes, and lessons learned. He has poured his soul into this book, and his central message comes across on every page:  how you travel through work and life is the most significant guiding principle. Filled with relatable true stories and practical tips, Preston’s journey reveals how devoting oneself to personal growth and caring for others can liberate the leader in everyone.  I encourage you to see for yourself how he came to this realization and how you can benefit from his experience."

— Jim Kouzes
Co-author of the bestselling The Leadership Challenge

"Leaders are always pursuing more influence. That’s not a bad thing. But are we approaching our goals the right way? Preston's experience, heart, and message will help you put first things first in how you lead."

— Tami Heim
President & CEO, Christian Leadership Alliance
"How Is Greater Than What is a necessary gut punch. Preston Poore doesn’t write from theory; he writes from scars. This isn’t a book about climbing ladders; it’s about walking worthy. It’s about leading in a way that does more than just impress people. The stories are raw. The insights are earned. And the message is clear: your methods matter. In a culture that celebrates outcomes and overlooks character, this book calls leaders back to the narrow road where integrity, humility, and Christlike influence shape what truly lasts. I didn’t just read this, I sat with it. Highlighter in one hand, mirror in the other. If you lead people, I recommend you do the same."
 
— Christopher Simpson
President & CEO, CBMC International

"How Is Greater Than What is not only a great book, but a foundational truth that positively impacts the way we work and the way we relate with everyone in our lives. There is an abundance of excellent guidance in this book to help us become better leaders, and it’s woven with so many stories and examples that enable us to connect and relate—the good, the bad, and the reality that we are all imperfect and growing.  Process, People, and Purpose are at the center of everything, and that is powerful!”

— Julie Nee
Vice President, The Jon Gordon Companies & former Hershey Companies executive

“Through vivid storytelling, actionable takeaways, and a cohesive narrative, Preston Poore has perfectly captured the essence of inspired leadership.  His genuineness and authenticity come through on every page.  How is Greater Than What is destined to be essential reading for both budding and seasoned leaders.”

— Peter J. de Silva, L.H.D
Best Selling Author & CEO IRALOGIX

"Truly great leaders are more focused on the journey than the destination. In the long run, how we do things along the way is more important than where we end up. People care and they notice. Ultimately, a leader’s legacy will be defined by their “How”.  Preston does a great job of driving this journey attitude home in his new book, How Is Greater Than What."

— Todd Hopkins
International Best-Selling Author and Founder of Office Pride & Strategic Thinking Network

“As CEO of the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Research Foundation, I enthusiastically endorse this impactful book that redefines leadership by emphasizing how we lead is far more important than the outcomes we achieve. In a world often focused on immediate results, this book reminds us of the essential qualities of purposeful, empathetic leadership. Its insights are applicable across various fields, including healthcare and research, and encourage readers to reflect on their journeys while embracing values that foster trust and collaboration. For anyone seeking to make a meaningful impact, this book provides a roadmap for positive change and inspires the cultivation of a transformative leadership legacy."

— Laura MacNeill
CEO, CMT Research Foundation

"How Is Greater Than What is a must-read for anyone who wants to take their leadership to the next level. Preston Poore shows us that it's not about the destination, but how you get there. You want inspiration? It's here. You want hilarious stories? It's on the next page! You want a book to give to your friends? (whispers) You're holding it. Thank you, Preston, for writing this book!"

— Ross Kimball
Actor (Jury Duty, other things), Comedian, Speaker, Founder of Show Up Better Communications

“If you’re looking for and a great way to make this world and your work better, you’ve picked upthe right book. Preston’s authentic stories and breadth of leadership experience will guide you to a life of significance and deeper purpose.”

— Kent Chevalier
Athletes in Action, Pittsburgh Steelers Chaplain

"A must-read for values-driven leaders. In How is Greater Than What, Preston reminds us that success isn’t just about the destination. It’s about how we choose to get there. With clarity and conviction, he shows us that integrity, ethics, and moral discernment are not just ideals, but essential tools for the impact that lasts beyond the destination."

— Dean Crowe
Founder & CEO, Rally Foundation

"Preston Poore's book is a rare combination of profound and entertaining. It starts at full speed with a story that sucks you in, and it kept me hooked the whole time. I highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a life of meaning and success. It turns out that the noble path is also the most productive path in the end, too."

— Scott Wozniak
Author of Make Your Brand Legendary and CEO of Swoz Consulting

“There is no shortage of people who are quick to tell you what to do but finding people who will take the time to show you how, that is a treasure. This is how true leaders lead, and how real impact is made. Preston’s book How is Greater than What, is the bold call to action that leaders need to make the true impact that they were created for and called to.”

— Davin Salvango
Bestselling author of Thieves of Purpose, Co-founder of The Purpose Summit

"Preston’s book is a must-read for leaders who want to elevate their performance and become better human beings in the process. With a blend of real-life storytelling and practical advice, he addresses the challenges faced by today’s leaders—whether feeling burned out, disconnected, or struggling to build trust. This book offers invaluable insights for anyone seeking to lead with impact, purpose, and integrity in a rapidly changing world."

— Elizabeth Dixon
President, CEO, Trilith Foundation & Founder, CEO Slumber Sleepware

“How many times will a leader drive through the pothole of ‘It’s not what you said, it’s how you said it’ before making the single greatest change necessary to catalyze people, fortify culture and drive outcomes?  In How Is Greater Than What, Preston Poore skillfully guides leaders to remove the primary obstacle to their success…inattention to the humanity of leadership …and replace it with the authenticity, purpose and meaning necessary to achieve greatness.”

— Scott Caldwell
President, CLC (Christ Led Communities)

“Preston Poore's How>What is a powerful guide for emerging leaders who aspire to make a meaningful impact in their organizations. Preston brilliantly connects the dots between purpose, leadership, and personal growth, emphasizing that how we lead is far more important than just what we achieve. His insights resonate deeply with my belief that leadership begins with personal transformation. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their leadership game and make a lasting difference.”

— Clay Scroggins
Author of How to Lead When You're Not in Charge

Though we might first look at the leaves and branches, the ultimate health of a tree is fundamentally determined by its roots. I loved delving into How is Greater Than What because Preston Poore skillfully unpacks a reality too often overlooked in leadership philosophy and coaching: the primary importance of the “root system” in our leadership — roots like identity, purpose, character, courage, and integrity. Through keen observation, practical wisdom, and personal experiences, he invites us into beneath-the-surface habits which foster healthy, impactful influence while guiding us away from the danger of being so fixated on the “what” in our leadership endeavors that we neglect the all-important “how.”

– Matt Heard
President of Thrive Fully Alive, Inc. and author of Life with a Capital L: Embracing Your God-given Humanity

"As an officer in the US Air Force, I learned if leaders take care of their people, their people will take care of the mission. In How Is Greater Than What, Preston Poore makes a compelling case for why your organization's people and the process matter more than its end product."

— Darren Shearer
Author, The Christ-Centered Company

"How Is Greater Than What not only redefines what success looks like but also lights the path for those striving to leave a positive mark on the world, by living a life of significance.  You will walk away not just inspired, but equipped—ready to lead, to serve, and to build your legacy defined not by titles or accolades, but by the lives that you have touched along the way."

— Mark Whitacre
Vice President, Culture & Care & Executive Director of t-factor, Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. 

“Most leadership books focus on one of three areas: vision, strategy, or results; all vital aspects of building a successful organization. However, in How Is Greater Than What, Preston Poore makes the compelling case that the true differentiator in leadership, the thing that is catalytic in everything you do as a leader, is your how. How you communicate, How you execute. How you develop people. And how you develop yourself. Whether you lead a large corporation or a start-up non profit How Is Greater Than What will help you build the imperative foundation to help you become a successful leader people will want to follow.”

— Kevin Marks
Passion Publishing and Conferences

Preston has poured himself into this book by sharing personal, vulnerable, and helpful stories of why it is so important to know the “how” rather than the “what” to accomplish great things as a leader. As a seasoned business executive with the largest corporations, he uses his teaching, coaching, and communication skills to document in this book what thousands have already heard in his training sessions.  Preston is now willing to share this in his crafted handbook for knowing the reason behind effective leadership. I’ve always felt there was a difference between being a boss, a leader, or an owner. Preston articulates that difference so well and encourages those who aspire to nurture, protect, and provide are those who are easily followed. Preston uses incredible word pictures, quotes, and stories to communicate. He followed the example of Jesus' effective communication and achieved great success with this work. I highly recommend this to all who aspire to become effective and truly successful in this world and the next.

– Raymond H Harris
Architect, author, executive movie producer, venture capitalist in God’s kingdom

“Preston Poore has delivered another book that pulls from his extensive corporate experience and fuses that with insights from his life and personal network to produce a must read for today’s leaders as well as the leaders of tomorrow.”

— Dr. Charles M (Chad) Carson, Ph.D.
Professor of Management, Brock School of Business, Samford University

“As someone who has lived at the intersection of faith and the corporate world, I found How is Greater Than What to be both deeply relatable and profoundly convicting. Preston’s honesty, practical wisdom, and Christ-centered values oTer a much-needed paradigm for leaders who want to do more than climb ladders—they want to elevate people.”

— Steve Adams
Co-founder and Executive Director, Embracing Brokenness Ministries

"I’ve found that if you get the top button of a shirt wrong, all the others are off; but if you get that one right, all the others line up. Through his journey and learnings, Preston Poore brilliantly tells us how to get the top button of work, life, and faith right and see alignment and significance flourish. This is leadership that works!"

— Dr. Michael Sprague
Louisiana State Chaplain, Capitol Commission

How is Greater Than What provides proven principles and guidelines on leadership and innovative ways of growing influence with sincere, selfless motives. It emphasizes the value of knowing your purpose and calling, as well as the importance of being authentic in leading and serving others. This book is a must-read for up-and-coming public safety leaders.

– Dr. Kelvin J. Cochran
Former U.S. Fire Administrator; Former Fire Chief of the City of Atlanta, GA, and the City of Shreveport, LA

“How you show up as a leader ultimately determines lasting success. This practical read provides executives with a comprehensive framework for building influence brick by brick, navigating disruption with resilience, and creating elite client experiences that set you apart in any market. Whether you're leading a startup or steering an established enterprise, this book will fundamentally change how you measure success and build a legacy that transcends mere results.”

— Dr. Chip Roper
CSO/Managing Partner of RKE Partners, President VOCA Center, Board Chair of the New Canaan Society

Regarding Preston’s How is Greater Than What, I just want to say, YES! YES! YES! YES! Everyone (and I’m not overstating that) needs to read, embrace, and apply the clearly and compellingly communicated principles and practices he lays out in his easy-to-read pages. It will prove revolutionary for your personal life and the influence you can bring to any team or organization you influence over.  Preston has brilliantly captured and articulated what we at MHCC have intentionally pursued over the years in our quest to build a transformative culture. Read it, enjoy it, and be changed by it.

– Tom Gray
Senior Pastor, Mars Hill Community Church, Powder Springs, GA & President, This Stuff Matters

Preston's insights perfectly resonate with my leadership journey, offering clarity on how our approach to challenges speaks louder than the tasks themselves. The book brilliantly captures this idea, but goes even further by offering practical steps elevate leadership."

— Edwin Gotay,
Managing Director, Partnership Marketing, NASCAR

“Preston Poore’s How Is Greater Than What beautifully captures something I’ve come to believe with my whole heart: the way we treat people along the way matters just as much as what we accomplish. In a world chasing metrics and milestones, this book is a call back to the deeper work—building trust, honoring others, and creating a culture where people and performance thrive together. It’s a refreshing reminder that how we lead is what ultimately defines the legacy we leave.”

— Josh Block
President of Block Imaging and Founder of People Matter at Work

"Most first time managers step into that role blissfully unaware of what’s really required to effectively lead. We know what needs to happen, but when it comes to the how - well; that’s just death by a thousand paper cuts. In How Is Greater Than What, Preston Poore articulates clear, simple and practical action steps to make that jump. I wholeheartedly recommend this to any leader, regardless of what stage they’re at in their career."

— Matt Tresidder
CEO, Co-Founder, Leadr

How Is Greater Than What is a groundbreaking guide that redefines the path to success. The book's central thesis asserts that focusing on the "how"—the actionable steps and strategies—is more critical than dwelling on the "what." Through a combination of compelling stories and probing questions, author Preston equips leaders with the tools to ask the right questions and foster meaningful change. This book is an essential read for anyone seeking to accelerate their personal and professional development.

– Bill Forster
CEO of CEO Zones

Contact Preston