2025 Business Book Awards Shortlist for Smart Thinking

Recharge: Boosting Your Mental Battery One Conversation at a Time is a transformative guide to mental wellness by David Ko, CEO of Calm. Through revealing conversations with a diverse array of figures, including actor and comedian Randall Park, radio personality Delilah, rapper Macklemore, former Apple CEO John Sculley, and former NFL player Carl Nassib, this book delves into the profound effects of stress on our lives. Ko offers practical techniques to manage anxiety, enhance work-life balance, and build emotional resilience. By utilizing the metaphor of a battery, he provides readers with a straightforward yet impactful tool to assess and recharge their mental energy.

For example, Randall Park shares his experiences with panic attacks and how mindfulness techniques helped him regain control. Delilah discusses the role of faith and community in overcoming personal challenges. Macklemore opens up about his struggles with addiction and the importance of mental health support in his recovery. These stories, along with Ko's own journey, highlight the importance of having open conversations about mental health and breaking down the stigma associated with it.

The book also features a foreword by Jack Rowe, former CEO of Aetna and a professor at Harvard Medical School, who underscores the significance of mental health in our lives. Whether you are a professional facing high-pressure environments, a parent juggling multiple responsibilities, or someone seeking better mental health strategies, Recharge offers valuable insights and actionable advice. Ko's unique approach, combining personal anecdotes with expert guidance, makes this book an essential read for anyone looking to improve their mental well-being. Embrace the opportunity to recharge your mind and transform your life with the wisdom and strategies presented in Recharge.