Overview
What do ancient Shaolin monks, NASA astronauts, and the Mafia have in common? How did the rites of passage that have shaped groups ranging from the U.S.Marines to the Swiss Guard influence the way those elite organizations operate today? And what can modern leaders learn from the crucibles that shape the members of the world's most formidable organizations? delves deep into the tests such groups design and deploy to separate aspirants from the chosen few. Why are people willing to endure such demanding trials? What do these crucible experiences reveal about human nature and commitment? And how do these crucibles shape the organizations that require them-both for better and worse? This book uncovers the universal principles behind these rites of passage and offers insights that modern organizations can use to design their own rigorous processes, fostering excellence while remaining ethical and relevant in today's world. offers a provocative exploration of the unique and sometimes hidden role played by such initiation rituals.
Full Product Details
Author: James R. McNeal ,
J. Eric Smith
Publisher: Surrey Books,U.S.
Imprint: Surrey Books,U.S.
ISBN: 9781572843523
ISBN 10: 1572843527
Pages: 264
Publication Date: 24 July 2025
Audience:
General/trade
,
General
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active
Availability: Available To Order
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Reviews
PRAISE FOR CRUCIBLES ""Coauthors Rear Admiral Jim McNeal and J. Eric Smith know how to tell a story that informs, influences, and leaves a lasting impact with the reader. They've done it with a previous book and succeeded again with Crucibles. Each has tremendous credibility writing about formidable rites of passage in elite organizations because each displayed their own measure of outstanding 'Teamwork, Tone, Tenacity' while serving in unique locations and organizations, such as southwest Asia combat zones and the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. What’s especially intriguing about this fascinating topic of Crucibles is the wide professional and geographic diversity of organizations that are examined across modern and ancient times. Want to be educated and entertained? Read one of Jim McNeal’s and J. Eric Smith’s books!"" —Rear Admiral Paul Becker, USN (Ret) Former Director for Intelligence (J2), Joint Chiefs of Staff ""Always looking for gems in the hidden and unique aspects of history, both McNeal and Smith know how to select appealing and interesting topics that pull a reader into an engaging book. With their unique ability to assimilate disparate historical facts, in this book they are experts at how to methodically conduct a thorough examination of the distinct and usually shielded world of rituals required to enter certain groups or societies. Each author possesses that special ability to expose a reader to the mental, physical, and social commitments that make one experience an enlightening lesson in how people interact and why they are willing to conform themselves to belong to groups or societies. At times funny, serious, and disarming, both authors are brilliant writers who will create a book that pulls readers into wanting to know more about how the social need to belong affects group dynamics and why individuals choose to become part of the fabric of those groups."" —Commander Kirk S. Lippold, USN (Ret) Former Commanding Officer, USS Cole (DDG 67)
Author Information
James R. McNeal is a retired rear admiral in the U.S. Naval Supply Corps, currently serving as an adjunct leadership professor and sprint football coach at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. J. Eric Smithis a former U.S. Naval Supply Corps officer, retired nonprofit executive, and management consultant who lives in Sedona, Arizona.
