Have you learned how to recognize the role of privilege at work and how it can be used for positive change? Do you understand what it means to be an informed, empowered advocate for women?

This week’s featured book provides wisdom and advice to help you develop tools and techniques to stand and speak up on behalf of yourself and others, when it’s both difficult and necessary. It shares how to get better at recognizing ”little indignities” you don’t have to tolerate, and how to increase awareness of your own blind spots and biases so you can learn from them.

Female Firebrands

Women of all generations will nod in recognition at the stories of thirteen professional women from diverse backgrounds and industries as they recount the career challenges they’ve faced and how they have overcome bias, sexism, and the power imbalance. If you’ve ever wondered what a true firebrand is, you’ll find out in Mikaela Kiner’s powerful first book.

Full of practical examples and valuable insights and techniques, Female Firebrands is an honest, modern, and solutions-oriented guide for dealing with situations working women know all too well: sexual harassment, not being taken seriously, and being talked over, passed over, underpaid, and under-appreciated.

Just like millions of other women who are trying to navigate the workplace every day, the firebrands are whole people, dealing with work, family, balance, confidence, and the need to stay motivated and strong. These role models stand out from the crowd with their inspirational stories, not just because they’ve been successful in their careers, but also because they’re mission driven, doing good in the world, and making a difference for all women.

Female Firebrands is an honest, modern, and solutions-oriented guide for dealing with situations women know all too well: sexual harassment, not being taken seriously, and being talked over, passed over, underpaid, and underappreciated. Mid-career professional women will read this book and know they’re not alone—and women earlier in their careers can save years of heartache and frustration by learning what’s worked for women who came before them.

Meet the Author

Mikaela Kiner has an MS in Human Resources Management, is a certified executive coach, and is an experienced consultant. In 2015, Mikaela founded Reverb, a leading provider of innovative HR services for startups and growing companies in the Pacific Northwest. An HR leader for nearly twenty years, Kiner enjoys coaching leaders at all levels and helping companies build healthy, inclusive cultures. She’s been quoted in Fast Company, The Wall Street Journal, and The Muse and is a member of the Forbes Human Resources Council. Mikaela is married to Henry, a musician, artist, and teacher. Their two children, Simon and Sidonie, are good at challenging the status quo and are a constant source of learning and laughter. She lives with her family in Seattle.

Praise from Readers Like You

“I loved this book, both for the stories that resonated and for the really useful techniques and tips for not just women but anyone today who aspires to be better in the workplace and in the world. The format was fabulous, introducing a set of powerful “firebrand” women with unique and ubiquitous stories and then launch straight into gritty conversations on privilege, #MeToo and a challenge to be honest about our own biases even and especially amongst women. I was left with both a sense that I am understood and ideas and tools to prepare for the inevitable opportunity where I step up to be a better ally for others or myself. “ —Janelle Aberle, 5-star Amazon review

“This book has been a fantastic read, it’s like you’re sitting down to coffee chats, or attending panel presentations, as you take in all the relatable stories and great advice. I finished the book in a matter of days, but I find myself coming back to it for additional wisdom when I need it. I especially love the ‘end-of-chapter checklist’ targeted to various audiences. In my opinion, this is a must-have for your female empowerment library!” —Adrienne, 5-star Amazon review

“Mikaela Kiner provides a thoughtful and thought provoking journey as she tells her story and shares the stories of her ‘firebrands.’ As a man who likes to believe I ‘get it,’ it’s … let’s call it ‘fascinating’ to see where my blind spots are. I appreciate that she is equally direct and unapologetic about women’s behavior as well as men’s. Overall, Female Firebrands is a clarion call for an uplifting form of gender equality. One that benefits both men and women tremendously. If we listen and internalize the insights she shares, the world gets better right away.” —richonmi, 5-star Amazon review

“This book provides immense validation on what it means to be a woman in business. Whether you work for yourself or a company, oppression exists, and it’s often manipulative and tricky to name. Mikaela‘s book gives us language to talk about our experiences and ideas to do better for ourselves and each other. My favorite parts were hearing from women of color and learning how to break cycles of competition, judgment, and backstabbing between women. Thanks to Mikaela for this modern-day guide for workplace equality.” —Erin Donley, 5-star Amazon review

Learn More

  • Buy the book on Amazon for yourself or a friend, or leave a short review of it.
  • Visit the book page to learn more about the book and download free resources.
  • Stop by the website to learn more about Mikaela and her work.