What Would You Do If You Weren't Afraid? Summary, PDF, EPUD, Audio

Michal Oshman, bestselling author of What Would You Do If You Weren’t Afraid?, is a globally recognized leadership mentor and company culture expert with over 25 years of experience shaping organizational strategies at tech giants like TikTok and Meta. Born in Tel Aviv and raised in a secular Israeli household, her journey from anxiety-driven executive to purpose-driven advocate blends Chassidic wisdom with modern leadership principles.

The book, rooted in Jewish philosophy and self-help themes, draws on her transformative study of Tanya and the teachings of Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, offering practical tools to conquer fear and cultivate joy.

As TikTok Europe’s former Global Head of Company Culture and Diversity, Oshman holds three degrees, including master’s qualifications in Organizational Psychology and Sociology. Her insights have been featured in Jewish Insider, Lubavitch International, and influential talks bridging spirituality and workplace dynamics.

The Hebrew edition of her book, published weeks before the October 7 attacks, became a resonant resource for Israeli audiences seeking resilience. A former IDF officer and mother of four, Oshman’s work continues to inspire professionals worldwide through keynote speeches and organizational consulting.

What Would You Do If You Weren’t Afraid? has been celebrated as a Jewish wisdom classic, translated into multiple languages and embraced by secular and religious readers alike.

What is What Would You Do If You Weren't Afraid? by Michal Oshman about?

What Would You Do If You Weren't Afraid? blends Jewish wisdom, particularly Chabad Chassidic philosophy, with modern leadership principles to address anxiety, purpose, and personal growth. Drawing from Tanya teachings and the Rebbe’s guidance, Oshman shares her journey from corporate success (Meta, TikTok) to inner peace, offering frameworks for overcoming fear and aligning life with spiritual values.

Who should read What Would You Do If You Weren't Afraid??

This book suits professionals seeking work-life balance, individuals grappling with anxiety, and readers interested in applying Jewish spirituality to modern challenges. Leaders in tech, HR, or organizational development will find actionable insights on company culture and resilience.

Is What Would You Do If You Weren't Afraid? worth reading?

Yes, it provides unique insights by merging ancient Jewish wisdom with corporate leadership strategies. Reviewers praise its practical advice on parenting, career setbacks, and emotional resilience, calling it a “fresh perspective” on fear management.

What are the key concepts in What Would You Do If You Weren't Afraid??

Key ideas include:

Fear as a catalyst: Reframing fear to drive purpose.
Chassidic philosophy: Applying Tanya’s teachings to modern life.
Embracing brokenness: Finding strength in vulnerability.
Leadership through spirituality: Building compassionate workplaces.

How does Michal Oshman’s corporate experience influence the book?

Oshman’s roles as Head of Culture at TikTok and Meta inform her strategies for integrating spirituality into leadership. She shares case studies on fostering inclusivity, managing teams during crises, and balancing high-pressure careers with family life.

What Jewish teachings are central to the book?

The book emphasizes the Alter Rebbe’s Tanya and Rabbi Schneerson’s teachings, focusing on self-awareness, ethical action (mitzvot), and joy as spiritual practices. Oshman ties these to daily challenges like parenting and career transitions.

How does the book address anxiety and fear?

Oshman argues fear stems from misaligned priorities and offers Jewish mindfulness techniques to reframe anxiety. Exercises include journaling prompts, gratitude practices, and integrating Chassidic mantras into decision-making.

What leadership frameworks does Oshman propose?

“Golden Time”: Prioritizing purpose-driven tasks.
Compassionate candor: Balancing honesty with empathy in feedback.
Legacy-building: Aligning professional goals with community impact.

How does What Would You Do If You Weren't Afraid? compare to secular self-help books?

Unlike secular approaches, Oshman roots strategies in 18th-century Jewish mysticism, offering timeless principles rather than fleeting trends. Critics note it assumes openness to spirituality, making it less universal.

Can the book help with career changes or workplace challenges?

Yes, it includes templates for navigating layoffs, promotions, and toxic work environments using Chassidic resilience techniques. Oshman shares anecdotes from her IDF service and corporate career to illustrate adaptability.

What quotes from the book are impactful?

“Your deepest fear holds your greatest mission.”
“Brokenness is where the light enters.”
“Lead like a shepherd—guide, don’t control.”
These emphasize vulnerability and purpose-driven leadership.

Why is What Would You Do If You Weren't Afraid? relevant in 2025?

Post-pandemic workplace shifts and AI-driven disruption make its focus on adaptable, values-based leadership timely. The 2023 Hebrew edition’s success post-October 7 attacks underscores its resonance during crises.