The Fire Starter

This is a book which will engage you with authenticity and motivate you with love. April has a knack for finding the right words to lead toward the best version of ourselves.

Bob Goff

Author of the NY Times bestsellers Love Does, Everybody Always & Dream Big

I’ve spent my career in the seemingly rational world of investing. It wasn’t until I read Fire Starter that I learned how to better lead myself and my team by harnessing our hearts. April provides clarity on putting emotions to work to leverage their incredible power and make better, more forward-thinking, and innovative decisions.

Kara Murphy, CFA

Chief Investment Officer, Kestra Investment Management

There’s a growing body of evidence connecting curiosity, empathy, and compassion and how they build (and rebuild) important relationships. April understands this science and makes it practical and actionable — a natural-born storyteller to boot.

Jesse Antin

UC Berkeley · formerly Greater Good Science Center

This book was not only an enjoyable read but it did a great job of going past the typical ‘sympathy vs. empathy’ discussion. I appreciated using empathetic approaches to connect heart and mind to shift perspective when solving problems.

Don Harton

Executive VP, Design & Construction, Cinemark

As a leader, I have found this book and the process April outlines invaluable. Because of it, I have not only become more curious and open, but I have started acting on my goals with more intention and passion.

Carli Rosencranz

Partner, The Partnering Group · formerly Sr. Director Global Sourcing, Walmart

The powerful connections April makes are simply remarkable. She nailed the importance of resilience through unavoidable challenges to keep our heart-led desires and vision alive. The path she illuminated… helps people from all walks of life see a way through challenges.

David Toothaker

Angel investor · formerly Chief Customer Officer, Banyan

One of the greatest gifts we can give each other is deep listening. This is as true in business as it is in our personal lives. Empathy is a skill every leader should embody and April Bell’s book beautifully outlines just how to do that.

Katja Cahoon, LCSW, MBA

Psychotherapist & coach

A must read for those feeling stuck or seeking to deepen their focus on agility in today’s ever-changing climate. Bell’s vulnerability resonates as she refines ‘out of the box’ thinking through an empathic lens.

Jodi Downey, SPHR

Director, Total Rewards, Helmerich & Payne