The Strategy Dialogues: A Primer on Business Strategy and Strategic Management

Engage your strategic mind with this award-winning book!

2026 Axiom Business Book Awards - GOLD medalist
2026 International Book Award (IBA) - Winner Business/Reference
“Makes strategy actionable and understandable.”
‒ Patrick Lencioni, Author of The Five Dysfunctions of a Team
What does it mean to think strategically? How do I set the right direction for my organization? And how can I turn strategic aspirations into reality?

In The Strategy Dialogues , you will find the answers to these questions. In this transformative book, former US Assistant Secretary of State, accomplished CEO, and award-winning professor Dr. John Hillen invites you to eavesdrop on a series of strategy workshops and conversations, offering a front-row seat to witness the basic tools of strategic thinking applied to real-world organizational challenges.
Master the art of strategic thinking: delve into the heart of strategic management and learn how to think strategically in any situation or organization. Foundational frameworks unveiled: equip yourself with essential tools and analytical frameworks, demystifying the complexity of strategic management with engaging and understandable explanations. Strategic leadership essentials: discover the skills that set top-tier strategists apart, with insights into how strategic capabilities can be cultivated and honed through focus, discipline, and practice.
Whether you’re a seasoned leader or a student of strategy, The Strategy Dialogues can serve as your one-stop-shop for understanding, applying, and mastering strategic thinking to propel your career or organization to the next level.
“A masterclass in how to think and act strategically in book form.”
‒ Professor Sir Lawrence Freedman, Author of Strategy: A History

“Masterfully breaks down the fundamentals of what strategy is and how to use it to make your company and life more effective and meaningful.”
‒ Arthur C. Brooks, Harvard Professor and #1 New York Times bestselling author

“A fun and enlightening way to learn about strategic management!”
‒Professor Sarah E. Nutter, former Dean of the Lundquist College of Business at the University of Oregon, and former Dean of the
School of Business at George Mason University

“The Strategy Dialogues will empower you to navigate the complexities of the modern business world.”
‒Chris Nassetta, President and CEO of Hilton

“John Hillen makes understanding strategy fun and accessible.”
‒Lieutenant General H. R. McMaster, PhD, Former US National Security Advisor

“A brilliant combination of wisdom, practicality, and storytelling!”
‒Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, Thinkers50 #1 Executive Coach and New York Times bestselling author of What Got You Here Won’t Get You There
About the author
The Honorable Dr John Hillen is a highly accomplished CEO of several companies, Board Chairman, former US Assistant Secretary of State, and an award-winning professor who has taught at Duke University, George Mason University, and Hampden-Sydney College. He has a unique combination of strategic leadership experience in business, government, the military, and higher education. He is the author of several books, including the highly acclaimed What Happens Now? Reinvent Yourself as a Leader Before Your Business Outruns You , and has published countless articles on strategy in publications such as Forbes , The NY Times , The Wall Street Journal , Washington Technology , and The Washington Post .