Take two minutes to experience the spirit behind We Wear Kicks to Work in motion. In this TEDx talk, Jeffrey Dessources delivers more than ideas—he embodies the leadership the book was built on: culturally aware, radically authentic, and unapologetically human.

We Wear Kicks to Work

When Pop Culture Meets Leadership and Education

An Amazon best-seller redefining leadership, authenticity, and culture written by Trill or Not Trill founders Lenny Williams & Jeff Dess.

Book Bio

About the Book

We Wear Kicks to Work is a leadership manifesto rooted in authenticity. This book dismantles outdated workplace expectations and reimagines what leadership looks like—through culture, community, and purpose. It’s fast. It’s real. It’s necessary.

You’ll find stories from the classroom to the boardroom, tools for student leaders and professionals alike, and the blueprint for leading with your full self.

Why It Matters

  • Used in staff development at Temple University and other campuses
  • Anchors keynote talks and leadership trainings across the country
  • Authored by nationally recognized speakers, educators, and TEDx alumni
  • Ideal for student affairs, higher ed leaders, and corporate teams

Book + Workshop Option

Bring the book to life with a live Trill or Not Trill experience.
Leadership training, student engagement, and culture-forward programming—all based on We Wear Kicks to Work.