A book is very rarely a solo effort and this is no exception.

I would firstly like to thank my friend of over 30 years Gail Holstock, who undertook the vast majority of the research for Ignite. Her research and suggestions gave weight to my thoughts and concepts and was the catalyst for many inclusions in this book.

A huge thanks to graphic designer extraordinaire Jodie Brennan, who takes my scrappy drawings of models and designs them so they look cool and sleek.

The book was brought up a notch or three by Jo Stewart, who undertook the initial editing process. Her work has helped turn this book into something I am very proud of and I thank her for her tough love.

I would also like to thank Lucy Raymond from Wiley for her ongoing support for my writing and initial guidance when the book was still in its conceptual stage. Thanks also to Ingrid, Alice, Pete and the rest of the Wiley team who provided valuable insights throughout the process.

Thanks to Wiley's editor, Charlotte Duff. Charlotte enhanced the book even further and made the editing process a joy.

A very special thanks goes to Matt Church and Peter Cook of Thought Leaders Global. Both helped with the concept of the book and provided valuable input along the way. They continue to support, challenge and inspire me. They are legends and I am proud to be a Thought Leader Partner alongside them. Thanks for letting me play.

A massive thanks to Michelle Sales who encouraged me to go to Harvard with her for an Adaptive Leadership program. In the days following — between shopping trips and wines in New York — Michelle helped me make sense of many of the Harvard learnings and insights that we have since incorporated into our leadership program for senior women, called The Leadership Connection. This is a program we are both immensely proud to chair.

The book would not be the same if it were not for the people who allowed me to share their stories. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart for being part of this. I would also like to thank the many people that took the time to read the manuscript and provide testimonials.

I also thank the clients who continue to grow with me and support me. Particularly Cindy Batchelor, Natalie Mina, Fiona Robertson, Georgia Russell, Sonia Aplin, Mark LeBusque and Jac Phillips. I love working with you.

A special thanks to Elise Turner, who is firstly my friend and secondly my executive manager. Elise has undertaken, and will continue to undertake, a lot of the marketing and logistics for Ignite — and just makes my life easier and work a hell of a lot more fun. Thanks mate!

Finally, a very special thanks to my husband, Steve, and daughters, Alex and Jess. They continue to support and believe in me and always let me blog about them … granted, they don't normally find out until after it has been published. They allow me to live the dream and they make everything worthwhile. Love you.

And, of course, thank you for reading this book. I hope after reading Ignite you will join me in the challenge to get real. The people you lead crave it and deserve it.