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  • Curiosity Redefines the Limits: Advantages Gained from Life, the Workplace, and the Boardroom

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Curiosity Redefines the Limits: Advantages Gained from Life, the Workplace, and the Boardroom

4.9 out of 5 stars (111)

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Unlock the mindset that transforms curiosity into your greatest advantage.

In
Curiosity Redefines the Limits, business leader and innovator Rod Adkins delivers a compelling roadmap for turning life’s questions into fuel for growth, leadership, and impact. From his early days as a precocious child in Miami to the executive ranks of IBM and influential roles on global boards, Rod’s journey proves that curiosity isn’t just a trait—it’s a strategy.

This insightful book combines personal storytelling with actionable insights to help readers harness curiosity in every chapter of life. Whether you’re facing career decisions, navigating adversity, or redefining what success means to you,
Curiosity Redefines the Limits will inspire you to ask better questions, stay open to learning, and lead with purpose.

Inside, you’ll learn:
  • How curiosity sharpens leadership and decision-making
  • The role of curiosity in overcoming personal and professional setbacks
  • Strategies to embrace continuous learning and bold thinking
  • Lessons from the boardroom, the workplace, the dojo, and everyday life

Perfect for professionals, students, emerging leaders, and lifelong learners, this book challenges you to think differently—and shows you how a curiosity advantage can take you further than you ever imagined.
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From the Publisher

business motivation and self improvements

inspirational memoir

business inspiration

business advice and skills

business motivation memoir

rodney c. adkins curiosity redefines the limits

business guidance

Curiosity as a business and leadership skill
Rodney C Adkins

About the Author

ROD ADKINS is a pioneering engineer, Fortune 500 board director, and former IBM executive whose leadership has shaped industries and inspired generations. As the president of 3RAM Group LLC, he advises companies at the intersection of innovation, growth, and global impact. Rod has served on the boards of UPS, PayPal, Grainger, Avnet, and others, and is widely recognized for his advocacy in STEM education and philanthropy. With decades of experience driving transformation in business and community leadership, he brings unique insight into the mindset required to lead with purpose. Rod lives in Miami Beach, Florida, with his wife, Michelle, and continues to champion innovation, leadership, and curiosity in every area of life.

Editorial Reviews

Review

“Engaging and immersive. Rod's story is truly inspiring.”

– Readers’ Favorite

“Half memoir, half career guide,
Curiosity Redefines the Limits demonstrates how sustained intellectual curiosity drives achievement across the technical, leadership, and civic domains.”

– Foreword Clarion

“
Curiosity Redefines the Limits offers hard-won wisdom about experience-based leadership rather than generic motivational advice or textbook management theory."

– BookLife by Publishers Weekly

“Erudite and thoughtful,
Curiosity Redefines the Limits is a fascinating glimpse into the drive that motivated Rodney C. Adkins to achieve in all spheres of life.”

– IndieReader

“The book’s advice to stay curious, work hard, be prepared, build relationships, take the high road, and invest in other people is sound and clearly earned.”

– Kirkus Indie

“Rod Adkins shares the wisdom and powerful life lessons that many, including myself, benefited from during his time at IBM. Curiosity is Rod’s superpower, which he leveraged to inspire growth in everyone around him. I am confident he will do the same for any reader of this book.”
—
Dr. Arvind Krishna
Chairman & CEO, IBM Corporation

“Rod Adkins is a phenomenal leader and engineer who was an inspiration to me and so many others growing up at IBM. Rod’s strategic approach to continuous learning aligns closely with the principles that have guided my career. 'Curiosity' is about more than just asking questions; it is about learning from everything you do—to solve problems, build confidence, and take bold steps in complex and unpredictable environments.”
—
Dr. Lisa Su
Chairman, President, & CEO, AMD

“True leadership is not about having all the answers—much of it is about asking the right questions. Drawing from his experiences as a global executive and board member of leading companies, Rod reveals how curiosity can be a competitive advantage for success. From emerging leaders looking to advance to senior executives wanting to improve, this book will not disappoint.”
—
Phil Gallagher
CEO, Avnet, Inc.

“We all have gifts we can share with others, and Curiosity is a gift to share across the generations. Rod brings to light how curiosity has nurtured his soul throughout life, giving us a roadmap for preparing for success and greatness. Let us take him up on it!”
—
Jo Ann Jenkins
Former CEO, AARP; Avnet Board of Directors

“Rod’s leadership had a profound impact on IBM’s business performance and culture. One of the most crucial aspects of leadership is inspiring, motivating, and developing others while achieving results. Rod and I have frequently discussed the significance of leadership throughout our nearly two-decade journey together, starting at IBM PC Company, then The Server Group, and with me as head of the Systems & Technology Group. Yes, Rod is driven by an insatiable curiosity, a trait I have witnessed firsthand. After reading this book, you cannot help but develop a deeper appreciation for it. He never faltered when faced with new challenges, intricate problems, or difficult situations. I was fortunate to have Rod on my leadership team. He dedicated himself to innovating solutions that served markets, communities, and individuals through information technology.”
—
Samuel Palmisano
Former Chairman & CEO, IBM Corporation

“In
Curiosity, Rod makes a compelling case for the power of curiosity and the competitive advantage it presents to those who embrace it. Based on his years of observations and experiences contributing to the IT industry and IBM specifically, Rod provides guidance for those seeking insight and techniques for growth at any career stage. The book is a reflection of his career, told through the lens of taking the high ground, even in difficult situations, and valuing the well-being of those around you.”
—
Ken Chenault
Chairman & Managing Director, General Catalyst; Former Chairman & CEO, American Express

“Many of my successes were driven by curiosity and not knowing it ‘could not be done.’ Rod never let difficult or challenging situations stop him from identifying a way to get the job done or to make something happen that most believed was a fool’s errand. He was truly an innovator and willing to take calculated risks. Rod made it possible for me and many others to access opportunities that would not have been available without his leadership, willingness to innovate, and curiosity to take a different approach.”
—
Dr. Mark Dean
IBM Fellow; Emeritus and Distinguished Professor, University of Tennessee

“Rod Adkins is an extraordinary and inspirational leader, and this book reflects the wisdom, integrity, and impact he has brought to every stage of his journey. Part memoir, part leadership guide,
Curiosity is filled with powerful insights, personal stories, and thoughtful reflections. Rod is candid about the challenges he has faced and the values that have guided him—from his early life and influential leadership at IBM to his board roles and dedication to service, innovation, and STEM education. His unique blend of authenticity, compassion, and insatiable curiosity left an indelible mark on me and so many others. I was at a pivotal point in my career when I first worked with Rod, then a senior vice president at IBM, and the lessons I learned from him have stayed with me ever since. He modeled how to lead with high standards, clarity, respect, and a deep commitment to uplifting others. Rod’s journey—and his generous sharing of it—will undoubtedly inspire everyone from emerging leaders to seasoned executives seeking to lead with greater purpose and impact.”
—
Dr. Kathryn Guarini
Former CIO, IBM

“I have had the distinct honor of knowing and working with Rod for over thirty years—at IBM and beyond—as my mentor, manager, sponsor, and friend. His unique genius lies in how he channels his deep curiosity across technologies, business models, operational systems, people, and ecosystems—not just exploring them in isolation but weaving them into powerful, synergistic systems that generate far more than the sum of their parts. This ability has driven extraordinary outcomes throughout his career—not just for himself and the businesses he leads but also for countless others to whom he has generously given his time and insight. In this compelling book, you will get a rare glimpse into the mind of a leader who turned curiosity into a competitive advantage—and walk away with wisdom that will serve you well on your journey.”
—
Dr. Colin Parris
Former GE Officer and Senior Vice President, General Electric Digital

“I had the good fortune to work as a senior executive on Rod’s team when he was the Systems & Technology Group leader at IBM and as a partner with Benchmark in his role on the Avnet board. He has been a consistent force in our relationship for decades and is a great example of strong executive leadership. I credit Rod for giving me a key opportunity early in my career that pushed me outside my comfort zone. His ability to engage you, be curious, and encourage others around him to be inquisitive made an indelible mark on my management style. It was this influence that has led me to always encourage my teams to be learning organizations and, as a result, made me a more effective senior leader. He has been a great boss, coach, and mentor throughout my career journey.”
—
Jeff Benck
President & CEO, Benchmark Electronics Inc.

“Rod Adkins exemplifies the transformative power of curiosity as a tool for personal and professional growth. His book
Curiosity is a testament to his unique ability to harness curiosity as a competitive advantage, offering readers a treasure trove of tips and techniques drawn from his remarkable life experiences. From childhood to the boardroom, Rod’s journey answers pivotal questions about envisioning success, crafting a recipe for achievement, and uncovering life’s most valuable lessons. His story provides an inspiring framework for all. As a UPS board member and chair of the Risk Committee, Rod continues to demonstrate leadership and insight, making his journey not just a narrative of curiosity but a blueprint for achieving excellence. His ability to weave these lessons into actionable advice makes his book an indispensable guide for anyone striving to unlock their full potential.”
—
Carol Tomé
CEO, UPS

“Over the past nine years, I have been fortunate to see Rod’s curiosity elevate our board of directors discussions. His dedication to lifelong learning is a cornerstone of his success, both personally and professionally. This book encourages us to embrace continuous growth and stay curious through every stage of life.”
—
D.G. MacPherson
Chairman & CEO, W.W. Grainger Inc.

“It was great to have the opportunity to recruit Rod to join the PayPal board of directors. However, it was considerably more rewarding to learn from him. We shared common views on the importance of technology and common values that aligned around the importance of employees and our role in their development, and creating opportunities for advancement.
Curiosity unveils Rod’s insights and strategies for navigating this critical component of effective leadership.”
—
Dan Schulman
Former President & CEO, PayPal

“A wonderful description of a life journey anchored in joy, passion, and resilience! Rod draws a reader into the joy with which he began to learn early in life and never loses. He takes us on his unique path but shows how we can emulate it in our own ways. It is an outstanding memoir by an incomparable leader.”
—** Michael Critelli**
*Former CEO, Pitney Bowes Inc.*

“I have been lucky to have met a few exceptionally talented people I can call friends. Rod Adkins is one of those. And not just Rod, but also Michelle. They are a true power couple in the best sense of that term. Rod, like me, is a Georgia Tech alum, and I first met him on campus when I became president. I knew from day one that I could use his help. He answered the call by serving as a member, and later as chair, of our national advisory board and then as a member of the Georgia Tech Foundation. When I retired from Georgia Tech and was appointed secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, he answered the call again. He served as a member and then director of the Smithsonian National Board. He and Michelle were founding donors to the new National Museum of African American History and Culture. Rod is never just a joiner. When he commits, he gives it his all. His book is important because it tells us about his story, what values he learned that led to his career accomplishments, and his willingness to give back to his community, his country, and the institutions that made a difference in his life. It is a great read.”
—
Dr. G. Wayne Clough
Secretary Emeritus, the Smithsonian; President Emeritus, Georgia Institute of Technology

“We live in an era when information is ubiquitous, while wisdom is in short supply. Enter Rod Adkins. This is a story of a life well lived, not an easy life or a life without turbulence, but a life lived with integrity and motivated by curiosity. As the vice chair of the board of trustees at Rollins College, Rod leads with style & grace, and wisdom that cuts through the noise to solve problems or shape strategy. His educational pathway, combining the liberal arts with STEM, was prescient, and he equipped himself to become the leader the emerging global economy would need. If you want to know how wisdom is acquired, look no further.”
—
Dr. Grant H. Cornwell
President Emeritus, Rollins College

“Anyone who reads this book will recommend it to other people of different ages. Adkins provides priceless lessons about the importance of balance, focus, timing, listening, and excellence. His journey inspires us to keep asking good questions, reflecting and learning, and to keep hope alive!”
—
Dr. Freeman Hrabowski III
President Emeritus, University of Maryland, Baltimore County

“In this inspiring and insightful book, Rod takes the reader on a journey down the various stages of his life to reveal how an insatiable curiosity can be the defining catalyst for success. Through personal stories, powerful reflections, and boardroom breakthroughs, he demonstrates that the keys to greatness involve more than talent and ambition but include the need to ask questions, the courage to bet on yourself, and the application of life’s lessons. This is a must-read for anyone looking to unlock their full potential.”
—
Jimmy McMikle
President, CEO, & Chairman, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.

“Both on and off the court, I have learned that curiosity is the foundation for growth, leadership is the catalyst for change, and success is the reward for unwavering dedication. As a former player in the NBA, past union president, and advocate for fairness, I have seen how innovation and leadership inspire collective action. I worked alongside Rod as cochair for the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity’s annual fundraising event, Building the Dream Klassic. With its slogan, ‘No dreamer is ever too small, no dream is ever too big,’ the event exposes young adults to positive role models and provides scholarships for college and stipends for workplace entry. Working closely with someone so committed to a shared vision of preparing the next generation was an honor. My friend’s journey shows that pursuing knowledge, integrity, and vision can lead to successive achievements in industry and life. His insights inspire you to embrace curiosity, lead with purpose, and strive for success in every endeavor.”
—
Oscar Robertson (Big O)
Former Professional Basketball Player; NBA Hall of Famer

“As a former NBA champion with the Miami Heat and a Naismith Hall of Famer, I know firsthand that winning a championship takes more than just talent; it requires a team of like-minded individuals, united by a common goal, driven by perseverance, and committed to excellence. The same holds true in sparking the curiosity of inner-city youth who desire to achieve greatness, but the odds seem like they are stacked against them. At OYC Miami, we persistently fight to break down barriers and level the playing field by empowering and exposing youths and families to the greatest of possibilities and providing them with the resources to attain them. Rod is a critical player on my team—a philanthropic center—helping to build a solid foundation so kids and families can win. Rod is more than a supporter; he is my brother in service and a living, breathing example of what is possible. He is a role model who inspires the next generation to aim higher and not miss their shot in life.”
—
Alonzo Mourning
Former Professional Basketball Player; NBA Hall of Famer

About the Author

ROD ADKINS is a pioneering engineer, Fortune 500 board director, and former IBM executive whose leadership has shaped industries and inspired generations. As the president of 3RAM Group LLC, he advises companies at the intersection of innovation, growth, and global impact. Rod has served on the boards of UPS, PayPal, Grainger, Avnet, and others, and is widely recognized for his advocacy in STEM education and philanthropy. With decades of experience driving transformation in business and community leadership, he brings unique insight into the mindset required to lead with purpose. Rod lives in Miami Beach, Florida, with his wife, Michelle, and continues to champion innovation, leadership, and curiosity in every area of life.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0FYCMYWPB
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Forbes Books
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ March 31, 2026
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 280 pages
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8887508245
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.24 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 1.1 x 9 inches
  • Best Sellers Rank: #212,067 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.9 out of 5 stars (111)

About the author

Follow authors for new release and deal updates, plus improved recommendations. See updates from all followed authors in Your Books.
Rodney C. Adkins
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Rodney Adkins (Rod) is an engineer, business executive, and philanthropist. He has extensive experience in information technology, supply chain, and logistics. He is the author of Curiosity Redefines the Limits, which outlines the advantages gained from life, the workplace, and the boardroom. The book is part memoir and part leadership guide, revealing how a curiosity advantage can unlock opportunities for personal growth, career development, leadership, and lifelong learning in a world of continuous innovation.

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Customer reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars
111 global ratings
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Customers say

Customers find this book insightful and deeply motivating, with one review noting how it cuts to the heart of critical concepts in life and business. Moreover, the writing style is engaging, and customers find it practical, with one review describing it as a clear roadmap for success. Additionally, they appreciate the author's humility and honesty, with one review highlighting his transparency about both successes and failures. Customers also find the book easy to apply in their own lives and work.
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44 customers mention content, 44 positive, 0 negative
Customers find the content of the book genuinely instructive and deeply motivating, describing it as a powerful story full of wisdom and one of the most instructive leadership books.
...Curiosity Redefines the Limits is a must read for all that inspire to have personal and career balanced success.Read more
...What makes this book so powerful is that it doesn't simply present curiosity as a mindset—it reveals it as a way of leading and living, requiring...Read more
...For me, this book wasn’t just insightful—it was a reinforcement of lessons I’ve learned firsthand. Rod doesn’t just write about curiosity....Read more
...that you are in, Curiosity Redefines the Limits by Rod Adkins is a must read....Read more
16 customers mention practicality, 16 positive, 0 negative
Customers find the book practical, with one customer noting it provides a clear roadmap for success, while another mentions it offers specific operating principles.
...Curiosity is practical, personal, and genuinely instructive — for anyone navigating a career, a setback, or the question of what a well-lived...Read more
...in the tech industry—serves as both an inspiration and a practical guide for anyone striving to reach their full potential....Read more
...Adkins does a fantastic job of weaving early life lessons into a practical roadmap for personal and professional growth....Read more
...Rod's approach shares the unvarnished truth, offering practical tools that can be implemented at various stages of your life and career while...Read more
11 customers mention readability, 11 positive, 0 negative
Customers find the book very readable and clearly written, with one customer noting its engineer-like clarity and sharpness.
...This book is a quick read that provides relatable examples of life's & career scenarios but more importantly it gives insights using your curiosity...Read more
Curiosity Redefines the Limits is a powerful and accessible read....Read more
Curiosity Redefines the Limits is a really solid, easy read....Read more
...Well organized. Very readable. This book is a keeper!...Read more
8 customers mention humility, 8 positive, 0 negative
Customers appreciate the book's humility, describing it as refreshing and deeply gratifying.
...earlier: Rod is not only extremely intelligent and confident, but also humble, approachable, and driven to turn ideas into meaningful results....Read more
A powerfully told story full of wisdom, grace and soul....Read more
...the book as it provides critical life lessons shared with the genuine humility that defines Rod’s character and career.Read more
...Redefines the Limits” is more than just a book; it’s a heartfelt invitation to pursue our passions and push our boundaries....Read more
7 customers mention writing style, 7 positive, 0 negative
Customers appreciate the writing style of the book, finding it engaging and creative, with one customer noting that the author writes like the best leaders speak, while another describes it as the leadership playbook for the innovation era.
"Curiosity Redefines The Limits" is simply written and cuts to the heart of critical concepts in life and business that can have a profound impact....Read more
...The writing is engaging, the insights are actionable, and the stories are motivating....Read more
...The writing is engaging, and the ideas are easy to apply, making this a great read for professionals, students, and anyone looking to grow and...Read more
Brilliantly, humbly written....Read more
6 customers mention application, 6 positive, 0 negative
Customers find the book's content easy to apply in life and work, with one customer noting that the frameworks are immediately usable.
...career, and community are presented in a way that is thoughtful, direct, and elegant....Read more
...What stood out most is how simple but powerful the core idea is....Read more
...The writing is engaging, and the ideas are easy to apply, making this a great read for professionals, students, and anyone looking to grow and...Read more
...What makes the book stand out is its clarity and applicability....Read more
6 customers mention honesty, 6 positive, 0 negative
Customers appreciate the author's honesty, with one noting how transparently he shares both his successes and failures.
...Rod's approach shares the unvarnished truth, offering practical tools that can be implemented at various stages of your life and career while...Read more
...Rod Adkins captures this truth brilliantly in *Curiosity Redefines the Limits*, and does so with the rare credibility of someone who has lived it at...Read more
...Adkins openly shares the back story to his journey towards becoming a widely recognized industry leader within the tech sector....Read more
...What I love most is how transparent he is about both his successes and his failures....Read more
6 customers mention relatability, 6 positive, 0 negative
Customers find the book relatable, with one customer noting that the author's commitment to people and relationships is unmatched, and another mentioning that it doesn't treat curiosity as merely a personality trait.
...is not only extremely intelligent and confident, but also humble, approachable, and driven to turn ideas into meaningful results....Read more
Highly recommend. This book is not just a business book. It is surprisingly relatable, uniquely educational and thoroughly inspirational....Read more
...Curiosity is practical, personal, and genuinely instructive — for anyone navigating a career, a setback, or the question of what a well-lived...Read more
...His commitment to people and relationships is unmatched, willing to lend advice and counsel, while not expecting anything in return....Read more
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