'Lead Like The Boss' At Molly's Bookstore
Written and Photographed by Nancy Clover
A leadership book wouldn’t normally jump to the top of my reading pile… unless it’s written by a Melrose author and built around one of my all-time favorite performers — Bruce Springsteen. Now you have my full attention.
Last night, Andy Freed packed the house at Molly's Bookstore, and the conversation was absolutely captivating. His daughter (who works at Molly’s!) introduced him, and their easy back-and-forth made the evening feel like we were all part of something special — equal parts book talk, family moment, and leadership masterclass.
Freed, the charismatic Chair of the Board of Trustees at MelroseWakefield Hospital, has attended 95 Springsteen concerts. What he admires most isn’t just the music — it’s how Springsteen leads: deeply connected to his audience and fiercely loyal to the E Street Band. Every show is intentional. Every band member matters. Every encore says thank you.
Freed’s book, Lead Like The Boss, is climbing the business management charts on Amazon, and it’s easy to see why. He frames leadership like a concert:
- Craft the setlist (prepare with purpose)
- Take the stage with clarity
- Deliver a message people remember
- Encourage participation
- Build toward an unforgettable encore
- And always, always thank your team
One line that really resonated: the job of leaders is to create more leaders. That idea alone is worth the price of admission.
He also shared honest advice for aspiring authors — get help. The publishing world can be overwhelming, and collaboration makes the journey bearable.
I’ve just started reading the book and it’s concise, engaging, and full of practical takeaways. It challenges all of us to ask:
- How do we bring value?
- Are we communicating clearly and consistently?
- Are we standing up for what’s right — even when it costs us something?
This isn’t just a book for CEOs. It’s for anyone leading a team, a classroom, a nonprofit, a family...or simply trying to grow.
Melrose talent. Rock-and-roll wisdom. Leadership lessons we can all use. I can’t wait to dig deeper.
Thank you, Molly’s Bookstore & Andy Freed!
