Lisa Nichols Wins International Impact Book Award for Something Extra

Technology Partners is proud to celebrate CEO and Co-Founder Lisa Nichols on receiving an International Impact Book Award in the Business / Motivation & Inspiration category for her debut book, “Something Extra: Uncover Your Strengths. Unlock Your Potential. Unleash Your Impact.”

The award was presented at the International Impact Book Awards Grand Gala on Feb. 27 in Phoenix. The black-tie celebration brought together distinguished authors from around the world for a full day of professional sessions and networking, followed by an evening ceremony honoring books that are making a meaningful difference in business, leadership, and culture.

For Lisa, the recognition represents the fulfillment of an idea that began nearly a decade ago and a message she has been living long before it was ever written.

A Message Years in the Making

Nearly 10 years ago, Lisa began reflecting on a powerful question: What truly separates good leaders from great ones?

That question stayed with her through seasons of growth at Technology Partners, through challenges and milestones, and through hundreds of conversations with leaders across industries. Over time, it became clear that the most impactful leaders share something deeper than talent or strategy.

Last year, that long-held idea became the “Something Extra” book, which curates wisdom drawn from nearly 350 interviews on the “Something Extra” podcast. Those conversations with CEOs, entrepreneurs, educators, philanthropists, and change-makers revealed the traits that shaped their leadership journeys.

Each chapter of the book explores a core principle such as humility, adaptability, gratitude, vision, and perseverance, blending real-world stories with Lisa’s own reflections as a CEO, wife, mother, and community leader.

Inspired by Ally

At the heart of Something Extra is a deeply personal story. The title was inspired by Lisa’s daughter Ally, who was born with Down syndrome. Watching Ally’s life overflow with authenticity, kindness, and joy reshaped Lisa’s understanding of leadership and identity.

Rather than viewing “extra” as something to overcome, their family began to see it as something to celebrate. It became a reminder that every person carries a unique, God-given gift.

That perspective runs throughout the book: Leadership begins on the inside with self-awareness, integrity, and the courage to live aligned with your values.

Ally’s influence helped transform a business leadership concept into a message rooted in humanity and heart.

A Reflection of the Technology Partners Culture

For those who know Lisa, the themes in “Something Extra” mirror the culture she and her husband, Greg Nichols, have built at Technology Partners since founding the company in 1994.

Guided by transparency, integrity, innovation, and a heart for service, Technology Partners has grown into one of the Midwest’s most respected technology firms. The organization is known not only for delivering top-tier IT talent and solutions, but for fostering a people-first environment where relationships matter and character counts.

The leadership principles explored in the book are the same values that shape daily decisions, long-term strategy, and the company’s ongoing commitment to clients, consultants, and community partners.

This award is, in many ways, a celebration of a culture lived out consistently over three decades.