How the Heck Did They Do That?

The 11 Traits of Epic Achievers

Discover the secrets behind history’s greatest achievers.
What do Ben Franklin, Marie Curie, Ernest Shackleton, Susan B. Anthony, the Wright Brothers, and the Apollo astronauts have in common? They dared the impossible—and changed the world.

In How the Heck Did They Do That? The 11 Traits of Epic Achievement, award-winning authors Brad Borkan and David Hirzel (When Your Life Depends on It) uncover the powerful mindset, resilience, and vision that unite history’s boldest innovators and explorers.

Packed with inspiring stories, timeless lessons, and practical insights, this book reveals how you can apply the same traits to achieve extraordinary success.

buy on AMAZON.COM
buy on Amazon.co.uk

Available today on all Amazon sites worldwide.

Audiobook: Coming soon. Available in 2026.

About the authors

Brad Borkan — has a lifelong interest in how people and businesses survive, and thrive, in almost impossible situations. Brad is an inspirational and motivational speaker. He has presented at business and Antarctic conferences, and appeared on numerous podcasts. He has also presented on two Antarctic cruise ships. His talks focus on leadership, team work, and winning against the odds. He is a Fellow of the Royal Geographic Society and a member of the Society of Authors.

David Hirzel is a maritime and Antarctic historian, author, and small business owner living in California. David has been a guest lecturer for Viking and Windstar Cruise Lines, and has presented at business conferences and at university courses. His polar books include a 3-part polar biography of the Irish explorer Tom Crean, a key player in Scott’s and Shackleton’s expeditions.  He also runs Terra Nova Press, a small, independent publisher.