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The Magnet, The Method and The Machine
When I closed this book, I felt like I had just stepped out of a tough but eye-opening workshop. Author Rodric Lenhart sets out a clear roadmap for builders who want to escape the trap of being tied to every phone call, every client, every crisis. He calls it the three laws and nine levers, and it’s all about moving from an operator who scrambles to put out fires into a real owner who builds a company that runs on systems, structure, and strategy. The framework weaves through marketing, leadership, culture, and execution. Along the way, he shares blunt stories of burnout, chaos, and finally breaking free into a business that grows without devouring your life.
I found the author’s writing to be sharp, direct, and very down-to-earth. He makes his points with a mix of personal confession and practical advice, which makes the lessons stick. The metaphors, like being a lighthouse instead of a flashlight, or running a prison instead of a business, landed hard. At times, I felt like he was in the room, calling out excuses I’ve made myself. I was surprised by how blunt he could be, but then I’d stop and realize he was right. The book cuts through fluff, and that’s refreshing in a genre where too many authors hide behind buzzwords and theory.
Emotionally, I kept bouncing between frustration and relief. Frustration, because I recognized myself in the builder stuck in the mud, doing too much, chasing every lead, and losing freedom in the process. Relief, because Lenhart shows that it doesn’t have to stay that way. He gives real steps to take, like filtering clients, building a lead engine, and letting go of control so others can step up. His stories of transformation from other builders felt genuine and gave me hope. More than once, I thought, “I could actually do this.” That spark of possibility is rare in business books, and it’s what kept me hooked.
I’d recommend this book to custom homebuilders who feel trapped in their own success. It’s not for someone looking for motivational fluff or a quick fix. It’s for the owner who knows they’re carrying too much and wants a way out. If you’ve ever felt like your company owns you instead of the other way around, this book will hit close to home. And if you’re ready to make changes, it will give you a straight path forward.
Pages: 145 | ASIN : B0FPPYLY1D
Climb Greater Heights: How to Accelerate Your Business Growth, Amplify Your Success, and Build a Legacy of Significance
Tony Jeton Selimi’s Climb Greater Heights presents a structured and inspiring framework for entrepreneurs seeking to build purposeful, profitable, and enduring businesses. Centered on his 12-Step Growth Accelerator Method™, the book guides readers through clarifying values, cultivating resilience, defining vision, and aligning professional goals with a broader sense of meaning. Selimi integrates practical strategies, such as pitching, marketing, and partnership development, with deeper reflections on mindset, leadership philosophy, and philanthropy. What distinguishes this work is its insistence that success cannot be measured solely in financial terms but also by the legacy and contribution one leaves behind.
One of the most compelling aspects of the book is Selimi’s discussion of “voids,” the unmet needs and gaps in life and business that shape our priorities and values. This idea resonated with me because it reframes challenges not as failures but as indicators of what truly matters. His six-step Values Clarification Process provides a structured exercise that encourages entrepreneurs to ensure their decisions align with their authentic values. I found this section both practical and thought-provoking, as it bridged personal development with business growth in a way that felt both relevant and actionable.
There are moments, however, when the book feels somewhat dense. In his chapter on reprogramming the mind for business and life, Selimi blends research, client anecdotes, and motivational guidance in rapid succession. While this breadth demonstrates his wide-ranging knowledge, I sometimes wished for greater depth in fewer examples rather than a fast-paced layering of many. That said, the momentum of his writing is undeniably energizing and reflects his passion for guiding others toward ambitious goals.
What I appreciated most was his emphasis on credibility and authority. His argument that publishing one’s ideas, whether in books, articles, or public forums, can transform expertise into tangible influence was especially persuasive. His candid acknowledgment of the struggles entrepreneurs face, including financial strain, exhaustion, and doubt, adds authenticity. His advice is grounded in lived experience rather than abstract theory, which makes his encouragement far more convincing.
Climb Greater Heights is an ambitious and thought-provoking book that blends strategy with personal growth. It is particularly well-suited for entrepreneurs and business leaders who feel stalled or overwhelmed yet remain committed to pursuing meaningful success. Those seeking a purely tactical manual may not find it here. Still, readers who seek a comprehensive guide that integrates business practices with values, mindset, and purpose will find Selimi’s work both insightful and inspiring.
Pages: 274 | ASIN : B0FH9D8FD3
The Legal Wellness Kit (7 Essential Tools to Sue-Proof Your Business)
Chris Keefer’s The Legal Wellness Kit is a practical guide for entrepreneurs and business owners who want to avoid the hidden legal landmines that can wreck their companies. Through the lens of “Preventive Law,” Keefer introduces seven tools—from choosing the right legal entity and writing solid contracts to managing lawsuits and performing due diligence—that help businesspeople protect their ventures before trouble starts. His premise is simple but powerful: just like preventive medicine helps people avoid illness, preventive legal care can stop a business from bleeding money, reputation, or worse. He backs his advice with stories, real-world case studies, and actionable checklists, making the book as much a legal manual as it is a confidence booster.
Keefer’s writing is refreshingly conversational, even funny at times, without skimping on the serious stuff. I’ve read enough business books to know when someone’s blowing smoke. This isn’t that. The author doesn’t waste time with theory for theory’s sake. He rolls up his sleeves and dives into exactly what can go wrong and what to do about it. I especially appreciated the chapters on contracts and employment practices—they were eye-opening. He doesn’t just say “have good contracts”—he shows you why and how, and what happens when you don’t. It felt personal, like someone handing me a flashlight before walking into a dark cave.
A few sections felt a little heavy on background legal explanation—probably necessary, but I found myself skimming a bit when it got too technical. Still, Keefer always pulled it back with a case study or a dose of real talk that brought the ideas home. What really stood out was how he framed the legal side of business not as a necessary evil, but as a hidden superpower. I came away feeling more in control, less reactive, and a little angry that nobody taught this stuff earlier.
The Legal Wellness Kit is for any business owner who’s tired of feeling lost when it comes to legal matters. If you’re an early-stage entrepreneur, this book is a must-read before you sign another contract or bring on a partner. If you’re a more seasoned executive, you’ll find smart reminders and sharper tools. I’d even recommend it to law students wanting to see what real business law looks like on the ground.
Pages: 222 | ASIN : B0DYGDBWFS
The Whisper Way: The Secret Formula for Female Entrepreneurs to Scale and Sell for Life-Changing Money
Carrie Kerpen’s The Whisper Way is part memoir, part business guide, and part fictional fable—all tied together with a mission to help women entrepreneurs scale their businesses with intention and, if they choose, sell for real money. The book is built around a cozy, engaging story of seven women who attend a retreat hosted by the ethereal and wise Ramona Kalman, a fictionalized version of Kerpen’s aspirational self. At the heart of it all is the Whisper Way, a clear and emotionally intelligent framework designed specifically for women to grow their businesses in a way that feels aligned, empowered, and strategic.
One moment that completely got me was in the intro, when Carrie talks about sitting across from a room full of men during the sale of her company, defending every line of her financials. “It felt like I was fighting to sell my left arm,” she says. The idea that something I pour my soul into could one day be picked apart by strangers was a terrifying idea. But it was also motivating. That fear is real, and this book doesn’t sugarcoat it. Carrie gets it. She gets the late-night Googling. She gets the burnout. She gets the part where you kind of want to give up but don’t.
What I really loved is that she didn’t just stay in the weeds of personal narrative or toss out vague advice. She gave structure. The chapter “Secure Your Secret Sauce” helped me realize that I don’t need to copy anyone else’s business model. What makes my idea special is me—and that’s the thing I should protect and lean into. The fictional retreat setting honestly felt a little woo-woo at first, but then I got it. It created a space for storytelling that felt like group therapy for entrepreneurs. I saw pieces of myself in Hannah, Ivy, and even Wendy with her “I don’t know what I want” energy.
If you’re a woman with a business, whether you’re just getting started or you’re three years deep and still figuring out if this whole thing is going to fly, this book is for you. It’s not preachy. It’s not some “10X your growth with this funnel” nonsense. It’s human. It’s warm. It’s got solid business advice wrapped in a big sister hug. Read it if you’ve ever felt like the only woman in the room, if you’ve ever doubted your worth, or if you just want someone to finally say out loud what you’ve been whispering to yourself for years.
Pages: 224 | ASIN : B0DL7W83JN
A Multipronged Approach
Mighty Joe Mui: The Untold Underdog Story at Cornell tells the story of a Chinese-Canadian soccer player who defied expectations at every turn and became a prominent athlete and successful entrepreneur. Why was this an important book for you to write?
It was very important for me to write this book primarily because of its invaluable lessons. Students, athletes, and entrepreneurs can learn so much from this memoir about admirable character traits such as perseverance, courage, and integrity. As a teacher interacting with students, I see and hear their struggles on a daily basis. Meeting Joe Mui and hearing his story was an excellent way to address the critical needs of students today. When Joe and I discussed his memoir, we developed the book with one goal in mind… to inspire. One reason why this book has been a success with readers of various backgrounds is because Joe’s stories are relatable to so many people outside the soccer firmament. “Mighty Joe Mui” transcends race, religion, and gender. His story connects with readers of various backgrounds because of his struggles and timeless advice.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Joe and I implemented a multipronged approach to reach our readers. Joe’s life story combined with my field experience in education and film/TV were conducive to writing the ideal book for the “edutainment” genre. Our goal was to combine education with entertainment to produce a text that would engage readers through Joe’s inspirational life story. Ultimately, we published a book recognized under four genres: Biography/Memoir, Sports, Business, and Self-Help/Motivational.
The final chapter of Mighty Joe Mui includes educational resources such as graphic organizers. Graphic organizers in the classroom are effective tools used for helping students who struggle in the area of organizing themselves.
An implicit message behind this book is to be respectful of anyone you interact with. Joe met countless individuals long before they became influential household names in business, sports, and entertainment. Several of these individuals remained supportive of Joe’s endeavours and initiatives because of his humility exhibited decades prior. To this day, because of Joe’s rapport, he can still pick up a phone or shoot a text that’ll be responded to by such influential figures because of his humble and respectful nature.
The most important theme in Mighty Joe Mui is to persevere. Joe and I wanted to inspire our readers to remain tenacious in their pursuit of achieving dreams! Simply put, never giving up is the answer to reaching your goals.
What was the most challenging part of writing this biography, and what was the most rewarding?
The most challenging part of writing this biography was determining what risks to take. I’ve learned that in the creative world, one cannot satisfy everyone. And I am fine with that. I completely understand. It’s an aspect of art that I respect. For instance, I attempted to use a creative approach while storytelling that entailed jumping back/forth in Joe’s chronological timeline. While some readers enjoyed this aspect of storytelling, others preferred sticking to a more linear timeline. I embrace feedback, but for any aspiring writer who might be reading this interview, be mindful that risk-taking comes with the territory.
Another challenging aspect of writing this biography was making decisions on omissions. There were interesting side notes and stories that could have added intrigue, but to avoid controversy, we remained focused on conveying what was pertinent to Joe’s life story.
The most rewarding part of writing this book is being able to offer a beneficial text to readers. Another rewarding part of writing this book was being able to tap into the creative area of my mind. Because of this project, I’ve become more sharp in writing, marketing, and negotiating. Unfortunately, we live in a world where you’re pigeonholed and even excoriated for wanting to explore avenues outside of “your lane.” This project gave me the opportunity to explore my potential outside the “norm.” I will always be thankful for this project.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from Joe Mui’s story?
Inspiration! Joe and I want our readers to leave this experience feeling inspired.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Mighty Joe Mui – The Untold Underdog Story At Cornell
Some stories stick with you because they’re about more than just one person. Mighty Joe Mui is one of those books. It’s a memoir that follows the life of Joe Mui, a five-foot-three Chinese-Canadian soccer player who defied expectations at every turn. From his humble beginnings in China to making a name for himself in NCAA soccer at Cornell and beyond, Joe’s story is an underdog tale in the truest sense. But this book isn’t just about sports. It’s about grit, resilience, and breaking barriers—often without even realizing it. The book takes us through his journey, from playing “crab soccer” in Hong Kong to facing off against the legendary Pelé, all while navigating life as an immigrant, an athlete, and eventually, a successful entrepreneur.
One of the things I loved about Mighty Joe Mui is the way it captures Joe’s relentless drive. The guy simply did not know how to quit. Even when he faced obstacles, like language barriers, financial struggles, and people telling him he was too small to compete, he found ways to push through. The book is filled with moments that showcase this, like when he first arrived in Canada and had to sharpen a pencil in class. That may sound small, but the teacher forced him to ask for it in English, something he barely spoke. It was sink or swim, and Joe chose to swim. Later, when he played for Cornell, he didn’t just compete, he dominated, earning All-American honors and leading his team to success despite being smaller than most of his opponents. The storytelling in these moments makes you root for Joe, even if you don’t know a thing about soccer.
The writing shines when it explores Joe’s life off the field. He was an immigrant kid figuring out a new world, a student navigating Ivy League academics, and later, a businessman making his mark in real estate. The book highlights how his discipline in sports translated into other areas of life. One part that stuck with me was when Joe, despite his busy schedule, still found time to mentor young athletes, passing down what he had learned. He never lost sight of where he came from, and that humility makes his story even more compelling.
While I enjoyed the book, I felt it sometimes jumps around a bit, especially when it mixes past and present moments. One second, we’re with young Joe in Hong Kong, the next, we’re with older Joe reflecting on meeting Ted Turner. It’s an interesting approach, but at times, I wished it stuck to a more linear timeline. But it’s a minor issue in an otherwise engaging read. The writing is conversational, which makes it easy to follow, and there are plenty of funny, heartwarming, and even frustrating moments that make you feel like you’re right there with Joe through it all.
Mighty Joe Mui is perfect for sports fans, but even if you don’t care about soccer, there’s a lot to take away from Joe’s story. If you love underdog tales, immigrant success stories, or just reading about people who refuse to let circumstances define them, this book is worth your time. It’s about perseverance, adapting to change, and proving people wrong.
Pages: 238 | ISBN : 1738328406
Stop the Hassle
Stop the Hassle offers a refreshingly practical approach to simplifying business operations and enhancing customer satisfaction. With clarity and precision, the book introduces the Hassle Score Survey (HSS), a tool designed to evaluate and improve customer experiences. It challenges traditional metrics like the Net Promoter Score (NPS) and argues for a more comprehensive framework. By examining four critical dimensions—convenience, price, product experience, and trust—the HSS provides actionable insights to reduce friction, foster loyalty, and drive sustainable business growth.
The strength of the book lies in its practical insights, rooted in decades of business expertise. Bramlett’s critique of the NPS is both insightful and persuasive. He effectively demonstrates its limitations as a single-question metric, making a strong case for a multi-dimensional approach. The HSS system is presented as a superior alternative, supported by logical arguments and real-world examples. Bramlett’s writing style is clear, concise, and engaging. His no-nonsense tone ensures complex business concepts are approachable for readers across the spectrum, from entrepreneurs to seasoned corporate leaders.
Another highlight was the chapter on product experience, where Bramlett recounts his early venture into the restaurant business. He candidly admits how neglecting customer comfort, such as failing to provide enough seating, hurt the business. The chapter on trust, while thorough and informative, focused more on general principles than on specific, fresh examples. That said, the importance of trust is clear throughout, and the emphasis on guarantees, refunds, and proactive communication offers a solid and practical guide for businesses aiming to strengthen customer relationships.
Stop the Hassle is both timely and relevant. With clients demanding seamless experiences and online feedback wielding immense power, the strategies in this book are invaluable. Bramlett offers a thoughtfully structured guide that balances simplicity with depth, making it an essential read for anyone looking to refine their approach to customer experience and business success.
Pages: 204 | ASIN : B0DGH41JPH
Slow Burn Entrepreneur: Succeed on Your Own Terms with the RELAX Method
Michael Weber’s Slow Burn Entrepreneur offers a refreshing take on entrepreneurship, blending personal experiences with actionable insights. Unlike the fast-paced, burnout-inducing startup culture that dominates much of the entrepreneurial narrative, Weber introduces the concept of the “slow burn entrepreneur.” His approach emphasizes sustainable growth, balance, and long-term planning—principles that will resonate with both new entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners. He champions self-discipline, reflection, and maintaining a steady pace as realistic strategies for achieving success in today’s demanding business environment. Throughout the book, Weber communicates his ideas with clarity and precision, making complex concepts feel both approachable and relevant.
Weber’s writing is conversational and accessible, a style that keeps the reader engaged while delivering valuable lessons. He injects warmth and relatability into his business advice, weaving in vivid storytelling that brings the book to life. The imagery of deserted airports and tranquil beach sunsets adds a human touch, making the book more than just a guide; it’s a journey. His down-to-earth tone invites readers to connect with his experiences, from his early entrepreneurial struggles to the heights of his success. The result is a candid, reflective narrative that feels more like a seasoned mentor offering advice than a conventional business text. Anecdotes like his family’s time in Nicaragua during the pandemic add depth, showing the personal side of entrepreneurship. This balance between emotional resonance and practical advice makes the book accessible to a broad audience, free from jargon and over-complicated language. One of the book’s standout qualities is how Weber presents his ideas. He contrasts two distinct entrepreneurial archetypes: the fast-living, risk-taking entrepreneur prone to burnout and the patient, relationship-oriented business leader. This powerful comparison underscores the core philosophy of his “slow burn” approach. By sharing both his successes and failures, Weber invites readers to learn from his experiences in a way that feels authentic and relatable. His ability to simplify complex entrepreneurial concepts into digestible, practical steps sets this book apart. This book is not for those seeking quick wins or high-risk strategies. For readers looking for rapid scaling techniques, Weber’s measured, methodical approach may seem too cautious. Slow Burn Entrepreneur is a book that requires time to fully appreciate both the insights and the anecdotes.
Slow Burn Entrepreneur is a must-read for anyone interested in a thoughtful, realistic approach to building a business. Weber’s mix of personal storytelling, clear guidance, and practical advice offers a compelling and eye-opening perspective that challenges the traditional entrepreneurial mindset.
Pages: 178 | ASIN : B0DCY7BPB1
LITERARY TITAN 