Blog Archives
Differentiation and Innovation
The Robin Hood Method combines motivational narratives with clear, step-by-step instructions for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners, making complex business ideas accessible. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I learned a lot during my disastrous business start-up and during my twenty years in building a $100 million mortgage business. I would like to spare small business owners some of the pain that comes from not knowing how to do it, and provide them with the practical knowledge gleaned from my own experiences, which can be applied to virtually any business.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
First, the competition can kill you, and it can also save you. Second, profitability can be increased without risk, and without any increase in sales. Third, differentiation and innovation can create profound value for even a common product (such as popcorn) or service (such as a restaurant). And tiny, ongoing improvements in the product or services can create a proportionately greater value over time.
What is one piece of advice someone gave you that changed your life?
I learned that the best way to learn was by copying the methods of my most successful competitors, and by collaborating with others in the same business to improve marketing and other processes.
The best advice I received was to ensure that my pricing was at least at the level of the market, though it seemed high to me. I then learned that superb service and effective marketing allow more room for price increases.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from The Robin Hood Method?
The habit of copying from the best has been the foundation of science, sports, and our society as a whole. So how can you go wrong by following the same script in business?
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
A new and different approach is required because only 40% of small businesses are profitable and over 50% fail within five years.
With a relentless emphasis on profitability, the author provides fresh insight into:
– How the Robin Hood Method costs nothing, has no disadvantages, and can cut your learning curve by years.
– Thirteen untapped opportunities to increase prices.
– Four ways to create instant sales momentum for your start-up.
– Six mega marketing options.
– A fun and creative approach for novices to understand business numbers.
The author has experienced the despair of a failing business and can relate to the issues of lack of money, knowledge, and experience. For that reason the book has simple and easy to apply techniques for a business in trouble, mired in mediocrity, or just starting out.
Passion Struck: Twelve Powerful Principles to Unlock Your Purpose and Ignite Your Most Intentional Life
Passion Struck by John R. Miles offers a compelling framework for transforming your life, discovering your passion, and unlocking your hidden potential. Drawing from over 30 years of experience, John presents a series of personal stories and principles that have empowered countless individuals to achieve remarkable success. The book is filled with inspiring narratives from a diverse range of people, including government officials, technologists, entertainers, athletes, academics, artists, and business leaders, all of whom have applied the principles outlined in the book to their lives. These stories teach readers how to exercise intentionality and take small, boundary-pushing actions that build confidence and diminish fear.
One of the standout qualities of Passion Struck is its rich storytelling, which adds a human touch and creates an emotional connection with readers from the beginning. The book seamlessly blends personal anecdotes with practical lessons, making the content relatable and engaging. For instance, one of the most memorable stories revolves around Steve Jobs and the concept of being “right by being alone.” When the music industry initially dismissed Jobs’ vision for the iPod, his persistence eventually led to the creation of Apple Music and other online music services, transforming the industry forever. This story and many others illustrate the power of perseverance and visionary thinking.
John also shares invaluable insights from his diverse professional experiences, including his time in the military and cybersecurity, his role as a CIO at Dell, and his journey as an entrepreneur. These insights are presented through smart and intriguing concepts, such as “fear confronter,” “mission angler,” and “perspective harnesser.” His use of metaphors and analogies effectively conveys the book’s messages. For example, the “metaphorical mosquito” is used to describe emotionally manipulative individuals who compromise boundaries—an analogy that vividly illustrates the importance of protecting one’s personal space and integrity. This book is not just a collection of theoretical essays; it actively engages readers with a variety of interactive elements. It includes actionable exercises, a well-structured framework, and even QR codes that provide additional insights and resources. These elements enhance the reading experience and encourage readers to apply the lessons to their own lives. The chapter-ending exercises are particularly thoughtful, serving as both a summary and a prompt for deeper reflection.
Passion Struck is an ideal read for those eager to pursue their passions and achieve their dream lives. By exploring topics such as meditation, self-awareness, psychology, and entrepreneurship, the book equips readers with the tools they need to embark on a journey of success and fulfillment. John R. Miles reminds us of the importance of listening to our hearts and following our passions—qualities that no AI can ever replace.
Pages: 399 | ASIN : B0CGS248NR
Tune Out the Noise
United States of Small Business complies the wisdom and experiences shared by the entrepreneurs from your first 43 podcasts into one book for readers to access and learn from. What inspired you to turn your podcast interviews into a book?
People like to consume content in different ways. Some may not be podcast listeners but love reading a book. I think we’re going to see more podcasters doing this down the road. It’s a fantastic way to add value to your brand, the guests appreciate it, and it’s surprisingly easy to pull off.
One thing that sets your approach apart is the focus on small businesses and the provision of actionable advice that those without a lot of resources can implement. What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The key idea is just to start. Too many people wait for perfection before they begin, but that moment never comes. Also, it’s important to embrace failure. I’ve had my fair share as an entrepreneur, but each mistake sharpens you for the next challenge. And, of course, storytelling is vital. Personal stories have the power to inspire, and we shouldn’t underestimate that.
What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were starting out building your own brand and business?
Tune out the noise from people who don’t have your best interests at heart, and stay focused on moving forward. It’s easy to get discouraged, especially when the loudest voices are often critics. Focus on creating value—it doesn’t have to be perfect. Just keep pushing forward and stay positive.
When will volume two be available? Can you give us an idea of what lessons that book will impart to readers?
Volume two is slated for release in October or November.
Author Links: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Spotify
Discover the heart and soul of American entrepreneurship with “United States of Small Business: Everyday Advice from Everyday Entrepreneurs.” Curated by John Quick, the host of the acclaimed podcast “United States of Small Business,” this book is a rich collection of stories, insights, and practical advice from remarkable small business owners across the nation.
In this inaugural volume, John Quick compiles the wisdom and experiences shared by entrepreneurs from the first 43 episodes of his podcast. Each chapter offers a unique glimpse into the lives, victories, and challenges faced by these inspiring individuals, providing readers with valuable lessons and actionable strategies that can be applied to their own entrepreneurial journeys.
What You’ll Find Inside:Real-Life Lessons: Gain invaluable insights from firsthand accounts of entrepreneurial journeys, highlighting the challenges and triumphs that come with starting and running a business.
Inspiration and Motivation: Discover stories of resilience, innovation, and success that will inspire you to pursue your own dreams with renewed vigor.
Practical Advice: From marketing and customer engagement to financial planning and scaling operations, this book is packed with practical advice and actionable strategies to help you succeed.
Diverse Perspectives: Featuring entrepreneurs from a wide range of industries and backgrounds, this book offers a rich tapestry of perspectives and experiences.
Reflection Questions: Each chapter concludes with thought-provoking questions designed to help you reflect on the insights and apply them to your own business or personal life.
John Quick’s “United States of Small Business: Everyday Advice from Everyday Entrepreneurs” is more than a collection of interviews; it’s a testament to the enduring power of the American Dream. This book celebrates the resilience, innovation, and determination that define entrepreneurship in America. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or someone seeking inspiration and practical advice, this book has something for you.
Join John Quick and the remarkable entrepreneurs featured in these pages as they share their journeys, strategies, and wisdom, guiding you on your path to success. Embrace the lessons, be inspired by the stories, and apply the practical tools to create a lasting impact in your business and beyond.
United States of Small Business is the publisher of this book. https://www.unitedstatesofsmallbusiness.com/legal/
United States of Small Business: Everyday Advice from Everyday Entrepreneurs
As an entrepreneur, whether you’re new or seasoned, advice is invaluable. Some advice will be less useful, but some wise words offered by others will be absolute gems. Enter John Quick with a practical guide and inspirational resource for entrepreneurs at all stages of their business journey. United States of Small Business compiles stories and lessons from a diverse array of small business owners across the United States, based on interviews. Each chapter offers insights into the lives, challenges, and successes of these entrepreneurs, providing readers with a blend of real-life lessons, motivational stories, and actionable advice.
This book is a treasure trove of lessons and wisdom amassed over lifetimes of experience and business dealings. Each chapter provides a glimpse into an entrepreneur’s journey, complete with its ups and downs, making this book a practical resource. Readers can expect to find inspiration within its pages. A common thread in the stories is the resilience and motivation to keep trying, which provides readers with the encouragement to persevere, no matter how daunting the current obstacles may seem. The diverse perspectives presented in the book allow readers to choose what works best for them. This book applies to anyone, regardless of their business type, tenure, or the challenges they face. This relatability enhances the rapport the author builds with the reader.
The true value of this book lies in John Quick’s ability to transform these stories into actionable steps that readers can take to advance their businesses. The reflective questions included in each chapter provoke readers to think critically and infuse their creativity into propelling their businesses forward. Each chapter is rich with insights and serves as a call to action to adapt the lessons to their own situations. The book covers a comprehensive range of subjects, from time management to networking, equipping readers with the tools needed to achieve success.
United States of Small Business is more than just a collection of interviews. It proves that success is attainable and that persistence pays off. This is the biggest takeaway from the book: it celebrates resilience and business acumen as the world welcomes new generations of entrepreneurs. John Quick’s writing, with its clarity and precision, makes this book an essential read for anyone looking to thrive in the business world.
Pages: 106 | ASIN : B0D5TPP6J7
Purposeful Collaboration
In EVERYTHING IS PERSONAL, you explore the difference between effective leadership skills and straightforward management tactics. What inspired you to write this book?
After being a leadership program designer, facilitator, and avid student of the art of leadership for decades, the premise of foundational leadership success became vividly clear. When leaders, or anyone, embraced the idea of “stewardship of others” and made positive and enriching relationships purposeful, it completely switched up how we view our interactions with others inside and outside of work. I wanted to collect these ideas in a simple but thought-provoking way via my first leadership book!
Can you share with us a little about the research behind your book?
Working on five continents with teams and leaders of various experiences, education, and interests was the best research I could have hoped for and yielded such valuable information. Whether leaders were in Brazil or Thailand…Azerbaijan or Thailand…China or UAE…the common query of leadership ran throughout. How do we retain talent? How do we drive success across our enterprise? How do we create an environment where people desire to succeed? The answer was always enlightened leadership, not based in authority, but resident in relationships.
What is one misconception you find most people have about business leadership?
That it’s “lonely at the top.” That leadership is a solitary place to live practically and emotionally. Nonsense. Beyond the stereotypical staff meeting, the most successful leadership environment is a place rich with healthy debate, challenging viewpoints, and purposeful collaboration.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from EVERYTHING IS PERSONAL?
I hope they never hide behind the “it’s just business” premise again. Yes, we need to make tough decisions in business all the time…just like we do throughout every facet of our lives…why deny the personal elements? In fact, embrace them – even when it’s deeply difficult. As a result, your credibility, transparency, and authenticity will only grow.
Author Links: GoodReads | LinkedIn | Facebook | Website | InspireLSC | Amazon
Through storytelling and practical guidance, Louis Roden empowers readers to cultivate excellence and empowerment in their organizations and beyond by exploring the essence of transformational leadership and delving into the heart of stewardship.
Drawing from a wealth of global industry experiences, Everything is Personal serves as a roadmap for navigating the complexities of leadership with confidence and clarity. By embracing the principles outlined in this book, readers will discover how to forge genuine connections, inspire trust, and drive sustainable success in every facet of their lives. Join us on a journey of self-discovery, as we challenge conventional notions of leadership and empower individuals to lead with authenticity and purpose. Together we can unlock the transformative power of stewardship and make every interaction, every decision, and every moment truly personal.
No More Feedback: Cultivate Consciousness at Work
They say – “change or perish.” This phrase underscores the ultimate purpose of feedback: to facilitate change. However, Carol Sanford offers a fresh and provocative critique of this widely accepted practice in her enlightening book, No More Feedback. Sanford’s unapologetically contrarian stance challenges the conventional feedback mechanisms that many consider essential for personal and professional growth. Through a blend of personal narrative, historical context, and practical alternatives, Sanford presents a compelling case against traditional feedback practices.
Sanford’s authority on the subject is evident, drawing from her vast experience and well-supported claims. She bravely shares her personal story of being subjected to a “cybernetic feedback method” early in her academic career. This method, a precursor to modern 360-degree feedback, left her feeling disempowered and alienated from her teaching philosophy. This poignant narrative provides readers with a clear understanding of her perspective and a compelling reason to consider her philosophy.
The writing in No More Feedback is both simple and seamlessly blends theoretical insights with practical advice. Sanford provides a robust framework for organizations to adopt her alternative methods, supported by real-life examples of companies that have successfully implemented her strategies. These case studies serve as powerful testimonies to the transformative potential of moving away from traditional feedback mechanisms. Her meticulous detailing of the origins and evolution of feedback practices highlights her bravery and passion in criticizing feedback models that prioritize conformity and control over individual growth.
Sanford’s empathy and compassion are infectious, inspiring readers to rethink their approach to feedback not only in the workplace but also in personal relationships. No More Feedback advocates for introspection and capacity building without relying on external validation. This book is an essential read for managers, educators, and anyone invested in fostering genuine human development. Carol Sanford effortlessly radicalizes the reader, driving them to rethink their certainties about feedback and embrace a more holistic, self-directed approach to personal and professional growth.
Pages: 192 | ASIN : B07M59S165
FROM PURPOSE TO PROFIT. How to avoid costly mistakes, build a self-selling brand & achieve effortless business profitability
Profit is the cornerstone of any business, yet the journey to achieving it is often complex, involving many moving parts. Erin Andrea Craske’s From Purpose to Profit distills her wealth of experience into a comprehensive guide that demystifies the intricacies of business management. With a practical and insightful approach, Craske provides the tools and strategies necessary to juggle the multiple facets of running a business without letting anything fall through the cracks.
Craske leverages her background in coaching to offer clear and actionable advice, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical implementation. Her book meticulously covers a wide range of topics from marketing to communication, providing a thorough understanding of each. This is not just a book but a manual, designed to translate abstract business principles into concrete actions that can be directly applied to your business. The book stands out for its well-structured content and logical flow, guiding readers progressively through its insights.
Craske’s focus on strategic planning is consistently linked to real-world business scenarios, highlighting its critical role across various contexts. Her vivid illustrations of potential pitfalls in business are particularly enlightening, offering a sobering look at the consequences of poor planning. The author’s ability to convey complex concepts in a straightforward manner ensures that readers can easily grasp and apply her advice.
Reading From Purpose to Profit is poised to be a transformative experience. It equips readers with valuable knowledge and a renewed sense of purpose, ready to implement changes that drive business success. Erin Andrea Craske’s insights offer a fresh perspective on entrepreneurship, making this book an essential tool for anyone looking to excel in business.
Pages: 264 | ASIN : B0CPYQVYP8
LITERARY TITAN 