As an avid reader and someone who has dabbled in entrepreneurship, I was drawn to Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story by Kass and Mike Lazerow for its refreshing honesty about the challenges of running a business. The title itself piqued my curiosity; it promised a candid look into the messiness of entrepreneurship, and frankly, I was tired of sugar-coated success stories. I wanted the real deal—the unvarnished truth of what it takes to build something from the ground up.
The Lazerows share over fifty proven “cheat codes” for entrepreneurs, and this book feels more like a lax chat with friends than a stiff business textbook. It’s no-nonsense, relatable, and brimming with practical advice. The authors have experienced the highs and lows themselves and have the scars to prove it, giving readers insights grounded in real-world experience.
One aspect I particularly appreciated is how quickly I could get through the book. As Colin Hughes mentioned in his review, it’s perfect for busy individuals like parents or entrepreneurs who feel they don’t have the time to read. I found that I could dip into it a few pages at a time, and each time, I walked away feeling more equipped and motivated.
Just like Marc Zakroff noted, this book is filled with nuggets of wisdom that kept my attention. The emphasis on creating a supportive company culture and surrounding yourself with the right people resonated with me. From my own experiences, I know that relationships make or break any venture. The idea that success doesn’t just come from hard work but also from having a solid community is a takeaway that will stick with me.
However, I have to agree with a point raised by a couple of reviewers: while many of the observations in the book are valuable, some examples felt repetitive. There were instances where I found myself skimming through sections that reiterated points already made. Additionally, the hard-hitting honesty can be a double-edged sword; it may be too raw for some readers who prefer a more polished approach to business advice.
That said, the book definitely met my expectations and then some. It’s brimming with actionable advice, such as strategies for overcoming self-doubt and navigating failures, which are necessary steps on the path to success. I’ve already implemented some of their recommendations into my entrepreneurial practice.
One of the key takeaways for me was their concept of the “Go Gauge,” a set of guidelines for assessing the feasibility of new ventures. This is something I plan to use going forward—it’s practical and incredibly useful for anyone looking to make smart, informed decisions about their business.
In conclusion, Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story is a must-read for anyone interested in entrepreneurship. Kass and Mike Lazerow have created a compelling narrative that serves as both an entertaining story and a practical guide. If you’re looking for an honest, no-fluff approach to understanding the chaotic world of entrepreneurship, I highly recommend this book. Whether you’re just starting out or are looking to rejuvenate your current venture, you’ll find something beneficial in these pages. Grab a shovel and dive in—trust me, you won’t regret it!
Discover the inspiring journey of perseverance and passion in this entrepreneurial love story. >>