I was selected to read and review Blake Mycoskie’s new book Start Something That Matters
. Mycoskie is the leader of TOMS Shoes, not some guy named Tom, and already had an interesting resume
before he founded his shoe company that broke the mold by giving away a pair of shoes for every pair that was bought. I enjoyed learning more about Mycoskie and reading some of his ideas on leadership and running a socially responsible company. Companies and leaders are becoming more conscious of ways to help others while still making money, and this book is a good reference to help leaders develop companies that make the world a better place, and not just by producing a product and creating jobs, but by giving back in ways that make everyone happier and healthier.
In the book Mycoskie, Chief Shoe Giver, offers many useful tips and lessons for doing well with a new and struggling business like show up in person (don’t always just send emails), have a story to tell, and do things to get noticed. I think the best tip from these is to tell a story, and he offers some story telling advice including the story must be authentic, because if it’s not customers and employees will know.
This is a motivational book that will provide instruction for young and new entrepreneurs. It’s different from most business and motivational books and will appeal to anyone looking for a different angle from this genre. I enjoyed this book and recommend it to those that are fans of Toms Shoes, those that like to read success stories, and those who wants to be inspired.
Fun Fact: The name TOMS comes from Tomorrows Shoes
Free Book: I was provided an extra copy to give away in a contest. I’ll keep the contest simple. If you want the free copy blog, tweet, or place a link on Facebook back to this post. In the post mention your idea to start a social responsible business, what you want to do with an existing business, or simply why you want this book. I’ll select my favorite answer and send you the book (U.S. only). Make sure to contact me with a link back to your post or tweet.
This contest will end December 23, 2011 at midnight EST.

















