The Chris Voss Show Podcast – The Entrepreneur’s Odyssey by Andrew Ackerman

The Entrepreneur's Odyssey by Andrew Ackerman Andrewbackerman.com https://www.amazon.com/Entrepreneurs-Odyssey-Andrew-Ackerman/dp/1032883545 The Entrepreneur’s Odyssey is an authentic window into what it really takes to turn an idea into a viable startup. It is both an essential how-to guide for would-be startup founders as well as an entertaining novel for the startup curious. This textbook-as-novel has fictional first-time entrepreneur Marcus Williams recount his journey from would-be founder with a half-formed idea to a funded startup. His mentor, Jason Murath, a seasoned angel investor, guides Marcus step by step through customer discovery, validating and refining the product, market sizing, and more, all the way through closing his first round of financing. There has never been a more fun – and effective! – way to learn how to build a startup.About the author Serial entrepreneur turned early stage investor, innovation expert, professor and, oh yeah, author. Invested in 70+ startups and mentored hundreds more. Tl;dr It's hard Built my first startup into the top provider of web services to summer camps. Lots of mistakes. Luckily, none killed the company. Managed a family office. Incubated new ventures while managing hedge & private equity funds. Meh. Recruited to found an app for parents to organize digital memories. Experience is what you get when you don't get what you want. Awesome experience. Why start one business when you can launch dozens? Joined an accelerator and ended up creating a new, later stage, platform for them. These days I run REACH Labs for Second Century Ventures, consult for corporate venture funds, accelerators, etc. Teach entrepreneurship in my (ha!) spare time to test my book with real students. Spoiler: It works really well. Over 60 published articles but this is my first novel. Hope you enjoy it!

A Bun Dance by Penelope Bourdillon Penelopebourdillon.com https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bun-Dance-Penelope-Bourdillon/dp/1637672772 The Bible is many things: a library; history books; a collection of wise sayings, and much, much more. Most importantly it reveals the secrets of life: who we are; what is our purpose; how we should live; what is our destiny? It is centered in Jesus who reveals what God is really like. A gentle Father, overflowing with tender love and mercy towards us. A God who sings, laughs, grieves, shouts for joy, longs for company, and - He has a sense of humor. All this is found in the Bible that this book describes: it contains jokes! Read it and laugh, smile, wonder, and then give thanks for the help you find. ----------------------------------------- Reviews: Throughout my ordained ministry I have longed to get people to engage with scripture more openly and faithfully and, above all, sensibly. Scripture requires interpretation, not wholesale, literal acceptance; it both demands and repays reflection, and it is a source upon which to draw at different times, in various circumstances. Properly and faithfully handled, inquiringly understood, and lovingly absorbed, it will afford great nourishment and deep comfort. I commend this book as a welcome effort designed to encourage engagement, discovery and comfort. - The Most Reverend John Davies, sometime Archbishop of Wales and Bishop of Swansea and Brecon. Penelope's style is delightful and unique. As I was reading what she had written I felt that I was listening to her speaking... My prayer is that it may reach many families who normally do not go to church. - Revd Prebendary John Collins, Prebendary of St. Paul's Cathedral and former Vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton.

Redneck Resilience: A Country Boy’s Journey To Prosperity by James Harold Webb Jamesharoldwebb.com https://www.amazon.com/Redneck-Resilience-Country-Journey-Prosperity/dp/1642252395 RESILIENCE FINDS A WAY James Webb’s life is the American dream in a nutshell. Born to teenage parents in Laurel, Mississippi, and faced with a future working in the town’s only two factories, James chose to change his fate and forge his own path―to become a titan of business, a mentor, and a philanthropist. In Redneck Resilience, James shares stories of amazing wins and devastating losses, of sin and redemption, of recovery and forward momentum. Most importantly, he discusses the benefits and advantages of resilience. James uses his own life to illustrate truths about success in life and in business, including: Failures happen, and resilience vanquishes failure. No lesson or experience is ever wasted. When opportunity presents itself, take the risk. A true entrepreneur works for no one. You cannot succeed on your own. And much more. Resilient people never take their eye off where they’re going, even when they get knocked down. They refocus. Resilience isn’t worried about the odds. Resilience finds a way.About the author Born to two 17-year-old parents and living an economically disadvantage childhood, James Harold Webb has had amazing wins and devastating losses throughout his life. He attributes a majority of his success to resilience and to relationships, both personally and professionally. James’ storied career started as a radiologic technologist in his home state of Mississippi. After moving to Dallas in 1983, he began working as the Director of Radiology at a local hospital and, for the next 13 years, worked on the executive team for various medical imaging companies. In 1996, Webb started his first of many companies and became a key leader in the industry. After more than 40 years in the medical field, and selling his three largest companies, James turned his focus to the fitness sector, becoming one of the largest Orangetheory Fitness franchisees in the country owning, overseeing, and ultimately selling 33 Orangetheory Fitness gyms located throughout North Texas. Not one to slow down, his most recent endeavors include an agreement to develop, and open BeBalanced Centers (health, wellness and weight loss) throughout Austin, Dallas, and Fort Worth and the recent purchase of 10 Scenthound franchise locations (dog health and grooming) for the Dallas, TX market.

Every Mile Matters: Turning Triathlon Training Into Cancer Triumph by Jeffrey L. Reynolds, Ph.D https://www.amazon.com/Every-Mile-Matters-Triathlon-Training/dp/B0FJQ2Q98P Everymilematters.com Three sports. Two cancer diagnoses. One unbreakable spirit. At age 55, Jeffrey L. Reynolds, Ph.D., crossed the finish line at Ironman Florida - a grueling triathlon and the crowning achievement of his endurance sports journey. Just weeks later, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. He fought through treatment, recovered—and was hit again. This time, it was Stage 3B colorectal cancer. In Every Mile Matters, Dr. Reynolds shares how the physical fitness, mental fortitude, grit and resilience developed through triathlon and marathon training became his greatest weapons in the fight for his life. The Long Island resident didn’t just apply his athletic mindset—he relied on it. Each round of radiation became a daily workout. Each chemo session, a test of strategy and strength. And every setback, an opportunity to dig deeper, endure and win. This is a powerful story of transformation, of turning pain into purpose and struggle into strength. Reynolds explores the emotional and spiritual shifts that come with surviving cancer—alongside practical tools for mindset, wellness, and long-term recovery. Perfect for athletes, cancer survivors, caregivers, and anyone facing adversity, Every Mile Matters is an uplifting, unforgettable tribute to the grit that carries us through finish lines—and the fights that matter most. “Every Mile Matters is a triumph of heart and soul in battling the demons of cancer. Jeffrey Reynolds has captured each defining moment of his cancer journey with honesty, passion, and remarkable clarity. Through his story, he teaches us powerful life lessons - and more importantly, how to live them daily. His defining moments at the IRONMAN finish line gave him the strength to fight on. His resilience, vulnerability, and relentless spirit remind us that the human will is stronger than any diagnosis. This book isn’t just about surviving cancer - it’s about reclaiming life and helping others to do the same. A must-read for anyone facing adversity or seeking inspiration to rise above it.” - Mike Reilly, Voice of IRONMAN and author of Finding My Voice “Dr. Jeff Reynolds' book is an important one for everyone, but especially for those who have been given “the diagnosis” that changes your life forever. I feel strongly that we are given 3 choices when going through a period of challenge or suffering. Succumb, Adapt, or Evolve. Jeff took the Evolve route and it has changed his life for the “BEST-ER.” Taking charge of your life is a choice, and he represents that greatest choice in this book.” - Scott Hamilton, Olympic Gold Medalist and cancer survivor.

Catch People Doing Things Right: How Ken Blanchard Changed the Way the World Leads by Martha C. Lawrence https://www.amazon.com/Catch-People-Doing-Things-Right/dp/B0DTP1BCYM Marthalawrence.com This candid business biography reveals how bestselling author, speaker, and business consultant Ken Blanchard revolutionized management by leading with love and service. Ken Blanchard transformed modern leadership theory through unlikely means—by catching people doing things right. Written like a novel with warmth and humor, this authorized biography reveals how a mediocre student who was told he "couldn't write" became a bestselling author and a globally renowned management expert. Through extensive access to personal papers, letters, and interviews spanning six decades, Martha Lawrence paints an intimate portrait of the man behind The One Minute Manager and dozens of other influential books. From his early days coaching Cub Scouts to building a worldwide training organization, Blanchard demonstrated that nice guys can finish first by focusing on serving rather than being served. During pivotal moments—his sister’s tragic death, losing his home to wildfire, economic downturns threatening his company—Blanchard’s optimistic leadership philosophy was tested. Yet his unwavering commitment to bringing out the best in others while leading with love created a lasting legacy that continues to influence organizations globally. More than just a business biography, this book shows an American success story of someone who achieved greatness not through ruthless ambition but by genuinely caring about people and helping them reach their full potential. Blanchard’s story offers an inspiring road map for anyone seeking to lead with both results and relationships in mind.

How To Create Lifetime Cashflow Through Multifamily Properties by Rod Khleif Rodkhleif.com Lcfabook.com Rod Khleif is host of the number #1 ranked real estate podcast on iTunes, "Lifetime Cash Flow" which has been downloaded 13 million times. Rod is a seasoned and passionate real estate investor who has personally owned and managed over 2000 properties. Rod has combined his passion for real estate investing with his personal philosophies of self-actualization, goal setting, envisioning, and manifesting success to become one of America’s top real estate investment professionals. This 200+ page book is the essential textbook for aspiring multifamily real estate investors. It carefully outlines why the rules of real estate investing have changed forever. The book offers a step-by-step approach to the exciting and lucrative business of multifamily real estate investing. HERE IS WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: How to find the money for your apartment purchases The four best areas to buy in and how to quickly evaluate an area How to find the best off-market deals How to identify a great deal How to evaluate a property How to convince sellers to give you seller financing How to find investors for your deals and syndicate to buy larger properties Scripts for talking to sellers, brokers, investors and lenders How to perform comprehensive due diligence to protect yourself The mistakes to avoid How to systemize your business and turn it into a machine Follow the advice in this book and take action to find hot markets, hot properties, and close on hot deals.

The Gallery Assistant: A Novel by Kate Belli Katebelli.com https://www.amazon.com/Gallery-Assistant-Novel-Kate-Belli/dp/1668093650 “A haunting, razor-sharp mystery…With an unforgettable protagonist and a plot that spirals into ever-deeper layers of intrigue.” —Julie Clark, New York Times bestselling author of The Ghostwriter This twisty and sinister thriller follows a New York art gallery assistant reckoning with her past and now trapped in a web of deceit after an up-and-coming painter is murdered—perfect for fans of Katy Hays and Julia Bartz. November 2001: Chloe Harlow wakes up late, with hazy memories of the party the night before but no recollection of how she got back to her Brooklyn apartment. Ever since the terrifying and catastrophic terrorist attack, it seems she has been on a collision course with destruction. When she finally arrives at the exclusive Upper East Side art gallery where she works, she is immediately called into her boss’s office. A pair of NYPD detectives greet her, also very curious to know how her evening ended…because the host of the party, a rising painter and the gallery’s newest artist, is dead. Navigating both the sophisticated high-stakes art world and her personal life in burgeoning Williamsburg, Chloe struggles to piece together a complete picture of that lost night. As she digs deeper, inconsistencies emerge between what she remembers and what people tell her actually happened, and more questions are raised. Everything begins to feel like a conspiracy and maybe it is. Because Chloe is the only one who glimpses the secrets the murdered artist left behind, and the closer she gets to the truth…the more deadly it becomes.About the author Kate Belli writes historical mystery and contemporary thrillers. Fascinated by history from an early age, she earned a PhD in American art and has variously worked as an antiques appraiser, a museum curator and a college professor. Kate has lived all over, from Florence, Italy, to Brooklyn, New York, to the Deep South, to a cottage next to Monet’s gardens in Northern France. Today she lives and works in Central Pennsylvania with her husband and son. When not writing, Kate satisfies her wanderlust by traveling with her family as often as possible, touring museums and sampling local food. She is also an avid runner, having completed several marathons, and a yoga teacher. Kate loves hiking, camping, and cooking, and firmly believes red wine and strong coffee qualify as their own food groups.

Night of the Phantom: Episode I by Carlos Manuel Reynosa Authorcarlosreynosa.com https://www.amazon.com/Night-Phantom-Carlos-Manuel-Reynosa/dp/1639452184 Perception is a powerful tool to obtain, it could turn the innocent into the guilty, a sinner in saint, a murder into a hero. But what happens when you have the ability to change that Perception. Will you be proven right or be proven wrong? Find out what Nick Solitario does in the Night of the Phantom: Episode One. About the author I’m a graduate of Kean University with a B.A. degree in Communications/Journalism. The youngest and only boy among three sisters of Carlos and Gloria Reynosa. Wishes to be a storyteller and hope this story is of many to come.

The New Science of Momentum: How the Best Coaches and Leaders Build a Fire from a Single Spark by Don Yaeger, Bernie Banks, Karen Cyphers https://www.amazon.com/New-Science-Momentum-Coaches-Leaders/dp/1400247136 “This book will help you win in the game of life!” – Dick Vitale, ESPN analyst Learn how to capture—and keep—the awesome power of momentum! Most leaders believe in momentum—a phenomenon that's easy to perceive but difficult to define. Which is why so few have been able to explain how to spark it, sustain it, or steer it to unbridled success. Until now. In this groundbreaking book, bestselling author Don Yaeger and leadership expert Bernie Banks uncover what it takes to turn a single moment into unstoppable momentum. Drawing from eight years of research, over 250 interviews, and thousands of survey responses, they reveal a proven model for building momentum across sports, business, politics, and the military. You'll learn how to: Recognize the early spark of momentum and act on it. Build a culture that sustains momentum over time. Apply a research-backed model used by top leaders. Reignite momentum when it begins to fade. Whether you're leading a team or an entire organization, this book will help you harness momentum in every aspect of an enterprise—from team building to recruitment to communications—and make it last.About the author Don Yaeger is a National Speakers Hall of Fame inductee, 12-time New York Times bestselling author, and host of the top-rated Corporate Competitor Podcast. He is Publisher of Forbes Books, Storyteller in Residence for National Geographic, and a former Associate Editor of Sports Illustrated. Don is known for his work with elite sports and business leaders, coaching organizations on building cultures of Greatness using insights from his study of high-performing teams. Celebrated by thought leaders like John Maxwell and Simon Sinek as a master storyteller, Don has appeared on Oprah, CNN, Fox Business, and Good Morning America. His podcast ranks in the top 5% globally and features guests such as Condoleezza Rice and CEOs from Disney, Delta, and Mayo Clinic. A Ball State Hall of Fame alum, Don lives in Tallahassee with his wife and two children.

Discover Regpack: The Ultimate Onboarding and Payment Solution with Asaf Darash Regpacks.com About the Guest(s): Dr. Asaf Darash is the founder and CEO of Regpack, a leading registration and payments platform designed to enhance how organizations automate their operations. With a PhD from UC Berkeley focused on the intersection of technology and human behavior, Dr. Darash transformed his academic research into Regpack's adaptive architecture that simplifies complex onboarding systems. Under his leadership, Regpack processes billions in payments and optimizes workflows for a variety of sectors, including education, events, and non-profits. Dr. Darash is also a frequent speaker on automation and SaaS innovation. Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of The Chris Voss Show, host Chris Voss sits down with Dr. Asaf Darash, the visionary founder behind Regpack. They dive into the intricacies of Regpack, a robust SaaS platform revolutionizing registration and payment systems for businesses and organizations worldwide. Dr. Darash shares insights into the founding and evolution of Regpack, highlighting how it simplifies complex onboarding processes and enhances automation for its users. The conversation covers the technical prowess and unique services offered by Regpack, including its groundbreaking conditional logic engine and API capabilities. Dr. Darash discusses the importance of creating seamless and intuitive user experiences, emphasizing how Regpack's customization options help businesses effectively engage with clients while saving time and cost. With a keen focus on the service-based market, this episode delves into the challenges faced by businesses in managing onboarding processes and how Regpack's innovative solutions can help overcome them. Key Takeaways: Revolutionizing Onboarding: Regpack's adaptive software transforms the onboarding process for service-based businesses, offering a flexible and efficient solution. Conditional Logic Engine: The platform’s distinctive feature allows users to experience a streamlined process tailored to their specific needs, enhancing customer satisfaction. Cost-Effective Payment Processing: Dr. Darash reveals how Regpack reduces payment processing costs using a proprietary method that identifies card types and offers lower rates. Integrations and Customization: With robust API and webhook capabilities, Regpack easily integrates into existing systems, providing extensive customization for clients. Automation and Growth: Businesses leveraging Regpack’s automation tools witness an average 30% growth in their revenue as a result of improved efficiency and user experience. Notable Quotes: "Think of a mother that's super tired, end of day, needs to register their kid… While making dinner, it needs to be that simple." — Dr. Asaf Darash "Regpack makes everything just flow." — Dr. Asaf Darash "From my perspective, it's like I'm connecting the two — my business side and my passion for educational services." — Dr. Asaf Darash "The whole thing is made to make sure that you understand how Regpack is gonna help you." — Dr. Asaf Darash "What I was trying to do was figure out a system that had no constraints in it." — Dr. Asaf Darash