Owner Shift, my new book that entrepreneurs are craving!
Owner Shift is my new book that is a crazy raw examination of the entrepreneurial journey told with my stories but relatable to all entrepreneurs. Its purpose is to help entrepreneurs get unstuck, take back their power, and create the futures they want and deserve.
An eBook version is available – You can read it from any phone, tablet, or computer.
If you’re more of a “feel the paper” type (like I am), the physical book is available as well in hard cover and paperback!
If you have an Amazon account, I’d be extremely grateful if you could buy the book and leave a review. Link in comments!
Thank you so much for your support. It means a lot and I’m grateful.
Read the reviews and see why Owner Shift is the book entrepreneurs are craving.
Editorial Reviews
Review
“Ever stop before you feel like you really got things started? Yeah, me too. You’re not alone, as entrepreneur, writer, and podcaster Mike Malatesta illustrates. Ride along for Mike’s own narrated journey. Filled with insight, not the obvious, with vulnerability, not infallibility, Malatesta’s crisp writing is laced with lessons worth learning.”
–Scott Mautz, Founder & CEO, Profound Performance, author, Leading from the Middle | Find the Fire | Make It Matter
“If you’re a fed-up entrepreneur questioning whether you should go back to working for the man or hang in there in the hope of finding the right path, then you’ll find Michael Malatesta’s book indispensable. Through clear, concise, and jargon-free writing, he guides us through his own entrepreneurial journey, exploring all the frustrations, setbacks, and grief that every would-be entrepreneur faces and ultimately experiences. Want to know how to get through your own entrepreneurial journey and reach the promised land? Read this book, then keep it on your night table until you’re successful. You won’t find a better mentor anywhere than Mike Malatesta.”
–Art Bell, Co-Founder, Comedy Central, author, Constant Comedy: How I Started Comedy Central and Lost My Sense of Humor
“Mike Malatesta is a wizard, a genius, a visionary leader. His story of resilience and greatness is truly off the charts, even for the highest of high-performing entrepreneurs. I’m honored to call him a collaborator and a friend.”
–Justin Breen, Founder/CEO, BrEpic Communications LLC, author, Epic Business
“Mike has a unique perspective that aligns perfectly with what the entrepreneurial world is craving today. Perhaps being selfish sounds counterintuitive, but setting and maintaining professional boundaries is essential in a world saturated with inauthentic ‘impactors or influencers’ saying things like their need to serve. If you are an entrepreneur, this is a must-read for you; don’t fall into an altruistic place of pouring into people that drain an entrepreneur of energy and passion.”
— Chris Ross, Founder & CEO, Winject Studios, Host, The Win-Win Effect Podcast
“The glory of the overnight success is all too prevalent on today’s business bookshelves. There’s a reason for this; those stories sell. But the dark secret is this—overnight success is a myth. Mike takes us on his personal entrepreneurship journey that’s anything but an overnight success. That’s why Overshift is essential for any entrepreneur fighting the good fight. It’s honest, transparent, and wickedly enjoyable.”
— Al Weiss, CEO, Weiss Advisors Retired President of Worldwide Operations for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts
“Mike is the epitome of humility. As you will see in his journey, he makes decisive but thoughtful long-term decisions. He understands his limitations and seeks guidance for his betterment.”
— Dan Einhorn, General Partner Capital Midwest Venture Capital Fund
“Mike channels a warrior’s mindset through a philosopher’s pen. His writing style cuts through the noise to take the reader on a raw and real journey through the entrepreneurial gauntlet.”
— Madan Kandula, MD, Founder & Chief Executive Officer ADVENT
“Mike Malatesta is as real-world as it gets. His story reinforces the work-hard formula for success in business and in life. It’s a reminder to stop looking for secrets or shortcuts and instead put in focused effort daily. Buy this book. Read it…and reap the rewards in your own life.”
–Noah Rickun, President of Sales & Distribution, ETE REMAN Author, 13 Ways to Make Selling Easy with LinkedIn
Top reviews from the United States
Bill Christel 5.0 out of 5 stars
From The Gut Reviewed in the United States on December 3, 2021 Verified Purchase
I’m fortunate to have absorbed Mike’s delivery style for many years now. And for all that I’ve learned through peer proximity, namely in his devotion to “helping” me , his goal to publish this book, going 16 years back at least, delivers the message that I think only time and deep reflection could have enabled him to publish. Mike is a true champion for entrepreneurs, and at his best with those that have taken defining blows in their pursuit of professional meaning and happiness. For personal inspiration, for highly accountable leaders, and for team members in a culture that truly never quits, Owner Shift represents straight ticket realism. Mike’s fascinating story continues, and I just know there’s a lot more sharing of such to come.
Cynthia C. Griffith 5.0 out of 5 stars
Well written testimony of an entrepreneur’s journey
Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2021Verified Purchase
Excellent read – fast paced recounting of a hard earned journey as an entrepreneur – despite seemingly insurmountable challenges. Very inspiring.One person found this helpful.
George Satula 5.0 out of 5 stars
Owner Shift is not about leadership, it’s about the grit and grime of defining life moments
Reviewed in the United States on December 6, 2021 Verified Purchase
Owner Shift is not about facts and figures, processes and systems, or leading and being led. Rather, it’s a deeper, more meaningful journey of one man from the very beginning of childhood aspirations through the gauntlet of life’s moments of serendipity to its worst nightmares. At no point does the author sugarcoat anything. It’s real, raw, emotional, engaging, and you won’t want to put the book down.
STEVE PALEC 5.0 out of 5 stars
WARNING!!! Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2021 Verified Purchase
Mike Malatesta’s podcast was the first podcast to invite me as a guest. After 45 years on the radio and in the business world, I assumed I would be fine and on message/brand. To his credit, Mike got me talking about things I had never considered or mentioned in the previously named arenas. He has a sincere talent that also translates to the printed word. So if you want a great guide on the entrepreneurial journey, join MIke and grab Owner Shift.
novice runner 5.0 out of 5 stars
Great Insight Reviewed in the United States on December 13, 2021 Verified Purchase
This is a great insight on the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur and how to navigate from small company to corporation. Mike Malatesta does a great job walking you through what he was thinking about at the time and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Well written and funny.
Joe D. 5.0 out of 5 stars
I love this book, getting selfish was a game changer for me.
Reviewed in the United States on December 7, 2021 Verified Purchase
I never would have thought being selfish could help me give more to my life, contribute more as a leader, and help me optimize my life. But that is exactly what Mike showed me with his stories and how being selfish helped him build an incredible company, give new opportunities to employees, and help many people find success in their life. I believe this is one of the best books to help you optimize your life, your company, and improve the lives of your employees, co-workers, and the people around you.
Susan F. 5.0 out of 5 stars
Words of wisdom come fast and often
Reviewed in the United States on December 4, 2021 Verified Purchase
I had just download a much anticipated Mitch Rapp book and was ready to read it. I follow Mike Malatesta’s podcasts and saw he had out a new book, so I bought through my wife’s account it for a later start—after Mitch! Thumbing through the first few pages of Owner Shift I just kept going…read it all in two days. Wonderful easy to read style, unabashed story telling and a nicely subtle helpful kick in the pants for us all. -Tom S.
Craig Stanland 5.0 out of 5 stars
Mike takes us on his personal entrepreneurship journey that’s anything but an overnight success.
Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2021 Verified Purchase
I love Mike’s writing, it’s clear, concise and wildly entertaining. I found myself sucked in from the very first sentence. His transparency and willingness to put himself out there as he unwinds his personal journey through entrepreneurship is admirable and refreshing. Owner Shift is a must read for any entrepreneur.
M. Friedman 5.0 out of 5 stars
Great storytelling, authentic and down to earth
Reviewed in the United States on December 14, 2021 Verified Purchase
Owner Shift gives a raw and authentic look at the grit and determination needed to build a successful business. This is the opposite of a look-at-me book glamorizing entrepreneurship. Mike tells us the whole story and doesn’t spare any of the extreme lows that he went through. The storytelling is relatable and down to earth. It’s an easy read and Mike injects a lot of humor and humility.
JeffSHughes 5.0 out of 5 stars
Fun, practical and real world insight from an author who has actually done what he is talking about
Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2021 Verified Purchase
I bought this book right when it came out. It is so applicable to me and my own business journey. There are so many theorists out there writing business books that have never actually done what they are giving advice about. This is NOT one of those books. It’s packed with wisdom and insights by someone who has been bloodied by the battle.
John McCarthy 5.0 out of 5 stars
An Amazing Story and Journey to Success!
Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2021 Verified Purchase
This is a phenomenal read for anyone trying to make their own way and find success and self-fulfillment in the world! The highs and lows and adversity overcome in the story prove once again that success is achievable even if the path is not a linear one. Mr. Malatesta has a great writing style which provides for an engrossing and captivating experience. Highly recommended!
Karen Schlidt 5.0 out of 5 stars
A must read for budding entrepreneurs
Reviewed in the United States on December 12, 2021 Verified Purchase
Mike provides a refreshing view of the value of hard work and focus. He writes in such a way that I felt a part of his journey rather than just an observer. It was an easy read and one I will refer to all of my friends and family. In fact, I am going to order another copy and give it to my son to read – my copy already has been dog-eared and underlined beyond repair! Don S
Ed 5.0 out of 5 stars
The epic journey of an entrepreneur Reviewed in the United States on December 7, 2021 Verified Purchase
This book takes you on a journey of an epic tale of a true entrepreneur. The grind and day to day decisions that build up make it hard for anyone running a business. This book helps you look at that and see how you have to shift your way of thinking to get out of your own way sometimes. The story that goes along with it is incredible as well.
Joe Pawlak 5.0 out of 5 stars
An entrepreneur overcomes self limiting beliefs
Reviewed in the United States on December 7, 2021 Verified Purchase
A walk with Mike as he overcomes tragedy, self limiting beliefs and various internal and external obstacles on the road to success. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey on how he became the leader/entrepreneur he is today.
Thanks for bringing us along on your journey.
Jennifer Vipond 5.0 out of 5 stars
Not just for entrepreneurs Reviewed in the United States on December 1, 2021 Verified Purchase
As a pediatrician I have frequent conversations with tomorrow’s entrepreneurs about setting goals as a way to keep moving forward. This book is a window into the entrepreneurial mind but also a reminder that in order to achieve external goals we need to make sure we simultaneously nurture internal goals.
David Rolston 5.0 out of 5 stars
read this before you start your business…
Reviewed in the United States on December 5, 2021 Verified Purchase
This must read for budding entrepreneurs is not your typical “how to write a business plan“ tutorial. Rather, it is all about the emotional and moral roller coasters involved in starting a business. Don’t start your own business without reading this book.
DAVE DEMARCO 5.0 out of 5 stars
Reviewed in the United States on December 2, 2021 Verified Purchase
What I love about working with Mike is the humble and transparent way in which he shares his incredible leadership and business advice. He does the same thing in this book. This book is a must read for entrepreneurs…but also for anyone leading an organization!
Phil 5.0 out of 5 stars
A great tale of reinvention born of pure will!
Reviewed in the United States on December 5, 2021 Verified Purchase
Mike’s professional journey told from a very personal perspective makes it all too relatable. His extreme honesty makes it doubly so. Well told story of (hard) lessons learned with excellent insights!
Evan Ryan 5.0 out of 5 stars
Advice from one of the best Reviewed in the United States on December 7, 2021 Verified Purchase
Mike does a fantastic job distilling down some of the most common problems faced by owners and how to navigate them. Definitely a must-read for anyone looking to take their personal and professional life to the next level.
Amazon Customer 5.0 out of 5 stars
Fantastic Read Reviewed in the United States on December 7, 2021 Verified Purchase
Great journey with Mike. Well written and insightful. I was struck by Mike’s ability to describe his journey through starting a very successful business with frankness and humbleness.
Ann Hanna 5.0 out of 5 stars
Mike is an Insightful Leader! Reviewed in the United States on December 2, 2021 Verified Purchase
Mike has always has great business insights and instincts. This book is an interesting read with open and honest reflections on one entrepreneur’s journey. Well done.
Glen Ringwall 5.0 out of 5 stars
Real life read Reviewed in the United States on December 1, 2021 Verified Purchase
Mike gets it done in this real life real situational business guide book. Don’t reinvent the wheel draft behind a true business leader and thinker!
DOM 5.0 out of 5 stars
Proven Winner! Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2021 Verified Purchase
Mike is a proven winner who knows what it takes to succeed in business. His insights are invaluable!
B. J. Madoff 5.0 out of 5 stars
I Lost My Share of Blood Doing That Job
Reviewed in the United States on December 1, 2021I thought I was buying a book about being an entrepreneur. Instead, I got much more; a business book that could be a film noir.
Malatesta’s writing is sharp: “Johnny V owned the best steak place in town. A table for two would set you back a few hundred bucks easy.”
The book was a fun read with great insights into business. It pulled no punches about the challenges entrepreneur’s face. Very informative and very entertaining.
Tom Schwab 5.0 out of 5 stars
Great experience share that can be applied to your life
Reviewed in the United States on December 9, 2021 Verified Purchase
Learning from your own mistakes can be painful. Better to learn from others. This is a key reason I enjoyed OWNER SHIFT. It was much like an experience share in an Entrepreneur’s Organization (EO) meeting. No one wants to be told what to do, but most want to learn from the wisdom of others. Mike gives the background, context, and framework he used. I highlighted many sections and dog eared many pages to come back to.
Phil 5.0 out of 5 stars
Must read–will inspire you to breakthrough to a higher level of success
Reviewed in the United States on December 8, 2021 Verified Purchase
Mike is an insightful author and inspiring leader. He understands the struggles founders face day-to-day in the trenches, but he also understands the big picture. He has a unique ability to provide great insight on both the micro and the macro and to ask questions that really make you pause and think. Mike’s book will force you to think about your company, your path to success and your attitude. And ultimately it will inspire you to breakthrough to a higher level of success.
Kathy J. McCauley 5.0 out of 5 stars
Reviewed in the United States on December 5, 2021 Verified Purchase
Owner Shift is not your typical “here’s how I did it” entrepreneur’s guide to success. It reads like an open, honest, nothing held back memoir. The author is extremely humble and forthcoming, and does not hesitate to use his experiences (both positive and negative) to illustrate his overall “shift” as he moved through his entrepreneurial career. His insights can be applied across any career field, both professionally and personally. I read this book on a three hour flight ; I appreciated the concise chapters, as well as the intentional focus on the imperative steps the author recommends for anyone looking to shift their way of approaching career and life decisions. Highly recommend!
David Will 5.0 out of 5 stars
Humility, Grit, Drama and Success
Reviewed in the United States on December 5, 2021 Verified Purchase
Love that Mike isn’t the braggy entrepreneur spouting off how great he is and how you could be as great as him if you just follow his system. Mike is real. He’s humble and this book is super entertaining leaving you novitiates to keep driving through thick and thin. We’ll done!
Robert 5.0 out of 5 stars
Great read Reviewed in the United States on December 3, 2021Verified Purchase
Great read. Mike was and is a inspiration to me and others that lived and witnessed his success! Perhaps a part 2 someday?
Deb A. 5.0 out of 5 stars
Valuable lessons and a great read! Reviewed in the United States on December 11, 2021 Verified Purchase
Mike takes the reader on an entrepreneurial journey that is filled with stories unique to his success but relatable to all that are paving a path forward in business and life. His writing style is easy to follow and pulls you in making it hard to put the book down. Owner Shift provides valuable lessons for those just beginning their journey and rest of us already somewhere down the path.
larrylyons1 5.0 out of 5 stars
A winner from day one! Reviewed in the United States on December 13, 2021 Verified Purchase
A well written autobiography of Mikes’ business journey from an early age to now. A journey that had its ups and downs, good days and not so good. I was fortunate to be a part of that journey, one that I would happily take again. I don’t know where the next journey will take him, but I do know it will be successful.
Former Partner and forever friend. Larry Lyons
Dean Nardi 5.0 out of 5 stars
A Cornerstone Document for Owners and Managers
Reviewed in the United States on December 5, 2021 Verified Purchase
Mike the book is a must read for owners and mangers at any level. It is an insightful easy to read management blueprint. Mike you and I go way back and I am impressed and proud that you put together and shared your personal experiences and successes with everyone. Congratulations, enjoy the ride and take care.
Absadoff 5.0 out of 5 stars
Get on track Reviewed in the United States on December 5, 2021 Verified Purchase
A good read for a business owner to get back on track and to continue to move forward. From his popular podcasts on interviewing business owners and his own experience, he knows his stuff. Read this book and get unstuck and moving toward where you want to be.
B. Sadoff 5.0 out of 5 stars
get unstuck Reviewed in the United States on December 3, 2021 Verified Purchase
Mike has real world owner experience and his long running podcast focusing on entrepreneurs, will give readers of this book experienced insight on how to get unstuck. It is a good message and worthwhile-easy read to help get business owners moving in the direction they know they should be.
Justin breen 5.0 out of 5 stars
A journey of incredible heights and ultimate lows — inspiring at the highest level
Reviewed in the United States on December 2, 2021 Verified Purchase
Mike’s story is extreme, even for the highest levels of entrepreneurial life. Inspirational, devastating, heartbreaking, loving, motivational and so much more. This book will change lives … and mindsets. An honor to partner with Mike to share this epic story with the world!
Amazon Customer 5.0 out of 5 stars
Great book! Reviewed in the United States on December 2, 2021 Verified Purchase
This is a great book with a creative take on how to move yourself and your business forward! I appreciate the real life scenarios full of takeaways. I highly recommend this book for anyone looking to better themselves and/ or their business!
Ricardo Martinez 5.0 out of 5 stars
The Best Reviewed in the United States on December 8, 2021Verified Purchase
Great book. Is amazing how people don’t realize how hard it is to reach the summit. Mike definitely is a vivid sample of that. His hard work and perseverance got him in to the summit !
Mike Wacker 5.0 out of 5 stars
The way it really happens Reviewed in the United States on December 1, 2021 Verified Purchase
I’m only part way through but felt I had to comment. The book is full of real life stories of the journey of a fledgling entrepreneur. It’s a fun read, describing down to earth happenings. Looking forward to the rest.
richie 5.0 out of 5 stars
Amazing story that entrepreneurs need to hear
Reviewed in the United States on December 4, 2021 Verified Purchase
This book does a great job of painting the reality of entrepreneurship and how to navigate the roller coaster that it is. Mike has some amazing stories and overcame a lot to achieve a successful exit.
Francia Rodriguez 5.0 out of 5 stars
He is an amazing human, the book is amazing as well!
Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2021 Verified Purchase
I am an entrepreneur who tends to be a people pleaser but was taking advantage of.. This book is helped me realize that being selfish is also a key factor in my success while selectively satisfying the people around me as needed. Thank you for this Mike!
Wheels 5.0 out of 5 stars
Cornerstone to a new Mindset Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2021 Verified Purchase
I’ve had the pleasure to be part different multi million dollar business Mike has lead. I’m really excited Mike has decided to share his experiences. This book will push me into new levels of leadership with my team.
Todd Barden 5.0 out of 5 stars
A must read on overcoming personal bias to want more!
Reviewed in the United States on December 1, 2021 Verified Purchase
Mike has poured his heart & soul into this book, digging deep to share his vast wisdom and personal truth. A strategic thinker who dares to question his own values system to believe there is more in life to pursue!
Tom W 5.0 out of 5 stars
Great Read Reviewed in the United States on December 1, 2021 Verified Purchase
A personal journey through life. Enhanced with a inner study of what blocks the success that we seek in our business and life and the value strategic coaching provides.
William B. 5.0 out of 5 stars
Need to read! Reviewed in the United States on December 2, 2021 Verified Purchase
We all get stuck in life. Read this book to help you get unstuck so you can go live the life of your dreams! Mike is a tremendous human being!
Margaret E Krahe 5.0 out of 5 stars
Authentic – Must Read Book! Reviewed in the United States on December 2, 2021Verified Purchase
Mr. Malatesta, Thank you for sharing your experiences for our tremendous benefit! Your honesty, creativity and perseverance are inspiring!
Joe V 5.0 out of 5 stars
A fantastic read for any entrepreneur! Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2021 Verified Purchase
This book will help you get your head out of the daily grind! Shift your mindset and enjoy the entrepreneurial life once again!!
TSelanne 5.0 out of 5 stars
Great book! Reviewed in the United States on December 3, 2021Verified Purchase
Inspiring story with principled lessons.
Amazon Customer 5.0 out of 5 stars
An easy read about an interesting journey
Reviewed in the United States on December 3, 2021 Verified Purchase
This journey shows you that being stuck isn’t always caused by outside factors, but inside ones.
T-Bone 5.0 out of 5 stars
Insightful Reviewed in the United States on December 6, 2021 Verified Purchase
Very insightful and easy read
Kari Helm 5.0 out of 5 stars
Amazing Reviewed in the United States on December 12, 2021 Verified Purchase
Wow that chuck man sounds like a character! When will he write a book
James Jendusa 5.0 out of 5 stars
Great read for any business owner Reviewed in the United States on December 12, 2021 Verified Purchase
Easy read and great lessons! Thanks for sharing your story Mike! We all have the horror stories about being in business and in life. It’s how you get thru them and move on that’s important and you did so well.
Alessandro Carpentiero 5.0 out of 5 stars
Great advice from who walks the talk Reviewed in Italy on December 4, 2021 Verified Purchase
In his book, Mike shares his full entrepreneurial journey, filled with hardship, grind, realizations, and much more. It’s a quick and pleasant read that equips you with valuable insight to apply to your own journey.
About the Author
Mike Malatesta started his first business in 1992, seven months after being fired from a company he had dreamed he might lead one day. Over the next twenty-two years, he helped run, lead, and grow that startup, selling it for more money than he could have imagined.
The creator of the How’d It Happen podcast, Mike is deep into his second startup and an active early-stage investor. His mission is to help as many entrepreneurs as he can to create companies that improve people’s lives and, maybe, the world.
Mike lives in Wisconsin with his wife, Jamy. He’s active in YPO, Abundance 360, and Vistage Worldwide. Connect with him online at mikemalatesta.com.
