Straight from the People that Count: The Readers!

“My students have been absolutely impressed by your book. They are finding your reflective discussions a dose of reality that they can’t get enough of. As one of the girls said last week, ‘reading through this has taken the glitter away from entrepreneurship, but I’m glad.’ ” - Colin Jones, Professor, University of Tasmania

“Awesome book. First thing I did when I finished it was read it straight through again.” - Will Pate

“This is the first meaningful business book I ever read! I found myself on every single
page, I agree with you on the most issues and I am happy about the fact
that I am not alone.” - Dr. Barbara Pause, Denver, Colorado

“I loved your book! The best business book I have read in several years. Real world advice.” - Tom Goldblatt

“First, I am knee deep into your book, You Have to be Crazy, it is very well done. There is a certain oratorical flow that I get from your book which I don’t from other books on entrepreneurship.” - Travis McMenimon

“I read your first book and it was like a bible to me especially those “dark” days of being an entrepreneur in a new business.” - Kate

“Thank God! I have insomnia Barry, but you still owe me a night’s sleep!
You’re book was extremely entertaining , informative, soul revealing , along with & including zeroing in on my many inner thoughts and desires about being “crazy.” -
Norman, Florida

“So I sit here on page 3 of your book (your publicist asked me to review it for my blog - you can tell her I got the copy she sent) and can sense that it different from most of the crap written about starting your own business. In fact, I am breaking a promise to myself by reading/reviewing your book as I pledged to stop reading business books about 2 years ago - around the same time I threw out almost of my MBA textbooks.” - Josh Kerbel

“This is Ben Qiu from China, I just finished reading your Chinese Version Book ‘You Have to Be a Little Crazy’, it’s an amazing helpful book for me. When I reading your book, I was feeling you were friendly talking to me face to face, and just considered that it seemed a customized business book for myself.” - Ben Qiu, China

“I read your book with keen interest and a sense of recognition of my own philosophy. I’m leaving XXX after 15 years of corporate life and powerful positions to enter the world of small business.” - A Reader in Boston

“Barry’s book is like having a conversation with a friend. The reader experiences the emotions that come with risking everything to control your own destiny.” - David Lorenzo, New York

“I need your book! I am so new at creating a business plan. In fact, I have no idea what one even looks like! (smile) I’m checking your itinerary to see when you will be back in the Chicago area. I’d love to attend one of your seminars if its open to the new entrepreneur.” - Tracy D., Chicago

“Thanks for all the great content you provide. I’m a subscriber of your newsletter as well as a reader of your blog. Good stuff that always either makes me laugh out loud or say “hmmm…” - Lena W.

“So many if not ALL, the stories and happenings stated in your book are so true. I do not know why I have any hair left. Still lots of room for improvement…. So much to do…who said owning your own company was great. MB is still holding her breath.” - Jeff, Chicago

“I met you several years ago when you spoke to my forum group. I enjoyed the anecdotal insight from your first book. My takeaway is that you were resilient and made yourself project confidence to others primarily out of fear of failure. I too have accomplished much in business and in life out of fear, willpower, shear determination and competitiveness.” - Dave, Chicago

“Set and manage your expectations with Barry Moltz’s book. If you have not started your business, just started out, or need a new approach to energize a struggling business, read “You Need To Be A Little Crazy”. Barry shares his insights and experiences to help entrepreneurs navigate the crazy, perilous, rewarding journey of starting a small business. This book resonated with me at my core. While confirming my “craziness” as a serial entrepreneur, Barry’s work also reaffirmed and strengthened my driving passions. I plan to share many passages from this book with friends and family in the hopes that Barry’s words will help them better understand who I am and why I do what I do. Thanks Barry!” - S. A. Koster van Groos

“I found your book last night in the Books-a-Million in New Bern, North Carolina. YOUR BOOK, gave me the steam I needed to continue on. Brushing up on my bookkeeping and tax law changes online beginning 1/18. I would really appreciate your companion workbook and the e-book. I truly appreciate your frank approach and the fact that you didn’t ‘blow any smoke’ so to speak.” - Karen

“Just thought I’d tell you, what an awesome book! I have learned so much thus far, and been enthused even more about self-employment. My problem now is picking or choosing an actual venture to get into! I have been internet searching and looking all over the place, trend watching, and trying to find my niche that I will get started into. I guess this is the final straw, picking something and going with it!” - Jim, Ontario

“I consider you to be my secret mentor – your writing and publications are very enabling.” - Steven

“In the “Publishers” section I took the courtesy of adding a “written thank you,” for writing a book that validated me being “crazy.” I don’t know how far the magazine will carry me…but I love being in love with reinventing my business and being an entrepreneur.” – CD, Magazine Soho, Wisconsin

“I just got back from our Econ class, and our professor asked us if we would recommend using your book again next semester. Literally, everyone agreed that your book should continue to be used as the class textbook.” - Mark, University of Delaware

“Your book has been a hit with our research staff. They can genuinely appreciate the necessity of being a little crazy to do outrageously good things.” - Robert McClean

“Hello Mr. Moltz - I just read your book “You Need to be a Little Crazy” and I wanted to email you and let you know that I really enjoyed the book. The afterword was my favorite part as what you state in there really put things in perspective for me. I love how you state knowing the right questions to ask.” - Deb Tullis

“I am just ready to step out now to join an early stage enterprise. Will send you more on that shortly. I must be crazy! Your book has been an immense help to me in making this decision.” - Walt

“I truly enjoyed the book and found it painfully accurate. I also enjoy your blog. Keep up the good work.” - Ray De Varona

“I started reading your book today. Your insight and experiences are uncanny. You have lived and survived my adventure. It is very good and entertaining.” - Steve, Chicago

“I’ve started reading the book and am thoroughly enjoying it. Finally a book that is to the point and not full of dry advice!” - Robin, Boston

“Finished the book, great read. I passed it along to the person that started our company as I thought it had good tips for those in growing organizations. When I started with this company we were 16 people and now we are 42 and climbing so I think he could appreciate your stories on mitigating the waters when times are tough as well as booming.” - Mike, Chicago

“Just finished your book, and I really enjoyed it. I only put it down one time, which speaks volumes! You are a great speaker and your excitement for Entrepreneurship is very motivating.” – Holly, Delaware

“I appreciate your straightforward advice during this journey and will definitely send any would-be entrepreneurs your way so you can scare the hell out of them!” - Mike, Chicago

“Barry, just so you know, your book is on its way to Uzbekistan (SP). Our community college was hosting a delegation from UZ—. I talked with them about workforce development and showed them your book and they wanted a copy of it. So–its on its way. Thank goodness I read it on the plane!” - Lois Andre, Cape Cod Community College

” I got your book in the mail yesterday, right before I boarded a plane to DC. Been reading it ever since and hope to finish by tomorrow. Thanks for this contribution to the world! Your authenticity has provided me some welcome relief and joy as I tackle the next mountain in growing my latest business.” - Anna Belyaev

“You addressed fears and pains of making a business, including a peek to the failure side, when things go wrong. It was also talked about how creatively things can go wrong. I found your book very valuable. I found your book also a bit… scary. In the sense, things can go wrong also in similar way when you are working for someone else, and even then, when you are not working for anyone at all. There was a lot to ponder. I guess your book was also a kick to ass, so to speak, to give myself motivation to address work life issues more directly and with open eyes. It’s not only roses out there.” - Arno

“I found it to be accurate and insightful. My wife is an entrepreneurship so we have been on the bumpy road together. My work with entrepreneurs over time indicate that they would not want to do anything else when they really have the passion for an idea.” - A Reader in North Carolina

“I finished your book last night just moments before discovering that (a key employee), who has been with us for many years has had to go on indefinite medical leave under doctor’s orders, at what seems, of course like the worst possible moment, yadda yadda. Disrupted my sleep, I’ll admit, but this morning, I actually awoke eager to address the challenge like a true leader, only because your book prepared me to handle this challenge more powerfully and cheerfully than I would have without your stories under my belt … Thanks for saving me from an inner temper tantrum or new ulcer. You rock! I’ll definitely be sharing this book with all of my CEO pals.” - A Reader

“I had a chance to read your book over the last few weeks, and was refreshed by your candor and the book’s absolute relevance to the entrepreneur. You truly have he gift of entrepreneurship, coupled with the magic pen.” - Mike Moradi, Tulsa, OK

“I just recently purchased your book - “You Have to be a Little Crazy:
The Book”. First of all - my hats off to you - the style is wry, funny and heartwarming all at the same time. And add to the mix the no-nonsense and realistic tone you take with regards to the realities of your experiences as an entrepreneur and working through the rigors of start-ups, and it makes the book a completely compelling read from beginning to end. It’s like reading a mystery novel and coming away as a savvier investigator in the process. :)” - Dee Hardrath

“Your book sings to me! There are so many sections that ring true people who haven’t gone this way of starting their own business have no concept at all of what they are about to face the biggest kick I got was when you talked about the fact that when you were at IBM everyone answered your call, whereas when you were on your own they didn’t have a second to talk–people who work at big companies often feel that it is them… rather than the company … who is being answered. ..what a surprise when they get into the real world.” – Howard Moscowitz, Moscowitz- Jacobs, Inc.

“I started reading your book. Of course I read it like most people. I open it up and start in the middle. I really liked your stuff about customers. It is really simple, We need to have customers. I also believe that customers tell us what they want. Of course we don’t listen.” - Hersh Reinfeld, Business Humorist

“It reminds me of the classic “grass greener on the other side” thing. Almost everyone i know has a should’ve/could’ve/will thing about entrepreneurship. Its the ultimate dream. Do what you want to. hope that you go public or get acquired and rake in the millions. Uh-uh.. doesn’t happen to everyone every time. Its not a question of if you will fail, its a question of when you will fail. Its moving to read about his experience and the trials that he goes through and that’s where the title of the book starts to make sense. Putting yourself on the line and your family for fulfilling a dream that may or may not happen has to border on insanity. But then that’s where your resolve and your courage is tested. He talks about how luck and timing has played a role and emphasizes the impact this can have on your start up and your day to day business. I would highly recommend the book to the entrepreneur in all of you.” - The GMAT Club

“Barry! Thank you for your powerful presentation, I have finish the first three chapters already, and you know, you are writing about me, it’s Crazy! If it is all possible I would like to sit down and talk to you one day soon.” - Perry, Chicago

“I read about your book on Passion for Business, went out to Borders and bought it that day, and gobbled it up. I was married to an entrepreneur for 10 years (we’ve been divorced 11 years now), swore after seeing what he went through (and experiencing the spousal side-effects) that I would NEVER own my business … and here I am, in my own business. So yes, you do need to be a little crazy; maybe a lot.

Your book made me feel a lot more compassionate for both my ex and myself in those early years (we were both in our 20s), and for what I now go through day to day. It made me laugh, too, and feel inspired.
Thank you for capturing the entrepreneurial journey in such a candid, practical, irreverent, and soulful way.” - A Reader from PA

“Your book “You Need To Be a Little Crazy” forced me to be honest with myself and ask some tough questions regarding Double Takes. Some I did not want to ask for fear of the answers. Chapters 4 and 5 even brought on some tears because of the answers. Other parts of the book reinforced that often our gut instincts have been correct.” - Jean Farris

“I just wanted to let you know I got the book a couple of days ago that you sent me. I’m already about half way through. I’m just devouring it, I like it so much.” - Darrin Dickey

“You Need to Be a Little Crazy is a well-written, brilliant synthesis of information and experience that will empower both entrepreneurs and investors to achieve remarkable success. The stories of this serial entrepreneur and business scholar, Barry Moltz, entertain while applying advanced business principles. A must read for anyone in business, and a catalyst for playing a bigger game.” - Dave Krueger, MD, Houston, TX

“FINALLY — someone who tells it like it is! Kudos to Barry Moltz and his book You Need To Be A Little Crazy. I work with self-employed people all day and I can tell you that Barry has hit the nail right on the head with his advice and stories about creating your own business. Just when you think all is hopeless, Barry offers humor and stories that will inspire you to go ahead and start your own business, but he lays it on the line: it’s not going to be easy and there’s no guarantee of success. The real key, I believe, is Barry’s identification that passion - as well as a sound plan and good finances - are really the keys to making it happen in business. The best parts of the book are when Barry shares his own stories and you get a first-hand glimpse into the ups and downs of his own businesses. After reading Barry’s stories and ideas, and the other first-hand accounts in the book, you’ll come away with a fresh, insightful perspective on being an entrepreneur. I recommend this book to all my clients as “must do” homework.” - Karen Greenstreet, Passion for Business

“I’m reading your book…first 50 pages done. I love it–I needed to hear it right know ..People need to hear your message…that’s for sure!” - George Ludwig, Author of “Power Selling”

“I just finished reading your book, cover-to-cover. I found particular resonance with points you made about the role of luck, the need to be a risk-taker, and competing with world-class conglomerates.” - Peter Bosch

“Barry validated what many other people already knew. Some didn’t want to hurt my feelings, others were too polite to mention it, and others told me every chance they had that there was no job security, there was no guaranteed paycheck, there was no career path and there was no future! Then again, it could be that Barry and I are equally crazy and because of this we are both unable to recognize the difference. In his book, he did a great job of placing the emotional-psychological-passion-dilemma-drama-goalsetting-time-consuming-and everything else mindset of running your own business into perspective. And frankly, if you don’t know what I just wrote then you’re probably not mentally equipped for running your own business.” - Phil Courtney, Urban Bear Marketing

“I received your book yesterday. I have already read 44 pages at one stretch. It helped a lot. Obviously, I haven’t read the entire book, but it’s probably an understatement, but you are a very strong person, Mr. Moltz. Ii truly admire your determination.” - Aejaz, The GMAT Club

“Your book is filled with great information. I needed to hear what you had to say.” - Elizabeth, Illinois

“This book is not a how-to book. It’s more of a warning label. Not every story in there is peachy, but it’s real. It’s a great for reading on an airplane.” - Jason Haley

“I am about half the way through your book “You need to be a little Crazy” and I thought I’d drop you an email. So far I really enjoy the real life stories about your business experiences in the book. Too many books are overly optimistic about starting and growing a business.” - Mark, California

“I read about 1/2 of it last night and found it very interesting. So much to really consider when opening up a business, I think i will stick to my family business until another job opens in my field of human resources.” - Anonymous

“Well written and inspiring to entrepreneurs of all ages.” - Ken Welch

“After reading your book, I have directed my search back to “tamer” endeavors like rental property, car washes, or laundromats. Kind of a get rich slowly plan. The book forced me to ask the difficult questions about loss of family time (my wife and I were fortunate enough to have 4 healthy, happy kids)” - Tony, Chicago

“While I was loading caffeine at my local filling station, Caffe De Lucca, and reading the “Get ready for marriage without sex” chapter in your book, I was startled by ” Oh my God, you are reading Barry Moltz’s book!” remark from my neighbor at the next table.” - Matt, Chicago

“Read it and loved it! Congratulations. I hope to follow in your footsteps” - Dan Lynn

“I am only 100 pages into your book, but wanted to take time-out to thank you deeply for writing it. It’s an insight like no other into the world I’m about to subject myself. My bookshelf full of startup idiots & dummies guides, etc. (er…excepting one on angels maybe) together isn’t going to prove as helpful as “Crazy”. I even read the chapter on family to my wife, and I’ll be sending a copy to my partner-in-waiting this week.” - Doug Laney

“Just wanted to say how much I loved your book—I read it in parts as I could. It is one of the truest books on “the journey” that I’ve ever read. I recommended it to a seminar of folks at the WBDC recently, and do so to all budding ENTREPS.” - Amy Hilliard

“Being a serial entrepreneur; your book touched on every nerve and emotion. From despair to the sublime; I agree . . . “You have to be More than a Little Crazy” to start your own business. Here’s to the big one! Great book and I will be sure to suggest it to my friends and associates.” - Laura McCleod

“Thanks for writing the crazy book. It’s most refreshing. Your book smells of real small-company entrepreneural experience. The Troy Henikoff quote hits the nail on the head: “I like to create something from nothing. Sculpting from a vacuum.” This is completely different from the standard big-company mindset of copying as exactly as possible something someone else has done before.” - J. Quarterman

“Thanks for being an advisor and a mentor to those who are trying to propel their careers to new heights.” - Alex, Florida

“This book’s for me! I’ve underlined, highlighted and made notations throughout your entire book. You helped to sort out my feelings of confusion, confidence and any misgivings I may have had about choosing to take my new path as an independent consultant. With the sage information and observations you’ve imparted, “Crazy” will “allow” me to experience this journey more empowered and prepared!” - Elyse Piper

“I read your book on the plane to LA. I attended USC’s Entrepreneur Banquet (I’m an alum of that program), so it was appropriate timing! It certainly jogged my memory and reiterated much of what I learned back in the Entrepreneur. Program. It got me thinking about some new things, too. I appreciated your honest assessment of your personal journey and the inclusion of the ideas of other entrepreneurs - “common” people, not just the tiny percentage of extremely highly successful entrepreneurs people are prone to focus on. I must say, though, that as I read, I could hear your talk - and I liked that even better, even though we heard the abbreviated version.” - JoAnn Seagren

“Your book answered many of my questions, but the biggest thing I got out of it was that it is OK to fail sometimes. When I left my job and moved to Chicago, I honestly felt that it would be OK if things don’t work out as expected because at least I tried. I know that, even if I fail at the business, I will be a better person for making the effort. Your book reminded me of that just when I was starting to forget. My family and friends are getting impatient with the whole roller coaster of events, clients are saying they’re interested but aren’t actually signing on, and I’m still in classes and working out finances. I realized that it’s all part of the process and that everyone goes through it. Thank you for the motivation, the inspiration, and for sharing your story.” - Michelle M. from Illinois

“Barry, really a great book and I will post the same on the Amazon site. I really felt the information and situations portrayed. I have lived most of what you have discussed…fortunately I am still living and, according to my wife, completely crazy. Again, the book is great I not only enjoyed reading it (it was a plane ride read, Denver to Austin) but really appreciated the confirmation that these ’symptoms’ can be common among Entrepreneuraholics.” - Steve S of Colorado

“ Read the intro and chapter one on the plane — should finish it this week and have the review up by next week. It’s reassuring to hear someone reinforce the idea that you don’t have to have been “successful” in all of your entrepreneurial ventures.” - Scott Allen

“The theme I kept hearing in my head as I read your book can be summed up in two words - “Reality Check”. I am not risk adverse by any stretch of the imagination, but your book certainly gives one a reason to pause for a moment and think “Could this REALLY happen to me, and is this REALLY what I want to do?” - W. Heisler

“A friend and colleague of mine gave me a copy of your book, “You Need to Be a Little Crazy”, and I have enjoyed it thoroughly. Having done two start-up businesses (co-founding a 9,000 sq. ft. restaurant employing 40+ and founding a computer services firm employing 10) your book rings absolutely true.” - Mark of British Columbia

“After nearly 25 years as a serial entrepreneur (and “intrapreneur”.), It’s great to see how similar our view of entrepreneurship is. As we discussed, the “textbook” perceptions of entrepreneurship leave a lot to be desired. Your book expresses hat I have been articulating for years. What a great reality check and I love the lighter side!” - Bill Louden

“I’m not quite through the book yet, I’m up to the ‘Finding Customers’ chapter, so almost there! Even so, I thought I’d write and let you know I’m enjoying it and I’m reassured to know I’m not alone even though I am the person doing everything right now! I just added a review of your book to my new “Japanese Maple News Channel”.” - Ken Alston

“ I just finished your book and I can related to almost everything in your book. I know a lot of business owner who could benefit from this book. I am ordering copies to give to them.” - Cathy Martino

“Hi Barry, at this rate you’ll soon be in the top 100 along with the bible and boy scout handbook and ahead of Martha Stewart…CONGRATS!!” - John K.

“ Congratulations on the success. The book was definitely good and should probably be read 1-2X/year. Your speaking skills should make it all the more successful as it sounds like you’re finding out on the whirlwind tour.” - Jay Welsh

“ I think you will have more than enough material to write a few more “Crazy” books. Keep up the good work and keep those stories coming - I always find a laugh or a nugget of wisdom — stuff to keep one’s feet grounded while moving forward!” - Liz Pyle

“ It’s an easy and funny book to read and when the rollercoaster hits downwards or stays at the bottom for a while, your book always comes to mind and gives me hope to wait for the ride up!!” - Rudi Kurtz

“Thank you greatly for your insight. I have 20 pages left before finishing your book, however it has been a great, and quick read. My father met you and had the foresight to not only purchase 2 copies of your book, but he gave both copies to my business partner and I.

“My team and I are moving full steam ahead. Your book has truly brought me comfort during the many late lonely evenings as I have wondered out loud, “What the hell am I doing?” I have heavily recommended other friends and family members to read your book considering that too many of them have contemplated going it alone. Forget all of the “Top 10 steps to take to start your business books”. This is a must read.

“In sum, I am a little Crazy and I thank you greatly for your contribution. This is the first time that I have had someone tell it to me straight. At least to this extent. The only better resource that one could hope for would be an experienced mentor. I hope to have the honor to meet you one day and say “Thank you” (although depending on the day, I may also want to curse you for not being persuasive enough to say “hey you, stop what you are doing and go back to corporate for a simpler life”).” -M. Bradley

“I’ve just finished reading your book -and it read like a steamy potboiler novelette - I’ve lived all the drama, and can’t believe how well you captured the abstract which is the problem of being an entrepreneur - as well as the concrete, we’ve got to make payroll. I’m most impressed with your presentation, and its nice to know that I’m not alone in all the ups and down of running a business. Yet we have to make our way - congratulations on making the mountain top!” - Greg Galik, Anchorage Alaska

“Through a couple of months of train rides, I have completed the reading of your book! Let me start by saying that it was a great experience for me — sometimes I would board the train, wondering what I was doing with my life and whether I was actually insane to have given up a lucrative six-figure salary for one that barely touches five, and by the time I stepped off felt refreshed and rejuvenated — confirmed that I was indeed insane but that that was okay — and it definitely made me feel a lot less alone…it makes a good therapy-kind of book for people who are current entrepreneurs. Because read as you might, you won’t really get it until you’ve lived it — and when you’ve lived it you appreciate that others have done the same.

What the book did well was to really hit on the pain points that all entrepreneurs face — the dark places, for instance. You may notice that this note was written at 4:30 AM — I’m in one of those places now. I believe this whole thing will ruin my health. Thanks for reaffirming that. What I really enjoyed about the book were the case studies — it brought a lot of what you were saying to life. I found myself connecting with the book a lot more once real, live situations started being discussed — and for a reader who may not have had any of his/her own experiences to draw on, this is particularly important. Thanks for taking the time to give business owners a voice!” - S. Adams

“I am still reading your book and so far I find it guiding and inspirational.” - I. Bensussan, New York

“Thank you so much for writing ‘You Need to be a Little Crazy’. I saw it last night in a bookstore and HAD to have it! I am only through the first two chapters, but it has really helped me to understand WHY I do feel so crazy. I can relate to so many things in the book, but nobody around me seems to have a clue what I am ever talking about. So I have learned to keep my mouth shut most of the time. It’s hard, though, when something is conceived so solid deep down in your heart to not want to tell EVERYBODY.” - JK Newth

“I really enjoyed your presentation last night and am enjoying your book immensely. I’ve already told about a half dozen people about last night’s presentation - a couple of who need to get the book! Your message totally resonated with me. I found it very affirming. I will absolutely post a review on Amazon for you.”- Mary Nack

“Your book and seminar are excellent - right on the money in terms of the passion needed and the emotional costs and benefits of being an entrepreneur. I appreciated your candor in sharing the ‘down periods’ of your experience on your way to success, as so many people do not share this aspect. I have told my wife to read it, to help explain where I am in my journey as she does really understand why I am doing it and actually it made me think of her position as well - blind folded in the rear car seat with a driver who does not know the exact destination or route - I will let you know the result!! It seems to me that it should be required reading for anyone i) thinking of setting up in business on their own, whether it be recent student, or someone thinking of becoming one either by choice or circumstances or ii) existing entrepreneurs who may want to know that they are not alone in what they may be experiencing!” - Mark Twentyman, New Jersey

“I have already chuckled more than once at the observations you have made in the initial pages. Your writing style is effective and humorous.” - Rex Kallembach

“It was good to meet you as well. I am in the middle of the book and having a blast. I should have read this BEFORE starting this trip .Fun read and so much of it mirrors my own insane day-to-day…I am re-reading many passages to my wife who is on this crazy ride with me.” - Stuart Sutherland, New Jersey

“Am more than halfway through your book. Must say, having worked with hundreds of entrepreneurs, that it is a refreshingly honest look behind the veneer. Also, think that this e-mail validates what you have to say on pages 99-101. — In short, I will be adding your book and website to my recommended list for people who are thinking about starting their own business.” - Tom Garza, New York

“Barry, hit the mark on so many items that I have been experiencing since launching my business about 2 years ago. It is good to know I am not alone. The advice is fantastic and a realistic picture of what entrepreneurs can expect from the highest highs to the lowest lows.” – Rita Bartolone

“A “must read” for all entrepreneurs! This book captures the emotions, the turbulence, the desperation, the disappointments and the pain of trying to be successful. Just as important, it provides the “armchair coaching experience” to help one navigate through the maze of being successful. It is remarkable in its catalog of experiences that entrepreneurs can relate to and use as a source of motivation. It is a “looking glass” for entrepreneurs. It is reality!” - H. Lloyd Cummings

“Your book has truly brought me comfort during the many late lonely evenings as I have wondered out loud, “What the hell am I doing”? I have heavily recommended other friends and family members to read your book considering that too many of them have contemplated going it alone. Forget all of the “Top 10 steps to take to start your business books”. This is a must read.

I am a little Crazy and I thank you greatly for your contribution. This is the first time that I have had someone tell it to me straight. At least to this extent. The only better resource that one could hope for would be an experienced mentor. I hope to have the honor to meet you one day and say “Thank you” (although depending on the day, I may also want to curse you for not being persuasive enough to say “hey you, stop what you are doing and go back to corporate for a simpler life”). - A Reader from Illinois

“After only spending 20 minutes on your website (and soon will have read your book), I feel a newfound sense of energy and will be ‘crazy enough” to take my first entrepreneurial leap.” - Chris from Chicago

“I finally sat down yesterday and read your book straight through, and loved it. So many page corners folded over, your book looks like an accordion! What an engaging, funny, and intelligent book. And what’s rare — truly honest about your own honors, mistakes and all the little steps between. I’m sure budding entrepreneurs are eating it up, but there are so many lessons which can be applied to that entrepreneurial enterprise called Life! Even nonprofit junkie/consultants like me found a lot of wisdom to carry away. So thanks.” - EG from New York

“Thanks for the very truthful book on the small business and entrepreneurship. Very refreshing and helpful info there. I wish you could write it a few years back, it would save me a few mistakes of my own.” - Alex from Illinois

“I teach entrepreneurship at the Hunter Centre for Entrepreneurship at the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK. I will add Barry Moltz’s book to my list of recommended reading for students taking my courses. It covers a lot of issues that other book’s either omit, or treat much more superficially (e.g. recruitment). But perhaps the book’s strongest feature is that it gives a “warts and all” account of starting and running your own business. This differentiates Moltz’s book from others which tend to concentrate on the up-side of an entrepreneurial career.” – Colin Mason, Glascow, U.K.

“I’m halfway through your book and it’s great. If I were not in my own business working insane hours, I might have more time to finish it. Although, a friend lent me her copy, she’s not getting it back. I will buy her a new one and maybe ten more to give one to each of my 4 partners (yes, I am REALLY crazy), the 3 friends I have left in my life, so they understand why I have not called them in 2 months, and two extra copies to give to anyone I meet that says “Oh great, you have your own business, I
always wanted to be in business for myself . . .”

Seriously, thanks for the insight. Although, my latest business has been a financial success in meeting our 2nd year million dollar sales goal, it has been costly to me personally with many of the issues you share - large financial risk to my family (all my savings and house at risk), a number of stress related health issues, and a marriage that almost ended the weekend before I started to read your book.

A week later, the entrepreneur swing is way up . . . a partner meeting where we determined I can afford to get paid enough to pay off most of my personal business related debts with a little left over for some fun, my wife has agreed to go back into marriage counseling, and a doctors visit reveals that I’m in relatively good health.” – A Reader in New York

“I finished reading your book, and it’s great. Just great! It flows so well…and the subheads and sidebars make it very easy to read. Congratulations again on a super read.” - Todd Hunt, Chicago Business Humorist

“Spent last weekend cruising your book. Thought it was outstanding, a sharp analysis of the unspoken emotional side of being an entrepreneur.” - Bill Houston

“I bought it, I read it and I love it! thank you.” - Jeanice Wade

“First, LOVED the book. The 2nd time even more. I read from it daily on the bike. Portions of it seem like my autobiography of the past 4mo.” - David Schmal

“Your book is a reality check.” - Kelley C. Chunn

“I found your story unique, well-written, and delightful. If there’s anything like it out there, I haven’t seen it.” - Mary Sullivan

“Having a signed copy of your book was definitely the biggest hit of the year for the group. I really enjoyed reading your book as well. I thought the chapter on networking was Fantastic!” - Frank Riordan- YEO Chapter in Chicago

“Finally finished the book and found many of the ups and downs of owning your business are universal!” - Linda, Kentucky Smoke House

“I’m sitting here in the Austin Airport finishing up the last pages of the autographed copy of Crazy that I bought from you….. and laughing as I read thru your chronicles of the lessons that you’ve learned in launching startups…. Thank you for exposing yourself in the book, and for fueling the fire for entrepreneurs like me….” - Jim Kohs, Houston

“As I am reading it - so many of your comments and insights leap out at me… either for myself (who has not yet taken the plunge into the darkside) but more so for the founder of this company - a mentor of mine.” - Steven Harris, Company of Friends New Jersey

” I am enjoying your book immensely, and am now reading the networking section. I love the Starbucks thing. I was using Panera Bread for short-and-sweet meetings, because it is comfortable and can be really fast if necessary, and because I don’t drink coffee. But your wisdom on the comfort of Starbucks, and of course the wi-fi, all without drinking coffee, is awesome ! When reading the “networking is about them, not about yourself” section, I laughed about plastering your ad to your face! It s indeed that bad sometime!.” – Nancy Fallon – Houle

“I liked your book. You capture a side of the entrepreneurial life that many fail to address.” - Laura Siner, New York Company of Friends

“I am about halfway through it, and I am struck by the brutal honesty …it is really terrific.”- Alan Warms

“I really am here at this point with my recovered business partly due to your guidance and consult, so thank you, thank you.” - JoAnn Pavin

“You are really capturing the integrity of your voice and tone. . .Hope you’re having fun!” - Kay Branz

“I wanted you to know I’m reading your book and loving it.” – Maria Burud

“I did read Barry’s book and enjoyed it, sort of Zen meets the Entrepreneur. I do agree with much of what Barry wrote, especially on hiring the right people, this one was thing they screwed up over and over and over again at the universities where I worked. They never seemed to tap into the need to hire the “right” folks and it showed. ….(the book) was pretty good, just the right touch of neurosis and a bit of humor, although the ending would probably would have been better if they actually did come and eat him.” - Dale Velk

“Personally, I have not been able to put the book down since I started reading it. Many of the things I have struggled with as an entrepreneur are in the book. I thought it was me. I thought I was alone facing these issues. Your book shows that it’s just the nature of the beast… I just have to make sure it doesn’t devour me. (and you can quote me on that!).” - Yvonne Brown

“I strongly recommend to those who are concerned to read your book to understand themselves better by sharing your real life experience and to make a better business move by benefiting from your incisive analysis and collections of wisdom. Your book describes the entrepreneurship across many dimensions.” - K.Y. Chiu

“I’m really enjoying your book. It’s very forgiving to those of us driven by more passion than sense. . .I actually find it to be a page-turner!”- Kay Branz

“What what I have read… it all seems like must-read, riveting gems of knowledge.” - Mike Mazursky

“I just started reading it and it hits the hammer on the head! Looks like you know all about us. Look out Dr. Phil and Click and Clack there is a new business physiologist in town!”- Randy Hilgers

“Thank you for your transparency and writing in such an understandable style. I hope your book makes it into the college classrooms. I think it can save people a lot of heartache and misery. Only the passionate lunatics should proceed down the entrepreneurial path”- Alison Doree

“You need to be “a little” crazy? I’ll pick it up, but I can’t wait for the sequel, “You need to be out of your f*%king mind” - Barry Poltermann

“It has been very reminiscent of my own experiences”- Douglas Stone

“Looks like you have a bandwidth 3 times a normal human being. Ordered your book after reviewing your site. The hook was the list of speaking engagements you have going on. One of the best web sites I’ve visited recently. Whatever you are paying that PR firm, its worth it” -Ed Ponikvar

“I find your FIRST book to be inspiring with a voice of genuine realism targeting qualified passionate people that are on that proverbial edge of the cliff waiting for that elusive moment to take that next step…or jump. It’s refreshing to read something that truly pertains to my character and personality without trying to intimidate a reader by talking over their heads or down to them.” - Tim Summers