Product Description
"Oh, screw it, let's do it."

That's the philosophy that has allowed Richard Branson, in slightly more than twenty-five years, to spawn so many successful ventures. From the airline business (Virgin Atlantic Airways), to music (Virgin Records and V2), to cola (Virgin Cola), to retail (Virgin Megastores), and nearly a hundred others, ranging from financial services to bridal wear, Branson has a track record second to none.

Losing My Virginity is the unusual, frequently outrageous autobiography of one of the great business geniuses of our time. When Richard Branson started his first business, he and his friends decided that "since we're complete virgins at business, let's call it just that: Virgin." Since then, Branson has written his own "rules" for success, creating a group of companies with a global presence, but no central headquarters, no management hierarchy, and minimal bureaucracy.

Many of Richard Branson's companies--airlines, retailing, and cola are good examples--were started in the face of entrenched competition. The experts said, "Don't do it." But Branson found golden opportunities in markets in which customers have been ripped off or underserved, where confusion reigns, and the competition is complacent.
And in this stressed-out, overworked age, Richard Branson gives us a new model: a dynamic, hardworking, successful entrepreneur who lives life to the fullest. Family, friends, fun, and adventure are equally important as business in Branson's life. Losing My Virginity is a portrait of a productive, sane, balanced life, filled with rich and colorful stories:

Crash-landing his hot-air balloon in the Algerian desert, yet remaining determined to have another go at being the first to circle the globe

Signing the Sex Pistols, Janet Jackson, the Rolling Stones, Boy George, and Phil Collins

Fighting back when British Airways took on Virgin Atlantic and successfully suing this pillar of the British business establishment

Swimming two miles to safety during a violent storm off the coast of Mexico

Selling Virgin Records to save Virgin Atlantic

Staging a rescue flight into Baghdad before the start of the Gulf War . . .

And much more. Losing My Virginity is the ultimate tale of personal and business survival from a man who combines the business prowess of Bill Gates and the promotional instincts of P. T. Barnum.

Also available in the UK from Virgin Publishing, and in Canada from General Publishing,


From the Hardcover edition.Amazon.com Review
In this autobiography, Virgin Group founder Richard Bransonsays one of his prime business criteria is "fun." Fun made Branson abillionaire, and few business memoirs are one-billionth as fun asBranson's, nor as niftily written. Not only does it relate his side ofnear-death corporate experiences, it tells how the chairman literallycheated death by gun, shipwreck, and balloon crash.

Branson's empire--now encompassing interests in an airline, pop music,soda pop, e-commerce, and financial services--began when the dyslexic16-year-old dropped out of school in 1968 to found the Britishmagazine Student. His headmaster said, "I predict that you willeither go to prison or become a millionaire." Briefly imprisoned fordodging customs selling records, Branson got his first million byreleasing TubularBells, a maverick recording all the stuffy executivesrejected. (1998's Tubular Bells IIIputs the series' sales over 20 million.)

Despite wild tales of Branson's wife-swapping and Keith Richards fleeingnaked from Branson's studio at gunpoint with another man's woman, themost shocking parts of the memoir concern British Airways' JamesBond-like "dirty tricks" campaign against Virgin Atlantic, resultingin the biggest award for damages in English history.

Though it's filled with famous names, witty quotes, and pulse-poundingaccounts of lunatic balloon adventures, it is as a business thrillerthat the book really scores. His instinctive bet-the-ranch tacticscould cost him all, or earn another billion. Either way, Branson willlikely remain the most entertaining entrepreneur in Europe.--TimAppelo ... Read more

Customer Reviews (148)

Awsome story!Branson
Great book,telling the story from start.only wish there were an updated version!est. 2010Truly an incredible man/biz.From record deals to building an Airline Empire.A must read.

Forget about the billionaire, read about the entrepreneur.
Everyone knows Richard Branson and his brand Virgin. Sure, he's a billionaire and writing a book when you're one makes it easy to become a bestseller. What surprised me about this book was its depth about his thoughts and down-to-earth manner which is was written in.

Taking the first 43 years of the life of Richard Branson into one book creates a wonderful journey which makes much of us wonder what it would be like. Growing up in the 50's and being a teenager during the sexual revolution of the late 60's and early 70's Richard Branson is being very open about his private life at that stage. I think it is great for anyone to see that entrepreneurs grow not only their business, but more so themselves as well. Putting forward his experiences building up Student and later Virgin Music this has been a great example to see someone pushing his own boundaries each day again.

Further down the book, business will get the best of the read and not so much the person of Richard Branson himself. This may be due to the fact that he more or less became his business, where in the first part of his life this role was reversed. The writings are nevertheless as exciting and you can actually 'feel' the growth of business and figures while reading. Having not disbanded the little facts of thousand dollar loans in the beginning of the book give you a great sense about the scaling-up that has taken place. Virgin Music expands, business troubles and failures are mentioned, but always success remains. There can be no adventure without failure.

The last part of the book focusses on Virgin Atlantic, the airline. Where the book ends around 1993 much of the British Airways lawsuit and 'dirty tricks' campaign is being written about. Although these chapters were a great read and blows the mind of any James Bond loving viewer, I think the total chapters are out of proportion. Feelings are noted, but Richard Branson as a person and what it did to his private life are missing out. Sure, the lawsuit was a gruelling experience, as anyone can understand who once had one. It is the wonder of how he could remain doing business in his 'fun and positive' way while going through this process what interests me most.

This book has been a great read and could be a valuable experience when you're in business. Forget about the billionaire, read about the entrepreneur.

Easy to read and personable
This book was an enjoyable read. Richard's story has everything - a little gossip, a little entertainment and a little drama - in fact a lot of drama. I truly enjoyed reading this book. It helps you vicariously live the life of an entrepreneur. It has several learning lessons and several mistakes of Branson you can learn from.

Autobiography with business lessons along the way
I am about halway through the book, but so far I have really enjoyed it.The book is definitely different than what I expected.It basically an autobiography by Richard Branson, but it offers very clear business lessons along the way. He has lived an VERY interesting life so it actually helps the book flow very well. Very enjoyable read so far.

Life as an entrepreneur
A roller-coaster ride through the early history of the Virgin group. In some ways, for someone who values and depends on his public image so much, this book provides a very intimate view of Richard Branson's childhood, and his early business successes and failures - and there is plenty of both! In fact, it is the determination and willingness to take larger and larger risks that makes this book such an interesting read. If you're running a small business, with a tight budget, and are dreaming about the "good days", think again.. whether you're running an airline, or a local record shop, this book is the epitome of what it means to lead a life of an entrepreneur: you are always in pursuit of something bigger, and are always operating on the edge of your physical, mental, and fiscal limits. A classic, highly recommend it! ... Read more

Product Description
The biggest business publication of 2009 — Branson's business secrets now in paperback.

In Business Stripped Bare, Sir Richard Branson shares the inside track on his life in business and reveals the incredible truth about his most risky, brilliant and audacious deals. Discover why Virgin tried to take on one of the world's biggest superbrands, how Virgin Mobile USA holds the record as the fastest company in history to generate revenues of over one billion dollars (faster than Microsoft, Google and Amazon) and how Richard is the only person in the world to have built eight billion-dollar companies from scratch in eight different sectors.

Combining invaluable advice with the remarkable and candid inside stories of Virgin's greatest achievements, as well as some of its setbacks, Business Stripped Bare is a dynamic, inspirational and truly original guide to success in business and in life. Whether you are an executive, an entrepreneur or are just starting out, Richard strips business down to show how you can succeed and make a difference.


From the Trade Paperback edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

I learned so much
I am an engineering student, but I love to read about all kinds of topics. Before reading this book I had an idea that business was hard, that it was reserved to a specific group of people, that it was all about economics and money. Well guess what? It's not. Branson takes you on a journey that skims through some of his experiences in a wide variety of fields and shares his thoughts, feelings, ideas, and enthusiasm. It was an excellent read, and that's coming from someone who hated anything to do with business or economy. Thank you Mr. Branson.

Barely worth it
Not that much meat for starters.Was hard to understand while driving as Branson's voice is to soft and and constantly shifts from very low to moderately higher.I think it was a book done simply to make a buck by trading on the mans fame.

Here's to hopeful, philanthropic capitalism at its true best!
For years it's been frustrating to me that none of Richard Branson's books were available on audio, so when this one came out I jumped on it.

Okay, this book is not as instructional and detailed as books like Good to Great. However, as wonderful as those other authors are, none of them have founded multi-billion dollar international firms. So what advice is here is coming straight from a source.

I know some are probably scoffing at the idea, sure that this book is ghost written, but I doubt it. Branson is a brand fanatic, who has made himself the living symbol of the brand.

Unlike Trump and others who espouse a cut-throat, zero-sum philosophy, Branson shows that entrepreneurship and conscience are not mutually exclusive. You can be a good person and a good businessman.

So if you want some sound business advice and a solid dose of hope this is the book to read... or listen.

Must read for any entrepreneur
I am an aspiring entrepreneur. I was coming up with several business ideas and was looking to find a meaning and mantra for my business, and was looking to get some insight into other entrepreneurs experience. Came across this book and bought it, and read it. It is a valuable read for entrepreneurs and for others thinking about entrepreneurship. Do not forget to read the inside of the covers on the front and the back. Several valuable lessons that can be learnt from Sir Richard Branson's experience, while you are going about your startup. Make sure you have fun reading this book! ... Read more

Product Description
The global icon shares his secrets of success and exciting plans for the future.

Throughout my life I have achieved many remarkable things. In Screw It, Let's Do It, I will share with you my ideas and the secrets of my success, but not simply because I hope they'll help you achieve your individual goals.

Today we are increasingly aware of the effects of our actions on the environment, and I strongly believe that we each have a responsibility, as individuals and organisations, to do no harm. I will draw on Gaia Capitalism to explain why we need to take stock of how we may be damaging the environment, and why it is up to big companies like Virgin to lead the way in a more holistic approach to business.

In Screw It, Let's Do It I'll be looking forwards to the future. A lot has changed since I founded Virgin in 1968, and I'll explain how I intend to take my business and my ideas to the next level and the new and exciting areas - such as launching Virgin Fuels - into which Virgin is currently moving.

But I have also brought together all the important lessons, good advice and inspirational adages that have helped me along the road to success.

Ironically, I have never been one to do things by the book, but I have been inspired and influenced by many remarkable people. I hope that you too might find a little inspiration between these pages. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (34)

success lessons from Sir Richard Branson
This book is a consummate motivator, and not only because of its billionaire author. Sir Richard Bronson offers his life-time lessons - and boy, what adventures! They range from his childhood businesses, mega-businesses of today, and ballooning across oceans. Summed together the lessons include just doing boldly what is challenging to you and having fun doing it. Moreover, in doing it is essential to be as independent as possible, to live life to the fullest and in the present moment, to value family and friends and to call upon them in times of need (and there were many for him), to respect self, others, and other things, and to do some good. For example, I was impressed to learn how many efforts and money Richard Bronson and his personal friends put into trying to avoid the Gulf War I, and in the process rescuing foreign hostages from Saddam Hussein and supporting many refugees. The latter touches my heart because I lived it once. Just amazing lessons!

I am no longer surprised why this guy is wealthy - it just makes sense. I also feel very encouraged after reading this book, and I do not hesitate recommending it to all readers, young and old.

Amavilah, Author

National Wealth Accounting and Baseball Player Exports: Economic Implications for Performance ISBN: 978-3838330099

Economic Versus Non-Economic Dimensions of the Well-being of Nations. ISBN: 9783838320984

Modeling Determinants of Income in Embedded Economies. ISBN: 1600210465

Entertaining and informative - good read!
First off, overall I have to say that I really enjoyed this book. I doubt that anyone is going to accuse Richard Branson of being a literary genius, but he shoots from the hip, writes from the heart, informs, inspires and entertains! This little book gives you a quick insight into what makes Richard Branson tick, how he got to be as successful as he is today. I recently recommended this book to a client of mine (another highly successful man) for his 18 year old son to read. Both the client and son enjoyed the book as well, for much the same reasons that I did; it's kick-butt, no-nonsense, and tends to open one's eyes to greater possibilities. A small book, it's a very quick read - maybe an hour or two and definitely worth the time and money spent. Enjoy!

I Loved this Book!!!
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R1TLLYW7F9U0DK

This book resonates with you
I have recommended this book time and time again. He's such an interesting man, through out the book I have learned not only how to just grab life by its collar but how to raise children to inspire them to succeed one day. All of us wonder "how was he raised to achieve what he has achieve" in this and his other books he tells you exactly what it takes to be a go getter....you will reach for this book time and time again

Marzena Kmiecik
Creative Director / Owner of Pixelfanatix.com

Do NOT judge this book after first several chapters
Read the subject again. This is a mistake I made, and even wanted write a negative review. Most of the business books I had read starts very interesting, breathtaking, however, later runs out of steam, and you hardly push yourself to finish it.
Richard's book is different. Starting is quite boring, I would say even clumsy, and the balloon trips what author is describing, can make you annoyed - yes, we understand why they are there - it is to show the concepts, fight to the end, if you want you will get it and so. But it does not gives a lot of value though.
But later - later it picks up, picks up the speed, interest, facts, humor and beyond - if book can be compared with music, then imagine the Vivaldi's Storm - it starts slow, but then later you have a lot emotions, and with every page you just fell in love with this book. Read it, it's worth to read. ... Read more

Product Description
In many ways, Richard Branson and his company the Virgin Group are unique. In an era dominated by strategists, Branson is an opportunist with an uncanny knack of sniffing out great deals where others hesitate or fear to tread. Never before has a single brand been so successfully deployed across such a diverse range of goods and services. Branson is the ultimate brand builder.

So how does he do it? Now bought completely up to date for this new edition, Business the Richard Branson Way, not only reveals the secrets of Branson's remarkable success but also draws out the universal lessons and identifies strategies that can be applied to any business or career. From picking on someone bigger than you to moving faster than a speeding bullet, and from making work fun to keeping the common touch, you have in your hands the secrets of phenomenal success.

Contents

• Richard Branson Revisited
• The Life and Times of Richard Branson
• One Pick on Someone Bigger Than You
• Two Do the Hippy, Hippy Shake
• Three Haggle - Everything's Negotiable
• Four Make Work Fun
• Five Do Right By Your Brand
• Six Smile for the Cameras
• Seven Don't Lead Sheep, Herd Cats
• Eight Faster than a Speeding Bullet
• Nine Size Does Matter
• Ten Never Lose the Common Touch
• How to Build a Brand the Branson Way
• Last Word

Customer Reviews (7)

A pleasant surprise
Like him or loathe him, there's no denying Richard Branson knows how to make a statement.

I only bought this book as some light reading for a long flight. But I was surprisingly impressed with it.

It certainly isn't the first book about - or by - Branson, and it perhaps doesn't provide as much depth as some of the others. But it does enough to live up to its sub-title "10 Secrets of the World's Greatest Brand Builder". The principles Dearloves shares - including "Make work fun", "Do right by your brand" and "Faster than a speeding bullet" - are good advice for most business owners.

I particularly liked the section "Don't Lead Sheep, Herd Cats", which is about hiring people with initiative and ambition and then getting out of their way.

Review on Business The Richard Branson Way
I have read almost all of Richard Branson's books. He is an amazing inspiration to me. I think his death defying feats are something to commend. I don't have the guts to take a hot air balloon ride around the world or even consider the things he has done.
His book was inspiring and motivational.
A must read for the serious entrepreneur.
Branson's "live life to the full" is the way I like to live my life too!
All the very best,
Sarah Radford
President Chic Gems, etc.

A Good Insight into Richard Branson's Business Strategies!
Des has done a good job into explaining how Richard Branson does business.
A fun read full of practical ideas!

Kiss kiss kiss Richard Branson's butt.
And that's pretty much all this book does. And truly I'd be okay with that if it were at all well written or offered ANY real insight into his method. Y'know how reality shows always spend like one-third of their air time repeating stuff they already told you? This book is like that.

The King of Virgin is clearly a marketing genius. Surely there's another book that does him justice.

A Good Read!
This book is a handy compilation of observations, hypotheses and speculations on the subject of Richard Branson. Author Des Dearlove freely and frankly admits his debt to several other writers who have probed the Branson story in depth and breadth. There is little if anything original to be found, aside perhaps from the author's style of presentation, which tries hard to be light and deft. Although the book carries you along, its biggest punch resides in the author's list of "10 secrets" of Branson's success. Readers who would like to know in the most general terms what Branson has done and how he has done it, and who are willing to swallow a few clichés in lieu of explanations, will seize upon this book.we think you will enjoy it and, after all, enjoying your work is one of Branson's great secrets. ... Read more

Product Description
An exhilarating and highly personal story of flight by the world-famous adventurer and businessman.

As far back as stories go, pioneers have reached for the skies. In the last two hundred years, they have mastered the air and made the modern world possible. Today they are bringing outer space within our reach. They're inventors and toymakers, amateurs and adventurers, visionaries, dreamers and, yes, crackpots. Some have called them irresponsible, even dangerous. But I have met many of them. I have worked with them, and funded them, and flown with them. I admire them, and trust them, and I think they and their kind are our future.

In this book I look at the history of flight through the stories and people who have inspired me. These are tales of miraculous rescues; of records made and broken; of surprising feats of endurance and survival, including some of my own adventures, as well as developments in the future of air (and space) travel. This is a story of pioneers, and of course it includes the world famous Montgolfiers and the Wright brothers. But I also want to describe some of the lesser-known trailblazers — people like Tony Jannus, who in 1914 created the world's first scheduled commercial flight, flying his passengers over the waters of Tampa Bay at an altitude of just fifty feet; the 'bird man' Leo Valentin, who in the 1950s jumped from 9,000 feet with wooden wings attached to his shoulders; and my friend, Steve Fossett, who dedicated his life to breaking records and having adventures.

This is their story. It is also, in a small way, my own. ... Read more

Product Description
This is the bestselling autobiography of iconic entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson, featuring his take on his latest business ventures, personal achievements and intrepid adventures. You'll discover how Sir Richard is committed to building a better world through responsible, holistic business practices and ventures such as the Virgin Health Bank, which is contributing to regenerative medicine, Virgin Fuels, which has pledged GBP200 million to renewable energy projects, and his company's charitable arm, Virgin Unite. You'll also learn about how Sir Richard and his company are reaching for the stars in a new era of commercial space travel with Virgin Galactic. With insights into this very public figure's personal life as well as his business successes and the lessons he's learned along the way, this is an amazing memoir, motivational business guide and inspiring story that will capture your imagination. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (17)

Outstanding Book!A Must Read!!
You will not be disappointed.Branson's story is one that reads better than fiction.He is truly a larger than life personality with lessons for everyone -- especially those in business and those charged with innovation and creating the new.This guy is the real thing and one that we will look back to for generations as truly an original.He is the Howard Hughes of our time.

MUSt READ ***
I just wished I would have read this book before.. it's a biography about an amazing person.. very extraordinary

Fantastic Bio and synopsis of Branson
I was enthralled and read the entire 600 pages in a weekend. A page turner and well written, I can only hope to meet Sir Richard Branson some day and to also rival his success!

Very interesting book about very strong personality in personal and business areas
I strongly recommend to read this book to those people who want run their own business, who want exciting life or maybe to teach their childrens to become strong personalities. However Branson is very rich and interesting people not only because of his brave, persistency, smart and diplomacy but also because of luck and good circumstances.
This book is story about first challenges in life, first business, first love, first and probably last night in prison, first Virgin shop, first contract with talented musician (Mike Oldfield), first trip with baloon through Atlantic Ocean, second trip with baloon, legal claim against British Airways. This book also describes other many more personal, business and even political events, purchaces (Necker island) and contracts (for ex., Rolling stones)in his life and his business that gave him knowledges, life's lessons, family, new friends and ability to enjoy life.
So if you like challenges, adventures, business this book is for you.

the virgin story
great book!

lovely in-flight reading. makes you aware of the possibilities in life and encourages/convinces you to take the entrepreneurial route. i wanted to rate it 4 or 5 stars but amazon doesnt allow me to change it. However, amazon "does" allow me to change the text of the review. weird.

A very detailed account of an average-intelligence, highly successful entrepreneur who did not go to college. Not like Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, or Mark Zuckerberg who dropped out. Branson skipped it entirely!

Proves the point that you don't have to be a rocket scientist to make a significant positive impact on the world. Plus its more fun to read than Michael Dell's biography.

... Read more

Product Description
Spend some time with three of today's most noted business pioneers and share their secrets for achieving international success. The New Global Leaders takes readers into the private worlds of Asea Brown Boveri's Percy Barnevik, Virgin founder Richard Branson, and British Petroleum titan David Simon to provide rare and candid profiles of how these charismatic leaders have redefined organizational growth and development in the latter 20th century. The authors were granted unprecedented access to these men and the results are as fascinating as they are informative. Readers are treated to personal interviews with these very powerful and very different personalities, each of whom provides a behind-the-scenes account of how he put his company on the global map. Sharing their philosophies, visions, and strategies, they exemplify leadership in an age of rapid and relentless change and provide new models of success for our post-industrial era.Amazon.com Review
What does it take to run a global company during this age ofinternational competition, technology, and downsized work forces? InThe New Global Leaders, Manfred F.R. Kets De Vries andElizabeth Florent-Treacy provide some answers by examining the livesand work of three of Europe's most storied business leaders: RichardBranson, founder of the Virgin Group; Percy Barnevik, architect of themerger that created the ABB engineering conglomerate; and David Simon,who resurrected British Petroleum. The authors find that each of theseleaders succeeds with charisma and a managing philosophy that centerson speed, openness, and a disdain for bureaucracy. "As organizationsgo through a global 'revolution,' they require the leadership of asignificantly different kind of CEO," write the authors. "Leaders atthe helm of the corporations of the future will need the capacity tostep out of their own comfort zone and adapt to other realities."

While the book is a bit obsequious at times, it's easy to read andunderstand. Common among all three executives is their simple anddirect style. Simon, for example, is a zealot about meetingbenchmarks. His slogan is "Performance, reputation, and teamwork." Thebook shines because it's three biographies and three businesshistories in one. Managers at companies of any size can benefit fromthe experiences of Branson, Barnevik, and Simon. --Dan Ring ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

A Good Read!
Authors Manfred F.R. Kets de Vries and Elizabeth Florent-Treacy idealistically foresee a new era where visionary, innovative CEO's will lead a new type of employee. Through insightful interviews, they position Richard Branson of Virgin, Percy Barnevik of ABB and David Simon of British Petroleum as icons of the modern, improved CEO. Certainly, Branson and Simon seem to be valid role models and their leadership of European global companies presents interesting alternatives.Although it is not reflected in this 1999 book, today Barnevik's reputation is tarnished in the wake of a 2002 severance pay scandal and problems that BusinessWeek refers to as "the mess at ABB."For good or ill, this book will provoke you to ask if emphasizing a leader's charismatic ability to motivate distracts attention from critical core business issues. Despite their varied outcomes, these charismatic visionaries created family-like corporate cultures and inspired their employees. Thus, they demonstrated that the new economic era requires a new type of leader. Whether they together constitute a composite of that leader is another question. We recommend this solid book to management students and to upcoming executives.

Delivering shareholder value is not enough
Well written, easy to read. Hard acts to follow. You will get to know three successful business leaders. What are their background, childhood, education and career? What happened to their companies when they wereleading them? Interviews with each one of them in which many questions areanswered that you probably would have asked. The companies are large,global and successful. There is a lot to learn. It is not a cookbook. Theauthors make a useful summary but when you reflect about what the threepersons have done there are not only many things they all did but also manythings they did differently. I bought the book because it was listed underthe heading "business ethics" in an Amazon search. The book is not directlyabout ethics. It is useful in that context as it shows that these threeleaders through their actions demonstrate having moral convictions. Part ofthat conviction is to deliver shareholder value but also strong feelings ofresponsibility for the environment and social issues. Furthermore they havebeen able, with a lot of hard work, to impart this concept on all of theemployees. All three believe that employees become much more motivated andloyal to the organisation when they feel that they are working towardsgoals in addition to shareholder value. One also becomes convinced thatthey do not set these wider goals as a public relations exercise or aclever way to motivate people to work harder. These leaders are totallysincere in what they say and what they do.

A great study of leadership and business philosophy
The book gives valuable insight into the way these three ground-breaking European leaders think about business, and how they successfully manage global organizations. The book clearly illustrate the different personaltraits of the subjects (the builder, the transformer, and the integrator),and ecourages the reader to challange the pros and cons of the differentphilosophies. The book reads very much like a case study, and provides anexcellent but basic overview over the global marketplace and on how to beable to draw on the ideas implemented by these great leaders.

Inspiring vignettes of innovative leaders
Growth on a global stage is the only way to sustainable success. It is an enormous challenge to grow let alone accomplish it globally. This book provides tangible object lessons on how these leaders have done it. Iffirst-hand learning is best, then these stories approximate thatconstruct.

This is an engaging and usefull guide to a difficult act.

A brillant leadership study.
A brillant leadership study from M.F.R. Kets de Vries and E. Florent-Treacy. The New Global Leaders is the success stories of three global leaders : " Richard Branson (founder and head of the VirginGroup), Percy Barnevik (mastermind behind the merger of ASEA and BrownBoveri to form ABB), and David Simon (former CEO of British Petroleum) alllooked for ways to create a greater sense of purpose for their employeeswhile putting in place the structure necessary for a globalorganization."

With case studies and interviews, this book has beenbuilt around the personal development of these world-class global leadersand the evolution of their companies.

As stated by Kets de Vries andFlorent-Treacy," we first discuss the values that provide a foundationfor excellence and a new psychological contract in vanguard companies suchas Virgin, ABB, and BP and then show how these values can be translatedinto practice in any organization."

I highly recommend this brillantstudy.

A detailed and succesful study about ABB and Percy Barnevik see"ABB the Dancing Giant/K. Barham & C. Heimer". ... Read more

Product Description
How does globalisation affect our economy and how did it cause the financial melt-down. In this unique book twelve global thinkers and business people give their view on the threats and opportunities that lie ahead. Included among the contributors are Jim O'Neill head of Goldman Sachs research who coined the phrase BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, China) countries; alternative globalisation expert and ecofeminist Vandana Shiva, bestselling author and 2006 Nobel Prize Winner Muhammad Yunus. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (7)

The king of life speaks
Richard Branson surely has balls to LIVE. This guy is inspirational beyond belief. I too want to be the person that challenges himself always. "Screw It, Let's Do It" is full of must apply principles for life. Buy this book.

The title says it all
I have always been a fan of Richard Branson, but until reading this book did not know many details about his life. He has lived a "large" life in business and adventure because he is not crippled by over analysis and naysayers. If his gut says go for it, he does.
Now he is on a mission to deal with global warming by looking for ways to live our lives the way we wish and to do no harm to the planet. Go get 'em, Richard!

Great book!
Very good book, genuine and honest. Good lessons can be learned from this Self-made man.

Very Interesting Book!
This is a very interesting and informative book. Richard Branson is not trying to sell anything; he's just explaining how he came to be what he is today.

Branson is completelly right that people must have fun with whatever they do. Otherwise, they will become miserable robots regreting missed opportunities one day.

Amazing book, bogged down with lame opinions.
Great book, a lot of good information and a really interesting read.The only time where I felt like I had to work to get through this book is when he started to discuss his opinions on "Going Green" and all of that nonsense.In my opinion he should have written a book entirely about going green and the green way of life and left it out of this book, which would have been fine without it.Other than that it was a fantastic book that I would recommend to anyone who is interested in business or entrepreneurship. ... Read more

Product Description

When he was 26, Chip Conley broke the two cardinal rules of starting a business: he invested in an industry about which he knew nothing and he ignored the mantra "location, location, location." He bought a notorious "pay-by-the-hour" motel in a seedy San Francisco neighborhood.

A dozen years later, Chip is the "boy wonder" of the American travel industry, famous for his entrepreneurial genius, creativity, and sense of fun.

In The Rebel Rules, Conley shares his success secrets. He focuses on the primary traits -- vision, passion, instinct, and agility -- that characterize today's fast company leaders. His guidebook doubles as a toolbox for anyone -- whether a virgin entrepreneur or a corporate manager -- who wants to walk in step with today's business innovators.

The Rebel Rules will show you how to:

Product Description
The authorized biography of the dynamic British entrepreneur and adventurer. Through the huge successes of Virgin Music and his airline Virgin Atlantic, Richard Branson's name has become a byword for entrepreneurial flair. This new authorized biography examines Branson's ongoing battle with British Airways for supremacy of the skies as well as the expansion of the Virgin name into film, rail transport, and personal finance. It also looks at Branson's fight to run Britain's National Lottery and his much-publicized attempt to fly around the world in a hot-air balloon. A balanced assessment of the Branson phenomenon and an engaging portrait of a man of formidable energy and ambition. Mick Brown is a journalist and the author of American Heartbeat. 544 pp 4 1/2 x 7 16 pp b/w photos ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Interesting person--Biography just so-so
While Richard Branson is an interesting person, the biography I considered just so-so.My main disappointment was what I thought was a real "gloss over" of the period when Virgin was just starting its rise.It seemed to me that within a page or two, Branson's life jumped from being hounded by creditors to being a millionaire. There didn't seem to be sufficient focus on that crucial time.

There are some strong points--I found the balloon episode quite fascinating, and there are many other details about Virgin's later rise to financial success and power that seemed sufficiently detailed.It was just that "lapse" of detail of what was the threshold period in Banson's (and Virgin's) transition to success and prominence that I considered wanting.

Thorough treatment of an inspirational figure
This biography is quite thorough and gives readers a good look at the business and personal life of one of the most interesting entrepreneurs of our time. It's hard not to get inspired by Branson's life because no matter what you think of him, the guy just goes for it full throttle without regard to the obstacles in his path. It's also remarkable how the guy is constantly considering the infinite number of possibilities, both in his business life and in his personal adventures. I haven't read the autobiography so I can't compare it, but I do recommend this book for a glimpse into the life of a very compelling figure. I think you'll come away inspired. Paul Gehrman, Author, Kaleidoscope

Interesting
You need an ego to build a company as large and successfully as Sir Richard has put together and that ego are captured by the author. The author gives us a view into the career of Mr. Branson from the start - the standard biography structure. The author did try to sneak in one or two items that are a bit on the tabloid side, but overall it looked to be a fair and complete review. I was most interested in how he structured his companies and moved from one to the next - I assumed he continued to own them, but that is not the case. Overall and interesting book that is enjoyable. If you are interested in the man then this would be a good starting point.

Cat of 9 lives and jack of many trades.
This book covers all kinds of Branson adventures - he's had more near death experiences than most people and lives life to the full.

Much is about the growth and transformation of Virgin - from music to airlines.There's also the relationships that propelled Branson from his family to his business colleagues.

If ever I'm shipwrecked I'll remember how Branson survived in Mexico by swimming behind an ex-wife for 2 miles when he had little experience.His persistence is a constant theme in this book.

It is unfortunate he was not the first man to circumnavigate the world in a balloon, but one cannot say he did not take the risks to try. The writer's description of his ballooning trials places you right in the scene and changes one's perception of the sport.

Mick Brown writes lucidly and energetically to create a really inspiring portrait of this extraordinarily talented entrepreneur.

The real Branson
Unlike many journalists who have written about the man who is arguably themost innovative entrepreneur in Britain Brown manages to be supremelybalanced: he describes Branson's rise, and pays tribute to his drive andingenuity, but he is also critical, of Branson as a person and as aruthless businessman. As Branson stands on the brink of taking overBritain's National Lottery this book deserves to be re-issued. supporternor a cadoes not is neither a supporterot satdoes not is both adarthe mostremarkable entre Branson Brown the ... Read more

Product Description
Based on interviews with Richard Branson, key advisors, partners, friends, and enemies--and drawing on secret documents, letters, court papers, and tax records--Richard Branson, Virgin King describes the fascinating and gossip-filled history of one of the world's most high-profiel entrepreneurs. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Virgin King
I'm with the above Arabian Night.
I'd like to make dinner with you and dance real slow.
But I would be happy with a job and honored to serve you :)
What'd yah say, big boy?

Great book for entrepreneurs.
A good book detailing the rise and riches of Richard Branson. A truly good book for entrepreneurs.

Makes a suitable doorstop...
Though Branson's achievements are impressive and many, the book is heavy with praise and lacks the depth and detail I was interested in reading about.

Opportuntiy for you Richard
Richard..Iam the only Arabian RnB, Soul and blues singer in UK and globally too! You have one talented artist here who has gutts too and faith in himself but need help..forget financing me..just hear me sing email meplease and let us talk...

Changed my view of Richard Branson
I was given this book as I'm a great fan of Richard Branson. I used to think - "Wow, what a great man". Now I think - "Hmm, what an interesting guy - I'd like to chat with him over a beer!".The book is well written and held my attention well, The author at first paints a picture of Richard as a somewhat ruthless man, but by the end of the book it is easy to see that the author has an admiration for him which goes beyond his ability to make a million. The book is also an interesting insight into the workings of the music and airline industries. If you have a strong opinion about Richard Branson, love him or hate him, I'd recommend this book. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (21)

Screw it, let's do it.
If you enjoyed "Losing my Virginity" and are interested in Richard Branson's more recent business adventures, then this is it - incidentally, if you haven't read the former, you should really start there. The book is written in usual Richard Branson style, that is, no nonsense, fast-paced business adventure and is an enjoyable read if entrepreneurship is something you like reading about. Or, as the Richard Branson said himself: "Screw it, let's do it."

The Title Doesn't Lie
I read Richard Branson's "Losing My Virginity" and was instantly consumed by the stories, both personal and business, of how he got where was in the early 2000's. I mean how many Billionaire's can you think of that are open and honest enough to tell some their most personal situations to allow us to gain a better understanding of who they really are? One that I know of now. Richard keeps that same tone and openness in "Business Striped Bare" and explains the foundation behind what makes Virgin as successful as it is, in a non-business jargon and easy to understand way. He is not giving the magic bullet that will work for everyone in every situation, but what he is giving is an inside look at how Virgin does what it does and how it does it so well. Well worth the read and the concepts are easily applied in just about any area of life, not just business.

Same ol' Richard, fresh ideas and thoughts
I have read also Losing my Virginity, Screw it, let's do it so I can tell I still have found new and useful stuff in this new book. I liked a lot the down to earth approach to what does it really mean a brand and how your company can live by it on a day to day basis. Also I was always curious how Richard's notes are looking alike so finally found out. As always I fell very energized and encouraged to go in unknown territories after reading Richard's books so this time is no exception.

Branson's a Better Leader Than a Writer
I am a huge fan of Richard Branson's.There is no questioning his global success, charming nature and humanitarian ideals.He is not, however, a great writer.

I found it difficult to complete each chapter as the book reads more like a doting mother speaking of her beauty queen daughter than as a serious guide to building and managing a successful enterprise.Most stomach-turning was his description of what makes a Virgin employee so "special."You'd think Mother Teresa was "just the stuff" they require because "even the best isn't good enough for Virgin."Gag me.

I can't in good conscience give the book a one-star rating, but two stars is about all I can muster.I really wanted to love this book but just couldn't do it.

Richard Branson owes me a beer for my time.(And if you're reading this buddy, I'm serious.)

A good inspirational and motivating book
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book from Richard Branson.This is a good inspirational and motivating book that is very easy to read.I knew that there were a number of Virgin companies prior to reading this book, however I was not aware of how many different industries Virgin is involved with (music, mobile, space travel, planes, trains, finance, health clubs, ...).

The culture of Virgin is a key component of the why the Virgin companies have been successful.Whilst there is not a step by step guide for how to build a successful company, there are many useful insights and lessons learnt.Caring and Encouraging your people, Customer-focus, Innovation, Embracing leadership, Fun, Learning from mistakes and Social Responsibility are key attributes I now associate with the Virgin brand. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (3)

Great pictures!
I got this book a few years ago. We have stayed at many Sandals resorts, so it was nice to read about the way Butch Stewart came about in his business. It was also great to look at all the colorful pictures of the resorts. It was like going down memory lane when looking at some. It was also nice to "dream" about the next place we want to go.

I'm glad I bought it second hand.
I have stayed at 2 sandal's resorts over the last 2 years and have thoroughly enjoyed them. I was eagerly anticpating reading this book, however, it isn't really a book.It's more akin to the travel books that you find in your hotel room.The book was financed through sponsors, so most of the book is advertisements.The story of Butch stewart is mostly told in broad strokes and generic descriptions. There is very little detail. I can't wait until our next sandal's vacation though!!

Great Success Story
I recently enjoyed a long weekend with my husband and business partner Robert Allen at the Mediterranean Village at Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa.The book was in my suite and I truly enjoyed reading aboutGordon "Butch" Stewart, founder of Sandals Resorts International. What an extraordinary and inspiring story.It was interesting to learn about his early days as a salesman, his hard work, his partnerships, his innovations.It was a privilege to meet him in person and experience "all that's good" on our luxury included vacation.If you want to hear more about this romantic resort come to WeddingPodcastNetwork.com and listen to the premiere episode of Travel Talk.

Holli Ehrlich
Co-founder Wedding Podcast Network
www.weddingpodcastnetwork.com ... Read more

Product Description
Richard Branson, the international powerhouse entrepreneur, is an opportunist with an uncanny knack of sniffing out great deals where others hesitate or fear to tread. Branson is the ultimate brand builder and never before has a single brand been so successfully deployed across such a diverse range of goods and services. So how does he do it?

The Unauthorized Guide to Doing Business the Richard Branson Way draws out the universal lessons from Richard Branson's remarkable success and identifies 10 strategies that can be applied to any business or career:

1. Pick on someone bigger than you
2. Do the hippy, hippy shake
3. Haggle: everything's negotiable
4. Make work fun
5. Do right by your brand
6. Smile for the cameras
7. Don't lead sheep, herd cats
8. Move faster than a speeding bullet
9. Size does matter
10. Never lose the common touch

Want to be the best? The secrets of phenomenal success are in your hands.

Check out the other Unauthorized Guides in this series: Jamie Oliver; Duncan Bannatyne; Alan Sugar; Bill Gates; and Philip Green. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (19)

Free on nps.gov website (pdf file)
If you can't afford to get it here you can access it for free at nps .gov(national park sevice website) just search for proenneke. The second search result is a pdf file you can download and read on your computer.

Very Interesting
I found it very interesting and informative. didn't have much time to read it though as it was a gift I had to wrap.

ahhhhinteresting if its your thing
this can be pretty boring if its not your thing you need an imaginationand able to drift away into this book, to be tere and part of it...if your notits boring...if you are into itit is relaxing and inspiring...what a guywhat a life what an experinence

Simple but powerful
I agree with the other reviewers that this is a great book (for me). But it's not for everybody. If you are looking for eloquence, vivid description, or even decent writing or grammar, you should look elsewhere. This is one man's journal. RLP was not aiming to write well but to simply put his thoughts down. Nevertheless (or maybe because of this), his writing has a strength, simplicity, and power that is even more meaningful than beautiful language. The book is long and many entries are similar to each other, which can either drive you crazy or have the effect of putting you right inside the cabin along with him during those long Alaskan days and nights. I was hooked instantly and will be sad to read the final pages.

missing pages
I have looked forward to reading the book and was greatly disappointed when pages xvii and xviii were missing from the introduction.Some might say the intro is not that important, but I think it gives good information in setting up the book. ... Read more

Product Description
Richard Branson's life is an adventure, from record-breaking balloon flights to courtroom battles with British Airways. This autobiography of the founder of the Virgin empire, offers an insight into the private and public world of this larger-than-life entrepreneur. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

I also paid for another one of his books?
Next to Branson's "Screw It, Lets Do It", the most poorly written book (short or long) I have ever read. Like his "Screw It..." book, appears Branson got this one published only because he owns the publishing company. Ditto from my review of his "Screw It..." book -- appears making a few bucks on his earlier "Virginity" book made him think he could rephrase content and sell as two more books with more or less merely different titles.Apparently Branson runs his business world better than he writes. ... Read more

Product Description
The series focuses on the people who inspire children today. Each book looks at the background, life and achievements of a personality, their impact on popular culture as well as detailing the everyday facets of their job and how they have gained such success. ... Read more