Not a billionaire

I stopped listening after #6. I couldn’t take “the universe” gave me this or that any longer. Also the fact that he speaks in “dollars” when in fact he lives in Thailand and they don’t use US$ there, so a little research finds he is indeed not a billionaire. Don’t get me wrong, he’s wealthy but the title is deceiving.

22 people found this helpful

Inspiring to both new or old to self improvement

This book reads both like a review and summary to all the most important principles of success and as an inspirational story that anyone can relate to. If you're new to success and self-improvement literature, you'll be inspired. If you've already read quite a few books on the subject, this book may be the one that will finally make all the principles click for you--the inspirational story may also be the one that you can finally relate to. This may be the whole package that will, at last, propel you into action towards realizing your dreams... fast! Good Luck!

11 people found this helpful

Not a billionaire (in USD)... not even close,

I'll start with my criticisms:
While most of the 18 principles outlined in his book are indeed sound and have proven the test of time (as most have already been taught by numerous 20th century authors, many of whom are referenced in the book), I have an issue with the integrity of the title. Let's start with his claim of being "homeless". This is a strategic and creative usage of the term. He was on a tropical beach in Thailand, not living under a freeway in Detroit! While he may have been technically homeless, the author takes much license with the term. Mr. Pira's company is worth about $60MM USD. Still an impressive valuation, but I find it difficult to take advice from someone who would knowingly deceive his readers, knowing full well, many, if not most, of his sales will be in the US or GB. Yes, he is a billionaire in Thailand, where a Baht is worth three cents US.
Second, the narration (from award winning narrator, Paul Heitsch), while clear and concise, is not befitting of an author who claims to have been a gang member and frequently refers to being "from the streets". Paul frankly sounds like he just had a pedicure/manicure and is sipping a drink with an umbrella in it whilst narrating. Good for him, but it's not convincing.
In terms of the writing, most importantly, the message was received and I did find value in it. I have even written down many of them as daily reminders and affirmations to myself. However (and it's a BIG however), too many authors skip right to the butterflies and rainbows while casually referencing when they made "their first million". No mention whatsoever in this book of how he got from "homeless" to his "first million"! This is what people want to know! This is why people buy these books! We all know it's easy to make money, build businesses and live dreams when you're already a millionaire!!! It's frustrating to read these books when they skip over the single most important and powerful thing that separates them from the other 99%. Without that 1st million, you can't even anti-up in the business world. Readers want to know how to get in the game! THEN we can talk about philanthropy and warm fuzzy stuff.
Lastly, we ALL must find another word for the "Universe", as it is used in this context. Uuugghhhh... I get the intent, but it just makes me cringe when people use it this way. How about we redefine our concept of God to fit less with this "angry, judgmental, gray-haired old white-man" imagery, and align it with what everyone has come to refer to as the Universe? It's the same thing! Instead of rebranding the idea of God, let's evolve our perception of God. In other words, take religion out of spirituality, and see how that works out. Just a thought...
Overall, I would recommend this book. In many ways, I am not unlike the author, except that he is a "billionaire" (in a 3rd world country) and I am not. Still, I find value in pondering that.

8 people found this helpful

Horrible narrator

It’s better to get the paperback format. This narrator is horrible. When he reads, it seems like it’s his last breath on earth and he’s gonna die.

8 people found this helpful

OK. Wanted more of his bio

This is a combo autobiography and how to book. It’s very hard to do both in one book. This fails in the autobiography department. (Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins is a rare exception).

I would like to read a more detailed of the narrative of Andres’ life. The key deals, the failures, etc. We get snippets of this. But, only when he is discussing one of his 18 points. I was disappointed.

7 people found this helpful

Riveting story and fantastic performance!

I was fascinated first by the title and the stories and principles did not under deliver.

I really enjoyed the stories and how they were told I also really appreciated the chapter layouts that enabled me to go back to certain chapters and take notes on the principles and concepts that really inspired me.

I would recommend this book to any person who might be wanting to run their business better, connect better with their staff or employees desiring to create a stronger culture as well as changing their mindset.
It could take you from a mindset that might be more cutthroat or maintaining being a big dog on campus to having a mindset that can influence the people around you and have a great impact on your city.

It of course could also impact a mindset from poverty mindset to wealth mindset.

Great read! And by “read“ I mean a great listen :-)

Enjoy! I sure did!

3 people found this helpful

inspiring life message

the story is what movie's are mase of. inspiring life with a great message of
hope & faith but more important belief and massive action!

3 people found this helpful

enjoyed listening! excited!

stayed up late, got up early to keep listening. great content that will make you successful. I know because I have followed some in the past to get me to where I am today. I plan on following more, doing more, being more.

2 people found this helpful

INSPIRATIONAL and uplifting

What a great story of his life. I’ve made many notes form my business. Fabulous ideas for not only employee fun and team building but for making people feel special

Inspirational Book About Mindset

Great for those who like the works of Robert Kyosaki and Napoleon Hill. The book is a lot about the author's life, experiences, and mindset.