The Real Deal cover art

The Real Deal

My Story from Brick Lane to Dragons' Den

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The Real Deal

By: James Caan
Narrated by: James Caan
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About this listen

James Caan is one of Britain's most successful entrepreneurs. Dropping out of school at just 16, he started his business life with no qualifications and two pieces of advice: 'Observe the masses and do the opposite' and 'Always look for opportunities where both parties benefit'. Armed with just his father's wisdom, his own unique charm and the Yellow Pages, James Caan built a market-leading business with a turnover of more than #130 million from a broom cupboard.

The Real Deal is the incredible story of James Caan's remarkable life. From his childhood as a Pakistani immigrant in Brick Lane in the 1960s and his decision not to go into the family business, to the phenomenal success of his first company, this book traces James's journey to both financial and personal maturity. It deals with his disappointment upon realising his goals too early, and offers a frank account of what success at 30 really means.

The Real Deal brings us bang up to the present day, including the truth about his role on Dragons' Den, what his charity work in Lahore, Kashmir, and Kosovo means to him, and how he has come to completely re-evaluate the true value of money.

This rag-trade-to-riches story is an intimate account of an exceptional journey. It is a searingly honest exploration of James's path to success and a source of inspiration for anyone looking to emulate his extraordinary business skills.

©2008 James Caan (P)2009 James Caan
Business Professionals & Academics Inspiring Success Heartfelt Thought-Provoking Banking Middle East

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All stars
Most relevant
A good listen. Full of small tips and tricks as well as some interesting strategic stuff.

But I have been ASTONISHED that almost everything in his life appears to start with a lie. And even more amazed that he's rather proud of that. Whether it's his relationship, getting clients, pushing candidates or starting new divisions, he can't appear to start anything without first telling a fib.

I'm afraid this book makes it all too clear why recruitment consultants can have a bad reputation - a focus on the Porsche James has "painted a blue sky" about rather than desire to help someone find the right role. a sad state of affairs.

But that aside, he's clearly a great motivator and an astute entrepreneur. the book is worth getting.

Wow, not what I expected to hear

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Its a really good listen, well told with good advice.

"The Real Deal".

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Fascinating and honest rendition of rags to riches. His judgement of the human being is a lesson for us all.

Insightful

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A great inspiring story of a guy working his way up in life and business.

The narration is strange though! James’ reading style is odd but you get used to it by the last chapter 🤣. You can also clearly hear when sections have either been added or re-recorded. See past that and it’s a great listen.

Great story, strange narration

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I found this audio book very enjoyable to listen to and very interesting. I have watched Dragon's Den where James Caan has appeared. I didn't really like James Caan at first when I watched Dragon's Den because I didn't know anything about him. However after listening to this audio book I have grown quite fond of him. James Caan not only shares his story from his humble beginnings in Brick Lane, but he also gives good solid business advice to anyone who wants to receive it.

The only downside which I found with this audio book is that it is only the abridged version. If the book was read in its entirety then it would have been awesome because I'm sure James Caan had a lot more exciting stories which he could have shared in this audio book.

Besides that I enjoyed it.

A Nice Autobiography.

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