Crushing It!: How Great Entrepreneurs Build Their Business and Influence—and How You Can, Too by Gary Vaynerchuk is a followup to his 2009 bestseller, Crush It. I have to admit that when I read the first one I was nonplussed. I kept thinking, “heck, I know all this stuff.” “Where is the secret sauce?” also, “who the heck is this sawed-off know-it-all that thinks he invented this stuff?”

I have to admit I was wrong to take that stance. Gary V has done A TON. He hasn’t just regurgitated what the other “experts” say, he goes out there and does it. For that reason, I doff my hat to him.

Now, in hindsight, I really like Vaynerchuk. Although I was doing all of the things he promotes and doing them well in advance of him, I have to admit he has done a better job with nearly every one. I listed to Crushing It with a much better attitude that I did with Crush It. I listen with an admiration for the tireless work he has put in. I listen with a humbled spirit admitting that he is on top of the mountain because he worked harder than anyone else to get there. I listen with respect for all he has accomplished.

If you want to learn about personal branding, Gary is the man to teach you. This book is a quick listen (mainly because his passion comes through his voice and keeps you entertained.) I recommend listening (or reading if that is your thing) and then doing it again and again because the information is packed so densely.

Even is you do not want to become the next social media star – this is a must-listen for anyone who wants to do business in our modern world.

by Chris Doelle