What I’m Reading (and Why Every Business Owner Should Keep Learning)

If there’s one habit that’s shaped my career more than any other, it’s reading. 

Since the early days of starting my CPA firm, I’ve made time to read almost every day, even if it’s just a few pages before bed or a chapter on a flight. 

Over the years, that habit has done more than sharpen my business skills. It’s helped me think more clearly, lead more effectively, and stay grounded through every season of entrepreneurship. 



I’m often asked by other business owners and firm leaders what I’m reading.  So, here’s a look at my current reading list — and what I hope to gain from each book. 

1. The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters — Priya Parker

Whether it’s a client meeting, team session, or family dinner, gatherings shape our connections. Parker’s book explores how to make them more intentional and meaningful — a concept that applies to leadership just as much as personal life.

2. Thinking, Fast and Slow — Daniel Kahneman

A timeless look into how we make decisions — and how often our instincts lead us astray. I’m revisiting this classic to stay aware of my own biases and make sharper strategic choices. 

3. The Charisma Myth — Olivia Fox Cabane

Leadership isn’t about authority — it’s about presence. Cabane shows that charisma is a skill anyone can develop. It’s a reminder that communication and emotional intelligence are as important as technical expertise.

4. Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things — Adam Grant

Grant’s work always bridges science and humanity beautifully. This book dives into how people unlock growth — not through raw talent, but through humility, effort, and learning from others.

5. The Infinite Game — Simon Sinek

Sinek reminds us that great leaders don’t play to win short-term battles — they play for the long game. In business, that means focusing on purpose, trust, and legacy rather than quick wins.

6. Think Again — Adam Grant

A powerful complement to The Infinite Game. This one’s about challenging your own thinking — letting go of outdated ideas and staying adaptable in a changing world. 

7. Unreasonable Hospitality — Will Guidara

The story of how one restaurant became the best in the world by delivering service that went above and beyond. Guidara’s philosophy — to give people more than they expect — resonates with how we aim to serve clients at Straight Talk CPAs.

8. Worthy — Jamie Kern Lima

A deeply personal book about confidence, identity, and self-worth. Kern Lima reminds us that believing in our value is the foundation of leadership and success.

9. Nonprofit Board Success — Hardy Smith

Though written for nonprofit boards, the lessons on alignment, accountability, and engagement are universal. It’s about building teams that function like high-performing boards — united and effective.

10. Excellence Wins — Horst Schulze

From the co-founder of The Ritz-Carlton, this book is a masterclass in creating a culture of excellence. Schulze proves that uncompromising standards and care for people can coexist — and drive lasting success.

Final Thought 

Reading has always been my quiet advantage — a way to step outside the day-to-day, learn from the best minds, and bring fresh perspective back to the business. Whether you run a CPA firm, a construction company, or a creative agency, one thing holds true: leaders who keep learning, keep growing.