Start Something That Matters Summary, PDF, EPUD, Audio

Blake Mycoskie, bestselling author of Start Something That Matters and renowned social entrepreneur, combines business innovation with humanitarian impact. Best known as the founder of TOMS Shoes — which popularized the "One for One" model by donating over 96 million pairs of shoes globally — Mycoskie’s book explores themes of purpose-driven entrepreneurship, ethical business practices, and leveraging commerce for social good.

A serial entrepreneur since launching his first venture (EZ Laundry) at 19, he later co-founded Madefor, a neuroscience-backed wellness program developed with Stanford and Harvard researchers.

Mycoskie’s insights stem from hands-on experience building multiple companies and his 2006 Argentina trip that inspired TOMS’ philanthropic mission. His TEDx Talk and frequent appearances on platforms like The Tonight Show and The Amazing Race (where he competed in 2002) amplify his message of conscious capitalism. The book has sold over 1.5 million copies worldwide and been translated into 28 languages, cementing its status as a modern guide to meaningful business.

What is Start Something That Matters by Blake Mycoskie about?

Start Something That Matters details Blake Mycoskie’s journey founding TOMS Shoes and its revolutionary One for One model, which pairs profit with social impact. The book offers practical advice on building purpose-driven ventures by leveraging storytelling, simplicity, and resourcefulness, while emphasizing that businesses can thrive by addressing societal needs.

Who should read Start Something That Matters?

This book is ideal for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, and professionals seeking to align careers with social good. It appeals to those inspired by brands like charity: water or FEED Projects, and anyone curious about blending passion, profit, and philanthropy.

Is Start Something That Matters worth reading?

Yes—it combines actionable strategies with Mycoskie’s firsthand experiences, offering insights into ethical business models. Readers gain frameworks for overcoming fear, storytelling, and scaling impact, making it valuable for both budding and established change-makers.

What is the One for One business model in Start Something That Matters?

The One for One model donates a product (e.g., shoes, eyewear) to someone in need for every purchase. Mycoskie argues this approach drives customer loyalty, creates emotional connections, and proves profitability and social impact aren’t mutually exclusive.

How does Blake Mycoskie emphasize storytelling in Start Something That Matters?

Mycoskie highlights storytelling as a tool to build brand identity and trust. By sharing TOMS’ origin and mission, he attracted media coverage and customer advocacy, showing how authentic narratives can differentiate businesses in crowded markets.

What are the key lessons from Start Something That Matters?

Simplicity: Focus on core offerings to maximize efficiency.
Resourcefulness: Achieve more with limited capital.
Giving: Integrate philanthropy into business DNA.
Action: Start small but act decisively.

How does Start Something That Matters address overcoming fear?

Mycoskie encourages embracing uncertainty, noting that perfectionism stalls progress. He shares how TOMS’ early challenges—like limited industry knowledge—were overcome by prioritizing action over hesitation, a mindset applicable to personal and professional goals.

TOMS, charity: water, and method are featured as case studies. These examples demonstrate how missions rooted in solving problems (e.g., clean water, eco-friendly products) can drive innovation and customer engagement.

How does Start Something That Matters advise starting with limited resources?

The book advocates leveraging creativity over capital, such as using interns for early operations or partnerships for distribution. Mycoskie stresses that constraints often fuel innovation rather than hinder it.

What criticisms exist about Start Something That Matters?

Some argue the One for One model oversimplifies systemic issues, potentially creating dependency. Critics also note the book focuses more on inspiration than detailed scalability strategies, though it acknowledges evolving approaches over time.

How does Start Something That Matters compare to books like Thirst by Scott Harrison?

Both emphasize storytelling and social entrepreneurship, but Mycoskie’s work leans more into business mechanics, while Thirst explores nonprofit challenges. They complement each other for readers seeking holistic views on impact-driven ventures.

Can Start Something That Matters help corporate professionals?

Yes—its principles (e.g., integrating giving, simplifying priorities) apply to intrapreneurship. Mycoskie shows how employees can drive change within organizations by championing projects that align profit with purpose.