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G.O.A.T. Wisdom: How to Build a Truly Great Business
Twelve timeless principles for building a business, from the founders of Beekman 1802.
Have you ever wanted to create a business that's not only good but great? Have you ever felt as though you're destined to do something bigger and more significant with your life? If so, you should know that you don't need millions in funding, a marketing department, or influencer status.
If you have an idea, the determination to bring it to life, a deep and abiding belief in your product, and a devotion to your customers, you already have the humble starting point behind one of the world's fastest-growing and most beloved brands: Beekman 1802.
Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell launched Beekman 1802 in one of New York State's poorest counties with no funding, and in the middle of a punishing recession. They didn't have much of a business plan. But they did have some timeless wisdom that Brent's and Josh's parents and grandparents had taught them—the "greatest of all time" principles for good living that can also be used as a foundation for any business.
In this book, for the first time, Ridge and Kilmer-Purcell present the twelve principles that made the biggest difference in their entrepreneurial journey, and show how these principles are relevant for anyone ready to defy the odds and grow a brand that matters.
Whether you're launching your own venture, growing a side hustle, or looking to make a bigger impact on your company, G.O.A.T. Wisdom will give you the tools, the confidence, and the inspiration to build something meaningful and lasting that your customers will value and feel they can't do without.
Have you ever wanted to create a business that's not only good but great? Have you ever felt as though you're destined to do something bigger and more significant with your life? If so, you should know that you don't need millions in funding, a marketing department, or influencer status.
If you have an idea, the determination to bring it to life, a deep and abiding belief in your product, and a devotion to your customers, you already have the humble starting point behind one of the world's fastest-growing and most beloved brands: Beekman 1802.
Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell launched Beekman 1802 in one of New York State's poorest counties with no funding, and in the middle of a punishing recession. They didn't have much of a business plan. But they did have some timeless wisdom that Brent's and Josh's parents and grandparents had taught them—the "greatest of all time" principles for good living that can also be used as a foundation for any business.
In this book, for the first time, Ridge and Kilmer-Purcell present the twelve principles that made the biggest difference in their entrepreneurial journey, and show how these principles are relevant for anyone ready to defy the odds and grow a brand that matters.
Whether you're launching your own venture, growing a side hustle, or looking to make a bigger impact on your company, G.O.A.T. Wisdom will give you the tools, the confidence, and the inspiration to build something meaningful and lasting that your customers will value and feel they can't do without.
- GenresBusinessNonfiction
288 pages, Hardcover
Published July 1, 2025
14 people are currently reading
1567 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
September 13, 2025
I wanted to read this book because I’m a fan of the brand. I’ve seen it in Ulta and made a few purchases. You do not need to be a business owner to read it. I am a wife and a teacher and found it to be very interesting!
July 10, 2025
First, I’d like to express my heartfelt thanks to Dr. Brent Ridge, Josh Kilmer-Purcell, Harvard Business Review Press, and NetGalley for allowing me the chance to read this e-ARC. Second, I have a confession to make: I am not an entrepreneur nor am I looking to start a business. But I am an avid Beekman 1802 fan (Neighbor), and may have squealed with glee when I got the chance to read this. Having read most of their previous books, I was excited to dive in. This did not disappoint. Not only did they tell about their personal experiences on starting the brand, but they also give great advice on what to do in order to make it successful. I really enjoyed that they added a lot of their story and what they went through to get this far. I was blown away at what their company has had to endure to this point, and I am also feel like a proud friend knowing how far they’ve grown over the years. I love how they share their mission of Kindness. I believe if more companies follow Beekman 1802’s lead, the world would be better for it.
August 7, 2025
This is not your typical business book. It’s better because it’s relatable and readable.
To say that a business book could be a fun read is unique.
In this book, Dr. Brent and Josh have put together their 12 principles for building not just a brand or company but also an empire. I have followed the Beekman boys since they were in specialty boutiques, then launched onto a small on-air sales channel, now on QVC/HSN, and major retailers. So, I’ve been aware of them for quite some time.
I really enjoyed this book. Yes, there is further reading, but I think it’s the personal, or should I say, professional/business anecdotes throughout each chapter that give this book its accessibility. They don’t just explain the principle; they explain how they not only interpreted the principle but also used it to grow their business.
At the end of each chapter, there are actionables or questions about how you can use this in your business. They have also included tips and short interviews with other "G.O.A.T.s" in various fields.
Neighbors, if you are interested in building a business, grab this one along with the typical business books on accounting, etc., but remember this one because it deserves a space there, too.
Thank you to LibraryThing and Harvard Business Review Press for this reader's copy for an honest review.
To say that a business book could be a fun read is unique.
In this book, Dr. Brent and Josh have put together their 12 principles for building not just a brand or company but also an empire. I have followed the Beekman boys since they were in specialty boutiques, then launched onto a small on-air sales channel, now on QVC/HSN, and major retailers. So, I’ve been aware of them for quite some time.
I really enjoyed this book. Yes, there is further reading, but I think it’s the personal, or should I say, professional/business anecdotes throughout each chapter that give this book its accessibility. They don’t just explain the principle; they explain how they not only interpreted the principle but also used it to grow their business.
At the end of each chapter, there are actionables or questions about how you can use this in your business. They have also included tips and short interviews with other "G.O.A.T.s" in various fields.
Neighbors, if you are interested in building a business, grab this one along with the typical business books on accounting, etc., but remember this one because it deserves a space there, too.
Thank you to LibraryThing and Harvard Business Review Press for this reader's copy for an honest review.
February 1, 2026
Forget the "move fast and break things" manual. I just finished G.O.A.T. Wisdom by Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell, and it is the antidote to startup hype.
As the founders of Beekman 1802, they didn't build their brand in a Silicon Valley incubator; they built it in rural New York during a recession. Their secret? No venture capital theatrics. No shortcuts. Just disciplined, values-driven execution.
The book is a masterclass in longevity over leverage. Here are my top 3 takeaways for anyone building something that matters:
Values are your Operating System: They aren’t just wall decor. Values are decision filters for hiring, sourcing, and growth. If it doesn’t pass the filter, it doesn’t happen.
Constraints sharpen Strategy: Scarcity isn't a limitation; it’s a gift. Starting with nothing forced a level of creativity and prioritization that "cheap money" often kills.
Trust compounds; Scale doesn't: Great businesses are built by earning a place in people’s lives over time. Profit and purpose aren't opposites—they are the natural result of a customer-first obsession.
The Verdict: If you are a founder or operator tired of empty growth narratives, this book offers something better: wisdom that actually compounds.
Highly recommended for those who care more about brand trust than "blitzscaling."
As the founders of Beekman 1802, they didn't build their brand in a Silicon Valley incubator; they built it in rural New York during a recession. Their secret? No venture capital theatrics. No shortcuts. Just disciplined, values-driven execution.
The book is a masterclass in longevity over leverage. Here are my top 3 takeaways for anyone building something that matters:
Values are your Operating System: They aren’t just wall decor. Values are decision filters for hiring, sourcing, and growth. If it doesn’t pass the filter, it doesn’t happen.
Constraints sharpen Strategy: Scarcity isn't a limitation; it’s a gift. Starting with nothing forced a level of creativity and prioritization that "cheap money" often kills.
Trust compounds; Scale doesn't: Great businesses are built by earning a place in people’s lives over time. Profit and purpose aren't opposites—they are the natural result of a customer-first obsession.
The Verdict: If you are a founder or operator tired of empty growth narratives, this book offers something better: wisdom that actually compounds.
Highly recommended for those who care more about brand trust than "blitzscaling."
July 29, 2025
Thank you to LibraryThing for my Early Reviewer's Copy of this book.
Another good book from The Fabulous Beekman Boys. It seems no matter what the topic Brent and Josh are able to provide useful, real world advice. Usually it's in the form of delicious recipes and entertaining tips, but in this case it's a how to on starting and running a successful business. The book is practical and informative while still retaining the charm and "kindness" that they are known for.
Another good book from The Fabulous Beekman Boys. It seems no matter what the topic Brent and Josh are able to provide useful, real world advice. Usually it's in the form of delicious recipes and entertaining tips, but in this case it's a how to on starting and running a successful business. The book is practical and informative while still retaining the charm and "kindness" that they are known for.
January 5, 2026
One of the best business books I have read in a long time.
June 24, 2025
GOAT Wisdom presents and explains some interesting common sense business concepts.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews