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Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story About the Entrepreneur’s Messy Path to Success
NO ONE SHOVELS MORE $H!T THAN ENTREPRENEURS. DIG IN!
In 2023, entrepreneurs started a record 5.5 million new businesses in the United States, lured by the siren call of life-changing wealth.
But entrepreneurship is hard. Brutally hard. And instead of swimming in seas of cash, many founders find themselves buried under mountains of crap.
In Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story, Kass and Mike Lazerow share hard-learned lessons from decades of shoveling as cofounders and early investors in startups that have generated more than $10 billion in realized gains. As the cofounders of Buddy Media, which Salesforce bought for $745 million, they’ve lived what they call the “Imbalanced Life” and have the scars and gains to prove it.
Whether you are deciding to leap or have already lept, Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story will teach you how to embrace the beauty of the struggle and use the tools and entrepreneur’s mindset to overcome the misery and uncertainty that awaits. Inside Kass and Mike’s raw and deeply personal stories are universal strategies for choosing cofounders, greenlighting and funding ideas, building high-performing teams, creating the right culture, and pivoting businesses before it’s too late.
In 2023, entrepreneurs started a record 5.5 million new businesses in the United States, lured by the siren call of life-changing wealth.
But entrepreneurship is hard. Brutally hard. And instead of swimming in seas of cash, many founders find themselves buried under mountains of crap.
In Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story, Kass and Mike Lazerow share hard-learned lessons from decades of shoveling as cofounders and early investors in startups that have generated more than $10 billion in realized gains. As the cofounders of Buddy Media, which Salesforce bought for $745 million, they’ve lived what they call the “Imbalanced Life” and have the scars and gains to prove it.
Whether you are deciding to leap or have already lept, Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story will teach you how to embrace the beauty of the struggle and use the tools and entrepreneur’s mindset to overcome the misery and uncertainty that awaits. Inside Kass and Mike’s raw and deeply personal stories are universal strategies for choosing cofounders, greenlighting and funding ideas, building high-performing teams, creating the right culture, and pivoting businesses before it’s too late.
- GenresBusinessNonfiction
240 pages, Hardcover
Published June 3, 2025
36 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
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August 10, 2025The book "Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story about the Entrepreneur’s Messy Path to Success" by Kass and Michael Lazerow delivers an unvarnished account of the realities behind building a business. While many dream of entrepreneurship as a life of freedom, flexible hours, and big paydays, the authors pull back the curtain to reveal that the journey is far messier, more relentless, and often more draining than most expect. Nearly one in five adults globally are attempting to create a business, with millions launching each year, but for those stepping into this world, the fantasy quickly collides with the truth: along with any independence or financial rewards comes a constant stream of challenges - unforeseen crises, financial stress, and personal sacrifices. The Lazerows’ central message is simple: success requires embracing the mess, because the 'shoveling' never really ends. Through candid stories and practical insights, they prepare readers for the gritty side of the entrepreneurial road.
One of the first truths they confront is the disappearance of any real work–life balance. In their own case, the demands of their business seeped into life’s most personal moments. Kass recalls being in the hospital recovering from an emergency C-section, her body weakened by complications, when Mike placed a laptop on her stomach so she could push critical ads live for a major client. It sounds extreme, but for them it was simply part of ensuring the survival of their company, Golf.com, where every revenue-generating moment mattered. Across their ventures, maternity leaves were short, new business ideas were born in delivery rooms, and family time was often compromised. They were physically present for their children’s milestones but often too exhausted to be mentally present. They rarely maintained friendships outside work, and their health suffered. They stress that these tradeoffs aren’t accidental - they’re conscious decisions that entrepreneurs must weigh before diving in. You can only excel in one area at a time, they argue, and if your focus is on building a company, relationships, health, and leisure will inevitably take a back seat.
The book also addresses the human element in business, particularly the importance of choosing the right partners. Whether to have a cofounder is less important than ensuring alignment with whoever shares the reins. Values, vision, communication style, work ethic, and mindset must be in sync to avoid damaging conflict, which is a leading cause of startup collapse. Kass and Mike liken the cofounder relationship to a marriage, requiring trust, respect, and mutual investment in the company’s success. This thinking extends to early hires as well. The first 20 employees influence a company’s culture for years, so those brought on early must complement the founders’ skills and match the company’s priorities. At Buddy Media, for instance, the founders focused on recruiting engineers first because that aligned with their business model. Incentives for employee referrals reinforced a hiring culture that saved both time and money.
The Lazerows also share their investment decision-making tool, the 'Go Gauge,' a concise six-question framework that evaluates a concept based on its product, uniqueness, target market, marketing plan, delivery method, and financial model. They argue that entrepreneurs often bury their ideas under bloated business plans, when a clear, one-page summary can clarify direction and viability. They use Sweetgreen’s early story as an example of a straightforward but differentiated offering - healthy fast food - paired with a large, defined market and an operational plan that could scale. The Go Gauge forces founders to be honest about their product’s place in the market and the realities of execution, including the tendency to overestimate revenues and underestimate costs. Their advice: halve your revenue projections, double your expense estimates, and build from there.
Money, they emphasize, is the lifeblood of a business, and running out of it is the quickest way to fail. This is why fundraising, while often uncomfortable, is unavoidable. Entrepreneurs must shift their perspective from 'asking for money' to 'offering opportunity' and be willing to back their own vision financially before expecting others to invest. Early funding sources often include friends, family, and colleagues, but the authors warn to be transparent about risks and to only accept investments that loved ones can afford to lose. Professional investors, such as venture capitalists, bring expertise but also their own priorities, so founders must choose partners carefully to avoid unfavorable arrangements. Maintaining a constant, if low-level, fundraising mindset helps build relationships and prepare for future capital needs before crises hit.
They point to examples like Nike’s Phil Knight to illustrate the value of focus. Knight’s early years were consumed by a singular mission - selling shoes - which eventually became the foundation of an empire. The Lazerows use the 'big rocks, pebbles, and sand' metaphor to teach prioritization: focus on the large, mission-critical goals first, then tackle the smaller, less urgent items. Without clear priorities, companies risk spreading themselves too thin. Every major priority should be tied to measurable, time-bound outcomes, and plans should be written down to keep teams aligned. Execution, they insist, is part of the daily 'shoveling' that turns ideas into reality.
Change, too, is inevitable. The authors describe 'the pivot' as one of the most daunting but necessary entrepreneurial skills. Instagram’s origin as a check-in app called Burbn shows how stripping away nonessential features and focusing on a single standout idea - in this case, photo sharing - can transform a struggling concept into a billion-dollar product. Pivots demand courage and adaptability, as they can affect every part of the business. Many founders resist change out of fear, but the Lazerows encourage weighing worst-case scenarios, which are often less dire than imagined, against the risk of stagnation. They themselves pivoted Buddy Media twice before finding the model that led to its acquisition by Salesforce for nearly a billion dollars.
That sale, while financially life-changing, underscored another lesson: success doesn’t always bring immediate joy. By the time the deal closed, their health and family relationships were in crisis. The moment of public celebration was euphoric, but the years of strain were still real. For them, and for any entrepreneur, the work is often grueling and thankless, but the satisfaction comes from having endured and built something meaningful.
Ultimately, their story reframes entrepreneurship not as a glamorous adventure but as a sustained commitment to hard, often unpleasant work. The 'shovel' is both metaphor and reality - the daily grind of solving problems, making sacrifices, facing uncertainty, and persisting through setbacks. For those willing to embrace it fully, this work brings its own rewards: purpose, autonomy, and the chance to create something lasting. The Lazerows make it clear that only those who can learn to love the shovel will survive and thrive in this world. For anyone who recognizes that love in themselves, the path is open. Pick up the shovel, because the work never stops - and that’s the point.
One of the first truths they confront is the disappearance of any real work–life balance. In their own case, the demands of their business seeped into life’s most personal moments. Kass recalls being in the hospital recovering from an emergency C-section, her body weakened by complications, when Mike placed a laptop on her stomach so she could push critical ads live for a major client. It sounds extreme, but for them it was simply part of ensuring the survival of their company, Golf.com, where every revenue-generating moment mattered. Across their ventures, maternity leaves were short, new business ideas were born in delivery rooms, and family time was often compromised. They were physically present for their children’s milestones but often too exhausted to be mentally present. They rarely maintained friendships outside work, and their health suffered. They stress that these tradeoffs aren’t accidental - they’re conscious decisions that entrepreneurs must weigh before diving in. You can only excel in one area at a time, they argue, and if your focus is on building a company, relationships, health, and leisure will inevitably take a back seat.
The book also addresses the human element in business, particularly the importance of choosing the right partners. Whether to have a cofounder is less important than ensuring alignment with whoever shares the reins. Values, vision, communication style, work ethic, and mindset must be in sync to avoid damaging conflict, which is a leading cause of startup collapse. Kass and Mike liken the cofounder relationship to a marriage, requiring trust, respect, and mutual investment in the company’s success. This thinking extends to early hires as well. The first 20 employees influence a company’s culture for years, so those brought on early must complement the founders’ skills and match the company’s priorities. At Buddy Media, for instance, the founders focused on recruiting engineers first because that aligned with their business model. Incentives for employee referrals reinforced a hiring culture that saved both time and money.
The Lazerows also share their investment decision-making tool, the 'Go Gauge,' a concise six-question framework that evaluates a concept based on its product, uniqueness, target market, marketing plan, delivery method, and financial model. They argue that entrepreneurs often bury their ideas under bloated business plans, when a clear, one-page summary can clarify direction and viability. They use Sweetgreen’s early story as an example of a straightforward but differentiated offering - healthy fast food - paired with a large, defined market and an operational plan that could scale. The Go Gauge forces founders to be honest about their product’s place in the market and the realities of execution, including the tendency to overestimate revenues and underestimate costs. Their advice: halve your revenue projections, double your expense estimates, and build from there.
Money, they emphasize, is the lifeblood of a business, and running out of it is the quickest way to fail. This is why fundraising, while often uncomfortable, is unavoidable. Entrepreneurs must shift their perspective from 'asking for money' to 'offering opportunity' and be willing to back their own vision financially before expecting others to invest. Early funding sources often include friends, family, and colleagues, but the authors warn to be transparent about risks and to only accept investments that loved ones can afford to lose. Professional investors, such as venture capitalists, bring expertise but also their own priorities, so founders must choose partners carefully to avoid unfavorable arrangements. Maintaining a constant, if low-level, fundraising mindset helps build relationships and prepare for future capital needs before crises hit.
They point to examples like Nike’s Phil Knight to illustrate the value of focus. Knight’s early years were consumed by a singular mission - selling shoes - which eventually became the foundation of an empire. The Lazerows use the 'big rocks, pebbles, and sand' metaphor to teach prioritization: focus on the large, mission-critical goals first, then tackle the smaller, less urgent items. Without clear priorities, companies risk spreading themselves too thin. Every major priority should be tied to measurable, time-bound outcomes, and plans should be written down to keep teams aligned. Execution, they insist, is part of the daily 'shoveling' that turns ideas into reality.
Change, too, is inevitable. The authors describe 'the pivot' as one of the most daunting but necessary entrepreneurial skills. Instagram’s origin as a check-in app called Burbn shows how stripping away nonessential features and focusing on a single standout idea - in this case, photo sharing - can transform a struggling concept into a billion-dollar product. Pivots demand courage and adaptability, as they can affect every part of the business. Many founders resist change out of fear, but the Lazerows encourage weighing worst-case scenarios, which are often less dire than imagined, against the risk of stagnation. They themselves pivoted Buddy Media twice before finding the model that led to its acquisition by Salesforce for nearly a billion dollars.
That sale, while financially life-changing, underscored another lesson: success doesn’t always bring immediate joy. By the time the deal closed, their health and family relationships were in crisis. The moment of public celebration was euphoric, but the years of strain were still real. For them, and for any entrepreneur, the work is often grueling and thankless, but the satisfaction comes from having endured and built something meaningful.
Ultimately, their story reframes entrepreneurship not as a glamorous adventure but as a sustained commitment to hard, often unpleasant work. The 'shovel' is both metaphor and reality - the daily grind of solving problems, making sacrifices, facing uncertainty, and persisting through setbacks. For those willing to embrace it fully, this work brings its own rewards: purpose, autonomy, and the chance to create something lasting. The Lazerows make it clear that only those who can learn to love the shovel will survive and thrive in this world. For anyone who recognizes that love in themselves, the path is open. Pick up the shovel, because the work never stops - and that’s the point.
June 6, 2025
This book really captures the entrepreneur experience so accurately. It's such a tough, miserable existence and also the thing that has brought me the most rewarding and incredibly thrilling experiences of my life. Every day is another battle and yet, when things are going well, I wouldn't dream of doing anything else (note: when things are going badly, I often dream of doing ANYTHING else). All of this is to say, this book speaks to my soul. I learned so much from the lessons captured so clearly on these pages and the tools Kass and Mike share inside the book are priceless. I also love that the book comes with FREE access to their Founders Farm group, which is filled with entrepreneurs like myself, who come together on a virtual monthly zoom to share ideas and help solve each other's biggest problems (and boy do we all have problems!). Kass and Mike are generous with their time and their gifts, which is what this book really is, a gift to entrepreneurs. If you're in the throws of running a business or day-dreaming about turning your idea or side-hustle into your 9-5 and leaving the corporate world behind, get this book. It will light a fire inside of you that you cannot ignore. It won't be easy, but you'll know that after reading this book and guess what? You'll want to do it anyway. Good luck and happy reading!
June 28, 2025
As an entrepreneur currently navigating the long road of recovery from a brain injury, I’ve learned the hard way that progress doesn’t always look pretty—and it rarely feels easy. That’s exactly why Shoveling $H!T by Kass and Mike Lazerow hit home in a way few books have.
This isn’t just another business book filled with theory and fluff. It’s a raw, honest, and empowering guide to the realities of building something meaningful—whether it’s a business, a brand, or a life of purpose. What drew me in immediately was the depth of experience the Lazerows bring to the table. Their track record is real. They've launched, scaled, and exited companies, but what stands out more is their commitment to pouring into others—including people like me.
The introduction to this book came with the personal encouragement of Mike and Kass, who went above and beyond to connect and share their journey with authenticity. Their sincerity, combined with Gary Vaynerchuk’s endorsement (a trusted voice for many in the entrepreneurial space), made this book an instant “must-read.”
And while I currently battle the cognitive challenges of brain trauma—often needing to reread sections to fully absorb the insights—the simplicity of the writing and clarity of message make it accessible, no matter where you are on the spectrum of recovery or entrepreneurship. It’s practical, it's punchy, and it doesn’t sugarcoat the truth: we all shovel shit. The only way forward is through it.
For anyone—from the wide-eyed startup founder to the seasoned business owner—Shoveling $H!T is not just a lesson in grit, it’s a reminder that the messy, tough stuff is actually the sacred ground where growth happens. I’m beyond grateful to have been introduced to the Lazerows and their wisdom. This book is a companion for anyone willing to keep going when quitting feels easier. And for me, it’s a lifeline I’ll keep returning to—again and again.
Highly recommended. Especially for those in the trenches.
This isn’t just another business book filled with theory and fluff. It’s a raw, honest, and empowering guide to the realities of building something meaningful—whether it’s a business, a brand, or a life of purpose. What drew me in immediately was the depth of experience the Lazerows bring to the table. Their track record is real. They've launched, scaled, and exited companies, but what stands out more is their commitment to pouring into others—including people like me.
The introduction to this book came with the personal encouragement of Mike and Kass, who went above and beyond to connect and share their journey with authenticity. Their sincerity, combined with Gary Vaynerchuk’s endorsement (a trusted voice for many in the entrepreneurial space), made this book an instant “must-read.”
And while I currently battle the cognitive challenges of brain trauma—often needing to reread sections to fully absorb the insights—the simplicity of the writing and clarity of message make it accessible, no matter where you are on the spectrum of recovery or entrepreneurship. It’s practical, it's punchy, and it doesn’t sugarcoat the truth: we all shovel shit. The only way forward is through it.
For anyone—from the wide-eyed startup founder to the seasoned business owner—Shoveling $H!T is not just a lesson in grit, it’s a reminder that the messy, tough stuff is actually the sacred ground where growth happens. I’m beyond grateful to have been introduced to the Lazerows and their wisdom. This book is a companion for anyone willing to keep going when quitting feels easier. And for me, it’s a lifeline I’ll keep returning to—again and again.
Highly recommended. Especially for those in the trenches.
June 8, 2025
As someone who had the privilege of working with Kass and Mike Lazerow during their time leading Buddy Media, Shoveling Shit hit home in all the best ways. This isn’t your typical glossy startup memoir filled with sanitized success stories and humble brags. Instead, it’s a gritty, refreshingly candid account of what it really takes to build something meaningful — including the moments of doubt, chaos, and, yes, shoveling actual and metaphorical shit.
What stood out most to me, having lived through that journey as a team member, was how accurately the book captures the entrepreneurial spirit that defined Buddy Media. Mike and Kass built a culture of urgency, resilience, and creativity. They didn’t just lead from the top — they were in the trenches with us, setting the tone and never asking for more than they were willing to give. The culture was intense but deeply rewarding, and Shoveling Shit gives voice to that environment without romanticizing it.
There’s a particular kind of clarity that comes from leaders who aren’t afraid to tell the unvarnished truth — about themselves, their mistakes, and the messiness of startups. Kass’s voice is sharp and fearless, and Mike’s optimism and candor shine through. Together, they’ve written something that goes beyond business advice; this is a book about what it means to build, endure, and stay human in the process.
If you're an entrepreneur, operator, or just someone trying to create something meaningful in a world of uncertainty, you’ll find gold in these pages. And if you're lucky enough to have worked with Kass and Mike, you’ll feel right at home — a little nostalgic, a little adrenalized, and deeply grateful to have been part of their wild ride.
Highly recommended.
What stood out most to me, having lived through that journey as a team member, was how accurately the book captures the entrepreneurial spirit that defined Buddy Media. Mike and Kass built a culture of urgency, resilience, and creativity. They didn’t just lead from the top — they were in the trenches with us, setting the tone and never asking for more than they were willing to give. The culture was intense but deeply rewarding, and Shoveling Shit gives voice to that environment without romanticizing it.
There’s a particular kind of clarity that comes from leaders who aren’t afraid to tell the unvarnished truth — about themselves, their mistakes, and the messiness of startups. Kass’s voice is sharp and fearless, and Mike’s optimism and candor shine through. Together, they’ve written something that goes beyond business advice; this is a book about what it means to build, endure, and stay human in the process.
If you're an entrepreneur, operator, or just someone trying to create something meaningful in a world of uncertainty, you’ll find gold in these pages. And if you're lucky enough to have worked with Kass and Mike, you’ll feel right at home — a little nostalgic, a little adrenalized, and deeply grateful to have been part of their wild ride.
Highly recommended.
June 8, 2025
A fascinating entrepreneur's memoir about mushrooms growing on p00:
If you’re a disciple of Gary Vaynerchuk, you already owned this book even before Kass and Mike were born.
Loved reading the forward by GaryVee. He said it perfectly, “The world needs to be exposed to Kass and Mike.” Yes. Absolutely correct and Shoveling $h33t should be part of your business knowledge artillery. This book is real-talk, honest, practical, no sugarcoated success stories, and no fancy private jet influencer journeys being portrayed.
This book reads like a 3hr podcast on The Diary of a CEO. Cant wait for more exposure by this power couple and the audio version of this book because Im a slow reader.
What I love about this book is how they casually talk to you as if youre at Starbucks together. Its a super easy read, but packed w/ experience, advice, and personal accounts just like an autobio. Exact opposite of the density from a book like Principles by Ray Dalio.
More importantly, they tell you about all the p00 they had to eat and scrape off their faces. No fluff, no BS, embracing the mess while building companies from the ground up, taking risks, and growing from waste like wild phoenix mushrooms.
I actually only cared to read about their struggles and how they’ve turned those failures into the mushroom fuel because thats where it matters most for me. I dont need advice when life is easy. I just want to know how to shovel $h33t better, become mentally stronger, and more resilient.
Luckily, I got this book as steroid business fertilizer. Super practical straightforward advice. Amazing.
If you’re a disciple of Gary Vaynerchuk, you already owned this book even before Kass and Mike were born.
Loved reading the forward by GaryVee. He said it perfectly, “The world needs to be exposed to Kass and Mike.” Yes. Absolutely correct and Shoveling $h33t should be part of your business knowledge artillery. This book is real-talk, honest, practical, no sugarcoated success stories, and no fancy private jet influencer journeys being portrayed.
This book reads like a 3hr podcast on The Diary of a CEO. Cant wait for more exposure by this power couple and the audio version of this book because Im a slow reader.
What I love about this book is how they casually talk to you as if youre at Starbucks together. Its a super easy read, but packed w/ experience, advice, and personal accounts just like an autobio. Exact opposite of the density from a book like Principles by Ray Dalio.
More importantly, they tell you about all the p00 they had to eat and scrape off their faces. No fluff, no BS, embracing the mess while building companies from the ground up, taking risks, and growing from waste like wild phoenix mushrooms.
I actually only cared to read about their struggles and how they’ve turned those failures into the mushroom fuel because thats where it matters most for me. I dont need advice when life is easy. I just want to know how to shovel $h33t better, become mentally stronger, and more resilient.
Luckily, I got this book as steroid business fertilizer. Super practical straightforward advice. Amazing.
June 6, 2025
When you’re a parent every book becomes a parenting book and when you’re a business owner every book becomes a business book just like when you’re a hammer everything becomes a nail. As a parent and a business owner I don’t have time to read. Sometimes I need to be motivated. Sometimes I need to be taught. Sometimes I need to hear that I’m not alone.
The authors knew all of this coming into writing this book. Because they addressed all of this and more.
You can fly through this book in an afternoon, which, let’s be honest, is the amount of time you have, if you’re lucky. You’ll come out smarter and more motivated. I feel like this will be one of those books I’ll dip into every now and again, just random page, read for a few minutes and take something new from it because of whatever I’m going through at the moment.
I pre-ordered this book and was given the chance to get on several conference calls, through their Founder’s Farm, with Kass and Mike and those were truly helpful. One thing I tell my staff often is that it’s never too late to ask a question, even if you feel like it’s something you should have learned 4 months ago That’s an easy thing to say to them but a difficult thing to own up to and I was able to ask those “hey I didn’t go to business school and it shows” questions directly to them and they seemed to love it. Genuinely. They seem to just love fixing things.
It’s well worth the time you don’t really have to read this book.
The authors knew all of this coming into writing this book. Because they addressed all of this and more.
You can fly through this book in an afternoon, which, let’s be honest, is the amount of time you have, if you’re lucky. You’ll come out smarter and more motivated. I feel like this will be one of those books I’ll dip into every now and again, just random page, read for a few minutes and take something new from it because of whatever I’m going through at the moment.
I pre-ordered this book and was given the chance to get on several conference calls, through their Founder’s Farm, with Kass and Mike and those were truly helpful. One thing I tell my staff often is that it’s never too late to ask a question, even if you feel like it’s something you should have learned 4 months ago That’s an easy thing to say to them but a difficult thing to own up to and I was able to ask those “hey I didn’t go to business school and it shows” questions directly to them and they seemed to love it. Genuinely. They seem to just love fixing things.
It’s well worth the time you don’t really have to read this book.
June 5, 2025
Shoveling Shit by Kass and Mike Lazerow is an unfiltered, fiercely honest exploration of what it truly takes to build a business—and a life—with meaning. Through a mix of personal stories, hard-won lessons, and sharp wit, the authors challenge the glorified narrative of entrepreneurship and replace it with something far more real: resilience, humility, and relentless self-awareness. This book doesn’t romanticize the hustle; it embraces the mess, the setbacks, and the inner battles that most leaders are too afraid to talk about.
What sets this book apart is its raw tone and authentic voice—Kass and Mike write with heart and grit, making the reader feel like they’re having a no-BS conversation over coffee with seasoned founders who’ve been through it all. The title may grab attention, but it’s the emotional candor and practical wisdom that will keep readers turning pages. Their stories about failure, vulnerability, and the cost of success hit home in a way that’s both sobering and oddly comforting.
Shoveling Shit is a much-needed antidote to the polished highlight reels we see in business books and social media. It reminds us that the real work is often messy and thankless—but worth it. This is a must-read for anyone who’s building something from the ground up and wondering if the struggle is normal. It is—and this book proves it.
What sets this book apart is its raw tone and authentic voice—Kass and Mike write with heart and grit, making the reader feel like they’re having a no-BS conversation over coffee with seasoned founders who’ve been through it all. The title may grab attention, but it’s the emotional candor and practical wisdom that will keep readers turning pages. Their stories about failure, vulnerability, and the cost of success hit home in a way that’s both sobering and oddly comforting.
Shoveling Shit is a much-needed antidote to the polished highlight reels we see in business books and social media. It reminds us that the real work is often messy and thankless—but worth it. This is a must-read for anyone who’s building something from the ground up and wondering if the struggle is normal. It is—and this book proves it.
June 5, 2025
Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or just someone looking for an inspiring read, this book is a must-have.
Kass and Mike present a wealth of information in a concise and highly readable format that makes it hard to put down. The book covers everything from launching a startup through navigating the complexities of an exit, but what sets this book apart is the unique way the authors weave their voices together. Their alternating perspectives make the stories and anecdotes engaging and relatable, turning what could have been a typical business book into a true page-turner. Hearing about the behind-the-scenes of their journey directly from their own experiences is a rare treat, and it shatters any preconceived notions about what a book on "business" should be.
Not only will you learn practical steps for starting a business, finding co-founders, and achieving success, but you'll also get an intimate glimpse into Kass and Mike's relationship. It’s more than a guide to entrepreneurship, it’s a love story disguised as a business book! Their partnership, both in life and in business, adds a heartfelt layer to the narrative that makes it truly special.
Grab a copy, grab your shovel, and get reading!
Kass and Mike present a wealth of information in a concise and highly readable format that makes it hard to put down. The book covers everything from launching a startup through navigating the complexities of an exit, but what sets this book apart is the unique way the authors weave their voices together. Their alternating perspectives make the stories and anecdotes engaging and relatable, turning what could have been a typical business book into a true page-turner. Hearing about the behind-the-scenes of their journey directly from their own experiences is a rare treat, and it shatters any preconceived notions about what a book on "business" should be.
Not only will you learn practical steps for starting a business, finding co-founders, and achieving success, but you'll also get an intimate glimpse into Kass and Mike's relationship. It’s more than a guide to entrepreneurship, it’s a love story disguised as a business book! Their partnership, both in life and in business, adds a heartfelt layer to the narrative that makes it truly special.
Grab a copy, grab your shovel, and get reading!
Read
July 3, 2025An amazing resource! If you are even thinking about starting a business, start with this book. Having help starting a business about 8 years, I felt as though I had lived through much this book. Kass and Mike make some of the most challenging considerations for starting a business simple. The book is filled with high level concepts that are "musts" for any serious business like embracing the chaos/crap (I loved the point that "everyone knows when you step in manure"), rolling up your sleeves no matter your role (be the shoveler), division of labor, financial considerations and how to tie it all together. The emphasis on team and the importance of personnel could not be more clear, and could not be more important. Then the book is also filled with amazing anecdotes about trying to balance work and life (or perhaps how to deal with the inability to deal with all things), how they were able to build and maintain a culture that can sustain (Lost lunches are amazing!), and the trials and tribulations of raising a company and your own children at the same time.
I only wish the book was available before we got started with our business. I probably would have had a lot less shoveling to do.
I only wish the book was available before we got started with our business. I probably would have had a lot less shoveling to do.
June 7, 2025
After more than 30 years in the trenches building businesses—surviving the sleepless nights, the near-misses, and the relentless pressure to keep moving forward—I rarely find a book that captures the real entrepreneurial experience. Shoveling does just that.
This isn't another glossy, Instagram-filtered tale of instant success. It’s raw, honest, and refreshingly grounded in the realities that every entrepreneur—whether just starting or three decades in—will recognize. The metaphor of "shoveling" is spot-on: success is rarely glamorous. It’s hard, gritty, daily work. But in that work, there’s growth, resilience, and ultimately, meaning.
The storytelling is simple but powerful. It reminded me of why I started, and why I keep going—even when the odds are long. For those of us who’ve been in this fight for years, Shoveling is a nod of recognition and a motivational spark. For those just beginning, it's a clear-eyed guide that prepares them for the road ahead.
Highly recommended for any entrepreneur who knows that success is earned one shovel at a time.
—Michael Sloan
Entrepreneur, Still Shoveling
This isn't another glossy, Instagram-filtered tale of instant success. It’s raw, honest, and refreshingly grounded in the realities that every entrepreneur—whether just starting or three decades in—will recognize. The metaphor of "shoveling" is spot-on: success is rarely glamorous. It’s hard, gritty, daily work. But in that work, there’s growth, resilience, and ultimately, meaning.
The storytelling is simple but powerful. It reminded me of why I started, and why I keep going—even when the odds are long. For those of us who’ve been in this fight for years, Shoveling is a nod of recognition and a motivational spark. For those just beginning, it's a clear-eyed guide that prepares them for the road ahead.
Highly recommended for any entrepreneur who knows that success is earned one shovel at a time.
—Michael Sloan
Entrepreneur, Still Shoveling
July 10, 2025
We don’t rise by avoiding the hard stuff. We rise by shoveling it.
Now there’s a book that shows us how.
Kass Lazerow and Michael Lazerow just released their new book, Shoveling $h!t.
I became friends with Mike my first year of college, and we built a friendship that shaped my life. After graduation, I joined his first startup. Later, I worked with Mike and Kass at the first company they co-founded. Kass and I built a ride or die bond in the process. I would walk through fire with Kass and Mike, and I have.
Those years shaped how I think about teams, leadership, and growth. I witnessed firsthand how great founders lead, build, and persevere, especially when things are hard.
Kass taught me that great teams achieve outsized results. Mike taught me that the best ideas don’t need hype, just clarity, confidence, and a next step.
Now they’ve written the book I wish we had back then. “Shoveling $h!t”, is clear, smart, and packed with the kind of wisdom that comes from actually doing the work.
It’s Number 5 on the New York Times best seller list!
If you're building something that matters, read it.
Now there’s a book that shows us how.
Kass Lazerow and Michael Lazerow just released their new book, Shoveling $h!t.
I became friends with Mike my first year of college, and we built a friendship that shaped my life. After graduation, I joined his first startup. Later, I worked with Mike and Kass at the first company they co-founded. Kass and I built a ride or die bond in the process. I would walk through fire with Kass and Mike, and I have.
Those years shaped how I think about teams, leadership, and growth. I witnessed firsthand how great founders lead, build, and persevere, especially when things are hard.
Kass taught me that great teams achieve outsized results. Mike taught me that the best ideas don’t need hype, just clarity, confidence, and a next step.
Now they’ve written the book I wish we had back then. “Shoveling $h!t”, is clear, smart, and packed with the kind of wisdom that comes from actually doing the work.
It’s Number 5 on the New York Times best seller list!
If you're building something that matters, read it.
June 5, 2025
Shoveling $h!t by Kass and Mike is the kind of book every aspiring (or seasoned) entrepreneur should have on their shelf—and revisit often. Packed with what they call 'entrepreneurial cheat codes,' it delivers a powerful mix of raw, real-world stories and incredibly practical advice.*
What sets this book apart is how relatable and actionable their insights are. Kass and Mike don’t sugarcoat the entrepreneurial grind—instead, they share their own ups and downs with refreshing honesty, showing how setbacks can fuel growth. Their approach to business challenges is not only empowering but also entirely doable.
Whether you’re just starting out or navigating a major pivot, their wisdom offers a clear roadmap to help you regain control, build confidence, and grow with intention. This isn’t just theory—it’s field-tested, hard-won experience, turned into strategies that actually work.
If you're looking for inspiration, motivation, and real-life tools to help you transform your business, this is the book. Highly recommend.
What sets this book apart is how relatable and actionable their insights are. Kass and Mike don’t sugarcoat the entrepreneurial grind—instead, they share their own ups and downs with refreshing honesty, showing how setbacks can fuel growth. Their approach to business challenges is not only empowering but also entirely doable.
Whether you’re just starting out or navigating a major pivot, their wisdom offers a clear roadmap to help you regain control, build confidence, and grow with intention. This isn’t just theory—it’s field-tested, hard-won experience, turned into strategies that actually work.
If you're looking for inspiration, motivation, and real-life tools to help you transform your business, this is the book. Highly recommend.
August 10, 2025
Self reflection
Sacrifices
The nonexistent work-life balance
Kass and Mike definitely felt the impact of prioritizing their business. They weren’t there for their kids as much as they would have wanted – though they never missed one of their kids’ plays, rehearsals, or games, they were always tired, never fully present. Plus, they developed almost no meaningful friendships outside of work, and both experienced major health issues. They couldn’t fully take care of themselves physically, mentally, or emotionally.
Hardworking, good strategies, co-founders have to share the work load and do whatever it takes
Entrepreneurs are often instructed to make a 30- or 40-page business plan with a bunch of different sections and appendices. But in Kass and Mike’s view, less is more. A clear, one-page set of answers to a few key questions helps them – and you – focus on the pure vision needed to invest time or money into an idea.
The six questions on the Go Gauge relate to six key areas: product, differentiation, customer, sales and marketing, delivery, and financial model.
Sacrifices
The nonexistent work-life balance
Kass and Mike definitely felt the impact of prioritizing their business. They weren’t there for their kids as much as they would have wanted – though they never missed one of their kids’ plays, rehearsals, or games, they were always tired, never fully present. Plus, they developed almost no meaningful friendships outside of work, and both experienced major health issues. They couldn’t fully take care of themselves physically, mentally, or emotionally.
Hardworking, good strategies, co-founders have to share the work load and do whatever it takes
Entrepreneurs are often instructed to make a 30- or 40-page business plan with a bunch of different sections and appendices. But in Kass and Mike’s view, less is more. A clear, one-page set of answers to a few key questions helps them – and you – focus on the pure vision needed to invest time or money into an idea.
The six questions on the Go Gauge relate to six key areas: product, differentiation, customer, sales and marketing, delivery, and financial model.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2025
Mike and I go way back to our days at Northwestern, both journalism majors learning to ask hard questions, meet deadlines, and trust our instincts—skills that, as he and Kass show in Shoveling $h!t, are just as critical in entrepreneurship as they are in reporting.
This book isn’t your typical business fluff. It’s a raw, honest, and practical guide to navigating the mess that comes with building something from nothing. Their insights on pivots, setbacks, and gut-level decision-making are spot-on. Mike’s guest piece for my community captured this perfectly: it’s not about banishing fear but acting despite it.
If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, empowering read that feels like advice from a trusted friend who’s been in the trenches, Shoveling $h!t is it. Thanks, Mike and Kass, for sharing your story—and the cheat codes we all need. --David Beazley, Managing Partner, Alumni Ventures
This book isn’t your typical business fluff. It’s a raw, honest, and practical guide to navigating the mess that comes with building something from nothing. Their insights on pivots, setbacks, and gut-level decision-making are spot-on. Mike’s guest piece for my community captured this perfectly: it’s not about banishing fear but acting despite it.
If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, empowering read that feels like advice from a trusted friend who’s been in the trenches, Shoveling $h!t is it. Thanks, Mike and Kass, for sharing your story—and the cheat codes we all need. --David Beazley, Managing Partner, Alumni Ventures
June 5, 2025
I devoured this book in one sitting and left with a notebook full of takeaways and a fire lit under me. Mike and Kass Lazerow don’t sugarcoat the startup grind. They hand you the shovel, show you the mess, and walk you through how to survive (and maybe even love) the chaos.
From “jump-first, build-the-parachute-on-the-way-down” moments to raw stories about co-founder dynamics, every chapter delivers a mix of brutal honesty and real-world lessons you can put to work immediately.
As someone who’s helped build multiple startups, I saw my own unspoken fears reflected—and challenged. This isn’t your typical glossy business book. It’s a gut-punching, laugh-out-loud, truth-telling guide filled with hard-earned “cheat codes” that actually matter.
Whether you’re starting, scaling, investing in, or simply dreaming about your own company—read this book. No matter your age or stage, Shoveling $h!t will help you do it smarter, and maybe with a little more heart.
June 9, 2025
If you’ve ever started something from scratch—whether it’s a business, a nonprofit, or even a community project—this book will feel like it was written with you, not at you. I’ve launched over a dozen ventures, mentored high school entrepreneurs through Junior Achievement, and walked through just about every fire you can in leadership. What Kass and Mike have done here isn’t just give advice—they’ve handed us the gloves and jumped in the pit beside us.
This isn’t theory. It’s real-world grit, paired with just enough irreverence to keep you smiling while you’re questioning your life choices. The “cheat codes” are solid. The stories are raw. And the honesty? Rare.
I finished the book in one sitting, and within 24 hours had already referenced it in a strategy session. It's the kind of book that earns a permanent spot on your desk, not your shelf.
Every founder I know has a shovel. Most are just too embarrassed to admit it. Kass and Mike don’t just admit it—they celebrate it.
This isn’t theory. It’s real-world grit, paired with just enough irreverence to keep you smiling while you’re questioning your life choices. The “cheat codes” are solid. The stories are raw. And the honesty? Rare.
I finished the book in one sitting, and within 24 hours had already referenced it in a strategy session. It's the kind of book that earns a permanent spot on your desk, not your shelf.
Every founder I know has a shovel. Most are just too embarrassed to admit it. Kass and Mike don’t just admit it—they celebrate it.
June 5, 2025
Kass and Mike don’t sugarcoat the journey—they give you the real, raw, and often messy truth of building something great. Shoveling $h!t pulls no punches, and that’s exactly why it stands out. It’s part memoir, part manual, and all heart—anchored in firsthand lessons earned in the trenches of startup chaos, scale, and everything in between.
As someone who had a front-row seat to much of the Buddy Media story, I can say this isn’t just theory—it’s lived experience. The insights in this book are sharp, honest, and immediately useful. Whether you’re a founder, operator, investor, or future entrepreneur, this book delivers the clarity and grit needed to navigate the highs and lows of building something that matters.
It’s not just a guide—it’s a reminder of what it really takes.
As someone who had a front-row seat to much of the Buddy Media story, I can say this isn’t just theory—it’s lived experience. The insights in this book are sharp, honest, and immediately useful. Whether you’re a founder, operator, investor, or future entrepreneur, this book delivers the clarity and grit needed to navigate the highs and lows of building something that matters.
It’s not just a guide—it’s a reminder of what it really takes.
June 5, 2025
Having worked for Mike and Kass for several years, I've seen up and close and personal what they mean when they say "Shoveling $Shit"- but even working as part of the company that had a wildly successful exit, I could not have been prepared for the in-depth, behind-the-scenes tips and tricks that they shared in their book. Gleaned from years of being entrepreneurs, Mike and Kass give you the blueprint and inspiration to succeed. But unlike many staid, boring, dry, [insert your adjective for bad books here] business books, this book has the heart and humor that I've known the two of them to have in my 15+ years of knowing them. This is the book you want to read, right now, no matter your entrepreneurial aims or spirit, to help guide you in your career.
June 4, 2025
I read a ton of business books — this one is a must-read for all entrepreneurs and frankly, for anyone interested in business. The authors (Kass and Mike) are the real deal — they have built and successfully sold multiple companies. My favorite thing about this book is that it offers practical advice based on real-world examples. As just one example, Kass and Mike describe in detail how and when to pivot when your original idea isn’t working. That’s just 1 of the 50 cheat codes included in this book that definitely isn’t full of sh*t. It’s full of practical advice which you’ll find useful and valuable!
June 7, 2025
A couple's perspective on startup life -- i've never seen that before. Most people only see the hero (or heroine's) founder's journey when reflecting on startup life. But this is different. Anyone who's started a company with their spouse knows it's an all-consuming adventure (whether you iike it or not) and this book speaks to the intimate details of how a startup company doesn't just just test your will, but also the will of those who surround you personally. It's as much a life lesson on the puts and takes on a marriage (and the compromises required) as it is about finding product/market fit. Great read!
June 6, 2025
I can honestly say that Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story is as real, raw, and unexpectedly uplifting as the authors who wrote it.
What struck me most was how they managed to take those entrepreneurial moments of chaos, pain, and absurdity and spin them into something meaningful. The book doesn’t hide from the hard stuff — it owns it, laughs at it, and ultimately transforms it into a story about growth, purpose, and connection.
If you’re looking for a book that’s honest and full of heart — this is it. You’ll laugh, cringe, reflect, and maybe even feel a little more hopeful about the messiness of life as an entrepreneur. Would recommend this book to all who are out there chasing their dreams!
What struck me most was how they managed to take those entrepreneurial moments of chaos, pain, and absurdity and spin them into something meaningful. The book doesn’t hide from the hard stuff — it owns it, laughs at it, and ultimately transforms it into a story about growth, purpose, and connection.
If you’re looking for a book that’s honest and full of heart — this is it. You’ll laugh, cringe, reflect, and maybe even feel a little more hopeful about the messiness of life as an entrepreneur. Would recommend this book to all who are out there chasing their dreams!
June 6, 2025
Does the world need another book about how to be a successful entrepreneur? YES, if that book is written by a couple who is as down to earth as they are experts in recognizing that success is neither linear nor guaranteed. Mike and Kass offer their hard-won guidance not by sugarcoating the experience but by offering the reader the opportunity to shovel alongside the setbacks, the mistakes and the grind. Reading this book is a must. It doesn’t promise success…. but makes the path toward achieving it far less fraught.
June 12, 2025
This is an amazing book written through the experience of 2 ultra seasoned start up founders. It really allows the reader to sink into the $h!t that we have the privilege to shovel on a daily basis. As a business owner it really allows you to reflect. Such good perspective on the obstacles in the way become the way.
Whether you are a start-up founder, Buy/Build entrepreneur, or dreamer, this book is an easy, fun and interesting read. It will give you a sense of gratitude for shoveling the $h!t or for not stepping in it due to the wisdom it provides.
Whether you are a start-up founder, Buy/Build entrepreneur, or dreamer, this book is an easy, fun and interesting read. It will give you a sense of gratitude for shoveling the $h!t or for not stepping in it due to the wisdom it provides.
June 4, 2025
Mike and Kass Lazerow did not disappoint!!
Shoveling $h!t is the no-filter, zero-fluff entrepreneurial manifesto we’ve all been waiting for.
This is not another shiny overnight success story, it is the truth behind the chaos that is entrepreneurship. If you’re an entrepreneur, or even thinking about becoming one, buy this now. It won't make the work easier, but it’ll absolutely make you better.
Shoveling $h!t is the no-filter, zero-fluff entrepreneurial manifesto we’ve all been waiting for.
This is not another shiny overnight success story, it is the truth behind the chaos that is entrepreneurship. If you’re an entrepreneur, or even thinking about becoming one, buy this now. It won't make the work easier, but it’ll absolutely make you better.
June 5, 2025
Shoveling $h!t’ is a no-nonsense, energizing guide for entrepreneurs ready to tackle the gritty reality of building a business. Kass and Mike bring humor, heart, and hard-earned wisdom to every page, offering practical ‘cheat codes’ that actually work. Their stories are relatable, their advice is actionable, and their mindset is contagious. It’s the kind of book that doesn’t just motivate—it makes you want to get to work
June 5, 2025
Shoveling $h!t is the real deal. This book is not just about business. It is about resilience, clarity, and uncovering the cheat codes that truly make a difference when the pressure is on. Kass and Mike offer advice that is grounded in real experience, free from fluff, and delivered with refreshing honesty. If you are in the process of building something and want practical, no-nonsense insights that actually work, this book is a must-read.
Chris Lipowicz
Chris Lipowicz
June 6, 2025
Mike Lazerow doesn’t hand out fluff. He gives you the truth, whether you’re ready for it or not. As an entrepreneur he invested in, I’ve benefited massively from his tough love and unapologetic honesty. Shoveling $h!t isn’t theory. It’s the real-world playbook from someone who’s been in the trenches. If you can handle the truth, this book will make you better. If you can’t, you’re not ready to win.
June 11, 2025
Grab A Shovel - And This book! The Crap Is Real And So Is the Success!
Let’s be honest—Shoveling $h!t isn’t just a title, it’s the unofficial job description of every entrepreneur. This book gets it. The stories will make you laugh, cry, and feel seen, while the 50 cheat codes give you the clarity and courage to get unstuck and keep going.
It’s sharp, real, and wildly useful. Whether you’re knee-deep in chaos or just trying to avoid stepping in it, this is the guide you wish you had sooner.
Mike and Kass, you are absolute rockstars! You didn’t just write a book; you handed every founder the shovel, the map, and the guts to keep going. Bravo.🙌🏽
Let’s be honest—Shoveling $h!t isn’t just a title, it’s the unofficial job description of every entrepreneur. This book gets it. The stories will make you laugh, cry, and feel seen, while the 50 cheat codes give you the clarity and courage to get unstuck and keep going.
It’s sharp, real, and wildly useful. Whether you’re knee-deep in chaos or just trying to avoid stepping in it, this is the guide you wish you had sooner.
Mike and Kass, you are absolute rockstars! You didn’t just write a book; you handed every founder the shovel, the map, and the guts to keep going. Bravo.🙌🏽
June 9, 2025
I got a chance to listen to the authors at a startup off-site a few months ago and just loved their approach to life (and each other). The book is an honest telling of the ups and downs of entrepreneurship and why it’s important to love what you do, because you’re going to be ”shoveling a lot of shit” along the ride. It gives hands-on tips for how to think about building everything from your brand to the culture and some fun stories that brings you into it like you were there. Incredible read!
June 11, 2025
Shoveling $h!t is a practical and relatable guide for entrepreneurs at any stage. Their real-life stories and honest advice make it easy to understand and actually apply. Whether you're just getting started or trying to push through a tough spot, this book will help you figure things out and keep moving forward. If you want to take real control of your business journey—this book belongs on your desk.
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