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Confessions of a Misfit Entrepreneur

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While most small business owners network before breakfast and hustle 24/7, Kate Toon took a different approach.
She built her business empire from her back garden shed while wearing pyjamas, watching Netflix and eating crisps.
Kate isn’t your stereotypical entrepreneur. But she created not one but three highly successful businesses without any master plan, rich investors, or input from smarmy sales gurus.
In Confessions of a Misfit Entrepreneur, Kate shares how she went from business nobody to business success. Packed with tips, hints, stories and strategies, it’s a hilarious, honest and non-fluffy guide to being the kind of entrepreneur YOU want to be.
So if you’re sick of trying to do ALL THE THINGS, optimising the crap out of everything and wasting money on expensive six-figure-business schemes, this is the book for you.

171 pages, Paperback

Published March 3, 2017

13 people are currently reading
100 people want to read

About the author

Kate Toon

7 books29 followers
Kate Toon is an award-winning entrepreneur author, speaker, educator, podcaster, and parent to one human and one fur baby. From her humble backyard shed she masterminds an ambitious business universe, helping thousands of other humans to build their own version of success through digital marketing business know-how.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Mel Kettle.
98 reviews8 followers
March 17, 2017
This week I have DEVOURED Kate Toon's fabulous new book, Confessions of a Misfit Entrepreneur - How to succeed in business despite yourself. When we caught up last year and she told me the title, I immediately loved it. The book doesn't disappoint.

Kate has built three successful businesses, all from her backyard shed, while working in her PJs. I giggled my way through as she shared past experiences of working in ad-land (and some similar horror stories to my past life as an employee in a marketing agency), working from home, and navigating life as a business owner who doesn't quite fit the expected norm. Let's just say I could relate.

This book should be compulsory reading for anyone studying business, and for everyone who thinks working for yourself is glamorous. Hint: it's usually not. If you're sick of reading about entrepreneurs who make a million dollars passive income by launching their awesome new online course, Kate's book is for you!

It's available as a paperback or kindle version.
Profile Image for Leanne.
175 reviews
April 1, 2018
Yep. This is the only business book I’ve managed to finish in the past few years. And I have to say a huge thank you to Kate Toon because now I realise I’m not totally alone in feeling all these things! I have been an “anti hustle” girl for a long time and have questioned many times “is it so bad if I want to keep my small business, small?!” Do we ALL have to strive to be the next big thing?

There was so much I loved about this book that I need to buy it so I can highlight sections. Many many sections. But one of my favourite quotes is:

“If it comes down to going big or going home I’m happy to go home, make a cup of tea & relax”

A thousand thank yous to my friend Linden for introducing this to me recently.
Profile Image for Briony.
26 reviews9 followers
September 23, 2017
Finally! A realistic, relatable business book. I loved every word of it and can’t wait to read it all again.
Profile Image for Jo-Ann Duff .
316 reviews19 followers
April 20, 2019

I’ve read lots of business books in my time. As a freelancer interested in devloping my business and growing my blog and also duty bound on occasion as a book reviewer. But, I haven’t read one which is quite like Confessions Of A Misfit Entrepeneur.

Why? Well, because author Kate Toon doesn’t profess to have made millions with a simple 6 step plan and a $10,000 online course or conference. She doesn’t fit the mould and challenges entrepreneurial tried and tired statements about success and profit, and more improtantly, she doesn’t pretend to be anything different than who she is. I could even say that Kate Toon is “her authentic self”, but that would make me gag and Kate would immediately cancel my Clever Copywriting School membership!

Who should read Confessions Of A Misfit Entrepreneur?

Confessions Of a Misfit Entrepreneur is a must-read for anyone who’s looking to start up their own business, grow their online presence or take the leap from employee to entrepreneur. Kate shares her story from marketing guru working all hours, sometimes for right d*ckheads to her trials and tribulations to become a successful entrepreneur running multiple businesses. It’s an honest read and Kate certainly has strong opinions which go against popular opinion, but it comes from a place of honesty and good, not soulless profit making. Kate wants everyone to succeed. Rather than crushing her fellow copywriters, she built a successful Copywriting School and community. Rather than charge thousands for templates and tips, she shares them for free and offers advice on social media and still turns a healthy profit. Kate Toon proves you can be a success and thought leader in your chosen industry, without being a selfish noob.

Kate’s Confessions Of A Misfit Entrepreneur shows that it’s f*cking hard to take the leap to entrepreneur and even harder to make a buck out of it. But, with street smarts, no sleep, and perseverance, she got there and genuinely wants you to get there too.

Available on Amazon in Kindle and paperback.
Profile Image for Helen.
Author 1 book5 followers
November 1, 2020
I love this book. I am absolutely on the same level as Kate with her mentality to running your business, the ‘preneur’ expectations, hate of bullshit terminology, and lack of a well-formed, strict plan. Winging it all the way!

Definitely one of those books that makes you realise you are definitely not alone, and are doing things splendidly your own way.
Profile Image for Bronwen Whyatt.
68 reviews
May 22, 2017
As someone cynical about get-rich schemes, not so much because I don't believe you can't get rich quick, but more because I question whether it gives you a sense of happiness if you do, Kate Toon's offering, Confessions of a Misfit Entrepreneur is refreshing in its honesty.

Kate's self-deprecating openness about building her own business is hard to stop reading, in fact, you won't be able to put it down.

Here are the reasons I loved it (and it is not just about the words):
*the cover is a beautiful matte finish - classy
*the typeset is clear to read
*the chapters are logically structured
*the design is beautiful
*many entrepreneurial 'givens' are questioned and deconstructed
*intelligently written words with no spelling errors to annoy me
*wonderfully clever analogies
*points to mull over at the end of chapters and then ...
*homework - I love interacting with the information I've just read to put it into my context, and most importantly ...
*Kate is hilarious.

I really connected with Kate's search for and acceptance of her super-powers and super-challenges. Having done this she was/is able to cater to her customers in a much more honest (take-it-or-leave-it) way. But she took this one step further, "I spent a lot of time accepting my limitations, a few of which I've covered in this book. but it wasn't until I started ignoring them completely that I really ramped up my business." p. 115. This is GOLD.

The other aspect I loved, was that she has really taken that old adage, "If you can't beat them, join them" and re-written it - "Why even try to beat them when you are one of them". Business in the world of competitive patriarchy looks pretty ruthless, and I don't believe it needs to be so. By accepting vulnerability and connecting with people perhaps we can find a different way to do business. Kate is an inspiration to women who don't find pleasure or comfort in 'beating' people, and have an in-built belief that there is room for all of us.

Affirming and innovative, Kate Toon's book celebrates the best parts of being a misfit.

Looking forward to her next book!
Profile Image for Nerissa Bentley.
2 reviews
May 23, 2017
If you’re a business owner struggling to do all the ‘things-you-should-do-to-be-successful-in-business’ then you need to read Kate Toon’s book Confessions of a Misfit Entrepreneur.

This honest, no-nonsense approach to building a business is a breath of fresh air among all the traditional, formulaic and hyped-up business books.

Kate will take you on a laughter-filled journey of the ups-and-downs of business, that no one cares to admit, even though all business owners experience them. You’ll learn how to do business your way, how to deal with competition and copy-cats, how to turn your competitors into your cheerleaders, and how to define your own version of business success.

If you feel like an entrepreneurial imposter in the slick business world, then this book is for you. Not only will it provide you with useful business tips, and a giggle along the way, but most importantly, you will discover a freedom to build your business on your own terms, that you never had before.

If you’re sick of the the ‘rah-rah’ approach to building a business, and want to know how to make the most of the time and resources you’ve got at your fingertips, then you simply must read this book.
Author 1 book3 followers
January 18, 2018
I enjoyed Kate Toon's writing style - very chatty, humorous and down to earth. Reading about her business journey was very refreshing and insightful. Her quirkiness speaks to me - and is very relatable. I, too, am a 'misfit' entrepreneur - and proud of it.

Toon's background is as a professional copywriter and SEO expert. The message of the book is to basically create your own version of success. Don't feel overwhelmed by everything you think you're supposed to do in your business. Don't stress about everything you read or see about what determines business 'success'. Do what feels right to you because it is your own journey. Relish in being your own unusual self.

It's more about Toon's business philosophy rather than a 'how to' guide. But that's what makes it special. It's content is as unique as Toon herself. The book doesn't take itself seriously at all. It doesn't say 'okay, this is what you need to do to run your own business'. It basically just explains what Toon herself has experienced and what works for her.

In conclusion, I highly recommend this book to solopreneurs out there, like myself, who need a good giggle and enjoy reading about someone's personal success journey.
3 reviews
May 20, 2017
This book answers all those questions you were afraid to ask about running your own business, plus a few you didn't know you needed to ask, all with a unique blend of brutal honesty and natural humour.
Being a copywriter, I expected to enjoy Kate Toon's writing style. I did not expect to be laughing out loud, nodding my head in agreement and wondering if Toon had been secretly surveying me. She has a way of stripping back all the bluff and getting right to the heart of what its really like to run your own business.
The structure means that you can either read it i one sitting, dip in and out as you find the time, or jump right to the chapter addressing your most pressing concern. My favourite chapters include The rocky bottom; Understanding your superpowers; Ooh, look, sparkly thing; and The real job wobbles.
I recommend this book to anyone who is running their own business, thinking about launching their own business, or trying to figure out how to support a loved one who has fallen down the Entrepreneurial Rabbithole.
This book is a go-to guide and resource that you will want to keep close at hand.
Profile Image for Amanda Vanelderen.
Author 1 book
May 23, 2017
Wow. If you've ever thought you were alone as a wannabe business person or entrepreneur who didn't quite fit the mould, Kate Toon is here to tell you different. She's been there, and unlike most of the entrepreneurial gurus, she can admit to working her arse off, being a bit too emotional, and never having written a business plan in her life.

And goddamn it, she made me laugh so hard, a little bit of wee came out.

Consider this a book of unruly rules for misfits in business, with how-to's on befriending your competitors, how to embrace your face (your appearance, not an awkward tantric move), and dancing to the beat of your own business drum.

Starting a business? Read it.
Thought briefly once about starting a business? Read it.
Couldn't give 2 hoots about business and love to laugh? Read it.
Booked in a networking event you want to skive out of? Stay in the car and read this instead.

Thanks Kate Toon!
Profile Image for Rachel.
37 reviews
May 23, 2017
A super-easy read, I read it in a few days on the bus to and from work. I liked how honest the author is about the steps she took to owning her own business.

Toon's voice and style is so strong throughout the book, that reading it felt like I was having a drink with a kind, no-nonsense friend who's a years ahead of me and has already taken the steps I want to take.

In the 'six-figure' smoke and 'sales funnel' mirrors of the entrepreneur world - Kate Toon is the insider special who shows us all that it's not magic, but just nuts, bolts and persistence. Most of us just want to have more choice about how, who, where and when we spend our working time. This book will show you how one woman started (and runs) her own business, so you have a clearer idea of how you can do it too.
1 review
May 25, 2017
I stumbled upon Kate randomly on Facebook and became an avid follower. When I saw that she wrote a book about being 'real' in business despite all of the BS guidelines around being an entrepreneur and how to succeed, I just had to read it. I bought this beauty in hard copy and just LOVE IT. We've all been where Kate has been and she approached this book in an honest and downright spit-out-your-food-while-you're-having-lunch hilarious way. It's set out in an easy-to-read format with short succinct chapters that really make you think about where you are in your life and make you say to yourself "Wow, I thought it was just me!". So if you're feeling caught up in the salesy world of what is expected of an entrepreneur then please read this book. It's a need, not a want! I love it.
Profile Image for Sharon Chisholm.
1 review3 followers
May 23, 2017
I had very high hopes when I ordered a copy of Kate's book, and I'm pleased to say that it did not disappoint. The book is funny enough to make me worry that my pelvic floor might not hold up, and inclusive enough to make me feel as though there are others out there, who are misfits just like me.

The book is full of relevant anecdotes, witty quips, brilliant tips, and things that will make you snort your tea out of your nostrils.

This is by far THE best business book I've ever read. Never will I look at a funnel the same way again!
1 review
May 22, 2017
If you're not buying the 'make six figures by morning tea' rubbish that social media is full of these days, then Kate is your new guru, because she doesn't either.

This refreshingly honest read about Kate's entrepreneurial journey, will help you put the hype into perspective with an honest and realistic account of what it really takes to succeed in business as a woman/wife/mother and ps. it doesn't include a four hour work week.
Profile Image for Reeva Cutting.
2 reviews5 followers
June 13, 2017
Kate Toon's book is perfect for any business owner who just doesn't identify with all the ridiculous notions of having to earn 6,7 or even 8 figure salaries to feel successful. She shares valuable insights into her own entrepreneurial journey, many of which I felt mirrored in my own. Thanks to Kate I'm now super comfortable being a solo business owner and doing things my way! Thank you Kate for such an insightful yet hilarious read!
Profile Image for Tiffany Gouge.
1 review
May 17, 2017
I haven't read a book since high school and i am so glad i read this one! In a world of pressure to be the next big thing, there is Kate & her amazing book "Confessions of a Misfit Entrepreneur". The book is refreshing, brings you back down to earth and gives you permission to shine in your own glorious misfit right. I love Kate's personal stories and the checklists/Guidance material at the end of each chapter. I am so glad i bought this book, and i will be reading it again. Thank you, Kate!
Profile Image for Andrew Bushard.
Author 975 books1 follower
November 12, 2017
Kate has written an entertaining and empowering book that satirizes entrepreneurship, while still encouraging us to excel at entrepreneurship. Kate separates the wheat from the chaff when it comes to entrepreneurship. I loved this book; a perfect alternative to all the dogmatic and naive entrepreneurs out there.
Profile Image for Kelsie W.
5 reviews1 follower
February 27, 2018
I feel like this book was written for me haha. The humor is wonderful and the points made are priceless. If you're a DIY person that doesn't quite fit the stereotypical entrepreneur mold, you will probably love this book!
1 review
March 16, 2019
In a world of gurus suggesting you get up at 5am and hustle your ass off, Kate toon is a breath of fresh air. This delightfully funny book is full of practical advice on carving out a successful business without sacrificing your soul—or your sleep. Bravo Kate toon.
Profile Image for Kelly Exeter.
Author 8 books11 followers
March 24, 2017
If you're an entrepreneur or small business owner who feels like you're doing it all 'wrong', this book will be immensely comforting for you. Filled with wonderful storytelling and great personal case studies from the author, it's nice to know you can entrepreneurship 'your way' and still achieve business success. It's a very easy and entertaining read - perfect for plane trips and holidays.
Profile Image for Rosie Shilo.
Author 8 books3 followers
March 14, 2019
Loved this book. So easy to read. So real and honest. And also funny!!!! You won’t regret this purchase. Kate understands the reality of running your own biz and has shared it in a wonderful way!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
20 reviews12 followers
August 27, 2024
Very well written, obviously as it is Ms Kate, but also useful for checking against your own understanding of doing your thing online.
Profile Image for Tanya ElJalil.
1 review5 followers
May 27, 2017
So, you want to start a business. You sit at your kitchen table and start to Google. Pretty soon you're getting bombarded with smiley white teethed, bronzed coaches who went from flat broke and living in their mum's garden to lying on a beach in Bali live-videoing you. And you start to think that would be nice. But then remember your kids, and husband (or wife) and the mortgage and your real life. And anyway, do you really want to live in Bali forever?
Enter Kate Toon. The entrepreneur for people like you and me. The Misfits. The ones who want a business, maybe from our She-shed, or He-shed, or local coffee-shop. But we know we'll never be an Amazonian glamazon, and to be honest, all that high maintenance stuff is hard work, and Kate knows that too. She has had real business success. She tells it like it is. She's like the most down-to-earth friend you have, that you almost can't be jealous of, cause she's so nice, but you kind of are.
If you are looking for a no-nonsense business book for real people, for a real business doing your dream, then Kate's book is for you. No coaching clients, no funnels and lead magnets, and all that crap. Just good, sensible advice, step by step instructions and a clear insight into how you too can be a misfit entrepreneur.
Buy it. Read it. Love it. Laugh out loud at it. Read it again. Tell all your friends.


Profile Image for Lütfiye.
18 reviews1 follower
May 16, 2017
A hilarious, yet honest account of the journey that is Entrepreneurship. We are often made to feel like setting up a business is only for those born with the dream to create Empires. We are generally told that if business is not in your DNA, then you will fail and fail miserably- with a wax seal of humiliation to go with it.

Yet Kate gives an extremely transparent account of her experiences in entrepreneurship. She doesn't profess to know it all, but she does tell you what she has learned along the way so you don't make the same mistakes. And she has the good sense to take the piss out of herself for her errors, showing us she is human and it wasn't good fortune and overnight success that brought her to where she is.
With lots of fantastic business tips and advice, it's a must read for those battling their demons while trying to create their own business.
From copycats to advice on 6-figures and a rather useful (yet hilarious) glossary of terms in today's business, it's a fresh approach to writing about business. I especially recommend her section on Imposter Syndrome. You will soon see how normal your experiences in business actually are.
1 review1 follower
June 1, 2017
I love Kate's humour and self-depreciating style. She has completely written the opposite of most "entrepreneur" books by offering practical, sensible advice for normal people who want to jump on the entrepreneur bandwagon. I laughed out loud often and highly recommend this read for business owners who don't take themselves too seriously... and this who aspire to!
1 review
March 15, 2019
One of my favourite reads of last year. Such a down to earth book and easy read, which had me spitting out my tea with laughter. Kate is a total inspiration to all us small mortal business women, would totally recommend this.
Profile Image for Angela Pickett.
112 reviews4 followers
December 3, 2019
The perfect book for anyone that wants to be in business for themselves but find the average business book full and uninspiring. Kate tells it like it is, shares her knowledge generously and convinces is there is another way
Profile Image for Amy Clarke.
1 review1 follower
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May 17, 2017
I always knew I was a little different from the average Entrepreneur... but it wasn't until reading Kate's book that I felt confident in continuing to be an individual and following my intuition within my business. Her words are uniquely reassuring - Kate has combined her own story with her great sense of humour to create a book which will keep you reading, laughing and motivated.

Confessions of a Misfit Entrepreneur and the Facebook Group community that Kate has built around it is absolutely priceless for anyone running or thinking about starting a small business.

I can personally attest to the huge value of this book - after reading Confessions of a Misfit Entrepreneur I was inspired to create an artwork to depict the amazing insights I had learnt from it - seen here. This is not something I would have ever done without knowing that I would have the unconditional support of Kate's Facebook group. After creating that piece the trajectory of my business has completely changed. I am now taking on multiple commissions as an illustrator, which is something I could only have ever imagined in my dreams. I am literally living my dream - thanks to Kate, her book and the community she has created!

I am a proud Misfit Entrepreneur and I hope that anyone reading this book will also feel proud of their quirks and enjoy running a business their own way!
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