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The Suitcase Entrepreneur: Create Freedom in Business and Adventure in Life
Now in its third edition, The Suitcase Entrepreneur teaches readers how to package and sell their skills to earn enough money to be able to work and live anywhere, build a profitable online business, and live life on their own terms.
After eight years of working in the soul-crushing bureaucracy of the corporate world, Natalie Sisson quit her high-paying job and moved to Canada, started a blog, and cofounded a technology company. In just eighteen months she learned how to build an online platform from scratch, and then left to start her own business—which involved visiting Argentina to eat empanadas, play Ultimate Frisbee, and launch her first digital product. After five years, she now runs a six-figure business from her laptop, while living out of a suitcase and teaching entrepreneurs worldwide how to build a business and lifestyle they love.
In The Suitcase Entrepreneur you’ll learn how to establish your business online, reach a global audience, and build a virtual team to give you more free time, money, and independence. With a new introduction, as well as updated resources and information, this practical guide uncovers the three key stages of creating a self-sufficient business and how to become a successful digital nomad and live life on your own terms.
After eight years of working in the soul-crushing bureaucracy of the corporate world, Natalie Sisson quit her high-paying job and moved to Canada, started a blog, and cofounded a technology company. In just eighteen months she learned how to build an online platform from scratch, and then left to start her own business—which involved visiting Argentina to eat empanadas, play Ultimate Frisbee, and launch her first digital product. After five years, she now runs a six-figure business from her laptop, while living out of a suitcase and teaching entrepreneurs worldwide how to build a business and lifestyle they love.
In The Suitcase Entrepreneur you’ll learn how to establish your business online, reach a global audience, and build a virtual team to give you more free time, money, and independence. With a new introduction, as well as updated resources and information, this practical guide uncovers the three key stages of creating a self-sufficient business and how to become a successful digital nomad and live life on your own terms.
272 pages, Paperback
First published August 4, 2013
53 people are currently reading
822 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
October 4, 2017
This book is full of interesting information, but it's a bit like sitting on an iceberg; there are about a thousand links to other sources of back-up info buried within the book, so in reality it's bigger than it seems. It's an interesting treatment of how to set yourself up for professional freedom, with lots of travel tips thrown in. I have no idea how anyone can run their own business and have the time to become a wizard on newbie technologies; maybe it's a consequence of all the hours the author has spent in airport lounges, public transit and hotel lobbies. The life described isn't for everyone. I can't imagine not having a home to return to, although I'm in agreement that a simplifying one's home life is a lot less draining.
September 20, 2013
I've been a huge fan of Natalie Sisson ever since I discovered her podcast earlier this year. So when I heard that she was working on a book, I couldn't wait for it to come out.
I read The 4-Hour Workweek years ago when it was first released. At the time, I was stressed out in my previous company, where I was working long hours, seven days a week (yes, you read that right). I knew I needed to make major changes in my life, and the idea of a “four hour workweek” was enticing, but I really wasn't inspired by any of the business examples given in the book. The concepts piqued my interest, but the book left me wondering what to do with it all.
Years later, I left my company, took an extended sabbatical to figure out what it was that I really wanted to do, and worked on setting up a new business that truly inspired me. Natalie's company has served as an example of my ideal business: it's online, it's location-independent, and it's based on helping others.
This book is packed with practical tips, information, and resources on how to build a location-independent online business. Natalie shares her journey, and she includes valuable lessons she's learned along the way. She also shares inspiring examples of other online business owners, making it clear that the recipe she shares can be followed by anyone. Yes, even you.
Natalie includes both mindset tips and practical resources on how to build an online business. If you're thinking of leaving your job and starting your own business, this book is for you. If you've got a business, but you're stuck selling time for money or if you're tied down to one location, this book will help you shift your business into something more flexible. If you've already got an online, location-independent business and want to be even more successful, you'll still get a lot of valuable information in this book.
And if you've been flirting with the idea of starting a business, but you're just too scared to take action...this is also the book for you. It will walk you through the steps Natalie and others took to become successful entrepreneurs, and it will demystify the whole process. It will also hopefully inspire you enough to start the business of your dreams!
I can't recommend this book enough.
I read The 4-Hour Workweek years ago when it was first released. At the time, I was stressed out in my previous company, where I was working long hours, seven days a week (yes, you read that right). I knew I needed to make major changes in my life, and the idea of a “four hour workweek” was enticing, but I really wasn't inspired by any of the business examples given in the book. The concepts piqued my interest, but the book left me wondering what to do with it all.
Years later, I left my company, took an extended sabbatical to figure out what it was that I really wanted to do, and worked on setting up a new business that truly inspired me. Natalie's company has served as an example of my ideal business: it's online, it's location-independent, and it's based on helping others.
This book is packed with practical tips, information, and resources on how to build a location-independent online business. Natalie shares her journey, and she includes valuable lessons she's learned along the way. She also shares inspiring examples of other online business owners, making it clear that the recipe she shares can be followed by anyone. Yes, even you.
Natalie includes both mindset tips and practical resources on how to build an online business. If you're thinking of leaving your job and starting your own business, this book is for you. If you've got a business, but you're stuck selling time for money or if you're tied down to one location, this book will help you shift your business into something more flexible. If you've already got an online, location-independent business and want to be even more successful, you'll still get a lot of valuable information in this book.
And if you've been flirting with the idea of starting a business, but you're just too scared to take action...this is also the book for you. It will walk you through the steps Natalie and others took to become successful entrepreneurs, and it will demystify the whole process. It will also hopefully inspire you enough to start the business of your dreams!
I can't recommend this book enough.
June 9, 2020
This is a great resource for anyone aspiring to location-independence, or for those who have already quit their jobs and who are trying to "make it". Anyone who has been living this lifestyle for a while will recognise the hard-won wisdom in Natalie Sisson's words.
The beginning covers the "why" of becoming a location-independent entrepreneur. The phrase "live life on your own terms" appears repeatedly in the introduction as a sort of call-to-arms. As the book continues, we meet all sorts of people who have made this unconventional choice to make money online - from solo travellers, to families with kids, to a woman who lives in a modified horse float. (!)
However, this book is not purely about mindset. "The Suitcase Entrepreneur" was clearly written to be highly practical. There are extensive lists of websites and tools to help with everything from booking accomodation, to keeping safe while on the road, to getting cheap flights through credit card hacking.
The inevitable downside of mentioning all these specific resources is that the book has become quite dated with the passage of time. (I purchased the book's 2nd Edition on a Kindle in June 2020). The reader is advised to check out "Elance" for hiring staff (which merged with oDesk several years ago), is told that Uber is only present in the US and Canada, and is encouraged to build their social media following on Google+ (a social media platform which no longer exists).
In fairness, the same critique could be levelled at the all-time classic by Tim Ferriss. The lessons from both "The 4-Hour Work Week" and "The Suitcase Entrepreneur" endure, even though some of the tools have changed.
What I liked most about this book was the author's honesty. e.g. "There were plenty of moments of doubt, of fear, of questioning my sanity." The author admits that being a location-independent entrepreneur isn't for everyone, and frequently questions the reader whether this life is *really* for them. "It's not always fun to sit in airports, go on long train journeys, being in noisy cafes with dodgy Internet or pack up your suitcase for the umpteenth time. It can get lonely on the road, too."
But if (like Natalie Sisson) you choose *freedom* as your highest value in life, then you may find the tradeoffs worthwhile and decide to venture down this path. If you do, "The Suitcase Entrepreneur" will be a valuable companion on your journey.
The beginning covers the "why" of becoming a location-independent entrepreneur. The phrase "live life on your own terms" appears repeatedly in the introduction as a sort of call-to-arms. As the book continues, we meet all sorts of people who have made this unconventional choice to make money online - from solo travellers, to families with kids, to a woman who lives in a modified horse float. (!)
However, this book is not purely about mindset. "The Suitcase Entrepreneur" was clearly written to be highly practical. There are extensive lists of websites and tools to help with everything from booking accomodation, to keeping safe while on the road, to getting cheap flights through credit card hacking.
The inevitable downside of mentioning all these specific resources is that the book has become quite dated with the passage of time. (I purchased the book's 2nd Edition on a Kindle in June 2020). The reader is advised to check out "Elance" for hiring staff (which merged with oDesk several years ago), is told that Uber is only present in the US and Canada, and is encouraged to build their social media following on Google+ (a social media platform which no longer exists).
In fairness, the same critique could be levelled at the all-time classic by Tim Ferriss. The lessons from both "The 4-Hour Work Week" and "The Suitcase Entrepreneur" endure, even though some of the tools have changed.
What I liked most about this book was the author's honesty. e.g. "There were plenty of moments of doubt, of fear, of questioning my sanity." The author admits that being a location-independent entrepreneur isn't for everyone, and frequently questions the reader whether this life is *really* for them. "It's not always fun to sit in airports, go on long train journeys, being in noisy cafes with dodgy Internet or pack up your suitcase for the umpteenth time. It can get lonely on the road, too."
But if (like Natalie Sisson) you choose *freedom* as your highest value in life, then you may find the tradeoffs worthwhile and decide to venture down this path. If you do, "The Suitcase Entrepreneur" will be a valuable companion on your journey.
January 6, 2014
Provides excellent tips about how to set up a location independent digital "freedom" business. The book includes concrete recommendations on how to find your niche customer, companies to work with in setting up your business and outsourcing non core work, making money from your email list and how to generate profits from passive and active revenue streams. It also has an honest and non-idealistic discussion on the realities of leading a nomadic lifestyle - being quite open about the fact that it is not for everyone. Has got me raring to go and start my website!
January 2, 2014
There was some content to like in this book, but the writing style was too immature to be considered an authoritative text. That likely wasn't the intent of the author. I read a lot (A. LOT.) of business books, and there are many more better pieces of content out there. In this case, it felt like the author rushed to get a book out to capitalize on a trend. No fault there, but I have doubts about the ability for this book to stand up over time as a friendly reference.
January 2, 2014
Suitcase Entrepreneur is a brilliant book. It is well written and easy to read. Natalie talks from personal experience about how she and others have achieved their desired lifestyle through an online business. She details the steps that the reader can take to grow their own online business to "create freedom in business and adventure in life."
May 16, 2022
This is probably a book I would have enjoyed more at the beginning of my business journey, rather than reading it now after almost 10 years of being a solopreneur. (Why am I reading it now? Because it was the oldest book in my Kindle library, and I'm challenging myself to actually read the oldest book in my library every month - either that, or acknowledge that I'm not going to, and delete it)
But at the same time, I'm kind of glad I didn't read it back then, because I wouldn't have the experience behind me to recognise the things that don't work for me in it, regardless of whether I would have enjoyed it or not.
For a start, I really don't love the hustle culture evangelising - the whole 'if you want freedom in the future, you need to work, work, work and hustle, hustle, hustle in the now'
Then there's the fact that the information is massively out of date now (not the author's fault - it was probably great info when it was written). But when I hit sentences like "Your customers are hanging out on Google+, I can only respond with, "No, honey, I can pretty much promise you they're not."
I also dislike the bad 'that's not how science OR statistics work' claims that run through the book - for example the statement that it's a proven fact that travel cultivates happiness. As evidence, we have a survey of 2000 people by a company called G Adventures, which I couldn't find anything about in the book, but I'm assuming is a travel company, which would mean sample bias even if correlation DID equal causation.
And finally, there's a LOT of unexamined privilege in Ms Sisson's writing. This motivational speaker insistence that 'if I can do X then EVERYONE can do X' ignores SO MANY external societal and system-based differences in experience that I don't even know where to start pushing back against it.
But hey: at least I've shifted the book from my 'unread' Kindle pile. I wonder what my next oldest book is for next month...
But at the same time, I'm kind of glad I didn't read it back then, because I wouldn't have the experience behind me to recognise the things that don't work for me in it, regardless of whether I would have enjoyed it or not.
For a start, I really don't love the hustle culture evangelising - the whole 'if you want freedom in the future, you need to work, work, work and hustle, hustle, hustle in the now'
Then there's the fact that the information is massively out of date now (not the author's fault - it was probably great info when it was written). But when I hit sentences like "Your customers are hanging out on Google+, I can only respond with, "No, honey, I can pretty much promise you they're not."
I also dislike the bad 'that's not how science OR statistics work' claims that run through the book - for example the statement that it's a proven fact that travel cultivates happiness. As evidence, we have a survey of 2000 people by a company called G Adventures, which I couldn't find anything about in the book, but I'm assuming is a travel company, which would mean sample bias even if correlation DID equal causation.
And finally, there's a LOT of unexamined privilege in Ms Sisson's writing. This motivational speaker insistence that 'if I can do X then EVERYONE can do X' ignores SO MANY external societal and system-based differences in experience that I don't even know where to start pushing back against it.
But hey: at least I've shifted the book from my 'unread' Kindle pile. I wonder what my next oldest book is for next month...
September 14, 2017
If you’ve ever wondered how you can become a digital nomad, here’s the book for you: The Suitcase Entrepreneur by Natalie Sisson.
Natalie takes us along on her journeys, from New Zealand to London, Canada, and on to many other places. All the while building a profitable online business revolving on her lifestyle brand that promotes freedom and adventure.
She shares her personal experiences transitioning from working the corporate life to living the digital nomad life.
And shares lots of steps, advice, tools and other reading materials that will hopefully make the journey easier for others. Many travel tips are discussed in detail here.
Natalie answers some common questions: How do you make money online? What do you need to build an online business? Do you need a website? How do you use social media? How do you build a team? And much more.
Both the benefits and challenges of being a suitcase entrepreneur are presented here. Natalie describes the work she did to get to where she is now, and the hard work she still does to make sure that her personal life and her business are running smoothly.
The book is a great read for online entrepreneurs, especially if you aspire to have a business that’s location-independent.
As someone who runs a service business online, I appreciate all the resources she shared. But most of all, I like this reassurance:
“Be your best self and success will slowly but surely come along on your journey with you.”
*Ebook copy obtained from Netgalley.com
Natalie takes us along on her journeys, from New Zealand to London, Canada, and on to many other places. All the while building a profitable online business revolving on her lifestyle brand that promotes freedom and adventure.
She shares her personal experiences transitioning from working the corporate life to living the digital nomad life.
And shares lots of steps, advice, tools and other reading materials that will hopefully make the journey easier for others. Many travel tips are discussed in detail here.
Natalie answers some common questions: How do you make money online? What do you need to build an online business? Do you need a website? How do you use social media? How do you build a team? And much more.
Both the benefits and challenges of being a suitcase entrepreneur are presented here. Natalie describes the work she did to get to where she is now, and the hard work she still does to make sure that her personal life and her business are running smoothly.
The book is a great read for online entrepreneurs, especially if you aspire to have a business that’s location-independent.
As someone who runs a service business online, I appreciate all the resources she shared. But most of all, I like this reassurance:
“Be your best self and success will slowly but surely come along on your journey with you.”
*Ebook copy obtained from Netgalley.com
May 31, 2020
Loved this book, reading it was like confessing a long harboured secret to a best friend and having them say, 'oh my gosh, me too'! It was as though Natalie was speaking directly to me. This is the perfect all-in-one how to, permission granted, go make your dreams for an unconventional life of freedom a reality wake up call. Practical advice, motivational, bit of tough love and home truths where needed. And, as if all that wasn't enough there's an online companion course with videos, templates and extra resources to help you achieve your dreams. If you are a freedom seeker and want to know how you can make this happen, this book is for you! Love it!
October 6, 2018
This is a light but helpful book. It's a great starting point if you want to untie yourself from one location and have an idea to develop, though some chapters you might want to skip over depending on how far along in the process you are. What I found especially helpful were her tips on housesitting and saving money. I'm going to keep it because much of her advice can be applied even to those who aren't suitcase entrepeneurs-- it's full of good advice on how to commit yourself to your guiding principles, and don't just stay put out of fear.
June 20, 2017
All hat, no cattle
I bought this book because of a podcast interview I heard. The book doesn't provide much information, but does contain many, many useful links (and mostly broken ones to the author's site).
If you can get it on sale or (better) borrow it, it's worth a look
I bought this book because of a podcast interview I heard. The book doesn't provide much information, but does contain many, many useful links (and mostly broken ones to the author's site).
If you can get it on sale or (better) borrow it, it's worth a look
June 25, 2020
Although much of this book is pretty basic and common sense, I did learn a couple things that will come in handy. Easy to read.
May 28, 2015
"You have the right to live your life how you want to, without sitting in endless meetings, getting stuck in long commutes and having to be in one location in order to run a successful business and ultimately to enjoy their life" - page 291.
The Suitcase Entrepreneur is a highly knowledgeable and actionable guide detailing the logistics on how to go about unleashing your entrepreneurial spirit and building it into a profitable online business that you can continue to run while travelling the world.
The book's real value comes from the personal insights that Natalie Sisson provides from her own experiences of establishing herself and travelling the world as a suitcase entrepreneur. These insights gain added weight from the many anecdotes and factoids Natalie has included from other suitcase entrepreneurs who have achieved likewise success.
My only complaint about the book (hence the four out of five stars) is that the presentation is a bit shoddy in some places: the cover's image is of a low resolution that makes it appear pixelated and the interior could use another thorough proof reading. I understand that this is a self-published book, but there are many self-published books that are of an exceptionally superior quality, so its self-published status is not an excuse. However, if you are happy to look past these shortcomings and just want access to the knowledge within (as I did), then these few faults do not detract from the book's larger value.
Ultimately, this book is very much a step-by-step guide that can be used to establish yourself as a suitcase entrepreneur or just an entrepreneur who operates in a single location (just don't read act three of the book). Be sure to make many notes, annotations and bookmarks while reading this book as you will be referencing its insights while you continue to grow your own entrepreneurial presence.
Keep The Suitcase Entrepreneur handy, as it will become your new bible!
The Suitcase Entrepreneur is a highly knowledgeable and actionable guide detailing the logistics on how to go about unleashing your entrepreneurial spirit and building it into a profitable online business that you can continue to run while travelling the world.
The book's real value comes from the personal insights that Natalie Sisson provides from her own experiences of establishing herself and travelling the world as a suitcase entrepreneur. These insights gain added weight from the many anecdotes and factoids Natalie has included from other suitcase entrepreneurs who have achieved likewise success.
My only complaint about the book (hence the four out of five stars) is that the presentation is a bit shoddy in some places: the cover's image is of a low resolution that makes it appear pixelated and the interior could use another thorough proof reading. I understand that this is a self-published book, but there are many self-published books that are of an exceptionally superior quality, so its self-published status is not an excuse. However, if you are happy to look past these shortcomings and just want access to the knowledge within (as I did), then these few faults do not detract from the book's larger value.
Ultimately, this book is very much a step-by-step guide that can be used to establish yourself as a suitcase entrepreneur or just an entrepreneur who operates in a single location (just don't read act three of the book). Be sure to make many notes, annotations and bookmarks while reading this book as you will be referencing its insights while you continue to grow your own entrepreneurial presence.
Keep The Suitcase Entrepreneur handy, as it will become your new bible!
April 7, 2014
I bought the paperback to read through and highlight all the good stuff inside, but I ended up reading a lot of it off the kindle copy I bought on sale too. I don’t remember where I heard about Natalie Sisson, but I’m so glad I found her and this book! It was absolutely fabulous! What a fun, engaging, easy to follow guide for those who would like to start a business and run it from anywhere. I found the tips that Natalie gave throughout the book very helpful, easy to access and eye opening. I loved the inclusion of not only Natalie’s, testimonials, but the variety of testimonials from people who are living their dream of traveling and working at the same time and found them very inspirational. There’s just enough info about starting a new business, pro tips on how to go about organizing it, outsourcing, promotion and sales to get even the most clueless entrepreneurs out there a fighting chance to get their dreams going.
I absolutely loved how it was chock full of travel tips, websites and apps all through the book to help you out while you’re away from home. What a wealth of information, precautions and insider hacks that can be used for any world traveler. I’m a writer and have recently really thought about travelling more abroad while I work off my laptop creating stories. I can’t wait to put this wealth of information to use and enjoy my time off even more than I do now. I highly recommend reading this guide. It’s not dry or boring but fun, engaging, and you get a real feel for the lifestyle through not just Natalie’s eyes, but from a range of business owners doing the same thing she’s doing. More freedom while working is my goal and I really loved this book. I will be definitely looking at it over and over again for reference as I travel the world and live the life I can’t wait to jump into. Great book!
I absolutely loved how it was chock full of travel tips, websites and apps all through the book to help you out while you’re away from home. What a wealth of information, precautions and insider hacks that can be used for any world traveler. I’m a writer and have recently really thought about travelling more abroad while I work off my laptop creating stories. I can’t wait to put this wealth of information to use and enjoy my time off even more than I do now. I highly recommend reading this guide. It’s not dry or boring but fun, engaging, and you get a real feel for the lifestyle through not just Natalie’s eyes, but from a range of business owners doing the same thing she’s doing. More freedom while working is my goal and I really loved this book. I will be definitely looking at it over and over again for reference as I travel the world and live the life I can’t wait to jump into. Great book!
November 11, 2013
I've had the opportunity to chat with Natalie online before and was really looking forward to receiving this book in its "author's cut" format. (Full disclosure: I backed the book on her Kickstarter campaign). And it didn't disappoint. The book hits the virtual shelves today and I give it a thumbs up -- especially if you've been looking to take your business to the next level and don't think you have the resources to pull it off. Natalie's words have a definite "drive" to them and they will inspire you to the point of action. And that's not just a great starting point...it's also kind of a big deal.
October 24, 2013
Very good book! I liked it because it was full with practical tips, and it gives an impression that the author really wanted to help others have a similar 'travelling lifestyle'. There are also a lot of sales pitches within the book, but I actually found them interesting too (other products/books Natalie is selling, e.g. how to launch your product on Kickstarter) so no complaints here ;) Btw. she practices everything she preaches - that's how I got the book in the first place, by investing in her Kickstarter campaign.
October 14, 2014
For any current or aspiring entrepreneur this is a great read.. Has plenty of input from Natalie (the Kool Kiwi) and friends.. What I found even more interesting about this book is that it was partially funded from a kickstarter campaign..
Check it out, you won't be disappointed as there are heaps of actionable tips and tricks!
Check it out, you won't be disappointed as there are heaps of actionable tips and tricks!
September 15, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I had to be careful when I read it though because it would inspire me and jumpstart my mood. I love to travel anyway, but with this book, I wanted to travel right then and there. It is apparent that Natalie Sisson has done her research and lived a true suitcase lifestyle.
January 30, 2015
Everything you need to know and then some
Setting up a business can be hard but Natalie Sisson simplifies things tremendously with this guide. Even if you're not wishing to build a life overseas, she takes you through the steps of creating your online business p k platform. Tons of resources included too!
Setting up a business can be hard but Natalie Sisson simplifies things tremendously with this guide. Even if you're not wishing to build a life overseas, she takes you through the steps of creating your online business p k platform. Tons of resources included too!
September 8, 2015
An absolutely superb read. Natalie nailed it. Instead of vague advice or overly specific ramblings, this book breaks down step by step how to identify your idea, build it and turn it into a reality. I will be returning to this one often.
November 26, 2013
Full of handy and useful resources of all sorts—for the traveler, tech-savvy, or online entrepreneur alike. Could have used better editing.
January 2, 2014
Definitely a good read for anyone starting out as a solopreneur, especially if your goal is to be location-independent. Tons of actionable advice!
June 25, 2014
Inspiring, but somewhat over the top.
July 15, 2014
The Shelf: Rejected, pending review.
January 14, 2015
Although the information in this book is somewhat basic, Natalie still manages to present it in a coherent and motivating way that inspired me to take more action with my business.
February 10, 2015
Interesting read, learned a lot from it.
May 19, 2015
Natalie is fearless with finesse!
October 1, 2015
I don't appreciate or get what she is selling and find her brand of genuine not very genuine.
January 18, 2016
Wonderful book. Full of dozens of resources to truly work on the road. Fun writers voice too!
Jessi Lohman
Author
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B011Q3Q55I
Jessi Lohman
Author
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B011Q3Q55I
April 7, 2016
I loved this book. It gives a good perspective into the life of a traveling nomad. I highly recommend this book to those looking to spread your wings and work from abroad.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews