Entrepreneurship is a cycle of failures and recoveries-hopefully with more successes than not. This national bestseller is about resilience and navigating the process. How do the best entrepreneurs think about failure-as it's happening and in hindsight-and ultimately win? Today’s media is replete with stories about major entrepreneurial successes, IPOs (initial public offerings), mergers, and acquisitions. Reporters and readers alike have also been captivated by the stories of entrepreneurial failures, downfalls, and massive exits (think Travis Kalanick, Elizabeth Holmes, and Doug Evans). However, entrepreneurship is rarely linear, and a lot happens between the headlines and reality. Entrepreneurship is a cycle of failures and recoveries—hopefully with more successes than not. Start-Ups and The Secrets of Resilient Entrepreneurs shares the wisdom of one entrepreneur who successfully disrupted an entire industry but felt as if she was never prepared for what came next. Mona Bijoor has created a guidebook for navigating the process, from pitching with power to coping with competition, with inspiring stories from respected entrepreneurs, including Nat Turner, cofounder and CEO of Flatiron Health; Courtney Nichols Gould, founder and co-CEO of SmartyPants Vitamins; and Stephen Kuhl, cofounder and CEO of Burrow, intended to lift up anyone determined to keep pushing forward. This book is about resilience. How do the best entrepreneurs think about failure—as it’s happening and in hindsight—and ultimately win?
Mona Bijoor is a Partner at King Circle Capital LLC, an investment firm, and the founder of JOOR, an online global B2B marketplace for wholesale buying that directly connects brands and retailers. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania with an MBA from the Wharton School of Business, Mona lives in Brooklyn with her husband and two daughters. She is a frequent contributor to TechCrunch, Entrepreneur, and Thrive Global.
This book landed on my lap in time. My personal life is demanding changes and it requires taking a leap and starting my own business. But. And yes it was a big but! I couldn't just do it. After reading this encouraging book, it seems possible. I absolutely loved the inside story part of this book. It gives real life experiences of people that have lost their footing and yet emerged a winner again. There are lessons of resilience and balance given through practical advice. That to me came across as authentic. I am amazed by the quality of material included here. There is nothing that hasn't been covered. I would go as far as saying this that the strategies and mindset applies to people working 9-5 jobs. If you are in doubt about your next big business move or torn about your entrepreneurial endeavors, this book is your Holy Grail. An absolute gold.
Very valuable insights, even for non-entrepreneurs
I truly enjoyed Mona Bijoor’s book about the challenges that face an entrepreneur. From the start, and throughout her story, I was drawn in by the feeling that I was hearing Mona’s authentic voice, like when the first investors in her company (who turned out to be poor partners) were “pissed” that she found new backing, or her willingness to admit that one of her greatest weaknesses was being “nasty” to team members who wanted to leave the business.
I found the stories truly informative about the challenges faced from the initial launch, to fundraising, to building and cultivating the team, and thinking about how to sell yourself and your business. I am not an entrepreneur, but certainly have thought about entrepreneurship at times, and the book really reminded me of how hard of a challenge it would be but also how exciting and fruitful it can be if you find something you are truly passionate about.
At the same time, I also felt like I was able to take away tactics that are applicable in my own career. I have been working at an investment bank for over 14 years, but I still found a lot to take away and apply in my current role. Building team resilience and exuding that resilience yourself, staying optimistic, making sure the team recognizes the impact of all of their work beyond simple P&L, and changing your perspective to look at “failures” as opportunities to challenge your thinking and try it a different way - all these ideas and more resonated with me.
This is certainly a great book for anyone who is starting out on or in the middle of a challenging entrepreneurial venture, and lays out a plan with a whole lot of points to make sure you cover through the entire journey. I only wish I would have the chance to delve deeper into the nitty-gritty of the detail and more examples behind some of the advice given, both from Mona and the fantastic Founders that she interviews in the book.
Admittedly, I am not in the start up world, but I do know what it's like to forge a career in uncharted territory. I couldn't put Mona's book down. She provides a roadmap for the challenges that not only come with entrepreneurship, but also the delicate balance between doing what you love with having a personal life. Startups and Downs is not only easy to read, but it inspires you to step outside of your comfort zone and challenge yourself. Who knows what amazing success may be in your future? - Logan Levkoff, Ph.D.
Personal Insight Into Entrepreneurship, Its Ups and Downs
This is a book every budding entrepreneur should read. As a co-founder and business exec, I found this book to be refreshing and honest (and personal). This book is filled with first hand sage advice on how to deal with common issues Founders face. I would highly recommend this book.
Inspirational read for a first time founder. Very few, honest startup guides. It’s not easy and that is the point of creating a lasting business. Glad that Mona was able to crystallize the lessons learned in a no nonsense way.
I met Mona Bijoor a number of months back at a female founders dinner in which she was the speaker. I was impressed by her success in a world so dominated by men...and I wanted to learn more. This book provided me with insights and advice that I will surely make use of as I grow my own tech startup. I found the stories from other Founders very useful..but I have to say I particularly liked Mona's own story and actually wanted to hear more. She goes into the challenges associated with fundraising, maintaining employee morale, building resilience, losing key members and sleepless nights. The chapter on raising capital was particularly helpful. It made me realize that her message was - be careful what you wish for. True, most founders equate fundraising from VC's to actual success, but is it really? Definitely worth a read! Although she didn't go into tremendous depth or detail, she does makes it clear she was treated differently and possibly maybe at times inappropriately because she is a woman. I truly admire how she looked back at some of her own missteps and took ownership of her mistakes. The chapters I listened to more than once were: Losing Your Job, Sacrifice for what?, and Parting Thoughts. She discussed self care and how you don't have to sacrifice everything to have success. I think she realized most of this only after parting with her company. But for me, it's truly good advice for a founder who wants dearly to maintain that delicate healthy balance between work, family and self. Honestly I could use a book on just that. If Bijoor has a future book in the work, my wish would be for it to focus on keeping it together while in the throes of building your startup. Also, I wouldn't mind a bit more detail regarding the pain. I had to read between the lines to see that there really was pain and at times demoralization. It's nice to know that we are not alone in our struggles. Thanks Mona Bijoor - a truly special read! Startups and Downs: The Secrets of Resilient Entrepreneurs
I picked this up expecting hard-earned business insights—“secrets,” as the title promises—but what I got was more of a motivational pep talk than a tactical playbook. If you're looking for detailed, actionable advice on how to actually build or scale a company, you’re going to be disappointed. This isn’t that kind of book.
That said, Startups and Downs does do a solid job addressing the emotional side of being a founder. It talks a lot about mindset, self-belief, and bouncing back from rejection, which might be exactly what some people need—especially if you’re going through a rough patch and need to feel like you’re not alone. There’s also a strong spiritual undercurrent throughout the book, which might resonate with some readers but felt a little fluffy to me.
The interviews with other founders were interesting, though they mostly reinforce the same themes: trust yourself, don’t give up, believe in your mission, etc. It’s the kind of stuff you’d expect to read in a glossy entrepreneur magazine you grab while waiting in line at Whole Foods. Not useless, but definitely not “secrets.”
All that said, the author is likable, and she’s clearly been through the grind. Her story is relatable, and there are moments where her honesty and vulnerability really come through. So, while I can’t say it lived up to the title or what I was hoping for, it does have value—just more as a confidence booster or mental reset than a business manual.
If you're looking for practical startup tools, this isn't it. But if you’re feeling burned out or need some reassurance that you're not the only one struggling, this could help.
Grudging 4 stars—mainly for tone, clarity, and honesty.
As educators and advisors to young entrepreneurs, we’re often asked to recommend books that are not only informative but genuinely motivating—books that balance realism with encouragement, and experience with insight. Startups and Downs: The Secrets of Resilient Entrepreneurs by Mona Bijoor does exactly that.
It is a tremendously engaging read from start to finish. The narrative is at its most captivating when Bijoor shares the deeply personal and professionally instructive journey of launching—and eventually walking away from—her company, JOOR. These moments are told with such raw honesty and clarity that you feel you're in the room with her, navigating the turbulence of startup life.
The advice she imparts is thoughtful, practical, and rooted in lived experience. But what truly sets this book apart is the way it's delivered—with remarkable empathy and sincerity. There’s no posturing here.
Many of the themes she explores—resilience, identity, adaptability—resonate. Her insights reflect not only the realities of startup culture but also the emotional complexity of building something that matters.
Overall, Startups and Downs is a rare gem: an enjoyable, uplifting, and highly constructive read that we would confidently recommend to entrepreneurs at any stage, as well as to business leaders looking to build with more heart and clarity.
Bijoor has given us a book we have no hesitation in recommending.
"StartUps and Downs: The Secrets of Resilient Entrepreneurs" goes into the often untold stories behind entrepreneurial journeys, before the enormous success, the trials and tribulations and the survival of successful entrepreneurs in facing tremendous challenges and navigating through difficult situations as true tests of character. When we think of successful entrepreneurs or even novice self-starters, we do not think about the tremendous difficulties that come along the way, and the author Mona Bijoor, an entrepreneur herself, shares valuable insights and wisdom gained from her own experiences, highlighting the non-linear nature of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of resilience in the face of failures and setbacks. Bijoor explores various aspects of the entrepreneurial process, from pitching with confidence to navigating competition. She incorporates inspiring anecdotes from renowned entrepreneurs like Nat Turner, Courtney Nichols Gould, and Stephen Kuhl, offering readers a glimpse into their paths to success. The book ultimately serves as a guidebook for aspiring entrepreneurs, providing practical advice and a fresh perspective on failure. With its focus on resilience and the mindset required to overcome challenges, "Start-Ups and Downs" is a valuable resource for any entrepreneurs no matter how small or big their plans are.
"Startups and Downs" by Mona Bijoor is a candid and actionable guide to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship. Drawing on her own experiences and featuring insightful interviews with established founders, Bijoor provides a refreshing take on the highs and lows of building a startup. The book stands out for its emphasis on resilience and the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, offering concrete techniques and relatable anecdotes to navigate challenges step by step.
What makes this book unique is its exploration of spirituality in entrepreneurship. Bijoor argues that entrepreneurs, by nature, are spiritual, needing to trust their intuition and create a playbook of rules that are uniquely their own. "Startups and Downs" is not just an interesting and insightful read; it's an inspirational guide with real-world examples, making it an educational and practical resource for anyone curious about the technology startup scene. If you enjoyed books like "The Hard Thing About Hard Things," "Zero to One," or "The Lean Startup," this punchy and concentrated addition to your entrepreneurial library is far from trite.
This book isn't another rah-rah guide filled with empty platitudes. It's a straight-shooting manual for navigating the emotional rollercoaster that is building a startup. Bijoor pulls back the curtain, sharing the secrets of resilient entrepreneurs. You'll learn: But what truly sets this book apart are the inspiring stories. Bijoor brings in heavy hitters like Nat Turner (Flatiron Health), Courtney Nichols Gould (SmartyPants Vitamins), and Stephen Kuhl (Burrow) to share their real-world experiences. Bijoor emphasizes that failure is part of the process. It's how you bounce back that defines your success. She argues that entrepreneurship requires a unique kind of inner strength – a concept I found surprisingly insightful. This isn't just theory. Bijoor provides practical steps you can take right now to build your startup dream. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur facing your next challenge or a budding idea-person curious about the journey, "Startups and Downs" is a must-read. It's a punchy, honest, and inspiring guide that will leave you feeling equipped and ready to conquer the startup world, downs and all.
My business needed some help, and I downloaded Startups and Downs by Mona Bijoor. This book offers insights for entrepreneurs, blending personal narratives with actionable advice. It emphasizes resilience in the face of failure and challenges conventional notions of success. Through engaging interviews and the author’s own experiences, it provides practical guidance on topics ranging from handling failure to scaling a business. The author’s concise communication style and focus on actionable advice make it a standout resource for anyone navigating the startup landscape. While providing a realistic view of entrepreneurship, it inspires hope and offers a roadmap for success.
Perfect for business professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs
I just finished "Start-Ups and Downs: The Secrets of Resilient Entrepreneurs" and it’s a must-read for anyone navigating the entrepreneurial journey. This book offers a candid look at the highs and lows of building a startup, featuring insights from successful founders. It stands out with its practical advice and emotional resilience strategies. You’ll find step-by-step guides and personal anecdotes that make it both relatable and inspiring. Perfect for business professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs looking for real-world examples and motivational tips.
Nice reading. Despite only 100 pages, the author able to distill her hustle experience when building company, blend with several entrepreneurs which share same energy.
I could say this book merely an entrepreneur's diary focusing on lesson learned and best practices during her venture.
She discussed common topics like the funding or not funding, forming a team, figuring a why, competition.
The key takeaways quite similars with other business book: train your body & mind to be perseverance and resilience.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This book is a great read for anyone thinking about starting their own business. It's like having a chat with a bunch of entrepreneurs who've been there and done that. They share the good stuff and the tough times, giving you tips on how to hang in there when things get rough. It's super helpful and really inspiring, especially if you're just getting your feet wet in the business world.
This book is an exceptional resource, particularly for those embarking on the journey of starting a new business. Not only is it an easy read, but it also offers a wealth of incredible tips. The interviews included are particularly insightful, providing deep understanding and practical advice. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in business ventures.
This is a compelling read that delves into the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and the resilience needed to navigate the unpredictable journey of startups. The author's insights are thought-provoking, offering practical advice. Overall, it's a valuable resource for anyone embarking on the entrepreneurial path.
I love the way the information was presented in this book. Not only did the author share experiences and tips, but other entrepreneurs were sharing info in a q and a style. I picked up a good bit of information in this book. I really recommend it to new or aspiring business owners.
I thoroughly enjoyed and appreciate this book and author so much. Her honesty and transparency through out the book were both inspiring and validating. Not only was her own experience so educational but her interviewing skills with other entrepreneurs are also top notch. This is a very enjoyable and educational read.
As a budding entrepreneur, I discovered the information in this book to be highly valuable. Each chapter is specifically designed to assist in developing resilience as an entrepreneur. I strongly recommend this book to entrepreneurs embarking on their entrepreneurial journey. It offers numerous insightful examples and advice from experienced entrepreneurs.
This book is the gold standard for those of us who are self employed or who would like to be. It covers everything and even includes interviews from important CEOs detailing their successes and setbacks. Securing capital and dealing with Venture Capitalists I found intriguing. This book I recommend without reservation.
Having been part of two successful startups, I really connected with this book. I was wondering over with the chapter about trying to raise capital, and irs difficulty. This is an area that small businesses struggle with to help them grow. Much of the advice feels like it came from a text book (which I mean in a good way) but with an empathetic application to startups. Easy to read.
This book is a great step-by-step guide on how to deal with all aspects of building a start-up. It also provides tips on handling the initial roller coaster when building a business.
The information in this book is quite interesting. Guidance and guidelines on how to persevere through the trials and tribulations of running an enterprise.