The American Dream Is A Terrible Thing To Waste: 100 Agents Of Innovation Share Their Fearless Journeys In Today's Economy

by Francisco González

Throughout this book, Francisco Gonzalez introduces us to innovators who are succeeding in today’s economy despite the increasing challenges to achieving the American Dream. Join Francisco’s journey across America to discover the people and places that taught him the major characteristics most entrepreneurs share. Whether or not you ever want to start your own business, the stories in this volume will help you learn how to build an entrepreneurial mindset, conquer the obstacles that stand in your way, and be emboldened to craft and pursue your American Dream.

330 pages, Paperback

Published December 31, 2022

Reviews

[Alex G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Insightful, inspiring and pragmatic way to learn from American Entrepreneurs

“Entrepreneurs just think differently’ says Francisco Gonzalez in the introduction to the “The American Dream is a Terrible Thing to Waste: 100 Agents of Innovation Share Their Fearless Journeys in Today’s Economy”. 


This book helped me understand the 10 characteristics of successful entrepreneurs and provided an opportunity to reflect on many different ways to innovate with joy, be happy, successful and impactful. Thankfully, the book is not limited to technology startups or for-profit entities and provides a vast array of insightful examples - from Civic Action to Virtual Reality.


I believe that innovation is not about invention and technology, it’s about people. I appreciate that Francisco’s book takes that angle and is not focused on gibberish jargon, flavor-of-the-month technology and archaic “methodologies”.


I recommend this book for anyone who is seeking inspiration or considering starting or transforming their efforts. You will find  inspirational stories, insights and actionable advice in the following areas:

Characteristics of Entrepreneurs

Building an Entrepreneurial Mindset

Facing the Unexpected

The Entrepreneurship Ecosystem: Helping Others Chart Their Course


Overall, "The American Dream is a Terrible Thing to Waste: 100 Agents of Innovation Share Their Fearless Journeys in Today’s Economy" by Francisco Gonzalez makes an important contribution to the literature in the entrepreneurship, innovation and leadership development space. A copy of this book should be in every collegiate library.

[Evgeny Yudin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book from the very beginning. The introduction is incredibly powerful, clearly outlining the ten main character traits of successful entrepreneurs. I believe many of us can resonate with most, if not all, of them, which immediately draws you in. From there, the book dives into the real-world stories of many different people Francisco met and had the chance to interview.

What I especially loved is the range of professional backgrounds and life experiences represented. Francisco intentionally ties each story back to the fundamental entrepreneurial traits, showing how they are essential to achieving success in any area of life. What is truly beautiful is that the book emphasizes there is no single universal path. This allows readers to use their creative freedom to build the life they want while grounding their journey in these entrepreneurial characteristics.

This book is a powerful reminder that an American dream is indeed a terrible thing to waste.