The Education of an Accidental CEO: Lessons Learned from the Trailer Park to the Corner Office

I hadn't known too much about David Novak, chairman and CEO of Yum! Brands, the home to KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, Long John Silver's, and A & W All American Food . . . that's no longer the case, though, since I've devoured THE EDUCATION OF AN ACCIDENTAL CEO, the inspirational book he wrote with John Boswell. Almost every page had an idea that could be implemented not just in the food industry, but in my teaching and/or in just about any other walk of life . . . as Novak notes: * When I read business books or motivational books I find that if there is one thing I can take away with me, and more important, if it is something that stays with me, then it is well worth the price of admission. Obviously, that "one thing" differs from person to person, but if there is anything I have said within these pages that helps you define your dreams and then go after them, then it is well worth the effort it has taken to write this book and see it through publication. Whatever field you have chosen, whatever your aspirations may be, and however you choose to make them come true, I hope one day you achieve more than you can even imagine. My problem, and it's a nice one to have I must admit, is that I took away many ideas . . . I regret that I can't share them all with you, but to cite just two: * I fancied myself a writer, but under Tom I would rewrite test-market analyses six or seven times until I learned how to put forth a recommendation, explain the rationale for that recommendation, and summarize it all in a single page. I try to force myself to use this same discipline today. Limiting myself to a single page not only helps concentrate my mind, it almost guarantees clarity. * The second thing I learned is that all the answers are in the building. Every company is filled with experts. If you want to learn the company's history, have a meeting with a twenty-five-year veteran. If you want to know what customers are thinking, talk to the people who answer the 800-number calls. If you want to know why the trucks aren't getting out on time, a route salesman who's trucks who's been at the job for a while is likely to know the answer. THE EDUCATION OF AN ACCIDENTAL CEO had me laughing at spots, too . . . for example, when Novak showed how a floppy rubber chicken often had more value than a gold watch . . . it might not sound possible, but if you read this book, you'll see that it well could be the case where you work too.

This book reinforces that hard work does pay off. It is a great read for any leader or aspiring leader, the tips and success stories are right on the money. I would recommend this for all managers, leaders, and those wanting to move into higher positions.

This book by David Novak, CEO of "YUM! Brands," is an easy read. The subtitle, "Lessons Learned from the Trailer Park to the Corner Office" is a great description of how he uses past experiences as a valuable resource for guidance, inspiration and strength in his drive to succeed. His belief in people and recognizing their contributions towards the success of the organization is one of the significant themes of the book. For those seeking similar success, Novak's counsel rings true: "The first rule of being a great leader is to be yourself." "Be a passionate learner, and pass on what you know to others. Not only will this make you a success in business, it will make you a success in life."

David Novak has written a wonderfully readable account of his remarkable career. The leadership concepts that Mr. Novak espouses are not neccessarily ideas that have never before been put forth, however the fact that he actually leads in a manner that is consistent with these ideas is what makes this book such a pleasure to read. Mr. Novak is not only a great story teller but also a great teacher. Both of these abilities are clearly in evidence throughtout the book. To me the most impressive aspect of Mr Novak's story is his honesty and openness about some of the mistakes he had made. His understanding that mistakes are an important element of every successful executives growth trajectory, is an extremely important point to make. One that is often lost in the pursuit of protecting a CEO's fragile corporate image. I congratulate Mr. Novak on creating a culture that other companies would do well to emulate and for writing a book that shows them how to do so.

The Education of an Accidental CEO breaks the mold of dry, boring, business audiobooks. This audiobook is not only informative but entertaining, because we get know the author as both a person and successful CEO. Novak has the makings of a childhood-as-train wreck memoir writer, but his tale has a twist. Novak learned how to be successful in the business world through his life lessons, and he shares his knowledge with listeners. Novak is the CEO of Yum! Brands, Inc. which owns KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and other famous restaurants. His book demonstrates how people from ordinary and modest beginnings can accomplish great success in the business world. Novak makes this achievement seem attainable to everyone. If you are looking for business advice and are a fan of books like Running with Scissors, then The Education of an Accidental CEO is the business book for you. The audiobook is narrated by Howard Ross, whose voice captures Novak's sense of the ordinary amidst the extraordinary. Listeners won't be disappointed. -Jessica Teel