6 Must-Read Business Books Every Entrepreneur Should Own in 2025

Running a business is no small feat, and the right resources can make all the difference. In this quick but insightful roundup, Jen and Cynthia from the Marketing Duo Podcast share their top six business book recommendations that have not only helped them grow their businesses but have also shaped the way they think about marketing, mindset, money, and strategy. 

These aren’t just reads—they’re business game-changers.

1. The Digital Threads by Neal Schaffer

If you’re new to marketing or want to tighten up your strategy, this is your go-to guide. Neal Schaffer’s book focuses on integrating various digital marketing channels into a seamless, strategic workflow. With an accompanying workbook, it helps ensure you’re not just learning—you’re implementing.  Snag the book here.

Best For:

• Entrepreneurs struggling with leads
• Startups building their first marketing systems

Business owners looking to unify their digital strategy

2. The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks

This mindset-focused book explores how we limit ourselves out of fear and self-doubt. Hendricks dives into breaking through these mental blocks to achieve your “Zone of Genius”—the space where your true potential shines.  Snag the book here.

Why It Matters:

• Personal development is key to professional growth
• Helps overcome visibility and success fears
• A foundational book for mindset work

3. Blue Ocean Strategy by W. Chan Kim & Renée Mauborgne

Ever feel like your market is oversaturated? This book teaches you how to find uncontested market space where competition becomes irrelevant. While a bit dry for audiobook listeners, it’s a strategic masterpiece for those wanting to innovate or pivot. Snag the book here.

Ideal For:

• Aspiring entrepreneurs exploring new ideas
• Business owners ready to differentiate
• Strategic thinkers

4. Traction by Gino Wickman

Wickman’s “Entrepreneurial Operating System” gives you practical tools—like goal setting, org charts, and vision tracking—to build your business on solid ground. Small in size, big on impact. Snag the book here.

Perfect For:

• Business owners seeking structure
• Teams needing clarity and alignment
• DIY entrepreneurs

5. Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller

This book simplifies your marketing message and website content using the power of storytelling. It’s especially helpful if you struggle with being overly wordy or unsure how to convert website visitors into customers. Snag the book here.

Takeaway Tools:

• StoryBrand framework
• Website structure guidance
• Copywriting tips

6. Profit First by Mike Michalowicz

Learn how to flip traditional accounting on its head and pay yourself first. This laugh-out-loud book turns dreaded financial planning into something fun, relatable, and impactful for business success. Snag the book here.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Easy-to-follow financial strategy
• Engaging storytelling
• Perfect for non-finance people

Cinthia interviewed Mike and here’s her blog that has both the video and podcast.

Final Thoughts

Think of these books as your unofficial MBA. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to fine-tune a thriving business, they offer tested frameworks, mindset shifts, and practical strategies. And don’t worry—if one doesn’t click now, revisit it later. Your business journey is always evolving.

Follow Jen and Cynthia on Instagram @MarketingDuoPodcast and share your favorite business reads!

Also, here is the interview that Jen mentioned with  Jessica Stansberry.

DON’T FORGET TO PIN IT!