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I review for BookSneeze

Family Leadership Book Review

"I'll Make You an Offer you Can't Refuse"
Michael Franzese


If you want to improve your leadership skills, there's quite a lot to learn from a former mob boss. This book was originally written as a book of business tips but I reviewed it anyway because it has quite a lot to say about leading a “family” as well (pun intended). In my opinion, it's a must read.


Michael Franzese was at one time listed in the top 5 biggest mob bosses in the country by Forbes magazine so I’m guessing the fact that he’s selling a book and not buried in concrete means he knows what he’s talking about.

The obvious question?

What possible similarities can there be in running the mob, and leading a family?

The not so obvious answer?

To be effective, a leader must possess certain qualities and adhere to certain philosophies that increase the odds of success in any “family “.

Some examples from the book –

  • Parenting -- Emotional connection will often get more cooperation long-term than a lead pipe beating.

  • Wealth -- If you’re up and working at the “crack of dawn” you’ll never get shot in your pajamas!

  • Relationships -- Find a fair and impartial consigliore (adviser) not someone who will flatter you just to get ahead.

  • Leadership Style -- Operating your “family” under “the end justifies the means” philosophy is a double edged sword that can destroy a lifetime of effort in mere minutes.

  • Priorities -- “Look and learn before you leap. Never put your mouth before your brain.”

  • Communication -- How to master the “art of the sit-down” (I’ve used these tips for some awesome conversations with my teenager!)

  • Thinking -- Analyzed failure can sometimes be the best guarantee of future success.


You gonna earn the right to lead by being a sucker and not reading this book? Fuggedaboutit!

It shouldn't take a horse's head to convince you....Get the book!

Watcha Thinkin ?



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551630: I"ll Make You an Offer You Can"t Refuse: Insider Business Tips from a Former Mob BossI'll Make You an Offer You Can't Refuse: Insider Business Tips from a Former Mob Boss
By Michael Franzese / Thomas Nelson

What does a former mob boss know about conducting legitimate business? Franzese reveals how he made millions and shows you how to do the same---legally! Learn how to "whack" behaviors that keep you from achieving your goals. Understand that "ya gotta have a crew." And be sure to "cook" the pasta, not the books. 224 pages, hardcover from Nelson.


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