I Shamelessly Gave Sam Parr a Copy of My Book

Welcome to the Dave vs. Startups.

Let me paint the scene:

I’m standing there, book in hand, talking to Sam Parr — founder of The Hustle, host of the My First Million podcast, founder of Hampton, and a guy whose radar is probably pinging 24/7 with pitches, DMs, and unsolicited crypto ideas.

But here’s what happened next…

I just walked up and gave him my book. 👇

Sam has the same crooked smile as me. What’s that all about?

Did he ask for my book?

Absolutely not.

But I gave it to him anyway.

Why?

Because nobody’s going to create opportunities for you.

Not your cofounder. Not your mom. Not even the algorithm.

Whether you’re building a company, launching a product, or trying to get your ideas into the hands of people you admire, you’ve got to be the one who makes it happen.

That means:

• Sending the cold email.

• Walking up to the speaker after the event.

• Sliding the book across the table with a smile that says, “Yeah, I know this is a little much, but screw it.”

I call it respectfully shameless.

It’s easy to convince yourself the moment’s not right.

That they’re too busy. That it’ll seem desperate.

(And yes, part of me considered tucking the book under a conference chair and casually walking away.)

But the truth is: most people are scared to fail or look bad.

So when you do take a leap, it stands out.

Who knows if Sam will read it?

Maybe he tosses it on a shelf and forgets it exists.

Maybe he flips through and likes it.

The point is: I took the shot.

And if you’re reading this, you probably have one in front of you too.

So here’s your nudge:

Be a little bold this week. Bet on yourself.

Worst case, you end up with a good story.

Best case?

Everything changes.

——————

“Fractional post-exit founders can apparently double their salary”

Tune into the Startup Different Podcast and see how you can DOUBLE your income as a fractional

Thanks for reading!
Dave