Of the many emails I receive daily, this one got my attention:
“My name is Ben Fox, and I am a serial entrepreneur who loves to read. I am a long-time entrepreneur who loves to take ideas and turn them into reality. Combining this with my love of reading is pure joy. I have so many ideas on how to help readers find books in new and unique ways, and I can’t wait to share them over the coming years. Plus, I get the pleasure of meeting amazing authors and helping them achieve their dreams.”
His love of books and creative ideas on how to improve the online browsing experience motivated him to start Shepherd, where the motto is “discover the best books.”
Ben shared, “I started Shepherd because browsing books online is boring. I love wandering through bookstores and seeing where my curiosity leads me, so I tried to reimagine this but for an online world.
I’ve started by asking authors to share 5 of their favorite books around a topic, theme, or mood. And then, we connect those books and book lists around topics (genres are coming soon). So, a reader interested in creating a better customer experience at their business can browse that topic and keep following their curiosity as they read and discover what books authors love. Maybe they end up on our planning bookshelf or on a list from an author and business owner on how to improve your customer service team.
My goal is to introduce a bit more fun and serendipity in finding your next book. While also providing some amazing curation from authors and experts.”
His value proposition is simple:
For Readers – To reimagine book discovery online with more serendipity and delight.
For Authors – To help authors meet more readers. Authors illuminate our world, take us on faraway journeys, and entertain us. There is a growing trend that authors have to become their own marketing team. That concerns me because it is very difficult to do. I want to make this easier.
I’ve been impressed with Ben and Shepherd, enough so that I wanted to share his business with you. If you love books and reading, and want a better online reading experience, check out Shepherd.
Mark Sanborn is motivational keynote speaker and Leadership Expert in Residence at High Point University, the Premier Life Skills University. His presentations help the best leaders get better and inspire everyone to pursue their potential. For more information about his work, visit www.marksanborn.com.
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