How Far Do You Want to Go?: Lessons from a Common-Sense Billionaire

Billionaire entrepreneur John Catsimatidis, owner and CEO of the Red Apple Group, reveals how his instincts and common sense have propelled him to massive business success in this detailed account of an incredible rags-to-riches story.

Born on the small Greek island of Nisyros, John Catsimatidis immigrated to the States with his family and quickly became a true New Yorker, raised in Harlem. He went to school by day and worked in a small grocery store by night to help his parents pay the bills until, just eight credits short of graduating from New York University, he opted to work in the grocery business full-time.

Today, that grocery business has become the Red Apple Group, a conglomerate with interests in energy, real estate, aviation, baseball, entertainment, and media, including the iconic radio station WABC, where John hosts leading figures in government, politics, business, and economics.

As Catsimatidis has discovered, the American Dream doesn't come with an instruction manual-or even a sign to let you know when you've arrived at the finish line. How Far Do You Want to Go? tells Catsimatidis's dynamic story, from his beginnings in the grocery business to entering the political arena, including a New York City mayoral campaign. He's tried his hand at nearly everything, but he's far from finished with his adventures. Now, he offers readers a glimpse into the wisdom he's gained-and the excitement he has for what the future holds in store.

Readers Top Reviews

Nick Katsoris

An incredibly inspiring story of a man who worked his way up the ladder of success one step at a time. John's story gives hope to everyone who wants to follow the American Dream. A must read for anyone striving for success!

yut

John story is a compelling journey of an immigrant child who uses his witt knowledge and perseverance to succeed. His humble beginnings are a catalyst and inspiration for all to follow. The lessons to be learned are there for al to benefit from. It is a very heartwarming and rewarding read. Congratulations!

Jolly Traveler

Couldn’t put this book down. Turns out to be my favorite autobiography of all time, and I read a lot of them. The life story of humble beginnings to soaring with business eagles will give you chills. Extremely well written and moves along nicely. It’s a nice walk down memory lane through the flashpoints of New York life from an immigrant’s rags to riches perspective. Very personal as well as instructive from a business principles point of view. You will learn a lot, laugh a bit and maybe even get choked up. Five stars all the way for this billionaire’s autobiography!

Robert Morris

I knew nothing about John Catsimatidis until I read this book. He explains how far he has traveled in several different directions (business, community service, politics, and philanthropy) and in each instance acknowledges the importance of countless other people to the successes achieved thus far. Long ago, Casey Stengel observed, "it ain't bragging if you've done it." At least some of those who read this book will become weary of the relentless self-references, most of which are complimentary...and could be viewed as self-flattery. I have no reason to doubt the truth of Catsimatidis' claims. The so-called "bottom line" is that he has lived an interesting life thus far, associated with hundreds of celebrities, achieved varying degrees of success (both personal and professional), and offers not only vicarious inclusion to his reader but also several quite sensible rules or lessons he has learned from both success and failure. Presumably Catsimatidis agrees with the African proverb. My guess (only a guess) is that he recommends both going fast to achieve short-term goals (when that is necessary) and using what is learned from those developments to achieve long-term goals in collaboration with others. Pogo the possum once announced, "We have met the enemy and he is us." I agree that most wounds are self-inflicted. Henry Ford offers a less dramatic observation: "Whether you think you can or think you can't, you're probably right." John Catsimatidis asks a question that only his reader can answer. He also offers an example that some people need to overcome their self-doubts. He wrote the book for them.

Easy to read, educational and inspirational! I read the entire book in one day. It inspired me to be successful and kind.