“Michael Pilla is a beacon of wisdom and a treasure trove of
practical insights for every budding entrepreneur.

This book is not just a guide; it is a mentor, a friend, and a roadmap to navigating the exhilarating yet challenging path of self-employment. Pilla’s writing style is engaging and humorous, bringing a light-hearted touch to the serious business of starting and running a small business. He shares personal anecdotes, the highs and lows, the trials and triumphs, all with a dose of humor that will keep you entertained while imparting invaluable lessons. Let “You Oughta Be In Business” be your trusted companion in this adventurous journey to self-employment. It’s not just a book; it’s the best colleague you’ll ever have.”
Pia Silva,  Author of Badass Your Brand

Be the CEO of You!

Are you a downsized corporate executive with a golden parachute, seed money, and a ticket to the old boys’ club?  If you are, read no further. But, if you are starting with nothing but a dream, a laptop, and a mild sense of desperation, I wrote this book for you. Full of wit, personal experiences, and real-world advice in dealing with the challenges and absurdities facing today’s budding entrepreneur.

The Info You Need to Succeed!

Passages: The Entrepreneur’s Journey
Managing: The Four Horsemen of Success
Cash Flow: Even when you have none
Branding: Who are you, anyway?
Pricing: The Chico Marx School of invoicing

Coffee Makers: Grinds, pods, or even tea
Chat GPT: It’s like hiring your imaginary friend
Staffing: Putting your pets to work
Zoom Etiquette: Once again, pants/no pants
Networking: Event Kabuki

Rave Reviews for YOBIB

FROM THE FORWARD: “This is the book entrepreneurs need to read. It is a humorous textbook for grownups written from Michael’s own experiences – both his successes and his failures.

Mr. Pilla walks the aspiring small business owner through various levels of starting and running a business, from employee to the CEO of you and everything in between —and beyond).”
Michael Nicloy, Head of Publishing
Reji Laberje Publishing

A “Humorous Guide” indeed!
Mike’s a High School classmate of mine, he writes in the sound of his voice, a seasoned, practical, hard-working New Yorker. The book offers something for everyone, whether you are thinking of starting your own business or just curious about what it takes. I was thinking that if he were to re-write this with some made-up characters, it could be a best-selling novel. You’ll enjoy this, and I am proud to say I knew Mike when, and I’m betting he’s still that friendly, helpful guy. — MC.

A “must read” for business owners!
“I’ve been waiting for this book! It’s a road map through the starts, detours, and joys of being an entrepreneur. It’s packed with creative ideas, tips, and examples, and filled with humor and wisdom based on real-world experiences.” — ES.

Honesty in this little gem!
“Great book for any business person with a sense of humor. Mr. Pilla is very frank about what it takes to start a business. I plan to use his book in my senior class because many of my students want to be entrepreneurs. Good job!” — RR.

I never thought I’d wet myself laughing at a business book!
“Shining a bright light on the reality of starting your own business and being your own CEO was never explained as clearly as Mr. Pilla explains it. I highly recommend this Book!” — JG.