Recommended Reading

Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi

Though written for a business audience, Ferrazzi's tips for using your social network to accomplish your goals (and help others accomplish theirs) is even more valuable to those of us outside of the business world. His advice for thinking of "networking" in terms of generosity, helping friends connect with other friends and genuine relationship-building is refreshing and valuable.

This is the definitive get-organized book. I think it's required by law that every stay-at-home mom read this, so you might as well get a copy if you don't already have one. Her advice to put on your shoes, wear makeup, stand tall, get into a routine and take control of your life is a true Suburban CEO mindset. Through her program, even the most disorganized procrastinators can have a spotless home in no time at all.

I've read tons of books on parenting and this one is by far my favorite. It's the perfect read for any aspiring Suburban CEO. Dr. Ray Guarendi doesn't think there's any one right or wrong way to parent, but rather encourages parents to figure out the rules and discipline techniques that best fit their family and then confidently follow through. This is ultimately a leadership book for parents, and his insights will help you to be a more calm and confident parent.

Suze Orman offers a fresh perspective on money management -- in addition to great advice on investments, debt, insurance, and retirement planning, she encourages readers to think about the psychological factors that impact their financial decisions. Her explanations of the nuts and bolts combined with the reminder that we are worth far more than our money is makes this the perfect read for any household finance manager.

This isn't a how-to budgeting book, but it is a fascinating look into why it's so hard to get by on one income these days (you'll never look at credit card and mortgage companies the same way again!), and why it's dangerous to depend on two incomes to live. It was originally recommended to me by friends who are bankruptcy attorneys. They said if everyone read this book they'd be out of business.