In this episode of the Munn Avenue Muse podcast, Charlie Levin welcomes Pat Alacqua, a renowned business growth strategist, author, and founder of the Entrepreneur to Enterprise program. While rooted in the business world, Pat shares valuable insights applicable to authors navigating their own creative and professional journeys.
Pat discusses his background, starting with a concrete business out of high school and moving into trade shows, a sports academy, and eventually coaching and guiding other leaders. This journey instilled in him the importance of mentorship and learning from others who have been there before. He explains that his decision to write his book, Obstacles to Opportunities, stemmed from years of facing challenges in his own businesses and a desire to pass along the lessons he learned, often the hard way through late nights, high-pressure decisions, and trial and error.
Getting Started
A core concept Pat explores, highly relevant to authors, is how to pivot and turn obstacles into opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of just getting started rather than waiting for the perfect idea or moment, and then learning to pivot once in motion, allowing the real path to reveal itself. This connects to the idea that real progress happens by focusing on what's next. Like Colin Powell's 40-70 rule discussed in the conversation, it's often better to move forward with partial confidence than wait until it's too late.
Pat highlights the power of storytelling in making messages stick. He chose to include stories from multiple entrepreneurs in his book because they resonate with readers and meet them where they are. Learning from the mistakes and journeys of others is crucial, as the "wise person learns from other people's mistakes". He shares an example of how insights from Maurice Mascarenas helped him navigate the transition from an entrepreneur to a more professionally managed firm.
Embracing Complexity
Pat and the host discuss the concept of embracing complexity. While we often strive for simplicity, Pat argues that you have to "get complex to get simple". Tackling the details and upfront challenges allows for later clarity, making communication and action easier. This ability to handle complexity is where expertise adds value, much like how Munn Avenue Press helps authors navigate the complex publishing process.
Authors can learn more about Pat's work and connect with him via his website, PatAlacqua.com. He also enjoys connecting with people on LinkedIn. Obstacles to Opportunities is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and can be ordered through local bookstores.
This episode offers valuable perspectives for authors on tackling challenges in their writing and publishing journey, the effectiveness of storytelling, the necessity of pivoting, and the benefits of seeking guidance.
If you would like the book you’re writing (or just dreaming about) to be a Best of 2025, let the MunnAvenuePress.com team help make your dream a reality.
Happy Writing! Charlie Levin, Publisher & Founder
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