“With TOMS, Blake opened the door to a hybrid of philanthropy and capitalism, matching the values of the business with the values of its consumers. People who buy a pair and give a pair of shoes to those in need are no longer just customers, they’re now stakeholders in something that’s bigger than them. Perhaps it’s time for all of us to do something that matters, to do something that helps us realize our dreams while investing in the dreams of others.”

Brian Solis, Digital Analyst, Author of The End of Business as Usual and Engage!

“The TOMS story has already inspired many, and Start Something That Matters supplements that inspiration with wisdom and practical experience that will help to catalyze the next generation of social entrepreneurs. This exactly the book that my students and I have been waiting for!”

Jim Schorr, Professor of Social Enterprise, Vanderbilt University

“The 2007 South Africa Shoe Drop continues to inspire me, three years later, each and every day.  After returning from the trip, I started a custom cake business called Sweet Catastrophe which gives a portion of the proceeds to children in need in South Africa. It’s because of the Shoe Drop that I found the inspiration and passion to start this business!”

Olivia Lin, Founder of Sweet Catastrophe

“Interning at TOMS inspired me to start my own One for One business, HALF UNITED, which gives school meals to a child in need for every item that we sell. I could have never done this without the love and support that I’ve received from the TOMS family. Thank you!”

Carmin Black, Founder of HALF UNITED

“Blake Mycoskie is one of the world’s genuinely amazing human beings and a brilliant social entrepreneur. Knowing Blake over the years only makes me more thrilled that he would share his journey and insights in this book. If you’re looking to start something that matters, I highly recommend that you walk in Blake’s shoes!”

Erwin Raphael McManus, Founder & Creative Director, McManus Studios

“I love it when an individual and book inspires me to become a better person, entrepreneur and community leader. Thank you Blake for allowing us to enter into your world and to be part of the journey!! A true inspiration which I will share with my entire family and organization”

Ido Leffler, Co-Founder, Chief Carrot Lover, Yes To Inc (Yes To Carrots)

“I had the amazing good fortune to meet Blake, hear his dream, and work with TOMS in their first year of business. I was so inspired by TOMS business model that I sold everything I owned and launched This Shirt Helps, an apparel company that supports worthy causes with every shirt sold. I hope that more people follow Blake’s lead… because together, we can make the world a better place!”

Joe Huff, Director of Positivity, This Shirt Helps

“TOMS opened my eyes to a tool that can make truly incredible local and global impact: One for One. With giving at its core, TOMS allows for the most simplified and relatable story: you buy a pair of shoes, they give a pair of shoes, or in ONEshot’s case, you get vaccinated, and we vaccinate someone else.”

Tyler Eltringham, CEO of ONEshot Global

“All successful entrepreneurs inspire and educate, but few teach you real life lessons in compassion. Blake is that rare entrepreneur, who manages to mix a drive for success with a desire to make the world a better place, all the while making you understand why it’s important and how it’s possible. I’m very proud to be Blake’s friend and a part of this book.”

Courtney Reum, Co-founder of VeeV