How this all started
The idea didn't come from a business planning book. It came from a simple mistake.
In 2019, one of us left their phone at home by accident. A long week abroad without any connectivity. Instead of scrolling, he read three books he had been meaning to read for two years.
When he came home, something had changed. His mind was clearer. Decisions were easier. And a creative spark had returned.
The pattern that began to emerge
We started talking to other entrepreneurs. Over and over again, we found the same pattern: people who were successful but exhausted. In their work. In their minds.
There was no shortage of information. There were feeds. Podcasts. Videos. Newsletters. But they felt like something was missing.
We started recommending books. Specific books that were deep, took time, and asked you to stop and think. The feedback came back: "This is what I was missing."
Why isn't everyone doing this?
The answer is simple: it's easier not to. A quick podcast is easier than a 300-page book. A ten-minute video is easier than deep critical thinking.
But "easier" doesn't mean better. The easy way gives you information. The harder way gives you understanding.
What makes us unique?
We don't sell books. We aren't a publishing house. We aren't a book club.
We do something a bit different. We map your learning path based on your specific situation. If you're running a client-service business, there's a distinct path for you. If you're building a product, there's another.
We also pay attention to how you learn best. Some people are great listeners. Others read and take notes. Some need group discussions.
We don't push one style on everyone. We respond to the individual in front of us.
Who is behind this?
A small team: experienced entrepreneurs, educators, and avid readers. We aren't book critics. We're more like trail guides – we help you choose the right path based on where you're heading.
We don't recommend the bestseller of the week or whatever is trending. We recommend the book that fits you right now, at this stage of your business journey.
"I thought I was reading a lot. But I was reading whatever other people recommended. After working with mesa-plover, I'm reading with purpose. And the difference is incredible."
— Pádraig, digital services manager, Cork
Is this for everyone?
Honestly, no. If you're looking for a single recommended book or a quick list, we aren't the right place. There are plenty of online sites that do that for free.
But if you're serious about long-term professional development, if you understand that true understanding takes time and effort, and if you're willing to invest in yourself – then maybe there's something here for you.
We don't claim reading is the only way to grow. But we strongly believe it's an undervalued approach right now.