Know What Matters: Lessons from a Lifetime of Transformations

Ron Shaich, the founder and former CEO of Panera Bread, unfolds his journey in 'Know What Matters', where he shares key insights gleaned from a lifetime of meaningful transformations. This Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestseller captures Shaich's role as a visionary in the creation of three iconic restaurant brands: Au Bon Pain, Panera Bread, and Cava.

Shaich's entrepreneurial spirit and insight led to the development of the 'fast casual' segment, now valued over $100 billion. The book details his journey from a modest 400-square-foot cookie store to an empire of 2,400 restaurants generating $5 billion in revenue. His business acumen is evident in delivering 25 percent annual investor returns over two decades, surpassing industry giants like Starbucks and Chipotle.

The book is more than a business memoir. It's a deep dive into the essentials of entrepreneurship, the dynamics of running large enterprises, and the complexities of business transformation. Shaich's narrative is grounded in practicality, philosophy, and challenging truths, offering insights for every stage of a business lifecycle—from starting up to going public and beyond.

But 'Know What Matters' transcends business lessons. Shaich urges readers to consider the broader impact of their work on life and society. He shares his personal struggles and setbacks with the same openness as his successes, advocating for truth, understanding what matters, and committing to action as the pathway to a meaningful life and a successful business.

With lessons ranging from making smart bets to conducting annual pre-mortems, and insights like "You don't own the business, the business owns you," Shaich's book is a compelling guide for anyone aspiring to create transformative businesses, lead a respected life, and leave a positive mark on the world.