Let My People Go Surfing

In 'Let My People Go Surfing', Yvon Chouinard, the founder of Patagonia, takes us on a captivating journey through his life as an unconventional entrepreneur and environmentalist. He shares his philosophy of running a business that prioritizes environmental responsibility and the well-being of employees. With a mix of thrilling adventure tales and insights into ethical business practices, Chouinard challenges us to rethink our values in the face of consumerism. This book is not just a memoir; it's a rallying cry for anyone seeking to align their work with their passion for the planet. Discover how the love of surfing shaped a revolutionary approach to business and life.

By Yvon Chouinard

Published: 2016

"The best business is the one that sets its own rules, embracing the freedom of adventure and creativity while respecting the planet and its people."

Let My People Go SurfingBook binding

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

"Wonderful . . . a moving autobiography, the story of a unique business, and a detailed blueprint for hope." —Jared Diamond, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Guns, Germs, and Steel In this 10th anniversary edition, Yvon Chouinard—legendary climber, businessman, environmentalist, and founder of Patagonia, Inc.—shares the persistence and courage that have gone into being head of one of the most respected and environmentally responsible companies on earth. From his youth as the son of a French Canadian handyman to the thrilling, ambitious climbing expeditions that inspired his innovative designs for the sport's equipment, Let My People Go Surfing is the story of a man who brought doing good and having grand adventures into the heart of his business life-a book that will deeply affect entrepreneurs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Mike & Casey Show Logo

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from Let My People Go Surfing

About the Author

Y

Yvon Chouinard

Yvon Chouinard is an influential American rock climber, environmentalist, and founder of the outdoor clothing company Patagonia. Known for his commitment to protecting the natural environment, Chouinard's notable works include 'Let My People Go Surfing,' a manifesto that blends philosophy with practical insights on business and sustainability. His writing style is direct and passionate, often reflecting his experiences in both climbing and corporate responsibility. Through his books and initiatives, he advocates for responsible consumerism and environmental stewardship.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Yvon Chouinard
Published
September 2016
Publisher
Penguin
ISBN
0143109677
Language
English
Pages
274
Genres
BiographyBusiness and EconomicsEntrepreneurshipEnvironmental Politics

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

Made in AmericaBook binding

Made in America

Claude S. Fischer

Shoe DogBook binding

Shoe Dog

Phil Knight

All Joy and No FunBook binding

All Joy and No Fun

Jennifer Senior

The Third ChimpanzeeBook binding

The Third Chimpanzee

Jared Diamond

7 PowersBook binding

7 Powers

Hamilton Helmer

Company of OneBook binding

Company of One

Paul Jarvis

No Gods, No MastersBook binding

No Gods, No Masters

Daniel Gu�rin

Animal FarmBook binding

Animal Farm

George Orwell

Stress Less, Accomplish MoreBook binding

Stress Less, Accomplish More

Emily Fletcher

Innovation and EntrepreneurshipBook binding

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Peter F. Drucker

The Autobiography of Malcolm XBook binding

The Autobiography of Malcolm X

Malcolm X, Alex Haley

The Double HelixBook binding

The Double Helix

James D. Watson

The Government of the Tongue (Classic Reprint)Book binding

The Government of the Tongue (Classic Reprint)

Marcel DuchampBook binding

Marcel Duchamp

Calvin Tomkins, Marcel Duchamp

Alpha GirlsBook binding

Alpha Girls

Julian Guthrie

Nothing to LoseBook binding

Nothing to Lose

Lee Child

Dream BigBook binding

Dream Big

Cristiane Correa

Pagans and ChristiansBook binding

Pagans and Christians

Robin Lane Fox

Before the First Shots Are FiredBook binding

Before the First Shots Are Fired

Tony Zinni, Tony Koltz

Recapturing the Spirit of EnterpriseBook binding

Recapturing the Spirit of Enterprise

George F. Gilder

Beyond EntrepreneurshipBook binding

Beyond Entrepreneurship

James Charles Collins, William C. Lazier

Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised EditionBook binding

Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition

Greg Dean

DanielBook binding

Daniel

Daniel Boulud, Sylvie Bigar, Bill Buford

The Arab MindBook binding

The Arab Mind

Raphael Patai

Why the Electoral College is Bad for AmericaBook binding

Why the Electoral College is Bad for America

George C. Edwards

Dying is EasyBook binding

Dying is Easy

Joe Hill

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Book Collections you might like →

Jordan Hughes's Book Recommendations

Jordan Hughes's Book Recommendations

Jordan Hughes is a celebrated author known for their compelling narratives and richly developed characters. Their debut novel, "Echoes of Tomorrow," won the prestigious Man Booker Prize, marking a significant milestone in contemporary fiction. Hughes's work often explores themes of identity, resilience, and the human condition, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated readership. In addition to their novels, Hughes has contributed thought-provoking essays to major literary journals, further solidifying their influence in the literary world. Their innovative storytelling continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

View Collection
Anu Hariharan's Book Recommendations

Anu Hariharan's Book Recommendations

Anu Hariharan is a distinguished partner at Y Combinator's Continuity Fund, where she has been instrumental in scaling numerous startups into successful enterprises. With a strong background in economics and technology, she has become a respected voice in the venture capital community. Hariharan has also made significant contributions through her writing on startup growth and investment strategies, offering insightful analyses and practical advice to entrepreneurs. Her work is frequently featured in leading business publications, showcasing her expertise in the tech industry. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Hariharan is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the startup ecosystem.

View Collection
David Cancel's Book Recommendations

David Cancel's Book Recommendations

David Cancel is a prominent entrepreneur and author best known for his influential work in the tech and startup communities. As the CEO and co-founder of Drift, a leading conversational marketing platform, he has revolutionized how businesses engage with their customers online. Cancel has also authored insightful books such as "Hypergrowth," which offers valuable strategies for scaling startups rapidly. His contributions extend beyond literature as he frequently shares his expertise through speaking engagements and his popular podcast, "Seeking Wisdom." David Cancel's innovative ideas and practical advice continue to inspire and guide entrepreneurs worldwide.

View Collection
Nat Eliason's Book Recommendations

Nat Eliason's Book Recommendations

Nat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.

View Collection
Jackie Vullinghs's Book Recommendations

Jackie Vullinghs's Book Recommendations

Jackie Vullinghs is a venture capitalist and partner at AirTree Ventures, one of Australia’s leading venture firms, where she focuses on early-stage technology investments. Vullinghs has a background in finance and product management, and she is passionate about helping startups grow and scale. She invests in a wide range of sectors, including fintech, SaaS, and consumer technology. Vullinghs is also a vocal advocate for diversity in tech and venture capital, often speaking about the importance of supporting underrepresented founders. Her work in venture capital has positioned her as a key figure in the Australian startup ecosystem.

View Collection
Elon Musk's Book Recommendations

Elon Musk's Book Recommendations

Elon Musk is an influential entrepreneur and innovator known for founding and leading several groundbreaking companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company. He has played a pivotal role in advancing electric vehicles, space exploration, and renewable energy. Musk's vision extends to colonizing Mars and reducing the risk of human extinction through space travel. In addition to his technological contributions, he has co-authored the book "Spacex: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality," providing insights into his ambitious projects and vision for the future. Musk's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the trajectory of multiple industries.

View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.

View Collection
Michael Bloomberg's Book Recommendations

Michael Bloomberg's Book Recommendations

Michael Bloomberg is an American businessman, politician, philanthropist, and former mayor of New York City. He is the co-founder and majority owner of Bloomberg L.P., a global financial services, software, and media company. Bloomberg served three terms as mayor of New York, during which he implemented policies to improve public health, reduce crime, and enhance the city’s infrastructure. He is also a major philanthropist, donating billions of dollars to causes related to education, climate change, and public health through his charitable organization, Bloomberg Philanthropies. His leadership in business, government, and philanthropy has made him one of the most influential figures in modern public life.

View Collection
Alfred Lin's Book Recommendations

Alfred Lin's Book Recommendations

Alfred Lin is a venture capitalist and partner at Sequoia Capital, where he focuses on investments in consumer internet, enterprise, and mobile companies. Lin is known for his early investments in companies like Airbnb and DoorDash, helping them grow into major global brands. Before joining Sequoia, Lin was an executive at Zappos, where he worked closely with CEO Tony Hsieh to develop the company’s innovative culture and customer service model. Lin’s expertise in scaling businesses and his strategic vision have made him one of the most respected venture capitalists in Silicon Valley.

View Collection
David Rothschild's Book Recommendations

David Rothschild's Book Recommendations

David Rothschild is an environmental economist and author renowned for his work on climate change and sustainable development. He has authored several influential books and articles that explore innovative economic solutions to global environmental challenges. Rothschild's writings often emphasize the importance of integrating ecological considerations into economic policies. He has been recognized with numerous awards for his contributions to environmental literature and advocacy. Beyond his published works, Rothschild is also a sought-after speaker and consultant, influencing policy and practice worldwide.

View Collection
Maria Sharapova's Book Recommendations

Maria Sharapova's Book Recommendations

Maria Sharapova, a former world-renowned tennis champion, is celebrated not only for her impressive athletic career but also for her contributions to literature. Winning five Grand Slam titles, she captivated audiences worldwide with her skill and determination on the court. Sharapova channeled her experiences into her memoir, "Unstoppable: My Life So Far," offering an intimate look at her journey from a young prodigy to a global icon. The book received praise for its candid and inspiring narrative, showcasing her resilience and insight. Sharapova's literary work has further solidified her legacy as a multifaceted and influential figure beyond sports.

View Collection
Brett Adcock's Book Recommendations

Brett Adcock's Book Recommendations

Brett Adcock is an entrepreneur and co-founder of Archer Aviation, an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) company focused on revolutionizing urban air mobility. Prior to founding Archer, Adcock co-founded Vettery, a talent marketplace that connects companies with job seekers using data-driven matching technology, which was later acquired by the Adecco Group. At Archer, Adcock is working to build the future of transportation with electric aircraft designed for short-distance flights in urban areas. His vision for the future of air travel has made him a key player in the growing eVTOL and aviation technology industries.

View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.

View Collection

The best business is the one that sets its own rules, embracing the freedom of adventure and creativity while respecting the planet and its people.

Let My People Go Surfing

By Yvon Chouinard

Frequently Asked Questions