About the Book

Cover of "Time to Get Tough" by Michael Coles


Michael Coles explores his experiences in business, sports, and politics in an autobiography co-written with historian Catherine M. Lewis. From cross-country cycling records to a bid for U.S. Congress, Time to Get Tough: How Cookies, Coffee, and a Crash Led to Success in Business in Life is an anecdotal journey through the failures and successes that led Coles to founding a $100-million company and becoming the namesake of the business school at Georgia’s third largest university. The new title is available in hardbound and digital formats through University of Georgia Press in October 2018.

“Coles’ story captures the powerful impact that flows from curiosity, continuous learning and renewal, and always being open to new ideas and the next challenge,” notes John Rice, CEO, GE Global Growth. Ben Chestnut, cofounder and CEO of Mailchimp, adds, “Entrepreneurs need more stories about grit and perseverance, taking risks, and facing failure. If you’re even thinking about starting a business, you should read this book.”

Authors Michael Coles and Catherine Lewis wrote Time to Get Tough with a goal to provide inspiration and guidance to diverse audiences through ten key lessons and an epilogue. “We hope this book offers practical and unconventional lessons for anyone facing a daunting challenge, whether it’s starting a business, going back to school, or facing a major illness,” notes Catherine Lewis, assistant vice president and history professor at Kennesaw State University.

Time to Get Tough is available through major book retailers.

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