REVIEW of "The Drive to Freedom" by JT Hustlez

Score: 86/100

The title “The Drive to Freedom” is actually a very clever pun in the context of the book. “Drive” can be seen as an emotional or symbolic “drive” (or force of will) or it can be seen as the literal or physical act of driving a vehicle as a courier. Being a successful independent courier (often abbreviated as IC) is the main subject of the book. Indeed, it can be very specific to this niche business. However, many of the lessons, such as building a brand and constructing a team, are applicable to any new business.

There are some moments of gold in this rather short but surprisingly thorough book. On the topic of “drive” (force of will), Hustlez encourages the reader to hold onto their reason for starting their own business, saying that his reason is on the cover (his daughter, Maya). That’s an absolutely beautiful statement that hits the reader in the heart. Indeed, owning your own business can mean freedom from the 9-5 gerbil wheel that most employees are stuck in. Still, Hustlez is quick to remind the reader that starting and running a business is not easy. It can be very complicated, especially once it begins involving multiple employees, clients, and contracts. One of the most impressive sections is when Hustlez discusses the very real dilemmas of selecting a fleet manager or supervisor. Many of us are familiar with the feeling of seeing a former co-worker–a former equal–becoming our new supervisor. Some feel resentment and stop being as productive or motivated. Sometimes, the former co-worker lets the newfound power get to their head, or they begin favoring friends. It’s interesting to read Hustlez talk about these social/workplace considerations in such detail.

Another very detailed section that could literally save lives or at least make life easier is when the author talks about selecting your courier vehicle. Some of the tips such as listening to the sounds that the vehicle makes during the test drive or looking under the vehicle for rust are very valuable.

JT Hustlez tells us that the biggest trees were once seeds. He encourages the aspiring entrepreneur to be patient and mindful. Another great part is when he talks about branding and reputation. He puts across that you shouldn’t have to introduce yourself to every new client, they should be able to look at your shirt and see your logo and business name. Wow! It’s something so simple, but I’m sure it gets overlooked.

Something else that I love about the book is the author’s sense of humor, sarcasm, and conversational tone. It reads like we’re in the same room! He frequently states that the book is non-refundable and because of that you might as well read it. I recommend this book to anyone interested in starting a business.


Check out "The Drive to Freedom" on Amazon!