What I'm Reading this Month - Rocket Fuel

Book Review: Rocket Fuel – Why Every Business Needs a Visionary and an Integrator

(get it here! https://amzn.to/4nR6DUp)

If you've ever felt like you're carrying the entire weight of your business on your shoulders—or like your big ideas never quite translate into action—Rocket Fuel might be the book that changes everything.

Written by Gino Wickman (creator of the Entrepreneurial Operating System, or EOS) and Mark C. Winters, Rocket Fuel lays out a compelling case for why the most successful companies are powered by not one, but two leaders: the Visionary and the Integrator.

The Visionary and the Integrator: A Powerful Duo

According to Wickman and Winters, most entrepreneurs are Visionaries—big-picture thinkers with endless ideas and a passion for growth. But Visionaries often struggle with execution, follow-through, and day-to-day management.

That’s where the Integrator comes in. Integrators are the grounded, detail-oriented counterparts who turn vision into reality. They manage the team, resolve conflicts, and drive accountability.

When paired effectively, this duo creates what the authors call Rocket Fuel—the explosive momentum needed to scale a business.

Key Takeaways

• Self-awareness is critical: Understanding whether you're a Visionary or an Integrator helps you lean into your strengths and identify the right partner to balance you out.

• This isn't just theory: The book is full of real-world examples from companies that took off after finding the right V/I combo.

• Defined roles prevent power struggles: The authors emphasize clear boundaries, responsibilities, and a structure that supports both leaders working in harmony.

• The right match matters: Not every Visionary and Integrator will click. Chemistry and shared values are key to making the partnership work.

Who Should Read This Book?

• Business owners who feel overwhelmed by operations and need a partner to help run the show

• Operations-minded professionals wondering how to add more value in a leadership role

• Anyone using or curious about the EOS system

• Founders planning for growth or succession

Final Thoughts

Rocket Fuel is more than just a leadership book—it’s a roadmap to sustainable, scalable business growth. Whether you’re a solo founder realizing you need help, or a team leader looking to support a visionary, this book offers the clarity and structure to make your leadership partnership thrive.

If you’re ready to get out of the weeds and back to growing your business, Rocket Fuel just might be the spark you need.