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Mark Haertzen's New Book: 'Stay Thirsty'

In a bold exploration of entrepreneurship, Old Stone Press has just released Stay Thirsty: A Serial Entrepreneur's Tale of Success & Failure by Mark Haertzen. This memoir offers a deep dive into the complexities and challenges of building and sustaining businesses over a remarkable six-decade career. Haertzen shares a highly personal narrative, encouraging readers to embrace risks, navigate uncertainties, and start their own ventures.

A Journey Through 'Stay Thirsty'

The memoir centers on one of Haertzen's crowning achievements—Rocket Man, a beverage dispensing company that began from humble garage beginnings and grew into a global powerhouse, distributing its equipment across 65 countries. With insights into its operation, the book also touches on the brand’s foray into major sporting events with walking vendors, significantly impacting occasions like the Kentucky Derby, Super Bowl, and even concerts featuring legends like the Rolling Stones.

However, Haertzen does not solely focus on triumphs; he brings a refreshing sense of honesty as he recounts failures, setbacks, and the personal hurdles he faced along the way. His evolution from an instinct-driven founder to an analytical business strategist unfolds as a narrative that many aspiring entrepreneurs can learn from.

A highlighted feature of the book is Rocket Wisdom—practical lessons gleaned from Haertzen's extensive experience as an entrepreneur. For example, one enlightening takeaway states, "Nothing Sprouts From the Ground Fully Grown," emphasizing the values of patience and gradual progress essential for any successful venture.

Early Praise and Reviews

The book is already generating positive buzz among readers and critics alike. Reviewers from various platforms describe it as an "engaging" and "candid memoir." Kirkus Reviews characterized it as capturing the thrill and toll of entrepreneurial life, while Foreword Reviews praised it as a thoughtful reflection on risk and resilience. As a recent winner of the 2026 Independent Press Award in Autobiography, it validates the significant contributions Haertzen has made in his field.

Emphasizing Collaboration

Moreover, the memoir underscores the supportive network behind any entrepreneur—mentors, partners, friends, and family—highlighting that success often relies on collaborative efforts. Haertzen’s own background as a lifelong entrepreneur from La Grange, Kentucky, illustrates this community approach, having launched over 50 ventures across various industries ranging from technology to food service.

About Mark Haertzen

Mark Haertzen is a seasoned entrepreneur with a vibrant history of innovation and business development. Beyond Rocket Man, his notable projects include a drive-thru coffee chain, a real estate brokerage, and even a board game. His commitment to growth and learning is evident, and when he isn’t busy crafting new ideas, he enjoys leisure activities like poker, boating, and family time at the beach with his wife, Debbie, and their sons.

This memoir is more than a story; it's a clarion call for those hesitant to leap into entrepreneurial waters to overcome their fears and begin penning their own stories. What emerges is an inspiring testament to the power of resilience and determination in the world of business.

Book Details

• - Title: Stay Thirsty: A Serial Entrepreneur's Tale of Success & Failure
• - Author: Mark Haertzen
• - Publisher: Old Stone Press
• - Publication Date: March 24, 2026
• - Format: Paperback and eBook
• - Price: $39.95 (paperback), $16.99 (eBook)

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your business journey, Stay Thirsty promises insights that will resonate through any entrepreneurial journey.