In a World Full of Dream Killers, I’m Fighting for 500,000 Kids to Believe Again
This school year alone, my goal is 25,000 autographed books, 32 schools, and 2 visits a week. I’m inviting you to join me.
When I was 17 years old, my high school business teacher looked me in the eye and told me that becoming a CEO was unrealistic.
That one sentence could have crushed me.
But instead, I turned it into fuel.
Being a CEO has been my dream since I was 10 years old — when John Sortino, the founder of Vermont Teddy Bear, taught me what a CEO does. I’ve even interviewed him on my podcast (watch here).
I wasn’t just going to prove my teacher wrong — I was going to prove 10-year-old me right.
Turning an Insult into Impact
In the weeks after that conversation, my dad and I co-wrote I Am a CEO. Realistic CEO., a motivational children’s book that teaches kids how to believe in themselves, make a plan, and take action — no matter what anyone tells them.
Since then, I’ve:
Distributed over 5,000 autographed copies thanks to 7 Community Reinvestment Partners.
Launched the Realistic CEO Podcast, interviewing 75+ CEOs and leaders across industries.
Founded the Realistic CEO Podcast Magazine to keep the conversation going year-round.
Co-founded Realistic Lemonade, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with my dad, to expand the work.
Become a two-time CEO at 19 — leading both Realistic CEO and Realistic Lemonade.
Delivered 25+ speaking engagements at schools and events
Was named to Junior Achievement’s 18 Under 18 list
Was featured by NEPM – See Coverage
The Mission: 500,000 Books in 5 Years
Our big, audacious goal is to distribute 500,000 autographed copies of I Am a CEO. Realistic CEO. in the next five years, focusing on book deserts and low-to-moderate income communities — the places where belief, opportunity, and mentorship are needed most.
This school year’s target: 25,000 books, 32 schools, and two school visits per week. Schools and organizations can request me here.
Why the Read-Aloud Program Works
Through our Read-Aloud Program, I visit schools and youth programs to share my story, read the book aloud, and lead motivational Q&A sessions. Every student leaves with their own autographed copy and a message they won’t forget:
“Your dreams are possible — and you have the power to make them real.”
These moments don’t just inspire — they change how kids see themselves and their future.
Dream killers, meet your worst enemy: a generation that believes.
This is where you come in. Because belief is contagious — but only if it’s shared.
Right now, 32 schools are waiting for us to walk through their doors this year. Our goal? Speak in two schools every week, put 25,000 autographed books into students’ hands, and spark a movement that says no dream is too big.
If you’re a business or organization, you can join us as a Community Reinvestment Partner. Every sponsorship level includes:
Your logo on all sponsored books
Recognition in the Realistic CEO Podcast Magazine
Social media and website recognition
Notifications when books are delivered
And at higher levels — Stand Out Truck® digital billboard ads and in-person acknowledgements during school visits
If you’re an individual, you can make a donation through our 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Realistic Lemonade. Every dollar puts books — and belief — directly into students’ hands.
It’s time to stop telling kids what they can’t do — and start showing them what they can.
“In a world full of dream killers, I’m choosing to be a dream builder.”
I’m inviting you to join me. Not just to fund a book — but to help a student rewrite their future. Together we can show kids that their dreams can come true…with LBW (LBW - Long Lonely Boring Work 🚀 ). Join me on my mission. You can do this as a:
📍 Businesses & Organizations: Become a Community Reinvestment Partner here »
📍 Individuals: Donate here »
Together, we can make sure no student is ever told their dreams are “unrealistic.”
Thanks,
Mikey
CEO, Realistic CEO™
President/CEO Realistic Lemonade