Chapter 1: "A Million Dollar Mistake"
In the first chapter of The Billionaire Who Wasn't, author Conor O'Clery introduces the reader to the main character of the book, Chuck Feeney. Feeney is a self-made billionaire who amassed his wealth through the duty-free shopping empire, Duty Free Shoppers (DFS). O'Clery paints a picture of Feeney as a humble, driven, and unassuming man who values philanthropy and giving back to the community above personal wealth and success.
One real example of Feeney's philanthropic mindset can be seen in his mistake of giving away a million dollars without realizing it. During a business meeting in Hong Kong, Feeney noticed a young worker who had a big blister on his lip from biting it due to stress. Feeling sympathetic, Feeney handed the man a packet of vitamin C tablets, not realizing that they were worth a million dollars. Feeney's instinct to help someone in need, even at the cost of a large sum of money, demonstrates his strong sense of empathy and desire to make a positive impact on those around him.
Chapter 2: "A Merchant's Apprentice"
In this chapter, O'Clery delves into Feeney's childhood and the early entrepreneurial spirit that would eventually lead him to become a billionaire. Feeney was born into a working-class Irish-American family in New Jersey and learned important business principles from his father, who owned a small insurance agency. Feeney also worked at a local raspberry farm and honed his sales skills by taking a door-to-door route in the summer.
An example of Feeney's early business acumen can be seen in his decision to supplement his income by selling Christmas cards and wrapping paper door-to-door. He bought the supplies at wholesale prices and sold them at a markup, making a tidy profit. This early experience taught Feeney the value of buying low and selling high, a lesson that would serve him well in his future business ventures.
Chapter 3: "The Great Escape"
In this chapter, O'Clery delves into Feeney's college years at Cornell University and his time in the Air Force during the Korean War. Feeney used his air force training to become an electronic and mechanical repairman, skills that he would later use in his business ventures. After completing his military service, Feeney returned to Cornell and became involved in the Newman Club, a Catholic student organization.
One real example of Feeney's character can be seen in his efforts to help financially struggling students in the Newman Club. He raised funds by fixing and reselling radios and giving private tutelage, all while studying full-time and working part-time jobs. Feeney's determination to help others, even while juggling his own responsibilities, showcases his strong commitment to service and contributing to the greater good.
Chapter 4: "One Two Buckle My Shoe"
In this chapter, O'Clery chronicles Feeney's first foray into business ownership with his friend Robert Warren Miller. Together, they opened a Shakespeare Bookshop in San Francisco, which they later expanded into a chain of five stores. Feeney and Miller's approaches to business were polar opposites, with Feeney focusing on customer service and Miller on financial returns.
A clear example of Feeney's customer-centric approach can be seen in his decision to stock a large selection of rare, out-of-print books to satisfy the demands of serious book enthusiasts. Though this was not the most profitable move, Feeney prioritized the satisfaction of his customers, setting a precedent for his future business ventures to prioritize customer satisfaction over personal gain.
In the first four chapters of The Billionaire Who Wasn't, the reader is introduced to Feeney's character and values through real-life examples. Feeney's selflessness, empathy, determination, and customer-centric mindset are evident throughout his early life and business ventures, setting the stage for the major success and impact he would have in the world of business and philanthropy.
