Think Big, Act Small: How America’s Best Performing Companies Keep the Start-up Spirit Alive is a book that explores the strategies and practices of successful companies that have managed to maintain their entrepreneurial spirit despite their growth and success. The author, Jason Jennings, draws on extensive research and interviews with executives from companies such as Starbucks, Southwest Airlines, and The Ritz-Carlton to identify the key factors that contribute to their ongoing success.

The book argues that many companies lose their innovative edge as they grow, becoming bogged down in bureaucracy and stifling creativity. However, the best performing companies are able to maintain their start-up mentality by focusing on their core values, empowering their employees, and staying nimble and adaptable in the face of change.

Jennings provides numerous examples of companies that have successfully implemented these strategies, such as The Container Store, which has a unique approach to employee training and development, and WD-40, which encourages experimentation and risk-taking. He also offers practical advice for leaders who want to foster a start-up culture within their own organizations, such as creating a clear mission and vision, empowering employees to make decisions, and embracing failure as a learning opportunity.

Overall, Think Big, Act Small is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding how successful companies maintain their entrepreneurial spirit and continue to innovate and grow. The book is well-written, engaging, and full of practical insights and examples that can be applied to any organization, regardless of size or industry.