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Bottom of the Food Chain: A Fresh Perspective on How Your Career Impact Goes Beyond Your Job Title
It's time we start looking at career success differently.
Perhaps you have heard the idiom,"I'm at the bottom of the food chain." This phrase is often used as reference to a person's lack of power in the workplace or social group. And if you look at power and success in careers, the goal is typically to climb to the top and become a titan of the industry.
But does the top of the food chain hold all the power? Success? Maybe. Maybe not. What if I told you that some of the most powerful people, right now, are at the bottom?
With a nature-based lens focused on careers, the food chain demonstrates the importance of the bottom of the food chain in the workplace. For so long we've missed it.
To understand the power in not being at the top is to understand that you may not have "big wins" and all your career aspirations may not become your reality, but that doesn't mean you are inadequate or that your value is diminished. Low-visibility roles and less visible actions are contributors to success, like anything else. Even the most seemingly minor actions or positions, can contribute to something
greater.
If you are exhausted from the efforts of trying to reach the top and feel like you failed because others around you have succeed in their careers in ways that you only dream of, take a break, and read this book.
I'm not saying it's time to give up on your dreams, but it is time to see yourself for the Power Producer that you are!
Perhaps you have heard the idiom,"I'm at the bottom of the food chain." This phrase is often used as reference to a person's lack of power in the workplace or social group. And if you look at power and success in careers, the goal is typically to climb to the top and become a titan of the industry.
But does the top of the food chain hold all the power? Success? Maybe. Maybe not. What if I told you that some of the most powerful people, right now, are at the bottom?
With a nature-based lens focused on careers, the food chain demonstrates the importance of the bottom of the food chain in the workplace. For so long we've missed it.
To understand the power in not being at the top is to understand that you may not have "big wins" and all your career aspirations may not become your reality, but that doesn't mean you are inadequate or that your value is diminished. Low-visibility roles and less visible actions are contributors to success, like anything else. Even the most seemingly minor actions or positions, can contribute to something
greater.
If you are exhausted from the efforts of trying to reach the top and feel like you failed because others around you have succeed in their careers in ways that you only dream of, take a break, and read this book.
I'm not saying it's time to give up on your dreams, but it is time to see yourself for the Power Producer that you are!
- GenresNonfictionBusiness
142 pages, Paperback
Published September 6, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
March 7, 2023
Seemed to contradict itself quite a bit and I lost interest. I am wanting out of the work force, not in and personally I am aware of the impact I have made.
DNF
Happy Reading!
DNF
Happy Reading!
January 29, 2023
I wasn’t sure what to think when I started reading this book. The desire not to dwell on the times I’ve been at the “bottom of the food chain” was strong as I started to listen. (I was gifted a copy of the audiobook by the author, and this review is entirely voluntary.) But most of us have been on the bottom of the food chain, and thinking about the perspective this book brings to positions in the workplace that are “on the bottom“ ended up surprising me. This book was in turns soothing and nurturing for me, and sometimes even inspiring.
Now, if you do zoom the lens back and take this book in context with the larger problems wrought by a ruthless capitalist economy, you start to wonder if the principles that uplift these bottom-rung workers might feel enabling. That’s what happens when you reduce a position to just what it pays, though. And this book is all about broadening that narrow perspective of worth based on wealth and power.
What I loved about this book was that if you take it as a blueprint for making the most out of a situation that isn’t always the most comfortable, you get practical and real action steps to finding confidence and satisfaction in your workplace. The grim realities of the biological food chain aside, the workplace is one where we modern-day humans spend a large portion of our lives. Learning how to generate respect from others, and most importantly, self-respect in that environment is likely one of the keys to our happiness. We are a species that thrives on periods of productivity and periods of rest. And this book gives us tools to make our time in productivity mode more satisfying, more meaningful, more generative, and more impactful to the people around us. And because we are social creatures, that impact on our peers and colleagues, and even on our supervisors and the very organizational structures that we find ourselves in, can make us feel more invigorated and motivated to perform our role.
And most critically, recognizing this impact and our ability to maximize our impact, can have positive effects on our feelings of self-worth, knowing that we are doing our best.
I found particularly helpful the reflection questions posed at the end of each section. A lot of us can benefit from slowing down and thinking about what’s important for us what our values are, and how we bring value to others in an intentional, self-appreciative way. Whether you’re questioning if a vertical or lateral move is good for you, or you’re simply trying to decide how to maximize your effectiveness and self-satisfaction in the place where you’re currently working, this little book is the equivalent of a morning spent with a good cup of coffee in the quiet sunshine, by a garden of your own tending that has started to produce real seeds of wisdom and fruit. So approach this book as a meditation and enjoy where the journey takes you.
Now, if you do zoom the lens back and take this book in context with the larger problems wrought by a ruthless capitalist economy, you start to wonder if the principles that uplift these bottom-rung workers might feel enabling. That’s what happens when you reduce a position to just what it pays, though. And this book is all about broadening that narrow perspective of worth based on wealth and power.
What I loved about this book was that if you take it as a blueprint for making the most out of a situation that isn’t always the most comfortable, you get practical and real action steps to finding confidence and satisfaction in your workplace. The grim realities of the biological food chain aside, the workplace is one where we modern-day humans spend a large portion of our lives. Learning how to generate respect from others, and most importantly, self-respect in that environment is likely one of the keys to our happiness. We are a species that thrives on periods of productivity and periods of rest. And this book gives us tools to make our time in productivity mode more satisfying, more meaningful, more generative, and more impactful to the people around us. And because we are social creatures, that impact on our peers and colleagues, and even on our supervisors and the very organizational structures that we find ourselves in, can make us feel more invigorated and motivated to perform our role.
And most critically, recognizing this impact and our ability to maximize our impact, can have positive effects on our feelings of self-worth, knowing that we are doing our best.
I found particularly helpful the reflection questions posed at the end of each section. A lot of us can benefit from slowing down and thinking about what’s important for us what our values are, and how we bring value to others in an intentional, self-appreciative way. Whether you’re questioning if a vertical or lateral move is good for you, or you’re simply trying to decide how to maximize your effectiveness and self-satisfaction in the place where you’re currently working, this little book is the equivalent of a morning spent with a good cup of coffee in the quiet sunshine, by a garden of your own tending that has started to produce real seeds of wisdom and fruit. So approach this book as a meditation and enjoy where the journey takes you.
August 11, 2022
Book Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
First, I want to thank Literature and Lattes Marketing for providing me with this beautiful ARC. Second, I want to acknowledge how much important information is covered in this short read.
Bottom of the Food Chain is a nonfiction book focusing on your career. Lapora compares corporate success to the natural food chain we have learned about since middle school. Impactful personal stories are included throughout the book, and scientific examples are also provided. As a reader, I loved exploring the multitude of concepts that Lapora explores.
Lapora describes concepts such as how power producers are reflected in today’s corporate society and how plant ecosystems relate to work goals and achievements.
Lapora includes insightful workbook questions at the end of each chapter for readers to apply what they learn and beautiful illustrations summarizing the topic covered in each chapter.
My favorite thing about Lapora’s writing was her inclusion of an example that didn’t necessarily paint her in the brightest light. Many authors who publish personal development books never really include personal examples of their struggles. They often instead discuss the struggles they have seen others go through. The fact that Lapora included an example of herself showing the reader that she is human just like us greatly is appreciated and made me love the book much more.
You may have noticed that while I loved this book, I didn’t give it 5/5 stars. This is because of some small things in the writing style that I have caught throughout the book that I didn’t entirely agree with. This has nothing to do with the information provided. It is just a stylistic thing as a reader that I struggle with. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about how their career choices can impact corporate America.
Check it out on September 6th at a bookstore near you or pre-order on Amazon today!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
First, I want to thank Literature and Lattes Marketing for providing me with this beautiful ARC. Second, I want to acknowledge how much important information is covered in this short read.
Bottom of the Food Chain is a nonfiction book focusing on your career. Lapora compares corporate success to the natural food chain we have learned about since middle school. Impactful personal stories are included throughout the book, and scientific examples are also provided. As a reader, I loved exploring the multitude of concepts that Lapora explores.
Lapora describes concepts such as how power producers are reflected in today’s corporate society and how plant ecosystems relate to work goals and achievements.
Lapora includes insightful workbook questions at the end of each chapter for readers to apply what they learn and beautiful illustrations summarizing the topic covered in each chapter.
My favorite thing about Lapora’s writing was her inclusion of an example that didn’t necessarily paint her in the brightest light. Many authors who publish personal development books never really include personal examples of their struggles. They often instead discuss the struggles they have seen others go through. The fact that Lapora included an example of herself showing the reader that she is human just like us greatly is appreciated and made me love the book much more.
You may have noticed that while I loved this book, I didn’t give it 5/5 stars. This is because of some small things in the writing style that I have caught throughout the book that I didn’t entirely agree with. This has nothing to do with the information provided. It is just a stylistic thing as a reader that I struggle with. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about how their career choices can impact corporate America.
Check it out on September 6th at a bookstore near you or pre-order on Amazon today!
October 5, 2022
This book is confused. In one paragraph, the author will simultaneously ask that the individual on "the bottom of the food chain" understand and value their self-worth, but also have no expectations to move upward. They write about growth, focus, and contribution, while also telling the reader that they should just be grateful to be part of the work. In many ways, this reads as a propaganda piece to those working in lower level service jobs - saying 'we can't survive without your work, but just be grateful you even get to have work'.
Now, the author does compare the discussion we're having about "bottom of the food chain" jobs with things like stay at home parents and domestic labor - which are undervalued in society. Perhaps this book could be an inspiration to those in positions of high demand work with little reward, But in the end I would argue that instead of a book that tries to make the argument that you just need to value your work more for it to be important to you, why instead don't we inspire a society to value work that is absolutely essential for our functioning?
As the title of the book might suggest, the author spends the entire book comparing our labor market with the food chain of the animal kingdom. It's frankly overdone - and again equates value with a kill or be killed, succeed or fail, type of mindset. Maybe it's time to move beyond it.
Furthermore, the author "cited" studies to back their commentary on job prestige. Where is the full citation? There is no bibliography at the end of the book or footnote with a citation. We just have to take their word that these studies exist and they are accurately portrayed here. Scientists (myself included) don't trust authors that don't cite their sources properly.
In the end, the author understands that people are valuable beyond their place in a workplace hierarchy and that's a truth worth sharing.
Now, the author does compare the discussion we're having about "bottom of the food chain" jobs with things like stay at home parents and domestic labor - which are undervalued in society. Perhaps this book could be an inspiration to those in positions of high demand work with little reward, But in the end I would argue that instead of a book that tries to make the argument that you just need to value your work more for it to be important to you, why instead don't we inspire a society to value work that is absolutely essential for our functioning?
As the title of the book might suggest, the author spends the entire book comparing our labor market with the food chain of the animal kingdom. It's frankly overdone - and again equates value with a kill or be killed, succeed or fail, type of mindset. Maybe it's time to move beyond it.
Furthermore, the author "cited" studies to back their commentary on job prestige. Where is the full citation? There is no bibliography at the end of the book or footnote with a citation. We just have to take their word that these studies exist and they are accurately portrayed here. Scientists (myself included) don't trust authors that don't cite their sources properly.
In the end, the author understands that people are valuable beyond their place in a workplace hierarchy and that's a truth worth sharing.
August 11, 2022
I was generously gifted this book in exchange for an honest review. As others have noted in their reviews, this is a book for those who are in need of a re-evaluation of what it means to be successful in life. This book takes the analogy of plants making up not just the physical bottom of the food chain but also walks you through how they are essential in order for the rest of the food chain to be sustained (in other words, they are the critical foundation). The author continues this analogy throughout the book to demonstrate how those who work at what traditionally are thought of as the bottom of the food chain in a business are actually the foundation for the rest of the company’s success. For sure it is a mood and morale booster for those who need to hear it. The author draws on experiences from their own life and gives plenty of insightful examples and tips for re-thinking and re-defining one’s level of importance and self-worth. As a critique, I found the bottom of the food chain analogy to be a bit redundant throughout the book, but given that the entire book is committed to it, I get it. To wit, this is categorically a self-help book and one that will motivate and inspire any reader who needs to know that they are important, no matter their job title. P.S. I also think that it can’t be overstated that the subtle, soft, actual feel of this book’s cover is so plush and fun to touch!
September 22, 2022
Lapora Lindsey nailed it on the head with this book! As an educator, people are constantly shocked to find out that I currently have no desire of becoming an administrator and would rather be in the classroom with students. Lindsey spoke to how I love the work I do, the value of seeking leadership and opportunities in the role I serve, and appreciating my role and what brings me joy. I find joy in serving my students in the classroom and my fellow colleagues through other leadership roles. In the Bottom of the Food Chain, Lindsey states, “Bringing your value to the workplace is not about checking off accomplishments. Bringing your value is about you, bringing what you have to offer and the development in your journey…. take note that the movement doesn’t require you to move upward to meet your goal, it only requires that you move forward.” This message came to me at the right moment to really embrace where I am and the value that my role brings to my school community. This is a must read for any professional!
July 28, 2022
*Blogger’s Note: I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
“Bottom of the Food Chain” by LaPora Lindsey was the book that I didn’t know I desperately needed! There are hundreds of books written for workers who aim for CEO status leadership roles, but this one is written for the majority of the workforce. This alternate perspective was so refreshing! The author writes in a voice that is comforting, encouraging and often inspiring. Employees will use this self-help book to celebrate their power no matter their position at work. The unique analogy to the food chain is easy to understand and perfectly illustrates the book theme. I am a power producer and I loved the messages found within this new book! This new text is a must read for anyone who feels the stress of being at the bottom of the work food chain.
“Bottom of the Food Chain” by LaPora Lindsey was the book that I didn’t know I desperately needed! There are hundreds of books written for workers who aim for CEO status leadership roles, but this one is written for the majority of the workforce. This alternate perspective was so refreshing! The author writes in a voice that is comforting, encouraging and often inspiring. Employees will use this self-help book to celebrate their power no matter their position at work. The unique analogy to the food chain is easy to understand and perfectly illustrates the book theme. I am a power producer and I loved the messages found within this new book! This new text is a must read for anyone who feels the stress of being at the bottom of the work food chain.
September 3, 2022
Thank you to Literature and Lattes for a gifted copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
There are plenty of self help books on the market for those at the “top of the food chain” - the CEO’s and those in high profile positions. This is the first I’ve seen directed to those on the other end of the spectrum - the administrative assistants, janitors, dish washers, etc. Using simple science terms that we all learned during elementary biology lessons, the author encourages readers to embrace the power they have in their roles since organizations can not function without their supporting roles.
As a business owner myself, this book was a great reminder to look for and encourage the ways my employees continually support our business.
There are plenty of self help books on the market for those at the “top of the food chain” - the CEO’s and those in high profile positions. This is the first I’ve seen directed to those on the other end of the spectrum - the administrative assistants, janitors, dish washers, etc. Using simple science terms that we all learned during elementary biology lessons, the author encourages readers to embrace the power they have in their roles since organizations can not function without their supporting roles.
As a business owner myself, this book was a great reminder to look for and encourage the ways my employees continually support our business.
August 5, 2022
Bottom of the Food Chain by Lapora Lindsey is such a unique perspective on the work force. The majority of people are not the boss or the CEO. To have a book for the working people is much needed and greatly appreciated. My absolute favorite part of this is the reflection pages. Reading then being able to write down how this new way of looking at the work force affected me was truly so helpful and makes this a book that I will come back to time and time again. I am proud to be a power producer!
August 10, 2022
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for a review and I am so grateful to have read it. It offers a new way of looking at success—what success really means—even if you’re not a CEO of a major corporation. Let’s face it, most people aren’t CEOs, so I definitely recommend this book to adults young and old for a confidence boost and new mindset surrounding success. This was much needed for me, as a self-employed photographer to feel like I am having a true impact and not “just” a photographer!
January 4, 2023
LaPora’s physical copy of her book is a quick and effective read on the subject matter. Her audiobook is what I would recommend to the professional on the go. Her voice has a personable tempo that has a callback essence of a call from your favorite coworker telling you the hard days are behind.
While this book may not dive as deep as they may have wanted, (I read a few of the other reviews) I encourage you to wait for the follow up. LaPora has set up a platform to create a network for those learning to use their voice. I look forward to future material. Especially in audio form.
While this book may not dive as deep as they may have wanted, (I read a few of the other reviews) I encourage you to wait for the follow up. LaPora has set up a platform to create a network for those learning to use their voice. I look forward to future material. Especially in audio form.
August 4, 2022
Coming from a spouse who moves a lot due to spouses career field, I’ve had to start at the bottom quite a few times so this book really spoke to me. I would suggest this book to anyone from high school graduate starting their first job to CEO level. The different perspective is a great insight for employees from basement to boardroom to better understand either their importance in the workplace or to better appreciate those who do the little things within your workplace. Also, big fan of the nature/ plant/ animal references.
September 3, 2022
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I did not know what to expect but I was truly shocked to find how much this read would resonate with my lifestyle. I really enjoyed reading it and seeing a different and fresh perspective on the idea of how being successful in our careers have such an impact in our lives. All areas of a job contribute so much.
I really liked the author's take on this and I am so glad I was able to ready it.
I did not know what to expect but I was truly shocked to find how much this read would resonate with my lifestyle. I really enjoyed reading it and seeing a different and fresh perspective on the idea of how being successful in our careers have such an impact in our lives. All areas of a job contribute so much.
I really liked the author's take on this and I am so glad I was able to ready it.
January 29, 2023
LaPora Lindsey offers an encouraging perspective on valuing your self-worth as you navigate your career roles. I especially resonated with the plant metaphors and the examples she shared about how she felt in various positions throughout her career. This is a great motivational resource for anyone in an entry or mid-level position who is reflecting on their current experience or exploring a new one.
September 9, 2022
I am always interested in business and work place books so when Literature and Lattes reached out to me to send me an advance copy of this book, I was thrilled! This was such a unique perspective to explain workplace dynamics as an analogy to the food chain. I wish I had had this book to read 20 years ago when I was starting out in the workplace
September 2, 2022
I loved this book! So encouraging!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews