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No Pain, No Gaines: The Good Stuff Doesn't Come Easy

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A New York Times bestseller! In a world that feels increasingly disconnected, it’s time to reclaim a life of rich, authentic connection—because we are all made better when we trust one another and work together. In his most vulnerable book to date, Chip Gaines opens up about his lifelong pursuit of building relationships with people from all walks of life. Chip emphasizes the importance of seeing people for who they are and not for what they can do for you, enabling you to build a strong community and a life of meaning, joy, and connection. How does it happen? By being intentional about choosing the company you keep. Chip explains the value of seeking out people who are electrified by living according to their purpose, who will stand beside you as you tackle new challenges, and who bet on each other instead of the status quo. The key is being true to yourself, figuring out what you want to do with your life, and finding people who will lift you up along the way. No Pain, No Gaines will open your eyes to valuable lessons, including how to: A good life doesn't always come easy, but that's because the good stuff never does. It requires faith in people. It requires faith in yourself. It requires hope. And it requires a willingness to grow even when it hurts. In No Pain, No Gaines , through hard-won lessons and personal stories all told with his trademark blend of wit and wisdom, Chip Gaines will coach you on how to make your life rich and your relationships run deep.

224 pages, Hardcover

Published March 16, 2021

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About the author

Chip Gaines

10 books1,090 followers
Raised in Dallas, Texas, Chip Gaines is the host of HGTV’s Fixer Upper along with his wife Joanna Gaines. Chip and Joanna are both graduates of Baylor University. They flip, remodel and fix up homes together as owners of Magnolia Homes in Waco, Texas. Chip manages the construction and realty side of Magnolia. Their businesses include a real estate company, construction company, design firm and residential subdivision, Magnolia Villas. Chip and Joanna have five children and live in Waco, Texas.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 266 reviews
Profile Image for Mindy Lou's Book Review.
2,775 reviews716 followers
May 29, 2021
I'm a huge fan of almost every flip show out there on HGTV. I love seeing that transformation in a home and a part of me likes trying out little projects of my own after being inspired by these shows. I'm saying this because it's a big reason why I was curious about this book.

I've probably watched 80% of the Fixer Upper shows and I was genuinely interested to see what Chip Gaines had to talk about in a book. It wasn't what I was expecting and at first I wasn't sure if I would be too interested in learning about networking. However, the more I read, the more I really felt like this was more than just learning to network in a Chip Gaines way.

This actually felt more to me like an inspirational book about following your dreams and to not let your fears hold you back. The message to me was to not stifle myself to the standard way of doing things. To be bold and reach for what I envision, what I am passionate about, but also to be smart about it. To listen to your gut, your instincts but also learn from others even when you have opposing personalities or views. To always be open to learning and growing because things change on a constant basis and you have to be open to those changes or you become stagnate.

It really was very inspiring. I do need reminders in my life to be more open, to be a better listener, but to also take chances. It is so easy to hold yourself back with the doubts that creep into your mind telling you that you will fail. Even as I type this, the fear of opening myself up like that is already hitting. I don't know if after reading this book if I will take more chances and dare to make my dreams become a reality, I hope I can at least make a few small steps in the right direction, but I think if someone out there reading this book does take that chance, Chip has accomplished what he wanted by writing this book.
Profile Image for Nursebookie.
2,375 reviews378 followers
April 19, 2021
This book is about building a network in every sense of the word. A network of people, community, friends and family. It’s also a little bit about the beginnings of Magnolia Network and the courage to close one door to open an even bigger door of opportunities, hopes and dreams.

Part memoir and part self-help, but one hundred percent inspiring and motivating, this book is how a man who didn’t conform to the status quo, and stayed authentic to his true self found success by not following the path of least resistance, instead embracing his uniqueness and passions.

I highly recommend this book! This book would also make for a fantastic gift for the people in your lives looking for inspiration and motivation in order to build a successful life.
128 reviews2 followers
July 12, 2022
I love Chip Gaines and I really enjoyed both of his other books, but honestly this one should have just been an essay or an inspirational Instagram post. It feels like a long rambling of one idea that feels a bit flimsy and stretched thin. It is missing a lot of the character and charm you come to expect (and ironically he uses this book to address this feeling without realizing he’s imposing it on every page). The hashtags and gimmicky blurbs and imposed highlights on sections his editor deemed important were really a degradation of an otherwise mediocre text. I don’t mean to take him to task but in trying to talk about things that make life more wholesome and worthwhile, he only managed to make them feel like a veneer over a money grab and self-congratulatory-pat-yourself-on-the-back opportunity. It didn’t feel substantive and was therefore really hard to get through. It chipped away (pardon the pun) at my impression of someone I deemed really genuine and wonderful.
Profile Image for Claire.
9 reviews
June 10, 2021
In my opinion (not to be taken too seriously): A book of fluff without any concrete advice. Lots of humble bragging.

He tries too hard to be relatable… there’s a part where he compares his celebrity lifestyle to Meghan Markle and how difficult it is to be famous. Kind of difficult to relate to complaining famous millionaires, don’t you think? Parts of this book felt like a celebrity acceptance speech at the Academy Awards. Cry me a river!

Overall, this book was frustrating. I’ve been such a fan of Chip & Joanna but I thought this book was a disappointment after reading Home Body and The Magnolia Story which were both great.
Profile Image for Kimberly Brooks.
504 reviews1 follower
June 27, 2021
It was...fine. Quick and easy to read, but most of his "advice" was pretty obvious and no one can really argue with it. There was nothing particularly "new" or "interesting" here. And a lot of the time, it felt like an ad for their magazine, store, or their new television network (or for how great everyone thinks Chip Gaines is). Which I love all those things, but it got old fast.
And whose idea was it to use only 2 dots for the ellipsis? That bugged me the ENTIRE book. Oh well.. I guess it's not that big of a deal (No!!! See?? It looks like a typo! An ellipsis has 3 or 4 dots, never 2). Ugh
Profile Image for Sharon Huether.
1,573 reviews24 followers
March 29, 2021
Chip Gaines, a husband, father and an entrepreneur.
Chip shares his ideas of networking, not only to get a job done, but to engage others to be a part of a team and all working together for the purpose of getting the job done.

He also uses networking to make friends, which he shares in the book.

Chip did not care for school, but loved to learn and watch for his grandfather J.B.

What I liked about the book; Chip has highlighted important statements through out the book.

I won this free book from Goodreads first reads.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1,568 reviews27 followers
July 19, 2022
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

In No Pain, No Gaines by Chip Gaines, Chip is trying to explain how to find lasting relationships and how to better connect with people. He is striving with this book to open your eyes to the following:

be awake to life, not asleep at the wheelfind the risks worth takingvalue what you bring to the tableresist the status quolook outside yourself and your circle and foster connections with othersget comfortable with being uncomfortably kind

These are not things that are easily accomplished, it takes work.

Part of this book was just OK for me. I found it difficult to connect with what Gaines was trying to say. Was he trying to brag on himself or was he really concerned about the people who would read his book? I can see this book helping the right people, and really, there is something here for everyone. I did learn a lot reading this book, I just kinda skipped over thr parts that wasn’t for me. So yeah, if this is something you have been looking for, hoping for, then I say get this book and read it! And enjoy it!

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

April 10, 2021
I love Chip and Joanna Gaines (how can you not?), but this book has more well-intentioned enthusiasm than Biblical depth. It’s part memoir, part pop-psychology motivational speaking. There’s a lot of “find yourself, be who you were meant to be, follow your passion, be fearless, believe in your power, don’t conform,” etc etc. Some of it aligns with Biblical truth, and some of it doesn’t.

While not everything has to be explicitly “Christian” to be helpful, the problem with books like this is that if you don’t start with the anchor of “God is the one who gets to define who we are and what is best for us,” you run the risk of being tossed everywhere by your own dreams, emotions, biases, and fears. Chip says “The only one who can help you figure out how to live life according to your terms is you.” That is an incredibly toxic message, because I’m not the one who determines the terms of reality, right, and wrong. God is!

The message of the Bible is not “believe in yourself,” it’s “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and he will direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6) I have a feeling the Gaineses agree with this, so it’s sad to see this truth absent from Chip’s latest book.

Even as well-intentioned believers, it’s possible to be deceived by worldly philosophy if we aren’t staying anchored to Christ. This is my prayer for myself, Chip & Joanna, and for everyone who reads this book:

Colossians 2:3-9 (NLT) “In Christ lie hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I am telling you this so no one will deceive you with well-crafted arguments...And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ. For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body.”
Profile Image for Michelle Jarc.
846 reviews
May 17, 2021
I really enjoyed the parts of this book where Chip talked about kindness. Other than that, I felt he was pretty repetitive about hard work and authenticity.
Profile Image for everything is words - Diane.
72 reviews52 followers
April 12, 2021
I’ve read all the Gaines’ books with the first Magnolia Story being my favorite. I wasn’t even going to venture into this one. I thought the name was a little silly and I didn’t care for his first book, but this was in at my library as an audiobook so I snatched it up.

This book would be great for a young person who was struggling to find themselves. Think of someone maybe going into the trades! For me, I was past most of the content but did find so much of it refreshing. I appreciate how Chip talks about his passion to win in life, his strong work ethic, (love who he attributes that to) and was especially endeared to his quest for humility. I think that’s what most of us loved about Fixer Upper, right? They made something so skilled look so easy. They are incredibly talented and smart and you throw in that sense of humor and it’s a personality homerun!

I appreciate people that are lifelong learners - something Chip is proud to be. Being a reader, that really resonated with me. His leadership style is something to be admired, so giving this book to a young leader to read will allow it to be heard in it’s truest voice! Enjoy!
Profile Image for Melanie.
2,102 reviews587 followers
October 17, 2022
Listened to the audiobook format and it was very easy to listen to. I appreciated how the author (as well as his wife and others) read the book. It made it easier to follow and just a better read. I really enjoyed aspects and am glad I read it.
Profile Image for Kerry.
429 reviews7 followers
April 6, 2021
I just love Chip - he seems like such a sweetheart of a human with a big personality. I enjoyed listening to his take on how to take hold of your purpose. It includes some fun antidotes as well.
Profile Image for Connie Saunders.
1,568 reviews133 followers
May 21, 2021
I'm a huge fan of Fixer Upper and "all things Magnolia", and I've always admired the creative talents of Joanna Gaines. Now, after reading this book, I have a greater respect for her husband, Chip Gaines. Behind his friendly and humorous nature, there lurks an astute businessman, and Gaines graciously shares what he's learned over the years. He talks about his failures and successes, and he's quick to point out the value of working hard and establishing a good network of friends and associates. They will support you, encourage you, and keep you accountable.

It's apparent that Chip and Joanna Gaines are people of faith, but I consider No Pain, No Gaines to be more of a "part memoir, part how-to" manual. If you're needing inspiration and motivation, your search is over, because Chip Gaines has a lot to share! His writing style is easy and entertaining, and reading this book is almost like being in a conversation with him!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via FrontGate Media. These are my own thoughts.
Profile Image for Leah.
689 reviews98 followers
March 3, 2022
More like an autobiography, life philosophies and values than a practical guide.

Chip and his wife seem like likeable smart, determined, entrepreneurs.
I never actually watched Fixer Upper but have heard of it and I enjoy HGTV home renovation shows.
I would say Chip has qualities that really define success for himself which are: inquisitiveness, entrepreneurship, independent, determination, hard worker, great work ethic, kind, generous, and caring.
I like how Chip is so determined to make businesses and make them work to produce a lot of money. But it's not just about spending it for himself, he's a lot about giving to other people and helping people. He's a talker but he's also a lister as well which is a rare quality. (Also this is not from self knowledge, it's what I got from the book).
Being on a tv show Chip got told what to do and what to say and what to wear etc that he lost sight of who he really was but apparently in season 5 is when they really owned who they were in the tv show and they felt so much better for it. Don't just want or be someone because most people assume or want you to be like that. Don't buy 5 cars if you don't really want to actually drive and take care of them, don't buy them just because that's what success looks like. Don't do what other people tell you to do or be, just be yourself.

I found the part kinda weird in the book where it was letters from family members, that's pretty different in a book, and it kinda felt like a eulogy lol but it was interesting seeing other people's perspectives of Chip and his wife.
Profile Image for Maggie Carr.
1,105 reviews31 followers
June 28, 2021
Not a single one of their books has ever disappointed but this one hit the nail on the head for me. Ever feel like you were just given permission to put yourself first and make changes for you, that's was this felt like. An pep talk that gave me perspective and encouragement during some tough recent moments. Wish it hadn't been a library book so I could have marked it all up. I'll have to find myself a personal copy.
Profile Image for Lori Bree.
779 reviews20 followers
April 11, 2021
I'm a huge fan of Fixer Upper, so I was excited to read this book! It was so much more than what I thought it would be--in a good way. We've all seen Chip as that goofy, always having fun while working guy on TV--and this book highlights his work ethic, drive and determination in ways that are so inspiring. He's authentic, honest, and encouraging. He clearly articulates the value of networking and making real human connections. There are so many fun stories and anecdotes along the way--even from Chip's family. There are even handwritten "Bottom Line" messages at the end of every chapter. My favorite was "Living true to yourself is a nonnegotiable." (page 32).

My favorite chapter was Chapter 10--"Interactions, Not Transactions." He stated in the beginning of the chapter because he would afraid it would upset people because he talked about the challenges of being famous, and being reduced to "that guy on TV" instead of a real human. However,he did an excellent job of showing how we do this to so many people in our lives--reducing them down to a specific role and not seeing them as a whole, real human.

This book is absolutely worth the read. I read the physical book--but I'm sure it would be fantastic on audio as well. Four stars!

Thank you to the publisher via TLC Book Tours for my copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

View my review on my blog at https://www.palmerspageturners.com/20...
Profile Image for Robbie .
425 reviews49 followers
May 18, 2021
When I first became aware of No Pain, No Gaines I was curious as to what type of book it was. After reading it, I know, it’s a GREAT book!

I am a little familiar with the Gaines from having watched a couple of their Fixer Upper shows but didn’t really know much about them. Reading No Pain, No Gaines, I got a small peek into their hectic, slightly frenetic lives.

Chip Gaines writes his book in a style that makes you feel as if you’re sitting at the dinner table sharing dessert and coffee while exchanging stories of what shaped your life. Just when you think there must be more, or want to ask a question, he fills in the blanks.

The book doesn’t have a Christian focus, though there are several references to his faith. However, the type of “network” he creates and the lessons he espouses are ones we could all do well to emulate.

Chip is a gregarious, charismatic person whose learning style might not be the same as yours, but you are sure to learn a lot through reading his book. I would suggest it for anyone of any age, whether they are looking for a change in their life or they are just starting out.

Disclaimer: There are several uses of mild slang words instead of stronger curse words, and a couple of uses of the word hell.

I received No Pain, No Gaines: The Good Stuff Doesn't Come Easy through FrontGate Media. All opinions are my own.

(I love the play on words in the title!)
Profile Image for Jon.
10 reviews
April 11, 2021
I was surprised by the impact this book had on me. I’ve always been a big fan of Chip Gaines so my decision to give the book a try was an easy one. However, I’ll admit that I was skeptical of the book, thinking it was just another celebrity writing a book because their name alone will lead to sales. But that was not the case with this book. On every single page of this book Chip wore his heart on his sleeve and inspired me, encouraged me, and challenged me in profoundly impactful ways.

I’m always looking for opportunities to learn from the experience of others, that’s one of the reasons why I love biographies. While this isn’t a biography, per say, it’s an authentic account of Chip’s approach to living each day to the fullest. I believe all readers of this book will be thankful they spent a few days with Chip Gaines.
Profile Image for Charity (Booktrovert Reader).
627 reviews412 followers
April 16, 2021
So this book is about networking but not really about networking? Even though I do not feel that he truely delivered the whole point of the book but he does inspires you to be authenic in a honest and raw way. The message I feel he wants to share is build a network of people that you can be authenic with and not people who you change to fit in with. He shares a lot of personal stories of his life that shows how it is so important to go after what makes you fulfilled and not allowing to compromise on who you are.
I enjoyed this read because I saw that you can give yourself grace on messing up and allow yourself to be you and not someone else.
Profile Image for Emily.
280 reviews11 followers
August 7, 2022
I had no idea who Chip Gaines was before I read this novel, and still don't really. So, this was a bit of a random read for me. This was part memoir part self help. Although, emphasis on the memoir part. This really felt like one long humble brag - Chip's so great at networking, Chip's such a great person. There was even 'letters' from his family members in the middle of the book which describe why he was so great. This felt kinda strange -- a bit like a eulogy. So, while this was a quick and easy read, I didn't really take anything from it. There were moments where Chip made some great comments, but most of it was pretty common sense.
Profile Image for Joel Ratcliffe.
69 reviews
June 8, 2022
I love Chip Gaines and his zest for life, he is real and full of passion and purpose. He describes a the lessons he learned throughout his life. lessons that have taught him to live and work and connect with people in a better way. Chip is also a great story teller.
December 4, 2023
I loved Chip’s perspective throughout this book, a great motivator and such a genuine person. If you love all things magnolia, you’ll enjoy hearing more of Chips story and what makes him so unique. It’s also a great personal development perspective on how to use and build your personal network to be a better human.
Profile Image for Nic Lishko.
Author 4 books2 followers
April 12, 2021
A really fine book about networking. Love the practical advice!
Profile Image for Diana Duell.
226 reviews5 followers
August 9, 2021
I love Chip (and Joanna) they are real people. This book is about building your network. This would be the people in your life and the how and why they might be there. Great read.
17 reviews
December 4, 2022
I loved everything about this book. It’s no coincidence I started reading it when I did. Excited to keep chewing on it and trying to apply the principles Chip talked about! Go read this book!
Profile Image for Nicole Quiroz.
20 reviews9 followers
September 1, 2023
So many nuggets of encouragement and conviction about building a network and a community. Big fan of Chip & Joanna and it was fun to listen to him narrate this!
Profile Image for Chad.
211 reviews
November 6, 2022
A fascinating look into the mind of a true entrepreneurial spirit. Chip is a very interesting guy and openly shares his world view on networking and so much more.
1 review
April 14, 2021
Alright goodread friends...no judging please. Everybody could use a little Chip pep talk in their life these days.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 266 reviews

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