Back in high school, I still remember having to read books like The Stranger and Waiting for Godot. Classics, maybe. Personally, it felt like pulling teeth trying to get through them. After talking to clients and friends from all over the world, I found I wasn't alone. When it comes to books, some people love them, others hate them.

That's why I wasn't all that surprised that research done by The Statistic Brain Research Institute in 2017 revealed an astonishing 42 percent of college graduates never read another book after college. I could have very well been one of them, but then my mentor, Jim Rohn, said something, "Most homes valued at over $250,000 have a library."

I must admit I hadn't ever thought that the answers to fortune and success were written in books, but his words inspired me to find out. I started out with Robert Kiyosaki's Rich Dad, Poor Dad and haven't looked back, but it wasn't until I heard Brian Tracy say, "Turn your car into a mobile classroom" that my education moved into hyper-drive.

Today, thanks to the CDs and smartphones, we don't have to read anything if we don't want to. Audiobooks, podcasts and audio programs allow us to do our normal activities such as jogging, yoga, our daily commute or household chores while getting a world-class education. Speaking as a time management expert, this is genius.  

If you're looking for business ideas and hate to read I've got good news. These 11 audio programs revolutionized my marketing strategies and my mindset towards business. Pick up one or two of these programs, shove them on your iPhone and get going.

1. Jim Rohn, The Art of Exceptional Living

In this program, Jim shares his views on what it takes to achieve the good life, touching on a number of different topics including finance, relationships and time management. His protégé, Darren Hardy, once said he had listened to this program over 100 times. That says something. 

2. Darren Hardy, The Compound Effect Enhanced Audio Program

A six-CD audio program edition of his book, The Compound Effect. A great entry into personal development with powerful ideas that anyone can use to improve their life or business in a very short period of time.

3. Joseph Sugarman, Triggers

Pure gold. Sugarman goes into the psychology of selling and how to craft a high converting ad. If you're looking for ways to transform your present marketing plan, this is the first program I'd listen to. When I implemented the ideas contained within this program, my revenues shot up by 42%.

4. Brian Tracy, 21 Success Secrets of Self-Made Millionaires

With his over 50 years of experience, Brian Tracy knows the skills needed to become a millionaire. Whether you're starting out in business or growing your business, this is a rock solid program that teaches those skills.

5. Joe Polish, Piranha Marketing

Simple, applicable marketing ideas that can transform any small business. Anyone with an established business that is looking to take things to the next level would be well-advised to pick up this program. 

6. Dan Kennedy, Magnetic Marketing

When it comes to home study marketing programs, Dan Kennedy's materials are considered the best. This program is a must-have for small business owners and entrepreneurs who are looking to grow their customer base and increase revenue. 

7. Zig Ziglar, How To Stay Motivated

This program is all about motivation, something we all need from time to time. If you find yourself struggling in business or unclear which direction you are headed, then this program is for you.

8. Earl Nightingale, The Direct Line

A collection of Earl Nightingale's best success ideas and insights. This is a serious workout for your mind. Not recommended to start off with this program as it runs 17 hours. However, this is an underrated beauty.

9. Tony Robbins, Get The Edge

This program has it all - purpose, finance, health, language, philosophy and more. 12 hours full of passion, powerful ideas and quintessential Tony. If you're looking for brain hacks, this is a must-have.

10. Tim Ferris, The Four Hour Work Week

Only the second audiobook to make the list. Ferriss' book catapulted him into fame and is now one of the top resource guides for small business owners and entrepreneurs alike. With some of the latest tools and programs available to business owners, this audiobook is excellent and one that helped me shave hours off my own work week.

11. Jim Rohn, The Weekend Seminar

A more in-depth look at Rohn's business philosophy. You'll get great insights into how to approach business and life in general. This is one program you'll want to listen to over and over again for its listenability and clever approach to life and business.