Audiobook Review: "Side Hustle & Flow: Shape-Up" by Cliff Beach

Feb 225 min read

Updated: Mar 3

An audiobook that feels like a conversation.

Listening to Side Hustle & Flow: Shape Up! by Cliff Beach doesn’t feel like your typical self-help or fitness audiobook.

Instead of a rigid, prescriptive approach, Beach delivers something more personal—more like chatting with a friend who’s been there and is sharing what worked for him.

His conversational, engaging style makes this audiobook stand out, blending personal anecdotes with practical, actionable advice.

Beach's background as a musician, entrepreneur, and author really comes through in his delivery. He’s not just reciting information—he’s telling stories, motivating you, and making sure you walk away with tangible takeaways.

And because this is an audiobook, his enthusiasm and energy add an extra layer of engagement that might not come across as strongly in a traditional book.

Plus there's a well-designed workbook to help keep you on track! Here's a more in-depth review of the audiobook:

What Really Worked for Me

1) A Realistic, Customizable Approach

Many fitness and self-improvement books feel overwhelming, pushing a “one-size-fits-all” solution. Not here.

Beach acknowledges that what works for one person might not work for another. He presents multiple paths—whether it's choosing a diet, an exercise routine, or a mindset shift—encouraging listeners to find what fits their life.

This flexibility makes the book accessible, especially for creatives juggling multiple projects.

2) Encouragement Without Guilt

Beach isn’t here to make you feel bad about what you haven’t done. Instead, he emphasizes small, sustainable changes that add up over time.

His focus on integrating wellness into a creative life—rather than making it feel like a separate, all-consuming project—is refreshing.

3) The Energy of an Engaging Speaker

Some audiobooks can feel like lectures, but Beach’s enthusiasm keeps things lively.

His background as a musician and speaker brings a natural rhythm to the narration, making it easy to stay engaged. This is a book that’s best experienced in audio format rather than print—it thrives on its spoken-word energy.

Opportunities for Writers & Creatives

1) Storytelling in Nonfiction

Beach’s approach to self-improvement isn’t just lists of advice—it’s stories, reflections, and real-life examples.

Writers looking to craft engaging nonfiction can learn from his ability to weave personal experience into practical guidance.

2) Structuring a Guidebook for Impact

The book follows a logical structure, moving through essential steps without feeling formulaic.

Writers interested in creating their own self-help or motivational content can take notes on how Beach blends structure with personality.

3) Making Content Feel Personal

Beach’s advice resonates because he speaks directly to the listener, breaking down barriers between speaker and audience.

Creatives working in spoken-word formats—whether podcasts, audiobooks, or public speaking—can learn from his conversational tone and ability to connect.

Final Review Takeaway: An Easy-to-Listen-to Book for Busy Creatives

If you’re a creative who struggles to fit wellness into your already packed schedule, Side Hustle & Flow: Shape Up! offers a motivating and realistic approach.

It’s not about overhauling your life overnight but about integrating small, manageable changes that stick.

Beach’s energy, encouragement, and storytelling make this a great listen—especially for those who need motivation without the pressure of perfection.

For writers, speakers, and creatives, this audiobook also offers lessons in engaging nonfiction, making self-help feel personal, and using voice effectively.

Bottom line: If you’re looking for a fresh take on wellness and productivity, this is worth a listen.

More about the audiobook:

From the publisher:

"Welcome to Side Hustle & Flow: Shape Up!—the second book in Cliff Beach’s acclaimed series. Following the success of Side Hustle & Flow, nominated for a World Entertainment Award for Best Spoken Word Album in 2024, Cliff Beach returns with a powerful guide to transforming your health and fitness journey.

Discover the seven essential steps to achieving a fitter, happier you:

The Deciding Factor: Uncover your personal motivations and use them to fuel your transformation.
Checking Your Numbers: Learn the importance of tracking key health metrics, with insights from dieticians and doctors.
Intermittent Fasting Tips and Tricks: Master intermittent fasting with practical advice on timing, hydration, and managing hunger.
Picking a Diet That Works for You: Find a diet plan that suits your lifestyle and health needs for sustainable eating habits.
Exercise: Make it Fun and Be Consistent: Incorporate fun and engaging activities into your routine to ensure consistency and enjoyment.
Healthy Lifestyle Changes You Can Stick With: Implement small, manageable changes for long-term success.
Get Into a Support Group Now!: Leverage the power of community and support groups to maintain motivation and accountability.

Side Hustle & Flow: Shape Up! is more than just a fitness guide; it’s a call to action for a healthier, happier you. Cliff Beach’s practical advice and motivational style will inspire you to take control of your health and transform your life.

Join Cliff on this transformative journey and take the first step towards a fitter, happier you today!"

Publisher: Please and Funk You Publishing

ASIN: B0DKFZLY8T

Audiobook Length: 3 hours and 24 minutes

Purchase a copy of Side Hustle & Flow: Shape-Up! On Amazon, Audible, and Barnes and Noble.

More about the author:

Musician and author Cliff Beach has been performing live for more than 20 years. His single “Confident” was featured on Spotify All Funked Up and Funk Drive playlists with over 975k+ streams. Cliff is the host of the Deeper Grooves Podcast and Deeper Grooves on 88.5 FM.

Cliff Beach photo: Man in black hat and red star-shaped glasses smiles in a red leopard print suit. Retro patterned wall and records in the background.

Cliff is the author of highly successful book Side Hustle & Flow from Black Spring Press Group/Eyewear Publishing, which chronicles his musical journey while still working a day job. He has written previously for Beautytap, Pepperdine, and Rock Star Life.

Cliff is the winner of the John Lennon Songwriting Contest Grand Prize, recipient of two World Songwriting Awards, four Global Music Awards, a California Music Video & Film Award, and has been nominated for four LA Music Awards, a Hollywood Music & Media Award, and an Independent Music Award, among others.

His music has recently been featured on CNN, SYFY, CW, HBO MAX and in a BMW spot. He was nominated for a World Entertainment Award for his audiobook Side Hustle & Flow and has just released his follow up Side Hustle & Flow: Shape Up on Please and Funk You Publishing via Author's Republic. He is an awarding Distinguished Toastmaster and VP of PR from Culver City Toastmasters and TedX presenter.