Flamin' Hot

The Incredible True Story of One Man's Rise from Janitor to Top Executive

By: Richard Montanez

Narrated by: Steven Montañez, Richard Montanez

Listen to the story everyone is talking about: how a janitor struggling to put food on the table invented Flamin’ Hot Cheetos in a secret test kitchen, breaking barriers and becoming the first Latino frontline worker promoted to executive at Frito-Lay.

Richard Montañez is a man who made a science out of walking through closed doors, and his success story is an empowerment manual for anyone stuck in a dead-end job or facing a system stacked against them.

Having taken a job mopping floors at Frito-Lay's California factory to support his family, Montañez took his future into his own hands and created the world’s hottest snack food: Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. This bold move not only disrupted the food industry with some much-needed spice, but also shook up a corporate culture in which everyone stayed in their lane. When a top food scientist at Frito-Lay sent out a memo telling sales and marketing to kill the new product before it made it to the store shelves - jealous that someone with no formal education beyond the sixth grade could do his job - Montañez was forced to go rogue once again to save his idea. Through creative thinking, community building, and a few powerful mindset shifts, he outsmarted the naysayers who tried to get in his way.

Flamin' Hot proves that you can break out of your career rut and that your present circumstances don't have to dictate your future.

©2021 Richard Montanez (P)2021 Penguin Audio

Critic reviews

“From the moment I heard Richard Montañez’s amazing story, I knew it had to be shared with the world. His journey will inspire you to never give up on your dreams, no matter who you are and no matter where you’re from. The invaluable wisdom he shares in this book makes Flamin’ Hot a must read for everyone looking to succeed.” (Eva Longoria, actor, producer, and director)

“The power of Richard’s story is unprecedented. His ability to inspire and engage our employees is remarkable.” (Brian Cornell, CEO of Target)

“Richard Montañez is a living legend. His story has inspired me from the moment I heard about it, and I have no doubt the wisdom he shares in Flamin’ Hot will inspire millions of readers around the world! Richard Montañez is the ultimate dream catcher and this is a must read for anyone chasing a dream!” (DeVon Franklin, producer of the Flamin’ Hot movie and New York Times best-selling author)

very inspiring

I listened to this in one sitting! loved every word! I definitely recommend it!!

What If…

Richard’s story resonates with millions of Latinos seeking the American dream. From his humble beginnings to his adventures at the White House. His story will inspire you to ask the question what if? What if I can do the same, what if my life doesn’t have end here, what if there’s more for me. Go purchase this book and begin working in your what if story.

DOPEST STORY EVER

this book was an amazing story of the life of Richard Montenez. Don't pass it up

Very motivational book.

Nice story, very simple but powerful ideas. Easy to understand ideas, narrator is great.

Great book, the power of a growth mindset

Richard illustrates time and time again what it takes to conquer your dreams and go after your goals with relentless passion. Just the simple fact that he started as a janitor and almost lost that job because he didn’t display enough “initiative” then the simple fact that he went home, asked his wife what the word meant and they had to go to the local library to look it up, so that he could then do exactly that. This is a powerful rags to riches story and filled with dozens of gold nuggets for transformation.

Very inspiring

I loved Richard’s story and the Netflix show. Truly inspiring, and encouraging. I love Hot Cheetos and regular Cheetos and Pepsi.

Inspiring

This book is a must read or heard for all entrepreneurs and leaders. Faith it until you make it.

Inspirational

Richard Montanez’s story is amazing and so inspirational. Thank you, Richard for sharing. It’s makes me truly wonder what’s possible with a little belief and a whole lot of heart ❤️

Very Inspiring

This is a very inspirational and motivating story. Thank you for sharing it with the world.

Such an inspiring story!

This book reads somewhat like a novel. It keeps you entertained and wondering where it will lead you to. I think that Richard Montanez is a living example of the American dream and shows that no matter where you’re from, it’s your mindset that counts, because you can do anything you want to do in life if you put in the work and never quit.