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Bet On Yourself: From zero to millions
No matter what you want to achieve in life, you need money.
School tells us almost nothing about money or how to make it. At best, school tells us how to become an employee. But for many people employment means limited options and low pay. And if you lose your one job, you’re in big trouble. There is another way. BET ON From zero to millions
•How to create multiple streams of income
•Money 101
•What the stock market is and how it works
•How to get started investing in rental properties
Dr. Hodges shares his personal life lessons, often funny, but always meaningful, from hanging out with crack dealers as a teenager, to being mistaken for Mike Tyson on the other side of the world.
Options were limited for people growing up in Dr. Hodges’ community; most people worked at the local bus factory, went into the military, ended up in jail, or got killed. The first part of this book shows how a poor African American kid failing in high school became a business owner and a respected veterinarian.
Dr. Hodges stresses the importance of making friends wherever you go, and more. Getting fired from his first professional job was a blessing. It taught him to bet on himself, and he never looked back. There are important messages in this book about doing the right thing when no one is looking, the importance of role models, and being nice.
As Dr. Hodges’ favorite rapper Jay-Z said on Moments of Clarity, The Black Album, 2003:
And I can’t help the poor if I’m one of them
So I got rich and gave back to me
That’s the win, win
Read this book. It could change your life.
School tells us almost nothing about money or how to make it. At best, school tells us how to become an employee. But for many people employment means limited options and low pay. And if you lose your one job, you’re in big trouble. There is another way. BET ON From zero to millions
•How to create multiple streams of income
•Money 101
•What the stock market is and how it works
•How to get started investing in rental properties
Dr. Hodges shares his personal life lessons, often funny, but always meaningful, from hanging out with crack dealers as a teenager, to being mistaken for Mike Tyson on the other side of the world.
Options were limited for people growing up in Dr. Hodges’ community; most people worked at the local bus factory, went into the military, ended up in jail, or got killed. The first part of this book shows how a poor African American kid failing in high school became a business owner and a respected veterinarian.
Dr. Hodges stresses the importance of making friends wherever you go, and more. Getting fired from his first professional job was a blessing. It taught him to bet on himself, and he never looked back. There are important messages in this book about doing the right thing when no one is looking, the importance of role models, and being nice.
As Dr. Hodges’ favorite rapper Jay-Z said on Moments of Clarity, The Black Album, 2003:
And I can’t help the poor if I’m one of them
So I got rich and gave back to me
That’s the win, win
Read this book. It could change your life.
- GenresSelf HelpNonfiction
201 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 17, 2017
159 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 4, 2018
This segment should not be titled "Goodreads", but it should be displayed, "Bestreads!" Bet on Yourself: From zero to millions is a phenomenal book that embraces the essence of life-lessons presented at best! His transparency is unveiled at hand as he allowed me to feel certain painful moments, yet his pain is a gift from God! Those painful moments of losing in a big way was a wake-up call of our lives where we learn what real strength is to endure, and the true definition of success: It is the commitment to yourself to believe above and beyond where you are in a much larger way.
As you read this book, it will expose yourself to be around good thinkers such as Dr. Hodges! When I got a hold of it, I could not put it down! Personally, I read it in its entirety in one sitting and was exposed to good input! Dr. Vernard Hodges laid the foundation of his upbringing to demonstrate influential factors that triggered the epitome of success in many aspects! Presently, the great thing about this book is its strategic timing that will ultimately assist us in understanding the future rhetoric for success!
All professionals in diverse sectors should read this book! Additionally, I recommend this book to all young people. Unquestionably, this book will change your thinking; moreover, change your life! Dr. Hodges harnesses creative thinking at its best by giving us all a blueprint to follow. The true joy is creating, not maintaining. Undoubtedly, the reflection of his ability to think extraordinarily out of the box to bet on oneself to create the success you really deserve!
As you read this book, it will expose yourself to be around good thinkers such as Dr. Hodges! When I got a hold of it, I could not put it down! Personally, I read it in its entirety in one sitting and was exposed to good input! Dr. Vernard Hodges laid the foundation of his upbringing to demonstrate influential factors that triggered the epitome of success in many aspects! Presently, the great thing about this book is its strategic timing that will ultimately assist us in understanding the future rhetoric for success!
All professionals in diverse sectors should read this book! Additionally, I recommend this book to all young people. Unquestionably, this book will change your thinking; moreover, change your life! Dr. Hodges harnesses creative thinking at its best by giving us all a blueprint to follow. The true joy is creating, not maintaining. Undoubtedly, the reflection of his ability to think extraordinarily out of the box to bet on oneself to create the success you really deserve!
February 8, 2018
Great book with very useful, practical information
This was an excellent book. Mr. Hodges clearly wants his readers to become financially independent, along with being socially responsible. He starts the book by telling his story; how and where he was raised; who his mentors were; and how he struggled to get a good education. He admits he was not a good student, but through hard work he was able to graduate college and become a successful veterinarian. He also tells how he learned to invest in real estate and the stock market. The book is clearly not written by a polished author. His personal story is sometimes choppy. But Mr. Hodges doesn't claim to be an author. What he is, is a very successful businessman who wants to share with his reader how he/she can also be successful. What I really loved about this book was how Mr Hodges explained in simple terms things like how to set up a business (partnership versus LLC versus corporation); what to do before buying your first house; basic terminology you need to know before investing in the stock market; and other business matters. Mr. Hodges openly shares his failures and mistakes along with his successes. For example he tells the story of how he invested in some very lucrative stocks (Priceline and Amazon were two of them). He made a million dollars. Then lost the entire million, also in the stock market. And he ends his book with how important it is to give back to your community. I also appreciate that Mr Hodges acknowledges and names his mentors and the people that have helped him become a success. Again, this was a great book. I highly recommend it.
This was an excellent book. Mr. Hodges clearly wants his readers to become financially independent, along with being socially responsible. He starts the book by telling his story; how and where he was raised; who his mentors were; and how he struggled to get a good education. He admits he was not a good student, but through hard work he was able to graduate college and become a successful veterinarian. He also tells how he learned to invest in real estate and the stock market. The book is clearly not written by a polished author. His personal story is sometimes choppy. But Mr. Hodges doesn't claim to be an author. What he is, is a very successful businessman who wants to share with his reader how he/she can also be successful. What I really loved about this book was how Mr Hodges explained in simple terms things like how to set up a business (partnership versus LLC versus corporation); what to do before buying your first house; basic terminology you need to know before investing in the stock market; and other business matters. Mr. Hodges openly shares his failures and mistakes along with his successes. For example he tells the story of how he invested in some very lucrative stocks (Priceline and Amazon were two of them). He made a million dollars. Then lost the entire million, also in the stock market. And he ends his book with how important it is to give back to your community. I also appreciate that Mr Hodges acknowledges and names his mentors and the people that have helped him become a success. Again, this was a great book. I highly recommend it.
December 29, 2017
I found this book to be inspiring and informative. It’s always nice to know about someone who conquered difficult circumstances to become successful, but it’s much nicer when they take some of that knowledge and share it with anyone who is willing to pick up a book and read. It’s an easy read, and anyone interested in the book will be able to follow it through to the end.
Besides sharing the past, which could have ended his life before it even started, and sharing the present, which includes even now, dreams for the future, Dr. Hodges includes a wealth of information about entrepreneurship. It’s like a business primer planted within an autobiography. Many financial books start at a place beyond where the person with no financial knowledge or background could even start. Dr. Hodges not only describes what he has done to “make it,” he breaks it down into terms that the most financially uneducated, yet interested, individual will understand. It’s enough to pique someone’s interest and hopefully inspire them to look into how they, too, can build wealth from humble beginnings or from right where they are at the moment. He describes not a bullet-point plan to success, but rather a lifestyle of positivity, work ethic, looking forward and reaching back, and then shows how all this has worked together for his success.
I will have my young adult children read this book, and I do hope it inspires them to always work hard, help others, and to, of course, bet on themselves.
Besides sharing the past, which could have ended his life before it even started, and sharing the present, which includes even now, dreams for the future, Dr. Hodges includes a wealth of information about entrepreneurship. It’s like a business primer planted within an autobiography. Many financial books start at a place beyond where the person with no financial knowledge or background could even start. Dr. Hodges not only describes what he has done to “make it,” he breaks it down into terms that the most financially uneducated, yet interested, individual will understand. It’s enough to pique someone’s interest and hopefully inspire them to look into how they, too, can build wealth from humble beginnings or from right where they are at the moment. He describes not a bullet-point plan to success, but rather a lifestyle of positivity, work ethic, looking forward and reaching back, and then shows how all this has worked together for his success.
I will have my young adult children read this book, and I do hope it inspires them to always work hard, help others, and to, of course, bet on themselves.
February 15, 2018
This book is easily one of my favorite motivational works. From his easy to approach tone, Dr. Hodges writing voice is honest, inspirational, and concise. It is this method of addressing the reader I found so appealing. Without hesitation, Bet On Yourself is unapologetic in its desire to educate the public of their financial capabilities. By sharing his own experiences and truths, I was able to better comprehend my own monetary potential and what changes I can start making today.
This isn't a "get rich quick" book. It is a man's desire to relate to the "everyday" working man in order to find identity with what drives us. By tapping into that enthusiasm, business opportunities become apparent in order to break the cycle of living pay check to paycheck. Hodges de-mystifies the stock exchange, how to find other forms of revenue, and to keep networking in a consistent manner. These may seem obvious and spoken about exhaustively in other texts but Hodges has a charm and transparency that lends it more weight and validity.
This book fired me up. With a genuine desire to share his knowledge, Bet On Yourself is a real treat to consume in one sitting.
This isn't a "get rich quick" book. It is a man's desire to relate to the "everyday" working man in order to find identity with what drives us. By tapping into that enthusiasm, business opportunities become apparent in order to break the cycle of living pay check to paycheck. Hodges de-mystifies the stock exchange, how to find other forms of revenue, and to keep networking in a consistent manner. These may seem obvious and spoken about exhaustively in other texts but Hodges has a charm and transparency that lends it more weight and validity.
This book fired me up. With a genuine desire to share his knowledge, Bet On Yourself is a real treat to consume in one sitting.
February 5, 2018
Bet On Yourself: From zero to millions by Dr Vernard Hodges
This book by Dr Vernard Hodges lays a foundation for hard word, perseverance, and setting financial goals. It is not a get rich quick book; the writer rather highlights his many successes in life. A captivating book from start to finish because the author tells the story of his life while teaching life lessons and sharing money making tips/strategies. The author describes mistakes made and how to avoid pitfalls. Slightly digressing from his personal story, the author also describes investment strategies in detail; albeit at a beginners level, highlighting pros and cons. The book delves into the nitty gritty of real estate investing and answers questions potential investors might have. Any reader interested in financial success will find this book highly engaging and useful as a hands-on guide to wealth management.
This book by Dr Vernard Hodges lays a foundation for hard word, perseverance, and setting financial goals. It is not a get rich quick book; the writer rather highlights his many successes in life. A captivating book from start to finish because the author tells the story of his life while teaching life lessons and sharing money making tips/strategies. The author describes mistakes made and how to avoid pitfalls. Slightly digressing from his personal story, the author also describes investment strategies in detail; albeit at a beginners level, highlighting pros and cons. The book delves into the nitty gritty of real estate investing and answers questions potential investors might have. Any reader interested in financial success will find this book highly engaging and useful as a hands-on guide to wealth management.
February 22, 2018
In his book, Dr. Hodges is transparent, real and straight to the point. I enjoyed the book because it was relatable on many levels, his humble background, making it to college and initially not understanding what his pathway was but associated with the right people who helped steer his course.
This book is for anyone trying to build a business or become successful in school or career. Dr. Hodges does a great job of linking his experiences in a progressive manner, which makes it easier for his readers to follow him. I would read it again for empowerment; it’s one of those books you keep close by and refer back to.
This book is for anyone trying to build a business or become successful in school or career. Dr. Hodges does a great job of linking his experiences in a progressive manner, which makes it easier for his readers to follow him. I would read it again for empowerment; it’s one of those books you keep close by and refer back to.
November 3, 2020
THE MAIN REASON I GAVE THIS BOK A 5-STAR RATING IS BECAUSE TO ME, ANYONE THAT LIVES THEIR LIFE AND DOES NOT BECOME A PRODUT OF THEIR ENVIRONMENT - ESPECIALLY WHEN THEIR ENVIRONMENT IS NEGATIVE, DESERVES THE BEST FROM ME.
THE AUTHOR IS ONE OF THESE PEOPLE! HE OVERCAME LOTS OF ADVERSITY, CHALLENGES, SITUATIONS, AND CIRCUMSTANCES TO GET TO WHERE TO IS NOW. HIS PRESEVERENCE AND DETERMINATION WERE THE KEY FACTORS TOWARDS HIS SUCCESS.
THE AUTHOR IS ONE OF THESE PEOPLE! HE OVERCAME LOTS OF ADVERSITY, CHALLENGES, SITUATIONS, AND CIRCUMSTANCES TO GET TO WHERE TO IS NOW. HIS PRESEVERENCE AND DETERMINATION WERE THE KEY FACTORS TOWARDS HIS SUCCESS.
October 18, 2019
Great informative book
This book provides great insight into what it takes to be successful. Success can be defined differently for each of us and Dr. Hodges presents a very relatable story of how we can build our own success with the people and tools that surround us in our everyday lives.
This book provides great insight into what it takes to be successful. Success can be defined differently for each of us and Dr. Hodges presents a very relatable story of how we can build our own success with the people and tools that surround us in our everyday lives.
May 28, 2020
Rags to Riches
I enjoyed reading about his humble beginnings and through a strong desire for success, a lot of hard work, and a willingness to take chances he acheived a comfortable life of significance. It is inspiring and gives me hope that it is not too late for me to do the same.
I enjoyed reading about his humble beginnings and through a strong desire for success, a lot of hard work, and a willingness to take chances he acheived a comfortable life of significance. It is inspiring and gives me hope that it is not too late for me to do the same.
July 15, 2020
Excellent Life Recap!
With no idea of who Dr. Hodges is, I had no expectation when I opened the book. However , this work is so much more than an autobiographical account: it is a self help, financial manual dressed and presented in common sense for anyone wise enough to read it. Thought provoking and life changing!
With no idea of who Dr. Hodges is, I had no expectation when I opened the book. However , this work is so much more than an autobiographical account: it is a self help, financial manual dressed and presented in common sense for anyone wise enough to read it. Thought provoking and life changing!
December 3, 2022
it’s true… Bet On Yourself
Dr. Hodges is a remarkable guy. He has a way to convey his history in a way you’ll want to imitate it. He’s not only telling his story but how we can make our own story. I’ve learned so many things that I found I didn’t really know. You will learn what it takes to be successful.
Thank you Dr. Hodges for teaching me what it takes to succeed.
Dr. Hodges is a remarkable guy. He has a way to convey his history in a way you’ll want to imitate it. He’s not only telling his story but how we can make our own story. I’ve learned so many things that I found I didn’t really know. You will learn what it takes to be successful.
Thank you Dr. Hodges for teaching me what it takes to succeed.
December 29, 2017
Great Read!
I started reading and couldn't put it down!
Life lessons outlined and beneficial to all! Now I have to order a hard copy for highlighting and marking pages.
Thanks Vernard!
I started reading and couldn't put it down!
Life lessons outlined and beneficial to all! Now I have to order a hard copy for highlighting and marking pages.
Thanks Vernard!
July 14, 2021
A standard life guide on investments and wealth generation. The author touches on many aspects of his life from work, credits, investments in stock market, mutual funds, real estates, etc.
I'd recommend this book for anyone who is new to personal finance particularly on investments.
I'd recommend this book for anyone who is new to personal finance particularly on investments.
September 17, 2021
Good Fast Read
I’ve seen the Critter Fixers television show and was curious. Interesting to learn the back story. Some of the financial information was outdated for 2021, but that was not a problem for me.
I’ve seen the Critter Fixers television show and was curious. Interesting to learn the back story. Some of the financial information was outdated for 2021, but that was not a problem for me.
November 27, 2021
A True Must Read
Excellently written, and Mr.Hodges comes at it from an angle that many can understand. Sometimes that is the only way to get people to listen, by coming at it and using language (not bad language) that they understand... I Loved This Book.
Excellently written, and Mr.Hodges comes at it from an angle that many can understand. Sometimes that is the only way to get people to listen, by coming at it and using language (not bad language) that they understand... I Loved This Book.
April 5, 2018
Good Read
Very informative! Read the book in one day as his life story was interesting! Overall great read! Buy this book!
Very informative! Read the book in one day as his life story was interesting! Overall great read! Buy this book!
October 4, 2018
Great Book
This book was great. I could tell he did not fabricate stories like I have read in other books. Very straightforward and inspirational.
This book was great. I could tell he did not fabricate stories like I have read in other books. Very straightforward and inspirational.
January 5, 2019
Awesome read!!
This was an awesome read! Very easy and straight forward. Highly recommended, for anyone trying to start or sustain a business.
This was an awesome read! Very easy and straight forward. Highly recommended, for anyone trying to start or sustain a business.
March 29, 2022
Good story
Started from the bottom with determination to win. Experiences learned and over came the obstacles. I would recommend this book to the youth
Started from the bottom with determination to win. Experiences learned and over came the obstacles. I would recommend this book to the youth
July 7, 2025
Betting On Yourself
Great humbling told story with great information, love it 💯 . This story kept me wanting to see more and learn more, engaging.
Great humbling told story with great information, love it 💯 . This story kept me wanting to see more and learn more, engaging.
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June 19, 2021Motivational Autobiography
Dr. Hodges provides some helpful tips that may help motivate people to get started on their way to financial stability and possibly a position of wealth. However, this book should not be viewed as a "how to" book.
Dr. Hodges provides some helpful tips that may help motivate people to get started on their way to financial stability and possibly a position of wealth. However, this book should not be viewed as a "how to" book.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews