What do you think?
Rate this book
Your First Million: Why You Don’t Have to Be Born into a Legacy of Wealth to Leave One Behind
One of the few Black women to break into the boy's club of Silicon Valley offers her secrets for how anyone can build a legacy of wealth and impact.
Having lived nearly her entire life below the poverty line before going on to attain wealth and success as an entrepreneur and investor, Arlan Hamilton knows that money is power—but not for the reasons most people believe. Money is power, she says, because it provides us with options : to pursue our passions, take risks, and change our situation in life.
In Your First Million , Hamilton argues that entrepreneurship is the quickest path to attaining that power—particularly for those who haven’t had much of it in the past— shows how anyone—no matter what they look like or how much money they have—can tap into all the new tools, platforms, and sources of funding available to get their million-dollar idea off the ground.
Readers will how to identify unmet needs in the market, raise money in ways that preserve ownership, choose the right collaborators, create multiple income streams, and turn their unique knowledge and experience into a profitable businesses—while reinvesting in their communities and empowering others to do the same.
If we can change who gets to decide what new ideas are worthy, and who gets to turn those ideas into reality, not only can we change our own circumstances—we can change the world.
Having lived nearly her entire life below the poverty line before going on to attain wealth and success as an entrepreneur and investor, Arlan Hamilton knows that money is power—but not for the reasons most people believe. Money is power, she says, because it provides us with options : to pursue our passions, take risks, and change our situation in life.
In Your First Million , Hamilton argues that entrepreneurship is the quickest path to attaining that power—particularly for those who haven’t had much of it in the past— shows how anyone—no matter what they look like or how much money they have—can tap into all the new tools, platforms, and sources of funding available to get their million-dollar idea off the ground.
Readers will how to identify unmet needs in the market, raise money in ways that preserve ownership, choose the right collaborators, create multiple income streams, and turn their unique knowledge and experience into a profitable businesses—while reinvesting in their communities and empowering others to do the same.
If we can change who gets to decide what new ideas are worthy, and who gets to turn those ideas into reality, not only can we change our own circumstances—we can change the world.
240 pages, Hardcover
Published January 2, 2024
21 people are currently reading
2184 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
December 9, 2024
This was truly motivating and uplifting. It was also heartwarming, I loved how she used her kindness and wealth to uplift others in various ways. This had amazing tips to help you reach your goals, but also push the boundaries of who gets to decide who/what should be successful. I loved this in every single moment of listening to this Audiobook. It's not about a get rich quick, it's about power and becoming successful in whatever your ideas may be. "We all have the power to make change."
April 21, 2024
This book essentially reiterates how wealth is possible for all, irrespective of life circumstances or starting points. If you're looking for "Get Rich Quick" schemes or money mantras in Your First Million, you've got the wrong book (also more focused on people's experiences less on strategy).
Points I already knew but are good points:
- Odds are, your financial stability hinges on a single paycheck. And if this is true, then you’re always just one unfortunate life event away from financial insecurity.
- The gig economy, zero-hour contracts, freelancing, and flexible working arrangements open up a host of opportunities for earning money.
- Money is power because it provides us with options : to pursue our passions, take risks, and change our situation in life.
Notes:
- Similarly, women’s access to wealth throughout history has often depended on the men in their lives, while LGBTQ+ individuals have found themselves having to choose between affirming their identities and losing familial support.
- This diversified revenue doesn't necessarily have to be a full-time pursuit.
Points I already knew but are good points:
- Odds are, your financial stability hinges on a single paycheck. And if this is true, then you’re always just one unfortunate life event away from financial insecurity.
- The gig economy, zero-hour contracts, freelancing, and flexible working arrangements open up a host of opportunities for earning money.
- Money is power because it provides us with options : to pursue our passions, take risks, and change our situation in life.
Notes:
- Similarly, women’s access to wealth throughout history has often depended on the men in their lives, while LGBTQ+ individuals have found themselves having to choose between affirming their identities and losing familial support.
- This diversified revenue doesn't necessarily have to be a full-time pursuit.
Read
January 12, 2024Thoughts coming soon!
January 23, 2024
.This book was written to encourage people that it is possible to pursue a legacy of wealth and obtain it in their lifetime. The book has a plethora of knowledge, expertise, and wisdom that can be incorporated into your life. My favorite chapter was Owning Your Expertise. Arlan provides 10 tangible steps to owning your expertise with authentic and transparent expertise. Overall, this is a great book to have in your toolbox as you consider your life and your legacy.
March 6, 2024
I devoured this in one sitting and plan to re-read it every year. One of the most important books you'll ever read.
November 25, 2024
You’re not going to get tips on how to become a millionaire, but it is really nice to hear Arlan’s transparency around her favorite failures
August 8, 2024
I really wanted to like this book bc I love her story. Unfortunately there wasn’t anything new in it for me. She reiterated thoughts and ideas I’ve already heard. I only got halfway through before I decided to stop. I think you could listen to a podcast and get the same ideas. Nothing transformative
June 27, 2024
Excellent book! Very engaging! Great insights, and assignments. I believe this is MUST read for entrepreneurs.
July 2, 2024
A great book for all my entrepreneurs looking to get more support from someone who has seen a lot of life and brings her lived experiences as a Black Queer entrepreneur.
July 23, 2024
Idk if it’s because I was distracted some of the time listening to the audiobook, but the entire book seems to be about venture capital.
August 10, 2024
I really like venture capitalists who invest in non-traditional entrepreneurs.
December 15, 2023
Arlan Hamilton is a conscious, radical catalyst - a true force with an unstoppable determination to diversify the venture capital and wealth landscape. In "Your First Million," she venerably chronicles her against-the-odds road to success, spotlighting those who believed in and invested in her while also luminating those who've trekked similar journeys. Arlan artfully demonstrates how marginalized voices can penetrate and prosper through adversities stacked against them.
By expanding upon struggles within the predominantly white, male VC world, Hamilton illuminates trailblazing guidance for marginalized groups seeking to penetrate and thrive across any industry. With candid wisdom, she empowers readers to detonate their own mental roadblocks stemming from imposter syndrome and societal projections.
This is not a story about one woman’s wealth, but rather a mission to foster collaborative abundance for entire communities. Step-by-step, Hamilton provides guidance to recognize one’s expertise and use it impactfully. She pushes readers to pave the way for others to become wealth creators and legacy builders in their own right.
I especially appreciated the uplifting tone that makes this book essential reading for any ambitious entrepreneur aiming high despite the odds. Hamilton infuses the narrative with hard-fought lessons on using tribulation as fuel towards realizing a bold vision of uplifting others. Any reader would quickly feel energized by her infectious conviction that barriers exist only to be broken through the power of community and representation.
By the final page, you'll feel galvanized to tune out naysayers, uplift those around you, and confidently build your own table if existing seats remain unfairly out of reach. Arlan's candid personal trajectory paired with actionable steps towards realizing the need for change within the wealth gap makes this essential reading for those committed to collaboration and empowerment.
By expanding upon struggles within the predominantly white, male VC world, Hamilton illuminates trailblazing guidance for marginalized groups seeking to penetrate and thrive across any industry. With candid wisdom, she empowers readers to detonate their own mental roadblocks stemming from imposter syndrome and societal projections.
This is not a story about one woman’s wealth, but rather a mission to foster collaborative abundance for entire communities. Step-by-step, Hamilton provides guidance to recognize one’s expertise and use it impactfully. She pushes readers to pave the way for others to become wealth creators and legacy builders in their own right.
I especially appreciated the uplifting tone that makes this book essential reading for any ambitious entrepreneur aiming high despite the odds. Hamilton infuses the narrative with hard-fought lessons on using tribulation as fuel towards realizing a bold vision of uplifting others. Any reader would quickly feel energized by her infectious conviction that barriers exist only to be broken through the power of community and representation.
By the final page, you'll feel galvanized to tune out naysayers, uplift those around you, and confidently build your own table if existing seats remain unfairly out of reach. Arlan's candid personal trajectory paired with actionable steps towards realizing the need for change within the wealth gap makes this essential reading for those committed to collaboration and empowerment.
January 2, 2024
I received an ARC of Your First Million and I'm really glad I did. Arlan is now a wealthy businesswoman, but she's also an ordinary person and that really comes through in this book. She goes through where she came from and what she did to get where she is now because her goal isn't just to be a wealthy person, it's actually to use that wealth to bring others along with her. She wrote this book to help others be successful, create wealth and then share that success so that whole communities can be uplifted. I knew Arlan had that ethos before I read this, but reading more about it, I learned how much she's been able to do thus far, and it made me think about success in a different way.
It's written in a way that is really easy to read and approachable. Arlan uses her own story and examples of her own businesses and income streams to help illustrate how things are possible. She gives encouragement and tools, like exercises to think things through. I've dabbled with hobby businesses for years, but late last year I made a decision to give working for myself a real shot and I'm glad I have this book as a resource going forward.
It's written in a way that is really easy to read and approachable. Arlan uses her own story and examples of her own businesses and income streams to help illustrate how things are possible. She gives encouragement and tools, like exercises to think things through. I've dabbled with hobby businesses for years, but late last year I made a decision to give working for myself a real shot and I'm glad I have this book as a resource going forward.
January 7, 2024
Arlan Hamilton's writing is both accessible and profoundly motivating. This has swiftly become my essential morning read, offering daily inspiration. In 'Your First Million,' Hamilton recounts her unbelievable journey to the top of the venture capital world, a field notorious for its exclusivity - and that she claims that shouldn't. She doesn't just share her story; she uses it as a platform to uplift those considered underestimated by the establishment.
What stands out is her candid revelation of the challenges she faced and how she navigated them, it's her humbleness and openness that allows us to enter her world and her history easily - and what makes this book a page-turner. Her narrative isn't just personal; it's a universal call to action. Arlan firmly believes that entrepreneurship is the fastest route to amassing wealth and power, and she doesn't stop at theory. She provides practical, actionable steps that I've found invaluable, turning insights into strategies I can implement in my own pursuit of success.
If you want a great read for the start of 2024, this is it. And I guess I won't just read it once.
What stands out is her candid revelation of the challenges she faced and how she navigated them, it's her humbleness and openness that allows us to enter her world and her history easily - and what makes this book a page-turner. Her narrative isn't just personal; it's a universal call to action. Arlan firmly believes that entrepreneurship is the fastest route to amassing wealth and power, and she doesn't stop at theory. She provides practical, actionable steps that I've found invaluable, turning insights into strategies I can implement in my own pursuit of success.
If you want a great read for the start of 2024, this is it. And I guess I won't just read it once.
January 24, 2024
Million Dollar Nuggets in Disguise
If you're looking for "Get Rich Quick" schemes or money mantras in Your First Million, you've got the wrong book. But if you're looking for tried and true business development, keep reading.
She had me at Janet! I got hooked by Arlan's story of purchasing Janet Jacksons' 1956 Chevy at a Beverly Hills auction. Such a dream!
Not because she could afford this car, but because "SHE" could afford this car. Arlan skillfully shares mindset development skills in her well-crafted storytelling about her journey from poverty to prosperity.
The book is very relatable and an easy read with short chapters that are strategically named like "Audacity To Fail" and "Don't Count on the Money Until It's in the Bank". The chapters have exercises, that are a call-to-action to implement immediately.
This book is filled with entrepreneurial experiences and business strategies that anyone can follow.
A great read for those in start-ups and interested in learning about venture capitalists.
It's the ultimate underdog story, filled with million-dollar nuggets, disguised in practical advice.
If you're looking for "Get Rich Quick" schemes or money mantras in Your First Million, you've got the wrong book. But if you're looking for tried and true business development, keep reading.
She had me at Janet! I got hooked by Arlan's story of purchasing Janet Jacksons' 1956 Chevy at a Beverly Hills auction. Such a dream!
Not because she could afford this car, but because "SHE" could afford this car. Arlan skillfully shares mindset development skills in her well-crafted storytelling about her journey from poverty to prosperity.
The book is very relatable and an easy read with short chapters that are strategically named like "Audacity To Fail" and "Don't Count on the Money Until It's in the Bank". The chapters have exercises, that are a call-to-action to implement immediately.
This book is filled with entrepreneurial experiences and business strategies that anyone can follow.
A great read for those in start-ups and interested in learning about venture capitalists.
It's the ultimate underdog story, filled with million-dollar nuggets, disguised in practical advice.
January 23, 2024
3.75✨ even as someone who isn’t interested in venture capital or launching a business, I found this to be quite insightful. I listened via audiobook which was a bit rough as the Hamilton’s narration felt slow and there were often pauses between words making it sound quite clunky…this fact plus the repetition of the word underestimated made it a bit difficult for me to focus on the actual material being read aloud but overall I made note of some great pieces of advice and insight that I will definitely think about &/or act on. Hamilton’s story is inspiring and so engaging. I’d definitely recommend especially to those drawn to entrepreneurship
“Horizontal networking increases vertical advancement. We build up together”
“My outlandish success is my activism. It’s my fist in the air because I am my wins to catalyze others to do the same. If I can make [insert equity statement] obsolete, I consider that success”
Ditch FOMO - “I don’t need to know what everyone else is doing to know what I want to do”
“Horizontal networking increases vertical advancement. We build up together”
“My outlandish success is my activism. It’s my fist in the air because I am my wins to catalyze others to do the same. If I can make [insert equity statement] obsolete, I consider that success”
Ditch FOMO - “I don’t need to know what everyone else is doing to know what I want to do”
February 7, 2024
Arlan's book, Your First Million, is a remarkable guide that combines personal narrative with invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. This book isn't just about financial success; it's a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of unwavering belief in oneself. Hamilton's storytelling captivates readers, allowing them to connect deeply with her experiences, obstacles, and triumphs.
What sets this book apart is its practicality. Arlan doesn't just share her story; she also offers actionable insights and strategies for those striving to make their mark in the entrepreneurial world. From navigating obstacles to building a supportive network, she provides a roadmap that encourages readers to pursue their dreams relentlessly.
Arlan's insights and experiences will resonate with readers, leaving them inspired to pursue their dreams and redefine success on their terms. A must-read!
What sets this book apart is its practicality. Arlan doesn't just share her story; she also offers actionable insights and strategies for those striving to make their mark in the entrepreneurial world. From navigating obstacles to building a supportive network, she provides a roadmap that encourages readers to pursue their dreams relentlessly.
Arlan's insights and experiences will resonate with readers, leaving them inspired to pursue their dreams and redefine success on their terms. A must-read!
April 21, 2024
Learning and growth
One big idea: Establish multiple revenue streams for financial resilience.
Arlan Hamilton’s Your First Million makes a powerful assertion that wealth is not a privilege exclusively reserved for those fortunate to be born into it. Instead, it's possible for all, irrespective of life circumstances or starting points.
The importance of this idea is all the more relevant in our increasingly unpredictable world, where an economic downturn, a health crisis, or a global pandemic can swiftly disrupt our primary income source. Relying solely on a single income stream even, while having financial commitments, is akin to placing all our eggs in one proverbial basket. As we'll discover, spreading our earning capabilities across multiple sources not only provides a financial buffer during unexpected events, but also offers an empowering pathway towards the much sought after economic stability and independence.
One big idea: Establish multiple revenue streams for financial resilience.
Arlan Hamilton’s Your First Million makes a powerful assertion that wealth is not a privilege exclusively reserved for those fortunate to be born into it. Instead, it's possible for all, irrespective of life circumstances or starting points.
The importance of this idea is all the more relevant in our increasingly unpredictable world, where an economic downturn, a health crisis, or a global pandemic can swiftly disrupt our primary income source. Relying solely on a single income stream even, while having financial commitments, is akin to placing all our eggs in one proverbial basket. As we'll discover, spreading our earning capabilities across multiple sources not only provides a financial buffer during unexpected events, but also offers an empowering pathway towards the much sought after economic stability and independence.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2023
First off I want to say thank you as I won this from the author in a Goodreads giveaway. I enjoy reading on how to be better with our money. This book did not disappoint. Arlan come from nothing with so many things working against them, shares how they overcame the odds, and now shares how you can do it as well. This is not a get rich fast book, but a book full of great incites. One of my Absolute favorite chapters is chapter 3 Everyone's an expert in something (including you) It's not something that I've thought about much. Arlan makes you think about your natural gifts, and creating ways to gain an income from it.
Look for ways to do what you enjoy year after year fueling your soul, something that impacts others in a positive way, and building a legacy for your own family.
Thank you again for the book, may you always be blessed.
Look for ways to do what you enjoy year after year fueling your soul, something that impacts others in a positive way, and building a legacy for your own family.
Thank you again for the book, may you always be blessed.
January 2, 2024
I couldn’t wait to get my hands on and read this book and it didn’t disappoint! The author provides great insights and inspiration about how you can start wherever you currently are and become more successful (developing the right mindset and using the right tools). What I enjoyed most though, was that it’s not just theoretical or “pie in the sky” advice and platitudes. It’s actionable and the ideas are presented in a way that feel straightforward to implement. The exercises were my favorite part because it actually gets you started on executing towards your first million (dollars, followers, subscribers, etc, whatever you’re aiming for). I highly recommend this book and can’t wait to share it with my friends and family, particularly those also on the entrepreneur journey. Thankful this book came along when it did.
February 14, 2024
I won this book via Goodreads after adding it to my Want To Read list, so first off thank you to Arlan and Goodreads for the copy.
So I am not the primary audience for this book - While I was not born into a legacy of wealth, I’m also not part of the other underrepresented groups that Arlan mentions but I love the mission she has taken on and what that means for the world of entrepreneurship in general.
The beauty of this book to me is the the small, actionable items that Arlan gives as ways to grow the entrepreneurial spirit and skill set, and to give optionality to those of us looking to grow as entrepreneurs. I thought all of the thought exercises provided in this book were very helpful.
I would give this a 4.5/5 overall, excellent short book on entrepreneurship but there are just a few chapters I probably didn’t see a need for as I was reading them.
So I am not the primary audience for this book - While I was not born into a legacy of wealth, I’m also not part of the other underrepresented groups that Arlan mentions but I love the mission she has taken on and what that means for the world of entrepreneurship in general.
The beauty of this book to me is the the small, actionable items that Arlan gives as ways to grow the entrepreneurial spirit and skill set, and to give optionality to those of us looking to grow as entrepreneurs. I thought all of the thought exercises provided in this book were very helpful.
I would give this a 4.5/5 overall, excellent short book on entrepreneurship but there are just a few chapters I probably didn’t see a need for as I was reading them.
November 16, 2025
I read this one very slowly, just a few pages here and there over the course of a few months.
Let me first say, I don't know who Arlan Hamilton is before reading this book. I also don't know what I was expecting from this book.
It did give me a lot of information about Venture Capitalism.
And it did give some ideas of how to get in the room... which might work for some. For me, not so much as time is my greatest enemy and I literally cannot drop everything to go volunteer at a conference (I have young children and I am the main parent when it comes to every day life. So though someone else could, I just can't.)
It wasn't bad, but I don't know if it resonated with me due to my life circumstances. But it is very nice to see success mapping from a LGBTQIA+ BIPOC as those voices are sorely underrepresented in the industry.
Let me first say, I don't know who Arlan Hamilton is before reading this book. I also don't know what I was expecting from this book.
It did give me a lot of information about Venture Capitalism.
And it did give some ideas of how to get in the room... which might work for some. For me, not so much as time is my greatest enemy and I literally cannot drop everything to go volunteer at a conference (I have young children and I am the main parent when it comes to every day life. So though someone else could, I just can't.)
It wasn't bad, but I don't know if it resonated with me due to my life circumstances. But it is very nice to see success mapping from a LGBTQIA+ BIPOC as those voices are sorely underrepresented in the industry.
February 7, 2024
Your First Million by Arlan Hamilton is not only a book filled with practical advice on how to achieve a seemingly insurmountable goal, but it gives you the tools to change your mindset to get there. Arlan starts by letting us know that mindset is the most important thing we need to manage. She then transitions into independence through ownership, growth through building and success through information sharing with others. Your First Million is the perfect resource for people of all backgrounds to use as a means to grow their finances from seed to millions. Motivational and inspirational, you will get real use out of this wealth building guide.
April 21, 2024
Summary:
Financial stability and independence aren't the exclusive realm of the wealthy or the ones born into affluence. Irrespective of your circumstances or your background, you can carve out a niche of financial comfort for yourself. Start by creating multiple income streams, which offer financial resilience in the face of life's uncertainties. This diversified revenue doesn't necessarily have to be a full-time pursuit. Even a small side gig relating to something you love or are good at can be a significant first step. Taking control of your finances begins with intentionality, and every small step is a stride towards a more financially secure future.
Financial stability and independence aren't the exclusive realm of the wealthy or the ones born into affluence. Irrespective of your circumstances or your background, you can carve out a niche of financial comfort for yourself. Start by creating multiple income streams, which offer financial resilience in the face of life's uncertainties. This diversified revenue doesn't necessarily have to be a full-time pursuit. Even a small side gig relating to something you love or are good at can be a significant first step. Taking control of your finances begins with intentionality, and every small step is a stride towards a more financially secure future.
August 14, 2024
Underestimated.
Underrepresented.
Two labels that apply to millions (billions?) of people who have ideas, dreams, and goals that are often ridiculed and dismissed, that this author reframes in practical ways while offering realistic steps for making progress toward achieving measurable success in business and in life. A combination of candid personal memoir, ongoing entrepreneurial saga, workbook, and encouragement mantras, Your First Million is a must-read for high school and college grads as well as potential and current entrepreneurs of any age or level of success.
https://blerdybingereader.blogspot.co...
Underrepresented.
Two labels that apply to millions (billions?) of people who have ideas, dreams, and goals that are often ridiculed and dismissed, that this author reframes in practical ways while offering realistic steps for making progress toward achieving measurable success in business and in life. A combination of candid personal memoir, ongoing entrepreneurial saga, workbook, and encouragement mantras, Your First Million is a must-read for high school and college grads as well as potential and current entrepreneurs of any age or level of success.
https://blerdybingereader.blogspot.co...
January 16, 2024
Loved Arlan's work since hearing her on Work In Progress and finding her Your First Million podcast after. She continues to provide insightful advice on growing your financial future, even if investment funds aren't your thing. I don't see myself starting or investing in a fund personally, but she is a great motivator for finding your passion and what you do well. Love to learn more about her work and different founders she invests in. A great listen. And a GH fan to boot. Will always support a fellow GH fan.
May 19, 2024
I'd heard of Arlan Hamilton in the tech space and vaguely recall hearing her speak. So, when I happened to see her book yesterday, I decided to give it a try.
I finished it this morning.
I don't typically read books that quickly, but I couldn't put it down, so it's safe to say that it sparked something in me. Her transparency about where she came from and her setbacks inspire me.
This was a fascinating look into the world of venture capital, especially for the story being told by a black woman.
I finished it this morning.
I don't typically read books that quickly, but I couldn't put it down, so it's safe to say that it sparked something in me. Her transparency about where she came from and her setbacks inspire me.
This was a fascinating look into the world of venture capital, especially for the story being told by a black woman.
May 24, 2024
This is an inspirational and informative book with bite-sized chapters about various topics on entrepreneurship. There were times, however, where I couldn't tell who the book's audience was because it used terminology that wasn't familiar to me and included exercises after some chapters and not others. I wish that this book were longer and took its time demystifying the venture capitalist world and gave an overall picture of Arlan Hamilton's story, but that's just me and how I would have approached it as an editor.
January 19, 2024
Arlan Hamilton not only invites us to envision a country where the wealthiest people are actually representative of the population, in this book she lays out steps for each of us build our own legacies. Told through the framework of Hamilton's compelling personal history of achievement, business acumen and generosity, we're guided in a reimagining of power and success for the greater good.
[I received an ARC from Netgalley and my review is voluntary.]
[I received an ARC from Netgalley and my review is voluntary.]
January 25, 2024
Omg, this review is long overdue! Arlan's first book IADT is amazing. And this second book, YFM 🔥🔥🔥 This is the clarion call for this generation. Becoming a millionaire requires a set of skills and those skills CAN BE TAUGHT! Snag this book, hard cover and audible because you're gonna wanna listen, read, highlight and take notes on ALL the gems that are dropped in this masterpiece. 💎💎💎 To all my future millionaires, let's goooooo!!! 🚀
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews