10 Books by African American CEOs and Entrepreneurs with Key Takeaways

by | Mar 4, 2025 | book reviews, Small Business Strategies

Photo by Andrea Cau on Unsplash

  1. “Powershift” by Daymond John
    • Key Takeaways: This book explores strategies to transform any situation through three principles:
      • Influence: Build a strong personal and professional reputation.
      • Negotiation: Master techniques to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.
      • Relationships: Focus on long-term meaningful connections.
        Drawing on his experiences, Daymond John shares actionable advice to achieve success.
  2. Unapologetically Ambitious” by Shellye Archambeau
    • Key Takeaways: Shellye Archambeau offers a roadmap for overcoming challenges and achieving goals:
      • Set Clear Objectives: Establish specific goals and plan your steps.
      • Take Risks: Step out of your comfort zone to move forward.
      • Stay Resilient: Use determination to push through obstacles.
        Her story inspires readers to aim high while staying true to their ambitions.
  3. It’s About Damn Time” by Arlan Hamilton
    • Key Takeaways: Arlan Hamilton delivers advice for underrepresented entrepreneurs:
      • Resilience: View rejection as an opportunity to grow.
      • Individuality as Strength: Use your unique experiences to create value.
      • Action-Oriented Steps: Gain tools and confidence to innovate and overcome challenges.
        This book is both a call to action and an entrepreneurial guide.
  4. “Why Should White Guys Have All the Fun?” by Reginald F. Lewis
    • Key Takeaways: Lewis shares his groundbreaking story of building a billion-dollar company:
      • Strategic Thinking: Pursue opportunities with foresight and innovation.
      • Discipline: Commit to education and hard work to rise above the rest.
      • Community Impact: Create a lasting legacy while uplifting others.
        This autobiography highlights the importance of vision and perseverance.
  5. Beating the Odds” by Eddie C. Brown
    • Key Takeaways: A Wall Street legend, Eddie C. Brown provides invaluable lessons:
      • Financial Expertise: Understand markets to create wealth.
      • Adaptability: Stay flexible through market changes and business cycles.
      • Persistence: Strengthen your resolve in the face of adversity.
        This memoir demonstrates the power of determination and skill in achieving success.
  6. “Display of Power” by Daymond John
    • Key Takeaways: Focused on branding and entrepreneurship:
      • Brand Building: Cultivate a message that resonates with your target audience.
      • Entrepreneurship: Learn to turn challenges into motivation for growth.
      • FUBU’s Journey: Gain insights into the rise of Daymond John’s iconic fashion brand.
        The book provides a roadmap for turning passion into profit.
  7. “Black Founder” by Stacy Spikes
    • Key Takeaways: Stacy Spikes details his entrepreneurial path and lessons:
      • Turning Failure into Success: Shift failures into launching points for new ventures.
      • Commitment to Vision: Stay focused even in challenging times.
      • The Outsider Advantage: Leverage unique perspectives to disrupt the market.
        His story showcases resilience and creativity in entrepreneurship.
  8. “Building Atlanta” by Herman J. Russell
    • Key Takeaways: This book recounts how Russell overcame racial barriers to create a business empire:
      • Perseverance: Use innovation to push past societal limitations.
      • Leadership: Grow your business while giving back to the community.
      • Creative Problem-Solving: Navigate obstacles with ingenuity.
        A compelling story of transformation and leadership.
  9. “The Wealth Choice” by Dennis Kimbro
    • Key Takeaways: Dennis Kimbro reveals the principles of wealth creation:
      • Healthy Financial Habits: Develop routines like saving and investing.
      • Mindset of Success: Adopt optimism and resilience to achieve financial goals.
      • Build a Network: Learn the value of surrounding yourself with success-oriented individuals.
        This book provides practical advice for achieving financial independence.
  10. “Acting Up” by Janice Bryant Howroyd
    • Key Takeaways: A mix of professional and personal guidance:
      • Simple Wisdom: Build trust and relationships with authenticity.
      • Adaptability: Approach challenges with resourceful solutions.
      • Legacy Creation: Empower others as part of your success story.
        Howroyd’s insights combine business acumen with empowering life lessons.

These books are a rich source of inspiration and guidance for aspiring entrepreneurs, providing both strategic advice and personal stories of overcoming adversity to achieve business excellence.

I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.

Written by Charlotte Theresa

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