It's About Damn Time: How to Turn Being Underestimated into Your Greatest Advantage

In 2015, Arlan Hamilton was living on food stamps and sleeping on the floor of the San Francisco airport with only an old laptop and a dream of entering the venture capital industry. She noticed that founders and investors in Silicon Valley were predominantly White and male, and she wanted to invest in people who didn't fit this conventional image. Without contacts, a finance background, or a college degree, Hamilton relied on determination and willpower to break into the field. This book shares Hamilton's journey from food-stamp recipient to venture capitalist. She argues that a privileged background, influential network, and college degree are not necessary for success. The book explores lessons learned along her path, including perspectives on overcoming underestimation, gaining access to spaces where you want to belong, and finding your voice. Hamilton contends that being underrepresented often means being underestimated, but this undervaluation can represent significant potential. She was named one of the best books of the year by Fortune.