Now to Next with Nick Nanton Feat. Arlan Hamilton

Arlan Hamilton is a venture capitalist, author, managing partner of Backstage Capital and the first Black woman to appear on the cover of Fast Company — that isn’t an athlete or entertainer. Backstage Capital has raised more than $30 million and invested in more than 130 companies led by underestimated founders. Host Nick Nanton and Arlan discuss the types of educational companies she loves currently being created, how sitting front row at a Janet Jackson concert inspired her ideals and future career path, and what drove Arlan to start a fund to invest in the companies that were being overlooked. Nick and Arlan also talk about building Backstage Capital for three years before receiving any funding, her book, “It’s About Damn Time” which shares the principles of entrepreneurship, and the benefits of backing syndicate members via Backstage Crowd. 

Timestamps:3:06: Growing up in Texas5:28: Why Arlan wore six watches as a kid8:55: “Cool” happenings in disruptive education 12:24: What got Arlan into the music business15:30: Where should people turn for positive influence if they aren’t getting it at home?19:28: How Arlan got into investing25:52: The background of flying to San Francisco on a one-way ticket31:27: What Arlan looks for when she’s investing in a business37:00: Diversifying is key39:00: “Sometimes you have to write the invitations to the parties you don’t get invited to.”42:36: Including self-care in the hustle and grind46:24: Getting Black women on the cover of magazines to become the norm
Resources:“It’s About Damn Time”“Your First Million"“Bootstrapped VC”Backstage Crowd
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