Episode description

John Hope Bryant welcomes Michael Milken in this episode of "The Founders Series." Michael is a transformative figure in modern finance, making the perfect guest for an all-encompassing discussion on innovation, mentorship, and the power of human potential.

Milken shares his journey, starting with how he revolutionized Wall Street with his innovative approaches, creating a clear shift in the financial industry. He recounts his transition from a passion for space exploration to finance after the Watts Riots, driven by the belief that skin color should not determine access to capital.

For 60 years, Milken has worked tirelessly to eliminate racial barriers to capital and opportunity. He highlights key milestones, such as mentoring Reginald Lewis, the first African American to build a billion-dollar company on Wall Street. Milken also discusses the creation of K-12 online schools to provide quality education in underserved areas, emphasizing the power of compounding in wealth creation, as described by Einstein.

Milken shares his investment philosophy, stressing that the best investment is in oneself, with knowledge and health as the foundations of wealth. He advises young professionals to seek experience and mentorship early in their careers rather than chasing the highest-paying jobs. Recognizing global talent, Milken believes that with the right opportunities, individuals worldwide can flourish.

Drawing parallels with athletes like Tom Brady and LeBron James, Milken highlights the importance of maintaining health for long-term success. He encourages using life’s challenges to one’s advantage, as adversity often precedes success. With a record of financing over 3,000 companies, Milken underscores the importance of individual impact in business success.

Join John Hope Bryant and Michael Milken for a compelling conversation that explores finance, education, mentorship, and the relentless pursuit of breaking down barriers to create a more inclusive and prosperous world.

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