No One Is Self-Made

Build Your Village to Flourish in Business and Life

By: Lakeysha Hallmon

Narrated by: Lakeysha Hallmon

This book isn’t just for one kind of entrepreneur—it’s for every kind. Whether you're thriving with purpose or struggling to grow your business and battle self-doubt, No One is Self-Made offers solutions and encouragement you need to push forward with the right community. From the visionary behind the groundbreaking Village Market, a direct pipeline connecting Black businesses to engaged consumers, this inspirational guide dares to dismantle the myth of individualism and reveals how collective support can shatter systemic barriers to success. It’s a bold roadmap for entrepreneurs and leaders determined to rewrite the rules of business.

Support is a verb.

Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon keeps this mantra pinned to her wall as a reminder of the undeniable impact of community. When she was pursuing her entrepreneurial dreams, she quickly saw the racial disparities and systemic issues affecting Black small businesses. She began meeting many brilliant entrepreneurs and small business owners, recognizing their potential to soar if backed by invested supporters.

In response, Dr. Hallmon founded the Village Market and challenged people to put the “Support is a Verb” mantra to action by rallying around businesses within their own communities. As a result, The Village Market funneled millions of dollars into local businesses, attacking the wealth gap and spiriting economic prosperity. This replicable model has inspired others nationwide to adopt a similar approach and economic strategy. She found that her beliefs were true: that by rooting our lives, businesses, and work in community–we find resources to create and support economic mobility from within.

No One Is Self-Made is an inspirational narrative weaving together themes of community, purposeful businesses, and collective economics. This book debunks the myth of being self-made and empowers listeners to abandon the notion and lean into community on their pathway to success. Entrepreneurs at any stage of growth will appreciate Dr. Hallmon’s story—with all the ups and downs of founding the Village Market—and the road-tested advice she dispenses for those trying to find success in business, career, and life. She explains economic and social factors, missteps that can derail goals, and the tools necessary to create their own thriving village. Along the way, it becomes clear why working within a collective is a more effective path to success than going it alone.

Supplemental enhancement PDF accompanies the audiobook.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2025 Lakeysha Hallmon (P)2025 HarperCollins Publishers

Great storytelling

This is a wonderful memoir/instructional book. I loved that the author also included historical details in her notable figures that paved the way to generational wealth. Anyone in business—no matter how large or small-should read this book. All aspiring entrepreneurs should grab a copy. It should also be integrated in leadership courses.

I’m ready to build!!! This is an excellent read!

This was such a phenomenal and timely read. Dr. Key uses powerful and vivid storytelling to help us understand her journey, believe in the power of the village, and learn how to center community over capitalism. As a new business owner, I feel so inspired to step outside of the box and connect with other business owners. While I have built some community in online spaces, I’m encouraged to expand those connections. I’m also looking forward to looking into my existing mission statement and practices to determine how my values are reflected in my business practices. Dr. Key has poured her heart into building her businesses and has given us a piece of her heart in this book. I am forever grateful for this story and ready to expand my impact with my community!!! Kudos Dr. Key!

This book is good for everyone!

I bought the book to support a black author during BHM and honestly wasn’t sure it would apply to me since I’m not black, a business owner or an entrepreneur. I couldn’t put it down! The book is educational, inspirational, and challenged my thinking on traditional capitalism. Dr. Hallmon blends her personal/community story with advice, history, and inspiration. The book left me feeling hopeful at a time in history where the truth is being whitewashed and many of the gains in racial equity are being attacked and dismantled. I appreciate Dr. Hallmon’s reminder that we have agency and can operate differently to build up our communities.