Super Rich: A Guide to Having It All

by Russell Simmons, Chris Morrow

The visionary entrepreneur and author of the New York Times bestseller Do You! delivers a powerful guide to true abundance.

Russell Simmons knows firsthand that wealth is rooted in much more than the stock market. True wealth has more to do with what's in your heart than what's in your wallet. Using this knowledge, Simmons became one of America's shrewdest entrepreneurs, achieving a level of success that most investors only dream about. No matter how much material gain he accumulated, he never stopped lending a hand to those less fortunate. In Rich Inside and Out, Simmons uses his rare blend of spiritual savvy and street-smart wisdom to offer a new definition of wealth-and share timeless principles for developing an unshakable sense of self that can weather any financial storm. As Simmons says, "Happy can make you money, but money can't make you happy."

In straight-talking inspiring chapters, Simmons provides unforgettable true stories from his own road to riches, delving into the principles and practices that have kept him energized and focused. Whether we're in the boardroom or on a yoga mat, Simmons says, we have to be able to listen to our inner voices. Finding our unique potential, we can make the right moves, ruled not by money but by the joy of conscientious living and giving. With these philosophies and more, Simmons brings us a stimulus package of consciousness that will never run dry, backed by the power of the higher self.

Genres: Nonfiction, Business, Self Help, Money, Audiobook, Personal Development, Spirituality

208 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2010

About the author

Russell Wendell Simmons is an American entrepreneur, writer and record executive. He co-founded the hip-hop label Def Jam Recordings, and created the clothing fashion lines Phat Farm, Argyleculture, and Tantris. Simmons' net worth was estimated at $340 million in 2011.
After producing or managing artists such as Kurtis Blow, Run DMC, Whodini, and Jimmy Spicer, Simmons joined forces with producer Rick Rubin to found Def Jam Recordings. Under Simmons' leadership as chairman, Def Jam signed acts including the Beastie Boys, Public Enemy, L.L. Cool J., Jay-Z, DMX, and Kanye West. From 1992 to 1997, he also produced the Def Comedy Jam television program.
Simmons has promoted veganism and a yoga lifestyle. He also published books about healthy lifestyle and entrepreneurship. In 2017, Simmons was publicly accused of sexual assault by multiple women; he denied the allegations. Following these allegations, Simmons stepped down from his various business roles and charities, including his position at Def Jam.

Reviews

[Cathie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Let me boil it down.
-Be happy
-work hard
-follow your hearts desire
-do yoga
-meditate
-don't eat meat

All good stuff. He has some stories to back up these points of course.

[Rashaun]

Don't let the title of this book fool you into thinking Russell Simmons wrote only about money and how to obtain it. In fact, don't let the title of this book trick you into thinking it has anything to do with money, because it doesn't. Super Rich is a book specifically about the quality of life on a soul and spiritual level, and knowing all the ways to increase your inner joy, finding love in anything and everything you experience. From this, it is to Russell Simmons' idea, one can truly be Super Rich.

I really enjoyed reading the book primarily to see what it's like to be Russell Simmons living a spiritual lifestyle, being serious about all that you do, managing music and performing arts with Def Jam, being a big time and well known philanthropist, and being a father of two little girls. He is one of the very few celebrities who interest me on a personal level to see what he is actually doing with the time that he has and how he is affect the world. Aside from doing all these things, Russell Simmons is a very interesting person to actually meet and converse with. He is very down to Earth on a regular basis, and doesn't ever try to censor how he feels and what he says even when camera's are around (which in his life, cameras are always around) and this is something that I like. What that ensures to the reader is that everything he's discussing and talking about in his book is real. It's something that they can take with them and actually apply in their lives, maybe on an educational and foundational level, or maybe as guidance for their own happiness through spirituality. These facts alone make the book that much stronger.

Even with all the great things to say about Russell Simmons and the book's connection to reality, if you want something challenging that challenges your reading ability, this isn't the book to read. Don't mistake that for this book being poorly written in language, because that is not the case. This book was just extremely easy to manage and get through because it is not literarily complicated and difficult. This is not the same for the concepts given in the book, which touch deeply on meditative practices, both mental and physical, being healthy, and finding yourself in only complete happiness. I feel though, that the book was written this way on purpose. I feel that the book made sure it wasn't too complicated literarily because of the fact that a lot of new concepts were being introduced to a lot of new people. If you confused them with tricky language, then the concepts they were receiving would be that much more confusing. This might make the reader put down the book and discontinue their desire to read it. Religion is a touchy topic, and though Russell Simmons doesn't say anything at all to challenge one's religion or bring them out of that religion, he does talk about some spiritual aspects of his life that many people are ignorant to that they may initially think to be contradictory to their beliefs. In the way the book was written, Russell made this very clear that this was not the case. That can only be attributed to how easy the book was to manage and get through with it's basics use of language to connect to all.

I personally enjoyed the book because one, it can open the minds of those who have no knowledge of enlightenment or what it means to partake in the quest of enlightenment. The other reason is because it allows you to see how enlightenment is being pursued by someone else, going over all aspects of their life and connecting them to spirituality. Russell Simmons is a great role model, one that many people look up too. To see how someone of his stature and wealth deals with everyday life on a spiritual level is moving. This book can inspire the soul in everyone to find happiness in life, which will then lead to one being Super Rich.

[Sps · Rating 3 out of 5]

Russell Simmons (he of the aureole on the cover) tells it like it is, but also like it could and should be. He writes with a lot of hope for humanity, and through us, hope for all living beings and the earth itself.

While Simmons is the first to admit that the ideas in Super Rich are as old as religion, the real reason to read this book is for his amusing voice. Few people can write--and mean--lines like "If rosaries can help move me away from ego and closer to God, then I'm going to count the shit out of them."

Or "Like a ho, money itself is insecure. Never forget that money is more like the ho and happiness is like the nun. To get pure happiness, you're going to have to really give of your self. But with money, you can fake it a bit. Even if you just show the world a fraction of the sweetness and honesty that's in your heart, it's going to come running after you."

Simmons is convincing about the connection between spiritual dedication and worldly success. He gives "the secret of success that eludes many for their entire lives: Treat every second as holy. In other words, treat the moments spent scooping ice cream the same as the moments spent talking to Brett Ratner. Whether it appears on the surface to be pedestrian or prestigious, tedious or tremendous, every moment must be infused with love and hard work. There simply no other way to find long-term success in this world."

He's especially sweet when it comes to his kids, whom he "[wants] to understand that the peace and tranquility they feel after meditating is actually their natural state. That no matter what happens in the world around them, there's nothing that can disturb that pool of stillness in their hearts."

I will say that after reading this book I've been smiling more. Maybe it's just the spring sunshine, but maybe it's Russell Simmons.

[Mohammad · Rating 1 out of 5]

Proselytizing for yoga and veganism
ربطی به ثروت نداره.
می گه ثروت واقعی اینه که در صلح و صفا زندگی کنی و همه چیز رو بپذیری و لبخند بزنی و ببخشی و به آرامش رسیده باشی. برای این کار هم یوگا راه حل خوبیه. برای کار هم بدون چشمداشت کار کنید و انتظار پاداش و شهرت و مقام و ... نداشته باشید و کاری که دوست دارید رو با تمام وجود انجام بدین و مقید به نتیجه نباشید.
صادق باشید، حیوون ها رو نخورین و مهربون باشین و از این حرفا.

خوشم نیومد.

[John Hibbs · Rating 2 out of 5]

Another poorly written volume. Attempts to repackage wisdom in an urban vernacular and examples. Using rappers like 50 Cent as examples of spiritual virtue really doesn't work and I didn't buy it.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this book. Who knew that Uncle Russ would be so insightful. This is one of those books you can read multiple times and get something out of each reading.

In the book he states that happiness is not determined by our exterior forces (material possessions). Each person is born with happiness as our basic birthright, but it ends up being drowned out by the clutter of our material things that we think are the cause of our happiness. If I just had that new car, I'd be happy; once I buy a house, I will be happy. With each new thing, we think, finally I am happy, but that feeling creeps back that says I need something else in order to be happy.

This statement struck a chord with me, "no matter where you're from or what you've done, you're never stuck in a particular circumstance, relationship or cycle unless you say you are". Each sunrise presents a day to do something new. Another one, "when you realize you are going the wrong way in life, stop and change directions". For me, I do feel as though I am going the wrong direction in life, but my problem is, should I stop and go South, East or West? I did take copious notes on this book. There was a lot to think about. I will probably buy this book so I can take notes throughout and give more thoughts to the things that resonate with me.

[Dolly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not a fan of Russell Simmons. In fact, before listening to this book I could not have told you who he is. But I was looking at the audiobooks section of our library's ebook site and saw the summary and decided to check it out.

I have to admit that I "skim listened" to the audiobook, listening to it at an accelerated speed and skipping ahead when he started in talking about his many business deals and the music acts he has represented.

But when he talked about the importance of being compassionate, mindful, and present in the moment, I listened in. When he discussed avoiding attachment to our worldly possessions and being happy with what we have, I was enthralled. When he waxed poetic about the benefits of meditation and the importance of quieting your mind, I paid attention.

I appreciated that he talked about making small changes and conscious choices to become more enlightened. I may not be ready to give up meat cold turkey (ha, get it?) And I haven't found a way to incorporate meditation into my life everyday.

So, all in all, I found it to be worth listening to over the course of an afternoon. I have some odd coincidences in my reading and was a bit shocked to see Mr. Simmons highlighted in the news for allegations of sexual harassment just as I decided to get around to listening to his book.

Still, after reading his responses to the allegations, I was still impressed by his willingness to take responsibility for his actions, his philosophy and focus on being compassionate. It does not excuse any act of harassment he may have committed, but at least he is not abjectly denying or blaming his accuser.

interesting quote (page number from the paperback edition with ISBN13 9781592406180):

"Whenever I see Jasmine in the hospital or that one-legged yogi in class, I am reminded of a critical truth taught by Lord Buddha: While pain is inevitable, suffering is optional." (p. 156)

[H.L. Balcomb · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fascinating little book which, in my opinion, consists of three-parts: a memoir, an instructional manual surrounding important life lessons learned by Mr. Simmons, and a Yogi-manifesto composed of a diverse selection of viewpoints/ inspirations that all fall under the theme of enhancing one's spiritual-actualization. Best of all, these three parts are interwoven randomly throughout the book, which supplies an engaging storyline for the reader.

My favorite analogy is on pages 25-27 where Mr. Simmons explains money's insecurity through the comparison of a pimp vs. a nun's approach to contentment. He says, "Never forget that money is more like a ho and happiness like the nun. To get pure happiness, you're going to have to really give of your self."

This single statement leads to his book's greatest discovery that true happiness can't be bought - it can only be gifted to one's self through the act of selfless love and the discipline of hard work. Moreover, that gift can start right now, where you are in your life's journey, or as stated by the great Lao Tsu: "To the mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders" (p. 31).

My greatest 'Aha Moment' is the realization that meditation can paved the way to eternal stillness of being. Our self-worth should include moments of stillness to reconnect to the lifeline of our story's purpose, and indirectly, greatness of being. Thank you for that reminder Mr. Simmons. Sincerely, Hermy

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr.Simmons discusses the connection between money and our brains. Our intentions and reasoning for wanting large amounts of money has much to do with our upbringing and our personal, current adult lives and habits. In short, he explains how money is spiritual. Many may consider that blasphemy, but it is true. When we are still enough and REALLY awake (paying attention), only then can we understand the connection between money and our sub~conscious. We, and we alone, determine what we do with money~power. And that determines if the money stays or goes.

Mr. Simmons is able to conceptualize, for anyone, how our abilities to be good, do good, enrich and encourage others, practice patience, love, and good intentions are the keys to financial success. Not the other way around. Money WILL NOT buy you happiness. But your happiness and intentions can determine if money is attracted to YOU.

Mr. Simmons is the cofounder of Def Jam Recordings and his involvement with Phat Farm, Baby Phat and numerous other ventures along with his endless philanthropy, make him a the perfect mentor and role model for young adults as well. This book should be required reading in high school!

*Highly recommend! Fast read!!

[Arthur Charlez]

I just completed reading Robin Sharma's "The leader who had no title" and my only take-away from that books was that I started waking up at 5am to pray and read my holy scriptures.

For me it was almost like this book was a build on that book. I am a Christian and although Russell Simmons is on some other religious stuff, I surprise myself by being able to grasp the principles he teaches without being assimmilated into the spiritual stuff. The book is seriously enlightening for me, especially since I come from the same era he comes from. I grew up on the music that Russel's label first put out, having adopted the hiphop culture in 1984.

For people not steeped in sort of rigid religious beliefs, this book will take you high into the spiritual aspects of business and life. A great read, a great listen if you have the audio version and altogether a great lesson in spirituality.

[Tiffany Tyler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super Rich: A Guide to Having It All is not a guide on how to attain monetary richness or steps to succeed in the music and/or fashion business as one might expect from mogul Russell Simmons. Instead this book is a guide on how to find spiritual fulfillment which in turn will pour over to the other areas in a person’s life.

Even if you as the reader does not follow Simmons preferred faith, there are still plenty of “gems” in this book that can be applied to your life without compromising your own religious beliefs. It is a very encouraging book and one that challenges you to raise your level of consciousness. I recommend this book to anyone that is interested in breaking the boundaries on their life and are trying to find a new approach.

[Terry Koressel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Super Rich does not refer to money wealth....instead the rich to which Russell Simmons refers is a fulfilling life. Mr. Simmons in his early life was dealing drugs, doing drugs and moving down a dangerous life path. Starting with nothing he turned a hip hop music party business into one of the earliest successful hip hop record labels. But more importantly, he turned his personal life in a new direction. He embraced yoga, a vegan diet and eliminated drugs and alcohol from his life. Super Rich is Mr. Simmons description of his philosophy of life. His life experiences give him a wonderfully refreshing perspective. His culture is far from my own, but that is part of the books allure. I enjoyed the book and found it inspiring. I recommend.

[Briana Ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was pleasantly surprised with this book. The audiobook was narrated by Black Ice and he did a really good job. In true Uncle Rush fashion, it was some F bombs dropped but I wouldn't expect any less. It was spiritual without harping, and he reiterated that it wasn't just about monetary riches, but rich in all aspects of your life. It definitely hit a chord with me in the relationships area. If you're hesitant, I say just pick it up.

[KyaP_Stacey · Rating 3 out of 5]

He got me! I saw the title, and of course assumed that much like his first book "Do You," that "Super Rich" would be an outlined guide to career, business, and self-empowement. I thought there would be lists, and details, and specific steps that would lead readers one step closer to millions.

But Russell Simmons is smarter than that. Smart enough to give his book an appealing title...but also rich enough to know that he's one of the best people to speak about what being "rich" really means.

Released in January of 2011, "Super Rich" is Russell's account of how he achieves personal satisfaction--despite his financial success, and how he feels that "inner" wealth and progress is much more liberating than any monetary figure.

Easy for the rich guy to say. In fact, he says that a few times in the book, knowing that any reader would also share the same sentiments. It's easy for the guy with millions to tell you that it's not important to have money. But at the same time...who better to tell you that than someone who has experienced it?

Wealth and success are the end goal for the majority of people. No one wants to suffer, be miserable, and broke. Of course not everyone wants the spotlight and attention that comes with being a public figure, but I'm pretty sure anyone would settle for the stacks-on-stacks-on-stacks in a heart beat.

Money is great! You can buy what you want. Go where you want. Work where you want. Eat what you want. Dress how you want. Drive what you want. Live where you want. You don't have to stress about providing for your family. What's not to like or desire about that?

To many, being "rich" and receiving these types of benefits equates to being HAPPY. But Russell carefully deconstructs these myths of attaining happiness, and through his passion for yoga, expresses how one can TRULY reach a state of richness.

Now, the book is a little big yoga-heavy. He emphasizes how important the practice of yoga is to his daily routine, and also the huge role it has placed in keeping him in a great mental space, and allowing him the energy and state of being to achieve his successes. At times it's almost like a sales pitch for the yoga lifestyle, for meditating, and for veganism and related practices.

But given that this is Russell's personal guide to gettin' rich, he makes sure that his method is outlined loud and clear. It is because of yoga and the peace and clarity it brings him, that he has been able to achieve all that he has.

Along with encouragement for meditation, he also did drop a few gems of knowledge:

Make sure your gift is an honest expression of what's in your heart. He stressed how important it was that you pursue your passions, and stay true to exactly what it is you believe you should be doing. With that honesty of purpose, you are more likely to achieve success than if you are following someone else's path for you.

He followed up by saying that "The burden of not connecting with your God-given happiness is the heaviest load you can carry in life." Great point! And I believe a lot of people experience un-happiness and financial stress because they are unable to do what they "really" want to do, and instead go through the motions in a socially acceptable line of work, or whatever opportunity they may have. He notes that a part of life's richness is making sure you connect to what genuinely makes you happy...with or without the financial compensation. Or in his words..."only do shit you believe in."

"We want to be so pure in our spirit and intentions that when we give the world our gift, we don't spend a moment worrying about when we're going to receive a response, let alone payment for it." Here he talked about having a spirit of charity, and being able to share with others and share without reservation...putting good energy into the world, and also creating a good framework for your own actions.

Dont chase the money. This was a key message throughout. While following your heart, and giving to others, by being true to yourself...the money will inevitably come, he believes. But he stressed that the money shouldn't BE the objective, but rather a product of your honest intentions.

There was a great story he told about being in a dorm room at NYU with Rick Rubin, and the memories he had in the early stages of Def Jam...the FEELING he received from those successes and milestones NEVER compared to any cheque he's received or other type of compensation. Years later, and millions richer, he made it clear that the feeling of wealth was nothing in comparison to the feeling of pure joy, accomplishment, and exercising his true passions.

That was perhaps the part of the book that stood out the most to me, mainly because I could also think of a handful of FANTASTIC memories and experiences in my life...and none of them were necessarily tied to financial gain. Sure, money is fabulous...but I truly understood his message about the difference in lasting effect. The moments will always stay with you...but the money is just...well, money. He stressed that "Def Jam's success was rooted in a conscious pursuit of happiness, not a blind pursuit of money."

"Stillness is the fertile soil in which imagination is nourished and ideas can grow to incredible heights." I really liked this quote too. The encouragement to operate out of a calm, happy, focused, and heightened space...and let go of all the issues that are holding you down.

The book was pretty spiritual, still. Again, quite unexpectedly, but definitely appreciated. He outlined the 8 steps of classical yoga, including DHARANA (concentration on one's purpose in life) and DHYANA (meditation and devotion on the Divine), and reminded his readers repeatedly to take joy in whatever you are doing and leave a great impression at whatever you are doing...which could inevitably lead to greater opportunities.

"Play your position with an unlimited supply of hustle, selflessness, dedication, relentlessness, and smiles...people will see your potential."

"Put yourself in a physical space that's going to promote your evolution...filled with consciouness and compassion."

It was an easy read, an inspiring page-turner, and while it didn't give me 101 tips to get dem dollars...it did remind me that with patience, the right frame of mind, a positive and healthy spirit, and the trust and faith that life will give you exactly what you need to succeed at the right time, when you are ready...we can all be just like Uncle Rush: motivated, progressive, and most importantly...genuinely filled with joy.

What more could you ask for?

Written by Stacey Marie Robinson for Kya Publishing's "Urban Toronto Tales" blog.

[Brian Sachetta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve now read three books by Russell Simmons, and I can definitely say that he’s a great role model. The lessons I take away from this book only reinforce that sentiment.

In this one, he expands upon the concepts he introduced in “Do You!” For that reason, this book feels somewhat like a sequel to that one; it’s filled with the same sort of spiritual and karmic lessons.

In addition, Simmons focuses on meditation and enlightenment quite a bit here — a logical transition from what he’s discussed in the past.

Overall, it doesn’t break the mold all that much from “Do You!”, but I don’t think that’s necessarily a bad thing. I recommend this one highly as well.

-Brian Sachetta
Author of “Get Out of Your Head”

[Starfire · Rating 2 out of 5]

This 'oldest unread book on my Kindle for June was... a really, really WEIRD read (made weirder by the fact that I had no idea of the sexual harassment and assault charges against the author from multiple women over multiple years until after I finished reading it).

Quite aside from the weirdness that comes from discovering those charges, the book sort of felt like an unholy cocktail made up of one part prosperity gospel (but with a combination of Americanised Yoga and TM instead of Christianity), one part 'put in your time as a happy victim of hustle culture and exploitation and you'll surely get financially rewarded beyond your wildest dreams', one part 'meat is murder', one part 'meditation is good and everyone should do it', and one part 'follow your bliss and let the work you do be its own reward and your path to God'.

I think the main takeaways I've walked away from it with are that a/ the life and goals Mr Simmons describes are not the life and goals I want for myself, but that b/ I should really be meditating more often.

I guess those aren't terrible takeaways, all things considered. BUT. At the same time I bought this title (back in 2016), I also bought one of the author's later books, which was slated as next month's "Oldest unread title" read. TBH, I don't think I feel comfortable reading it though, given the wealth of the allegations and charges against him.

[Tefo Mohapi · Rating 3 out of 5]

If it was not that I felt Uncle Rush wrote this book with good intent I would have given it a 1 star rating. This is because 2 examples of people he uses in the book as worthy of being emulated haven’t aged very well, namely Donald Trump and Mother Teresa. Otherwise the book reminded me that it is when we are at peace with ourselves that we achieve the most. The most important lesson for me was that work can also be meditation if you are completely focused on the task at hand. Actually, it applies to everything, be present in the moment with no distractions.

[Serge Larose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really spoke to me, I liked the narrator and the content. Also, since I connected with the narrator and the content, I felt I received great value by reading this book.
In all honesty, I was fooled by the title however had it not been for my materialistic ego I wouldn't have rented it. Not at this particular juncture anyway.
I've already rented Russell Simmons' 'Do You' book from the local library !
Keep it up Russell, I highly recommend this printed or audio book !

[Lyenne Dunlop · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not at all the motivational work I had been looking for. This book was recommended in another that I was reading - I felt as if it missed the mark. Or perhaps I just wasn't who the book was written for. Wouldn't recommend it.

[Alicia]

This book didn’t age well as far as the people mentioned and Russell’s comments about his own personal conduct, very questionable. The message, which is a good one is lost in 2025. I’m not rating it because of this. Right message, wrong messenger!

[Agnes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great message. It could be done in half the time and I don't agree with some of his points, but overall I'd recommend it to a friend.
Inspirational and thought provoking. 👍🏻

[Jilles · Rating 3 out of 5]

Spiritual self-help book with a hip-hop flavour.

[Garren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not about making money but having a rich inner life

[Boye Adeifé · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deep...

[Bobby Pinckney · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was good, he just talked about buddhism alot.

[Caron Watkins]

W

[Quinton Lopez · Rating 3 out of 5]

"May beings everywhere be happy and free. And may the thoughts, actions, and words of my own life somehow contribute to the happiness and to that freedom for all."

[John Nustad · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed it greatly. Loved Do You! so wanted to read this one. It’s a continuation of the spiritual component of his Do You! book.

[Corky]

This book gives tips on having a better life and reaching your full potential. The main tip is to meditate daily.

[Wayne Garrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Classic