Uplift: Educating us on Real Estate investment opportunities and financial literacy.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Karimah McFarlane.   🎯 Purpose of the Interview To explore Karimah McFarlane’s multifaceted journey—from her corporate leadership roles at Google and Workday to becoming the owner of Buckhead Art & Company—and to inspire others to embrace change, pursue entrepreneurship, and understand the value of art as a tool for wealth-building and cultural empowerment. 🧭 Key Takeaways 1. Corporate Career & Tech Leadership Karimah has 20+ years in Human Resources, specializing in mergers and acquisitions. At Google, she supported AI and Pixel teams as a People Business Partner, despite initially thinking the recruiter’s call was spam. Currently at Workday, she partners with the Chief Revenue Officer to build high-performing sales teams and develop leadership pipelines. 2. Navigating Change & Cultural Shifts Transitioned from the East Coast (DMV area) to the Bay Area, facing cultural adjustments (e.g., lack of familiar foods, hair products). Found support through Delta Sigma Theta sorority and Black Googlers Network. Emphasized the importance of embracing discomfort and new experiences for personal and professional growth. 3. HR as a Strategic Asset HR is more than hiring/firing—it’s about scaling businesses, developing talent, and preventing legal issues. Small businesses often undervalue HR until a crisis occurs. HR should be seen as a strategic partner on leadership teams. 4. Art as Wealth, Culture & Healing Karimah owns Buckhead Art & Company, the only art gallery in Buckhead, Atlanta. Inspired by her exposure to art investment at Google and her role in selecting art for corporate spaces. Advocates for marginalized artists by helping them with branding, IP protection, and business structure. 5. Making Art Accessible The gallery focuses on beginner and mid-level collectors, offering education and approachable experiences. Offers virtual consultations, art fairs, and community events to demystify art buying. Emphasizes the emotional, cultural, and financial value of art. 6. Recognition & Impact Buckhead Art & Company was named Best Art Gallery in Georgia (2023 & 2024). Uses her platform to educate, empower, and elevate artists and collectors alike. Promotes artist development through storytelling, branding, and business mentorship. 💬 Notable Quotes “Empowerment is figuring out what you do best and using your talent to help others.” “Don’t shy away from opportunities that give you insights and experiences.” “HR helps you scale your organization—it’s not just about hiring and firing.” “Art has always been at the forefront of royalty, wealth, and education.” “We specialize in humans. When you walk into our gallery, you are equal.” “You don’t have to win an Oscar to be a great actor. Same with art—you don’t need a traditional path to be successful.” 🔗 Connect with Karimah McFarlane Gallery: Buckhead Art & Company YouTube: Buckhead Art & Company Instagram: @buckheadartandcompany #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Paul Rainey. He holds a powerful executive role in the media world, shaping the future of iconic brands like Billboard, Rolling Stone, and SXSW. 🏆 Paul Rainey’s Executive Career at Penske Media Corporation (PMC) Current Role Executive Vice President of Operations and Finance at Penske Media Corporation (PMC). Oversees operations and financial strategy for Rolling Stone, Billboard, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Vibe, SXSW, and more. Provides strategic input across PMC’s global media brands and live events, including the Billboard Music Awards, SXSW, and American Music Awards. Key Responsibilities Leads financial decision-making, acquisitions, and operational procedures across PMC’s portfolio. Serves on several boards, including as Audit Committee Chair of Redaptive, Inc. and a Director at SXSW. Background & Education Holds a Master of Science in Accountancy and a BBA in Finance and Computer Applications from the University of Notre Dame. Formerly held leadership roles at General Electric, Global Eagle, and Harris CapRock Communications, managing billion-dollar operations across five continents. 📘 About PMC & Cultural InfluencePMC is a global media powerhouse, reaching over 350 million people monthly. Its brands shape culture through journalism, entertainment, and live events, including SXSW Paul Rainey is a rare blend of creative storyteller and corporate strategist, bridging the worlds of graphic novels and global media leadership. Whether he’s crafting a sci-fi twist in a comic or guiding the future of Billboard and SXSW, his influence is both wide-reaching and deeply personal. Let me know if you’d like a visual timeline of his career or a deeper dive into one of his roles. 🎬📈✨ #STRAW #BEST #SHMSSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Cicone Prince.  A motivational speaker and personal development coach discusses his journey from working in 3D animation to finding his true calling in motivational speaking. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's value and purpose, encouraging people to tap into their passions and gifts to make a positive difference in the world. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights Finding Purpose Through Self-Discovery Prince believes many individuals fail to recognize their inherent worth. His philosophy, Making Motivation Personal, introduces people to themselves, helping them uncover their true potential. Overcoming Limiting Beliefs He discusses how childhood experiences shape negative behaviors. His book, Heal: Help Elevate and Learn, focuses on addressing past traumas to rewire unhealthy patterns. Personal Accountability & Growth Prince stresses that motivation must come from within, while inspiration can come externally. He encourages self-reflection and accountability to break cycles and achieve success. Leadership & Productivity Strategies His approach helps individuals and organizations improve behavior, performance, and productivity. He specializes in real-world business leadership and personal accountability. 📘 About Cicone PrinceCicone Prince is the CEO of CiconePrince.com, where his slogan is Making Motivation Personal by Introducing You to Yourself™. With a background in electronic engineering, he uses engaging stories and illustrations to inspire audiences. His work focuses on personal development, leadership, and helping people overcome fears to reach their full potential.   #STRAW #BEST #SHMSSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Angeletha Long. A 24-year Army veteran turned travel entrepreneur: 🎯 Purpose of the Interview To highlight Angeletha Long’s journey from military service to becoming a successful travel advisor and cruise expert, and to educate listeners—especially African Americans and veterans—on the benefits and opportunities of cruising as a travel experience and business venture. 🗝️ Key Takeaways 1. Cruising as a Travel Experience Convenience & Value: Cruising offers all-inclusive packages covering accommodation, dining, entertainment, and transportation. Multi-generational Appeal: Popular among families traveling across generations. Variety of Activities: From Broadway-style shows to roller coasters and go-karts, cruises cater to adventure seekers and relaxation lovers alike. Food Culture: Cruises are known for their abundant and diverse food options, including buffets, specialty restaurants, and snack stations. “There is food here, there is food there, there is food everywhere. The one thing that you're not going to be on a cruise is hungry.” – Andelita Long 2. Military to Travel Industry Transition Inspired by her mother’s hospitality business in Jamaica. Military experience provided skills in logistics, planning, and resilience. Desire for flexibility and family time motivated her to pursue entrepreneurship. “Why do I want to keep punching the clock? … Why not do something that I love?” – Andelita Long 3. Representation & Empowerment Noted the lack of Black professionals in the travel industry. Advocates for creating space and visibility for African Americans in travel leadership. “If the table isn't big enough for us to fit there, we don't have to make our own table.” – Andelita Long 4. Veteran Travel Benefits Norwegian Cruise Line: Offers 10% discount for veterans. Margaritaville Cruise Line: Provides one free 3-night cruise per year for veterans. Long helps veterans access and maximize these benefits. “Margaritaville gives each veteran once a year a three-night free cruise. No cost to you.” – Andelita Long 5. Specialty Cruises & Community Promotes culturally rich cruises like “Grown & Sexy” charters focused on Black culture and entertainment. Encourages first-time cruisers and singles to explore group travel experiences. “It’s full of Black people. We got Black entertainers. Everything on there—it’s all about Black history, Black culture, Black power.” – Andelita Long 📞 Contact Information Website: mydreamvacationtravel.com Phone: (478) 334-0177 Email: [email protected] #AMI #STRAW #BEST #SHMSSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Demond Martin. Co-founder of Well With All, a Black-owned, purpose-driven health and wellness brand dedicated to improving well-being in underserved communities. Here’s a summary and analysis of the interview from Money Making Conversations Masterclass featuring Demond Martin, co-founder of Well With All, a purpose-led health and wellness brand: 🎯 Purpose of the Interview The interview highlights: The founding and mission of Well With All. Demond Martin’s personal journey from poverty to hedge fund success. The importance of health equity and generational wellness. The development of premium wellness products tailored for underserved communities. 🧠 Key Takeaways 1. Mission of Well With All A Black-owned health and wellness brand focused on generational wellness. Invests 20% of profits into health equity for Black, Brown, and underserved communities. Quote: “We’re not going to stop until we do it.” 2. Demond Martin’s Journey Grew up in poverty across Ohio, California, and North Carolina. Rose to become a managing partner at one of the world’s largest hedge funds. Mentored by influential figures like Erskine Bowles and David Thomas. Quote: “Each one of those levels allowed me to see myself in a different light.” 3. Catalyst for Change A personal crisis involving his child’s mental health led to a deeper commitment to community wellness. Quote: “The 14-year-old version of myself in the same scenario would likely be dead or in jail.” 4. Generational Wellness Defined as the intersection of health and wealth. Health is the foundation of long-term prosperity. Quote: “The greatest asset you can have is your health.” 5. Product Line Includes multivitamins, sleep support, omega-3, vitamin D3 + K2, and targeted supplements for blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. Products are clinically studied, premium quality, and designed with underserved consumers in mind. Quote: “Everything is clinically studied dosages with clinically studied ingredients.” 6. Community Engagement Products tested and promoted at events like Essence Fest and HBCU Classics. Emotional response from consumers validates the brand’s impact. Quote: “Hundreds of people said, ‘This is really good.’ My wife was in tears.” 7. Mental Health Advocacy Collaborating with Boston Children’s Hospital to create free parenting toolkits for anxiety, depression, and suicide prevention. Quote: “We’re producing content to help folks manage through and get educated.” 🌟 Notable Moments Rushion McDonald shares his own health journey and praises Martin’s transparency. Martin emphasizes empathy from lived experience as a driving force behind his mission. The brand’s name, Well With All, reflects its inclusive and persistent ethos.   #AMI #STRAW #BEST #SHMS  Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Jason Brown. A stock market investor and founder of Power Trades University. Brown shares his journey from investing a $10,000 student loan into the stock market to building a six-figure trading account. He discusses financial literacy, stock market strategies, and how everyday people can start their journey to becoming millionaires in five years. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights Jason Brown’s Stock Market Journey Started investing at 18 with $2,000 but lost most of it due to poor financial advice. Later used a $10,000 student loan to invest in stocks, growing it into a six-figure portfolio. Understanding Stock Market Basics Explains the importance of financial education and learning stock patterns. Introduces the concept of technical analysis, practical news insights, and fundamental evaluations. Power Trades University & Wealth Building Created an online education platform to teach stock and options trading. Offers courses, coaching, and community support to help individuals achieve financial independence. The Five-Year Millionaire Strategy Shares how making 10% returns per trade over 60 trades can lead to a $1.2 million portfolio. Emphasizes the importance of consistency, strategy, and risk management in investing. Investing While Working a Full-Time Job Encourages people to use their salaries to fund investments rather than relying solely on wages. Highlights how corporate jobs provide valuable insights into publicly traded companies. 📘 About Jason BrownJason Brown is a stock market investor, financial educator, and founder of Power Trades University. His upcoming book, Five-Year Millionaire, documents his journey to financial success and provides a roadmap for others to achieve wealth through stock trading. #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Suli Salaam. The founder of Paint Your Heaven, on Money Making Conversations Masterclass.  Here’s a breakdown of the key topics, highlights, and an about section: Key Themes & Highlights Origins of Paint Your Heaven Salaam explains the inspiration behind the company name, emphasizing the power of vision and positive thinking. He shares how the phrase Paint Your Heaven motivated him at 22 years old to pursue entrepreneurship. Full-Stack Development Expertise Salaam discusses his skills as a full-stack developer, differentiating his work from basic web design. He explains the importance of front-end and back-end development, particularly in creating complex applications like Uber. Challenges & Representation in Tech He highlights the lack of Black full-stack developers and attributes it to self-belief and limited exposure. He shares his personal journey growing up in a challenging neighborhood and how his mother and a supportive teacher encouraged him. AI & Software Innovation Salaam discusses his company’s use of AI and APIs to enhance software development. He reveals a project aimed at simplifying audio production, allowing users to clean up sound with one-click technology. Entrepreneurial Advice & Community Impact He encourages young people to embrace change and pursue careers in programming and AI. His company aims to serve businesses worldwide while also promoting positive thinking in inner-city communities. About Suli Salaam & Paint Your Heaven Suli Salaam is a full-stack developer and entrepreneur based in Kansas City. His company, Paint Your Heaven, specializes in web, app, and software design and development. The company combines technical expertise with creative design, making it a valuable resource for businesses looking to scale. Beyond business, Salaam is passionate about mentoring young people, promoting positive thinking, and helping communities embrace technology. #BEST #STRAW #SHMS  Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kika Wise. A former professional dancer turned entrepreneur, franchisor, and wellness educator. She is the Founder and CEO of Kika Stretch Studios, a franchise specializing in assisted stretching for wellness and longevity. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights The Science Behind Stretching Stretching improves circulation, flexibility, and posture, helping clients feel more youthful. Wise explained that assisted stretching allows people to go beyond their comfort zones, unlocking deeper relief. Franchising & Business Growth Wise is the youngest female franchisor in America, expanding her brand nationwide. She emphasized the importance of consistency across franchise locations, ensuring clients receive the same experience. Overcoming Challenges During COVID-19 The pandemic forced all Kika Stretch Studios to close for three months. Wise held weekly calls with franchisees, learning how to lead through uncertainty. After reopening, the business rebounded successfully, proving the demand for wellness services. Entrepreneurship & Leadership Wise shared her journey of starting with just $500 and growing into a national franchise. She encourages millennials to trust themselves and think beyond traditional career paths. Her advice: Invest in yourself first, because personal growth leads to business success. 📘 About Kika WiseKika Wise is a trailblazing entrepreneur who turned her passion for wellness into a successful franchise model. She is dedicated to educating millennials and other generations on self-care, business ownership, and financial independence. #STRAW  #BEST  #SHMS    Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Chef Kevin Bludso. Here’s a summary of MMCMC Script File 18, an episode of Money Making Conversations Masterclass hosted by Rushion McDonald, featuring special guest Kevin Bledsoe, founder of Bledsoe’s Barbecue and a two-time Hoodie Award winner. 🔥 Key Topics Discussed 1. The Hoodie Awards Legacy Kevin credits the Hoodie Awards for launching his national visibility. Describes the experience as “life-changing,” giving pride and validation to small business owners. Emphasizes how the awards brought community recognition, celebrity exposure, and lasting friendships. 2. Bledsoe’s Barbecue Journey Originated in Compton, CA, with family BBQ roots in Corsicana, TX. Now an international brand with locations in Los Angeles, San Antonio, and even Melbourne, Australia. Known for slow-smoked meats, authentic Southern sides, and consistent quality. 3. Celebrity Support & Customer Experience Celebrities frequent Bledsoe’s, but Kevin emphasizes treating everyone with respect. Consistency in food and service is key: “Every plate looks immaculate.” Rushion shares personal stories of bringing military and corporate guests to the restaurant. 4. Television Career Kevin’s TV debut came unexpectedly via a producer who overheard him joking in the kitchen. Became a regular on Bar Rescue and now stars on Netflix’s American Barbecue Showdown. His authenticity and humor made him a standout personality. 5. Philanthropy & Community Impact Bledsoe’s has paid for funerals, provided scholarships, and supported local causes. Kevin believes in giving back: “I don’t give to be blessed. I’m blessed, so I give.” Emphasizes the importance of teamwork, community, and uplifting others. 6. Entrepreneurship Real Talk Warns aspiring entrepreneurs: “Owning a business is the hardest job you’ll ever have.” Shares his early grind—working 24-hour days between BBQ and DJ gigs. Encourages building a strong team and trusting the process. 7. Civic Engagement Passionate about voting rights and Black empowerment. Urges listeners to vote in person and stay informed about political and social issues. 💬 Memorable Quotes “I don’t give to be blessed. I’m blessed, so I give.” “Are you ready to go eight years without a day off?” “The Hoodie Awards made us feel like celebrities—like we mattered.” “You need fans in the stands. That’s called customers.” “If I’m making it and my people aren’t, then I’m not making it.” #BEST #STRAW #SHMS  Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Stacey Allen. The founder and artistic director of Nia’s Daughters Movement Collective. This episode blends art, activism, education, and cultural preservation through the lens of Black history and dance. Here are the key highlights: 🎭 About Stacey Allen Founder of Nia’s Daughters Movement Collective, a professional dance company focused on art and wellness through the lens of Black women and girls. Author of two children’s books, including: A Little Optimism Goes a Long Way (introduces children to Katherine Dunham) D is for Dance and for the Diaspora (A–Z guide to African diaspora dance styles) Recipient of the 2024 Children’s Publication Award from the National Association of Multicultural Education. 🩰 Dance as Activism Stacy uses dance to tell stories of African American history, identity, and empowerment. Her performances are rooted in education, cultural preservation, and social justice. She emphasizes that dance is not just performance—it’s a tool for healing, storytelling, and activism. 🌍 Cultural Legacy & Freedom Colonies Stacy’s work includes performances like The Fairy Tale Project, which tells the love story of the founders of the Sankofa Freedom Colony in Texas. She collaborates with the Texas Freedom Colonies Project, which documents over 500 historically Black settlements in Texas. These colonies were founded by formerly enslaved people post-emancipation and are often overlooked in mainstream history. 🌊 Emotional Pilgrimage Stacy shares her transformative experience visiting Gorée Island in Senegal, a major slave port, and draws parallels to Galveston, Texas, where Juneteenth originated. She reflects on the emotional weight of visiting ancestral lands and how it informs her art and mission. 📚 Educational Mission Through her books, performances, and workshops (including in juvenile detention centers), Stacy educates youth and communities about Black history and identity. She believes that knowing your history empowers your future. 📣 How to Connect with Stacy Website: www.niasdaughters.com Instagram: @niasdaughters Facebook: Nia’s Daughters Movement Collective 💬 Rushion’s Reflections Rushion expresses deep admiration for Stacy’s passion and educational impact. He emphasizes the importance of sharing her work widely, especially the history of Texas Freedom Colonies, which he compares to the Underground Railroad in significance. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.