FULL SHOW_ Best Places to Find a Christmas Boo, Strawberry Letter: She’s Getting More From Him Than Money - 12.15.25

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant. 🎙️ Interview Summary: Dr. Jamal Bryant Guest: Dr. Jamal Harrison BryantHost: Rushion McDonaldTopic: Faith, leadership, financial literacy, and community empowerment Dr. Jamal Bryant, senior pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, shares his journey from academic setbacks to becoming one of the most influential voices in faith and social justice. The conversation explores how the Black church can evolve, empower communities economically, and embrace technology and education to uplift future generations. 🔑 Key Takeaways 🏛️ Church Beyond the Walls COVID-19 forced churches to rethink their purpose and expand beyond traditional worship. Over 3,000 people joined New Birth online during the pandemic. “Culture changes every four years, but Black church culture changes every 20. The average church is 15 years behind schedule.” 💰 Financial Literacy & Economic Empowerment The Black church must teach not just tithing, but how to multiply the remaining 90%. Black dollars circulate only 30 minutes in the community, compared to 23 times in Asian communities. “We ask for 10%, but never show people how to multiply the 90.” 🏦 Debt Reduction & Stewardship Dr. Bryant inherited a church with significant debt and reduced it through stewardship, savings, and refinancing. “We got no corporate donations. It was model stewardship and aggressive debt reduction.” 🎓 HBCU Advocacy HBCUs produce the majority of Black professionals in medicine, law, education, and politics. Despite limited resources, they outperform many predominantly white institutions. “North Carolina A&T graduates more Black engineers than any other program in the country.” 📚 Financial Habits & Credit Awareness Many African Americans live at 110% of their income. Dr. Bryant promotes the 10-10-80 rule: save 10%, give 10%, live on 80%. “We have housewarming parties for apartments… we don’t talk about homeownership.” 🌍 Personal Journey & Mentorship Failed 11th grade, earned a GED, became the first GED student to attend Morehouse. Interned for Nelson Mandela, earned a master’s from Duke, and became the youngest NAACP youth director. “You can’t achieve success by yourself. Everywhere I went, someone stepped in and moved me forward.” 🕊️ Role of the Church The church should be a “recycling center” for discarded lives, transforming people spiritually and socially. “You can come as you are. Just be clear, you won’t stay as you are.” 💬 Notable Quotes “Your revenue is in your reflection.” “The church must be high-tech and high-touch.” “We don’t like to sit down. We like to dance and dribble.” “People are dying from a lack of knowledge.” #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 Gerron Duhon. Purpose of the Interview The conversation aimed to: Highlight the importance of financial literacy for young adults. Share Jerron Duhon’s personal journey from Lake Charles, Louisiana, to Yale University and into holistic financial planning. Promote his book “The Purpose of Paper”, which focuses on building generational wealth and breaking harmful financial habits. Key Takeaways Personal Journey & Identity Shift Jerron used football as a “meal ticket” to escape his hometown, but a concussion ended his athletic career, causing an identity crisis. He pivoted toward financial education and wealth creation, emphasizing long-term planning. Misconceptions About Wealth Many young adults believe wealth comes quickly through gambling, sports betting, or flashy investments. Social media fuels the desire to display wealth rather than build wealth, leading to poor financial decisions. Financial Habits & Framework Jerron introduced his AIMS framework: Awareness: Know your current financial state. Intention: Set clear goals and reverse-engineer steps. Mindset Change: Focus on future self, not old habits. Systems: Automate savings and investments to reduce reliance on willpower. Faith and Finance Connection Principles like self-control, patience, and hope—fruits of the spirit—are essential for financial discipline. “Faith without works is dead” applies to money: belief must be paired with action. Generational Wealth Gerron stresses taking ownership of your financial future rather than leaving the burden to your children. Investing should be strategic and long-term, not like playing the lottery. Practical Advice Start small but consistent (e.g., $150/month). Use modern tools like Robinhood for stock investing. Shift from being a consumer to an owner (invest in companies you use). Notable Quotes “Football was my meal ticket… but I realized I didn’t dream far enough.” “We connect our financial decisions to display wealth instead of to build wealth.” “Faith without works is dead—just like in finances.” “Are you going to be the one that changes your generation, or will you leave that pressure on your children?” “Good advice is timeless.” #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 James Green. Purpose of the Interview The interview aimed to showcase James Green’s entrepreneurial journey as the founder of KyuTeaCo (Kyushu Tea Company), a premium tea brand focused on curating authentic Japanese tea experiences. It highlighted his unique position as an African-American entrepreneur bridging cultures, his passion for tea, and his mission to educate consumers about tea’s health benefits and heritage. Key Takeaways Background & Inspiration James Green grew up in Atlanta, studied international business and Japanese, and lived in Japan for five years. His passion for tea began during a high school exchange program in Fukuoka, Japan, and deepened through cultural immersion. Business Model KyuTeaCo  partners with eight small, organic tea-growing families in Kyushu, Japan. Direct-to-consumer and B2B approach: e-commerce platform launching soon, plus partnerships with cafes. Simplified supply chain: Farmers → Kuti Co → Customer (eliminates middlemen, ensures fair pay for farmers). Mission & Differentiation Focus on storytelling and cultural connection, not just selling tea. Educates consumers on tea’s health benefits (e.g., reducing hypertension and diabetes risks). Premium curated experience vs. mass-market tea brands. Challenges & Lessons Kickstarter campaign failed due to lack of collaborators and marketing reach. Learned importance of storytelling and emotional connection for crowdfunding success. Social Impact “11% for Good” Program: 11% of every sale goes to sustainability efforts for Japanese tea farming. Name significance: “11” in Japanese sounds like “ii,” meaning “good.” Future Plans Launching e-commerce in January. Exploring subscription models and virtual tea tastings. Goal: Build a brand that consumers care about through cultural education and premium experiences. Notable Quotes On launching a business:“I’m learning now more than anything, just launch it. Just go. You’ll build it brick by brick, day by day.” On cultural connection:“We’re not just selling tea; we’re telling the stories of Kyushu and these families. It’s about legacy and sustainability.” On social impact:“Every bag of tea someone buys, 11% goes toward rehabilitating the Japanese tea industry. We’re investing in their futures.” On entrepreneurship:“Anybody can sell a product. What we’re doing is creating an experience and educating people about the culture behind it.” #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 Sauda Johnson McNeal. To highlight Sauda Johnson McNeal’s journey from a successful law career to filmmaking. To discuss her new film “Love the Skin You’re In”, its themes, production process, and personal significance. To inspire entrepreneurs and creatives to pursue their passions while balancing purpose and practicality. Key Takeaways Career Transition & Dual Roles Sauda started as an actor, realized the instability, and pursued law for financial security. Maintains dual careers: education attorney and filmmaker, blending purpose (helping youth) and passion (storytelling). Film Details Title: Love the Skin You’re In. Themes: Self-love, family healing, caretaking, and African-American experiences. Cast includes Wendy Raquel Robinson, Marla Gibbs, and Oba Babatundé. Release: Limited theatrical run (Dec 17–23 in North Hollywood), streaming planned for February 2026 (Black History Month). Production Challenges Unexpected permit issues caused shutdowns. Tight 4-week shooting schedule due to budget constraints. Importance of leveraging relationships and calling in favors for casting and resources. Personal Connection Story inspired by Sauda’s own struggles with self-worth during college. Emphasizes therapy, faith, and support systems in overcoming self-doubt. Entrepreneurial Insight First project was self-financed; future plans include raising private equity for films. Goal: Maintain creative control while expanding opportunities for others. Impact & Audience Takeaway Encourages self-acceptance and repairing family relationships. Resonates with men on fatherhood and emotional presence. Highlights the underappreciated role of caretakers. Notable Quotes On purpose and passion:“My purpose is to help young people. My passion is this filmmaking business.” On self-love:“Love the skin you’re in is about total self-acceptance regardless of where you are on your journey.” On overcoming fear:“Film is unpredictable… I said, okay, the other fears—do it anyway.” On family relationships:“We are not promised tomorrow… Fix these family relationships if they’re possible to be fixed.” On entrepreneurial mindset:“I absolutely would like to use other people’s money… but keep creative control.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Monday, December 15th, 2025: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open | The Pastors | Ask The CLO | Best Places to Find a Christmas Boo | Christmas Day Build Up | Sister Odell | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "Church Gospel Quiz" | Strawberry Letter - "She’s Getting More From Him Than Money" Parts 1-2-3 | Social Media Advice | Warm Weather Predictions for the Holidays | Would You Rather | Closing Remarks - Christmas CarolsSupport 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 Dr. Melanye Maclin. Purpose of the Interview The discussion aimed to educate the audience about the health risks associated with hair care chemicals—including relaxers, dyes, and synthetic hair—and to advocate for safer practices. It also highlighted Dr. Maclin’s pioneering work in hair and skin supplements and her ongoing mission to raise awareness about these issues. Key Takeaways FDA Ban on Hair Chemicals In 2023, the FDA considered banning certain chemicals in hair products due to health risks, but no ban has been implemented yet. These chemicals are linked to breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, and hormone disruption. High-Risk Chemicals Identified Hair Relaxers: Sodium, calcium, guanine, and lithium hydroxide. Hair Dyes: Para-phenylenediamine (especially in permanent dyes). Synthetic Hair: Contains benzene, posing risks of lung cancer and leukemia. Impact on African-American Women African-American women face a 45% higher risk of certain cancers due to combined use of relaxers and dyes. Cultural and aesthetic pressures contribute to continued use despite health risks. Children at Risk Applying relaxers to young girls can cause early puberty, uterine fibroids, infertility, and increased cancer risk. Chemicals penetrate the scalp, enter the bloodstream, and disrupt hormones. Industry Resistance Pushback from salons and manufacturers due to financial interests. Comparison to tobacco and alcohol industries—profit prioritized over health. Solutions & Advice Avoid chemical treatments when possible. If used, protect the entire scalp with petroleum jelly to reduce absorption. Space out relaxer applications (every 8–10 weeks, max 10 minutes for children). Dr. Maclin’s Contributions Launched Bella Nutri supplements (2004 for women, 2008 for men). Advocates internal nutrition for hair and skin health. Website: drmacklin.com and bellabeauproducts.com. Notable Quotes On FDA inaction:“Still to this day, that ban has not occurred… We’re continuously having women going to the next generation of life as a result—next generation cancers.” On cultural pressures:“We’re so into wanting to have a certain look versus wanting to be healthy.” On children’s exposure:“We’ve got to keep chemicals off of little girls’ hair… It’s causing hormone disruption, early puberty, infertility, and increased cancer risk.” On industry resistance:“People care about the green-eyed devil called money… Look at the tobacco industry.” On her mission:“I feel like I’m caring more about someone’s health than they’re caring about their own.” #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 Sandra Daley. Founder of Destiny Executive Enterprise D Inc., joins Money Making Conversations Masterclass to share insights on entrepreneurship, cybersecurity, and personal growth. As the leader of one of the fastest-growing global IT companies in the USA, she focuses on helping individuals, institutions, and governments elevate their brands. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights Entrepreneurship & Business Growth Sandra's company specializes in IT solutions, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. She emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, branding, and scaling businesses effectively. Her firm helps companies increase their brand visibility and market positioning by 10 times through innovative strategies. Background & Personal Journey Originally from Antigua, Caribbean, Sandra migrated to the U.S. at age 15. Her career path shifted from law and aviation to computer science and cybersecurity after mentors recognized her strengths in STEM fields. She worked for aerospace companies before launching her own IT firm. Book: Delete@ The book guides readers through reprogramming negative thinking, breaking repetitive cycles, and embracing intentional growth. Sandra overcame language barriers and self-doubt to write the book despite grammar challenges. The key message: Delete negativity and replace it with actionable steps toward success. Cybersecurity & Digital Protection Sandra shares tips for protecting personal data, avoiding scams, and securing digital devices. Encourages individuals to utilize security features on phones, download protection apps, and use services like LifeLock. Advises against clicking suspicious links or engaging with unknown digital sources. Mindset & Overcoming Fear She discusses the toxic mind loop—how repeating negative thoughts can hinder success. Emphasizes the power of mentorship, faith, and self-awareness in breaking harmful mental habits. Encourages resetting daily routines, reprogramming thought patterns, and embracing a fearless mindset. 📘 Resources & Contact InformationSandra’s work and book are available through:🔗 Website: https://deenterprise.com/🔗 Social Media: @SandraDaley     #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 Dr. Maxine Cain.  Founder of STEM Atlanta Women, joins Money Making Conversations Masterclass to discuss her mission to increase diversity in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. She shares insights on how her organization bridges gaps for Black and Brown women in underserved communities and creates career pathways. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights Origins of STEM Atlanta Women Founded in 2016, the organization was inspired by Maxine’s challenges as an HR leader in a Fortune 500 company, where recruiting women of color into innovation roles was difficult. She recognized a lack of representation and cultural barriers that discouraged women from entering STEM careers. Her background in corporate event planning and business development helped her secure sponsorships for STEM-focused initiatives. Summerhill Community Hub The organization operates out of a two-story loft space in Summerhill, Atlanta, a historically underserved community. Summerhill lacked essential resources, including a bank and grocery store, for over 60 years. Partnered with Carter Development, which helped provide space for STEM education and community programming. STEM Education & Outreach Works closely with local schools, including King Middle School, Carver Early College, Maynard Jackson High School, and Georgia State University. Runs programs designed to introduce young girls to STEM careers, helping them build confidence and skills early. Annual STEM Events STEMinist Ball celebrates young women excelling in STEM fields by awarding crystal trophies, certificates, and graduation cords at a black-tie event. STEM in the City is an afterschool program that exposes students to emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, drone technology, and flavor science with Coca-Cola. Collaborated with Usher’s New Look Foundation and IBM to introduce artificial intelligence concepts to students. College & Workforce Development Partners with Clark Atlanta University and Emory University to provide certification programs in business intelligence and emerging technology. Works with major corporations to create career pathways for Black talent. Helps underserved individuals gain industry-recognized certifications for high-paying tech jobs. Vision & Impact Maxine started STEM Atlanta Women to create opportunities for young women who lacked access to STEM education. She emphasizes mentorship, representation, and hands-on learning to help future leaders navigate STEM careers. 📘 Resources & Contact InformationDr. Maxine Cain’s work is accessible through:🔗 Website: STEM Atlanta Women🔗 Social Media: @STEMAtlantaWomen   #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The episode is a motivational masterclass aimed at empowering individuals—especially entrepreneurs and professionals—to take control of their lives, careers, and personal growth. Rushion McDonald shares personal stories, lessons learned, and actionable advice to help listeners: Overcome fear and excuses Build a personal brand Capitalize on opportunities Maintain balance and consistency Transition from being a “chicken” to an “eagle” in life 🗝️ Key Takeaways 1. Age Is Not an Excuse “Don’t let your age be an excuse… There’s no such thing as a perfect life.”McDonald challenges societal timelines and encourages listeners to pursue their goals regardless of age. 2. Find a Hobby & Prioritize Health “If you run into life with no hobby, then guess what? It will lead to frustration.”He shares how baking became his hobby and helped him find balance. 3. Take Vacations & Value Family “If you’re saying that you don’t have time for vacation, I’m telling you, you are a fool.”He emphasizes the importance of rest and family time for mental and emotional well-being. 4. Dating & Relationships Matter “No dating time and no family time are the same problems.”McDonald discusses how neglecting personal relationships can hinder overall happiness. 5. Capitalize on Opportunities “IBM gave me a job opportunity to be successful. I wasn’t capitalizing on it.”He recounts a pivotal moment at IBM where he learned the importance of setting goals and presenting himself professionally. 6. Fear of Formalizing Business “If you don’t get it in writing, it’s not legitimate.”He warns against informal business practices and stresses the need for contracts and structure. 7. Build and Market Your Brand “You are a brand. You are a product. You are a walking, talking product.”McDonald explains how he branded Steve Harvey like a corporation and how individuals must treat themselves similarly. 8. Chicken vs. Eagle Analogy “Why would you want to be eating like the chicken when you can soar like an eagle?”A powerful metaphor contrasting mediocrity (chicken) with excellence and leadership (eagle). 9. Outline Your Plan “Set a goal. Make that plan. Get to work. Stick to it. Reach that goal.”He provides a simple 5-step framework for achieving success. 10. Consistency Is Key “Consistency promotes your brand. Consistency delivers value to your customers.”McDonald highlights how reliability and standards build trust and success. 💬 Notable Quotes “Stop reading success stories and start writing your own.” “Retirement is for old people. Social media does not have an age limit.” “You don’t want to be a chicken. You want to be something people expect you to be.” “Fear of getting your business relationship in writing… If you don’t get it in writing, it’s going to go away.” #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 Michelle Lilly. A cryptocurrency and blockchain educator and entrepreneur. Here's a summary of the key points discussed: 🎙️ Main Themes and Highlights Michelle Lilly’s Background Entered the cryptocurrency space in 2017. Initially lost money in a scam but used the experience to educate herself. Became the first African-American woman with a master’s degree in blockchain and digital currency from the University of Nicosia. Understanding Cryptocurrency Bitcoin is described as a protocol, not just a currency—used for value storage and transfer. Ethereum is highlighted for its smart contract capabilities and utility. Cryptocurrencies are a hybrid between stock and currency—they have utility like stock and liquidity like currency. Why Bitcoin Has Value Scarcity: Only 21 million Bitcoins will ever exist. Deflationary: Bitcoin undergoes a “halving” every four years, reducing the rate of new coins. Decentralization: Not controlled by any central authority, making it secure and transparent. NFTs and the Metaverse NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) are unique digital assets, often used for art and music. Artists can sell directly to consumers and earn royalties on resales. The metaverse is explained as a 3D version of the internet (Web 3.0), where users can own digital land and assets. Empowering Underserved Communities Michelle emphasizes the importance of African-American and female participation in crypto and blockchain. Encourages people to educate themselves and not wait for permission to participate in new financial systems. Practical Advice You don’t need a lot of money to start investing in crypto. Understanding the current financial system is just as important as learning about the new one. Consistency, self-awareness, and openness to criticism are key to success. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.