Would You Rather - 10.29.25

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Virgie Bright Ellington. An internal medicine physician and medical billing expert. The discussion focuses on the complexities of health insurance, financial risks tied to medical expenses, and strategies to protect oneself from crushing medical debt. Key Highlights: Introduction to the Show:Rushion McDonald sets the stage for conversations about financial empowerment, entrepreneurship, and learning from successful professionals. Guest Introduction – Dr. Virgie Bright Ellington: She has extensive experience in primary care, psychiatry, and health insurance. She helps patients navigate medical billing and financial pitfalls in healthcare. She hosts What Your Doctor Wants You to Know, a podcast providing insights into healthcare and medical expenses. The Reality of Health Insurance: Even individuals with "great" health insurance are still at risk of massive medical debt. Deductibles reset annually, meaning someone who undergoes treatment at the end of the year may find themselves financially exposed when the new year begins. Medical expenses often lead to bankruptcy, making insurance literacy essential. Why People Avoid Insurance: Younger individuals often feel invincible and avoid paying for insurance. Unexpected accidents or illnesses can derail financial stability, even for the healthiest individuals. Steps to Avoid Medical Debt:Dr. Ellington outlines three steps to properly handle and negotiate medical bills: Step 1: Ensure the bill contains real CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes—many bills are sent without them, making it harder for patients to validate costs. Step 2: Research CPT codes online or use her Medical Bill Buster App to compare billed charges to Medicare rates (Medicare sets the most reasonable prices). Step 3: Negotiate with healthcare providers using Medicare pricing as leverage to reduce inflated charges. The Importance of Supplemental Insurance: Traditional health insurance doesn’t always cover major costs. Individuals, especially entrepreneurs and gig workers, should consider critical illness insurance, hospitalization insurance, and accident insurance as financial safeguards. Insurance vs. Other Mandatory Coverage: Unlike home or car insurance (which is legally required), health insurance is not mandatory in many cases, despite being equally essential for financial security. This creates a gap where uninsured individuals take on extreme financial risk when health issues arise. How to Contact Dr. Virgie Bright Ellington: Website: crushmedicaldebt.com Email: [email protected] Overall Takeaway: The discussion reinforces that health insurance should be viewed as a financial protection tool, not just a routine expense. Entrepreneurs, gig workers, and uninsured individuals need to take proactive steps in securing coverage and understanding how to negotiate medical bills effectively. Would you like a more in-depth analysis on a particular topic from this discussion?   #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://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 Teri Williams. Thanks! The transcript from this episode of Money Making Conversations Masterclass features a powerful and informative interview with Teri Williams, President, COO, and owner of OneUnited Bank, the largest Black-owned bank in the United States. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways: 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. OneUnited Bank’s Mission & Reach Formed by merging four Black-owned banks in Boston, Miami, and Los Angeles. First Black-owned digital bank (since 2005). Serves customers in all 50 states. Offers accessible, affordable financial services and promotes financial literacy. 2. Digital Banking for Underserved Communities OneUnited provides: Mobile check deposit (via smartphone). Early direct deposit (get paid 2 days early). Access to 100,000+ surcharge-free ATMs (including Walgreens, 7-Eleven, Chase, Citibank). Designed to combat financial deserts and predatory check-cashing services in Black communities. 3. Financial Literacy & Trust Teri emphasizes the need for Black communities to trust Black-owned institutions. OneUnited is FDIC-insured and uses cutting-edge technology, including AI. Financial literacy is key to building generational wealth. 4. WiseOne AI Tool An AI-powered financial assistant that: Tracks spending and subscriptions. Offers insights on saving and debt reduction. Aggregates data from multiple accounts to show net worth, cash flow, and financial health. 5. Youth Financial Literacy – “I Got Bank” Contest 15th annual contest for kids ages 8–12. Participants submit an essay or artwork based on a financial literacy book. Ten winners receive $1,000 savings accounts. Book: I Got Bank by Teri Williams (available free at oneunited.com/book). 6. OneTransaction Concept Focuses on six key financial transactions to build generational wealth: Homeownership Life Insurance Investments Profitable Business Credit Score Savings Encourages individuals to focus on just one to start their wealth-building journey. Learn more: oneunited.com/onetransaction 💬 Notable Quotes “We are a real bank, not a fintech. We are FDIC-insured.” “We are great with money. We just haven’t always had access.” “Focus on one transaction. That’s all it takes to start building generational wealth.” #SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMISteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://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 Miko Branch. 📝 Summary of the Interview Miko Branch shares the inspiring journey of building Miss Jessie’s, a premium hair care brand for curly hair, alongside her late sister Titi Branch. The brand was born at their kitchen table in Brooklyn and named after their paternal grandmother, Jessie Mae Branch. Miko discusses the importance of authenticity, education, and innovation in product development, and how Miss Jessie’s became a trusted name in the textured hair care industry. The conversation highlights the brand’s commitment to empowering individuals to embrace their natural hair and the evolving trends in beauty and self-expression. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview To showcase the entrepreneurial journey behind Miss Jessie’s. To highlight the importance of authenticity, education, and innovation in building a brand. To discuss the impact of natural hair acceptance and evolving beauty standards. To inspire listeners with a story of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Authentic Beginnings Miss Jessie’s was founded in a Brooklyn brownstone at the kitchen table. Inspired by their grandmother Jessie Mae Branch, who was the first female CEO they ever saw. Quote: “She ran her family from her kitchen table.” 2. Product Innovation First product: Curly Pudding—a game-changer for curly hair. Products are designed for all textured hair types: wavy, curly, kinky, transitional, and multicultural. Quote: “We just try to come up with a solution to be helpful.” 3. Education is Key Miss Jessie’s provides detailed information on hair types and how to use products. The website includes guides for identifying hair texture and selecting the right products. Quote: “Information and communication is key to success.” 4. Social Media & Word of Mouth Early growth came from chat forums and word-of-mouth before social media existed. Social media is now an additional platform to connect and educate customers. Quote: “Way before social media, women were chatting and spreading the word.” 5. Inclusivity & Representation Products are for everyone—men, women, children, and all ethnicities. Focus on embracing natural beauty and rejecting outdated beauty ideals. Quote: “Hair has no color… we’re all looking for solutions.” 6. Salon as R&D Hub Their salon served as a testing ground for product development and customer feedback. Quote: “We built our business in the salon… it became our R&D and testing ground.” 7. Natural Hair Movement Natural hair is no longer a trend—it’s a cultural shift. Seen on public figures like Oprah and Michelle Obama. Quote: “Natural hair is preferred… it’s how people want to express themselves.” 💬 Notable Quotes “We started our business in our brownstone at our kitchen table.” “We didn’t go to business school—we went to Jessie Mae Branch’s kitchen.” “Curly Pudding did everything it said it was going to do.” “We realized our work was not finished—we had to educate.” “Natural hair is not a trend—it’s here to stay.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://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 El' Deity Princey.  📝 Summary of the Interview El' Deity Princey is a transformational master coach, author, and speaker with a background in social science, neuroscience, and trauma recovery. In this powerful and deeply personal interview, she shares her journey from childhood trauma and dysfunction to becoming a high-achieving coach helping others reprogram their minds, cut toxic ties, and build wealth-driven lives. Her book, Monetize a Mind That’s Colonized, and her coaching business, 11 Master Consulting, are tools she uses to empower others to transcend adversity and manifest success. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Mindset is the Foundation of Wealth “Energy is currency.” True prosperity begins with internal transformation. Reprogramming the subconscious mind is essential to breaking free from societal conditioning and limiting beliefs. 2. Cutting Toxic Ties Toxic relationships—whether personal, familial, or professional—drain energy and hinder growth. “When you cut toxic ties, you thrive.” Applies to both employees and employers: focus on those who contribute positively to your mission. 3. Coaching vs. Therapy Coaching focuses on present and future goals, while therapy often addresses past trauma. El' Deity emphasizes accountability, strategy, and results in her coaching practice. 4. Routine Builds Wealth Daily habits, environment, and self-care routines are critical to building internal and external wealth. “Everyone has a gift. Everyone has a talent.” Routine helps unlock and monetize those gifts. 5. Healing from Trauma She shares her personal experience with Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) and how childhood PTSD mirrors veteran PTSD. Her journey from dysfunction and cult-like environments to academic and personal success is a testament to resilience. 6. Manifestation Requires Action Her concept of “Coagulation Law” emphasizes that belief alone isn’t enough—resources and action are required to manifest goals. Life is like Monopoly: strategy and movement are key to winning. 7. Empowering Language Words shape reality. Avoid saying “I’m struggling”—instead, affirm your intelligence and capability. “Speak life into yourself.” 8. Client Success Stories She helped a client leave a toxic home, pursue her talents, and attract a supportive partner—demonstrating how mindset shifts lead to real-world success. 9. Accessibility & Services Offers free live coaching on TikTok three times a week. Book: Monetize a Mind That’s Colonized is available on Amazon under her real name, Princess Halo. Coaching and courses available through 11 Master Consulting. 💬 Notable Quotes “When you master your emotions, you master your reality.” “Healing doesn’t take years—it takes intention.” “I got tired of begging for crumbs of love and began to give myself loads of love.” “Your self-image is what you attract.” “Are you tired yet? If yes, it’s time to pivot.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://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 Erica Gwyn.   🎙️ Interview Summary: Erica Gwyn on Money Making Conversations Masterclass Purpose of the Interview To spotlight Erica Gwyn’s journey as a faith-driven entrepreneur, her work with nonprofits through her company Nonprofit Guru LLC, and her educational initiatives including Seven Oaks Academy Montessori. The interview aims to inspire listeners by sharing Erica’s story of resilience, leadership, and community impact, while offering practical advice for nonprofit founders and small business owners. 🧭 Interview Outline 1. Introduction Host Rushion McDonald introduces the show and its mission to inspire and educate entrepreneurs. Erica Gwyn is welcomed as the founder and CEO of Nonprofit Guru LLC and Seven Oaks Academy Montessori. 2. Background & Career Journey Erica shares her early experiences, including working with Spelman College and Habitat for Humanity. She discusses her expertise in grant writing and nonprofit management. 3. Nonprofit Guru LLC Origin of the name “Nonprofit Guru” from her cousin, an attorney. Focuses on helping nonprofits with fundraising, board development, and strategy. Works with organizations that have at least \$300,000 in revenue and an existing board. 4. Common Mistakes in Nonprofit Startups Placing unqualified family members on boards. Lack of understanding of board responsibilities, especially fundraising. Over-reliance on grants without diversifying funding sources. 5. Board Development Advice Ideal board size: 5–7 members to avoid deadlocks. Seek members with legal, accounting, program design, and volunteer coordination expertise. Importance of board training programs like United Way’s VIP program. 6. Faith-Driven Entrepreneurship Erica shares her personal story of becoming a single mother at 19 and losing her child’s father. Her journey of healing through service and community involvement. 7. Seven Oaks Academy Montessori Purchased an existing preschool and transformed it into a boutique Montessori school. Focus on cradle-to-pre-K education with plans to expand after-school and summer programs. Offers unique features: professional chef, small class sizes, diverse staff, on-site therapy, and classroom cameras for parental viewing. 8. Summer Camp & Educational Expansion Originated from a math and science summer camp inspired by her son Cameron. Plans to revive the camp and expand educational offerings. Emphasis on creating a cradle-to-college pipeline for students. 9. Marketing & Branding Erica acknowledges the need to improve her visibility and branding. Encouraged by Rushion to relaunch her website and promote her services more actively. 💡 Key Takeaways Authenticity & Expertise Matter: Erica’s credibility stems from her hands-on experience and passion for nonprofit work. Board Composition is Crucial: A well-trained, committed board is essential for nonprofit success. Diversify Funding Sources: Don’t rely solely on grants—explore individual giving, estate planning, and in-kind donations. Faith & Purpose Drive Success: Erica’s personal challenges fueled her commitment to community service and entrepreneurship. Education is Empowerment: Her Montessori school and summer camps aim to provide foundational learning and long-term academic success. Marketing is Essential: Visibility and branding are key to expanding impact and reaching the right audience. 🗣️ Notable Quotes “You’re a nonprofit guru—you know nonprofits in your sleep.” “Your board’s primary job is to be a fundraiser.” “I’m a faith-driven entrepreneur. I walk in my purpose and that is a gift.” “Community means accepting and respecting people and organizations working together in an ecosystem.” “I started giving back to others, and I loved it. I’ve never known how to turn it off.” “You have a glow about you… you are a superpower.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://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 Mowbray and Cherina Rowand. 🎙️ Interview Summary: Mowbray & Cherina Rowand Purpose of the Interview To showcase the entrepreneurial journey of Mowbray and Cherina Rowand, co-founders of The Rowand Group and One Stop Taxes, the largest Black-owned virtual tax preparation service in America. The interview highlights their business evolution, scaling strategies, community impact, and the creation of the Black Tax Festival. 🧭 Interview Outline 1. Background & Origins Both from Memphis, Tennessee; met in high school. Started tax preparation in 2010 as a mom-and-pop operation. Transitioned from brick-and-mortar to virtual model by 2015. 2. Business Philosophy Entrepreneurship is defined as service to others. Mowbray is the visionary; Cherina is the implementer. Emphasis on scaling with structure: legal, accounting, HR. 3. One Stop Taxes Grew from a single office to over 1,000 virtual franchise locations. Offers free training, no startup costs, and shared revenue model. Built a platform allowing clients to submit documents and sign remotely. 4. Virtual Tax Model Designed for convenience and accessibility. Clients and tax preparers never need to meet in person. Platform includes document upload, e-signature, and cloud storage. 5. Franchise & Training Learning Management System (LMS) for onboarding. Training includes tax prep, customer acquisition, and platform use. Strategic partnerships with local businesses (e.g., dealerships, daycares). 6. Black Tax Festival Annual event held in Atlanta (Oct 16–18). Combines networking, education, and recognition. Includes IRS updates, business workshops, and the Titan Awards. Open to all entrepreneurs, not just tax professionals. 7. Expansion & Diversification Own restaurants in Memphis and the Dominican Republic. Franchised Fat Tuesday and Esco Restaurant (did \$1M in first 6 weeks). Own a yacht for rental experiences in the DR. Plans to develop a restaurant strip near FedExForum in Memphis. 💡 Key Takeaways Vision + Execution = Growth: Their complementary roles fuel business success. Virtual is Scalable: Transitioning to virtual allowed exponential growth. Community Impact Matters: Black Tax Festival fosters education and recognition. Diversification is Strategic: Restaurants and real estate expand their brand. Mentorship & Learning: They study successful entrepreneurs like Tilman Fertitta. Faith & Family Drive: Their journey is rooted in love, planning, and purpose. 🗣️ Notable Quotes “Entrepreneurship means being a servant to other people.” “The same thing that works at \$1M doesn’t work at \$15M.” “We had to fire ourselves from some jobs and hire professionals.” “We built a platform where you can do taxes from your couch.” “We started before social media—we know belly-to-belly marketing.” “Recognition matters—people don’t get it at home or work.” “We’re trying to bridge the wealth gap through proper paperwork.” “We bought a yacht in the Dominican Republic to rent for experiences.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.