Brand Building: Discussing the power of relationships with Executive Producer and Director of BET+ Family Business.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Naveen Jain. Founder and CEO of Viome.   🎯 Purpose of the Interview To introduce Viome’s revolutionary health technology that uses precision diagnostics and personalized supplements to help individuals take control of their health, prevent disease, and potentially reverse biological aging. 🧭 Key Takeaways 1. Viome’s Mission Viome aims to make illness optional by using AI-driven health diagnostics. The company’s tagline: “Imagine living in a world where illness is optional.” 2. The Full Body Intelligence Test Users submit saliva, blood (finger prick), and stool samples. Viome analyzes 100 million biomarkers to assess: Biological age Cognitive, heart, gut, oral, and immune health Root causes of symptoms like bloating, constipation, fatigue, etc. 3. Personalized Health Solutions Viome provides: Precision supplements tailored to your body’s needs Custom probiotics/prebiotics Oral microbiome lozenges Morning and evening toothpaste Supplements are reformulated monthly based on retesting. 4. Scientific Backing Viome has conducted placebo-controlled clinical trials showing: 64% improvement in gut health 25% reduction in fasting insulin 50% reduction in depression 47% reduction in anxiety—all within 90 days 5. Disease Detection Innovation Viome offers tests for: Stage 1 oral and throat cancer (available now) IBD and colon polyps (launching soon) Stage 1 pancreatic cancer (launching within 6 months) 6. Affordability & Access Full Body Intelligence Test: $299 Monthly supplement plans: $40–$200 depending on selected products Website: viome.com 7. Personal Story & Motivation Naveen Jain immigrated from India with $5, built 7 companies. Lost his father to pancreatic cancer—now developing early detection tests. Believes in purpose-driven entrepreneurship: “Making money is a byproduct of improving lives.” 💬 Notable Quotes “Your genes are not your destiny.” “There is no universally healthy food.” “Making money is like having an orgasm—if you focus on it, you’ll never get it.” “Don’t blame your ancestors for your sickness. You can change your lifestyle.” “If you think being healthy is expensive, try being sick.” 🔗 Action Steps for Listeners Visit viome.com Order the Full Body Intelligence Test Receive personalized health insights and supplements Retest every 6 months to track progress and adjust #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 Jim VandeHei. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview The interview centers around: Promoting Jim VandeHei’s book Smart Brevity: The Power of Saying More with Less. Exploring how communication has evolved in the digital age. Offering practical advice for professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders on how to communicate more effectively. Discussing the impact of technology—especially smartphones and remote work—on attention spans and messaging. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Smart Brevity Philosophy Smart Brevity is about efficient, high-quality communication. It’s not just about being short—it’s about being clear, confident, and respectful of people’s time. The idea originated from Axios’s approach to delivering news quickly and effectively. 2. The Communication Crisis The rise of smartphones and social media has overloaded people with information. Most people are distracted, checking their phones hundreds of times a day. In this chaotic environment, concise and purposeful communication wins. 3. Post-COVID Communication Shift Remote work and Zoom meetings have made written and virtual communication more critical. The pandemic changed workplace norms, making brevity and clarity essential for productivity and alignment. 4. Practical Applications VandeHei’s book is useful for business leaders, educators, students, preachers, and anyone who communicates. He emphasizes that brevity is not shallowness—it’s a sign of confidence and clarity. 5. Five Tips for Better Communication Jim outlines five actionable tips: Stop Being Selfish – Write for the reader, not yourself. Grab Me a Reason – Use strong headlines or opening lines to capture attention. Keep It Simple – Avoid jargon and complex language. Write Like a Human – Be authentic and conversational. Just Stop – Once you’ve made your point, don’t over-explain. 🗣️ Notable Quotes “Brevity is confidence. Length is fear.” “Foggy writing is a reflection of foggy thinking.” “There’s nothing shallow about being short. It’s clarifying.” “Stop writing for yourself. Start writing for the reader.” “The one thing we want to accomplish today is…” – A meeting technique to improve focus and retention. 📘 Book Highlight: Smart Brevity Co-authored by Jim VandeHei, co-founder of Axios and Politico. Offers a framework for modern communication in business, media, and personal interactions. Encourages readers to rethink how they write, speak, and present in a world of constant distraction. #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 Trey Haley. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: Inspire creatives and entrepreneurs by sharing Trey Haley’s journey in the entertainment industry. Highlight the importance of persistence, self-belief, and strategic networking. Promote Haley’s current work, especially the BET+ series The Family Business. Educate listeners on the realities of Hollywood and the long-term mindset needed for success. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Origin Story & Early Influences Trey Haley grew up in Dallas-Fort Worth, with a mother in corporate sales and a father who was a criminal defense attorney. His passion for entertainment began early, influenced by music, Spike Lee scripts, and editing during college at North Texas. 2. Leap of Faith to Los Angeles Moved to LA with no backup plan, driven by passion. Took a courier job to network and eventually landed an internship with Morgan Freeman’s company, Revelations Entertainment. 3. Building Tri Destin Studios Co-founded Tri Destin Studios with Nikita De Brown Jones. Emphasized creating their own lane and owning their content. Their goal: “Change the perception of the world” through storytelling where “we always win.” 4. The Family Business Based on Carl Weber’s bestselling book series. Independently produced before BET+ picked it up. Features a star-studded cast including Ernie Hudson, Valerie Pettiford, Michael Jai White, and Javicia Leslie. 5. Industry Wisdom Success in Hollywood is about relationships, consistency, and character. Warns against shortcuts and “hook-up culture” in entertainment. Encourages young creatives to focus on talent, value, and long-term growth. 🗣️ Notable Quotes On taking risks:“My mother said, go jump off the ledge and go fly like a bird.” On self-belief:“Who told you you could be an attorney? Nobody. You figured it out. I’m going to figure it out too.” On breaking into the industry:“I took a courier job just to meet people in the studios. I dressed like I worked there so they’d see me the way I needed to be seen.” On creating value:“The most powerful people create their own companies, their own stories, and tell them consistently.” On longevity:“If your roots aren’t settled and strong, anything can take you out.” On perspective:“Your perspective in life is the key. If you see negative, you’ll get negative. If you see the win, you’ll fly high.” 📺 Current Project Highlight The Family Business Streaming on BET+ Multi-season crime drama with layered storytelling and strong character development. Haley serves as executive producer and director. #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 Douglass Fort. Founder of The Blerd Academy (Black Nerds), a wealth-building and scholarship program for high-achieving Black youth. The conversation explores Fort’s personal journey, the mission of his organization, and the broader impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). 🔑 Key Topics & Highlights The Blerd Academy Mission Founded to support academically gifted Black students in securing scholarships to HBCUs. Has helped students earn over $8 million in scholarships since 2016. Focuses on debt-free education, wealth-building, and long-term financial planning. Douglass Fort’s Personal Journey Grew up in East Palo Alto, California, during the crack epidemic. Survived being shot twice and turned his life around through education. Attended Jackson State University, where he became an honors graduate and started his first nonprofit. Credits his transformation to mentorship, faith, and the supportive environment of an HBCU. Empowering Black Youth Fort emphasizes outcomes over talk—showing success stories to inspire belief. Encourages students to pursue entrepreneurship and homeownership early. Advocates for using HBCUs as a strategic path to success, especially for students who qualify for elite schools but may face high debt. Scholarship Criteria Example (Jackson State) 3.25 GPA + 1130 SAT or 23 ACT = Full tuition. Higher scores can lead to full ride including room, board, and books. Economic & Social Impact of HBCUs HBCUs produce a significant percentage of Black professionals: 70% of Black doctors and dentists 50% of Black lawyers 60% of Black teachers Fort and McDonald stress the undervalued role of HBCUs in shaping Black excellence. Support & Funding The Blerd Academy is self-funded through merchandise sales at ProudBlackNerds.com. Fort encourages others to support by purchasing merch and spreading awareness. 💬 Quotes & Reflections “We exist to build a healthy community that is Black, educated, resourceful, and determined.” “Create a small business to fund your dream business.” “Let’s use our money efficiently to make long-term economic gains.” #STRAW #BEST #SHMSSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Montee Tayion Holland.   📝 Summary of the Interview Montee Holland, a Detroit native and former Marine, shares his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a successful fashion entrepreneur. As the founder of the Tayion Collection, a high-end fashion brand, Holland discusses how his experiences—from admiring stylish mentors in Detroit to designing custom garments while stationed overseas—shaped his vision. He explains the business side of fashion, including licensing, manufacturing, and retail partnerships, and highlights his recent collaboration with Macy’s to create tailored apparel for Black fraternities and sororities. Holland also emphasizes his philanthropic work, mentoring young men and securing scholarships, and outlines his plans to expand his brand globally. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview To showcase Monte Holland’s entrepreneurial journey in the fashion industry. To highlight the creation and growth of the Tayion Collection. To educate listeners on fashion business fundamentals, including licensing and retail strategy. To inspire others through Holland’s commitment to community and mentorship. To promote his recent partnership with Macy’s and future brand expansion. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Origins and Inspiration Grew up in Detroit, inspired by well-dressed coaches and Motown fashion culture. Fashion was seen as an extension of personality, especially in Detroit. Quote: “If you look good, you feel good.” 2. Military Influence While stationed overseas, Holland designed custom garments using local tailors. This experience laid the foundation for his fashion design skills. 3. Business Acumen and Growth Started selling to specialty stores before expanding to big-box retailers like Macy’s. Learned the hard way about manufacturing costs, tracking inventory, and business operations. Quote: “You can have the hottest garments in the world, but if you don’t understand the business, you will fail.” 4. Licensing Explained Licensing allows brands to scale without bearing full production costs. Quote: “Would you rather have all of $1 million or 10% of $100 million?” 5. Macy’s Partnership Collaborated with Macy’s to create tailored apparel for Black Greek organizations. Focused on using signature colors without logos to make pieces versatile. Quote: “If you know, you know. If you don’t, it’s just a cool purple jacket.” 6. Philanthropy and Mentorship Secured over 60 full-ride scholarships for young men. Mentors students through college and into entrepreneurship or career paths. Quote: “I fell in love with securing scholarships for young African-American boys.” 7. Vision and Expansion Plans to expand into women’s fashion, casual wear, and international markets. Aspires to build a legacy brand akin to Ralph Lauren or Tom Ford. Quote: “There is no mountaintop. I want to build a brand that lasts for generations.” 💬 Notable Quotes “I am my customer. I make things I would be proud to wear.” “That little voice in your head is your gift. You have to listen to it.” “We want to take this thing abroad and grow it like a heritage brand.” “Fashion is not just about clothes—it’s about community, culture, and confidence.” #BEST #STRAW  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 Attorney Ken Harris: Former NBA and NFL agent, attorney based in Charlotte, NC, and author of the novel Dark Trades. The novel explores an alternate history: What if the South had won the Civil War? 📚 Dark Trades – A Historical Fiction Novel Set in 2018 Baltimore, the book imagines a modern-day America where slavery still exists. Explores the resilience of the African-American community and the possibility of overcoming systemic oppression even in such a dystopian reality. Inspired by Harris’s advocacy work and mentorship under Magic Johnson. 💼 Financial Literacy & Athletes Harris discusses the financial pitfalls many professional athletes face. Emphasizes the need for: Financial education Qualified advisors (attorneys, accountants, conservative investment advisors) Early planning, especially with the rise of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals for younger athletes. Praises their business acumen, humility, and attention to detail. Reveals Magic Johnson’s photographic memory and deep involvement in business operations (e.g., popcorn sales at his theaters, menu items at Starbucks). 🎧 Closing Thoughts The episode is a blend of historical reflection, financial advice, and personal stories from influential Black leaders. Rashawn McDonald encourages listeners to lead with their gifts and learn from the experiences shared. #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 Stacey Gholar.   🔹 Summary of the Interview Stacey Gholar, founder of Bloom Creative Agency, shares her journey from being a young mother in Chicago to becoming a brand strategist and creative entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in marketing, media, and business. She emphasizes the importance of aligning personal identity with brand strategy, especially in the digital age. Stacey discusses her approach to brand audits, the role of social media, the impact of AI, and her passion for empowering women through entrepreneurship and skincare. 🔹 Key Takeaways 1. What Is a Brand Strategist? A brand strategist helps individuals and businesses define and articulate their brand clearly. “You are the brand, but you have to put the brand together in a way that people can articulate what you do.” 2. Social Media Strategy Stacey conducts social media audits to ensure alignment between personal and business branding. She recommends having separate personal and business accounts, but acknowledges blending them when appropriate. 3. Discovery Process Her process starts with a discovery call to understand the client’s “why” and goals. She believes passion must drive entrepreneurship—not just money. 4. Digital Branding & AI Stacey identifies as a digital brand specialist, helping Gen X women and others pivot into digital spaces. She uses AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini to enhance productivity but values human connection. “AI is an asset… but I don’t solely rely on it.” 5. Email Marketing Email is still vital: “If you're solely on social media, you can lose your business in a minute.” She advocates for funnel systems and community building outside of social platforms. 6. Going Viral vs. Being Valuable “You don’t need to go viral. You just need to be valuable.” She went viral unintentionally with a review of Harold’s Chicken, but stresses the importance of sustainable value over fleeting attention. 7. Brand Refresh & Outreach Most of her clients come through word of mouth, but she’s expanding her reach via social media. She encourages clients to step out of their comfort zones and engage in community-driven initiatives. 8. Skincare Line Stacey founded Skin Light Skincare at age 50 to promote pro-aging and natural beauty. She now focuses on organic body oils that are clean, hydrating, and hormone-safe. 🔹 Notable Quotes “Experience has been the best teacher for me.” “You don’t need to go viral. You just need to be valuable.” “If you stop learning, you stop growing.” “I want you to be a part of building your brand—not just me doing it for you.” “Social media is great, but word of mouth is still real.” #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 Renard “Ray” Sims. Topic: Entrepreneurship, property management, and building generational wealth through real estate. Ray Sims shares his journey from government employee to entrepreneur, founding a property management company in the Metro DC area. He discusses the challenges of transitioning into business ownership, the structure of his company, and the importance of networking, automation, and community service. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview Showcase Ray’s entrepreneurial journey and how he turned a layoff into a business opportunity. Educate listeners on property management and real estate investment strategies. Inspire aspiring entrepreneurs to take calculated risks and build sustainable businesses. Promote financial literacy and generational wealth through real estate. 🔑 Key Takeaways 💼 Entrepreneurship & Transition Ray was laid off from a government job and used the opportunity to launch his business. He emphasizes the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone. “I got forced to do it. And I'm kind of glad that that happened to me.” 🏠 Property Management Defined Manages real estate portfolios for absentee owners. Handles everything from tenant screening to maintenance coordination and invoicing. “I manage people’s assets… Most of the homeowners don’t even want to know who the tenants are.” 🔍 Tenant Screening Process Includes credit checks, employment history, landlord references, and even social media reviews. “I go on your Facebook page or Instagram page… see how you want to treat that property.” 🧰 Business Structure Licensed in DC; structured as an LLC in Maryland. Works with a network of trusted vendors (plumbers, electricians, etc.). Uses automation and a third-party admin for newsletters and monthly reports. “I’m really big on automation… I don’t want to have a bank account with \$30,000 on August 1st.” 🤝 Networking & Growth Attends real estate events across DC, New York, and Atlanta. Uses Instagram and podcasting to build his brand and connect with clients. “I cannot leave a networking event without connecting with five different people.” 🎙️ Podcast & Branding Podcast started organically from a conversation with a landscaper. Focuses on real estate and business conversations. “I call it ‘The Creator’… just conversations with different people in the real estate field.” 📈 Investment Advice Recommends duplexes and townhomes as top investment choices. Notes that single-family homes are less popular for rentals due to maintenance concerns. “Duplex, duplex, duplex… it’s an easy way to gain revenue.” 🌍 Vision & Expansion Plans to expand beyond DC by learning local regulations and networking. Attends Invest Fest in Atlanta for exposure and connections. “I want to be the face of property management in the DC, Maryland, Virginia area.” 💬 Memorable Quotes “All money is not good money.” “Life is risky. Like waking up in the morning is risky.” “You have to step out of your comfort zone.” “I’m proud of you… I’m glad you got laid off.” #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 Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: Introduce Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones’ work helping entrepreneurs and professionals “bankroll their brilliance”. Encourage listeners to monetize their unique talents and create multiple streams of income. Inspire individuals to align their purpose with their profession for greater impact and fulfillment. Share strategies for overcoming fear, embracing authenticity, and building scalable businesses. 🧠 Key Takeaways 1. From Casting to Coaching Nicole’s early career in talent management and casting helped her develop a gift for recognizing people’s potential. She now uses that gift to help entrepreneurs and executives identify their “DNA” (Distinct Natural Ability) and turn it into income. “I could see you and how you could fit into the script… That’s really what I do with entrepreneurs now.” – Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones 2. Purpose Is Your Power Nicole emphasizes that purpose is the one thing you never get fired from. Aligning your work with your purpose leads to higher performance and deeper fulfillment. “When you bless somebody with the thing that you do, they’re gaining—and you’re gaining for God.” – Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones 3. Multiple Streams of Income She teaches clients to diversify their income by creating products, programs, and services that don’t require their constant presence—what she calls “money while you sleep” or “mailbox money.” Examples include: Lawyers creating online courses for clients who can’t afford billable hours. Gymnasts licensing their training methods and renting out facilities. “Your comfort zone is where your dreams go to die.” – Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones“If you are physically tied to the money you make, you’re capping your potential.” – Rushion McDonald 4. Stop Giving Away Your Brilliance Nicole warns against giving away intellectual property for free. She encourages professionals to recognize the value of their expertise and package it into paid offerings. “You’re giving away your cookie for free… You have value that people will pay for.” – Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones 5. Create a Methodology She helps clients build a blueprint for their expertise, turning routines and habits into teachable systems. Her metaphor: “You can’t see the label from inside the jar,” meaning people often overlook their own value. “It’s really helping someone produce the value that is coming out of you effortlessly.” – Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones 6. Authenticity Is a Business Strategy Nicole encourages people to embrace their full personality, even if it’s “too much” for some. She believes that being yourself is the key to attracting the right audience and opportunities. “Stop letting people turn down your light. This is who I am. God made me this way.” – Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones 💬 Memorable Quotes “Corporate doesn’t need more of corporate.” “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” “Each of us were born to disrupt whatever system we’re called to work in.” 🌟 Impact of the Interview This episode is a masterclass in personal branding, purpose alignment, and entrepreneurial strategy. Nicole’s energy and clarity make her insights actionable and inspiring, especially for professionals looking to pivot, scale, or rediscover their value. #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 Valerie Obaze. Founder of R&R Skincare.   🎯 Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: Highlight Valerie Obaze’s entrepreneurial journey in founding R&R Skincare. Challenge stereotypes about Africa’s capabilities and resources. Promote African-made beauty products and their global relevance. Inspire others, especially women and diaspora Africans, to invest in and build businesses rooted in African heritage. 🧠 Key Takeaways 1. Breaking African Stereotypes Valerie and Rushion discuss how Africa is often misrepresented in Western media. Valerie emphasizes that ignorance is not always malicious, but it’s time to reframe the narrative through firsthand experience and platforms like social media. “Ignorance doesn’t always have to be an insult. If you don’t know, you just don’t know better.” – Valerie Obaze 2. The Birth of R&R Skincare Inspired by the birth of her daughter, Valerie sought natural skincare solutions. She discovered liquid shea oil, which became her first product. The brand name “R&R” stands for Rebecca Rose (her daughter’s name) and also Rest & Relaxation. “I wanted to create a product that makes using these raw materials from the continent enjoyable.” – Valerie Obaze 3. From Garage to Global Valerie started in her mother-in-law’s garage, turning it into a compliant mini factory. She had no formal business plan, relying on her PR and branding background. The brand now has three stores: one in Lagos and two in Accra, including one at the airport. 4. Authenticity and African Pride Valerie insists on maintaining the African identity of her brand. She uses locally sourced ingredients and ensures cruelty-free testing. The brand supports women in the supply chain, creating economic opportunities. “We don’t intend to hide that in any way. We just wanted to make raw materials sexy.” – Valerie Obaze 5. Expansion to the U.S. Valerie is expanding R&R Skincare to the U.S., leveraging social media, activations, and PR expertise. Products are manufactured in Africa, but distributed from U.S. warehouses to ensure timely delivery. “We found our tribe over here… and this was the right time to come back to America.” – Valerie Obaze 🧴 Product Highlights Shea Oil – First product, moisturizing and healing. Body Butter – Whipped, light, and rich in essential oils. Liquid Black Soap – Modern take on traditional African cleansing. Hand Cream – Convenient and portable for dry conditions. 🌍 Big Picture Vision Valerie’s goal is to grow an African brand globally, showcasing the richness of African resources and empowering local economies. “This is just a small representative of the entire continent and what it is capable of.” – Valerie Obaze #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.