Making A Difference: A trailblazing media executive at Harper’s Bazaar, Ebony, Honey Magazine, and digital platforms like BET and The Grio.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Troy Hudson. A deeply personal and insightful interview with former NBA player and author Troy “T-Hud” Hudson. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways: 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. First-Generation Wealth Troy Hudson’s book, First Generation Rich, explores the emotional and financial complexities of being the first in a family to acquire significant wealth. He distinguishes between being “rich” (temporary, income-based) and “wealthy” (long-term, legacy-building). 2. From Humble Beginnings to the NBA Raised in public housing in Carbondale, Illinois. Came from a tight-knit, low-income family where needs were prioritized over wants. Basketball became his vehicle to travel, grow, and eventually earn a $36 million contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2003. 3. The Pressure of Sudden Wealth Hudson discusses the mental and emotional toll of being the financial “savior” for family and friends. He coined the term “media lock-in” to describe how public knowledge of his contract changed how people treated him. Many relationships became transactional, leading to isolation and stress. 4. Financial Lessons & Mistakes Worst investment: launching a music label using his own money. Learned the importance of using other people’s money (OPM) and having a financial advisor. Even with an advisor, he sometimes made impulsive decisions due to youth and pressure. 5. The Athlete’s Dilemma Athletes often receive large sums of money at a young age with little financial education. Unlike team owners who collaborate, athletes often operate independently, missing opportunities for collective wealth-building. 6. Why He Wrote the Book To document his journey and help others—especially future first-generation earners—navigate the emotional and financial challenges of sudden wealth. Aims to break generational curses and preserve relationships strained by money. 💬 Notable Quotes “Rich is temporary. Wealth is legacy.” “It’s lonely at the top—especially when you’re not getting along with family and friends.” “We don’t operate like the owners. The owners work together. The athletes don’t.” 📘 About the Book Title: First Generation Rich Author: Troy Hudson Available on: Amazon (Kindle & paperback) and 1GRich.com #SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMISupport 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.

The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Tuesday, September 23rd, 2025: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open - It's Tommy Tuesday | Run That Prank Back - Faye Allen - Drug Test | Ask The RTLO & Junior | Entertainment News | Budget Meals | Lebron James | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "Bump & Grind" | Strawberry Letter - "He Won't Let Me Lead" Parts 1-2 | Sports Talk With Junior | Social Media Advice | Snoop On The Voice | Would You Rather | Nephew Tommy's Closing RemarksSupport 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 Amy DuBois Barnett.   📝 Summary of the Interview Amy DuBois Barnett, a trailblazing media executive and author, joined Rushion McDonald to discuss her career, her upcoming debut novel If I Ruled the World, and her insights on success, authenticity, and navigating the evolving media landscape. The conversation covered her historic role as the first Black woman to helm a major mainstream U.S. magazine, her experiences in media and publishing, the importance of Black voices, and her journey toward becoming a novelist. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Career Milestones & Legacy Amy made history as the first Black woman editor-in-chief of a major mainstream U.S. magazine (Teen People). She held leadership roles at Harper’s Bazaar, Ebony, Honey Magazine, and digital platforms like BET and The Grio. Her editorial style focused on humanizing success, sharing personal stories and lessons rather than just promoting content. 2. New Novel: If I Ruled the World Set in late 1990s/early 2000s New York, the novel follows Nikki, a woman navigating the fashion and music magazine world. Themes include misogyny in hip hop, professional ambition, friendship, and self-discovery. The title is inspired by the Nas and Lauryn Hill song, and Lauryn Hill was the first cover of Honey Magazine under Amy’s leadership. Amy envisions the novel as a TV series, and is actively working toward that goal. 3. Importance of Preorders Preorders are critical for debut novelists to hit bestseller lists. All preorders count toward first-week sales, which are essential for making lists like the New York Times Bestseller. 4. Authenticity & Black Media Amy emphasized the need for authentic Black voices in media, especially in today’s political climate. She praised independent platforms and figures like Roland Martin, Joy Reid, and Don Lemon for maintaining integrity. 5. Success Principles Success requires more than talent—it’s about energy, attitude, collaboration, and kindness. She highlighted the importance of networking through genuine relationships, not just transactional exchanges. Believing in oneself is essential: “The universe will not give you an opportunity that you don’t think you deserve.” 6. Pivoting & Resilience Amy’s career involved multiple pivots—from finance to fashion to media. She stressed the importance of recognizing when to pivot and manifesting goals through vision and hard work. 7. Print vs. Digital Media Print magazines offer permanence and thoughtful journalism, while digital media provides speed and volume. She misses the visual artistry of print, like cover shoots and fashion spreads. 8. Personal Notes Amy’s son is a music producer and DJ, studying at Drexel University. Rushion and Amy have a long-standing friendship dating back to 2012, when she was at Ebony and he was producing the Steve Harvey show. 💬 Notable Quotes “You have to believe that you deserve all of the opportunity.” “Networking is not about handing out business cards. It’s about building relationships.” “Magazines have a permanence that made you incredibly careful.” “I’m manifesting big things.” “We are out here flawed and just trying to find success, love, and fulfillment like everyone else.” #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 Jackson Dunbar. 📝 Summary of the Interview Jackson Dunbar, founder of WellMad Atlanta—a coalition of psychiatric, medical, psychology, counseling, and special education providers—joined Rushion McDonald to discuss the urgent need for accessible mental health care. Drawing from his personal experience with chronic pain and mental health struggles, Dunbar shared insights into the systemic issues affecting mental health access, especially for Black and Brown communities. The conversation covered suicide prevention, the impact of COVID-19, the shortage of child psychiatrists, and the importance of building a strong care team. Dunbar emphasized the power of communication, hope, and proactive mental health management. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview To raise awareness about the mental health crisis and lack of access to care. To share Jackson Dunbar’s personal journey and how it shaped his mission. To promote WellMad Atlanta as a resource for mental health support. To encourage men, especially Black men, to seek help and break stigma. To highlight the importance of team-based care and individualized treatment plans. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Mental Health Access Crisis There are fewer than 10,000 child psychiatrists in the U.S. Many providers don’t accept insurance due to payment delays and system hacks. Quote: “Three out of five children have a mental health diagnosis, but there’s not enough psychiatrists.” 2. Impact of COVID-19 Demand for mental health services rose nearly 100%. Many older providers retired or stopped accepting patients due to health risks. Telemedicine expanded access, especially in underserved areas. 3. Suicide and Chronic Pain Suicide often stems from loss of hope, especially in chronic pain patients. Dunbar shared his own struggle with suicidal thoughts due to untreated nerve damage. Quote: “I couldn’t sleep. I had to drink vodka shots just to get a few hours of sleep.” 4. Building a Mental Health Team A strong care team includes a psychiatrist, psychologist, PCP, rehab specialist, and more. Smart goals help patients regain functionality and purpose. Quote: “How do I make money when I can’t work? That’s where Smart goals come in.” 5. Stigma in Black Communities Many Black men avoid seeking help due to fear of appearing weak. Dunbar advocates for breaking this stigma and embracing mental health care. Quote: “We’re the first to fight for this country, but the last to get help when we return.” 6. WellMad Atlanta’s Reach Serves Georgia residents virtually, including college students and rural communities. Offers culturally competent care and prioritizes accessibility. Quote: “As long as your Wi-Fi is tight, we’re good.” 💬 Notable Quotes “The person going through challenges is focused on what they’ve lost. That’s a dark place.” “Insurance companies offered payday loans to doctors instead of paying them.” “Vacationing was miserable—until I rented a scooter and felt like Iron Man.” “Mental health isn’t just one month a year. It’s every day.” “You can’t make money if you’re not mentally or physically right.” #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 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, Itiona Scott.    🔹 Purpose of the Interview To highlight Itiona Scott’s entrepreneurial journey, her branding philosophy, and her commitment to helping others—especially women—build authentic, impactful brands through storytelling and strategic visibility. 🔹 Summary of the Interview Itiona Scott shares her background, including her transition from corporate America to entrepreneurship. She emphasizes the importance of authentic branding, visual storytelling, and community engagement. Her work centers around helping women entrepreneurs clarify their brand identity and use digital platforms effectively to grow their businesses. She discusses the challenges of pivoting careers, the power of storytelling in branding, and the need for entrepreneurs to align their personal values with their business goals. Itiona also touches on the importance of email marketing, auditing social media presence, and collaborating with other small businesses to build sustainable growth. 🔹 Key Takeaways 1. Authenticity Is Key Branding should reflect who you are, not just what you sell. “You are the brand. People buy into you before they buy your product.” 2. Storytelling Builds Connection Sharing personal stories (e.g., struggles, growth, wins) helps build trust and relatability. “Your story is your superpower.” 3. Social Media Isn’t Everything While social media is important, it shouldn’t be the only platform for engagement. Email marketing and community building are essential for long-term success. 4. Brand Audits Are Crucial Entrepreneurs should regularly review their digital presence to ensure consistency and alignment. “Your social media should tell a cohesive story from start to finish.” 5. Collaboration Over Competition Small businesses should work together to amplify their reach. “We’re not competing—we’re collaborating.” 6. Empowering Women Entrepreneurs Itiona is passionate about helping women pivot into entrepreneurship, especially those affected by economic shifts. “You’re not too old. You’re experienced. Use that.” 🔹 Notable Quotes “You don’t need to go viral. You just need to be valuable.” “Experience is the best teacher. I didn’t go to college, but I learned from life.” “If you stop learning, you stop growing.” “Your brand should be a reflection of your values and your vision.”   #AMI #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 Ash Cash. A top financial educator, author, and motivational speaker. The episode centers around Ash’s latest book and his journey from adversity to financial empowerment. Financial motivator, bestselling author, CEO of Mind Right Money Management, host of The Ash Cash Show 📘 Featured Book Title: From the Block to the Bank: How to Make the Most of Your Circumstances to Maximize Your Full PotentialFormat: Memoir + Motivational + Financial LiteracyStructure: 5 Transactions and 40 “Cash Advances” (principles for success) 💡 Key Themes & Takeaways 🧠 Mindset & Resilience Ash shares his personal story of growing up in poverty, facing rejection, and overcoming stereotypes. Emphasizes that your past doesn’t define your future—your mindset does. “Believe in your power to make anything happen” is a core message. 💸 Financial Empowerment Ash blends psychology and finance to teach people how to manage their money and mindset. Encourages people to stop chasing money and start building legacy and purpose. “Abundance is your birthright”—you don’t chase it, you allow it. 🔥 Motivation Through Vulnerability Ash openly discusses his mistakes and setbacks, including survivor’s guilt and career missteps. Uses his story to show others that success is possible despite fear, failure, or background. 📚 Book Highlights (Selected Cash Advances) #5: Believe in your power to make anything happen. #10: Take action despite fear. #12: Embrace both negative and positive feedback. #32: Create your legacy now. #34: Change your perspective on struggle. 🎧 Media & Influence Hosts: The Ash Cash Show (M–F, 8–9 AM EST on YouTube and social platforms) Inside the Vault with Ash Cash (interviews with tastemakers and entrepreneurs) Uses storytelling, humor, and real-life lessons to connect with audiences. 🧭 Target Audience Millennials (18–34) seeking entrepreneurship and financial freedom. 40+ individuals looking to reinvent themselves or reclaim their dreams. Anyone who has been told “you can’t” and needs a roadmap to “you can.” 🗣️ Rushion’s Reflections Praises Ash’s authenticity, relatability, and energy. Compares Ash to a “legend” and “Biggie Smalls of financial motivation.” Commits to supporting Ash’s journey and sharing his platform. 📢 Final Message Don’t wait to build your legacy—start now. Use fear as a signal, not a stop sign. Your story, no matter how difficult, can be your greatest asset.   #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Monday, September 22nd, 2025: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open - Is It Ok To Kill A Dream | The Pastors With A Word From The Book Of (Whitney) Houston | Ask The CLO | Entertainment News | One Of Akon's Wives Files For Divorce |  Sista O'Dell | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "Faye Allen - Drug Test" | Strawberry Letter - "He Shouldn't Be In My Purse" Parts 1-2 | Sports Talk With Junior | Social Media Advice | Jeezy Vegas Residency | Would You Rather | Steve Harvey's Closing Remarks...About His CoworkersSupport 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.