News You Can Use: Her mission is to change the restaurant industry for women of color.

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.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Skip Finley.   🎯 Purpose of the Interview The interview serves two main purposes: To reflect on Skip Finley’s historic contributions to Black media and his pivotal role in launching the syndicated Steve Harvey Morning Show. To discuss his book, "Willing Captains of Color: America’s First Meritocracy", which chronicles the lives of over 50 Black and Native whaling captains and their overlooked legacy in American history. 🧠 Key Takeaways 1. Historic Black Media Deal In 2005, Skip Finley helped orchestrate a landmark media deal entirely conducted by Black executives and talent, including Steve Harvey and Rushion McDonald. This led to the creation of the Steve Harvey Morning Show, syndicated from flagship station WBLS in New York. “To my knowledge, that is the only major media deal that was entirely conducted by Black people.” – Skip Finley 2. Innovative Business Model Skip introduced a new syndication model where stations paid licensing fees instead of just offering ad time. This model helped fund the show and set a precedent in radio syndication. “It was the first time the model had ever been used.” – Skip Finley 3. Legacy of Black Whaling Captains Skip’s book documents the lives of 52 confirmed Black and Native American whaling captains, many of whom operated before the Civil War. These men led crews on dangerous, years-long voyages and were respected for their skill, not judged by their race. “These men lived Martin Luther King’s future dream.” – Skip Finley“Nobody cared who the captain was if they could bring the whale ship home with a full haul.” 4. Whaling as America’s First Meritocracy Whaling was a brutal but lucrative industry, and captains were chosen based on ability, not race. The captains mapped oceans, discovered islands, and brought back whale oil that powered the Industrial Revolution. “Whaling was almost identically the model of venture capital today.” – Skip Finley 5. Life at Sea Was Grueling Voyages lasted 3–4 years, sometimes up to 11. Crews lived in cramped quarters, battled whales in small boats, and endured horrific conditions including roaches, bedbugs, and washing clothes in urine. “Your space was roughly the size of a backseat of an SUV for 3 or 4 years.” – Skip Finley 6. Hidden Figures of Maritime History Many of these captains were never recognized in history books. Skip’s research relied on seamen’s protection papers, which acted like passports and documented race and identity. “I was astounded to find these guys… It’s one of those Hidden Figures stories.” – Skip Finley 💬 Memorable Quotes “A slave is not an American. A West Indian is not American. But they are Black.” “They could flog a white man on a whale ship who they couldn’t look in the eye in South Carolina.” “Whale watching is now a bigger business than whale killing ever was.” 📚 About the Book Title: Willing Captains of Color: America’s First MeritocracyFocus: The untold stories of Black and Native whaling captains who defied racial norms and led crews across the globe.Impact: Reframes American history by highlighting a merit-based system where skill and leadership triumphed over racial prejudice. #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 Bobby Cartwright Jr. Executive producer and Founder of Gospel Superfest. Here's a quick summary of the key themes and highlights:   🔑 Key Topics Discussed 1. Origins of Gospel Superfest Inspired by a vision in 1998. First event held in 2000 in Louisville, KY. Modeled after Soul Train with themed editions (e.g., Holiday, Easter Jam, Black History Month). 2. Unity Media Founded by Bobby and his wife Renita. Started as a radio station opportunity that evolved into a consulting and production company. Transitioned from radio to television through low-power TV station management. 3. Syndication & Reach Gospel Superfest has aired on major Black networks (BET, TV One, Aspire, TheGrio). Also syndicated on ABC, NBC, and FOX affiliates. Reached 80% of the U.S. with five one-hour specials annually. 4. Challenges & Faith Faced financial hurdles, including taking a second mortgage to fund early shows. Emphasized faith, integrity, and consistency as keys to long-term success. 5. Sponsorship & Business Strategy Long-term sponsors include Procter & Gamble and Allstate. Emphasized the importance of understanding demographics and maintaining integrity in business dealings. Advocated for the value of the Black consumer market. 6. Personal Journey Bobby’s early career included touring with R&B groups like the Ohio Players. Attributes much of his success to his wife’s support and spiritual grounding.   #STRAW #SHMS  Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brittany Tolliferreo.   A serial entrepreneur on a mission to change the restaurant industry for women of color. She is one of the few to successfully open and operate a franchise without bank funding, using her own resources. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights Breaking into the Restaurant Industry Tolliferreo transitioned from working as a bank teller to launching her own restaurant. She was inspired by the chicken sandwich craze between Chick-fil-A and Popeyes, leading her to create her own signature chicken sandwich. Launching Chick-A-Boom & Expanding to Crisppi’s She started Chick-A-Boom in Philadelphia, serving low-income and middle-income communities. The success of Chick-A-Boom led to the launch of Crisppi’s Chicken in Miami, a premium fast-food brand. Overcoming Challenges Without Bank Loans Tolliferreo self-funded her business with $12,000, reinvesting profits to grow her brand. She built a strong team, recognizing that delegation and expertise were key to scaling her business. Celebrity Support & Brand Growth NFL Hall of Famer Randy Moss became a supporter of Crisppi’s, helping boost its visibility. The brand has attracted franchise inquiries just months after opening in Miami. 📘 About Brittany TolliferreoBrittany Tolliferreo is a trailblazing entrepreneur, redefining fast-food franchising for women of color. She is the Founder of Crisppi’s Chicken, known for its hand-breaded chicken sandwiches and bold flavors.     #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 George C. Fraser. The document is a transcript from Money Making Conversations Masterclass, hosted by Rushion McDonald, featuring an interview with Dr. George C. Fraser—CEO of FraserNet and a renowned authority on networking, entrepreneurship, and wealth-building. Key Highlights: Introduction & Mission of Money Making Conversations Masterclass: Rushion McDonald emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and economic empowerment for minorities. He invites individuals to be guests on the show by applying via MoneyMakingConversations.com. Guest Introduction – Dr. George C. Fraser: CEO of FraserNet, a global networking movement dedicated to economic empowerment for people of African descent. Author, entrepreneur, and widely recognized networking guru with a focus on building generational wealth. The Urgency of Financial Education for Black Communities: Dr. Fraser stresses that wealth-building must be a priority. He notes that White families plan for three generations, while Black families often plan only for short-term financial needs. He uses the phrase:“The rich stay rich by pretending to be poor, and the poor stay poor by pretending to be rich.” Building a Financial Legacy & Wealth Strategies: Calls for a mindset shift—Black communities must focus on ownership and long-term investments. Financial education involves learning the rules of capitalism and leveraging economic opportunities. Cryptocurrency & New Investment Avenues: Traditional wealth-building tools (stocks, mutual funds, real estate) aren’t enough to close the racial wealth gap. Dr. Fraser advocates exploring cryptocurrency as a modern investment opportunity. He shares his personal experience in crypto investing, where his initial $10,000 investment grew to $236,000 in under a year. Investment Basics & Accessibility: Assures that crypto investing isn’t limited to the wealthy—people can start with as little as $300. Encourages financial literacy and taking calculated risks to increase economic equity. Teamwork & Collaboration in Wealth Building: Uses Usain Bolt’s relay race analogy to emphasize that:“None of us is as good as all of us put together.” Advocates for networking, mentorship, and community collaboration to accelerate financial progress. Final Takeaway: Financial education should be a lifelong commitment. Wealth-building requires investing wisely, taking risks, and thinking beyond traditional savings. Calls for more Black entrepreneurs to become the primary employers within their communities.   #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 Dr. Tiffany Bussey. Director of the Morehouse Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (MIEC). Here are some key highlights and themes from the conversation: 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Empowering Black and Brown Entrepreneurs MIEC focuses on helping scalable, mid-sized Black and Brown businesses grow. Over 400 businesses have been supported, resulting in: 850+ new jobs $34M+ in new capital $82M+ in new revenue 2. The “Three C’s” of the Small Business Executive Program Capital: Access to funding. Connections: Building meaningful relationships with decision-makers. Contracts: Securing business opportunities with large firms. 3. Breaking Stereotypes Dr. Bussey emphasizes the need to challenge the narrative that Black communities lack skilled labor or entrepreneurial drive. Entrepreneurship is described as being “in our DNA,” rooted in resilience and survival. 4. Strategic Partnerships MIEC collaborates with major corporations (e.g., JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo) to fund training programs. Partnerships with organizations like Goodwill provide free job training and even stipends for participants. 5. Sustainability as a Business Opportunity Dr. Bussey highlights the massive potential in sustainability sectors: EV Infrastructure: $163B industry Green Building: $324B Agriculture: $20B Renewable Energy: $952B Encourages entrepreneurs to think beyond traditional business models and tap into these emerging markets. 6. Access to Opportunity Beyond capital, access to opportunity is a major barrier. MIEC connects small businesses with large “primes” (e.g., general contractors) to help them enter supply chains. 7. Mindset Shift Dr. Bussey discusses the psychological and historical barriers that prevent some from pursuing entrepreneurship. Emphasizes the importance of resilience, preparedness, and community support. #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 Annie Yatch. A leadership and performance coach specializing in helping high-achieving entrepreneurs balance business growth with personal fulfillment. The discussion focused on leadership, relationships, and overcoming subconscious barriers to success. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights Balancing Business & Personal Life Yatch helps ambitious entrepreneurs struggling to balance home life and business growth. She emphasized that success at work doesn’t mean sacrificing relationships—leaders must redefine their roles at home. The Importance of Transition Time Many entrepreneurs struggle to switch from work mode to home life, leading to stress in relationships. Yatch recommends a 30-minute decompression routine before entering the home, including: Writing down lingering work concerns. Engaging in a mindless activity like listening to music. Reflecting on positive memories with loved ones to shift emotional energy. Leadership Gaps in Entrepreneurs Yatch identified three major leadership gaps that hold entrepreneurs back: Delegation – Many leaders struggle to trust their teams, leading to micromanagement. Feedback – Entrepreneurs must learn to give and receive feedback effectively without defensiveness. Planning – Businesses often fail to plan for obstacles, focusing only on ideal scenarios. Trauma & Entrepreneurial Success Yatch explained that many entrepreneurs have unresolved childhood trauma, leading them to create chaos in business as a way to regain control. She emphasized that stability at home is crucial for scaling a business successfully. 📘 About Annie YatchAnnie Yatch is a team leadership and performance coach, specializing in helping entrepreneurs unlock their full potential. She is the founder of Northstar Leadership, a company dedicated to helping high-achieving men redefine leadership at home and in business.  #BEST #STRAW #SHMS    Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.