Overcoming the Odds: Highlights his journey as an immigrant entrepreneur from Africa.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brianna Johnson. A dynamic entrepreneur and founder of Legend Life Financial. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and insights from the episode: 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Early Entrepreneurship By age 22, Brianna owned two clothing stores and a hair salon in Chicago. Inspired by her father, a long-time financial services professional, she developed a strong entrepreneurial spirit early on. 2. Transition to Financial Services At 24, she pivoted into financial services, initially resistant to the idea due to its lack of “cool” appeal. She passed her state licensing exam and is now licensed in over 30 states. Her company, Legend Life Financial, focuses on life insurance and financial education. 3. Insurance Education & Transparency Brianna emphasizes the importance of understanding the differences between: Term Life Insurance: Affordable, fixed for a set term (e.g., 20–30 years), but can increase if it's an annual renewable term. Whole Life Insurance: Permanent, more expensive, builds cash value slowly. Indexed Universal Life (IUL): Tied to stock market performance with capped gains and protected downside. Universal Life: Flexible premiums, moderate cash value growth. Final Expense Policies: For individuals with health or legal issues, typically lower coverage. 4. Client Advocacy She stresses the need to ask questions like “What type of policy is this?” and to avoid blindly trusting agents—especially those who may not stay in the business long-term. She follows up with clients regularly and educates them on evolving insurance needs. 5. Mentorship & Impact Brianna has mentored over 250 life insurance agents and served more than 5,000 families. She’s passionate about empowering people of color through financial literacy and entrepreneurship. 💬 Notable Quotes “Fear is just false expectations appearing real.” “Everything you want is on the other side of fear.” “You don’t have to work more to make more—you just have to work smarter.” 📍 Contact & Resources Website: LegendLife.com (spelled with a “Z” – LegzendLife.com) Phone: (312) 768-3604 Social Media: @BriannaKaylaJ on all platforms #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 Dami Kujembola. CEO and co-founder of Amplify Africa. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: Highlight Dami Kujembola’s journey as an immigrant entrepreneur. Showcase the mission and impact of Amplify Africa. Promote the upcoming Africon event and its cultural significance. Address stereotypes about Africa and advocate for accurate representation. Inspire listeners to connect with their heritage and pursue entrepreneurial goals. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Amplify Africa’s Mission Amplify Africa is a media and entertainment company focused on bridging the gap between the African continent and the global Black diaspora. It promotes African culture through events, media, and partnerships, reaching 12 million people monthly across the US, UK, Brazil, and Africa. 2. Combatting Stereotypes Dami emphasizes the need to correct misconceptions about Africa, especially those perpetuated by Western media. He uses media as a tool to educate and reshape narratives about African life, culture, and innovation. 3. Africon Festival A multi-day cultural and business event in Atlanta featuring: A marketplace with 100+ businesses. Pitch competitions for startups and short films. Music, fashion, food, and film experiences. Support from the Atlanta Mayor’s Office. Designed to make attendees feel immersed in African culture, especially Lagos, Nigeria. 4. Nollywood’s Global Rise Nollywood is the third-largest film industry globally. Netflix and other platforms have helped elevate African stories and talent. Dami’s company partnered with Regal Cinemas for a nationwide Nollywood release. 5. Afro Ball Gala An annual gala honoring successful individuals of African descent. Aims to inspire others by showcasing excellence and validating dreams regardless of skin color. 6. Challenges & Resilience Dami discusses immigration challenges, funding cuts, and political shifts affecting cultural events. Despite setbacks, he remains optimistic and committed to fostering global connections. 💬 Notable Quotes “The event is purely geared towards access.” – On the purpose of Africon. “I’ve probably never seen a lion in my entire life.” – On the absurdity of stereotypes about Africa. “Our goal is to make our world smaller.” – On creating immersive cultural experiences. “I didn’t know where to find successful people who looked like me.” – On the inspiration behind Afro Ball. “I’m actually not special… it’s really representative of the need of people right now.” – On the growth of Amplify Africa. #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 Jamie and Jilea Hemmings. Business: Nourish + Bloom MarketClaim to Fame: The world’s first Black-owned autonomous grocery store 🧭 Purpose of the Interview To spotlight the Hemmings’ innovative approach to solving food insecurity through technology, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment. The interview explores their journey from corporate careers to tech entrepreneurs and retail disruptors, emphasizing their mission to eliminate food deserts and build generational wealth. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Mission-Driven Innovation Nourish + Bloom Market was born from a personal need for healthier food options for their autistic son. Their stores use AI-powered, frictionless checkout to provide 24/7 access to fresh food in underserved areas. 2. Tech Meets Purpose Despite no formal tech training, they developed two scheduling platforms (for cannabis and pharma) before launching their grocery concept. They became the first in the U.S. to accept EBT/SNAP in an autonomous store environment. 3. Family & Legacy The Hemmings are raising three children and caring for an aging parent while running their business. Their children are involved in operations, reinforcing the idea of building legacy in real time. 4. Community Empowerment They focus on dignity in access, ensuring that all customers, regardless of income, can shop equally. They support local farms and promote workforce innovation to prepare communities for the tech economy. 💬 Notable Quotes “They are the visionary co-founders of Nourish + Bloom Market, the world’s first Black-owned, autonomous grocery store.” “Driven by a mission to eliminate food deserts and empower underserved communities.” “We’re building legacy in real time.” “Just because you need assistance doesn’t mean you should lose dignity.” “AI is here. It’s not going anywhere.” #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 Cheryl McKissack Daniels,  Topic: Legacy, resilience, and entrepreneurship of the McKissack family, as detailed in the book The Black Family Who Built America. Cheryl shares the powerful story of her family's 230-year legacy in architecture and construction, making McKissack & McKissack the oldest minority woman-owned professional design and construction firm in the U.S. The conversation explores themes of generational resilience, Black excellence, business strategy, and personal growth. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview Highlight the McKissack family’s historical and cultural impact on American infrastructure and Black entrepreneurship. Promote the book The Black Family Who Built America as a record of legacy and inspiration. Inspire small business owners and entrepreneurs with lessons on perseverance, succession planning, and self-identity. Address the importance of preserving Black history in the face of cultural erasure. 🔑 Key Takeaways 🏗️ Legacy & Impact McKissack & McKissack has contributed to major U.S. infrastructure projects like: Barclays Center JFK Terminal One LaGuardia Airport Penn Station Lincoln Financial Field “We are the fifth generation. Right. And we're Black in America.” 📚 Historical Significance The family legacy began with Moses McKissack, who was enslaved and later became a builder. Cheryl’s ancestors were the first licensed Black architects in America (licenses 117 and 118 in Tennessee). “They became the first Black licensed architects in America… and helped get licensed in 22 other states.” 💼 Business Wisdom Cheryl emphasizes the importance of: Succession planning Understanding both technical and political buyers Building relationships before you need them “You better have that relationship before you need it.” 🧠 The 5 Ps of Family Resilience Perseverance Persistence Preparedness Purpose Prayer “Sometimes you do get up in the morning and you say it's not for me… You have to come back and meditate on the fact that you're a winner.” 🧘‍♀️ Personal Growth & Mental Health Cheryl discusses overcoming stress, rediscovering herself after a difficult marriage, and the importance of meditation. “Being yourself is what we're talking about… I recognize that I am currently feeling stressed out. So what do I need to do?” 👩‍👧‍👧 Women in Leadership Cheryl’s mother took over the business after her father’s stroke, despite societal barriers. “She only knew the telephone number to the office at that time… but she knew deep inside that she wanted to hold on for the fifth generation.” 🎥 Representation & Media The book and Cheryl’s story aim to counteract negative portrayals of Black people in media and history. “You may not have known about Black excellence. You just ignored it. But we exist.” 💬 Memorable Quotes “Black people built America. Now, that's the point we're making here.” “You have to say the opposite to yourself. And you have to put one foot in front of the other.” “This book is a receipt to say we are around. We have a foundation. We're not going anywhere.”   #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 Mildred J. Mills. Topic: Life journey, resilience, and her memoir Daddy’s House: A Daughter’s Memoir of Setbacks, Triumphs, and Rising Above Her Roots Mildred J. Mills shares her powerful story of growing up on a cotton farm in Alabama as one of 17 children, overcoming domestic violence, poverty, and systemic barriers to become a successful IT executive, author, podcaster, and motivational speaker. Her memoir is a testament to resilience, faith, and self-determination. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview Promote her memoir and its message of overcoming adversity. Inspire entrepreneurs and small business owners with her story of resilience and reinvention. Highlight the importance of storytelling as a healing and motivational tool. Encourage faith over fear in personal and professional growth. 🔑 Key Takeaways 🌾 Humble Beginnings Grew up on a 60-acre cotton farm in Whitaker, Alabama. Picking cotton was physically brutal and emotionally taxing. “You’re bent at a 90-degree angle all day picking cotton… it hurts.” 📚 Writing the Memoir Wrote the book after age 60 to heal and share wisdom. Did not consult her husband before publishing — it was her story to tell. “I didn’t want anybody telling me… ‘Why didn’t you do it this way?’ It is my story.” 💪 Resilience Defined Resilience means getting up after being knocked down. She credits her mother’s wisdom and her own determination. “Failure is not an option… I wasn’t going back to that cotton field.” 🧠 Faith Over Fear Her guiding principle is faith over fear — trusting in the journey despite uncertainty. “Fear sits on your shoulder and says you’re not good enough. Faith says walk through the door.” 🏫 Education & Mentorship A white teacher saw potential in her and helped her escape the cotton fields by recommending a tech school. Her father, despite initial hesitation, paid for her education in cash. “He paid \$500 in 1969 — a lot of money for a farmer.” 👩‍💻 Career & Independence Became an IT executive, starting in 1969 as a computer programmer. Advocates for women’s financial independence and self-worth. “God gave me gifts that I must share… I’m not going to depend on somebody else.” 📖 Future Projects Upcoming book: The Hope Club — explores the impact of incarceration on families, especially children. “I’ve seen what such a life can do to children… it breaks up families.” 💬 Memorable Quotes “Do the best you can with what you have.” — Her mother’s mantra. “Don’t expect someone else to pay for your dreams.” “I’m no victim. I’ve never been a victim.” “We’re not dreaming big enough.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Wednesday, October 30th, 2025: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open | Run That Prank Back - "Bed Bugs" | Ask The CLO | Entertainment News|  Favorite Halloween Candy | Steve Harvey's Voicemail | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "Don’t Let These White Folks Get Your ___ Whooped" | Strawberry Letter - "Her Begging Best Friend" Parts 1-2 | Sports Talk | Escaped Monkey Update |Social Media Advice | Drawless Detroit Police Officer | Would You Rather | Steve Harvey'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 Karimah McFarlane.   🎯 Purpose of the Interview To explore Karimah McFarlane’s multifaceted journey—from her corporate leadership roles at Google and Workday to becoming the owner of Buckhead Art & Company—and to inspire others to embrace change, pursue entrepreneurship, and understand the value of art as a tool for wealth-building and cultural empowerment. 🧭 Key Takeaways 1. Corporate Career & Tech Leadership Karimah has 20+ years in Human Resources, specializing in mergers and acquisitions. At Google, she supported AI and Pixel teams as a People Business Partner, despite initially thinking the recruiter’s call was spam. Currently at Workday, she partners with the Chief Revenue Officer to build high-performing sales teams and develop leadership pipelines. 2. Navigating Change & Cultural Shifts Transitioned from the East Coast (DMV area) to the Bay Area, facing cultural adjustments (e.g., lack of familiar foods, hair products). Found support through Delta Sigma Theta sorority and Black Googlers Network. Emphasized the importance of embracing discomfort and new experiences for personal and professional growth. 3. HR as a Strategic Asset HR is more than hiring/firing—it’s about scaling businesses, developing talent, and preventing legal issues. Small businesses often undervalue HR until a crisis occurs. HR should be seen as a strategic partner on leadership teams. 4. Art as Wealth, Culture & Healing Karimah owns Buckhead Art & Company, the only art gallery in Buckhead, Atlanta. Inspired by her exposure to art investment at Google and her role in selecting art for corporate spaces. Advocates for marginalized artists by helping them with branding, IP protection, and business structure. 5. Making Art Accessible The gallery focuses on beginner and mid-level collectors, offering education and approachable experiences. Offers virtual consultations, art fairs, and community events to demystify art buying. Emphasizes the emotional, cultural, and financial value of art. 6. Recognition & Impact Buckhead Art & Company was named Best Art Gallery in Georgia (2023 & 2024). Uses her platform to educate, empower, and elevate artists and collectors alike. Promotes artist development through storytelling, branding, and business mentorship. 💬 Notable Quotes “Empowerment is figuring out what you do best and using your talent to help others.” “Don’t shy away from opportunities that give you insights and experiences.” “HR helps you scale your organization—it’s not just about hiring and firing.” “Art has always been at the forefront of royalty, wealth, and education.” “We specialize in humans. When you walk into our gallery, you are equal.” “You don’t have to win an Oscar to be a great actor. Same with art—you don’t need a traditional path to be successful.” 🔗 Connect with Karimah McFarlane Gallery: Buckhead Art & Company YouTube: Buckhead Art & Company Instagram: @buckheadartandcompany #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 Robyn Donaldson. Entrepreneur, Mentor, and Founder of Renew Construction Services & STEM Exposure 🔑 Episode Highlights 🔄 From Incarceration to Inspiration Robyn shares her journey from a strict religious upbringing to incarceration due to drug-related activities. Served 5 years in prison, where she earned two associate degrees and developed a passion for learning and leadership. 🧹 Building a Business from the Ground Up Learned high-level cleaning skills in prison and at Hilton during work release. Founded Renew Construction Services, which grew from cleaning trailers to major contracts like: Tampa Convention Center NFL Super Bowl & Kickoff City of Tampa, Moffitt Cancer Center, USF 🏗️ Strategic Growth & Collaboration Became a Home Depot distributor. Uses collaboration to uplift smaller contractors and scale projects. Emphasizes relationship-building and proactive planning over reactive bidding. 👩🏽‍🔬 STEM Exposure Nonprofit Founded STEM Exposure to introduce Black girls to underrepresented STEM careers. Offers local and global architecture and construction camps. Operates in 10 countries and 4 time zones with a focus on AI, engineering, and design. 🏆 Recognition & Legacy Honored with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Embraces her past as part of her story, using it to inspire others. Celebrates milestones like putting bills on autopay as symbols of stability and peace. 🌐 Websites STEM Exposure: stemxposure.org (drop the “e” in “exposure”) Renew Construction Services: renewconstructionservices.com   #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSupport 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 Christopher Gray. CEO and co-founder of Path. Gray discusses how his AI-powered platform is transforming test preparation for professional certifications, IT, cybersecurity, healthcare, and college admission exams. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights The Vision Behind Path Path provides unlimited practice questions, full-length exams, and personalized study plans. Uses AI to generate high-quality test prep content at a fraction of traditional costs. Addressing Educational Barriers Many students struggle with standardized tests due to expensive prep courses. Path makes test preparation affordable, helping low-income students access scholarships and selective schools. Professional Certifications & Career Growth Covers IT, cybersecurity, healthcare, and teaching certifications. Helps individuals pass exams like CompTIA Security+ and Praxis to secure high-paying jobs. AI-Powered Test Preparation Provides unlimited practice exams and step-by-step solutions. Predicts users’ test scores before they take official exams, reducing financial risk. Expanding Access to Education Offers prep for SAT, ACT, GED, LSAT, GMAT, GRE, and MCAT. Supports career changers and adults seeking new opportunities through certification programs. 📘 About Christopher Gray & PathChristopher Gray is an entrepreneur dedicated to making education more accessible. His platform, Path, leverages AI to provide affordable and effective test preparation for students and professionals. #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 Patrice Washington. A transformational speaker and founder of Redefining Wealth, discusses personal development, financial success, and the importance of setting intentional goals. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights Defining Success at Different Life Stages Washington explains how her definition of success evolved from her 20s to her 40s. Early success was driven by external validation, while later success focused on personal fulfillment. The Importance of a Life Blueprint Compares life planning to architectural blueprints—without a plan, success is difficult to achieve. Encourages listeners to set clear goals for the year to avoid feeling lost by year-end. The Six Pillars of Wealth Washington emphasizes integrating financial success with personal well-being. Advocates for balancing career, relationships, faith, and health to avoid burnout. Avoiding Burnout & Setting Realistic Goals Discusses the importance of safe goals (small, achievable steps) and support goals (seeking help from mentors or professionals). Encourages people to set reasonable expectations rather than overwhelming themselves. Results, Not Resolutions Washington promotes her Results, Not Resolutions framework, helping individuals create tangible action plans. Shares strategies for maintaining motivation and accountability throughout the year. 📘 About Patrice WashingtonPatrice Washington is a personal finance expert, speaker, and author recognized by Success Magazine as one of the top 25 influential leaders in personal development. She is dedicated to helping individuals redefine wealth by focusing on well-being, purpose, and financial literacy. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.