The Man Behind Hip-Hop TV: Ralph McDaniels on Nas, Suge Knight & Music Video History

In this episode of Earn Your Leisure, we sit down with hip hop media pioneer Ralph McDaniels, creator of Video Music Box. He shares how he built the show like a mixtape, maintained full creative control, and gave artists like Nas their first shot in front of the camera.We explore the golden era of music videos, MTV’s impact, and whether Suge Knight gets enough credit for shaping the industry. Ralph also responds to Dr. Umar’s critiques of hip hop and discusses the genre’s lasting power to connect people worldwide.From stories about DMX, Kanye, and Drake, to thoughts on New York’s musical influence and threats like Project 2025, this episode is full of game, history, and cultural insight. Tap in.Invest Fest Ticket Link: https://investfest.com#RalphMcDaniels #VideoMusicBox #Nas #HipHopHistory #SugeKnight #MTV #KanyeWest #Drake #Project2025 #EarnYourLeisure #EYL #DMX #BlackExcellenceOur Sponsors:* Check out PNC Bank: https://www.pnc.com* Check out Progressive: https://www.progressive.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to another insightful Market Mondays clip! In this discussion, Ian Dunlap, Troy Millings, and Rashad Bilal break down the major players driving the surge in defense technology and the moral dilemmas facing investors today.This week, we focus on Meta, Palantir, and OpenAI—three giants shaping not just the tech world but the future of defense and AI. The hosts address why Meta and Palantir stocks are on the rise, with Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg rumored to be cozying up to political power, and Palantir increasingly seen as a force in modern warfare scenarios. There’s also talk about OpenAI’s potential as a future public market player and how Anduril, another defense tech company not yet publicly traded, is pushing the boundaries of the industry.Ian, Troy, and Rashad explore the shift in Silicon Valley, where defense tech has gone from “antiquated” to trendy, with CEOs turning into celebrities—and wars discussed not just as tragedies, but as investment opportunities. They dive into why RTX (Raytheon Technologies) has outpaced other traditional defense stocks and discuss how the IPO market is heating up for these types of companies.But with these meteoric rises come tough questions. As defense becomes big tech’s next growth sector, is it moral to invest in companies profiting from conflict? The trio comments on the dilemma of investing for growth versus navigating personal and societal ethics. They also touch on the personal stories behind the companies—like how Palmer Luckey’s firing from Meta allegedly for supporting Trump fuels the "revenge story" of Anduril, and what it means for today’s business and political climate.If you’re interested in the intersection of tech, war, and Wall Street, this clip is for you. Discover how the investment landscape is changing, which companies are set to skyrocket, and why defense tech is no longer operating in the shadows.*Key Topics in this Clip:*Meta, Palantir & OpenAI: What’s driving their dominance?Why traditional defense stocks like Raytheon aren’t moving as expectedEmerging companies (like Anduril) and their potential IPOsThe celebrity CEOs of defense tech and the mainstreaming of warMoral dilemmas: investing for profit vs. personal ethics in defense techBehind the business: Palmer Luckey, Mark Zuckerberg & political power movesJoin the conversation with Ian, Troy, and Rashad as they challenge you to think about your role—and your responsibility—as an investor in today’s volatile world.*Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and let us know your thoughts in the comments!*#MarketMondays #DefenseTech #Palantir #Meta #OpenAI #Anduril #Investing #TechStocks #AI #WallStreet #MoralInvesting #IPO #Finance #WarEconomyOur Sponsors:* Check out PNC Bank: https://www.pnc.com* Check out Progressive: https://www.progressive.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of Earn Your Leisure, Kirk Franklin and Norman Gyamfi sit down for a powerful conversation that bridges faith, culture, and business. They share the story of how their partnership began and why their mission goes far beyond music. Norman reveals how a lack of marketing in the gospel industry motivated him to get involved, and he breaks down the business behind Insignia Assets. Kirk opens up about his past experiences working with family and friends, and the hard lessons he learned from signing a bad record deal.Together, they explore the current state of gospel music—its struggles with cultural relevance, outdated record structures, and slow adaptation to streaming. Kirk and Norman reflect on whether today’s generation is searching for a new kind of spirituality and whether the church is meeting them where they are. They discuss the impact of artificial intelligence on music and faith, questioning if technology could ever replace real authenticity or even spiritual leadership.The conversation goes deep on themes of judgment, power, and how the Black church has both uplifted and, at times, weaponized religion. Kirk questions whether being held to a higher standard has truly benefited him, while Norman reminds us why we should never lose hope in humanity. This episode is raw, honest, and necessary for anyone thinking critically about the intersection of faith, leadership, and legacy.Invest Fest Ticket Link: https://investfest.com#EarnYourLeisure #KirkFranklin #NormanGyamfi #GospelMusic #FaithAndBusiness #ChristianityToday #BlackChurch #MusicIndustry #Entrepreneurship #Spirituality #CulturalRelevance #EYLOur Sponsors:* Check out PNC Bank: https://www.pnc.com* Check out Progressive: https://www.progressive.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this insightful clip from EYL, MG The Mortgage Guy joins Troy Millings and Rashad Bilal to break down creative real estate hacks that can help you qualify for a mortgage and scale your income—especially if you’re not navigating the process alone!Discover how you can leverage roommate (or "border") income, even if it's a boyfriend, girlfriend, or college roommate, to boost your mortgage qualification. MG explains Fannie Mae’s Homeready program, which lets you use documented rental payments from roommates to strengthen your application, as long as you’ve collected proof over at least 9 of the last 12 months.The clip dives into the vital importance of documentation—leases, payment records with memos clarifying "rent," and making sure everyone’s on board. They also discuss common scenarios, like living with a partner (who isn’t on your lease), and how putting everything in writing can unlock significant buying power, all while keeping your finances and future flexibility secure.Graduating college soon? MG reveals a little-known hack: you can use your college history as work history for mortgage qualification, and if you’ve collected rent from roommates (with all the right paperwork), that’s extra income to help you buy your first home right after graduation!For those interested in maximizing every opportunity, they touch on leveraging an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) for long- or mid-term rental income, and how areas near hospitals, airports, or New AI data centers can create lucrative mid-term rental plays—ideal for traveling professionals, corporate consultants, or construction workers on multi-month assignments.Whether you have a pool to rent out (think Swimply), extra space in your home, or are just getting started, this strategy-packed clip is a must-watch for anyone looking to house hack, generate additional income, or simply make smarter real estate moves.Hit play to learn how better documentation, teamwork, and a little creativity can make real estate investing more accessible than you ever thought possible!*#RealEstate #HouseHacking #MortgageTips #EYL #RoommateIncome #ADU #HomeBuying #FinancialFreedom #Swimply #Investing #CollegeHacks #WealthBuilding*Our Sponsors:* Check out PNC Bank: https://www.pnc.com* Check out Progressive: https://www.progressive.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this clip from Market Mondays, hosts Troy Millings, Rashad Bilal, and Ian Dunlap tackle the burning question on every tech investor’s mind: Is it time to sell Apple stock? With Apple’s latest WWDC leaving many underwhelmed and AI innovation seemingly lagging behind major competitors like Microsoft, OpenAI, Google, and Meta, the crew dives deep into what's next for one of the world’s most valuable companies.Ian Dunlap doesn’t pull any punches, calling this year’s WWDC the “most disappointing in the last 15 years” and sets a bold ultimatum—if Apple doesn’t deliver significant AI development by 2026, he’ll recommend liquidating all Apple positions. With Apple three months in the red and missing key opportunities in the AI race, the discussion turns to real concerns about their innovation culture and leadership under Tim Cook.The hosts debate whether Apple’s rumored features like “liquid glass” are true innovation or just signs that they’re out of touch with the current tech landscape. Is Apple’s massive $130 billion cash reserve enough to let them play catch-up, or has leadership missed too many strategic chances? The conversation gets candid about how the company missed out on big partnerships and acquisitions—including possibilities with OpenAI and DJI.Troy and Rashad bring counterpoints, questioning if Apple’s war chest could still secure its spot in AI’s future, or if the era of “reactive” rather than “proactive” innovation has put them irreversibly behind. They also examine how other companies—like Canva, Meta and Anthropic—are now making bigger AI leaps than Apple, and what that signals for investors.Should Tim Cook step aside for new leadership? Is it too late for Apple to reclaim its innovative edge? And if you’re considering selling Apple stock, where should you move your money next? Get the harsh truth, plus a look at what’s happening at the upper management level that could be holding Apple back from real breakthroughs.Whether you’re a tech investor, Apple fan, or concerned shareholder, this clip is packed with unfiltered insights and actionable perspectives on Apple’s future in AI.*Watch now to find out if it’s time to cash out or hold on. Don’t miss the debate that could shape your portfolio decisions for 2025!*#MarketMondays #AppleStock #AI #TechInvesting #WWDC2024 #TimCook #Innovation #Microsoft #Meta #OpenAI #AppleAI #Investing #StockMarketOur Sponsors:* Check out PNC Bank: https://www.pnc.com* Check out Progressive: https://www.progressive.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this special episode, we sit down with Matt Garland to talk about what it takes to become a real estate professional in today’s market. We break down creative house hacking strategies, smart financing options, and new wealth-building opportunities in real estate.Plus, Rashad shares what he learned firsthand during his trip to China — including how to source high-quality home materials directly from the source and save thousands on your next real estate project.Whether you’re a first-time investor or seasoned homeowner, this episode is packed with gems you don’t want to miss.Invest Fest Ticket Link: https://investfest.com#RealEstate #HouseHacking #WealthBuilding #ChinaSourcing #RealEstateInvesting #EarnYourLeisure #MGTheMortgageGuy #HouseFlipping #HomeDesign #InteriorSourcing #RashadBilal #EYL #FinancialFreedom #RealEstateTipsOur Sponsors:* Check out PNC Bank: https://www.pnc.com* Check out Progressive: https://www.progressive.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this eye-opening clip of *Black Out with Ian & Rashad*, Rashad Bilal shares his first impressions from his trip to China, diving deep into cultural differences, the cost of living, and the systems that shape global wealth disparities. Ian Dunlap joins in to unpack how America’s capitalist design compares—and why our views on prosperity, inflation, and opportunity are often based on manufactured realities.Rashad breaks down the striking differences he noticed in China: Low noise pollution and a calm public demeanor, a stark contrast to the fast-paced, loud culture he’s used to in Manhattan. The pace of daily life, where people aren’t in a constant rush, and mid-day breaks are the norm. Affordable living costs, like rent as low as $175 for a one-bedroom apartment—compared to skyrocketing U.S. prices. Technological advances and a booming electric vehicle industry, with 20 EV companies innovating at lightning speed. The vibrant African community in Fu Shuang, driven by international business and trade.Ian and Rashad then dive deeper, connecting the dots between global economics and the impact of outsourcing, inflation, and “greedy capitalism.” How are America’s financial structures forcing unnecessary inflation? Why does our middle class struggle while other countries provide affordable, efficient lifestyles? And what does it mean for the future if we don’t adapt?You’ll also hear personal anecdotes about the real cost of luxury goods, the everyday stress faced by Americans, and why the search for a better quality of life might take us beyond the borders of the U.S.This candid conversation will change the way you think about international living, financial systems, and what it really means to “make it.”*If this conversation sparks your interest, make sure to catch the full Market Mondays breakdown next week!*Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you never miss a clip from *Black Out with Ian & Rashad*.*#ChinaExperience #CostOfLiving #GlobalWealth #Capitalism #BlackOutPodcast #IanDunlap #RashadBilal #InternationalLiving #WealthDisparity #FinancialFreedom #MarketMondays*Our Sponsors:* Check out PNC Bank: https://www.pnc.com* Check out Progressive: https://www.progressive.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this powerful Market Mondays clip, host Troy Millings and guest Paul Judge break down exactly where new graduates, investors, and entrepreneurs should direct their focus in today’s rapidly evolving business world—especially as artificial intelligence (AI) transforms every sector.Paul Judge demystifies the best approach for thriving in tech: focus less on flashy technology and more on solving real, valuable problems that businesses are willing to pay for. Drawing from his own experience, Paul explains why success often comes from understanding the three core business layers—IT infrastructure, finance, and people. *IT Infrastructure:* Discover how the shift from the cloud to AI and agentic IT is creating huge opportunities for innovation in cybersecurity and enterprise software. *Finance:* Learn why embedded finance and open banking are now major arenas for anyone looking to capitalize on the globalization of money movement and fintech disruption. *People & Healthcare:* As AI reshapes the future of work, upskilling, retraining, and healthcare tech are more relevant than ever. There are massive inefficiencies waiting to be solved in the $4 trillion healthcare industry.Paul’s advice? Identify a pressing business problem, solve it for one customer, then scale and grow. The tech itself is just a tool—the real key is delivering value and repeatable results.Whether you’re a recent graduate, a tech investor, or an entrepreneur aiming to build the next big thing, this clip gives you a practical playbook for making smarter moves in a world changed by AI and digital transformation.🔔 *Don’t miss out on our Market Mondays insights—hit subscribe and stay ahead of the curve!*#MarketMondays #Investing #AI #Entrepreneurship #Finance #Fintech #BusinessStrategy #Cybersecurity #HealthcareTech #TechCareers #BusinessGrowthOur Sponsors:* Check out PNC Bank: https://www.pnc.com* Check out Progressive: https://www.progressive.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this clip from EYL, special guest Kelis shares her incredible journey of building a farm from the ground up in Kenya, offering invaluable insights for anyone curious about agriculture as a business opportunity. She dives into the realities of land acquisition, the true profitability of farming, and why Kenya presents unique advantages compared to places like California or Texas.Kelis discusses her experience navigating land deals, revealing how prices can vary dramatically depending on factors like proximity to main roads and the deep cultural value of heritage land. If you've ever wondered if land in Kenya can be as affordable as in some US states, she breaks it all down—including why sometimes a small plot can be just as pricey as a full acre.The conversation shifts to the profitable side of farming, specifically how crops like onions are in high demand due to local supply needs. Kelis offers real numbers, explaining how an $11,000 investment in a five-acre onion farm can yield $30,000–$35,000 per quarter, highlighting agriculture as a practical, lucrative business with plenty of room for growth.But farming isn’t just about buying land and planting seeds—there’s a whole operational side involving irrigation systems, workforce, pest control, and fencing. Kelis talks about the complex technology and manpower that goes into a successful farm, debunking the myth that farming is old-fashioned or low-tech. She emphasizes the value of local expertise, sharing stories of how Kenyan agronomists and horticulturists have supported her every step of the way.One of the biggest surprises for Kelis was the incredible generosity and support from the Kenyan community. She explains how locals are always willing to offer advice, share best practices, and genuinely want newcomers to succeed in their farming ventures. These connections have been crucial to her progress, making an otherwise daunting endeavor feel accessible and welcoming.The clip also touches on practical challenges, from dealing with droughts and pests to installing a borehole (a specialized well system) for consistent irrigation—something that requires technical knowledge and upfront investment but ensures long-term farm sustainability. She offers tips on what to check before buying land, such as the importance of geological surveys to guarantee water access.Lastly, Kelis highlights the unique ecosystem of Kenyan farms, including encounters with wildlife like hyenas and giraffes, and underscores the importance of working with nature rather than against it—a lesson she’s applying as she grows her farm in a way that maintains the local environment.If you’re considering investing in agriculture, dreaming of a farm in Africa, or just interested in real-world entrepreneurship outside the typical business world, this clip is packed with practical advice, motivation, and fascinating stories straight from the source.*Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful conversations and entrepreneurial journeys!*#FarmingInKenya #AgricultureBusiness #EYL #FarmToTable #LandInvestment #Entrepreneurship #AfricanFarming #Kelis #KenyaAgriculture #BusinessOpportunities #SustainableFarming #OnionFarming #FarmLife #BuildingAFarm #InvestmentAfricaOur Sponsors:* Check out PNC Bank: https://www.pnc.com* Check out Progressive: https://www.progressive.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this powerful Market Mondays clip, we dive deep into the extraordinary entrepreneurial journey of Magic Johnson—a legend whose business moves have made just as much impact as his sports legacy. Inspired by a stellar Instagram video, the crew takes time to break down why Magic’s story is full of valuable lessons every aspiring entrepreneur should hear.Hear directly from a clip of Magic Johnson as he shares his struggles and triumphs in accessing capital: from being rejected by banks, to finally securing funding from CalPERS after proving his business acumen with a massive profit flip on a shopping center in the inner city. This pivotal moment opened doors for Magic, leading to his historic partnership with Starbucks—despite early skepticism that minority communities would pay “$3 for a cup of coffee.” The Market Mondays team discusses how Magic’s foresight and courage revolutionized inner city communities: he brought both movie theaters and coffee shops to places others ignored, proving how recognizing cultural needs can lead to incredible success. Magic’s journey is highlighted as a case study in scalability, business intuition, and breaking through barriers in corporate America.Get inspired by Magic’s evolution from sports icon to entrepreneur, as he transitions from selling successful portfolios, acquiring real estate, to owning major stakes in sports teams like the LA Dodgers and the Washington Commanders. The hosts remind us that Magic's business empire was built step by step—scratching and clawing, never relying on just one big break.This clip also lays out important messages for black entrepreneurs: Don’t let anyone convince you that there isn’t money or opportunity in serving underrepresented communities. Major companies like Target and Nike face challenges for ignoring this market, proof that authenticity and cultural relevance are key to business longevity.Tune in as Market Mondays celebrates Magic Johnson as one of the top black billionaires in U.S. history and calls for more recognition of living legends. Let’s learn, get inspired, and remember to give our superheroes their flowers while they’re here.*Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you found value in this discussion. Got someone in business you’d like us to highlight next month? Drop a comment below!*---*Hashtags:* #MarketMondays #MagicJohnson #Entrepreneurship #BlackExcellence #BusinessInspiration #CulturalLeadership #BillionaireBlueprint #InnerCitySuccess #AccessToCapital #RepresentationMatters #Starbucks #BusinessClip #BusinessLeadership #LearnFromLegendsOur Sponsors:* Check out PNC Bank: https://www.pnc.com* Check out Progressive: https://www.progressive.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy