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Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brian Custer. 🎙️ Interview Summary Overview:The interview is a mix of career storytelling, personal development, and health awareness. Brian Custer, an Emmy Award–winning sportscaster, shares his journey from childhood aspirations to ESPN, along with a powerful account of surviving prostate cancer. Rushion McDonald uses the conversation to highlight perseverance, purpose, and community impact. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview The conversation serves three main purposes: 1. Inspiration & Career Guidance Show how disciplined focus, mentorship, and persistence lead to success. Encourage listeners to create their own success story rather than just admire others. 2. Representation & Legacy Highlight the importance of HBCUs, Black mentors, and representation in media. Reinforce the idea of uplifting community through achievement and visibility. 3. Health Awareness (Major Focus) Raise awareness about prostate cancer, especially among Black men. Encourage early screening, eliminating stigma, and using influence for public good. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Success Starts with Early Vision Custer knew he wanted to be in television as early as middle school. Exposure to role models like Ted Koppel shaped his aspirations. 👉 Lesson: Early inspiration + consistency = long-term career clarity. 2. Pivoting from Failed Dreams Can Lead to Purpose His initial dream was to play basketball, but he redirected to broadcasting. Attending Hampton University became a pivotal decision. 👉 Lesson: Letting go of one dream can open the door to your true calling. 3. Mentorship and Representation Matter Influences included Irv Cross, James Brown, and Carole Simpson. Relationships later turned into mentorships. 👉 Lesson: Seeing people who look like you succeed creates possibility—and access. 4. Work Ethic Beats Glamour Started with overnight radio shifts (midnight–8am). Took on non-sports reporting roles to build skills and visibility. 👉 Lesson: Success often begins with unglamorous, grind-heavy work. 5. Systemic Bias Still Exists—but Can Be Overcome A news director assumed he was white based on his voice. This moment highlights both bias and the importance of opportunity. 👉 Lesson: Talent can open doors, but awareness of bias is critical. 6. Health Awareness Is Critical—Especially for Black Men Custer was diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer at 42. He initially resisted testing due to stigma and discomfort. 👉 Lesson: Avoiding screenings can be life-threatening—early detection saves lives. 7. Use Your Platform for Impact After surgery, Custer committed to advocating for prostate cancer awareness. He now serves as a spokesperson to educate and save lives. 👉 Lesson: Success gains meaning when it helps others. 8. Mindset Determines How You Face Adversity Both Custer and McDonald described fear upon hearing “cancer.” Acceptance, faith, and perspective helped them move forward. 👉 Lesson: Crisis reveals your values and reshapes your priorities. 💬 Notable Quotes On Purpose & Calling “At that point, I knew I wanted to do television.” On Career Beginnings “My first job… was from midnight to 8:00 in the morning… that’s what I did.” On Bias in Media “You certainly don’t look the way you sound… I thought you were white.” On Cancer Diagnosis “All I heard was cancer.” On Awareness & Responsibility “Use your platform to help men of color… they need to see that it’s okay.” On Health Neglect “Cancer don’t go away without help… it’s going to keep winning.” On Masculinity & Stigma “I wasn’t trying to tell anybody… people gonna think I’m going to be dead.” 🧠 Bottom Line This interview is not just about sports broadcasting—it’s about purpose, resilience, and responsibility. Brian Custer’s story demonstrates: How to build a career with intention How to navigate setbacks and bias And most importantly, how to turn personal struggle into public impact #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Anne Lester. 🎙️ Interview Summary Overview:Anne Lester, a longtime asset manager and author of Your Best Financial Life: Save Smart Now for the Future You Want, discusses practical strategies for saving, investing, and managing personal finances. The conversation focuses heavily on behavioral finance—how mindset, habits, and decision-making patterns impact financial success. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview 1. Financial Education & Practical Guidance Teach listeners how to build sustainable saving and investing habits. Break down financial concepts into simple, actionable steps. 2. Behavioral Change Help people understand why they make poor financial decisions. Offer “mental hacks” to overcome bad habits and biases. 3. Empowerment Without Shame Encourage people to stop dwelling on past financial mistakes. Promote forward-looking planning and self-improvement. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Most Financial Mistakes Are Behavioral, Not Knowledge-Based Lester admits she made “every mistake” early in her career. Financial success comes from changing habits, not just learning concepts. 👉 Lesson: Money problems are often about behavior, not intelligence. 2. Start Saving Early—But Start Small Even minimal contributions build the habit of saving. Gradual increases (e.g., saving part of raises) are more sustainable. 👉 Lesson: Consistency matters more than starting big. 3.“Consumption Creep” Is a Major Wealth Killer People increase spending as income rises (cars, homes, lifestyle upgrades). If saving doesn’t increase too, long-term financial stability suffers. 👉 Lesson: Control lifestyle inflation to build wealth. 4. Save First, Then Invest Strategically Emergency savings should be liquid (cash or high-yield accounts). Long-term funds (retirement, wealth-building) should be invested. 👉 Lesson: Separate short-term safety from long-term growth. 5. Build an Emergency Fund First Target: 3–6 months of living expenses Serves as a financial buffer to prevent debt or crisis. 👉 Lesson: Stability comes before investment risk. 6. Use Structured Rules to Make Decisions Examples: Save at least half of every raise Ask before spending from savings: Is this really an emergency? Do I need to spend this? Do I need to spend it now? 👉 Lesson: Decision frameworks reduce emotional spending. 7. Financial Communication Is Critical in Relationships Couples must openly discuss money habits and goals. Financial compatibility requires transparency and negotiation. 👉 Lesson: Money issues can damage relationships if not addressed early. 8. Subscriptions Quietly Drain Finances Many people unknowingly overpay for subscriptions. Simple tactics: Avoid auto-renew Audit credit cards Think annually (not monthly) Rotate services (e.g., streaming) 👉 Lesson: Small recurring costs can significantly impact finances over time. 9. Don’t Let Shame Block Financial Progress Many people feel guilt or embarrassment about money mistakes. Lester emphasizes moving forward instead of dwelling on the past. 👉 Lesson: Progress starts when you stop self-judgment. 10. Your Brain Works Against Long-Term Financial Thinking Humans are wired for short-term survival, not future planning. You must “hack” your behavior to align with long-term goals. 👉 Lesson: Build systems to override natural impulses. 💬 Notable Quotes On Mistakes & Learning “I made every single mistake you could make.” [ANNE LESTER | Txt] On Saving Strategy “Save at least half of every raise.” [ANNE LESTER | Txt] On Lifestyle Inflation “Your lifestyle just keeps getting better… and if you don’t increase your savings rate, you’re creating a world of pain for yourself.” [ANNE LESTER | Txt] On Starting Small “If you can only put in 25 or 50 bucks… just start.” [ANNE LESTER | Txt] On Financial Identity “You change the way you look at yourself… you’re suddenly a person who is a saver.” [ANNE LESTER | Txt] On Emergency Spending Decisions “Do I have to spend this money… and do I have to spend it now?” [ANNE LESTER | Txt] On Behavioral Finance “Our brains are not wired to help us make rational, long-term financial decisions.” [ANNE LESTER | Txt] On Motivation for the Book “It’s the book I wish I had when I was in my 20s.” [ANNE LESTER | Txt] 🧠 Bottom Line This interview emphasizes that financial success is less about income and more about behavior. Anne Lester’s core message: Build habits → control lifestyle → invest wisely → stay consistent Her approach reframes money management as a psychological and behavioral challenge, not just a mathematical one. #STRAW #BEST #SHMSSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Alaysia Miller. A certified nurse practitioner, travel nurse practitioner, and founder of NP Luxe CPR, a Florida-based CPR training company. Alaysia discusses her journey from nurse to travel nurse practitioner, how frontline burnout pushed her into entrepreneurship, and why she launched a CPR education business. She explains the financial and lifestyle advantages of travel nursing, the importance of mentorship, the realities of entrepreneurship, and the major CPR survival gap in Black and underserved communities. Rushion and Alaysia also dive into leadership, negotiating contracts, building a lucrative CPR business, and empowering community health through education. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: 1. Showcase a path to financial freedom through nursing entrepreneurship By highlighting travel nurse contracting and CPR instruction as viable wealth‑building vehicles. 2. Highlight the importance of CPR education in underserved communities Especially addressing the survival gap in Black communities due to low CPR literacy. 3. Encourage aspiring entrepreneurs—especially women and healthcare workers By sharing Alaysia’s experiences with mentorship, confidence building, and launching a service-based business. 4. Educate listeners on the realities of entrepreneurship Including time demands, imposter syndrome, and the need for consistency and proper pricing. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Travel Nurse Practitioners Have High Earning Potential As a staff NP she would earn $100k per year, but as a travel NP she earned $100k in six months while gaining time freedom and flexibility. Travel NP work is paid via 1099, opening the door to tax write-offs, investment flexibility, and entrepreneurial benefits. 2. Burnout Was the Catalyst for Change Working six days a week during COVID and the pressure of commercialized urgent-care systems led to burnout, weight gain, and loss of self. This pushed Alaysia toward traveling, where she worked half the time for double the pay. 3. CPR Survival Rates Are Lower in Black & Underserved Communities Alaysia explains that lack of exposure, knowledge, and basic emergency training leads to significantly lower cardiac survival rates in communities of color. She addresses this through her nonprofit We Push Health, which brings CPR and medical education to rural and urban communities. 4. You Don’t Need to Reinvent the Wheel—Mentorship Is Key She learned about mentorship in 2024 and emphasizes that mentors help you avoid costly mistakes and speed up your path. “Find someone who is the ideal image of what you want to be and mimic what they do.”. 5. CPR Businesses Are Lucrative and Accessible Almost every industry requires CPR certification: Healthcare Schools & daycares Gyms Police & fire departments Hotels Tattoo studios These make CPR instruction a strong side hustle or full-time business, especially for healthcare professionals who already understand the material. 6. Entrepreneurship Requires Real Work Alaysia breaks down the less glamorous side of building a business: Imposter syndrome The need for consistent marketing Pricing confidently Long hours initially Learning branding, systems, and follow-up “You only eat what you kill.”. 7. Communication and Adaptability Are Leadership Superpowers Travel nursing requires walking into unfamiliar environments and leading without overpowering. She emphasizes: Reading the room Adjusting communication styles Delegating the right way Being assertive but team-oriented “Adaptability is number one.”. 8. Negotiation Skills Changed Her Entire Career She learned to stop undervaluing herself and start negotiating confidently: First contract: underpriced Second contract: raised rates dramatically Uses supply‑and‑demand to justify price increases “You miss 100% of the shots you never take.”.] 🗣️ Notable Quotes On Entrepreneurship “If you know how to save a life, don’t you think you know how to run a business?”. “You only eat what you kill.”. On Burnout “I lost myself giving it to a job.”. On Community Health “They can’t know what they don’t know.” “Survival rates for cardiac arrest are significantly lower in communities of color because they lack access to basic emergency skills.”. On Mentorship “You don’t have to reinvent the wheel to be successful.” “Find someone who is the ideal image of what you want to be.”. On Negotiation “What’s the worst they can say? No.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Christina Dukes Brown. 🎙️ Interview Summary Overview:Dr. Christina Dukes Brown, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Paterson and Passaic, discusses her work supporting underserved youth in New Jersey. The interview focuses on community empowerment, educational gaps, youth development, and the importance of collective action (mentorship, partnerships, and funding) to improve outcomes for young people. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview 1. Raise Awareness of Community Needs Highlight the challenges faced by underserved Black and Latinx youth (poverty, low literacy, lack of resources). 2. Call to Action Encourage volunteers, mentors, corporations, and donors to support the Boys & Girls Club. 3. Promote Youth Development & Opportunity Showcase how structured programs (education, sports, arts, mentoring) help kids succeed. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Underserved Communities Face Major Resource Gaps Many families struggle with poverty, homelessness, and food insecurity. [Dr. Christ...green) (2) | Txt] Academic performance is low (literacy and math proficiency challenges). 👉 Lesson: Community-based organizations fill critical gaps left by broader systems. 2. After-School Programs Are Essential The club provides: Homework help (“Power Hour”) Tutoring Meals Safe recreation spaces [Dr. Christ...green) (2) | Txt] 👉 Lesson: Learning doesn’t end at school—support systems outside the classroom are vital. 3. The Mission Is Holistic Development Focus areas include: Academic support Character development Creative outlets (arts, dance) Athletics (including strong aquatics program) [Dr. Christ...green) (2) | Txt] 👉 Lesson: Success requires both academic and personal development. 4. Combatting Stereotypes Is a Core Challenge Many youth face a “deficit ideology” that assumes they cannot succeed. [Dr. Christ...green) (2) | Txt] 👉 Lesson: Changing mindset and self-belief is as important as providing resources. 5. Every Child Has Unique Strengths Not all success is academic—soft skills, communication, and creativity matter. 👉 Lesson: Programs must recognize and nurture diverse talents. 6. Mentorship and Representation Matter Youth benefit from seeing successful people who share their background. 👉 Lesson: Real-life role models inspire confidence and possibility. 7. Community Support Is Critical The organization relies heavily on: Volunteers Donations Corporate partnerships Nearly half its budget comes from fundraising. [Dr. Christ...green) (2) | Txt] 👉 Lesson: Sustainable community change requires collective investment. 8. Early Intervention Is Better Than Crisis Response Many young adults (18–24) seek help after struggling to find direction. 👉 Lesson: Providing guidance, skills, and exposure early can prevent setbacks. 9. Skills Training Must Be Practical Programs include: Professional skills (showing up, communication) Career pathways (internships, trades, entrepreneurship) 👉 Lesson: Real-world readiness is essential alongside education. 10. Leadership Requires Purpose and Commitment Dr. Brown is motivated by personal experience and a sense of responsibility to uplift her community. 👉 Lesson: Effective leadership in social impact requires passion and lived understanding. 💬 Notable Quotes On Community Responsibility “I can’t complain about the position of Black and Brown people… if I’m not going to do the work.” [Dr. Christ...green) (2) | Txt] On Motivation “I am motivated to jump out of bed every morning to… support these communities.” [Dr. Christ...green) (2) | Txt] On Stereotypes “No matter where you come from… you have the capacity to become great.” [Dr. Christ...green) (2) | Txt] On Youth Potential “Some children… have the ability to articulate a point… we have to affirm those skills.” [Dr. Christ...green) (2) | Txt] On Mentorship “One of the best motivating factors… is seeing someone who looks like them.” [Dr. Christ...green) (2) | Txt] On Community Action “It takes a real village.” [Dr. Christ...green) (2) | Txt] On Organizational Need “We essentially have to earn $4 million a year through fundraising.” [Dr. Christ...green) (2) | Txt] On Call to Action “I need men and women… to teach our young people the skills… to become business owners.” [Dr. Christ...green) (2) | Txt] 🧠 Bottom Line This interview is fundamentally a community mobilization message. Dr. Christina Dukes Brown’s central message: Youth potential is high—but opportunity gaps are real <...

The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Monday June 22nd, 2026: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open - Intros | The Pastors | Ask The CLO | Trending & Entertainment News | Father's Day Recap | Sista O'Dell | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "The Sick & Shut In" | Strawberry Letter - "Why Did She Change Her Wardrobe?" Pt. 1-2 | Sports Talk | Social Media Advice | DUI In A Barbie Car | Would You Rather | Steve Harvey's Closing RemarksSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Ashley Christopher. 🔷 Purpose of the Interview The interview is designed to: Highlight the impact of HBCU Week Foundation in expanding access to higher education. Promote HBCUs as viable, valuable pathways to college, careers, and scholarships. Showcase Ashley Christopher’s success model in connecting underserved students to opportunities. Inspire action among students, parents, and sponsors—especially around scholarships, STEM, and college access. Demonstrate how purpose-driven leadership creates national impact from local beginnings. 👉 Overall, the purpose is awareness + inspiration + access to opportunity. 🔷 Summary of the Interview Ashley Christopher, founder of the HBCU Week Foundation (est. 2017), shares how her organization has transformed college access—especially for underserved students—through large-scale events and direct admissions opportunities. Her flagship initiative, HBCU Week, is a multi-day experience that combines entertainment (concerts, panels, networking) with a college fair where students can receive on-the-spot admissions and scholarships. Since its launch: Over 10,000 students have received on-the-spot college acceptances Nearly $100 million in scholarships has been awarded [Ashley Chr...green) (6) | Txt] Christopher explains that the idea began as a local initiative in Wilmington, Delaware to expose students—many of whom didn’t see college as an option—to HBCU opportunities. It quickly scaled due to demand, authenticity, and impact. A major highlight is her $40 million STEM scholarship partnership (via the American Chemistry Council), which provides: $40,000 scholarships to 1,000 students pursuing STEM at HBCUs [Ashley Chr...green) (6) | Txt] She also shares personal adversity—surviving a stroke at age 29—which reshaped her sense of urgency and purpose, fueling her drive to build something meaningful and impactful. 🔷 Key Takeaways 1. Access + Exposure Changes Lives Many students don’t pursue college simply because they lack exposure. HBCU Week bridges that gap by bringing opportunities directly to them. 👉 “A lot of people where I grew up don’t even think college is an option.” [Ashley Chr...green) (6) | Txt] 2. On-the-Spot Admissions Are Game-Changing Students can get: Accepted into college immediately Offered scholarships at the same time Removes barriers like long wait times and uncertainty. 👉 “Students can get accepted into college on the spot and receive a scholarship award.” [Ashley Chr...green) (6) | Txt] 3. Local Ideas Can Scale Nationally The initiative started to serve one community but grew organically due to demand and impact. 👉 “The goal wasn’t even for this to be a national event… it just kind of caught on.” [Ashley Chr...green) (6) | Txt] 4. HBCUs Provide Powerful Pathways The foundation centers HBCUs as: Engines for education Gateways to careers and corporate America Support systems for minority students 5. Strategic Partnerships Unlock Massive Funding The $40M STEM initiative came from aligning business needs (STEM workforce shortages) with social impact. 👉 “The STEM industry is experiencing a serious deficit… they wanted to fill those spaces with diverse candidates.” [Ashley Chr...green) (6) | Txt] 6. Purpose Fuels Growth and Influence Ashley attributes success to passion, authenticity, and faith. Her mission drives engagement, partnerships, and scalability. 👉 “When you love what you do… it catches on.” [Ashley Chr...green) (6) | Txt] 7. Adversity Can Create Clarity and Drive Her stroke became a turning point that intensified her sense of mission and urgency. 👉 “It created a different sense of drive and purpose in me.” [Ashley Chr...green) (6) | Txt] 8. Representation Matters in Critical Fields STEM diversity is essential for innovation and problem-solving. Her scholarships specifically target this gap. 👉 “If everybody around that table looks the same, we’re in trouble.” [Ashley Chr...green) (6) | Txt] 9. Measurable Impact Builds Credibility Tangible outcomes (acceptances, scholarship dollars) establish trust and momentum. 10,000+ acceptances ~$100M awarded [Ashley Chr...green) (6) | Txt] 10. Students Must Be Prepared (Grades + Scores) On-the-spot acceptance still requires: GPA SAT/ACT scores 👉 Opportunity exists—but preparation determines access. 🔷 Notable Quotes On mission and exposure “I wanted to make sure they were taken care of… to get them the exposure they needed.” [Ashley Chr...green) (6) | Txt] On impact “Students can get accepted into college on the spot and receive a scholarship award.” [Ashley Chr...green) (6) | Txt] On growth “The goal wasn’t even for this to be a national event.” [Ashley Chr...green) (6) | Txt]<...

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Lamar Tyler. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview To spotlight Lamar Tyler’s entrepreneurial journey, the growth of his platform Traffic, Sales & Profit (TSP), and to share actionable insights for Black entrepreneurs on building scalable, profitable businesses from side hustles. 🧭 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Branding with Purpose Lamar emphasizes the importance of clear, relatable branding. His previous brand, Black and Married with Kids, succeeded because the name instantly resonated with its audience. Quote: “If they can hear the name, they can see it and say, ‘Hey, that’s for me.’” 2. Side Hustle to Main Hustle Most Black entrepreneurs start businesses while working full-time jobs. Success requires treating the side hustle like a real business from day one. Quote: “There is no perfect time. The time to get started is now.” 3. Consistency & Growth TSP’s first event in 2016 had only 47 attendees, half of whom came for free. Growth came from consistency and listening to the community. Quote: “Sometimes all you need is confirmation.” 4. Customer Experience & Branding Inspired by Disney’s “unexpected touchpoints,” Lamar expanded branding beyond the event space to include the hotel exterior and even airport baggage claim. Quote: “We brand everything from the lobby to the pool… to make it feel like home.” 5. Faith & Execution Faith plays a central role in Lamar’s business philosophy. He encourages entrepreneurs to act on the opportunities they pray for. Quote: “You pray to get the opportunity, now you want to do all the work too.” 6. Scaling vs. Growing Growth increases revenue and expenses; scaling increases revenue without proportional expense growth. TSP Scale is a new event focused on helping businesses reach this level. Quote: “Scale is where the real money comes in.” 7. Lever-Driven Growth System Lamar outlines systems for: Proposal processes Upselling Referral systems Creating experiences that justify premium pricing Quote: “If you create an experience around what you do, you can charge two, three, four times more.” 8. Platform & Community Lamar transitioned from doing all the speaking to empowering others in his community. He believes in giving others a platform to grow. Quote: “Too many artists try to hold on too tight… and miss out on the blessing.” 🌟 Notable Guests & Surprises at TSP Events Surprise appearances by Magic Johnson, Issa Rae, Master P, Jermaine Dupri, Janice Bryant Howroyd, and Ambassador Andrew Young. Quote: “If you want to be it, you need to see it.” 📍 Event Details New Event: TSP Scale Location: Atlanta Westin Gwinnett, Gwinnett County, GA Website: TSPScale.com #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Monica Cornitcher. Entrepreneurial journey, the inspiration behind Medase Cocktails, and the realities of launching, funding, and scaling a premium nonalcoholic spirits brand in a highly competitive market. Purpose of the Conversation The purpose of the episode is to: Educate aspiring entrepreneurs on how to build a differentiated consumer brand Demonstrate the importance of storytelling, market clarity, and operational discipline Highlight the growth of the nonalcoholic / zero‑proof beverage movement Inspire founders—especially founders of color—to own their niche, seek capital strategically, and scale intentionally. Key Takeaways 1. Business Built from Personal Need and Purpose Medase Cocktails was co‑founded by Monica and her lifelong friend during her friend’s battle with breast cancer, a time when alcohol was no longer an option—but celebration still mattered. The brand was created to allow people to celebrate authentically without alcohol It carries emotional depth rooted in friendship, gratitude, and loss Monica continues the mission after her co‑founder passed away in 2024 Lesson: Purpose-driven businesses create deeper emotional connection and long-term brand equity. 2. Differentiation Is Everything Monica deliberately rejected the “sparkling water with flavor” model common in nonalcoholic drinks. Her differentiators include: Authentic cocktail taste (Old Fashioned, Margarita, Moscow Mule) Organic juices, not artificial flavors Bold packaging that stands out on shelves Drinks designed to smell, taste, and feel like real cocktails Lesson: Competing on authenticity—not cost—is how you carve out market share in crowded spaces. 3. Brand Names and Stories Matter The name “Medase” means “thank you” and reflects gratitude, friendship, and emotional support. Monica emphasizes: Every flavor name, color, and product decision has a story A strong brand narrative creates curiosity, loyalty, and investor interest Lesson: People invest in brands they feel—emotionally, not just intellectually. 4. Venture Capital Is Not Just About Numbers While financials matter, Monica stresses that VCs also invest in founders and stories. What helped her secure venture capital: A compelling personal story Relevant founder skill sets (M&A, law, operations) Clear understanding of the market opportunity Lesson: Early-stage funding often depends on who you are and why you’re building, not just revenue. 5. Research, Planning, and Discipline Before Launch Unlike many food startups, Medase did not begin in a kitchen. They: Conducted a feasibility study Built a formal business plan Worked with a Black female food scientist Set strict personal funding limits before seeking capital Lesson: Preparation reduces risk and builds long-term sustainability. 6. Scaling Requires Operational Maturity As sales increased—especially on Amazon—Monica emphasized the need to move from “hustle mode” to operational excellence. Key scaling principles: Understand unit economics Track ROI for events and activations Adjust pricing as volume increases Build strategy across marketing, operations, and distribution Lesson: Hustle starts the business; operations grow it. 7. Niche First, Expansion Later Medase does not try to be “everything to everyone.” Core customers include: People seeking a break from alcohol Health-conscious consumers Black men looking for alcohol replacements Consumers wanting cocktail taste without hangovers Lesson: Strong niches create loyal advocates who fuel organic growth. 8. Smart Distribution Strategy Rather than rushing into retail, Monica prioritized direct-to-consumer channels: Amazon (top-performing channel) Brand website TikTok Shop Only after 6–7 months of traction did retail expansion become viable. Lesson: Control your margins and demand before entering expensive retail environments. Memorable Quotes “I wanted an authentic cocktail without compromise.” “Everything we do has a story behind it.” “Sometimes it’s not about the financials—it’s about the founder and the story.” “Don’t be everything to everybody. Find your market and stick with your market.” “Hustle starts the business, but operations give you scale.” “If it tastes too much like alcohol and you gave me a one-star review—thank you. That means I did my job.” Overall Message This episode is a real-world entrepreneurial blueprint showing how clarity of vision, emotional authenticity, disciplined planning, and niche focus can turn a personal idea into a scalable national brand. Monica Cornitcher exemplifies the modern founder:visionary, data-aware, emotionally intelligent, and unapologetically authentic. #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kenneth Chester 🧾 Overall Purpose of the Interview The interview is designed to educate, inspire, and empower listeners—especially entrepreneurs and communities of color—around technology, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity. It serves three main purposes: Demystify emerging technologies (AI, electric vehicles, mobility) Encourage entrepreneurship and self-starting behavior Advocate for greater access to knowledge and participation in tech among Black communities Chester’s role is that of a translator and motivator, turning complex topics into actionable insight while challenging limiting beliefs. 🎯 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Mindset: “Evolve or Die” Chester emphasizes that adaptability is essential for survival and success. Resistance to change leads to stagnation and missed opportunity. 👉 Takeaway:Success comes from continuous learning and embracing change, especially in fast-moving fields like tech. 2. Entrepreneurship Requires Overcoming “But” Chester identifies the most dangerous word in entrepreneurship:“but.” People often block themselves with excuses (lack of time, money, connections). 👉 Takeaways: Start before you feel ready. Your first customer validates your idea. Growth is incremental: 1 → 2 → 5 → 10 customers. 3. Technology as Opportunity (Not Threat) Focus areas: Artificial intelligence (AI) Electric vehicles (EVs) Autonomous vehicles Chester reframes technology as: A tool for empowerment, not replacement A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, especially for underserved communities 👉 Takeaways: AI lowers barriers (no coding required, often free) EVs are driven by economics and efficiency, not just climate concerns Understanding tech = controlling your future 4. Information Access Gap in Black Communities Chester highlights a major issue: lack of access to tech information in Black media spaces Ironically, he receives more support from non-Black (even conservative) platforms 👉 Takeaways: The issue is not capability—it’s distribution and exposure Communities must actively seek and share knowledge 5. AI as a Transformational Equalizer Chester strongly argues: AI is comparable to literacy in earlier eras Avoiding it is like refusing education 100 years ago 👉 Takeaways: AI can: Create new careers quickly (3–6 months training) Increase independence and income All that’s required is: Time Curiosity Access (libraries included) 6. Simplifying Tech for the Masses Chester intentionally avoids over-complication He positions himself as**“tech-aware,” not overly technical** 👉 Takeaway: Effective communication = meeting people where they are Education works best when it is practical and digestible 7. Structural & Environmental Awareness The discussion expands into: Infrastructure inequality Energy systems (solar, EVs, grid stress) Urban planning disparities 👉 Takeaway: Understanding tech and mobility helps people: Anticipate societal shifts Avoid becoming victims of those shifts 💬 Notable Quotes On resilience and adversity “We’ve always been under attack… You can choose to be a victim or make the most of it.” On growth and adaptability “You either evolve or die, period.” On entrepreneurship “‘But’ stops so many phenomenal ideas.” “If you can sell to one person… you can sell to ten.” On uniqueness and value creation “Nobody can tell it like you… the world deserves to see it.” On AI opportunity “AI represents a once in a lifetime opportunity… you have the world at your fingertips.” “All you need is time.” On fear vs action “If you wait for it… it’s like standing in the street waiting for a dump truck.” 🧠 Bottom-Line Insights Mindset beats circumstance: Success requires action despite limitations Technology is leverage: Those who embrace it early gain advantage Access to knowledge is critical: Communities must actively seek and share information AI is the new literacy: Ignoring it risks being left behind Entrepreneurship starts small: Validation begins with one customer #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Tiffany BusseyTitle: Director, Morehouse Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (MIEC)Dr. Tiffany Bussey discusses how the Morehouse Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center works to scale Black- and Brown-owned businesses, close the racial wealth gap, and intentionally connect entrepreneurs and workers to capital, contracts, and emerging industries, particularly in sustainability. Purpose of the Interview The interview serves to: Educate listeners about the systemic barriers facing Black entrepreneurs beyond access to capital. Highlight practical solutions—programs, partnerships, and ecosystems—that create real economic outcomes. Shift mindsets around entrepreneurship, risk, and opportunity, especially in underserved communities. Expose listeners to emerging, high-growth industries (e.g., sustainability, EVs, renewable energy) instead of oversaturated traditional businesses. Promote community-based economic ecosystems, particularly the collaboration between Morehouse, Goodwill, and corporate partners. Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Entrepreneurship as a Tool for Closing the Wealth Gap Dr. Bussey positions entrepreneurship and business ownership as one of the most effective ways to generate long-term wealth in Black communities. The Center has supported 400+ scalable, mid-sized businesses, resulting in: 850+ jobs created $34M+ in new capital accessed $82M+ in new revenue generated Key insight: The problem isn’t a lack of capable Black businesses—it’s visibility, access, and opportunity. 2. “Access to Opportunity” Matters as Much as Capital While access to capital dominates the conversation, Dr. Bussey emphasizes access to contracts and decision-makers. MIEC programs are designed with opportunity partners (large corporations, general contractors, primes) so participants gain: Exposure to real contracts Understanding of supply chains Direct relationships with decision-makers Takeaway: Capital without revenue and customers won’t sustain a business. 3. The Three C’s of Business Growth Dr. Bussey outlines MIEC’s core framework: Capital – Funding and financial resources Connections – Two-way, relationship-based networks Contracts – Revenue-generating opportunities She stresses that connections only matter if relationships are mutual—it’s not enough to “know someone” unless they also understand your value. 4. Breaking Stereotypes About Black-Owned Businesses Dr. Bussey addresses harmful narratives around skill, readiness, and qualifications. She highlights intentional strategies to: Prepare businesses before opportunities arise Align training and recruitment with future industries Counter biases through performance, scale, and visibility Key idea: Preparation plus access dismantles bias. 5. Sustainability = One of the Largest Economic Opportunities Dr. Bussey reframes sustainability as an economic opportunity, not just an environmental issue: Electric Vehicles: ~$163B industry Green Construction: ~$324B industry Renewable Energy: ~$952B industry Sustainable Agriculture: ~$20B industry She urges listeners to stop defaulting to oversaturated businesses (e.g., nightclubs) and instead pursue industries that are expanding rapidly and globally. 6. Workforce Development + Business Development Must Align Goodwill provides free job training, certifications, and even stipends for individuals. Morehouse trains businesses that can hire those workers, creating a full economic loop. This ecosystem addresses two major barriers simultaneously: Human capital Business readiness Takeaway: Economic equity requires aligned systems, not isolated programs. 7. Entrepreneurship Is Rewarding—but Not Romantic Dr. Bussey demystifies entrepreneurship: It’s high-risk, exhausting, and statistically likely to fail early. Failure is part of the process, but historical and financial realities make risk harder for Black entrepreneurs. Ownership remains critical despite these challenges. Key message: Entrepreneurship is powerful, but it must be supported intentionally. Notable Quotes “Entrepreneurship and small businesses are one of the pathways to closing the racial income inequality gap.” “We don’t just provide technical assistance for technical assistance’s sake—this is about creating real opportunity.” “Capital dominates the conversation, but contracts are equally important.” “People don’t buy products or services. They buy solutions.” “We have to stop thinking only about what we feel we have access to.” “Sustainability is not one industry—it’s multiple trillion-dollar opportunities.” “Entrepreneurship is the most rewarding and the most fatiguing thing you’ll ever do.” Overall Impact The interview functions as both a masterclass and a call to action: For entrepreneurs: Think bigger, pursue scalable industries, and prepare for opportunity. For communities: Build ecosystems, not silos. For institutions and corporations: Inclusion requires intentional design. Dr. Tiffany Bussey presents a practical, data-backed roadmap for inclusive economic development—centered on ownership, access, and readiness. #STRAW #SHMS #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.