Episodes
-
The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Monday, July 13th, 2026. Subject: "The Motion Of The Ocean"
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 Valerie Obaze.
Founder of R&R Skincare.
๐ฏ 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.๐ง 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
๐งด 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.๐ 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 #BEST
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
Missing episodes?
-
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 Yasmine Cheyenne.
๐ Summary of the Interview
Yasmine Cheyenne, an Air Force veteran, mental wellness advocate, and author, joined Rushion McDonald to discuss her journey from a disadvantaged upbringing to becoming a published author and wellness coach. She shared insights from her books—The Sugar Jar and her latest, Wisdom of the Path—which focus on boundaries, healing, and self-empowerment. The conversation explored her military experience, personal transformation, and how she helps others confront fear and reclaim their lives.
๐ Key Takeaways 1. Overcoming Fear and Taking Risks
Fear of failure and disappointment keeps many people stuck. Yasmine encourages people to confront fear and take action anyway. Her own decision to join the Air Force was a leap of faith that changed her life.2. Military Discipline and Life Lessons
The Air Force taught her discipline, consistency, and resilience. She applies these lessons to her personal and professional life. Quote: “Do you want to bet on yourself? Be willing to believe in yourself.”3. Writing as Empowerment
Her first book, The Sugar Jar, focuses on boundaries and self-care. Her second book, Wisdom of the Path, is about using past experiences as wisdom, not shame. Writing helped her transform her life and inspire others from similar backgrounds.4. Boundaries and Self-Prioritization
Without boundaries, people become overwhelmed and resentful. Saying “no” and advocating for yourself is essential to mental wellness. Quote: “We have to get comfortable letting people be disappointed with us.”5. Redefining “Selfish”
Being selfish is often misunderstood. Prioritizing yourself is necessary for success and well-being. Quote: “Every successful person has had to be selfish at some point.”6. Wisdom of the Path
The book encourages readers to trust their instincts and take the next step. It’s not a checklist—it’s a collection of relatable stories and reflections. Quote: “Use those experiences that you’re judging yourself for as wisdom to help you move forward.”7. Mental Wellness Practice
Yasmine helps people through coaching, writing, and speaking. She emphasizes healing through storytelling and shared experiences.8. Accessibility
Her books are available in print, digital, and audio formats. She personally narrates the audiobook version of Wisdom of the Path.๐ฌ Notable Quotes
“Even if things fail, you have what it takes to get yourself to where you want to be.” “Take the meat and leave the bone.” “You already know what the next step is. What would happen if you just took it?” “We’ve been an enemy toward ourselves for years and don’t even realize it.”#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
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.
๐ 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.๐ About Annie Yatch
Annie 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
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 Yahya Muhammad.
Topic: Entrepreneurship, legacy, and community impact through his ice cream business, Shawn Michelle’s Homemade Ice Cream
Yahya Muhammad shares his journey from tasting unforgettable homemade ice cream as a child to founding one of Chicago’s most beloved ice cream brands. His story is one of perseverance, cultural pride, and community service, rooted in faith and inspired by family and fraternity.
๐ฏ Purpose of the Interview
Highlight Yahya’s entrepreneurial journey and the founding of Shawn Michelle’s Homemade Ice Cream. Inspire small business owners and creatives to pursue their passions despite obstacles. Showcase the importance of community engagement and mentorship. Celebrate Black excellence and cultural legacy through food and service.๐ Key Takeaways ๐จ The Origin Story
Inspired by a woman selling homemade ice cream in Avalon Park, Chicago. Spent six years perfecting his own recipe. First flavor: Honey Cinnamon Graham Cracker“I had no idea it would take about six years to learn how to make it.”
๐ Education & Influence
Holds a Master’s in Sociology from Western Illinois University. Influenced by teachings of Elijah Muhammad and Minister Louis Farrakhan. Member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, which instilled discipline and perseverance.“I learned principles… immutable principles that I’ve been striving to apply.”
๐ From Trunk to Storefront
Started selling ice cream out of the trunk of his car in 1996. Grew from renting a room in a beauty salon to multiple storefronts. Now operates in Bronzeville, a historic Chicago neighborhood.“I didn’t even have a business license… I just believed.”
๐ Signature Flavors
Known for nostalgic, Southern-inspired flavors: Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Vanilla Banana Pudding Georgia Peach Cobbler Bourbon Butter Pecan Southern Black Walnut“Our goal is to take you right back down memory lane.”
๐ก Business Philosophy
Focuses on customer experience over product. Staff are trained as helpers, not just workers. Emphasizes service, quality, and pricing — but prioritizes service.“The food is not the number one thing. The number one thing is the service.”
๐ Community Impact
Grew up in an underserved area of Chicago. Hires from the community and mentors youth. Dedicated the business to his late sister, Shawn Michelle, who inspired his culinary journey.“I want to be a part of that inspiration… to give the baton to the next generation.”
๐ Expansion Plans
Looking to expand to Atlanta, calling it “the Mecca.” Envisions taking the brand nationwide while maintaining its cultural and community roots.“The future of Shawn Michelle’s is to be national.”
๐ฌ Memorable Quotes
“Faith over fear — I believed, I committed, I accepted the challenge.” “You have to see something different to be something different.” “I don’t have workers. I have helpers.” “I want to be a part of that that helps give them a new idea.”#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
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 Gerron Duhon.
Purpose of the Interview
The conversation aimed to:
Highlight the importance of financial literacy for young adults. Share Jerron Duhon’s personal journey from Lake Charles, Louisiana, to Yale University and into holistic financial planning. Promote his book “The Purpose of Paper”, which focuses on building generational wealth and breaking harmful financial habits.Key Takeaways
Personal Journey & Identity Shift
Jerron used football as a “meal ticket” to escape his hometown, but a concussion ended his athletic career, causing an identity crisis. He pivoted toward financial education and wealth creation, emphasizing long-term planning.Misconceptions About Wealth
Many young adults believe wealth comes quickly through gambling, sports betting, or flashy investments. Social media fuels the desire to display wealth rather than build wealth, leading to poor financial decisions.Financial Habits & Framework
Jerron introduced his AIMS framework: Awareness: Know your current financial state. Intention: Set clear goals and reverse-engineer steps. Mindset Change: Focus on future self, not old habits. Systems: Automate savings and investments to reduce reliance on willpower.Faith and Finance Connection
Principles like self-control, patience, and hope—fruits of the spirit—are essential for financial discipline. “Faith without works is dead” applies to money: belief must be paired with action.Generational Wealth
Gerron stresses taking ownership of your financial future rather than leaving the burden to your children. Investing should be strategic and long-term, not like playing the lottery.Practical Advice
Start small but consistent (e.g., $150/month). Use modern tools like Robinhood for stock investing. Shift from being a consumer to an owner (invest in companies you use).Notable Quotes
“Football was my meal ticket… but I realized I didn’t dream far enough.” “We connect our financial decisions to display wealth instead of to build wealth.” “Faith without works is dead—just like in finances.” “Are you going to be the one that changes your generation, or will you leave that pressure on your children?” “Good advice is timeless.”#SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMI
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Friday, July 10th, 2026. Subject: "He Hates His Wife, But I Don't"
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Wednesday, July 8th, 2026. Subject: "Can We Make This Thing Work, Or Not?"
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Tuesday, July 7th, 2026. Subject: "Does My Fianceฬ Hate My Family?"
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Monday, July 6th, 2026. Subject: "If It's Not 3, Don't Call Me"
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Friday, July 3rd, 2026. Subject: "Pack A Bag & A Snack, 'Cause You Ain't Going Back "
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Thursday, July 2nd, 2026. Subject: "It's A Hard Habit To Break"
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Wednesday, July 1st, 2026. Subject: "I Like Taffy, He Doesn't"
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Tuesday, June 30th, 2026. Subject: "He Knew He Married A Black Woman"
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Monday, June 29th, 2026. Subject: "His Draws Was Under The Drivers Seat"
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
Here’s a clear, structured summary of the interview with Dr. Margena Christian on Money Making Conversations Masterclass with Rushion McDonald, including its purpose, key takeaways, and notable quotes.
๐๏ธ Interview Summary: Dr. Margena Christian โ Purpose of the Interview
The conversation serves three primary purposes:
Highlight Dr. Christian’s career and influence
Showcasing her journey as a journalist, historian, and author rooted in Ebony and Jet magazine.Promote her book
“It’s No Wonder: The Life and Times of Motown’s Legendary Songwriter Sylvia Moy.”Preserve and correct Black cultural history
Emphasizing the importance of documenting overlooked contributors—particularly Black women like Sylvia Moy—whose impact has often gone uncredited.๐ Key Takeaways 1. Legacy of Black media institutions (Ebony & Jet)
Dr. Christian spent nearly two decades (1995–2014) at Johnson Publishing Company. Jet and Ebony were central to Black visibility before social media, shaping careers and cultural narratives. Being featured in these magazines was considered a milestone of success in the Black community.๐ Insight: Media institutions played a critical role in documenting Black excellence and building public recognition.
2. Professional discipline and navigating the entertainment industry
Christian stressed the importance of understanding the difference between business and personal relationships. She avoided distractions and maintained professionalism, even in celebrity-heavy environments.๐ Insight: Success in media requires boundaries, focus, and clarity about one’s purpose.
3. Investigative storytelling and historical recovery
Her book began with a simple social media question: why hadn’t Sylvia Moy’s contributions been widely documented? [ She conducted deep archival and interview-based research to verify claims.๐ Insight: True storytelling requires verification, curiosity, and persistence, not just surface-level narratives.
4. Sylvia Moy’s overlooked impact on Motown
Sylvia Moy helped save Stevie Wonder’s career when he risked being dropped. She co-created the hit “Uptight,” which kept him signed. Despite her role, she was denied proper producer credit, illustrating systemic inequities.๐ Insight: Many foundational contributors—especially Black women—were historically under-credited or erased.
5. The importance of documenting history before it’s lost
Christian emphasizes that: History may be hidden but not erased. If stories aren’t told accurately, others may distort or erase them.๐ Insight: Preserving cultural history is both a responsibility and a form of protection.
6. The power of lived experience and “being in the room”
Christian highlights her firsthand role in shaping media history—not just reporting on it. [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt] She reflects on witnessing major figures early in their careers.๐ Insight: Experience and proximity provide unique authority and storytelling depth.
๐ฌ Notable Quotes On purpose and professionalism
“Never get it twisted… it’s business… but a friendly business.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt] “Very few people are really your friends.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt]On media influence and cultural validation
“Before social media, there was Jet.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt] “Some people didn’t feel like they made it until they were in Jet magazine.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt]On Sylvia Moy and untold history
“That woman made history as a producer but was denied the credit.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt] “How are you getting the credit for something… and I don’t see a footprint?” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt]On storytelling and legacy
“People will write you out… of your own history if you let them.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt] “History may be hidden, but it’s never erased.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt]On purpose-driven work
“You’re just doing it because you’re called to do it.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt]๐งญ Overall Message
This interview underscores a powerful theme:
Document the truth, honor overlooked contributors, and take ownership of your narrative—before someone else rewrites it.
It blends:
Entrepreneurship and career advice Cultural preservation Investigative journalism Black media legacy#SHMS #BEST #STRAW
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Friday, June 26th, 2026. Subject: "I Bought Him That Last Year"
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Thursday, June 25th, 2026. Subject: "Sleeping In The Next Room"
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Wednesday, June 24th, 2026. Subject: "Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is"
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 Todd Kroupa.
๐ท Interview Summary
Todd Kroupa, a former firefighter turned top-performing real estate agent (No. 1 in Georgia, nearly $1B in lifetime sales), shares his journey of career transition, entrepreneurship, and success in real estate. [TODD KROUPA iHeart | Txt]
The interview covers:
Leaving a stable career for entrepreneurship Building a real estate business from scratch in a new market Customer-first sales philosophy Practical advice for buyers and sellers Real estate as a long-term wealth-building strategyIt blends career reinvention, sales mindset, and real estate expertise.
๐ฏ Purpose of the Interview 1. Inspire career transition and risk-taking
Show how to move from a secure job to a high-reward entrepreneurial path2. Educate on real estate buying and selling
Provide practical insights for: First-time buyers Families Sellers3. Highlight relationship-driven sales success
Emphasize service, trust, and referrals over commissions4. Promote real estate as a wealth strategy
Explain why real estate is a strong long-term investment5. Share resilience and mindset lessons
Demonstrate how persistence and belief overcome doubt and rejection๐ Key Takeaways 1. Career pivots require courage and clarity
Kroupa left a stable firefighting career despite outside doubt He trusted his long-term vision over short-term safety [TODD KROUPA iHeart | Txt]2. Block out “outside noise”
He avoided negativity and advice that could derail his decision Focus and conviction were essential to success3. Skills transfer across industries
Firefighter experience taught: Problem-solving under pressure Customer care These skills translated directly into real estate4. Relationships drive real estate success
The business is built on: Trust Referrals Long-term client relationships Not just transactions5. Service > commission mindset
Top agents prioritize: Client outcomes Long-term value Income follows service6. Emotion drives buying decisions
Buyers decide within minutes based on: Feeling Personal connection Logic comes later in the process7. Realtors must guide, not just sell
A great agent: Identifies hidden issues Advises clients—even against a deal8. Inspection is critical
Key deal-breakers: Mold Foundation issues Roof problems Buyers must be willing to walk away9. Real estate decisions require discipline
Avoid overpaying or emotional overcommitment Think long-term resale and investment value10. Neighborhood matters as much as the house
Buyers should: Visit at different times Talk to neighbors Research schools and environment11. Market strategy matters when selling
Presentation is key: Neutral design Strong first impressions Buyers decide quickly12. Real estate is a powerful wealth builder
Benefits over stocks: Control (improvements, rental, usage) Tax advantages Tangible value13. Multi-generational living is rising
Driven by: Cost of living Family dynamics Post-COVID lifestyle shifts14. Buying the most expensive home isn’t optimal
Property value is influenced by surrounding homes Overpricing limits appreciation potential๐ฌ Notable Quotes On career transition
“I walked away from a very stable career… to something that can be unstable.” [TODD KROUPA iHeart | Txt]
On ignoring doubt
“I avoided a lot of phone calls… I didn’t want anybody to persuade my decision.” [TODD KROUPA iHeart | Txt]
On motivation
“That put the fire in me.” [TODD KROUPA iHeart | Txt]
On mindset and focus
“I just cut the noise out.” [TODD KROUPA iHeart | Txt]
On service approach
“It should never be about the commission… it should be about helping that person.” [TODD KROUPA iHeart | Txt]
On relationships
“This business is about referrals… connections.” [TODD KROUPA iHeart | Txt]
On buyer psychology
“They’re looking emotionally first—logic comes second.” [TODD KROUPA iHeart | Txt]
On inspections
“If you’re not comfortable now, you won’t be comfortable after you close.” [TODD KROUPA iHeart | Txt]
On real estate vs stocks
“You can’t control a stock… you can improve and live in a home.” [TODD KROUPA iHeart | Txt]
On pricing strategy
“You don’t want to be the most expensive house in the neighborhood.” [TODD KROUPA iHeart | Txt]
๐งญ Bottom Line
Todd Kroupa’s message is a blueprint for success in both entrepreneurship and real estate:
Take calculated risks → growth requires leaving comfort zones Focus on people, not profits → relationships build sustainable success Think long-term → especially in real estate decisions Balance emotion with logic → in major financial choices Stay disciplined and informed → avoid costly mistakes๐ His core philosophy:
Serve people first, make smart decisions second, and success will follow.#SHMS #BEST #STRAW
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
- Show more
