Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Shica Little.  During COVID, Dr. Shica was laid off and decided to pursue her dream, and she created Vegan Cookies and Cookie Dough Mix.  Dr. Shica's Bakery:

Nationwide Roll-Out:  Our Snack Cookies (Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin, Lemon, and Confetti Sugar. 

•    Nationwide Retail- All HomeGoods, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls (throughout US and Canada)- over 4120 stores
•    Costco- We will start a Roadshow with Costco in the Culver City (near LAX) location next month. We'll be in-store sampling and selling our new snack cookies.
•    ISM Middle East/Dubai- Selected to be a speaker at the largest Snacks and Sweets Show in the Middle East, which is called ISM. 
•    Canada Minority Program—Selected to participate in the trade show for the Minority Supplier program in Toronto, Canada.
•    Fundraising- We have a new fundraising opportunity for organizations to use our cookies to raise money. The fundraising link is on our website.

#SHMS

#STRAW

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Shica Little.  During COVID, Dr. Shica was laid off and decided to pursue her dream, and she created Vegan Cookies and Cookie Dough Mix.  Dr. Shica's Bakery:
Nationwide Roll-Out:  Our Snack Cookies (Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin, Lemon, and Confetti Sugar. 
•    Nationwide Retail- All HomeGoods, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls (throughout US and Canada)- over 4120 stores •    Costco- We will start a Roadshow with Costco in the Culver City (near LAX) location next month. We'll be in-store sampling and selling our new snack cookies. •    ISM Middle East/Dubai- Selected to be a speaker at the largest Snacks and Sweets Show in the Middle East, which is called ISM.  •    Canada Minority Program—Selected to participate in the trade show for the Minority Supplier program in Toronto, Canada. •    Fundraising- We have a new fundraising opportunity for organizations to use our cookies to raise money. The fundraising link is on our website.
#SHMS
#STRAW

Money Making Conversations Master Class is more than a podcast. It's a front-row seat to the ideas, experiences, and breakthrough moments that inspire success. Hosted by Rushion McDonald, each episode features influential entrepreneurs, business leaders, celebrities, influencers, and nonprofit changemakers sharing the lessons, strategies, and mindset shifts that helped them turn ambition into achievement. The show empowers dreamers, doers, and leaders to think bigger, move smarter, and take action on their goals. As Rushion McDonald often says, "Stop reading other people's success stories and start planning your own."

Tune in, get inspired, and start writing your own success story, one conversation at a time.

https://www.moneymakingconversations.com

https://www.youtube.com/MoneyMakingConversations

https://www.facebook.com/MoneyMakingConversations/

https://twitter.com/moneymakingconv

https://www.instagram.com/moneymakingconversations/

Money Making Conversations Master Class is more than a podcast. It's a front-row seat to the ideas, experiences, and breakthrough moments that inspire success. Hosted by Rushion McDonald, each episode features influential entrepreneurs, business leaders, celebrities, influencers, and nonprofit changemakers sharing the lessons, strategies, and mindset shifts that helped them turn ambition into achievement. The show empowers dreamers, doers, and leaders to think bigger, move smarter, and take action on their goals. As Rushion McDonald often says, "Stop reading other people's success stories and start planning your own."
Tune in, get inspired, and start writing your own success story, one conversation at a time.
https://www.moneymakingconversations.com
https://www.youtube.com/MoneyMakingConversations
https://www.facebook.com/MoneyMakingConversations/
https://twitter.com/moneymakingconv
https://www.instagram.com/moneymakingconversations/

Money Making Conversations Master Class

Start your day with laughs, love, and real talk from Steve Harvey and his hilarious crew Shirley Strawberry, Carla Ferrell, Nephew Tommy, and Junior on the #1 morning radio show in America. Prank calls, life advice, celebrity guests, and nonstop energy. Follow, favorite, and subscribe now so you never miss a moment!

Steve Harvey brings his unmatched charisma and wisdom to mornings across the country, mixing comedy, culture, and connection like no one else. Whether you need a laugh, a lift, or a little perspective, The Steve Harvey Morning Show delivers it all.

Join millions who tune in every day, and make Steve and the crew part of your morning routine!

Start your day with laughs, love, and real talk from Steve Harvey and his hilarious crew Shirley Strawberry, Carla Ferrell, Nephew Tommy, and Junior on the #1 morning radio show in America. Prank calls, life advice, celebrity guests, and nonstop energy.&nbsp;Follow, favorite, and subscribe now so you never miss a moment!
Steve Harvey brings his unmatched charisma and wisdom to mornings across the country, mixing comedy, culture, and connection like no one else. Whether you need a laugh, a lift, or a little perspective, The Steve Harvey Morning Show delivers it all.
Join millions who tune in every day, and make Steve and the crew part of your morning routine!

The Steve Harvey Morning Show

Got a situation? Steve Harvey and Shirley Strawberry deliver unfiltered advice on love, relationships, family, work, and life. Send your letter, subscribe, and get real talk every day!

Every weekday, the Steve Harvey Morning Show tackle a listener-submitted “Strawberry Letter”... a real-life dilemma ranging from romantic entanglements to career choices, family drama to money struggles, and everything in between.

With a blend of wisdom, wit, and brutal honesty, they offer candid commentary and heartfelt guidance, often sparking conversation (and laughter) among the rest of the morning show crew.

Submit your Strawberry Letter at www.steveharveyfm.com for a chance to be featured, and get the truth, Steve Harvey style!

Got a situation? Steve Harvey and Shirley Strawberry deliver unfiltered advice on love, relationships, family, work, and life. Send your letter, subscribe, and get real talk every day!
Every weekday, the Steve Harvey Morning Show tackle a listener-submitted &ldquo;Strawberry Letter&rdquo;... a real-life dilemma ranging from romantic entanglements to career choices, family drama to money struggles, and everything in between.
With a blend of wisdom, wit, and brutal honesty, they offer candid commentary and heartfelt guidance, often sparking conversation (and laughter) among the rest of the morning show crew.
Submit your Strawberry Letter at <a href="http://www.steveharveyfm.com/">www.steveharveyfm.com</a> for a chance to be featured, and get the truth, Steve Harvey style!

Strawberry Letter

Perseverance: Was Laid off, but she Regrouped! Her Cookies are now sold in 4,100 stores nationwide and Canada.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/624ee23c-ecda-4436-87ed-b1cc01635478/transcript

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!

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.

Business Podcast

Entrepreneurship

Small Business

Business Growth

Financial Literacy

Wealth Building

Black Entrepreneurs

Minority Business

Leadership

Executive Leadership

Business Funding

Marketing Strategies

Personal Development

Startup Advice

Sales Training

CEO Interviews

Founder Stories

Professional Development

Economic Empowerment

Business Success

Networking

Brand Building

Innovation

How to start a business

Small business funding

Entrepreneur success stories

Business leadership podcast

Wealth building strategies

Black entrepreneur podcast

Minority business development

Marketing for small businesses

Business growth strategies

Startup funding opportunities

Executive leadership training

Financial literacy education

Success mindset podcast

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Cassandra Lester.

🔹 Purpose of the Interview

The interview serves three main purposes:

1. Promote Access to Opportunity
Highlight Grow Give Prosper, Lester’s nonprofit focused on financial literacy and economic mobility
Publicize free Google Career Certificate scholarships for underserved communities

2. Educate on Financial Literacy
Emphasize the importance of credit, income, and financial decision-making
Break down real-world applications of financial literacy

3. Inspire Community Action
Encourage individuals to take control of their financial future
Demonstrate how grassroots leadership can drive community transformation

👉 Overall purpose:
Bridge the gap between financial literacy and economic opportunity—especially in underserved populations.

🔹 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Financial Literacy Is About Understanding, Not Status
Financial education is not tied to education level or profession.
Even highly educated individuals lack financial literacy.

“Financial education doesn't matter who you are… it's a matter of accessibility.” 

👉 Insight:
The real issue is access and awareness, not intelligence.

2. “Grow, Give, Prosper” = Collective Economic Empowerment
Lester’s nonprofit is rooted in a community-first philosophy:

Grow together
Give to each other
Prosper collectively

“I want us to grow together so that we can give… and then prosper as a collective.” [

3. Google Partnership Creates Life-Changing Access


Free certifications in high-demand tech fields:
Cybersecurity
Data analytics
Digital marketing & e-commerce
IT support
Project management
UX design


Program details:
Free (scholarship-based)
3–6 months
No prior experience required
Includes a job-ready portfolio

“You don’t have to have an Ivy League education… to make a livable wage.” 

👉 Impact:
Removes traditional barriers to high-income careers.

4. Access to Income Is the First Step to Financial Literacy
You cannot effectively manage money if income is insufficient.

“You can't talk about managing finances if you really don't have anything coming in.” 

👉 Insight:
Earning potential = foundation of financial stability

5. Credit Matters—Ignore It at Your Own Risk


Credit affects:
Loans
Interest rates
Employment opportunities


Practical strategies:
Pay down debt consistently
Don’t close old accounts
Monitor credit regularly

“You better care about that credit score… that’s going to make the difference in your borrowing potential.” [

6. There Is No “Quick Fix”
Financial improvement takes:

Consistency
Discipline
Long-term habits

“There is no magic bullet… you have to be consistent.” [

7. Grassroots Work Drives Real Impact
Lester promotes the program through:

Community centers
Adult education classes
Social media
Direct outreach (“boots on the ground”)

“I’m trying to shout it from the rooftops… you don’t want to miss this opportunity.” 

8. Mindset Change Is the Hardest Barrier
Many people:

Resist financial discussions
Distrust programs
Feel stuck in survival mode

👉 Reality:
Transforming belief systems is as important as providing resources.

9. Personal Experience Fuels Her Mission
Lester overcame:

Identity theft at a young age
Damaged credit early in life
Financial hardship

👉 Result:
Her work is driven by lived experience and empathy

“My credit had already been ruined… I was paying more for the same services.” 

10. Opportunity Requires Commitment
The only barrier to entry:

Personal accountability

“The only thing we require… is a commitment and a desire to want to do better.” [

🔹 Memorable Quotes On Community Wealth
“Grow together… give to each other… prosper as a collective.” 

On Access
“Financial education… is a matter of accessibility.” 

On Opportunity
“You don’t have to have an Ivy League education… to make a livable wage.” 

On Credit
“You better care about that credit score.” 

On Consistency
“There is no magic bullet.” [

On Urgency
“You don’t want to miss this opportunity.” [

On Income First
“You can't talk about managing finances if you don’t have anything coming in.” 

On Commitment
“All you need is a commitment to yourself.” 

🔹 Bottom Line

This interview is a practical, community-focused blueprint for economic mobility, centered on:

✅ Free access to in-demand careers
✅ Financial literacy as a life skill
✅ Income growth as a starting point
✅ Discipline and consistency
✅ Empowerment through education
✅ Community-driven change

Core message:
👉 Opportunity exists—but you must commit, learn, and act to transform your life.

#SHMS #BEST #STRAW

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-money-making-conversation-28341098/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">iHeartRadio</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/money-making-conversations-master-class/id1264705641" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="1">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/3ABAQdTXqAnhGwxrsjFa5y" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="2">Spotify</a>, <a href="http://www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/">www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/</a> or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily.&nbsp; I want to alert you, so you don&rsquo;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.&nbsp; Keep winning!
Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Cassandra Lester.
<hr>
🔹 Purpose of the Interview
The interview serves three main purposes:
1. Promote Access to Opportunity
<ul>
<li>Highlight Grow Give Prosper, Lester&rsquo;s nonprofit focused on financial literacy and economic mobility</li>
<li>Publicize free Google Career Certificate scholarships for underserved communities</li>
</ul>
2. Educate on Financial Literacy
<ul>
<li>Emphasize the importance of credit, income, and financial decision-making</li>
<li>Break down real-world applications of financial literacy</li>
</ul>
3. Inspire Community Action
<ul>
<li>Encourage individuals to take control of their financial future</li>
<li>Demonstrate how grassroots leadership can drive community transformation</li>
</ul>
👉 Overall purpose: Bridge the gap between financial literacy and economic opportunity&mdash;especially in underserved populations.
<hr>
🔹 Key Themes &amp; Takeaways 1. Financial Literacy Is About Understanding, Not Status
<ul>
<li>Financial education is not tied to education level or profession.</li>
<li>Even highly educated individuals lack financial literacy.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Financial education doesn't matter who you are&hellip; it's a matter of accessibility.&rdquo;&nbsp;
</blockquote>
👉 Insight:
<ul>
<li>The real issue is access and awareness, not intelligence.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
2. &ldquo;Grow, Give, Prosper&rdquo; = Collective Economic Empowerment
<ul>
<li>Lester&rsquo;s nonprofit is rooted in a community-first philosophy:
<ul>
<li>Grow together</li>
<li>Give to each other</li>
<li>Prosper collectively</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;I want us to grow together so that we can give&hellip; and then prosper as a collective.&rdquo; <a href="https://rushionmcdonald-my.sharepoint.com/personal/admin_rushionmcdonald_onmicrosoft_com/Documents/Microsoft%20Copilot%20Chat%20Files/CASSANDRA%20LESTER%20IHEART.txt">[</a>
</blockquote>
<hr>
3. Google Partnership Creates Life-Changing Access
<ul>
<li>
Free certifications in high-demand tech fields:
<ul>
<li>Cybersecurity</li>
<li>Data analytics</li>
<li>Digital marketing &amp; e-commerce</li>
<li>IT support</li>
<li>Project management</li>
<li>UX design</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Program details:
<ul>
<li>Free (scholarship-based)</li>
<li>3&ndash;6 months</li>
<li>No prior experience required</li>
<li>Includes a job-ready portfolio</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;You don&rsquo;t have to have an Ivy League education&hellip; to make a livable wage.&rdquo;&nbsp;
</blockquote>
👉 Impact:
<ul>
<li>Removes traditional barriers to high-income careers.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
4. Access to Income Is the First Step to Financial Literacy
<ul>
<li>You cannot effectively manage money if income is insufficient.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;You can't talk about managing finances if you really don't have anything coming in.&rdquo;&nbsp;
</blockquote>
👉 Insight:
<ul>
<li>Earning potential = foundation of financial stability</li>
</ul>
<hr>
5. Credit Matters&mdash;Ignore It at Your Own Risk
<ul>
<li>
Credit affects:
<ul>
<li>Loans</li>
<li>Interest rates</li>
<li>Employment opportunities</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Practical strategies:
<ul>
<li>Pay down debt consistently</li>
<li>Don&rsquo;t close old accounts</li>
<li>Monitor credit regularly</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;You better care about that credit score&hellip; that&rsquo;s going to make the difference in your borrowing potential.&rdquo; <a href="https://rushionmcdonald-my.sharepoint.com/personal/admin_rushionmcdonald_onmicrosoft_com/Documents/Microsoft%20Copilot%20Chat%20Files/CASSANDRA%20LESTER%20IHEART.txt">[</a>
</blockquote>
<hr>
6. There Is No &ldquo;Quick Fix&rdquo;
<ul>
<li>Financial improvement takes:
<ul>
<li>Consistency</li>
<li>Discipline</li>
<li>Long-term habits</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;There is no magic bullet&hellip; you have to be consistent.&rdquo; <a href="https://rushionmcdonald-my.sharepoint.com/personal/admin_rushionmcdonald_onmicrosoft_com/Documents/Microsoft%20Copilot%20Chat%20Files/CASSANDRA%20LESTER%20IHEART.txt">[</a>
</blockquote>
<hr>
7. Grassroots Work Drives Real Impact
<ul>
<li>Lester promotes the program through:
<ul>
<li>Community centers</li>
<li>Adult education classes</li>
<li>Social media</li>
<li>Direct outreach (&ldquo;boots on the ground&rdquo;)</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m trying to shout it from the rooftops&hellip; you don&rsquo;t want to miss this opportunity.&rdquo;&nbsp;<a href="https://rushionmcdonald-my.sharepoint.com/personal/admin_rushionmcdonald_onmicrosoft_com/Documents/Microsoft%20Copilot%20Chat%20Files/CASSANDRA%20LESTER%20IHEART.txt"></a>
</blockquote>
<hr>
8. Mindset Change Is the Hardest Barrier
<ul>
<li>Many people:
<ul>
<li>Resist financial discussions</li>
<li>Distrust programs</li>
<li>Feel stuck in survival mode</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
👉 Reality:
<ul>
<li>Transforming belief systems is as important as providing resources.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
9. Personal Experience Fuels Her Mission
<ul>
<li>Lester overcame:
<ul>
<li>Identity theft at a young age</li>
<li>Damaged credit early in life</li>
<li>Financial hardship</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
👉 Result:
<ul>
<li>Her work is driven by lived experience and empathy</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;My credit had already been ruined&hellip; I was paying more for the same services.&rdquo;&nbsp;
</blockquote>
<hr>
10. Opportunity Requires Commitment
<ul>
<li>The only barrier to entry:
<ul>
<li>Personal accountability</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;The only thing we require&hellip; is a commitment and a desire to want to do better.&rdquo; <a href="https://rushionmcdonald-my.sharepoint.com/personal/admin_rushionmcdonald_onmicrosoft_com/Documents/Microsoft%20Copilot%20Chat%20Files/CASSANDRA%20LESTER%20IHEART.txt">[</a>
</blockquote>
<hr>
🔹 Memorable Quotes On Community Wealth
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;Grow together&hellip; give to each other&hellip; prosper as a collective.&rdquo;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
On Access
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;Financial education&hellip; is a matter of accessibility.&rdquo;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
On Opportunity
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;You don&rsquo;t have to have an Ivy League education&hellip; to make a livable wage.&rdquo;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
On Credit
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;You better care about that credit score.&rdquo;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
On Consistency
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;There is no magic bullet.&rdquo; <a href="https://rushionmcdonald-my.sharepoint.com/personal/admin_rushionmcdonald_onmicrosoft_com/Documents/Microsoft%20Copilot%20Chat%20Files/CASSANDRA%20LESTER%20IHEART.txt">[</a></li>
</ul>
On Urgency
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;You don&rsquo;t want to miss this opportunity.&rdquo; <a href="https://rushionmcdonald-my.sharepoint.com/personal/admin_rushionmcdonald_onmicrosoft_com/Documents/Microsoft%20Copilot%20Chat%20Files/CASSANDRA%20LESTER%20IHEART.txt">[</a></li>
</ul>
On Income First
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;You can't talk about managing finances if you don&rsquo;t have anything coming in.&rdquo;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
On Commitment
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;All you need is a commitment to yourself.&rdquo;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<hr>
🔹 Bottom Line
This interview is a practical, community-focused blueprint for economic mobility, centered on:
✅ Free access to in-demand careers ✅ Financial literacy as a life skill ✅ Income growth as a starting point ✅ Discipline and consistency ✅ Empowerment through education ✅ Community-driven change
<hr>
Core message: 👉 Opportunity exists&mdash;but you must commit, learn, and act to transform your life.
#SHMS #BEST #STRAW

Career Advice:  Cassandra is offering free Google Career Certificate scholarships for underserved communities.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/e8226e37-846b-4c61-9beb-b49a0159ca96/transcript

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 Mela Lovett.

A serial entrepreneur with multiple businesses including:

Landscaping (Family Lawn Services)
Mortgage lending (commercial and residential)
Business consulting (especially on proper business structuring)

🌱 Entrepreneurial Journey
Mela and her husband transitioned from retail management jobs (Walgreens and Walmart) to starting their own lawn care business.
The motivation was to build generational wealth and leave a legacy for their children.
They faced major setbacks, including the theft of their truck and equipment, but persevered and rebuilt.

🧘 Mental Health & Meditation
Mila emphasizes the importance of mental health, especially for entrepreneurs.
She shares her experience with postpartum depression and how meditation and journaling helped her heal and manage stress.
She advocates for taking time to decompress and reset, especially when overwhelmed.

🌿 Lawn Care Insights
Mila explains the difference between lawn maintenance and landscaping.
She stresses the importance of quality work and customer trust.
Rashawn shares a humorous but cautionary tale about hiring an unqualified landscaper who ruined his hedges.

💡 Business Advice
Mela encourages:

Multiple streams of income
Proper business structure
Resilience in the face of adversity
She highlights the importance of reputation and referrals in growing a service-based business.

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

 

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.

Business Podcast

Entrepreneurship

Small Business

Business Growth

Financial Literacy

Wealth Building

Black Entrepreneurs

Minority Business

Leadership

Executive Leadership

Business Funding

Marketing Strategies

Personal Development

Startup Advice

Sales Training

CEO Interviews

Founder Stories

Professional Development

Economic Empowerment

Business Success

Networking

Brand Building

Innovation

How to start a business

Small business funding

Entrepreneur success stories

Business leadership podcast

Wealth building strategies

Black entrepreneur podcast

Minority business development

Marketing for small businesses

Business growth strategies

Startup funding opportunities

Executive leadership training

Financial literacy education

Success mindset podcast

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on <a href="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-money-making-conversation-28341098/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">iHeartRadio</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/money-making-conversations-master-class/id1264705641" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="1">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/3ABAQdTXqAnhGwxrsjFa5y" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="2">Spotify</a>, <a href="http://www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/">www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/</a> or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily.&nbsp; I want to alert you, so you don&rsquo;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.&nbsp; Keep winning!
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Mela Lovett.
A serial entrepreneur with multiple businesses including:
<ul>
<li>
<ul>
<li>Landscaping (Family Lawn Services)</li>
<li>Mortgage lending (commercial and residential)</li>
<li>Business consulting (especially on proper business structuring)</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
🌱 Entrepreneurial Journey
<ul>
<li>Mela and her husband transitioned from retail management jobs (Walgreens and Walmart) to starting their own lawn care business.</li>
<li>The motivation was to build generational wealth and leave a legacy for their children.</li>
<li>They faced major setbacks, including the theft of their truck and equipment, but persevered and rebuilt.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
🧘 Mental Health &amp; Meditation
<ul>
<li>Mila emphasizes the importance of mental health, especially for entrepreneurs.</li>
<li>She shares her experience with postpartum depression and how meditation and journaling helped her heal and manage stress.</li>
<li>She advocates for taking time to decompress and reset, especially when overwhelmed.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
🌿 Lawn Care Insights
<ul>
<li>Mila explains the difference between lawn maintenance and landscaping.</li>
<li>She stresses the importance of quality work and customer trust.</li>
<li>Rashawn shares a humorous but cautionary tale about hiring an unqualified landscaper who ruined his hedges.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
💡 Business Advice
<ul>
<li>Mela encourages:
<ul>
<li>Multiple streams of income</li>
<li>Proper business structure</li>
<li>Resilience in the face of adversity</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>She highlights the importance of reputation and referrals in growing a service-based business.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
&nbsp;
Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast

Career Change: She left corporate world to build generational wealth and leave a legacy for her children.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/4159f8f5-7042-40c6-88bf-b49300e4a8f4/transcript

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!Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.

Business Podcast

Entrepreneurship

Small Business

Business Growth

Financial Literacy

Wealth Building

Black Entrepreneurs

Minority Business

Leadership

Executive Leadership

Business Funding

Marketing Strategies

Personal Development

Startup Advice

Sales Training

CEO Interviews

Founder Stories

Professional Development

Economic Empowerment

Business Success

Networking

Brand Building

Innovation

How to start a business

Small business funding

Entrepreneur success stories

Business leadership podcast

Wealth building strategies

Black entrepreneur podcast

Minority business development

Marketing for small businesses

Business growth strategies

Startup funding opportunities

Executive leadership training

Financial literacy education

Success mindset podcast

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Cheryl McKissack Daniel. 

Topic: Legacy, resilience, and entrepreneurship of the McKissack family, as detailed in the book The Black Family Who Built America.

Cheryl shares the powerful story of her family's 230-year legacy in architecture and construction, making McKissack & McKissack the oldest minority woman-owned professional design and construction firm in the U.S. The conversation explores themes of generational resilience, Black excellence, business strategy, and personal growth.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview
Highlight the McKissack family’s historical and cultural impact on American infrastructure and Black entrepreneurship.
Promote the bookThe Black Family Who Built America as a record of legacy and inspiration.
Inspire small business owners and entrepreneurs with lessons on perseverance, succession planning, and self-identity.
Address the importance of preserving Black history in the face of cultural erasure.

🔑 Key Takeaways 🏗️ Legacy & Impact
McKissack & McKissack has contributed to major U.S. infrastructure projects like:

Barclays Center
JFK Terminal One
LaGuardia Airport
Penn Station
Lincoln Financial Field

“We are the fifth generation. Right. And we're Black in America.”

📚 Historical Significance
The family legacy began with Moses McKissack, who was enslaved and later became a builder.
Cheryl’s ancestors were the first licensed Black architects in America (licenses 117 and 118 in Tennessee).

“They became the first Black licensed architects in America… and helped get licensed in 22 other states.”

💼 Business Wisdom
Cheryl emphasizes the importance of:

Succession planning
Understanding both technical and political buyers
Building relationships before you need them

“You better have that relationship before you need it.”

🧠 The 5 Ps of Family Resilience
Perseverance
Persistence
Preparedness
Purpose
Prayer

“Sometimes you do get up in the morning and you say it's not for me… You have to come back and meditate on the fact that you're a winner.”

🧘‍♀️ Personal Growth & Mental Health
Cheryl discusses overcoming stress, rediscovering herself after a difficult marriage, and the importance of meditation.

“Being yourself is what we're talking about… I recognize that I am currently feeling stressed out. So what do I need to do?”

👩‍👧‍👧 Women in Leadership
Cheryl’s mother took over the business after her father’s stroke, despite societal barriers.

“She only knew the telephone number to the office at that time… but she knew deep inside that she wanted to hold on for the fifth generation.”

🎥 Representation & Media
The book and Cheryl’s story aim to counteract negative portrayals of Black people in media and history.

“You may not have known about Black excellence. You just ignored it. But we exist.”

💬 Memorable Quotes
“Black people built America. Now, that's the point we're making here.”
“You have to say the opposite to yourself. And you have to put one foot in front of the other.”
“This book is a receipt to say we are around. We have a foundation. We're not going anywhere.”

 

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on <a href="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-money-making-conversation-28341098/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">iHeartRadio</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/money-making-conversations-master-class/id1264705641" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="1">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/3ABAQdTXqAnhGwxrsjFa5y" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="2">Spotify</a>, <a href="http://www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/">www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/</a> or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily.&nbsp; I want to alert you, so you don&rsquo;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.&nbsp; Keep winning!Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Cheryl McKissack Daniel.&nbsp;
Topic: Legacy, resilience, and entrepreneurship of the McKissack family, as detailed in the book The Black Family Who Built America.
Cheryl shares the powerful story of her family's 230-year legacy in architecture and construction, making McKissack &amp; McKissack the oldest minority woman-owned professional design and construction firm in the U.S. The conversation explores themes of generational resilience, Black excellence, business strategy, and personal growth.
<hr>
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
<ol>
<li>Highlight the McKissack family&rsquo;s historical and cultural impact on American infrastructure and Black entrepreneurship.</li>
<li>Promote the book The Black Family Who Built America as a record of legacy and inspiration.</li>
<li>Inspire small business owners and entrepreneurs with lessons on perseverance, succession planning, and self-identity.</li>
<li>Address the importance of preserving Black history in the face of cultural erasure.</li>
</ol>
<hr>
🔑 Key Takeaways 🏗️ Legacy &amp; Impact
<ul>
<li>McKissack &amp; McKissack has contributed to major U.S. infrastructure projects like:
<ul>
<li>Barclays Center</li>
<li>JFK Terminal One</li>
<li>LaGuardia Airport</li>
<li>Penn Station</li>
<li>Lincoln Financial Field</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;We are the fifth generation. Right. And we're Black in America.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<hr>
📚 Historical Significance
<ul>
<li>The family legacy began with Moses McKissack, who was enslaved and later became a builder.</li>
<li>Cheryl&rsquo;s ancestors were the first licensed Black architects in America (licenses 117 and 118 in Tennessee).</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;They became the first Black licensed architects in America&hellip; and helped get licensed in 22 other states.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<hr>
💼 Business Wisdom
<ul>
<li>Cheryl emphasizes the importance of:
<ul>
<li>Succession planning</li>
<li>Understanding both technical and political buyers</li>
<li>Building relationships before you need them</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;You better have that relationship before you need it.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<hr>
🧠 The 5 Ps of Family Resilience
<ol>
<li>Perseverance</li>
<li>Persistence</li>
<li>Preparedness</li>
<li>Purpose</li>
<li>Prayer</li>
</ol>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Sometimes you do get up in the morning and you say it's not for me&hellip; You have to come back and meditate on the fact that you're a winner.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<hr>
🧘&zwj;♀️ Personal Growth &amp; Mental Health
<ul>
<li>Cheryl discusses overcoming stress, rediscovering herself after a difficult marriage, and the importance of meditation.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Being yourself is what we're talking about&hellip; I recognize that I am currently feeling stressed out. So what do I need to do?&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<hr>
👩&zwj;👧&zwj;👧 Women in Leadership
<ul>
<li>Cheryl&rsquo;s mother took over the business after her father&rsquo;s stroke, despite societal barriers.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;She only knew the telephone number to the office at that time&hellip; but she knew deep inside that she wanted to hold on for the fifth generation.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<hr>
🎥 Representation &amp; Media
<ul>
<li>The book and Cheryl&rsquo;s story aim to counteract negative portrayals of Black people in media and history.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;You may not have known about Black excellence. You just ignored it. But we exist.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<hr>
💬 Memorable Quotes
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;Black people built America. Now, that's the point we're making here.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;You have to say the opposite to yourself. And you have to put one foot in front of the other.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;This book is a receipt to say we are around. We have a foundation. We're not going anywhere.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
<hr>
&nbsp;
<hr>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Family Legacy: Cheryl promotes the book The Black Family Who Built America as a record of legacy and inspiration.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/aa69f648-701b-4760-9e08-b49a0154707b/transcript

Perseverance: Was Laid off, but she Regrouped! Her Cookies are now sold in 4,100 stores nationwide and Canada.

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