Appearing on this episode of Money Making Conversations is Chef JJ Johnson, Host of CLEO TV's "Just Eats with Chef JJ", Founder of Fieldtrip Restaurant in Harlem, BuzzFeed Tasty Chef and Author of "Between Harlem & Heaven."
Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

Appearing on this episode of Money Making Conversations is Chef JJ Johnson, Host of CLEO TV's "Just Eats with Chef JJ", Founder of Fieldtrip Restaurant in Harlem, BuzzFeed Tasty Chef and Author of "Between Harlem & Heaven." Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

Hi, this is Rushion McDonald. Welcome to the podcast world of Money Making Conversations Master Class. I interview profits and nonprofits to learn their "Secrets to Success."  I'm a former IBM Executive with a degree in Mathematics. I started my entrepreneurial career as a stand-up comic, then became a sitcom writer, award-winning baker, social media influencer, award-winning television Executive Producer, and brand architect for super-successful celebrities and products. Money Making Conversations Master Class interviews a diverse group of celebrities, entrepreneurs, and influencers in the financial and business community with their advice and tips so you can be successful, too. It's time to stop reading other people's success stories and start building your own. People always talk about their purpose or gifts. If you have a gift, Lead with your Gift, and don't let your friends, family, or co-workers stop you from planning or living your dream. Keep Winning!

https://www.moneymakingconversations.com

https://www.youtube.com/MoneyMakingConversations

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

https://twitter.com/moneymakingconv

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

Hi, this is Rushion McDonald. Welcome to the podcast world of Money Making Conversations Master Class. I interview profits and nonprofits to learn their "Secrets to Success."  I'm a former IBM Executive with a degree in Mathematics. I started my entrepreneurial career as a stand-up comic, then became a sitcom writer, award-winning baker, social media influencer, award-winning television Executive Producer, and brand architect for super-successful celebrities and products. Money Making Conversations Master Class interviews a diverse group of celebrities, entrepreneurs, and influencers in the financial and business community with their advice and tips so you can be successful, too. It's time to stop reading other people's success stories and start building your own. People always talk about their purpose or gifts. If you have a gift, Lead with your Gift, and don't let your friends, family, or co-workers stop you from planning or living your dream. Keep Winning!
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

Chef JJ Johnson (2nd Appearance) Full Interview

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/b4ffb4a9-2919-4325-869b-af62015f45dc/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
CEO of Family Lawn Services, a residential and commercial landscaping company. 
Also a serial entrepreneur, mortgage lender, and business consultant. 
Based in Georgia, with a mission to build generational wealth and educate others on business structure. 

💼 Entrepreneurial Journey 
Mela and her husband left retail management jobs (Walgreens & Walmart) to start their lawn care business. 
Inspired by her husband’s childhood experience cutting grass and a desire to leave a legacy for their children. 
Despite early setbacks—including having their truck and equipment stolen—they persevered and rebuilt. 

🧘🏽‍♀️ Mental Health & Meditation 
Mela emphasizes the importance of meditation to manage stress and maintain balance. 
Her journey through postpartum depression led her to self-reflection, journaling, and healing. 
She encourages others, especially entrepreneurs, to recognize their breaking points and prioritize mental wellness. 

 

🌱 About Family Lawn Services 
Offers lawn maintenance, hedge trimming, edging, and more. 
Known for high-quality work and attention to detail. 
Operates year-round—not just seasonally—thanks to strong referrals and consistent service. 

 

🛠️ Lessons in Business 
Mela stresses the importance of: 
Multiple streams of income 
Proper business structure 
Quality over shortcuts 
Resilience in the face of adversity 
She also warns against hiring unverified service providers (like the infamous “mailbox note” landscaper story shared by Rushion). 

 

📞 How to Contact Family Lawn Services 
Phone: 800-460-9158  
Website: familylawnservices.com 

 

💬 Key Takeaways 
Entrepreneurship is a journey of faith, flexibility, and fortitude. 
Mental health is just as important as financial health. 
Quality service and community trust are the foundation of long-term success. 
Even when everything is taken from you, don’t quit—rebuild and keep going. 

#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!
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Mela Lovett
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="6" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">CEO of&nbsp;Family Lawn Services, a residential and commercial landscaping company.&nbsp;</li>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="6" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1">Also&nbsp;a&nbsp;serial entrepreneur, mortgage lender, and business consultant.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="6" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="1">Based in Georgia, with a mission to build generational wealth and educate others on business structure.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
💼&nbsp;Entrepreneurial Journey&nbsp;
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="7" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Mela and her husband left retail management jobs (Walgreens &amp; Walmart) to start their lawn care business.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="7" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1">Inspired by her husband&rsquo;s childhood experience cutting grass and a desire to leave a legacy for their children.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="7" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="1">Despite early setbacks&mdash;including having their truck and equipment stolen&mdash;they persevered and rebuilt.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
🧘🏽&zwj;♀️&nbsp;Mental Health &amp; Meditation&nbsp;
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="5" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Mela emphasizes the importance of meditation&nbsp;to manage stress and&nbsp;maintain&nbsp;balance.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="5" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1">Her journey through&nbsp;postpartum depression&nbsp;led her to self-reflection, journaling, and healing.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="5" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="1">She encourages others, especially entrepreneurs, to recognize their breaking points and prioritize mental wellness.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
🌱&nbsp;About Family Lawn Services&nbsp;
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="3" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Offers&nbsp;lawn maintenance,&nbsp;hedge trimming,&nbsp;edging, and more.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="3" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1">Known for&nbsp;high-quality work&nbsp;and attention to detail.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="3" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="1">Operates year-round&mdash;not just seasonally&mdash;thanks to strong referrals and consistent service.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
🛠️&nbsp;Lessons in Business&nbsp;
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Mela stresses the importance of:&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="○" data-font="" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[9675],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;○&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="2">Multiple streams of income&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="○" data-font="" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[9675],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;○&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="2">Proper business structure&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="○" data-font="" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[9675],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;○&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="2">Quality over shortcuts&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="○" data-font="" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[9675],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;○&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="4" data-aria-level="2">Resilience in the face of adversity&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1">She also warns against hiring unverified service providers (like the infamous &ldquo;mailbox note&rdquo; landscaper story shared by&nbsp;Rushion).&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
📞&nbsp;How to Contact Family Lawn Services&nbsp;
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Phone: 800-460-9158&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1">Website: familylawnservices.com&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
💬&nbsp;Key Takeaways&nbsp;
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="4" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Entrepreneurship is a journey of&nbsp;faith, flexibility, and fortitude.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="4" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1">Mental health&nbsp;is just as important as financial health.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="4" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="1">Quality service&nbsp;and&nbsp;community trust&nbsp;are the foundation of long-term success.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="4" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;●&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;multilevel&quot;}" data-aria-posinset="4" data-aria-level="1">Even when everything is taken from you,&nbsp;don&rsquo;t&nbsp;quit&mdash;rebuild and keep going.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Mental Note: She encourages entrepreneurs to recognize their breaking points and prioritize mental wellness. 

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/40e3f3d1-9b92-4da0-a425-b47700eb336a/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 Dr. Shaan Patel.

Founder and CEO of Prep Expert, a leading online test prep company. The conversation explores Patel’s journey from struggling test-taker to perfect SAT scorer, bestselling author, and successful entrepreneur. He shares how his personal experience inspired a mission to help students unlock scholarship opportunities and academic success.
👨🏽‍🏫 About Dr. Shaan Patel
•    Founder & CEO of Prep Expert
•    Scored a perfect SAT after self-study
•    Secured over $500,000 in scholarships
•    Partnered with Mark Cuban after appearing on Shark Tank
•    Author of a bestselling SAT prep book published by McGraw-Hill
💡 Key Themes & Takeaways
📚 From Side Hustle to Scalable Business
•    Started Prep Expert in college dorm room
•    First course led to 376-point average score improvement
•    Grew from local classes to a national online platform
•    Now serves over 100,000 students with $100M+ in scholarships earned
💻 Online Learning & Accessibility
•    Offers live, online SAT/ACT prep, tutoring, and admissions consulting
•    Courses taught by 99th percentile instructors
•    Emphasizes interactive, classroom-like experience with office hours and support
•    Adapted quickly to online learning post-COVID
🎯 Mission-Driven Education
•    Brand motto: “Change your score, change your life”
•    Teaches life skills like time management and goal setting
•    Aims to eliminate student debt through scholarship access
•    Long-term goal: Help students earn $1 billion in scholarships
📈 Entrepreneurial Lessons
•    Faced early rejection from publishers before landing a book deal
•    Used storytelling to stand out on Shark Tank
•    Built brand through word-of-mouth and authenticity
•    Now generates 2M+ annual website visits
🌟 Vision for the Future
•    Expand impact through scholarships and mentorship
•    Continue empowering students to achieve academic and financial freedom
•    Promote meritocracy and the American dream through education.

#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!
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Shaan Patel.
Founder and CEO of Prep Expert, a leading online test prep company. The conversation explores Patel&rsquo;s journey from struggling test-taker to perfect SAT scorer, bestselling author, and successful entrepreneur. He shares how his personal experience inspired a mission to help students unlock scholarship opportunities and academic success. 👨🏽&zwj;🏫 About Dr. Shaan Patel &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Founder &amp; CEO of Prep Expert &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Scored a perfect SAT after self-study &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Secured over $500,000 in scholarships &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Partnered with Mark Cuban after appearing on Shark Tank &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Author of a bestselling SAT prep book published by McGraw-Hill 💡 Key Themes &amp; Takeaways 📚 From Side Hustle to Scalable Business &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Started Prep Expert in college dorm room &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;First course led to 376-point average score improvement &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Grew from local classes to a national online platform &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Now serves over 100,000 students with $100M+ in scholarships earned 💻 Online Learning &amp; Accessibility &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Offers live, online SAT/ACT prep, tutoring, and admissions consulting &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Courses taught by 99th percentile instructors &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Emphasizes interactive, classroom-like experience with office hours and support &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Adapted quickly to online learning post-COVID 🎯 Mission-Driven Education &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Brand motto: &ldquo;Change your score, change your life&rdquo; &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Teaches life skills like time management and goal setting &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Aims to eliminate student debt through scholarship access &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Long-term goal: Help students earn $1 billion in scholarships 📈 Entrepreneurial Lessons &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Faced early rejection from publishers before landing a book deal &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Used storytelling to stand out on Shark Tank &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Built brand through word-of-mouth and authenticity &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Now generates 2M+ annual website visits 🌟 Vision for the Future &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Expand impact through scholarships and mentorship &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Continue empowering students to achieve academic and financial freedom &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Promote meritocracy and the American dream through education.
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Education: Serves over 100K students with live, online SAT/ACT prep, tutoring, and admissions consulting.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/20fb8056-2f10-4e4a-a675-b47700d6d60b/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 Robert Fitzpatrick, a Navy veteran, business consultant, fraternity brother (ΩΨΦ), and now the owner reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue legacy. The conversation dives deeply into Fitzpatrick’s upbringing, his father’s groundbreaking barbecue business in 1950s Texas, his educational and military journey, his corporate career, and his decision to launch Dewey’s Barbecue Market in Skokie, Illinois—honoring his father’s original recipes and values.

The interview blends entrepreneurship, legacy, cultural history, and personal transformation, while highlighting the courage of Fitzpatrick’s father and the humility and faith-driven foundation of his family.

Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

1. Inspire entrepreneurship and legacy-building

Fitzpatrick’s story showcases how family heritage and values can shape a business vision across generations.

2. Highlight resilience, faith, and leadership

His upbringing in a household rooted in Christian humility, strong expectations, and boundary-breaking courage provides a blueprint for character-driven success.

3. Educate listeners on transitioning careers

Fitzpatrick exemplifies pivoting from engineering and corporate consulting to pursuing passion-driven entrepreneurship.

4. Promote Dewey’s Barbecue Market

The interview introduces the Chicago-area community—especially the Skokie region—to his upcoming restaurant built on a 70-year-old Texas barbecue tradition.

Key Takeaways1. A powerful family legacy rooted in courage
Fitzpatrick’s father, Dewey, opened a barbecue restaurant in 1951—before desegregation—and insisted that Blacks and whites could eat together.
He enforced respect and safety in his establishment, even confronting racist patrons.

2. Education was non-negotiable in the Fitzpatrick household
Robert is the youngest of seven siblings, all college graduates; five hold master’s degrees.
He himself holds an MBA and an MS in Management Information Systems.

3. A bridge between technology and business
Fitzpatrick spent decades in consulting with major firms (EDS, Dell, Arthur Andersen, KPMG) focusing on business process improvement.
His dual MS/MBA made him a translator between tech and finance.

4. Military discipline shaped his personal and professional life
Served in the U.S. Navy from 1986–1990, plus reserve duty (including deployment to Iraq).
Balanced military service with graduate studies and advancing his corporate career.

5. A calling to revive his father’s barbecue
His wife recognized his talent early, telling him for years he should be barbecuing.
A shortage of good Texas barbecue in Virginia pushed him to recreate his father’s recipes.

6. Skokie, Illinois: the ideal launchpad
After moving to the Great Lakes Naval Base area for a federal role, Fitzpatrick began scouting locations.
Skokie offered:

active support from city leadership
grants
an ideal building
community enthusiasm

7. Dewey’s Barbecue Market offerings
Meats: brisket, sausage, hot links, smoked boudin (monthly special)
Sides: potato salad (egg/mayo base), pineapple vinegar coleslaw, fried okra, smoked pinto beans
Desserts: apple cobbler, blueberry cobbler, sweet potato pie, possibly fried pies
Bread: sliced “light bread” for dipping—traditional Texas style
Experience: dine-in with 60s–80s “feel-good” music

8. A commitment to doing things the right way
Fitzpatrick refuses to launch unless he can deliver “the best product on the planet.”
Focuses on simplicity, authenticity, and quality.

Notable QuotesAbout his father and legacy


“He said anybody who wants to eat here can eat here.”
(His father defying segregation laws in the 1950s.)


“I can call an undertaker or an ambulance. Which one do you prefer?”
(Dewey enforcing respect from a belligerent white customer.)


“That was my barbecue.”
(On being raised around his father’s legendary pit.)

About family and humility


“We are firmly rooted in Christ. If you try to get too big, He has a way of humbling you.”


“Seven kids, all with degrees… that’s normal to you. But we know that’s not normal.”
(McDonald highlighting the family’s extraordinary achievement.)

About his calling


“If I didn’t think I was bringing the best product on the planet, I wouldn’t even do it.”


“My wife tasted the barbecue and said, ‘This is what you need to be doing.’”

About launching in Skokie
“They really want me to be there… the economic development team didn’t treat it like just another restaurant.”

Short 3–5 Sentence Summary (For Quick Use)

In his interview with Rushion McDonald, Robert Fitzpatrick shares his journey from Navy veteran and Fortune 500 consultant to entrepreneur reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue. He describes growing up with a courageous father who defied segregation in 1951 by serving Black and white customers together, and a family culture steeped in education, discipline, and humility. Fitzpatrick’s passion for barbecue and encouragement from his wife led him to bring his father’s 70-year-old recipes to Skokie, Illinois through Dewey’s Barbecue Market. The interview emphasizes legacy, faith, courage, and the pursuit of purpose.

#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!
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed&nbsp;Robert Fitzpatrick, a Navy veteran, business consultant, fraternity brother (&Omega;&Psi;&Phi;), and now the owner reviving his family&rsquo;s historic Texas barbecue legacy. The conversation dives deeply into Fitzpatrick&rsquo;s upbringing, his father&rsquo;s groundbreaking barbecue business in 1950s Texas, his educational and military journey, his corporate career, and his decision to launch Dewey&rsquo;s Barbecue Market in Skokie, Illinois&mdash;honoring his father&rsquo;s original recipes and values.
The interview blends entrepreneurship, legacy, cultural history, and personal transformation, while highlighting the courage of Fitzpatrick&rsquo;s father and the humility and faith-driven foundation of his family.
<hr>
Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
1. Inspire entrepreneurship and legacy-building
Fitzpatrick&rsquo;s story showcases how family heritage and values can shape a business vision across generations.
2. Highlight resilience, faith, and leadership
His upbringing in a household rooted in Christian humility, strong expectations, and boundary-breaking courage provides a blueprint for character-driven success.
3. Educate listeners on transitioning careers
Fitzpatrick exemplifies pivoting from engineering and corporate consulting to pursuing passion-driven entrepreneurship.
4. Promote Dewey&rsquo;s Barbecue Market
The interview introduces the Chicago-area community&mdash;especially the Skokie region&mdash;to his upcoming restaurant built on a 70-year-old Texas barbecue tradition.
<hr>
Key Takeaways 1. A powerful family legacy rooted in courage
<ul>
<li>Fitzpatrick&rsquo;s father, Dewey, opened a barbecue restaurant in 1951&mdash;before desegregation&mdash;and insisted that Blacks and whites could eat together.</li>
<li>He enforced respect and safety in his establishment, even confronting racist patrons.</li>
</ul>
2. Education was non-negotiable in the Fitzpatrick household
<ul>
<li>Robert is the youngest of seven siblings, all college graduates; five hold master&rsquo;s degrees.</li>
<li>He himself holds an MBA and an MS in Management Information Systems.</li>
</ul>
3. A bridge between technology and business
<ul>
<li>Fitzpatrick spent decades in consulting with major firms (EDS, Dell, Arthur Andersen, KPMG) focusing on business process improvement.</li>
<li>His dual MS/MBA made him a translator between tech and finance.</li>
</ul>
4. Military discipline shaped his personal and professional life
<ul>
<li>Served in the U.S. Navy from 1986&ndash;1990, plus reserve duty (including deployment to Iraq).</li>
<li>Balanced military service with graduate studies and advancing his corporate career.</li>
</ul>
5. A calling to revive his father&rsquo;s barbecue
<ul>
<li>His wife recognized his talent early, telling him for years he should be barbecuing.</li>
<li>A shortage of good Texas barbecue in Virginia pushed him to recreate his father&rsquo;s recipes.</li>
</ul>
6. Skokie, Illinois: the ideal launchpad
<ul>
<li>After moving to the Great Lakes Naval Base area for a federal role, Fitzpatrick began scouting locations.</li>
<li>Skokie offered:
<ul>
<li>active support from city leadership</li>
<li>grants</li>
<li>an ideal building</li>
<li>community enthusiasm</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
7. Dewey&rsquo;s Barbecue Market offerings
<ul>
<li>Meats: brisket, sausage, hot links, smoked boudin (monthly special)</li>
<li>Sides: potato salad (egg/mayo base), pineapple vinegar coleslaw, fried okra, smoked pinto beans</li>
<li>Desserts: apple cobbler, blueberry cobbler, sweet potato pie, possibly fried pies</li>
<li>Bread: sliced &ldquo;light bread&rdquo; for dipping&mdash;traditional Texas style</li>
<li>Experience: dine-in with 60s&ndash;80s &ldquo;feel-good&rdquo; music</li>
</ul>
8. A commitment to doing things the right way
<ul>
<li>Fitzpatrick refuses to launch unless he can deliver &ldquo;the best product on the planet.&rdquo;</li>
<li>Focuses on simplicity, authenticity, and quality.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Notable Quotes About his father and legacy
<ul>
<li>
&ldquo;He said anybody who wants to eat here can eat here.&rdquo; (His father defying segregation laws in the 1950s.)
</li>
<li>
&ldquo;I can call an undertaker or an ambulance. Which one do you prefer?&rdquo; (Dewey enforcing respect from a belligerent white customer.)
</li>
<li>
&ldquo;That was my barbecue.&rdquo; (On being raised around his father&rsquo;s legendary pit.)
</li>
</ul>
About family and humility
<ul>
<li>
&ldquo;We are firmly rooted in Christ. If you try to get too big, He has a way of humbling you.&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
&ldquo;Seven kids, all with degrees&hellip; that&rsquo;s normal to you. But we know that&rsquo;s not normal.&rdquo; (McDonald highlighting the family&rsquo;s extraordinary achievement.)
</li>
</ul>
About his calling
<ul>
<li>
&ldquo;If I didn&rsquo;t think I was bringing the best product on the planet, I wouldn&rsquo;t even do it.&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
&ldquo;My wife tasted the barbecue and said, &lsquo;This is what you need to be doing.&rsquo;&rdquo;
</li>
</ul>
About launching in Skokie
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;They really want me to be there&hellip; the economic development team didn&rsquo;t treat it like just another restaurant.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Short 3&ndash;5 Sentence Summary (For Quick Use)
In his interview with Rushion McDonald, Robert Fitzpatrick shares his journey from Navy veteran and Fortune 500 consultant to entrepreneur reviving his family&rsquo;s historic Texas barbecue. He describes growing up with a courageous father who defied segregation in 1951 by serving Black and white customers together, and a family culture steeped in education, discipline, and humility. Fitzpatrick&rsquo;s passion for barbecue and encouragement from his wife led him to bring his father&rsquo;s 70-year-old recipes to Skokie, Illinois through Dewey&rsquo;s Barbecue Market. The interview emphasizes legacy, faith, courage, and the pursuit of purpose.
<hr>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Family Legacy:  Courageous father who defied segregation with seven children, all college graduates; five hold master’s degrees.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/df29d323-9202-4cd3-b0bd-b47700e8f589/transcript

Chef JJ Johnson (2nd Appearance) Full Interview

In 2 playlist(s)

Money Making Conversations Master Class

Social links

Follow podcast

Recent clips