My next guest is Don Lemon. He is the host of a top-rated podcast entitled “Silence is not an Option.” The podcast “Silence is not an Option” embarks on tough, honest, and provocative conversations with activists, artists, and thinkers, offering perspective about our nation’s deep racial divide while exploring what Americans can do to help find a path forward. He can also be seen weekday, during prime-time hosting CNN Tonight. He is on the show to talk about the power of not remaining silent. Please welcome to Money Making Conversations a voice for Black America Don Lemon.
https://www.moneymakingconversations.com
https://www.youtube.com/MoneyMakingConversations
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https://twitter.com/moneymakingconv
https://www.instagram.com/moneymakingconversations/
Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

My next guest is Don Lemon. He is the host of a top-rated podcast entitled “Silence is not an Option.” The podcast “Silence is not an Option” embarks on tough, honest, and provocative conversations with activists, artists, and thinkers, offering perspective about our nation’s deep racial divide while exploring what Americans can do to help find a path forward. He can also be seen weekday, during prime-time hosting CNN Tonight. He is on the show to talk about the power of not remaining silent. Please welcome to Money Making Conversations a voice for Black America Don Lemon. https://www.moneymakingconversations.com https://www.youtube.com/MoneyMakingConversations https://www.facebook.com/MoneyMakingConversations/ https://twitter.com/moneymakingconv https://www.instagram.com/moneymakingconversations/ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

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

Don Lemon hosts “CNN Tonight,” “Silence is not an Option” podcast, He is on the show to talk about our nation’s civil unrest and the power of not remaining silent

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/ae0d6e81-2eca-4e44-a18e-af620149b2e1/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 Attorney Tessie D. Edwards.

Founder of a multi-million-dollar family law firm in Atlanta, Georgia

Purpose of the Interview

The interview highlights Tessie Edwards' remarkable journey from teen mother and high school dropout to successful attorney, law firm owner, and community advocate. The conversation serves as a motivational success story focused on perseverance, personal accountability, education, entrepreneurship, and overcoming adversity.

The discussion explores:
Her childhood dream of becoming an attorney.
The challenges of teen motherhood.
Her path through higher education and law school.
Building a successful law practice.
The role of family and support systems.
Advice for individuals pursuing ambitious goals.

Executive Summary

Tessie Edwards knew from the third grade that she wanted to become an attorney because she loved debate, argument, and advocacy. Growing up in a low-income community in Florida, she witnessed many people struggling with the criminal justice system and wanted to become a voice for those who felt unheard.

Her journey was anything but traditional. She became pregnant at 15, had her first child at 16, dropped out of high school, earned her GED, attended community college, briefly joined the military, completed her bachelor's degree, and eventually graduated from law school while raising five children.

Today, she is the owner of a multi-million-dollar law firm in Atlanta and the mother of seven children. Throughout the interview, Edwards attributes her success to clear goals, relentless determination, family support, and an unwavering commitment to her vision.

Key Takeaways 1. Success Starts with a Clear Vision

Edwards emphasized that she always knew what she wanted to become and remained focused despite numerous obstacles.

Lesson: Clearly defining your goals helps guide decision-making and keeps you moving forward when challenges arise.

2. Your Beginning Does Not Determine Your Ending

Despite becoming a teen mother, dropping out of school, and growing up in poverty, she refused to let her circumstances define her future.

Lesson: Adversity can become motivation rather than limitation.

3. Parenthood Became Her Greatest Motivation

A transformative moment occurred when someone told her that her infant daughter looked just like her. Edwards realized her daughter might want to become like her, which inspired her to create a life worthy of being a role model.

Lesson: Responsibility can become a powerful catalyst for personal growth and achievement.

4. Persistence Beats Obstacles

Edwards faced countless setbacks but continued pursuing her goals regardless of challenges.

Lesson: Success often comes from refusing to quit rather than avoiding adversity.

5. Support Systems Matter

She credited much of her success to her husband, children, siblings, and professional team.

Lesson: Surrounding yourself with people who believe in your vision can make a significant difference in achieving your goals.

6. Stop Waiting for the Perfect Time

When people advised her to delay law school until her children were older, she rejected the idea and chose to move forward immediately.

Lesson: There is rarely a perfect time to pursue your dreams.

7. Dreams Require Action

Rushion McDonald repeatedly emphasized that Edwards didn't merely dream about success—she consistently took action to achieve it through education, persistence, and hard work.

Lesson: Ambition without action accomplishes little; success requires both vision and execution.

Notable Quotes On becoming an attorney

"Some people learn to litigate. I feel like I was born to litigate."

On achieving success

"Nothing other than dreaming it, seeing it, and then persistently going after it time and time and time again."

On determination

"The aggression will never stop. If I want it, I am absolutely going to give it everything in my power to go get it."

On what changed her life

"If she looked like me, she may want to be like me."

On delaying goals

"What am I waiting for? The same four years are going to go by whether she's in kindergarten or not."

On success

"Be clear about what it is you want. Be driven, be focused, be hungry."

On support systems

"Surround yourself with people that believe in you."

On purpose

"I feel like my life was so divinely chosen."

On her current mindset

"I feel thankful but not satisfied."

Overall Message

Tessie Edwards' interview is ultimately a story about resilience, determination, and possibility. Her journey demonstrates that difficult beginnings do not prevent extraordinary outcomes. Through focus, education, persistence, and the support of loved ones, she transformed her life and built a thriving legal practice. The interview encourages listeners to define their goals, work relentlessly toward them, and never allow current circumstances to dictate their future.

#SHMS #BEST #STRAW

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 Attorney Tessie D. Edwards.
Founder of a multi-million-dollar family law firm in Atlanta, Georgia
Purpose of the Interview
The interview highlights Tessie Edwards' remarkable journey from teen mother and high school dropout to successful attorney, law firm owner, and community advocate. The conversation serves as a motivational success story focused on perseverance, personal accountability, education, entrepreneurship, and overcoming adversity.
The discussion explores:
<ul>
<li>Her childhood dream of becoming an attorney.</li>
<li>The challenges of teen motherhood.</li>
<li>Her path through higher education and law school.</li>
<li>Building a successful law practice.</li>
<li>The role of family and support systems.</li>
<li>Advice for individuals pursuing ambitious goals.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Executive Summary
Tessie Edwards knew from the third grade that she wanted to become an attorney because she loved debate, argument, and advocacy. Growing up in a low-income community in Florida, she witnessed many people struggling with the criminal justice system and wanted to become a voice for those who felt unheard.
Her journey was anything but traditional. She became pregnant at 15, had her first child at 16, dropped out of high school, earned her GED, attended community college, briefly joined the military, completed her bachelor's degree, and eventually graduated from law school while raising five children.
Today, she is the owner of a multi-million-dollar law firm in Atlanta and the mother of seven children. Throughout the interview, Edwards attributes her success to clear goals, relentless determination, family support, and an unwavering commitment to her vision.
<hr>
Key Takeaways 1. Success Starts with a Clear Vision
Edwards emphasized that she always knew what she wanted to become and remained focused despite numerous obstacles.
Lesson: Clearly defining your goals helps guide decision-making and keeps you moving forward when challenges arise.
<hr>
2. Your Beginning Does Not Determine Your Ending
Despite becoming a teen mother, dropping out of school, and growing up in poverty, she refused to let her circumstances define her future.
Lesson: Adversity can become motivation rather than limitation.
<hr>
3. Parenthood Became Her Greatest Motivation
A transformative moment occurred when someone told her that her infant daughter looked just like her. Edwards realized her daughter might want to become like her, which inspired her to create a life worthy of being a role model.
Lesson: Responsibility can become a powerful catalyst for personal growth and achievement.
<hr>
4. Persistence Beats Obstacles
Edwards faced countless setbacks but continued pursuing her goals regardless of challenges.
Lesson: Success often comes from refusing to quit rather than avoiding adversity.
<hr>
5. Support Systems Matter
She credited much of her success to her husband, children, siblings, and professional team.
Lesson: Surrounding yourself with people who believe in your vision can make a significant difference in achieving your goals.
<hr>
6. Stop Waiting for the Perfect Time
When people advised her to delay law school until her children were older, she rejected the idea and chose to move forward immediately.
Lesson: There is rarely a perfect time to pursue your dreams.
<hr>
7. Dreams Require Action
Rushion McDonald repeatedly emphasized that Edwards didn't merely dream about success&mdash;she consistently took action to achieve it through education, persistence, and hard work.
Lesson: Ambition without action accomplishes little; success requires both vision and execution.
<hr>
Notable Quotes On becoming an attorney
<blockquote>
"Some people learn to litigate. I feel like I was born to litigate."
</blockquote>
On achieving success
<blockquote>
"Nothing other than dreaming it, seeing it, and then persistently going after it time and time and time again."
</blockquote>
On determination
<blockquote>
"The aggression will never stop. If I want it, I am absolutely going to give it everything in my power to go get it."
</blockquote>
On what changed her life
<blockquote>
"If she looked like me, she may want to be like me."
</blockquote>
On delaying goals
<blockquote>
"What am I waiting for? The same four years are going to go by whether she's in kindergarten or not."
</blockquote>
On success
<blockquote>
"Be clear about what it is you want. Be driven, be focused, be hungry."
</blockquote>
On support systems
<blockquote>
"Surround yourself with people that believe in you."
</blockquote>
On purpose
<blockquote>
"I feel like my life was so divinely chosen."
</blockquote>
On her current mindset
<blockquote>
"I feel thankful but not satisfied."
</blockquote>
<hr>
Overall Message
Tessie Edwards' interview is ultimately a story about resilience, determination, and possibility. Her journey demonstrates that difficult beginnings do not prevent extraordinary outcomes. Through focus, education, persistence, and the support of loved ones, she transformed her life and built a thriving legal practice. The interview encourages listeners to define their goals, work relentlessly toward them, and never allow current circumstances to dictate their future.
#SHMS #BEST #STRAW
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

Perseverance: Tessie's remarkable journey from teen mother and high school dropout to successful attorney.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/a0b2697a-4c75-4ab9-a1c6-b4ac00c32577/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 Felecia Hatcher.

Purpose of the Interview
To spotlight Black Ambition, a national initiative founded by Pharrell Williams that funds and mentors Black and Brown entrepreneurs.
To share insights on entrepreneurship, access to resources, and strategies for scaling businesses.
To inspire and educate small business owners and innovators on how to leverage opportunities for growth.

Key Takeaways


About Black Ambition
Founded by Pharrell Williams to close the opportunity gap for Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs.
Provides capital, mentorship, and masterclasses to help founders scale.
Has invested in 131 companies and awarded millions in funding.


Competition Structure
Annual national competition with 2,500–3,000 applications.
Categories include HBCU, National Finalists, Top Prize Winner, People’s Choice.
Process: Applications → 250 semifinalists → 3-month cohort → Demo Day for top 20–25 companies.


Unique Approach
Focus on high-quality mentorship, not “low vibrational” guidance.
Includes mental health and wellness support for entrepreneurs.
Partnerships with brands like Louis Vuitton for luxury retail insights.


Challenges for Entrepreneurs
Many fail by rushing applications and skipping info sessions.
Success requires clarity, traction, and persistence—sometimes multiple attempts.
Black women are the fastest-growing entrepreneurs but often remain solopreneurs; Black Ambition prioritizes team-building.


Pharrell’s Motivation
Believes in democratizing opportunity: “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.”
Inspired by those who believed in him early in his career.


Felecia Hatcher’s Journey
Former founder of Center for Black Innovation and Black Tech Week.
Emphasizes resilience: “I’m a C student and a college dropout, but I never let that define me.”
Advocates for creative pathways to success and capital access.

Notable Quotes
“Success leaves clues.” – On learning from past winners.
“Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” – Pharrell’s guiding principle.
“If it doesn’t work on you in that moment, it works for you in that moment. Either way, it works.” – On persistence.
“We have to start enjoying the process… be stretched, be cut by the process.” – On entrepreneurial growth.
“Wealth has a need for speed.” – On urgency in closing the wealth gap.

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
inspire listeners with strategies for wealth-building through real estate, construction, and logistics.

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 Felecia Hatcher.
<hr>
Purpose of the Interview
<ul>
<li>To spotlight Black Ambition, a national initiative founded by Pharrell Williams that funds and mentors Black and Brown entrepreneurs.</li>
<li>To share insights on entrepreneurship, access to resources, and strategies for scaling businesses.</li>
<li>To inspire and educate small business owners and innovators on how to leverage opportunities for growth.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Key Takeaways
<ol>
<li>
About Black Ambition
<ul>
<li>Founded by Pharrell Williams to close the opportunity gap for Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs.</li>
<li>Provides capital, mentorship, and masterclasses to help founders scale.</li>
<li>Has invested in 131 companies and awarded millions in funding.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Competition Structure
<ul>
<li>Annual national competition with 2,500&ndash;3,000 applications.</li>
<li>Categories include HBCU, National Finalists, Top Prize Winner, People&rsquo;s Choice.</li>
<li>Process: Applications &rarr; 250 semifinalists &rarr; 3-month cohort &rarr; Demo Day for top 20&ndash;25 companies.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Unique Approach
<ul>
<li>Focus on high-quality mentorship, not &ldquo;low vibrational&rdquo; guidance.</li>
<li>Includes mental health and wellness support for entrepreneurs.</li>
<li>Partnerships with brands like Louis Vuitton for luxury retail insights.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Challenges for Entrepreneurs
<ul>
<li>Many fail by rushing applications and skipping info sessions.</li>
<li>Success requires clarity, traction, and persistence&mdash;sometimes multiple attempts.</li>
<li>Black women are the fastest-growing entrepreneurs but often remain solopreneurs; Black Ambition prioritizes team-building.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Pharrell&rsquo;s Motivation
<ul>
<li>Believes in democratizing opportunity: &ldquo;Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.&rdquo;</li>
<li>Inspired by those who believed in him early in his career.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Felecia Hatcher&rsquo;s Journey
<ul>
<li>Former founder of Center for Black Innovation and Black Tech Week.</li>
<li>Emphasizes resilience: &ldquo;I&rsquo;m a C student and a college dropout, but I never let that define me.&rdquo;</li>
<li>Advocates for creative pathways to success and capital access.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ol>
<hr>
Notable Quotes
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;Success leaves clues.&rdquo; &ndash; On learning from past winners.</li>
<li>&ldquo;Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.&rdquo; &ndash; Pharrell&rsquo;s guiding principle.</li>
<li>&ldquo;If it doesn&rsquo;t work on you in that moment, it works for you in that moment. Either way, it works.&rdquo; &ndash; On persistence.</li>
<li>&ldquo;We have to start enjoying the process&hellip; be stretched, be cut by the process.&rdquo; &ndash; On entrepreneurial growth.</li>
<li>&ldquo;Wealth has a need for speed.&rdquo; &ndash; On urgency in closing the wealth gap.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
<ul>
<li>inspire listeners with strategies for wealth-building through real estate, construction, and logistics.</li>
</ul>
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 Advice: Felecia was a C student and a college dropout, but she never let that define her.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/c4f06a0e-e509-4d68-b626-b4c000a48f0a/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 Kurt Farquhar.

Television & Film Composer, Founder of Fall Crop Productions and True Music Pro
Notable Credits:The King of Queens, Girlfriends, The Parkers, Being Mary Jane, The Proud Family, The Neighborhood, Black Lightning
Awards: 10 BMI Awards
Tenure: 38+ years in television

Purpose of the Interview

The purpose of this interview is to educate and inspire creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals about longevity, adaptability, and wealth-building behind the scenes. Kurt Farquhar’s journey highlights how sustainable success comes from mastery of craft, relationship-building, and treating creativity as a business—not chasing visibility or fame.

Rushion McDonald uses Kurt’s career as a blueprint for:
Building mailbox money through residuals
Staying relevant across decades of industry change
Monetizing intellectual property
Leveraging relationships to sustain opportunity

Core Themes Discussed
Longevity vs. “getting on”
Behind-the-scenes success
Residual income (“mailbox money”)
Adaptability in changing industries
Creative originality
Relationship capital
Diversifying income through ownership
Treating art like a business

Key Takeaways 1. Staying In Is Harder Than Getting In

While many focus on breaking into the industry, Kurt emphasizes that lasting success requires constant reinvention.

“The continuing it for the 30-plus years has been way harder than the getting in in the first.”

Insight: Longevity requires discipline, humility, and evolution.

2. Behind-the-Scenes Roles Can Be More Sustainable

Kurt chose composing over performing, allowing him to age into his career rather than age out of it.

“In television and film… all I’ve got to say is John Williams is in his 90s and still composing.”

Insight: Choose lanes that allow long-term relevance and recurring income.

3. Residual Income Is Real Wealth

Rushion and Kurt discuss “mailbox money”—recurring payments from past work.

“If you just had the mailbox money for King of Queens, you’d be fine.”

Insight: True financial freedom comes from owning work that keeps paying.

4. Adaptability Is Non‑Negotiable

Kurt has survived massive industry shifts—from analog tape to digital production—by embracing change.

“Sustain that good idea, change it, polish it up, and mold it for the changing times.”

Insight: Talent without adaptability becomes obsolete.

5. Originality Comes From Listening, Not Forcing a Style

Kurt avoids creative stagnation by serving the story, not his ego.

“I don’t come in every day trying to force the singular style I’ve done for 38 years.”

Insight: Longevity depends on collaboration and humility.

6. Relationships Are Career Currency

Kurt credits long-term success to consistently showing up for people—before they’re powerful.

“If you only call someone once you read they’ve got something coming up, it’s already too late.”

Insight: Relationships built without agenda produce lasting opportunity.

7. Saying “Yes” Creates Opportunity

Kurt embraces what he calls the power of yes.

“I figure I can say yes more than you and end up making more and doing better.”

Insight: Opportunity favors those who remain open, prepared, and professional.

8. Ownership Multiplies Creativity Into Business

Kurt built True Music Pro, a licensing library used across major networks and streaming platforms.

“I realized companies were licensing more of my music than I was… so I built my own library.”

Insight: Ownership turns talent into scalable income.

Notable Quotes
“The journey to stay in is harder than the journey to get in.”
“Treat it like a business and it might treat you in kind.”
“I do my job, I do it the best I can, and I move on to the next one.”
“Character is character. Relationships matter.”
“That success doesn’t happen by accident. It happens with care.”

Overall Impact of the Interview

This interview serves as a masterclass on creative longevity and wealth-building without celebrity dependency. Kurt Farquhar’s story reframes success as:
Consistent excellence
Relationship stewardship
Business ownership
Adaptability across generations

It is especially powerful for:
Creatives seeking sustainable careers
Entrepreneurs building IP-based businesses
Professionals navigating long-term relevance
Anyone pursuing “quiet wealth” over public fame

#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.

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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!
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kurt Farquhar.
Television &amp; Film Composer, Founder of Fall Crop Productions and True Music Pro Notable Credits: The King of Queens, Girlfriends, The Parkers, Being Mary Jane, The Proud Family, The Neighborhood, Black Lightning Awards: 10 BMI Awards Tenure: 38+ years in television
<hr>
Purpose of the Interview
The purpose of this interview is to educate and inspire creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals about longevity, adaptability, and wealth-building behind the scenes. Kurt Farquhar&rsquo;s journey highlights how sustainable success comes from mastery of craft, relationship-building, and treating creativity as a business&mdash;not chasing visibility or fame.
Rushion McDonald uses Kurt&rsquo;s career as a blueprint for:
<ul>
<li>Building mailbox money through residuals</li>
<li>Staying relevant across decades of industry change</li>
<li>Monetizing intellectual property</li>
<li>Leveraging relationships to sustain opportunity</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Core Themes Discussed
<ul>
<li>Longevity vs. &ldquo;getting on&rdquo;</li>
<li>Behind-the-scenes success</li>
<li>Residual income (&ldquo;mailbox money&rdquo;)</li>
<li>Adaptability in changing industries</li>
<li>Creative originality</li>
<li>Relationship capital</li>
<li>Diversifying income through ownership</li>
<li>Treating art like a business</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Key Takeaways 1. Staying In Is Harder Than Getting In
While many focus on breaking into the industry, Kurt emphasizes that lasting success requires constant reinvention.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;The continuing it for the 30-plus years has been way harder than the getting in in the first.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: Longevity requires discipline, humility, and evolution.
<hr>
2. Behind-the-Scenes Roles Can Be More Sustainable
Kurt chose composing over performing, allowing him to age into his career rather than age out of it.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;In television and film&hellip; all I&rsquo;ve got to say is John Williams is in his 90s and still composing.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: Choose lanes that allow long-term relevance and recurring income.
<hr>
3. Residual Income Is Real Wealth
Rushion and Kurt discuss &ldquo;mailbox money&rdquo;&mdash;recurring payments from past work.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;If you just had the mailbox money for King of Queens, you&rsquo;d be fine.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: True financial freedom comes from owning work that keeps paying.
<hr>
4. Adaptability Is Non‑Negotiable
Kurt has survived massive industry shifts&mdash;from analog tape to digital production&mdash;by embracing change.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Sustain that good idea, change it, polish it up, and mold it for the changing times.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: Talent without adaptability becomes obsolete.
<hr>
5. Originality Comes From Listening, Not Forcing a Style
Kurt avoids creative stagnation by serving the story, not his ego.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t come in every day trying to force the singular style I&rsquo;ve done for 38 years.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: Longevity depends on collaboration and humility.
<hr>
6. Relationships Are Career Currency
Kurt credits long-term success to consistently showing up for people&mdash;before they&rsquo;re powerful.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;If you only call someone once you read they&rsquo;ve got something coming up, it&rsquo;s already too late.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: Relationships built without agenda produce lasting opportunity.
<hr>
7. Saying &ldquo;Yes&rdquo; Creates Opportunity
Kurt embraces what he calls the power of yes.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;I figure I can say yes more than you and end up making more and doing better.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: Opportunity favors those who remain open, prepared, and professional.
<hr>
8. Ownership Multiplies Creativity Into Business
Kurt built True Music Pro, a licensing library used across major networks and streaming platforms.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;I realized companies were licensing more of my music than I was&hellip; so I built my own library.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: Ownership turns talent into scalable income.
<hr>
Notable Quotes
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;The journey to stay in is harder than the journey to get in.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;Treat it like a business and it might treat you in kind.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;I do my job, I do it the best I can, and I move on to the next one.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;Character is character. Relationships matter.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;That success doesn&rsquo;t happen by accident. It happens with care.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Overall Impact of the Interview
This interview serves as a masterclass on creative longevity and wealth-building without celebrity dependency. Kurt Farquhar&rsquo;s story reframes success as:
<ul>
<li>Consistent excellence</li>
<li>Relationship stewardship</li>
<li>Business ownership</li>
<li>Adaptability across generations</li>
</ul>
It is especially powerful for:
<ul>
<li>Creatives seeking sustainable careers</li>
<li>Entrepreneurs building IP-based businesses</li>
<li>Professionals navigating long-term relevance</li>
<li>Anyone pursuing &ldquo;quiet wealth&rdquo; over public fame</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

Brand Building: Kurt built True Music Pro, a licensing library used across major networks and streaming platforms.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/a6238fd2-c62b-4ccf-acec-b4a8014fad77/transcript

Don Lemon hosts “CNN Tonight,” “Silence is not an Option” podcast, He is on the show to talk about our nation’s civil unrest and the power of not remaining silent

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