Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning Executive Television Producer Rushion McDonald interviews Dr. Steven Williams who is the leader in body contouring with techniques like minimal pain tummy tucks and fat transfer to enhance patient curves, including hips, buttocks, and breasts. He is the first African American President-Elect of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS); Dr. Williams is known for being a patient advocate and leading diversity in the plastic surgery industry.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning Executive Television Producer Rushion McDonald interviews Dr. Steven Williams who is the leader in body contouring with techniques like minimal pain tummy tucks and fat transfer to enhance patient curves, including hips, buttocks, and breasts. He is the first African American President-Elect of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS); Dr. Williams is known for being a patient advocate and leading diversity in the plastic surgery industry.

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

More Black people are having Plastic surgery, because it can change your life and is available to everyone.  Dr. Steven Williams, The First African American President-Elect of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/7bef035b-b8a4-493a-a10c-b07700e8bf55/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 Leonard S. Graham.

Social Security disability advocate, Leonard S. Graham joined Rushion McDonald on Money Making Conversations Master Class to explain how Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) really work, who qualifies, and how misconceptions prevent people—especially within the Black community—from receiving benefits they are legally entitled to. Graham has over 35 years of experience assisting clients nationwide with disability claims, appeals, and hearings.

The conversation sheds light on the disability process, eligibility, the appeals system, the role of advocates vs. attorneys, and the importance of education, honesty, and persistence in navigating Social Security.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:
Educate listeners on Social Security disability benefits, including eligibility, filing, and appeals.
Debunk common myths, such as the belief disability is only for seniors.
Explain SSDI vs. SSI, work credits, resource limits, and Medicare connections.
Highlight the importance of advocacy, especially for underserved communities unfamiliar with the system.
Encourage individuals not to fear or stigmatize applying for disability, and to avoid misinformation from non‑professionals.

🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Disability Isn’t Just for Seniors

Many mistakenly think Social Security disability is only for people over 65, but anyone with the required work credits can qualify, regardless of age—even individuals in their 20s or 30s.

2. Working Does NOT Automatically Disqualify You

Applicants can work while applying as long as they do not exceed the monthly substantial gainful activity (SGA) threshold of $1,690 per month.

3. Every Claim Is Unique—Don’t Compare Your Case to Others

Graham warns clients not to take advice from neighbors or relatives because each disability case depends on medical evidence, work history, age, and individual conditions.

4. SSDI Requires Work Credits; SSI Is Needs-Based
SSDI: Requires 20 credits minimum, 40 credits for maximum benefit, earned through past work. Assets do not affect eligibility.
SSI: For people with low resources ($2,000 single / $3,000 married). Primary home/car do not count as resources.

5. Medicare Comes After Approval

Medicare eligibility begins 24 months after being awarded SSDI benefits.

6. Appeals Are Normal—Most Initial Claims Are Denied

95% of initial applications are denied, and the real opportunity often comes during a hearing before an administrative law judge. Persistence is essential.

7. Honesty Prevents Fraud & Overpayments

Applicants should always disclose their financial situation truthfully to avoid fraud investigations and repayment demands.

8. Disability Benefits Can Provide Back Pay

Approved claimants often receive a Notice of Award detailing monthly benefits and any back pay owed. Representatives are only paid from back pay—not monthly benefits.

9. Stigma & Fear Prevent People from Applying

Graham emphasizes that pride, fear, and misinformation often stop people—especially in the Black community—from seeking help, even when disability support could save them financially.

🗣️ Notable Quotes ✔ On Who Needs Disability

“What if you get in a car accident… or have an illness and you can’t work? Those are reasons to file for disability.”

✔ On Misinformation

“Don’t talk to your neighbor or relatives about your claim… Each claim is its own individual claim.”



✔ On Work Limits

“You can still work and have an active claim as long as you don’t gross over $1,690 a month.”

✔ On Stigma

“Some people feel applying for benefits makes them look a certain way. But the system is there to help you when you are unable to work.”

✔ On Honesty

“Just tell the truth. If they catch you on the fraud side, you’ll have to pay the money back.”

✔ On Perseverance

“Getting a denial is nothing out of the norm… The key is to continue with the claim.”



#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 Leonard S. Graham.
Social Security disability advocate, Leonard S. Graham joined Rushion McDonald on Money Making Conversations Master Class to explain how Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) really work, who qualifies, and how misconceptions prevent people&mdash;especially within the Black community&mdash;from receiving benefits they are legally entitled to. Graham has over 35 years of experience assisting clients nationwide with disability claims, appeals, and hearings.
The conversation sheds light on the disability process, eligibility, the appeals system, the role of advocates vs. attorneys, and the importance of education, honesty, and persistence in navigating Social Security.
<hr>
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
<ul>
<li>Educate listeners on Social Security disability benefits, including eligibility, filing, and appeals.</li>
<li>Debunk common myths, such as the belief disability is only for seniors.</li>
<li>Explain SSDI vs. SSI, work credits, resource limits, and Medicare connections.</li>
<li>Highlight the importance of advocacy, especially for underserved communities unfamiliar with the system.</li>
<li>Encourage individuals not to fear or stigmatize applying for disability, and to avoid misinformation from non‑professionals.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Disability Isn&rsquo;t Just for Seniors
Many mistakenly think Social Security disability is only for people over 65, but anyone with the required work credits can qualify, regardless of age&mdash;even individuals in their 20s or 30s.
2. Working Does NOT Automatically Disqualify You
Applicants can work while applying as long as they do not exceed the monthly substantial gainful activity (SGA) threshold of $1,690 per month.
3. Every Claim Is Unique&mdash;Don&rsquo;t Compare Your Case to Others
Graham warns clients not to take advice from neighbors or relatives because each disability case depends on medical evidence, work history, age, and individual conditions.
4. SSDI Requires Work Credits; SSI Is Needs-Based
<ul>
<li>SSDI: Requires 20 credits minimum, 40 credits for maximum benefit, earned through past work. Assets do not affect eligibility.</li>
<li>SSI: For people with low resources ($2,000 single / $3,000 married). Primary home/car do not count as resources.</li>
</ul>
5. Medicare Comes After Approval
Medicare eligibility begins 24 months after being awarded SSDI benefits.
6. Appeals Are Normal&mdash;Most Initial Claims Are Denied
95% of initial applications are denied, and the real opportunity often comes during a hearing before an administrative law judge. Persistence is essential.
7. Honesty Prevents Fraud &amp; Overpayments
Applicants should always disclose their financial situation truthfully to avoid fraud investigations and repayment demands.
8. Disability Benefits Can Provide Back Pay
Approved claimants often receive a Notice of Award detailing monthly benefits and any back pay owed. Representatives are only paid from back pay&mdash;not monthly benefits.
9. Stigma &amp; Fear Prevent People from Applying
Graham emphasizes that pride, fear, and misinformation often stop people&mdash;especially in the Black community&mdash;from seeking help, even when disability support could save them financially.
<hr>
🗣️ Notable Quotes ✔ On Who Needs Disability
<blockquote>
&ldquo;What if you get in a car accident&hellip; or have an illness and you can&rsquo;t work? Those are reasons to file for disability.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
✔ On Misinformation
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Don&rsquo;t talk to your neighbor or relatives about your claim&hellip; Each claim is its own individual claim.&rdquo; 
</blockquote>
✔ On Work Limits
<blockquote>
&ldquo;You can still work and have an active claim as long as you don&rsquo;t gross over $1,690 a month.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
✔ On Stigma
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Some people feel applying for benefits makes them look a certain way. But the system is there to help you when you are unable to work.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
✔ On Honesty
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Just tell the truth. If they catch you on the fraud side, you&rsquo;ll have to pay the money back.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
✔ On Perseverance
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Getting a denial is nothing out of the norm&hellip; The key is to continue with the claim.&rdquo; 
</blockquote>
<hr>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Life Benefits: He explains how Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) really works.  

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/49fc7a0c-7abd-4d29-bd4c-b4110005247a/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 Howard Hewett Interview (Part 2)

Legendary R&B and soul singer Howard Hewett returned for Part 2 of his interview on Money Making Conversations Masterclass to continue discussing his iconic multi‑decade career, his transition from Shalamar to a solo artist, new collaborations, performing for multi‑generational audiences, the evolution of R&B, and his philosophy on life, legacy, work ethic, and spiritual grounding.

This segment is rich with personal stories—from unexpected collaborations to the behind‑the‑scenes decision-making that shaped his career. Hewett also reflects on aging gracefully, staying relevant, maintaining integrity, and building a strong foundation that supports longevity in both life and music.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The conversation aims to:
Highlight Howard Hewett’s career longevity, legendary catalog, and current creative projects.
Explore his transition from group success (Shalamar) to building a respected solo career.
Provide insight into new musical collaborations, including work with Ronnie Laws.
Discuss the challenge of performing new music for audiences who crave the classic hits.
Reflect on spirituality, life philosophy, integrity, and aging as keys to sustaining a fulfilling career.
Offer guidance for artists, entrepreneurs, and creatives who must navigate uncertainty, fame, and reinvention.

🔑 Key Takeaways1. Collaboration with Ronnie Laws
Hewett shared a humorous story about Ronnie Laws showing up at his door while doing Jehovah’s Witness outreach.
Their new collaboration was inspired by a personal connection to Ronnie’s late wife and her love for “Ribbon in the Sky.”
Covers require publishing approval, not necessarily permission from the artist, as long as royalties go to the right places.



2. Transition from Shalamar to Solo Career
Contrary to popular belief, Howard was not the first member to leave—Jeffrey Daniel and Jody Watley departed before him.
His transition happened during the opportunity to record “Dancing in the Sheets” for the Footloose soundtrack.
Initially, he and producer Leon Sylvers did not think Footloose would be a big movie—a now‑humorous regret.
“Dancing in the Sheets” became Shalamar’s second-largest selling single after “Second Time Around.”

3. The Challenge of Performing New Music
Hewett explains that audiences overwhelmingly want the classics, not new songs.
When artists introduce new material during concerts, the room’s energy often drops.
He performs new music only when he can “set it up right” and bring the audience into the moment.

4. Musical Identity & R&B Philosophy
His solo style skewed romantic and intimate because that is authentically who he is as an artist.
He rejects modern attempts to redefine R&B:

“R&B is the foundation—of rock, hip‑hop, neo-soul, everything. You can’t replace a foundation.”
He uses the “foundation of a house” as a metaphor for life, music, and spiritual grounding.

5. Multi‑Generational Audience Connection
Hewett loves seeing grandparents, parents, and children attend his shows together—evidence of music that lasts.
His concerts are structured:

Act 1: Howard Hewett solo classics (slow jams, connection, romance)
Act 2: Shalamar dance hits (“Second Time Around,” “Make That Move,” “A Night to Remember”)

6. Integrity, Spirituality, and Aging
Hewett emphasizes that integrity, faith, and foundation have sustained his life and career.
He began singing gospel in childhood; his mother was a gospel promoter who booked major gospel acts.
At 70, he says he does not look or feel how he imagined 70 would look when he was younger.
He encourages people to control what they allow into their lives—“stress, drama, or peace.”



7. Entrepreneurship and Resilience
As an entertainer, he equates his career to running a small business—no guaranteed income, no employer‑provided safety net.
COVID forced him off the road for the first time in decades and taught him adaptability.
He attributes his continued success to a solid foundation, timeless hits, and avoiding stress.



8. Life Lessons: Worry, Faith, and the Power of the Tongue
Hewett shared a powerful story about receiving a church pamphlet titled “Worry Is a Sign of Disbelief.”
He spent years removing “worry” from his vocabulary and now avoids negative speech.
He compares the tongue to a ship’s rudder—small but capable of steering life’s direction.



🗣️ Notable Quotes ✔ On new music

“When you do new material, it’s almost like singing in Japanese. People don’t want to hear it unless you set it up right.”



✔ On R&B

“R&B is the foundation—of rock, hip-hop, neo-soul… you can’t replace a foundation.”

✔ On longevity

“Integrity is one of the most important things. Let your yes be your yes.”

✔ On aging

“When I turned 70, I thanked God it doesn’t look like what I thought it would look like when I was 30 or 40.”

✔ On stress

“Stress is like a rocking chair—it gives you a lot to do, but you’re still in the same place when you get done.”

✔ On faith

“If you’re truly a child of God, what are you worried about? Worry is a sign of disbelief"

#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 Howard Hewett Interview (Part 2)<a href="https://rushionmcdonald-my.sharepoint.com/personal/admin_rushionmcdonald_onmicrosoft_com/Documents/Microsoft%20Copilot%20Chat%20Files/Howard%20Hewett%20(Podcast)%20%5BPart%202%5D.txt"></a>
Legendary R&amp;B and soul singer Howard Hewett returned for Part 2 of his interview on Money Making Conversations Masterclass to continue discussing his iconic multi‑decade career, his transition from Shalamar to a solo artist, new collaborations, performing for multi‑generational audiences, the evolution of R&amp;B, and his philosophy on life, legacy, work ethic, and spiritual grounding.
This segment is rich with personal stories&mdash;from unexpected collaborations to the behind‑the‑scenes decision-making that shaped his career. Hewett also reflects on aging gracefully, staying relevant, maintaining integrity, and building a strong foundation that supports longevity in both life and music.
<hr>
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
The conversation aims to:
<ul>
<li>Highlight Howard Hewett&rsquo;s career longevity, legendary catalog, and current creative projects.</li>
<li>Explore his transition from group success (Shalamar) to building a respected solo career.</li>
<li>Provide insight into new musical collaborations, including work with Ronnie Laws.</li>
<li>Discuss the challenge of performing new music for audiences who crave the classic hits.</li>
<li>Reflect on spirituality, life philosophy, integrity, and aging as keys to sustaining a fulfilling career.</li>
<li>Offer guidance for artists, entrepreneurs, and creatives who must navigate uncertainty, fame, and reinvention.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Collaboration with Ronnie Laws
<ul>
<li>Hewett shared a humorous story about Ronnie Laws showing up at his door while doing Jehovah&rsquo;s Witness outreach.</li>
<li>Their new collaboration was inspired by a personal connection to Ronnie&rsquo;s late wife and her love for &ldquo;Ribbon in the Sky.&rdquo;</li>
<li>Covers require publishing approval, not necessarily permission from the artist, as long as royalties go to the right places. </li>
</ul>
<hr>
2. Transition from Shalamar to Solo Career
<ul>
<li>Contrary to popular belief, Howard was not the first member to leave&mdash;Jeffrey Daniel and Jody Watley departed before him.</li>
<li>His transition happened during the opportunity to record &ldquo;Dancing in the Sheets&rdquo; for the Footloose soundtrack.</li>
<li>Initially, he and producer Leon Sylvers did not think Footloose would be a big movie&mdash;a now‑humorous regret.</li>
<li>&ldquo;Dancing in the Sheets&rdquo; became Shalamar&rsquo;s second-largest selling single after &ldquo;Second Time Around.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
<hr>
3. The Challenge of Performing New Music
<ul>
<li>Hewett explains that audiences overwhelmingly want the classics, not new songs.</li>
<li>When artists introduce new material during concerts, the room&rsquo;s energy often drops.</li>
<li>He performs new music only when he can &ldquo;set it up right&rdquo; and bring the audience into the moment.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
4. Musical Identity &amp; R&amp;B Philosophy
<ul>
<li>His solo style skewed romantic and intimate because that is authentically who he is as an artist.</li>
<li>He rejects modern attempts to redefine R&amp;B:
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;R&amp;B is the foundation&mdash;of rock, hip‑hop, neo-soul, everything. You can&rsquo;t replace a foundation.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>He uses the &ldquo;foundation of a house&rdquo; as a metaphor for life, music, and spiritual grounding.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
5. Multi‑Generational Audience Connection
<ul>
<li>Hewett loves seeing grandparents, parents, and children attend his shows together&mdash;evidence of music that lasts.</li>
<li>His concerts are structured:
<ul>
<li>Act 1: Howard Hewett solo classics (slow jams, connection, romance)</li>
<li>Act 2: Shalamar dance hits (&ldquo;Second Time Around,&rdquo; &ldquo;Make That Move,&rdquo; &ldquo;A Night to Remember&rdquo;)</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
6. Integrity, Spirituality, and Aging
<ul>
<li>Hewett emphasizes that integrity, faith, and foundation have sustained his life and career.</li>
<li>He began singing gospel in childhood; his mother was a gospel promoter who booked major gospel acts.</li>
<li>At 70, he says he does not look or feel how he imagined 70 would look when he was younger.</li>
<li>He encourages people to control what they allow into their lives&mdash;&ldquo;stress, drama, or peace.&rdquo; </li>
</ul>
<hr>
7. Entrepreneurship and Resilience
<ul>
<li>As an entertainer, he equates his career to running a small business&mdash;no guaranteed income, no employer‑provided safety net.</li>
<li>COVID forced him off the road for the first time in decades and taught him adaptability.</li>
<li>He attributes his continued success to a solid foundation, timeless hits, and avoiding stress. </li>
</ul>
<hr>
8. Life Lessons: Worry, Faith, and the Power of the Tongue
<ul>
<li>Hewett shared a powerful story about receiving a church pamphlet titled &ldquo;Worry Is a Sign of Disbelief.&rdquo;</li>
<li>He spent years removing &ldquo;worry&rdquo; from his vocabulary and now avoids negative speech.</li>
<li>He compares the tongue to a ship&rsquo;s rudder&mdash;small but capable of steering life&rsquo;s direction. </li>
</ul>
<hr>
🗣️ Notable Quotes ✔ On new music
<blockquote>
&ldquo;When you do new material, it&rsquo;s almost like singing in Japanese. People don&rsquo;t want to hear it unless you set it up right.&rdquo; 
</blockquote>
✔ On R&amp;B
<blockquote>
&ldquo;R&amp;B is the foundation&mdash;of rock, hip-hop, neo-soul&hellip; you can&rsquo;t replace a foundation.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
✔ On longevity
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Integrity is one of the most important things. Let your yes be your yes.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
✔ On aging
<blockquote>
&ldquo;When I turned 70, I thanked God it doesn&rsquo;t look like what I thought it would look like when I was 30 or 40.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
✔ On stress
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Stress is like a rocking chair&mdash;it gives you a lot to do, but you&rsquo;re still in the same place when you get done.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
✔ On faith
<blockquote>
&ldquo;If you&rsquo;re truly a child of God, what are you worried about? Worry is a sign of disbelief"
</blockquote>
<hr>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Career Advice: Hewett emphasizes that integrity, faith, and foundation have sustained his life and career.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/f4aa1be5-13c2-4a77-a07f-b41200038a2e/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 Stacey Gholar.  

🔹 Summary of the Interview

Stacey Gholar, founder of Bloom Creative Agency, shares her journey from being a young mother in Chicago to becoming a brand strategist and creative entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in marketing, media, and business. She emphasizes the importance of aligning personal identity with brand strategy, especially in the digital age. Stacey discusses her approach to brand audits, the role of social media, the impact of AI, and her passion for empowering women through entrepreneurship and skincare.

🔹 Key Takeaways 1. What Is a Brand Strategist?
A brand strategist helps individuals and businesses define and articulate their brand clearly.
“You are the brand, but you have to put the brand together in a way that people can articulate what you do.”

2. Social Media Strategy
Stacey conducts social media audits to ensure alignment between personal and business branding.
She recommends having separate personal and business accounts, but acknowledges blending them when appropriate.

3. Discovery Process
Her process starts with a discovery call to understand the client’s “why” and goals.
She believes passion must drive entrepreneurship—not just money.

4. Digital Branding & AI
Stacey identifies as a digital brand specialist, helping Gen X women and others pivot into digital spaces.
She uses AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini to enhance productivity but values human connection.
“AI is an asset… but I don’t solely rely on it.”

5. Email Marketing
Email is still vital: “If you're solely on social media, you can lose your business in a minute.”
She advocates for funnel systems and community building outside of social platforms.

6. Going Viral vs. Being Valuable
“You don’t need to go viral. You just need to be valuable.”
She went viral unintentionally with a review of Harold’s Chicken, but stresses the importance of sustainable value over fleeting attention.

7. Brand Refresh & Outreach
Most of her clients come through word of mouth, but she’s expanding her reach via social media.
She encourages clients to step out of their comfort zones and engage in community-driven initiatives.

8. Skincare Line
Stacey founded Skin Light Skincare at age 50 to promote pro-aging and natural beauty.
She now focuses on organic body oils that are clean, hydrating, and hormone-safe.

🔹 Notable Quotes
“Experience has been the best teacher for me.”
“You don’t need to go viral. You just need to be valuable.”
“If you stop learning, you stop growing.”
“I want you to be a part of building your brand—not just me doing it for you.”
“Social media is great, but word of mouth is still real.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Stacey Gholar.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<hr>
🔹 Summary of the Interview
Stacey Gholar, founder of Bloom Creative Agency, shares her journey from being a young mother in Chicago to becoming a brand strategist and creative entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in marketing, media, and business. She emphasizes the importance of aligning personal identity with brand strategy, especially in the digital age. Stacey discusses her approach to brand audits, the role of social media, the impact of AI, and her passion for empowering women through entrepreneurship and skincare.
<hr>
🔹 Key Takeaways 1. What Is a Brand Strategist?
<ul>
<li>A brand strategist helps individuals and businesses define and articulate their brand clearly.</li>
<li>&ldquo;You are the brand, but you have to put the brand together in a way that people can articulate what you do.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
2. Social Media Strategy
<ul>
<li>Stacey conducts social media audits to ensure alignment between personal and business branding.</li>
<li>She recommends having separate personal and business accounts, but acknowledges blending them when appropriate.</li>
</ul>
3. Discovery Process
<ul>
<li>Her process starts with a discovery call to understand the client&rsquo;s &ldquo;why&rdquo; and goals.</li>
<li>She believes passion must drive entrepreneurship&mdash;not just money.</li>
</ul>
4. Digital Branding &amp; AI
<ul>
<li>Stacey identifies as a digital brand specialist, helping Gen X women and others pivot into digital spaces.</li>
<li>She uses AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini to enhance productivity but values human connection.</li>
<li>&ldquo;AI is an asset&hellip; but I don&rsquo;t solely rely on it.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
5. Email Marketing
<ul>
<li>Email is still vital: &ldquo;If you're solely on social media, you can lose your business in a minute.&rdquo;</li>
<li>She advocates for funnel systems and community building outside of social platforms.</li>
</ul>
6. Going Viral vs. Being Valuable
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;You don&rsquo;t need to go viral. You just need to be valuable.&rdquo;</li>
<li>She went viral unintentionally with a review of Harold&rsquo;s Chicken, but stresses the importance of sustainable value over fleeting attention.</li>
</ul>
7. Brand Refresh &amp; Outreach
<ul>
<li>Most of her clients come through word of mouth, but she&rsquo;s expanding her reach via social media.</li>
<li>She encourages clients to step out of their comfort zones and engage in community-driven initiatives.</li>
</ul>
8. Skincare Line
<ul>
<li>Stacey founded Skin Light Skincare at age 50 to promote pro-aging and natural beauty.</li>
<li>She now focuses on organic body oils that are clean, hydrating, and hormone-safe.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
🔹 Notable Quotes
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;Experience has been the best teacher for me.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;You don&rsquo;t need to go viral. You just need to be valuable.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;If you stop learning, you stop growing.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;I want you to be a part of building your brand&mdash;not just me doing it for you.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;Social media is great, but word of mouth is still real.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
<hr>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Marketing: She went viral unintentionally with a review of Harold’s Chicken, most of her clients come through word of mouth.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/4d781f02-d0ea-4f32-b88c-b414017a1292/transcript

More Black people are having Plastic surgery, because it can change your life and is available to everyone. Dr. Steven Williams, The First African American President-Elect of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons

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