My next guest is Mariana van Zeller. She is an award-winning investigative journalist. She is the Co-Founder of Muck Media and Host & Executive Producer of Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller. She won the Dupont Award for Fusion investigation “Death by Fentanyl,” when she tracked the pharmaceutical and clandestine sources of the deadly opioid. For her report “Rape on the Reservation,” she received the prestigious Livingston Award for Young Journalists. Her documentary on prescription drug abuse and pill trafficking, “The OxyContin Express,” was honored with a Peabody Award, a Television Academy Honor, and an Emmy nomination. You can see her new show every Wednesday on National Geographic, Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller. Please welcome to Money Making Conversations Mariana van Zeller.
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

My next guest is Mariana van Zeller. She is an award-winning investigative journalist. She is the Co-Founder of Muck Media and Host & Executive Producer of Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller. She won the Dupont Award for Fusion investigation “Death by Fentanyl,” when she tracked the pharmaceutical and clandestine sources of the deadly opioid. For her report “Rape on the Reservation,” she received the prestigious Livingston Award for Young Journalists. Her documentary on prescription drug abuse and pill trafficking, “The OxyContin Express,” was honored with a Peabody Award, a Television Academy Honor, and an Emmy nomination. You can see her new show every Wednesday on National Geographic, Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller. Please welcome to Money Making Conversations Mariana van Zeller. 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

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

Mariana van Zeller: Host of National Geographic's “Trafficked” discusses navigating the underworld

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/d996f3e0-4219-44cc-bc3c-af62014a4fe2/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 Lisa Mulrain.

CEO of Legacy Building LLC and founder of Mulrain Law, in a wide‑ranging conversation about financial literacy, credit repair, estate planning, community impact, and the mindset shifts required for long-term financial success. The discussion highlights her personal journey, her transition from federal service to entrepreneurship, and her mission to educate and empower individuals—especially in minority communities—to build and protect wealth.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The purpose of Lisa’s appearance on Money Making Conversations Masterclass was to:

1. Educate listeners on financial literacy

She breaks down credit repair, debt management, estate planning, and smart investing in simple, actionable terms.

2. Promote her services

Lisa shares how Legacy Building LLC helps clients strengthen their financial footing and how Moraine Law protects the assets they build.

3. Inspire financial empowerment

Lisa’s personal story—from growing up in a financially challenged environment to becoming a securities attorney and entrepreneur—reinforces the idea that financial transformation is possible for anyone.

4. Encourage mindset change

She stresses that financial improvement begins with understanding one’s money mindset, especially for people raised in environments of scarcity.

💡 Key Takeaways

Below are the major themes and lessons Lisa shares throughout the discussion.

1. Your Money Mindset Shapes Your Financial Life

Lisa emphasizes that many financial problems stem from long‑standing beliefs formed during childhood—especially in communities where money was scarce. People often develop a “lack mentality”, influencing decisions like using credit irresponsibly or putting bills in a child’s name. 

She teaches clients to first understand why they ended up in financial trouble before addressing how to fix it.

2. Credit Repair Requires Understanding the Root Cause

Lisa rejects quick‑fix credit repair approaches. Instead, she helps clients: 
Assess what led to their financial hardship
Identify self-inflicted issues (overspending, poor planning)
Contact creditors directly
Negotiate payoffs or settlements
Avoid repeating the same mistakes

She notes that high‑interest credit cards (often 20%+) make it nearly impossible to pay off debt without a consolidation strategy.

3. Estate Planning Is Essential—Not Optional

Lisa stresses that everyone, not just wealthy people or seniors, needs an estate plan. 

Key points:
A will and trust prevent the state from deciding what happens to your assets.
Even celebrities like Prince and Aretha Franklin suffered consequences of no estate plan, leading to long probate battles.
Trusts allow individuals to manage their own assets during life and ensure smooth transfer after death.
Estate planning protects homes, bank accounts, cars, jewelry, and other valuables.

She also explains that a trust must be funded and a will acts as a secondary backup.

4. Smart Investing Starts Early and Happens Consistently

Lisa outlines a clear investing roadmap:

✔ Use employer 401(k) match

Not contributing at least, the match percentage (e.g., 4% in federal roles) means leaving free money on the table.

✔ Open and fund a Roth IRA
After‑tax money → tax‑free growth
Contributions can be withdrawn without penalty before age 59½ in emergencies
Limits vary by age and year (e.g., $7,000 to $8,500)

✔ Open a brokerage account

She prefers long‑standing firms like Charles Schwab and Fidelity that allow fractional investing.

✔ Time in the market beats timing the market

Small consistent investments grow over time; you don't need large sums to start.

✔ Always research

Look at a company’s history, layoffs, strategy, and performance over time before investing.

5. Combining Law + Finance Gives Clients Full Protection

Lisa explains the unique advantage of running a financial literacy firm and a law firm: 
Legacy Building: teaches people to build assets
Moraine Law: protects those assets

This integrated model helps clients avoid mistakes, shield wealth, and plan for long-term financial security.

6. Her Vision for Legacy Building LLC

In 5 years, she sees:
National and international expansion
Partnerships with small businesses
Partnerships with government agencies where employees earn good salaries but lack financial education
Increased financial literacy and asset acquisition among minority communities
Becoming a leader in helping everyday citizens gain confidence investing in the market

📣 Notable Quotes from the Interview

Below are standout quotes directly from the transcript (with citations).

On the value of being on the show

“Each time the show aired, I received numerous calls and some of those calls converted into clients.”

On the core of Legacy Building

“I was always curious about how we could all change our financial projection and help communities.” 

On her motivation

“Helping people has always been at my core… I took great pleasure in serving the public.” 

On money mindset

“When we grow up with lack, we adopt that lack mentality… We already start from a place of ‘we don’t have it.’” 

On investing

“You’re leaving money on the table if you don’t contribute enough to get the 401(k) match.” 

On the importance of estate planning

“You’ve worked so hard for your assets, and without a plan, the state decides how they get distributed.” 

On the power of a trust

“A trust dictates your wishes and allows for effective management of your assets during life.” 

On investment strategy

“It’s time in the market, not timing the market.” 

#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 Lisa Mulrain.
CEO of&nbsp;Legacy Building LLC and founder of Mulrain Law, in a wide‑ranging conversation about financial literacy, credit repair, estate planning, community impact, and the mindset shifts required for long-term financial success. The discussion highlights her personal journey, her transition from federal service to entrepreneurship, and her mission to educate and empower individuals&mdash;especially in minority communities&mdash;to build and protect wealth.
<hr>
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
The purpose of Lisa&rsquo;s appearance on&nbsp;Money Making Conversations Masterclass was to:
1. Educate listeners on financial literacy
She breaks down credit repair, debt management, estate planning, and smart investing in simple, actionable terms.
2. Promote her services
Lisa shares how Legacy Building LLC helps clients strengthen their financial footing and how Moraine Law protects the assets they build.
3. Inspire financial empowerment
Lisa&rsquo;s personal story&mdash;from growing up in a financially challenged environment to becoming a securities attorney and entrepreneur&mdash;reinforces the idea that financial transformation is possible for anyone.
4. Encourage mindset change
She stresses that financial improvement begins with understanding one&rsquo;s money mindset, especially for people raised in environments of scarcity.
<hr>
💡 Key Takeaways
Below are the major themes and lessons Lisa shares throughout the discussion.
<hr>
1. Your Money Mindset Shapes Your Financial Life
Lisa emphasizes that many financial problems stem from long‑standing beliefs formed during childhood&mdash;especially in communities where money was scarce. People often develop a &ldquo;lack mentality&rdquo;, influencing decisions like using credit irresponsibly or putting bills in a child&rsquo;s name.&nbsp;
She teaches clients to first understand why they ended up in financial trouble before addressing how to fix it.
<hr>
2. Credit Repair Requires Understanding the Root Cause
Lisa rejects quick‑fix credit repair approaches. Instead, she helps clients:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Assess what led to their financial hardship</li>
<li>Identify self-inflicted issues (overspending, poor planning)</li>
<li>Contact creditors directly</li>
<li>Negotiate payoffs or settlements</li>
<li>Avoid repeating the same mistakes</li>
</ul>
She notes that high‑interest credit cards (often 20%+) make it nearly impossible to pay off debt without a consolidation strategy.
<hr>
3. Estate Planning Is Essential&mdash;Not Optional
Lisa stresses that everyone, not just wealthy people or seniors, needs an estate plan.&nbsp;
Key points:
<ul>
<li>A will and trust prevent the state from deciding what happens to your assets.</li>
<li>Even celebrities like Prince and Aretha Franklin suffered consequences of no estate plan, leading to long probate battles.</li>
<li>Trusts allow individuals to manage their own assets during life and ensure smooth transfer after death.</li>
<li>Estate planning protects homes, bank accounts, cars, jewelry, and other valuables.</li>
</ul>
She also explains that a trust must be funded and a will acts as a secondary backup.
<hr>
4. Smart Investing Starts Early and Happens Consistently
Lisa outlines a clear investing roadmap:
✔ Use employer 401(k) match
Not contributing at least, the match percentage (e.g., 4% in federal roles) means leaving free money on the table.
✔ Open and fund a Roth IRA
<ul>
<li>After‑tax money &rarr; tax‑free growth</li>
<li>Contributions can be withdrawn without penalty before age 59&frac12; in emergencies</li>
<li>Limits vary by age and year (e.g., $7,000 to $8,500)</li>
</ul>
✔ Open a brokerage account
She prefers long‑standing firms like Charles Schwab and Fidelity that allow fractional investing.
✔ Time in the market beats timing the market
Small consistent investments grow over time; you don't need large sums to start.
✔ Always research
Look at a company&rsquo;s history, layoffs, strategy, and performance over time before investing.
<hr>
5. Combining Law + Finance Gives Clients Full Protection
Lisa explains the unique advantage of running a financial literacy firm and a law firm:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Legacy Building: teaches people to build assets</li>
<li>Moraine Law: protects those assets</li>
</ul>
This integrated model helps clients avoid mistakes, shield wealth, and plan for long-term financial security.
<hr>
6. Her Vision for Legacy Building LLC
In 5 years, she sees:
<ul>
<li>National and international expansion</li>
<li>Partnerships with small businesses</li>
<li>Partnerships with government agencies where employees earn good salaries but lack financial education</li>
<li>Increased financial literacy and asset acquisition among minority communities</li>
<li>Becoming a leader in helping everyday citizens gain confidence investing in the market</li>
</ul>
<hr>
📣 Notable Quotes from the Interview
Below are standout quotes directly from the transcript (with citations).
On the value of being on the show
&ldquo;Each time the show aired, I received numerous calls and some of those calls converted into clients.&rdquo;
On the core of Legacy Building
&ldquo;I was always curious about how we could all change our financial projection and help communities.&rdquo;&nbsp;
On her motivation
&ldquo;Helping people has always been at my core&hellip; I took great pleasure in serving the public.&rdquo;&nbsp;
On money mindset
&ldquo;When we grow up with lack, we adopt that lack mentality&hellip; We already start from a place of &lsquo;we don&rsquo;t have it.&rsquo;&rdquo;&nbsp;
On investing
&ldquo;You&rsquo;re leaving money on the table if you don&rsquo;t contribute enough to get the 401(k) match.&rdquo;&nbsp;
On the importance of estate planning
&ldquo;You&rsquo;ve worked so hard for your assets, and without a plan, the state decides how they get distributed.&rdquo;&nbsp;
On the power of a trust
&ldquo;A trust dictates your wishes and allows for effective management of your assets during life.&rdquo;&nbsp;
On investment strategy
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s time in the market, not timing the market.&rdquo;&nbsp;
<hr>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Financial Tips: Her interview educates people on entrepreneurship, financial literacy, credit repair, estate planning.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/524f6db1-9649-4f61-ae61-b3e700183a75/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 interviewedLavar Thomas.

Motivational speaker, author, Peace Corps alumnus, leadership coach, and founder of Empower for Greatness. Lavar’s mission is to help people transform “from the inside out” so they can live with greater intention and purpose.

The conversation explores Lavar’s upbringing in Brownsville, Brooklyn; his life-changing Peace Corps service in Rwanda; his understanding of faith, purpose, failure, and leadership; and how he built international development programs such as Leaders of the Free World, which exposes young Black men to global travel and leadership experiences.

He discusses how stepping outside his comfort zone—from traveling abroad for the first time to navigating Rwanda after only knowing it through “Hotel Rwanda”—opened his worldview, deepened his empathy, and developed his leadership style.

Lavar explains how a major project failure in the Peace Corps forced him to redefine success beyond titles, money, or recognition. This experience ultimately inspired his book, The Other Side of Letting Go. He also shares how he balances a federal government job with building his speaking and training company.

The interview concludes with a powerful discussion on purpose, reinvention, leadership, and the role travel plays in expanding one’s mindset—especially for communities that are historically underrepresented in global spaces.

PURPOSE OF THE INTERVIEW1. To highlight Lavar’s transformative journey from Brooklyn to global leadership.

Rushion showcases how Lavar’s experiences shaped his philosophy and mission.

2. To educate listeners about purpose‑driven living and leadership

Lavar explains why purpose—not money—is the “real currency,” and how aligning with purpose drives impact.

3. To inspire people to step beyond their comfort zones

The interview emphasizes how discomfort and uncertainty can spark growth.

4. To reveal the value of international exposure for Black men

Through Leaders of the Free World, Lavar advocates for global experiences that shift identity and opportunity.

5. To discuss resilience, reinvention, and personal development

From project failures to the death of his father, Lavar shows how adversity can reshape purpose and leadership.

KEY TAKEAWAYS1. Faith requires action

Lavar describes faith as taking steps without knowing the outcome—“believing in the future before it becomes reality.”

2. Growth happens outside the comfort zone

Comfort zones feel safe, but they also create limits; stepping beyond them leads to self‑awareness and transformation.

3. The Peace Corps experience was life‑changing

Rwanda taught him service, humility, language, cultural understanding, and the power of community trust.

4. Failure can be an important redirection

When his library project collapsed, Lavar learned to detach from ego and redefine success through impact, not image.

5. Purpose is the real currency

Operating in purpose helps you add value, understand your worth, and ultimately generate income more meaningfully.

6. Leadership includes being willing to pivot

He shifted from a failed library project to impactful malnutrition programs, partnering with USAID to train families.

7. Personal setbacks can sharpen identity and mission

His father’s death led him to pause graduate school, attend therapy, and rebuild himself—learning leadership through vulnerability.

8. Global exposure changes lives

Leaders of the Free World gives young Black men access to international travel, allowing them to reimagine their potential.

NOTABLE QUOTESOn faith
“Faith is taking steps without even knowing the outcome… believing in the future I see in my mind before I see it in reality.”

On stepping outside comfort zones
“Every time I step beyond that line, I grew… I realized new possibilities for myself.”

On failure
“Failure is life redirecting you.” (Recalling Oprah’s teaching).

On purpose
“Purpose is the real currency.”

On redefining success
“I had to learn how to redefine success for myself—not in the glamor of a project, but the impact I was having.”

On reinvention after loss
“I had to step away and rebuild LaVar… focusing on my family taught me so much about leadership.”

On travel and identity
“Something shifts in them when they return. They see their lives differently and their community differently.”

#STRAW #BEST #SHMS

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 Lavar Thomas.
Motivational speaker, author, Peace Corps alumnus, leadership coach, and founder of Empower for Greatness. Lavar&rsquo;s mission is to help people transform &ldquo;from the inside out&rdquo; so they can live with greater intention and purpose.
The conversation explores Lavar&rsquo;s upbringing in Brownsville, Brooklyn; his life-changing Peace Corps service in Rwanda; his understanding of faith, purpose, failure, and leadership; and how he built international development programs such as Leaders of the Free World, which exposes young Black men to global travel and leadership experiences.
He discusses how stepping outside his comfort zone&mdash;from traveling abroad for the first time to navigating Rwanda after only knowing it through &ldquo;Hotel Rwanda&rdquo;&mdash;opened his worldview, deepened his empathy, and developed his leadership style.
Lavar explains how a major project failure in the Peace Corps forced him to redefine success beyond titles, money, or recognition. This experience ultimately inspired his book, The Other Side of Letting Go. He also shares how he balances a federal government job with building his speaking and training company.
The interview concludes with a powerful discussion on purpose, reinvention, leadership, and the role travel plays in expanding one&rsquo;s mindset&mdash;especially for communities that are historically underrepresented in global spaces.
<hr>
PURPOSE OF THE INTERVIEW 1. To highlight Lavar&rsquo;s transformative journey from Brooklyn to global leadership.
Rushion showcases how Lavar&rsquo;s experiences shaped his philosophy and mission.
2. To educate listeners about purpose‑driven living and leadership
Lavar explains why purpose&mdash;not money&mdash;is the &ldquo;real currency,&rdquo; and how aligning with purpose drives impact.
3. To inspire people to step beyond their comfort zones
The interview emphasizes how discomfort and uncertainty can spark growth.
4. To reveal the value of international exposure for Black men
Through Leaders of the Free World, Lavar advocates for global experiences that shift identity and opportunity.
5. To discuss resilience, reinvention, and personal development
From project failures to the death of his father, Lavar shows how adversity can reshape purpose and leadership.
<hr>
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Faith requires action
Lavar describes faith as taking steps without knowing the outcome&mdash;&ldquo;believing in the future before it becomes reality.&rdquo;
2. Growth happens outside the comfort zone
Comfort zones feel safe, but they also create limits; stepping beyond them leads to self‑awareness and transformation.
3. The Peace Corps experience was life‑changing
Rwanda taught him service, humility, language, cultural understanding, and the power of community trust.
4. Failure can be an important redirection
When his library project collapsed, Lavar learned to detach from ego and redefine success through impact, not image.
5. Purpose is the real currency
Operating in purpose helps you add value, understand your worth, and ultimately generate income more meaningfully.
6. Leadership includes being willing to pivot
He shifted from a failed library project to impactful malnutrition programs, partnering with USAID to train families.
7. Personal setbacks can sharpen identity and mission
His father&rsquo;s death led him to pause graduate school, attend therapy, and rebuild himself&mdash;learning leadership through vulnerability.
8. Global exposure changes lives
Leaders of the Free World gives young Black men access to international travel, allowing them to reimagine their potential.
<hr>
NOTABLE QUOTES On faith
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;Faith is taking steps without even knowing the outcome&hellip; believing in the future I see in my mind before I see it in reality.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
On stepping outside comfort zones
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;Every time I step beyond that line, I grew&hellip; I realized new possibilities for myself.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
On failure
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;Failure is life redirecting you.&rdquo; (Recalling Oprah&rsquo;s teaching).</li>
</ul>
On purpose
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;Purpose is the real currency.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
On redefining success
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;I had to learn how to redefine success for myself&mdash;not in the glamor of a project, but the impact I was having.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
On reinvention after loss
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;I had to step away and rebuild LaVar&hellip; focusing on my family taught me so much about leadership.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
On travel and identity
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;Something shifts in them when they return. They see their lives differently and their community differently.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
<hr>
#STRAW #BEST #SHMS

Motivation: From project failures to the death of his father, he shows how adversity can reshape purpose and leadership.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/84d49833-296f-4edc-9845-b4000129cdc7/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 Mowbray and Cherina Rowand

Co-founders of The Rowand Group and One Stop Taxes, the largest Black-owned virtual tax preparation service in America. The interview highlights their business evolution, scaling strategies, community impact, and the creation of the Black Tax Festival.

🧭 Interview Outline 1. Background & Origins
Both from Memphis, Tennessee; met in high school.
Started tax preparation in 2010 as a mom-and-pop operation.
Transitioned from brick-and-mortar to virtual model by 2015.

2. Business Philosophy
Entrepreneurship is defined as service to others.
Mowbray is the visionary; Cherina is the implementer.
Emphasis on scaling with structure: legal, accounting, HR.

3. One Stop Taxes
Grew from a single office to over 1,000 virtual franchise locations.
Offers free training, no startup costs, and shared revenue model.
Built a platform allowing clients to submit documents and sign remotely.

4. Virtual Tax Model
Designed for convenience and accessibility.
Clients and tax preparers never need to meet in person.
Platform includes document upload, e-signature, and cloud storage.

5. Franchise & Training
Learning Management System (LMS) for onboarding.
Training includes tax prep, customer acquisition, and platform use.
Strategic partnerships with local businesses (e.g., dealerships, daycares).

6. Black Tax Festival
Annual event held in Atlanta
Combines networking, education, and recognition.
Includes IRS updates, business workshops, and the Titan Awards.
Open to all entrepreneurs, not just tax professionals.

7. Expansion & Diversification
Own restaurants in Memphis and the Dominican Republic.
Franchised Fat Tuesday and Esco Restaurant (did \$1M in first 6 weeks).
Own a yacht for rental experiences in the DR.
Plans to develop a restaurant strip near FedExForum in Memphis.

💡 Key Takeaways
Vision + Execution = Growth: Their complementary roles fuel business success.
Virtual is Scalable: Transitioning to virtual allowed exponential growth.
Community Impact Matters: Black Tax Festival fosters education and recognition.
Diversification is Strategic: Restaurants and real estate expand their brand.
Mentorship & Learning: They study successful entrepreneurs like Tilman Fertitta.
Faith & Family Drive: Their journey is rooted in love, planning, and purpose.

🗣️ Notable Quotes
“Entrepreneurship means being a servant to other people.”
“The same thing that works at \$1M doesn’t work at \$15M.”
“We had to fire ourselves from some jobs and hire professionals.”
“We built a platform where you can do taxes from your couch.”
“We started before social media—we know belly-to-belly marketing.”
“Recognition matters—people don’t get it at home or work.”
“We’re trying to bridge the wealth gap through proper paperwork.”
“We bought a yacht in the Dominican Republic to rent for experiences.”

#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 Mowbray and Cherina Rowand
Co-founders of The Rowand Group and One Stop Taxes, the largest Black-owned virtual tax preparation service in America. The interview highlights their business evolution, scaling strategies, community impact, and the creation of the Black Tax Festival.
<hr>
🧭 Interview Outline 1. Background &amp; Origins
<ul>
<li>Both from Memphis, Tennessee; met in high school.</li>
<li>Started tax preparation in 2010 as a mom-and-pop operation.</li>
<li>Transitioned from brick-and-mortar to virtual model by 2015.</li>
</ul>
2. Business Philosophy
<ul>
<li>Entrepreneurship is defined as service to others.</li>
<li>Mowbray is the visionary; Cherina is the implementer.</li>
<li>Emphasis on scaling with structure: legal, accounting, HR.</li>
</ul>
3. One Stop Taxes
<ul>
<li>Grew from a single office to over 1,000 virtual franchise locations.</li>
<li>Offers free training, no startup costs, and shared revenue model.</li>
<li>Built a platform allowing clients to submit documents and sign remotely.</li>
</ul>
4. Virtual Tax Model
<ul>
<li>Designed for convenience and accessibility.</li>
<li>Clients and tax preparers never need to meet in person.</li>
<li>Platform includes document upload, e-signature, and cloud storage.</li>
</ul>
5. Franchise &amp; Training
<ul>
<li>Learning Management System (LMS) for onboarding.</li>
<li>Training includes tax prep, customer acquisition, and platform use.</li>
<li>Strategic partnerships with local businesses (e.g., dealerships, daycares).</li>
</ul>
6. Black Tax Festival
<ul>
<li>Annual event held in Atlanta</li>
<li>Combines networking, education, and recognition.</li>
<li>Includes IRS updates, business workshops, and the Titan Awards.</li>
<li>Open to all entrepreneurs, not just tax professionals.</li>
</ul>
7. Expansion &amp; Diversification
<ul>
<li>Own restaurants in Memphis and the Dominican Republic.</li>
<li>Franchised Fat Tuesday and Esco Restaurant (did \$1M in first 6 weeks).</li>
<li>Own a yacht for rental experiences in the DR.</li>
<li>Plans to develop a restaurant strip near FedExForum in Memphis.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
💡 Key Takeaways
<ul>
<li>Vision + Execution = Growth: Their complementary roles fuel business success.</li>
<li>Virtual is Scalable: Transitioning to virtual allowed exponential growth.</li>
<li>Community Impact Matters: Black Tax Festival fosters education and recognition.</li>
<li>Diversification is Strategic: Restaurants and real estate expand their brand.</li>
<li>Mentorship &amp; Learning: They study successful entrepreneurs like Tilman Fertitta.</li>
<li>Faith &amp; Family Drive: Their journey is rooted in love, planning, and purpose.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
🗣️ Notable Quotes
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;Entrepreneurship means being a servant to other people.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;The same thing that works at \$1M doesn&rsquo;t work at \$15M.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;We had to fire ourselves from some jobs and hire professionals.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;We built a platform where you can do taxes from your couch.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;We started before social media&mdash;we know belly-to-belly marketing.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;Recognition matters&mdash;people don&rsquo;t get it at home or work.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;We&rsquo;re trying to bridge the wealth gap through proper paperwork.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;We bought a yacht in the Dominican Republic to rent for experiences.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
<hr>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Motivation: Grew One Stop Taxes from a single office to over 1,000 virtual franchises and offers free training, no startup costs, and shared revenue model.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/43a39f99-4784-449c-a015-b400012d420c/transcript

Mariana van Zeller: Host of National Geographic's “Trafficked” discusses navigating the underworld

In 2 playlist(s)

Money Making Conversations Master Class

Social links

Follow podcast

Recent clips