My next guest is Sherrell Dorsey. She is the founder and CEO of The Plug, a digital news and insights platform covering the Black innovation economy. Her work has been featured in VICE, The Washington Post, and more. Sherrell has been a contributing writer for notable publications like Columbia Journalism Review, Fast Company, Black Enterprise, and others. The Plug and WURD have partnered to highlight Black tech and innovation within the Philadelphia community by pooling together their resources to create greater impact through storytelling. Please welcome to Money Making Conversations Sherrell Dorsey.
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 Sherrell Dorsey. She is the founder and CEO of The Plug, a digital news and insights platform covering the Black innovation economy. Her work has been featured in VICE, The Washington Post, and more. Sherrell has been a contributing writer for notable publications like Columbia Journalism Review, Fast Company, Black Enterprise, and others. The Plug and WURD have partnered to highlight Black tech and innovation within the Philadelphia community by pooling together their resources to create greater impact through storytelling. Please welcome to Money Making Conversations Sherrell Dorsey. 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

Sherrell Dorsey, Founder and CEO of The Plug, a digital news platform that covers Black innovation

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/71f2b09c-2ae1-4701-8648-af6201490ed2/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 Heather Younger.

Founder and CEO of a leading employee engagement and workplace culture consulting firm:

🎙️ Interview Summary

Guest: Heather R. Younger
Role: CEO, workplace culture consultant, author, speaker
Topic: Employee engagement, workplace culture, self-leadership, and overcoming fear

🧭 Purpose of the Interview

To explore Heather Younger's journey as a workplace culture expert, her insights into employee engagement, and her new book The Art of Self-Leadership. The conversation centers on empowering individuals to lead themselves, navigate workplace challenges, and overcome fear to unlock personal and professional growth.

🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Employee Advocacy & Engagement
Heather has read over 30,000 employee surveys and facilitated 100+ focus groups.
She emphasizes active listening and creating safe spaces for employees to express concerns.
Her mission is to amplify the voices of employees, especially during organizational transitions like mergers.

2. Self-Leadership & Personal Growth
Heather encourages individuals to be their own advocates and not wait for others (including HR) to “save” them.
She promotes intentional reframing—shifting negative thoughts into rational, empowering ones.
Her new book, The Art of Self-Leadership, includes exercises like fear mapping to help readers identify and overcome internal barriers.

3. Navigating Fear in the Workplace

Heather outlines five ways fear holds people back professionally:
Fear of feedback – avoiding growth due to fear of criticism.
Fear of retribution – hesitating to speak up.
Fear of speaking truth to power – lacking psychological safety.
Inherited fears – generational or cultural fears that shape behavior.
Fear of regret – not taking action and living with “what ifs.”

4. Daily Practices for Mental Strength
Reflect nightly on what went well and what you controlled.
Practice gratitude and mindfulness.
Prioritize sleep, hydration, and mental clarity.
Treat each day as a chance to iterate and improve.

💬 Notable Quotes
“I needed to be the change I was seeking.”
“Feedback is a gift—even if it hurts.”
“You have to fight tooth and nail for your own mental space.”
“Don’t wait to be invited—ask.”
“See yourself as a work in progress, not a finished product.”

📚 Book Mentioned
Title:The Art of Self-Leadership
Focus: Empowering individuals to lead themselves through fear, change, and uncertainty

📞 Contact Info
Website: HeatherYounger.com
LinkedIn: Heather R. Younger
Social Media: Active on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

 

#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 Heather Younger.
Founder and CEO of a leading employee engagement and workplace culture consulting firm:
<hr>
🎙️ Interview Summary
Guest: Heather R. Younger Role: CEO, workplace culture consultant, author, speaker Topic: Employee engagement, workplace culture, self-leadership, and overcoming fear
<hr>
🧭 Purpose of the Interview
To explore Heather Younger's journey as a workplace culture expert, her insights into employee engagement, and her new book The Art of Self-Leadership. The conversation centers on empowering individuals to lead themselves, navigate workplace challenges, and overcome fear to unlock personal and professional growth.
<hr>
🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Employee Advocacy &amp; Engagement
<ul>
<li>Heather has read over 30,000 employee surveys and facilitated 100+ focus groups.</li>
<li>She emphasizes active listening and creating safe spaces for employees to express concerns.</li>
<li>Her mission is to amplify the voices of employees, especially during organizational transitions like mergers.</li>
</ul>
2. Self-Leadership &amp; Personal Growth
<ul>
<li>Heather encourages individuals to be their own advocates and not wait for others (including HR) to &ldquo;save&rdquo; them.</li>
<li>She promotes intentional reframing&mdash;shifting negative thoughts into rational, empowering ones.</li>
<li>Her new book, The Art of Self-Leadership, includes exercises like fear mapping to help readers identify and overcome internal barriers.</li>
</ul>
3. Navigating Fear in the Workplace
Heather outlines five ways fear holds people back professionally:
<ol>
<li>Fear of feedback &ndash; avoiding growth due to fear of criticism.</li>
<li>Fear of retribution &ndash; hesitating to speak up.</li>
<li>Fear of speaking truth to power &ndash; lacking psychological safety.</li>
<li>Inherited fears &ndash; generational or cultural fears that shape behavior.</li>
<li>Fear of regret &ndash; not taking action and living with &ldquo;what ifs.&rdquo;</li>
</ol>
4. Daily Practices for Mental Strength
<ul>
<li>Reflect nightly on what went well and what you controlled.</li>
<li>Practice gratitude and mindfulness.</li>
<li>Prioritize sleep, hydration, and mental clarity.</li>
<li>Treat each day as a chance to iterate and improve.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
💬 Notable Quotes
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;I needed to be the change I was seeking.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;Feedback is a gift&mdash;even if it hurts.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;You have to fight tooth and nail for your own mental space.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;Don&rsquo;t wait to be invited&mdash;ask.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;See yourself as a work in progress, not a finished product.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
<hr>
📚 Book Mentioned
<ul>
<li>Title: The Art of Self-Leadership</li>
<li>Focus: Empowering individuals to lead themselves through fear, change, and uncertainty</li>
</ul>
<hr>
📞 Contact Info
<ul>
<li>Website: HeatherYounger.com</li>
<li>LinkedIn: Heather R. Younger</li>
<li>Social Media: Active on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram</li>
</ul>
<hr>
&nbsp;
#STRAW
#BEST
#SHMS

Business Tips: She discusses employee engagement, workplace culture, self-leadership, and overcoming fear.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/a5e2d8d5-78dd-4a5a-9d12-b3f3014e6d7a/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 Ryan Richmond and Greg Bowman.

Co‑owners of Popcorn Remix, a Georgia‑based gourmet popcorn brand known for more than 60 innovative flavors ranging from King Crab Legs to Charlene’s Banana Pudding to chocolate‑covered strawberry.

Together they share their partnership story, the origin of Popcorn Remix, the explosive growth of their brand, how they built a powerhouse fundraising platform (WePowerFundraisers.com), their expansion into major sports and entertainment venues, and the unique combination of hustle, creativity, faith, and community service that drives their success.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview was designed to:

1. Highlight the Popcorn Remix brand and its explosive growth

From a storefront in Conyers, GA, to Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, Truist Park, the Georgia World Congress Center, the Atlanta Dream, and major convention centers.

2. Showcase their entrepreneurship journey as Black founders

They share how they partnered, overcame limitations, created their own lane, and scaled a product category long dominated by major national brands.

3. Promote their fundraising platform (WePowerFundraisers.com)

A system that gives organizations up to 50% of gross sales, ships popcorn directly to supporters, and supports churches, schools, nonprofits, cheer teams, and more.

4. Inspire entrepreneurs

Greg and Ryan share candid advice on partnership, sacrifice, differentiating your product, and believing in your gifts.

💡 Key Takeaways

1. A Powerful Partnership Built on Hustle, Trust & Alignment

Greg and Ryan met years ago through a men’s empowerment group and eventually partnered after Greg conceived the popcorn concept.
Ryan didn’t have the money but had “all the hustle in the world”—and that’s the partnership foundation. 

They call themselves the Visionary & Executioner, committing to outwork anyone and always show up for each other.

2. Popcorn Remix Was Created to “Remix” What Popcorn Could Be

The brand name came from their church’s theme, “Year of the Remix.”
They wanted flavors never seen before: butter pecan, crab legs, chocolate‑covered strawberry, cookies and cream, lemon pound cake, jerk chicken, etc. [

Only three people in the world know the signature butter pecan formula.

3. Their Innovation Extends Beyond Flavors — Even the Kernels Are Different

They use “mushroom” kernels (round, fluffy) instead of standard “butterfly” kernels to prevent breakage, reduce seed fragments, and support orthodontic patients. [

Their popcorn is fluffier, smoother, and more versatile for gourmet coating.

4. The Storefront Is an In‑Person Experience

The Conyers, GA store provides:
Free sampling of all 60+ flavors
Music based on the time of day
Engaging, fun staff
Fresh gourmet popcorn made on-site

The storefront is intentionally designed to be a “vibe.”

5. Live Activations Are Their Secret Weapon

Their background in music and entertainment helps them:
Work crowds
Convert curious customers into buyers
Perform high‑energy demos
Showcase “activation flavors” like Lemon Pound Cake, which comes with instructions 

These activations drew attention at Falcons games, arenas, conventions, and more.

6. Popcorn Remix Is in Major Venues Across Georgia

They have partnerships with:
Mercedes‑Benz Stadium (all levels)
Truist Park / Atlanta Braves
State Farm Arena
Atlanta Dream
Georgia World Congress Center
Georgia International Convention Center

They’re a favorite for cheer, volleyball, and large-scale events.

7. Their Brand Went Viral — Celebrities and even the White House Took Notice

Celebrity/luminary support includes:
Whoopi Goldberg
Daymond John
Sherri Shepherd
Anthony Hamilton
Cathy Hughes (Radio One/TV One founder)
The White House (Hip-Hop 50th celebration invitation)

Their popcorn has literally made it to the White House. 

8. Their Fundraising Platform Is a Game-Changer

WePowerFundraisers.com gives:
Up to 50% of gross sales to organizations
Automated direct‑to-door delivery
No upfront costs
10‑day fundraiser windows
Ten curated flavors for easy purchase

They’re now targeting national Greek organizations (“Divine Nine”) to scale. [

9. Massive Growth: $1.5 Million in 3 Years

They realized they “had something” when they hit $1.5 million in revenue, without debt, and only two founders running things.

They even had to turn down a $4M deal because they didn’t yet have the production capacity—prompting them to invest heavily in a new warehouse.

10. They Reinvented Their Ops with Subscriptions & TikTok Shops

They recently added:
A monthly popcorn subscription
A TikTok Shop that allows creators to sell Popcorn Remix and earn revenue 

These innovations help them scale nationally.

🗣 Notable Quotes (with citations)On their partnership

“He said, ‘I ain’t got a whole bunch of money… but I got all the hustle in the world.’” 

On their role to each other

“I refuse to be outworked… whenever you call, I’m available.” 

On Popcorn Remix’s purpose

“We want to remix popcorn… make it unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.” 

On competition

“When you're going against a giant, you gotta have something real… We had a rocket launcher.” 

On their breakthrough moment

“We grossed $1.5 million in three years… from popcorn. I knew we had something.” 

On celebrity validation

“When Whoopi sent the picture… and then the White House… that was it.” 

On entrepreneurship

“Dreams don’t expire. How you start is not how you finish.” 

On community fundraising

“It’s one thing to ask for something. It’s another to give something back.” 

#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 Ryan Richmond and Greg Bowman.
Co‑owners of Popcorn Remix, a Georgia‑based gourmet popcorn brand known for more than 60 innovative flavors ranging from King Crab Legs to Charlene&rsquo;s Banana Pudding to chocolate‑covered strawberry.
Together they share their partnership story, the origin of Popcorn Remix, the explosive growth of their brand, how they built a powerhouse fundraising platform (WePowerFundraisers.com), their expansion into major sports and entertainment venues, and the unique combination of hustle, creativity, faith, and community service that drives their success.
<hr>
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
The interview was designed to:
1. Highlight the Popcorn Remix brand and its explosive growth
From a storefront in Conyers, GA, to Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, Truist Park, the Georgia World Congress Center, the Atlanta Dream, and major convention centers.
2. Showcase their entrepreneurship journey as Black founders
They share how they partnered, overcame limitations, created their own lane, and scaled a product category long dominated by major national brands.
3. Promote their fundraising platform (WePowerFundraisers.com)
A system that gives organizations up to 50% of gross sales, ships popcorn directly to supporters, and supports churches, schools, nonprofits, cheer teams, and more.
4. Inspire entrepreneurs
Greg and Ryan share candid advice on partnership, sacrifice, differentiating your product, and believing in your gifts.
<hr>
💡 Key Takeaways
<hr>
1. A Powerful Partnership Built on Hustle, Trust &amp; Alignment
Greg and Ryan met years ago through a men&rsquo;s empowerment group and eventually partnered after Greg conceived the popcorn concept. Ryan didn&rsquo;t have the money but had &ldquo;all the hustle in the world&rdquo;&mdash;and that&rsquo;s the partnership foundation.&nbsp;
They call themselves the Visionary &amp; Executioner, committing to outwork anyone and always show up for each other.
<hr>
2. Popcorn Remix Was Created to &ldquo;Remix&rdquo; What Popcorn Could Be
The brand name came from their church&rsquo;s theme, &ldquo;Year of the Remix.&rdquo; They wanted flavors never seen before: butter pecan, crab legs, chocolate‑covered strawberry, cookies and cream, lemon pound cake, jerk chicken, etc. <a href="https://rushionmcdonald-my.sharepoint.com/personal/admin_rushionmcdonald_onmicrosoft_com/Documents/Microsoft%20Copilot%20Chat%20Files/RYAN%20RICHMOND%20AND%20GREG%20BOWMAN.txt">[</a>
Only three people in the world know the signature butter pecan formula.
<hr>
3. Their Innovation Extends Beyond Flavors &mdash; Even the Kernels Are Different
They use &ldquo;mushroom&rdquo; kernels (round, fluffy) instead of standard &ldquo;butterfly&rdquo; kernels to prevent breakage, reduce seed fragments, and support orthodontic patients. <a href="https://rushionmcdonald-my.sharepoint.com/personal/admin_rushionmcdonald_onmicrosoft_com/Documents/Microsoft%20Copilot%20Chat%20Files/RYAN%20RICHMOND%20AND%20GREG%20BOWMAN.txt">[</a>
Their popcorn is fluffier, smoother, and more versatile for gourmet coating.
<hr>
4. The Storefront Is an In‑Person Experience
The Conyers, GA store provides:
<ul>
<li>Free sampling of all 60+ flavors</li>
<li>Music based on the time of day</li>
<li>Engaging, fun staff</li>
<li>Fresh gourmet popcorn made on-site</li>
</ul>
The storefront is intentionally designed to be a &ldquo;vibe.&rdquo;
<hr>
5. Live Activations Are Their Secret Weapon
Their background in music and entertainment helps them:
<ul>
<li>Work crowds</li>
<li>Convert curious customers into buyers</li>
<li>Perform high‑energy demos</li>
<li>Showcase &ldquo;activation flavors&rdquo; like Lemon Pound Cake, which comes with instructions&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
These activations drew attention at Falcons games, arenas, conventions, and more.
<hr>
6. Popcorn Remix Is in Major Venues Across Georgia
They have partnerships with:
<ul>
<li>Mercedes‑Benz Stadium (all levels)</li>
<li>Truist Park / Atlanta Braves</li>
<li>State Farm Arena</li>
<li>Atlanta Dream</li>
<li>Georgia World Congress Center</li>
<li>Georgia International Convention Center</li>
</ul>
They&rsquo;re a favorite for cheer, volleyball, and large-scale events.
<hr>
7. Their Brand Went Viral &mdash; Celebrities and even the White House Took Notice
Celebrity/luminary support includes:
<ul>
<li>Whoopi Goldberg</li>
<li>Daymond John</li>
<li>Sherri Shepherd</li>
<li>Anthony Hamilton</li>
<li>Cathy Hughes (Radio One/TV One founder)</li>
<li>The White House (Hip-Hop 50th celebration invitation)</li>
</ul>
Their popcorn has literally made it to the White House.&nbsp;
<hr>
8. Their Fundraising Platform Is a Game-Changer
WePowerFundraisers.com gives:
<ul>
<li>Up to 50% of gross sales to organizations</li>
<li>Automated direct‑to-door delivery</li>
<li>No upfront costs</li>
<li>10‑day fundraiser windows</li>
<li>Ten curated flavors for easy purchase</li>
</ul>
They&rsquo;re now targeting national Greek organizations (&ldquo;Divine Nine&rdquo;) to scale. <a href="https://rushionmcdonald-my.sharepoint.com/personal/admin_rushionmcdonald_onmicrosoft_com/Documents/Microsoft%20Copilot%20Chat%20Files/RYAN%20RICHMOND%20AND%20GREG%20BOWMAN.txt">[</a>
<hr>
9. Massive Growth: $1.5 Million in 3 Years
They realized they &ldquo;had something&rdquo; when they hit $1.5 million in revenue, without debt, and only two founders running things.
They even had to turn down a $4M deal because they didn&rsquo;t yet have the production capacity&mdash;prompting them to invest heavily in a new warehouse.
<hr>
10. They Reinvented Their Ops with Subscriptions &amp; TikTok Shops
They recently added:
<ul>
<li>A monthly popcorn subscription</li>
<li>A TikTok Shop that allows creators to sell Popcorn Remix and earn revenue&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
These innovations help them scale nationally.
<hr>
🗣 Notable Quotes (with citations) On their partnership
&ldquo;He said, &lsquo;I ain&rsquo;t got a whole bunch of money&hellip; but I got all the hustle in the world.&rsquo;&rdquo;&nbsp;
On their role to each other
&ldquo;I refuse to be outworked&hellip; whenever you call, I&rsquo;m available.&rdquo;&nbsp;
On Popcorn Remix&rsquo;s purpose
&ldquo;We want to remix popcorn&hellip; make it unlike anything you&rsquo;ve ever seen before.&rdquo;&nbsp;
On competition
&ldquo;When you're going against a giant, you gotta have something real&hellip; We had a rocket launcher.&rdquo;&nbsp;
On their breakthrough moment
&ldquo;We grossed $1.5 million in three years&hellip; from popcorn. I knew we had something.&rdquo;&nbsp;
On celebrity validation
&ldquo;When Whoopi sent the picture&hellip; and then the White House&hellip; that was it.&rdquo;&nbsp;
On entrepreneurship
&ldquo;Dreams don&rsquo;t expire. How you start is not how you finish.&rdquo;&nbsp;
On community fundraising
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s one thing to ask for something. It&rsquo;s another to give something back.&rdquo;&nbsp;
<hr>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Brand Building:  The origin of Popcorn Remix, the explosive growth, how they built a powerhouse fundraising platform. 

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/800c50ef-cc5e-4412-8f95-b3f00171a566/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 Kevin Cohee.
Title: Owner, Chairman & CEO of OneUnited Bank
Host: Rushion McDonald
Podcast: Money Making Conversations Masterclass

Kevin Cohee discusses the mission, history, and future of OneUnited Bank, the largest Black‑owned bank and the first Black‑owned internet bank in the U.S. The conversation connects Black economic history, financial literacy, technology (AI), and wealth-building, positioning OneUnited Bank as a modern solution to long‑standing financial exclusion in Black and underserved communities.

Purpose of the Interview

The interview is designed to:
Educate listeners on why Black-owned banks matter historically and economically.
Explain how technology has transformed banking, making location irrelevant.
Address financial exclusion, particularly reliance on check-cashing services.
Promote financial literacy as the foundation of wealth creation.
Position OneUnited Bank as a practical, accessible tool for individuals, entrepreneurs, and communities to build equity.

Key Themes & Takeaways 1. A Mission Rooted in Black History
Kevin Cohee frames OneUnited Bank as part of a long historical vision, not a modern trend.
Leaders such as Booker T. Washington, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. all advocated for a national Black-owned bank.
Cohee’s own family legacy ties back to Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma, including land ownership stemming from negotiated “40 acres and a mule” outcomes.

Takeaway: Economic independence has always been central to Black progress.

2. From Brick-and-Mortar to Digital Banking
OneUnited originally grew by acquiring small Black-owned banks nationwide.
The bank pivoted early toward technology-driven banking, recognizing that:

Customers expect 24/7 access
Physical branches are no longer required
Digital reach enables national—and global—impact

Key insight: Technology allowed OneUnited to become a national Black bank without national branches.

3. Financial Technology Built for Real-Life Problems

Kevin Cohee emphasizes that OneUnited designs products around how people actually live, not just traditional banking norms.

Examples include:
Second-chance checking accounts
Emergency small-dollar loans
Alternative credit criteria
Nationwide surcharge-free ATM access
AI-powered tools that help users understand:

Cash flow
Assets vs. liabilities
Net worth (or debt)
Financial decision-making in real time

Takeaway: Banking should help people function—not punish them for past mistakes.

4. Financial Literacy Is the Real Wealth Gap
Cohee states that 90% of Americans are financially illiterate, largely because:

Financial literacy is not taught in K–12 education
He compares this to not teaching reading—and then blaming people for illiteracy.
OneUnited uses AI and data aggregation to help customers make expert-level decisions without being experts.

Key message: Financial literacy, not income alone, determines long-term wealth.

5. Ending Dependence on Check-Cashing Services
Kevin sharply criticizes high-fee check-cashing businesses that dominate underserved neighborhoods.
OneUnited offers digital check deposits, debit cards, and ATM access—removing the need for physical branches.
Anyone, anywhere in the U.S., can bank with OneUnited via oneunited.com.

Takeaway: Lack of access is no longer an excuse—awareness is the missing link.

6. Technology as the New “40 Acres”
Kevin draws a powerful parallel:

Land ownership was once the primary source of wealth.
Technology and financial literacy are today’s equivalents.
Entrepreneurs no longer need to manufacture products—branding, distribution, and digital reach are the new leverage.

Key insight: Technology levels the playing field—if people understand how to use it.

7. Mandatory Financial Literacy as a Policy Solution
Kevin advocates for required financial literacy courses in all U.S. schools.
He cites research showing:

One required high-school financial literacy course can generate $100,000+ in lifetime net worth per student.
He frames this as a matter of equity, not preference.

Takeaway: Systemic problems require systemic solutions.

Notable Quotes

“The concept of a national Black-owned bank goes all the way back to slavery.”

“We’re not behind in technology—we are the party.”

“Ninety percent of Americans are not financially literate.”

“You don’t have to go to check cashers and get ripped off.”

“Technology is the new 40 acres.”

“Financial literacy alone can generate over $100,000 in net worth per person.”

“There has never been a better time to build a business than right now.”

Overall Impact

This interview is both a financial masterclass and a historical lesson. Kevin Cohee reframes banking as a tool of empowerment, not just transactions, and positions OneUnited Bank as:
A modern solution to historic exclusion
A technology-first institution built for underserved communities
A catalyst for financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and wealth creation

Final message: Access + education + technology can finally close the racial wealth gap—if people choose to engage.

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kevin Cohee. Title: Owner, Chairman &amp; CEO of OneUnited Bank Host: Rushion McDonald Podcast: Money Making Conversations Masterclass
Kevin Cohee discusses the mission, history, and future of OneUnited Bank, the largest Black‑owned bank and the first Black‑owned internet bank in the U.S. The conversation connects Black economic history, financial literacy, technology (AI), and wealth-building, positioning OneUnited Bank as a modern solution to long‑standing financial exclusion in Black and underserved communities.
<hr>
Purpose of the Interview
The interview is designed to:
<ol>
<li>Educate listeners on why Black-owned banks matter historically and economically.</li>
<li>Explain how technology has transformed banking, making location irrelevant.</li>
<li>Address financial exclusion, particularly reliance on check-cashing services.</li>
<li>Promote financial literacy as the foundation of wealth creation.</li>
<li>Position OneUnited Bank as a practical, accessible tool for individuals, entrepreneurs, and communities to build equity.</li>
</ol>
<hr>
Key Themes &amp; Takeaways 1. A Mission Rooted in Black History
<ul>
<li>Kevin Cohee frames OneUnited Bank as part of a long historical vision, not a modern trend.</li>
<li>Leaders such as Booker T. Washington, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. all advocated for a national Black-owned bank.</li>
<li>Cohee&rsquo;s own family legacy ties back to Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma, including land ownership stemming from negotiated &ldquo;40 acres and a mule&rdquo; outcomes.</li>
</ul>
Takeaway: Economic independence has always been central to Black progress.
<hr>
2. From Brick-and-Mortar to Digital Banking
<ul>
<li>OneUnited originally grew by acquiring small Black-owned banks nationwide.</li>
<li>The bank pivoted early toward technology-driven banking, recognizing that:
<ul>
<li>Customers expect 24/7 access</li>
<li>Physical branches are no longer required</li>
<li>Digital reach enables national&mdash;and global&mdash;impact</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
Key insight: Technology allowed OneUnited to become a national Black bank without national branches.
<hr>
3. Financial Technology Built for Real-Life Problems
Kevin Cohee emphasizes that OneUnited designs products around how people actually live, not just traditional banking norms.
Examples include:
<ul>
<li>Second-chance checking accounts</li>
<li>Emergency small-dollar loans</li>
<li>Alternative credit criteria</li>
<li>Nationwide surcharge-free ATM access</li>
<li>AI-powered tools that help users understand:
<ul>
<li>Cash flow</li>
<li>Assets vs. liabilities</li>
<li>Net worth (or debt)</li>
<li>Financial decision-making in real time</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
Takeaway: Banking should help people function&mdash;not punish them for past mistakes.
<hr>
4. Financial Literacy Is the Real Wealth Gap
<ul>
<li>Cohee states that 90% of Americans are financially illiterate, largely because:
<ul>
<li>Financial literacy is not taught in K&ndash;12 education</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>He compares this to not teaching reading&mdash;and then blaming people for illiteracy.</li>
<li>OneUnited uses AI and data aggregation to help customers make expert-level decisions without being experts.</li>
</ul>
Key message: Financial literacy, not income alone, determines long-term wealth.
<hr>
5. Ending Dependence on Check-Cashing Services
<ul>
<li>Kevin sharply criticizes high-fee check-cashing businesses that dominate underserved neighborhoods.</li>
<li>OneUnited offers digital check deposits, debit cards, and ATM access&mdash;removing the need for physical branches.</li>
<li>Anyone, anywhere in the U.S., can bank with OneUnited via oneunited.com.</li>
</ul>
Takeaway: Lack of access is no longer an excuse&mdash;awareness is the missing link.
<hr>
6. Technology as the New &ldquo;40 Acres&rdquo;
<ul>
<li>Kevin draws a powerful parallel:
<ul>
<li>Land ownership was once the primary source of wealth.</li>
<li>Technology and financial literacy are today&rsquo;s equivalents.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Entrepreneurs no longer need to manufacture products&mdash;branding, distribution, and digital reach are the new leverage.</li>
</ul>
Key insight: Technology levels the playing field&mdash;if people understand how to use it.
<hr>
7. Mandatory Financial Literacy as a Policy Solution
<ul>
<li>Kevin advocates for required financial literacy courses in all U.S. schools.</li>
<li>He cites research showing:
<ul>
<li>One required high-school financial literacy course can generate $100,000+ in lifetime net worth per student.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>He frames this as a matter of equity, not preference.</li>
</ul>
Takeaway: Systemic problems require systemic solutions.
<hr>
Notable Quotes
<blockquote>
&ldquo;The concept of a national Black-owned bank goes all the way back to slavery.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re not behind in technology&mdash;we are the party.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Ninety percent of Americans are not financially literate.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;You don&rsquo;t have to go to check cashers and get ripped off.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Technology is the new 40 acres.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Financial literacy alone can generate over $100,000 in net worth per person.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
&ldquo;There has never been a better time to build a business than right now.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<hr>
Overall Impact
This interview is both a financial masterclass and a historical lesson. Kevin Cohee reframes banking as a tool of empowerment, not just transactions, and positions OneUnited Bank as:
<ul>
<li>A modern solution to historic exclusion</li>
<li>A technology-first institution built for underserved communities</li>
<li>A catalyst for financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and wealth creation</li>
</ul>
Final message: Access + education + technology can finally close the racial wealth gap&mdash;if people choose to engage.
<hr>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Financial Tip: Discusses Black economic history, technology (AI), and wealth-building, positioning OneUnited Bank as a modern solution.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/70135c5e-a1af-4955-be3a-b41d015b8cca/transcript

Sherrell Dorsey, Founder and CEO of The Plug, a digital news platform that covers Black innovation

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