Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviews Sonia Fears, the founder of the Fears Group at Morgan Stanley. Sonia leads the All-Black Wealth Management Team at Morgan Stanley. She recaps many of her recent successful financial stories from listeners based on her recent visit. She is the First Vice President, Financial Advisor, Senior Portfolio Manager, Alternative Investments Director, and Global Sports and Entertainment Director - one of the leading financial experts in discussing stocks, savings programs, compounded interest portfolios, Name Image and Likeness, and lines of credit.    Sonia and her two daughters built a family practice at Morgan Stanley. They provide Alternative Investment opportunities, Retirement plans, and Entertainment and Sports financial consultations.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviews Sonia Fears, the founder of the Fears Group at Morgan Stanley. Sonia leads the All-Black Wealth Management Team at Morgan Stanley. She recaps many of her recent successful financial stories from listeners based on her recent visit. She is the First Vice President, Financial Advisor, Senior Portfolio Manager, Alternative Investments Director, and Global Sports and Entertainment Director - one of the leading financial experts in discussing stocks, savings programs, compounded interest portfolios, Name Image and Likeness, and lines of credit.    Sonia and her two daughters built a family practice at Morgan Stanley. They provide Alternative Investment opportunities, Retirement plans, and Entertainment and Sports financial consultations.

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

Sonia Fears founded The Fears Group at Morgan Stanley, an All-Black Wealth Management Team at Morgan Stanley.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/9f32c557-0657-4a61-9b87-b06100eac46f/transcript

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily.  I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur.  Keep winning!

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kurt Farquhar.

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

Purpose of the Interview

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

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

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

Key Takeaways 1. Staying In Is Harder Than Getting In

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

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

Insight: Longevity requires discipline, humility, and evolution.

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

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

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

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

3. Residual Income Is Real Wealth

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

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

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

4. Adaptability Is Non‑Negotiable

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

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

Insight: Talent without adaptability becomes obsolete.

5. Originality Comes From Listening, Not Forcing a Style

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

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

Insight: Longevity depends on collaboration and humility.

6. Relationships Are Career Currency

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

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

Insight: Relationships built without agenda produce lasting opportunity.

7. Saying “Yes” Creates Opportunity

Kurt embraces what he calls the power of yes.

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

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

8. Ownership Multiplies Creativity Into Business

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

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

Insight: Ownership turns talent into scalable income.

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

Overall Impact of the Interview

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

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

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-money-making-conversation-28341098/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">iHeartRadio</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/money-making-conversations-master-class/id1264705641" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="1">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/3ABAQdTXqAnhGwxrsjFa5y" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="2">Spotify</a>, <a href="http://www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/">www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/</a> or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily.&nbsp; I want to alert you, so you don&rsquo;t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur.&nbsp; Keep winning!
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kurt Farquhar.
Television &amp; Film Composer, Founder of Fall Crop Productions and True Music Pro Notable Credits: The King of Queens, Girlfriends, The Parkers, Being Mary Jane, The Proud Family, The Neighborhood, Black Lightning Awards: 10 BMI Awards Tenure: 38+ years in television
<hr>
Purpose of the Interview
The purpose of this interview is to educate and inspire creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals about longevity, adaptability, and wealth-building behind the scenes. Kurt Farquhar&rsquo;s journey highlights how sustainable success comes from mastery of craft, relationship-building, and treating creativity as a business&mdash;not chasing visibility or fame.
Rushion McDonald uses Kurt&rsquo;s career as a blueprint for:
<ul>
<li>Building mailbox money through residuals</li>
<li>Staying relevant across decades of industry change</li>
<li>Monetizing intellectual property</li>
<li>Leveraging relationships to sustain opportunity</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Core Themes Discussed
<ul>
<li>Longevity vs. &ldquo;getting on&rdquo;</li>
<li>Behind-the-scenes success</li>
<li>Residual income (&ldquo;mailbox money&rdquo;)</li>
<li>Adaptability in changing industries</li>
<li>Creative originality</li>
<li>Relationship capital</li>
<li>Diversifying income through ownership</li>
<li>Treating art like a business</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Key Takeaways 1. Staying In Is Harder Than Getting In
While many focus on breaking into the industry, Kurt emphasizes that lasting success requires constant reinvention.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;The continuing it for the 30-plus years has been way harder than the getting in in the first.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: Longevity requires discipline, humility, and evolution.
<hr>
2. Behind-the-Scenes Roles Can Be More Sustainable
Kurt chose composing over performing, allowing him to age into his career rather than age out of it.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;In television and film&hellip; all I&rsquo;ve got to say is John Williams is in his 90s and still composing.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: Choose lanes that allow long-term relevance and recurring income.
<hr>
3. Residual Income Is Real Wealth
Rushion and Kurt discuss &ldquo;mailbox money&rdquo;&mdash;recurring payments from past work.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;If you just had the mailbox money for King of Queens, you&rsquo;d be fine.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: True financial freedom comes from owning work that keeps paying.
<hr>
4. Adaptability Is Non‑Negotiable
Kurt has survived massive industry shifts&mdash;from analog tape to digital production&mdash;by embracing change.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Sustain that good idea, change it, polish it up, and mold it for the changing times.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: Talent without adaptability becomes obsolete.
<hr>
5. Originality Comes From Listening, Not Forcing a Style
Kurt avoids creative stagnation by serving the story, not his ego.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t come in every day trying to force the singular style I&rsquo;ve done for 38 years.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: Longevity depends on collaboration and humility.
<hr>
6. Relationships Are Career Currency
Kurt credits long-term success to consistently showing up for people&mdash;before they&rsquo;re powerful.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;If you only call someone once you read they&rsquo;ve got something coming up, it&rsquo;s already too late.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: Relationships built without agenda produce lasting opportunity.
<hr>
7. Saying &ldquo;Yes&rdquo; Creates Opportunity
Kurt embraces what he calls the power of yes.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;I figure I can say yes more than you and end up making more and doing better.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: Opportunity favors those who remain open, prepared, and professional.
<hr>
8. Ownership Multiplies Creativity Into Business
Kurt built True Music Pro, a licensing library used across major networks and streaming platforms.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;I realized companies were licensing more of my music than I was&hellip; so I built my own library.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
Insight: Ownership turns talent into scalable income.
<hr>
Notable Quotes
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;The journey to stay in is harder than the journey to get in.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;Treat it like a business and it might treat you in kind.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;I do my job, I do it the best I can, and I move on to the next one.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;Character is character. Relationships matter.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;That success doesn&rsquo;t happen by accident. It happens with care.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Overall Impact of the Interview
This interview serves as a masterclass on creative longevity and wealth-building without celebrity dependency. Kurt Farquhar&rsquo;s story reframes success as:
<ul>
<li>Consistent excellence</li>
<li>Relationship stewardship</li>
<li>Business ownership</li>
<li>Adaptability across generations</li>
</ul>
It is especially powerful for:
<ul>
<li>Creatives seeking sustainable careers</li>
<li>Entrepreneurs building IP-based businesses</li>
<li>Professionals navigating long-term relevance</li>
<li>Anyone pursuing &ldquo;quiet wealth&rdquo; over public fame</li>
</ul>
<hr>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Overcoming the Odds: He highlights how sustainable success comes from mastery of craft, relationship-building, and treating creativity as a business.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/4514cba8-12b2-402d-a82a-b441010b99a7/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 Monty Garside.

A full-time attorney turned baker and founder of Confectionist Bakery.

Here are some key highlights from the episode:

🎙️ Guest Background
Monty Garside is a practicing attorney with over 20 years of experience in litigation.
He founded Confectionist Bakery in honor of his grandmother, Ruth Ilene Burns Garside.
The bakery started in his home kitchen and now ships desserts nationwide.

🍰 Bakery Journey
Inspired by nostalgia and family traditions, Monty began baking after his grandmother passed away.
His first successful cake was a pound cake that tasted exactly like his grandmother’s.
He was encouraged to start a business by a client who was the daughter of a professional baker.

🧁 Products & Flavors
Specializes in cheesecakes, pound cakes, layer cakes, and pies.
Unique flavors include:

Peach Cobbler Pound Cake
Amaretto Pound Cake
Banana Pudding Layer Cake
Sweet Potato Pound Cake

🚚 Shipping & Operations
Operates out of a commercial kitchen in Atlanta.
Cakes are wrapped and frozen for freshness and shipped nationwide.
Orders typically take 2 days to process and 3–5 days for delivery.

💡 Business Insights
Challenges included pricing products appropriately and managing holiday demand.
Emphasizes the importance of:

Quality product
Excellent customer service
Knowing your target audience
Target customers are busy professionals who appreciate homemade, Southern-style desserts but lack the time or skill to make them.

📈 Advice for Entrepreneurs
Don’t be afraid to try something new.
Control what you can—especially product quality and customer service.
Trust yourself through the ups and downs.

#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 Monty Garside.
A full-time attorney turned baker and founder of Confectionist Bakery.
Here are some key highlights from the episode:
🎙️ Guest Background
<ul>
<li>Monty Garside is a practicing attorney with over 20 years of experience in litigation.</li>
<li>He founded Confectionist Bakery in honor of his grandmother, Ruth Ilene Burns Garside.</li>
<li>The bakery started in his home kitchen and now ships desserts nationwide.</li>
</ul>
🍰 Bakery Journey
<ul>
<li>Inspired by nostalgia and family traditions, Monty began baking after his grandmother passed away.</li>
<li>His first successful cake was a pound cake that tasted exactly like his grandmother&rsquo;s.</li>
<li>He was encouraged to start a business by a client who was the daughter of a professional baker.</li>
</ul>
🧁 Products &amp; Flavors
<ul>
<li>Specializes in cheesecakes, pound cakes, layer cakes, and pies.</li>
<li>Unique flavors include:
<ul>
<li>Peach Cobbler Pound Cake</li>
<li>Amaretto Pound Cake</li>
<li>Banana Pudding Layer Cake</li>
<li>Sweet Potato Pound Cake</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
🚚 Shipping &amp; Operations
<ul>
<li>Operates out of a commercial kitchen in Atlanta.</li>
<li>Cakes are wrapped and frozen for freshness and shipped nationwide.</li>
<li>Orders typically take 2 days to process and 3&ndash;5 days for delivery.</li>
</ul>
💡 Business Insights
<ul>
<li>Challenges included pricing products appropriately and managing holiday demand.</li>
<li>Emphasizes the importance of:
<ul>
<li>Quality product</li>
<li>Excellent customer service</li>
<li>Knowing your target audience</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Target customers are busy professionals who appreciate homemade, Southern-style desserts but lack the time or skill to make them.</li>
</ul>
📈 Advice for Entrepreneurs
<ol>
<li>Don&rsquo;t be afraid to try something new.</li>
<li>Control what you can&mdash;especially product quality and customer service.</li>
<li>Trust yourself through the ups and downs.</li>
</ol>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Follow Your Passion: Full-time practicing attorney with over 20 years founded Bakery in honor of his grandmother.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/d35ed403-f625-4928-a538-b44f00f26a62/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

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 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/35713392-39d9-4cb9-b9d4-b454016515b0/transcript

Sonia Fears founded The Fears Group at Morgan Stanley, an All-Black Wealth Management Team at Morgan Stanley.

In 2 playlist(s)

Money Making Conversations Master Class

Social links

Follow podcast

Recent clips