My next guest is a motivational speaker, former N.F.L. player, and founder of the nonprofit RehabTime. He has a large social media following that inspires all ages with videos about relationships, personal success, life, and faith. Straight Up is his first book for young adults. Trent's helpful book guides young adults to establish healthy relationships, chase after their dreams, and live their best lives. "Straight Up" is imminently honest and practical, helping you take real next steps toward being the best you. Trent vulnerably shares his own story, including his own missteps that have resulted in the hard-won lessons he shares today. His book "Straight Up" can be purchased right now. He is on the show today to discuss not allowing failure to win in your life and to discuss techniques on developing winning strategies for your business and personal life. Like pretending things aren’t that bad or ignoring the clear warning signs that things are going sideways is almost always the surest way to get yourself into real trouble. Please welcome to Money Making Conversations Mr. Motivator Himself, Trent Shelton.
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 a motivational speaker, former N.F.L. player, and founder of the nonprofit RehabTime. He has a large social media following that inspires all ages with videos about relationships, personal success, life, and faith. Straight Up is his first book for young adults. Trent's helpful book guides young adults to establish healthy relationships, chase after their dreams, and live their best lives. "Straight Up" is imminently honest and practical, helping you take real next steps toward being the best you. Trent vulnerably shares his own story, including his own missteps that have resulted in the hard-won lessons he shares today. His book "Straight Up" can be purchased right now. He is on the show today to discuss not allowing failure to win in your life and to discuss techniques on developing winning strategies for your business and personal life. Like pretending things aren’t that bad or ignoring the clear warning signs that things are going sideways is almost always the surest way to get yourself into real trouble. Please welcome to Money Making Conversations Mr. Motivator Himself, Trent Shelton. 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

Trent Shelton Full Interview

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/2470d8b4-2950-462b-aa77-af620152d379/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 Monique Strong.

President of the Atlanta Chapter of the National Association of Black Women in Construction (NABWIC). Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways:

🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Breaking Barriers in Construction
Monique Strong is a trailblazer in a traditionally male-dominated and white-dominated industry.
She leads NABWIC’s Atlanta chapter, advocating for leadership, equity, and professional development for Black women in construction.

2. What “Construction” Really Means
Construction isn’t just hard hats and manual labor—it includes:

General contracting
Project management
Estimating
Safety coordination
Architecture and engineering
Business ownership and development

3. Legacy and Inspiration
Monique’s passion for construction was inspired by her grandfathers and her grandmother, who helped build the home she grew up in.
Her journey includes a degree in engineering from Clark Atlanta University and further training in construction management.

4. Challenges and Triumphs
Faced skepticism from family and industry peers.
Overcame stereotypes and isolation as a young Black woman in construction.
Emphasizes the importance of knowing who you are and embracing your identity as a woman in the field.

5. The Power of Mentorship and Community
NABWIC provides a supportive network for women at all stages of their construction careers.
Weekly calls, mentorship, and shared resources help members grow and succeed.

6. Why Diversity in Construction Matters
Diversity reflects the makeup of the country and brings innovation and detail-oriented excellence to the field.
Inclusion in leadership and contracting opportunities is essential for equity and community development.

💬 Notable Quotes
“You don’t have to be hard. You just have to be hungry.”
“We are the unicorns people are looking for.”
“I like to take something that’s nothing and make it something.”

🎯 Advice for Women in Construction
Get involved with a community like NABWIC that supports your growth.
Seek mentorship from women at all stages—beginning, middle, and end of their careers.
Embrace your uniqueness and use it to lead and innovate.

#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 Monique Strong.
President of the Atlanta Chapter of the&nbsp;National Association of Black Women in Construction (NABWIC). Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways:
<hr>
🔑 Key Themes &amp; Takeaways 1. Breaking Barriers in Construction
<ul>
<li>Monique Strong is a trailblazer in a traditionally male-dominated and white-dominated industry.</li>
<li>She leads NABWIC&rsquo;s Atlanta chapter, advocating for leadership, equity, and professional development for Black women in construction.</li>
</ul>
2. What &ldquo;Construction&rdquo; Really Means
<ul>
<li>Construction isn&rsquo;t just hard hats and manual labor&mdash;it includes:
<ul>
<li>General contracting</li>
<li>Project management</li>
<li>Estimating</li>
<li>Safety coordination</li>
<li>Architecture and engineering</li>
<li>Business ownership and development</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
3. Legacy and Inspiration
<ul>
<li>Monique&rsquo;s passion for construction was inspired by her grandfathers and her grandmother, who helped build the home she grew up in.</li>
<li>Her journey includes a degree in engineering from Clark Atlanta University and further training in construction management.</li>
</ul>
4. Challenges and Triumphs
<ul>
<li>Faced skepticism from family and industry peers.</li>
<li>Overcame stereotypes and isolation as a young Black woman in construction.</li>
<li>Emphasizes the importance of knowing who you are and embracing your identity as a woman in the field.</li>
</ul>
5. The Power of Mentorship and Community
<ul>
<li>NABWIC provides a supportive network for women at all stages of their construction careers.</li>
<li>Weekly calls, mentorship, and shared resources help members grow and succeed.</li>
</ul>
6. Why Diversity in Construction Matters
<ul>
<li>Diversity reflects the makeup of the country and brings innovation and detail-oriented excellence to the field.</li>
<li>Inclusion in leadership and contracting opportunities is essential for equity and community development.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
💬 Notable Quotes
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;You don&rsquo;t have to be hard. You just have to be hungry.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;We are the unicorns people are looking for.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;I like to take something that&rsquo;s nothing and make it something.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
<hr>
🎯 Advice for Women in Construction
<ul>
<li>Get involved with a community like NABWIC that supports your growth.</li>
<li>Seek mentorship from women at all stages&mdash;beginning, middle, and end of their careers.</li>
<li>Embrace your uniqueness and use it to lead and innovate.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Family Motivation: Her passion for construction was inspired by her grandfathers and her grandmother, who helped build the home she grew up in.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/b5e2affe-0af6-4b83-9460-b449016574ae/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 Charles Cofield.

Thanks! The transcript from this episode of Money Making Conversations Masterclass features an inspiring and high-energy interview with CPA and financial educator Carter Cofield, co-founder of Melanin Money. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways:

🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Melanin Money: A Mission-Driven Firm
Co-founded by Carter Cofield and a financial advisor friend to serve the Black community.
Focuses on helping business owners save on taxes and invest wisely.
Aims to close the wealth gap and promote financial independence.

2. Authenticity as a Brand
Carter left corporate America after being told to hide his success and identity (e.g., facial hair, tattoos, car).
Built his brand by being unapologetically himself—fun, energetic, and passionate about financial literacy.
His authenticity has helped him connect with a wide audience and become a standout in a traditionally “boring” industry.

3. Personal Tragedy & Financial Awakening
Lost both parents by age 16.
Used grief as motivation to excel academically and professionally.
Learned the importance of financial literacy after receiving only $5,000 from a $25,000 life insurance policy following his father’s death.

4. Financial Literacy & Health
Believes “health is wealth and wealth is health.”
Poor financial decisions often lead to poor health decisions (e.g., fast food due to affordability).
Financial stress can directly impact physical and mental well-being.

5. Melanin Money Awards
Annual event in Atlanta (July 18–20) celebrating Black wealth and financial milestones.
Awards given for reaching net worth goals ($100K, $500K, $1M, $10M).
Designed to make wealth-building visible and celebrated in the Black community.

6. Generational Wealth: Redefined
Not just about leaving money to your kids.
True generational wealth means your money lasts for multiple generations.
Involves setting up trusts, investments, and financial education for future heirs.

7. Free Weekly Financial Classes
Carter hosts free money classes every Wednesday at 7 PM ET.
Accessible via his Instagram: @cofield_advisors

💬 Notable Quotes
“Fear is Finally Exiting Average Reality.”
“It’s okay to sleep in late when your money woke up early.”
“The scariest thing is getting to the end of your life and realizing you never truly lived.”

#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&nbsp;Charles Cofield.
Thanks! The transcript from this episode of Money Making Conversations Masterclass features an inspiring and high-energy interview with CPA and financial educator Carter Cofield, co-founder of Melanin Money. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways:
<hr>
🔑 Key Themes &amp; Takeaways 1. Melanin Money: A Mission-Driven Firm
<ul>
<li>Co-founded by Carter Cofield and a financial advisor friend to serve the Black community.</li>
<li>Focuses on helping business owners save on taxes and invest wisely.</li>
<li>Aims to close the wealth gap and promote financial independence.</li>
</ul>
2. Authenticity as a Brand
<ul>
<li>Carter left corporate America after being told to hide his success and identity (e.g., facial hair, tattoos, car).</li>
<li>Built his brand by being unapologetically himself&mdash;fun, energetic, and passionate about financial literacy.</li>
<li>His authenticity has helped him connect with a wide audience and become a standout in a traditionally &ldquo;boring&rdquo; industry.</li>
</ul>
3. Personal Tragedy &amp; Financial Awakening
<ul>
<li>Lost both parents by age 16.</li>
<li>Used grief as motivation to excel academically and professionally.</li>
<li>Learned the importance of financial literacy after receiving only $5,000 from a $25,000 life insurance policy following his father&rsquo;s death.</li>
</ul>
4. Financial Literacy &amp; Health
<ul>
<li>Believes &ldquo;health is wealth and wealth is health.&rdquo;</li>
<li>Poor financial decisions often lead to poor health decisions (e.g., fast food due to affordability).</li>
<li>Financial stress can directly impact physical and mental well-being.</li>
</ul>
5. Melanin Money Awards
<ul>
<li>Annual event in Atlanta (July 18&ndash;20) celebrating Black wealth and financial milestones.</li>
<li>Awards given for reaching net worth goals ($100K, $500K, $1M, $10M).</li>
<li>Designed to make wealth-building visible and celebrated in the Black community.</li>
</ul>
6. Generational Wealth: Redefined
<ul>
<li>Not just about leaving money to your kids.</li>
<li>True generational wealth means your money lasts for multiple generations.</li>
<li>Involves setting up trusts, investments, and financial education for future heirs.</li>
</ul>
7. Free Weekly Financial Classes
<ul>
<li>Carter hosts free money classes every Wednesday at 7 PM ET.</li>
<li>Accessible via his Instagram: @cofield_advisors</li>
</ul>
<hr>
💬 Notable Quotes
<ul>
<li>&ldquo;Fear is Finally Exiting Average Reality.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;It&rsquo;s okay to sleep in late when your money woke up early.&rdquo;</li>
<li>&ldquo;The scariest thing is getting to the end of your life and realizing you never truly lived.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Grief Motivation: Lost both parents by age 16. Used grief as motivation to excel academically and professionally.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/ffd388c8-4a50-4e18-9751-b4490166859a/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 Marsha Evans.

A licensed mental health therapist, founder of Willow Tree Counseling & Educational Center, and creator of the FELT Experience and Marsha Listens wellness platform. The conversation centers on emotional health, nervous system education, sound therapy, community healing, and her evolution as a therapist and entrepreneur. Marsha shares her personal journey from being a competitive athlete to becoming a calming force for high‑functioning individuals dealing with burnout, stress, and emotional disconnection.

She explains the origins of her signature FELT Experience, a wellness model designed to help people reconnect with themselves through somatic movement, sound healing, intentional rest, and community. She also highlights the challenges and breakthroughs in mental health—particularly within the Black community—and reflects on 16+ years of therapeutic practice.

Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

1. Introduce Marsha Evans’ holistic mental health approach

Rushion invites Marsha to explain how she blends psychology, somatics, and sound‑based healing to help people process stress differently. 

2. Explain the FELT Experience and its healing framework

Marsha details her signature F.E.L.T. model—Free, Expand, Listen, Transform—and why embodied emotional experience is key to healing. 

3. Share her personal journey

She discusses how sports, music, and modalities like breathwork and yoga helped her turn stress into purpose. 

4. Encourage new perspectives on mental health in the Black community

She and Rushion address the stigma, evolution, and growing acceptance of mental health support. 

5. Showcase community‑centered healing

Marsha emphasizes connection, shared experiences, and intentional spaces that allow vulnerability and transformation. 

Key Takeaways 1. Healing Requires Intentionality

Marsha explains that activities like massage or yoga can be therapeutic—but only when approached with intentionality, presence, and consent to release emotional tension. 

2. The Body Holds Stories (“The body keeps the score”)

She emphasizes that the body stores emotional experiences, and modalities like breathwork, sound healing, and somatic movement help release what the mind can’t articulate. 

3. The FELT Framework

The FELT Experience moves participants through:
F – Free: Permission to just be (coloring, resting, arriving without expectations)
E – Expand: Allowing the body to open and receive
L – Listen: To one’s own body, movement, and emotional cues
T – Transform: The hardest phase—moving from chaos to peace 

4. Safe Community Spaces Accelerate Healing

Marsha’s events often result in participants forming friendships, emotional breakthroughs, and even planning outings together—an indicator of her program’s power. 

5. People Are Conditioned to Avoid Emotions

Growing up, she was taught to hide emotions in competitive sports—especially tears as a sign of weakness. Her therapeutic mission now is to help others unlearn similar conditioning. 

6. Cultural Shifts Around Mental Health

Marsha highlights major strides in the Black community, especially post‑COVID, as more people (including athletes) publicly acknowledge mental health struggles. 

7. Therapy Isn’t Just Talking

She incorporates nonverbal tools like:
Play therapy
Sand tray therapy
Sound healing
Somatic movement
Yoga
These help clients who can’t articulate their emotions—especially those conditioned to suppress them. 

8. Human Connection Still Matters—even in an AI World

Marsha is open to exploring AI in mental health but insists that physical presence, touch, and human empathy are irreplaceable. 

Notable Quotes (from the transcript) On her calming presence

“I think laughter is good for the soul… just being able to find peace has been really big for me… It’s just a God‑given talent.” 

On coping mechanisms

“As long as I had some type of music or some form of therapy… I could navigate any stressful environment.” 

On cooking as therapy (reflecting Rushion’s habits)

“You’re creating new neural pathways… recalibrating your nervous system.” 

On intentional healing

“Yoga and massages can be therapeutic, but you have to be intentional.” 

On the purpose of the FELT Experience

“In order to release whatever your body is experiencing, you have to have a felt experience.” 

On the challenge of transformation

“We are used to chaos… but we’re not used to healed environments.” 

On the evolution of her practice

“I wanted to understand the whole person… and help them change the dial on their dashboard to fit their calling.” 

On mental health in the Black community

“People perceive admission as a flaw… but healing is about understanding your story.” 

On creating safe spaces

“By creating a space of safety and healing… people get to live the life they desired and not a life from survival.” 

#SHMS #BEST #STRAW

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 Marsha Evans.
A licensed mental health therapist, founder of Willow Tree Counseling &amp; Educational Center, and creator of the FELT Experience and Marsha Listens wellness platform. The conversation centers on emotional health, nervous system education, sound therapy, community healing, and her evolution as a therapist and entrepreneur. Marsha shares her personal journey from being a competitive athlete to becoming a calming force for high‑functioning individuals dealing with burnout, stress, and emotional disconnection.
She explains the origins of her signature FELT Experience, a wellness model designed to help people reconnect with themselves through somatic movement, sound healing, intentional rest, and community. She also highlights the challenges and breakthroughs in mental health&mdash;particularly within the Black community&mdash;and reflects on 16+ years of therapeutic practice.
<hr>
Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
1. Introduce Marsha Evans&rsquo; holistic mental health approach
Rushion invites Marsha to explain how she blends psychology, somatics, and sound‑based healing to help people process stress differently.&nbsp;
2. Explain the FELT Experience and its healing framework
Marsha details her signature F.E.L.T. model&mdash;Free, Expand, Listen, Transform&mdash;and why embodied emotional experience is key to healing.&nbsp;
3. Share her personal journey
She discusses how sports, music, and modalities like breathwork and yoga helped her turn stress into purpose.&nbsp;
4. Encourage new perspectives on mental health in the Black community
She and Rushion address the stigma, evolution, and growing acceptance of mental health support.&nbsp;
5. Showcase community‑centered healing
Marsha emphasizes connection, shared experiences, and intentional spaces that allow vulnerability and transformation.&nbsp;
<hr>
Key Takeaways 1. Healing Requires Intentionality
Marsha explains that activities like massage or yoga can be therapeutic&mdash;but only when approached with intentionality, presence, and consent to release emotional tension.&nbsp;
2. The Body Holds Stories (&ldquo;The body keeps the score&rdquo;)
She emphasizes that the body stores emotional experiences, and modalities like breathwork, sound healing, and somatic movement help release what the mind can&rsquo;t articulate.&nbsp;
3. The FELT Framework
The FELT Experience moves participants through:
<ul>
<li>F &ndash; Free: Permission to just be (coloring, resting, arriving without expectations)</li>
<li>E &ndash; Expand: Allowing the body to open and receive</li>
<li>L &ndash; Listen: To one&rsquo;s own body, movement, and emotional cues</li>
<li>T &ndash; Transform: The hardest phase&mdash;moving from chaos to peace&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
4. Safe Community Spaces Accelerate Healing
Marsha&rsquo;s events often result in participants forming friendships, emotional breakthroughs, and even planning outings together&mdash;an indicator of her program&rsquo;s power.&nbsp;
5. People Are Conditioned to Avoid Emotions
Growing up, she was taught to hide emotions in competitive sports&mdash;especially tears as a sign of weakness. Her therapeutic mission now is to help others unlearn similar conditioning.&nbsp;
6. Cultural Shifts Around Mental Health
Marsha highlights major strides in the Black community, especially post‑COVID, as more people (including athletes) publicly acknowledge mental health struggles.&nbsp;
7. Therapy Isn&rsquo;t Just Talking
She incorporates nonverbal tools like:
<ul>
<li>Play therapy</li>
<li>Sand tray therapy</li>
<li>Sound healing</li>
<li>Somatic movement</li>
<li>Yoga These help clients who can&rsquo;t articulate their emotions&mdash;especially those conditioned to suppress them.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
8. Human Connection Still Matters&mdash;even in an AI World
Marsha is open to exploring AI in mental health but insists that physical presence, touch, and human empathy are irreplaceable.&nbsp;
<hr>
Notable Quotes (from the transcript) On her calming presence
<blockquote>
&ldquo;I think laughter is good for the soul&hellip; just being able to find peace has been really big for me&hellip; It&rsquo;s just a God‑given talent.&rdquo;&nbsp;
</blockquote>
On coping mechanisms
<blockquote>
&ldquo;As long as I had some type of music or some form of therapy&hellip; I could navigate any stressful environment.&rdquo;&nbsp;
</blockquote>
On cooking as therapy (reflecting Rushion&rsquo;s habits)
<blockquote>
&ldquo;You&rsquo;re creating new neural pathways&hellip; recalibrating your nervous system.&rdquo;&nbsp;
</blockquote>
On intentional healing
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Yoga and massages can be therapeutic, but you have to be intentional.&rdquo;&nbsp;
</blockquote>
On the purpose of the FELT Experience
<blockquote>
&ldquo;In order to release whatever your body is experiencing, you have to have a felt experience.&rdquo;&nbsp;
</blockquote>
On the challenge of transformation
<blockquote>
&ldquo;We are used to chaos&hellip; but we&rsquo;re not used to healed environments.&rdquo;&nbsp;
</blockquote>
On the evolution of her practice
<blockquote>
&ldquo;I wanted to understand the whole person&hellip; and help them change the dial on their dashboard to fit their calling.&rdquo;&nbsp;
</blockquote>
On mental health in the Black community
<blockquote>
&ldquo;People perceive admission as a flaw&hellip; but healing is about understanding your story.&rdquo;&nbsp;
</blockquote>
On creating safe spaces
<blockquote>
&ldquo;By creating a space of safety and healing&hellip; people get to live the life they desired and not a life from survival.&rdquo;&nbsp;
</blockquote>
<hr>
#SHMS #BEST #STRAW

Relaxation Tips_ Discusses her relaxation model using sound therapy.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/c061d36b-f4d7-4e1a-870d-b43101730300/transcript

Trent Shelton Full Interview

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