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 Tonya Edmonds. 

Podcast:Money Making Conversations Masterclass
Host: Rushion McDonald
Guest:Tonya Edmonds (Founder, Smart Growth AI)

1. Purpose of the Interview

The purpose of the interview is to educate, motivate, and equip listeners—especially professionals, entrepreneurs, and women—with:
A practical understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) without technical intimidation
Strategies to reclaim time, increase productivity, and future‑proof careers
Lessons on wealth building, including multiple streams of income and investing
The importance of mentorship, partnerships, and adaptability
Real-world insights from Tonya’s entrepreneurial and corporate journey

At its core, the conversation connects AI adoption with financial empowerment, career resilience, and modern entrepreneurship.

2. Interview Overview

Tonya Edmonds shares her transition from corporate roles (including work at Johnson & Johnson) to founding Smart Growth AI, a consulting and training firm that helps busy professionals and entrepreneurs reclaim 10+ hours per week by implementing practical AI systems.

Rushion McDonald frames the discussion around:
Technology adoption
Financial literacy
Entrepreneurship
Personal resilience
Long-term thinking in a rapidly changing economy

3. Key Takeaways A. AI Is a People Challenge, Not a Technology Problem

Tonya explains that resistance to AI is driven by fear, not complexity. Employees worry AI will replace them, so leaders must reframe it as a co-creator and productivity partner, not a job threat.

AI succeeds when people understand how it elevates their role instead of eliminating it.

B. AI Is About Time Leverage, Not Working More

Smart Growth AI focuses on helping clients:
Automate repetitive tasks
Improve workflows
Regain lost hours
Redirect time toward strategy, creativity, and rest

Tonya warns against burnout, emphasizing that reclaimed time should be used intentionally—not just to take on more work.

C. Multiple Streams of Income Build Stability

A casual cookout conversation introduced Tonya to the idea of wealth-building beyond employment. Playing Robert Kiyosaki’s Cashflow Quadrant helped her understand:
Being an employee alone limits wealth creation
Leveraging money and assets creates freedom
Community and shared learning accelerate growth

This mindset later helped her navigate layoffs, entrepreneurship, and motherhood.

D. Mentorship Is a Critical Success Factor

Tonya repeatedly highlights mentorship as a defining difference between struggle and progress:
The lack of mentorship contributed to challenges with her day spa business
Strong mentorship later helped her pivot, recover, and scale
Her relationship with Alicia Lyttle (“The Queen of AI”) accelerated her expertise and credibility

Mastermind groups and strategic partnerships played a key role in expansion.

E. Women Must Shift from Spending to Investing

Tonya offers direct advice to women:
Start small and stay consistent
Invest only in things you understand—or get educated
Consider real estate, passive investments, and partnerships
Use tools like self-directed IRAs or rolled-over 401(k)s to build wealth

Progress matters more than perfection.

F. Learning AI Is Career Insurance

Tonya encourages professionals to:
Learn AI on their own time if necessary
Experiment hands-on, not just consume content
Become the AI “go‑to” person at work
Increase job security by increasing relevance

Early adopters gain disproportionate advantage.

G. No Single AI Tool Does Everything Best

She explains how different tools serve different purposes:
ChatGPT – brainstorming and idea generation
Claude – deeper, more refined writing
Perplexity – research
Gemini – graphics and video
Copilot – integrated enterprise workflows

Her advice: use multiple tools strategically.

H. Privacy and Security Matter

Tonya stresses AI safety best practices:
Turn off model-training permissions
Never input personal or client-identifying data
Use placeholder names (e.g., “Company X”)
Treat AI tools as public spaces unless secured

4. Notable Quotes

On AI Adoption

“It’s not a technology problem—it’s a people problem.”

On Fear of AI

“You’re asking people to train a tool they think could replace them.”

On Time Freedom

“If you learn AI, it will help you leverage your time—but don’t use that time to burn yourself out.”

On Wealth Building

“You can’t really get ahead just being an employee. You have to leverage your money.”

On Mentorship

“You have to be careful who you plant seeds with—because they can come back and help you.”

On Women and Investing

“Even if it’s just $100 a week or $100 a month, every little bit counts.”

On Learning AI

“Don’t just listen—open up your laptop and start playing with it.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

 

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.

Business Podcast

Entrepreneurship

Small Business

Business Growth

Financial Literacy

Wealth Building

Black Entrepreneurs

Minority Business

Leadership

Executive Leadership

Business Funding

Marketing Strategies

Personal Development

Startup Advice

Sales Training

CEO Interviews

Founder Stories

Professional Development

Economic Empowerment

Business Success

Networking

Brand Building

Innovation

How to start a business

Small business funding

Entrepreneur success stories

Business leadership podcast

Wealth building strategies

Black entrepreneur podcast

Minority business development

Marketing for small businesses

Business growth strategies

Startup funding opportunities

Executive leadership training

Financial literacy education

Success mindset podcast

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;Tonya Edmonds.&nbsp;
Podcast: Money Making Conversations Masterclass Host: Rushion McDonald Guest: Tonya Edmonds (Founder, Smart Growth AI)
<hr>
1. Purpose of the Interview
The purpose of the interview is to educate, motivate, and equip listeners&mdash;especially professionals, entrepreneurs, and women&mdash;with:
<ul>
<li>A practical understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) without technical intimidation</li>
<li>Strategies to reclaim time, increase productivity, and future‑proof careers</li>
<li>Lessons on wealth building, including multiple streams of income and investing</li>
<li>The importance of mentorship, partnerships, and adaptability</li>
<li>Real-world insights from Tonya&rsquo;s entrepreneurial and corporate journey</li>
</ul>
At its core, the conversation connects AI adoption with financial empowerment, career resilience, and modern entrepreneurship.
<hr>
2. Interview Overview
Tonya Edmonds shares her transition from corporate roles (including work at Johnson &amp; Johnson) to founding Smart Growth AI, a consulting and training firm that helps busy professionals and entrepreneurs reclaim 10+ hours per week by implementing practical AI systems.
Rushion McDonald frames the discussion around:
<ul>
<li>Technology adoption</li>
<li>Financial literacy</li>
<li>Entrepreneurship</li>
<li>Personal resilience</li>
<li>Long-term thinking in a rapidly changing economy</li>
</ul>
<hr>
3. Key Takeaways A. AI Is a People Challenge, Not a Technology Problem
Tonya explains that resistance to AI is driven by fear, not complexity. Employees worry AI will replace them, so leaders must reframe it as a co-creator and productivity partner, not a job threat.
<blockquote>
AI succeeds when people understand how it elevates their role instead of eliminating it.
</blockquote>
<hr>
B. AI Is About Time Leverage, Not Working More
Smart Growth AI focuses on helping clients:
<ul>
<li>Automate repetitive tasks</li>
<li>Improve workflows</li>
<li>Regain lost hours</li>
<li>Redirect time toward strategy, creativity, and rest</li>
</ul>
Tonya warns against burnout, emphasizing that reclaimed time should be used intentionally&mdash;not just to take on more work.
<hr>
C. Multiple Streams of Income Build Stability
A casual cookout conversation introduced Tonya to the idea of wealth-building beyond employment. Playing Robert Kiyosaki&rsquo;s Cashflow Quadrant helped her understand:
<ul>
<li>Being an employee alone limits wealth creation</li>
<li>Leveraging money and assets creates freedom</li>
<li>Community and shared learning accelerate growth</li>
</ul>
This mindset later helped her navigate layoffs, entrepreneurship, and motherhood.
<hr>
D. Mentorship Is a Critical Success Factor
Tonya repeatedly highlights mentorship as a defining difference between struggle and progress:
<ul>
<li>The lack of mentorship contributed to challenges with her day spa business</li>
<li>Strong mentorship later helped her pivot, recover, and scale</li>
<li>Her relationship with Alicia Lyttle (&ldquo;The Queen of AI&rdquo;) accelerated her expertise and credibility</li>
</ul>
Mastermind groups and strategic partnerships played a key role in expansion.
<hr>
E. Women Must Shift from Spending to Investing
Tonya offers direct advice to women:
<ul>
<li>Start small and stay consistent</li>
<li>Invest only in things you understand&mdash;or get educated</li>
<li>Consider real estate, passive investments, and partnerships</li>
<li>Use tools like self-directed IRAs or rolled-over 401(k)s to build wealth</li>
</ul>
Progress matters more than perfection.
<hr>
F. Learning AI Is Career Insurance
Tonya encourages professionals to:
<ul>
<li>Learn AI on their own time if necessary</li>
<li>Experiment hands-on, not just consume content</li>
<li>Become the AI &ldquo;go‑to&rdquo; person at work</li>
<li>Increase job security by increasing relevance</li>
</ul>
Early adopters gain disproportionate advantage.
<hr>
G. No Single AI Tool Does Everything Best
She explains how different tools serve different purposes:
<ul>
<li>ChatGPT &ndash; brainstorming and idea generation</li>
<li>Claude &ndash; deeper, more refined writing</li>
<li>Perplexity &ndash; research</li>
<li>Gemini &ndash; graphics and video</li>
<li>Copilot &ndash; integrated enterprise workflows</li>
</ul>
Her advice: use multiple tools strategically.
<hr>
H. Privacy and Security Matter
Tonya stresses AI safety best practices:
<ul>
<li>Turn off model-training permissions</li>
<li>Never input personal or client-identifying data</li>
<li>Use placeholder names (e.g., &ldquo;Company X&rdquo;)</li>
<li>Treat AI tools as public spaces unless secured</li>
</ul>
<hr>
4. Notable Quotes
On AI Adoption
<blockquote>
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s not a technology problem&mdash;it&rsquo;s a people problem.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
On Fear of AI
<blockquote>
&ldquo;You&rsquo;re asking people to train a tool they think could replace them.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
On Time Freedom
<blockquote>
&ldquo;If you learn AI, it will help you leverage your time&mdash;but don&rsquo;t use that time to burn yourself out.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
On Wealth Building
<blockquote>
&ldquo;You can&rsquo;t really get ahead just being an employee. You have to leverage your money.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
On Mentorship
<blockquote>
&ldquo;You have to be careful who you plant seeds with&mdash;because they can come back and help you.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
On Women and Investing
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Even if it&rsquo;s just $100 a week or $100 a month, every little bit counts.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
On Learning AI
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Don&rsquo;t just listen&mdash;open up your laptop and start playing with it.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<hr>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
&nbsp;
Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast

Small Business Advice: conversation connects AI adoption with financial empowerment, career resilience, and modern entrepreneurship.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/f1c6614d-d827-40bb-8e13-b4f9010b9fd7/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 Wendell Graham.

A stroke survivor, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and founder of Slight Edge Consulting, joins Rushion McDonald to share a deeply personal and powerful story of survival, resilience, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

Graham recounts two life-altering experiences:
Surviving a fatal Amtrak train crash in which the person who took his place died, causing years of survivor’s remorse.
Suffering an anaphylactic shock and stroke in 2024, which temporarily robbed him of speech, memory, mobility, and independence.

Rather than allowing these moments to define him negatively, Graham reframed them as assignments—calling him to live intentionally, help others overcome “the hump,” and use his lived experience as intellectual property to serve, coach, and motivate people through adversity, business challenges, fear, and self-doubt.

The interview blends emotional storytelling with practical insights into personal growth, sales, mindset, recovery, faith, and entrepreneurship.

Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:
Inspire listeners to persevere through trauma, loss, and setbacks.
Demonstrate how adversity can become purpose and value, not limitation.
Show how lived experience translates into income and impact, especially for entrepreneurs.
Encourage patience during recovery, whether from health issues, career loss, or personal failure.
Promote Slight Edge Consulting as a resource for individuals stuck at the “15%” holding them back.

Key Takeaways 1. Survival Creates Responsibility

After narrowly avoiding the Amtrak crash that killed 47 people, Graham vowed not to waste his life and to live with intention.

Takeaway: Survival is not luck—it’s an assignment.

2. Trauma Is Real, but It Can Be Transformed

Graham openly discusses survivor’s remorse, PTSD, fear, discouragement, and self-doubt—especially after his stroke.

Takeaway: Healing is messy, slow, and honest—but possible.

3. Recovery Requires Patience With Yourself

Following his stroke, Graham had to relearn how to speak, walk, and think clearly. Progress came through patience, humility, and repetition.

Takeaway: Every recovery has its own timeline—don’t rush the process.

4. Money Is a Byproduct of Action and Value

Graham explains that income flows from prior action, knowledge, and intellectual property—not the other way around.

Takeaway: Focus on value first; money follows.

5. Most People Already Have 85% of What They Need

Through Slight Edge Consulting, Graham helps clients identify and fix the missing 15%—mindset, confidence, access, skills, or strategy.

Takeaway: You’re closer to success than you think.

6. Sales Is the Transfer of Feeling

Sales isn’t pressure or manipulation—it’s enthusiasm, belief, and confidence communicated clearly.

Takeaway: If you don’t believe in what you’re selling, no one else will.

7. Fear Grows When You Stand Still

Standing at the “hump” makes it feel larger. Movement shrinks fear.

Takeaway: Action reduces intimidation.

8. Give Yourself Permission to Be Great

Too many people wait for validation, approval, or perfect timing that never comes.

Takeaway: The cavalry is not coming—now is your time.

Notable Quotes


On surviving tragedy:

“I made a vow that I was not going to be irresponsible with the time that I have left.”


On the stroke and recovery:

“Physically, it was like being locked inside of your body.”


On honesty in healing:

“We tell the success story, but what about the middle?”


On patience:

“We have to be patient with ourselves in any recovery process.”


On mindset and entrepreneurship:

“Money is only the byproduct of something.”


On personal growth:

“Most people have 85% of what they need—it’s the 15% that’s holding them back.”


On sales:

“Selling is nothing more than transferring feeling.”


On fear and permission:

“Give yourself permission to be great. The cavalry is not coming.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

 

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.

Business Podcast

Entrepreneurship

Small Business

Business Growth

Financial Literacy

Wealth Building

Black Entrepreneurs

Minority Business

Leadership

Executive Leadership

Business Funding

Marketing Strategies

Personal Development

Startup Advice

Sales Training

CEO Interviews

Founder Stories

Professional Development

Economic Empowerment

Business Success

Networking

Brand Building

Innovation

How to start a business

Small business funding

Entrepreneur success stories

Business leadership podcast

Wealth building strategies

Black entrepreneur podcast

Minority business development

Marketing for small businesses

Business growth strategies

Startup funding opportunities

Executive leadership training

Financial literacy education

Success mindset podcast

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.

Business Podcast

Entrepreneurship

Small Business

Business Growth

Financial Literacy

Wealth Building

Black Entrepreneurs

Minority Business

Leadership

Executive Leadership

Business Funding

Marketing Strategies

Personal Development

Startup Advice

Sales Training

CEO Interviews

Founder Stories

Professional Development

Economic Empowerment

Business Success

Networking

Brand Building

Innovation

How to start a business

Small business funding

Entrepreneur success stories

Business leadership podcast

Wealth building strategies

Black entrepreneur podcast

Minority business development

Marketing for small businesses

Business growth strategies

Startup funding opportunities

Executive leadership training

Financial literacy education

Success mindset podcast

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 Wendell Graham.
A stroke survivor, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and founder of Slight Edge Consulting, joins Rushion McDonald to share a deeply personal and powerful story of survival, resilience, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship.
Graham recounts two life-altering experiences:
<ol>
<li>Surviving a fatal Amtrak train crash in which the person who took his place died, causing years of survivor&rsquo;s remorse.</li>
<li>Suffering an anaphylactic shock and stroke in 2024, which temporarily robbed him of speech, memory, mobility, and independence.</li>
</ol>
Rather than allowing these moments to define him negatively, Graham reframed them as assignments&mdash;calling him to live intentionally, help others overcome &ldquo;the hump,&rdquo; and use his lived experience as intellectual property to serve, coach, and motivate people through adversity, business challenges, fear, and self-doubt.
The interview blends emotional storytelling with practical insights into personal growth, sales, mindset, recovery, faith, and entrepreneurship.
<hr>
Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
<ul>
<li>Inspire listeners to persevere through trauma, loss, and setbacks.</li>
<li>Demonstrate how adversity can become purpose and value, not limitation.</li>
<li>Show how lived experience translates into income and impact, especially for entrepreneurs.</li>
<li>Encourage patience during recovery, whether from health issues, career loss, or personal failure.</li>
<li>Promote Slight Edge Consulting as a resource for individuals stuck at the &ldquo;15%&rdquo; holding them back.</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Key Takeaways 1. Survival Creates Responsibility
After narrowly avoiding the Amtrak crash that killed 47 people, Graham vowed not to waste his life and to live with intention.
Takeaway: Survival is not luck&mdash;it&rsquo;s an assignment.
<hr>
2. Trauma Is Real, but It Can Be Transformed
Graham openly discusses survivor&rsquo;s remorse, PTSD, fear, discouragement, and self-doubt&mdash;especially after his stroke.
Takeaway: Healing is messy, slow, and honest&mdash;but possible.
<hr>
3. Recovery Requires Patience With Yourself
Following his stroke, Graham had to relearn how to speak, walk, and think clearly. Progress came through patience, humility, and repetition.
Takeaway: Every recovery has its own timeline&mdash;don&rsquo;t rush the process.
<hr>
4. Money Is a Byproduct of Action and Value
Graham explains that income flows from prior action, knowledge, and intellectual property&mdash;not the other way around.
Takeaway: Focus on value first; money follows.
<hr>
5. Most People Already Have 85% of What They Need
Through Slight Edge Consulting, Graham helps clients identify and fix the missing 15%&mdash;mindset, confidence, access, skills, or strategy.
Takeaway: You&rsquo;re closer to success than you think.
<hr>
6. Sales Is the Transfer of Feeling
Sales isn&rsquo;t pressure or manipulation&mdash;it&rsquo;s enthusiasm, belief, and confidence communicated clearly.
Takeaway: If you don&rsquo;t believe in what you&rsquo;re selling, no one else will.
<hr>
7. Fear Grows When You Stand Still
Standing at the &ldquo;hump&rdquo; makes it feel larger. Movement shrinks fear.
Takeaway: Action reduces intimidation.
<hr>
8. Give Yourself Permission to Be Great
Too many people wait for validation, approval, or perfect timing that never comes.
Takeaway: The cavalry is not coming&mdash;now is your time.
<hr>
Notable Quotes
<ul>
<li>
On surviving tragedy:
<blockquote>
&ldquo;I made a vow that I was not going to be irresponsible with the time that I have left.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
</li>
<li>
On the stroke and recovery:
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Physically, it was like being locked inside of your body.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
</li>
<li>
On honesty in healing:
<blockquote>
&ldquo;We tell the success story, but what about the middle?&rdquo;
</blockquote>
</li>
<li>
On patience:
<blockquote>
&ldquo;We have to be patient with ourselves in any recovery process.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
</li>
<li>
On mindset and entrepreneurship:
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Money is only the byproduct of something.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
</li>
<li>
On personal growth:
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Most people have 85% of what they need&mdash;it&rsquo;s the 15% that&rsquo;s holding them back.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
</li>
<li>
On sales:
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Selling is nothing more than transferring feeling.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
</li>
<li>
On fear and permission:
<blockquote>
&ldquo;Give yourself permission to be great. The cavalry is not coming.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
&nbsp;
Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast
Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast

Motivation: A stroke survivor, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and founder of Slight Edge Consulting,

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/1797bc4e-c5ef-4042-9e1a-b4f9010b59e8/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 Dr. Kurt Jones.

Purpose of the Interview

The conversation aims to highlight the importance of mental health and wellness, particularly in the Black community, elite sports, and entrepreneurial spaces. It focuses on mental resilience, confidence building, and strategies for handling stress and setbacks, while introducing Dr. Jones’ methodology and his mission through Play 21 Wellness Academy.

Key Takeaways


Mental Health in the Black Community
Historically stigmatized; seen as weakness or negativity.
Today, awareness is improving, but significant work remains.


Customized Approach
Dr. Jones does individualized analysis and treatment plans for athletes and business professionals.
Rejects “cookie-cutter” solutions—tailors strategies to personal circumstances.


The Shelving Method
A mental organization system with four shelves:

Immediate Shelf: Urgent tasks within 24 hours.
Active Shelf: Important but less urgent tasks.
Holding Shelf: Items to revisit later.
Elimination Shelf: Thoughts/tasks to discard permanently.
Helps clients focus on the present and avoid dwelling on past mistakes.


Confidence & Setbacks
Confidence can collapse after major losses or failures.
Strategy: Remind clients of their greatness, review past successes, and rebuild momentum.
Consistency and adaptability are key to sustaining success.


Play 21 Wellness Academy
Founded in memory of Ben Wilson, a top basketball player and Dr. Jones’ best friend.
Mission: Support youth athletes, address issues like parent/teacher abuse, and provide mental health resources.
Operates as both a nonprofit and for-profit entity.


Broader Client Base
Works with elite athletes, entrepreneurs, and high-level professionals.
Mental clarity and emotional control are critical for success in any field.


Health & Balance
Encourages regular medical checkups, stress management, and work-life balance.
Advocates for self-reward and stepping out of comfort zones while maintaining wellness.


Upcoming Projects
Book: Chi-Town Blueprints (personal story and mental resilience).
Workbook on the Shelving Method for schools, universities, and professionals.

Notable Quotes


On Mental Health Stigma:
“When people talked about mental health, the first thought was negative.”


On Focus:
“You can’t take the last play to the next play.”


On Success:
“Mental thinking is a huge part of success.”


On Confidence:
“Remind yourself of what got you to the point where you were winning.”


On Consistency:
“You’ve never seen a Brinks truck behind a funeral car—the graveyard is the richest place because people die with million-dollar dreams.”


On Purpose:
“Walk in your purpose. When you walk in your purpose, there’s no stopping you.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMI

 

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.

Business Podcast

Entrepreneurship

Small Business

Business Growth

Financial Literacy

Wealth Building

Black Entrepreneurs

Minority Business

Leadership

Executive Leadership

Business Funding

Marketing Strategies

Personal Development

Startup Advice

Sales Training

CEO Interviews

Founder Stories

Professional Development

Economic Empowerment

Business Success

Networking

Brand Building

Innovation

How to start a business

Small business funding

Entrepreneur success stories

Business leadership podcast

Wealth building strategies

Black entrepreneur podcast

Minority business development

Marketing for small businesses

Business growth strategies

Startup funding opportunities

Executive leadership training

Financial literacy education

Success mindset podcast

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 Dr. Kurt Jones.
<hr>
Purpose of the Interview
The conversation aims to highlight the importance of mental health and wellness, particularly in the Black community, elite sports, and entrepreneurial spaces. It focuses on mental resilience, confidence building, and strategies for handling stress and setbacks, while introducing Dr. Jones&rsquo; methodology and his mission through Play 21 Wellness Academy.
<hr>
Key Takeaways
<ol>
<li>
Mental Health in the Black Community
<ul>
<li>Historically stigmatized; seen as weakness or negativity.</li>
<li>Today, awareness is improving, but significant work remains.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Customized Approach
<ul>
<li>Dr. Jones does individualized analysis and treatment plans for athletes and business professionals.</li>
<li>Rejects &ldquo;cookie-cutter&rdquo; solutions&mdash;tailors strategies to personal circumstances.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
The Shelving Method
<ul>
<li>A mental organization system with four shelves:
<ul>
<li>Immediate Shelf: Urgent tasks within 24 hours.</li>
<li>Active Shelf: Important but less urgent tasks.</li>
<li>Holding Shelf: Items to revisit later.</li>
<li>Elimination Shelf: Thoughts/tasks to discard permanently.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Helps clients focus on the present and avoid dwelling on past mistakes.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Confidence &amp; Setbacks
<ul>
<li>Confidence can collapse after major losses or failures.</li>
<li>Strategy: Remind clients of their greatness, review past successes, and rebuild momentum.</li>
<li>Consistency and adaptability are key to sustaining success.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Play 21 Wellness Academy
<ul>
<li>Founded in memory of Ben Wilson, a top basketball player and Dr. Jones&rsquo; best friend.</li>
<li>Mission: Support youth athletes, address issues like parent/teacher abuse, and provide mental health resources.</li>
<li>Operates as both a nonprofit and for-profit entity.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Broader Client Base
<ul>
<li>Works with elite athletes, entrepreneurs, and high-level professionals.</li>
<li>Mental clarity and emotional control are critical for success in any field.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Health &amp; Balance
<ul>
<li>Encourages regular medical checkups, stress management, and work-life balance.</li>
<li>Advocates for self-reward and stepping out of comfort zones while maintaining wellness.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Upcoming Projects
<ul>
<li>Book: Chi-Town Blueprints (personal story and mental resilience).</li>
<li>Workbook on the Shelving Method for schools, universities, and professionals.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ol>
<hr>
Notable Quotes
<ul>
<li>
On Mental Health Stigma: &ldquo;When people talked about mental health, the first thought was negative.&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
On Focus: &ldquo;You can&rsquo;t take the last play to the next play.&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
On Success: &ldquo;Mental thinking is a huge part of success.&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
On Confidence: &ldquo;Remind yourself of what got you to the point where you were winning.&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
On Consistency: &ldquo;You&rsquo;ve never seen a Brinks truck behind a funeral car&mdash;the graveyard is the richest place because people die with million-dollar dreams.&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
On Purpose: &ldquo;Walk in your purpose. When you walk in your purpose, there&rsquo;s no stopping you.&rdquo;
</li>
</ul>
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMI
&nbsp;
Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast

Mental Health: The conversation highlights the importance of mental health and wellness.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/ff2baf01-1d50-4025-b47f-b4f9010b3761/transcript

Marker 01

Marker 02

Marker 03

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FULL SHOW: Roscoe Wallace; Strawberry Letter: I Thought He Wasn't Coming Back - 11.6.26

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/c5aaa172-fdea-4e4e-bd41-b4fa0129601a/transcript

FULL SHOW: Election Recap With Roland Martin; Strawberry Letter: I'm Not Your Granny - 11.5.26

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/29411139-a06f-4e96-adc8-b4f90140763d/transcript

FULL SHOW: Results Are In; Strawberry Letter: I Know Exactly What I Saw - 11.4.26

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/c5f2f15b-f57b-47e1-b834-b4f8012d546a/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 Jennifer Ledwith.

She is the founder of Scholar Ready, whose mission is to help students excel in standardized testing and scholarship applications.

🔑 Key Themes & Highlights


The Inspiration Behind Scholar Ready
Ledwith founded Scholar Ready after realizing many students struggled with scholarships due to weak essay-writing skills.
She personally secured scholarships to fund her college education, graduating with minimal student debt.


The Importance of Standardized Test Preparation
Scholar Ready helps students prepare for PSAT, SAT, and ACT exams to unlock scholarship opportunities.
Ledwith emphasized that test scores are crucial for college admissions and financial aid.


Overcoming Barriers to Higher Education
Many students fear essay writing and test-taking, limiting their scholarship potential.
Ledwith’s program provides personalized tutoring to build confidence and improve scores.


Scholarship Application Strategies
Students must research scholarship providers and tailor their essays accordingly.
She advises applicants to highlight unique qualities beyond grades and test scores.


Encouraging Persistence & Resilience
Ledwith stresses that rejection is part of the scholarship process and should not discourage students.
She encourages students to apply widely and refine their applications based on feedback.

📘 About Jennifer Ledwith
Jennifer Ledwith is an education entrepreneur dedicated to helping students succeed in college admissions and scholarship applications. Through Scholar Ready, she provides tutoring and workshops to improve test scores and essay-writing skills, ensuring students have the financial resources to pursue higher education.

 #BEST

#STRAW

#SHMS

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.

Business Podcast

Entrepreneurship

Small Business

Business Growth

Financial Literacy

Wealth Building

Black Entrepreneurs

Minority Business

Leadership

Executive Leadership

Business Funding

Marketing Strategies

Personal Development

Startup Advice

Sales Training

CEO Interviews

Founder Stories

Professional Development

Economic Empowerment

Business Success

Networking

Brand Building

Innovation

How to start a business

Small business funding

Entrepreneur success stories

Business leadership podcast

Wealth building strategies

Black entrepreneur podcast

Minority business development

Marketing for small businesses

Business growth strategies

Startup funding opportunities

Executive leadership training

Financial literacy education

Success mindset podcast

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 Jennifer Ledwith.
She is the founder of Scholar Ready, whose mission is to help students excel in standardized testing and scholarship applications.
🔑 Key Themes &amp; Highlights
<ol>
<li>
The Inspiration Behind Scholar Ready
<ul>
<li>Ledwith founded Scholar Ready after realizing many students struggled with scholarships due to weak essay-writing skills.</li>
<li>She personally secured scholarships to fund her college education, graduating with minimal student debt.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
The Importance of Standardized Test Preparation
<ul>
<li>Scholar Ready helps students prepare for PSAT, SAT, and ACT exams to unlock scholarship opportunities.</li>
<li>Ledwith emphasized that test scores are crucial for college admissions and financial aid.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Overcoming Barriers to Higher Education
<ul>
<li>Many students fear essay writing and test-taking, limiting their scholarship potential.</li>
<li>Ledwith&rsquo;s program provides personalized tutoring to build confidence and improve scores.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Scholarship Application Strategies
<ul>
<li>Students must research scholarship providers and tailor their essays accordingly.</li>
<li>She advises applicants to highlight unique qualities beyond grades and test scores.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
Encouraging Persistence &amp; Resilience
<ul>
<li>Ledwith stresses that rejection is part of the scholarship process and should not discourage students.</li>
<li>She encourages students to apply widely and refine their applications based on feedback.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ol>
📘 About Jennifer Ledwith Jennifer Ledwith is an education entrepreneur dedicated to helping students succeed in college admissions and scholarship applications. Through Scholar Ready, she provides tutoring and workshops to improve test scores and essay-writing skills, ensuring students have the financial resources to pursue higher education.
&nbsp;#BEST
#STRAW
#SHMS
Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast

Financial Advice: Ledwith founded Scholar Ready after realizing many students struggled with scholarships due to weak essay-writing skills.

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/2c235bf9-f73c-4ec3-81cf-b4f6016c96f5/transcript

FULL SHOW: Election Day; Strawberry Letter: My Husband Is Hard To Understand - 11.3.26

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/72243dc7-e2b7-4386-a851-b4f70129ecba/transcript

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FULL SHOW: Sexiest Man Alive; Strawberry Letter: His Father Has To Keep It Down - 11.2.26

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/adf8b108-af3e-411b-b0f4-b4f60119a7e7/transcript

Kadeem Hardison and Darryl M. Bell dive into arts and pop culture — then rewatch every episode of "A Different World" on their new comedy podcast.

Listen here and subscribe to A Different World View with Darryl & Kadeem on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts!

Kadeem Hardison and Darryl M. Bell dive into arts and pop culture &mdash; then rewatch every episode of "A Different World" on their new comedy podcast.
Listen <a href="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-a-different-world-view-wi-343070531/">here</a> and subscribe to A Different World View with Darryl &amp; Kadeem on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts!

Introducing: A Different World View with Darryl & Kadeem

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/c76b0277-7727-4cbe-b899-b4f30113a266/transcript

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

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