Strawberry Letter

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Cheryl Bevelle-Orange. Retired Chief Information Officer (CIO) of FedEx Custom Critical and author of The Courage to Continue: Navigating Your Corporate Journey, shares her inspiring story of rising from humble beginnings in Bessemer, Alabama, to becoming a high-ranking executive in a Fortune 500 company. The conversation centers on her book’s core themes: mentorship, advocacy, and sponsorship. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights Why She Wrote the Book Cheryl is a first-generation corporate American whose parents were a coal miner and a teacher. Initially written as a guide for her children, the book evolved into a broader resource for anyone navigating corporate life, especially first-generation professionals. The pandemic inspired her to add a section for leaders managing first-gen employees. Career at FedEx Spent 26 years at FedEx, culminating in her role as CIO of FedEx Custom Critical. FedEx Custom Critical handles specialized logistics, such as transporting refrigerated COVID-19 vaccines. Her role involved overseeing IT infrastructure, data, and systems—a rare position for African-American women in tech. Mentorship, Advocacy, and Sponsorship Cheryl breaks down the differences: Mentors help build skills and confidence (like background singers preparing the lead). Sponsors are like PR agents who open doors and promote you. Advocates speak up for you in rooms where you’re not present. These three pillars were essential to her success and are critical for young professionals, especially minorities. Overcoming Barriers Cheryl shares how racism and gender bias in tech were real challenges. Her first mentor was a white male who saw her potential and helped her navigate corporate culture. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, perspective, and turning frustration into action. Personal Motivation A pivotal childhood moment: seeing her grandfather sign an “X” at the bank because he couldn’t write. That experience ignited her drive for education and excellence. She wanted to see the world beyond Bessemer and use her knowledge to help others do the same. Diversity & Inclusion at FedEx Cheryl co-founded the FedEx African-American Committee, now a Business Resource Group (BRG). Initiatives included: Resume building and interview prep Black History Month events with speakers like Donna Brazile and Ben Hooks Creating safe spaces for Black employees to grow and connect 📘 About the Book Title: The Courage to Continue: Navigating Your Corporate Journey Available at: CherylBevelleOrange.com, Amazon, Barnes & Noble #AMI #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Montee Tayion Holland.   📝 Summary of the Interview Montee Holland, a Detroit native and former Marine, shares his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a successful fashion entrepreneur. As the founder of the Tayion Collection, a high-end fashion brand, Holland discusses how his experiences—from admiring stylish mentors in Detroit to designing custom garments while stationed overseas—shaped his vision. He explains the business side of fashion, including licensing, manufacturing, and retail partnerships, and highlights his recent collaboration with Macy’s to create tailored apparel for Black fraternities and sororities. Holland also emphasizes his philanthropic work, mentoring young men and securing scholarships, and outlines his plans to expand his brand globally. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview To showcase Monte Holland’s entrepreneurial journey in the fashion industry. To highlight the creation and growth of the Tayion Collection. To educate listeners on fashion business fundamentals, including licensing and retail strategy. To inspire others through Holland’s commitment to community and mentorship. To promote his recent partnership with Macy’s and future brand expansion. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Origins and Inspiration Grew up in Detroit, inspired by well-dressed coaches and Motown fashion culture. Fashion was seen as an extension of personality, especially in Detroit. Quote: “If you look good, you feel good.” 2. Military Influence While stationed overseas, Holland designed custom garments using local tailors. This experience laid the foundation for his fashion design skills. 3. Business Acumen and Growth Started selling to specialty stores before expanding to big-box retailers like Macy’s. Learned the hard way about manufacturing costs, tracking inventory, and business operations. Quote: “You can have the hottest garments in the world, but if you don’t understand the business, you will fail.” 4. Licensing Explained Licensing allows brands to scale without bearing full production costs. Quote: “Would you rather have all of $1 million or 10% of $100 million?” 5. Macy’s Partnership Collaborated with Macy’s to create tailored apparel for Black Greek organizations. Focused on using signature colors without logos to make pieces versatile. Quote: “If you know, you know. If you don’t, it’s just a cool purple jacket.” 6. Philanthropy and Mentorship Secured over 60 full-ride scholarships for young men. Mentors students through college and into entrepreneurship or career paths. Quote: “I fell in love with securing scholarships for young African-American boys.” 7. Vision and Expansion Plans to expand into women’s fashion, casual wear, and international markets. Aspires to build a legacy brand akin to Ralph Lauren or Tom Ford. Quote: “There is no mountaintop. I want to build a brand that lasts for generations.” 💬 Notable Quotes “I am my customer. I make things I would be proud to wear.” “That little voice in your head is your gift. You have to listen to it.” “We want to take this thing abroad and grow it like a heritage brand.” “Fashion is not just about clothes—it’s about community, culture, and confidence.” #BEST #STRAW  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Elliot Holland. The managing partner of Guardian Due Diligence.  Here’s a breakdown of the key topics and highlights: Key Themes & Highlights Buying Small Businesses vs. Franchises Holland explains the differences between purchasing a franchise and acquiring an independent business. He highlights the risk-reward balance, noting that franchises offer a structured model, while independent businesses can be more lucrative but require deeper due diligence. Financial Strategies for Business Acquisition He discusses the SBA 7(a) loan program, which allows buyers to acquire businesses with 90-95% financing, making ownership more accessible. Holland explains how leveraging financing can turn a small investment into a million-dollar business. Due Diligence & Avoiding Bad Deals He emphasizes the importance of financial diligence to ensure buyers don’t acquire failing businesses. Holland shares red flags to watch for, such as misleading financials and sellers masking poor performance. Masterclass for First-Time Buyers Holland introduces his Business Buying Masterclass, designed to educate entrepreneurs on the acquisition process. He provides one-on-one coaching, helping buyers navigate financing, negotiations, and deal structuring. Success Stories & Case Studies He shares examples of clients who successfully acquired businesses, including a 24-year-old entrepreneur and a 60-year-old investor. Holland highlights how his expertise helped buyers secure financing, conduct due diligence, and close profitable deals. About Elliot Holland & Guardian Due Diligence Elliot Holland is a Harvard MBA, private equity investor, and business acquisition expert. He founded Guardian Due Diligence to help first-time buyers confidently purchase profitable businesses. His firm specializes in financial diligence, ensuring buyers make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes. Through his masterclass and consulting, Holland empowers entrepreneurs to build wealth through business ownership. #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Wednesday, September 24th, 2025. Subject: "The Kitchen & The Bedroom"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed El' Deity Princey.  📝 Summary of the Interview El' Deity Princey is a transformational master coach, author, and speaker with a background in social science, neuroscience, and trauma recovery. In this powerful and deeply personal interview, she shares her journey from childhood trauma and dysfunction to becoming a high-achieving coach helping others reprogram their minds, cut toxic ties, and build wealth-driven lives. Her book, Monetize a Mind That’s Colonized, and her coaching business, 11 Master Consulting, are tools she uses to empower others to transcend adversity and manifest success. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Mindset is the Foundation of Wealth “Energy is currency.” True prosperity begins with internal transformation. Reprogramming the subconscious mind is essential to breaking free from societal conditioning and limiting beliefs. 2. Cutting Toxic Ties Toxic relationships—whether personal, familial, or professional—drain energy and hinder growth. “When you cut toxic ties, you thrive.” Applies to both employees and employers: focus on those who contribute positively to your mission. 3. Coaching vs. Therapy Coaching focuses on present and future goals, while therapy often addresses past trauma. El' Deity emphasizes accountability, strategy, and results in her coaching practice. 4. Routine Builds Wealth Daily habits, environment, and self-care routines are critical to building internal and external wealth. “Everyone has a gift. Everyone has a talent.” Routine helps unlock and monetize those gifts. 5. Healing from Trauma She shares her personal experience with Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) and how childhood PTSD mirrors veteran PTSD. Her journey from dysfunction and cult-like environments to academic and personal success is a testament to resilience. 6. Manifestation Requires Action Her concept of “Coagulation Law” emphasizes that belief alone isn’t enough—resources and action are required to manifest goals. Life is like Monopoly: strategy and movement are key to winning. 7. Empowering Language Words shape reality. Avoid saying “I’m struggling”—instead, affirm your intelligence and capability. “Speak life into yourself.” 8. Client Success Stories She helped a client leave a toxic home, pursue her talents, and attract a supportive partner—demonstrating how mindset shifts lead to real-world success. 9. Accessibility & Services Offers free live coaching on TikTok three times a week. Book: Monetize a Mind That’s Colonized is available on Amazon under her real name, Princess Halo. Coaching and courses available through 11 Master Consulting. 💬 Notable Quotes “When you master your emotions, you master your reality.” “Healing doesn’t take years—it takes intention.” “I got tired of begging for crumbs of love and began to give myself loads of love.” “Your self-image is what you attract.” “Are you tired yet? If yes, it’s time to pivot.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Valerie Obaze. Founder of R&R Skincare.   🎯 Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: Highlight Valerie Obaze’s entrepreneurial journey in founding R&R Skincare. Challenge stereotypes about Africa’s capabilities and resources. Promote African-made beauty products and their global relevance. Inspire others, especially women and diaspora Africans, to invest in and build businesses rooted in African heritage. 🧠 Key Takeaways 1. Breaking African Stereotypes Valerie and Rushion discuss how Africa is often misrepresented in Western media. Valerie emphasizes that ignorance is not always malicious, but it’s time to reframe the narrative through firsthand experience and platforms like social media. “Ignorance doesn’t always have to be an insult. If you don’t know, you just don’t know better.” – Valerie Obaze 2. The Birth of R&R Skincare Inspired by the birth of her daughter, Valerie sought natural skincare solutions. She discovered liquid shea oil, which became her first product. The brand name “R&R” stands for Rebecca Rose (her daughter’s name) and also Rest & Relaxation. “I wanted to create a product that makes using these raw materials from the continent enjoyable.” – Valerie Obaze 3. From Garage to Global Valerie started in her mother-in-law’s garage, turning it into a compliant mini factory. She had no formal business plan, relying on her PR and branding background. The brand now has three stores: one in Lagos and two in Accra, including one at the airport. 4. Authenticity and African Pride Valerie insists on maintaining the African identity of her brand. She uses locally sourced ingredients and ensures cruelty-free testing. The brand supports women in the supply chain, creating economic opportunities. “We don’t intend to hide that in any way. We just wanted to make raw materials sexy.” – Valerie Obaze 5. Expansion to the U.S. Valerie is expanding R&R Skincare to the U.S., leveraging social media, activations, and PR expertise. Products are manufactured in Africa, but distributed from U.S. warehouses to ensure timely delivery. “We found our tribe over here… and this was the right time to come back to America.” – Valerie Obaze 🧴 Product Highlights Shea Oil – First product, moisturizing and healing. Body Butter – Whipped, light, and rich in essential oils. Liquid Black Soap – Modern take on traditional African cleansing. Hand Cream – Convenient and portable for dry conditions. 🌍 Big Picture Vision Valerie’s goal is to grow an African brand globally, showcasing the richness of African resources and empowering local economies. “This is just a small representative of the entire continent and what it is capable of.” – Valerie Obaze #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Tuesday, September 23rd, 2025. Subject: "He Won't Let Me Lead"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Monday, September 22nd, 2025. Subject: "He Shouldn't Be In My Purse"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Friday, September 19th, 2025. Subject: "Oh Brother"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Thursday, September 18th, 2025. Subject: "My Husband Has Run Out Of Options"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Wednesday, September 17th, 2025. Subject: "Who's Been Filling Up Her Tank?"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Tuesday, September 16th, 2025. Subject: "He Tells His Mama Everything"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Monday, September 15th, 2025. Subject: "His Past Won't Let Him Last"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Friday, September 12th, 2025. Subject: "There's One Small Problem In The Relationship"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Thursday, September 11th, 2025. Subject: "A Little Poo Ran Off My Boo"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Wednesday, September 10th, 2025. Subject: "Numbers Don't Lie"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Tuesday, September 9th, 2025. Subject: "They're Not Really Related"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Monday, September 8th, 2025. Subject: "On Campus, Clowning"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Friday, September 5th, 2025. Subject: "His Focus Is On Other Women"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Thursday, September 4th, 2025. Subject: "I Should've Moved Before I Got Married"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.