Money Making Conversations Master Class

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Holly Cotton (breast cancer survivor, nurse, author) and Dewayne Charleston (stage 4 prostate cancer survivor). Topic: Raising awareness and eliminating disparities in Black men’s health, especially prostate cancer. 2. Holly Cotton’s Story Breast cancer survivor and nurse with a master’s degree. Author of Strong More Than Muscles. Uses her survivorship to inspire others and promote health awareness. Advocates for being a “life survivor,” not just a cancer survivor. 3. Rushion McDonald’s Personal Experience Thyroid cancer survivor since 2015. Shares how the diagnosis changed his perspective on life and purpose. Uses his platform to raise awareness and encourage proactive health decisions. 4. Dwayne’s Journey Diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer at age 46. All 16 biopsy samples came back positive. Told by MD Anderson urologist Dr. Lewis Sisler that only prayer could help. Fought cancer for 14 years and founded a prostate cancer awareness foundation. 5. Foundation Mission Educates Black men on prostate cancer, clinical trials, and health disparities. Addresses emotional, sexual, financial, and relational impacts of cancer. Aims to break silence and stigma around men’s health issues. 6. Breast Cancer Awareness vs. Prostate Cancer Awareness Holly explains the success of “Go Pink” campaigns for breast cancer. Dewayne and Holly aim to replicate that success with “Go Blue” for prostate cancer. Goal: Encourage men to prioritize their own health and get tested. 7. Community Impact Importance of storytelling and visibility at events like HBCU games. Emphasis on legacy, education, and proactive health care. Holly and Dewayne’s collaboration bridges gender and cancer awareness gaps. 8. Closing Rushon thanks guests for their advocacy and friendship. Encourages listeners to lead with their gifts and keep winning. 💡 Key Takeaways Cancer is not a death sentence—early detection and support can save lives. Black men face the highest disparity in prostate cancer diagnoses and deaths. Storytelling and visibility are powerful tools for health education. Foundations and community events can drive awareness and action. Men must prioritize their own health, not just encourage women to get checked. Faith, support, and education are critical in the cancer journey. 🗣️ Notable Quotes “I am a life survivor, not just a cancer survivor.” — Holly Cotton “God is still in the healing business.” — Dr. Lewis Sisler (quoted by Dewayne) “Don’t ever wait to that moment to make changes in your life.” — Rushion McDonald “Tuskegee was not a clinical trial—it was a criminal conspiracy.” — Dewayne “We want those men to also be worried about their own health and have resources.” — Holly Cotton “Of all the disparities in cancer, the greatest is in prostate cancer among Black men.” — Dewayne #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 Marcus Sonnier. Founder of Snowie Atlanta: 🎯 Purpose of the Interview To showcase Marcus Sonnier’s journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship, highlight the inspiration behind Snowie Atlanta, and share insights on financial literacy, legacy-building, and faith-driven decision-making. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. From Corporate VP to Entrepreneur Marcus left a successful career as VP of PR supervision at a financial services firm to start Snowie Atlanta. He worked both jobs for five years before fully transitioning. His leap was guided by faith and a desire for self-reliance. “I looked at my wife and said, ‘Hey, I'm getting one more bonus check. And then I'm jumping off the plane.’” 2. The Product: Shaved Ice with a Twist Snowie Atlanta offers customizable shaved ice with self-serve flavor stations. Inspired by childhood experiences in Louisiana with snowball stands. “We give away the shaved ice, but we sell you the smiles.” 3. Family Legacy & Financial Literacy Marcus started the business to teach his sons about money—earning, saving, investing, and giving. His sons were involved from the beginning, learning entrepreneurship firsthand. “I said, guys, look, we're going to be entrepreneurs in this business. We're going to do it together.” 4. Faith as a Driving Force Marcus credits divine guidance for his journey and connections. He views his business as a calling and a platform for community impact. “I could feel God in my spirit saying, ‘Oh, you trust me, you really do.’” 5. Community Impact & Expansion Snowie Atlanta is expanding into Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves. The goal is to become a staple attraction and enhance the fan experience. “I want all kids to want to go to a Braves game… to get a Snowie and have an experience.” 6. Giving Back Snowie Atlanta participates in fundraising for schools, churches, and nonprofits. Marcus finds joy in writing checks back to organizations that serve the community. 💬 Notable Quotes “You may not get everything you work for, but you will work for everything you get.” “We serve memories.” “I’m just trying to be obedient and do what I think God wants me to do in this business.” #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 Celebrity Chef Jernard Wells. Award-winning television personality, author, and entrepreneur, joins Money Making Conversations Masterclass to discuss his journey from launching a seasoning line to building a successful culinary brand. Known for his hit shows New Soul Kitchen and New Soul Kitchen Remix on Cleo TV, he shares insights on branding, cooking strategies, and his bestselling cookbook Southern Inspired: More Than 100 Delicious Dishes from My American Table to Yours. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights Building a Culinary Brand Chef Jernard started his career selling seasonings, expanding into hot sauces and barbecue sauces using recipes passed down from his father. Landing a Whole Foods distribution deal was a major turning point, allowing him to scale his business and enter other markets. He believes in volume sales, ensuring his products are widely available nationwide while creating brand demand through media appearances. TV Appearances & Media Strategy Competing on Food Network Star and Cutthroat Kitchen opened doors for national exposure. He views television as a platform to direct audiences toward his products rather than just an entertainment opportunity. Hosting New Soul Kitchen gives him an avenue to teach cooking techniques and engage with viewers beyond a traditional chef role. Cooking Philosophy & Efficiency Advocates for organized cooking, reducing time in the kitchen by prepping ingredients in sections before starting. Encourages using quality spices and flavors to enhance dishes effortlessly. Believes that cooking should be about enjoyment, avoiding unnecessary complexity—especially for holiday meals. Essential Holiday Cooking Tips Choosing the right wood for smoking—hickory, cherry, apple, peach, or pecan—enhances turkey or ham flavors. Prefers injection-based seasoning for turkey, using Cajun and butter blends. Mac and Cheese Mastery – Uses cavatelli pasta, smoked Gouda, sharp cheddar, and a touch of nutmeg for depth. Advocates for simplified candied yams, avoiding overly complex versions that extend cooking time. Signature Recipes from His Cookbook Creole BBQ Shrimp – Jumbo prawns baked in garlic, Worcestershire sauce, butter, smoked paprika, and lemon. Whiskey Cranberry Glazed Ribs – Uses cranberry juice, whiskey, brown sugar, and chipotle for rich, festive flavor. Seafood Mac and Cheese – Combines lobster, shrimp, crab, chicken, and sausage for a decadent twist. 📘 Resources & Contact InformationChef Jernard’s work is accessible through:🔗 Website: Jernard Wells🔗 Social Media: @ChefJernard🔗 Book: Southern Inspired: More Than 100 Delicious Dishes from My American Table to Yours (Available on Amazon & major retailers) #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Yahya Muhammad. Topic: Entrepreneurship, legacy, and community impact through his ice cream business, Shawn Michelle’s Homemade Ice Cream Yahya Muhammad shares his journey from tasting unforgettable homemade ice cream as a child to founding one of Chicago’s most beloved ice cream brands. His story is one of perseverance, cultural pride, and community service, rooted in faith and inspired by family and fraternity. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview Highlight Yahya’s entrepreneurial journey and the founding of Shawn Michelle’s Homemade Ice Cream. Inspire small business owners and creatives to pursue their passions despite obstacles. Showcase the importance of community engagement and mentorship. Celebrate Black excellence and cultural legacy through food and service. 🔑 Key Takeaways 🍨 The Origin Story Inspired by a woman selling homemade ice cream in Avalon Park, Chicago. Spent six years perfecting his own recipe. First flavor: Honey Cinnamon Graham Cracker “I had no idea it would take about six years to learn how to make it.” 🎓 Education & Influence Holds a Master’s in Sociology from Western Illinois University. Influenced by teachings of Elijah Muhammad and Minister Louis Farrakhan. Member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, which instilled discipline and perseverance. “I learned principles… immutable principles that I’ve been striving to apply.” 🚗 From Trunk to Storefront Started selling ice cream out of the trunk of his car in 1996. Grew from renting a room in a beauty salon to multiple storefronts. Now operates in Bronzeville, a historic Chicago neighborhood. “I didn’t even have a business license… I just believed.” 🏆 Signature Flavors Known for nostalgic, Southern-inspired flavors: Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Vanilla Banana Pudding Georgia Peach Cobbler Bourbon Butter Pecan Southern Black Walnut “Our goal is to take you right back down memory lane.” 💡 Business Philosophy Focuses on customer experience over product. Staff are trained as helpers, not just workers. Emphasizes service, quality, and pricing — but prioritizes service. “The food is not the number one thing. The number one thing is the service.” 🌍 Community Impact Grew up in an underserved area of Chicago. Hires from the community and mentors youth. Dedicated the business to his late sister, Shawn Michelle, who inspired his culinary journey. “I want to be a part of that inspiration… to give the baton to the next generation.” 📈 Expansion Plans Looking to expand to Atlanta, calling it “the Mecca.” Envisions taking the brand nationwide while maintaining its cultural and community roots. “The future of Shawn Michelle’s is to be national.” 💬 Memorable Quotes “Faith over fear — I believed, I committed, I accepted the challenge.” “You have to see something different to be something different.” “I don’t have workers. I have helpers.” “I want to be a part of that that helps give them a new idea.” #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 Laura Foos. Founder of Foos Financial Services, joins Money Making Conversations Masterclass to discuss her journey from owning a salon to launching a multi-faceted financial services firm. Based in Camp Springs, Maryland, her business offers tax services, a podcast studio, event space, and consulting, demonstrating the power of multiple streams of income. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights Entrepreneurship & Business Growth Laura started as a salon owner and transitioned into financial services after recognizing the need for structured business finances among entrepreneurs. Initially hesitant about taxes, she was convinced by a longtime friend to explore the industry, leading to 10 successful seasons in tax preparation. Multiple Streams of Income Purchased commercial property to expand from salon ownership to financial services. The space now includes a photography studio, podcast studio, and event planning space, allowing rental income to cover business expenses. Financial Literacy & Business Structuring Emphasizes the importance of proper tax planning for business owners to ensure they qualify for loans and financial opportunities. Encourages entrepreneurs to set aside money annually to pay taxes and invest in their business growth. Women in Business & Mentorship Created a business networking group called Confessions of a Boss Lady, with 400+ members, to help women navigate entrepreneurship. Believes in giving back and mentoring aspiring business owners, sharing real-life insights via social media and workshops. My Tax Box Product Developed My Tax Box, a DIY tax organization kit for individuals and small businesses to track income, expenses, and potential deductions. Available online as a structured financial management tool for those who can’t afford bookkeeping services. Social Media & Brand Visibility Invested in professional branding, working with Ronnie Brown to overhaul her social media presence. Deleted old content, established a consistent brand identity, and actively shares tax tips and business advice to engage potential clients. Health & Work-Life Balance Faced major health challenges, including a minor heart attack, due to excessive stress and business responsibilities. Learned to delegate tasks, build a reliable team, and focus on strategic growth, rather than handling everything alone. 📘 Resources & Contact InformationLaura Foos' services are accessible through:🔗 Website: Foos Financial Services🔗 Social Media: @FoosFinancial #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Earthquake. Comedian, Actor, Entrepreneur and Radio Host Comedy Icon known for his Netflix special Chappelle’s Home Team Presents Earthquake: Legendary (produced by Dave Chappelle). Host of Quake’s House on Kevin Hart’s Laugh Out Loud Network via SiriusXM. Longtime contributor to the comedy scene since the 1990s, with roots in Atlanta. 🎤 Key Themes & Insights 🧠 Comedy with Purpose Earthquake emphasizes that his comedy is rooted in truth and humor—not shock value or controversy. He uses comedy to educate, especially on health issues like colonoscopies, encouraging Black men to prioritize their well-being. 💼 Business of Comedy Talks about the evolution from performing for meals to becoming a headliner. Shares insights on managing a team and making tough decisions to grow professionally. Advocates for professionalism over loyalty when scaling a business. 📺 Upcoming Projects New comedy special titled “Joke Telling Business” filmed in Atlanta. Developing a sitcom with Bill Burr, backed by Fox Network President Michael Thorn. 📻 Quake’s House Radio Show A platform for emerging comedians. Described as “The View with comedians,” focusing on hot topics and real-life scenarios. ❤️ Personal Life Credits his fiancée (soon-to-be wife) for grounding and motivating him. Says being “properly loved by a Black woman” has transformed his life and career. 💬 Memorable Quotes “I’m in the joke telling business. I’m not your pastor, not your critic. Judge me on the jokes.” “Being properly loved by a woman, especially a Black woman, is a beautiful thing.” “Laughter is the best healing ever.” #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 Brandon Bronaugh. A life transition expert and one of the faces of A&E’s hit show Hoarders. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: Explore the deeper emotional and psychological aspects of hoarding. Highlight Brandon Bronaugh's unique approach to helping individuals and families transition through crisis-level home situations. Educate the audience on the realities behind the TV show Hoarders and the broader mission of Brandon's company, Lifecycle Transitions. 🧠 Key Takeaways 1. Hoarding Is a Mental Health Crisis Hoarding is not just clutter—it’s often a manifestation of unresolved trauma. The physical accumulation reflects emotional and psychological pain. “You learn more about a person from their home than any other facet of their life.” – Brandon Bronaugh 2. Lifecycle Transitions: A Holistic Approach Bronaugh’s company blends emotional, logistical, and real estate support. Services include cleanup, therapy, home evaluations, and even relocation. The Transition Evaluation Assessment (TEA) helps clients decide whether to stay, sell, or relocate. 3. Clients Often Don’t Self-Identify as Hoarders Most clients are high-functioning individuals who don’t recognize their behavior as hoarding. Shame and embarrassment are major barriers to seeking help. “Very few people have ever called it. I mean, we do… but what I didn’t know is what it took for them to get to that point.” 4. Health and Safety Risks Hoarding environments can lead to respiratory issues, mold, fire hazards, and even death. Bronaugh created a mold remediation division after realizing the health dangers hidden behind clutter. 5. Demographics and Challenges About 80% of Bronaugh’s clients are Caucasian, but hoarding affects all races and socioeconomic backgrounds. Cases range from teenagers to the elderly. Hoarding has a high recidivism rate (65–70%). 6. Spiritual and Entrepreneurial Journey Bronaugh started as a property preservation contractor. His mission evolved into a humanitarian effort to save lives. “God had a plan. He said, no, you’re going to save lives and change.” 💬 Notable Quotes “When you go home, that’s when the mask is taken off. That’s when you can be your most authentic self.” “For every one year that a client goes without addressing the hoarding conditions… is equivalent to about one day of actual cleanup.” “We’re going to build this ecosystem… that we can do what most companies would take nine months to do in 30 days.” “The home is killing them.” 📞 How to Get Help Website: LifecycleTransitions.com Email: info@lifecycletransitions.com Services include in-home evaluations, virtual assessments, and a zero-contact cleanup option for clients too ashamed to be present. #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 Attorney Felita Cornog. An adoption attorney and foster care advocate. Felita Cornog shares her personal journey from a traumatic childhood—losing her mother to domestic violence and her father to incarceration—to becoming a passionate advocate for children in foster care. She discusses the differences between adoption and foster care, the emotional toll of her work, and how others can support children in the system even if they don’t become foster parents themselves. 🧭 Interview Outline 1. Introduction Felita shares that her passion for law began in her teens but she pursued it in her 30s after becoming a mother and homemaker. 2. Personal Backstory Felicia’s mother died from domestic violence; her father went to prison. She and her brother were raised by extended family, avoiding the foster system. This inspired her to help children who aren’t as fortunate. Quote: “I wanted to turn that story of pain into my passion.” 3. Understanding Foster Care vs. Adoption Foster Care: Temporary placement with the goal of reunification. Adoption: Permanent legal relationship. Children may be placed in foster homes or group homes. Quote: “The goal of foster care is always reunification first.” 4. Stereotypes and Realities Many children in foster care are not abused but neglected or orphaned. Misconceptions about emotional instability are common. Quote: “That’s one of the biggest myths—that all children in foster care have emotional problems.” 5. Emotional Impact of the Work Finalizing adoptions is joyful but bittersweet, especially when siblings are separated. Felita handles all types of adoptions except international. Quote: “Adoptions are one of the few times people leave a law office happy.” 6. Support for Foster Parents Foster parents receive stipends and Medicaid support. Services include mental health, respite care, and caseworker assistance. 7. How to Help Without Fostering Volunteer with CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates). Donate to private foster care agencies. Use platforms to raise awareness. 8. Adoption Process & Requirements Must be 21+ years old. Can be single or married. Must pass background checks, home evaluations, and physicals. Quote: “We’re not just going to give a child to anyone who raises their hand.” 9. National Adoption Month Celebrated in November, inspired by Dave Thomas (Wendy’s founder). Aims to raise awareness for children in foster care needing adoption. 10. Closing Felita shares her contact info: 📞 Phone: (404) 298-7373 🌐 Website: www.cornoglaw.com Quote: “Keep leading with your gifts. Keep winning.” #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 Dr. Farrah Laurent.  A former emergency room nurse turned entrepreneur and career coach, shares her journey from bedside care to building a six-figure business helping new nurses land high-paying jobs and launch their own ventures. The conversation explores nursing as a lucrative and flexible career path, the importance of mindset, and the power of personal branding. 🔑 Key Points 💼 Career Journey & Motivation Dr. Laurent was inspired by the TV show Trauma: Life in the E.R. to become an emergency nurse. She worked 13 years in ER nursing, including at a Level 1 trauma center in Detroit. Transitioned into education and leadership before launching her coaching business. 💰 Nursing as a High-Income Career New nurses in cities like NYC and Northern California can earn $100K–$175K starting salaries. National average is around $70K, but opportunities vary by region and specialization. Nurse anesthetists can earn $200K–$300K+. “New graduate nurses today… are making baseline at least $100,000, up to $175K.” 🧠 Mindset & Coaching Emphasizes abundance mindset over scarcity. Coaches nurses on resume writing, interview prep, and personal branding. Encourages nurses to invest in themselves through coaching and professional development. “If I can do it, you can do it too. It all starts with an idea and the mindset.” 📈 Entrepreneurship for Nurses Nurses are increasingly turning to consulting, coaching, and telehealth for flexibility. Dr. Laurent founded the Nurses Making Money Moves conference and authored a workbook by the same name. Organized her first conference in just 10 weeks, attracting 70 nurses from 20 states. “You’re using your intellectual property—what you already know—to monetize.” 🌍 Diversity & Representation Advocates for racial, gender, and linguistic diversity in nursing and leadership. Notes that patient outcomes improve when care providers reflect the communities they serve. “We need more diversity in nursing and nursing leadership to close the gaps in healthcare inequalities.” 💡 Advice for New Nurses Get clear on your goals and ideal work environment. Prepare thoroughly for interviews—don’t wing it. Build a strong LinkedIn presence—95% of recruiters check it. Negotiate: Know your worth, research salaries, and pitch your value. “Don’t just settle. Go after what you want.” 🚩 Red Flags in Job Offers Disorganized interview process Unwelcoming management High turnover Rushed job offers without clarity on responsibilities 📣 Closing Quote “Nurses are big problem solvers. Find the problem you want to solve and go for it.” #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 Monty Garside. A full-time attorney turned baker and founder of Confectionist Bakery. Here are some key highlights from the episode: 🎙️ Guest Background Monty Garside is a practicing attorney with over 20 years of experience in litigation. He founded Confectionist Bakery in honor of his grandmother, Ruth Ilene Burns Garside. The bakery started in his home kitchen and now ships desserts nationwide. 🍰 Bakery Journey Inspired by nostalgia and family traditions, Monty began baking after his grandmother passed away. His first successful cake was a pound cake that tasted exactly like his grandmother’s. He was encouraged to start a business by a client who was the daughter of a professional baker. 🧁 Products & Flavors Specializes in cheesecakes, pound cakes, layer cakes, and pies. Unique flavors include: Peach Cobbler Pound Cake Amaretto Pound Cake Banana Pudding Layer Cake Sweet Potato Pound Cake 🚚 Shipping & Operations Operates out of a commercial kitchen in Atlanta. Cakes are wrapped and frozen for freshness and shipped nationwide. Orders typically take 2 days to process and 3–5 days for delivery. 💡 Business Insights Challenges included pricing products appropriately and managing holiday demand. Emphasizes the importance of: Quality product Excellent customer service Knowing your target audience Target customers are busy professionals who appreciate homemade, Southern-style desserts but lack the time or skill to make them. 📈 Advice for Entrepreneurs Don’t be afraid to try something new. Control what you can—especially product quality and customer service. Trust yourself through the ups and downs. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Cicone Prince. An international motivational speaker, award-winning author, and personal development strategist. The conversation explores Cicone’s journey from graphic designer to motivational leader, his TEDx experience, and his mission to help people discover their inner value and purpose.  🧑🏾‍💼 About Cicone Prince  Founder of CiconePrince.com  International motivational speaker and TEDx presenter  Author of “Heal: Help Elevate and Learn – A Guide to Healing Your Inner Child”  Host of a podcast focused on inner child healing and personal growth  Former graphic designer turned personal development strategist  💡 Key Themes & Takeaways  📘 Personal Development & Inner Healing  Cicone emphasizes the importance of healing inner child trauma to unlock personal growth.  His book and podcast aim to start conversations around emotional healing and self-awareness.  Encourages people to ask themselves deep, reflective questions to uncover their true purpose.  🧭 Purpose & Motivation  Known for the phrase: “We make motivation personal by introducing you to yourself.”  Believes everyone has a unique gift meant to serve others, not just themselves.  Helps individuals identify what they do effortlessly that brings joy and impact.  🎤 Speaking & Impact  Uses storytelling and emotional connection to inspire audiences.  Aims to leave people talking about themselves and their potential, not just about him.  Delivered a powerful TEDx talk and speaks internationally, including upcoming engagements in Kenya.  📚 Books & Recognition  Author of “Are You Climbing the Wrong Mountain?” and “Heal.”  “Heal” won an International Impact Book Award.  His work bridges personal development and mental health awareness.  🌍 Vision for the Future  Aspires to become a household name in personal development.  Plans to expand his reach through national platforms and continued international speaking.  Seeks to collaborate with mental health professionals to deepen the impact of his message.  🌟 Special Recognition  Regular guest on Money Making Conversations Masterclass  Recognized for his authenticity, emotional intelligence, and ability to inspire action  #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 Katrice Miller. A nationally recognized labor relations expert and career coach. The conversation explores her journey from federal government service to corporate leadership, her insights on labor law, personal branding, and how individuals can navigate layoffs, negotiate salaries, and build resilient careers. 👩🏾‍💼 About Katrice Miller Labor Relations Counsel at Starbucks Former Director of HR Compliance at Microsoft Over 25 years of experience in labor relations across government and corporate sectors Founder of CorporateWinners.com, a career and business coaching platform Former federal employee with the U.S. Department of Labor 💡 Key Themes & Takeaways⚖️ Labor Relations vs. Human Resources Labor relations focuses on compliance with labor laws and maintaining fair employer-employee relationships HR is broader, covering benefits, PTO, and general employee support Emphasizes proactive compliance and consistency in workplace practices 📉 Layoffs & Downsizing Advocates for transparency and consistency during layoffs Encourages employers to treat employees with dignity and follow both legal and internal policies Advises employees to separate their identity from their job and focus on personal brand resilience 💼 Personal Branding & LinkedIn Personal brand should reflect your value, not just your job title LinkedIn is a powerful tool for visibility, networking, and showcasing skills Encourages employees to build their brand even if their current job doesn’t align with their long-term goals 💰 Salary Negotiation & Career Growth Keep a running file of accomplishments to support salary discussions Always counteroffer with research-based reasoning Negotiation is a conversation, not a confrontation 🎯 Coaching & Empowerment Offers affordable coaching programs launching July 1 via CorporateWinners.com Focuses on helping clients build sustainable careers, not just find jobs Provides templates, interview prep, and 24/7 support for job seekers 🧠 Mindset & Motivation Encourages clarity, confidence, courage, and calm during career transitions Advises against panic-driven job applications Promotes self-assessment and strategic pivots for those unhappy in their current roles 🌐 Vision for the Future Aims to scale her coaching impact through online programs Seeks to empower more professionals, especially those affected by layoffs, with tools for career resilience #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 Charelle Lans. A six-time award-winning author, motivational speaker, and business strategist known as the “business therapist.” Here's a detailed summary of the key insights and takeaways: 🎙️ Guest Overview: Charelle Lans Title: Business Strategist, Vision Strategist, and Founder of Vision Strategy Management (VSM) Background: Industrial engineering degree; former Fortune 500 employee (e.g., Johnson & Johnson) Mission: Helps individuals and businesses diagnose issues, define strategies, and drive performance. 💼 Core Concepts & Insights 🔍 What She Does Acts as a “business doctor” for small to mid-sized businesses. Helps clients uncover blind spots, streamline operations, and align personal purpose with business goals. 🧠 Key Philosophies “Profit is in the patterns, not in the panic”: Sustainable success comes from consistent systems, not reactive hustle. “You deserve to be paid, not just passionate”: Passion is important, but structured pricing and value delivery are essential for sustainability. “Rest is a revenue strategy”: Rest improves clarity, leadership, and long-term business health. 🛠️ Business Strategy Tips 1. Pricing & Value Research your market and understand the problem you solve. Avoid underpricing due to emotional ties or overpricing without value. Develop a pricing strategy that reflects your experience and the value you deliver. 2. Scaling Smartly Avoid “scaling chaos” — building a brand without infrastructure leads to burnout. Build systems, processes, and the right team before scaling. A platform (not just a brand) is sustainable and scalable. 3. Vision Execution A vision without a strategy and management is just a wish. Use metrics to track progress and ensure your vision is in motion. Surround yourself with: Mentor Sponsor Coach Network 🧩 Common Entrepreneurial Pitfalls Wearing “hustle” as a badge of honor can lead to burnout. Trying to do everything alone without a blueprint or support system. Fear of sharing ideas due to intellectual property concerns — instead, stay ahead by always working on the next idea. 📲 Connect with Charelle Lans Website: visionstrategymanagement.com Social Media: @CharelleLans on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn #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 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 #SHMS  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Moniek Garside. A licensed clinical social worker and founder of Fit Life Wellness. Here's a comprehensive summary of the episode: 🎙️ Guest: Moniek Garside Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in Georgia, Colorado, Illinois, South Carolina, and Minnesota. Founder of Fit Life Wellness, a private mental health and wellness practice. Author of the guided journal I Can, I Will. 🧠 Key Topics Discussed 🧘‍♀️ What Therapy Really Is Therapy is not just “talking on a couch”—it’s a safe space for vulnerability, healing, and personal growth. It involves unpacking emotional challenges, not just surface-level advice. 🔄 Life Transitions Includes shifts like: Moving from corporate to entrepreneurship Divorce or children leaving home Personal reinvention Therapy helps individuals navigate uncertainty and redefine stability. 🧑‍💼 Mental Health for Entrepreneurs Entrepreneurs often neglect self-care in pursuit of success. Therapy helps them prioritize balance, manage burnout, and maintain mental clarity. Moniek emphasizes the importance of processing emotions and having a support system. 📘 About the Book: I Can, I Will A 30-day guided journal with weekly themes and daily prompts. Designed to help individuals: Reflect on their emotions Reset their mindset Overcome depression, anxiety, and life transitions Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and MoniekGarside.com 🧩 Common Mental Health Misconceptions Mental health is often oversimplified or trivialized on social media. Terms like “anxiety” and “boundaries” are used without understanding. Real healing requires professional guidance, not just affirmations or apps. 🧍‍♀️ Moniek’s Personal Journey Originally a nursing major, she transitioned to social work after realizing her passion was emotional care. She created Fit Life Wellness to have autonomy in how she supports clients. She is both a therapist and a therapy client—emphasizing the importance of self-work. 🧠 Mental Health Red Flags Depression: Irritability, isolation, loss of interest, low motivation. Anxiety: Racing thoughts, physical symptoms (e.g., heart palpitations), constant worry. 🧰 Therapy vs. Technology Apps and AI tools can supplement mental health care (e.g., affirmations, breathing exercises). But they cannot replace the human connection and insight of a trained therapist. 🌐 Connect with Moniek Garside Website: MoniekGarside.com Practice: Fit Life Wellness Services: Virtual therapy, clinical supervision, mental health resources #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 Tracy and Sunshine Gantt. A husband-and-wife team who founded the first and only homeless shelter in Pickens County, South Carolina. Here are some key highlights and themes from the conversation: Here are some key highlights and themes from the conversation: 🌟 Key Themes and Highlights Faith and Redemption Tracy shares a deeply personal journey from a troubled past involving street life, incarceration, and violence to becoming a pastor and community leader. Sunshine also opens up about her own struggles, including a period of homelessness, and how faith and resilience brought them back together. Founding the Shelter Despite numerous obstacles—including zoning issues, lack of funding, and health challenges—they transformed a 6,000 sq. ft. warehouse into a fully operational homeless shelter. The shelter now serves 50–60 individuals daily, offering meals, shelter, and care at no cost. Community and Recognition Their work has been recognized with local and national honors, including the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. They emphasize the importance of community support, with contributions from businesses like Home Depot and local churches. Humor and Humanity The interview is filled with warmth, humor, and authenticity, making their story not only inspiring but also deeply human and relatable. Call to Action and Support Host Rushion McDonald pledges a $1,000 donation and promises to visit and bake for the shelter residents, reinforcing the show's mission to uplift and support changemakers. #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 Lorraine K. Lee. A LinkedIn Top Voice and author of Unforgettable Presence: Get Seen, Gain Influence, and Catapult Your Career. Hosted by Rushion McDonald, the conversation dives deep into the power of presence, personal branding, and workplace advancement in a digital-first world. Lorraine shares tactical strategies and career-transforming insights from her own corporate journey and bestselling book. 📘 About Lorraine K. Lee• Career: Former founding editor at LinkedIn and Prezi• Author: Unforgettable Presence, a practical guide for professional visibility• Focus: Empowering ambitious professionals to go from overlooked to unforgettable• Audience: Corporate professionals, team leaders, speakers, and solopreneurs 💡 Key Themes & Insights• Modern Presence: From Zoom calls to LinkedIn profiles, visibility in the virtual workplace is key• Personal Brand = Career Brand: Your reputation is your brand—intentionally shape it• Advocacy: Success comes from promoting your work and knowing how to communicate value• Layoff Recovery: How Lorraine turned a 2022 tech layoff into the launchpad for her book and speaking career• Executive Presence: Reimagined with the “3 C’s”—Communication, Career Brand, and Credibility• Promotion Strategy: Be proactive, not reactive—speak your career goals early and often• Representation Matters: As an Asian-American woman, Lorraine emphasizes visibility and authenticity for underrepresented professionals 📚 Unforgettable Presence Book Takeaways• 4 Key Sections: Set a Strong Foundation Build Essential Modern Skills Advance Your Career with Intention Lead and Expand Team PresenceReal stories, data-driven advice, and step-by-step frameworks to elevate your visibility 🔁 Personal Journey• Left corporate life after a layoff and built a thriving brand as a speaker, author, and executive coach• Overcame corporate stagnation by advocating for herself, creating a content strategy, and building her confidence through consistency 📣 Call to ActionLorraine invites professionals to treat themselves like a brand and take control of their visibility. Follow her on LinkedIn, subscribe to her Career Bites newsletter, or enroll in one of her LinkedIn Learning courses to begin your journey toward becoming unforgettable. #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Danielle Jeter. A public relations and event planning expert, and founder of Women in Media Global and AOI Events and PR (Affairs of Influence). Here are some key highlights from the conversation: 🎙️ Guest Background Danielle is a Spelman College graduate based in Miami, Florida. She began her career in event planning and transitioned into public relations after working at Radio One in Philadelphia. She founded Women in Media Global in 2012, impacting over 15,000 women and students globally. 📣 Strategic Communication & Branding Emphasizes the importance of external communication and understanding the target audience. Defines a brand as a company’s reputation, not just its visual identity. Brand activations are described as experiential marketing efforts that create emotional connections with consumers. 💡 Marketing & Sales Insights Advocates for niche marketing over trying to appeal to everyone. Encourages small businesses to allocate 10–30% of profits to marketing. Offers a six-week marketing and sales accelerator for startups and growth-phase businesses. 🤝 Client Onboarding Process Offers a free discovery call to assess fit and understand client goals and pain points. Works primarily on a retainer model for PR services. 🎧 Extensions of Her Brand Hosts the WIM Speaks podcast, available on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube. Uses platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn to connect and share her work. #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 Gregory Richardson. A cybersecurity expert and AI consultant. The conversation explores cybersecurity best practices, the rise of AI, and how Gregory is helping churches and nonprofits leverage technology to spread the gospel. 🔐 Cybersecurity Insights 🔹 Gregory’s Background Based in Dallas, Texas. Works full-time as an ethical hacker and cybersecurity consultant for major corporations and governments. Also a serial entrepreneur with ventures in real estate, consulting, and software. 🔹 Key Cybersecurity Takeaways Multitasking Myth: Gregory argues that humans are not wired for multitasking—focus leads to better outcomes. Password: Avoid using simple passwords like “1234.” Don’t reuse passwords across platforms. Use passphrases (e.g., Bible verses) for stronger security. Change passwords regularly. Password Vaults: Recommends using reputable services like Google or Microsoft. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Strongly encourages using 2FA to protect accounts. Phishing Scams: Be wary of urgent or fear-based emails. Always verify suspicious messages by contacting the company directly. Scammers often mimic trusted brands (e.g., Facebook, Bank of America). 🔹 The Bigger Picture Cybercrime now generates more revenue than global drug trafficking. Criminal organizations are well-funded and recruit tech talent to build sophisticated scams. 🤖 Artificial Intelligence & Opportunity 🔹 AI as a Tool for Good Compares AI to the Gutenberg printing press—initially misused, but ultimately transformative. Believes AI’s potential far outweighs its risks. 🔹 AI in Business Helps businesses identify “million-dollar problems” and solve them with AI. Example: Built a toll-tracking app for a car rental company that became more profitable than the rental business itself. Encourages entrepreneurs to use AI tools to build apps without needing coding skills. 🔹 AI in Education Created a custom math quiz app for his daughter using her course materials and AI. 🙏 AI for Churches & Nonprofits Gregory focuses on helping churches and nonprofits use AI to: Spread the gospel. Operate more efficiently. Compete with limited budgets. Offers consulting and resources through his website: GregoryRichardson.ai 📚 Book Mentioned Gregory has authored a book on using AI to solve business problems and create scalable solutions. 🎙️ Closing Notes Rashawn praises Gregory’s passion, clarity, and practical advice. Plans to bring him back for a deeper dive into AI’s role in faith-based and nonprofit work.   #STRAW #BEST #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Naveen Jain. He is an indomitable force fueled by unyielding curiosity and an unwavering commitment to propel humanity toward a future of limitless possibilities. As the Founder and CEO of Viome, Naveen spearheads a revolution in personalized health and human longevity that extends far beyond conventional approaches. Viome's groundbreaking mRNA analysis with an AI-driven platform analyzes the intricate interplay between food, our microbiome, and our human cells and pioneers early diagnostics and preventative wellness strategies. By decoding the molecular information within each individual, Viome aims to empower people to take proactive steps towards health and longevity, preventing chronic diseases before they manifest. Naveen's visionary leadership has garnered numerous accolades, reflecting his unwavering dedication and trailblazing spirit. From being recognized as "Entrepreneur of the Year" by Ernst & Young to receiving the esteemed "Most Creative Person" title from Fast Company, his exceptional contributions have left an indelible mark. Naveen's brilliance and philanthropic endeavors have earned him prestigious honors, including the esteemed "Lifetime Achievement Award" by Red Herring and the notable "Medal of Honor" by Ellis Island. Notably, Town & Country Magazine celebrated him as one of the "Top 50 Philanthropists," further underscoring his commitment to making a meaningful impact. Company Description *We provide the industry’s only direct-to-consumer healthcare test that analyzes microbial and human gene expressions (mRNA), with technology exclusively licensed from Los Alamos National Lab, in order to provide individuals with health insights and the nutrition they need. By joining Viome, you are joining a revolutionary movement. A movement that – for the first time in human history – will make becoming ill a matter of choice, and not simply bad luck. Scientists have worked for over a decade to develop this technology that offers unprecedented visibility into your body. With this, we can create a unique profile of the biochemistry and ecosystem inside of you, and make personalized, actionable, and adaptive recommendations for your health. Our at-home tests are not just one-time tests, but your true health companion, enabling you to monitor your health over time. Your results and recommendations adapt to your changing ecosystem so you are always aware and taking action towards maximizing your vitality and lifespan. The Viome team is made up of scientists, engineers, researchers and entrepreneurs who are passionate about radically improving the wellness of our customers. #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.