Brand Building: She creates AI Clones that can produce content without the owner being physically present.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brittany Benson. *** ### **Purpose of the Interview** The interview on *Money Making Conversations Masterclass* aimed to: * Showcase Brittany Benson’s journey as a **brand strategist**, **AI consultant**, and founder of **The Branding Bar**.* Educate entrepreneurs and small business owners on **branding**, **social media strategy**, and the **impact of AI** on marketing.* Inspire listeners to leverage technology and consistency to build authentic brands. *** ### **Key Takeaways** 1. **Early Branding Journey** * Brittany unknowingly started building her brand in college through her TV show *On the Air with Brittany B*. * She leveraged early platforms like YouTube and Facebook before “social media” was a term. 2. **Consistency is Key** * Success in branding comes from **consistent engagement**, even before monetization was possible. * Brittany grew her Instagram following to over 130,000 by focusing on consistency rather than chasing trends. 3. **Influencer Myth** * Large follower counts don’t guarantee success; **engagement matters more than numbers**. * “If I have 2,500 followers who listen to me, that’s more powerful than 100,000 who don’t.” 4. **Paid vs. Organic Growth** * Paid ads can help, but **organic growth builds trust**. * Best practice: build an organic base first, then use paid ads to amplify. 5. **Pivot to AI** * Brittany pivoted from a traditional social media agency to **AI-driven branding solutions**. * She creates **AI twins** for business owners—digital replicas that can produce content without the owner being physically present. 6. **Generative AI in Marketing** * AI tools can create graphics, videos, and even voice clones. * Brittany emphasizes AI as a **tool to enhance workflow**, not replace human creativity. 7. **Consulting Approach** * Offers strategy calls to identify problems and recommend AI tools. * Services range from **strategy planning**, **consulting**, to **done-for-you solutions**. *** ### **Notable Quotes** * **On branding:** *“I was always building a brand, even when I didn’t realize I was building a brand.”* * **On engagement vs. followers:** *“If I have 2,500 followers who listen to me, that’s more powerful than 100,000 who don’t.”* * **On AI’s role:** *“AI is just a tool. It’s not going to replace your job—it still needs human direction.”* * **On staying ahead:** *“I’ve been told I have the gift of insight to see what’s coming, even if it’s not popular yet.”* * **On her pivot:** *“I started generating AI twins for business owners so they could show up online without showing up.”* *** #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
11 Jan 31min
Family First: Became a teen father and took his son with him to college at Florida A&M University.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Michael Woodward. A natural-born entrepreneur and community leader. 🎙️ Guest Background: Michael Woodward Grew up in Liberty City, Miami, in a low-income housing project known as the "Poke and Bean" projects. Learned early business skills from his grandmother, who was the local "candy lady." Served briefly in the military as a way out of poverty. Became a teen father and took his son with him to college at Florida A&M University (FAMU). Known for his hospitality and work ethic during college—cooked for friends and maintained a welcoming home. 🏠 Entrepreneurial Journey Bought his first duplex at age 20, renovated it, and rented it out. Built a real estate portfolio while working as an educator. Founded Woodward Property Group, a full-service home improvement and property management company. Became one of Lowe’s top contractors through a combination of skill, networking, and mentorship. 📚 Educational Impact Worked as an assistant principal and educator for 20 years. Founded Alpha Educational Consultants, Inc. Took students on college tours, especially to HBCUs, to expose them to higher education opportunities. Ran STEM programs and mentoring initiatives with a 99.9% college placement rate. 💡 Life Lessons & Advice Emphasizes financial literacy: avoid unnecessary spending (e.g., new cars every year). Advocates for education as a path to wealth. Believes in the village mentality—community support and shared success. Encourages young people to choose between college, military, or trade school. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
11 Jan 26min
Brand Building: She's breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated construction industry.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Monique Strong. President of the Atlanta Chapter of the National Association of Black Women in Construction (NABWIC). Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways: 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Breaking Barriers in Construction Monique Strong is a trailblazer in a traditionally male-dominated and white-dominated industry. She leads NABWIC’s Atlanta chapter, advocating for leadership, equity, and professional development for Black women in construction. 2. What “Construction” Really Means Construction isn’t just hard hats and manual labor—it includes: General contracting Project management Estimating Safety coordination Architecture and engineering Business ownership and development 3. Legacy and Inspiration Monique’s passion for construction was inspired by her grandfathers and her grandmother, who helped build the home she grew up in. Her journey includes a degree in engineering from Clark Atlanta University and further training in construction management. 4. Challenges and Triumphs Faced skepticism from family and industry peers. Overcame stereotypes and isolation as a young Black woman in construction. Emphasizes the importance of knowing who you are and embracing your identity as a woman in the field. 5. The Power of Mentorship and Community NABWIC provides a supportive network for women at all stages of their construction careers. Weekly calls, mentorship, and shared resources help members grow and succeed. 6. Why Diversity in Construction Matters Diversity reflects the makeup of the country and brings innovation and detail-oriented excellence to the field. Inclusion in leadership and contracting opportunities is essential for equity and community development. 💬 Notable Quotes “You don’t have to be hard. You just have to be hungry.” “We are the unicorns people are looking for.” “I like to take something that’s nothing and make it something.” 🎯 Advice for Women in Construction Get involved with a community like NABWIC that supports your growth. Seek mentorship from women at all stages—beginning, middle, and end of their careers. Embrace your uniqueness and use it to lead and innovate. #SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMISupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
11 Jan 27min
Branding Building: She helps people “bloom into their best selves” through self-discovery, journaling, and affirmations.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Paris Fletcher. Founder of Full Bloom. Here’s a breakdown of the key themes and takeaways: 🌸 About Full Bloom Mission: To help people “bloom into their best selves” through self-discovery, journaling, and affirmations. Origin: Born during the pandemic when Parris began sharing motivational content on TikTok. Name Meaning: Inspired by plants — just like them, people need the right environment and care to thrive. 📓 The Product: Guided Journal Title: Back to Me: The Journey Back to Self Format: Available in both hardcover and digital. Content: 365+ daily prompts and space for affirmations to encourage reflection, self-awareness, and personal growth. Purpose: Helps users explore their identity, values, relationships, and goals. 🎭 Parris’ Background Former professional dancer and actress in Los Angeles. Toured internationally and appeared in commercials and TV shows. Transitioned from entertainment to entrepreneurship after facing industry frustrations and seeking more control over her path. 💡 Entrepreneurial Insights Started with no formal business plan or funding — bootstrapped using personal savings. Faced rejection from banks but turned it into a strength by maintaining full ownership. Built a loyal community through authenticity and vulnerability on social media. Key to success: Quality product + genuine connection with audience. 💬 Quotes That Resonate “Sometimes all you have to do is just start.” “If we’re not in the right environment, we’re not going to thrive.” “People are looking for real people they can relate to.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10 Jan 25min
Uplift: Inspired by her father, has mentored over 250 life insurance agents and served more than 5,000 families.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brianna Johnson. A dynamic entrepreneur and founder of Legend Life Financial. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and insights from the episode: 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Early Entrepreneurship By age 22, Brianna owned two clothing stores and a hair salon in Chicago. Inspired by her father, a long-time financial services professional, she developed a strong entrepreneurial spirit early on. 2. Transition to Financial Services At 24, she pivoted into financial services, initially resistant to the idea due to its lack of “cool” appeal. She passed her state licensing exam and is now licensed in over 30 states. Her company, Legend Life Financial, focuses on life insurance and financial education. 3. Insurance Education & Transparency Brianna emphasizes the importance of understanding the differences between: Term Life Insurance: Affordable, fixed for a set term (e.g., 20–30 years), but can increase if it's an annual renewable term. Whole Life Insurance: Permanent, more expensive, builds cash value slowly. Indexed Universal Life (IUL): Tied to stock market performance with capped gains and protected downside. Universal Life: Flexible premiums, moderate cash value growth. Final Expense Policies: For individuals with health or legal issues, typically lower coverage. 4. Client Advocacy She stresses the need to ask questions like “What type of policy is this?” and to avoid blindly trusting agents—especially those who may not stay in the business long-term. She follows up with clients regularly and educates them on evolving insurance needs. 5. Mentorship & Impact Brianna has mentored over 250 life insurance agents and served more than 5,000 families. She’s passionate about empowering people of color through financial literacy and entrepreneurship. 💬 Notable Quotes “Fear is just false expectations appearing real.” “Everything you want is on the other side of fear.” “You don’t have to work more to make more—you just have to work smarter.” 📍 Contact & Resources Website: LegendLife.com (spelled with a “Z” – LegzendLife.com) Phone: (312) 768-3604 Social Media: @BriannaKaylaJ on all platforms #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10 Jan 24min
Uplift: He helps churches and nonprofits leverage technology.
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 Rushion 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. #SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMISupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10 Jan 34min
Uplift: Her book helps families prevent accidental overdoses and promotes responsible medication use.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Yolanda D. McElroy. A registered pharmacist and author. Dr. McElroy discusses medication safety, her career in pharmacy, and her children's book, It's Not Candy, which educates children and parents on the importance of proper medication storage and awareness. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights The Importance of Medication Safety Medications are a leading cause of accidental poisoning in children. Parents must store medicines properly and educate children on their dangers. Dr. McElroy’s Pharmacy Journey Started in chemistry before transitioning to pharmacy school. Has nearly three decades of experience in retail and hospital pharmacy. Challenges in the Pharmacy Profession Pharmacists face increasing workloads, including vaccinations and insurance issues. The profession has seen strikes due to excessive demands and responsibilities. Educating Children & Parents Her book It's Not Candy teaches kids to recognize medicine and avoid accidental ingestion. She emphasizes the need for early education, starting as young as three years old. Community Outreach & Consulting Founded MediManage Consulting to promote medication safety and health education. Works with schools and organizations to distribute her book and raise awareness. 📘 About Dr. Yolanda D. McElroyDr. McElroy is a pharmacist, consultant, and author dedicated to improving medication safety and health education. Her book It's Not Candy helps families prevent accidental overdoses and promotes responsible medication use. Let me know if you'd like any refinements! #AMI #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10 Jan 28min
FULL SHOW: Stupid Questions, Strawberry Letter:She Was Wearing My Wig With My Husband - 1.9.26
The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Friday, January 9th, 2026: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open | Run That Prank Back - "Weed In The Church Van" | Ask The CLO | Entertainment News | What Do You... | Roscoe Wallace | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "The Blind Barber" | Strawberry Letter - "She Was Wearing My Wig Wig With My Husband" Pt. 1-2 | Junior's Sports Talk - Pimpin's NFL Playoff Picks | Social Media Advice | Ready To Love Update | Would You Rather | Steve Harvey's Closing RemarksSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
9 Jan 1h 32min
