Faith and Business: A faith-driven entrepreneur, and how she works with nonprofits to inspire and educate.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Erica Gwyn.

🎙️ Interview Summary: Erica Gwyn on Money Making Conversations Masterclass Purpose of the Interview

To spotlight Erica Gwyn’s journey as a faith-driven entrepreneur, her work with nonprofits through her company Nonprofit Guru LLC, and her educational initiatives including Seven Oaks Academy Montessori. The interview aims to inspire listeners by sharing Erica’s story of resilience, leadership, and community impact, while offering practical advice for nonprofit founders and small business owners.

🧭 Interview Outline 1. Introduction

Host Rushion McDonald introduces the show and its mission to inspire and educate entrepreneurs.
Erica Gwyn is welcomed as the founder and CEO of Nonprofit Guru LLC and Seven Oaks Academy Montessori.

2. Background & Career Journey

Erica shares her early experiences, including working with Spelman College and Habitat for Humanity.
She discusses her expertise in grant writing and nonprofit management.

3. Nonprofit Guru LLC

Origin of the name “Nonprofit Guru” from her cousin, an attorney.
Focuses on helping nonprofits with fundraising, board development, and strategy.
Works with organizations that have at least \$300,000 in revenue and an existing board.

4. Common Mistakes in Nonprofit Startups

Placing unqualified family members on boards.
Lack of understanding of board responsibilities, especially fundraising.
Over-reliance on grants without diversifying funding sources.

5. Board Development Advice

Ideal board size: 5–7 members to avoid deadlocks.
Seek members with legal, accounting, program design, and volunteer coordination expertise.
Importance of board training programs like United Way’s VIP program.

6. Faith-Driven Entrepreneurship

Erica shares her personal story of becoming a single mother at 19 and losing her child’s father.
Her journey of healing through service and community involvement.

7. Seven Oaks Academy Montessori

Purchased an existing preschool and transformed it into a boutique Montessori school.
Focus on cradle-to-pre-K education with plans to expand after-school and summer programs.
Offers unique features: professional chef, small class sizes, diverse staff, on-site therapy, and classroom cameras for parental viewing.

8. Summer Camp & Educational Expansion

Originated from a math and science summer camp inspired by her son Cameron.
Plans to revive the camp and expand educational offerings.
Emphasis on creating a cradle-to-college pipeline for students.

9. Marketing & Branding

Erica acknowledges the need to improve her visibility and branding.
Encouraged by Rushion to relaunch her website and promote her services more actively.

💡 Key Takeaways

Authenticity & Expertise Matter: Erica’s credibility stems from her hands-on experience and passion for nonprofit work.
Board Composition is Crucial: A well-trained, committed board is essential for nonprofit success.
Diversify Funding Sources: Don’t rely solely on grants—explore individual giving, estate planning, and in-kind donations.
Faith & Purpose Drive Success: Erica’s personal challenges fueled her commitment to community service and entrepreneurship.
Education is Empowerment: Her Montessori school and summer camps aim to provide foundational learning and long-term academic success.
Marketing is Essential: Visibility and branding are key to expanding impact and reaching the right audience.

🗣️ Notable Quotes

“You’re a nonprofit guru—you know nonprofits in your sleep.”
“Your board’s primary job is to be a fundraiser.”
“I’m a faith-driven entrepreneur. I walk in my purpose and that is a gift.”
“Community means accepting and respecting people and organizations working together in an ecosystem.”
“I started giving back to others, and I loved it. I’ve never known how to turn it off.”
“You have a glow about you… you are a superpower.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oppdag Premium

Prøv 14 dager gratis

Kjøp Premium

Episoder(3898)

FULL SHOW: Good Morning Chuck, Strawberry Letter: My Man Is Still Better Than Yours - 11.05.25

5 Nov 1h 28min

FULL SHOW: Election Day, Strawberry Letter: Does My Husband Know If I'm Cheating? - 11.04.25

4 Nov 1h 32min

Community Uplift: She offers two-day retreats for women diagnosed with life-leveling cancers

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Senita M. Hill. Purpose of the Interview To spotlight Peace on Patuxent Incorporated, a nonprofit founded by Senita M. Hill. To discuss the challenges women face when diagnosed with cancer and how the organization provides sanctuaries for peace, clarity, and empowerment. To inspire entrepreneurs and individuals to prioritize wellness and community support. Key Takeaways About Peace on Patuxent Located in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Offers two-day retreats for women diagnosed with life-leveling cancers. Provides limousine pickup, red carpet welcome, prepared meals, and activities focused on stillness. Launching virtual sessions nationwide in January to reach women who cannot attend in person. Life-Leveling Cancer Defined as any cancer diagnosis that disrupts life and forces major changes. Emphasizes the emotional and psychological impact beyond physical illness. Senita’s Personal Journey Inspired by her mother’s battle with lung cancer to create a space for women to pause and regain control. Empowerment Through Pause Women often feel they have choices, but treatment paths are usually predetermined. Peace on Patuxent offers a moment of stillness to reflect and make informed decisions. Community and Cultural Impact Addresses stigma in African American and ethnic communities around illness. Encourages open conversations and sharing of resources. Access and Application Apply via peaceonpatuxent.org. Requirements: Over 18, healthy enough to be independent, ideally within two years post-diagnosis. Notable Quotes “Every woman should allow herself the opportunity to come to peace.” “She matters—not just as a patient, but as a mother, daughter, coworker, and friend.” “When you hear the word cancer, it changes your life. It’s life-leveling.” “We’re not here to tell you how to run your journey. We’re here to allow you to pause your mind.” “The only way you’ll know your options is if you come out and have the conversation.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

4 Nov 33min

FULL SHOW: Ready To Love Detroit, Sista O'Dell, Strawberry Letter: I Want That Old Thang Back - 11.03.25

3 Nov 1h 32min

Steve Harvey Picks Halloween Costumes for the Crew, Strawberry Letter- Polite In The Streets, Rude In The Sheets - 10.31.25

31 Okt 1h 30min

Uplift: Explores how she created a network of childcare centers in Maryland.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Keanna Sanders. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview To highlight Keanna Sanders’ entrepreneurial journey from fashion merchandising to founding Sandbridge Early Learning Center, a network of childcare facilities in Maryland. The interview explores her motivations, challenges, and vision for empowering families and communities through early childhood education. 🧭 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Early Inspiration & Passion for Children Keanna’s love for children began at age 13, helping her grandmother care for infants and toddlers. Quote: “I was always around children… babysitting cousins, neighbors, and helping my grandmother with single moms’ kids.” 2. Education & Certifications Studied Fashion Merchandising at University of Maryland Eastern Shore and Fashion Institute of Technology. Earned childcare certifications (e.g., 45-hour and 90-hour credentials) to qualify as a teacher in Maryland. Quote: “I went and got my certifications in childcare so I could make a little extra money.” 3. Entrepreneurial Drive Keanna always knew she wanted to be her own boss, even before understanding what entrepreneurship meant. Quote: “I didn’t want to work a 9 to 5. I wanted to travel and make my own schedule.” 4. Serial Entrepreneurship Owned a car dealership called Trendy Motors before launching Sandbridge. Used profits from car sales and a bank loan to fund her childcare business. Quote: “I sold my first car and said, ‘I’m going to start a car business.’ That success helped me launch Sandbridge.” 5. Founding Sandbridge Early Learning Center The name “Sandbridge” combines her last name (Sanders) with the concept of “bridging the gap” between parents and children. Quote: “Sandbridge means bridging the gap between parents and kids.” 6. Curriculum & Learning Philosophy Uses Frog Street Curriculum for infants to age 5. Employs certified public school teachers through grants to prepare children for elementary school. Quote: “We want children to be ready for school. We teach through themes, tummy time, reading, and physical activities.” 7. Family Engagement & Community Impact Hosts family nights, festivals, and educational field trips. Offers financial support, discounts, and free meals to families in need. Quote: “We go above and beyond… sometimes I waive fees or help with scholarship applications.” 8. Franchise Vision & Branding Plans to franchise Sandbridge nationally with consistent branding across locations. Quote: “I want every Sandbridge to look the same—like Chick-fil-A or Walgreens.” 9. Overcoming Bias & Embracing Identity Initially hid her ownership due to fear of bias but later embraced her identity and impact. Quote: “You didn’t work this hard not to be recognized. People deserve to know who you are.” 10. Faith, Risk-Taking & Advice Attributes her success to faith, persistence, and taking risks. Quote: “Out of ten no’s, you’ll get one yes. Be consistent, be persistent, and lean on God.” 📍 Current Status Operates six locations in Maryland: three full sites and three before/after care programs. Serves nearly 400 children. Actively working on franchising the business. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

30 Okt 34min

FULL SHOW: What Would Steve Harvey Do As President, Strawberry Letter-Her Begging Best Friend - 10.30.25

30 Okt 1h 30min

FULL SHOW: Hurricane Melissa Hits Jamaica, Strawberry Letter-Hands on Your Knees - 10.29.25

29 Okt 1h 29min

Reklamefrie Premium-podkaster

Hør populære podkaster som Storefri med Mikkel og Herman, Ida med hjertet i hånden, Krimpodden og mye mye mer

Skap din egen podkastboble

I appen skaper du ditt eget bibliotek med favoritter, og vi gir deg også anbefalinger til podkaster du ikke kan gå glipp av.

Prøv 14 dager gratis

Dersom du er ny Podme-bruker får du 14 dager gratis prøveperiode når du oppretter abonnement

Premium

99 kr/ måned

Tilgang til alle våre Premium-podkaster
Alle podkaster fra VG, Aftenposten, BT og SA
Reklamefritt Premium-innhold
Ingen bindingstid. Avslutt når du ønsker

Prøv 14 dager gratis

Premium

129 kr/ måned

Tilgang til alle Premium-podkaster
Alle podkaster fra VG, Aftenposten, BT og SA
Reklamefritt Premium-innhold
Ingen bindingstid. Avslutt når du ønsker
En Ekstra bruker

Prøv 14 dager gratis

Populært innen Humor

Historiene og stemmene du vil høre

Ubegrenset tilgang til alle dine favorittpodkaster og lydbøker

Les mer