Financial Tip: His financial book teaches principles like self-control, patience, and hope

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.

16 Dec 31min

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Felecia Hatcher. Purpose of the Interview To spotlight Black Ambition, a national initiative founded by Pharrell Williams that funds and mentors Black and Brown entrepreneurs. To promote the upcoming Black Ambition Demo Day and Fundable Founders Forum in Miami. To inspire entrepreneurs by sharing insights on scaling businesses, accessing resources, and building wealth. Key Takeaways About Black Ambition Founded by Pharrell Williams to close the opportunity gap for Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs. Has invested in 131 companies over five years. Provides capital, mentorship, and holistic support (including mental health). Event Details Demo Day (Nov 14): Entrepreneurs pitch and receive funding. Fundable Founders Forum (Nov 15): Masterclasses with industry leaders like Steve Stoute, Nancy Twine, and Linda Clemens. Focus on actionable strategies, not just inspiration. Competition Structure Annual national competition with 2,500–3,000 applications. Categories include HBCU founders, national finalists, top prize winners, and people’s choice. Process: Applications → 250 semifinalists → 3-month cohort → Top 20–25 awarded funding. Challenges & Advice Many entrepreneurs fail due to rushed applications and lack of preparation. Success requires persistence: “Apply again” if you fail. Building a team is essential—Black Ambition does not invest in solopreneurs. Impact on Black Women Fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs but often limited by resources. Need to shift from solopreneurship to team-building for scalability. Pharrell’s Motivation Believes in democratizing opportunity. Inspired by those who invested in him early in his career. Goal: Close wealth and opportunity gaps quickly—“Wealth has a need for speed.” How to Get Involved Visit blackambitionprize.com and join the newsletter for alerts and resources. Past winners share insights in info sessions. Notable Quotes On closing gaps:“People are too comfortable wasting the time of Black entrepreneurs with misaligned resources and low vibrational mentorship.” On persistence:“If it doesn’t work on you in that moment, it works for you in that moment. Either way, it works.” On Pharrell’s vision:“Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” On entrepreneurship mindset:“We have to start enjoying the process that molds us, not just say, ‘I didn’t make it, I’m upset.’” On Black women entrepreneurs:“They’re the fastest growing, but largely solopreneurs. We need them to think about building teams.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

16 Dec 27min

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant. 🎙️ Interview Summary: Dr. Jamal Bryant Guest: Dr. Jamal Harrison BryantHost: Rushion McDonaldTopic: Faith, leadership, financial literacy, and community empowerment Dr. Jamal Bryant, senior pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, shares his journey from academic setbacks to becoming one of the most influential voices in faith and social justice. The conversation explores how the Black church can evolve, empower communities economically, and embrace technology and education to uplift future generations. 🔑 Key Takeaways 🏛️ Church Beyond the Walls COVID-19 forced churches to rethink their purpose and expand beyond traditional worship. Over 3,000 people joined New Birth online during the pandemic. “Culture changes every four years, but Black church culture changes every 20. The average church is 15 years behind schedule.” 💰 Financial Literacy & Economic Empowerment The Black church must teach not just tithing, but how to multiply the remaining 90%. Black dollars circulate only 30 minutes in the community, compared to 23 times in Asian communities. “We ask for 10%, but never show people how to multiply the 90.” 🏦 Debt Reduction & Stewardship Dr. Bryant inherited a church with significant debt and reduced it through stewardship, savings, and refinancing. “We got no corporate donations. It was model stewardship and aggressive debt reduction.” 🎓 HBCU Advocacy HBCUs produce the majority of Black professionals in medicine, law, education, and politics. Despite limited resources, they outperform many predominantly white institutions. “North Carolina A&T graduates more Black engineers than any other program in the country.” 📚 Financial Habits & Credit Awareness Many African Americans live at 110% of their income. Dr. Bryant promotes the 10-10-80 rule: save 10%, give 10%, live on 80%. “We have housewarming parties for apartments… we don’t talk about homeownership.” 🌍 Personal Journey & Mentorship Failed 11th grade, earned a GED, became the first GED student to attend Morehouse. Interned for Nelson Mandela, earned a master’s from Duke, and became the youngest NAACP youth director. “You can’t achieve success by yourself. Everywhere I went, someone stepped in and moved me forward.” 🕊️ Role of the Church The church should be a “recycling center” for discarded lives, transforming people spiritually and socially. “You can come as you are. Just be clear, you won’t stay as you are.” 💬 Notable Quotes “Your revenue is in your reflection.” “The church must be high-tech and high-touch.” “We don’t like to sit down. We like to dance and dribble.” “People are dying from a lack of knowledge.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

16 Dec 21min

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Sauda Johnson McNeal. To highlight Sauda Johnson McNeal’s journey from a successful law career to filmmaking. To discuss her new film “Love the Skin You’re In”, its themes, production process, and personal significance. To inspire entrepreneurs and creatives to pursue their passions while balancing purpose and practicality. Key Takeaways Career Transition & Dual Roles Sauda started as an actor, realized the instability, and pursued law for financial security. Maintains dual careers: education attorney and filmmaker, blending purpose (helping youth) and passion (storytelling). Film Details Title: Love the Skin You’re In. Themes: Self-love, family healing, caretaking, and African-American experiences. Cast includes Wendy Raquel Robinson, Marla Gibbs, and Oba Babatundé. Release: Limited theatrical run (Dec 17–23 in North Hollywood), streaming planned for February 2026 (Black History Month). Production Challenges Unexpected permit issues caused shutdowns. Tight 4-week shooting schedule due to budget constraints. Importance of leveraging relationships and calling in favors for casting and resources. Personal Connection Story inspired by Sauda’s own struggles with self-worth during college. Emphasizes therapy, faith, and support systems in overcoming self-doubt. Entrepreneurial Insight First project was self-financed; future plans include raising private equity for films. Goal: Maintain creative control while expanding opportunities for others. Impact & Audience Takeaway Encourages self-acceptance and repairing family relationships. Resonates with men on fatherhood and emotional presence. Highlights the underappreciated role of caretakers. Notable Quotes On purpose and passion:“My purpose is to help young people. My passion is this filmmaking business.” On self-love:“Love the skin you’re in is about total self-acceptance regardless of where you are on your journey.” On overcoming fear:“Film is unpredictable… I said, okay, the other fears—do it anyway.” On family relationships:“We are not promised tomorrow… Fix these family relationships if they’re possible to be fixed.” On entrepreneurial mindset:“I absolutely would like to use other people’s money… but keep creative control.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

15 Dec 32min

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed James Green. Purpose of the Interview The interview aimed to showcase James Green’s entrepreneurial journey as the founder of KyuTeaCo (Kyushu Tea Company), a premium tea brand focused on curating authentic Japanese tea experiences. It highlighted his unique position as an African-American entrepreneur bridging cultures, his passion for tea, and his mission to educate consumers about tea’s health benefits and heritage. Key Takeaways Background & Inspiration James Green grew up in Atlanta, studied international business and Japanese, and lived in Japan for five years. His passion for tea began during a high school exchange program in Fukuoka, Japan, and deepened through cultural immersion. Business Model KyuTeaCo partners with eight small, organic tea-growing families in Kyushu, Japan. Direct-to-consumer and B2B approach: e-commerce platform launching soon, plus partnerships with cafes. Simplified supply chain: Farmers → Kuti Co → Customer (eliminates middlemen, ensures fair pay for farmers). Mission & Differentiation Focus on storytelling and cultural connection, not just selling tea. Educates consumers on tea’s health benefits (e.g., reducing hypertension and diabetes risks). Premium curated experience vs. mass-market tea brands. Challenges & Lessons Kickstarter campaign failed due to lack of collaborators and marketing reach. Learned importance of storytelling and emotional connection for crowdfunding success. Social Impact “11% for Good” Program: 11% of every sale goes to sustainability efforts for Japanese tea farming. Name significance: “11” in Japanese sounds like “ii,” meaning “good.” Future Plans Launching e-commerce in January. Exploring subscription models and virtual tea tastings. Goal: Build a brand that consumers care about through cultural education and premium experiences. Notable Quotes On launching a business:“I’m learning now more than anything, just launch it. Just go. You’ll build it brick by brick, day by day.” On cultural connection:“We’re not just selling tea; we’re telling the stories of Kyushu and these families. It’s about legacy and sustainability.” On social impact:“Every bag of tea someone buys, 11% goes toward rehabilitating the Japanese tea industry. We’re investing in their futures.” On entrepreneurship:“Anybody can sell a product. What we’re doing is creating an experience and educating people about the culture behind it.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

15 Dec 33min

The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Monday, December 15th, 2025: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open | The Pastors | Ask The CLO | Best Places to Find a Christmas Boo | Christmas Day Build Up | Sister Odell | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "Church Gospel Quiz" | Strawberry Letter - "She’s Getting More From Him Than Money" Parts 1-2-3 | Social Media Advice | Warm Weather Predictions for the Holidays | Would You Rather | Closing Remarks - Christmas CarolsSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

15 Dec 1h 30min

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Melanye Maclin. Purpose of the Interview The discussion aimed to educate the audience about the health risks associated with hair care chemicals—including relaxers, dyes, and synthetic hair—and to advocate for safer practices. It also highlighted Dr. Maclin’s pioneering work in hair and skin supplements and her ongoing mission to raise awareness about these issues. Key Takeaways FDA Ban on Hair Chemicals In 2023, the FDA considered banning certain chemicals in hair products due to health risks, but no ban has been implemented yet. These chemicals are linked to breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, and hormone disruption. High-Risk Chemicals Identified Hair Relaxers: Sodium, calcium, guanine, and lithium hydroxide. Hair Dyes: Para-phenylenediamine (especially in permanent dyes). Synthetic Hair: Contains benzene, posing risks of lung cancer and leukemia. Impact on African-American Women African-American women face a 45% higher risk of certain cancers due to combined use of relaxers and dyes. Cultural and aesthetic pressures contribute to continued use despite health risks. Children at Risk Applying relaxers to young girls can cause early puberty, uterine fibroids, infertility, and increased cancer risk. Chemicals penetrate the scalp, enter the bloodstream, and disrupt hormones. Industry Resistance Pushback from salons and manufacturers due to financial interests. Comparison to tobacco and alcohol industries—profit prioritized over health. Solutions & Advice Avoid chemical treatments when possible. If used, protect the entire scalp with petroleum jelly to reduce absorption. Space out relaxer applications (every 8–10 weeks, max 10 minutes for children). Dr. Maclin’s Contributions Launched Bella Nutri supplements (2004 for women, 2008 for men). Advocates internal nutrition for hair and skin health. Website: drmacklin.com and bellabeauproducts.com. Notable Quotes On FDA inaction:“Still to this day, that ban has not occurred… We’re continuously having women going to the next generation of life as a result—next generation cancers.” On cultural pressures:“We’re so into wanting to have a certain look versus wanting to be healthy.” On children’s exposure:“We’ve got to keep chemicals off of little girls’ hair… It’s causing hormone disruption, early puberty, infertility, and increased cancer risk.” On industry resistance:“People care about the green-eyed devil called money… Look at the tobacco industry.” On her mission:“I feel like I’m caring more about someone’s health than they’re caring about their own.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

15 Dec 30min