Memorial Day Best of - 05.29.17

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Cedric Walker. Founder of the UniverSoul Circus, shares his journey from producing gospel plays to creating a globally recognized, culturally rich circus experience. He discusses the inspiration behind the circus, the challenges he faced, the importance of representation, and the evolution of the show. The conversation emphasizes family entertainment, cultural authenticity, and global talent development. 🧭 Key Points 1. Origins and Vision Cedric began in gospel theater, producing plays that reflected real-life challenges in the Black community. Inspired by the power of theater to reflect culture, he envisioned a circus that celebrated African-American heritage and family unity. 2. Challenges and Breakthroughs Faced skepticism from both Black and white industry professionals. Overcame legal hurdles with Universal Studios by renaming the circus to UniverSoul Circus. Maintained his original vision despite pressure to conform. 3. Cultural Representation The circus was designed to be inclusive and multigenerational, with acts that resonate across age groups and backgrounds. Emphasized showcasing Black excellence in performance arts, from aerialists to unicyclists. 4. Global Talent and Training Talent is sourced globally from Ethiopia, Cuba, China, and the Caribbean. Performers undergo 4–5 years of training before appearing under the big top. Ethiopia is now a leading source of Black circus performers. 5. Evolution of the Show Transitioned away from animal acts due to changing laws and ethics. Integrated Afrobeats, hip-hop, and global dance styles to reflect evolving cultural trends. The show is described as a “family reunion under the big top.” 💬 Notable Quotes “The idea was to create something where a father, mother, daughter, and grandson could all sit together and enjoy the show.” “We wanted to uplift and celebrate the positive achievements and cultural contributions of African-Americans.” “Everything you see under the big top is curated—it takes 4 to 5 years before an act hits our stage.” “Ethiopia is leading the world in producing Black circus performers.” “It’s like a family reunion under the big top.” “We’re not going after any specific audience—we’re going after the world.” “UniverSoul Circus starts on time. Don’t be late—you’ll miss something great.” #SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMISupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

13 Sep 25min

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Jotaka Eaddy. An award-winning strategist and advocate, founder of Win With Black Women (WWBW)—a collective of over 200,000 Black women leaders. Key Highlights from the Interview: 🎙️ Opening Message Rushion emphasizes the importance of living your own success story and introduces the show’s mission to inspire and educate. 👩🏾‍💼 Guest Introduction: Jotaka Eaddy First Black woman student body president at the University of South Carolina. Founder of WWBW, which aims to uplift Black women in leadership, politics, and business. Works to bridge the gap between Washington, D.C., and Silicon Valley. 🌍 Win With Black Women (WWBW) Originated during the 2020 election cycle in response to sexist and racist attacks on potential Black female VP candidates. Focuses on: Combating racism and sexism. Supporting Black women in elections. Elevating the economic and cultural power of Black women. Organized impactful initiatives like theater buyouts for The Little Mermaid to demonstrate economic influence. 💡 On Leadership and Identity Jotaka reflects on her upbringing in rural South Carolina and the influence of her late mother and community. She discusses the importance of representation, mentorship, and self-belief. Emphasizes that leadership is not just about position but about empowering others and evolving daily. 💻 Bridging to Silicon Valley Shares her journey into tech, overcoming imposter syndrome, and becoming a C-suite executive. Advocates for demystifying tech careers for Black communities and creating inclusive opportunities. 🧠 Perception vs. Reality Addresses stereotypes about Black women and contrasts them with data: Black women are the most educated demographic and fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the U.S. 💬 Closing Thoughts Rashawn praises Jotaka’s motivational presence and impact. Jotaka shares her commitment to living a life that uplifts others. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

13 Sep 25min

The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Friday, September 12th, 2025: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open | Nephew Tommy's Run That Prank Back - "Your Wife Gave Me A Disease" | Ask The CLO | Entertainment News | Mistress Jumped On Husband In Charlotte | Roscoe Wallace | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "My Comb & Brush" | Strawberry Letter - "There's One Little Problem In The Relationship" Parts 1-2 | Sports Talk With Junior | Social Media Advice | Ready To Love Preview From Tommy | Would You Rather | Steve Harvey's Closing RemarksSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12 Sep 1h 32min

The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Thursday, September 11th, 2025: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open | Nephew Tommy's Run That Prank Back - "Your Daughter Bit My Son" | Ask The CLO | Entertainment News | Charlie Kirk | Remembering 9/11 | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "Your Wife Gave Me A Disease" | Strawberry Letter - "A Little Poo Ran Off My Boo" Parts 1-2 | Sports Talk With Junior | Social Media Advice | Waffle House Story | Would You Rather | Steve Harvey's Closing RemarksSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

11 Sep 1h 32min

The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Wednesday, September 9th, 2025: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open | Nephew Tommy's Run That Prank Back - "Tailgaters" | Ask The RTLO & Junior | Entertainment News | Sickle Cell Awareness Month | Music Trivia With Junior | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "Your Daughter Bit My Son" | Strawberry Letter - "Numbers Don't Lie" Parts 1-2 | Sports Talk With Junior | Social Media Advice | NFL Talk | Would You Rather | MORE Would You RatherSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10 Sep 1h 32min

The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Tuesday, September 9th, 2025: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open | Nephew Tommy's Run That Prank Back - "Make A Wish Ministry" | Ask The CLO | Entertainment News | Most Popular Birthday In America | Is Binge Watching Good For You? | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "Tailgaters" | Strawberry Letter - "They're Not Really Related" Parts 1-2 | Sports Talk With Junior | Social Media Advice | Decisions - Shopping Anxiety | Would You Rather | Show Wrap UpSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

9 Sep 1h 23min

The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Monday, September 8th, 2025: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open | The Pastors | Ask The CLO | Entertainment News | What Is Shreking? | Sista O'Dekk | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "Make A Wish Ministry" | Strawberry Letter - "On Campus, Clowning" Parts 1-2 | Sports Talk With Junior | Social Media Advice | Greek Life | Would You Rather | Steve Harvey's Closing RemarksSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

8 Sep 1h 32min

The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Friday, September 5th, 2025: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open | Nephew Tommy's Run That Prank Back - "Mobile Baptism" | Ask The CLO | Special Guests: 85 South Show - Chico Bean, Karlous Miller, & DC Young Fly Parts 1-3 | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "Repass Chicken" | Strawberry Letter - "His Focus Is On Other Women" Parts 1-2 | Sports Talk With Junior | Social Media Advice | Ready To Love Update From Tommy | Would You Rather | Steve Harvey's Closing RemarksSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

5 Sep 1h 32min