Brand Building: Successful Finance Coach gives tips after surviving Hurricane Katrina and Stock market crash.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Mujahid Muhammad. A financial coach specializing in wealth-building, shares his insights on personal finance, real estate investing, and financial independence. He discusses his journey, strategies for managing wealth, and the importance of financial literacy. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights His Financial Journey Started his financial journey by investing in real estate, acquiring his first duplex. Built a portfolio using financial strategies, later facing setbacks like Hurricane Katrina and the 2008 real estate crash. Understanding Financial Stratospheres Defines different financial stages: failure, stability, growth, and independence. Emphasizes the need for strong financial foundations before pursuing major investments. Infinite Banking Concept Explains how individuals can become their own financial gatekeepers rather than relying on banks. Encourages strategic financial planning to control one's money flow. Middle-Income Struggles Discusses financial challenges middle-income individuals face, including debt accumulation and limited savings. Offers strategies for breaking free from debt and building long-term wealth. Financial Coaching and Mentorship Stresses the importance of financial education, mentorship, and strategic planning. Encourages individuals to seek guidance and accountability in their financial journey. 📘 About His Financial CoachingBrother Mujahid Muhammad provides coaching and financial strategies to help individuals build wealth. He specializes in real estate investing, insurance, and personal finance education. #STRAW #BEST #SHMSSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29 Dec 31min
Brand Building: Young developer leads a $300 million community project in Savannah, GA.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Robert Gould. Youngest developer in the U.S. to lead a $300 million community development project in partnership with the City of Savannah. 🏗️ Legacy Savannah Project Scope: 65-acre, $300 million transformational community development. Focus Areas: Residential Housing: Senior and workforce housing. Innovation Center: 24/7 programming for tech and career development. Indoor Recreation Facility: Community engagement and wellness. Mission: Not just building structures, but transforming lives and legacies. 🌊 Big Tide Summit Founder: Robert Gould Purpose: Career exposure and training for Georgia students. Impact: Grew from 20 students to over 7,000 in 3 years. Focus Areas: Tech, arts, media, construction, and entrepreneurship. Website: bigtide.org (free for schools) 💡 Key Messages & Advice 1. Fear and Identity Embrace fear as a signal of purpose. “There’s only one you”—your uniqueness is your power. 2. Exposure is Everything 60% of success is based on exposure (Forbes). Being in the room matters—access changes lives. 3. Workforce Development Trends Start early. Prioritize exposure and appearance. Explore trades (construction, tech, plumbing, etc.). Seek mentorship. Embrace AI and future technologies. 4. Trade vs. Degree Trades are now high-income, high-impact careers. College is valuable, but not the only path. Ownership and entrepreneurship are key to wealth. 5. Pitching and Communication Know your audience and tailor your message. Don’t just pitch ideas—pitch dreams. Respect yourself and others in every room you enter. 🔁 Vision for the Future Expand the Legacy Savannah model nationwide. Continue building access and opportunity for underserved communities. Use platforms like Big Tide to bridge education and real-world careers. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29 Dec 34min
Brand Building: Private therapy practice focused on culturally sensitive therapy for Black and Brown communities.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed April Lancit. Founder of a private therapy practice focused on culturally sensitive therapy for Black and Brown communities. Main Topics: Cultural differences in therapy Challenges in modern relationships and marriage The impact of technology on human connection The role of therapy in addressing generational trauma and stress The future of therapy in the age of AI 💡 Key Insights 1. Culturally Sensitive Therapy April emphasizes the importance of therapists understanding the lived experiences of marginalized communities. Black and Brown clients often face unique challenges that require a nuanced, empathetic approach. 2. Modern Relationship Struggles Top issues in marriage therapy: finances, infidelity, and communication. Communication is often overlooked but is foundational to resolving other issues. 3. Technology & Disconnection The rise of remote living and digital communication is reducing opportunities for organic human interaction. Couples are increasingly using text messages—even within the same home—to communicate, which can erode intimacy. 4. Therapy as a Preventative Tool Therapy shouldn't be reserved for crises; it can be a proactive tool for personal and relational growth. Pre-marriage counseling is often skipped or done too late, missing key conversations about values, finances, and intimacy. 5. AI in Therapy April sees potential in AI as a supplementary tool but stresses it cannot replace the human connection essential to effective therapy. 🧠 Final Message April encourages people to seek therapy not out of crisis, but as a way to grow and connect more deeply—with themselves and others. She remains hopeful that with intention and effort, society can rebuild meaningful human connections. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29 Dec 28min
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.
29 Dec 27min
Fitness Tips: Nutrition expert discusses the importance of building healthy habits, realistic weight loss goals, and diet myths.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Obi Obadike. A world-class fitness and nutrition expert, about the importance of building healthy habits, realistic weight loss goals, and the truth behind diet myths. Obi emphasizes portion control, consistency, and education over quick fixes. He also discusses his supplement brand, Ethical Inc., co-founded with actor Morris Chestnut, and shares practical advice for sustainable health and wellness. 🧭 Key Points 1. Motivation vs. Habit Motivation gets you started, but habit keeps you going. The hardest part is showing up—once you start, the benefits become self-reinforcing. 2. Time and Prioritization Everyone has 24 hours; health must be prioritized like hygiene. Schedule workouts like appointments—don’t try to “fit them in.” 3. Small Goals, Big Results Focus on small, incremental goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Use analogies like “one game at a time” or “one chapter at a time” to stay motivated. 4. Weight Loss Basics Weight loss = caloric deficit (burn more than you consume). A 500-calorie daily deficit = ~1 pound/week; 1,000 = ~2 pounds/week. 5. Simplified Nutrition If calorie counting is overwhelming, use hand-based portion control: Meals: size of two hands. Desserts: size of one palm. Meals should include protein, complex carbs, and fibrous carbs (fruits/veggies). 6. Supplements and Ethics Obi’s company, Ethical Inc., focuses on clean, science-backed supplements. He stresses that supplements are optional if you eat a balanced diet. 7. Desserts and Cheat Meals You can enjoy desserts 1–2 times per week in moderation. Portion control is key—even for treats like Krispy Kreme donuts. 8. Realistic Expectations Healthy weight loss is 1–2 pounds per week. In 3 months, 25–30 pounds is a realistic and sustainable goal. 💬 Notable Quotes “Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.” “You have 24 hours in a day. You’re telling me you don’t have 30 minutes to take care of your health?” “Forget the vanity aspect—this is going to save your life.” “You can’t overdose on broccoli.” “If you’re eating in a balanced way, you don’t need supplements.” “A dessert should not exceed the palm of your hand.” “Small, incremental goals are the key to long-term success.” #SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMISupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
28 Dec 22min
Brand Building: He left corporate America after being told to hide his success.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Charles Cofield. Thanks! The transcript from this episode of Money Making Conversations Masterclass features an inspiring and high-energy interview with CPA and financial educator Carter Cofield, co-founder of Melanin Money. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways: 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Melanin Money: A Mission-Driven Firm Co-founded by Carter Cofield and a financial advisor friend to serve the Black community. Focuses on helping business owners save on taxes and invest wisely. Aims to close the wealth gap and promote financial independence. 2. Authenticity as a Brand Carter left corporate America after being told to hide his success and identity (e.g., facial hair, tattoos, car). Built his brand by being unapologetically himself—fun, energetic, and passionate about financial literacy. His authenticity has helped him connect with a wide audience and become a standout in a traditionally “boring” industry. 3. Personal Tragedy & Financial Awakening Lost both parents by age 16. Used grief as motivation to excel academically and professionally. Learned the importance of financial literacy after receiving only $5,000 from a $25,000 life insurance policy following his father’s death. 4. Financial Literacy & Health Believes “health is wealth and wealth is health.” Poor financial decisions often lead to poor health decisions (e.g., fast food due to affordability). Financial stress can directly impact physical and mental well-being. 5. Melanin Money Awards Annual event in Atlanta (July 18–20) celebrating Black wealth and financial milestones. Awards given for reaching net worth goals ($100K, $500K, $1M, $10M). Designed to make wealth-building visible and celebrated in the Black community. 6. Generational Wealth: Redefined Not just about leaving money to your kids. True generational wealth means your money lasts for multiple generations. Involves setting up trusts, investments, and financial education for future heirs. 7. Free Weekly Financial Classes Carter hosts free money classes every Wednesday at 7 PM ET. Accessible via his Instagram: @cofield_advisors 💬 Notable Quotes “Fear is Finally Exiting Average Reality.” “It’s okay to sleep in late when your money woke up early.” “The scariest thing is getting to the end of your life and realizing you never truly lived.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
28 Dec 24min
Brand Building: They own 1K virtual tax franchises, restaurants in Memphis, and the Dominican Republic.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Mowbray and Cherina Rowand. 🎙️ Interview Summary: Mowbray & Cherina Rowand Purpose of the Interview To showcase the entrepreneurial journey of Mowbray and Cherina Rowand, co-founders of The Rowand Group and One Stop Taxes, the largest Black-owned virtual tax preparation service in America. The interview highlights their business evolution, scaling strategies, community impact, and the creation of the Black Tax Festival. 🧭 Interview Outline 1. Background & Origins Both from Memphis, Tennessee; met in high school. Started tax preparation in 2010 as a mom-and-pop operation. Transitioned from brick-and-mortar to virtual model by 2015. 2. Business Philosophy Entrepreneurship is defined as service to others. Mowbray is the visionary; Cherina is the implementer. Emphasis on scaling with structure: legal, accounting, HR. 3. One Stop Taxes Grew from a single office to over 1,000 virtual franchise locations. Offers free training, no startup costs, and shared revenue model. Built a platform allowing clients to submit documents and sign remotely. 4. Virtual Tax Model Designed for convenience and accessibility. Clients and tax preparers never need to meet in person. Platform includes document upload, e-signature, and cloud storage. 5. Franchise & Training Learning Management System (LMS) for onboarding. Training includes tax prep, customer acquisition, and platform use. Strategic partnerships with local businesses (e.g., dealerships, daycares). 6. Black Tax Festival Combines networking, education, and recognition. Includes IRS updates, business workshops, and the Titan Awards. Open to all entrepreneurs, not just tax professionals. 7. Expansion & Diversification Own restaurants in Memphis and the Dominican Republic. Franchised Fat Tuesday and Esco Restaurant (did \$1M in first 6 weeks). Own a yacht for rental experiences in the DR. Plans to develop a restaurant strip near FedExForum in Memphis. 💡 Key Takeaways Vision + Execution = Growth: Their complementary roles fuel business success. Virtual is Scalable: Transitioning to virtual allowed exponential growth. Community Impact Matters: Black Tax Festival fosters education and recognition. Diversification is Strategic: Restaurants and real estate expand their brand. Mentorship & Learning: They study successful entrepreneurs like Tilman Fertitta. Faith & Family Drive: Their journey is rooted in love, planning, and purpose. 🗣️ Notable Quotes “Entrepreneurship means being a servant to other people.” “The same thing that works at \$1M doesn’t work at \$15M.” “We had to fire ourselves from some jobs and hire professionals.” “We built a platform where you can do taxes from your couch.” “We started before social media—we know belly-to-belly marketing.” “Recognition matters—people don’t get it at home or work.” “We’re trying to bridge the wealth gap through proper paperwork.” “We bought a yacht in the Dominican Republic to rent for experiences.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
28 Dec 33min
Education Tip: Educates you on how to avoid student loan debt and developed a process to simplify scholarship applications.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Jocelyn Pearson. Purpose of the Interview The interview on Money Making Conversations Masterclass with Rushion McDonald and Jocelyn Pearson aimed to: Share Jocelyn’s journey of graduating debt-free by securing $126,350 in scholarships. Educate families on how to avoid student loan debt through her proven system, The Scholarship System. Dispel myths about scholarships and provide actionable steps for parents and students. Key Takeaways Scholarship System Approach Jocelyn developed a six-step process to simplify scholarship applications and avoid overwhelm. Focus on breaking the process into small, manageable steps rather than a vague “go get money” directive. Common Myths Debunked Too early or too late to apply: Start by junior year; it’s never too late—even college seniors can apply. Only perfect students or low-income families qualify: Many scholarships don’t require high GPA or athletic ability. All good scholarships are gone: Smaller, local scholarships ($500–$5,000) add up over time. It takes too much time: With a system and reusable materials, effort decreases each year. Avoiding Scholarship Scams Beware of “easy,” “enter to win,” or sweepstakes-style scholarships—they often sell personal data. Real scholarships require effort and personalization. Role of Parents Parents should help with planning and identifying legitimate scholarships but not complete applications for students. Committees can detect when parents write essays. AI in Scholarship Applications Jocelyn warns against copy-pasting AI-generated essays. Her platform introduced TESS, an AI assistant for ethical guidance and support. Financial Aid Basics Submit FAFSA even if you think you won’t qualify; some colleges and states require it. Combine all sources—government aid, institutional aid, and private scholarships. For Current College Students Check with financial aid offices, academic departments, and organizations for scholarships available after freshman year. Entrepreneurial Journey Jocelyn turned her passion into a business by starting with a book, building an email list, and launching webinars. She emphasizes persistence and ignoring naysayers. Notable Quotes “I had to accumulate my way to getting college paid for—the mere mortals’ way to going to college without tons of debt.” “Most families want scholarships, but they get stuck in the overwhelm.” “There’s no big red easy button—but with clear steps, it feels less daunting.” “We’re saying no to the broken system… It takes, on average, 21 years to pay off student loans.” “With great power comes great responsibility—AI can help, but only if used ethically.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
28 Dec 28min
