Overcoming the Odds: She was a C student and a college dropout, but she is the CEO of Black Ambition.
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 share insights on entrepreneurship, access to resources, and strategies for scaling businesses. To inspire and educate small business owners and innovators on how to leverage opportunities for growth. Key Takeaways About Black Ambition Founded by Pharrell Williams to close the opportunity gap for Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs. Provides capital, mentorship, and masterclasses to help founders scale. Has invested in 131 companies and awarded millions in funding. Competition Structure Annual national competition with 2,500–3,000 applications. Categories include HBCU, National Finalists, Top Prize Winner, People’s Choice. Process: Applications → 250 semifinalists → 3-month cohort → Demo Day for top 20–25 companies. Unique Approach Focus on high-quality mentorship, not “low vibrational” guidance. Includes mental health and wellness support for entrepreneurs. Partnerships with brands like Louis Vuitton for luxury retail insights. Challenges for Entrepreneurs Many fail by rushing applications and skipping info sessions. Success requires clarity, traction, and persistence—sometimes multiple attempts. Black women are the fastest-growing entrepreneurs but often remain solopreneurs; Black Ambition prioritizes team-building. Pharrell’s Motivation Believes in democratizing opportunity: “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” Inspired by those who believed in him early in his career. Felecia Hatcher’s Journey Former founder of Center for Black Innovation and Black Tech Week. Emphasizes resilience: “I’m a C student and a college dropout, but I never let that define me.” Advocates for creative pathways to success and capital access. Notable Quotes “Success leaves clues.” – On learning from past winners. “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” – Pharrell’s guiding principle. “If it doesn’t work on you in that moment, it works for you in that moment. Either way, it works.” – On persistence. “We have to start enjoying the process… be stretched, be cut by the process.” – On entrepreneurial growth. “Wealth has a need for speed.” – On urgency in closing the wealth gap. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
26 Dec 22min
Healthy Tips: We discuss three pillars: Mindset, Diet, Exercise - “Take food as medicine, not medicine as food.”
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Jeff Cade. Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to inspire listeners—entrepreneurs, small business owners, and individuals—about the importance of health and wellness in achieving personal and professional success. It introduces Jeff Cade’s 360 Health and Wellness Network, which focuses on mindset, diet, and exercise as pillars for a holistic lifestyle. Key Takeaways Health and Wealth Connection Wealth cannot buy health; longevity depends on lifestyle choices. Self-care is essential for sustaining business success and personal well-being. Jeff Cade’s Background & Motivation Over 15 years in health and wellness, with experience in hospitality and healthcare. Personal tragedy: lost both parents to cancer, which fueled his mission. Author of Battleground Cancer to educate on mental, physical, and spiritual resilience. Core Philosophy “Take food as medicine, not medicine as food.” Three pillars: Mindset, Diet, Exercise—you can’t have one without the others. Advocates plant-based diets, hydration, and mindfulness practices. Actionable Advice Know your body and listen to its signals. Reduce sugar and processed foods; crowd out unhealthy items with colorful plates. Use affirmations: “I am healed, healthy, happy.” Transformation is incremental: start with 30-, 45-, or 90-day goals. Stress management is critical—stress kills and triggers unhealthy habits. Programs & Engagement Offers personalized coaching and programs via JeffK360.com. Focus on accountability partnerships and individualized plans. Notable Quotes On transformation:“What you don’t change, you choose.” On health and success:“Self-care is the new health care.” On mindset:“I am healed, I am healthy, I am happy.” On accountability:“If it’s to be, it’s up to me.” On purpose:“You can’t serve others if you don’t serve yourself first.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
26 Dec 37min
Info You Can Use: She simplifies AI and teaches you how to Monetize AI.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Alicia Lyttle. 🎙️ Episode Overview Guest: Alicia Lyttle Topic: Demystifying AI for small businesses, content creators, and entrepreneurs. 🤖 Key Topics Discussed 1. What Is AI? Alicia defines AI as tools that can perform tasks like content creation, image generation, and data analysis—tasks once thought to require human intelligence. Tools like ChatGPT and Pictory.ai can help businesses scale faster and more efficiently. 2. AI for Content Creation Alicia explains how to: Transcribe interviews using Otter.ai. Turn transcripts into books using ChatGPT. Create videos from scripts using Pictory.ai. Generate social media content, book descriptions, and more—all with AI. 3. Real-World Application Rushion realizes he can turn his 850+ interviews into books, YouTube videos, and monetizable content using AI. Alicia emphasizes that AI can help generate “mailbox money”—passive income from repurposed content. 4. Her Business & Mission Alicia and her sister have run a marketing and training company for 24 years. They now focus exclusively on AI education and implementation for businesses. She offers corporate training, workshops, and free resources to help others adopt AI. 5. AI as a Business Equalizer AI levels the playing field for small and minority-owned businesses. It reduces operational costs and increases productivity. Alicia encourages Black entrepreneurs to become early adopters and not get left behind. 6. Training & Resources Alicia offers a free eBook: ChatGPT Made Easy on her website AliciaLyttle.com. She provides newsletters, videos, and one-on-one consultations. She stresses the importance of learning how to use AI properly to avoid poor results. 💬 Memorable Quotes “AI is not going to replace you. But someone using AI might.” “We produced more content in one year using AI than in the previous ten years combined.” “You don’t need to hire a team—you need to hire the right tools.” “This is our chance to be early adopters. Don’t miss this wave.” #STRAW #BEST #SHMS #AMI Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
26 Dec 25min
Health Tip: Learn how to take control of your health, prevent disease, and potentially reverse aging.
Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Naveen Jain. Founder and CEO of Viome. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview To introduce Viome’s revolutionary health technology that uses precision diagnostics and personalized supplements to help individuals take control of their health, prevent disease, and potentially reverse biological aging. 🧭 Key Takeaways 1. Viome’s Mission Viome aims to make illness optional by using AI-driven health diagnostics. The company’s tagline: “Imagine living in a world where illness is optional.” 2. The Full Body Intelligence Test Users submit saliva, blood (finger prick), and stool samples. Viome analyzes 100 million biomarkers to assess: Biological age Cognitive, heart, gut, oral, and immune health Root causes of symptoms like bloating, constipation, fatigue, etc. 3. Personalized Health Solutions Viome provides: Precision supplements tailored to your body’s needs Custom probiotics/prebiotics Oral microbiome lozenges Morning and evening toothpaste Supplements are reformulated monthly based on retesting. 4. Scientific Backing Viome has conducted placebo-controlled clinical trials showing: 64% improvement in gut health 25% reduction in fasting insulin 50% reduction in depression 47% reduction in anxiety—all within 90 days 5. Disease Detection Innovation Viome offers tests for: Stage 1 oral and throat cancer (available now) IBD and colon polyps (launching soon) Stage 1 pancreatic cancer (launching within 6 months) 6. Affordability & Access Full Body Intelligence Test: $299 Monthly supplement plans: $40–$200 depending on selected products Website: viome.com 7. Personal Story & Motivation Naveen Jain immigrated from India with $5, built 7 companies. Lost his father to pancreatic cancer—now developing early detection tests. Believes in purpose-driven entrepreneurship: “Making money is a byproduct of improving lives.” 💬 Notable Quotes “Your genes are not your destiny.” “There is no universally healthy food.” “Making money is like having an orgasm—if you focus on it, you’ll never get it.” “Don’t blame your ancestors for your sickness. You can change your lifestyle.” “If you think being healthy is expensive, try being sick.” 🔗 Action Steps for Listeners Visit viome.com Order the Full Body Intelligence Test Receive personalized health insights and supplements Retest every 6 months to track progress and adjust #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
26 Dec 29min
Financial Tip: She understands the value of art as a tool for wealth-building and cultural empowerment.
Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Karimah McFarlane. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview To explore Karimah McFarlane’s multifaceted journey—from her corporate leadership roles at Google and Workday to becoming the owner of Buckhead Art & Company—and to inspire others to embrace change, pursue entrepreneurship, and understand the value of art as a tool for wealth-building and cultural empowerment. 🧭 Key Takeaways 1. Corporate Career & Tech Leadership Karimah has 20+ years in Human Resources, specializing in mergers and acquisitions. At Google, she supported AI and Pixel teams as a People Business Partner, despite initially thinking the recruiter’s call was spam. Currently at Workday, she partners with the Chief Revenue Officer to build high-performing sales teams and develop leadership pipelines. 2. Navigating Change & Cultural Shifts Transitioned from the East Coast (DMV area) to the Bay Area, facing cultural adjustments (e.g., lack of familiar foods, hair products). Found support through Delta Sigma Theta sorority and Black Googlers Network. Emphasized the importance of embracing discomfort and new experiences for personal and professional growth. 3. HR as a Strategic Asset HR is more than hiring/firing—it’s about scaling businesses, developing talent, and preventing legal issues. Small businesses often undervalue HR until a crisis occurs. HR should be seen as a strategic partner on leadership teams. 4. Art as Wealth, Culture & Healing Karimah owns Buckhead Art & Company, the only art gallery in Buckhead, Atlanta. Inspired by her exposure to art investment at Google and her role in selecting art for corporate spaces. Advocates for marginalized artists by helping them with branding, IP protection, and business structure. 5. Making Art Accessible The gallery focuses on beginner and mid-level collectors, offering education and approachable experiences. Offers virtual consultations, art fairs, and community events to demystify art buying. Emphasizes the emotional, cultural, and financial value of art. 6. Recognition & Impact Buckhead Art & Company was named Best Art Gallery in Georgia (2023 & 2024). Uses her platform to educate, empower, and elevate artists and collectors alike. Promotes artist development through storytelling, branding, and business mentorship. 💬 Notable Quotes “Empowerment is figuring out what you do best and using your talent to help others.” “Don’t shy away from opportunities that give you insights and experiences.” “HR helps you scale your organization—it’s not just about hiring and firing.” “Art has always been at the forefront of royalty, wealth, and education.” “We specialize in humans. When you walk into our gallery, you are equal.” “You don’t have to win an Oscar to be a great actor. Same with art—you don’t need a traditional path to be successful.” 🔗 Connect with Karimah McFarlane Gallery: Buckhead Art & Company YouTube: Buckhead Art & Company Instagram: @buckheadartandcompany #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
25 Dec 37min
Legacy: He shares the cultural history of D.C.’s iconic mumbo sauce and youth mentorship.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Jermaine Smith. 💼 Business Overview Henry’s Soul Café: A family legacy restaurant founded in 1968 by Jermaine’s father. Jermaine expanded the brand while honoring its roots. Culinary Institute: Created to train and mentor youth in the culinary arts. Film & Talent: Produces films (Strange Love, Trophy Wife, Legendary with Earthquake) and manages comedians and entertainers. Real Estate: Active developer and investor in the DMV area. 💡 Key Insights Legacy & Mentorship: Inspired by his father’s generosity and work ethic, Jermaine emphasizes giving back and mentoring youth. Multiple Streams of Income: Jermaine diversified his career across food, entertainment, and real estate. Community Impact: Employs and mentors local youth, often becoming a father figure and role model. Soul Food Philosophy: Describes soul food as “cooked from the heart,” rooted in African American history and Southern traditions. Mumbo Sauce Origin: Shared the cultural history of D.C.’s iconic mumbo sauce and consulted McDonald’s on its rollout. 🧠 Business Wisdom “It’s not about what you acquire, it’s about what you help others acquire.” “Kids emulate what they see. Be the example.” “You don’t have to be the star to be the one who delivers the value.” 📦 Bonus Highlights TV Appearance: Featured on OWN’s Great Soul Food Cook-Off as one of the top 8 soul food chefs in the U.S. McDonald’s Collaboration: Consulted on the cultural authenticity of mumbo sauce for a national campaign. Faith & Focus: Attributes his success to staying grounded, being trustworthy, and having a heart for service. #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
25 Dec 26min
Uplift: She educates on stress, burnout, compassion fatigue, and financial equity in the mental health field.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Sharise Nance. Purpose of the Interview To showcase Sharise Nance’s mission in mental health advocacy, entrepreneurship, and workplace wellness. To discuss her companies: Hand in Hand Counseling Services – addressing mental health disparities in Black communities. Vitamin C Healing – building trauma-sensitive, wellness-centered workplace cultures. To educate on stress, burnout, compassion fatigue, and financial equity in the mental health field. Key Takeaways Hand in Hand Counseling Services Founded with college roommate Tess Kenny in Pittsburgh. Created a safe space for mental health support in underserved communities. Celebrating 12 years in operation. Breaking Mental Health Stigma Built trust through community presence and transparency. Advocated therapy as normal: “I’m a therapist who has a therapist.” Education on what therapy is and isn’t. Understanding Stress Eustress (positive stress) vs. Distress (overwhelming stress). Physical signs: sweating, rapid heartbeat, tense shoulders, jaw clenching. Stress can lead to depression and anxiety—seek professional help. Impact of COVID-19 Isolation amplified mental health issues. Introduced concept of co-regulation—healing through community and connection. Vitamin C Healing Originated from her book Vitamin C Healing for the Mind, Body. Evolved into a brand offering workshops, consultations, and burnout assessments. Focused on helping professionals and leaders prevent compassion fatigue. Financial Equity in Mental Health Advocates for fair pay: “We can care deeply and earn abundantly.” Challenges the mindset that passion work means low income. Encourages professionals to set boundaries and value their expertise. Burnout & Organizational Cost Unaddressed burnout costs companies millions annually. Leads to quiet quitting, low productivity, and high turnover. Investing in wellness saves money and improves culture. Personal Journey Biggest bet: leaving full-time job in 2017 to pursue entrepreneurship. Therapy helped her navigate fear and grief (especially after losing her father). Quote: “Feel the fear and do it anyway.” Notable Quotes “We can care deeply and earn abundantly.” “I’m a therapist who has a therapist.” “Feel the fear and do it anyway.” “We heal when we are in community—it’s hard to heal in isolation.” “Compassion fatigue isn’t just a feel-good topic; it costs companies millions.” “Betting on myself was the best investment I ever made.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
25 Dec 33min
Overcoming the Odds: How a successful Businesswoman overcame teen pregnancies and raised her siblings.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kimberly Kelly. A real estate broker and entrepreneur who overcame a challenging upbringing in foster care, teen motherhood, and systemic adversity to become a successful businesswoman. Kimberly shares her journey of resilience, faith, and determination, offering inspiration to anyone facing difficult circumstances. Her story is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the power of believing in oneself. 🧭 Key Points 🌱 Early Life & Adversity Raised in foster care from a young age due to her mother’s struggles with addiction. Took on a caregiver role for her younger brothers at age 9. Became a mother at 15 and had two children by 18, while still caring for her siblings. 💪 Resilience & Mindset Developed a survival mindset early on, driven by responsibility and love for her family. Found faith and spiritual grounding during her time in foster care. Never doubted her ability to succeed despite overwhelming odds. 🎓 Education & Career Path Returned to complete her high school diploma and pursued technical education. Earned a degree in electronics engineering and transitioned into the IT world. Later became a licensed real estate agent and opened her own brokerage. 🏡 Business Ventures Founder of a real estate brokerage in McDonough, Georgia. Focuses on educating and empowering first-time homebuyers and entrepreneurs. Co-owner of a property preservation company, Get Adventurous, with her husband. 🤝 Leadership & Branding Leads a small team of agents with a hands-on, mentorship-driven approach. Emphasizes adaptability, personal growth, and celebrating small victories. Operates within a price range of $250K–$750K and above, adapting to market trends. 💬 Notable Quotes “I’m superwoman. I’m phenomenal.” “Foster care is supposed to be temporary, but sometimes it becomes permanent.” “It never dawned on me that I wouldn’t be successful.” “You can do anything. There is nothing you can’t do in this life.” “Practice resilience. If you don’t have a support system, look in the mirror and talk to yourself.” “I’m always in the mindset of staying adaptable.” “My goal is to educate, motivate, and teach people that we can own real estate.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
25 Dec 23min
