Overcoming the Odds: She inspires small business owners with lessons on perseverance, succession planning, and self-identity.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Cheryl McKissack Daniel. Topic: Legacy, resilience, and entrepreneurship of the McKissack family, as detailed in the book The Black Family Who Built America. Cheryl shares the powerful story of her family's 230-year legacy in architecture and construction, making McKissack & McKissack the oldest minority woman-owned professional design and construction firm in the U.S. The conversation explores themes of generational resilience, Black excellence, business strategy, and personal growth. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview Highlight the McKissack family’s historical and cultural impact on American infrastructure and Black entrepreneurship. Promote the book The Black Family Who Built America as a record of legacy and inspiration. Inspire small business owners and entrepreneurs with lessons on perseverance, succession planning, and self-identity. Address the importance of preserving Black history in the face of cultural erasure. 🔑 Key Takeaways 🏗️ Legacy & Impact McKissack & McKissack has contributed to major U.S. infrastructure projects like: Barclays Center JFK Terminal One LaGuardia Airport Penn Station Lincoln Financial Field “We are the fifth generation. Right. And we're Black in America.” 📚 Historical Significance The family legacy began with Moses McKissack, who was enslaved and later became a builder. Cheryl’s ancestors were the first licensed Black architects in America (licenses 117 and 118 in Tennessee). “They became the first Black licensed architects in America… and helped get licensed in 22 other states.” 💼 Business Wisdom Cheryl emphasizes the importance of: Succession planning Understanding both technical and political buyers Building relationships before you need them “You better have that relationship before you need it.” 🧠 The 5 Ps of Family Resilience Perseverance Persistence Preparedness Purpose Prayer “Sometimes you do get up in the morning and you say it's not for me… You have to come back and meditate on the fact that you're a winner.” 🧘♀️ Personal Growth & Mental Health Cheryl discusses overcoming stress, rediscovering herself after a difficult marriage, and the importance of meditation. “Being yourself is what we're talking about… I recognize that I am currently feeling stressed out. So what do I need to do?” 👩👧👧 Women in Leadership Cheryl’s mother took over the business after her father’s stroke, despite societal barriers. “She only knew the telephone number to the office at that time… but she knew deep inside that she wanted to hold on for the fifth generation.” 🎥 Representation & Media The book and Cheryl’s story aim to counteract negative portrayals of Black people in media and history. “You may not have known about Black excellence. You just ignored it. But we exist.” 💬 Memorable Quotes “Black people built America. Now, that's the point we're making here.” “You have to say the opposite to yourself. And you have to put one foot in front of the other.” “This book is a receipt to say we are around. We have a foundation. We're not going anywhere.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
30 Dec 37min
Uplift: Workforce development. They help companies: Upskill employees for career advancement.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brenda Johnson. CEO of Collaborative Training Company (CTC) 🧩 Main Topics Covered 🏢 What CTC Does CTC is a professional services consulting firm focused on workforce development. They help companies: Upskill employees for career advancement. Support new hires, especially those without traditional corporate experience. Define what “fit” means in their organization and help new hires acclimate. 👥 Not a Staffing Firm CTC does not do individual job placement or talent coaching. They work with companies after hiring to ensure employee success and retention. They partner with organizations that provide individual coaching. 🧠 Bridging the Corporate Culture Gap CTC helps new hires from non-corporate backgrounds (e.g., warehouse, retail) adjust to corporate environments. They use mentorship programs and employee resource groups to support retention. 🤖 AI and the Future of Work Brenda sees AI as a tool, not a replacement for human creativity. She emphasizes the importance of adding a personal touch to AI-generated work. AI may replace some jobs, but it also creates new roles in programming, maintenance, and oversight. 🎓 Rethinking the Four-Year Degree Many companies are removing degree requirements to widen their talent pool. Brenda helps companies: Reevaluate outdated job descriptions. Focus on skills-based hiring. Identify core competencies rather than relying on degrees. 🌍 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Brenda challenges the narrow view of DEI as only race and gender. She expands the definition to include: Neurodiversity (e.g., autism) Generational diversity Accessibility needs LGBTQ+ inclusion She stresses that companies that embrace true diversity will thrive, while those clinging to outdated models may struggle. 💡 Key Takeaways Mentorship and support are critical for retention and success. AI is a complement, not a replacement, for human insight. Skills-based hiring is the future—degrees are not always necessary. True diversity is broad and essential for business success. Systemic change requires questioning legacy practices and recruiting strategies. 🔗 Contact Info Website: ctcdui.com LinkedIn: Collaborative Training Company #SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMISupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
30 Dec 30min
Brand Building: From Waffle House cook to restaurant owner, he shares knowledge freely with aspiring entrepreneurs.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Tremayne Thompson. A co-owner of Perfect Note, a dinner supper club with locations in Birmingham, Alabama and Atlanta, Georgia. The conversation is a rich blend of entrepreneurship, community service, music, and food culture. 🎶 About Perfect Note Concept: A dinner supper club offering live music and Southern cuisine, catering to a mature audience (ages 30+). Locations: Birmingham, AL (original) and Marietta, GA (Atlanta metro). Atmosphere: Grown folks’ vibe—no hookah, no club chaos, just good music, good food, and good company. 🧑🏾🤝🧑🏾 Founders & Origins Co-owned by Tremayne Thompson and his wife Karen (hence “TK Productions”). Started as gospel concert promoters in Chicago. Moved to Alabama in 2008 after a family loss and launched Perfect Note in Bessemer with a Gerald Albright concert. Initially operated out of a banquet hall, setting up and breaking down everything themselves. 📈 Growth & Expansion Perfect Note evolved into a full-fledged venue in 2016. Expanded to Atlanta due to demand from patrons traveling from Georgia to Alabama. Featured in the Huffington Post as one of the top 100 businesses to visit in the U.S. 🍽️ Food & Hospitality Offers Wednesday–Saturday dinner service and Sunday brunch with live music. Website: perfectnoteliveatl.com Tremaine’s culinary journey began at Waffle House, where he learned speed cooking and kitchen management under pressure. Emphasizes quality and consistency in food service, even during high-volume events. 💬 Philosophy & Community Impact Business is rooted in service, not profit. During COVID, they pivoted to drive-up service with $5 meals, feeding the community. Believes in mentorship and sharing knowledge freely with aspiring entrepreneurs. 🗣️ Key Takeaways Mentorship is vital: Learn from those who’ve walked the path. Serve first: Community support follows genuine service. Plan wisely: Dreams need operational structure and financial planning. Create culture: Music and food unite people across demographics. #SHMS #STRAW # #AMISupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
30 Dec 23min
Brand Building: Emphasizes that HR ensures the right people are hired and retained.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Travis T. Wade. CEO of The Guardian, a private security corporation. The discussion focused on hiring the right people, leadership strategies, and the importance of HR in business success. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights The Importance of HR in Hiring Wade emphasized that HR is the backbone of any business, ensuring the right people are hired and retained. He shared insights on how HR principles translate into building a strong security team. Finding the Right Employees The Guardian uses a conversational interview approach rather than traditional questioning. Wade believes that getting candidates comfortable reveals their true personality, helping assess their suitability for security roles. Key Traits for Security Professionals Patience is the most important quality—impatient candidates are not a good fit for security work. Security officers must be calm, observant, and able to de-escalate situations rather than react impulsively. Reducing Employee Turnover Wade stressed that treating employees well after hiring is just as important as selecting the right candidates. He shared strategies for lowering turnover by fostering a supportive work environment. 📘 About Travis T. Wade & The GuardianTravis T. Wade is a seasoned HR professional with over 25 years of corporate experience. His company, The Guardian, operates in Georgia, Alabama, and North Carolina, providing armed and unarmed security, personal protection, and private investigations. #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29 Dec 26min
Follow Your Passion: A full-time attorney turned baker and founder of Confectionist Bakery.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Monty Garside. A full-time attorney turned baker and founder of Confectionist Bakery. Here are some key highlights from the episode: 🎙️ Guest Background Monty Garside is a practicing attorney with over 20 years of experience in litigation. He founded Confectionist Bakery in honor of his grandmother. The bakery started in his home kitchen and now ships desserts nationwide. 🍰 Bakery Journey Inspired by nostalgia and family traditions, Marty began baking after his grandmother passed away. His first successful cake was a pound cake that tasted exactly like his grandmother’s. He was encouraged to start a business by a client who was the daughter of a professional baker. 🧁 Products & Flavors Specializes in cheesecakes, pound cakes, layer cakes, and pies. Unique flavors include: Peach Cobbler Pound Cake Amaretto Pound Cake Banana Pudding Layer Cake Sweet Potato Pound Cake 🚚 Shipping & Operations Operates out of a commercial kitchen in Atlanta. Cakes are wrapped and frozen for freshness and shipped nationwide. Orders typically take 2 days to process and 3–5 days for delivery. 💡 Business Insights Challenges included pricing products appropriately and managing holiday demand. Emphasizes the importance of: Quality product Excellent customer service Knowing your target audience Target customers are busy professionals who appreciate homemade, Southern-style desserts but lack the time or skill to make them. 📈 Advice for Entrepreneurs Don’t be afraid to try something new. Control what you can—especially product quality and customer service. Trust yourself through the ups and downs. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29 Dec 28min
FULL SHOW: Arguments, Strawberry Letter: Fake Star With Groupie Tendencies - 12.29.25
The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Monday, December 29th, 2025: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open | Run That Prank Back - "Panty Party" | Ask The CLO | Women Always Win Arguments | Would You Rather | Kwanzaa Comedy | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "4-3 Relationship" | Strawberry Letter - "Fake Star With Groupie Tendencies" Pt. 1-2 | Things You Whisper | Comedy Roulette: You Know You Stay At Your Mama's House When... | Spicy Food | Would You Rather | Steve Harvey's Closing RemarksSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29 Dec 1h 32min
Uplift: She addresses fear, personal growth, and the importance of stepping out of comfort zones.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Lisa Hankins. Topic: Her book Beyond the Chair and life after the beauty industry. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: Purpose of the Book – "Beyond the Chair" The book is a guide for professionals, especially in the beauty industry, who are seeking to transition into new roles or careers. It addresses fear, personal growth, and the importance of stepping out of comfort zones. Lisa’s Journey Lisa spent 35 years in the beauty industry. She experienced physical tolls from the job, including lung issues and back injuries, partly due to prolonged exposure to chemicals like relaxers and hair product fumes. A back injury in 2012 forced her to leave the industry at age 50. Health & Safety in the Beauty Industry Lisa highlighted the dangers of chemical exposure and lack of protective measures (e.g., not using gloves). She emphasized the need for awareness about long-term health risks for stylists and barbers. Faith and Planning Lisa credits her faith and careful financial planning (savings, insurance, retirement funds) for enabling her smooth transition. She encourages others to prepare financially and spiritually for life changes. Overcoming Fear Fear is a major barrier to change. Lisa stresses the importance of faith, belief in oneself, and having a support system. She quotes scripture and shares motivational insights to inspire others to move “beyond the chair.” Broader Message The book is not just for beauty professionals—it’s for anyone feeling stuck in a role or phase of life. Everyone has a “chair” they need to move beyond. Technology & AI Lisa discusses the role of social media in the beauty industry. She shares a humorous anecdote about AI and plagiarism concerns in her ministry training. Writing Process The book took two years to complete, with interruptions due to health issues. Lisa relied on faith and perseverance to finish it. SMART Goals & Retreats She advocates for setting SMART goals and writing things down to stay focused. A retreat experience helped her reflect and clarify her purpose. 📚 Where to Find the Book: Available on Amazon. Search for Beyond the Chair by Lisa Hankins. #BEST #STRAW #SHMS Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29 Dec 24min
Overcoming the Odds: Kept her faith after losing her job, then launched her bakery business that's now nationwide.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Shica. Founder of Dr. Shica’s Bakery, and the conversation centers around her inspiring journey from educator to successful entrepreneur in the plant-based dessert industry. Key Highlights from the Transcript: Origin Story: Dr. Shica began baking seriously after losing her job during the COVID-19 pandemic. Encouraged by a marketing director, she launched her bakery business. Why Vegan?: She chose to make vegan cookies to cater to people with dietary restrictions (e.g., lactose intolerance, dairy allergies) and to offer a healthier, inclusive dessert option. Celebrity Support: Her cookies gained popularity in L.A., attracting celebrity clients like Doug Allen (creator of Entourage) and Teri Weinberg (producer of The Office), and even making a birthday cake for Jessica Simpson. Product Line: Includes chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, lemon, confetti sugar cookies, and cookie dough mixes. She emphasizes premium ingredients and a unique signature flavor. Expansion: Her products are launching in over 4,100 stores including HomeGoods, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls across the U.S. and Canada. International Recognition: Selected to speak at the largest snacks and sweets show in Dubai and participate in Canada’s minority supplier program. Vision: Aspires to be the “Betty Crocker or Nabisco of plant-based cookies,” with a legacy brand featuring her face as the logo. Advice: Her secret to success is staying “prayed up” and working hard, especially as a minority female entrepreneur. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29 Dec 20min
