Strawberry Letter

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Stacey Gholar.
🔹 Summary of the Interview
Stacey Gholar, founder of Bloom Creative Agency, shares her journey from being a young mother in Chicago to becoming a brand strategist and creative entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in marketing, media, and business. She emphasizes the importance of aligning personal identity with brand strategy, especially in the digital age. Stacey discusses her approach to brand audits, the role of social media, the impact of AI, and her passion for empowering women through entrepreneurship and skincare.
🔹 Key Takeaways 1. What Is a Brand Strategist?
A brand strategist helps individuals and businesses define and articulate their brand clearly.
“You are the brand, but you have to put the brand together in a way that people can articulate what you do.”
2. Social Media Strategy
Stacey conducts social media audits to ensure alignment between personal and business branding.
She recommends having separate personal and business accounts, but acknowledges blending them when appropriate.
3. Discovery Process
Her process starts with a discovery call to understand the client’s “why” and goals.
She believes passion must drive entrepreneurship—not just money.
4. Digital Branding & AI
Stacey identifies as a digital brand specialist, helping Gen X women and others pivot into digital spaces.
She uses AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini to enhance productivity but values human connection.
“AI is an asset… but I don’t solely rely on it.”
5. Email Marketing
Email is still vital: “If you're solely on social media, you can lose your business in a minute.”
She advocates for funnel systems and community building outside of social platforms.
6. Going Viral vs. Being Valuable
“You don’t need to go viral. You just need to be valuable.”
She went viral unintentionally with a review of Harold’s Chicken, but stresses the importance of sustainable value over fleeting attention.
7. Brand Refresh & Outreach
Most of her clients come through word of mouth, but she’s expanding her reach via social media.
She encourages clients to step out of their comfort zones and engage in community-driven initiatives.
8. Skincare Line
Stacey founded Skin Light Skincare at age 50 to promote pro-aging and natural beauty.
She now focuses on organic body oils that are clean, hydrating, and hormone-safe.
🔹 Notable Quotes
“Experience has been the best teacher for me.”
“You don’t need to go viral. You just need to be valuable.”
“If you stop learning, you stop growing.”
“I want you to be a part of building your brand—not just me doing it for you.”
“Social media is great, but word of mouth is still real.”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
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Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning!
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brett Chestnut.
Managing Director of Northwestern Mutual Goodwin, Wright Gwinnett. The conversation centers on Brett’s mission as a financial leader, his journey from engineering to financial planning, his commitment to mentoring, and his focus on expanding diversity in the financial services industry.
Brett describes how he transitioned from engineering in 2015 to financial planning because he wanted to help people regain the ability to dream—not just survive. He discusses his work in recruiting diverse advisors, supporting career‑shifting professionals, mentoring, and educating people on foundational financial decision‑making.
The interview also explores money mindsets, budgeting, the challenges of building wealth in communities of color, and the often‑overlooked emotional side of money. Brett emphasizes starting with the basics, not skipping steps (e.g., jumping straight to cryptocurrency), and building strong financial foundations.
Rushion repeatedly highlights Brett as a powerful brand and role model, underscoring the importance of Black leadership in financial fields and the role of representation in increasing trust and access.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview’s purpose is to:
1. Introduce Brett Chestnut as a trusted financial leader
Rushion aims to elevate Brett’s visibility as a Black managing director in financial services—an industry where representation has traditionally been limited.
2. Educate listeners on financial empowerment
Brett provides practical, relatable guidance on budgeting, investing, career transitions, and developing financial discipline.
3. Highlight Northwestern Mutual’s diversity initiatives
Brett explains how the company is intentionally investing in diverse advisors and underserved markets.
4. Inspire career‑based and financial self‑reflection
He encourages people to examine their spending habits, consider new career paths, and align decisions with long-term goals.
5. Promote mentorship and community uplift
Both Brett and Rushion stress the transformative power of mentorship and generational investment.
Key Takeaways
1. Financial empowerment starts with awareness
Brett urges everyone to analyze their last 2–3 months of spending to understand what their habits really prioritize.
2. You must “choose your hard”
Saving and planning may be difficult now, but the alternative is harder later. Financial success requires discipline, not magic formulas.
3. Wealth building is emotional as much as logical
Money connects to family, relationships, self‑worth, stress, and confidence. Advisors must understand clients emotionally, not just mathematically—especially women and diverse communities.
4. Don’t skip steps (especially with investing and crypto)
Many want to “get rich fast,” but Brett warns that skipping foundational steps (budgeting, savings, retirement planning) leads to confusion and poor decisions.
5. Mentorship works only with real relationship
True mentorship requires understanding someone’s full life story, not just giving advice.
6. Representation matters in financial services
Northwestern Mutual is investing heavily in diverse advisors not just for optics, but because entire markets have been historically underserved.
7. Closing the wealth gap requires generational strategy
One generation must be willing to be selfless, disciplined, and intentional with assets to move future generations forward.
8. Brett sees his work as multiplying impact
By developing new advisors and helping create “15 millionaires,” he hopes to create compounding community uplift.
Notable Quotes
On financial empowerment
“I want people to dream again. We’re not dreaming no more—we’re living because of obligation.”
“When we’re born we look like our parents, but when we die, we look like our decisions.”
On career purpose
“I help people who are successful but career‑disturbed. They want more.”
On money habits
“Look at your last three months of spending. Your money tells you what your real priorities are.”
On investing and crypto
“People want to skip steps… going from no savings straight to crypto.”
“If you don’t understand it, maybe it’s not time for you to invest in it.”
On mentorship
“To give someone feedback without relationship is harassment.”
“Let me hear your story… mentorship starts with knowing the inner person.”
On diversity and empowerment
“Their growth strategy is diversity… whole markets haven’t even been called on yet.”
On community and identity
“We’re special… if we regain that confidence and approach the marketplace with courage, everything changes.”
On wealth-building reality
“You have to choose your hard. Hard now or hard later.”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning!
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Jasmine Hood
Founder of Better Bodies Massage in Atlanta (originally from Greenville, South Carolina), joined Rushion McDonald on Money Making Conversations Masterclass to share her journey from CNA to licensed massage therapist, the realities of being a traveling service provider, and the wellness benefits of massage therapy.
She discusses body alignment, stress, trauma release, the differences between massage modalities, alternative treatments like cupping, entrepreneurship during COVID‑19, safety considerations for mobile therapists, corporate/wellness partnerships, and her long‑term goal of building a scalable massage brand supported by contractors.
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
Highlight how massage therapy supports physical and emotional wellness, including stress, posture, and pain relief.
Educate listeners on the types of massages, proper stretching techniques, and how body tension accumulates.
Explore entrepreneurship in the wellness space, including launching a business during COVID‑19.
Discuss safety and professionalism in mobile massage therapy.
Show how Jasmine is building a sustainable small business through networking, corporate events, and contractor partnerships.
🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Career Shift & Fearless Beginnings
Jasmine switched from working as a CNA to moving to Atlanta alone with no support system—motivated by a desire for change and inspired by her mother’s independence.
She emphasized overcoming fear and taking leaps even when circumstances are uncertain.
2. Massage Therapy Is Both Physical & Emotional Healing
Massage releases tension, trauma, and stress stored in the body, especially in the neck, shoulders, and lower back.
Many people carry pain from work, daily habits, or emotional strain—and massage helps restore balance.
3. The Three Most Popular Massage Types
Jasmine explained the differences clearly:
Swedish Massage — Gentle, relaxing, ideal for beginners and stress relief.
Deep Tissue — Targets chronic pain and trigger points but may be intense for clients who are not accustomed to it.
Sports Massage — Faster movements, stretching, and ideal for athletes.
She stressed that deep tissue should not be rushed—the muscle needs warming before intense pressure.
4. Stretching Is Critical—Most People Do It Wrong
Stretching should be held 30 seconds to 1 minute, not quick movements or rolling the neck.
Consistent stretching prevents the “tight forward lean” posture many people develop.
Lower‑body stretches (glutes, hamstrings, hips) dramatically improve back pain.
5. Travel Massage: Safety, Boundaries & Professionalism
Jasmine screens new clients by phone before accepting appointments.
She immediately declines inappropriate requests (e.g., sexualized services).
She only sees first‑time clients during daylight and shares her location with trusted contacts.
She maintains a clear, therapeutic-only brand despite public misconceptions.
6. Entrepreneurship Journey & Business Model
She built her business during COVID‑19, initially offering lower prices, then raising them as her brand grew.
Corporate wellness events and golf tournaments became a major revenue stream.
She hires contractors to scale for events.
Her long‑term goal is “mailbox money”—a business run by a team while she steps away from hands-on work.
7. Alternative Treatment: Cupping Therapy
Cupping uses suction to pull stagnant blood, loosen muscle tissue, and improve circulation.
Cups can remain stationary or be moved along the back to flush tension.
8. The Jasmine Experience
Sessions are designed around clients’ comfort, in their own homes, with their preferred music and ambiance.
Post‑massage, clients can immediately rest—no stress of getting dressed or driving home.
🗣️ Notable Quotes ✔ On taking risks
“I just jumped up and moved. I didn’t know anyone… I just said I’m going to start over.”

✔ On stress in the body
“We all carry trauma. When you’re stressed, it all ends up in your body.”

✔ On deep tissue massage
“If it gets to be too much, let me know. Don’t be afraid to speak up.”

✔ On stretching
“If you don’t use it, you’re going to lose it.”

✔ On business growth
“Some days are easy and some days are like… alright, don’t know. But you keep going.”

✔ On long‑term goals
“I don’t plan on being hands-on forever. The goal is to build my brand and have a team I can send out—like Amazon.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning!
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Cameka Smith.
Founder of The BOSS Network, from Money Making Conversations Masterclass:
Purpose of the Interview
The interview aimed to:
Highlight The BOSS Network’s mission to empower women of color through entrepreneurship, career development, and community support.
Share Dr. Smith’s personal journey from layoff to leadership, inspiring others to embrace entrepreneurship.
Discuss strategies for business success, funding opportunities, and mentorship for Black female founders.
Key Takeaways
Origin of The BOSS Network
Founded in 2009 during the recession after Dr. Smith was laid off from Chicago Public Schools.
Initially started as local events in Chicago; now a digital community reaching 200,000 women nationwide.
Mission: Bringing Out Successful Sisters (BOSS)—promoting small business spirit and career growth.

Impact & Achievements
Invested in 100 Black female founders through grants.
Trained 50,000 women on business strategies.
Coached 10,000 women on starting businesses.
Created Boss Business University, offering mentorship and digital programs.

Pivot During COVID
Shifted from 35% event-based revenue to 75% digital.
Launched Boss Impact Fund and Invest in Progress Grant: $10,000 grants + 4-year scholarships for recipients.
Combined funding, mentorship, and marketing support for sustainability.


Challenges & Mindset
Entrepreneurship requires planning, resilience, and community support.
Dr. Smith saved money before leaving her job and leveraged relationships for growth.
Quote: “Entrepreneurs will work 80 hours for themselves but don’t want to work 40 hours for someone else.”

Top 3 Mistakes Entrepreneurs Make
Lack of research: Understand your industry, competitors, and market.
No revenue model: If you’re not making money, it’s a hobby, not a business.
Ignoring relationships: Networking and partnerships are key to success.

Unique Marketing & Partnerships
Dr. Smith built direct relationships with brands, bypassing agencies that offered “pennies on the dollar.”
Created a dual revenue model: B2B (corporate partnerships) + B2C (community engagement).

Core Philosophy
Motto: Believe, Plan, Win.
Quote: “Those that show up, go up.”
Success is rooted in faith, persistence, and leveraging community.

Notable Quotes
“I was born to be an entrepreneur. My mother told me, until you become your own boss, you have to follow the rules.”
“Less than 1% of Black women get VC funding—so we created our own fund.”
“Relationships are your key to success. When social media goes away, your audience remains.”
“If you have a business and you don’t have money, you’ve got a hobby.”
“God will not birth anything inside of you that He will not give you the tools to deliver.”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning!
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Justin M. Lee.
Purpose of the Interview
To showcase Dr. Lee’s journey from a young real estate agent to a multi-industry entrepreneur.
To inspire listeners with strategies for wealth-building through real estate, construction, and logistics.
To encourage financial literacy, ownership, and collaboration within underserved communities.
To issue a call to action for minorities to explore opportunities like Amazon DSP and real estate investment.
Key Takeaways
Early Career & Education
Started young in real estate, embraced discomfort in rooms dominated by older professionals.
Leveraged millennial tech skills (social media marketing) to help veteran brokers grow.
Earned a doctorate degree and became a licensed real estate broker.

Social Media as a Business Tool
Built a strong presence on TikTok (90K followers) and other platforms.
Helped older real estate firms thrive by creating digital visibility.
Emphasized that “business must look as good online as in person.”

Financial Literacy & Homeownership
African-American communities often lack foundational financial knowledge.
Key barriers: misunderstanding credit, fear of debt, and lack of exposure to ownership benefits.
Advocates teaching the difference between good debt (real estate) and bad debt (consumer credit).

Real Estate Process
Initial onboarding: credit score, income, tax filing.
Connect clients with lenders, secure pre-approval, then negotiate and close within 30–45 days.
Uses property tours as motivation even for those not yet approved.

Pooling Resources for Wealth
Industry dominated by white men and foreign investors who use syndication.
Dr. Lee created a private family fund with fraternity brothers and friends.
Acquired 150+ apartment units and commercial properties by pooling resources and forming LLCs.

Amazon DSP Opportunity
Owns an Amazon Delivery Service Partner business (42 trucks, 200 employees).
Offers minorities a chance to apply for DSP with $10K grant.
Taught him true CEO skills: HR, payroll, compliance, and scaling operations.

Construction Business
Entered construction after experiencing exploitation in fix-and-flip projects.
Learned the business side (permits, change orders) and got licensed.
Built major projects like a 10,000 sq. ft. restaurant in Atlanta.
Advocates for Black representation in construction, an industry dominated by whites and Hispanics.

Personal Background
Raised in New Orleans during Katrina by a single mother and grandparents.
Mother invested FEMA checks into real estate, teaching him property management and renovation skills early.
Believes knowledge is power and emphasizes planning and consistency.

Notable Quotes
On embracing discomfort:
“I learned to embrace the uncomfort and make it one of my biggest strengths.”

On social media:
“You have to make your business look the same way online as in person.”

On financial literacy:
“Real estate is always going to be good debt. Bad debt is the Macy’s card.”

On collaboration:
“Pooling resources shows how far we can go and how fast we can go—but together.”

On planning:
“If you don’t plan, you plan to fail. All you have to do is stick to the plan.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.