Strawberry Letter

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Monday, December 29th, 2025. Subject: "Fake Star With Groupie Tendencies"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.