Strawberry Letter

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Ryan Richmond and Greg Bowman.
Co‑owners of Popcorn Remix, a Georgia‑based gourmet popcorn brand known for more than 60 innovative flavors ranging from King Crab Legs to Charlene’s Banana Pudding to chocolate‑covered strawberry.
Together they share their partnership story, the origin of Popcorn Remix, the explosive growth of their brand, how they built a powerhouse fundraising platform (WePowerFundraisers.com), their expansion into major sports and entertainment venues, and the unique combination of hustle, creativity, faith, and community service that drives their success.
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
The interview was designed to:
1. Highlight the Popcorn Remix brand and its explosive growth
From a storefront in Conyers, GA, to Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, Truist Park, the Georgia World Congress Center, the Atlanta Dream, and major convention centers.
2. Showcase their entrepreneurship journey as Black founders
They share how they partnered, overcame limitations, created their own lane, and scaled a product category long dominated by major national brands.
3. Promote their fundraising platform (WePowerFundraisers.com)
A system that gives organizations up to 50% of gross sales, ships popcorn directly to supporters, and supports churches, schools, nonprofits, cheer teams, and more.
4. Inspire entrepreneurs
Greg and Ryan share candid advice on partnership, sacrifice, differentiating your product, and believing in your gifts.
💡 Key Takeaways
1. A Powerful Partnership Built on Hustle, Trust & Alignment
Greg and Ryan met years ago through a men’s empowerment group and eventually partnered after Greg conceived the popcorn concept.
Ryan didn’t have the money but had “all the hustle in the world”—and that’s the partnership foundation.
They call themselves the Visionary & Executioner, committing to outwork anyone and always show up for each other.
2. Popcorn Remix Was Created to “Remix” What Popcorn Could Be
The brand name came from their church’s theme, “Year of the Remix.”
They wanted flavors never seen before: butter pecan, crab legs, chocolate‑covered strawberry, cookies and cream, lemon pound cake, jerk chicken, etc. [
Only three people in the world know the signature butter pecan formula.
3. Their Innovation Extends Beyond Flavors — Even the Kernels Are Different
They use “mushroom” kernels (round, fluffy) instead of standard “butterfly” kernels to prevent breakage, reduce seed fragments, and support orthodontic patients. [
Their popcorn is fluffier, smoother, and more versatile for gourmet coating.
4. The Storefront Is an In‑Person Experience
The Conyers, GA store provides:
Free sampling of all 60+ flavors
Music based on the time of day
Engaging, fun staff
Fresh gourmet popcorn made on-site
The storefront is intentionally designed to be a “vibe.”
5. Live Activations Are Their Secret Weapon
Their background in music and entertainment helps them:
Work crowds
Convert curious customers into buyers
Perform high‑energy demos
Showcase “activation flavors” like Lemon Pound Cake, which comes with instructions
These activations drew attention at Falcons games, arenas, conventions, and more.
6. Popcorn Remix Is in Major Venues Across Georgia
They have partnerships with:
Mercedes‑Benz Stadium (all levels)
Truist Park / Atlanta Braves
State Farm Arena
Atlanta Dream
Georgia World Congress Center
Georgia International Convention Center
They’re a favorite for cheer, volleyball, and large-scale events.
7. Their Brand Went Viral — Celebrities and even the White House Took Notice
Celebrity/luminary support includes:
Whoopi Goldberg
Daymond John
Sherri Shepherd
Anthony Hamilton
Cathy Hughes (Radio One/TV One founder)
The White House (Hip-Hop 50th celebration invitation)
Their popcorn has literally made it to the White House.
8. Their Fundraising Platform Is a Game-Changer
WePowerFundraisers.com gives:
Up to 50% of gross sales to organizations
Automated direct‑to-door delivery
No upfront costs
10‑day fundraiser windows
Ten curated flavors for easy purchase
They’re now targeting national Greek organizations (“Divine Nine”) to scale. [
9. Massive Growth: $1.5 Million in 3 Years
They realized they “had something” when they hit $1.5 million in revenue, without debt, and only two founders running things.
They even had to turn down a $4M deal because they didn’t yet have the production capacity—prompting them to invest heavily in a new warehouse.
10. They Reinvented Their Ops with Subscriptions & TikTok Shops
They recently added:
A monthly popcorn subscription
A TikTok Shop that allows creators to sell Popcorn Remix and earn revenue
These innovations help them scale nationally.
🗣 Notable Quotes (with citations) On their partnership
“He said, ‘I ain’t got a whole bunch of money… but I got all the hustle in the world.’”
On their role to each other
“I refuse to be outworked… whenever you call, I’m available.”
On Popcorn Remix’s purpose
“We want to remix popcorn… make it unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.”
On competition
“When you're going against a giant, you gotta have something real… We had a rocket launcher.”
On their breakthrough moment
“We grossed $1.5 million in three years… from popcorn. I knew we had something.”
On celebrity validation
“When Whoopi sent the picture… and then the White House… that was it.”
On entrepreneurship
“Dreams don’t expire. How you start is not how you finish.”
On community fundraising
“It’s one thing to ask for something. It’s another to give something back.”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
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Keep It Positive, Sweetie is more than a podcast—it’s a movement rooted in purpose, faith, and healing. Hosted by Crystal Renee Hayslett, this show creates a safe space for raw conversations and real connections that uplift, inspire, and empower. Each episode brings together culture-shifting guests for unfiltered talks on love, self-worth, growth, and navigating life with grace and grit. Whether we’re laughing, learning, or leaning into tough truths, the goal is always the same: to keep it honest, keep it healing, and always… Keep It Positive, Sweetie.
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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 Kevin Cohee.
Title: Owner, Chairman & CEO of OneUnited Bank
Host: Rushion McDonald
Podcast: Money Making Conversations Masterclass
Kevin Cohee discusses the mission, history, and future of OneUnited Bank, the largest Black‑owned bank and the first Black‑owned internet bank in the U.S. The conversation connects Black economic history, financial literacy, technology (AI), and wealth-building, positioning OneUnited Bank as a modern solution to long‑standing financial exclusion in Black and underserved communities.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview is designed to:
Educate listeners on why Black-owned banks matter historically and economically.
Explain how technology has transformed banking, making location irrelevant.
Address financial exclusion, particularly reliance on check-cashing services.
Promote financial literacy as the foundation of wealth creation.
Position OneUnited Bank as a practical, accessible tool for individuals, entrepreneurs, and communities to build equity.
Key Themes & Takeaways 1. A Mission Rooted in Black History
Kevin Cohee frames OneUnited Bank as part of a long historical vision, not a modern trend.
Leaders such as Booker T. Washington, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. all advocated for a national Black-owned bank.
Cohee’s own family legacy ties back to Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma, including land ownership stemming from negotiated “40 acres and a mule” outcomes.
Takeaway: Economic independence has always been central to Black progress.
2. From Brick-and-Mortar to Digital Banking
OneUnited originally grew by acquiring small Black-owned banks nationwide.
The bank pivoted early toward technology-driven banking, recognizing that: Customers expect 24/7 access
Physical branches are no longer required
Digital reach enables national—and global—impact

Key insight: Technology allowed OneUnited to become a national Black bank without national branches.
3. Financial Technology Built for Real-Life Problems
Kevin Cohee emphasizes that OneUnited designs products around how people actually live, not just traditional banking norms.
Examples include:
Second-chance checking accounts
Emergency small-dollar loans
Alternative credit criteria
Nationwide surcharge-free ATM access
AI-powered tools that help users understand: Cash flow
Assets vs. liabilities
Net worth (or debt)
Financial decision-making in real time

Takeaway: Banking should help people function—not punish them for past mistakes.
4. Financial Literacy Is the Real Wealth Gap
Cohee states that 90% of Americans are financially illiterate, largely because: Financial literacy is not taught in K–12 education

He compares this to not teaching reading—and then blaming people for illiteracy.
OneUnited uses AI and data aggregation to help customers make expert-level decisions without being experts.
Key message: Financial literacy, not income alone, determines long-term wealth.
5. Ending Dependence on Check-Cashing Services
Kevin sharply criticizes high-fee check-cashing businesses that dominate underserved neighborhoods.
OneUnited offers digital check deposits, debit cards, and ATM access—removing the need for physical branches.
Anyone, anywhere in the U.S., can bank with OneUnited via oneunited.com.
Takeaway: Lack of access is no longer an excuse—awareness is the missing link.
6. Technology as the New “40 Acres”
Kevin draws a powerful parallel: Land ownership was once the primary source of wealth.
Technology and financial literacy are today’s equivalents.

Entrepreneurs no longer need to manufacture products—branding, distribution, and digital reach are the new leverage.
Key insight: Technology levels the playing field—if people understand how to use it.
7. Mandatory Financial Literacy as a Policy Solution
Kevin advocates for required financial literacy courses in all U.S. schools.
He cites research showing: One required high-school financial literacy course can generate $100,000+ in lifetime net worth per student.

He frames this as a matter of equity, not preference.
Takeaway: Systemic problems require systemic solutions.
Notable Quotes
“The concept of a national Black-owned bank goes all the way back to slavery.”
“We’re not behind in technology—we are the party.”
“Ninety percent of Americans are not financially literate.”
“You don’t have to go to check cashers and get ripped off.”
“Technology is the new 40 acres.”
“Financial literacy alone can generate over $100,000 in net worth per person.”
“There has never been a better time to build a business than right now.”
Overall Impact
This interview is both a financial masterclass and a historical lesson. Kevin Cohee reframes banking as a tool of empowerment, not just transactions, and positions OneUnited Bank as:
A modern solution to historic exclusion
A technology-first institution built for underserved communities
A catalyst for financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and wealth creation
Final message: Access + education + technology can finally close the racial wealth gap—if people choose to engage.
#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 Joxavier Jackson.
A financial advisor with over 15 years of experience across major institutions such as Wells Fargo, Chase, and Bank of America. She discusses her evolution from a teenage bank teller to an independent financial planner at The Piedmont Group in Atlanta, where she provides holistic, comprehensive wealth management—especially for clients who traditionally lack access to financial literacy.
Joe shares her personal journey, the gaps she observed in financial education—especially in working‑class families and communities of color—and why she aims to provide accessible, relationship‑based financial planning. She breaks down the fundamentals of long‑term wealth: insurance, asset allocation, retirement accounts, tax strategies, fraud prevention, and planning for individuals and business owners.
The discussion highlights the importance of financial confidence, the significance of meeting people where they are, and the need to increase participation of Black and Brown individuals in wealth‑building spaces.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview
Introduce Dr. Joe Jackson’s financial journey
From humble beginnings to leadership positions in banking and finally to founding her own firm.

Explain comprehensive financial planning
She contrasts big‑bank limitations with her holistic approach that includes insurance, investments, retirement, and legacy planning.

Educate listeners on wealth‑building fundamentals
Insurance, retirement vehicles, asset allocation, compounding, fraud prevention, and business planning.

Highlight financial literacy gaps in underserved communities
She encourages access, representation, and inclusion for people of color in financial spaces.

Empower people to build confidence with money
Joe stresses that understanding your numbers gives you a competitive advantage in life.

🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Wealth Requires Strategy, Not Accident
Joe explains that wealth is built through planning, long‑term strategy, and educated decisions—not by chance.
2. Insurance Is a Wealth‑Building Tool
Beyond death benefit, insurance can:
Support retirement income
Provide tax sheltering
Protect against market downturns
She differentiates between term (“rental insurance”) and whole life (“tool you use living and after death”).
3. High Income ≠ Financial Security
Without budgeting, allocation, and strategy, income is quickly lost.
4. Fraud Awareness Is Essential
Joe urges clients to verify communications directly with institutions and avoid clicking suspicious links. 5. Tailored Advice by Age Group
For people in their 20s:
Compounding interest
Rule of 72
Dollar cost averaging
For older clients:
Catch‑up contributions
Consolidating old 401(k)s
6. Business Owners Need Dual Financial Plans
Joe emphasizes separate strategies for:
Business planning
Personal financial planning
Especially for tax savings, succession, and legacy building.
7. Representation Matters in Financial Literacy
She highlights the need for more visibility, education, and access for Black and Brown communities.
8. Asset Allocation Depends on Risk Tolerance
Younger clients = more aggressive
Risk‑averse clients = more conservative, bond‑heavy portfolios
9. Dollar Cost Averaging Builds Wealth
Consistent, automated investing—regardless of market conditions—drives compounding.
🗣️ Notable Quotes (Direct From Transcript) On Wealth Building
“Wealth isn’t built by accident… you have to have a plan.”
On Big Banks vs. Her Firm
“If you don’t have at least $250,000, you weren’t considered a worthy client—so far from the truth.”
On Community Access
“People that look like me—we need this education.”
On Term vs. Whole Life Insurance
“Term is renting. Whole life is a tool you use when you're alive and when you die.”
On Financial Confidence
“Financial confidence is a competitive advantage.”
On Helping Older Clients
“We start right where you are.”
On Increasing Black Participation in Finance
“I don’t look at your dollar amount. I have information that will make a difference in your life… you need to hear it.”
On Her Personal Journey
“My family came from humble beginnings… but a manager encouraged me to sit for my licensing. I passed everything on the first try.”

#SHMS #BEST #STRAW
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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 Lawrence Phillips.
Purpose of the Interview
To showcase Lawrence Phillips’ entrepreneurial journey from engineering to founding Green Book Global, a travel review platform for Black travelers.
To highlight the significance of Black Ambition, an initiative by Pharrell Williams supporting Black and Brown entrepreneurs.
To inspire listeners about resilience, innovation, and the importance of culturally inclusive travel resources.
Key Takeaways
Background & Career Shift
Phillips studied Electrical Engineering at Georgia Tech and worked at Accenture in IT consulting for nearly a decade.
Despite career success, he felt unfulfilled and decided to pursue his passion for travel, leading to the creation of Green Book Global.

Travel Experience
Traveled to 30+ countries across all seven continents, including Antarctica, in less than a year.
Realized the need for a platform addressing “traveling while Black” concerns—safety, cultural acceptance, and inclusivity.

Green Book Global
Inspired by the historical Green Book (1936–1966), which guided Black travelers during segregation.
Offers city-level Black-friendly scores, road trip planners, and Black-owned restaurant recommendations.
Over 150,000 app downloads in 2025; partnered with Expedia; strong social media presence.

Black Ambition Program
Phillips applied three times before reaching semifinals, emphasizing persistence.
Program provided funding opportunities and a transformative Evoke Wellness experience.
His personal “why” statement:
“I’m a protective and innovative steward of Black restoration and healing.”

Impact & Vision
Advocates systemic change by partnering with destinations to improve inclusivity.
Highlights the economic power of Black travelers (over $140 billion annually).
Encourages Black travelers to explore global opportunities beyond U.S. racial constraints.

Notable Quotes
“You can be successful and still not be happy.” — On leaving a lucrative career for passion.
“I’m a protective and innovative steward of Black restoration and healing.” — His guiding principle.
“There’s riches in niches.” — On unapologetically focusing on Black travelers.
“Just because somebody said no doesn’t mean they said no to you—they said no at that time.” — On persistence in entrepreneurship.
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
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