Strawberry Letter

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Cedric Walker. Founder of the UniverSoul Circus, shares his journey from producing gospel plays to creating a globally recognized, culturally rich circus experience. He discusses the inspiration behind the circus, the challenges he faced, the importance of representation, and the evolution of the show. The conversation emphasizes family entertainment, cultural authenticity, and global talent development. 🧭 Key Points 1. Origins and Vision Cedric began in gospel theater, producing plays that reflected real-life challenges in the Black community. Inspired by the power of theater to reflect culture, he envisioned a circus that celebrated African-American heritage and family unity. 2. Challenges and Breakthroughs Faced skepticism from both Black and white industry professionals. Overcame legal hurdles with Universal Studios by renaming the circus to UniverSoul Circus. Maintained his original vision despite pressure to conform. 3. Cultural Representation The circus was designed to be inclusive and multigenerational, with acts that resonate across age groups and backgrounds. Emphasized showcasing Black excellence in performance arts, from aerialists to unicyclists. 4. Global Talent and Training Talent is sourced globally from Ethiopia, Cuba, China, and the Caribbean. Performers undergo 4–5 years of training before appearing under the big top. Ethiopia is now a leading source of Black circus performers. 5. Evolution of the Show Transitioned away from animal acts due to changing laws and ethics. Integrated Afrobeats, hip-hop, and global dance styles to reflect evolving cultural trends. The show is described as a “family reunion under the big top.” 💬 Notable Quotes “The idea was to create something where a father, mother, daughter, and grandson could all sit together and enjoy the show.” “We wanted to uplift and celebrate the positive achievements and cultural contributions of African-Americans.” “Everything you see under the big top is curated—it takes 4 to 5 years before an act hits our stage.” “Ethiopia is leading the world in producing Black circus performers.” “It’s like a family reunion under the big top.” “We’re not going after any specific audience—we’re going after the world.” “UniverSoul Circus starts on time. Don’t be late—you’ll miss something great.” #SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMISee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dominique Leonard. Founder of Jus' Free, a parole package provider. Here are some key highlights and themes from the conversation: 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. From Incarceration to Inspiration Dominique Leonard was sentenced to life in prison for a non-aggravated robbery. He discovered that “life” sentences can vary, and his was eligible for parole after 5.5 to 6 years. He was denied parole initially, which led him to take control of his own legal journey. 2. Birth of “Jus' Free” After being denied parole, Dominique created his own parole package with the help of his family. He realized many inmates are unaware of how they are presented to the parole board. This inspired him to found Jus' Free, a service that helps inmates humanize themselves through custom parole packages. 3. Faith, Family, and Redemption Dominique credits his faith and family for his transformation. He emphasizes that making a bad decision doesn’t make someone a bad person. His story is a testament to second chances and the power of self-advocacy. 4. Entrepreneurial Journey After release, he started with humble jobs and gradually built Just Free into a business. He took a paralegal course to deepen his legal knowledge. He began by contacting inmates directly and now boasts an 82% success rate in helping clients secure parole. 5. Impact and Legacy Dominique’s work not only helps inmates but also supports their families. His story is a reminder of the importance of empathy, support systems, and believing in redemption. #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 Coach Gregory Green. Head men’s and women’s tennis coach and REACH advisor at Tuskegee University. Here's a summary of the key themes and highlights: 🎙️ Guest: Coach Gregory Green Former college football player and coach at schools like Alabama State, Kentucky State, Savannah State, and UAB. Currently coaching tennis at Tuskegee University and mentoring student-athletes. 🧠 Key Topics Discussed 🏈 NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) and College Athletics NIL has transformed college sports, allowing athletes to earn money through endorsements and sponsorships. Power Five schools (like Ohio State and Michigan) have massive NIL collectives, sometimes offering millions to high school recruits. HBCUs and smaller programs are participating but on a smaller financial scale. NIL deals are often driven by alumni and corporate partnerships. 🔁 Transfer Portal Explained as a tool for athletes to transfer schools without sitting out a year. While it offers flexibility, it also raises concerns about commitment, development, and long-term planning. Athletes risk losing scholarships if they enter the portal without securing a new opportunity. 🎾 Tuskegee Tennis Program Coach Green leads a successful program with high academic and athletic performance. His teams have won championships and maintained top GPAs in the region. Emphasizes holistic development—athletics, academics, and career readiness. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Mentorship & Parental Advice Encourages parents to let student-athletes make their own college decisions. Stresses the importance of attitude and effort as the only two things athletes can control. Advocates for intrinsic motivation and resilience in the face of adversity. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Friday, December 19th, 2025. Subject: "Trying To Get Through The Holidays"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Jackson Dunbar. 📝 Summary of the Interview Jackson Dunbar, founder of WellMad Atlanta—a coalition of psychiatric, medical, psychology, counseling, and special education providers—joined Rushion McDonald to discuss the urgent need for accessible mental health care. Drawing from his personal experience with chronic pain and mental health struggles, Dunbar shared insights into the systemic issues affecting mental health access, especially for Black and Brown communities. The conversation covered suicide prevention, the impact of COVID-19, the shortage of child psychiatrists, and the importance of building a strong care team. Dunbar emphasized the power of communication, hope, and proactive mental health management. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview To raise awareness about the mental health crisis and lack of access to care. To share Jackson Dunbar’s personal journey and how it shaped his mission. To promote WellMad Atlanta as a resource for mental health support. To encourage men, especially Black men, to seek help and break stigma. To highlight the importance of team-based care and individualized treatment plans. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Mental Health Access Crisis There are fewer than 10,000 child psychiatrists in the U.S. Many providers don’t accept insurance due to payment delays and system hacks. Quote: “Three out of five children have a mental health diagnosis, but there’s not enough psychiatrists.” 2. Impact of COVID-19 Demand for mental health services rose nearly 100%. Many older providers retired or stopped accepting patients due to health risks. Telemedicine expanded access, especially in underserved areas. 3. Suicide and Chronic Pain Suicide often stems from loss of hope, especially in chronic pain patients. Dunbar shared his own struggle with suicidal thoughts due to untreated nerve damage. Quote: “I couldn’t sleep. I had to drink vodka shots just to get a few hours of sleep.” 4. Building a Mental Health Team A strong care team includes a psychiatrist, psychologist, PCP, rehab specialist, and more. Smart goals help patients regain functionality and purpose. Quote: “How do I make money when I can’t work? That’s where Smart goals come in.” 5. Stigma in Black Communities Many Black men avoid seeking help due to fear of appearing weak. Dunbar advocates for breaking this stigma and embracing mental health care. Quote: “We’re the first to fight for this country, but the last to get help when we return.” 6. WellMad Atlanta’s Reach Serves Georgia residents virtually, including college students and rural communities. Offers culturally competent care and prioritizes accessibility. Quote: “As long as your Wi-Fi is tight, we’re good.” 💬 Notable Quotes “The person going through challenges is focused on what they’ve lost. That’s a dark place.” “Insurance companies offered payday loans to doctors instead of paying them.” “Vacationing was miserable—until I rented a scooter and felt like Iron Man.” “Mental health isn’t just one month a year. It’s every day.” “You can’t make money if you’re not mentally or physically right.” #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.