Strawberry Letter

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Jacque Rushin and Robyn Donaldson.
Below is a polished, thorough summary of the interview featuring Jacque Rushin and Robyn Donaldson discussing the career and legacy of Dr. Gladys West with Rushion McDonald—along with its purpose, key takeaways, and notable quotes, all drawn directly from the transcript.
(Citations reference the uploaded file.)
Summary of the Interview
On Money Making Conversations Masterclass, Rushion McDonald welcomes Dr. Jacque Rushin (award‑winning business executive, educator, mental health professional, humanitarian) and Robyn Donaldson (2025 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award honoree for global STEM education) to discuss their celebration of Dr. Gladys B. West, a pioneering mathematician whose work laid the foundation for the GPS (Global Positioning System).
The conversation explores the intersection of Juneteenth, Black excellence, STEM education, and Dr. West’s life story, captured in her memoir It Began with a Dream. The guests highlight Dr. West as one of America’s last living “hidden figures”—a brilliant yet historically overlooked Black woman whose mathematical genius revolutionized everyday life.
They detail how Dr. West rose from sharecropper roots, excelled academically at Virginia State University, earned her master’s and PhD, spent 39 years contributing to government research, and ultimately developed the algorithms and modeling processes that power GPS. They also describe their collaborative effort to create the Westward Bound Program, a life‑skills and STEM‑focused curriculum inspired by Dr. West’s principles of wisdom, endurance, strategy, and precision.
Through humorous, emotional, and deeply insightful dialogue, the episode uplifts Dr. West’s accomplishments while discussing mental health, technology dependence, the importance of exposure to STEM pathways for underserved youth, and how the legacy of Black innovators must remain central in cultural celebrations like Juneteenth.
Purpose of the Interview
1. To honor and amplify Dr. Gladys West’s legacy
She is a living mathematical pioneer whose GPS contributions transformed global navigation and modern technology.
2. To connect her story to Juneteenth’s spirit of liberation and recognition
The guests highlight the “delayed recognition” of Black innovators and the importance of acknowledging hidden figures whose brilliance shaped society.
3. To promote STEM exposure in underserved communities
Robyn Donaldson emphasizes equitable access to STEM opportunities so children can compete in a global, tech‑driven world.
4. To introduce and promote the Westward Bound Program
The curriculum teaches STEM principles, life skills, and personal development inspired by Dr. West’s methodologies.
5. To highlight themes of resilience, humility, and lifelong learning
Dr. West’s quiet determination and academic persistence serve as a blueprint for young people and adults alike.
Key Takeaways
1. Dr. Gladys West is a “living hidden figure.”
Her research and mathematical modeling are the backbone of GPS, impacting navigation, transportation, military systems, and everyday digital tools.
2. Her journey exemplifies brilliance shaped by humility and hard work.
Born in 1930 to sharecropper parents, she excelled academically despite segregation, pursued multiple degrees, and overcame racial and gender barriers in government research settings.
3. Juneteenth is the perfect backdrop for honoring Dr. West.
Jacque stresses that Juneteenth represents “delayed freedom,” paralleling the delayed recognition of Black inventors and innovators.
4. STEM exposure is vital to equity.
Robyn insists that Black children are fully capable of STEM success—they simply lack exposure, not aptitude. Without STEM skills, young people risk being left behind in a robotics‑driven economy.
5. Technology should complement—not replace—human thinking.
Jacque cites Dr. West’s personal preference for physical maps over GPS to maintain cognitive sharpness and critical thinking, a warning about over‑dependence on AI and automation.
6. The Westward Bound Program bridges STEM, life skills, and personal development.
Built on the acronym “WEST”—Wisdom, Endurance, Strategy, Tracking—the program supports youth, adults, and entrepreneurs seeking direction and resilience.
7. Mentorship, community, and relationships are central themes.
Dr. West’s success was nurtured by professors and role models at her HBCU—mirroring how Jacque and Robyn now uplift the next generation.
8. Her story resonates globally and intergenerationally.
From college students to young children to adults, the principles from her memoir and program promote self‑belief, vision, discipline, and perseverance.
Notable Quotes
(All taken directly from the transcript.)
On Dr. West’s impact
“She’s a living hidden figure… her accomplishments have actually changed our way of living in every discipline of life.”
“Her technology… makes these things possible.”
On Juneteenth and recognition
“Juneteenth is about the delayed freedom of African Americans… and what Dr. West represents is the quiet, often overlooked brilliance that changes the world.”
On STEM access
“Our kids are not pursuing high‑paying STEM careers, not because of their aptitude, but simply because they have not been exposed.”
On Dr. West’s genius
“You don’t have to be loud to be a legacy.”
“She is just so humble, but she’s just brilliant. She’s like a mathematical genius.”
On technology & mental health
“She didn’t want to lose her critical thinking by depending on GPS… everything has a place, and it should complement you, not take over.”
On resilience & aspiration
“You have to believe there is something greater than what you’re standing in.”
“From sharecropper to pioneer—you can be someone from humble beginnings and change the world.”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Shelby Williams.
🌟 Summary of the Shelby Williams Interview
(From “Money Making Conversations Masterclass” with Rushion McDonald)
The interview features Shelby English Williams, a registered nurse and founder of SEW Nursing, LLC, a luxury concierge nursing firm based in Atlanta. She shares her personal journey from childhood inspiration, to becoming an RN, to ultimately building a business that provides personalized, at‑home, patient‑first nursing services.
Shelby also discusses the challenges nurses face, the importance of compassionate care, entrepreneurship in healthcare, and her annual nursing celebration event called the Nursing Shindig.
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
The interview serves to:
1. Highlight Shelby Williams’ entrepreneurship journey
She demonstrates how nurses can expand beyond traditional clinical roles and launch independent nursing businesses.
2. Educate the audience about concierge nursing
Shelby breaks down what “luxury nursing care” means and how her services differ from standard home health and Medicare‑funded care.
3. Inspire nurses to pursue business ownership
She provides advice, real stories, and a transparent look into the challenges and rewards of being a nurse‑entrepreneur.
4. Promote her event — the Nursing Shindig
An annual celebration and empowerment gathering for nurses.
📌 Key Takeaways 1. Shelby’s Background & Calling
Inspired by her church community and early exposure to elders.
Knew she wanted to be a nurse since age 3.
Progressed through CNA → LPN → RN.
Her mother’s example and support kept her going through challenges.
2. COVID‑19 Shaped Her Perspective
Was in RN school during the pandemic.
Virtual classes, limited hospital access, and intense stress shaped her view of nursing.
The pandemic reinforced her commitment rather than discouraging her.
3. Why She Started SEW Nursing, LLC
Leadership burnout in assisted living roles.
Discovered entrepreneurship via an older nurse on TikTok and a podcast.
Realized: “You are your own business as a registered nurse.”
Her company provides luxury concierge care, including: Medication management
Clinical assessments
Wellness visits
Healthcare coordination
Accompanying clients to doctor appointments
Short‑term or situational nursing support

4. What “Luxury Nursing” Means to Her
It’s not about extravagance — it’s about meeting patients where they are with:
Personalized care
In‑home support
Time, presence, and dignity
Services that standard insurance‑based care can’t provide
5. Her Approach to Care
Shelby emphasizes:
Service before money
Relationship‑building
Compassion for families in crisis
Making clients feel safe and understood
Not being driven by profit in urgent situations
She shares a story about driving over an hour on a Sunday to help a client’s mother without charging upfront — because the priority was care, not fees.
6. Hospice Wisdom
Shelby reframes the term:
Hospice isn’t always the end.
Patients can “graduate” off hospice.
Hospice includes chaplains, social workers, aides, nurses.
Helps families get affairs in order — from paperwork to emotional support.
7. The Nursing Shindig
A social + educational event for nurses.
Features:
VIP entrepreneurship session
Workbooks with business steps
Keynote speakers
Food, DJ, dancing (Cupid Shuffle, Electric Slide)
Vendor booths
Nurse recognition awards
Next event:
📅 August 8, 2026 — Atlanta (ATL Experience)
8. Her Message About Nursing & the System
Nurses are not properly represented.
Staffing ratios are unsafe.
Public doesn't realize the burden of caring for 5–7 patients at once.
Nurses are mentally, physically, emotionally stretched.
Yet many stay because caregiving is a calling.
9. Entrepreneurship Advice for Nurses
Write the plan. Make it plain. Stick to it.
Fear is real but manageable.
Stay committed even with long days and nights.
Keep revisiting your business plan.
Sacrifice is necessary: she still works full‑time while building her company.
💬 Notable Quotes (Attributed to Shelby or Rushion) On purpose and calling
“I remember being three years old saying I wanted to be a nurse.”
“My mother paved the way. She didn’t let me quit.”
On entrepreneurship
“You are your own business as a registered nurse.”
“Write the plan and make it plain — and stick to it.”
“It takes sacrifice. My bedtime may be 2 or 3 AM sometimes.”
On luxury nursing
“Meet me where I’m at and provide the care I need — that’s luxury.”
On hospice
“Hospice doesn’t have to be the end. Some people graduate off hospice.”
“While they’re still here, make them comfortable — however comfort looks for them.”
On patient families
“You’ve done a good job. You set up services. Now let us help you.”
On service vs money
“It’s not always about the dollar. My reward is your referral.”
“I didn’t take a dollar because it wasn’t about that — it was about the care.”
On why she keeps returning to the profession
“The reward and the service — that’s what brings me back.”
Rushion on trust
“All you want is for the person you love to be cared for with dignity.”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Heather R. Younger.
CEO, workplace culture expert, author, and founder of a major employee engagement consultancy—joins Rushion McDonald to discuss leadership, employee empowerment, navigating fear, and self‑leadership in modern workplaces.
She shares her personal experiences with layoffs, career uncertainty, anxiety, and leadership failures—and how these experiences shaped her mission to be “the voice for the voiceless” in organizational culture. They explore the emotional realities of layoffs vs. terminations, how employees can take control of their professional well‑being, and Heather’s framework for identifying and overcoming fear.
PURPOSE OF THE INTERVIEW 1. To introduce Heather’s work and mission
She champions active listening, employee empowerment, and self‑leadership after personally reading 30,000+ employee surveys and leading 100+ focus groups.
2. To teach listeners how to navigate workplace uncertainty
She provides strategies for dealing with anxiety, job insecurity, change, and inconsistent leadership climates.
3. To share an empowering message about self‑leadership
Central idea: No one is coming to save you. You must lead yourself first.
4. To explore how fear holds people back professionally
She outlines how fear affects decision‑making, action-taking, and confidence.
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Why She Does This Work
She witnessed firsthand how mergers, layoffs, and poor communication harm employees.
After being laid off with 200+ others, she realized she needed to become the “voice of reason” who turns employee concerns into actionable insights for leaders.
2. Layoff vs. Termination — Emotional Differences
Layoffs: painful but less shame; not personal fault.
Termination: usually involves personal accountability, and often carries more shame.
Both create a feeling of powerlessness, but each requires emotional processing and reframing.
3. No One Is Coming To Save You
Employees must take responsibility for:
Their growth
Their mental health
Their career progression
Their emotional well‑being
HR cannot save you, Heather says—they play a dual role and cannot be personal rescuers.
4. Managing Workplace Anxiety
Key strategies include:
Nightly reflection → Write down what went well and what you controlled.
Reframing → Turning irrational fears into rational thoughts.
Breathing, sunlight, walking, self‑care → Especially for anxiety.
Intentional mindset‑switching → Choosing thoughts that serve you.
5. The Five Ways Fear Holds You Back Professionally
Heather identifies several fear patterns:
1. Fear of Feedback
Avoiding action because you’re afraid of what others may say.
2. Fear of Retribution / Getting in Trouble
Hesitating to take risks or initiative.
3. Fear of Speaking Up
Not challenging authority or expressing dissenting opinions due to lack of psychological safety.
4. Fear Rooted in Family / Cultural Conditioning
Inherited fear patterns from parents, grandparents, or trauma.
5. Fear of Regret / Non‑Action
She teaches a powerful question:
“What will I regret the longest—doing the thing or not doing the thing?”
This question accelerates decision‑making and breaks the paralysis of fear.
6. Take Ownership of Your Life — Self‑Leadership
Become the Chief Iterator of Your Life → Continue refining yourself like a living prototype.
Accept mistakes as part of growth.
Avoid perfectionism; aim for continuous improvement.
7. Practical Daily Habits
Prepare mentally each night.
Hydrate, sleep well, move your body.
Train yourself to take small positive actions daily.
NOTABLE QUOTES FROM THE INTERVIEW On Self‑Leadership
“Ain’t nobody coming to save me. And in the workplace, no one’s coming to save you.”
On Fear
“Feedback is a gift—even if it hurts.”
“We sit around waiting for green lights, access, invitations… It’s not coming. We need to seize it.”
“What is the thing you will regret the longest—doing it or not doing it?”
On Navigating Change
“You get to fight tooth and nail for your own mental space.”
On Personal Growth
“See yourself as a work in progress—a constant iteration.”
On Workplace Emotions
“With layoffs, you didn’t have a hand in it. With termination, there’s more shame.”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
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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 #BEST
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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Tarence Wheeler.
He is a highly respected professional with over 20 years of experience in community relations and philanthropic activities, specializing in community and corporate partnerships and relationship building. He is a former Mayoral Appointee, serving as the community relations liaison for Mayor Dave Bing and the City of Detroit.
Mr. Wheeler has extensive experience in community outreach, mentoring, and fostering partnerships to support educational achievement. During the pandemic, he led the effort to distribute over 15 million meals to the downriver community via a partnership with Forgotten Harvest. He founded the All-Star Giveback Thanksgiving Turkey Drive, which currently provides over 3,000 turkeys with all the trimmings to families in need.
Although Mr. Wheeler has been seen serving on a national level with celebrities and the like, his greatest passion is in helping to enrich the lives of at-risk young people in communities throughout the Metropolitan Detroit area. He is often inspiring and motivating students at Detroit-area schools, using a transparent and authentic approach to reaching young people and ‘meeting them where they are’. His first-hand knowledge and experience with growing up in a less-fortunate environment increased his ability to make a direct connection with his young audience.
Celebrities join forces for All-Star Giveback: Thanksgiving Edition: WHO: Tarence Wheeler, Multi-Platinum & Emmy winning Grammy Nominee Rapper Big Sean/Sean Anderson Foundation, Former NBA Players Derrick Coleman, Gary Payton, Willie Burton, Isiah Thomas, Rick Mahorn, Grant Long, Tim Hardaway, James “Budda” Edwards, Actor/Author Hill Harper, Former NFL Players Herman Moore, Lomas Brown, Rob Sims, Calvin Johnson, Wayne County Executive Warren Evans, Wayne County Sheriff Ray Washington, Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist, City Council President Mary Sheffield
WHAT: Annual All-Star Giveback: Thanksgiving Edition will provide more than 3000 turkeys and food baskets to Metro- Detroit residents on a first come, first served basis.
#AMI
#BEST
#STRAW
#SHMS
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