The Steve Harvey Morning Show

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Cedric Walker.
Interview Purpose
The purpose of this interview is to highlight visionary entrepreneurship, cultural ownership, and perseverance, using Cedric Walker’s founding of Universoul Circus as a case study in building a purpose‑driven business that uplifts community while achieving long‑term success.
The conversation emphasizes how research, resilience, cultural authenticity, and belief in a vision can overcome skepticism and systemic barriers. It also positions Universoul Circus as more than entertainment—it is a multigenerational cultural institution rooted in Black excellence, inclusion, and family unity.
Major Themes & Key Takeaways 1. Vision Comes Before Validation
Cedric Walker shares that the vision for Universoul Circus came in the early 1990s, long before there was widespread belief that a Black‑owned circus centered on performers of color could succeed. Despite strong skepticism from both Black and white investors, Walker trusted the research, the cultural need, and his instinct.
Key takeaway: Vision must lead—even when validation comes much later.
2. Research Turns Ideas Into Reality
Walker did not rely on inspiration alone. He immersed himself in research, studying Black entertainment history, circus traditions, and global performance art. This foundation allowed him to confidently build a unique, sustainable model rather than copying existing formats.
Key takeaway: Preparation and research are critical when challenging industry norms.
3. Cultural Authenticity Is a Competitive Advantage
Universoul Circus was created to be authentically Black, not as a niche product, but as a universal experience rooted in joy, music, athleticism, and storytelling. Walker emphasizes that authenticity—not adaptation—is what attracts diverse audiences.
Key takeaway: When you are fully yourself, your work transcends culture and geography.
4. Family‑Centered Entertainment Fills a Real Need
A defining goal of Universoul Circus is to create an experience where multiple generations can sit together and all feel seen, engaged, and celebrated. Walker intentionally designed the show so grandparents, parents, and children could enjoy the same experience simultaneously.
Key takeaway: Businesses that bring families together create lasting emotional value.
5. Evolution Without Losing Identity
Over time, Universoul Circus evolved—from including animals to becoming a modern, high‑energy, animal‑free production—adapting to changing laws, audience preferences, and cultural shifts. However, Walker notes that the soul of the circus never changed.
Key takeaway: Successful brands evolve operationally without abandoning their purpose.
6. Global Talent, Long‑Term Investment
Walker details how Universoul Circus sources talent from around the world, including Ethiopia, Cuba, China, and the Caribbean. Performers often undergo years of training and development before appearing in the show, reinforcing Universoul’s commitment to excellence and safety.
Key takeaway: Excellence requires patience, investment, and a long‑term mindset.
7. Representation Changes Perception
Universoul Circus intentionally showcases elite Black performers in spaces where they were historically unseen or undervalued. Walker explains that representation is not symbolic—it reshapes belief and possibility for both audiences and performers.
Key takeaway: Representation is not aesthetic; it is transformative.
8. Perseverance Creates Legacy
Celebrating over 30 years of operation, Universoul Circus stands as proof that staying committed to purpose through adversity leads to longevity. Walker sees the circus as a living legacy and a foundation for future cultural innovation.
Key takeaway: Longevity is built by staying the course when others doubt the destination.
Notable Quotes
“Vision comes to you like that—you have to trust it.”
“Nobody believed it would work, but I felt it in my gut and in my research.”
“Our goal was to stay authentically Black—that’s what transcends culture.”
“We wanted something where a grandmother, a father, and a child could all enjoy the same show.”
“Nothing you see is by chance. Everything has meaning.”
“We invested years into these performers before they ever hit our stage.”
“This is more than a circus—it’s a family reunion under the big top.”
Overall Message
Cedric Walker’s interview is a masterclass in cultural entrepreneurship. It demonstrates how creativity, courage, and conviction can transform an idea into an enduring institution. His journey with Universoul Circus reinforces that purpose, preparation, and persistence are the true drivers of success—especially when building something that challenges expectations.
The conversation ultimately affirms that when a business is rooted in authenticity and community, it can achieve both economic sustainability and cultural impact.
#SHMS #BEST #STRAW
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
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Here’s a clear, structured summary of the Leona Barr Davenport interview with Rushion McDonald (Money Making Conversations Masterclass), including its purpose, key takeaways, and notable quotes.
🔷 Purpose of the Interview
The interview is designed to:
Highlight the mission and impact of the Atlanta Business League (ABL).
Share lessons on entrepreneurship, leadership, and community development.
Inspire listeners—especially entrepreneurs and professionals—to create opportunity, invest in themselves, and uplift their communities.
Showcase successful leaders and business models that address real community needs.
Davenport uses the platform to both educate and motivate, reinforcing the importance of economic empowerment and collective progress.
🔷 Summary of the Interview
Leona Barr Davenport, President & CEO of the Atlanta Business League, discusses:
The history and role of ABL, founded over 100 years ago to support Black business growth.
Atlanta’s unique ecosystem for Black entrepreneurship and collaboration.
The importance of hard work, self-reliance, and community engagement, shaped by her upbringing as a sharecropper’s daughter.
How ABL programs (seminars, awards, mentorship) recognize excellence and foster growth.
The need for businesses to solve real problems and meet unmet needs.
The importance of adaptability, especially in changing political, economic, and technological environments.
She emphasizes that success requires both individual initiative and collective effort, and that professionals must “walk in their light” with confidence and purpose.
🔷 Key Takeaways 1. Legacy and Mission of the Atlanta Business League
ABL focuses on growth and development of African American businesses, while being inclusive to all.
It provides: Education (seminars, workshops)
Recognition (awards)
Networking and mentorship opportunities

Its role extends beyond business to community storytelling and visibility.
“We focus on the growth and development of African American business owners… but we are not exclusive.” [LEONA BARR-DAVENPORT | Txt]
2. Atlanta’s Unique Business Ecosystem
Atlanta stands out for: Collaboration across communities
Strong educational institutions
A tradition of Black leadership and influence

The city fosters both awareness and access to opportunity.
“We had a voice… to make sure that we are moving the needle to help business owners move to the next level.” [LEONA BARR-DAVENPORT | Txt]
3. Hard Work and Self-Reliance
Davenport’s upbringing instilled discipline and accountability.
She emphasizes earning success rather than waiting for opportunity.
“You don’t wait for another check… you go out and make a living.” [LEONA BARR-DAVENPORT | Txt]
“The journey starts with the first step.” [LEONA BARR-DAVENPORT | Txt]
4. Recognition and Visibility Matter
ABL awards celebrate individuals making real impact.
Being recognized is both validation and inspiration.
“Everyone does not make it to the stage… enjoy the moment because it’s your time.” [LEONA BARR-DAVENPORT | Txt]
5. Build What People Need
Successful entrepreneurs identify gaps and create solutions.
Example: The Gathering Spot created a space for collaboration and innovation.
“They created something that people want and that they need and that they use.” [LEONA BARR-DAVENPORT | Txt]
6. Adaptability and Innovation
COVID and societal shifts forced new thinking: Remote work
Virtual business models

Leaders must adapt quickly to change.
“It caused us to think differently… how I do business, with whom I do business.” [LEONA BARR-DAVENPORT | Txt]
7. Confidence and Ownership of Identity
Success requires walking into spaces with confidence.
Identity should not limit opportunity—performance and results should define you.
“Walk in the door saying, I’m successful… I have the track record to prove it.” [LEONA BARR-DAVENPORT | Txt]
8. Collective Progress and Civic Engagement
Economic and political empowerment are connected.
Community progress depends on participation and unity.
“We’ve got to think differently and we’ve got to work together.” [LEONA BARR-DAVENPORT | Txt]
🔷 Powerful Quotes
Here are some of the most impactful lines from the interview:
On opportunity and work ethic:
“You don’t rest… you go out and make a living.” [LEONA BARR-DAVENPORT | Txt]

On growth and action:
“The journey starts with the first step.” [LEONA BARR-DAVENPORT | Txt]

On recognition:
“Everyone does not make it to the stage… enjoy the moment because it’s your time.” [LEONA BARR-DAVENPORT | Txt]

On entrepreneurship:
“They created something that people want and that they need.” [LEONA BARR-DAVENPORT | Txt]

On mindset and confidence:
“Walk in the door saying, I’m successful… I’ve made a difference.”

On collaboration:
“We’ve got to think differently and we’ve got to work together.”

🔷 Bottom Line
The interview is ultimately about empowerment through action:
Build something meaningful.
Invest in yourself and others.
Adapt to change.
Stay rooted in community.
Show up confidently and consistently.
It reinforces that success is intentional, community-driven, and built on discipline and purpose.
#SHMS #BEST #STRAW
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
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 Attorney Tessie D. Edwards.
A family and criminal law attorney based in Atlanta, Georgia. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and themes from the episode:
🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Early Life & Adversity
Tessie Edwards grew up in a challenging environment marked by poverty, teen pregnancy, and systemic injustice.
She became a mother at 16, dropped out of high school, and had her second child by 18.
Despite these challenges, she never lost sight of her dream to become a lawyer.
2. Turning Point
A pivotal moment came when someone told her that her daughter looked like her. That realization sparked a deep desire to become someone her daughter could look up to.
3. Relentless Pursuit of Education
Earned her GED, then an associate degree to qualify for military service.
After a brief stint in the military (cut short due to pregnancy and miscarriage), she pursued higher education.
Graduated from Indiana University with five children and went on to law school with her then-husband.
4. Professional Success
Now runs a multi-million dollar law firm in Atlanta, Georgia.
Has handled over 2,000 criminal cases and is deeply committed to serving families in crisis.
Her firm has been serving the Atlanta community for over 15 years.
5. Support System
Credits her success to a strong support network: her husband (who co-runs the firm), her children, her brother, and her team.
Emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with people who believe in your vision.
6. Advice & Motivation
Be clear about your goals and stay focused.
Don’t wait for the “right time”—start now.
Believe in your dream even when others don’t.
Use adversity as fuel for your ambition.
💬 Memorable Quotes
“I feel thankful but not satisfied.”
“My life was so divinely chosen… I was just given a dream and the courage to go after it.”
“Let’s go, let’s go, let’s go!”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
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 Adonis Lockett.
Titles: Private Capital Expert, Real Estate Investor, Educator
Background: Former engineer for NASA, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Caterpillar
Host: Rushion McDonald
Podcast: Money Making Conversations Masterclass
Adonis Lockett details his transition from aerospace engineering into real estate and private capital, explaining how he built wealth not just by flipping houses—but by operating on “the money side of real estate.” The interview demystifies private lending, access to capital, and how everyday individuals can participate in wealth-building without owning property themselves.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
Expose a lesser-known path to real estate wealth—private money and capital brokering.
Challenge myths about cash buyers, flipping profits, and bank lending.
Educate listeners on leverage and capital access, especially those rejected by traditional banks.
Provide a practical alternative income stream that can be part-time or full-time.
Introduce Adonis’s “Smart Money Blueprint” as an educational pathway into private capital.
Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Engineering Was a Backup—Entrepreneurship Was the Goal
Adonis earned a degree in Electrical & Mechanical Engineering, never intending to stay long-term in corporate.
His engineering career provided income stability while he explored entrepreneurship.
He viewed employment as predictable—but limiting.
Takeaway: A high-paying job can fund your exit, not define your destiny.
2. The Leap Into Real Estate—and the Reality Behind It
His first deal closed in 62 days, earning more than his annual engineering salary.
He quit corporate at age 23, but what followed were four to five years of financial struggle.
He survived by borrowing money monthly while peers thrived in corporate roles.
Key insight: Early wins can be misleading—longevity requires business mastery, not just intelligence.
3. Ego vs. Education
Adonis admits his biggest mistake was underestimating the need to learn business.
He relied on intelligence and people skills instead of mentorship and systems.
Perseverance saved him—but mentorship could have shortened the learning curve.
Takeaway: Hustle without instruction costs time and money.
4. “The Money Isn’t in Real Estate—The Money Is in the Money”
This is the core philosophy of the interview.
Most “cash buyers” are not using their own cash.
Over 70% of cash purchases are funded by private lenders, not banks.
Private lenders deploy capital faster, with fewer requirements, and higher flexibility.
Key idea: Control the capital, and you control the transaction.
5. Understanding the Private Lending Model
Adonis explains how people make money without buying houses:
He acts as a capital broker, connecting investors to private lenders.
He earns 1–2% fees on loan amounts—often tens of thousands per deal.
He carries no risk, no liability, and no capital exposure in many cases.
Example:
A $600,000 investment loan × 2% = $12,000 fee for facilitating the introduction.
6. Why Private Money Beats Banks
Banks require:
Credit checks
Tax returns
Debt-to-income ratios
Long approval timelines
Private lenders often:
Skip credit checks
Ignore DTI
Deploy funds in 3–5 days
Focus solely on deal viability
Takeaway: A bank’s “no” is often exactly why private lenders say “yes.”
7. The Smart Money Blueprint
Adonis created the Smart Money Blueprint to teach this system:
Focuses on the money side of real estate
Self-paced education (10+ hours)
Hands-on deal execution
Live support until students close 10 deals
Designed to eliminate costly trial-and-error
Core promise: Learn to be “the bank” without needing money.
8. Flipping Isn’t What It Looks Like on TV
Adonis breaks down common investor mistakes:
Gross profit ≠ net profit
Fees, holding costs, and market shifts erase margins
Most “$100K flips” net closer to $30K–$40K
Lesson: Education protects profits.
9. Relationships Create Wealth—Not Transactions
Early in his career, Adonis underestimated relationships.
His business scaled once he aligned with high-volume investors and repeat partners.
Capital flows through trust networks, not ads.
Takeaway: Relationships are currency.
10. Flexible Path to Income
The private money model can be:
Part-time: 2–4 hours per week
Full-time: Income replacement or exponential growth
Key point: This is about leverage, not labor.
Notable Quotes
“The money isn’t in real estate—the money is in the money.”
“Most cash buyers aren’t cash buyers at all.”
“I was flat broke for years after quitting corporate—people don’t talk about that part.”
“A bank’s no is often the reason a private lender says yes.”
“Perseverance kept me alive—but mentorship would have saved me years.”
“You don’t need money to be the bank—you need knowledge.”
Overall Impact
This interview reframes real estate success away from property ownership and toward capital intelligence. Adonis Lockett offers listeners a nontraditional, scalable, and low-risk path to wealth—particularly powerful for:
Professionals stuck in high-paying jobs
Entrepreneurs denied bank loans
Real estate investors seeking leverage
Individuals looking for alternative income streams
Final message: If you understand money, you don’t need to chase property—property comes to you.
#SHMS #BEST #STRAW
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
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 Curtis Symonds..
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
The interview serves three main purposes:
Highlight the growth and mission of HBCU GO A digital media platform dedicated to HBCU sports, culture, and storytelling.

Celebrate Curtis Symonds’ career and Cable Hall of Fame induction Recognizing his 30+ years of impact in media and broadcasting.

Educate and inspire entrepreneurs and professionals Emphasizing perseverance, ownership, and strategic partnerships.

🧠 Key Takeaways 1. Vision + Persistence Built HBCU GO
Symonds created HBCU GO to fill a gap in exposure for Black colleges after struggling to get support for years.
The turning point came when Byron Allen backed his vision and acquired the company, enabling scale and quality.
✅ Insight:
Great ideas often require belief + the right partner to succeed.
“I’m going to buy your company because I believe in your vision.”%20(2).txt) [Curtis Sym...dcast) (2) | Txt]
2. Representation and Ownership Matter
Symonds explicitly wanted to show successful collaboration among Black executives.
Emphasis on high-quality production standards to compete with mainstream networks.
✅ Insight:
Representation isn’t enough—quality execution is required to compete at the highest level.
“I wanted to show the world that two Black men can get together and do something successfully.”%20(2).txt) [Curtis Sym...dcast) (2) | Txt]
3. HBCU GO Is More Than Sports—It’s Cultural Infrastructure
The platform includes: Live sports (football, basketball, baseball)
Original programming
Storytelling about HBCU history and impact

Goal: preserve and amplify untold stories
✅ Insight:
Media platforms can be tools for cultural preservation and education.
“Every HBCU has a story… that people don’t know about.”%20(2).txt) [Curtis Sym...dcast) (2) | Txt]
4. HBCUs Represent a Powerful, Valuable Audience
Symonds highlights data showing HBCUs produce large percentages of Black professionals (teachers, doctors, STEM grads).
Advertisers are increasingly recognizing this educated, middle-class audience.
✅ Insight:
Undervalued markets can become high-value audiences when properly positioned.
5. Brand Awareness Takes Time—but Compounds
Early on, people didn’t recognize HBCU GO.
Now, the brand has strong recognition and distribution (apps, Roku, Prime Video).
✅ Insight:
Building a brand requires consistency and patience.
“Now I put it on and people say, ‘I watch your network.’”%20(2).txt) [Curtis Sym...dcast) (2) | Txt]
6. Strategic Partnerships Accelerate Growth
Partnership with UNCF (37 institutions) expands reach and engagement.
Focus on direct communication with students and alumni communities.
✅ Insight:
Partnerships unlock distribution, credibility, and scale.
7. Career Success Comes from Risk + Timing
Symonds left ESPN for BET at age 32—a risky move at the time.
That decision helped define his career and legacy.
✅ Insight:
Big career leaps often require betting on uncertain opportunities.
“Why not me?”%20(2).txt) [Curtis Sym...dcast) (2) | Txt]
8. Recognition Is About Impact, Not Timing
Symonds acknowledges he could have been honored earlier but accepts timing.
✅ Insight:
Focus on impact—not validation.
“God had a place and a time for me… I’m not looking back on that.”%20(2).txt) [Curtis Sym...dcast) (2) | Txt]
9. Leadership Includes Personal Support Systems
He credits his wife as instrumental to his success and longevity.
✅ Insight:
Sustainable success requires strong personal foundations.
10. Future Focus: Storytelling + Sustainability
Expansion strategy: More content about HBCU history and achievements
Positioning schools as both educational and business ecosystems

✅ Insight:
Long-term survival requires blending mission with economic strategy.
“We have to look at these HBCU schools as a business… not just as an education center.”%20(2).txt) [Curtis Sym...dcast) (2) | Txt]
💬 Notable Quotes
Here are some of the most impactful lines:
On vision
“I’m going to buy your company because I believe in your vision.”%20(2).txt) [Curtis Sym...dcast) (2) | Txt]

On representation
“Two Black men can get together and do something successfully.”%20(2).txt) [Curtis Sym...dcast) (2) | Txt]

On storytelling
“Every HBCU has a story… that people don’t know about.”%20(2).txt) [Curtis Sym...dcast) (2) | Txt]

On career mindset
“Why not me?”%20(2).txt) [Curtis Sym...dcast) (2) | Txt]

On recognition
“God had a place and a time for me.”%20(2).txt) [Curtis Sym...dcast) (2) | Txt]

On strategy
“We have to look at these HBCU schools as a business.”%20(2).txt) [Curtis Sym...dcast) (2) | Txt]

🧾 Bottom Line
This interview is both a case study in media entrepreneurship and a mission-driven conversation about cultural equity.
Curtis Symonds’ story demonstrates:
The power of vision + persistence
The importance of ownership and representation
The long-term impact of building platforms that tell overlooked stories
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.