The Steve Harvey Morning Show

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 Dr. Leketa Hawkins.
Also known as the Pocketbook Strategist. She is a financial literacy advocate and business consultant based in North Carolina, offering tools and resources to help individuals and small business owners take control of their financial futures.
🔑 Key Themes and Takeaways: 💼 About Dr. Leketa Hawkins
Founder of PocketbookStrategies.com, which offers financial literacy programs, tools, and resources.
Also runs Hawdleigh.com, a platform for financial education courses and templates.
Her mission is to provide low-cost or no-cost financial education to underserved communities.
💡 Financial Literacy & Upbringing
Like many, Leketa grew up in a household where money was not discussed—a common cultural norm that left many unprepared for adult financial responsibilities.
She emphasizes the importance of breaking generational cycles by involving children in financial conversations early.
🧠 Emotional Spending
One of the most common financial pitfalls she sees is emotional spending—buying things to cope with stress, boredom, or celebration.
She recommends tracking spending for one week to identify patterns and triggers.
Online shopping makes emotional spending easier and more dangerous due to its convenience.
📊 Budgeting Strategies
Advocates for the 50/30/20 rule: 50% for needs
30% for wants
20% for savings or debt

Encourages people to “name your money before you spend it”—assign every dollar a purpose.
👧🏾 Youth Financial Literacy
Stresses the importance of teaching kids that money is a tool, not a goal.
Encourages parents to: Let kids ask financial questions.
Teach saving from every dollar earned.
Explain compound interest and the value of investing.

👩🏽‍💼 Empowering Women Financially
Many women feel overwhelmed or disempowered financially.
Dr. Hawkins encourages women to take small steps toward financial clarity and view financial wellness as a form of self-love.
💬 Final Lessons
“Money doesn’t change who you are—it amplifies who you are.”
Understanding the difference between assets and liabilities is foundational: Assets put money in your pocket.
Liabilities take money out.

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast
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!
In 2017, two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald launched his podcast, Money Making Conversations Master Class.
Rushion McDonald’s “Keep Winning” #4 – Key Takeaways
In this episode of Money Making Conversations Masterclass, Rushion McDonald shares candid lessons from his own entrepreneurial successes and failures. His focus is on the practical realities of business ownership, emphasizing that passion alone is not enough—you need planning, discipline, and the right people around you.
Top Lessons 1. Start With a Plan, Not Just an Idea
Many entrepreneurs begin with excitement and ambition but fail because they never create a solid business plan.
Before launching a business, make sure you have:
A budget
Defined goals
Financial projections
Operational systems
A clear understanding of your responsibilities
A great idea without a plan can quickly become a costly mistake.
2. Don't Hire People Just Because They're Familiar
One of the biggest mistakes Rushion admits making was hiring people because he knew them.
Common hiring traps include:
Hiring friends
Hiring relatives
Hiring people who make you feel comfortable
Hiring people simply because they're available
Business decisions should be based on qualifications, work ethic, and long-term value.
3. Time Is a Critical Business Investment
Rushion stresses that successful businesses require owner involvement.
Ask yourself:
Do you have time to run the business?
Are you prepared to show up early?
Can you consistently manage operations?
Owning a business is more than collecting profits—it requires commitment and daily effort.
4. Success Can Hide Financial Problems
Rushion shares the story of his highly popular comedy club. Despite sold-out shows, packed crowds, and strong demand, he wasn't making money because he lacked:
Budgeting
Financial controls
Tax planning
Proper business structure
Revenue and profitability are not the same thing.
5. Consistency Builds Customer Trust
Customers expect reliability.
If you say you:
Open at a certain time, be open.
Offer specific products, keep them available.
Promise a service, deliver it consistently.
Inconsistent businesses damage customer confidence and ultimately lose repeat business.
6. Learn From Franchise Models
Rushion highlights how successful franchises protect their brands through:
Training
Standards
Accountability
Operational systems
Franchise owners aren't allowed to make up their own rules because consistency is essential for long-term success.
7. Use Free Business Resources
Entrepreneurs do not have to figure everything out on their own.
Rushion recommends:
Small Business Administration (SBA)
Provides guidance, resources, and education for business owners.
SCORE
Offers mentorship from experienced and retired executives who can help entrepreneurs avoid common startup mistakes.
Mentorship can save time, money, and costly trial-and-error learning.
8. Hire Family Only If They Qualify
Rushion makes an important distinction:
Don't hire family because they're family.
Instead:
Evaluate them like any other candidate.
Require the same qualifications.
Hold them to the same standards.
Expect the same performance.
Business success depends on fairness and accountability.
9. Pay Attention to Logistics
Rushion shares another hard lesson from his comedy club experience: parking.
Even if customers love your business, operational challenges such as:
Limited parking
Accessibility problems
Safety concerns
can negatively impact customer experience and increase business costs.
Small details often become big problems.
10. Cheap Employees Can Become Expensive Mistakes
Hiring inexperienced workers solely because they cost less can hurt a business.
Common issues include:
Lack of leadership
Constant supervision requirements
Poor understanding of responsibilities
Limited ability to contribute to long-term growth
The cheapest hire is not always the most cost-effective hire.
11. Be Careful Mixing Friendship and Business
Rushion warns against hiring friends without clear expectations and accountability.
When business decisions become necessary, friendships can complicate:
Performance discussions
Terminations
Professional standards
Strong businesses are built on roles and responsibilities, not personal relationships.
Keep Winning Quote
“Look in the mirror and make a decision that benefits you, your family, and your future.”
Bottom Line
Successful businesses are built on planning, budgeting, consistency, accountability, and smart hiring decisions. Don't rely on friendship, family ties, or good intentions. Build systems, seek mentorship, manage your finances carefully, and make decisions that support long-term success. That's how you keep winning.
#SHMS #BEST #STRAW

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast
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 Amber C. Saunders.
An estate planning attorney and founder of The Saunders Firm, about generational wealth, estate planning, and financial literacy in the Black community.
🔑 Key Themes & Highlights
The Importance of Estate Planning
Saunders emphasized that estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for anyone who owns assets, including homes, jewelry, and even bank accounts.
She shared how her family’s experience with probate court inspired her to educate others on avoiding financial hardships.
Generational Wealth & Legacy
Many Black families lose wealth due to lack of estate planning, leading to long legal battles and financial instability.
Saunders stressed that generational wealth isn’t just about money—it’s about education, financial literacy, and structured wealth transfer.
Common Misconceptions About Estate Planning
Many people believe wills and trusts are only for the rich, but anyone with assets should have a plan.
She debunked myths about DIY estate planning, warning that generic online templates can lead to legal complications.
Protecting Small Businesses & Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs must plan for succession, ensuring their businesses can survive beyond their leadership.
She advised business owners to structure their companies properly, so they don’t just create a job for themselves but build a lasting enterprise.
📘 About Amber C. Saunders
Amber C. Saunders is a leading estate planning attorney, dedicated to helping families secure their financial futures. She founded The Saunders Firm, specializing in wealth preservation, estate planning, and business succession strategies.

#BEST
#STRAW
#SHMS

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast
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 Jennifer Barbosa.
CEO and Founder of International Supply Partners (ISP), about breaking into government contracting, navigating a male-dominated industry, and the complexities of supply chain management.
🔑 Key Themes & Highlights
Breaking into Government Contracting
Barbosa started her business by targeting government contracts, recognizing that the government is the largest buyer of goods and services.
She explained how RFQs (Request for Quotes) and RFPs (Request for Proposals) allow new suppliers to compete for contracts.
Navigating a Male-Dominated Industry
She admitted that entering the industrial supply sector was challenging but credited her fearlessness and determination for her success.
Barbosa emphasized that women entrepreneurs must focus on value and expertise rather than industry stereotypes.
Supply Chain & Procurement Strategies
ISP specializes in safety, PPE, industrial, janitorial, and construction supplies, ensuring cost-effective procurement solutions.
Barbosa detailed how understanding supply chain logistics helped her compete with big-box suppliers.
COVID-19 & PPE Pricing Surge
During the pandemic, PPE prices skyrocketed due to high demand and supply chain disruptions.
Barbosa explained how manufacturers shifted production to PPE, leading to price gouging and bidding wars.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) in Business
Barbosa’s company is certified as a minority-owned and women-owned business, but she emphasized that quality and service—not identity—should drive business success.
She believes that DEI initiatives should not be the sole reason for doing business, but rather a tool for leveraging opportunities.
📘 About Jennifer Barbosa & International Supply Partners
Jennifer Barbosa is a visionary entrepreneur and supply chain specialist, leading International Supply Partners (ISP) in streamlining procurement for businesses and government agencies. ISP is a trusted provider of essential goods, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and competitive pricing.

#BEST
#STRAW
#SHMS

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast
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!
In 2017, two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald launched his podcast, Money Making Conversations Master Class.
Rushion McDonald’s “Keep Winning” #3 – Key Takeaways
In this episode of Money Making Conversations Masterclass, Rushion McDonald expands on the concept of value proposition, focusing on how entrepreneurs and professionals can differentiate themselves through customer service, marketing, mentorship, and continuous growth.
Top Lessons 1. Understand Your Value Proposition
Your value proposition is what makes your talent, product, or company unique. It's the reason people choose you over the competition and the foundation for negotiating better opportunities, raises, and contracts.
Rushion uses the example of athletes who fail to recognize their true market value and end up accepting deals that don't reflect their worth.
2. Never Let Age Become an Excuse
One of Rushion's recurring themes is that success has no age limit.
He encourages listeners to:
Keep setting goals.
Continue learning.
Pursue new opportunities.
Avoid believing that life slows down after 40, 50, or 60.
Success belongs to those who continue moving forward regardless of age.
3. Market More Than Your Product
Two companies may offer similar products, but customer perception can create dramatically different outcomes.
Rushion emphasizes that businesses should promote:
Customer service
Customer experience
Reliability
Trust
Products may attract customers once, but outstanding service keeps them coming back.
4. Choose to Be the Eagle, Not the Chicken
One of the episode's most memorable analogies compares an eagle and a chicken.
Although both are birds, society views them very differently.
The lesson:
Eagles soar.
Eagles command respect.
Eagles fight to maintain their position.
Rushion challenges listeners to adopt an eagle mindset by thinking bigger, acting boldly, and pursuing excellence.
5. Seek Mentorship and Guidance
Many entrepreneurs fail simply because they try to figure everything out alone.
Rushion highlights resources such as:
The Small Business Administration (SBA)
SCORE mentors
Experienced business professionals
Mentorship can help entrepreneurs avoid costly mistakes and accelerate growth.
6. Expand the Possibilities of Your Product
Rushion shares the story of a pancake mix company whose product evolved from a simple pancake and waffle mix into a unique 3-in-1 product capable of making:
Pancakes
Waffles
Biscuits
The lesson is to continually explore new uses and opportunities that can differentiate your product in the marketplace.
7. Packaging Matters
A great product alone isn't enough.
Using the example of a gourmet popcorn company, Rushion explains that:
Product quality matters.
Customer service matters.
Packaging matters.
A product may be excellent, but weak presentation can prevent it from reaching larger retail opportunities.
8. Customer Service Is a Competitive Advantage
Across every business example discussed in the episode, one factor remained constant:
Excellent customer service.
Customers remember:
How they were treated.
Whether expectations were met.
Whether businesses delivered consistently.
Strong customer service often becomes a company's most powerful marketing tool.
9. Reliability Builds Trust
Rushion emphasizes that success often comes down to honoring commitments.
If you say:
You open at 8:00 AM, open at 8:00 AM.
You will deliver a product, deliver it.
You promise service, provide it.
Consistency creates credibility.
Keep Winning Quote
“Market your brand to stand out above the crowd through excellent service, strong presentation, and a commitment to outperforming the competition.”
Bottom Line
Know your value. Keep learning. Seek mentorship. Expand your thinking. Deliver exceptional customer service. Package your product professionally. And most importantly, choose to soar like the eagle instead of settling like the chicken. That's how you keep winning.
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast

Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.