The Steve Harvey Morning Show

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Cassandra Lester.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview introduces Cassandra Lester’s nonprofit Grow Give Prosper and its partnership with Google’s “Grow with Google” initiative. The goal is to provide free career certification scholarships to underserved and economically impacted communities, helping individuals increase earning potential and gain financial literacy.
Key Takeaways
Mission of Grow Give Prosper
Founded in 2023, focused on financial education and empowerment.
Aims to help communities grow together, give to each other, and prosper collectively.

Google Partnership
Offers free career certifications in high-demand fields: Cybersecurity
Data Analytics
Digital Marketing & E-commerce
IT Support
Project Management
UX Design

Certifications are self-paced, online, and typically take 3–6 months.
No prior experience required; participants receive a portfolio upon completion.

Accessibility
Scholarships are free; the only requirement is commitment.
Available to anyone in the continental U.S., regardless of education level (GED, college dropout, etc.).
Registration via growgiveprosper.org (scroll to Google Career Scholarships).

Impact
Over 300 scholarships awarded; previously had 500.
Designed to level the playing field for those without Ivy League degrees.
Certifications can stack (e.g., Project Management + Data Analytics) for greater career potential.

Financial Literacy
Defined as understanding financial concepts and applying them to daily life.
Misconceptions persist—some communities avoid discussing money or undervalue credit scores.
Cassandra emphasizes breaking cycles of predatory lending and poor financial habits.

Challenges
Cultural reluctance to discuss money.
Skepticism about legitimacy of programs.
Difficulty securing grants as a small nonprofit.
Cassandra combats these through grassroots outreach and workshops.

Personal Drive
Cassandra’s passion stems from seeing financial struggles across all demographics.
She actively promotes opportunities through community centers, adult education classes, and social media.

Notable Quotes
“I want us to grow together so that we can give to each other and then prosper as a collective.”
“Google is leveling the playing field—you don’t need an Ivy League education to earn a livable wage.”
“The only fee is commitment.”
“Financial literacy means you understand the words, you hear the conversation, and it’s not Greek to you.”
“You can’t talk about managing finances if you really don’t have anything coming in.”
“You don’t want to miss this opportunity to increase your earning potential.”
“Once you’re certified, that’s yours for life—you can’t repo a degree or certification.”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Jeremy Anderson.
SUMMARY OF THE INTERVIEW
The conversation between Rushion McDonald and Jeremy Anderson on Money Making Conversations Masterclass covers Jeremy’s personal transformation, his mission-driven approach to motivational speaking, the creation of Next Level Speakers Academy, the power of environment and mindset, and his philanthropic work in South Africa. The interview highlights values such as purpose over profit, taking ownership, perseverance, and maximizing one’s potential. [
PURPOSE OF THE INTERVIEW
The purpose of the episode is to:
1. Introduce Jeremy Anderson’s Work
Showcase Jeremy’s role as a premier motivational speaker, founder of Next Level Speakers Academy, and co‑founder of Next Level Living, which feeds a thousand children weekly in South Africa. [
2. Inspire Listeners Toward Purpose‑Driven Success
Encourage viewers to move from “wasted potential” to purposeful, impactful living by believing in themselves and pursuing their gifts.
3. Demonstrate How Jeremy’s Principles Apply Broadly
Rushion emphasizes that Jeremy’s business, branding, and mindset strategies apply not just to speakers, but to entrepreneurs, executives, and everyday people.
4. Promote Actionable Personal Growth
The interview seeks to motivate listeners to take ownership, adopt non‑negotiable success habits, and maximize opportunities.
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Wasted Potential is a Universal Struggle
Jeremy defines wasted potential as having greatness inside but failing to believe in it or pursue it. Many people don’t lack talent — they lack belief and action.
2. Purpose Over Profit
He warns new speakers not to chase “the bag.”
Impact first → income follows. If your heart is for people, success comes naturally.
3. Your Story Is Your Superpower
Every struggle someone has overcome is a testimony meant to help others. Keeping quiet keeps your gift hidden.
4. Maximize Every Opportunity
Whether you’re speaking, laying concrete, or running a small business, get every drop out of every engagement — testimonials, photos, referrals, and relationship‑building. citeturn1search1
5. Environment and Mindset Matter
True growth starts by changing your internal environment.
Jeremy’s life changed when teachers chose to see the best in him, showing that belief from others can shift self-belief.
6. Non‑Negotiables Build Discipline
Success requires habits you don’t negotiate with: early rising, prayer, meditation, cold plunges, challenging discomfort, and consistent personal development.
7. Extreme Ownership Replaces Excuses
Greatness comes from responsibility, not excuses. Jeremy demands accountability from his teams and himself.
8. Brand Is Built on Transparency
Jeremy’s brand centers on perseverance, faith, and family—not perfection. He shares both triumphs and private struggles.
9. Giving Back Is Central to His Purpose
Next Level Living feeds 1,000 children weekly and sponsors students in South Africa through college. Impact must extend beyond business.
NOTABLE QUOTES FROM THE INTERVIEW On Purpose & Potential
“Don’t come to me for profits. Come to me for purpose. Don’t come to me for income. Come to me for impact.”
“It’s only a testimony if you testify.”
“Most people don’t believe and they don’t pursue — that’s wasted potential.”
On Mindset & Environment
“I wasn’t living a life of purpose… I had to stop blaming others and go all in on me.”
“Sometimes the shackles we have are in our mind.”
On Discipline
“Success requires non‑negotiables.” (Waking early, prayer, meditation, discomfort training)
“People want comfort — but everything great comes with discomfort.”
On Value
“If you want to be valuable, you must have value.”
“They’re not paying me top dollar because I'm motivational. I solve a problem.”
On Legacy & Family
“My brand is perseverance and family.”
“These things don’t happen to me — they happen for me.”
On Accountability
“No excuses — take ownership.”
“I’ve never met anyone who became great from excuses.”
On Giving Back
“We’ve been feeding a thousand starving children every week since 2018.”
“We put 60 kids through college — and we’re just getting started.”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Isaiah Tatum.
A 24-year-old entrepreneur, touring artist, and hotel owner:
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
The interview showcases Dr. Isaiah Tatum’s extraordinary journey from homelessness to becoming a venture capitalist, hotel developer, and touring saxophonist. It aims to inspire young entrepreneurs by highlighting the importance of faith, planning, mentorship, and financial literacy.
🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Early Passion for Music
Began playing saxophone at age 10.
Influenced by legends like Kenny G, Curtis Mayfield, and Aretha Franklin.
Practiced obsessively, leading to proficiency and touring opportunities.
Maintains a strong connection to music despite business ventures.
“I couldn’t wait to get home and play… I practiced six hours a day.” — Isaiah Tatum
2. Entrepreneurial Drive & Financial Literacy
Overcame homelessness and used that experience to fuel ambition.
Became an equity investor in Jazz Pharmaceuticals at 18.
Invested in real estate and hotel development with a focus on recession-proof models.
“I didn’t want to be an artist who had to stay on tour to maintain. I wanted to be financially free.” — Isaiah Tatum
3. Hotel Ownership & Strategy
Owns two Candlewood Suites and an Embassy Suites in Georgia.
Focuses on extended-stay models for consistent revenue.
Emphasizes customer experience and operational efficiency.
“Even if they’re spending $160, make them feel like they’re spending $1 million.” — Isaiah Tatum
4. Mentorship & Education
Studied finance and earned credentials from Wall Street Prep.
Values mentorship from icons like Kenny G and Keith Worsham.
Now mentors others and encourages financial literacy and self-confidence.
“Don’t look for who you are to fit in with everybody else… Elevate yourself.” — Isaiah Tatum
5. Vision & Future Endeavors
Developing new properties in Tupelo, MS and Nashville, TN.
Planning a Sweat Hotel concept and returning to music with a new album and tour.
Driven by a daily mindset of growth and execution.
“Even though I’ve done really good, it’s about what I’m doing tomorrow.” — Isaiah Tatum
📌 Notable Quotes
“Faith and a plan. A lot of people jump out there on faith. You better have a plan in your back pocket.” — Rushion McDonald
“I fell in love with credentials… I wanted to maximize every opportunity.” — Isaiah Tatum
“Let your results speak for themselves.” — Isaiah Tatum
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Chris Spencer.
Comedian, actor, and producer shares insights into his career, his journey in comedy, and his contributions to television and film.
🔑 Key Themes & Highlights
Chris Spencer’s Comedy Journey
Started as a class clown before transitioning into stand-up comedy in college.
Early performances at comedy clubs and fraternity events helped him refine his craft.
Worked alongside major comedians like Steve Harvey, Damon Wayans, and Jamie Foxx.

Transition to Writing & Producing
Spencer discusses his evolution from stand-up comedy to writing and producing.
He co-created and produced Real Husbands of Hollywood, an improvisational comedy series.
Talks about the challenges and successes of bringing the show to television.

Black Comedy in America Documentary
Spencer is involved in a ten-part docuseries exploring historical moments in Black comedy.
The series covers topics from the "Chitlin Circuit" to modern-day stand-up and sitcoms.
Features interviews with legendary comedians, including Kevin Hart, Dave Chappelle, and the Kings of Comedy.

The Kings of Comedy Reunion
Spencer helped reunite Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, and D.L. Hughley for the documentary.
The episode highlights their impact on comedy and their transition from clubs to stadium tours.

Jamie Foxx’s Special
Spencer discusses Jamie Foxx’s return to comedy following his health recovery.
The special, filmed in Atlanta, blends humor, storytelling, and personal reflection.

📘 About Chris Spencer
Chris Spencer is a comedian, actor, writer, and producer known for his work in stand-up, television, and film. He has contributed to numerous projects, including Real Husbands of Hollywood and the upcoming Black Comedy in America documentary.

#STRAW
#BEST
#SHMS

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

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Jennifer Ledwith.
She is the founder of Scholar Ready, whose mission is to help students excel in standardized testing and scholarship applications.
🔑 Key Themes & Highlights
The Inspiration Behind Scholar Ready
Ledwith founded Scholar Ready after realizing many students struggled with scholarships due to weak essay-writing skills.
She personally secured scholarships to fund her college education, graduating with minimal student debt.

The Importance of Standardized Test Preparation
Scholar Ready helps students prepare for PSAT, SAT, and ACT exams to unlock scholarship opportunities.
Ledwith emphasized that test scores are crucial for college admissions and financial aid.

Overcoming Barriers to Higher Education
Many students fear essay writing and test-taking, limiting their scholarship potential.
Ledwith’s program provides personalized tutoring to build confidence and improve scores.

Scholarship Application Strategies
Students must research scholarship providers and tailor their essays accordingly.
She advises applicants to highlight unique qualities beyond grades and test scores.

Encouraging Persistence & Resilience
Ledwith stresses that rejection is part of the scholarship process and should not discourage students.
She encourages students to apply widely and refine their applications based on feedback.

📘 About Jennifer Ledwith
Jennifer Ledwith is an education entrepreneur dedicated to helping students succeed in college admissions and scholarship applications. Through Scholar Ready, she provides tutoring and workshops to improve test scores and essay-writing skills, ensuring students have the financial resources to pursue higher education.
#BEST
#STRAW
#SHMS


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