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 Attorney Whitney Knox Lee
Explains practical estate‑planning strategies—wills, trusts, powers of attorney—and how entrepreneurs, families, and especially parents of disabled children can protect assets, avoid costly probate, and maintain eligibility for critical benefits. The conversation also touches on integrating insurance with estate planning, small‑business contingency planning, and Lee’s personal mission and background in civil rights work.
Purpose of the Interview
Educate listeners on estate planning as a wealth‑preservation strategy (not just documents)—to reduce court costs, taxes, and confusion for families.
Clarify the differences and roles of wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, including when each is appropriate and how they work together.]
Highlight special considerations for entrepreneurs and families with disabled children or aging relatives, including insurance, operating agreements, and special‑needs planning.
Share Lee’s values and practice approach, including culturally responsive service and sustainable advocacy rooted in prior civil‑rights work.
Key Takeaways 1) Wills vs. Trusts vs. Powers of Attorney
A will is not the plan—it’s just one piece and still goes through probate, which can be slow and expensive; think of a will as a “letter to the judge.]
Revocable living trusts can help families bypass probate, reduce delays, and retain more control over how assets are managed after death.
Powers of attorney (financial and health) are essential for incapacity scenarios; even 18‑year‑olds heading to college should have them so parents can access information if needed.
2) Why Insurance Belongs in the Plan
Life insurance can protect the family’s ability to keep the home by paying off a remaining mortgage or covering living expenses—turning an asset into a sustainable legacy rather than a burden.
For entrepreneurs, key‑person insurance can replace income when the owner can’t work, keeping the business afloat.
3) Minimizing Probate Costs and Taxes
Probate involves court filings and legal fees; in some states fees scale with estate size (example discussed: percentage‑based fees in other jurisdictions), which can significantly erode wealth passed to heirs. Proper planning reduces those leakages.
4) Special‑Needs and Elder Planning
Parents of children on need‑based benefits (e.g., Medicaid) must avoid transfers that jeopardize eligibility; the right trust structures preserve benefits while providing support.
Elder law planning anticipates long‑term care costs (nursing home, assisted living, in‑home care) so families don’t have to deplete assets later.
5) Business Continuity for Owners
Establish operating agreements and buy‑sell agreements that spell out who runs the business if the principal is incapacitated; pair with business powers of attorney.
6) Values, Audience, and Access
Lee intentionally centers Black and Brown women and their families, grounding services in community uplift and transparent referrals to trusted financial pros (no paid referral arrangements).
Contact approach: 15‑minute intake, then a four‑meeting process (legacy planning → design → review → signing).
Notable Quotes (for pull‑quotes & captions)
“Think of a will as a letter to the judge… a will still has to go through probate court.
“A trust allows families to bypass probate altogether so they aren’t paying legal fees or leaving things to people who want to challenge the will.
“Life insurance is a huge tool—it can help the family pay off the mortgage so they can keep the home and the equity.”
“Estate planning is a strategy—not just documents.”
“Even 18‑year‑olds should have powers of attorney—parents can’t just call doctors once kids are legal adults.”
“I stay in my lane—I’m an attorney. I work closely with trusted financial professionals and make non‑compensated referrals.”
“For special‑needs planning, don’t jeopardize need‑based benefits—use the right trust so support continues.
“I want to build a sustainable practice that lets me serve my community and rest well, aligned with my family and values.”
Quick Action Items (for listeners inspired by the episode)
Draft or update POAs (financial and health) for every adult in the household, including college‑age children.
Evaluate whether a revocable living trust makes sense to avoid probate and retain post‑death control.
For business owners: review operating agreement / buy‑sell, add key‑person insurance, and create a business POA.
Families with special‑needs dependents: consult on special‑needs trusts to protect benefits.
#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 Howard Hewett Interview (Part 2)
Legendary R&B and soul singer Howard Hewett returned for Part 2 of his interview on Money Making Conversations Masterclass to continue discussing his iconic multi‑decade career, his transition from Shalamar to a solo artist, new collaborations, performing for multi‑generational audiences, the evolution of R&B, and his philosophy on life, legacy, work ethic, and spiritual grounding.
This segment is rich with personal stories—from unexpected collaborations to the behind‑the‑scenes decision-making that shaped his career. Hewett also reflects on aging gracefully, staying relevant, maintaining integrity, and building a strong foundation that supports longevity in both life and music.
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
The conversation aims to:
Highlight Howard Hewett’s career longevity, legendary catalog, and current creative projects.
Explore his transition from group success (Shalamar) to building a respected solo career.
Provide insight into new musical collaborations, including work with Ronnie Laws.
Discuss the challenge of performing new music for audiences who crave the classic hits.
Reflect on spirituality, life philosophy, integrity, and aging as keys to sustaining a fulfilling career.
Offer guidance for artists, entrepreneurs, and creatives who must navigate uncertainty, fame, and reinvention.
🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Collaboration with Ronnie Laws
Hewett shared a humorous story about Ronnie Laws showing up at his door while doing Jehovah’s Witness outreach.
Their new collaboration was inspired by a personal connection to Ronnie’s late wife and her love for “Ribbon in the Sky.”
Covers require publishing approval, not necessarily permission from the artist, as long as royalties go to the right places.

2. Transition from Shalamar to Solo Career
Contrary to popular belief, Howard was not the first member to leave—Jeffrey Daniel and Jody Watley departed before him.
His transition happened during the opportunity to record “Dancing in the Sheets” for the Footloose soundtrack.
Initially, he and producer Leon Sylvers did not think Footloose would be a big movie—a now‑humorous regret.
“Dancing in the Sheets” became Shalamar’s second-largest selling single after “Second Time Around.”
3. The Challenge of Performing New Music
Hewett explains that audiences overwhelmingly want the classics, not new songs.
When artists introduce new material during concerts, the room’s energy often drops.
He performs new music only when he can “set it up right” and bring the audience into the moment.
4. Musical Identity & R&B Philosophy
His solo style skewed romantic and intimate because that is authentically who he is as an artist.
He rejects modern attempts to redefine R&B: “R&B is the foundation—of rock, hip‑hop, neo-soul, everything. You can’t replace a foundation.”

He uses the “foundation of a house” as a metaphor for life, music, and spiritual grounding.
5. Multi‑Generational Audience Connection
Hewett loves seeing grandparents, parents, and children attend his shows together—evidence of music that lasts.
His concerts are structured: Act 1: Howard Hewett solo classics (slow jams, connection, romance)
Act 2: Shalamar dance hits (“Second Time Around,” “Make That Move,” “A Night to Remember”)

6. Integrity, Spirituality, and Aging
Hewett emphasizes that integrity, faith, and foundation have sustained his life and career.
He began singing gospel in childhood; his mother was a gospel promoter who booked major gospel acts.
At 70, he says he does not look or feel how he imagined 70 would look when he was younger.
He encourages people to control what they allow into their lives—“stress, drama, or peace.”

7. Entrepreneurship and Resilience
As an entertainer, he equates his career to running a small business—no guaranteed income, no employer‑provided safety net.
COVID forced him off the road for the first time in decades and taught him adaptability.
He attributes his continued success to a solid foundation, timeless hits, and avoiding stress.

8. Life Lessons: Worry, Faith, and the Power of the Tongue
Hewett shared a powerful story about receiving a church pamphlet titled “Worry Is a Sign of Disbelief.”
He spent years removing “worry” from his vocabulary and now avoids negative speech.
He compares the tongue to a ship’s rudder—small but capable of steering life’s direction.

🗣️ Notable Quotes ✔ On new music
“When you do new material, it’s almost like singing in Japanese. People don’t want to hear it unless you set it up right.”

✔ On R&B
“R&B is the foundation—of rock, hip-hop, neo-soul… you can’t replace a foundation.”
✔ On longevity
“Integrity is one of the most important things. Let your yes be your yes.”
✔ On aging
“When I turned 70, I thanked God it doesn’t look like what I thought it would look like when I was 30 or 40.”
✔ On stress
“Stress is like a rocking chair—it gives you a lot to do, but you’re still in the same place when you get done.”
✔ On faith
“If you’re truly a child of God, what are you worried about? Worry is a sign of disbelief"
#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 Ashley Joi Boyd.
Interview Purpose
The purpose of this interview is to explore the intersection of creativity, financial literacy, ownership, and personal resilience, using Ashley Joi Boyd’s journey as a Grammy‑nominated songwriter, music publisher, real estate developer, and author as a powerful case study.
Through honest conversation, Ashley reframes success in the entertainment industry beyond fame and hits, emphasizing business ownership, financial education, mindset, and long‑term wealth building. The interview also serves as an empowerment message—particularly for women—demonstrating that financial setbacks, including bankruptcy, can become turning points rather than permanent barriers.
Major Themes & Key Takeaways 1. Songwriting Is the Heart—and the Business—of Music
Ashley explains that songwriting is not just creativity; it is the foundation of lasting success in the music industry. While artists may earn from performances, writers and publishers earn from ownership, collecting royalties every time a song is played, streamed, or used globally.
Key takeaway: Creativity generates income, but ownership generates wealth.
2. Publishing Is Where the Real Money Lives
Ashley highlights that music publishing—not performing—is the most lucrative side of the industry. By owning her publishing company, she positioned herself to earn long‑term, recurring income rather than relying on one‑time payments or constant touring.
Key takeaway: Understanding back‑end revenue streams is critical in any industry.
3. Business Knowledge Creates Leverage
Raised in an entertainment household, Ashley learned early the importance of understanding contracts, rights, and percentages. She famously walked away from a publishing deal that demanded 75% ownership—choosing long‑term control over short‑term opportunity.
Key takeaway: Walking away from the wrong deal can be the right decision.
4. Opportunity Meets Preparation
Ashley’s collaboration on Justin Bieber’s hit “Yummy” did not happen overnight. It was the result of years of preparation, proven skill, respect for her craft, and being ready when the door opened.
Key takeaway: Access opens doors, but preparation determines what happens next.
5. Financial Collapse Can Become Financial Education
Ashley openly discusses filing for bankruptcy after the 2008 housing crash—a moment she describes as devastating but transformative. With no guidance at the time, she was forced to learn money management the hard way, reshaping her relationship with credit, debt, and planning.
Key takeaway: Bankruptcy is not the end—it can be the beginning of financial mastery.
6. Financial Literacy Is Often Untaught—but Essential
Ashley stresses that many people, especially women, are never taught how to manage money, credit, or wealth. This gap inspired her book Financially Fly: Mastering Money and Wealth for Women, written to create a safe, honest space for financial conversations.
Key takeaway: Making money is not the same as knowing how to keep or grow it.
7. Wealth Is About Structure, Not Just Cash
In defining generational wealth, Ashley emphasizes trusts, insurance policies, estate planning, and real estate—structures that protect families long after income stops.
Key takeaway: Generational wealth is built with systems, not just income.
8. Invest in Yourself First
One of Ashley’s most practical strategies is prioritizing yourself as a financial line item—saving consistently, protecting your credit, and building habits that support future freedom.
Key takeaway: If you don’t prioritize yourself financially, no one else will.
9. Mindset Drives Money Patterns
Ashley underscores that many financial struggles are rooted in scarcity mindset and emotional spending. Shifting to an abundance mindset and facing numbers honestly is the first step toward change.
Key takeaway: Your mindset controls your financial outcomes.
Notable Quotes
“Songwriting is the heart and soul of a song—it’s what makes it last.”
“The real money in music is on the back end.”
“I walked away from a deal because the business wasn’t right—and that changed everything.”
“Bankruptcy forced me to learn how to protect myself.”
“Just because you know how to make money doesn’t mean you know how to keep it.”
“Generational wealth is structure—trusts, insurance, planning.”
“Put yourself on your own balance sheet.”
“Your mindset controls everything around you.”
Overall Message
Ashley Joi Boyd’s interview is a masterclass in reclaiming control—creatively, financially, and mentally. Her story demonstrates that wealth is not defined by income alone, but by ownership, education, structure, and intention.
By openly sharing both her success and setbacks, Ashley empowers listeners to stop avoiding financial truth, build sustainable habits, and believe that long‑term wealth is possible—no matter where they are starting.
#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 Dr. Shica.
Interview Purpose
The purpose of this interview is to highlight entrepreneurial reinvention, faith‑driven resilience, and product‑based business building, using Dr. Shica’s journey from educator to founder of Dr. Shica’s Bakery as a powerful example of how unexpected setbacks can unlock hidden purpose.
The conversation demonstrates that entrepreneurship does not always begin as a plan—it often begins as a response to disruption. Dr. Shica’s story shows how education, discipline, creativity, and belief can transform a side passion into a scalable, nationally relevant brand.
Major Themes & Key Takeaways 1. Entrepreneurship Can Be Born From Adversity
Dr. Shica did not set out to build a baking business. After losing her job during the COVID‑19 pandemic, she was forced to reassess her future. What began as weekend baking quickly evolved into a business opportunity when encouragement from others met growing demand.
Key takeaway: Unexpected endings often reveal opportunities you didn’t know you were prepared for.
2. Education Is Transferable—Even Outside the Classroom
With three degrees in education, including a doctorate, Dr. Shica reframes her career transition not as a departure from teaching, but as an extension of it. Through her bakery, she continues to educate consumers about better‑for‑you, plant‑based foods.
Key takeaway: Education is not limited to institutions—it can live inside entrepreneurship.
3. Why Vegan Was the Strategic Choice
Dr. Shica intentionally built a vegan, plant‑based cookie brand to serve a wider audience, including those with dietary restrictions, health considerations, and evolving food preferences. The goal was inclusivity without sacrificing flavor.
Key takeaway: Building products for “everyone” means being intentional about accessibility.
4. Talent Is Sometimes Hidden Until Circumstances Force Discovery
Although she came from a family of bakers, Dr. Shica did not recognize her full talent until she had no choice but to act. Customer feedback, pop‑up success, and celebrity validation confirmed what she hadn’t previously claimed for herself.
Key takeaway: You may not discover your strongest gift until you are pushed to use it.
5. Pop‑Ups as Proof of Concept
Dr. Shica used pop‑ups and kiosks as testing grounds—refining recipes, gathering feedback, and maintaining product standards. Consistency, premium ingredients, and refusing to sell anything less than excellent became core principles.
Key takeaway: Small tests create big confidence when done intentionally.
6. Scaling Through Innovation: Cookie Mixes
The creation of her cookie dough mix solved multiple challenges: consistency, scalability, and nationwide shipping. What began as an internal solution became a product line customers could take home and recreate.
Key takeaway: Scaling often comes from solving an internal problem creatively.
7. Brand Integrity and Consistency Matter
Dr. Shica emphasizes that every product carries her heart, soul, and reputation. If something didn’t meet her standards, it was remade—no exceptions. That commitment built trust and repeat business.
Key takeaway: Quality is the quiet engine behind brand longevity.
8. Faith + Work Ethic = Sustainability
When asked about her secret to success, Dr. Shica centered her answer on faith first, hard work always. She acknowledges the added challenges faced as a minority woman founder and the need for spiritual grounding to navigate buyers, retailers, and scaling pressure.
Key takeaway: Faith can fuel consistency when entrepreneurship gets heavy.
9. Vision Beyond the Present Moment
Dr. Shica’s long‑term goal is to build a legacy brand—comparable to household names—while ensuring her face, story, and values remain part of the company’s identity for future generations.
Key takeaway: Legacy branding connects today’s hustle to tomorrow’s impact.
Notable Quotes
“I didn’t even know I had this talent until I was laid off.”
“I wanted to create something delicious that everyone could enjoy.”
“If it wasn’t perfect, I made it again.”
“I’m still educating—just through cookies.”
“Consistency is everything.”
“Jesus, take the wheel.”
“Stay prayed up, and then put in the work.”
Overall Message
Dr. Shica’s interview is a testimony of faith, adaptability, and disciplined creativity. Her journey reinforces that success is not always about following the original plan—it’s about recognizing opportunity, honoring your standards, and trusting the path as it unfolds.
Her story shows that when passion meets preparation and belief, even a kitchen dream can become a national brand with purpose and legacy.
#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 Mela Lovett
CEO of Family Lawn Services, a residential and commercial landscaping company.
Also a serial entrepreneur, mortgage lender, and business consultant.
Based in Georgia, with a mission to build generational wealth and educate others on business structure.
💼 Entrepreneurial Journey
Mela and her husband left retail management jobs (Walgreens & Walmart) to start their lawn care business.
Inspired by her husband’s childhood experience cutting grass and a desire to leave a legacy for their children.
Despite early setbacks—including having their truck and equipment stolen—they persevered and rebuilt.
🧘🏽‍♀️ Mental Health & Meditation
Mela emphasizes the importance of meditation to manage stress and maintain balance.
Her journey through postpartum depression led her to self-reflection, journaling, and healing.
She encourages others, especially entrepreneurs, to recognize their breaking points and prioritize mental wellness.

🌱 About Family Lawn Services
Offers lawn maintenance, hedge trimming, edging, and more.
Known for high-quality work and attention to detail.
Operates year-round—not just seasonally—thanks to strong referrals and consistent service.

🛠️ Lessons in Business
Mela stresses the importance of:
Multiple streams of income
Proper business structure
Quality over shortcuts
Resilience in the face of adversity
She also warns against hiring unverified service providers (like the infamous “mailbox note” landscaper story shared by Rushion).

📞 How to Contact Family Lawn Services
Phone: 800-460-9158
Website: familylawnservices.com

💬 Key Takeaways
Entrepreneurship is a journey of faith, flexibility, and fortitude.
Mental health is just as important as financial health.
Quality service and community trust are the foundation of long-term success.
Even when everything is taken from you, don’t quit—rebuild and keep going.
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.