Strawberry Letter

Dear Steve and Shirley, My boyfriend was out of town, so I went to pick up our dog so he could stay with me. I heard a female voice say, hello, "who's there?" I knew the voice, so I walked back to my boyfriend's bedroom and it was his female friend lying in his bed. She was all cozy under the covers watching a movie. I remained calm as I asked why she was there. She said that she has been having issues with her marriage, so my boyfriend suggested that she stay at his house while he was out of town. She said that he was supposed to tell me about it. I played it off like maybe he did tell me, and I forgot. I noticed this woman was wrapped up in the monogrammed robe I gave my boyfriend for Christmas as she explained how special my boyfriend is to her and how he always gives her great advice about her marriage..............................................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, My husband falls asleep on the couch all the time while he's scrolling through his phone. The other night, I thought the TV was up too loud, so I went to tell him to turn it down a little bit. He was knocked out with his phone on his chest and he had his AirPods in. I took them out, and when I did, I could hear a video on his phone and there was music playing and a woman in the background. I started watching the video because a woman was bare chested. She'd bent over and kissed a man and told him to take a selfie with her.................................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 Ozell Graham.  He is a US Army Veteran who started The Fade Shop Brand in 1996 inside a tent while serving his country deployed in Bosnia during Operation Joint Endeavor. After eight years of Honorable Service, Ozell transitioned back into the civilian workforce, moving to Arkansas to pursue his career in Cosmetology. Upon graduation, Ozell moved to Dallas, Texas, where he worked in several barbershops where he learned more about hair and how to run a business. In 2005, Ozell stepped out on faith and followed his dream of entrepreneurship, and opened his first barbershop in Dallas. He currently has three successful locations in the Dallas Metroplex,  and a Hair and Skin Care Product Company called AT Ease!  AT Ease Hair and Skin Care's Mission is to provide universal hair and skin products, education, and training to consumers so they can maintain personal grooming for healthy hair and skin, leaving them relaxed and worry-free. *Talking Points/QuestionsHere are 5 Effective Steps to help you grow and  Maintain a Healthy BeardStep 1-  Let your facial hair growStep 2: Once you have a beard, big or small, you want to wash it using a beard wash. This will remove any dirt, product buildup, and dry or flaky skin that can cause a blockage that stunts hair growth. Keeping it clean will also open your pores and allow your beard to grow smoothly through the skin.Step 3—After your beard is clean, you want to add a non-pore-clogging beard moisturizer or oil. This will keep your hair and skin moist to prevent dryness, protect the hair from breakage, and prevent skin cracking. Doing this will also improve your hair and skin's texture. Step 4-Brushing or Combing your beard daily helps distribute the natural oils to moisturize, while stimulating blood flow that can improve beard growth because the more nutrients that are going to your beard follicles will return a healthier beard.Step 5-Maintain a nice curb appeal on your beard keeping your borders (top and bottom) clean and neat by using a trimmer or razor. Doing this will be a great foundation for that Stand Out Beard. #BEST #SHMS #STRAWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I relocated for work and I rented a house. I used an agency to help me locate the home, and a nice religious man ended up showing me around. When my furniture arrived, he offered to help me get my house in order. He showed me around the city one day, and then he surprised me by asking me out on a date. I was eager to get to know him better. I learned a lot about him, like he likes proper women, as he calls it. He said he likes a woman that is classy at all times, even at home. He said he loves a woman that still smells good after an eight hour workday, and she can command attention without saying a word. I told him the type of men I'm attracted to, and I assured him that he's my type..................................................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I'm dating a man that was married. When I met him, he was going through a hard divorce, so I allowed him to vent and even cry sometimes because he was going through it. I loved how he never said anything negative about his ex wife. I felt like she had to be an evil person because of how bad the divorce was. I finally talked to her for the first time, and she's far from evil. But first, let me tell you what happened. Two weekends ago. I went to Dallas for the day and I drove back home that same night. My boyfriend said he was out watching the game. He sent me a text that said he wanted to see me before I left, and another one that said please, please please.....................................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 interiviewed Eric Thornton.  FirmCare Life Sharing is a cutting-edge healthcare company with a passion for serving families and individuals of all spectrums. We are licensed by the State of Georgia through the Department of Community Health and Medicaid programs Georgia Pediatric Program (G.A.P.P), Community Care Service Program(CCSP), and SOURCE. We are dedicated to providing our clients with the highest quality home healthcare and healthcare consultation solutions. 1. Who is Eric Thornton?2. Tell me a little about FirmCare Life Sharing and how you came up with your company's name.3. Who does your company service? 4. How does FirmCare help the community? 5. What led you to provide Healthcare services? 6. What motivated you to choose the entrepreneurial path? 7. Are you involved in any other businesses or industries?8. What is the low-income community?9. How do you get paid when dealing with underserved communities?10.  The impact of COVID-19 on your business. I’ve always had a heart for giving back and a passion for helping my community. I was born and raised in Atlanta, GA, growing up on the south side in Riverdale, GA. I attended school in Atlanta from preschool to 8th Grade thereafter, I moved to Decatur and attended Southwest Dekalb High School. I was blessed to have great parents and although they divorced when I was very young, they afforded me and my sister a great childhood. I always knew I wanted to make a difference in the underserved and especially the developmentally disabled community. I also knew that I wanted to become an entrepreneur and use my leadership skills to positively affect the community in a way that I couldn’t while working for a major bank. I had to step out on faith and take a risk and I did so by opening a home healthcare company–FirmCare Life Sharing. My company has an emphasis on helping developmentally disabled children and seniors in low-income communities within and around the metro Atlanta area as well other cities within the state of Georgia. #BEST #STRAW #SHMS  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, My boyfriend is in love with his brother's wife and he won't admit it. It started as a joke, but now it's starting to get under my skin. I met his brother. The same night I met him. His brother had just started dating the lady he married. That was four years ago. They are married, but my boyfriend and I are not. My boyfriend idolizes his sister in law and compliments her when she's all dressed up, which is all of the time. Her hair is sure and fly and she has expensive purses and shoes. She called me last week and asked me if we could do a day of pampering together.................................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, My husband and I decided early against having children. We have a great social life and our house is still the hangout spot for our friends. He's sixty one and I'm fifty nine, and we have made the marriage work for twenty seven years. Last year I found out he was cheating. His lover kept calling his phone over and over, so I told him to handle it. He told me that he handled it. I decided not to stress about it because there was nothing I could do to stop him from cheating, and I was not ready to leave him and be alone, so I didn't ask any questions. He did all he could to show me how remorseful he was for cheating, and I was just happy that our friends didn't find out, so I didn't have to deal with the embarrassment and stress.........................................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I’ve been dating a very attractive woman with the perfect body and beautiful brown skin. I met her at a gym and she asked me out, which I loved because she is not afraid to go after something if she wants it. We have been dating for a little over a month and we finally had sex over the Labor Day holiday. I wasn’t expecting the performance I got................................. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I got married three years ago and I love sex. My husband works hard as a construction worker, so I let him relax before I get nasty with them. I make sure I feed him first. When we go to bed really early because his days start early. He makes sure we're having sex by 9pm. He takes care of business and I go on to sleep every time. I was living the dream and didn't know that he had a problem with anything we had going on in the bedroom. But apparently he does, and I found out through a third party...........................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I am twenty eight years old and my boyfriend is twenty seven. He was an old flame that I had in school, and I decided to rekindle things with him. He pursued me, and I finally gave in. I realized he was the missing piece in my life and he told me the same thing. He moved in with me the second week of our relationship, and we were learning to love each other again. All was well until he took me to his family reunion. His ex-girlfriend was there and he knew she would be there. He has a daughter with her, so she came with his daughter......................................................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 George Acheampong and Carter Cofield. They own Melanin Money, which aims to empower the Black community through financial literacy and wealth-building. They have been recognized for their innovative approach to bridging the wealth gap and fostering a culture of financial empowerment. Melanin Money has implemented the challenges they have had to overcome, as well as their advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.   The interview would cover topics such as: - The inspiration behind founding Melanin Money - Key milestones and achievements in your journey - Strategies for promoting financial literacy within the Black community - Personal stories of success and overcoming obstacles Future goals and projects for Melanin Money #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, My husband and I have been together for twenty four years and married for fifteen years. We dated and broke up a lot in the past because he's a cheater. He had sex with six women that I know of, and I'm sure there are plenty that I don't know about in the past fifteen years. He said he's been faithful and he stopped all of the messing around a year before we got married. My husband has embarrassed me to no end, and my family still has a problem with accepting him. I thought things were going good and I kind of let my guard down, but my family was right and I never should have married him. I could be wrong, but all the evidence points to him cheating again........................................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. Rebecca Homkes. She is a high-growth strategy specialist, best-selling author, executive adviser, and Consultant.   ✅ Summary of Rebecca Homkes Interview on Money Making Conversations Master ClassPurpose of the Interview The interview aimed to: Share Rebecca Homkes’ expertise in business strategy and leadership. Discuss how companies can adapt and thrive in uncertain environments. Provide actionable insights for entrepreneurs and executives on decision-making and growth. Highlight Rebecca’s work as a strategic advisor and author, focusing on resilience and agility. Key Takeaways Leading Through Uncertainty Businesses must embrace flexibility and speed in decision-making. Quote: “Uncertainty is not an excuse for inaction—it’s a call for adaptability.” Strategic Agility Success requires continuous learning and rapid response to market changes. Quote: “Strategy today is less about prediction and more about preparation.” Empowering Leadership Leaders should communicate clearly, empower teams, and foster trust. Quote: “Your people need clarity, not certainty.” Practical Frameworks Rebecca shared frameworks for prioritizing actions and allocating resources during volatile times. Emphasis on data-driven decisions combined with human judgment. Advice for Entrepreneurs Focus on core strengths, build resilient systems, and stay close to customers. Quote: “Resilience is built before the storm, not during it.” Notable Quotes “Uncertainty is not an excuse for inaction—it’s a call for adaptability.” “Your people need clarity, not certainty.” “Resilience is built before the storm, not during it.” #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I'm married, but my husband and I haven't slept in the same bed for two years. His sleep meds didn't work and he would try to watch TV all night. I sleep lightly, so I told him that I needed the room to be quiet. He went and slept in the other room two years ago and never came back. After the first year, he moved all of his clothes into the room with him. He came to my bed a few times wanting sex, but he did not want to cuddle afterwards, so I stopped being intimate with him. Luckily for me, I travel every two months for my job, and I'm gone two weeks at a time. My last work trip was in July and I was having dinner with two other managers, a male and a female.........................................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 Demond Martin.  He founded WellWithAll, a Black-owned, purpose-led health + wellness brand.  Their mission is to improve wellbeing for all of us to achieve generational wellness. We invest 20% of our profits in the fight for health equity in Black, Brown, and underserved communities.   1.    Origin Story: What was the spark that drove you + your co-founder to start WellWithAll?According to Pfizer, Black people are at a higher risk for heart disease, stroke, cancer, asthma, and diabetes compared to their white counterparts. But that is not all. Based on research recorded by Psychiatry, Black people with any mental illness have lower rates of obtaining mental health services, including prescription medications and outpatient services, compared to white men and women. Demond Martin, Co-Founder + CEOAn investor and philanthropist, Demond was a senior partner at Adage Capital Management where he invested in the consumer sector for 22 years. A graduate of Harvard Business School and former assistant to President Clinton’s White House Chief of Staff, Demond has served as a trustee on a number of non-profit boards including the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, the Grammy Global Venture Board, and the Obama Foundation. We encourage + support our customers on their wellness journey while inspiring us all to do good in our communities and in our lives. Talking Points/Questions * 1. Origin Story: What was the spark that drove you + your co-founder to start WellWithAll?  2. Product/Solutions: What are solutions/products that WellWithAll offers to solve for better wellbeing? **Demond to share how our product, content, community are here to help put more life into years (pursue our joy/living well), especially for Black and Brown consumers who have been underserved or overlooked in the wellness space overall. 3. What does generational wellness mean to you? **Dialogue between Demond and Rushion and their respective points of view. 4. Conscious Capitalism/Biz Model: WellWithAll doesn't just sell quality products, it also has a passion and purpose. Can you share more about your innovative business model to build heath equity for driving positive social impact and change? #STRAW #BEST #SHMS  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I came home after a party late at night with my sister and walked in on a man having a drink in my living room. I was tipsy and so was my sister, but we could see that this man was fine. My husband was passed out on the couch, so I got another drink and sat with this strange man. He told me that my husband said he could stay over because he was in town to kick it with my husband for his birthday. My sister decided to stay over at that point, and she poured herself a drink. I went to change out of my dress but couldn't unzip it, so I yelled for my sister to help me. The strange fine man came in and said he and I were the only two people still awake in the house. As he unzipped my zipper, his tongue followed the zipper down my back.............................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I busted my husband with his side chick Ace. They were in a booth at a pool hall having wings and beer. I walked up on them, and she smiled because she knew who I was. She says she was just waiting for me to catch them because she's been having sex with my husband for a while. She put it out there and I didn't have to ask any questions....................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I'm married to a big baby that acts like he can't do anything without me. I even went on his last job interview and sat in the lobby for moral support. I never liked a whimpy man, and he hasn't always been like this. He lost his confidence when he started having problems with the erectile dysfunction. It took away his swagger and ruined our sex life. I adjusted and never blamed him or made jokes about it. He used to drink a lot, and that's why he couldn't have sex with me. Over time, it became the norm. So now that we're not having sex, I tend to treat him like he's just a roommate.......................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Travis May, Sr. and Alair Castro from Northwestern Mutal, one is a financial advisor and the other is a Diversity & Inclusion Specialist discuss how Black Entrepreneurship bridges racial wealth gap. The racial wealth gap refers to the disparity in assets of typical households across race and ethnicity. The gap in assets is far wider than disparities in wages across races. Income inequality, housing policies, limited educational opportunities, and a lack of support structures contribute to the racial wealth gap. Talking Points - Can you provide an overview of the Community Conversations initiative and its purpose?- This is the third Community Conversation you’re hosting—what impact have the previous two events had so far?- Travis joined the firm as a result of the first conversation. How did that connection come about, and how has his journey exemplified the goals of these conversations?- In what ways do you feel these events are making an intentional and impactful difference in the Black community?- How does Community Conversations help identify individuals who align with the firm’s vision and goals?- What makes these events unique in fostering relationships and opportunities within the Black community?- Northwestern Mutual is a financial partner that offers personalized plans, top-rated services and life insurance.- What inspired Northwestern Mutual’s Callaway Black office to focus this year’s panel series on Black entrepreneurship as a solution to bridging the racial wealth gap?- Why do you believe entrepreneurship plays a pivotal role in narrowing the racial wealth gap, specifically for Black communities?- What unique challenges do Black entrepreneurs face in starting and scaling businesses compared to other demographics?- How have historical barriers, such as limited access to capital and systemic racism, impacted Black entrepreneurship, and what changes are being seen today?- How important are mentorship and financial literacy in supporting Black entrepreneurs and future generations of business owners?- What resources or programs do you believe are most effective in helping Black entrepreneurs succeed in today's business landscape?- How can financial institutions, such as Northwestern Mutual, support Black entrepreneurs in accessing the funding and resources they need to grow?- What role do community-based organizations and initiatives play in empowering Black entrepreneurs and addressing wealth disparities?- Can you share any success stories of Black entrepreneurs who have directly benefited from your efforts or the broader financial ecosystem in Atlanta?- How can the success of Black-owned businesses help inspire and empower younger generations in closing the wealth gap?- In your view, what are the most effective strategies for ensuring that Black entrepreneurship leads to long-term wealth building within families and communities?- Looking forward, what do you hope to see in terms of Black entrepreneurship and wealth-building in the next decade?- How can the community come together to support Black entrepreneurs and ensure that their efforts are sustainable and impactful? #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I'm fifty three and I've been married twenty two years. I've been struggling with my husband's two female friends for twenty five years, since the day I met him. We met at an alumni ball and they were his dates. They had to approve of me before we got serious with each other. My husband's two female friends live next door to each other. Their husbands accepted my husband as their wives bonus husband. I never liked it, but I never said anything about it. Many nights, for many years, my husband has been partying over at one of their houses.........................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Tonya Millions-Fitch.  A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthesiologist and founder of Astra Wellness in Macon, Georgia. This episode is a powerful blend of personal motivation, healthcare innovation, and entrepreneurial insight. 🌟 Guest Overview: Tonya Millions-Finch Over 25 years in healthcare, including 12 years as a CRNA. Founder of Astra Wellness, a holistic health and wellness clinic. Inspired by her father’s struggles with PTSD and chronic pain after serving in the Vietnam War. 🏥 Astra Wellness: Mission & Services Name Meaning: “Astra” means “star” in French, symbolizing guidance—just as stars guided people during slavery and exploration. Services Offered: IV hydration therapy Medical weight loss Functional medicine Anti-aging treatments (e.g., ozone therapy, infrared sauna, Botox, fillers) Skincare and body contouring Mental health and cognitive support (e.g., for PTSD, depression, dementia) 💡 Business Growth & Strategy Started in a 650 sq. ft. space in 2020. Expanded to a 3,000+ sq. ft. commercial building within 3 years. Initially self-funded but later secured a bank loan after learning the importance of: A strong business plan Financial projections and historical analysis Showing business income (not writing off everything) Building a relationship with a banker 🧠 Functional Medicine vs. Conventional Medicine Conventional: Treats symptoms after problems arise. Functional: Preventative, cellular-level care to address root causes before symptoms appear. 🧬 Why IV Therapy? Oral supplements only absorb 30–40% due to gut health issues. IV infusions deliver 100% absorption directly into the bloodstream. Used for: Nutrient deficiencies Stress, insomnia, and depression Cognitive enhancement (e.g., for students) Skin, hair, and nail health 🏆 Achievements & Recognition Voted Best Wellness Clinic in Macon for three consecutive years. Featured on “Secrets to Success” and other platforms. 📞 Contact Astra Wellness Website: www.astrawellness.com Phone: (478) 200-7575 Instagram & Facebook: @AstraWellness   #STRAW #SHMS  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Sheila Michelle Foye. Her career began with the Gas Company here in Atlanta just before natural gas was deregulated. She began as an Office Assistant and moved lattice style into mission-critical senior leadership roles within organizations and across industries such as SunTrust Banks (Truist), CapGemini, Accenture, Cox, and healthcare giants such as Morehouse School of Medicine, Piedmont, and Grady. Foye leveraged her corporate knowledge gained over the years to become an award winning, respected successful Entrepreneur in Drug Testing and CLIA-waived Laboratory Testing. Drug Testing was chosen due to her oldest son’s murder (age 24), which was drug/ gang violence related and her family history of substance/alcohol abuse that made for a rocky road in life. Nearly two years into the business, Michelle was able to innovate and pivot Precis Screening by establishing a consulting arm that has now assisted more than 3,000 Entrepreneurs and counting. #BEST #AMI #STRAW #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I've been messing around with the guy that I worked with. He said he saw something special in me, so he got me transferred to his team. I looked up to his man because of his work ethic and how he commanded the room at our meetings. He is a straight nerd, but there's something about him. It's probably all of the big words he uses, but OMG, he is stuck in the late nineties with his hair, his suits, and even the way he talks. Thank goodness, he's not that way in the bedroom. He's large and in charge there............................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I'm married and I think we have a rodent problem in our house because of my husband's friend. Let me be clear. We don't have a filthy house, and we don't eat anywhere but in our kitchen and occasionally in our living room. My husband got out of the military a few years ago and we chose to settle down in a metropolitan area. When our friends come to town, they always want to stay with us. So when my husband's friend got out of the military, he has to stay with us for a while while he looked for a house in our area. Since he's been in our home, there have been certain smells that I have never experienced before...............................................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, My boyfriend and I are on shaky ground because he thinks I'm cheating. He's the one whose phone rings all night long? So why is he so paranoid about me? Whenever I go out without him, he calls me repeatedly. He'll even ask me to FaceTime him so he can see where I am. He thinks he's slick, but it makes me think he could be cheating on me. The thing is, I do not care because if he is, it will come out eventually. He's suspicious about everything thing I do, and now he's questioning me before, during, and after sex..........................................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, My husband's office is near the airport, so he usually leaves his car at his office when he travels. He travels at least once a month, and he started ghosting me when he's on a trip. I became suspicious and hid out in the parking lot of his job to see if anyone was getting in the lift with him to go to the airport. I didn't catch him doing anything that day, but the last trip he went on has me thinking that he's seeing someone that lives one hundred miles from his office. Here's what I discovered. The morning of his trip, I checked the odometer on his car.....................................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kier "Junior" Spates. Co-Host of Steve Harvey Morning Show and founded Kier's Hope to provide underprivileged individuals who suffer from Sickle Cell Disease to ensure they receive the medical, physical, and emotional attention they deserve. Suffering from sickle cell disease in silence is not uncommon in the African-American Community as there is a lack of knowledge of the disease. So, he created the Kier's Hope Foundation. The annual Kier's Hope 5K Fun Run and Walk and Junior Claus is an opportunity for families and those with sickle cell disease to gather and learn more about new treatments, spread awareness, and increase community engagement. Sickle Cell Disease is misunderstood as being contagious, an automatic death sentence, and that people with SCD can't do what "normal" people do! Kier is changing that narrative. #AMI #BEST #SHMS #STRAW See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I'm a 33 year old single woman and my best friend is a 32 year old wild woman. She works as a bartender and she uses her job to as a way to hit on guys and most of them are in their mid-twenties. She also has sex with these guys. She says that guys our age can't keep up with her so she sticks with the twenty-somethings because they are great in bed. I try not to judge her, but her sex life is a big problem for me, because she always uses my guest room to hook up with these random men...............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 Annie Yatch.   Annie transitioned from her role as a Consultant for the Defense Intelligence Agency to become one of America's most prominent Team Leadership and performance Coaches. She is a remarkable transformational expert whose prowess extends from startups to multimillion-dollar enterprises. She expertly prevents costly mistakes, boosts revenue, and catalyzes lasting behavioral changes within teams to drive consistent and remarkable results. Talking Points/Questions *1. Northstar Leadership is a company driven to help already successful male entrepreneurs surpass revenue ceilings by redefining their leadership at home and in the office.2. What is trauma, and how does it affect the entrepreneur?3. What are the lies entrepreneurs tell themselves that reduce their ability to create wealth?4. Why is unlocking your trauma the key to more success and fulfillment in business?5. What are the top 3 leadership gaps for most entrepreneurs?6. How can entrepreneurs redefine success for themselves to feel more fulfillment each day?7. What are the biggest relationship issues that entrepreneurs face and how can they resolve them to be more connected to those they love?8. How can entrepreneurs keep their teams growing and inspired? With a track record of guiding businesses across various sectors, Annie has consulted with companies from ground zero to 1.2B in revenue. Her prowess extends from startups to multimillion-dollar enterprises, as she expertly prevents costly mistakes, boosts revenue, and catalyzes lasting behavioral changes within teams to drive consistent and remarkable results. Recognized as the Chief Transformation Officer for Influencers and Entrepreneurs, Annie has earned this title through her unparalleled ability to empower you to rewire the subconscious patterns that limit your net worth. Her methodology extends beyond the surface, aiming to dissolve deeply ingrained trauma patterns that hinder your growth. By helping you and your team overcome these limitations, Annie paves the way for achieving monumental goals with newfound ease and unwavering confidence. #BEST #SHMS #STRAWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I've been married for almost a year and we have a four month old daughter. We currently live in a hotel suite because the water heater flooded the main level of our home right after we moved in. It's been a rough year so far. I haven't been able to sleep because I take care of the baby all day and I also go back and forth to check on the restoration of the house. My job let me work from home before I have the baby, and my maternity leave is up, so I work and take care of the baby in this hotel room............................................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed April Showers.   Founder of Afro Unicorn, joins Money Making Conversations Masterclass to share how she built the first Black woman-owned, fully licensed character brand in major retail. With over $20 million in sales, Afro Unicorn celebrates diversity and empowers women and children of color. 🔑 Key Themes & Highlights Origins of Afro Unicorn April was inspired by a friend's repeated reference to her as a "unicorn," highlighting her extraordinary ability to balance multiple businesses and raise two children. Noticing existing unicorn imagery lacked representation, she created Afro Unicorn to uplift young girls of color. Challenges & Early Growth Despite facing personal hardships—including her son's hospitalization and several family losses—April remained committed to her mission. Her persistence led to a viral moment where a young girl wearing an Afro Unicorn shirt caught Walmart’s attention, resulting in a licensing deal. Licensing & Expansion Instead of manufacturing herself, April strategically partnered with licensees to distribute Afro Unicorn merchandise. Within a year, she secured 45+ licensing agreements, expanding into books, bedding, hair care, party supplies, and more. Business Strategy & Advice Trademarking Afro Unicorn early, hiring an accountant and lawyer, and writing a business plan were critical to her success. She advises entrepreneurs to visualize success, stay consistent, and never quit. Future Plans April is developing Miss April’s Crown, an animated series teaching young entrepreneurs business skills through affirmations and mentorship. 📘 About the BrandAfro Unicorn is available at major retailers, including Walmart, Target, and Amazon. #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I'm a thirty three year old married woman and my husband is thirty six. We met on a blind date that was set up by one of our mutual friends. This friend of ours recently got married and we weren't invited because I don't get along with his new wife. I'm a ride or die type of friend, so I warned our friend about this woman before he married her. She had cheated on her first husband and she used to mess with my brother. She works at night, but she is not always at work. She usually takes a two hour lung break and she goes to hang out at a restaurant next to her job...........................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Craig Calafati. The Executive Vice President and Director of Lending for Arkansas Capital Corporation, Arkansas Capital Corporation. A community development finance company that was chosen by SBA to receive one of the three new SBLC licenses and now offers flexible capital solutions nationwide to small businesses and entrepreneurs in underserved minority communities. Company Description *Arkansas Capital Corporation (ACC) is a private, nonprofit lending corporation dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs in Arkansas and surrounding states. ACC offers flexible capital solutions to meet the unique needs of entrepreneurs, small businesses, and economic and community development projects, emphasizing serving low-income, minority, and rural communities. Since 1957, ACC has partnered with commercial banks, government agencies, and others at local, state, regional, and national levels to deploy over $2.34 billion in capital financing. Talking Points/Questions *Talking points: If you don’t have a Business Plan you will not be successful. What is the purpose of Arkansas Capital Corporation? The SBA does not lend money. Instead, it provides guarantees so lenders are more inclined to lend money to small business owners. Small business owners should establish a line of credit with immediate access - especially for small businesses with payroll employees. Aspiring entrepreneurs are encouraged to spend time with entrepreneurs who are already operating a successful business in your area of interest to gain valuable insights. Small business owners should always know how much money they need before speaking with a lender. #SHMS, #STRAWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Attorney Jalene Mack Widely known as “America’s Favorite Entertainment Attorney.” The episode focuses on protecting creative and business assets, avoiding scams, and building a solid foundation for success in the entertainment industry and beyond. 🎯 Key Themes & Takeaways 🔹 The Lure of the Bad Deal Jalene warns about scammers posing as producers or financiers in the entertainment industry. These individuals often: Claim to have access to major networks or funding. Ask creators to sign away rights or pay deposits under false pretenses. Lack a verifiable digital footprint (e.g., no IMDb, LinkedIn, or credible references). Rashawn emphasizes the danger of the “lottery mentality” — believing one deal will change everything. 🛡️ Legal Red Flags Never assign your copyright without legal review. Be cautious of contracts that require you to relinquish ownership or control. Escrow accounts can be manipulated if you don’t control the signature authority. Always verify the legitimacy of a deal and the people behind it. 🧠 Jalene Mack’s Top 10 Business Development Tips Identify Your Project Know what you’re creating (film, TV, product, etc.). Define the scope and format clearly. Make Sure You Have a Plan Create a business and finance plan. Know where your funding will come from and how it will be used. Form a Team Surround yourself with experts (lawyers, accountants, producers). Avoid “yes people” — you need honest feedback. Prepare a Budget Hire a line producer or financial expert. Account for everything: cast, crew, locations, marketing, etc. Form a Business Entity Establish an LLC or corporation to protect your personal assets. Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) Required for tax and banking purposes. Open a Business Bank Account Keep personal and business finances separate. Protect Your Assets Register copyrights and trademarks. Use NDAs (non-disclosure agreements) to safeguard ideas. Contracts Always put agreements in writing. Hire an attorney experienced in your specific industry (e.g., film, music, TV). Marketing Don’t assume people will show up just because your product is good. Build a brand and promote it strategically. 📚 Jalene’s Book Title: The Business of Stage Screen and In Between A practical guide for performers, playwrights, filmmakers, and entrepreneurs. 🗣️ Final Thoughts Rushion praises Jalene’s decades-long expertise and her role in protecting creatives. Jalene encourages listeners to invest in legal protection and business planning to avoid costly mistakes.   #AMI #BEST #STRAW  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Stephanie Stuckey. The Chair of Stuckey’s. A pecan snack and candy company based in Wrens, GA. She is also the author of “Unstuck: Reviving an American Icon.” Stuckey’s growth lies in their partnership with almost 5,000 retailers nationwide that sell their delicious pecan snacks and candies. Questions About the Company’s History and Legacy: Stuckey's has such a rich history. Can you share what initially inspired the rebirth of the brand after all these years? How does social media on LinkedIn work? The Power of Marketing and Branding. What strategies did you implement to turn Stuckey’s around and bring it back to the forefront of the market? Acquiring a pecan manufacturing facility was a major step. How has owning this facility impacted your product offerings and business growth? What role does innovation play in the resurgence of Stuckey’s, especially in terms of product development and marketing? Questions About Branding and Marketing: Stuckey’s is known for its nostalgic appeal. How do you balance honoring that nostalgia while also appealing to modern consumers? How important has social media and digital marketing been in the rebirth of Stuckey’s? Questions About Leadership and Vision: What’s your long-term vision for Stuckey’s, and how do you plan to continue the momentum you’ve built? What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs wanting to start their own business? Questions About Partnerships and Community: How have partnerships with retailers and other brands contributed to the comeback of Stuckey’s? Stuckey’s has deep roots in Georgia. How important has the local community been in your company’s resurgence? Can you share any upcoming collaborations or new product launches that will be part of Stuckey’s comeback story? It all started with a borrowed Model A Ford and a $35 loan With that, W.S. “Sylvester” Stuckey, Sr. founded Stuckey’s as a roadside pecan stand along Highway 23 in Eastman, GA in 1937. With that Ford that he retrofitted to haul pecans and the loan (from his grandmother), W.S. drove around the countryside and bought pecans from local farmers to sell at his stand, along with local honey and souvenirs. His wife, Ethel, added her delicious homemade candies – southern delicacies like pralines, Divinities, and our iconic Pecan Log Rolls. Through grit and determination, the Stuckeys grew the stores from these humble beginnings to a roadside empire. At its peak in the 1960s, the little pecan company had become an integral part of the American road trip. It boasted 368 stores in over 30 states, each offering kitschy souvenirs, clean restrooms, Texaco gas, and of course, our famous candies. Stuckey’s also owned a candy plant in Eastman to allow for larger production of sweet treats, a trucking company, and a sign company that produced the 4,000 Stuckey’s billboards that dotted America’s highways. Stuckey’s merged with Pet Milk Co. in 1964 to add capacity and capital for the company to grow. Decline and Rebound W.S. Stuckey, Sr. died in 1977, the same year that Illinois Central Industries, a Chicago conglomerate, bought Pet Milk Co., and they began to close Stuckey’s stores across the country. Stuckey’s fell into a decline until 1984 when W.S. “Billy” Stuckey, Jr., son of the founder and a five-term Congressman from the 8th District of Georgia, acquired Stuckey’s and began to turn the company around. Under Billy’s helm, the Stuckey’s Express concept – or a store within a store – was launched, and the company expanded to over 115 franchises in 17 states. The Eastman candy plant continued operations by a third-party contractor but was shuttered in 2009 during the Recession, although Stuckey’s branded candies continued to be produced by outside vendors. In November of 2019, Ethel “Stephanie” Stuckey, Billy’s daughter, took over as CEO of Stuckey’s. In August of 2020, Stuckey’s acquired Front Porch Pecans, a pecan snack company that sells to domestic and foreign markets, including grocery channels in the Southeast U.S. With this merger, Stuckey’s gained management support with R.G. Lamar as new President to run Stuckey’s with Stephanie. In January of 2021, Stephanie and R.G. acquired a pecan manufacturing facility in Wrens, Georgia to drive growth of the company through snack and candy making. Later that year, they added a third equity owner, Ted Wright, a marketing professional based in Atlanta. Today, Stuckey’s is making a comeback, thanks to reinventing the brand as a pecan snack and candy company. They are once again making the delicious products that Ethel first made in her country kitchen, and Sylvester sold at his roadside stand. There are still 13 original blue roof Stuckey’s stores in operation. These stores are not owned or operated by the parent corporation but are licensed to sell our products and remain an important part of our past and story. Stuckey’s growth lies in o

Dear Steve and Shirley, I'm a 32 year old man and I just started a job teaching adults that are getting a GED. I'm loving it so far, but I need advice on how to handle a very aggressive female student in her early 60s. At the end of one of my lectures, she approached me and asked what gym I go to because I have a very nice body. I blushed and didn't know what to say! She winked at me and left.................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I got a call that my husband was sleep in his car behind the bar that he goes to on Friday nights after work. I pulled up on him there and he was asleep in the back seat with the windows cracked. His pants were unbuttoned and his shoes were off. I tapped on the window and he did not budge, so I hit the button to unlock the car. Then he jumped up and screamed. I told him to get out of the car, but he refused to. He said that he did not know how he got there. I should lead because it was not safe for me to be there. I told him I wasn't going anywhere until he got out of the car...........................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Karon Joseph Riley. He co-stars in the popular The Black Hamptons series on BET+. His book navigates life's ups and downs and uncovers the importance of perseverance, resilience, and determination. It shares his insightful reflections entitled "Keep Pedaling: Things I Learned On My Bike." Whether facing steep inclines or unexpected detours, he learns to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and transformation. Through encounters with nature, encounters with others, and moments of solitude, he discovers the power of mindfulness and living in the present moment. "Keep Pedaling" is more than a self-help book; it's a roadmap for navigating life's twists and turns with grace and courage. Through Karon's heartfelt lessons and candid reflections, readers will find inspiration to overcome obstacles, pursue their passions, and savor the beauty of the journey itself. "Keep Pedaling" is a reminder that no matter where life takes you, as long as you keep moving forward, the possibilities are endless. Full-scale production company that has the capacity to take a film or television project from creation to distribution and all the production necessary in between #STRAW #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve Shirley, I'm married to a man that loves to talk big and bad, but when it comes down to handling his business, he lets me handle the tough stuff. It's gotten worse over the years, and he still won't shut his mouth or stop harassing people on our app for the neighborhood. It started when my sons were in school and his way of handling bullies was to go up to the school and talk all big and bad to the principle. But that never solved the problem. I had to snatch one of the bullies up one day and threaten him with the frying pan. When he came in our yard talking about he was going to kick my sons behind. My husband looked at it all through the window, through the screen door. His boss bullies him and he comes home telling me all that he's going to do and say, but he just takes it and still is not getting paid what he's worth.............................................................. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I've been with my boyfriend for seven going on eight years, off and on. He's broken up with me three times because he says I'm not domestic enough, or I say the wrong things when he asked me to do things. Then he'll call so we can get back together. Just recently, I moved back in with him and he got upset that men were speaking to me at a motorcycle event when he left me alone for hours at a time. Mind you, these men were not hitting on me at all, and he knew one of the guys and a guy told him we were all just hanging around and talking, but the whole time he was over with a group of women showing off his bike..................................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Jasmine Young. You would never have guessed that such a powerful, nationwide-spanning voice for the African American community began in small-town Jackson, Alabama, but that is precisely where Jasmine Young got her start. She is the Founder & President of The Financial Literacy Institute, a CPA by trade, and Founder of the Southern Heritage Financial Group in Atlanta, GA. In addition, she is also the Producer of the Black Wall Street Black Business Expo, which aims to empower and uplift the African American community in both the 21st century and beyond—Are you interested in hearing about her mission? Want to know more about her event and what it all entails? Well, tune in to the Money Making Conversation Master Class today to learn more! #STRAW #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I'm a twenty seven year old female and I just got out of a ten year relationship that was going nowhere. Now I'm dating a twenty nine year old man that pursued me for a few years. He was there for me after my breakup, so I got used to him being around. I want to get your advice before I fall for the wrong man again. He works as a manager of two movie theaters and he runs his mobile detailing business on the side. He's also a really good cook, but I can't get him to cook anything spicy...................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Steve and Shirley, I wrote in about my husband helping out my best friend after her husband died. My mother visited us from Nigeria and she told me that I was giving my husband permission to cheat, and I didn't want to believe her. I got so offended by what she said because I trusted my husband. My mom wasn't having it, and she was so persistent that she told me to pass by my friend's house after we picked my son up from preschool. My husband's truck was on the side of my friend's house, not in her driveway, but on the side of her house a little ways up from her house. She told me to park the car and call my husband........................................................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Stephen Shirley, Everything is a minor inconvenience for my husband, and I need to see if something is going on with him outside of our household. He used to love doing everything with me. He used to initiate intimacy and afterwards he would always get up and cook breakfast, no matter what time of day or night it was. That was our little fun time. He wanted to have a lot of kids before we got married, but now he's saying that he doesn't know if we can afford to start a family. He said that babies take up a lot of time and are inconvenient most of the time. That broke my heart, because how can a child be inconvenient? He's been saying crazy stuff like this, and I've been taking mental notes......................................................See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Dr. Michael Giles. Our Virtual Dosing Window™ allows patients to record their take-homes by using a phone or computer to scan the QR code on their methadone bottles and then recording a video of themselves dosing for their care team to review. This patented solution helps build trust between OTP patients and their care teams, empowering clinics with real-time insights to make informed treatment decisions. Sonara also increases patients’ likelihood of earning more take homes, which in turn improves program retention rates. Since starting Sonara in 2020, Dr. Giles has expanded the solution to a network of modernized, tech-enabled clinics in 11 states that provide accessible, patient-centered care for individuals struggling with OUD. Sonara® is on a mission to support OTP patients, with a remote dosing solution that makes it easier for people with opioid use disorder to commit to their methadone treatment programs, so they can get their lives back. Sonara provides OTPs with the confidence they need to approve more take-home doses responsibly, to improve the quality of life for patients and expand treatment accessibility for those who live farther away from clinics. Notable investors in Sonara include Mark Cuban and First Trust Capital. With Sonara, OTP patients can achieve their treatment goals without putting their lives on hold. To learn more about partnering with Sonara or bringing the Virtual Dosing Window to your OTP, visit sonarahealth.com/contact-us to get in touch. #STRAW #SHMS See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.