Best of The Steve Harvey Morning Show

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://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 Marsha Evans.

A licensed mental health therapist, founder of Willow Tree Counseling & Educational Center, and creator of the FELT Experience and Marsha Listens wellness platform. The conversation centers on emotional health, nervous system education, sound therapy, community healing, and her evolution as a therapist and entrepreneur. Marsha shares her personal journey from being a competitive athlete to becoming a calming force for high‑functioning individuals dealing with burnout, stress, and emotional disconnection.

She explains the origins of her signature FELT Experience, a wellness model designed to help people reconnect with themselves through somatic movement, sound healing, intentional rest, and community. She also highlights the challenges and breakthroughs in mental health—particularly within the Black community—and reflects on 16+ years of therapeutic practice.

Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

1. Introduce Marsha Evans’ holistic mental health approach

Rushion invites Marsha to explain how she blends psychology, somatics, and sound‑based healing to help people process stress differently. 

2. Explain the FELT Experience and its healing framework

Marsha details her signature F.E.L.T. model—Free, Expand, Listen, Transform—and why embodied emotional experience is key to healing. 

3. Share her personal journey

She discusses how sports, music, and modalities like breathwork and yoga helped her turn stress into purpose. 

4. Encourage new perspectives on mental health in the Black community

She and Rushion address the stigma, evolution, and growing acceptance of mental health support. 

5. Showcase community‑centered healing

Marsha emphasizes connection, shared experiences, and intentional spaces that allow vulnerability and transformation. 

Key Takeaways 1. Healing Requires Intentionality

Marsha explains that activities like massage or yoga can be therapeutic—but only when approached with intentionality, presence, and consent to release emotional tension. 

2. The Body Holds Stories (“The body keeps the score”)

She emphasizes that the body stores emotional experiences, and modalities like breathwork, sound healing, and somatic movement help release what the mind can’t articulate. 

3. The FELT Framework

The FELT Experience moves participants through:

• F – Free: Permission to just be (coloring, resting, arriving without expectations)
• E – Expand: Allowing the body to open and receive
• L – Listen: To one’s own body, movement, and emotional cues
• T – Transform: The hardest phase—moving from chaos to peace 

4. Safe Community Spaces Accelerate Healing

Marsha’s events often result in participants forming friendships, emotional breakthroughs, and even planning outings together—an indicator of her program’s power. 

5. People Are Conditioned to Avoid Emotions

Growing up, she was taught to hide emotions in competitive sports—especially tears as a sign of weakness. Her therapeutic mission now is to help others unlearn similar conditioning. 

6. Cultural Shifts Around Mental Health

Marsha highlights major strides in the Black community, especially post‑COVID, as more people (including athletes) publicly acknowledge mental health struggles. 

7. Therapy Isn’t Just Talking

She incorporates nonverbal tools like:

• Play therapy
• Sand tray therapy
• Sound healing
• Somatic movement
• Yoga
  These help clients who can’t articulate their emotions—especially those conditioned to suppress them. 

8. Human Connection Still Matters—even in an AI World

Marsha is open to exploring AI in mental health but insists that physical presence, touch, and human empathy are irreplaceable. 

Notable Quotes (from the transcript) On her calming presence

“I think laughter is good for the soul… just being able to find peace has been really big for me… It’s just a God‑given talent.” 

On coping mechanisms

“As long as I had some type of music or some form of therapy… I could navigate any stressful environment.” 

On cooking as therapy (reflecting Rushion’s habits)

“You’re creating new neural pathways… recalibrating your nervous system.” 

On intentional healing

“Yoga and massages can be therapeutic, but you have to be intentional.” 

On the purpose of the FELT Experience

“In order to release whatever your body is experiencing, you have to have a felt experience.” 

On the challenge of transformation

“We are used to chaos… but we’re not used to healed environments.” 

On the evolution of her practice

“I wanted to understand the whole person… and help them change the dial on their dashboard to fit their calling.” 

On mental health in the Black community

“People perceive admission as a flaw… but healing is about understanding your story.” 

On creating safe spaces

“By creating a space of safety and healing… people get to live the life they desired and not a life from survival.” 

#SHMS #BEST #STRAW

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://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

Here’s a clear, structured summary of the Sean Ilenrey interview with Rushion McDonald from Money Making Conversations Masterclass, including its purpose, key takeaways, and notable quotes.

🧭 Purpose of the Interview

The interview is designed to:

• Inspire entrepreneurs and professionals by showing Sean Ilenrey’s journey from homelessness and a high school dropout to a tech executive and CEO..txt)
• Teach “value-centric” leadership and personal development, emphasizing contributing value before seeking rewards..txt) 
• Provide practical business and leadership strategies for small business owners, managers, and aspiring leaders..txt)
• Shift mindset from short-term gain to long-term impact, including global thinking (e.g., job creation in Africa)..txt) 

🧩 Key Themes & Takeaways 1) Value Over Transactions

• Success comes from adding value first, not chasing money or immediate benefits.
• People are compensated based on how valuable they are perceived to be.

Insight:

• Build yourself into someone others need, not someone who constantly asks.

2) Relationships Are True Wealth

• Wealth is not just money—it includes:
  • Relationships
  • Knowledge
• Strategic relationships unlock opportunities, access, and growth.

Takeaway:

Long-term success comes from relationship equity, not quick paychecks.

3) Effort Before Reward

• Ilenrey stresses doing work without immediate compensation to gain experience and skill.
• He shares personal sacrifices (working extra, taking leadership without pay, relocating globally).

Takeaway:

• Early career = “paid education” mindset, not just salary focus.

4) Value-Centric Leadership (Core Framework)

From his book You Don’t Owe Happiness, six leadership principles:

1. Authentic Feedback – Coaching employees honestly and supportively.
2. Recognition & Rewards – Acknowledge different strengths and contributions.
3. Compensation – Fair pay or growth opportunities.
4. Purpose Alignment – Show how each role impacts the bigger picture.
5. Sponsorship – Advocate for employees behind the scenes.
6. Psychological Safety – Create stability, avoid reactive layoffs, protect teams..txt) [

5) Personal Adversity → Growth

• Lived out of his car and struggled with instability while young..txt) 
• Mentorship (formal and informal) helped redirect his life.
• Key turning point: people saw potential in him and challenged him to grow.

Lesson:

• Mentors don’t have to be formal—anyone who pushes you forward matters.

6) Adaptability & Lifelong Learning

• Embrace change (e.g., AI, global workforce shifts).
• Those who resist evolution risk being left behind.

Takeaway:

• Tools change, but adaptability determines success.

7) Global Vision & Purpose

• Ilenrey’s mission: create 100 million jobs in Africa over 25 years..txt) 
• Driven by exposure to inequality and untapped talent.
• Emphasizes economic empowerment to reduce systemic issues (like crime due to lack of opportunity).

8) Reality vs Social Media Illusion

• Social media creates false perceptions of success.
• Real growth requires discipline, sacrifice, and long-term effort.

💬 Notable Quotes On Value

• “How do I add value to you first before I ask something back?”.txt) [

On Success Mindset

• “Put yourself in a position where you’re of service so many people can’t imagine moving forward without you.”.txt) 

On Wealth

• “What’s more valuable than money is relationship equity.”.txt) 

On Leadership

• “Our job isn’t to make employees happy—just make them feel valued and valuable.”.txt) 

On Career Growth

• “I knew it was paid education… I made myself forever valuable… and didn’t care about the pay.”.txt) [

On Opportunity

• “If you do something today that most people won’t do, it will change your life forever.”.txt) On Global Impact

• “I don’t want a smart person to become the biggest drug lord… I want them to become the best leader for their communities.”.txt) 

🧠 Bottom Line

The interview reinforces a central philosophy:

👉 Success comes from becoming valuable, serving others, and playing the long game—personally, professionally, and globally.

#SHMS #BEST #STRAW

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily.  I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur.  Keep winning!

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Jennifer Ledwith.

She is the founder of Scholar Ready, whose mission is to help students excel in standardized testing and scholarship applications.

🔑 Key Themes & Highlights

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://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. Bisa Lewis.  

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To spotlight the challenges and opportunities within the teaching profession, especially post-COVID, and to empower educators to leverage their skills for financial growth beyond the classroom. Dr. Besa shares her journey, insights, and strategies for educators to supplement their income while maintaining their passion for teaching.

🗝️ Key Takeaways 1. Educators Are Undervalued Yet Essential

• Teachers are underpaid and often disrespected despite their critical role in shaping future generations.
• COVID briefly highlighted their importance, but systemic undervaluation persists.

2. Mental Wellness and Structure Matter

• Dr. Bisa emphasizes morning meditation, prayer, and silence to manage stress and set the tone for her day.
• She avoids early meetings and uses Mondays and Fridays for planning and reflection.

3. Education Credentials Open Doors

• Dr. Bisa holds four degrees and explains that credentials often determine access to influential spaces.
• Degrees help gain respect and credibility, especially in leadership and public speaking roles.

4. The Paid Method for Educators

Dr. Besa developed the PAID Method to help educators monetize their skills:

• P – Prospects: Who will pay for your skills?
• A – Allies: Who can support your journey?
• I – Information: What do you need to know?
• D – Dollars: How much can you earn?

5. Teachers Can Earn Beyond the Classroom

• Through coaching, curriculum development, speaking engagements, and grant writing.
• Dr. Bisa’s curriculum is used in 30 states, showcasing how educators can scale their expertise.

6. AI and Education

• AI should be embraced, not feared.
• It won’t replace teachers but will transform education by shifting focus from theory to practice.
• Educators must adapt and use technology to enhance learning and remain competitive.

7. Cultural and Economic Empowerment

• Dr. Bisa advocates for Black educators and communities to overcome systemic barriers by embracing innovation.
• She warns against fear-based resistance to technology and encourages strategic adoption.

💬 Notable Quotes

• “It’s time to stop reading other people’s success stories and start living your own.” – Rushion McDonald
• “Sometimes those papers just help you get in the room.” – Dr. Bisa
• “Stop being afraid, stop being oppressed, and make sure that whatever comes out, you figure out how you can use it.” – Dr. Bisa
• “Guide learning. That is what we should do.” – Dr. Bisa
• “Consistency is what people gain trust in.” – Rushion McDonald

🌐 Resources Mentioned

• Website: DrBisa.com
• Podcast: The Paid Educator Podcast
• Social Media: Consistent handles across platforms under “DrBisa”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMI

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://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!

Felecia Hatcher

CEO of Black Ambition, the national entrepreneurial initiative founded by Grammy-winning artist Pharrell Williams. Black Ambition provides capital, mentorship, mental wellness support, and a nationally competitive platform for Black and Hispanic founders, particularly those from HBCUs and underserved communities.

Throughout the conversation, Hatcher breaks down the mission of Black Ambition, how its competition works, success stories, the mentorship pipeline, and her personal entrepreneurial journey from being a self‑described “C student” to running a major national innovation fund.

Purpose of the Interview 1. Introduce Black Ambition’s Mission and Impact

To explain how Black Ambition funds, mentors, and accelerates Black and Hispanic founders, awarding millions in capital and building pathways to long-term entrepreneurial success.

2. Educate Entrepreneurs on How to Compete Successfully

Hatcher breaks down the application process, common mistakes, and how to stand out in one of the nation’s most competitive entrepreneurial prize competitions.

3. Inspire Through Transparency and Personal Storytelling

Her journey—from a C student to tech entrepreneur, to CEO working directly with Pharrell—models what perseverance and creativity can achieve.

4. Spread Awareness of Black Ambition Resources & Events

She highlights opportunities like Demo Day, masterclasses, mentorship cohorts, and the Fundable Founders Forum.

Key Takeaways 1. Black Ambition Creates “Unprecedented Access” for Black & Brown Founders

Hatcher emphasizes the organization’s mission of closing opportunity gaps caused by misaligned mentorship and unequal access to funding.
Black Ambition invests capital, provides structured mentorship, and connects entrepreneurs to world-class partners (e.g., Louis Vuitton).

2. Highly Competitive National Competition

• 2,500–3,000 applications annually
• Only 250 semifinalists
• Semifinalists enter a three‑month cohort with elite mentorship
• Top teams advance to Demo Day for capital awards and follow-on support
• Categories include HBCU, National Finalists, Top Prize, and People’s Choice..

Hatcher stresses: Success leaves clues.
Many past winners share insights, host office hours, and guide new applicants.

3. The Process Itself Makes Founders Stronger

Hatcher says repeated applications build clarity, sharpen pitches, and transform entrepreneurs—even if they don’t win the first time.

She cites an example: Lawrence Phillips, founder of Green Book Global, who succeeded on his third try.

4. Holistic Approach: Mental Health & Wellness

Along with capital and mentorship, Black Ambition offers mental-wellness support because entrepreneurship is emotionally taxing.
Founders are encountering proximity to wealth and power for the first time, and need guidance on transparency, investor expectations, and emotional resilience.

5. Black Women Are Fastest-Growing Entrepreneurs—But Need Teams

Hatcher notes that Black women lead in entrepreneurship but often operate without teams.
Black Ambition does not invest in solopreneurs; founders must demonstrate team-building capacity to create economic multiplier effects in communities.

6. Pharrell’s Why: Opening Doors He Once Needed

Pharrell invests in Black Ambition because:

• He once needed others to “believe in him until he could believe in himself.”
• He wants to dismantle gatekeeping in industries where Black talent exists but opportunity does not.
• He believes “talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.”

7. Felecia Hatcher’s Personal Origin Story

Her credibility comes from lived experience:

• A “C student” told she’d never make it to college
• College dropout
• Built multiple tech companies
• Founded Black Tech Week and the Center for Black Innovation
• Comes from a family of Jamaican farmers and Georgia builders who were “entrepreneurs before the word was used.”.

Her takeaway: Creativity builds pathways to success that traditional systems overlook.

8. The Event is Public – and Transformational

Black Ambition’s Demo Day is open to the public, creating visibility, inspiration, and networking opportunities for founders and supporters.

Notable Quotes (All from the Transcript) On Black Ambition’s Mission

• “We’ve been building a rocket ship to create unprecedented access to opportunities and resources.”.
• “People are too comfortable wasting the time of Black entrepreneurs with misaligned resources and low-vibrational mentorship.”.

On the Competition

• “Success leaves clues.”
• “Apply again… every time I applied, I became a different entrepreneur.”

On Holistic Support

• “Entrepreneurship can swallow you whole.”.

On Team Building

• “We don’t invest in solopreneurs… You need a team mindset.”

On Pharrell’s Motivation

• “He borrowed someone else’s belief in him until that became his own.”
• “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.”

On Personal Journey

• “I’m a C student and a college dropout… I never let those things define me.”.
• “There is more than one pathway to success if you get creative.”.

On Why Founders Should Join

• “Do you want to be in the same position this time next year? If the answer is no, then say yes to the process.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://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. Melanye “Dr. Mac.” 

Maclin joins Rushion McDonald to discuss the serious health risks associated with hair relaxers, permanent dyes, and synthetic braids—particularly among Black women. Drawing from over 25 years of research and patient experience, she explains how chemicals used in these products absorb through the scalp, disrupt hormones, and significantly increase the risks of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, early puberty, fibroids, and infertility.

The conversation also highlights systemic resistance from the beauty industry, government agencies, and even consumers themselves—primarily due to financial incentives and lack of awareness. Dr. Mac advocates for safer hair practices, increased education, and protective measures to reduce exposure. She also discusses her pioneering internal hair‑health supplements, Bella Nutri, for women (2004) and men (2008), and how she helped introduce the U.S. market to nutritional hair support long before it was mainstream.

Purpose of the Interview

The purpose of the interview is to:

1. Educate listeners about the hidden health dangers

…of chemical hair treatments including relaxers, permanent dyes, and synthetic hair containing benzene.

2. Advocate for informed hair‑care decisions

Dr. Mac wants women—especially Black women—to understand how beauty practices impact long‑term health.

3. Encourage the beauty industry to adopt safety protocols

Such as scalp protection, warning labels, and honest communication about risks.

4. Highlight Dr. Mac’s work and products

Including her Bella Nutri supplements and educational platforms (Ask Dr. Mac).

5. Empower parents to protect children

By avoiding chemical treatments on young girls whose bodies are especially vulnerable.

Key Takeaways 1. Chemical relaxers and permanent hair dyes are strongly linked to increased cancer risks.

• Permanent dyes raise the risk of breast, uterine, and ovarian cancer.
• Black women exhibit a 45% increased risk of breast cancer when using permanent dyes.
• Combining dyes with relaxers significantly compounds the danger.

2. The danger comes from chemical absorption into the scalp.

• Relaxer chemicals include sodium, calcium, guanine, and lithium hydroxide.
• These chemicals burn through the scalp, entering the bloodstream and disrupting hormones, leading to early puberty, fibroids, infertility, and cancer.

3. Synthetic braiding hair contains benzene—a carcinogen.

• Benzene exposure affects both the stylist and the client.
• Risks include lung cancer and leukemia.

4. The beauty industry resists change because of profit.

• Salons rarely display warnings because “it affects business.”
• The relaxer–damage→hair‑loss→extensions cycle creates a lucrative revenue loop.

5. Children are especially vulnerable to chemical exposure.

• Relaxers on children under 10 can cause:
  • early puberty
  • fibroids
  • infertility
  • early hysterectomies
  • increased cancer risk
• Dr. Mac advises never relaxing a child’s hair, but if done, the product must stay on no more than 5–10 minutes with complete scalp protection.

6. Scalp protection is essential for anyone still using relaxers.

• Use petroleum jelly over the entire scalp, not just the hairline.
• This reduces chemical absorption during both application and rinsing.

7. Dr. Mac pioneered the U.S. hair‑supplement industry.

• Developed Bella Nutri after research with a Finnish company (Scalp).
• Initially dismissed as a “witch doctor,” but now the hair‑supplement market is mainstream.

8. She refuses to participate in relaxer‑related lawsuits.

• Because she has warned people for 20+ years, she cannot ethically testify for those who ignored repeated warnings.

Notable Quotes

On the impact of chemicals:

• “The chemicals burn through the scalp… getting into the main bloodstream and causing hormone disruption.”

On the increased cancer risk:

• “African‑Americans have a more than 45% increased risk when we use permanent hair dyes.”

On synthetic braids:

• “As long as that synthetic hair is on her head, she is breathing in benzene.”

On industry pushback:

• “People are about the green‑eyed devil called money.”

On relaxing children’s hair:

• “Hopefully a mother doesn’t take her child to get a relaxer.”
• “Hair chemicals can lead to early puberty, fibroids, infertility, even hysterectomies before age 40.”

On the vicious cycle of damage and profit:

• “It’s a 360‑degree money‑making cycle.”

On caring more than her patients:

• “I feel like I’m caring more about someone’s health than they are caring about their own.”

On pioneering supplements:

• “Hair and skin are internal organs—they manifest externally.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://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 Nandi Edouard.

🔎 Interview Summary

In this episode, Nandi Edouard, founder of The Simple View Academy, discusses her mission to reimagine education by blending academics with entrepreneurship and financial literacy for middle and high school students in metro Atlanta. 

Her charter school focuses on:

• Project-based learning
• Teaching students how to start and run businesses
• Building confidence, identity, and economic mobility

The conversation centers on education innovation, entrepreneurship, and community-driven impact.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview 1. Highlight Educational Innovation

• Showcase a new model of schooling focused on real-world skills
• Demonstrate how entrepreneurship can be integrated into education

2. Promote Financial Literacy Early

• Address the gap in teaching young people about money and wealth creation

3. Inspire Community Support

• Emphasize the importance of funding, partnerships, and local engagement in charter schools

4. Encourage Purpose-Driven Leadership

• Present Nandi as an example of a young leader creating systemic change

💡 Key Takeaways 1. Entrepreneurship Is a Path to Economic Mobility

• The school teaches students how to:
  • Build businesses
  • Understand funding, costs, and profit
• Students turn ideas into real ventures (13 student-run businesses in year one) 

👉 Lesson: Entrepreneurship education empowers long-term financial independence

2. Education Must Evolve Beyond Traditional Models

• The academy uses project-based learning and real-world application
• Success is measured by:
  • Collaboration
  • Planning
  • Execution—not just test scores 

👉 Lesson: Skills and application matter as much as academics

3. Financial Literacy Should Start Early

• Nandi calls it “irresponsible” that kids aren’t taught about money sooner [

👉 Lesson: Early exposure to money management is critical

4. Building a School Requires Community First

• Key steps:
  • Listen to community needs
  • Build trust (through programs like summer camps)
  • Secure funding and partnerships 
  • 👉 Lesson: Community buy-in is foundational for impact

5. Charter Schools Face Resource Constraints

• Receive ~33% less funding than traditional public schools 
• Must rely on:
  • Grants
  • Donations
  • Partnerships

👉 Lesson: Innovation often requires resourcefulness

6. Exposure + Mentorship = Opportunity

• Students engage with:
  • Business leaders
  • Organizations like 100 Black Men
• Helps them identify career paths and refine goals 

👉 Lesson: You can’t aspire to what you don’t see

7. Academic + Entrepreneurial Growth Is Possible

• Early results:
  • 20–30% improvement in math and reading within 6 months 

👉 Lesson: Nontraditional models can still produce strong academic outcomes

8. Leadership Requires Resilience and Support

• Nandi faced skepticism (age, experience)
• Relies on:
  • Family
  • Faith
  • Community support 

👉 Lesson: Vision + persistence overcomes doubt

🧠 Notable Quotes On entrepreneurship and wealth

• “Entrepreneurship is a way to economic mobility… how we create for ourselves and our communities.” 

On education gaps

• “I think it’s irresponsible that we do not teach young people about their money from early.” 

On building a school

• “Listen to your community… what does your community want from a school?” 

On student development

• “Helping them figure out what that thing is and putting a plan behind it.” 

On real-world learning

• “They took their idea… all the way to market.” 

On purpose and motivation

• “These young people need a space to flourish… I just have this fire to prove people wrong.” 

On defining success

• “Students knowing who they are, where they’re going, and how they’re going to get there.” 

🧾 Bottom Line

This interview presents a forward-thinking model for education and economic empowerment:

• Combine academics + entrepreneurship
• Teach financial literacy early
• Build systems rooted in community needs
• Focus on identity, purpose, and execution

👉 Nandi Edouard’s work positions education as a launchpad for ownership, not just employment.

#SHMS #BEST #STRAW

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