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

 

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To share Ash Cash’s journey and philosophy on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and wealth-building—especially within underserved communities—using relatable cultural touchpoints like hip-hop and personal storytelling.

🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Ash Cash’s Background & Mission

• Started as a banker at 19, became a VP by 24, and CEO of a credit union by 31.
• Left traditional banking to become a financial educator.
• Authored over 40 books, including My Right Money Right and The Illmatic Investor.
• Founded Mind Right Money Management to promote financial literacy.

2. Hip-Hop & Financial Literacy ("Hip-Hoponomics")

• Uses hip-hop culture to teach financial principles.
• Dissects lyrics and stories from artists like Jay-Z and Nas to explain wealth-building concepts.
• Example: Jay-Z’s 4:44 album discusses generational wealth, ownership, and financial planning.

3. Philosophy of Wealth

• Wealth starts with mindset, not just money.
• “Money doesn’t look like anything”—appearances can be deceiving.
• True wealth comes from ownership and investing, not just saving.

4. Adversity & Success

• Adversity is part of the journey to success.
• Challenges are meant to strengthen, not deter.
• “The more adversity you have, the closer you are to your dreams.”

5. Representation & Mentorship

• Ash Cash emphasizes the importance of representation in finance.
• Mentors youth and adults, showing that success is possible regardless of background.
• “I’m the first, but not the last”—his goal is to inspire others to follow.

6. Education & Outreach

• Runs a curriculum teaching finance, business ethics, and entrepreneurship in schools and colleges.
• Launching a podcast called Hip-Hoponomics to expand the conversation.

💬 Notable Quotes

• “Money doesn’t look like anything.” – On the misconceptions of wealth based on appearance.
• “You cannot save your way to wealth.” – Emphasizing the importance of investing.
• “Instead of working hard for money, money needs to work hard for you.” – On shifting the mindset around money.
• “I’m the first, but not the last.” – On paving the way for others.
• “Put the medicine in the candy.” – Teaching financial literacy through relatable cultural references.

#BEST

#STRAW

#SHMS

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