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

💼 Business Overview

• Henry’s Soul Café: A family legacy restaurant founded in 1968 by Jermaine’s father. Jermaine expanded the brand while honoring its roots.
• Culinary Institute: Created to train and mentor youth in the culinary arts.
• Film & Talent: Produces films (Strange Love, Trophy Wife, Legendary with Earthquake) and manages comedians and entertainers.
• Real Estate: Active developer and investor in the DMV area.

💡 Key Insights

• Legacy & Mentorship: Inspired by his father’s generosity and work ethic, Jermaine emphasizes giving back and mentoring youth.
• Multiple Streams of Income: Jermaine diversified his career across food, entertainment, and real estate.
• Community Impact: Employs and mentors local youth, often becoming a father figure and role model.
• Soul Food Philosophy: Describes soul food as “cooked from the heart,” rooted in African American history and Southern traditions.
• Mumbo Sauce Origin: Shared the cultural history of D.C.’s iconic mumbo sauce and consulted McDonald’s on its rollout.

 

🧠 Business Wisdom

• “It’s not about what you acquire, it’s about what you help others acquire.”
• “Kids emulate what they see. Be the example.”
• “You don’t have to be the star to be the one who delivers the value.”

 

📦 Bonus Highlights

• TV Appearance: Featured on OWN’s Great Soul Food Cook-Off as one of the top 8 soul food chefs in the U.S.
• McDonald’s Collaboration: Consulted on the cultural authenticity of mumbo sauce for a national campaign.
• Faith & Focus: Attributes his success to staying grounded, being trustworthy, and having a heart for service.

 

#BEST

#STRAW

#SHMS

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