Money Making Conversations Master Class

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviews legendary Hoodie Awards/Neighborhood Awards celebrity presenter George Wallace.  They discuss how he got his pre-comedy start as a money-making advertising executive, and the renowned comedian just finished filming his sitcom, 'Clean Slate,' with Norman Lear and Laverne Cox;

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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 interviews Zahra Karsan, and she has a secret she wants to share with the World. For three decades, Zahra has worked to understand human behavior, how we are wired, and how to rewire ourselves to move beyond our fears to be the best possible version of ourselves. The result is her proven roadmap to wealth, health, and happiness. She is the author of "6 Weeks to Happy: The Ultimate Roadmap to Retrain Your Brain for Better Health, Greater Abundance, and Long-Lasting Peace and Happiness," is a bestselling manual that guides readers in retraining their brains to enhance their mental and emotional well-being. 

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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 interviews Dr. Melanye Maclin, affectionately known as "Dr Mac," a celebrity Dermatologist. She founded the natural hair product development company Innovative Hair Technology, Inc. in 1999 and starred in the 2009 movie Good Hair hosted by Chris Rock. We will discuss the FDA's plans to propose a ban on hair-straightening chemical products linked to health risks. Dr. Mac is celebrating 25 years of "Ask Dr. Mac On Call," which can be found on multi-media platforms, and the release of the concussion protective mouthguard called J-Res.

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interview legendary comedian Rickey Smiley and discusses how it all started.   Rickey has been a comedian for more than 30 years.  He is constantly performing across the country and will be shooting a stand-up comedy special this year in his hometown of Birmingham, AL., now if you are ever in Birmingham, AL.  You must drop by his hometown comedy club, The Stardome, in Birmingham, where he regularly hosts his Karaoke Night on Mondays before sold-out crowds.  He is also an incredible chef, actor, author, television host, and award-winning radio host of a top-rated, nationally syndicated radio program. 

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Pinky Cole. If one were to use the words “sexy” and “vegetable” in a sentence, they would probably never be said one after the other. However, the Slutty Vegan’s own Pinky Cole begs to differ as she encourages people to #GetSlutty with her plant-based foods for vegans and meat-lovers alike. Join her as she guests stars on the Money Making Conversations Master Class, and try not to drool as she shares some delicious recipes from her book, “Eat Plants, B****.” In addition to food, Pinky outlines the importance of how betting on yourself, even if the world doesn’t understand the idea that you are trying to create, can lead to significant returns if you have a plan in place that is true to your purpose and what you want to see in your life.

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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 Karon Joseph Riley.

Former NFL player, actor, producer, entrepreneur, and author of Keep Pedaling: Things I Learned on My Bike. The conversation explores perseverance, mentorship, career transitions, purpose, resilience, personal growth, and the importance of creating opportunities for others.

Karon shares his journey from Detroit to the NFL, from professional sports to Hollywood, and from actor to author and producer. Throughout the interview, he emphasizes that success comes from continuously moving forward, even when life presents setbacks, disappointments, and uncertainty.

Purpose of the Interview

The interview was designed to:

• Discuss Karon's new book Keep Pedaling.
• Explore lessons learned from athletics, acting, and entrepreneurship.
• Highlight the value of mentorship.
• Inspire people who are navigating career transitions.
• Encourage readers to persevere through adversity.
• Demonstrate how purpose and discipline create long-term success.

About Karon Joseph Riley

Karon Joseph Riley is:

• Former NFL player
• University of Minnesota football standout
• Actor
• Producer
• Entrepreneur
• Author
• Co-star of BET's The Black Hamptons

Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Karon dreamed of becoming an actor from an early age, although sports eventually became his first professional path.

Key Takeaways

1. Mentorship Matters

One of the first topics discussed was mentorship.

Karon explained that successful people have a responsibility to help others rise.

He credited many individuals for helping shape his journey, including:

• Family members
• Coaches
• Friends
• Former colleagues
• Mentors such as the late Tommy Ford

According to Karon:

If you've achieved success, it's your responsibility to help someone else achieve it too.

Key Point

Success should be shared through mentorship and service.

2. Nobody Succeeds Alone

Karon repeatedly emphasized that he stands on the shoulders of others.

He credits his success to:

• Family support
• Coaching
• Guidance
• Community

Rather than seeing himself as self-made, he views himself as the result of many people investing in him.

Key Point

Community and support systems play major roles in personal success.

3. His Original Dream Was Acting

Many people assume football was always Karon's primary goal.

Surprisingly, it wasn't.

His first dream was acting.

The inspiration started as a young child while performing in a school play.

He vividly remembered playing:

Puss in Boots

After delivering a line in the performance and hearing enthusiastic applause from his mother and family, he immediately knew he loved being on stage.

Key Point

Many people discover their purpose very early in life.

4. Athletics Became the Path

Although acting was his first passion, athletics became his initial career.

Karon excelled in sports, particularly football.

His accomplishments included:

• All-American recognition
• University of Minnesota sack leader
• NFL draft selection
• Professional football career with the Chicago Bears

He pointed out that his basketball skills translated naturally into football due to:

• Quickness
• Footwork
• Athletic ability

Key Point

Skills developed in one area often transfer successfully into another.

5. Disappointment Can Become Motivation

Despite an outstanding college career, Karon felt undervalued entering the NFL Draft.

He believed his production justified being selected earlier than he ultimately was.

Rather than allowing disappointment to define him, he used it as motivation.

Lessons:

• Success isn't always rewarded immediately.
• Recognition doesn't always arrive when expected.
• Sometimes you must continue proving yourself.

Key Point

Being overlooked does not determine your future.

6. Knowing When to Move On

A powerful segment of the interview focused on recognizing when a chapter has ended.

When his NFL career concluded, Karon chose not to spend years chasing opportunities that no longer aligned with his purpose.

Instead:

• He accepted reality.
• Embraced change.
• Returned to his original dream.

Within a short time, he relocated to Los Angeles and pursued acting full-time.

Key Point

Growth often requires letting go of what no longer serves your long-term purpose.

7. "Keep Pedaling" Became His Life Philosophy

The central idea of Karon's book emerged during a long-distance bike ride.

Each year around his birthday, he rides from the Atlanta area toward Alabama on an endurance cycling trip.

During one particularly grueling ride, he experienced a breakthrough.

A simple message kept repeating in his mind:

"Keep pedaling."

Eventually he realized the message applied to life itself.

Whether pursuing:

• Sports
• Acting
• Business
• Relationships
• Personal growth

The answer is often the same:

Keep moving forward.

Key Point

Progress matters more than perfection.

8. The Bike Ride Mirrors Life

Karon explained that endurance cycling pushes him physically and mentally.

Once exhaustion sets in, something changes.

The ride becomes:

• Spiritual
• Reflective
• Transformative

He described reaching a point where the body is tired and the spirit takes over.

That experience became the foundation for the lessons inside his book.

Key Point

Challenges often reveal our deepest strengths.

9. Keep Pedaling Is More Than a Self-Help Book

According to Karon, the book functions as:

• A life guide
• A mentorship tool
• A personal blueprint
• A framework for growth

The book is built around principles that helped him navigate:

• Doubt
• Fear
• Rejection
• Career transitions
• Personal setbacks

Key Point

The book aims to help readers become stronger versions of themselves.

10. Relationships Open Doors

One of the strongest entrepreneurial lessons came from Karon's acting career.

His role in BET's The Black Hamptons originated through a relationship.

Director and producer Trey Haley remembered a previous connection and later contacted Karon about a role.

This opportunity was not the result of an audition.

It was the result of:

• Networking
• Professionalism
• Authentic relationships

Karon summarized it perfectly:

"Your network is your net worth."

Key Point

Relationships often create opportunities that talent alone cannot.

11. Purpose Requires Structure

Karon believes that everyone should create personal systems and principles.

His philosophy is simple:

When doubt appears, your system protects you.

When fear appears, your system guides you.

When adversity appears, your system keeps you moving.

The lessons from Keep Pedaling are designed to help readers build such a framework.

Key Point

Discipline creates consistency when motivation fades.

12. Ownership Creates Freedom

During the pandemic, Karon co-founded a production company called:

Dedicated Visions

Working as a producer enables him to:

• Control his own narrative
• Create opportunities
• Develop original content
• Support emerging talent

Perhaps most importantly, he can now create opportunities for others.

Key Point

Ownership allows creators to shape the future instead of waiting for invitations.

Lessons for Entrepreneurs

Karon's journey provides several business lessons:

Keep Going

Persistence is often the deciding factor in success.

Build Relationships

Networks create opportunities.

Embrace Change

Every ending is not a failure.

Trust Your Purpose

Sometimes your childhood dream is still your calling.

Create Opportunities for Others

True leadership includes helping others succeed.

Memorable Quotes

Karon Joseph Riley

"If you achieve success, it's your responsibility to mentor someone."

"Your network is your net worth."

"Keep pedaling."

"The NFL was never my dream. Acting was."

"Create a system that protects you from your doubts."

"I stand on the shoulders of many people."

Rushion McDonald

"Perseverance, resilience and determination matter."

"Sometimes we shortchange our own accomplishments."

"People need to know when it's time to transition."

"Your book is transformational."

Overall Message

Karon Joseph Riley's story is a powerful reminder that success is rarely a straight path. From Detroit to the NFL, from professional athlete to actor, producer, and author, his journey has been defined by resilience, purpose, relationships, and continuous growth. His message is simple yet profound: life will bring challenges, setbacks, and uncertainty, but if you remain focused on your purpose and continue moving forward, you can overcome almost anything. Just keep pedaling.

#STRAW

#SHMS

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.

Business Podcast

Entrepreneurship

Small Business

Business Growth

Financial Literacy

Wealth Building

Black Entrepreneurs

Minority Business

Leadership

Executive Leadership

Business Funding

Marketing Strategies

Personal Development

Startup Advice

Sales Training

CEO Interviews

Founder Stories

Professional Development

Economic Empowerment

Business Success

Networking

Brand Building

Innovation

How to start a business

Small business funding

Entrepreneur success stories

Business leadership podcast

Wealth building strategies

Black entrepreneur podcast

Minority business development

Marketing for small businesses

Business growth strategies

Startup funding opportunities

Executive leadership training

Financial literacy education

Success mindset podcast

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviews Stephen A. Smith. In the last five years, Stephen A. Smith has become a powerful media force in sports commentary, a regular on General Hospital, a social media influencer, a podcast and YouTube influencer, a television producer, the Host and Executive Producer of the Number #1 Sports Morning show in First Take and a New York Times Best Selling Author. 

Talking Points –

New York Times Best Seller, Straight Shooter -- Paperback

You discussed overcoming the odds in your book, Straight Shooter.  Stephen

1. Smith, how dark did it get for you in 2009?

What started the comeback?

What role did your Mom play in this comeback?

In 2018, you approached me with a plan.  Tell everybody about it.

What is your brand?

What are your goals?

Tell us about your upcoming Docu-Series, Up For Debate, co-produced with Tom Brady and Michael Strahan.

Are there any other TV projects you can share with us?

Why do you think your brand resonates with people, and what age group?

Why was it essential to build your broadcast studio?

What is the future for Stephen A. Smith?  Will you still have time for General Hospital?

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald tells us the Top Five Reasons Your Company Can't Find Great Employees:

1. You won't let go of poor-performing employees because you care too much, but they are a good fit.
2. You keep hiring from the same circle of recommendations—basically, the first applicant who fills out the paperwork.
3. You're the problem: Let somebody else do the hiring. 
4. You only hire "experienced" people: Wow, this mistake took me many years to figure out. As new business owners, we often have this silly belief that finding great and experienced people in our field is imperative. Let me tell you, this is a total bunk.

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald tells you the tools you need to plan for success in your business, product, career, or dreams based on your Value Proposition. Your Value Proposition is your promise to a customer, client, or employer that they can only get this service or product from you. Lead with your Gifts! Don't let your friends, family, or co-workers stop you from planning or living your dreams. Keep Winning!

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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 interviews Jackson Dunbar.

Entrepreneur, author, and chronic pain advocate, joined Rushion McDonald to discuss his book Race Matters in Pain Medicine, his experience living with chronic pain following a serious car accident and failed back surgery, and the lessons he learned about resilience, health, and financial success. The conversation combines personal testimony, healthcare advocacy, and practical strategies for overcoming adversity.

Dunbar shared how chronic pain dramatically changed his life but ultimately pushed him to develop new approaches to physical health, financial stability, and personal growth. His story demonstrates how determination, self-education, and adaptability can help individuals thrive despite significant challenges.

Purpose of the Interview

The interview aimed to:

• Discuss Dunbar's book Race Matters in Pain Medicine.
• Raise awareness about disparities in pain management and healthcare treatment.
• Share his experience navigating chronic pain and recovery.
• Inspire people facing personal, health, or professional setbacks.
• Encourage financial literacy, self-help, and personal accountability.
• Provide practical strategies for creating success under difficult circumstances.

Key Takeaways 1. Resilience Is a Choice

Dunbar emphasizes that while people cannot always control what happens to them, they can control how they respond. Rather than focusing on what he lost, he concentrated on what he could still accomplish.

2. Create a New Normal

A central theme of the discussion is that recovery does not always mean returning to life exactly as it was before. Success often comes from adapting and building a sustainable new reality.

3. Race Matters in Healthcare

Dunbar highlights disparities in pain treatment and argues that race can influence how patients are treated, diagnosed, and prescribed medication. His book explores these inequities and their consequences.

4. Chronic Pain Affects Every Aspect of Life

Pain impacts more than physical health. It affects emotional well-being, family relationships, work performance, finances, and overall quality of life.

5. Self-Advocacy Is Essential

Patients must become informed participants in their own healthcare. Dunbar encourages people to ask questions, seek information, and actively engage in treatment decisions.

6. Financial Education Creates Opportunity

Dunbar believes financial literacy is a critical life skill. He encourages continuous learning about investing, wealth creation, and economic trends regardless of one's circumstances.

7. Health and Wealth Are Connected

His journey demonstrates that improving health and improving finances can occur simultaneously through discipline, education, and consistent effort.

8. Apply Business Thinking to Personal Challenges

Dunbar credits much of his success to using a solutions-focused, analytical approach to managing his health, finances, and personal goals.

Memorable Quotes

"If you're about to make a change in your life and you feel uncomfortable, that's the best feeling you can have because for the first time in your life, you'll make a decision that's going to be best for you."

"I made money, lost 90 pounds, and thrived in chronic pain."

"Race matters in pain medicine."

"A strong believer in self-help, Jackson Dunbar applied solutions-focused business logic to his own health."

Bottom Line

The interview is a powerful discussion about overcoming adversity through resilience, self-advocacy, financial literacy, and personal responsibility. Jackson Dunbar's message is that while chronic pain and life-changing setbacks may alter a person's path, they do not have to define their future. By creating a new normal, staying informed, and focusing on solutions, individuals can continue to grow, succeed, and make a positive impact on others.

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.

Business Podcast

Entrepreneurship

Small Business

Business Growth

Financial Literacy

Wealth Building

Black Entrepreneurs

Minority Business

Leadership

Executive Leadership

Business Funding

Marketing Strategies

Personal Development

Startup Advice

Sales Training

CEO Interviews

Founder Stories

Professional Development

Economic Empowerment

Business Success

Networking

Brand Building

Innovation

How to start a business

Small business funding

Entrepreneur success stories

Business leadership podcast

Wealth building strategies

Black entrepreneur podcast

Minority business development

Marketing for small businesses

Business growth strategies

Startup funding opportunities

Executive leadership training

Financial literacy education

Success mindset podcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.