Money Making Conversations Master Class

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Holly Cotton (breast cancer survivor, nurse, author) and Dewayne Charleston (stage 4 prostate cancer survivor).

• Topic: Raising awareness and eliminating disparities in Black men’s health, especially prostate cancer.

2. Holly Cotton’s Story

• Breast cancer survivor and nurse with a master’s degree.
• Author of Strong More Than Muscles.
• Uses her survivorship to inspire others and promote health awareness.
• Advocates for being a “life survivor,” not just a cancer survivor.

3. Rushion McDonald’s Personal Experience

• Thyroid cancer survivor since 2015.
• Shares how the diagnosis changed his perspective on life and purpose.
• Uses his platform to raise awareness and encourage proactive health decisions.

4. Dwayne’s Journey

• Diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer at age 46.
• All 16 biopsy samples came back positive.
• Told by MD Anderson urologist Dr. Lewis Sisler that only prayer could help.
• Fought cancer for 14 years and founded a prostate cancer awareness foundation.

5. Foundation Mission

• Educates Black men on prostate cancer, clinical trials, and health disparities.
• Addresses emotional, sexual, financial, and relational impacts of cancer.
• Aims to break silence and stigma around men’s health issues.

6. Breast Cancer Awareness vs. Prostate Cancer Awareness

• Holly explains the success of “Go Pink” campaigns for breast cancer.
• Dewayne and Holly aim to replicate that success with “Go Blue” for prostate cancer.
• Goal: Encourage men to prioritize their own health and get tested.

7. Community Impact

• Importance of storytelling and visibility at events like HBCU games.
• Emphasis on legacy, education, and proactive health care.
• Holly and Dewayne’s collaboration bridges gender and cancer awareness gaps.

8. Closing

• Rushon thanks guests for their advocacy and friendship.
• Encourages listeners to lead with their gifts and keep winning.

💡 Key Takeaways

• Cancer is not a death sentence—early detection and support can save lives.
• Black men face the highest disparity in prostate cancer diagnoses and deaths.
• Storytelling and visibility are powerful tools for health education.
• Foundations and community events can drive awareness and action.
• Men must prioritize their own health, not just encourage women to get checked.
• Faith, support, and education are critical in the cancer journey.

🗣️ Notable Quotes

“I am a life survivor, not just a cancer survivor.” — Holly Cotton

“God is still in the healing business.” — Dr. Lewis Sisler (quoted by Dewayne)

“Don’t ever wait to that moment to make changes in your life.” — Rushion McDonald

“Tuskegee was not a clinical trial—it was a criminal conspiracy.” — Dewayne

“We want those men to also be worried about their own health and have resources.” — Holly Cotton

“Of all the disparities in cancer, the greatest is in prostate cancer among Black men.” — Dewayne

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kika Wise.

Kika Wise is a former professional dancer turned entrepreneur, franchisor, and wellness educator. As a forward-thinking and innovative visionary, Kika is the Founder and CEO of Kika Stretch Studios, one of the nation’s leading stretch and fitness studios.

Keeping yourself fit and flexible is an important trait in your everyday life. “Wait a minute…. are you referring to business or exercise?” Well, in this scenario, it’s both as entrepreneur and fitness instructor Kika Wise can attest. She’s here to discuss franchising: how to set it up, how to handle economic hardship, how to deal with naysayers, and the important factors to consider before you even begin thinking about turning your business into a franchise. For those interested in owning or running your own franchise one day, especially in an industry that isn’t known for franchising, this interview is a must-listen. 

#AMI

#BEST

#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 Suli Salaam.

The founder of Paint Your Heaven, on Money Making Conversations Masterclass.  Here’s a breakdown of the key topics, highlights, and an about section:

Key Themes & Highlights

1. Origins of Paint Your Heaven

   • Salaam explains the inspiration behind the company name, emphasizing the power of vision and positive thinking.
   • He shares how the phrase Paint Your Heaven motivated him at 22 years old to pursue entrepreneurship.

2. Full-Stack Development Expertise

   • Salaam discusses his skills as a full-stack developer, differentiating his work from basic web design.
   • He explains the importance of front-end and back-end development, particularly in creating complex applications like Uber.

3. Challenges & Representation in Tech

   • He highlights the lack of Black full-stack developers and attributes it to self-belief and limited exposure.
   • He shares his personal journey growing up in a challenging neighborhood and how his mother and a supportive teacher encouraged him.

4. AI & Software Innovation

   • Salaam discusses his company’s use of AI and APIs to enhance software development.
   • He reveals a project aimed at simplifying audio production, allowing users to clean up sound with one-click technology.

5. Entrepreneurial Advice & Community Impact

   • He encourages young people to embrace change and pursue careers in programming and AI.
   • His company aims to serve businesses worldwide while also promoting positive thinking in inner-city communities.

About Suli Salaam & Paint Your Heaven

Suli Salaam is a full-stack developer and entrepreneur based in Kansas City. His company, Paint Your Heaven, specializes in web, app, and software design and development. The company combines technical expertise with creative design, making it a valuable resource for businesses looking to scale. Beyond business, Salaam is passionate about mentoring young people, promoting positive thinking, and helping communities embrace technology.

#BEST

#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 Marcus Sonnier.

Founder of Snowie Atlanta:

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To showcase Marcus Sonnier’s journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship, highlight the inspiration behind Snowie Atlanta, and share insights on financial literacy, legacy-building, and faith-driven decision-making.

🔑 Key Takeaways 1. From Corporate VP to Entrepreneur

• Marcus left a successful career as VP of PR supervision at a financial services firm to start Snowie Atlanta.
• He worked both jobs for five years before fully transitioning.
• His leap was guided by faith and a desire for self-reliance.

“I looked at my wife and said, ‘Hey, I'm getting one more bonus check. And then I'm jumping off the plane.’”

2. The Product: Shaved Ice with a Twist

• Snowie Atlanta offers customizable shaved ice with self-serve flavor stations.
• Inspired by childhood experiences in Louisiana with snowball stands.

“We give away the shaved ice, but we sell you the smiles.”

3. Family Legacy & Financial Literacy

• Marcus started the business to teach his sons about money—earning, saving, investing, and giving.
• His sons were involved from the beginning, learning entrepreneurship firsthand.

“I said, guys, look, we're going to be entrepreneurs in this business. We're going to do it together.”

4. Faith as a Driving Force

• Marcus credits divine guidance for his journey and connections.
• He views his business as a calling and a platform for community impact.

“I could feel God in my spirit saying, ‘Oh, you trust me, you really do.’”

5. Community Impact & Expansion

• Snowie Atlanta is expanding into Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves.
• The goal is to become a staple attraction and enhance the fan experience.

“I want all kids to want to go to a Braves game… to get a Snowie and have an experience.”

6. Giving Back

• Snowie Atlanta participates in fundraising for schools, churches, and nonprofits.
• Marcus finds joy in writing checks back to organizations that serve the community.

💬 Notable Quotes

• “You may not get everything you work for, but you will work for everything you get.”
• “We serve memories.”
• “I’m just trying to be obedient and do what I think God wants me to do in this business.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

CEO and Founder of International Supply Partners (ISP), about breaking into government contracting, navigating a male-dominated industry, and the complexities of supply chain management.

🔑 Key Themes & Highlights

Breaking into Government Contracting

• Barbosa started her business by targeting government contracts, recognizing that the government is the largest buyer of goods and services.
• She explained how RFQs (Request for Quotes) and RFPs (Request for Proposals) allow new suppliers to compete for contracts.

Navigating a Male-Dominated Industry

• She admitted that entering the industrial supply sector was challenging but credited her fearlessness and determination for her success.
• Barbosa emphasized that women entrepreneurs must focus on value and expertise rather than industry stereotypes.

Supply Chain & Procurement Strategies

• ISP specializes in safety, PPE, industrial, janitorial, and construction supplies, ensuring cost-effective procurement solutions.
• Barbosa detailed how understanding supply chain logistics helped her compete with big-box suppliers.

COVID-19 & PPE Pricing Surge

• During the pandemic, PPE prices skyrocketed due to high demand and supply chain disruptions.
• Barbosa explained how manufacturers shifted production to PPE, leading to price gouging and bidding wars.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) in Business

• Barbosa’s company is certified as a minority-owned and women-owned business, but she emphasized that quality and service—not identity—should drive business success.
• She believes that DEI initiatives should not be the sole reason for doing business, but rather a tool for leveraging opportunities.

📘 About Jennifer Barbosa & International Supply Partners
Jennifer Barbosa is a visionary entrepreneur and supply chain specialist, leading International Supply Partners (ISP) in streamlining procurement for businesses and government agencies. ISP is a trusted provider of essential goods, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and competitive pricing.

 

#BEST

#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 Shiloh Bigles. 

A certified functional nutrition counselor and founder of Level Minds CBD Health Club, joins Money Making Conversations Masterclass to discuss how CBD, functional nutrition, and holistic wellness help individuals manage pain, anxiety, and autoimmune disorders. She shares her personal experience overcoming lupus and Crohn’s disease through natural remedies.

🔑 Key Themes & Highlights

1. Understanding CBD & Its Benefits

   • Every mammal has an endocannabinoid system with CB1 and CB2 receptors that regulate neurological and immune functions.
   • CBD products help create balance (homeostasis) in the body, improving heart, kidney, liver, and digestive functions.

2. Top Reasons People Seek CBD

   • Sleep Issues & Anxiety – Many customers struggle with post-pandemic insomnia and high stress.
   • Pain Management – Whether from sports injuries, chronic conditions, or muscle strains, CBD offers natural relief.

3. Autoimmune Disorders & CBD

   • Shiloh personally overcame lupus and Crohn’s disease without steroids or medication.
   • CBD helps calm the immune system, reducing inflammation and preventing the body from attacking itself.
   • Different CBD formats—oils, gummies, and edibles—support various conditions depending on where the inflammation occurs.

4. CBD vs. Common Misconceptions

   • CBD ≠ Weed – While CBD comes from cannabis, THC-free products exist, allowing users to experience benefits without feeling high.
   • Many professionals, including military personnel, firefighters, and police officers, use CBD to manage stress safely.
   • Products available include gummies, chocolates, topicals, and drinks, catering to different needs.

5. Family-Friendly CBD & THC Options

   • Level Minds CBD offers a THC-free “family & professional” line that’s safe for kids and pets.
   • For those seeking a mild calming effect, low-dose THC drinks help relieve stress without alcohol-like side effects.
   • Many customers have quit alcohol entirely, preferring CBD for relaxation and emotional balance.

6. Entrepreneurship & Passion for Wellness

   • Shiloh’s business started as a pain and wellness therapy spa before expanding into CBD.
   • She built her company on word-of-mouth marketing, prioritizing education, personal connections, and community trust.
   • She believes passion drives success, emphasizing that true dedication leads to financial rewards.

📘 Resources & Contact Information
Shiloh Biglis’ products are available through:
🔗 Website: Level Minds CBD
🔗 Phone: (678) 765-2228
🔗 Social Media: @LevelMindsCBD

 

 

#STRAW

#BEST

#SHMS

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Lynn Richardson.

A financial expert, author, and speaker.  Here’s a breakdown of the key topics and highlights:

Key Themes & Highlights

1. Financial Mindset & Money Management

   • Richardson emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and shifting one's mindset about money.
   • She discusses how spending habits and financial discipline impact long-term wealth.

2. Multiple Streams of Income

   • She explains the necessity of diversifying income sources to achieve financial stability.
   • Richardson shares strategies for entrepreneurs to maximize earnings through various business ventures.

3. Estate Planning & Generational Wealth

   • Richardson stresses the importance of estate planning to protect assets and ensure financial security for future generations.
   • She highlights common mistakes people make when failing to plan for their financial legacy.

4. Tax Strategies & Business Ownership

   • She provides insights on tax deductions, particularly for home-based businesses.
   • Richardson explains how proper business structuring can lead to financial advantages.

5. Financial Education & Community Impact

   • She advocates for financial education in underserved communities.
   • Richardson discusses her mission to empower individuals through financial coaching and mentorship.

About Dr. Lynn Richardson

Dr. Lynn Richardson is a financial guru, ordained minister, and best-selling author specializing in wealth-building strategies. She has been featured on The Steve Harvey Show and has helped thousands of individuals break the cycle of living paycheck to paycheck. Through her W.E.A.L.T.H. University, she provides resources on budgeting, investing, and entrepreneurship to help people achieve financial freedom.

 

#AMI

#STRAW

#BEST

#SHMS

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

A top financial educator, author, and motivational speaker. The episode centers around Ash’s latest book and his journey from adversity to financial empowerment.

📘 Featured Book

Title: From the Block to the Bank: How to Make the Most of Your Circumstances to Maximize Your Full Potential
Format: Memoir + Motivational + Financial Literacy
Structure: 5 Transactions and 40 “Cash Advances” (principles for success)

💡 Key Themes & Takeaways 🧠 Mindset & Resilience

• Ash shares his personal story of growing up in poverty, facing rejection, and overcoming stereotypes.
• Emphasizes that your past doesn’t define your future—your mindset does.
• “Believe in your power to make anything happen” is a core message.

💸 Financial Empowerment

• Ash blends psychology and finance to teach people how to manage their money and mindset.
• Encourages people to stop chasing money and start building legacy and purpose.
• “Abundance is your birthright”—you don’t chase it, you allow it.

🔥 Motivation Through Vulnerability

• Ash openly discusses his mistakes and setbacks, including survivor’s guilt and career missteps.
• Uses his story to show others that success is possible despite fear, failure, or background.

📚 Book Highlights (Selected Cash Advances)

• #5: Believe in your power to make anything happen.
• #10: Take action despite fear.
• #12: Embrace both negative and positive feedback.
• #32: Create your legacy now.
• #34: Change your perspective on struggle.

🎧 Media & Influence

• Hosts:
  • The Ash Cash Show (M–F, 8–9 AM EST on YouTube and social platforms)
  • Inside the Vault with Ash Cash (interviews with tastemakers and entrepreneurs)
• Uses storytelling, humor, and real-life lessons to connect with audiences.

🧭 Target Audience

• Millennials (18–34) seeking entrepreneurship and financial freedom.
• 40+ individuals looking to reinvent themselves or reclaim their dreams.
• Anyone who has been told “you can’t” and needs a roadmap to “you can.”

🗣️ Rushion’s Reflections

• Praises Ash’s authenticity, relatability, and energy.
• Compares Ash to a “legend” and “Biggie Smalls of financial motivation.”
• Commits to supporting Ash’s journey and sharing his platform.

📢 Final Message

• Don’t wait to build your legacy—start now.
• Use fear as a signal, not a stop sign.
• Your story, no matter how difficult, can be your greatest asset.

 

#BEST

#STRAW

#SHMS

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 Blayther Sabbat. 

Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

• Showcase Blayther Sabbat’s mission through his nonprofit Pillars of Success, which empowers returning citizens and at-risk youth.
• Discuss strategies for reducing recidivism and creating pathways to success via mentorship, financial literacy, and career development.
• Inspire individuals and communities to take action toward social impact and economic empowerment.

Key Takeaways

1. Background and Motivation

   • First-generation Haitian-American from Washington, D.C.
   • Athletic background (DeMatha Catholic High School football) instilled discipline and leadership.
   • Personal experiences with family and community challenges inspired his commitment to mentorship and reentry programs.

2. Pillars of Success

   • A 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing wraparound services:
     • Mentorship
     • Financial literacy
     • Life and work skills
     • Career development and housing support
   • Focus on empowering returning citizens and at-risk youth to reintegrate successfully into society.

3. Challenges and Misconceptions

   • Common stigma: People assume returning citizens are “bad individuals.”
   • Reality: Many are in survival mode and lack resources, not character.
   • Success requires personal accountability and willingness to change.

4. Impact and Measurement

   • Success is defined as progress, even small steps like consistent routines or positive mindset.
   • Emphasis on action: “The difference between success and failure is taking action.”

5. Affordable Housing Advocacy

   • Sabbat worked at D.C. Housing Authority for 8 years, rising from clerical assistant to certified housing inspector.
   • Purchased property at age 26, faced conflict-of-interest issues, and resigned to pursue real estate and community impact full-time.

6. Career Development and Partnerships

   • Promotes trades (plumbing, HVAC, carpentry, IT) as sustainable career paths.
   • Partnerships with Google for digital literacy tools and scholarships.
   • Collaborates with local universities and organizations for training and job placement.

7. Financial Literacy

   • Learned through personal experience buying property on a $35K salary.
   • Advocates understanding credit, banking, and responsible money management.

8. Call to Action

   • Support through donations, mentorship, volunteering, and spreading awareness.
   • Website: www.pillarsofsuccess202.com

Notable Quotes

• On stigma:
  “People judge returning citizens as bad individuals without knowing their story. Many are just in survival mode.”

• On success:
  “Progress—any form of it—is success. The difference between success and failure is taking action.”

• On leadership:
  “We don’t succeed unless they succeed.”

• On financial literacy:
  “It’s not about how much you make—it’s about what you do with it.”

• On courage:
  “I walk by faith. Fearless. Failure and fear are the same—you learn from mistakes.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

 

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.

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 Karimah McFarlane.  

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To explore Karimah McFarlane’s multifaceted journey—from her corporate leadership roles at Google and Workday to becoming the owner of Buckhead Art & Company—and to inspire others to embrace change, pursue entrepreneurship, and understand the value of art as a tool for wealth-building and cultural empowerment.

🧭 Key Takeaways 1. Corporate Career & Tech Leadership

• Karimah has 20+ years in Human Resources, specializing in mergers and acquisitions.
• At Google, she supported AI and Pixel teams as a People Business Partner, despite initially thinking the recruiter’s call was spam.
• Currently at Workday, she partners with the Chief Revenue Officer to build high-performing sales teams and develop leadership pipelines.

2. Navigating Change & Cultural Shifts

• Transitioned from the East Coast (DMV area) to the Bay Area, facing cultural adjustments (e.g., lack of familiar foods, hair products).
• Found support through Delta Sigma Theta sorority and Black Googlers Network.
• Emphasized the importance of embracing discomfort and new experiences for personal and professional growth.

3. HR as a Strategic Asset

• HR is more than hiring/firing—it’s about scaling businesses, developing talent, and preventing legal issues.
• Small businesses often undervalue HR until a crisis occurs.
• HR should be seen as a strategic partner on leadership teams.

4. Art as Wealth, Culture & Healing

• Karimah owns Buckhead Art & Company, the only art gallery in Buckhead, Atlanta.
• Inspired by her exposure to art investment at Google and her role in selecting art for corporate spaces.
• Advocates for marginalized artists by helping them with branding, IP protection, and business structure.

5. Making Art Accessible

• The gallery focuses on beginner and mid-level collectors, offering education and approachable experiences.
• Offers virtual consultations, art fairs, and community events to demystify art buying.
• Emphasizes the emotional, cultural, and financial value of art.

6. Recognition & Impact

• Buckhead Art & Company was named Best Art Gallery in Georgia (2023 & 2024).
• Uses her platform to educate, empower, and elevate artists and collectors alike.
• Promotes artist development through storytelling, branding, and business mentorship.

💬 Notable Quotes

• “Empowerment is figuring out what you do best and using your talent to help others.”
• “Don’t shy away from opportunities that give you insights and experiences.”
• “HR helps you scale your organization—it’s not just about hiring and firing.”
• “Art has always been at the forefront of royalty, wealth, and education.”
• “We specialize in humans. When you walk into our gallery, you are equal.”
• “You don’t have to win an Oscar to be a great actor. Same with art—you don’t need a traditional path to be successful.”

🔗 Connect with Karimah McFarlane

• Gallery: Buckhead Art & Company
• YouTube: Buckhead Art & Company
• Instagram: @buckheadartandcompany

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

 

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.