Strawberry Letter for Monday, April 14th, 2025: "The Child Won't Understand This"

A mother with an unruly 7-year-old daughter writes in asking for advice because her best friend has told her that she is DONE being her daughter's Godmother.

Listen to Steve & Shirley's responses in this 3-part Strawberry Letter!

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

Commissioned by the U.S. State Department, she represents American music worldwide, performing at U.S. embassies worldwide. Beyond her musical talents, Myrna is a dedicated philanthropist, empowering the disabled community through her organization, Show Ability, which showcases disabled artists and advocates for equal accessibility. Her work blends artistry with activism, creating opportunities and uplifting lives. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about music, impact, and making a difference!

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

Lgnd Life Financial is a mission-driven financial services company dedicated to empowering individuals, families, and small businesses through comprehensive financial literacy and life insurance education. Founded by Brianna Johnson, a visionary leader and top life insurance agent, Lgnd Life has redefined the industry by providing tailored solutions that protect and build wealth for its clients.

With a track record of serving over 5,000 families and paying out millions in claims, Lgnd Life Financial stands as a trusted partner in securing financial futures. Licensed in over 25 states, the company also invests in the next generation of professionals by training and mentoring more than 250 life insurance agents, fostering a community of excellence and empowerment.

At Lgnd Life, the mission goes beyond policies—it's about creating legacies.

She is a visionary entrepreneur, financial expert, and the founder of Lgnd Life Financial, a company dedicated to empowering individuals and families to build wealth and secure their financial futures. Born and raised in Chicago, Brianna began her entrepreneurial journey at just 14, owning two successful clothing stores and hair salons by the age of 22. At 24, she boldly transitioned into the financial services industry, combining her passion for helping others with her knack for business innovation.

Through Lgnd Life Financial, Brianna has served over 5,000 families and paid out millions in claims, ensuring financial stability for her clients. Licensed in over 25 states, she has also mentored and trained more than 250 life insurance agents, fostering growth and success in the financial sector. Brianna is committed to breaking barriers, particularly for women and minorities, and inspiring others to create lasting legacies for their families and communities.

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

In the final installment of the Money Making Conversations Masterclass series MindRight Money Management, Rushion McDonald and Ash Cash explore Hip-Hoponomics, blending Hip-Hop culture with financial education. Ash explains how he uses the stories of Hip-Hop artists and his books to teach financial literacy in an engaging way. They discuss overcoming adversity, the mindset needed for wealth, and the idea that financial success isn’t tied to a specific look. The conversation also covers the importance of vetting business partners online in today’s digital age. Tune in for an inspiring session and show that you believe in G.O.D.—Greatness On Display!

Ash Exantus, also known as Ash Cash, is a distinguished financial educator, author of over 40 books, and founder of MindRight Money Management. He is recognized for his unique approach to financial literacy, blending it with elements of music, pop culture, and psychology. His initiatives like Hip-Hoponomics showcase his innovative methods in teaching financial literacy and entrepreneurship to youth, employing the cultural lens of hip-hop. Additionally, he leads the Abundance Community, focusing on financial spirituality and personal growth, and heads BookRich™, guiding individuals in leveraging personal experiences into multiple income streams.

Ash also hosts the influential business podcast, Inside the Vault with Ash Cash, renowned for its in-depth interviews with successful entrepreneurs and celebrities, contributing to over 7 million video views and 1.3 million audio downloads globally. His commitment to empowering individuals financially and personally has made him a sought-after speaker and a featured expert in top media outlets like CNN, The New York Times, and CNBC. Ash's work is dedicated to inspiring and equipping people to reach their full potential, making significant impacts across various communities. For more insights into his work, visit www.IamAshCash.com.

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Strawberry Letter for Friday, April 11th, 2025: "His Son Better Quit Trying Me"

A woman writes in about her 40 year old stepson. When she was first involved with his father, the son wanted nothing to do with her. Now...things have changed and she suspects he is hitting on her. Listen to what Steve & Shirley have to say about that!

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Thomas Barnes.  A product of the APS(Atlanta Public Schools), attended Morehouse College, and has a degree in Management from GSU(Ga State) with an emphasis in CIS(Information Systems). Thomas owns Experimax, a complete retail computer store that specializes in sales, service, and support of all things Apple. Welcome to Money Making Conversations Master Class, Thomas Barnes.

We also offer the same services in the Windows and Samsung world, but Apple is our core business. In addition to the services offered to our walk-in customers daily, we can provide IT consulting and engagement for schools, churches, and businesses at large, particularly small businesses or organizations that do not have a dedicated IT resource or staff. We can also help to better utilize your IT budget or funding by working together to identify your your business and computer needs to see how we can assist in future procurement and hardware refresh efforts. 

Talking Points/Questions * 
1) Who is Thomas Barnes

2) Tell us a little bit about Experimax

3) How did you come to work in the IT industry ad now a business owner of Experimax?

4) How has my past life/work experience contributed to my becoming a business owner?

5) Why Experimax, why a franchise?

6) How can you and your team at Experimax serve the local community and the Atlanta/Sandy Springs community at large?

7) What has the journey been like on this road of entrepreneurship?

8) Who and/or what motivated you to start your own business?

9) Any suggestions to those considering pursuing their dreams and business ownership?

10) Plans for the future?

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Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Myrna Clayton.

America's Songbird Myrna Clayton (Alabama born, Atlanta raised) is a singer best known for performing jazz music. Commissioned by the U.S. State Department to represent American music abroad at U.S. embassies around the world, Myrna has performed in 5 of the seven continents, including countries such as France, Germany, Russia, Namibia, Switzerland, and most recently, Ghana's 2024 Jazz in January Festival. Tagged “The Maynard Ferguson of Jazz vocals” by a Jazz orchestra conductor in Kazan, Russia, audiences are mesmerized by her soul-filled, profound musical message. 

Dear to Myrna’s heart is advocacy for accessibility for performing artists on the disability spectrum to highlight their talents and help improve their career trajectory and life possibilities. Whether performing in the United States or abroad, America's Songbird Myrna Clayton's classy performances are simply unforgettable.  For more information, visit www.MyrnaClayton.com. 

Company Description *
CedarTree Worldwide LLC - a Social Enterprise Business that facilitates diplomatic music cultural exchange inside and outside of America through the motto:"valuing differences, celebrating similarities and honoring oneness".

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SHOWAbility, Inc. - a 501c3 nonprofit that creates opportunities that empower performing artists/actors across the disability spectrum to showcase and develop their talents through performances, artists development, accessibility, employment and enjoyment. Our Northstar is to be for the arts/entertainment industry what the Paralympics and Special Olympics are for the sports industry - showcase talent and excellence.

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

He is one of the world's top financial educators. Dubbed as the "Hip-Hop Financial Advisor", he uses a culturally responsive approach in teaching financial literacy, wealth building, and entrepreneurship. He is also a speaker, 6x bestselling author, and creator of the #1 Community for Financial Spirituality.Company Description *MindRight Money Management is a culturally responsive financial education company that makes money management relatable, engaging, and effective. By blending music, pop culture, and real-time current events, we meet people where they are and guide them to where they want to be financially. Through dynamic workshops, impactful books, insightful articles, and easy-to-understand resources, we empower individuals and communities to build wealth, eliminate debt, and master their money with confidence and clarity.

Talking Points/Questions *Talking Points for Interview:
1. Align Your Savings & Spending
Why is aligning savings and spending essential?How can someone start aligning their finances today?Talking Point: A financial plan is the only way to take control of your money and design the life you desire.
2. Broaden Your Earnings
Why is having multiple streams of income important?What are some practical ways families can create additional income?Talking Point: Creating multiple streams of income is essential to securing financial stability and building wealth.
3. Underwrite Your Financial Freedom Fund
What is a financial freedom fund and why is it crucial?How can someone build one efficiently?Talking Point: A financial safety net is your first line of defense against life’s uncertainties.
4. Nurture Creditworthiness
How does credit impact wealth-building? What are the best ways to improve and maintain a strong credit score? Talking Point: A strong credit score is the key that unlocks opportunities to build wealth and financial freedom.
5. Diminish Liabilities
How do you differentiate between good and bad debt? Why is eliminating bad debt so important? Talking Point: Eliminating bad debt is the fastest way to reclaim your financial power and fuel wealth creation.
6. Amplify Investments
Why is investing critical to building wealth? What types of investments should families consider? Talking Point: Your money should work harder for you than you work for it—investing is how wealth multiplies.
7. Navigate a Life Insurance Strategy
How can life insurance be used as a wealth-building tool? What strategies can families use to “become their own bank”?Talking Point: Life insurance isn’t just protection; it’s a powerful tool to build and transfer generational wealth.
8. Create a Tax Wealth Strategy
Why is tax planning essential for wealth accumulation? How can families implement effective tax strategies? Talking Point: Minimizing taxes means keeping more of your money to grow and preserve your legacy.
9. Establish Legacy
What steps should families take to protect and pass on their wealth? Why is estate planning critical for generational wealth? Talking Point: A will and trust ensure your wealth lives on, protecting your family and preserving your vision for generations.

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

Co-founder of Well With All, a Black-owned, purpose-driven health and wellness brand dedicated to improving well-being in underserved communities.

Demond shares his incredible journey from growing up in poverty to becoming a hedge fund executive, philanthropist, and entrepreneur. He discusses the inspiration behind Well With All, how personal experiences shaped his mission, and why health equity is just as important as financial wealth. Through his company, he reinvests 20% of profits into initiatives that support Black, Brown, and underserved communities, tackling health disparities, mental wellness, and preventive care.

In this episode, Demond and Rushion dive into the racial health gap, the importance of generational wellness, and how Well With All’s premium supplements and wellness products are designed to address the unique health needs of communities of color. He also shares business insights, marketing strategies, and how trust is built in the wellness industry.

If you’re passionate about health, entrepreneurship, or making an impact, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how prioritizing your health can lead to true wealth!

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Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kathleen Bertrand.

Kathleen Bertrand began talking in 2009 about a new film festival to attract people of color to Atlanta’s growing film industry. From a discussion with her then CEO William Pate at the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, to talks with film enthusiasts and potential film partners, Bertrand began to assemble the team and resources needed to launch what was to become BronzeLens Film Festival, a non-profit organization. While everybody knew about Tyler Perry’s Atlanta-based empire, Bertrand and her colleagues created a platform for broader engagement in the industry for people of color and did so in a way that showcased Atlanta and its history and culture.

Under Bertrand’s visionary leadership as executive producer, BronzeLens has grown to receive attention and accolades from across the country and around the world. It is a charter member of ARRAY (formerly AFFRM), the film distribution network founded by producer/director Ava DuVernay in 2011. BronzeLens has been mentioned in articles about film diversity in publications such as the New York Times, the LA Times, Atlanta Magazine, Oz Magazine, and Ebony Magazine. In late 2016, the festival was named as an Academy Award Qualifying Film Festival for the Short Film Award. This tremendous honor is one of only 3 such designations in the country for film festivals that support the work of people of color. In its most recent film season, the festival received film submissions from 59 countries around the world. BronzeLens has received two “Best of Atlanta” Awards from Atlanta Magazine: “Best Showcase for New Filmmakers,” and “Best Place to Break into the Film Industry.”

Kathleen has received numerous awards for her work with BronzeLens. In 2016, she was given the Georgia Highlight Award, as part of the annual Georgia Film Gala. In 2018, she received the honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from her alma mater Spelman College, which honored her careers in both hospitality and the film industry. Additionally, in 2018, she was inducted into the Atlanta Hospitality Hall of Fame, which also honored her dual careers in film and in hospitality. In 2019, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms presented Bertrand with the City of Atlanta’s highest honor – The Phoenix Award. Recent honors include the 2023 Image Award presented by Atlanta Film Society, the Synergy Award from African American Film Critics Association and being recognized by Georgia Entertainment Magazine as one of “200 Most Influential of Georgia’s Creative Industries.”

Company Description *
BronzeLens Film Festival of Atlanta, Georgia is a non-profit organization, founded in 2009, that is dedicated to bringing national and worldwide attention to Atlanta as a center for film and film production for people of color. The mission of the BronzeLens Film Festival of Atlanta, Georgia is two fold: to promote Atlanta as the new film mecca for people of color; and to showcase films and provide networking opportunities that will develop the next generation of filmmakers.

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