Strawberry Letter

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Got a situation? Steve Harvey and Shirley Strawberry deliver unfiltered advice on love, relationships, family, work, and life. Send your letter, subscribe, and get real talk every day! Every weekday, the Steve Harvey Morning Show tackle a listener-submitted “Strawberry Letter”... a real-life dilemma ranging from romantic entanglements to career choices, family drama to money struggles, and everything in between. With a blend of wisdom, wit, and brutal honesty, they offer candid commentary and heartfelt guidance, often sparking conversation (and laughter) among the rest of the morning show crew. Submit your Strawberry Letter at www.steveharveyfm.com for a chance to be featured, and get the truth, Steve Harvey style!

  1. Career: She helps students, early-career professionals, and corporate employees understand how to successfully navigate career transitions and professional growth.

    2 hr ago

    Career: She helps students, early-career professionals, and corporate employees understand how to successfully navigate career transitions and professional growth.

    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 Dr. Telisha Roberts.   Guest: Dr. Telisha Roberts, Founder and President of Creative IntentionsHost: Rushion McDonaldTopic: Career development, leadership growth, entrepreneurship, workforce readiness, and navigating today's changing job market.  Purpose of the Interview The purpose of the conversation was to help students, early-career professionals, corporate employees, and aspiring entrepreneurs understand how to successfully navigate career transitions and professional growth. Dr. Roberts shared insights from her 26-year corporate career and explained how Creative Intentions helps individuals bridge the gap between potential and achievement. [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] The interview focused on preparing people for workplace success, leadership roles, entrepreneurship, and adapting to economic uncertainty, layoffs, and artificial intelligence-driven workforce changes. [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] Key Takeaways 1. Success Requires More Than Opportunity Dr. Roberts emphasized that securing a job, internship, or promotion is only the beginning. What determines long-term success is how effectively individuals navigate and perform once they enter those opportunities. [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] Takeaway: Getting the opportunity and succeeding in it are two different challenges. 2. Always Have a Plan One of the strongest themes throughout the interview was intentional planning. Roberts shared that before leaving her 26-year corporate career, she spent roughly a year preparing and developing a plan to ensure a successful transition. She encourages others to proactively prepare for career changes instead of reacting after a crisis occurs. [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] Takeaway: Faith, passion, and ambition should always be supported by a structured plan. 3. Career Development Is a Lifelong Process Creative Intentions supports: College juniors and seniors Early-career professionals Managers and executives Entrepreneurs Small business owners Roberts believes individuals need guidance at every stage of professional growth. [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] Takeaway: Professional development does not stop after graduation. 4. Hard Work Alone Does Not Guarantee Promotion One of the most discussed topics in the interview was the misconception that simply working hard will automatically lead to advancement. Roberts explained that employees must learn how to communicate their value, connect their accomplishments to organizational goals, and demonstrate strategic impact. [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] Takeaway: Visibility, communication, and strategic alignment are as important as effort. 5. Tell Your Own Story According to Roberts, many talented professionals fail to advance because they expect others to recognize their contributions automatically. She stresses that employees must be capable of: Articulating their value Demonstrating impact Understanding organizational priorities Forecasting future needs [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] Takeaway: If you cannot explain your value, others may overlook it. 6. Mentorship Can Change Lives The creation of Creative Intentions was inspired by a young intern Roberts mentored who did not receive a job offer after her internship. The experience deeply affected Roberts and motivated her to create an organization dedicated to helping people gain the skills and support necessary for career success. [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] Takeaway: Investing in people can have a lasting impact on their lives and careers. 7. Success Has No Easy Path Roberts repeatedly emphasized that whether someone pursues corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, content creation, or business ownership, all meaningful success requires discipline and hard work. [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] Takeaway: There are no shortcuts to sustainable success. 8. Every Person Requires an Individualized Approach Unlike many coaching and training programs, Roberts believes there is no one-size-fits-all method for development. Her team uses assessments and personalized coaching to understand an individual's strengths, preferences, experiences, and leadership potential. [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] Takeaway: Effective development starts with understanding the individual. 9. Confidence Often Comes Through Investment and Support Many people struggle because they do not recognize their own potential. Roberts noted that some individuals have never been encouraged to explore their gifts or strengths. Her work focuses on helping people discover abilities they may not yet see in themselves. [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] Takeaway: Confidence is often built through mentorship, support, and self-discovery. 10. AI and Workforce Disruption Are Real Challenges Roberts directly addressed concerns about artificial intelligence and layoffs. She acknowledged that organizations are reallocating resources toward AI and that competition for jobs has intensified. However, she encourages professionals to remain proactive, strategic, and adaptable rather than fearful. [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] Takeaway: Career resilience requires strategy, adaptability, and continuous learning. 11. Stay Calm During Uncertainty A defining characteristic of Roberts' leadership philosophy is maintaining composure under pressure. She shared examples from both her corporate career and personal life to illustrate the importance of responding to challenges with clarity and purpose rather than panic. [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] Takeaway: Effective leaders remain calm while taking decisive action. Notable Quotes On Career Preparation "It's one thing to get the role, get the internship, get that opportunity. But it's another thing to actually be successful when you get there." [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] On Planning "You got to have that plan." [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] On Career Advancement "Being the hardest worker in the room will not get you promoted." [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] On Professional Visibility "If you cannot properly articulate your value to an organization... you are going to be quietly lost." [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] On Personal Branding "You have to learn how to tell your own story. No one is going to tell your story for you." [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] On Entrepreneurship "Being skilled and passionate is very different than running an actual business." [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] On Success "There is no easy path to success." [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] On Hard Work "You're probably going to work harder than you ever have before." [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] On Personal Growth "Someone took the time to invest in me." [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] On AI and Job Market Challenges "We have to learn how to be strategic. We have to learn how to get in front of the problem and be proactive instead of reactive." [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] On Leadership During Uncertainty "We need to calm down. We need to operate with as much information as we can and as much peace as we can." [Dr. Telish...(Podcast) | Txt] Overall Message Dr. Telisha Roberts' central message is that career success is not accidental—it is intentional. Through planning, mentorship, self-awareness, hard work, strategic thinking, and the ability to communicate one's value, individuals can successfully navigate career transitions, leadership challenges, entrepreneurship, and an increasingly competitive workforce. Her work through Creative Intentions is focused on helping people bridge the gap between where they are today and where they aspire to be tomorrow.  #BEST #SHMS #STRAW See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    26 min
  2. Financial Advice: The interview empowers marginalized communities with tools for financial literacy, and long-term wealth building.

    2 hr ago

    Financial Advice: The interview empowers marginalized communities with tools for financial literacy, and long-term wealth building.

    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 Dr. Joaquin Wallace.  🎯 Purpose of the Interview To explore Dr. Wallace’s groundbreaking work in financial literacy, particularly his concept of the “financial genetic code”, and to promote his book Generational Wealth Begins with Generational Knowledge. The interview aims to empower marginalized communities with tools for financial healing, literacy, and long-term wealth building. 🗝️ Key Takeaways 1. Background & Recognition Dr. Wallace is a recipient of the Wells Fargo Living History Makers Award. Featured in the Contemporary Black Biography series. Former college basketball coach and educator with a strong focus on discipline and mentorship. 2. Seven-Stage Generational Wealth Model Outlined in his book, the model includes: Internal/External Ecosystem – influences from family, community, and environment. Financial Genetic Code – inherited financial narratives and behaviors. Financial Healing – reprogramming harmful financial habits. Financial Edification – literacy and inclusion. Financial Well-being – stability and health. Generational Knowledge – estate planning, insurance, long-term care. Generational Wealth – successful transfer of assets. “Without financial well-being, there is no generational wealth.” 3. Financial Genetic Code A trademarked concept by Dr. Wallace. Unlike DNA, it can be rewritten through education and therapy. Influenced by early experiences, family habits, and community norms. Examples include “scar tissue narratives” (trauma from past financial events). 4. Credit & Financial Literacy Credit score is critical but misunderstood. Utilization rate should be under 30%. Payment history and inquiries significantly affect scores. Many people are unaware of the difference between consumer scores and business scores. 5. Barriers to Financial Growth Lack of trust in financial systems due to past trauma. Misinformation passed down from family and community. Zip codes and overleveraging can impact loan approvals. Financial professionals may unknowingly transfer their own biases to clients. 6. Role of Financial Professionals Dr. Wallace identifies five key roles: Financial Educator Financial Counselor Financial Therapist Financial Advisor Financial Planner He emphasizes matching individuals with the right professional based on their needs and emotional readiness. 7. Book Insights Generational Wealth Begins with Generational Knowledge is an Amazon bestseller. Includes self-assessments after each chapter. Designed for both professionals and everyday readers. Encourages readers to identify their financial stage and take actionable steps. 💬 Notable Quotes “You are your credit score.” “Inherited financial narratives create encoded financial behaviors.” “Any answer sounds correct if you don’t ask the right question.” “Consistency creates consistent outcomes.” “Financial literacy is not the end-all—it’s just one piece of the puzzle.” “We do what we know. If we don’t know, we just continue to do.” 📌 Final Thoughts Dr. Joaquin Wallace offers a transformative framework for understanding and improving financial behavior, especially in underserved communities. His concept of the financial genetic code bridges psychology, education, and economics, making financial wellness more accessible and actionable. #SHMS #STRAW #BEST See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    38 min
  3. Career Options: Inspires listeners with strategies for wealth-building through real estate, construction, and logistics.

    3 hr ago

    Career Options: Inspires listeners with strategies for wealth-building through real estate, construction, and logistics.

    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 Dr. Justin M. Lee. Purpose of the Interview To showcase Dr. Lee’s journey from a young real estate agent to a multi-industry entrepreneur. To inspire listeners with strategies for wealth-building through real estate, construction, and logistics. To encourage financial literacy, ownership, and collaboration within underserved communities. To issue a call to action for minorities to explore opportunities like Amazon DSP and real estate investment. Key Takeaways Early Career & Education Started young in real estate, embraced discomfort in rooms dominated by older professionals. Leveraged millennial tech skills (social media marketing) to help veteran brokers grow. Earned a doctorate degree and became a licensed real estate broker. Social Media as a Business Tool Built a strong presence on TikTok (90K followers) and other platforms. Helped older real estate firms thrive by creating digital visibility. Emphasized that “business must look as good online as in person.” Financial Literacy & Homeownership African-American communities often lack foundational financial knowledge. Key barriers: misunderstanding credit, fear of debt, and lack of exposure to ownership benefits. Advocates teaching the difference between good debt (real estate) and bad debt (consumer credit). Real Estate Process Initial onboarding: credit score, income, tax filing. Connect clients with lenders, secure pre-approval, then negotiate and close within 30–45 days. Uses property tours as motivation even for those not yet approved. Pooling Resources for Wealth Industry dominated by white men and foreign investors who use syndication. Dr. Lee created a private family fund with fraternity brothers and friends. Acquired 150+ apartment units and commercial properties by pooling resources and forming LLCs. Amazon DSP Opportunity Owns an Amazon Delivery Service Partner business (42 trucks, 200 employees). Offers minorities a chance to apply for DSP with $10K grant. Taught him true CEO skills: HR, payroll, compliance, and scaling operations. Construction Business Entered construction after experiencing exploitation in fix-and-flip projects. Learned the business side (permits, change orders) and got licensed. Built major projects like a 10,000 sq. ft. restaurant in Atlanta. Advocates for Black representation in construction, an industry dominated by whites and Hispanics. Personal Background Raised in New Orleans during Katrina by a single mother and grandparents. Mother invested FEMA checks into real estate, teaching him property management and renovation skills early. Believes knowledge is power and emphasizes planning and consistency. Notable Quotes On embracing discomfort:“I learned to embrace the uncomfort and make it one of my biggest strengths.” On social media:“You have to make your business look the same way online as in person.” On financial literacy:“Real estate is always going to be good debt. Bad debt is the Macy’s card.” On collaboration:“Pooling resources shows how far we can go and how fast we can go—but together.” On planning:“If you don’t plan, you plan to fail. All you have to do is stick to the plan.” #SHMS #STRAW #BEST See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    23 min
  4. Storytelling: Discusses how Sylvia Moy helped save Stevie Wonder’s career when he risked being dropped by Motown. 

    5 days ago

    Storytelling: Discusses how Sylvia Moy helped save Stevie Wonder’s career when he risked being dropped by Motown. 

    Here’s a clear, structured summary of the interview with Dr. Margena Christian on Money Making Conversations Masterclass with Rushion McDonald, including its purpose, key takeaways, and notable quotes. 🎙️ Interview Summary: Dr. Margena Christian ✅ Purpose of the Interview The conversation serves three primary purposes: Highlight Dr. Christian’s career and influence Showcasing her journey as a journalist, historian, and author rooted in Ebony and Jet magazine. Promote her book “It’s No Wonder: The Life and Times of Motown’s Legendary Songwriter Sylvia Moy.” Preserve and correct Black cultural history Emphasizing the importance of documenting overlooked contributors—particularly Black women like Sylvia Moy—whose impact has often gone uncredited. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Legacy of Black media institutions (Ebony & Jet) Dr. Christian spent nearly two decades (1995–2014) at Johnson Publishing Company.  Jet and Ebony were central to Black visibility before social media, shaping careers and cultural narratives.  Being featured in these magazines was considered a milestone of success in the Black community.  👉 Insight: Media institutions played a critical role in documenting Black excellence and building public recognition. 2. Professional discipline and navigating the entertainment industry Christian stressed the importance of understanding the difference between business and personal relationships.  She avoided distractions and maintained professionalism, even in celebrity-heavy environments. 👉 Insight: Success in media requires boundaries, focus, and clarity about one’s purpose. 3. Investigative storytelling and historical recovery Her book began with a simple social media question: why hadn’t Sylvia Moy’s contributions been widely documented? [ She conducted deep archival and interview-based research to verify claims. 👉 Insight: True storytelling requires verification, curiosity, and persistence, not just surface-level narratives. 4. Sylvia Moy’s overlooked impact on Motown Sylvia Moy helped save Stevie Wonder’s career when he risked being dropped.  She co-created the hit “Uptight,” which kept him signed.  Despite her role, she was denied proper producer credit, illustrating systemic inequities.  👉 Insight: Many foundational contributors—especially Black women—were historically under-credited or erased. 5. The importance of documenting history before it’s lost Christian emphasizes that: History may be hidden but not erased. If stories aren’t told accurately, others may distort or erase them. 👉 Insight: Preserving cultural history is both a responsibility and a form of protection. 6. The power of lived experience and “being in the room” Christian highlights her firsthand role in shaping media history—not just reporting on it. [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt] She reflects on witnessing major figures early in their careers. 👉 Insight: Experience and proximity provide unique authority and storytelling depth. 💬 Notable Quotes On purpose and professionalism “Never get it twisted… it’s business… but a friendly business.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt] “Very few people are really your friends.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt] On media influence and cultural validation “Before social media, there was Jet.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt] “Some people didn’t feel like they made it until they were in Jet magazine.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt] On Sylvia Moy and untold history “That woman made history as a producer but was denied the credit.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt] “How are you getting the credit for something… and I don’t see a footprint?” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt] On storytelling and legacy “People will write you out… of your own history if you let them.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt] “History may be hidden, but it’s never erased.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt] On purpose-driven work “You’re just doing it because you’re called to do it.” [Margena Ch...(Podcast) | Txt] 🧭 Overall Message This interview underscores a powerful theme: Document the truth, honor overlooked contributors, and take ownership of your narrative—before someone else rewrites it. It blends: Entrepreneurship and career advice Cultural preservation Investigative journalism Black media legacy #SHMS #BEST #STRAW See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    29 min

About

Got a situation? Steve Harvey and Shirley Strawberry deliver unfiltered advice on love, relationships, family, work, and life. Send your letter, subscribe, and get real talk every day! Every weekday, the Steve Harvey Morning Show tackle a listener-submitted “Strawberry Letter”... a real-life dilemma ranging from romantic entanglements to career choices, family drama to money struggles, and everything in between. With a blend of wisdom, wit, and brutal honesty, they offer candid commentary and heartfelt guidance, often sparking conversation (and laughter) among the rest of the morning show crew. Submit your Strawberry Letter at www.steveharveyfm.com for a chance to be featured, and get the truth, Steve Harvey style!

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