Money Making Conversations Master Class

Rushion McDonald
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Hi, this is Rushion McDonald. Welcome to the podcast world of Money Making Conversations Master Class. I interview profits and nonprofits to learn their "Secrets to Success."  I'm a former IBM Executive with a degree in Mathematics. I started my entrepreneurial career as a stand-up comic, then became a sitcom writer, award-winning baker, social media influencer, award-winning television Executive Producer, and brand architect for super-successful celebrities and products. Money Making Conversations Master Class interviews a diverse group of celebrities, entrepreneurs, and influencers in the financial and business community with their advice and tips so you can be successful, too. It's time to stop reading other people's success stories and start building your own. People always talk about their purpose or gifts. If you have a gift, Lead with your Gift, and don't let your friends, family, or co-workers stop you from planning or living your dream. Keep Winning! https://www.moneymakingconversations.com https://www.youtube.com/MoneyMakingConversations https://www.facebook.com/MoneyMakingConversations/ https://twitter.com/moneymakingconv https://www.instagram.com/moneymakingconversations/

  1. Building Brands: She shares her expertise in helping high‑achieving women build sustainable, profitable businesses.

    5 HR AGO

    Building Brands: She shares her expertise in helping high‑achieving women build sustainable, profitable businesses.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Ingrid Jacobs. A veteran enterprise leader, former HR executive, and Chief Growth Officer for The Revenue Retreat, a luxury boutique retreat for executive women who want to build profitable businesses without burnout.  She and Rushion discuss her corporate background, her unique approach to customer integration, the challenges women face in entrepreneurship, pricing psychology, common business mistakes, age-related limiting beliefs, and the transformational design of her retreat program. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview The purpose of Ingrid’s appearance was to: 1. Share her expertise in helping high‑achieving women build sustainable, profitable businesses Ingrid works with corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and women ready to transition from corporate careers into entrepreneurship. 2. Highlight The Revenue Retreat She explains how the retreat helps women clarify their offer, price correctly, identify customers, and prepare mentally and emotionally for entrepreneurship. 3. Educate listeners on business fundamentals Rushion brings her on to break down pricing, customer targeting, confidence, and transitioning from corporate “9–5” to entrepreneurship. 4. Address issues unique to women, executives, and people of color Especially around pricing themselves correctly, recovering from burnout, and building confidence in their value. 💡 Key Takeaways 1. Corporate experience can translate powerfully into entrepreneurship Ingrid spent two decades at companies like Raytheon, Whirlpool, and JLL, working in HR, human capital, and DEI.She emphasizes she wasn’t a traditional HR leader—she focused on customer integration, business growth, and improving client outcomes.  2. High‑achieving women aren’t only executives They can be community leaders, nonprofit leaders, or entrepreneurs who excel in their areas but may not have formal corporate titles.  3. Entrepreneurship requires more work—especially early on New entrepreneurs often don’t realize they must handle every aspect of the business themselves: operations, marketing, sales, pricing, and delivery.  4. Pricing is one of the biggest challenges for women and people of color Key problems: Undervaluing their expertise Fear of charging what they’re worth Worrying clients won’t pay higher rates Getting mentally stuck in low pricing Ingrid says women often dramatically underprice themselves and need help adjusting their mindset.  5. Knowing your customer matters more than trying to sell to everyone Selling to “anybody” makes entrepreneurs sound desperate; true growth comes from targeting the right buyer and offering a solution they value.  6. Avoid common first‑year business mistakes These include: Poor pricing Not knowing your ideal customer Doing everything for everyone Expanding into too many offerings too fast Operating out of desperation rather than strategy  7. Age is an asset—not a liability Older entrepreneurs bring wisdom, experience, critical thinking, and problem‑solving ability.She argues people use age as a cover for deeper fears about failure and judgment.  8. The Revenue Retreat combines luxury, education, and wellness The retreat model includes: A luxury residential environment Chef‑prepared meals 12‑woman cohorts Business planning rigor Pricing clarity Customer identification Mental and emotional readiness Wellness activities 8‑weeks of virtual follow‑up coaching It’s intentionally structured as not a workshop but a holistic transformation experience. [ 9. She priced her retreat through competitive research + self‑awareness She studied other programs, benchmarked pricing, calculated expenses, and aligned it with her unique “sweet spot”—monetization skill + passion for helping women + love of hosting experiences.  🗣 Notable Quotes (with citations) On her corporate background “Bring me on board if you're looking for figuring out how do we get better customer integration… so that we can zero in on more sales.” On defining high‑achieving women “There are movers and shakers who don’t necessarily have a corporate pedigree, but they are still getting things done.”  On underpricing “Many times women… fall in this trap where they're scared to put out the real amount.” [ On realizing she was undercharging “I wasn't even charging half of what she was saying… that epiphany changed the game for me.”  On first‑year mistakes “Desperation is palpable… and that is a turnoff.” [ On age “Age to me is an asset… you’ve got cognitive rigor.”  On burnout “A lot of people who are interested in this work are already burned out and don’t even recognize their own signs.”  On what the retreat delivers “We help everyone come up with their pricing, what is their product… and wrap up where people have a plan forward.” [ Her core sales pitch “I offer executive women a retreat where they can experience luxury and end with a business plan they can use Monday morning to drive revenue.”  #SHMS #STRAW #BEST See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    30 min
  2. Overcoming the Odds: Shares how he overcame kidney cancer—while simultaneously rising through the executive ranks.

    10 HR AGO

    Overcoming the Odds: Shares how he overcame kidney cancer—while simultaneously rising through the executive ranks.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Anthony Tuggle. Senior executive, transformational advisor, and founder/CEO of Tag Us Worldwide. With more than 30 years of leading global operations at AT\&T and other Fortune 10 organizations, Tuggle shares lessons in leadership, resilience, corporate success, personal health battles, entrepreneurship, and the importance of emotional intelligence in the AI era. His story blends professional excellence with survival, detailing how he overcame kidney failure, a transplant, dialysis, and even kidney cancer—while simultaneously rising to the executive ranks and later launching his own leadership transformation company. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview The interview’s goals were to: 1. Highlight Anthony Tuggle’s leadership journey From a corporate executive managing global teams to the CEO of Tag Us Worldwide. 2. Share actionable insights on corporate success and leadership development He explains the importance of foundation, consistency, emotional intelligence, and taking care of people. 3. Discuss the importance of DEI and equitable leadership Tuggle emphasizes why diverse backgrounds, and diverse thoughts build strong companies. 4. Reveal the personal health challenges that shaped his perspective His story serves as instruction, caution, and motivation. 5. Promote Tag Us Worldwide A transformation consultancy helping organizations elevate culture and leadership. 💡 Key Takeaways 1. Success Requires Hard Work, Foundation & Intentionality Success is not accidental.Tuggle stresses: Education (undergrad + MBA from Emory’s Goizueta Business School) Moving 12 times across the country for opportunities Consistency and showing up  “Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready” is one of his core principles. 2. Leadership = Taking Care of People Tuggle explains that high-performing organizations have one thing in common:Leaders take care of people, and people take care of the business.  He built a reputation for developing leaders who now lead in Fortune 50 companies. 3. Understanding the Rules of the Game Matters Whether you’re an entrepreneur or corporate professional, there are rules: Professionalism Performance Relationship building Consistency Respecting organizational culture  Many people fail because they enter the “game” without learning its rules. 4. DEI and Access Are Non-Negotiable for Strong Organizations Tuggle is a firm supporter of diversity, equity, inclusion, both in culture and thought.He says he would not be where he is today without people giving him a chance.  5. His Corporate Career Was Truly Global He managed large teams across: The Philippines Costa Rica Mexico This global lens influences his approach to transformation and scaling businesses. 6. His Health Journey Defines His Resilience Anthony Tuggle's story is extraordinary: • Kidney failure in his 20s Doctor told him he “should be dead.”Caused by untreated hypertension.  • 25-year kidney transplant survivor He received a deceased donor kidney and outlived the typical 10–15-year expectancy—twice. • Kidney transplant failed again after 25 years He returned to dialysis (hemodialysis → peritoneal dialysis).  • Kidney cancer diagnosis—found early While preparing for another transplant, doctors discovered kidney cancer caused by long-term immunosuppressant medications.He survived it: stage 1, noninvasive.  These challenges fuel his drive, urgency, and refusal to waste life. 7. Faith Was His Anchor Throughout When diagnosed with kidney failure, he got on his knees and prayed.He says God told him, “We're not done.”This became his mantra for survival and purpose. [ 8. Tag Us Worldwide: “Together Achieving Greatness” His company focuses on: Leadership transformation Cultural elevation Organizational outcomes Preparing leaders for the AI-powered future  Tag Us delivers impact through: Real-world corporate experience AI-enhanced strategy Emotional intelligence coaching Business transformation frameworks He blends AI + EQ, insisting companies should never rely on AI alone. 9. AI Won’t Replace Humans—But Humans Who Use AI Will Win Tuggle led an AI organization for four years, and his stance is clear: AI is here to stay The “secret sauce” is people Leaders must embrace change, not fear it Emotional intelligence will enhance AI outcomes 10. Legacy = Family + Leadership + Service He emphasizes shaping his daughter’s worldview and standards.She graduated with honors from USC’s Marshall Business School.  He believes leaders should create environments where people can win—and that is his mission. 🗣 Notable Quotes (with citations) On success “I didn’t just wake up and look like this—I put in the hard work.” [ On leadership “If you take care of your people, they take care of you.” On preparation “Stay ready—we don’t have to get ready.” [ On DEI “You need diversity of color but also diversity of thought.”  On fear “I faced many obstacles throughout my life… fear becomes motivation.” [ On AI “Good leaders embrace change. Great leaders inspire change.” [ On resilience “I am highly favored… I’ve beaten the odds twice.” [ On purpose “My passion is leadership; my purpose is changing lives.” [ #SHMS #STRAW #BEST See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    28 min
  3. Brand Building: She never stopped reinventing herself from Broadway, television, songwriting, animation, philanthropy, and leadership.

    11 HR AGO

    Brand Building: She never stopped reinventing herself from Broadway, television, songwriting, animation, philanthropy, and leadership.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dawnn Lewis. Summary of the Interview On Money Making Conversations Masterclass, Rushion McDonald interviews Dawnn Lewis—iconic actress, singer, songwriter, voice actress, philanthropist, and founder of the A New Day Foundation. The conversation traces her extraordinary career, starting from her childhood as a singer, dancer, and actor, through her rise to fame on A Different World, her decades-long voiceover career (including The Simpsons, Futurama, Star Trek: Lower Decks), and her ongoing philanthropic work supporting youth nationwide. Dawnn discusses the challenges of being a multi-talented artist in an industry eager to box people into one lane, how A Different World both elevated and pigeonholed her, and how animation opened a vast new chapter for her that has lasted more than 30 years. She shares her philosophy on longevity, discipline, relationships, and the responsibility to give back. The interview also highlights her foundation’s programs supporting students, HBCUs, and underserved communities. Purpose of the Interview 1. Celebrate Dawnn Lewis’s multi-decade, multi-disciplinary career The interview showcases the depth of her talent—from singing and songwriting to acting, animation, and Broadway. 2. Highlight representation and legacy Dawnn discusses the cultural impact of A Different World and her groundbreaking role as a Black female captain in Star Trek: Lower Decks. 3. Inspire audiences with her journey from Bed-Stuy to global success Her story emphasizes perseverance, big dreaming, and ignoring limitations others impose. 4. Promote the A New Day Foundation Dawnn details programs empowering youth, HBCU students, and underserved communities. 5. Provide insight into surviving and thriving in entertainment She shares the importance of relationships, versatility, and constant self-improvement. Key Takeaways 1. She was a “triple threat” long before Hollywood discovered her Singing, dancing, and acting from age 7–11, she began performing professionally at 10 and even launched her own musical theatre degree program at the University of Miami. 2. A Different World brought fame but also typecasting While it launched her into global visibility, it also led people to underestimate her songwriting, music, and voiceover abilities. 3. Her voice acting career spans more than 30 years She has voiced characters on The Simpsons, Futurama, Star Trek: Lower Decks, Craig of the Creek, Fairly OddParents, Mortal Kombat, and many more.Her entry into animation came from imitating her young niece for a role. 4. Representation matters deeply to her Seeing Nichelle Nichols on Star Trek inspired her as a child; today, Dawnn is one of the very few Black captains in the Star Trek universe. 5. The industry rewards resilience and relationships Dawnn emphasizes that her longevity comes from consistently doing excellent work and nurturing her professional network. 6. She founded the A New Day Foundation to uplift youth Her programs serve teens, HBCU students, and communities nationwide, providing mentorship, laptops, scholarships, and life skills training. 7. Dawnn’s journey is one of intentional growth and constant reinvention She never stopped expanding—into Broadway, television, songwriting, animation, philanthropy, and leadership. Notable Quotes (All quotes from the uploaded transcript.) On talent and early training “I was singing, dancing at seven, acting at eleven… doing all three professionally since I was about ten years old.” “I thought I was going to be a recording artist… I had my own single out. I was charting on Billboard.” On being boxed in “I didn’t start getting pigeonholed until I did A Different World… now you’re just an actress.” On entering animation “There weren’t very many people of color in the animation world… the director said, ‘Who are you? How come I never met you before?’” “I get to voice characters they wouldn’t hire me visually to play.” On representation and Star Trek “In the legacy of Star Trek, it’s me and Avery Brooks as the Black captains.” “Seeing Nichelle Nichols made me hopeful… she was my hero.” On career longevity “You quiet the naysayers by just showing up and doing the work.” “God keeps opening doors and giving me what I need to walk through them successfully.” On giving back “I am my best investment.” (also used in her foundation’s mission) “Where you were yesterday is not where you have to end up today.” @#SHMS #STRAW #BEST See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    30 min
  4. Overcoming the Odds: Her workbook is designed to help individuals overcome people-pleasing and prioritizing your own needs.

    8 JAN

    Overcoming the Odds: Her workbook is designed to help individuals overcome people-pleasing and prioritizing your own needs.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Teresa Edwards. Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to introduce Teresa Edwards’ book The Mirror Method: 12 Weeks to Stop Abandoning Yourself, a guided workbook designed to help individuals overcome people-pleasing tendencies, set boundaries, and prioritize their own needs without guilt. It focuses on personal empowerment, mental health, and rediscovering one’s authentic self. Key Takeaways People-Pleasing and Boundaries People-pleasing becomes harmful when you agree to things you don’t want to do, leading to stress and resentment. Setting boundaries is essential for self-respect and mental health. The Mirror Method A 12-week guided process to “unravel” harmful patterns and rediscover your true self. Emphasizes self-reflection, journaling, and gradual transformation at your own pace. Selfishness vs. Self-Care Edwards reframes “selfish” as a positive concept: prioritizing your health and happiness is necessary, not negative. You can’t be your best for others if you’re not your best for yourself. Health as a Wake-Up Call Stress is a silent killer; Teresa’s own health issues (high blood pressure) forced her to reevaluate her life. Happiness and well-being should not be age-limited—“You’re never too old to return to yourself.” Letting Go of Toxic Relationships Users often exploit people-pleasers; recognizing and removing such relationships is crucial. Fully committing to the Mirror Method means accepting hard truths and being okay with losing people who drain you. Therapy and Mental Health COVID accelerated acceptance of therapy in communities where it was previously stigmatized. Mental health is as important as physical health—“The mind is a muscle too.” Workbook Details Available on Amazon and at themirrormethodworkbook.com in print and downloadable formats. Exercises involve writing and self-reflection to confront truths and break patterns. Notable Quotes “Boundaries are key.” “Selfish is not a negative word—it’s perseverance of yourself.” “You can’t throw a party and be mad at your own party.” “Enough is enough—look in the mirror and say it.” “You’re never too old to return to yourself.” “Stress is that silent killer.” “Fully commit means accepting all those good, bad, or ugly moments—and being okay with letting go.” “The mind is a muscle too.” “Be okay with being okay.” #SHMS #STRAW #BEST See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    23 min
  5. Perseverance: Yo‑Yo’s evolution as an artist and entrepreneur, personal transformation and love for cooking.

    6 JAN

    Perseverance: Yo‑Yo’s evolution as an artist and entrepreneur, personal transformation and love for cooking.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Yolanda “Yo-Yo” Whitaker. SUMMARY OF THE INTERVIEW In this interview on Money Making Conversations Master Class, host Rushion McDonald speaks with Dr. Yolanda “Yo-Yo” Whitaker—Grammy‑nominated rapper, actress, radio host, philanthropist, and now the star of Downright Delicious with Yo-Yo, a cooking series on AspireTV. The conversation moves through Yo‑Yo’s evolution as an artist and entrepreneur, her spiritual and personal transformation, her love for food and cooking, and the creation of her television cooking show. She reflects on surviving and thriving in an unpredictable entertainment industry, learning discipline, overcoming fear, and discovering new purpose later in life through cooking. Yo‑Yo also shares her philosophy on authenticity, family, and faith. She describes how the pandemic deepened her love for cooking, how her show blends food + family + culture, and offers practical cooking tips. PURPOSE OF THE INTERVIEW According to the interview content, the purpose is to: Highlight Yo‑Yo’s transition from iconic hip‑hop entertainer to food‑focused TV personality.  Promote her Aspire TV series “Downright Delicious with Yo‑Yo.”  Share insights on career longevity, entrepreneurship, reinvention, and personal growth.  Inspire listeners with actionable advice on fearlessness, budgeting, confidence, and purpose‑driven living.  Celebrate cooking as an expression of love, culture, peace, and family connection.  KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Reinvention Requires Honesty & Letting Go Yo‑Yo stresses that overcoming fear came from “getting real” with herself, abandoning trying to look successful, and restructuring her finances and lifestyle.She had to “let the old me die so the money could grow.”  2. Entrepreneurship Is a Lifelong Reality for Artists She and McDonald emphasize that entertainers are entrepreneurs, without the stability of 40‑hour jobs, making resilience essential.  3. Purpose Matters More Than Fame She encourages people to seek purpose—not just fame or quick money—and do the work that builds confidence and personal foundation. 4. Cooking Became Her “Happy Place” and Divine Gift Yo‑Yo says cooking is a God‑given gift and a therapeutic practice that began thriving during the pandemic.It helped her through depression and opened new creative fulfillment.  5. Her Cooking Show Blends Food + Family + Culture The show features: Her mother Her partner Her kids Celebrity friends Authentic cultural dishes with her unique twistIt’s not guest‑driven; it’s family‑driven storytelling in the kitchen.  6. Technique & Tools Matter She emphasizes: Good knives (sharpen weekly) Quality pots Measuring ingredients Understanding seasonings Building confidence by cooking regularly  7. Simplicity + Love = Great Food According to Yo‑Yo, love is the secret ingredient, and cooking is about joy, connection, and comfort, not rigid perfection. [ NOTABLE QUOTES FROM THE INTERVIEW (All quotes drawn exactly or near‑exactly from the transcript.) [ On Fear and Growth “I had to let the old me die so that the money could grow.” “What I did to overcome my fear was to call myself fearless.” “You have to get real with yourself. You really have to do the work.” On Purpose and Success “If you don’t find your purpose, you’re just job hunting.” “God told me, because of your obedience, I’m going to give you the desires of your heart.” On Cooking “Cooking is my happy place.” “I’m not a chef—I just love to cook.” “If you don’t love what you cook, we don’t want to taste it.” On Family “More than serving a meal, I’m serving family.” “When mama’s in the house and they can smell food cooking… that’s everything.” On Her Show “You get to see Dr. Yolanda ‘Yo‑Yo’ Whitaker for the first time.” “I only cook things I love—things I’m comfortable with.” “The food is the star.” On Technique “Great knives will save your life.” “If you use your knives a lot, sharpen them every week.” On Pandemic Transformation “I started really cooking during the pandemic… it took me out of my depression.” #SHMS #STRAW #BEST See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    33 min
  6. Financial Tip: She understands the value of art as a tool for wealth-building and cultural empowerment.

    30/12/2025

    Financial Tip: She understands the value of art as a tool for wealth-building and cultural empowerment.

    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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    37 min
  7. Overcoming the Odds: She was a C student and a college dropout, but she is the CEO of Black Ambition.

    23/12/2025

    Overcoming the Odds: She was a C student and a college dropout, but she is the CEO of Black Ambition.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Felecia Hatcher. Purpose of the Interview To spotlight Black Ambition, a national initiative founded by Pharrell Williams that funds and mentors Black and Brown entrepreneurs. To share insights on entrepreneurship, access to resources, and strategies for scaling businesses. To inspire and educate small business owners and innovators on how to leverage opportunities for growth. Key Takeaways About Black Ambition Founded by Pharrell Williams to close the opportunity gap for Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs. Provides capital, mentorship, and masterclasses to help founders scale. Has invested in 131 companies and awarded millions in funding. Competition Structure Annual national competition with 2,500–3,000 applications. Categories include HBCU, National Finalists, Top Prize Winner, People’s Choice. Process: Applications → 250 semifinalists → 3-month cohort → Demo Day for top 20–25 companies. Unique Approach Focus on high-quality mentorship, not “low vibrational” guidance. Includes mental health and wellness support for entrepreneurs. Partnerships with brands like Louis Vuitton for luxury retail insights. Challenges for Entrepreneurs Many fail by rushing applications and skipping info sessions. Success requires clarity, traction, and persistence—sometimes multiple attempts. Black women are the fastest-growing entrepreneurs but often remain solopreneurs; Black Ambition prioritizes team-building. Pharrell’s Motivation Believes in democratizing opportunity: “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” Inspired by those who believed in him early in his career. Felecia Hatcher’s Journey Former founder of Center for Black Innovation and Black Tech Week. Emphasizes resilience: “I’m a C student and a college dropout, but I never let that define me.” Advocates for creative pathways to success and capital access. Notable Quotes “Success leaves clues.” – On learning from past winners. “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” – Pharrell’s guiding principle. “If it doesn’t work on you in that moment, it works for you in that moment. Either way, it works.” – On persistence. “We have to start enjoying the process… be stretched, be cut by the process.” – On entrepreneurial growth. “Wealth has a need for speed.” – On urgency in closing the wealth gap. #SHMS #STRAW #BEST See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    22 min
  8. Information to Know: She discusses how hair relaxers are being linked to breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, and hormone disruption.

    19/12/2025

    Information to Know: She discusses how hair relaxers are being linked to breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, and hormone disruption.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Melanye Maclin. Purpose of the Interview The discussion aimed to educate the audience about the health risks associated with hair care chemicals—including relaxers, dyes, and synthetic hair—and to advocate for safer practices. It also highlighted Dr. Maclin’s pioneering work in hair and skin supplements and her ongoing mission to raise awareness about these issues. Key Takeaways FDA Ban on Hair Chemicals In 2023, the FDA considered banning certain chemicals in hair products due to health risks, but no ban has been implemented yet. These chemicals are linked to breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, and hormone disruption. High-Risk Chemicals Identified Hair Relaxers: Sodium, calcium, guanine, and lithium hydroxide. Hair Dyes: Para-phenylenediamine (especially in permanent dyes). Synthetic Hair: Contains benzene, posing risks of lung cancer and leukemia. Impact on African-American Women African-American women face a 45% higher risk of certain cancers due to combined use of relaxers and dyes. Cultural and aesthetic pressures contribute to continued use despite health risks. Children at Risk Applying relaxers to young girls can cause early puberty, uterine fibroids, infertility, and increased cancer risk. Chemicals penetrate the scalp, enter the bloodstream, and disrupt hormones. Industry Resistance Pushback from salons and manufacturers due to financial interests. Comparison to tobacco and alcohol industries—profit prioritized over health. Solutions & Advice Avoid chemical treatments when possible. If used, protect the entire scalp with petroleum jelly to reduce absorption. Space out relaxer applications (every 8–10 weeks, max 10 minutes for children). Dr. Maclin’s Contributions Launched Bella Nutri supplements (2004 for women, 2008 for men). Advocates internal nutrition for hair and skin health. Website: drmacklin.com and bellabeauproducts.com. Notable Quotes On FDA inaction:“Still to this day, that ban has not occurred… We’re continuously having women going to the next generation of life as a result—next generation cancers.” On cultural pressures:“We’re so into wanting to have a certain look versus wanting to be healthy.” On children’s exposure:“We’ve got to keep chemicals off of little girls’ hair… It’s causing hormone disruption, early puberty, infertility, and increased cancer risk.” On industry resistance:“People care about the green-eyed devil called money… Look at the tobacco industry.” On her mission:“I feel like I’m caring more about someone’s health than they’re caring about their own.” #SHMS #STRAW #BEST See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    30 min
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Hosts & Guests

About

Hi, this is Rushion McDonald. Welcome to the podcast world of Money Making Conversations Master Class. I interview profits and nonprofits to learn their "Secrets to Success."  I'm a former IBM Executive with a degree in Mathematics. I started my entrepreneurial career as a stand-up comic, then became a sitcom writer, award-winning baker, social media influencer, award-winning television Executive Producer, and brand architect for super-successful celebrities and products. Money Making Conversations Master Class interviews a diverse group of celebrities, entrepreneurs, and influencers in the financial and business community with their advice and tips so you can be successful, too. It's time to stop reading other people's success stories and start building your own. People always talk about their purpose or gifts. If you have a gift, Lead with your Gift, and don't let your friends, family, or co-workers stop you from planning or living your dream. Keep Winning! https://www.moneymakingconversations.com https://www.youtube.com/MoneyMakingConversations https://www.facebook.com/MoneyMakingConversations/ https://twitter.com/moneymakingconv https://www.instagram.com/moneymakingconversations/

Information

  • Creator
    Rushion McDonald
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    2K
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    2026 iHeartMedia, Inc. © Any use of this intellectual property for text and data mining or computational analysis including as training material for artificial intelligence systems is strictly prohibited without express written consent from iHeartMedia
  • Show Website
    Money Making Conversations Master Class

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