Money Making Conversations Master Class

Rushion McDonald

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. Business Tips: She discusses employee engagement, workplace culture, self-leadership, and overcoming fear.

    41M AGO

    Business Tips: She discusses employee engagement, workplace culture, self-leadership, and overcoming fear.

    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 Heather Younger. Founder and CEO of a leading employee engagement and workplace culture consulting firm: 🎙️ Interview Summary Guest: Heather R. YoungerRole: CEO, workplace culture consultant, author, speakerTopic: Employee engagement, workplace culture, self-leadership, and overcoming fear 🧭 Purpose of the Interview To explore Heather Younger's journey as a workplace culture expert, her insights into employee engagement, and her new book The Art of Self-Leadership. The conversation centers on empowering individuals to lead themselves, navigate workplace challenges, and overcome fear to unlock personal and professional growth. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Employee Advocacy & Engagement Heather has read over 30,000 employee surveys and facilitated 100+ focus groups. She emphasizes active listening and creating safe spaces for employees to express concerns. Her mission is to amplify the voices of employees, especially during organizational transitions like mergers. 2. Self-Leadership & Personal Growth Heather encourages individuals to be their own advocates and not wait for others (including HR) to “save” them. She promotes intentional reframing—shifting negative thoughts into rational, empowering ones. Her new book, The Art of Self-Leadership, includes exercises like fear mapping to help readers identify and overcome internal barriers. 3. Navigating Fear in the Workplace Heather outlines five ways fear holds people back professionally: Fear of feedback – avoiding growth due to fear of criticism. Fear of retribution – hesitating to speak up. Fear of speaking truth to power – lacking psychological safety. Inherited fears – generational or cultural fears that shape behavior. Fear of regret – not taking action and living with “what ifs.” 4. Daily Practices for Mental Strength Reflect nightly on what went well and what you controlled. Practice gratitude and mindfulness. Prioritize sleep, hydration, and mental clarity. Treat each day as a chance to iterate and improve. 💬 Notable Quotes “I needed to be the change I was seeking.” “Feedback is a gift—even if it hurts.” “You have to fight tooth and nail for your own mental space.” “Don’t wait to be invited—ask.” “See yourself as a work in progress, not a finished product.” 📚 Book Mentioned Title: The Art of Self-Leadership Focus: Empowering individuals to lead themselves through fear, change, and uncertainty 📞 Contact Info Website: HeatherYounger.com LinkedIn: Heather R. Younger Social Media: Active on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram   #STRAW #BEST #SHMS See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    24 min
  2. Purpose Driven: Her mission is to empower women to heal, lead, and monetize their purpose.

    5H AGO

    Purpose Driven: Her mission is to empower women to heal, lead, and monetize their purpose.

    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. Coylette James Here is a clear, polished summary and outline of the Dr. Coylette James interview with Rushion McDonald, based entirely on the transcript you provided. Summary of the Interview with Dr. Coylette James on Money Making Conversations Master Class Ffounder of a faith‑based nonprofit and creator of The Lioness Effect—discusses her mission to empower women to heal, lead, and monetize their purpose without compromising their values. She and host Rushion McDonald explore themes such as identity, healing from trauma, walking in authenticity, entrepreneurship, integrating faith into business, and redefining wealth. Dr. James emphasizes that women must first understand their identity and unique “superpower" before they can build meaningful businesses or confidently step into leadership. Drawing from her decades in corporate executive leadership and ministry, she explains how healing from past traumas, rejecting societal stereotypes, and valuing one’s own expertise are necessary steps toward long‑term success. She also breaks down practical strategies for clarifying value, avoiding under‑earning, building integrity‑driven wealth, and developing a legacy. Her life philosophy—“Don’t live your age, live your life”—shows up in her mindset, style, and discipline, as she approaches age 70 with energy, purpose, and intention. Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: Introduce Dr. Coylette James' work and her framework, The Lioness Effect, which helps women transform purpose into profit. Share practical guidance on identity, leadership, faith‑based entrepreneurship, and building wealth with integrity. Encourage women to overcome limiting beliefs, value their expertise, and break free from societal or personal constraints. Inspire listeners with Dr. James’s personal philosophy on aging, growth, and living boldly. Key Takeaways 1. Identity Is the Foundation Women must first understand who they are to build authentic businesses. Uniqueness is a “superpower” and should not be traded for cultural expectations. 2. Healing Precedes Leadership Trauma—whether personal, societal, or generational—can limit confidence. “Hurt leaders will hurt people.” Women must heal to lead with clarity and compassion. 3. Authenticity Builds Trust and Value You are your greatest asset; your voice is your brand. Don’t shrink or dim your identity to fit an image or corporate mold. 4. Faith and Business Are Not Separate Dr. James teaches that faith should inform, not divide from, business practices. Integrity and values should guide branding, service, and pricing. 5. Stop Over‑Serving and Under‑Earning People often undervalue what they give because they haven’t valued it themselves. Women must attach a price to their expertise, time, and transformation they provide. 6. Quality Creates Wealth Wealth isn’t only money; it includes wisdom and legacy. Quality and excellence build strong brands and repeat customers. 7. Know Your Lane Talent alone doesn’t build wealth—business skills matter. Bring in help for areas outside your strengths (marketing, operations, finance). 8. Entrepreneurship Requires Wisdom & Prioritization Dr. James balanced a full‑time executive career with her nonprofit by: Allocating hours wisely Using time strategically Mentoring within her workplace Following passion while honoring responsibilities 9. Age Is Not a Limiter At nearly 70, she asserts: “Don’t live your age, live your life.” Reinvention is possible at any age. Notable Quotes Here are direct, impactful lines from the conversation: On Identity & Purpose “Your authenticity is your empowerment.” “We were created on purpose for a purpose.” “If you’re trying to be what culture says you are, you’ll miss who you are authentically.” On Superpower “You take the supernatural of God, put it on your natural, and you’re empowered by it.” On Healing & Leadership “Hurt leaders will hurt people.” “I can’t take you where I haven’t been.” On Value & Monetization “What would you buy from you?” “If you wouldn’t pay for what you're selling, why should someone else?” “People will pay for quality.” On Wealth & Legacy “Wealth is not always monetary. My biggest wealth is the legacy I’m leaving.” “Make sure you put the quality in before your name goes on it.” On Aging & Living Fully “Don’t live your age, live your life.” “I will never get old. I will get older.” “How important are you to you?” #SHMS #BEST #STRAW See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    28 min
  3. Financial Tips: Her platform offers 300+ hours of videos and tools, helping members open 3,000+ investment accounts and invest $7.4M collectively.

    6H AGO

    Financial Tips: Her platform offers 300+ hours of videos and tools, helping members open 3,000+ investment accounts and invest $7.4M collectively.

    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 Ashley M. Fox. Summary of the Interview In this episode of Money Making Conversations Masterclass, Rushion McDonald interviews Ashley M. Fox—former Wall Street analyst, Howard University alum, financial educator, and founder/CEO of Emplify, a fintech platform focused on making wealth‑building accessible to everyday people. Ashley shares her journey from working with ultra‑high‑net‑worth clients on Wall Street to becoming an entrepreneur determined to bring financial education and empowerment to communities traditionally excluded from wealth conversations. She discusses the creation of Amplify, her financial fall and recovery, her work in schools and prison systems, and how digital content has allowed her to scale her mission globally. The discussion emphasizes mindset, self‑belief, access, and a practical path to wealth, even starting with as little as $20. Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: 1. Inspire financial empowerment Ashley explains how anyone—regardless of background or starting point—can begin building wealth and shift generational outcomes. 2. Demystify investing and wealth-building She breaks down how simple investing can be, the power of small consistent contributions, and how wealth isn’t limited to entrepreneurs or high earners. 3. Highlight her fintech platform Emplify She shares how Amplify democratizes financial education through online tools, community, and accessible investing classes.  4. Encourage a mindset shift Ashley stresses the importance of eliminating fear, building confidence, and using logic instead of emotion when making financial decisions. Key Takeaways 1. Wealth Begins with Belief and Mindset Ashley learned on Wall Street that the biggest difference between wealthy and non-wealthy people is not education—it's self-belief. Many people don’t believe wealth is possible for them because they've never seen it.  2. You Don’t Need a Lot of Money to Start Investing She urges people to start with $20, even buying fractional shares. It’s consistency—not starting amount—that builds wealth.  3. You Can Invest in Others’ Ideas—Not Just Your Own Building wealth doesn’t require launching a business. Buying stock is one of the easiest ways to participate in wealth creation.  4. Ashley’s Own Journey Included Failure After leaving Wall Street, she was evicted, slept on her parents’ couch for two years, and maxed out credit cards. Her purpose kept her going.  5. Financial Education Should Start Early She developed financial education programs for schools, prison systems, and everyday families because adults often learn too late.  6. Emplify Scales Wealth Education Her platform offers 300+ hours of videos and tools, helping members open 3,000+ investment accounts and invest $7.4M collectively.  7. Social Media Is Her Biggest Access Point Ashley reaches millions by being authentic, relatable, and consistent—meeting people where they are.  8. You Must Pay Yourself First Most people pay bills, companies, and creditors before investing in themselves. She emphasizes reversing that pattern.  9. Logic Over Emotion Wealth requires logical decision‑making, especially in the market. Emotional reactions undermine long-term financial growth.  Notable Quotes (Taken From the Transcript) On Wealth Mindset “When you think and know and believe you have the power to create wealth and you deserve wealth, you move a different way.”  “There is no president that can build the wealth that you can create for your family.”  On Starting Small “You don't have to have a lot of money to start. You just have to have the will to begin.”  “A whole lot of $20 can get you to a million—as long as you don’t stop.”  On Investing “Consider the companies you give your money to and own them, because they are a lot cheaper than you think.”  “If I’m helping you build a billion‑dollar business by using your products, I deserve a piece of the pie.”  On Self-Reliance “You pay everybody… the bartender, the mortgage company—and you’re the one without money. Who’s going to worry about you?”  On Purpose and Identity “My story never changed. The mission was always dedicated to the people I didn’t see coming into that building on Wall Street.”  “Emplify is the movement. It just has my DNA.” #SHMS #STRAW #BEST See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

    JAN 8

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

    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 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.

    JAN 6

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

    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. 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.

    12/30/2025

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

    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 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.

    12/23/2025

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

    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 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.

    12/19/2025

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

    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. 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
4.5
out of 5
33 Ratings

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/

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