Strawberry Letter

iHeartPodcasts

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. Breaking Stereotypes: A specialty running and walking store serving a predominantly Black community and breaking stereotypes.

    26 MIN AGO

    Breaking Stereotypes: A specialty running and walking store serving a predominantly Black community and breaking stereotypes.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Ric Ross. A 37‑year veteran of the music industry who transitioned from a successful career in entertainment to entrepreneurship as co‑owner of Big Peach Running Co.—South Fulton, the first Black‑owned specialty running store in Georgia. Ric shares his journey from music promotions to health and wellness entrepreneurship, the importance of serving community, how running shaped his life, and how he built a thriving retail business that focuses on education, proper footwear, and customer experience. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: 1. Spotlight Ric Ross’s transition from music to entrepreneurship He discusses how a longtime passion for running evolved into a thriving business. 2. Highlight Big Peach Running Co.—South Fulton A specialty running and walking store serving a predominantly Black community and breaking stereotypes. 3. Educate listeners on proper footwear, running basics, and health benefits Ric stresses correct shoe fitting, foot analysis, and the role of running/walking in overall wellness. 4. Inspire aspiring entrepreneurs He shares business planning insights, overcoming stereotypes, navigating funding, and building community-centered ventures. 5. Emphasize service, legacy, and purpose Ric’s nonprofit and community work underscore his philosophy of giving back. 💡 Key Takeaways 1. Running = Freedom, Clarity, and Mental Escape Ric describes running as deeply emotional and freeing—a “runner’s high” that places him in another world.  2. His Journey from Music Executive to Running Store Owner Ric’s path began when he walked into Big Peach’s first store as a customer.Later, after years in the music business, the founder Mike Costantino encouraged him to open a location.He spent a year quietly developing a detailed business plan before presenting it to his wife and banks.  Banks praised his plan as “the best they’d ever seen,” emphasizing how preparation creates opportunities. 3. Why He Chose South Fulton Ric intentionally wanted the store in his own neighborhood, a fast‑growing, majority‑Black community of over 100,000 residents.People questioned him—“Black folks don’t run”—but he knew the market, the growth of Black running clubs, and the need for proper footwear among everyday people.  4. Education‑Driven Customer Experience The store focuses on: Foot analysis using the Aetrex Albert scanner Proper shoe fitting Education for runners and walkers A no‑judgment environment for customers with foot issues He intentionally branded the store “Run Walk” to remove intimidation. 5. Health Benefits of Running & Walking Ric shares how running lowered his blood pressure and improved his heart health, reinforced by his doctor's advice.He emphasizes realistic lifestyle choices: eat what you enjoy—but control portions and stay active.  6. Competing in a Big-Box Retail Market Despite large competitors, Big Peach’s success is tied to: Community representation Personalized service Being the first Black‑owned specialty run store in Georgia Cultural inclusiveness (e.g., redesigning their mascot “Peachy” to reflect the community) [ 7. Community Impact Stories Drive His Motivation Moments such as a 94‑year‑old man walking without a cane after being fitted for proper shoes remind Ric why the business matters. 8. Hiring Challenges in a Post‑Covid Workforce He notes it’s difficult to find employees who are: Personable Hungry to learn Good at customer engagement  He also addresses stereotypes about customers expecting discounts from Black-owned businesses. 9. Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Ric offers foundational guidance: Credit is king—maintain excellent credit to access capital Be willing to sacrifice Know your market Learn continuously [ 10. His Purpose: Music + Running + Serving Ric founded the Music Education Group, a nonprofit now in 26 schools across 4 districts, teaching life skills through music, film, and digital media.He discovered later in life that service had always been his purpose.  🗣 Notable Quotes (with citations) On running “When I lace up and hit that road, I’m in a whole other world… it’s freedom.”  On opening his store “I knew my avatar. I knew who I was marketing to.”  On entrepreneurship “Credit is king… we may not have a million in the bank, but I can pop that 800 score on them.” On community impact “We are so glad you all are in the community”—he says this erases all doubt on difficult days. On finding purpose “My passion was music and running. My purpose is serving.”  On representation “It’s time for Peachy to look like the community.” #SHMS #STRAW #BEST Just tell me what you’d like! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    28 min
  2. Overcoming the Odds: Her personal journey from layoff to leadership to inspiring others to embrace entrepreneurship.

    6 HR AGO

    Overcoming the Odds: Her personal journey from layoff to leadership to inspiring others to embrace entrepreneurship.

    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. Cameka Smith. Founder of The BOSS Network, from Money Making Conversations Masterclass: Purpose of the Interview The interview aimed to: Highlight The BOSS Network’s mission to empower women of color through entrepreneurship, career development, and community support. Share Dr. Smith’s personal journey from layoff to leadership, inspiring others to embrace entrepreneurship. Discuss strategies for business success, funding opportunities, and mentorship for Black female founders. Key Takeaways Origin of The BOSS Network Founded in 2009 during the recession after Dr. Smith was laid off from Chicago Public Schools. Initially started as local events in Chicago; now a digital community reaching 200,000 women nationwide. Mission: Bringing Out Successful Sisters (BOSS)—promoting small business spirit and career growth. Impact & Achievements Invested in 100 Black female founders through grants. Trained 50,000 women on business strategies. Coached 10,000 women on starting businesses. Created Boss Business University, offering mentorship and digital programs. Pivot During COVID Shifted from 35% event-based revenue to 75% digital. Launched Boss Impact Fund and Invest in Progress Grant: $10,000 grants + 4-year scholarships for recipients. Combined funding, mentorship, and marketing support for sustainability. Challenges & Mindset Entrepreneurship requires planning, resilience, and community support. Dr. Smith saved money before leaving her job and leveraged relationships for growth. Quote: “Entrepreneurs will work 80 hours for themselves but don’t want to work 40 hours for someone else.” Top 3 Mistakes Entrepreneurs Make Lack of research: Understand your industry, competitors, and market. No revenue model: If you’re not making money, it’s a hobby, not a business. Ignoring relationships: Networking and partnerships are key to success. Unique Marketing & Partnerships Dr. Smith built direct relationships with brands, bypassing agencies that offered “pennies on the dollar.” Created a dual revenue model: B2B (corporate partnerships) + B2C (community engagement). Core Philosophy Motto: Believe, Plan, Win. Quote: “Those that show up, go up.” Success is rooted in faith, persistence, and leveraging community. Notable Quotes “I was born to be an entrepreneur. My mother told me, until you become your own boss, you have to follow the rules.” “Less than 1% of Black women get VC funding—so we created our own fund.” “Relationships are your key to success. When social media goes away, your audience remains.” “If you have a business and you don’t have money, you’ve got a hobby.” “God will not birth anything inside of you that He will not give you the tools to deliver.” #SHMS #STRAW #BEST See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

    6 HR 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

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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