Rushion McDonald

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Episodes

  1. Uplift: He oversees operations and financial strategy for Rolling Stone, Billboard, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Vibe, SXSW

    2H AGO

    Uplift: He oversees operations and financial strategy for Rolling Stone, Billboard, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Vibe, SXSW

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Paul Rainey. He holds a powerful executive role in the media world, shaping the future of iconic brands like Billboard, Rolling Stone, and SXSW. 🏆 Paul Rainey’s Executive Career at Penske Media Corporation (PMC) Current Role Executive Vice President of Operations and Finance at Penske Media Corporation (PMC). Oversees operations and financial strategy for Rolling Stone, Billboard, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Vibe, SXSW, and more. Provides strategic input across PMC’s global media brands and live events, including the Billboard Music Awards, SXSW, and American Music Awards. Key Responsibilities Leads financial decision-making, acquisitions, and operational procedures across PMC’s portfolio. Serves on several boards, including as Audit Committee Chair of Redaptive, Inc. and a Director at SXSW. Background & Education Holds a Master of Science in Accountancy and a BBA in Finance and Computer Applications from the University of Notre Dame. Formerly held leadership roles at General Electric, Global Eagle, and Harris CapRock Communications, managing billion-dollar operations across five continents. 📘 About PMC & Cultural InfluencePMC is a global media powerhouse, reaching over 350 million people monthly. Its brands shape culture through journalism, entertainment, and live events, including SXSW Paul Rainey is a rare blend of creative storyteller and corporate strategist, bridging the worlds of graphic novels and global media leadership. Whether he’s crafting a sci-fi twist in a comic or guiding the future of Billboard and SXSW, his influence is both wide-reaching and deeply personal. Let me know if you’d like a visual timeline of his career or a deeper dive into one of his roles. 🎬📈✨   #STRAW #BEST #SHMS Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    23 min
  2. 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.

    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 Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    23 min
  3. 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.

    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
  4. Overcoming the Odds: Tells us he wanted to be more than a Waffle House cook, now owns popular dinner supper clubs.

    06/25/2024

    Overcoming the Odds: Tells us he wanted to be more than a Waffle House cook, now owns popular dinner supper clubs.

    Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Tremayne Thompson.   A co-owner of Perfect Note, a dinner supper club with locations in Birmingham, Alabama and Atlanta, Georgia. The conversation is a rich blend of entrepreneurship, community service, music, and food culture. 🎶 About Perfect Note Concept: A dinner supper club offering live music and Southern cuisine, catering to a mature audience (ages 30+). Locations: Birmingham, AL (original) and Marietta, GA (Atlanta metro). Atmosphere: Grown folks’ vibe—no hookah, no club chaos, just good music, good food, and good company. 🧑🏾‍🤝‍🧑🏾 Founders & Origins Co-owned by Tremayne Thompson and his wife Karen (hence “TK Productions”). Started as gospel concert promoters in Chicago. Moved to Alabama in 2008 after a family loss and launched Perfect Note in Bessemer with a Gerald Albright concert. Initially operated out of a banquet hall, setting up and breaking down everything themselves. 📈 Growth & Expansion Perfect Note evolved into a full-fledged venue in 2016. Expanded to Atlanta due to demand from patrons traveling from Georgia to Alabama. Featured in the Huffington Post as one of the top 100 businesses to visit in the U.S. 🍽️ Food & Hospitality Offers Wednesday–Saturday dinner service and Sunday brunch with live music. Website: perfectnoteliveatl.com Tremaine’s culinary journey began at Waffle House, where he learned speed cooking and kitchen management under pressure. Emphasizes quality and consistency in food service, even during high-volume events. 💬 Philosophy & Community Impact Business is rooted in service, not profit. During COVID, they pivoted to drive-up service with $5 meals, feeding the community. Believes in mentorship and sharing knowledge freely with aspiring entrepreneurs. 🗣️ Key Takeaways Mentorship is vital: Learn from those who’ve walked the path. Serve first: Community support follows genuine service. Plan wisely: Dreams need operational structure and financial planning. Create culture: Music and food unite people across demographics. #BEST #AMI #SHMS #STRAW   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    29 min
  5. 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.

    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
  6. Level Playing Field:  The importance of Diversity Equity and Inclusion.

    10/19/2024

    Level Playing Field: The importance of Diversity Equity and Inclusion.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Ken Taunton.  He is an executive search and healthcare professional staffing leader who founded The Royster Group in 2001. With vast experience conducting executive searches for public and private companies and the healthcare sector, he has built a reputation for excellence in his field. Recently, Taunton was awarded the prestigious SBA Small Business Person of the Year for the State of Georgia, further solidifying his success. Talking Points:  Are there benefits to being a certified Black-owned professional staff firm?How does one become certified?Why did you start your company?SBA Small Business Person of the Year for 2023The importance of DEI.What business model was it based on?Grew up in the Birmingham, AL, projects. he could only afford college because my mother, who worked in housekeeping, received a discount. A first-generation graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He knows what it’s like to be marginalized, so he has made it his mission to support others who have talent but are often overlooked.The National Institute of Health said it best: A diverse nation calls for a diverse healthcare force. That is why a significant portion of our efforts is dedicated to the healthcare sector.He has been successful because they focus on five core values: Customer Service, Integrity, Teamwork, Accountability, and Respect. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, The Royster Group, Inc., a certified minority-owned business enterprise, is a leader in executive search and professional staffing services in the private and public sectors and the healthcare industry. The Royster Group assists clients in meeting and exceeding their human capital objectives by providing highly qualified leaders and healthcare professionals at all organizational levels. #BEST #AMI #STRAW #SHMS See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    30 min
  7. Relationships Matter: Bronzelens Film Festival developing the next generation of filmmakers.

    10/10/2024

    Relationships Matter: Bronzelens Film Festival developing the next generation of filmmakers.

    Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kathleen Bertrand. Founder of the BronzeLens Film Festival, celebrating its 15th year. Former Senior VP of Diversity Marketing at the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau. Longtime advocate for filmmakers of color and inclusive storytelling. 🌟 About the BronzeLens Film Festival Mission: To serve as a platform for filmmakers of color, providing exposure, networking, and education. Location: Atlanta, Georgia—one of the top three film production hubs in the U.S. Dates: August 21–25, 2025. Venues: Tara Atlanta Theater and Ray Charles Performing Arts Center at Morehouse College. 🎥 Festival Highlights 140 films screened over five days. 11 panel discussions on topics like: Filmmaking with smartphones Getting films greenlit Women in film Mental health, comedy, spirituality, and more Cinema and Social Justice Sunday: Free public screenings focused on civil rights and human rights. Andrew J. Young Cinema and Social Justice Award: Honoring the civil rights icon and Emmy-winning documentarian. 🕴️ Celebrity Involvement Films produced or supported by: Jamie Foxx Jamie Lee Curtis Morris Chestnut Ben Crump (civil rights attorney) Notable films include How to Sue the Klan and The Warner Boys. 🎉 Special Events Filmmakers Sneaker Ball: Inaugural celebration hosted at Atlanta City Hall on August 24. BronzeLens Awards Ceremony: Held at Morehouse College, honoring best films, actors, and creators. 🏆 Academy Award Qualifier BronzeLens is an Oscar-qualifying festival for short films since 2016. 💡 Secrets to Success Hospitality: Treating every filmmaker with care and respect. Relationships: Built through integrity, consistency, and community engagement. Volunteer Power: Over 100 volunteers help create a welcoming and professional experience. 🌐 More Info Website: www.bronzelens.com Social Media: @bronzelens on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter)   #AMI #BEST #SHMS #STRAW See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    30 min
  8. Entrepreneur: Attorney Jalene Mack discusses ten tips on developing your business.

    09/04/2024

    Entrepreneur: Attorney Jalene Mack discusses ten tips on developing your business.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Attorney Jalene Mack Widely known as “America’s Favorite Entertainment Attorney.” The episode focuses on protecting creative and business assets, avoiding scams, and building a solid foundation for success in the entertainment industry and beyond. 🎯 Key Themes & Takeaways 🔹 The Lure of the Bad Deal Jalene warns about scammers posing as producers or financiers in the entertainment industry. These individuals often: Claim to have access to major networks or funding. Ask creators to sign away rights or pay deposits under false pretenses. Lack a verifiable digital footprint (e.g., no IMDb, LinkedIn, or credible references). Rashawn emphasizes the danger of the “lottery mentality” — believing one deal will change everything. 🛡️ Legal Red Flags Never assign your copyright without legal review. Be cautious of contracts that require you to relinquish ownership or control. Escrow accounts can be manipulated if you don’t control the signature authority. Always verify the legitimacy of a deal and the people behind it. 🧠 Jalene Mack’s Top 10 Business Development Tips Identify Your Project Know what you’re creating (film, TV, product, etc.). Define the scope and format clearly. Make Sure You Have a Plan Create a business and finance plan. Know where your funding will come from and how it will be used. Form a Team Surround yourself with experts (lawyers, accountants, producers). Avoid “yes people” — you need honest feedback. Prepare a Budget Hire a line producer or financial expert. Account for everything: cast, crew, locations, marketing, etc. Form a Business Entity Establish an LLC or corporation to protect your personal assets. Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) Required for tax and banking purposes. Open a Business Bank Account Keep personal and business finances separate. Protect Your Assets Register copyrights and trademarks. Use NDAs (non-disclosure agreements) to safeguard ideas. Contracts Always put agreements in writing. Hire an attorney experienced in your specific industry (e.g., film, music, TV). Marketing Don’t assume people will show up just because your product is good. Build a brand and promote it strategically. 📚 Jalene’s Book Title: The Business of Stage Screen and In Between A practical guide for performers, playwrights, filmmakers, and entrepreneurs. 🗣️ Final Thoughts Rushion praises Jalene’s decades-long expertise and her role in protecting creatives. Jalene encourages listeners to invest in legal protection and business planning to avoid costly mistakes.   #AMI #BEST #STRAW   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    33 min
  9. Uplift:  Randal's company provides insights about diverse people that lead to equity for all.

    04/17/2025

    Uplift: Randal's company provides insights about diverse people that lead to equity for all.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Randal Pinkett. He has established himself as an entrepreneur, innovator, speaker, author, media personality and DEI expert who is leading the way in business, technology and equity for all. He is the co-founder, chairman and CEO of BCT Partners, a global, multimillion-dollar research, training, consulting, technology, and data analytics firm whose mission is to leverage diversity, insights and innovation to transform lives, accelerate equity and create lasting change. The company has been recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Management Consulting Firms, Ernst & Young as EY Entrepreneur of the Year, Manage HR Magazine as a Top 10 Firm for Diversity & Inclusion, the Black Enterprise BE100s list of the nation’s largest Black-owned businesses, and the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in America.Dr. Pinkett is an expert in several areas relating to emerging technologies, “big data” analytics, social innovation, culture, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and is a regular contributor on MSNBC, CNN, and Fox Business News. An international public speaker, he is the author or co-author of several books including Black Faces in High Places, Black Faces in White Places, Data-Driven DEI, Campus CEO, and No-Money Down CEO. He holds five degrees including: a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Rutgers University; a M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Oxford in England; and a M.S. in Electrical Engineering, MBA, and Ph.D. from MIT. Most notably, he was the first and only African American to receive the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship at Rutgers University; he was inducted to the Academic All-America Hall of Fame, as a former high jumper, long jumper, sprinter and captain of the Rutgers men’s track and field team; and he was the winner of NBC’s hit reality television show, “The Apprentice.”Born in Philadelphia and raised in New Jersey, Dr. Pinkett is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and First Baptist Church in Somerset, NJ, where he resides with his family, including a daughter and two sons. Dr. Pinkett firmly believes that “for those to whom much is given, much is expected,” so throughout his endeavors, he places great emphasis on his responsibility to give back to the community. Company Description * BCT Partners’ mission is to provide insights about diverse people that lead to equity.We are a national, multi-disciplinary consulting firm that delivers a full range of research, consulting, training, technology, and analytics services. BCT works with government agencies, corporations, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions and foundations, and is one of the leading firms in the country with expertise in the following markets: housing and community development, economic development, workforce development, children and families, health, education, and diversity, equity & inclusion.We invite and welcome to our team people who share our values and goals; those with a passion for making the world a better place, who see strength in our diversity, seek equal opportunity for all communities and are motivated to create a more equitable and just society. We appreciate the knowledge, abilities, and ideas of each individual and embrace his/her/their positive contributions to our collaborative and dynamic work environment. #BEST #STRAW #SHMS See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    29 min
  10. Manhood: Single Dad took his 3-year-old son to college classes with him.  Now a Lowe's contractor and mentors HBCU students.

    02/07/2025

    Manhood: Single Dad took his 3-year-old son to college classes with him. Now a Lowe's contractor and mentors HBCU students.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Michael Woodward. Mr. Woodward began his interest in real estate renovations as a youth, working with his grandfather, father, and great-uncle doing handyman and maintenance services. He also studied architectural design in high school, taking first place at county and state-level housing design competitions. After graduation, he enrolled in the architectural design program at Miami-Dade Community college. He also purchased his first property and renovated it himself at just 20 years old. He then took his aspiration to become an architect to Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, Fl where he majored in Architecture and minored in African American Studies. After much consideration, the future graduate of Florida A&M University decided to change his major from architecture; though, he never lost his passion for the real estate profession. He eventually graduated with undergraduate degrees in History, Geography, and Secondary Education. He was able to complete the triple degree in 3.5 years. He also has a Masters Degree in Applied Social Science with a concentration in African American History and an Add-on in Educational Leadership. This was completed while engaging in an 18year career in the education-al system and investing in real estate. Mr. Woodward is currently pursuing his PhD in History and Humanities at Clark-Atlanta University. He has completed all of his coursework and his comprehensive exams. The dissertation is all that remains between now and graduation. Utilizing all of his prior knowledge and experience in real estate, Mr. Woodward was able to turn a hobby and part time residual income opportunity into an incorporated business. After 2 years of being incorporated, Michael decided to leave the education profession. Nine years later, Woodward Property Group (www.woodwardpropertygroup.com), a full service home improvement and property management company is still going strong. In addition to being a leader in the property management and renovation business, we are contractors for Lowes Stores under their kitchen a bathroom renovation program. We have 7 stores on the east side of Atlanta and we have an A+ Rating with the Better Business Bureau as well as multiple partnerships throughout the Atlanta Area. He is also the founder and CEO of Alpha Educational Consultants, Inc. (www.aecga.com a company that was started in graduate school as a tutoring company for K-12 students and college students. To-date it has expanded to assist individuals in all areas of real estate such as purchasing, renovation, cost calculations and profit maximization. Additionally, he is The Director of The LEAD Foundation (www.theleadfoundation.org), LEAD, standing for Leadership Education and Development is an organization designed to teach soft skills to middle and High school students such as leadership skills, interviewing skills, test taking skills, oratorical skills, etc. Under the foundation, students are able to learn financial planning, college preparation and selection, take college tours, and attend workshops on college campuses. Additionally, students earn college scholarships and laptop computers. #BEST #SHMS #STRAW Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    26 min
  11. Building a Brand: Maintaining a strict and unwavering code of ethics with employees, clients and community.

    10/16/2024

    Building a Brand: Maintaining a strict and unwavering code of ethics with employees, clients and community.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Travis T. Wade.  A seasoned HR professional with over 25 years of corporate experience. His company THE GUARDIAN is a private security corporation with three separate divisions: Armed & Unarmed Uniformed Security Officers, Personal Protection, and Private Investigations. Serving the Georgia, Alabama and North Carolina states. Their mission is to maintain a strict and unwavering code of ethics with our employees, clients and community; To provide the most qualified, dedicated and professional officers that represent both the client and THE GUARDIAN. And to establish and maintain the most effective security services available. THE GUARDIAN is dedicated to providing the highest level of integrity available in the field of Security Management and Protective Services. We hire and train our people to be the most professional and qualified officers in the industry. Talking Points.1.    The transition from the corporate world to entrepreneurship 2.    Transitioning from NY to ATL 3.    Current Company Guardian Security Management Inc. 4.    Taking a company from a mom and pop operation to a corporation 5.    Working with the competition 6.    Operating multiple businesses7.    The importance of Human Resources for a small business8.    The transition from corporate to entrepreneurship9.    You company’s mission is to maintain a strict and unwavering code of ethics with your employees, clients and community; 10.    To provide the most qualified, dedicated and professional officers that represent both the client and THE GUARDIAN. 11.    And to establish and maintain the most effective security services available.12.    We hire and train our people to be the most professional and qualified officers in the industry.13.    Each work independently, supporting the other to provide our clients with a cohesive security programa.    Armed & Unarmed Uniformed Security Officersb.    Personal Protectionc.    Private Investigations. Most recently serving as the FVP Head of Human Resources at Carver Federal Savings Bank. Known for strategic leadership, Travis has excelled in developing and executing HR strategies aligned with organizational goals. His expertise spans succession planning, talent management, change management, organizational development, performance management, and compensation. In his previous role, Travis led a team supporting 125 employees, demonstrating strategic partnership with division executives for effective workforce planning. He implemented a talent calibration process, fostering the identification and development of high potentials. Travis managed all aspects of HR, from recruiting to diversity initiatives, and redesigned the department to align with evolving business needs. Travis’s impact extends to compensation, where he introduced incentive targets and designed innovative programs, including Management Equity Stock Award and Annual Incentive Programs. His commitment to culture management is evident through defining Core Values, enhancing company culture with workshops, and initiating recognition programs like the Carver Core Value awards and “Women’s in Business” Recognition program. His dedication to employee development is reflected in the creation of the Leadership Pathways program, incorporating Graduate Leadership, Middle Management Leadership, and Diversity and Inclusion training. As Travis takes command of The Guardian Security Management, his wealth of experience and commitment to strategic HR leadership promise a positive impact on our organization.Armed with a bachelor's in business administration from Queens College, Travis brings a solid educational foundation to his role. His professional journey is marked by significant certifications, including Professional in Human Resource (PHR) and SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP). These credentials underscore Travis’s commitment to excellence in the HR field, ensuring a high standard of expertise and best practices in his leadership. #AMI #STRAW #BEST #SHMS See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    31 min
  12. Dr. Virgie Bright Ellington, MD discusses how to CRUSH MEDICAL DEBT.

    06/13/2024

    Dr. Virgie Bright Ellington, MD discusses how to CRUSH MEDICAL DEBT.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviews Dr. Virgie Bright Ellington, MD,    An internal medicine physician and medical billing expert. The discussion focuses on the complexities of health insurance, financial risks tied to medical expenses, and strategies to protect oneself from crushing medical debt. Key Highlights: Introduction to the Show:Rushion McDonald sets the stage for conversations about financial empowerment, entrepreneurship, and learning from successful professionals. Guest Introduction – Dr. Virgie Bright Ellington: She has extensive experience in primary care, psychiatry, and health insurance. She helps patients navigate medical billing and financial pitfalls in healthcare. She hosts What Your Doctor Wants You to Know, a podcast providing insights into healthcare and medical expenses. The Reality of Health Insurance: Even individuals with "great" health insurance are still at risk of massive medical debt. Deductibles reset annually, meaning someone who undergoes treatment at the end of the year may find themselves financially exposed when the new year begins. Medical expenses often lead to bankruptcy, making insurance literacy essential. Why People Avoid Insurance: Younger individuals often feel invincible and avoid paying for insurance. Unexpected accidents or illnesses can derail financial stability, even for the healthiest individuals. Steps to Avoid Medical Debt:Dr. Ellington outlines three steps to properly handle and negotiate medical bills: Step 1: Ensure the bill contains real CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes—many bills are sent without them, making it harder for patients to validate costs. Step 2: Research CPT codes online or use her Medical Bill Buster App to compare billed charges to Medicare rates (Medicare sets the most reasonable prices). Step 3: Negotiate with healthcare providers using Medicare pricing as leverage to reduce inflated charges. The Importance of Supplemental Insurance: Traditional health insurance doesn’t always cover major costs. Individuals, especially entrepreneurs and gig workers, should consider critical illness insurance, hospitalization insurance, and accident insurance as financial safeguards. Insurance vs. Other Mandatory Coverage: Unlike home or car insurance (which is legally required), health insurance is not mandatory in many cases, despite being equally essential for financial security. This creates a gap where uninsured individuals take on extreme financial risk when health issues arise. How to Contact Dr. Virgie Bright Ellington: Website: crushmedicaldebt.com Email: Dr.Virgie@crushmedicaldebt.com Overall Takeaway: The discussion reinforces that health insurance should be viewed as a financial protection tool, not just a routine expense. Entrepreneurs, gig workers, and uninsured individuals need to take proactive steps in securing coverage and understanding how to negotiate medical bills effectively.     Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    28 min
  13. Five Core Values for Success: Customer Service, Integrity, Teamwork, Accountability, and Respect

    10/09/2024

    Five Core Values for Success: Customer Service, Integrity, Teamwork, Accountability, and Respect

    Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning Television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Ken Taunton, founder and president of The Royster Group, a nationally recognized, certified Black-owned professional staffing firm. Solidified with the five core values for success, including customer service, integrity, teamwork, accountability, and respect, The Royster Group is one of North America’s fastest-growing professional staffing agencies providing diverse and highly qualified executive-level talent for the public and private sectors, including healthcare and government. Here are some interview highlights: Ken established The Royster Group after noticing a need for more diversity, including women and people of color, in senior-level executive searches while employed at Korn Ferry. A minority business enterprise certification legitimizes Black-owned businesses' capability and capacity to do business with Fortune 500 companies. Healthcare support services careers are among the top job markets due to the nation’s growing population of people who need help caring for themselves. As a new business owner, having a mentor who shares free information about important business decisions can help you avoid costly mistakes in the future.  The U.S. Small Business Administration and SCORE are excellent resources for small business owners who need guidance on establishing the appropriate business model. Established in 2001, The Royster Group is a multi-million-dollar firm with national clients in over 20 states. In 2023, Ken was named the U.S. Small Business Administration Small Businessperson of the Year for Georgia. #BEST #STRAW #SHMS See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    30 min