Strawberry Letter

iHeartPodcasts
  • 4.5 (1.7K)
  • RELATIONSHIPS
  • UPDATED DAILY

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. Overcoming the Odds: Emmy Award-winning ESPN sportscaster shares how childhood influences, mentors, and Hampton University shaped his journalism career.

    2H AGO

    Overcoming the Odds: Emmy Award-winning ESPN sportscaster shares how childhood influences, mentors, and Hampton University shaped his journalism career.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brian Custer. Summary of the Interview On Money Making Conversations Masterclass, Rushion McDonald interviews Brian Custer—Emmy Award–winning sportscaster, ESPN anchor, play-by-play commentator, cancer survivor, fashion enthusiast, and HBCU graduate of Hampton University. The discussion moves through Custer’s early life in Columbus, Ohio; the influence of Black media figures on his career; his journey from a childhood dreamer sitting beside his grandmother watching Walter Cronkite to becoming a nationally recognized sports broadcaster; and his path into fraternity life as a member of Kappa Alpha Psi. Custer describes how he discovered broadcasting at an early age, secured internships in high school, and worked grueling night shifts in radio before transitioning into television. But the most powerful portion of the interview is his emotional recounting of his battle with aggressive prostate cancer at age 42—a diagnosis he initially wanted to hide. He shares the moment his doctor insisted he use his platform to educate men of color about prostate cancer, a mission he now treats as a calling. The interview ends with sports talk—including commentary on the Gervonta “Tank” Davis vs. Ryan Garcia fight—and a heartfelt exchange about mentorship, legacy, and the importance of Black excellence and representation in media. Purpose of the Interview 1. To spotlight Brian Custer’s broadcasting journey He shares how childhood influences, mentors, and early opportunities shaped his journalism career. 2. To promote awareness about prostate cancer in men of color Custer uses his personal story to break stigmas surrounding screenings, early detection, and open discussion. 3. To inspire listeners to pursue their dreams despite obstacles He emphasizes resilience—from working overnight radio shifts to confronting a life-threatening diagnosis. 4. To highlight the impact of HBCUs and Black fraternities He explains how Hampton University and Kappa Alpha Psi shaped his identity and leadership. 5. To celebrate representation in sports media Custer honors trailblazers like Irv Cross, James Brown, and Carol Simpson, showing how visibility opened doors. Key Takeaways 1. Early exposure builds dreams Watching Walter Cronkite, Friday Night Videos, and Ted Koppel developed his passion for broadcasting.His grandmother’s nightly viewing rituals deeply influenced him. 2. Representation matters Seeing Irv Cross, James Brown, and Carol Simpson on television affirmed his ambition and provided powerful role models. 3. Hard work—not shortcuts—built his career Custer’s first job was midnight–8 a.m. radio, reading hourly newscasts.He later interned and volunteered long after programs ended to gain experience. 4. Prostate cancer is a silent but deadly threat His routine physical revealed a suspicious PSA level (5.4), leading to a biopsy and an aggressive cancer diagnosis.He initially refused repeat screenings due to stigma but credits his doctor’s persistence with saving his life. 5. Using his platform for good became a mandate His surgeon urged him to become an advocate for prostate cancer awareness—particularly for Black men, who are disproportionately affected. 6. Vulnerability creates connection Custer’s openness about fear, masculinity, and mortality mirrors Rushion’s own thyroid cancer journey, creating an intimate, healing conversation. 7. Career longevity requires authenticity and relationship-building Custer praises mentors like James Brown and the brotherhood of Black media professionals.He underscores the importance of connections—not shortcuts—in building a respected brand. Notable Quotes (All directly from the transcript.) [Brian Custer | Txt] On childhood dreams & representation “I knew what I wanted to do when I was five.” “Ted Koppel… the way he interviewed people… I was enthralled.” “Irv Cross was the guy… then it became James Brown for me.” On fraternity life “All I knew was Kappa Alpha Psi.” “The streets of heaven are crimson and cream.” On breaking into broadcasting “My first job… midnight to eight… delivering the newscast every hour.” “The news director said, ‘You certainly don’t look the way you sound.’” On prostate cancer “You got cancer. It’s aggressive.” “All I heard was cancer.” “My doctor said, ‘Use your platform… men of color need a young face like you.’” On stigma and survival “People stereotype what a cancer survivor looks like.” “Cancer doesn’t go away when you ignore it.” On sports and life (On Garcia vs. Tank Davis):“That liver shot… it was a business decision. He’s too pretty to get his face rearranged.” On brotherhood and mentorship “You’re a legend in this business.” “We’re brothers now… I’m lumping you in with my best friend.” #SHMS #STRAW #BEST See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    28 min
  2. Financial Tip: The interview showcases how Legacy Building LLC helps clients improve credit, manage debt, understand investments, and plan estates.

    7H AGO

    Financial Tip: The interview showcases how Legacy Building LLC helps clients improve credit, manage debt, understand investments, and plan estates.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Lisa Mulrain. Summary of the Interview On Money Making Conversations Masterclass, Rushion McDonald interviews Lisa Mulrain—CEO of Legacy Building LLC, a financial literacy and legal services entrepreneur with more than 30 years of federal government experience as a securities attorney. Lisa’s mission is to empower individuals and small businesses through financial education, credit repair, debt management, estate planning, and investment strategy. The interview highlights her transition from government attorney to entrepreneur, the purpose behind Legacy Building LLC, and the unique combination of her legal expertise and financial coaching. She breaks down how underserved communities can close knowledge gaps, develop stronger money mindsets, repair credit, invest wisely, and protect assets through estate planning. She also explains the emerging opportunities in tokenized real estate, fractionalized Ginnie Mae securities, and the importance of research before investing. The conversation is highly practical—covering everything from budgeting to Roth IRAs, 401(k) matches, brokerage accounts, credit consolidation, and asset protection through trusts and wills. Lisa stresses empowerment through education and long-term wealth building. Purpose of the Interview 1. To introduce Lisa Mulrain’s financial literacy and legal services mission The interview showcases how Legacy Building LLC helps clients improve credit, manage debt, understand investments, and plan estates. 2. To educate listeners about emerging financial trends Lisa explains tokenized real estate, fractional Ginnie Mae securities, and policy changes that create new wealth-building opportunities. 3. To emphasize financial empowerment for underserved communities She focuses on shifting money mindsets, breaking cycles of scarcity, and building generational wealth. 4. To highlight the importance of estate planning She stresses that wills, trusts, and powers of attorney are foundational—not optional. 5. To offer actionable investing and credit strategies Listeners gain practical tools to start improving their finances immediately. Key Takeaways 1. Financial literacy begins with mindset Before fixing credit, individuals must understand their past beliefs about money and scarcity.Many financial mistakes originate from “lack mentality.” 2. Credit repair requires root-cause analysis Lisa teaches clients to: Identify how they fell into debt Negotiate with creditors Remove charge-offs when possible Avoid repeating harmful financial behaviors 3. Estate planning is essential for everyone—not just older adults A proper estate plan includes: A trust (primary document) A “pour-over” will for missed assets Healthcare proxies & POAs Instructions for managing assets during incapacity or after death Common tragedies—Prince, Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson—show how lack of planning complicates estates. 4. Invest intentionally and consistently Key investment tools Lisa recommends: Maximize 401(k) contributions, especially employer matches Favor S\&P 500 index options in retirement plans Fund a Roth IRA for tax-free growth Open brokerage accounts with established firms (e.g., Schwab, Fidelity) Buy fractional shares to invest even with small amounts Focus on time in the market, not timing the market 5. Tokenized real estate and fractionalized Ginnie Mae securities are groundbreaking Lisa explains how changes in federal policy and crypto infrastructure enable new low-barrier investment opportunities—such as Ginnie Mae-backed fractional securities for as little as $50. 6. Research, research, research Before buying any stock, investors should monitor: Long-term trends Earnings calls Layoffs (strategy vs. crisis) Market cycles Influential investors’ moves 7. Legacy Building LLC merges financial education + legal protection Her dual firms allow clients to: Learn how to build wealth Legally protect their assets Create generational stability 8. Wealth building requires discipline—not brand-driven spending She warns against sinking money into luxury goods without appreciating assets to match. Notable Quotes (All pulled directly from the transcript.) On why she does this work “Helping people has always been at my core.” “I wanted to get involved in finance because that was the one central factor that made the difference between the haves and the have nots.” On mindset & credit “Let’s examine your money mindset.” “We adopt a lack mentality… we already start from a place of ‘we don’t have it.’” On estate planning “Whatever you’ve accumulated… you don’t have a plan.” “It could take years for it to go through probate.” “Your trust is the main document.” On investing “You are leaving money on the table if you don’t get that 401(k) match.” “Don’t time the market… it’s about time in the market.” “Scare money don’t make money.” On financial habits “Be diligent in your acquisitions.” “You cannot make any money if you are not investing. Period.” On opportunities in new investment tech “Tokenized real estate is very new and novel… real physical assets backing crypto.” “Ginnie Mae securities are now eligible for fractionalized shares… with guaranteed repayment.” #SHMS #STRAW #BEST See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    39 min
  3. Perseverance: She shares her personal experiences with layoffs, career uncertainty, anxiety, and leadership failures.

    8H AGO

    Perseverance: She shares her personal experiences with layoffs, career uncertainty, anxiety, and leadership failures.

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Heather R. Younger. CEO, workplace culture expert, author, and founder of a major employee engagement consultancy—joins Rushion McDonald to discuss leadership, employee empowerment, navigating fear, and self‑leadership in modern workplaces. She shares her personal experiences with layoffs, career uncertainty, anxiety, and leadership failures—and how these experiences shaped her mission to be “the voice for the voiceless” in organizational culture. They explore the emotional realities of layoffs vs. terminations, how employees can take control of their professional well‑being, and Heather’s framework for identifying and overcoming fear. PURPOSE OF THE INTERVIEW 1. To introduce Heather’s work and mission She champions active listening, employee empowerment, and self‑leadership after personally reading 30,000+ employee surveys and leading 100+ focus groups.  2. To teach listeners how to navigate workplace uncertainty She provides strategies for dealing with anxiety, job insecurity, change, and inconsistent leadership climates. 3. To share an empowering message about self‑leadership Central idea: No one is coming to save you. You must lead yourself first.  4. To explore how fear holds people back professionally She outlines how fear affects decision‑making, action-taking, and confidence. KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Why She Does This Work She witnessed firsthand how mergers, layoffs, and poor communication harm employees. After being laid off with 200+ others, she realized she needed to become the “voice of reason” who turns employee concerns into actionable insights for leaders.  2. Layoff vs. Termination — Emotional Differences Layoffs: painful but less shame; not personal fault. Termination: usually involves personal accountability, and often carries more shame. Both create a feeling of powerlessness, but each requires emotional processing and reframing.  3. No One Is Coming To Save You Employees must take responsibility for: Their growth Their mental health Their career progression Their emotional well‑being HR cannot save you, Heather says—they play a dual role and cannot be personal rescuers.  4. Managing Workplace Anxiety Key strategies include: Nightly reflection → Write down what went well and what you controlled. Reframing → Turning irrational fears into rational thoughts. Breathing, sunlight, walking, self‑care → Especially for anxiety. Intentional mindset‑switching → Choosing thoughts that serve you.  5. The Five Ways Fear Holds You Back Professionally Heather identifies several fear patterns: 1. Fear of Feedback Avoiding action because you’re afraid of what others may say.  2. Fear of Retribution / Getting in Trouble Hesitating to take risks or initiative.  3. Fear of Speaking Up Not challenging authority or expressing dissenting opinions due to lack of psychological safety.  4. Fear Rooted in Family / Cultural Conditioning Inherited fear patterns from parents, grandparents, or trauma.  5. Fear of Regret / Non‑Action She teaches a powerful question: “What will I regret the longest—doing the thing or not doing the thing?”  This question accelerates decision‑making and breaks the paralysis of fear. 6. Take Ownership of Your Life — Self‑Leadership Become the Chief Iterator of Your Life → Continue refining yourself like a living prototype. Accept mistakes as part of growth. Avoid perfectionism; aim for continuous improvement.  7. Practical Daily Habits Prepare mentally each night. Hydrate, sleep well, move your body. Train yourself to take small positive actions daily.  NOTABLE QUOTES FROM THE INTERVIEW On Self‑Leadership “Ain’t nobody coming to save me. And in the workplace, no one’s coming to save you.”  On Fear “Feedback is a gift—even if it hurts.”  “We sit around waiting for green lights, access, invitations… It’s not coming. We need to seize it.”  “What is the thing you will regret the longest—doing it or not doing it?”  On Navigating Change “You get to fight tooth and nail for your own mental space.”  On Personal Growth “See yourself as a work in progress—a constant iteration.”  On Workplace Emotions “With layoffs, you didn’t have a hand in it. With termination, there’s more shame.” #SHMS #STRAW #BEST See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    24 min

  4. 22H AGO

    She's Always In The Principal's Office - 1.27.26

    The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Tuesday, January 27th, 2026. Subject: "She's Always In The Principal's Office" See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    14 min

  5. 1D AGO

    He's Not Handsome, He's Blessed - 1.26.26

    The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Monday, January 26th, 2026. Subject: "He's Not Handsome, He's Blessed" See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    14 min

  6. 4D AGO

    The Went To See The Place Without Me - 1.23.26

    The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Friday, January 23rd, 2026. Subject: "They Went To See The Place Without Me" See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    14 min

  7. 5D AGO

    My Mom Is For The Streets - 1.22.26

    The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Thursday, January 22nd, 2026. Subject: "My Mom Is For The Streets" See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    14 min

  8. 6D AGO

    I Want Him To Talk To Me - 1.21.26

    The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Wednesday, January 21st, 2026. Subject: "I Want Him To Talk To Me" See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    14 min
See All (2.1K)

Hosts & Guests

4.5
out of 5
1,651 Ratings

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!

Information

  • Creator
    iHeartPodcasts
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    2.1K
  • 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
    Strawberry Letter

You Might Also Like