The Steve Harvey Morning Show

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Robert Fitzpatrick, a Navy veteran, business consultant, fraternity brother (ΩΨΦ), and now the owner reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue legacy. The conversation dives deeply into Fitzpatrick’s upbringing, his father’s groundbreaking barbecue business in 1950s Texas, his educational and military journey, his corporate career, and his decision to launch Dewey’s Barbecue Market in Skokie, Illinois—honoring his father’s original recipes and values.
The interview blends entrepreneurship, legacy, cultural history, and personal transformation, while highlighting the courage of Fitzpatrick’s father and the humility and faith-driven foundation of his family.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
1. Inspire entrepreneurship and legacy-building
Fitzpatrick’s story showcases how family heritage and values can shape a business vision across generations.
2. Highlight resilience, faith, and leadership
His upbringing in a household rooted in Christian humility, strong expectations, and boundary-breaking courage provides a blueprint for character-driven success.
3. Educate listeners on transitioning careers
Fitzpatrick exemplifies pivoting from engineering and corporate consulting to pursuing passion-driven entrepreneurship.
4. Promote Dewey’s Barbecue Market
The interview introduces the Chicago-area community—especially the Skokie region—to his upcoming restaurant built on a 70-year-old Texas barbecue tradition.
Key Takeaways 1. A powerful family legacy rooted in courage
Fitzpatrick’s father, Dewey, opened a barbecue restaurant in 1951—before desegregation—and insisted that Blacks and whites could eat together.
He enforced respect and safety in his establishment, even confronting racist patrons.
2. Education was non-negotiable in the Fitzpatrick household
Robert is the youngest of seven siblings, all college graduates; five hold master’s degrees.
He himself holds an MBA and an MS in Management Information Systems.
3. A bridge between technology and business
Fitzpatrick spent decades in consulting with major firms (EDS, Dell, Arthur Andersen, KPMG) focusing on business process improvement.
His dual MS/MBA made him a translator between tech and finance.
4. Military discipline shaped his personal and professional life
Served in the U.S. Navy from 1986–1990, plus reserve duty (including deployment to Iraq).
Balanced military service with graduate studies and advancing his corporate career.
5. A calling to revive his father’s barbecue
His wife recognized his talent early, telling him for years he should be barbecuing.
A shortage of good Texas barbecue in Virginia pushed him to recreate his father’s recipes.
6. Skokie, Illinois: the ideal launchpad
After moving to the Great Lakes Naval Base area for a federal role, Fitzpatrick began scouting locations.
Skokie offered: active support from city leadership
grants
an ideal building
community enthusiasm

7. Dewey’s Barbecue Market offerings
Meats: brisket, sausage, hot links, smoked boudin (monthly special)
Sides: potato salad (egg/mayo base), pineapple vinegar coleslaw, fried okra, smoked pinto beans
Desserts: apple cobbler, blueberry cobbler, sweet potato pie, possibly fried pies
Bread: sliced “light bread” for dipping—traditional Texas style
Experience: dine-in with 60s–80s “feel-good” music
8. A commitment to doing things the right way
Fitzpatrick refuses to launch unless he can deliver “the best product on the planet.”
Focuses on simplicity, authenticity, and quality.
Notable Quotes About his father and legacy
“He said anybody who wants to eat here can eat here.”
(His father defying segregation laws in the 1950s.)

“I can call an undertaker or an ambulance. Which one do you prefer?”
(Dewey enforcing respect from a belligerent white customer.)

“That was my barbecue.”
(On being raised around his father’s legendary pit.)

About family and humility
“We are firmly rooted in Christ. If you try to get too big, He has a way of humbling you.”

“Seven kids, all with degrees… that’s normal to you. But we know that’s not normal.”
(McDonald highlighting the family’s extraordinary achievement.)

About his calling
“If I didn’t think I was bringing the best product on the planet, I wouldn’t even do it.”

“My wife tasted the barbecue and said, ‘This is what you need to be doing.’”

About launching in Skokie
“They really want me to be there… the economic development team didn’t treat it like just another restaurant.”
Short 3–5 Sentence Summary (For Quick Use)
In his interview with Rushion McDonald, Robert Fitzpatrick shares his journey from Navy veteran and Fortune 500 consultant to entrepreneur reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue. He describes growing up with a courageous father who defied segregation in 1951 by serving Black and white customers together, and a family culture steeped in education, discipline, and humility. Fitzpatrick’s passion for barbecue and encouragement from his wife led him to bring his father’s 70-year-old recipes to Skokie, Illinois through Dewey’s Barbecue Market. The interview emphasizes legacy, faith, courage, and the pursuit of purpose.
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
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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 D. McElroy (aka “Dr. Yo-Yo”).
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
To spotlight Dr. McElroy’s work as a pharmacist, educator, and author of the children’s book It’s Not Candy, which promotes medication safety. The interview also highlights her consulting company, MediManage, and her mission to improve health outcomes through education and community engagement.
🧠 Key Takeaways 1. Professional Background
Dr. McElroy is a registered pharmacist in Louisiana with over 30 years of experience in retail and hospital settings.
She began her academic journey at Grambling State University (HBCU) studying chemistry before transferring to pharmacy school.
2. MediManage Consulting
Founded to promote medication safety and improve health outcomes.
Focuses on educating communities about proper medication use, adherence, and preventing medication-related problems.
3. Medication Safety Advocacy
Medications are a leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in children.
Parents often leave medications and chemicals within reach of children.
Emphasizes the importance of locking up medications and educating both adults and children.
4. Target Age Groups
Focuses on children ages 3–10 to instill early awareness of medication safety.
Also highlights teens as a vulnerable group due to increased drug experimentation and access to medications at home.
Notes the importance of educating parents and senior citizens as well.
5. Book: It’s Not Candy
Inspired by her ministry work with youth in mental health hospitals.
Based on real-life experiences and includes a song to make learning fun and memorable.
Demonstrates how medications can resemble candy, making it difficult for children (and adults) to distinguish.
Aims to equip families with knowledge to prevent accidental overdoses and misuse.
6. Challenges in Pharmacy Profession
Pharmacists face heavy workloads, including vaccinations, insurance calls, and patient counseling.
Many are overworked and under-supported, leading to burnout and even strike considerations.
7. Book Creation Journey
Took years to develop after encouragement from her pastor.
Extensive research into publishing options and budgeting.
Partnered with a publishing company and built a team including an editor and illustrator.
Advises aspiring authors to be patient, budget generously, and seek support and education.
💬 Notable Quotes
“Medications are a leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in children.”
“If you’re not sure, ask a professional. Ask your pharmacist.”
“We want to get them early and instill that training so they can make good decisions.”
“Many medication-related injuries are preventable.”
“If there’s no room at the table, bring a folding chair.”
“Our children are important and their lives are valuable.”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Marcus Sonnier.
Founder of Snowie Atlanta:
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
To showcase Marcus Sonnier’s journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship, highlight the inspiration behind Snowie Atlanta, and share insights on financial literacy, legacy-building, and faith-driven decision-making.
🔑 Key Takeaways 1. From Corporate VP to Entrepreneur
Marcus left a successful career as VP of PR supervision at a financial services firm to start Snowie Atlanta.
He worked both jobs for five years before fully transitioning.
His leap was guided by faith and a desire for self-reliance.
“I looked at my wife and said, ‘Hey, I'm getting one more bonus check. And then I'm jumping off the plane.’”
2. The Product: Shaved Ice with a Twist
Snowie Atlanta offers customizable shaved ice with self-serve flavor stations.
Inspired by childhood experiences in Louisiana with snowball stands.
“We give away the shaved ice, but we sell you the smiles.”
3. Family Legacy & Financial Literacy
Marcus started the business to teach his sons about money—earning, saving, investing, and giving.
His sons were involved from the beginning, learning entrepreneurship firsthand.
“I said, guys, look, we're going to be entrepreneurs in this business. We're going to do it together.”
4. Faith as a Driving Force
Marcus credits divine guidance for his journey and connections.
He views his business as a calling and a platform for community impact.
“I could feel God in my spirit saying, ‘Oh, you trust me, you really do.’”
5. Community Impact & Expansion
The goal is to become a staple attraction and enhance the fan experience.
“I want all kids to want to go to a Braves game… to get a Snowie and have an experience.”
6. Giving Back
Snowie Atlanta participates in fundraising for schools, churches, and nonprofits.
Marcus finds joy in writing checks back to organizations that serve the community.
💬 Notable Quotes
“You may not get everything you work for, but you will work for everything you get.”
“We serve memories.”
“I’m just trying to be obedient and do what I think God wants me to do in this business.”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Valerie Obaze.
Founder of R&R Skincare.
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
Highlight Valerie Obaze’s entrepreneurial journey in founding R&R Skincare.
Challenge stereotypes about Africa’s capabilities and resources.
Promote African-made beauty products and their global relevance.
Inspire others, especially women and diaspora Africans, to invest in and build businesses rooted in African heritage.
🧠 Key Takeaways 1. Breaking African Stereotypes
Valerie and Rushion discuss how Africa is often misrepresented in Western media.
Valerie emphasizes that ignorance is not always malicious, but it’s time to reframe the narrative through firsthand experience and platforms like social media.
“Ignorance doesn’t always have to be an insult. If you don’t know, you just don’t know better.” – Valerie Obaze
2. The Birth of R&R Skincare
Inspired by the birth of her daughter, Valerie sought natural skincare solutions.
She discovered liquid shea oil, which became her first product.
The brand name “R&R” stands for Rebecca Rose (her daughter’s name) and also Rest & Relaxation.
“I wanted to create a product that makes using these raw materials from the continent enjoyable.” – Valerie Obaze
3. From Garage to Global
Valerie started in her mother-in-law’s garage, turning it into a compliant mini factory.
She had no formal business plan, relying on her PR and branding background.
The brand now has three stores: one in Lagos and two in Accra, including one at the airport.
4. Authenticity and African Pride
Valerie insists on maintaining the African identity of her brand.
She uses locally sourced ingredients and ensures cruelty-free testing.
The brand supports women in the supply chain, creating economic opportunities.
“We don’t intend to hide that in any way. We just wanted to make raw materials sexy.” – Valerie Obaze
5. Expansion to the U.S.
Valerie is expanding R&R Skincare to the U.S., leveraging social media, activations, and PR expertise.
Products are manufactured in Africa, but distributed from U.S. warehouses to ensure timely delivery.
“We found our tribe over here… and this was the right time to come back to America.” – Valerie Obaze
🧴 Product Highlights
Shea Oil – First product, moisturizing and healing.
Body Butter – Whipped, light, and rich in essential oils.
Liquid Black Soap – Modern take on traditional African cleansing.
Hand Cream – Convenient and portable for dry conditions.
🌍 Big Picture Vision
Valerie’s goal is to grow an African brand globally, showcasing the richness of African resources and empowering local economies.
“This is just a small representative of the entire continent and what it is capable of.” – Valerie Obaze
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Latrisha McIntosh and LaTasha Taylor.
Founders of BSM Media Group and the award‑winning BSM Magazine. The conversation covers beauty standards, entrepreneurship, their journey from a one-page blog during the recession to becoming media entrepreneurs, the highs and lows of their career, their spiritual grounding, their historic interview with Oprah Winfrey, and their mission to create dignified, uplifting media.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview serves to:
⭐ Highlight the twins’ entrepreneurial journey
How they built BSM Magazine and BSM Media Group from scratch during the 2008 recession.
⭐ Discuss their philosophy on beauty, representation, and purpose
They emphasize inner beauty, authenticity, and rejecting societal pressure—values that shape their platform and interviews.
⭐ Inspire entrepreneurs
Through transparency about lows (being undervalued) and highs (interviewing Oprah), they demonstrate resilience, faith, and consistency.
⭐ Showcase their impact
Including discovering rising talent early (e.g., Tabitha Brown), providing media opportunities, and evolving into producers, writers, and content creators.
Key Takeaways 1. The Origin of BSM Magazine
Started as a one‑page business blog during the 2008 recession to serve rising entrepreneurs.
They credit the magazine’s creation as “something that God gave us.”
Their natural creativity as twins carried over from childhood.
2. Inner Beauty and Authenticity
They define beauty as inner strength, confidence, and embracing the way God created you.
Social media culture magnifies appearance, but they insist “outer beauty must align with inner beauty.”
3. Sustaining Success
Their differentiation comes from focusing on: Quality content
Spotlighting overlooked talent
Doing things mainstream outlets often ignore

They interviewed Tabitha Brown before she became widely known and gave actress Essence Atkins her first magazine cover.
4. Challenges and Low Points
Being undervalued and overlooked in the media industry.
Being judged by numbers or pushed to the back of the line.
Yet, they emphasize:
“That ‘no’ comes back around … bigger and better.”
5. High Points
Their divine‑timed interview with Oprah in April 2018: They put Oprah on a vision board in January.
LaTasha tweeted her daily for six months.
Oprah unexpectedly turned around on the red carpet and approached them for an interview.
This became a milestone moment in their career.

6. Operating a Media Company as Twins
They learned to respect each other’s strengths: LaTasha: writing, articles, layouts
Latrisha: creative direction and balance

Their partnership is spiritually rooted and purpose-driven.
7. Expanding Beyond a Magazine
The magazine now lives under BSM Media Group, which produces: Celebrity content
Corporate and government media
The Twins a Media Show

They evolved into scriptwriters, producers, and consultants.
8. Longevity Comes From Quality
They prioritize: Clean, dignified media
Positive storytelling
Production standards

They tell entrepreneurs not to focus on numbers—focus on quality, and longevity will follow.
Notable Quotes On Beauty
“Inner beauty has such a powerful way of allowing us to be our true selves.”
“Embrace your eyes, your nose, your hips—all the way God made you.”
“Imagine if everybody operated in their own lane. That signifies beauty at its highest level.”
On Entrepreneurship
“We realized we were in the business of seeing people—because we were the underdogs.”
“Don’t worry about your numbers. Quality will always stand.”
“Sometimes your visions are crazy, and they don’t make sense to people—but believe anyway.”
On Overcoming Doubt
“A low point is being undervalued—but God has a sense of humor. That ‘no’ comes back around.”
“We’ve heard it all. You need layers of skin to accept when someone thinks you're not good enough.”
On Their Oprah Moment
“She turned around, walked past everyone, and came straight to us.”
“Nobody but God—and a little effort from Tasha!”
On Partnership
“God made us twins for a reason. I couldn’t do this journey without her.”
“Working in business taught me more about my sister than growing up together ever did.”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.