The Steve Harvey Morning Show

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 Holly Cotton.
Discussed her new book, The Hard Choice: When the High Road Feels Like Losing. The conversation explored how people can navigate difficult life situations, protect their peace, manage stress, and make tough decisions even when doing the right thing does not seem to deliver immediate rewards. Holly also shared insights on entrepreneurship, authorship, and building a business around your expertise.
Interview Summary
Holly Cotton joined Money Making Conversations Master Class to discuss the powerful lessons behind her book, The Hard Choice. She explained that many people experience situations where they are hurt, disrespected, or treated unfairly and are forced to decide whether to retaliate or take the high road.
A central message from the interview was that doing the right thing is often emotionally difficult because the people who caused harm may never face visible consequences. Holly encouraged listeners to stop basing their peace and happiness on whether others receive karma or punishment and instead focus on protecting their own well-being.
The conversation also highlighted Holly's commitment to mental wellness. She discussed her free "Pause Before You Pop" resource, which helps people recognize emotional triggers and avoid making impulsive decisions they may later regret.
Rushion and Holly also connected over their experiences as cancer survivors, discussing how life-changing health challenges can reshape priorities, strengthen authenticity, and increase appreciation for peace and purpose.
In the second half of the interview, Holly shifted to entrepreneurship and publishing. She shared practical advice for aspiring authors, stressing that writing a book is only the beginning. Success comes from understanding your audience, creating a marketing strategy, and transforming your knowledge into multiple streams of income.
Key Takeaways 1. Taking the High Road Is Not Easy
Doing the right thing often feels unfair when others continue to prosper despite their behavior, but integrity ultimately serves you better than retaliation.
2. Peace Is Priceless
Protecting your mental and emotional well-being should always be a priority.
3. Stop Waiting for Karma
Your decisions should not depend on whether someone else experiences consequences for their actions.
4. You Are Not Stuck
Whether in a career, relationship, or personal situation, you have the power to create a plan and move toward a better future.
5. Manage Triggers Before They Manage You
Learning to pause before reacting can prevent emotional decisions that create long-term problems.
6. Adversity Can Create Growth
Life-changing experiences, including health challenges, can provide a new perspective on what truly matters.
7. Writing a Book Is a Business
Authors who want success must think about distribution, marketing, audience development, and revenue opportunities.
8. Know Your Target Audience
Before writing a book, know who will benefit from it and who is most likely to purchase it.
9. Create Multiple Revenue Streams
Books can lead to speaking engagements, courses, coaching programs, workshops, and digital products.
10. Success Requires Structure
Goals are achieved through planning, outlines, accountability, and consistent execution.
Memorable Quotes
"The hard choice comes in when the high road doesn't feel like winning."
"Peace is priceless, especially my peace."
"You cannot let your decision be contingent upon them getting some type of repercussion for what they did."
"Don't come to me with excuses."
"You are not stuck."
"The only person who cares about your happiness is you."
"I'm not in the book-writing business. I'm in the book-selling business."
"The most important part of writing a book is identifying your target audience."
"Everybody has a story. What is your differentiator?"
Final Thoughts
Holly Cotton delivered an inspiring and practical conversation centered on resilience, emotional intelligence, personal accountability, and entrepreneurship. Her message was clear: choosing peace over revenge, taking ownership of your happiness, and making difficult but necessary decisions are essential to personal growth. Whether discussing mental wellness or book publishing, Holly emphasized that lasting success comes from intentional choices, strategic action, and a commitment to living authentically.
#STRAW
#BEST
#SHMS

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast
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 Lawrence Phillips.
Purpose of the Interview
To showcase Lawrence Phillips’ entrepreneurial journey from engineering to founding Green Book Global, a travel review platform for Black travelers.
To highlight the significance of Black Ambition, an initiative by Pharrell Williams supporting Black and Brown entrepreneurs.
To inspire listeners about resilience, innovation, and the importance of culturally inclusive travel resources.
Key Takeaways
Background & Career Shift
Phillips studied Electrical Engineering at Georgia Tech and worked at Accenture in IT consulting for nearly a decade.
Despite career success, he felt unfulfilled and decided to pursue his passion for travel, leading to the creation of Green Book Global.

Travel Experience
Traveled to 30+ countries across all seven continents, including Antarctica, in less than a year.
Realized the need for a platform addressing “traveling while Black” concerns—safety, cultural acceptance, and inclusivity.

Green Book Global
Inspired by the historical Green Book (1936–1966), which guided Black travelers during segregation.
Offers city-level Black-friendly scores, road trip planners, and Black-owned restaurant recommendations.
Over 150,000 app downloads in 2025; partnered with Expedia; strong social media presence.

Black Ambition Program
Phillips applied three times before reaching semifinals, emphasizing persistence.
Program provided funding opportunities and a transformative Evoke Wellness experience.
His personal “why” statement:
“I’m a protective and innovative steward of Black restoration and healing.”

Impact & Vision
Advocates systemic change by partnering with destinations to improve inclusivity.
Highlights the economic power of Black travelers (over $140 billion annually).
Encourages Black travelers to explore global opportunities beyond U.S. racial constraints.

Notable Quotes
“You can be successful and still not be happy.” — On leaving a lucrative career for passion.
“I’m a protective and innovative steward of Black restoration and healing.” — His guiding principle.
“There’s riches in niches.” — On unapologetically focusing on Black travelers.
“Just because somebody said no doesn’t mean they said no to you—they said no at that time.” — On persistence in entrepreneurship.
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast
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
Snowie Atlanta is expanding into Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves.
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
Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast
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 Latrease Price-Gistard.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to educate listeners on the mortgage industry, highlight the role and benefits of working with an independent mortgage broker, and provide practical advice on home financing options, credit challenges, and programs that support homeownership. It also shares Latrease’s entrepreneurial journey and lessons learned.
Key Takeaways
Background and Career Path
Latrease has a finance degree and started in investment operations in 1999.
Transitioned from auto financing and co-owning a car dealership to mortgage lending.
Became an independent mortgage broker in 2022 after being laid off during rising interest rates.

Role of an Independent Mortgage Broker
Holds her own license and partners with multiple lenders to offer tailored loan products.
Advocates for borrowers to ensure they get the right product, not just approval.
Specializes in helping first-time buyers, self-employed individuals, and those with unique challenges.

Home Financing Insights
Reverse Mortgages: Typically for seniors 62+, often used by those 75+ with equity and limited retirement funds. Provides tax-free cash without monthly payments; debt settled upon sale or refinance.
Zero Down Payment Programs: Offers up to 3% for down payment, attached to the mortgage; other programs provide up to 5% for down payment and closing costs.
FHA 203K Program: Allows buyers to finance home purchase and renovations in one loan—ideal for fixer-uppers.

Credit Challenges
Programs exist for credit scores as low as 500, but require higher down payments (10–20%) and result in higher interest rates.
Latrease consults and provides “what-if” scenarios to help clients improve credit over time.

Entrepreneurial Lessons
Mistakes: Starting without enough capital and a strong pipeline; economic timing matters.
Advice: Build capital, secure a solid client pipeline, and understand market conditions before going independent.

Notable Quotes
On independence:
“As a broker, you serve as that advocate for your borrower to make sure they’re getting the right loan product.”

On reverse mortgages:
“The beauty of it is there are no monthly payments going back to the institution. The debt is paid off when the home is sold or refinanced.”

On credit challenges:
“Programs go as low as 500 credit score, but those borrowers need 10–20% down.”

On entrepreneurial advice:
“Make sure you have strong capital and a solid pipeline before stepping out on faith.”

On perseverance:
“It’s all about follow-through. It’s all about your dream and whether you want to make it happen.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast
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 Gerron Duhon.
Purpose of the Interview
The conversation aimed to:
Highlight the importance of financial literacy for young adults.
Share Jerron Duhon’s personal journey from Lake Charles, Louisiana, to Yale University and into holistic financial planning.
Promote his book “The Purpose of Paper”, which focuses on building generational wealth and breaking harmful financial habits.
Key Takeaways
Personal Journey & Identity Shift
Jerron used football as a “meal ticket” to escape his hometown, but a concussion ended his athletic career, causing an identity crisis.
He pivoted toward financial education and wealth creation, emphasizing long-term planning.

Misconceptions About Wealth
Many young adults believe wealth comes quickly through gambling, sports betting, or flashy investments.
Social media fuels the desire to display wealth rather than build wealth, leading to poor financial decisions.

Financial Habits & Framework
Jerron introduced his AIMS framework: Awareness: Know your current financial state.
Intention: Set clear goals and reverse-engineer steps.
Mindset Change: Focus on future self, not old habits.
Systems: Automate savings and investments to reduce reliance on willpower.


Faith and Finance Connection
Principles like self-control, patience, and hope—fruits of the spirit—are essential for financial discipline.
“Faith without works is dead” applies to money: belief must be paired with action.

Generational Wealth
Gerron stresses taking ownership of your financial future rather than leaving the burden to your children.
Investing should be strategic and long-term, not like playing the lottery.

Practical Advice
Start small but consistent (e.g., $150/month).
Use modern tools like Robinhood for stock investing.
Shift from being a consumer to an owner (invest in companies you use).

Notable Quotes
“Football was my meal ticket… but I realized I didn’t dream far enough.”
“We connect our financial decisions to display wealth instead of to build wealth.”
“Faith without works is dead—just like in finances.”
“Are you going to be the one that changes your generation, or will you leave that pressure on your children?”
“Good advice is timeless.”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.
Business Podcast
Entrepreneurship
Small Business
Business Growth
Financial Literacy
Wealth Building
Black Entrepreneurs
Minority Business
Leadership
Executive Leadership
Business Funding
Marketing Strategies
Personal Development
Startup Advice
Sales Training
CEO Interviews
Founder Stories
Professional Development
Economic Empowerment
Business Success
Networking
Brand Building
Innovation
How to start a business
Small business funding
Entrepreneur success stories
Business leadership podcast
Wealth building strategies
Black entrepreneur podcast
Minority business development
Marketing for small businesses
Business growth strategies
Startup funding opportunities
Executive leadership training
Financial literacy education
Success mindset podcast
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.