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 Tonya Edmonds.
Podcast: Money Making Conversations Masterclass
Host: Rushion McDonald
Guest: Tonya Edmonds (Founder, Smart Growth AI)
1. Purpose of the Interview
The purpose of the interview is to educate, motivate, and equip listeners—especially professionals, entrepreneurs, and women—with:
A practical understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) without technical intimidation
Strategies to reclaim time, increase productivity, and future‑proof careers
Lessons on wealth building, including multiple streams of income and investing
The importance of mentorship, partnerships, and adaptability
Real-world insights from Tonya’s entrepreneurial and corporate journey
At its core, the conversation connects AI adoption with financial empowerment, career resilience, and modern entrepreneurship.
2. Interview Overview
Tonya Edmonds shares her transition from corporate roles (including work at Johnson & Johnson) to founding Smart Growth AI, a consulting and training firm that helps busy professionals and entrepreneurs reclaim 10+ hours per week by implementing practical AI systems.
Rushion McDonald frames the discussion around:
Technology adoption
Financial literacy
Entrepreneurship
Personal resilience
Long-term thinking in a rapidly changing economy
3. Key Takeaways A. AI Is a People Challenge, Not a Technology Problem
Tonya explains that resistance to AI is driven by fear, not complexity. Employees worry AI will replace them, so leaders must reframe it as a co-creator and productivity partner, not a job threat.
AI succeeds when people understand how it elevates their role instead of eliminating it.
B. AI Is About Time Leverage, Not Working More
Smart Growth AI focuses on helping clients:
Automate repetitive tasks
Improve workflows
Regain lost hours
Redirect time toward strategy, creativity, and rest
Tonya warns against burnout, emphasizing that reclaimed time should be used intentionally—not just to take on more work.
C. Multiple Streams of Income Build Stability
A casual cookout conversation introduced Tonya to the idea of wealth-building beyond employment. Playing Robert Kiyosaki’s Cashflow Quadrant helped her understand:
Being an employee alone limits wealth creation
Leveraging money and assets creates freedom
Community and shared learning accelerate growth
This mindset later helped her navigate layoffs, entrepreneurship, and motherhood.
D. Mentorship Is a Critical Success Factor
Tonya repeatedly highlights mentorship as a defining difference between struggle and progress:
The lack of mentorship contributed to challenges with her day spa business
Strong mentorship later helped her pivot, recover, and scale
Her relationship with Alicia Lyttle (“The Queen of AI”) accelerated her expertise and credibility
Mastermind groups and strategic partnerships played a key role in expansion.
E. Women Must Shift from Spending to Investing
Tonya offers direct advice to women:
Start small and stay consistent
Invest only in things you understand—or get educated
Consider real estate, passive investments, and partnerships
Use tools like self-directed IRAs or rolled-over 401(k)s to build wealth
Progress matters more than perfection.
F. Learning AI Is Career Insurance
Tonya encourages professionals to:
Learn AI on their own time if necessary
Experiment hands-on, not just consume content
Become the AI “go‑to” person at work
Increase job security by increasing relevance
Early adopters gain disproportionate advantage.
G. No Single AI Tool Does Everything Best
She explains how different tools serve different purposes:
ChatGPT – brainstorming and idea generation
Claude – deeper, more refined writing
Perplexity – research
Gemini – graphics and video
Copilot – integrated enterprise workflows
Her advice: use multiple tools strategically.
H. Privacy and Security Matter
Tonya stresses AI safety best practices:
Turn off model-training permissions
Never input personal or client-identifying data
Use placeholder names (e.g., “Company X”)
Treat AI tools as public spaces unless secured
4. Notable Quotes
On AI Adoption
“It’s not a technology problem—it’s a people problem.”
On Fear of AI
“You’re asking people to train a tool they think could replace them.”
On Time Freedom
“If you learn AI, it will help you leverage your time—but don’t use that time to burn yourself out.”
On Wealth Building
“You can’t really get ahead just being an employee. You have to leverage your money.”
On Mentorship
“You have to be careful who you plant seeds with—because they can come back and help you.”
On Women and Investing
“Even if it’s just $100 a week or $100 a month, every little bit counts.”
On Learning AI
“Don’t just listen—open up your laptop and start playing with it.”
#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, Itiona Scott.
The conversation focused on her entrepreneurial journey, the development of the Essie Marie brand, its health-focused product line, the company's placement in Whole Foods, and her vision for nationwide growth.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview served several purposes:
To highlight Itiona Scott's journey from therapist to entrepreneur.
To increase awareness of heart disease and its impact on underserved communities.
To showcase Essie Marie as a healthier, heart-conscious food brand.
To inspire entrepreneurs, especially women and minority founders, to pursue purpose-driven businesses.
To discuss strategies for building and scaling a consumer packaged goods brand.
Key Takeaways 1. Personal Tragedy Can Fuel Purpose
Scott transformed the loss of her mother into a mission to improve health outcomes through better nutrition and education.
2. Business and Social Impact Can Coexist
Essie Marie was built not only to generate revenue but also to address a public health issue affecting many families.
3. Healthy Food Doesn't Have to Sacrifice Flavor
The brand focuses on products that are flavorful while also being vegan, low-sodium, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
4. Differentiation Matters
Essie Marie has carved out a unique niche as a Black woman-owned heart-healthy dressing and marinade brand.
5. Persistence Leads to Growth Opportunities
Scott discussed the steps involved in getting her products into Whole Foods, demonstrating the importance of preparation, branding, and perseverance.
6. Legacy Is a Powerful Business Motivator
The company reflects Scott's commitment to honoring her mother's memory while helping others live healthier lives.
7. National Expansion Is Part of the Vision
Scott's long-term goal is to make heart-healthy products accessible to more consumers across the country.
Notable Quotes
"My mother's death became the motivation for the company."
"Essie Marie was created to impact the heart health epidemic within the women and minority communities."
"Itiona plans to take Essie Marie products national, to help as many people as possible fight against the silent killer, heart disease."
"This family recipe salad dressing is tasty, healthy and the perfect addition to any family gathering."
Executive Takeaway
Itiona Scott's interview is ultimately a story of turning pain into purpose. By combining her family's legacy, a commitment to healthier living, and entrepreneurial determination, she created a brand that seeks to make a meaningful difference in people's lives while building a successful business. The interview demonstrates how mission-driven companies can create both social impact and commercial success.
#BEST
#STRAW
#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 Cary Carbonaro.
A certified financial planner with 25+ years of experience, discusses her book Women and Wealth and her mission to empower women financially. The interview focuses on the growing economic power of women, systemic gaps in the financial industry, and the importance of financial planning and independence.
🎯 Purpose of the Interview 1. Empower Women Financially
Raise awareness about women’s role in the future of wealth ownership.
Encourage women to take control of their financial futures.
2. Highlight Industry Gaps
Expose how the financial services industry has historically underserved women.
Advocate for a more inclusive, “female-friendly” approach to financial planning.
3. Promote Financial Planning for Everyone
Emphasize that financial planning is not just for the wealthy.
Encourage proactive, long-term planning to achieve financial freedom.
🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Women Will Control the Majority of Wealth
By 2030, women are projected to control two-thirds of U.S. wealth (~$30 trillion).
👉 Lesson: The financial industry must adapt to serve a rapidly changing client base.
2. The Financial Industry Is Not Built for Women
Historically designed “by men for men.”
Many women feel unheard, misunderstood, or underserved.
👉 Lesson: Financial services must evolve in communication, empathy, and strategy.
3. Women Often Leave Financial Advisors
About 80% of women leave their financial advisor after a spouse dies. [
Reasons:
Lack of connection
Poor communication
Feeling excluded or pressured
👉 Lesson: Relationship-building and inclusion are critical in financial advising.
4. Financial Planning Is Essential for Everyone
Not just for the wealthy—everyone needs a roadmap.
Planning covers: Cash flow
Investments
Taxes
Insurance
Estate planning

👉 Lesson: A comprehensive plan aligns all aspects of your financial life.
5.“If You Fail to Plan, You Plan to Fail”
Financial success requires intentional planning.
Each person’s “financial freedom” looks different.
👉 Lesson: Define your goals and build a strategy to reach them.
6. Women Face a Significant Wealth Gap
Beyond the wage gap, women experience a**“wealth gap”** due to: Career interruptions
Caregiving responsibilities

This can cost women around $1 million over a lifetime. [
👉 Lesson: Structural and societal factors impact long-term wealth accumulation.
7. Financial Literacy Equals Power and Choice
Wealth gives options in lifestyle, career, and life decisions.
👉 Lesson: Money is not just income—it’s control over your life.
8. Women Often Seek Help Too Late
Many women consult financial advisors only after crises (death, divorce, job loss).
👉 Lesson: Proactive planning is far more effective than reactive decision-making.
9. Representation Matters in Finance
Only about 24% of certified financial planners are women. [
👉 Lesson: More female professionals are needed to better serve female clients.
10. Confidence & Visibility Drive Success
Carbonaro built her business by: Positioning herself as a financial expert for women
Speaking publicly and sharing her message
Staying authentic to her mission

👉 Lesson: Clear positioning and purpose attract the right audience.
💬 Notable Quotes On Wealth Shift
“By 2030, women are going to control two-thirds of the nation’s wealth.”
On Industry Gaps
“My industry… has been built by men for men.”
On Planning
“If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” [
On Financial Independence
“Women should control their own destiny… money equals power.” [CARY CARBONARO | Txt]
On Advisor Relationships
“80% of women leave their financial advisor after a spouse dies.” [CARY CARBONARO | Txt]
On Life Impact of Wealth Gap
“That… over her lifetime costs her $1 million.” [
On Financial Timing
“Women call me when it’s raining… I want them to call when it’s sunny.” [
🧠 Bottom Line
This interview highlights a major societal and financial shift:
👉 Women are becoming the dominant force in wealth—but the system isn’t ready.
Carrie Carbonaro’s message:
Start planning early
Build financial literacy
Demand better service
Use wealth as a tool for independence and choice
#BEST
#STRAW
#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 Johnny Lynum.
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
To share Johnny Lynum’s journey from military service to becoming a successful real estate investor and wealth advisor, and to educate listeners on building generational wealth through real estate, financial literacy, and strategic investing.
🗝️ Key Takeaways 1. Military Background & Transition
Johnny Lynum is a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Air Force, with 20 years of service as a developmental engineer and intelligence officer.
His military career provided discipline and structure, but his passion for entrepreneurship led him to real estate investing.
2. Real Estate Journey
Started with a VA loan to buy his first property.
Built a portfolio of 115 doors worth over $10 million, primarily in Panama City, Florida and Montgomery, Alabama.
Leveraged his knowledge and connections to invest remotely while living in Northern Virginia.
3. Investment Philosophy
Real estate is a tangible, relatable investment.
Emphasizes leverage—using other people’s money to control larger assets.
Advocates for buying back time through passive income strategies tailored to different life stages (30s, 40s, 50s).
Encourages strategic investing and not just chasing instant gratification.
4. Books & Education
Author of: Millionaire Real Estate Success Strategies: What They Forgot to Teach You in School
Upcoming: The Financial Security Blueprint – focuses on biblical principles, alternative investments, and building lasting wealth.

Offers free downloads of his book via johnnylynam.com/newbook.
5. Faith & Legacy
Strong emphasis on faith and service.
Inspired by his mother’s legacy planning and life insurance setup for her grandchildren.
Focused on building generational wealth and educating his children and others.
6. Tax-Smart Investing
Discusses strategies like bonus depreciation, oil and gas investments, and self-directed IRAs to minimize tax liabilities.
Encourages understanding the IRS tax code to identify government-incentivized investment areas.
7. Building a Brand
Active on LinkedIn, YouTube Shorts, and Facebook.
Partnered with LinkedIn to create real estate content.
Promotes financial literacy and faith-based wealth building.
💬 Notable Quotes
“I had to go from broke Johnny to woke Johnny.”
“You don’t have to be an expert at everything, but you can be the leader in the room.”
“My God is a God of abundance.”
“Real estate became my vehicle and my pathway to building wealth.”
“You’re a blessing to your blessing.” — on generational wealth.
“Success leaves clues.”
“You have to take that leap of faith and take that action.”
📌 Final Thoughts
Johnny Lynum’s story is a powerful example of how discipline, faith, and strategic action can transform lives. His journey from humble beginnings and military service to building a multimillion-dollar real estate empire is both inspiring and instructive. He emphasizes the importance of education, mentorship, and legacy, making this interview a masterclass in wealth creation and purposeful living.
#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 Troy Hudson.
A deeply personal and insightful interview with former NBA player and author Troy “T-Hud” Hudson. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways:
🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. First-Generation Wealth
Troy Hudson’s book, First Generation Rich, explores the emotional and financial complexities of being the first in a family to acquire significant wealth.
He distinguishes between being “rich” (temporary, income-based) and “wealthy” (long-term, legacy-building).
2. From Humble Beginnings to the NBA
Raised in public housing in Carbondale, Illinois.
Came from a tight-knit, low-income family where needs were prioritized over wants.
Basketball became his vehicle to travel, grow, and eventually earn a $36 million contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2003.
3. The Pressure of Sudden Wealth
Hudson discusses the mental and emotional toll of being the financial “savior” for family and friends.
He coined the term “media lock-in” to describe how public knowledge of his contract changed how people treated him.
Many relationships became transactional, leading to isolation and stress.
4. Financial Lessons & Mistakes
Worst investment: launching a music label using his own money.
Learned the importance of using other people’s money (OPM) and having a financial advisor.
Even with an advisor, he sometimes made impulsive decisions due to youth and pressure.
5. The Athlete’s Dilemma
Athletes often receive large sums of money at a young age with little financial education.
Unlike team owners who collaborate, athletes often operate independently, missing opportunities for collective wealth-building.
6. Why He Wrote the Book
To document his journey and help others—especially future first-generation earners—navigate the emotional and financial challenges of sudden wealth.
Aims to break generational curses and preserve relationships strained by money.
💬 Notable Quotes
“Rich is temporary. Wealth is legacy.”
“It’s lonely at the top—especially when you’re not getting along with family and friends.”
“We don’t operate like the owners. The owners work together. The athletes don’t.”
📘 About the Book
Title: First Generation Rich
Author: Troy Hudson
Available on: Amazon (Kindle & paperback) and 1GRich.com
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMI

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.