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 Attorney James Carter.
The 84th President of the National Bar Association, to discuss the critical role of legal protection in business, the importance of civic engagement and voting rights, the impact of the Black legal profession, and the responsibility of leaders to mentor future generations. The conversation focused on empowering entrepreneurs, protecting communities through legal advocacy, and creating opportunities through education and service.
Key Takeaways 1. Every Business Needs a Strong Legal Foundation
Attorney Carter emphasized that successful entrepreneurship begins with proper legal documentation. Contracts, operating agreements, and legal compliance are not optional expenses but essential investments that protect business owners from future disputes and misunderstandings.
Lesson: Handshake agreements can lead to costly problems. Written agreements establish expectations and provide protection when challenges arise.
2. AI Is a Tool, Not a Substitute for Legal Expertise
While artificial intelligence can help people begin researching legal matters, Carter warned against relying on AI as a final authority. He noted that AI systems can produce inaccurate information and that even attorneys have faced professional consequences for depending too heavily on AI-generated content.
Lesson: Use technology to gather information, but rely on qualified professionals when making important legal decisions.
3. The National Bar Association Exists to Protect Rights and Advance Justice
Carter discussed the long history and mission of the National Bar Association, which was founded in 1925 to advocate for African American attorneys and communities. He highlighted its role in significant civil rights efforts and its continued commitment to advancing freedom, justice, and equality.
Lesson: Legal advocacy remains essential in protecting civil rights and ensuring equal access to opportunities.
4. Voting Is a Responsibility, Not Just a Right
One of Carter's major priorities as NBA president is election protection. He described efforts to educate voters, provide resources, and help people overcome barriers to voting. He stressed that many people sacrificed greatly to secure voting rights, making civic participation a responsibility that should not be taken for granted.
Lesson: Voting is one of the most powerful ways individuals can influence their communities and future generations.
5. Reputation Matters More Than Advertising
Discussing legal advertising, Carter advised consumers to look beyond marketing campaigns and evaluate attorneys based on experience, qualifications, and proven results.
Lesson: Whether choosing an attorney or any professional service provider, conduct research and evaluate credibility before making a decision.
6. Black Lawyers Play a Critical Role in Social Progress
Carter emphasized the historic and ongoing contributions of Black attorneys in advancing civil rights, protecting communities, and shaping American society. He encouraged greater recognition of the profession's impact and the importance of supporting diverse legal representation.
Lesson: Representation matters, and strong legal advocates continue to help create pathways to justice and opportunity.
7. Mentorship Should Be a Lifestyle
One of the most inspiring parts of the conversation centered on mentorship. Carter shared lessons from his mentor and encouraged professionals to practice what he called "simple service" by consistently guiding, encouraging, and creating opportunities for younger generations.
Lesson: Success is not just about personal achievement but also about helping others access opportunities and reach their potential.
Memorable Quotes On Contracts and Business Agreements
"It's a mutual document of distrust."
On Written Agreements
"Oftentimes when it comes down to money, in the end, folks get amnesia."
On Artificial Intelligence
"It's a good guide to help you start the process, but it is not the best guide to end the process."
On the Mission of the National Bar Association
"America lives its creed of freedom, justice and equality."
On Civic Engagement
"When we have the opportunity and the ability to rest upon the struggles of our ancestors who fought, bled and died, and you don't vote, that is very, very frustrating."
On Mentorship
"It should be a way of life for all of us to grab some young person."
On Giving Back
"Practice the living prayer."
On Community Service
"Simple service. Just simple service."
Final Thoughts
Attorney James Carter's interview was a powerful reminder that success requires preparation, protection, participation, and purpose. From establishing a legally sound business to exercising the right to vote and mentoring the next generation, Carter reinforced that leadership is about more than personal achievement. His message was clear: build strong foundations, stay engaged in your community, protect your rights, and create pathways for others to succeed. Those actions ultimately strengthen businesses, families, and communities while helping everyone continue to Keep Winning.
#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 LaToya Maddox.
Founder of Infinity Financial Wealth Management and author of Change Your Mind, Change Your Money, to discuss the importance of financial literacy, budgeting, wealth building, retirement planning, and the mindset shifts necessary to achieve long-term financial success. The conversation focused on helping individuals and families gain clarity about their finances, develop healthy money habits, and create sustainable wealth through intentional planning.
Key Takeaways 1. Financial Success Starts with Mindset
LaToya believes that financial challenges often have less to do with money itself and more to do with behavior. While most people know they should save and invest, lasting change only happens when they address the habits and beliefs driving their financial decisions.
Lesson: Change your thinking about money before trying to change your finances.
2. Clarity Creates Financial Confidence
Many people feel overwhelmed because they don't have a complete picture of their financial situation. LaToya helps clients organize their assets, liabilities, income, and expenses into a clear snapshot.
Lesson: You can't improve what you don't understand. Financial clarity is the first step toward building wealth.
3. A Budget Is About Priorities, Not Restrictions
Instead of viewing a budget as limiting, LaToya encourages people to see it as a spending plan that reflects their values and goals.
Lesson: A budget simply tells your money where to go instead of wondering where it went.
4. Small Spending Habits Can Become Wealth Killers
Many people focus on major purchases while ignoring daily spending habits. Frequent dining out, impulse purchases, subscriptions, and convenience spending can quietly undermine financial goals.
Lesson: Wealth is often built or lost through consistent daily decisions.
5. Be Honest About Your Finances
LaToya stressed that financial planning only works when clients are completely honest about how they earn, spend, save, and invest money.
Lesson: Accurate financial results require honest financial conversations.
6. Consistency Builds Successful Businesses
As an independent financial advisor for more than 20 years, LaToya attributes her longevity to consistency, networking, visibility, and staying focused through difficult periods.
Lesson: Business success comes from showing up consistently, even when progress feels slow.
7. It's Never Too Late to Improve Your Financial Future
For individuals in their 40s and 50s who feel behind, LaToya recommends focusing on current reality rather than regret.
Lesson: Start with where you are today. The best financial plan is the one you begin now.
8. Know Your Numbers
One of the most important financial exercises is calculating your net worth by understanding exactly what you own, what you owe, and your cash flow.
Lesson: Financial awareness creates financial power.
9. High Income Does Not Automatically Create Wealth
Many high earners experience "lifestyle creep," increasing their spending as their income rises instead of investing and building assets.
Lesson: Building wealth requires accumulating assets, not simply earning a larger paycheck.
10. Retirement Is Really About Freedom
LaToya prefers the term "Freedom Day" over retirement because different people have different visions for their future. The goal is creating sustainable income that supports the lifestyle you want.
Lesson: Successful retirement planning is about income, flexibility, and freedom, not just reaching a specific dollar amount.
11. Risk Management Is Essential
Life insurance and other protection strategies form a critical part of any financial plan. The objective is ensuring loved ones are protected if the unexpected occurs.
Lesson: Wealth building and wealth protection go hand in hand.
12. Accountability Drives Results
Financial plans only work when people follow them. LaToya believes in holding clients accountable and helping them stay committed to their goals.
Lesson: The best financial strategy is useless without consistent execution.
Memorable Quotes On Financial Literacy
"People are finally understanding that it all starts at home."
On Financial Behavior
"Rarely is it about the money."
On Budgeting
"Look at a budget as saying, 'This is how I want to spend my money.'"
On Spending Priorities
"Money is not infinite."
On Financial Planning
"First, we want to diagnose everything."
On Honesty
"Garbage in, garbage out."
On Business Success
"The only way to stay in this business is to be visible."
On Starting Late
"We have to deal with reality."
On Wealth Building
"Just because you're a high earner doesn't mean you're building wealth."
On Retirement
"I don't like to use the word retirement. I like to use the word Freedom Day."
On Accountability
"You're basically giving me permission to hold your feet to the fire."
On Financial Progress
"Before looking for the perfect investment, you have to understand your current financial picture."
Final Thoughts
LaToya Maddox delivered a practical and empowering message about taking control of your financial future. Her approach emphasizes that wealth building is not about chasing quick wins or finding secret investment strategies. Instead, it requires honest self-assessment, disciplined financial habits, strategic planning, and consistent action.
Whether someone is just beginning their financial journey, rebuilding after setbacks, or preparing for their Freedom Day, LaToya's advice remains the same: know your numbers, understand your behaviors, protect your assets, and stay committed to your goals. Financial success is not determined by how much money you make, but by how effectively you manage, grow, and protect it.
Keep Winning.
#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.

The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Wednesday September 23rd, 2026: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | (* show note) Trending & Entertainment News | If Steve Harvey Was A Billionaire | Chris Brown Vs Usher - King Of R&B Talk | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "You Can't Come Back To Church" | Strawberry Letter - "She Can't Do What I Did" Pt. 1-2 | Junior's Sports Talk | Social Media Advice | Toys R Us Coming Back | Would You Rather | Steve Harvey's Closing Remarks
* Due to technical issues, the first hour of today's show is unavailable.
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 entertainment attorney Jalene Mack.
Discuss the legal and business fundamentals that entrepreneurs, creatives, writers, producers, and small business owners need to understand to protect their ideas, brands, and financial interests.
Drawing from decades of experience representing entertainers, filmmakers, producers, writers, and business owners, Mack explains how people fall victim to bad deals, why contracts matter, and the steps entrepreneurs should take to build a legally sound and financially sustainable business.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview was designed to:
Educate entrepreneurs and creatives about avoiding bad contracts and scams.
Explain the importance of trademarks, copyrights, and intellectual property protection.
Help aspiring producers, writers, and business owners understand how to structure their businesses properly.
Provide practical advice on building a business foundation before seeking investors or opportunities.
Encourage listeners to use professional advisors rather than relying solely on online information and templates.
Key Takeaways 1. Due Diligence Is Essential
Mack emphasized that many scammers prey on hopeful entrepreneurs and creatives by promising funding, distribution, or industry connections. Before signing anything, individuals should thoroughly research the people and companies they are dealing with.
Lesson: Verify credentials, investigate backgrounds, and confirm funding sources before entering any agreement.
2. Don't Be Seduced by the "Big Opportunity"
Many people fall victim to bad deals because they believe they have found the one opportunity that will change their lives. Mack and McDonald warned against approaching business with a "lottery mentality."
Lesson: Excitement should never replace sound business judgment.
3. Never Sign Away Your Intellectual Property Blindly
One of the biggest mistakes creators make is signing contracts that transfer ownership of their scripts, books, ideas, or content without fully understanding the consequences.
Lesson: Once ownership rights are transferred, getting them back can be nearly impossible.
4. Hiring the Right Lawyer Matters
Mack stressed that not all attorneys have the same expertise. A lawyer who handles real estate, patents, or corporate law may not understand entertainment contracts and intellectual property issues.
Lesson: Work with attorneys who specialize in your industry.
5. Online Templates Are Not a Substitute for Legal Advice
While contract templates found online can provide a starting point, they rarely address the unique circumstances of a specific business or creative project.
Lesson: Every deal has unique risks and should be professionally reviewed.
6. Every Entrepreneur Needs a Clear Plan
Mack outlined the importance of first identifying exactly what you're trying to build, whether it's a film project, product, service, or business venture.
Lesson: A clear vision helps guide decision-making, budgeting, staffing, and marketing.
7. Business Plans and Financial Plans Are Critical
Entrepreneurs often focus on ideas while ignoring execution. Mack encouraged listeners to develop detailed plans for operations, funding, growth, and profitability.
Lesson: A great idea without a roadmap is unlikely to succeed.
8. Build the Right Team
No entrepreneur should try to do everything alone. Mack emphasized surrounding yourself with experienced professionals, including lawyers, accountants, producers, financial advisors, and marketers.
Lesson: Success often depends on the quality of your team.
9. Budgeting Is Non-Negotiable
Whether producing a film or launching a business, understanding costs is essential. Everything from labor and equipment to marketing and logistics must be considered before moving forward.
Lesson: Poor budgeting is one of the fastest paths to failure.
10. Protect Your Assets and Brand
Mack stressed the importance of trademarks, copyrights, business entities, and legal documentation. Entrepreneurs must proactively protect their intellectual property before problems arise.
Lesson: Prevention is less expensive than litigation.
Jalene Mack's 10-Step Business Foundation Framework
Throughout the conversation, Mack outlined critical steps for launching and protecting a business:
Identify your project.
Create a comprehensive plan.
Build a strong team.
Prepare a realistic budget.
Form a business entity.
Obtain a business identification number.
Open a dedicated business bank account.
Protect your intellectual property and assets.
Use professionally drafted contracts.
Develop a strong marketing strategy.
Notable Quotes Jalene Mack on Scams and Bad Deals
"Due diligence is everything."
Jalene Mack on Research
"The more you dig, the more you realize they can't show proof of funds."
Jalene Mack on Contract Protection
"You don't ever want to give away rights to your project."
Jalene Mack on Legal Representation
"Not all entertainment attorneys are equal."
Jalene Mack on Building a Team
"Surround yourself with talent. Surround yourself with people who know more than you."
Jalene Mack on Entrepreneurship
"You don't have to know everything. Every experience is going to be something you learn from."
Rushion McDonald on Business Opportunities
"Don't get in this business with the lottery mentality."
Rushion McDonald on Intellectual Property
"Ideas are not registered. It's just an idea."
Jalene Mack on Non-Disclosure Agreements
"An NDA is a deterrent, but it is not ironclad."
Overall Message
The central message of the interview is that success in business and entertainment requires more than talent and great ideas. It requires planning, research, legal protection, financial discipline, and a knowledgeable team. Jalene Mack encourages entrepreneurs and creatives to approach every opportunity with caution, conduct thorough due diligence, and protect their intellectual property before pursuing growth. Her advice serves as a blueprint for avoiding costly mistakes and building a sustainable, successful business.
#SHMS #BEST #STRAW
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.