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 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.
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Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
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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, 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 Tremayne Thompson
Summary of Tremayne Thompson's Interview with Rushion McDonald
Thompson discussed his entrepreneurial journey from concert promotion in Chicago to establishing a thriving venue in Birmingham, Alabama, and later expanding into the Atlanta market. Throughout the conversation, he emphasized faith, service, community engagement, resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of mentorship in business.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview was intended to:
Share the entrepreneurial journey behind The Perfect Note.
Highlight the importance of community-driven business practices.
Discuss how entertainment, food, and culture can create meaningful experiences.
Provide lessons on business ownership, leadership, and perseverance.
Inspire aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams while remaining committed to service and excellence.
Key Takeaways 1. Build Around Service, Not Profit
One of Thompson's strongest messages was that his business was never built solely to make money. Instead, it was created to serve people, provide memorable experiences, and create a place where adults could enjoy music, food, and fellowship.
2. Faith Guided the Business Journey
Thompson repeatedly credited faith and spiritual guidance for helping him and his wife navigate challenges, including economic uncertainty, growth decisions, and the pandemic.
3. Start Small and Do the Work
The Perfect Note began with humble roots. Thompson and his wife personally set up tables and chairs, decorated venues, handled operations, and tore everything down after events. Their success came from hands-on commitment and consistency.
4. Adaptability Creates Survival
During COVID-19, when many businesses struggled to remain open, Thompson and his wife pivoted quickly. They transformed their operation into a parking lot food service model, maintaining customer relationships and supporting employees during a difficult time.
5. Community Support Drives Long-Term Success
By serving the community during challenging periods, The Perfect Note earned lasting goodwill. Thompson believes that businesses that genuinely support people often receive that support back many times over.
6. Mentorship Is Essential
Thompson advised aspiring entrepreneurs to seek guidance from people who have already navigated the challenges of business ownership. Learning from experienced mentors can help avoid costly mistakes and accelerate growth.
7. Create Experiences, Not Transactions
The Perfect Note's success comes from providing more than food or music. It offers an environment where people connect, celebrate, build relationships, and create lasting memories.
8. Continuous Learning Matters
Before entering the restaurant business, Thompson intentionally worked at Waffle House to learn kitchen operations and food preparation. He stressed the importance of understanding every aspect of a business before investing in it.
Notable Quotes
"Our purpose is to be able to have grown folks something for them to continue to still do."
A reflection of The Perfect Note's mission to provide a quality entertainment experience for mature audiences.
"It wasn't motivated by making money. It was motivated by serving."
Perhaps the most powerful statement in the interview, highlighting the philosophy behind the business.
"When we knew how to serve, the money came."
A lesson that sustainable success often follows value creation and community impact.
"When this is over, how you've reached out to the community, they're going to reach back out to you."
His description of how community support helped the business survive and thrive after the pandemic.
"Always get a mentor, somebody who has been in it."
Advice to entrepreneurs about seeking guidance before and during business ownership.
"Information is free. I don't own it."
A statement reflecting his belief in sharing knowledge and helping others succeed.
"Go all in or go home."
His summary of the commitment required to build a successful business.
Bottom Line
Tremayne Thompson's interview is a powerful story of entrepreneurship, faith, perseverance, and community leadership. His journey demonstrates that long-term business success is built on service, relationships, adaptability, and a willingness to do whatever work is necessary to achieve a vision. Through The Perfect Note, Thompson and his wife have created more than a venue—they have built a cultural gathering place that brings people together through food, music, and meaningful experiences.
#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 Dr. Telisha Roberts.
Founder and President of Creative Intentions
The purpose of the conversation was to help students, early-career professionals, corporate employees, and aspiring entrepreneurs understand how to successfully navigate career transitions and professional growth. Dr. Roberts shared insights from her 26-year corporate career and explained how Creative Intentions helps individuals bridge the gap between potential and achievement. [
The interview focused on preparing people for workplace success, leadership roles, entrepreneurship, and adapting to economic uncertainty, layoffs, and artificial intelligence-driven workforce changes. [
Key Takeaways 1. Success Requires More Than Opportunity
Dr. Roberts emphasized that securing a job, internship, or promotion is only the beginning. What determines long-term success is how effectively individuals navigate and perform once they enter those opportunities. [
Takeaway: Getting the opportunity and succeeding in it are two different challenges.
2. Always Have a Plan
One of the strongest themes throughout the interview was intentional planning.
Roberts shared that before leaving her 26-year corporate career, she spent roughly a year preparing and developing a plan to ensure a successful transition. She encourages others to proactively prepare for career changes instead of reacting after a crisis occurs. [
Takeaway: Faith, passion, and ambition should always be supported by a structured plan.
3. Career Development Is a Lifelong Process
Creative Intentions supports:
College juniors and seniors
Early-career professionals
Managers and executives
Entrepreneurs
Small business owners
Roberts believes individuals need guidance at every stage of professional growth. [
Takeaway: Professional development does not stop after graduation.
4. Hard Work Alone Does Not Guarantee Promotion
One of the most discussed topics in the interview was the misconception that simply working hard will automatically lead to advancement.
Roberts explained that employees must learn how to communicate their value, connect their accomplishments to organizational goals, and demonstrate strategic impact. [
Takeaway: Visibility, communication, and strategic alignment are as important as effort.
5. Tell Your Own Story
According to Roberts, many talented professionals fail to advance because they expect others to recognize their contributions automatically.
She stresses that employees must be capable of:
Articulating their value
Demonstrating impact
Understanding organizational priorities
Forecasting future needs [
Takeaway: If you cannot explain your value, others may overlook it.
6. Mentorship Can Change Lives
The creation of Creative Intentions was inspired by a young intern Roberts mentored who did not receive a job offer after her internship.
The experience deeply affected Roberts and motivated her to create an organization dedicated to helping people gain the skills and support necessary for career success. [
Takeaway: Investing in people can have a lasting impact on their lives and careers.
7. Success Has No Easy Path
Roberts repeatedly emphasized that whether someone pursues corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, content creation, or business ownership, all meaningful success requires discipline and hard work. [
Takeaway: There are no shortcuts to sustainable success.
8. Every Person Requires an Individualized Approach
Unlike many coaching and training programs, Roberts believes there is no one-size-fits-all method for development.
Her team uses assessments and personalized coaching to understand an individual's strengths, preferences, experiences, and leadership potential. [
Takeaway: Effective development starts with understanding the individual.
9. Confidence Often Comes Through Investment and Support
Many people struggle because they do not recognize their own potential.
Roberts noted that some individuals have never been encouraged to explore their gifts or strengths. Her work focuses on helping people discover abilities they may not yet see in themselves. [
Takeaway: Confidence is often built through mentorship, support, and self-discovery.
10. AI and Workforce Disruption Are Real Challenges
Roberts directly addressed concerns about artificial intelligence and layoffs.
She acknowledged that organizations are reallocating resources toward AI and that competition for jobs has intensified. However, she encourages professionals to remain proactive, strategic, and adaptable rather than fearful.
Takeaway: Career resilience requires strategy, adaptability, and continuous learning.
11. Stay Calm During Uncertainty
A defining characteristic of Roberts' leadership philosophy is maintaining composure under pressure.
She shared examples from both her corporate career and personal life to illustrate the importance of responding to challenges with clarity and purpose rather than panic. [
Takeaway: Effective leaders remain calm while taking decisive action.
Notable Quotes On Career Preparation
"It's one thing to get the role, get the internship, get that opportunity. But it's another thing to actually be successful when you get there." [
On Planning
"You got to have that plan." [
On Career Advancement
"Being the hardest worker in the room will not get you promoted." [
On Professional Visibility
"If you cannot properly articulate your value to an organization... you are going to be quietly lost." [
On Personal Branding
"You have to learn how to tell your own story. No one is going to tell your story for you." [
On Entrepreneurship
"Being skilled and passionate is very different than running an actual business."
On Success
"There is no easy path to success." [
On Hard Work
"You're probably going to work harder than you ever have before."
On Personal Growth
"Someone took the time to invest in me." [
On AI and Job Market Challenges
"We have to learn how to be strategic. We have to learn how to get in front of the problem and be proactive instead of reactive."
On Leadership During Uncertainty
"We need to calm down. We need to operate with as much information as we can and as much peace as we can."
Overall Message
Dr. Telisha Roberts' central message is that career success is not accidental—it is intentional. Through planning, mentorship, self-awareness, hard work, strategic thinking, and the ability to communicate one's value, individuals can successfully navigate career transitions, leadership challenges, entrepreneurship, and an increasingly competitive workforce. Her work through Creative Intentions is focused on helping people bridge the gap between where they are today and where they aspire to be tomorrow.
#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.

The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Friday, November 6th, 2026: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open - Cast Intros | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "Church Calendar" | Ask The CLO | Trending & Entertainment News | White House Social Media Posts l Roscoe Wallace | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "GEM - God's Eyes Ministry" | Strawberry Letter - "I Thought He Wasn't Coming Back" Pt. 1-2 | Junior's Sports Talk | Social Media Advice | 50 Cent Trolls Diddyj | Would You Rather | Steve Harvey's Closing Remarks
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
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