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 Dr. Yolanda “Yo-Yo” Whitaker.
SUMMARY OF THE INTERVIEW
In this interview on Money Making Conversations Master Class, host Rushion McDonald speaks with Dr. Yolanda “Yo-Yo” Whitaker—Grammy‑nominated rapper, actress, radio host, philanthropist, and now the star of Downright Delicious with Yo-Yo, a cooking series on AspireTV.
The conversation moves through Yo‑Yo’s evolution as an artist and entrepreneur, her spiritual and personal transformation, her love for food and cooking, and the creation of her television cooking show. She reflects on surviving and thriving in an unpredictable entertainment industry, learning discipline, overcoming fear, and discovering new purpose later in life through cooking.
Yo‑Yo also shares her philosophy on authenticity, family, and faith. She describes how the pandemic deepened her love for cooking, how her show blends food + family + culture, and offers practical cooking tips.
PURPOSE OF THE INTERVIEW
According to the interview content, the purpose is to:
Highlight Yo‑Yo’s transition from iconic hip‑hop entertainer to food‑focused TV personality.
Promote her Aspire TV series “Downright Delicious with Yo‑Yo.”
Share insights on career longevity, entrepreneurship, reinvention, and personal growth.
Inspire listeners with actionable advice on fearlessness, budgeting, confidence, and purpose‑driven living.
Celebrate cooking as an expression of love, culture, peace, and family connection.
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Reinvention Requires Honesty & Letting Go
Yo‑Yo stresses that overcoming fear came from “getting real” with herself, abandoning trying to look successful, and restructuring her finances and lifestyle.
She had to “let the old me die so the money could grow.”
2. Entrepreneurship Is a Lifelong Reality for Artists
She and McDonald emphasize that entertainers are entrepreneurs, without the stability of 40‑hour jobs, making resilience essential.
3. Purpose Matters More Than Fame
She encourages people to seek purpose—not just fame or quick money—and do the work that builds confidence and personal foundation.
4. Cooking Became Her “Happy Place” and Divine Gift
Yo‑Yo says cooking is a God‑given gift and a therapeutic practice that began thriving during the pandemic.
It helped her through depression and opened new creative fulfillment.
5. Her Cooking Show Blends Food + Family + Culture
The show features:
Her mother
Her partner
Her kids
Celebrity friends
Authentic cultural dishes with her unique twist
It’s not guest‑driven; it’s family‑driven storytelling in the kitchen.
6. Technique & Tools Matter
She emphasizes:
Good knives (sharpen weekly)
Quality pots
Measuring ingredients
Understanding seasonings
Building confidence by cooking regularly
7. Simplicity + Love = Great Food
According to Yo‑Yo, love is the secret ingredient, and cooking is about joy, connection, and comfort, not rigid perfection. [
NOTABLE QUOTES FROM THE INTERVIEW
(All quotes drawn exactly or near‑exactly from the transcript.
) [
On Fear and Growth
“I had to let the old me die so that the money could grow.”
“What I did to overcome my fear was to call myself fearless.”
“You have to get real with yourself. You really have to do the work.”
On Purpose and Success
“If you don’t find your purpose, you’re just job hunting.”
“God told me, because of your obedience, I’m going to give you the desires of your heart.”
On Cooking
“Cooking is my happy place.”
“I’m not a chef—I just love to cook.”
“If you don’t love what you cook, we don’t want to taste it.”
On Family
“More than serving a meal, I’m serving family.”
“When mama’s in the house and they can smell food cooking… that’s everything.”
On Her Show
“You get to see Dr. Yolanda ‘Yo‑Yo’ Whitaker for the first time.”
“I only cook things I love—things I’m comfortable with.”
“The food is the star.”
On Technique
“Great knives will save your life.”
“If you use your knives a lot, sharpen them every week.”
On Pandemic Transformation
“I started really cooking during the pandemic… it took me out of my depression.”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
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 D. Renee Smith.
A transformational life coach and mental wellness advocate:
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
To raise awareness about mental health, especially among professional women, and to promote proactive wellness strategies in personal life and the workplace. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-care, emotional support, and recognizing mental health signals before they escalate.
🗝️ Key Takeaways 1. Mental Health Is Like Physical Health
Mental wellness requires daily attention, just like physical fitness.
It involves monitoring thoughts, emotional responses, and what you consume mentally.
2. Women Often Lose Themselves in Roles
Many women become consumed by titles—mother, wife, caregiver—and lose sight of their personal identity and dreams.
Rediscovery is essential after life changes like divorce, loss, or children leaving home.
3. Self-Care Is Not Selfish
Women must prioritize their own well-being.
Harmony—not balance—is the goal, where all aspects of life work together positively.
4. Recognizing Mental Health Warning Signs
Changes in behavior, withdrawal, or loss of interest can signal deeper issues.
Friends and family should check in and not accept “I’m okay” at face value.
5. Workplace Stress Is Real
Lack of promotion, recognition, or support can lead to burnout and mental strain.
Employers should observe behavioral patterns and offer sincere support—not just reactive solutions.
6. Proactive Mental Wellness in the Workplace
De Rene’s company offers coaching to help employees manage stress and improve performance.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are underutilized and often insufficient.
💬 Notable Quotes
“Self-care is not selfish.” – De Rene Smith
“Don’t judge people by the choices they make because you don’t know what they had to choose from.” – D. Renee Smith
“I’d rather make someone mad at me than regret not checking in.” – Rashawn McDonald
“Harmony—not balance—is the goal.” – D. Renee Smith
🌐 Connect with D. Renee Smith
Business: Transformational Living Coaching & Consulting
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning!
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Howard Hewett.
Legendary R&B vocalist and former frontman of Shalamar—joins Rushion McDonald to reflect on his early career, his rise through the music industry, and the philosophy that fueled his longevity. Hewett recounts growing up in Akron, Ohio, his early professional singing experiences, and ultimately his path to Los Angeles where he worked in show groups before joining Shalamar.
A large portion of the discussion focuses on preparation, visualization, integrity, and being ready when opportunities show up. Hewett reveals the remarkable story of how he joined Shalamar: a surprise phone call during a tense meeting at the Motown building, followed by an audition the next day, a flight to meet the group, and a TV performance within 72 hours.
The interview blends career storytelling, business lessons, and personal philosophy—making it valuable for creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone pursuing long-term success.
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
Rushion McDonald brings Hewett on to:
Share real-world lessons from a 40+ year entertainment career.
Highlight professional preparation, mindset, and integrity as keys to sustained success.
Inspire listeners to embrace vision, self-belief, and business readiness—especially small business owners and creatives.
Pull back the curtain on the origin story of Shalamar's most iconic lineup and Hewett’s personal development journey.
This episode is crafted as both an inspirational masterclass and a historical narrative.
💡 Key Takeaways
1. Preparation is the difference-maker
Hewett emphasizes that being in the right place is useless unless you’re prepared. His decades of singing before Shalamar prepared him for the moment he had to sing on the spot for Dick Griffey.
Lesson: Preparation turns chance into opportunity.
2. Visualization is a powerful tool
After moving to California, Hewett meditated and visualized every day by the pool—imagining performing for audiences of thousands and negotiating high-paying gigs.
Lesson: Vision boards and mental rehearsal help create your future.
3. Integrity is a non-negotiable asset
Even when offered the biggest opportunity of his life (joining Shalamar), Hewett insisted on giving Motown a chance to fix their mistake because he gave them his word.
Lesson: Integrity strengthens your reputation more than any contract.
4. Career breakthroughs come fast—when you’re ready
Within three days:
Friday: received offer from Shalamar
Saturday: auditioned for Dick Griffey
Sunday: rehearsed
Monday: filmed a TV performance
Lesson: Momentum happens suddenly, but only to the prepared.
5. Value of small beginnings
From gospel singing at 10 to small clubs, to overseas show groups—every stage built foundation and resilience.
Lesson: Don’t despise early stages; they prepare you for later success.
6. The music industry requires adaptability & consistency
Hewett’s story shows how artists must navigate gigs, shaky contracts, and unreliable companies—but maintain professionalism.
Lesson: Talent opens the door; discipline keeps you in the room.
🗣️ Notable Quotes (From the Transcript)
On professionalism:
“You're professional when you can sustain yourself… when this is how you pay your bills.”
On visualization:
“Every day… I would go down to the pool and just visualize what I wanted to do.”
“I visualize singing in front of thousands of people.”
On preparation:
“Right place, right time is important. But people forget the most important part—be prepared.”
On integrity:
“Your word is worth more than any piece of paper you could ever sign.”
On the Shalamar turning point:
“That changed my whole life.”
“If I wasn’t what they needed right then, they already had another cat in mind.”
On life purpose:
“All those things… were preparing me for that moment.”
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning!
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Cherry Collier.
Master Certified Executive Coach
Organizational Psychologist
Founder of Personality Matters, a multimillion-dollar consulting firm
🌟 Key Themes 1. What Is a Master Certified Executive Coach?
Dr. Collier is credentialed by the International Coach Federation and trained in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP).
She helps individuals and organizations reach their goals through structured, science-based coaching.
2. Organizational Psychology
Focuses on aligning people, processes, and technology for optimal performance.
Uses diagnostics and gap analysis to tailor strategies for individuals and companies.
3. The Science of Connection
Emphasizes the importance of relationships and emotional intelligence.
Promotes the idea of “never walk alone” — building a supportive network is key to success.
4. Rise Framework
Relational
Interpersonal
Social
Emotional
Used to help individuals and teams grow holistically.
5. Challenges in the Workplace
Dr. Collier addresses modern workplace stress, technology overload, and the need for intentionality.
Encourages people to take control of their mindset and routines (e.g., ditch the snooze button!).
6. Black Women in the Workplace
Acknowledges systemic barriers but focuses on solutions and building strong support systems.
Advocates for certification and professional development to access higher-level opportunities.
💬 Notable Quotes
“Success is less about speed and more about direction.”
“If someone knocks you down, it’s their fault. If you stay down, it’s yours.”
“Your personality will take you into any room.”
🏢 About Her Company: Personality Matters
Specializes in helping organizations and individuals improve performance through behavioral science.
Ranked #9 on the University of Georgia’s Bulldog 100 list of fastest-growing businesses.
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning!
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Robert Fitzpatrick, a Navy veteran, business consultant, fraternity brother (ΩΨΦ), and now the owner reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue legacy. The conversation dives deeply into Fitzpatrick’s upbringing, his father’s groundbreaking barbecue business in 1950s Texas, his educational and military journey, his corporate career, and his decision to launch Dewey’s Barbecue Market in Skokie, Illinois—honoring his father’s original recipes and values.
The interview blends entrepreneurship, legacy, cultural history, and personal transformation, while highlighting the courage of Fitzpatrick’s father and the humility and faith-driven foundation of his family.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
1. Inspire entrepreneurship and legacy-building
Fitzpatrick’s story showcases how family heritage and values can shape a business vision across generations.
2. Highlight resilience, faith, and leadership
His upbringing in a household rooted in Christian humility, strong expectations, and boundary-breaking courage provides a blueprint for character-driven success.
3. Educate listeners on transitioning careers
Fitzpatrick exemplifies pivoting from engineering and corporate consulting to pursuing passion-driven entrepreneurship.
4. Promote Dewey’s Barbecue Market
The interview introduces the Chicago-area community—especially the Skokie region—to his upcoming restaurant built on a 70-year-old Texas barbecue tradition.
Key Takeaways 1. A powerful family legacy rooted in courage
Fitzpatrick’s father, Dewey, opened a barbecue restaurant in 1951—before desegregation—and insisted that Blacks and whites could eat together.
He enforced respect and safety in his establishment, even confronting racist patrons.
2. Education was non-negotiable in the Fitzpatrick household
Robert is the youngest of seven siblings, all college graduates; five hold master’s degrees.
He himself holds an MBA and an MS in Management Information Systems.
3. A bridge between technology and business
Fitzpatrick spent decades in consulting with major firms (EDS, Dell, Arthur Andersen, KPMG) focusing on business process improvement.
His dual MS/MBA made him a translator between tech and finance.
4. Military discipline shaped his personal and professional life
Served in the U.S. Navy from 1986–1990, plus reserve duty (including deployment to Iraq).
Balanced military service with graduate studies and advancing his corporate career.
5. A calling to revive his father’s barbecue
His wife recognized his talent early, telling him for years he should be barbecuing.
A shortage of good Texas barbecue in Virginia pushed him to recreate his father’s recipes.
6. Skokie, Illinois: the ideal launchpad
After moving to the Great Lakes Naval Base area for a federal role, Fitzpatrick began scouting locations.
Skokie offered: active support from city leadership
grants
an ideal building
community enthusiasm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About launching in Skokie
“They really want me to be there… the economic development team didn’t treat it like just another restaurant.”
Short 3–5 Sentence Summary (For Quick Use)
In his interview with Rushion McDonald, Robert Fitzpatrick shares his journey from Navy veteran and Fortune 500 consultant to entrepreneur reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue. He describes growing up with a courageous father who defied segregation in 1951 by serving Black and white customers together, and a family culture steeped in education, discipline, and humility. Fitzpatrick’s passion for barbecue and encouragement from his wife led him to bring his father’s 70-year-old recipes to Skokie, Illinois through Dewey’s Barbecue Market. The interview emphasizes legacy, faith, courage, and the pursuit of purpose.
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.