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 Leonard S. Graham.
Social Security disability advocate, Leonard S. Graham joined Rushion McDonald on Money Making Conversations Master Class to explain how Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) really work, who qualifies, and how misconceptions prevent people—especially within the Black community—from receiving benefits they are legally entitled to. Graham has over 35 years of experience assisting clients nationwide with disability claims, appeals, and hearings.
The conversation sheds light on the disability process, eligibility, the appeals system, the role of advocates vs. attorneys, and the importance of education, honesty, and persistence in navigating Social Security.
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
Educate listeners on Social Security disability benefits, including eligibility, filing, and appeals.
Debunk common myths, such as the belief disability is only for seniors.
Explain SSDI vs. SSI, work credits, resource limits, and Medicare connections.
Highlight the importance of advocacy, especially for underserved communities unfamiliar with the system.
Encourage individuals not to fear or stigmatize applying for disability, and to avoid misinformation from non‑professionals.
🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Disability Isn’t Just for Seniors
Many mistakenly think Social Security disability is only for people over 65, but anyone with the required work credits can qualify, regardless of age—even individuals in their 20s or 30s.
2. Working Does NOT Automatically Disqualify You
Applicants can work while applying as long as they do not exceed the monthly substantial gainful activity (SGA) threshold of $1,690 per month.
3. Every Claim Is Unique—Don’t Compare Your Case to Others
Graham warns clients not to take advice from neighbors or relatives because each disability case depends on medical evidence, work history, age, and individual conditions.
4. SSDI Requires Work Credits; SSI Is Needs-Based
SSDI: Requires 20 credits minimum, 40 credits for maximum benefit, earned through past work. Assets do not affect eligibility.
SSI: For people with low resources ($2,000 single / $3,000 married). Primary home/car do not count as resources.
5. Medicare Comes After Approval
Medicare eligibility begins 24 months after being awarded SSDI benefits.
6. Appeals Are Normal—Most Initial Claims Are Denied
95% of initial applications are denied, and the real opportunity often comes during a hearing before an administrative law judge. Persistence is essential.
7. Honesty Prevents Fraud & Overpayments
Applicants should always disclose their financial situation truthfully to avoid fraud investigations and repayment demands.
8. Disability Benefits Can Provide Back Pay
Approved claimants often receive a Notice of Award detailing monthly benefits and any back pay owed. Representatives are only paid from back pay—not monthly benefits.
9. Stigma & Fear Prevent People from Applying
Graham emphasizes that pride, fear, and misinformation often stop people—especially in the Black community—from seeking help, even when disability support could save them financially.
🗣️ Notable Quotes ✔ On Who Needs Disability
“What if you get in a car accident… or have an illness and you can’t work? Those are reasons to file for disability.”
✔ On Misinformation
“Don’t talk to your neighbor or relatives about your claim… Each claim is its own individual claim.”

✔ On Work Limits
“You can still work and have an active claim as long as you don’t gross over $1,690 a month.”
✔ On Stigma
“Some people feel applying for benefits makes them look a certain way. But the system is there to help you when you are unable to work.”
✔ On Honesty
“Just tell the truth. If they catch you on the fraud side, you’ll have to pay the money back.”
✔ On Perseverance
“Getting a denial is nothing out of the norm… The key is to continue with the claim.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST
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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 interviews Jackson Dunbar.
Entrepreneur, author, and chronic pain advocate, joined Rushion McDonald to discuss his book Race Matters in Pain Medicine, his experience living with chronic pain following a serious car accident and failed back surgery, and the lessons he learned about resilience, health, and financial success. The conversation combines personal testimony, healthcare advocacy, and practical strategies for overcoming adversity.
Dunbar shared how chronic pain dramatically changed his life but ultimately pushed him to develop new approaches to physical health, financial stability, and personal growth. His story demonstrates how determination, self-education, and adaptability can help individuals thrive despite significant challenges.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview aimed to:
Discuss Dunbar's book Race Matters in Pain Medicine.
Raise awareness about disparities in pain management and healthcare treatment.
Share his experience navigating chronic pain and recovery.
Inspire people facing personal, health, or professional setbacks.
Encourage financial literacy, self-help, and personal accountability.
Provide practical strategies for creating success under difficult circumstances.
Key Takeaways 1. Resilience Is a Choice
Dunbar emphasizes that while people cannot always control what happens to them, they can control how they respond. Rather than focusing on what he lost, he concentrated on what he could still accomplish.
2. Create a New Normal
A central theme of the discussion is that recovery does not always mean returning to life exactly as it was before. Success often comes from adapting and building a sustainable new reality.
3. Race Matters in Healthcare
Dunbar highlights disparities in pain treatment and argues that race can influence how patients are treated, diagnosed, and prescribed medication. His book explores these inequities and their consequences.
4. Chronic Pain Affects Every Aspect of Life
Pain impacts more than physical health. It affects emotional well-being, family relationships, work performance, finances, and overall quality of life.
5. Self-Advocacy Is Essential
Patients must become informed participants in their own healthcare. Dunbar encourages people to ask questions, seek information, and actively engage in treatment decisions.
6. Financial Education Creates Opportunity
Dunbar believes financial literacy is a critical life skill. He encourages continuous learning about investing, wealth creation, and economic trends regardless of one's circumstances.
7. Health and Wealth Are Connected
His journey demonstrates that improving health and improving finances can occur simultaneously through discipline, education, and consistent effort.
8. Apply Business Thinking to Personal Challenges
Dunbar credits much of his success to using a solutions-focused, analytical approach to managing his health, finances, and personal goals.
Memorable Quotes
"If you're about to make a change in your life and you feel uncomfortable, that's the best feeling you can have because for the first time in your life, you'll make a decision that's going to be best for you."
"I made money, lost 90 pounds, and thrived in chronic pain."
"Race matters in pain medicine."
"A strong believer in self-help, Jackson Dunbar applied solutions-focused business logic to his own health."
Bottom Line
The interview is a powerful discussion about overcoming adversity through resilience, self-advocacy, financial literacy, and personal responsibility. Jackson Dunbar's message is that while chronic pain and life-changing setbacks may alter a person's path, they do not have to define their future. By creating a new normal, staying informed, and focusing on solutions, individuals can continue to grow, succeed, and make a positive impact on others.
#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.

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 Damon Haley
Co‑founder of Glow and Flow Beauty, discussing his transition from entertainment and sports marketing into the beauty-supply industry, his mission to elevate service for Black and Brown communities, and the franchising model he is rolling out nationwide. Hosted by Rushion McDonald on Money Making Conversations Masterclass, the conversation highlights Haley’s business philosophy, community-driven approach, and long-term vision to create ownership opportunities through franchising.
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
1. Highlight Damon Haley’s entrepreneurial journey
How he moved from high-level event production and marketing (Nike, Pepsi, Coke) into beauty retail.
2. Explain why the beauty-supply industry needs Black ownership
Haley outlines the disconnect between Black consumer spending and the lack of Black-owned beauty-supply stores.
3. Promote Glow and Flow Beauty’s mission
A service-first retail model designed to uplift, educate, and serve Black and Brown consumers with dignity.
4. Introduce Glow and Flow’s franchising opportunity
Haley frames franchising as a path for individuals to enter business ownership with support and a proven model.
5. Inspire listeners to embrace change and pursue entrepreneurship
He shares personal experiences overcoming naysayers and trusting his instincts.
📌 Key Takeaways from the Interview 1. The Beauty Industry Is a Huge, Under-Owned Space for Black Entrepreneurs
Black consumers spend heavily on beauty, but historically have not owned the supply-chain or retail footprint.
Haley wants to change that by bringing ownership and pride back to local communities.
2. Glow and Flow Beauty Focuses on Service, Experience, and Community
The stores celebrate culture (Breast Cancer Month, Black History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month).
Customer care is central—Haley emphasizes smiles, water for coughing customers, and creating “fabulousness.”
3. Franchising Eliminates the “Start From Zero” Problem
Haley believes franchising is more accessible than starting independently because: You get a proven model.
You get supply-chain support.
You avoid costly mistakes.

4. Hair Is the Cornerstone of the Business
Glow and Flow launched its own synthetic hair brand, SLAY (with 3 Ys).
Synthetic hair dominates due to affordability.
Human hair is sourced from Asia, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
5. Inventory & Capital Are Major Barriers to Entry
Beauty supply requires heavy up‑front inventory investment.
Glow and Flow stays heavily stocked to maintain customer trust.
6. Data + Marketing Experience = Competitive Advantage
Haley leverages his corporate marketing background (Nike, Foot Locker) to optimize retail presentation, customer experience, and product mix.
7. His Long-Term Vision: 40 Stores Nationwide
His exit strategy is to build 40 Glow and Flow stores (McDonald jokes he’d smile at 100).
8. E-commerce and Community Outreach Expand Their Reach
GlowAndFlowBeauty.com sells products and SLAY hair online, with shipping and local pickup.
Stores support community fundraisers by including materials in shoppers’ bags (up to 5,000 per month).
💬 Notable Quotes (From the Transcript) On the power of beauty in the community
“When we look good, we feel good. When we feel good, we be good, we do good.”
On why Black beauty ownership matters
“We’re buyers… we’re consumers… we just don’t own.”
On moving into the beauty industry
“We’ve had the short end of the stick — not only from recycling our Black dollars, but the concept of service.”
On franchising
“You don’t start from zero with a franchise… you have a corporation behind you.”
On entrepreneurship and criticism
“There’s jealous, envy, and naysayers… but I’ve never been fearful of change.”
On customer service
“I try to give you other stuff… I give you a smile… if you cough, I’m gonna give you some water.”
On the importance of hair
“Hair is the cornerstone of our beauty industry.”
On long-term ambitions
“I would love to have maybe 40 Glow and Flows nationwide.”
#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.

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 Ashley M. Fox.
Summary of the Interview
In this episode of Money Making Conversations Masterclass, Rushion McDonald interviews Ashley M. Fox—former Wall Street analyst, Howard University alum, financial educator, and founder/CEO of Emplify, a fintech platform focused on making wealth‑building accessible to everyday people.
Ashley shares her journey from working with ultra‑high‑net‑worth clients on Wall Street to becoming an entrepreneur determined to bring financial education and empowerment to communities traditionally excluded from wealth conversations. She discusses the creation of Amplify, her financial fall and recovery, her work in schools and prison systems, and how digital content has allowed her to scale her mission globally.
The discussion emphasizes mindset, self‑belief, access, and a practical path to wealth, even starting with as little as $20.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
1. Inspire financial empowerment
Ashley explains how anyone—regardless of background or starting point—can begin building wealth and shift generational outcomes.
2. Demystify investing and wealth-building
She breaks down how simple investing can be, the power of small consistent contributions, and how wealth isn’t limited to entrepreneurs or high earners.
3. Highlight her fintech platform Emplify
She shares how Amplify democratizes financial education through online tools, community, and accessible investing classes.
4. Encourage a mindset shift
Ashley stresses the importance of eliminating fear, building confidence, and using logic instead of emotion when making financial decisions.
Key Takeaways 1. Wealth Begins with Belief and Mindset
Ashley learned on Wall Street that the biggest difference between wealthy and non-wealthy people is not education—it's self-belief. Many people don’t believe wealth is possible for them because they've never seen it.
2. You Don’t Need a Lot of Money to Start Investing
She urges people to start with $20, even buying fractional shares. It’s consistency—not starting amount—that builds wealth.
3. You Can Invest in Others’ Ideas—Not Just Your Own
Building wealth doesn’t require launching a business. Buying stock is one of the easiest ways to participate in wealth creation.
4. Ashley’s Own Journey Included Failure
After leaving Wall Street, she was evicted, slept on her parents’ couch for two years, and maxed out credit cards. Her purpose kept her going.
5. Financial Education Should Start Early
She developed financial education programs for schools, prison systems, and everyday families because adults often learn too late.
6. Emplify Scales Wealth Education
Her platform offers 300+ hours of videos and tools, helping members open 3,000+ investment accounts and invest $7.4M collectively.
7. Social Media Is Her Biggest Access Point
Ashley reaches millions by being authentic, relatable, and consistent—meeting people where they are.
8. You Must Pay Yourself First
Most people pay bills, companies, and creditors before investing in themselves. She emphasizes reversing that pattern.
9. Logic Over Emotion
Wealth requires logical decision‑making, especially in the market. Emotional reactions undermine long-term financial growth.
Notable Quotes (Taken From the Transcript) On Wealth Mindset
“When you think and know and believe you have the power to create wealth and you deserve wealth, you move a different way.”
“There is no president that can build the wealth that you can create for your family.”
On Starting Small
“You don't have to have a lot of money to start. You just have to have the will to begin.”
“A whole lot of $20 can get you to a million—as long as you don’t stop.”
On Investing
“Consider the companies you give your money to and own them, because they are a lot cheaper than you think.”
“If I’m helping you build a billion‑dollar business by using your products, I deserve a piece of the pie.”
On Self-Reliance
“You pay everybody… the bartender, the mortgage company—and you’re the one without money. Who’s going to worry about you?”
On Purpose and Identity
“My story never changed. The mission was always dedicated to the people I didn’t see coming into that building on Wall Street.”
“Emplify is the movement. It just has my DNA.”
#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 Charles Cofield.
Thanks! The transcript from this episode of Money Making Conversations Masterclass features an inspiring and high-energy interview with CPA and financial educator Carter Cofield, co-founder of Melanin Money. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways:
🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Melanin Money: A Mission-Driven Firm
Co-founded by Carter Cofield and a financial advisor friend to serve the Black community.
Focuses on helping business owners save on taxes and invest wisely.
Aims to close the wealth gap and promote financial independence.
2. Authenticity as a Brand
Carter left corporate America after being told to hide his success and identity (e.g., facial hair, tattoos, car).
Built his brand by being unapologetically himself—fun, energetic, and passionate about financial literacy.
His authenticity has helped him connect with a wide audience and become a standout in a traditionally “boring” industry.
3. Personal Tragedy & Financial Awakening
Lost both parents by age 16.
Used grief as motivation to excel academically and professionally.
Learned the importance of financial literacy after receiving only $5,000 from a $25,000 life insurance policy following his father’s death.
4. Financial Literacy & Health
Believes “health is wealth and wealth is health.”
Poor financial decisions often lead to poor health decisions (e.g., fast food due to affordability).
Financial stress can directly impact physical and mental well-being.
5. Melanin Money Awards
Annual event in Atlanta celebrating Black wealth and financial milestones.
Awards given for reaching net worth goals ($100K, $500K, $1M, $10M).
Designed to make wealth-building visible and celebrated in the Black community.
6. Generational Wealth: Redefined
Not just about leaving money to your kids.
True generational wealth means your money lasts for multiple generations.
Involves setting up trusts, investments, and financial education for future heirs.
7. Free Weekly Financial Classes
Carter hosts free money classes every Wednesday at 7 PM ET.
Accessible via his Instagram: @cofield_advisors
💬 Notable Quotes
“Fear is Finally Exiting Average Reality.”
“It’s okay to sleep in late when your money woke up early.”
“The scariest thing is getting to the end of your life and realizing you never truly lived.”
#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.