Strawberry Letter

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Monday, July 6th, 2026. Subject: "If It's Not 3, Don't Call Me"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Friday, July 3rd, 2026. Subject: "Pack A Bag & A Snack, 'Cause You Ain't Going Back "See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Thursday, July 2nd, 2026. Subject: "It's A Hard Habit To Break"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Wednesday, July 1st, 2026. Subject: "I Like Taffy, He Doesn't"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Tuesday, June 30th, 2026. Subject: "He Knew He Married A Black Woman"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Monday, June 29th, 2026. Subject: "His Draws Was Under The Drivers Seat"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 Audreanna Ayala. 🎙️ Episode Summary She shares her inspiring journey from corporate finance professional to creative entrepreneur and founder of Ayala Balloon Events. Specializing in balloon décor and modern bounce house rentals, she has carved a niche in gender reveal events, blending artistry, family inspiration, and business savvy to create unforgettable experiences. 🔑 Key Points 👩‍💼 Background & Business Launch Works full-time in financial services while building her balloon décor business. Started in 2018 after becoming a mother and wanting to create unique party experiences for her children. Learned balloon artistry through Pinterest inspiration and formal balloon décor classes. “I’m an artist—a balloon décor artist—not a balloon twister.” 🎈 Business Focus: Balloon Décor & Bounce Houses Offers custom balloon installations for weddings, birthdays, and corporate events. Provides modern bounce house rentals—elegant, white, and photo-friendly for adult events like bridal showers. Known for gender reveal setups with fireworks, detonators, and personalized backdrops. “I’m creating core memories for every event in your life.” 💡 Creative Process & Client Experience Clients often bring inspiration photos, which she adapts with her own artistic flair. Emphasizes originality and refuses to replicate others’ designs exactly. Offers consultation, setup, and follow-up to ensure satisfaction. “I want people to know me for my technique—not someone else’s.” 📣 Marketing & Branding Promotes primarily through Instagram, showcasing videos, stories, and behind-the-scenes content. Leverages her identity as a mother and perfectionist to connect with clients emotionally. “I know what it’s like to be a mom. I want everything to be perfect.” 🚩 Challenges & Pain Points Corporate Events: Time constraints and setup logistics. Gender Reveals: Ensuring the correct gender color and managing firework safety. Last-Minute Changes: Accommodated when possible, but with additional fees. “I don’t wear pink or blue to gender reveals—I stay neutral so I don’t give anything away.” 💰 Pricing & Operations Prices based on: Materials and equipment Labor and setup time Insurance and safety Additional staff for large events Emphasizes the importance of insurance and safety protocols, especially for fireworks and bounce houses. 🚀 Vision & Expansion Plans to expand gender reveal services beyond Georgia. Inspired by trends in Miami and aims to become a national leader in gender reveal experiences. Encouraged by Rushion to own her niche and market herself as the go-to expert. “You are the queen of gender reveals. Own it.” — Rashawn McDonald 📌 Quotes to Highlight “Life doesn’t always go in order, but we can still create core memories.” “I’m not in the business of replicating someone else’s art.” “I want to be at the head of the gender reveal movement.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee 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 Alaysia Miller. A certified nurse practitioner, travel nurse practitioner, and founder of NP Luxe CPR, a Florida-based CPR training company. Alaysia discusses her journey from nurse to travel nurse practitioner, how frontline burnout pushed her into entrepreneurship, and why she launched a CPR education business. She explains the financial and lifestyle advantages of travel nursing, the importance of mentorship, the realities of entrepreneurship, and the major CPR survival gap in Black and underserved communities. Rushion and Alaysia also dive into leadership, negotiating contracts, building a lucrative CPR business, and empowering community health through education. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: 1. Showcase a path to financial freedom through nursing entrepreneurship By highlighting travel nurse contracting and CPR instruction as viable wealth‑building vehicles. 2. Highlight the importance of CPR education in underserved communities Especially addressing the survival gap in Black communities due to low CPR literacy. 3. Encourage aspiring entrepreneurs—especially women and healthcare workers By sharing Alaysia’s experiences with mentorship, confidence building, and launching a service-based business. 4. Educate listeners on the realities of entrepreneurship Including time demands, imposter syndrome, and the need for consistency and proper pricing. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Travel Nurse Practitioners Have High Earning Potential As a staff NP she would earn $100k per year, but as a travel NP she earned $100k in six months while gaining time freedom and flexibility. Travel NP work is paid via 1099, opening the door to tax write-offs, investment flexibility, and entrepreneurial benefits. 2. Burnout Was the Catalyst for Change Working six days a week during COVID and the pressure of commercialized urgent-care systems led to burnout, weight gain, and loss of self. This pushed Alaysia toward traveling, where she worked half the time for double the pay. 3. CPR Survival Rates Are Lower in Black & Underserved Communities Alaysia explains that lack of exposure, knowledge, and basic emergency training leads to significantly lower cardiac survival rates in communities of color. She addresses this through her nonprofit We Push Health, which brings CPR and medical education to rural and urban communities. 4. You Don’t Need to Reinvent the Wheel—Mentorship Is Key She learned about mentorship in 2024 and emphasizes that mentors help you avoid costly mistakes and speed up your path. “Find someone who is the ideal image of what you want to be and mimic what they do.”. 5. CPR Businesses Are Lucrative and Accessible Almost every industry requires CPR certification: Healthcare Schools & daycares Gyms Police & fire departments Hotels Tattoo studios These make CPR instruction a strong side hustle or full-time business, especially for healthcare professionals who already understand the material. 6. Entrepreneurship Requires Real Work Alaysia breaks down the less glamorous side of building a business: Imposter syndrome The need for consistent marketing Pricing confidently Long hours initially Learning branding, systems, and follow-up “You only eat what you kill.”. 7. Communication and Adaptability Are Leadership Superpowers Travel nursing requires walking into unfamiliar environments and leading without overpowering. She emphasizes: Reading the room Adjusting communication styles Delegating the right way Being assertive but team-oriented “Adaptability is number one.”. 8. Negotiation Skills Changed Her Entire Career She learned to stop undervaluing herself and start negotiating confidently: First contract: underpriced Second contract: raised rates dramatically Uses supply‑and‑demand to justify price increases “You miss 100% of the shots you never take.”.] 🗣️ Notable Quotes On Entrepreneurship “If you know how to save a life, don’t you think you know how to run a business?”. “You only eat what you kill.”. On Burnout “I lost myself giving it to a job.”. On Community Health “They can’t know what they don’t know.” “Survival rates for cardiac arrest are significantly lower in communities of color because they lack access to basic emergency skills.”. On Mentorship “You don’t have to reinvent the wheel to be successful.” “Find someone who is the ideal image of what you want to be.”. On Negotiation “What’s the worst they can say? No.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Friday, June 26th, 2026. Subject: "I Bought Him That Last Year"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Thursday, June 25th, 2026. Subject: "Sleeping In The Next Room"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Wednesday, June 24th, 2026. Subject: "Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026. Subject: "All In The Family"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Monday, June 22nd, 2026. Subject: "Why Did She Change Her Wardrobe?"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 Mark Mascarenhas. Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to educate listeners—especially entrepreneurs, small business owners, and aspiring millionaires—on financial planning, wealth management, and risk mitigation strategies. It emphasizes the importance of discipline, clarity, and professional guidance in achieving financial success and sustaining wealth across generations. Key Takeaways Financial Planning is Foundational A written financial plan is the first step before any investment portfolio is built. Success is defined individually—financial, health, or lifestyle goals. Diversification & Risk Management Digital assets like Bitcoin should only make up 2–3% of a portfolio for high-net-worth clients with high risk tolerance. Fear and greed drive markets; advisors help clients maintain discipline. Long-Term Care & Insurance Planning for long-term care is essential, typically starting in your 50s. Term life insurance early locks in health; whole life policies provide stability and living benefits. Tax Strategy Use tax-loss harvesting, asset location strategies, and estate planning to minimize tax burdens. Estate planning focuses on transferring wealth tax-efficiently to future generations. Millionaire Mindset Millionaires are clear, disciplined, optimistic, and collaborative. 74% of millionaires work with financial advisors vs. 34% of the general population. Power of Compounding Compounding interest is the cornerstone of wealth accumulation—requires patience and discipline. Avoid lifestyle creep and impulsive spending, especially for younger millionaires and influencers. Fiduciary Responsibility Advisors act in the client’s best interest; success is mutual. Trust and transparency are critical in client-advisor relationships. Notable Quotes On Risk & Bitcoin:“You could potentially double your money, but you could also potentially lose 70% of it.” On Financial Planning:“Every dollar needs a job description.” On Millionaire Mindset:“Successful people view us as CFOs—they’re the CEOs.” On Compounding:“If you could win 72% of the time, would you play that game? Yes. That’s the stock market.” On Retirement Success:“Living the same or better lifestyle in retirement than you do today while working.” On Fiduciary Role:“We make more money when the client makes more money.” #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Friday, June 19th, 2026. Subject: "I Went Home In His Shirt"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Thursday, June 18th, 2026. Subject: "There's No Emotion In His Motion"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Wednesday, June 17th, 2026. Subject: "I'm Going Over There Anyway"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. Tiffany BusseyTitle: Director, Morehouse Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (MIEC)Dr. Tiffany Bussey discusses how the Morehouse Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center works to scale Black- and Brown-owned businesses, close the racial wealth gap, and intentionally connect entrepreneurs and workers to capital, contracts, and emerging industries, particularly in sustainability. Purpose of the Interview The interview serves to: Educate listeners about the systemic barriers facing Black entrepreneurs beyond access to capital. Highlight practical solutions—programs, partnerships, and ecosystems—that create real economic outcomes. Shift mindsets around entrepreneurship, risk, and opportunity, especially in underserved communities. Expose listeners to emerging, high-growth industries (e.g., sustainability, EVs, renewable energy) instead of oversaturated traditional businesses. Promote community-based economic ecosystems, particularly the collaboration between Morehouse, Goodwill, and corporate partners. Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Entrepreneurship as a Tool for Closing the Wealth Gap Dr. Bussey positions entrepreneurship and business ownership as one of the most effective ways to generate long-term wealth in Black communities. The Center has supported 400+ scalable, mid-sized businesses, resulting in: 850+ jobs created $34M+ in new capital accessed $82M+ in new revenue generated Key insight: The problem isn’t a lack of capable Black businesses—it’s visibility, access, and opportunity. 2. “Access to Opportunity” Matters as Much as Capital While access to capital dominates the conversation, Dr. Bussey emphasizes access to contracts and decision-makers. MIEC programs are designed with opportunity partners (large corporations, general contractors, primes) so participants gain: Exposure to real contracts Understanding of supply chains Direct relationships with decision-makers Takeaway: Capital without revenue and customers won’t sustain a business. 3. The Three C’s of Business Growth Dr. Bussey outlines MIEC’s core framework: Capital – Funding and financial resources Connections – Two-way, relationship-based networks Contracts – Revenue-generating opportunities She stresses that connections only matter if relationships are mutual—it’s not enough to “know someone” unless they also understand your value. 4. Breaking Stereotypes About Black-Owned Businesses Dr. Bussey addresses harmful narratives around skill, readiness, and qualifications. She highlights intentional strategies to: Prepare businesses before opportunities arise Align training and recruitment with future industries Counter biases through performance, scale, and visibility Key idea: Preparation plus access dismantles bias. 5. Sustainability = One of the Largest Economic Opportunities Dr. Bussey reframes sustainability as an economic opportunity, not just an environmental issue: Electric Vehicles: ~$163B industry Green Construction: ~$324B industry Renewable Energy: ~$952B industry Sustainable Agriculture: ~$20B industry She urges listeners to stop defaulting to oversaturated businesses (e.g., nightclubs) and instead pursue industries that are expanding rapidly and globally. 6. Workforce Development + Business Development Must Align Goodwill provides free job training, certifications, and even stipends for individuals. Morehouse trains businesses that can hire those workers, creating a full economic loop. This ecosystem addresses two major barriers simultaneously: Human capital Business readiness Takeaway: Economic equity requires aligned systems, not isolated programs. 7. Entrepreneurship Is Rewarding—but Not Romantic Dr. Bussey demystifies entrepreneurship: It’s high-risk, exhausting, and statistically likely to fail early. Failure is part of the process, but historical and financial realities make risk harder for Black entrepreneurs. Ownership remains critical despite these challenges. Key message: Entrepreneurship is powerful, but it must be supported intentionally. Notable Quotes “Entrepreneurship and small businesses are one of the pathways to closing the racial income inequality gap.” “We don’t just provide technical assistance for technical assistance’s sake—this is about creating real opportunity.” “Capital dominates the conversation, but contracts are equally important.” “People don’t buy products or services. They buy solutions.” “We have to stop thinking only about what we feel we have access to.” “Sustainability is not one industry—it’s multiple trillion-dollar opportunities.” “Entrepreneurship is the most rewarding and the most fatiguing thing you’ll ever do.” Overall Impact The interview functions as both a masterclass and a call to action: For entrepreneurs: Think bigger, pursue scalable industries, and prepare for opportunity. For communities: Build ecosystems, not silos. For institutions and corporations: Inclusion requires intentional design. Dr. Tiffany Bussey presents a practical, data-backed roadmap for inclusive economic development—centered on ownership, access, and readiness. #STRAW #SHMS #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Tuesday, June 16th, 2026. Subject: "Is My Reputation Tarnished?"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Monday, June 15th, 2026. Subject: "Everything Ain't Funny"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 Marsha Evans. A licensed mental health therapist, founder of Willow Tree Counseling & Educational Center, and creator of the FELT Experience and Marsha Listens wellness platform. The conversation centers on emotional health, nervous system education, sound therapy, community healing, and her evolution as a therapist and entrepreneur. Marsha shares her personal journey from being a competitive athlete to becoming a calming force for high‑functioning individuals dealing with burnout, stress, and emotional disconnection. She explains the origins of her signature FELT Experience, a wellness model designed to help people reconnect with themselves through somatic movement, sound healing, intentional rest, and community. She also highlights the challenges and breakthroughs in mental health—particularly within the Black community—and reflects on 16+ years of therapeutic practice. Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: 1. Introduce Marsha Evans’ holistic mental health approach Rushion invites Marsha to explain how she blends psychology, somatics, and sound‑based healing to help people process stress differently.  2. Explain the FELT Experience and its healing framework Marsha details her signature F.E.L.T. model—Free, Expand, Listen, Transform—and why embodied emotional experience is key to healing.  3. Share her personal journey She discusses how sports, music, and modalities like breathwork and yoga helped her turn stress into purpose.  4. Encourage new perspectives on mental health in the Black community She and Rushion address the stigma, evolution, and growing acceptance of mental health support.  5. Showcase community‑centered healing Marsha emphasizes connection, shared experiences, and intentional spaces that allow vulnerability and transformation.  Key Takeaways 1. Healing Requires Intentionality Marsha explains that activities like massage or yoga can be therapeutic—but only when approached with intentionality, presence, and consent to release emotional tension.  2. The Body Holds Stories (“The body keeps the score”) She emphasizes that the body stores emotional experiences, and modalities like breathwork, sound healing, and somatic movement help release what the mind can’t articulate.  3. The FELT Framework The FELT Experience moves participants through: F – Free: Permission to just be (coloring, resting, arriving without expectations) E – Expand: Allowing the body to open and receive L – Listen: To one’s own body, movement, and emotional cues T – Transform: The hardest phase—moving from chaos to peace  4. Safe Community Spaces Accelerate Healing Marsha’s events often result in participants forming friendships, emotional breakthroughs, and even planning outings together—an indicator of her program’s power.  5. People Are Conditioned to Avoid Emotions Growing up, she was taught to hide emotions in competitive sports—especially tears as a sign of weakness. Her therapeutic mission now is to help others unlearn similar conditioning.  6. Cultural Shifts Around Mental Health Marsha highlights major strides in the Black community, especially post‑COVID, as more people (including athletes) publicly acknowledge mental health struggles.  7. Therapy Isn’t Just Talking She incorporates nonverbal tools like: Play therapy Sand tray therapy Sound healing Somatic movement YogaThese help clients who can’t articulate their emotions—especially those conditioned to suppress them.  8. Human Connection Still Matters—even in an AI World Marsha is open to exploring AI in mental health but insists that physical presence, touch, and human empathy are irreplaceable.  Notable Quotes (from the transcript) On her calming presence “I think laughter is good for the soul… just being able to find peace has been really big for me… It’s just a God‑given talent.”  On coping mechanisms “As long as I had some type of music or some form of therapy… I could navigate any stressful environment.”  On cooking as therapy (reflecting Rushion’s habits) “You’re creating new neural pathways… recalibrating your nervous system.”  On intentional healing “Yoga and massages can be therapeutic, but you have to be intentional.”  On the purpose of the FELT Experience “In order to release whatever your body is experiencing, you have to have a felt experience.”  On the challenge of transformation “We are used to chaos… but we’re not used to healed environments.”  On the evolution of her practice “I wanted to understand the whole person… and help them change the dial on their dashboard to fit their calling.”  On mental health in the Black community “People perceive admission as a flaw… but healing is about understanding your story.”  On creating safe spaces “By creating a space of safety and healing… people get to live the life they desired and not a life from survival.”  #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://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 #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello, Strawberry Letter Listeners! We want to share a new show you might enjoy, it’s “Joy 101 with Hoda Kotb”!!! About the Show: Joy is essential. And it's also elusive. You can't order it, borrow it, or simply hope it into life. But now, there's a new and exciting way to start your journey toward a more joyful existence: The Joy 101 Podcast with Hoda! Best known for her Emmy-winning work and co-anchoring Today, Hoda Kotb infuses her authenticity, curiosity, and warmth into conversations with the world’s most fascinating people. Entertainment legends, sport icons, wellness experts, and everyday folks will share how they find, allow, and experience joy. Hoda will offer her own tips and takes on seeking a more balanced, harmonious life.  If you're craving inspiration, support, and useful tools to maximize your joy, tune in to these candid, uplifting, and moving on-air chats. Joy after a breakup, joy as an empty-nester, joy after loss, joy as a caretaker — Hoda's new podcast will speak to you. Joy 101 with Hoda Kotb, an iHeartPodcast. Listen here and subscribe to Joy 101 with Hoda Kotb on the iHeartRadio App or wherever you get your podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Friday, June 12th, 2026. Subject: "I Love Him, But..."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Thursday, June 11th, 2026. Subject: "I Love Everything Except That"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Wednesday, June 10th, 2026. Subject: "He's Going To Explode One Day"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Tuesday, June 9th, 2026. Subject: "It's So Amazing To Be Single"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Monday, June 8th, 2026. Subject: "He Has Got To Get Out Of Here"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Friday, June 5th, 2026. Subject: "Why Is She In My Brother's House?"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Thursday, June 4th, 2026. Subject: "I Think He Perms His Hair"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Wednesday, June 3rd, 2026. Subject: "We Got to the Hotel But Not a Room"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026. Subject: "I Want to See it Every Time"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Monday, June 1st, 2026. Subject: "It's Amazing How Nice He Could Be"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Friday, May 29th, 2026. Subject: "Potty Mouth and Smokey Clothes"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Thursday, May 28th, 2026. Subject: "She is so Foul for That"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Wednesday, May 27th, 2026. Subject: "He’s Growing on Me"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Tuesday, May 26th, 2026. Subject: "The Women In My Life Should Meet"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Monday, May 25th, 2026. Subject: "Take My Money, My House, & My Car"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Friday, May 22nd, 2026. Subject: "His Sister Or Secret LoverSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Thursday, May 21st, 2026. Subject: "It's Not A Big Deal At All"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Wednesday, May 20h, 2026. Subject: "Leave My Man Out Your Rumors"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Tuesday, May 19th, 2026. Subject: "The Bathroom In The Basement"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Monday, May 18th, 2026. Subject: "I Just Met My Play Sister-In-Law"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Friday, May 15th, 2026. Subject: "My Neighbor Hid My Sidepiece"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Thursday, May 14th, 2026. Subject: "I Can't Stay Away"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. Leketa Hawkins. Also known as the Pocketbook Strategist. She is a financial literacy advocate and business consultant based in North Carolina, offering tools and resources to help individuals and small business owners take control of their financial futures. 🔑 Key Themes and Takeaways: 💼 About Dr. Leketa Hawkins Founder of PocketbookStrategies.com, which offers financial literacy programs, tools, and resources. Also runs Hawdleigh.com, a platform for financial education courses and templates. Her mission is to provide low-cost or no-cost financial education to underserved communities. 💡 Financial Literacy & Upbringing Like many, Leketa grew up in a household where money was not discussed—a common cultural norm that left many unprepared for adult financial responsibilities. She emphasizes the importance of breaking generational cycles by involving children in financial conversations early. 🧠 Emotional Spending One of the most common financial pitfalls she sees is emotional spending—buying things to cope with stress, boredom, or celebration. She recommends tracking spending for one week to identify patterns and triggers. Online shopping makes emotional spending easier and more dangerous due to its convenience. 📊 Budgeting Strategies Advocates for the 50/30/20 rule: 50% for needs 30% for wants 20% for savings or debt Encourages people to “name your money before you spend it”—assign every dollar a purpose. 👧🏾 Youth Financial Literacy Stresses the importance of teaching kids that money is a tool, not a goal. Encourages parents to: Let kids ask financial questions. Teach saving from every dollar earned. Explain compound interest and the value of investing. 👩🏽‍💼 Empowering Women Financially Many women feel overwhelmed or disempowered financially. Dr. Hawkins encourages women to take small steps toward financial clarity and view financial wellness as a form of self-love. 💬 Final Lessons “Money doesn’t change who you are—it amplifies who you are.” Understanding the difference between assets and liabilities is foundational: Assets put money in your pocket. Liabilities take money out. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Wednesday, May 13th, 2026. Subject: "He Goes There To Unwind"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. Shica.  Interview Purpose The purpose of this interview is to highlight entrepreneurial reinvention, faith‑driven resilience, and product‑based business building, using Dr. Shica’s journey from educator to founder of Dr. Shica’s Bakery as a powerful example of how unexpected setbacks can unlock hidden purpose. The conversation demonstrates that entrepreneurship does not always begin as a plan—it often begins as a response to disruption. Dr. Shica’s story shows how education, discipline, creativity, and belief can transform a side passion into a scalable, nationally relevant brand. Major Themes & Key Takeaways 1. Entrepreneurship Can Be Born From Adversity Dr. Shica did not set out to build a baking business. After losing her job during the COVID‑19 pandemic, she was forced to reassess her future. What began as weekend baking quickly evolved into a business opportunity when encouragement from others met growing demand. Key takeaway: Unexpected endings often reveal opportunities you didn’t know you were prepared for. 2. Education Is Transferable—Even Outside the Classroom With three degrees in education, including a doctorate, Dr. Shica reframes her career transition not as a departure from teaching, but as an extension of it. Through her bakery, she continues to educate consumers about better‑for‑you, plant‑based foods. Key takeaway: Education is not limited to institutions—it can live inside entrepreneurship. 3. Why Vegan Was the Strategic Choice Dr. Shica intentionally built a vegan, plant‑based cookie brand to serve a wider audience, including those with dietary restrictions, health considerations, and evolving food preferences. The goal was inclusivity without sacrificing flavor. Key takeaway: Building products for “everyone” means being intentional about accessibility. 4. Talent Is Sometimes Hidden Until Circumstances Force Discovery Although she came from a family of bakers, Dr. Shica did not recognize her full talent until she had no choice but to act. Customer feedback, pop‑up success, and celebrity validation confirmed what she hadn’t previously claimed for herself. Key takeaway: You may not discover your strongest gift until you are pushed to use it. 5. Pop‑Ups as Proof of Concept Dr. Shica used pop‑ups and kiosks as testing grounds—refining recipes, gathering feedback, and maintaining product standards. Consistency, premium ingredients, and refusing to sell anything less than excellent became core principles. Key takeaway: Small tests create big confidence when done intentionally. 6. Scaling Through Innovation: Cookie Mixes The creation of her cookie dough mix solved multiple challenges: consistency, scalability, and nationwide shipping. What began as an internal solution became a product line customers could take home and recreate. Key takeaway: Scaling often comes from solving an internal problem creatively. 7. Brand Integrity and Consistency Matter Dr. Shica emphasizes that every product carries her heart, soul, and reputation. If something didn’t meet her standards, it was remade—no exceptions. That commitment built trust and repeat business. Key takeaway: Quality is the quiet engine behind brand longevity. 8. Faith + Work Ethic = Sustainability When asked about her secret to success, Dr. Shica centered her answer on faith first, hard work always. She acknowledges the added challenges faced as a minority woman founder and the need for spiritual grounding to navigate buyers, retailers, and scaling pressure. Key takeaway: Faith can fuel consistency when entrepreneurship gets heavy. 9. Vision Beyond the Present Moment Dr. Shica’s long‑term goal is to build a legacy brand—comparable to household names—while ensuring her face, story, and values remain part of the company’s identity for future generations. Key takeaway: Legacy branding connects today’s hustle to tomorrow’s impact. Notable Quotes “I didn’t even know I had this talent until I was laid off.” “I wanted to create something delicious that everyone could enjoy.” “If it wasn’t perfect, I made it again.” “I’m still educating—just through cookies.” “Consistency is everything.” “Jesus, take the wheel.” “Stay prayed up, and then put in the work.” Overall Message Dr. Shica’s interview is a testimony of faith, adaptability, and disciplined creativity. Her journey reinforces that success is not always about following the original plan—it’s about recognizing opportunity, honoring your standards, and trusting the path as it unfolds. Her story shows that when passion meets preparation and belief, even a kitchen dream can become a national brand with purpose and legacy. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://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 Monty Garside. A full-time attorney turned baker and founder of Confectionist Bakery. Here are some key highlights from the episode: 🎙️ Guest Background Monty Garside is a practicing attorney with over 20 years of experience in litigation. He founded Confectionist Bakery in honor of his grandmother, Ruth Ilene Burns Garside. The bakery started in his home kitchen and now ships desserts nationwide. 🍰 Bakery Journey Inspired by nostalgia and family traditions, Monty began baking after his grandmother passed away. His first successful cake was a pound cake that tasted exactly like his grandmother’s. He was encouraged to start a business by a client who was the daughter of a professional baker. 🧁 Products & Flavors Specializes in cheesecakes, pound cakes, layer cakes, and pies. Unique flavors include: Peach Cobbler Pound Cake Amaretto Pound Cake Banana Pudding Layer Cake Sweet Potato Pound Cake 🚚 Shipping & Operations Operates out of a commercial kitchen in Atlanta. Cakes are wrapped and frozen for freshness and shipped nationwide. Orders typically take 2 days to process and 3–5 days for delivery. 💡 Business Insights Challenges included pricing products appropriately and managing holiday demand. Emphasizes the importance of: Quality product Excellent customer service Knowing your target audience Target customers are busy professionals who appreciate homemade, Southern-style desserts but lack the time or skill to make them. 📈 Advice for Entrepreneurs Don’t be afraid to try something new. Control what you can—especially product quality and customer service. Trust yourself through the ups and downs. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strawberry Letter heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show Tuesday, May 12th, 2026. Subject: "Can I Trust Him With My Heart Again?"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.