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    Comedy

    Strawberry Letter

    Got a situation? Steve Harvey and Shirley Strawberry deliver unfiltered advice on love, relationships, family, work, and life. Send your letter, subscribe, and get real talk every day!

    Every weekday, the Steve Harvey Morning Show tackle a listener-submitted “Strawberry Letter”… a real-life dilemma ranging from romantic entanglements to career choices, family drama to money struggles, and everything in between.

    With a blend of wisdom, wit, and brutal honesty, they offer candid commentary and heartfelt guidance, often sparking conversation (and laughter) among the rest of the morning show crew.

    Submit your Strawberry Letter at www.steveharveyfm.com for a chance to be featured, and get the truth, Steve Harvey style!

    Advertise

    Copyright: 2024 iHeartMedia, Inc. © Any use of this intellectual property for text and data mining or computational analysis including as training material for artificial intelligence systems is strictly prohibited without express written consent from iHeartMedia

    • Apple Podcasts
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    Latest Episodes:
    Relationships Matter: Bronzelens Film Festival developing the next generation of filmmakers. Oct 10, 2024
    Show notes

    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 Kathleen Bertrand.

    Founder of the BronzeLens Film Festival, one of the nation's premier film festivals dedicated to showcasing filmmakers and storytellers of color. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, BronzeLens has spent more than 15 years creating opportunities for diverse voices in film, television, documentaries, animation, music videos, and digital media.

    The discussion explores the origins of BronzeLens, Atlanta's role in the film industry, filmmaking opportunities, networking, social justice storytelling, and how vision, relationships, and persistence transformed an idea into a globally recognized cultural institution.

    Purpose of the Interview

    The purpose of the interview was to:

    • Highlight the impact of the BronzeLens Film Festival.
    • Discuss opportunities for filmmakers of color.
    • Explain how the festival was created.
    • Showcase Atlanta's emergence as a film production hub.
    • Promote the 15th Annual BronzeLens Film Festival.
    • Encourage aspiring creators to tell their stories.
    • Demonstrate the power of relationships and community building.

    About BronzeLens Film Festival

    BronzeLens Film Festival was founded to ensure that creators of color have access to:

    • Visibility
    • Industry connections
    • Networking opportunities
    • Educational resources
    • Film exhibition platforms

    The festival serves filmmakers from:

    • Atlanta
    • The Southeast
    • Across the United States
    • Around the world

    Its mission is to help storytellers gain opportunities in an industry where access has historically been limited.

    Why BronzeLens Was Created

    Kathleen explained that the idea originated while she was a senior executive at the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau.

    The catalyst came from then-CEO William Pate, who asked an important question:

    "Why doesn't Atlanta have something like Sundance for the African American community?"

    At the time:

    • Georgia's film industry was rapidly expanding.
    • Major productions were increasingly choosing Atlanta.
    • Tyler Perry Studios was growing.
    • Opportunities were emerging for filmmakers.

    However, there was no major platform dedicated to connecting filmmakers of color with those opportunities.

    Kathleen took that challenge seriously.

    Building the Vision

    After receiving the challenge, Kathleen spent months:

    • Researching film festivals.
    • Studying successful models.
    • Meeting with local filmmakers.
    • Identifying gaps in the market.

    She sought advice from respected Atlanta professionals including:

    Cheryl Gripper

    Former executive at 11Alive and community leader.

    Deirdre McDonald

    Emmy Award-winning producer and educator who became BronzeLens' Artistic Director.

    Together they built the foundation for what would become BronzeLens.

    The Importance of Atlanta

    BronzeLens is deeply connected to Atlanta's identity.

    According to Kathleen:

    Atlanta is now one of America's leading centers for:

    • Film production
    • Television production
    • Creative talent
    • Entertainment entrepreneurship

    The festival was designed to ensure that people of color participated in that growth.

    Key Point: BronzeLens exists to help diverse storytellers claim a place in Atlanta's booming entertainment economy.

    How the Name BronzeLens Was Created

    One fascinating story from the interview involved the festival's name.

    The original proposed name was:

    Bronze Jubilee Film Festival

    After presenting the concept to executives from Turner Broadcasting, feedback suggested the name needed improvement.

    A professional naming company was brought in.

    After several weeks, they proposed:

    BronzeLens

    Kathleen immediately knew it was the right choice.

    The name represented:

    • Bronze communities worldwide
    • Storytelling
    • Film
    • Creativity
    • Perspectives through a lens

    The Festival's Growth

    The first BronzeLens event launched in 2010 with:

    • 23 films
    • Community support
    • Industry participation
    • Strong local engagement

    Since then the festival has expanded dramatically.

    Today it attracts:

    • Independent filmmakers
    • Producers
    • Industry executives
    • Celebrities
    • Students
    • Film enthusiasts

    from across the globe.

    Academy Award Qualifying Status

    One of the festival's most significant accomplishments is becoming:

    An Academy Awards Qualifying Film Festival

    Since 2016, BronzeLens has held Oscar-qualifying status for short films.

    This means:

    • Winners of specific categories become eligible for Oscar consideration.
    • Filmmakers gain national and international visibility.
    • The prestige of the festival increases significantly.

    Key Point: BronzeLens serves as a potential pathway toward Academy Award recognition.

    BronzeLens 2024 Festival Highlights

    The festival runs:

    August 21-25

    Features include:

    • Film screenings
    • Industry panels
    • Workshops
    • Networking sessions
    • Awards ceremonies
    • Filmmaker events

    More Than 140 Films

    The festival showcases over:

    140 Films

    Covering topics such as:

    • Social justice
    • Comedy
    • Relationships
    • Mental health
    • Religion
    • Spirituality
    • History
    • Culture

    Celebrity-Connected Projects

    Kathleen noted that several submitted films included involvement from notable entertainment figures and producers.

    Among them:

    • Jamie Foxx
    • Jamie Lee Curtis
    • Morris Chestnut
    • Ben Crump
    • Deborah Riley Draper

    Their participation demonstrates the growing credibility and reach of the festival.

    Cinema and Social Justice Sunday

    One of BronzeLens' most important traditions is:

    Cinema and Social Justice Sunday

    This program reflects Atlanta's role in the Civil Rights Movement.

    The event focuses on:

    • Human rights
    • Social justice
    • Civil rights stories
    • Community awareness

    Importantly:

    Admission is Free

    The goal is educational engagement and community participation.

    Why Social Justice Is Central to BronzeLens

    Kathleen believes social justice storytelling is inseparable from Atlanta's identity.

    Atlanta is home to the legacy of:

    • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
    • Congressman John Lewis
    • Reverend Joseph Lowery
    • C.T. Vivian
    • Ambassador Andrew Young
    • Coretta Scott King

    As a result, BronzeLens intentionally preserves this connection through its programming.

    Andrew Young Cinema and Social Justice Award

    The festival created:

    The Andrew J. Young Cinema and Social Justice Award

    to honor Ambassador Andrew Young's contributions.

    Many people know him as:

    • Civil rights leader
    • Diplomat
    • Mayor of Atlanta

    Less known is the fact that Andrew Young is also an accomplished filmmaker and documentary producer.

    The award celebrates:

    • Film excellence
    • Human rights advocacy
    • Social impact storytelling

    The Inaugural Filmmakers Ball

    A major celebration associated with the 15th anniversary festival is:

    The BronzeLens Filmmakers Ball

    Held:

    August 24

    Features:

    • Networking
    • Celebration
    • Recognition of filmmakers
    • Community engagement

    The event evolved from a previous women's recognition program.

    What Makes BronzeLens Successful?

    Rushion asked Kathleen the secret behind sustaining the organization for 15 years.

    She identified three key factors:

    1. Exceptional Hospitality

    BronzeLens makes filmmakers feel valued.

    The organization focuses on:

    • Welcoming experiences
    • Genuine support
    • Professional treatment

    Many filmmakers cite this as one of the festival's greatest strengths.

    2. Strong Volunteer Support

    More than 100 volunteers participate annually.

    Many volunteers are:

    • Emerging filmmakers
    • Students
    • Creatives

    who gain networking opportunities while supporting the festival.

    3. Relationships

    Perhaps her most important lesson:

    "Relationships are everything."

    Kathleen emphasized that success comes from:

    • Building trust
    • Maintaining integrity
    • Creating genuine partnerships
    • Helping others succeed

    Memorable Quotes

    Kathleen Bertrand

    "We wanted to create a platform for filmmakers of color."

    "Atlanta was the perfect place."

    "This is the cradle of the Civil Rights Movement."

    "BronzeLens wanted to be that pivot point."

    "We treat people well."

    "Relationships matter."

    "Knowing people is important, but integrity is essential."

    Rushion McDonald

    "Everyone has a bright idea. How do you make it a reality?"

    "Relationships continue to open doors."

    "This festival has become a destination."

    "The stories need to be told."

    Overall Message

    Kathleen Bertrand's journey demonstrates how a single idea, combined with research, relationships, vision, and perseverance, can become a lasting institution. BronzeLens Film Festival has grown from a concept inspired by a simple question into an internationally respected platform that showcases diverse stories, creates industry opportunities, celebrates social justice, and helps shape the next generation of filmmakers. The festival's success illustrates that meaningful change often begins when someone sees a gap, builds community around a purpose, and commits to serving others with excellence.

    #AMI

    #BEST

    #SHMS

    #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

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


    His Bad Jokes Backfired Oct 09, 2024
    Show notes

    Dear Steve and Shirley, My husband tried his hand at comedy a few years before I met him. He started doing amateur nights, but his career never took off after a local club burned down, so he started doing fundraisers at the church, and his jokes almost got him put out of the church. I married him after he got a job at a car dealership. He's great at selling cars, so I encouraged him to stick to that. He told me years ago that he has to exercise his comedy muscle or he would lose it. He never had it, since he doesn't have an audience. He tells all of our business and tries to pass it off as jokes....................................................

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


    Five Core Values for Success: Customer Service, Integrity, Teamwork, Accountability, and Respect Oct 09, 2024
    Show notes

    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 Ken Taunton.

    Founder and President of The Royster Group, a nationally recognized executive search and healthcare staffing firm. The conversation focuses on entrepreneurship, talent recruiting, healthcare workforce trends, diversity in executive leadership, minority business certification, and practical advice for job seekers and business owners.

    The interview provides listeners with insight into how executive recruiting works, why healthcare remains one of the strongest employment sectors, and how persistence, relationships, and mentorship contribute to long-term business success.

    Purpose of the Interview

    The interview was designed to:

    • Introduce Ken Taunton and The Royster Group's national staffing and executive search business.
    • Educate professionals on how executive recruiting and healthcare staffing work.
    • Discuss workforce shortages and opportunities in healthcare.
    • Highlight the importance of diversity in executive leadership.
    • Explain the value of minority business certifications and supplier diversity programs.
    • Provide entrepreneurship lessons from building a successful business from the ground up.
    • Offer practical resume and job search advice for candidates.

    Key Takeaways 1. Healthcare Remains One of the Strongest Employment Sectors

    Taunton emphasized that healthcare continues to experience significant demand due to:

    • An aging population
    • Retiring baby boomers
    • Physician shortages
    • Nursing shortages and burnout

    As Americans live longer, the need for healthcare professionals and support services will continue to grow.

    Takeaway: Healthcare is one of the most stable and opportunity-rich industries for long-term career growth.

    2. Executive Search Is About Finding Highly Experienced Talent

    The Royster Group specializes in recruiting senior-level leaders, including:

    • Directors
    • Vice Presidents
    • C-suite executives

    These positions often require extensive leadership experience, management responsibility, and proven business results.

    Takeaway: Executive recruiting focuses on highly qualified professionals with demonstrated leadership and operational expertise.

    3. Diversity Should Be Intentional

    One of the primary reasons Taunton started his company was because he saw very few women and people of color represented in executive candidate pools.

    He made a commitment to include diverse candidates in leadership searches and ultimately built a business around expanding opportunities for underrepresented professionals.

    Takeaway: Creating diverse leadership pipelines requires intentional effort and accountability.

    4. Minority Business Certification Opens Doors

    Taunton and McDonald discussed the importance of certification programs such as those offered through minority supplier development organizations.

    While certification does not guarantee business, it creates opportunities to:

    • Meet corporate decision-makers
    • Access supplier diversity programs
    • Compete for contracts
    • Build relationships with major companies

    Takeaway: Certification is not a shortcut to success. It is a tool that creates access and visibility.

    5. Relationships Drive Business Growth

    Throughout the interview, Taunton repeatedly stressed the value of relationships.

    His business has grown through:

    • Industry networking
    • Client relationships
    • Referrals
    • Business partnerships
    • Professional organizations

    Takeaway: Relationships often create opportunities that marketing alone cannot.

    6. Entrepreneurship Begins with Persistence

    Taunton started The Royster Group after the technology bubble burst and disrupted his previous career path.

    Rather than viewing the economic downturn as a setback, he saw it as an opportunity to build something of his own.

    The company started with:

    • A desk
    • A phone
    • A basement office
    • Determination

    Takeaway: Successful businesses often begin with limited resources but a strong commitment to execution.

    7. Mentors Can Help You Avoid Costly Mistakes

    One of Taunton's biggest lessons was the importance of mentorship.

    He noted that entrepreneurs frequently struggle because they try to figure everything out on their own.

    Mentors can provide guidance on:

    • Business setup
    • Insurance
    • Technology
    • Operations
    • Growth strategies

    Takeaway: A good mentor can save years of trial and error.

    8. Job Seekers Must Adapt to Modern Recruiting Systems

    Taunton explained that most resumes are first screened through applicant tracking systems.

    Candidates should:

    • Read job descriptions carefully
    • Use relevant keywords
    • Match their experience to the role
    • Tailor resumes for each application

    Takeaway: A great resume must be optimized for both technology systems and human recruiters.

    9. Take Initiative During Your Job Search

    Taunton encouraged candidates to go beyond simply submitting online applications.

    Applicants should:

    • Contact recruiters directly
    • Build professional relationships
    • Follow up appropriately
    • Use multiple channels to reach hiring managers

    Takeaway: Visibility and initiative can help candidates stand out in competitive hiring environments.

    Memorable Quotes On Entrepreneurship

    "I just knew I had that determination, that grit to say, you know what, I can do this."

    On Building a Business

    "It was a desk in my basement and a phone."

    On Diversity in Executive Recruiting

    "I didn't see enough diversity on these senior-level executive searches."

    On Mentorship

    "If I would have done it completely different, I would have found a mentor."

    On Asking for Help

    "There's nothing wrong with asking for information."

    On Business Success

    "It's all about relationships."

    On Resume Writing

    "Read the job description. Make sure that you've got those key phrases, those keywords in there."

    On Modern Hiring

    "Put the effort, put the time into writing your resume and your CV."

    Bottom Line

    The interview is ultimately about opportunity, preparation, diversity, and persistence. Ken Taunton's journey from pharmaceutical sales professional to founder of a successful national staffing firm demonstrates how determination, strategic relationships, mentorship, and a commitment to inclusion can create lasting success. His advice to both entrepreneurs and job seekers is clear: build relationships, continue learning, seek mentors, and position yourself intentionally for the opportunities you want.

    #BEST

    #STRAW

    #SHMS

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


    He Stinks Because of His Mama Oct 08, 2024
    Show notes

    Dear Steve and Shirley, I'm dating a twenty nine year old mama's boy. We dated off and on for a few years, so I'm really cool with his mom. I decided to date him again even though I know his mom is a huge part of his daily life. His father died when he was a teenager, so he feels responsible for his mother. That's the part I love about him, but he needs to realize his mother is only forty seven and she can have a man if she wanted one. Here's the part I don't like. He is staying with her temporarily because someone tried to break in one night. They live in his grandmother's old house, and all of the furniture is from the eighties. The windows are nailed shut, so there's never fresh air circulating in there. The drapes are dusty, and so is everything else in there........................................

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


    Building Your Brand: Skincare harnesses the power of Africa’s natural resources - R&R Skincare. Oct 08, 2024
    Show notes

    Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Valerie Obaze. R&R Skincare is a premier, woman-owned beauty brand dedicated to crafting high-quality, cruelty-free skincare products that harness the power of Africa’s natural resources.

    1. Overview of R&R Skincare as a woman-owned, cruelty-free beauty brand founded in 2010 in Ghana. Emphasis on the brand’s commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability.

    2. Valerie's background as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and mother.

    3. The inspiration behind founding R&R Skincare, highlighting the personal connection to her mission. + Valerie’s clear vision is to establish R&R as one of Africa’s leading beauty brands using indigenous African ingredients, such as Shea and Baobab, and their healing properties.

    4. How R&R Skincare empowers African women through job creation and fair trade practices.

    5. The role of African culture and heritage in shaping the brand’s identity and product offerings.

    6. R&R Skincare prioritizes sustainability in its supply chain and product formulations.
    The brand’s approach to creating luxurious products that are environmentally friendly.

    7. Overview of R&R Skincare’s plans of expansion into the U.S. market and its significance for the brand, along with future plans for engaging with diverse audiences while showcasing African beauty secrets.

    8. Valerie’s commitment to philanthropy and community support through R&R Skincare.

    9. Reflections on balancing entrepreneurship and motherhood.

    10. (Closing Thoughts) Invitation for listeners to connect with R&R Skincare and explore its product offerings. Encouragement to support ethical and sustainable beauty brands that celebrate African heritage.

    #BEST

    #STRAW

    #SHMS

    Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success.

    Business Podcast

    Entrepreneurship

    Small Business

    Business Growth

    Financial Literacy

    Wealth Building

    Black Entrepreneurs

    Minority Business

    Leadership

    Executive Leadership

    Business Funding

    Marketing Strategies

    Personal Development

    Startup Advice

    Sales Training

    CEO Interviews

    Founder Stories

    Professional Development

    Economic Empowerment

    Business Success

    Networking

    Brand Building

    Innovation

    How to start a business

    Small business funding

    Entrepreneur success stories

    Business leadership podcast

    Wealth building strategies

    Black entrepreneur podcast

    Minority business development

    Marketing for small businesses

    Business growth strategies

    Startup funding opportunities

    Executive leadership training

    Financial literacy education

    Success mindset podcast

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


    His Female Friend Was In His Bed Oct 07, 2024
    Show notes

    Dear Steve and Shirley, My boyfriend was out of town, so I went to pick up our dog so he could stay with me. I heard a female voice say, hello, "who's there?" I knew the voice, so I walked back to my boyfriend's bedroom and it was his female friend lying in his bed. She was all cozy under the covers watching a movie. I remained calm as I asked why she was there. She said that she has been having issues with her marriage, so my boyfriend suggested that she stay at his house while he was out of town. She said that he was supposed to tell me about it. I played it off like maybe he did tell me, and I forgot. I noticed this woman was wrapped up in the monogrammed robe I gave my boyfriend for Christmas as she explained how special my boyfriend is to her and how he always gives her great advice about her marriage..............................................................

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


    He Fell Asleep with The Video On Oct 04, 2024
    Show notes

    Dear Steve and Shirley, My husband falls asleep on the couch all the time while he's scrolling through his phone. The other night, I thought the TV was up too loud, so I went to tell him to turn it down a little bit. He was knocked out with his phone on his chest and he had his AirPods in. I took them out, and when I did, I could hear a video on his phone and there was music playing and a woman in the background. I started watching the video because a woman was bare chested. She'd bent over and kissed a man and told him to take a selfie with her.................................

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


    Faith and Business: Army Veteran started skin care product line and Fade Shop barbershop brand. Oct 04, 2024
    Show notes

    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 Ozell Graham.

    Owner of The Fade Shop in Plano, Texas, entrepreneur, military veteran, mentor, and creator of the At Ease Hair & Skin Care product line.

    The conversation explores Graham's journey from serving in the military to becoming one of the nation's most respected barbershop owners. Beyond barbering, the interview highlights entrepreneurship, community leadership, mentorship, branding, and the importance of treating a business as a platform for serving others.

    Purpose of the Interview

    The interview was designed to:

    • Share Ozell Graham's entrepreneurial journey from military service to business ownership.
    • Highlight the cultural and community impact of barbershops.
    • Showcase how passion can be transformed into a successful business.
    • Discuss the development of his At Ease grooming product line.
    • Emphasize the importance of mentorship and community involvement.
    • Inspire aspiring entrepreneurs to build brands, create opportunities, and give back.

    Key Takeaways 1. Success Often Begins with an Unexpected Opportunity

    Graham never intended to become a barber. As a young man, he wanted to be a Greyhound bus driver and joined the military with transportation in mind.

    However, after learning barbering skills from his father and cutting hair while deployed overseas, he discovered a passion and talent that would eventually change his life.

    Takeaway: Your greatest career opportunity may come from a skill you initially viewed as secondary.

    2. Attention to Detail Creates Excellence

    According to Graham, the difference between an average barber and a great barber is attention to detail.

    A barber must:

    • Listen carefully to customers.
    • Understand their needs.
    • Recognize health and grooming issues.
    • Deliver a personalized experience.

    Takeaway: Excellence comes from paying attention to the small things others overlook.

    3. Barbers Do More Than Cut Hair

    One of the most powerful themes throughout the interview is that barbers serve many roles within their communities.

    A barber can be:

    • A mentor
    • A counselor
    • A role model
    • A confidant
    • A source of encouragement

    Graham describes the barbershop as the "cornerstone of the community."

    Takeaway: Service-based businesses succeed when they focus on people, not just transactions.

    4. Passion Must Come Before Profit

    Graham repeatedly emphasized that he genuinely loves cutting hair and would do it even without financial reward.

    His advice to future barbers is to first ask:

    "Would I do this for free?"

    If the answer is no, they may not be truly passionate about the profession.

    Takeaway: Long-term success is built on passion, not just the pursuit of money.

    5. Entrepreneurship Requires Wearing Multiple Hats

    Graham explained that building a business requires entrepreneurs to become:

    • Marketers
    • Designers
    • Salespeople
    • Managers
    • Customer service representatives
    • Brand ambassadors

    When launching his At Ease product line, he had to learn every aspect of the business process.

    Takeaway: Entrepreneurship requires versatility and a willingness to continuously learn.

    6. Your Network Builds Your Net Worth

    When discussing how he acquired his Plano barbershop location, Graham stressed the importance of relationships.

    A simple phone call from a colleague led him to the opportunity that became the new home of The Fade Shop.

    Takeaway: Strong professional relationships often create business opportunities before they reach the public.

    7. Mentorship Changes Lives

    Mentoring young people is one of Graham's greatest passions.

    He shared stories about helping young men develop confidence, pursue their dreams, and see possibilities beyond their current circumstances.

    His philosophy is simple: if someone helped him, he should help others.

    Takeaway: Success becomes more meaningful when it is shared with the next generation.

    8. Community Service Is a Responsibility

    Graham regularly participates in:

    • Back-to-school haircut programs
    • Youth mentoring
    • Community outreach
    • Holiday food giveaways

    He believes that success creates an obligation to reinvest in the community.

    Takeaway: Community impact is one of the strongest measures of true success.

    9. Build a Brand, Not Just a Business

    Through The Fade Shop and his At Ease product line, Graham has built recognizable brands that extend beyond barbering.

    He encourages entrepreneurs to think bigger than a single service and create businesses that solve problems and build loyalty.

    Takeaway: A strong brand creates opportunities beyond your original business model.

    Memorable Quotes On Barbering

    "It's more than just the haircut."

    On Customer Service

    "It boils down to attention to detail."

    On Community Impact

    "Without the community, there's no us."

    On Entrepreneurship

    "You have to be the marketer. You have to be the designer. You have to be the spokesperson."

    On Mentorship

    "Somebody is always watching you."

    On Business Ownership

    "You can always work for them, or you can work for you."

    On Pursuing a Career in Barbering

    "Ask yourself, is this really what I want to do? Am I passionate about this? Will I do it for free?"

    On Learning from Others

    "It's okay to be a copycat. Just copy the right cat."

    Bottom Line

    The interview is ultimately about passion, service, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Ozell Graham's story demonstrates how a skill learned in the military evolved into a nationally recognized brand and platform for community impact. His success is rooted in attention to detail, authentic relationships, mentorship, and a commitment to helping others. Through The Fade Shop and At Ease Hair & Skin Care, he shows that entrepreneurship is not just about building a business, but about building people and creating lasting value in the community.

    #BEST

    #SHMS

    #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

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


    When I Can Be Myself Around Him Oct 03, 2024
    Show notes

    Dear Steve and Shirley, I relocated for work and I rented a house. I used an agency to help me locate the home, and a nice religious man ended up showing me around. When my furniture arrived, he offered to help me get my house in order. He showed me around the city one day, and then he surprised me by asking me out on a date. I was eager to get to know him better. I learned a lot about him, like he likes proper women, as he calls it. He said he likes a woman that is classy at all times, even at home. He said he loves a woman that still smells good after an eight hour workday, and she can command attention without saying a word. I told him the type of men I'm attracted to, and I assured him that he's my type..................................................................

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


    He Risked It All for One More Night With Her Oct 02, 2024
    Show notes

    Dear Steve and Shirley, I'm dating a man that was married. When I met him, he was going through a hard divorce, so I allowed him to vent and even cry sometimes because he was going through it. I loved how he never said anything negative about his ex wife. I felt like she had to be an evil person because of how bad the divorce was. I finally talked to her for the first time, and she's far from evil. But first, let me tell you what happened. Two weekends ago. I went to Dallas for the day and I drove back home that same night. My boyfriend said he was out watching the game. He sent me a text that said he wanted to see me before I left, and another one that said please, please please.....................................

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


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