Motivation Advice: Ask Yourself: Do You Run Things or Do Things Run You?
Best of The Steve Harvey Morning ShowSummary
Business owners looking to expand into new markets face numerous challenges and questions, particularly regarding their readiness for growth. Utilizing tools like ChatGPT can assist in mapping out various scenarios, helping entrepreneurs prepare for potential outcomes and develop effective expansion plans.
In a recent discussion, Rashawn McDonald speaks with L.D.L.T. Princey, a structural diagnostician and author, about the pressures of leadership and the importance of recognizing personal boundaries. Princey emphasizes the need for individuals to assess whether they are truly in control of their circumstances or if they are merely managing stress and overload. She encourages listeners to reflect on their roles and the dependencies they create, suggesting that true success involves building systems that can operate independently.
The conversation also touches on the societal pressures that can distort one's sense of success, particularly in the context of traditional employment versus entrepreneurship. Princey advocates for self-awareness and the importance of pursuing one's own definition of happiness, rather than conforming to external expectations. She highlights the value of taking time off to reconnect with personal goals, suggesting that even a brief period of disengagement can lead to significant insights and a clearer path forward.
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 El' Deity Princey. She discusses how individuals can recognize when they are being controlled by obligations, expectations, and unhealthy dependencies rather than truly directing their own lives. The conversation centered on creating "structural freedom," building sustainable success, and aligning life choices with personal purpose rather than external expectations. Interview Summary El'Deity Princey joined Money Making Conversations Master Class to discuss her books, Monetize a Mind That's Colonized and The Pressure of Being the Stabilizer. Throughout the conversation, she challenged listeners to ask themselves a powerful question: "Do you run things, or are things running you?" Princey explained that many successful people, entrepreneurs, executives, and employees often believe they are in control when they are actually trapped by the very systems they have created. They become the person everyone depends on, carrying the pressure of constantly solving problems, making decisions, and keeping everything functioning. Rushion shared lessons from his own corporate and entrepreneurial journey, including how he learned that being indispensable can sometimes create stress, distrust, and burnout. Princey responded by explaining that true leadership is not about carrying everything yourself. It is about creating systems that function effectively even when you are absent. The interview also explored how society conditions people to pursue careers, relationships, and lifestyles based on other people's expectations. Princey revealed that after earning degrees and securing a successful career as a therapist, she realized that while she appeared successful on paper, she was not fulfilled internally. That realization led her to develop frameworks that help people align their work, time, and energy with their authentic desires. A key theme throughout the conversation was the difference between being an "operator" and an "allocator." Operators manage everything personally, while allocators build systems, trust people, and create freedom to enjoy life while maintaining success. Key Takeaways 1. Ask Yourself: Do You Run Things or Do Things Run You? Many people believe they are in control, but their schedules, responsibilities, and obligations may actually be controlling them. 2. Success Without Freedom Is Incomplete Achieving financial or professional success means little if you do not have the time and freedom to enjoy your life. 3. Competency Creates Dependency The more capable you are, the more people and systems tend to rely on you. Without boundaries, competence can become a burden. 4. Stop Being the Stabilizer for Everything Many high achievers become the person everyone depends on. Over time, that role creates pressure, exhaustion, and resentment. 5. Build Systems, Not Dependency True leadership creates structures and processes that continue operating effectively without constant supervision. 6. External Success Does Not Guarantee Internal Happiness A great job, impressive credentials, and financial stability do not automatically create fulfillment. 7. Stop Living Someone Else's Script Many people pursue goals based on family expectations, social conditioning, or cultural definitions of success instead of their own desires. 8. Structural Freedom Is the Goal The ability to choose how you spend your time is one of the
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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 Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: Introduce Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones’ work helping entrepreneurs and professionals “bankroll their brilliance”. Encourage listeners to monetize their unique talents and create multiple streams of income. Inspire individuals to align their purpose with their profession for greater impact and fulfillment. Share strategies for overcoming fear, embracing authenticity, and building scalable businesses. 🧠 Key Takeaways 1. From Casting to Coaching Nicole’s early career in talent management and casting helped her develop a gift for recognizing people’s potential. She now uses that gift to help entrepreneurs and executives identify their “DNA” (Distinct Natural Ability) and turn it into income. “I could see you and how you could fit into the script… That’s really what I do with entrepreneurs now.” – Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones 2. Purpose Is Your Power Nicole emphasizes that purpose is the one thing you never get fired from. Aligning your work with your purpose leads to higher performance and deeper fulfillment. “When you bless somebody with the thing that you do, they’re gaining—and you’re gaining for God.” – Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones 3. Multiple Streams of Income She teaches clients to diversify their income by creating products, programs, and services that don’t require their constant presence—what she calls “money while you sleep” or “mailbox money.” Examples include: Lawyers creating online courses for clients who can’t afford billable hours. Gymnasts licensing their training methods and renting out facilities. “Your comfort zone is where your dreams go to die.” – Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones “If you are physically tied to the money you make, you’re capping your potential.” – Rushion McDonald 4. Stop Giving Away Your Brilliance Nicole warns against giving away intellectual property for free. She encourages professionals to recognize the value of their expertise and package it into paid offerings. “You’re giving away your cookie for free… You have value that people will pay for.” – Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones 5. Create a Methodology She helps clients build a blueprint for their expertise, turning routines and habits into teachable systems. Her metaphor: “You can’t see the label from inside the jar,” meaning people often overlook their own value. “It’s really helping someone produce the value that is coming out of you effortlessly.” – Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones 6. Authenticity Is a Business Strategy Nicole encourages people to embrace their full personality, even if it’s “too much” for some. She believes that being yourself is the key to attracting the right audience and opportunities. “Stop letting people turn down your light. This is who I am. God made me this way.” – Dr. Nicole Roberts Jones 💬 Memorable Quotes “Corporate doesn’t need more of corporate.” “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” “Each of us were born to disrupt whatever system we’re called to work in.” 🌟 Impact of the Interview This episode is a masterclass in personal branding, purpose alignment, and entrepreneurial strategy. Nicole’s energy and clarity make her insights actionable and inspiring, especially for professionals looking to pivot, scale, or rediscover their value. #SHMS #STRAW #BEST Money Making Conversations Master Class wit
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. Joaquin Wallace. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview To explore Dr. Wallace’s groundbreaking work in financial literacy, particularly his concept of the “financial genetic code”, and to promote his book Generational Wealth Begins with Generational Knowledge. The interview aims to empower marginalized communities with tools for financial healing, literacy, and long-term wealth building. 🗝️ Key Takeaways 1. Background & Recognition Dr. Wallace is a recipient of the Wells Fargo Living History Makers Award. Featured in the Contemporary Black Biography series. Former college basketball coach and educator with a strong focus on discipline and mentorship. 2. Seven-Stage Generational Wealth Model Outlined in his book, the model includes: Internal/External Ecosystem – influences from family, community, and environment. Financial Genetic Code – inherited financial narratives and behaviors. Financial Healing – reprogramming harmful financial habits. Financial Edification – literacy and inclusion. Financial Well-being – stability and health. Generational Knowledge – estate planning, insurance, long-term care. Generational Wealth – successful transfer of assets. “Without financial well-being, there is no generational wealth.” 3. Financial Genetic Code A trademarked concept by Dr. Wallace. Unlike DNA, it can be rewritten through education and therapy. Influenced by early experiences, family habits, and community norms. Examples include “scar tissue narratives” (trauma from past financial events). 4. Credit & Financial Literacy Credit score is critical but misunderstood. Utilization rate should be under 30%. Payment history and inquiries significantly affect scores. Many people are unaware of the difference between consumer scores and business scores. 5. Barriers to Financial Growth Lack of trust in financial systems due to past trauma. Misinformation passed down from family and community. Zip codes and overleveraging can impact loan approvals. Financial professionals may unknowingly transfer their own biases to clients. 6. Role of Financial Professionals Dr. Wallace identifies five key roles: Financial Educator Financial Counselor Financial Therapist Financial Advisor Financial Planner He emphasizes matching individuals with the right professional based on their needs and emotional readiness. 7. Book Insights Generational Wealth Begins with Generational Knowledge is an Amazon bestseller. Includes self-assessments after each chapter. Designed for both professionals and everyday readers. Encourages readers to identify their financial stage and take actionable steps. 💬 Notable Quotes “You are your credit score.” “Inherited financial narratives create encoded financial behaviors.” “Any answer sounds correct if you don’t ask the right question.” “Consistency creates consistent outcomes.” “Financial literacy is not the end-all—it’s just one piece of the puzzle.” “We do what we know. If we don’t know, we just continue to do.” 📌 Final Thoughts Dr. Joaquin Wallace offers a transformative framework for understanding and improving financial behavior, especially in underserved communities. His concept of the financial genetic code bridges psychology, education, and economics, making financial wellness more accessible and actionable. #SHMS #STRAW #BEST Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion Mc
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 Tiffani Neal. Founder of Barlow’s Foods, a specialty food brand known for its Southern-inspired products, including its signature 3-in-1 pancake, waffle, and biscuit mix. The conversation focuses on her entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of building a food business, and the strategies that helped her grow from a startup founder into a successful food entrepreneur. Purpose of the Interview The purpose of the interview was to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs by sharing Tiffani Neal’s business journey and to provide practical insights into building, branding, and scaling a consumer food product company. The discussion emphasized perseverance, innovation, customer engagement, and the importance of continuous education as a business owner. Key Takeaways 1. Passion Can Become a Business Neal transformed her love for Southern cooking and family traditions into a successful food brand. Her story demonstrates how a personal passion can become a viable business opportunity. 2. Confidence Fuels Entrepreneurship She emphasized the importance of believing in your vision, even if you do not have a traditional background in the industry you enter. 3. Customers Help Shape Success Direct interaction with customers at farmers markets and events provided honest feedback that helped improve products and strengthen the brand. 4. Continuous Learning Is Essential Building a food company required Neal to learn about food safety regulations, packaging, labeling requirements, manufacturing, and distribution. 5. Networking Creates Growth Opportunities Strategic relationships and industry connections helped open doors to retail opportunities and business expansion. 6. Product Expansion Should Be Intentional The growth of Barlow’s Foods beyond its original product line came from understanding customer demand and creating complementary products that aligned with the brand. 7. Great Teams Drive Great Businesses As the company expanded, Neal learned the importance of surrounding herself with talented people who could support the company’s growth and long-term goals. Memorable Quotes “I believe it was just the affirmations along the way.” This reflects how encouragement and validation from customers and supporters helped build her confidence as an entrepreneur. “You can't really hide a facial expression when someone's tasting a product.” A reminder that direct customer feedback is one of the most valuable tools for improving a product. “It was a huge process.” Neal used this phrase when describing the complexities involved in launching and expanding food products. “Once you are able to get a good team…” This statement underscored her belief that sustainable growth depends on hiring and developing the right people. Overall Message Tiffani Neal’s journey is a powerful example of how determination, adaptability, and a commitment to learning can transform a simple idea into a thriving business. Her story reinforces that entrepreneurial success comes from understanding your customers, embracing challenges, building strong relationships, and consistently investing in personal and professional growth. #SHMS #BEST #STRAW
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 Holly Cotton. Discussed her new book, The Hard Choice: When the High Road Feels Like Losing. The conversation explored how people can navigate difficult life situations, protect their peace, manage stress, and make tough decisions even when doing the right thing does not seem to deliver immediate rewards. Holly also shared insights on entrepreneurship, authorship, and building a business around your expertise. Interview Summary Holly Cotton joined Money Making Conversations Master Class to discuss the powerful lessons behind her book, The Hard Choice. She explained that many people experience situations where they are hurt, disrespected, or treated unfairly and are forced to decide whether to retaliate or take the high road. A central message from the interview was that doing the right thing is often emotionally difficult because the people who caused harm may never face visible consequences. Holly encouraged listeners to stop basing their peace and happiness on whether others receive karma or punishment and instead focus on protecting their own well-being. The conversation also highlighted Holly's commitment to mental wellness. She discussed her free "Pause Before You Pop" resource, which helps people recognize emotional triggers and avoid making impulsive decisions they may later regret. Rushion and Holly also connected over their experiences as cancer survivors, discussing how life-changing health challenges can reshape priorities, strengthen authenticity, and increase appreciation for peace and purpose. In the second half of the interview, Holly shifted to entrepreneurship and publishing. She shared practical advice for aspiring authors, stressing that writing a book is only the beginning. Success comes from understanding your audience, creating a marketing strategy, and transforming your knowledge into multiple streams of income. Key Takeaways 1. Taking the High Road Is Not Easy Doing the right thing often feels unfair when others continue to prosper despite their behavior, but integrity ultimately serves you better than retaliation. 2. Peace Is Priceless Protecting your mental and emotional well-being should always be a priority. 3. Stop Waiting for Karma Your decisions should not depend on whether someone else experiences consequences for their actions. 4. You Are Not Stuck Whether in a career, relationship, or personal situation, you have the power to create a plan and move toward a better future. 5. Manage Triggers Before They Manage You Learning to pause before reacting can prevent emotional decisions that create long-term problems. 6. Adversity Can Create Growth Life-changing experiences, including health challenges, can provide a new perspective on what truly matters. 7. Writing a Book Is a Business Authors who want success must think about distribution, marketing, audience development, and revenue opportunities. 8. Know Your Target Audience Before writing a book, know who will benefit from it and who is most likely to purchase it. 9. Create Multiple Revenue Streams Books can lead to speaking engagements, courses, coaching programs, workshops, and digital products. 10. Success Requires Structure Goals are achieved through planning, outlines, accountability, and consistent execution. Memorable Quotes "The hard choice comes in when the high road doesn't feel like winning." "Peace is priceles
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 Dominic Adams. Founder of Plane James & Janes Travel Agency and creator of Black to Zanzibar, shared his entrepreneurial journey of turning a passion for travel into a successful business. The conversation explored travel entrepreneurship, cultural tourism, African investment opportunities, community impact, and the importance of creating memorable experiences rather than simply booking vacations. Purpose of the Interview The interview was designed to educate and inspire listeners by demonstrating how passion, planning, and customer service can be transformed into a thriving business. Dominic discussed how traveling the world helped him identify opportunities to connect people with meaningful cultural experiences while also creating opportunities for economic growth and community engagement. The discussion focused on: Building a successful travel-based business. The value of working with experienced travel professionals. Connecting the global Black diaspora through travel. Exploring Africa as a destination for tourism and investment. Using entrepreneurship to create both profit and purpose. Key Takeaways 1. Curate Experiences, Not Just Vacations Dominic emphasized that his company does more than arrange flights and hotels. His goal is to create seamless, memorable experiences that allow travelers to enjoy every aspect of their journey. Lesson: Customers value expertise, convenience, and peace of mind. 2. Business Opportunities Come from Solving Problems The idea for his travel company emerged after organizing group trips and realizing that many travelers needed assistance navigating the travel process. What started as helping friends evolved into a successful business. Lesson: Great businesses often begin by solving everyday problems. 3. Travel Professionals Deliver Unique Value Online booking platforms cannot replace local knowledge, destination expertise, travel planning, and personalized service. Dominic stressed the importance of having trusted advisors who anticipate challenges before they arise. Lesson: Expertise remains valuable in an increasingly digital world. 4. Safety Is a Top Priority Dominic discussed the importance of vetting accommodations, transportation providers, and local partners to ensure travelers feel secure and comfortable throughout their journey. Lesson: Trust and safety are essential components of excellent customer service. 5. Africa Offers Incredible Opportunities A significant theme of the interview was challenging misconceptions about Africa. Dominic highlighted the continent's culture, business opportunities, tourism growth, and economic potential. Lesson: Travel broadens perspectives and challenges outdated stereotypes. 6. Black to Zanzibar Creates Cultural Connections The annual Black to Zanzibar experience was presented as much more than a vacation. It provides networking, education, entertainment, cultural immersion, and opportunities to connect with the African continent. Activities include: Investment summits Cultural celebrations Networking opportunities Local community engagement Historical and educational experiences Safari and tourism excursions Lesson: Meaningful travel should inspire, educate, and connect people. 7. Travel Can Lead to Wealth-Building Opportunities Dominic explained how visitors can learn about real estate, entrepreneurship, and investme