Episodes

  • Overcoming the Odds: Despite early business setbacks—including having their truck and equipment stolen—they persevered and rebuilt.

    Overcoming the Odds: Despite early business setbacks—including having their truck and equipment stolen—they persevered and rebuilt.
    May 16 2026

    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 Mela Lovett

    • CEO of Family Lawn Services, a residential and commercial landscaping company.
    • Also a serial entrepreneur, mortgage lender, and business consultant.
    • Based in Georgia, with a mission to build generational wealth and educate others on business structure.

    💼 Entrepreneurial Journey

    • Mela and her husband left retail management jobs (Walgreens & Walmart) to start their lawn care business.
    • Inspired by her husband’s childhood experience cutting grass and a desire to leave a legacy for their children.
    • Despite early setbacks—including having their truck and equipment stolen—they persevered and rebuilt.

    🧘🏽‍♀️ Mental Health & Meditation

    • Mela emphasizes the importance of meditation to manage stress and maintain balance.
    • Her journey through postpartum depression led her to self-reflection, journaling, and healing.
    • She encourages others, especially entrepreneurs, to recognize their breaking points and prioritize mental wellness.

    🌱 About Family Lawn Services

    • Offers lawn maintenance, hedge trimming, edging, and more.
    • Known for high-quality work and attention to detail.
    • Operates year-round—not just seasonally—thanks to strong referrals and consistent service.

    🛠️ Lessons in Business

    • Mela stresses the importance of:
    • Multiple streams of income
    • Proper business structure
    • Quality over shortcuts
    • Resilience in the face of adversity
    • She also warns against hiring unverified service providers (like the infamous “mailbox note” landscaper story shared by Rushion).

    📞 How to Contact Family Lawn Services

    • Phone: 800-460-9158
    • Website: familylawnservices.com

    💬 Key Takeaways

    • Entrepreneurship is a journey of faith, flexibility, and fortitude.
    • Mental health is just as important as financial health.
    • Quality service and community trust are the foundation of long-term success.
    • Even when everything is taken from you, don’t quit—rebuild and keep going.

    #SHMS #STRAW #BEST

    Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    25 mins
  • Mental Health: Interview highlights the importance of mental wellness, particularly in the elite sports, and entrepreneurial spaces.

    Mental Health: Interview highlights the importance of mental wellness, particularly in the elite sports, and entrepreneurial spaces.
    May 16 2026
    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. Kurt Jones. Purpose of the Interview The conversation aims to highlight the importance of mental health and wellness, particularly in the Black community, elite sports, and entrepreneurial spaces. It focuses on mental resilience, confidence building, and strategies for handling stress and setbacks, while introducing Dr. Jones’ methodology and his mission through Play 21 Wellness Academy. Key Takeaways Mental Health in the Black Community Historically stigmatized; seen as weakness or negativity.Today, awareness is improving, but significant work remains. Customized Approach Dr. Jones does individualized analysis and treatment plans for athletes and business professionals.Rejects “cookie-cutter” solutions—tailors strategies to personal circumstances. The Shelving Method A mental organization system with four shelves: Immediate Shelf: Urgent tasks within 24 hours.Active Shelf: Important but less urgent tasks.Holding Shelf: Items to revisit later.Elimination Shelf: Thoughts/tasks to discard permanently. Helps clients focus on the present and avoid dwelling on past mistakes. Confidence & Setbacks Confidence can collapse after major losses or failures.Strategy: Remind clients of their greatness, review past successes, and rebuild momentum.Consistency and adaptability are key to sustaining success. Play 21 Wellness Academy Founded in memory of Ben Wilson, a top basketball player and Dr. Jones’ best friend.Mission: Support youth athletes, address issues like parent/teacher abuse, and provide mental health resources.Operates as both a nonprofit and for-profit entity. Broader Client Base Works with elite athletes, entrepreneurs, and high-level professionals.Mental clarity and emotional control are critical for success in any field. Health & Balance Encourages regular medical checkups, stress management, and work-life balance.Advocates for self-reward and stepping out of comfort zones while maintaining wellness. Upcoming Projects Book: Chi-Town Blueprints (personal story and mental resilience).Workbook on the Shelving Method for schools, universities, and professionals. Notable Quotes On Mental Health Stigma:“When people talked about mental health, the first thought was negative.” On Focus:“You can’t take the last play to the next play.” On Success:“Mental thinking is a huge part of success.” On Confidence:“Remind yourself of what got you to the point where you were winning.” On Consistency:“You’ve never seen a Brinks truck behind a funeral car—the graveyard is the richest place because people die with million-dollar dreams.” On Purpose:“Walk in your purpose. When you walk in your purpose, there’s no stopping you.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    35 mins
  • Business Tip: Interview focuses on access to affordable capital to help business owners grow sustainably rather than be crushed by debt.

    Business Tip: Interview focuses on access to affordable capital to help business owners grow sustainably rather than be crushed by debt.
    May 16 2026
    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 Sahra Halpern. Title: President & CEO, Business Consortium Fund (BCF) and Triad InvestmentsHost: Rushion McDonaldPodcast: Money Making Conversations Masterclass Sahra Halpern explains how Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs)—specifically the Business Consortium Fund—provide patient capital, education, and partnership to minority‑owned, B2B businesses. The interview focuses on access to affordable capital, trust in financial systems, and helping business owners grow sustainably rather than be crushed by debt. Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: Educate listeners about CDFIs, a little‑known but powerful source of business capital.Demystify the business lending process, especially for owners who are wary of banks.Address historical distrust of financial systems in communities of color.Position BCF as a partner—not just a lender—for minority‑owned businesses.Encourage business owners to build relationships with lenders before they need money. Key Themes & Takeaways 1. What Makes a CDFI Different From a Bank BCF is a nonprofit lender and a federally designated Community Development Financial Institution.Unlike traditional banks, CDFIs: Work closely with borrowers throughout the loan lifecycleDo not immediately write off loans when challenges ariseFocus on long‑term business success, not short‑term repayment Key takeaway: CDFIs lend with flexibility, patience, and partnership. 2. A “Best‑Kept Secret” in Finance There are roughly 2,000 CDFIs nationwide, designated by the U.S. Treasury.About half focus on small business lending, and half on affordable housing.They are funded through bank partnerships, philanthropy, and mission‑driven capital. Insight: Many minority business owners struggle unnecessarily because they don’t know CDFIs exist. 3. Trust Is Central to Capital Access Many BCF clients are engaging with formal finance for the first time, even if they are experienced business owners.Historical discrimination has created deep mistrust of financial institutions.BCF builds trust by being transparent, educational, and relationship‑driven. Takeaway: Capital follows trust—and trust must be earned. 4. Focus on B2B Businesses and Contracts BCF primarily serves B2B businesses (business‑to‑business).Loans often help businesses: Fulfill contracts with corporations or government entitiesHire staffPurchase materialsManage cash flow while waiting for receivables Key idea: Contracts create opportunity—but only if businesses have working capital to execute. 5. Lending Is Also Education Applicants must provide documentation: Three years of tax returnsCredit historyBank statementsCash‑flow details This is intentional—not punitive.BCF’s goal is to ensure debt creates growth, not stress or failure. Important distinction: BCF is not a predatory lender—it refuses to lend irresponsibly. 6. Affordable Capital Through Partnerships BCF borrows capital from banks at low rates.It adds a modest margin to: Cover operating costsContinue serving the community Rates are designed to be sustainable, not extractive. Takeaway: Affordable capital is possible when mission comes before profit. 7. Sahra Halpern’s Personal Motivation Her mother immigrated from Trinidad and Tobago, escaping hardship.Sahra learned early that opportunity often depends on who helps you along the way.She worked in human rights, then economic development, and spent 15 years at Charles Schwab, where she helped finance CDFIs—before leading one herself. Core belief: Economic justice is essential to community well‑being. 8. Three Financial Principles for Business Owners Sahra offers three practical “financial truths”: Know the industry you serveUnderstand compliance, insurance, and contract requirements. Know your credit score—and yourselfCredit can be improved, but only if you face it honestly. Don’t take on debt you can’t repayLoans should serve growth, not keep you up at night. Key lesson: Discipline is more important than loan size. 9. Relationships Must Come Before Loans Business owners should engage lenders before they need capital.Opportunities can arise unexpectedly—and preparation matters.CDFIs can help with: Financial planningBudgetingUnderstanding readiness for funding Takeaway: Don’t wait for a crisis to build financial relationships. Notable Quotes “We...
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    22 mins
  • Introducing: Look Back At It

    Introducing: Look Back At It
    May 16 2026

    Each week, Sam and Alex will hop in their time machine and spend time in the past in hopes of understanding the chaos that is sure to be our future. From pop culture to political news to scientific markers and medical breakthroughs, they and a guest will hold up a mirror to society and ask ourselves, “Did we really learn anything, or did we just become dumber?”

    Listen here and subscribe to Look Back At It on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts!

    Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    2 mins
  • FULL SHOW: I Got It, Strawberry Letter: My Neighbor Hid My Sidepiece - 5.15.26

    FULL SHOW: I Got It, Strawberry Letter: My Neighbor Hid My Sidepiece - 5.15.26
    May 15 2026

    The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Friday, May 15th, 2026: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open - I Got It | Nephew Tommy's Run That Prank Back- "Gene, I Got Your Girl" | Ask The CLO | Trending & Entertainment News | Tiffany Haddish Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue | Roscoe Wallace | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "My Tip" | Strawberry Letter - "My Neighbor Hid My Sidepiece" Pt. 1-2 | Junior's Sports Talk | Social Media Advice | Utopia Academy | Would You Rather | Steve Harvey's Closing Remarks

    Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    1 hr and 32 mins
  • Real Estate Tips_ She discusses home financing options such as Reverse Mortgages and Zero Down Payment Programs.

    Real Estate Tips_ She discusses home financing options such as Reverse Mortgages and Zero Down Payment Programs.
    May 14 2026

    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 Latrease Price-Gistard.

    Purpose of the Interview

    The interview aims to educate listeners on the mortgage industry, highlight the role and benefits of working with an independent mortgage broker, and provide practical advice on home financing options, credit challenges, and programs that support homeownership. It also shares Latrease’s entrepreneurial journey and lessons learned.

    Key Takeaways

    1. Background and Career Path

      • Latrease has a finance degree and started in investment operations in 1999.
      • Transitioned from auto financing and co-owning a car dealership to mortgage lending.
      • Became an independent mortgage broker in 2022 after being laid off during rising interest rates.

    2. Role of an Independent Mortgage Broker

      • Holds her own license and partners with multiple lenders to offer tailored loan products.
      • Advocates for borrowers to ensure they get the right product, not just approval.
      • Specializes in helping first-time buyers, self-employed individuals, and those with unique challenges.

    3. Home Financing Insights

      • Reverse Mortgages: Typically for seniors 62+, often used by those 75+ with equity and limited retirement funds. Provides tax-free cash without monthly payments; debt settled upon sale or refinance.
      • Zero Down Payment Programs: Offers up to 3% for down payment, attached to the mortgage; other programs provide up to 5% for down payment and closing costs.
      • FHA 203K Program: Allows buyers to finance home purchase and renovations in one loan—ideal for fixer-uppers.

    4. Credit Challenges

      • Programs exist for credit scores as low as 500, but require higher down payments (10–20%) and result in higher interest rates.
      • Latrease consults and provides “what-if” scenarios to help clients improve credit over time.

    5. Entrepreneurial Lessons

      • Mistakes: Starting without enough capital and a strong pipeline; economic timing matters.
      • Advice: Build capital, secure a solid client pipeline, and understand market conditions before going independent.

    Notable Quotes

    • On independence:
      “As a broker, you serve as that advocate for your borrower to make sure they’re getting the right loan product.”

    • On reverse mortgages:
      “The beauty of it is there are no monthly payments going back to the institution. The debt is paid off when the home is sold or refinanced.”

    • On credit challenges:
      “Programs go as low as 500 credit score, but those borrowers need 10–20% down.”

    • On entrepreneurial advice:
      “Make sure you have strong capital and a solid pipeline before stepping out on faith.”

    • On perseverance:
      “It’s all about follow-through. It’s all about your dream and whether you want to make it happen.”

    #SHMS #STRAW #BEST

    Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    27 mins
  • FULL SHOW: Roasting, Strawberry Letter: I Can't Stay Away - 5.14.26

    FULL SHOW: Roasting, Strawberry Letter: I Can't Stay Away - 5.14.26
    May 14 2026

    The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Thursday, May 14th, 2026: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open | Nephew Tommy's Run That Prank Back- "I Dropped Your Wife" | Ask The CLO | Trending & Entertainment News | Multi-Generational Living | The Roast Of Kevin Hart | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "Gene, I Got Your Girl" | Strawberry Letter - "I Can't Stay Away" Pt. 1-2 | Junior's Sports Talk | Social Media Advice | The #1 Cereal | Would You Rather | Steve Harvey's Closing Remarks

    Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    1 hr and 32 mins
  • FULL SHOW: Love Questions, Strawberry Letter: He Goes There To Unwind - 5.13.26

    FULL SHOW: Love Questions, Strawberry Letter: He Goes There To Unwind - 5.13.26
    May 13 2026

    The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Wednesday, May 13th, 2026: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open | Nephew Tommy's Run That Prank Back- "Peed On My House" | Ask The CLO | Trending & Entertainment News | White House Correspondent Dinner Shooter | Rachel Dolezal's New Job | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "I Dropped Your Wife" | Strawberry Letter - "He Goes There To Unwind" Pt. 1-2 | Junior's Sports Talk | Social Media Advice | Savannah Gutherie Hosts Wordle Game Show | Would You Rather | Steve Harvey's Closing Remarks

    Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    1 hr and 32 mins