Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Shaan Patel, founder and CEO of Prep Expert, a leading online test prep company.

The conversation explores Patel’s journey from struggling test-taker to perfect SAT scorer, bestselling author, and successful entrepreneur. He shares how his personal experience inspired a mission to help students unlock scholarship opportunities and academic success.
👨🏽‍🏫 About Dr. Shaan Patel
• Founder & CEO of Prep Expert
• Scored a perfect SAT after self-study
• Secured over $500,000 in scholarships
• Partnered with Mark Cuban after appearing on Shark Tank
• Author of a bestselling SAT prep book published by McGraw-Hill
💡 Key Themes & Takeaways
📚 From Side Hustle to Scalable Business
• Started Prep Expert in college dorm room
• First course led to 376-point average score improvement
• Grew from local classes to a national online platform
• Now serves over 100,000 students with $100M+ in scholarships earned
💻 Online Learning & Accessibility
• Offers live, online SAT/ACT prep, tutoring, and admissions consulting
• Courses taught by 99th percentile instructors
• Emphasizes interactive, classroom-like experience with office hours and support
• Adapted quickly to online learning post-COVID
🎯 Mission-Driven Education
• Brand motto: “Change your score, change your life”
• Teaches life skills like time management and goal setting
• Aims to eliminate student debt through scholarship access
• Long-term goal: Help students earn $1 billion in scholarships
📈 Entrepreneurial Lessons
• Faced early rejection from publishers before landing a book deal
• Used storytelling to stand out on Shark Tank
• Built brand through word-of-mouth and authenticity
• Now generates 2M+ annual website visits
🌟 Vision for the Future
• Expand impact through scholarships and mentorship
• Continue empowering students to achieve academic and financial freedom
• Promote meritocracy and the American dream through education.

#BEST

#STRAW

#SHMS

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Paul Rainey.

He is the Executive Vice President of Operations and Finance at Penske Media Corporation (PMC). PMC's powerhouse portfolio includes brands like Billboard, Variety, Dick Clark Productions, and South by Southwest. The two men discuss the importance of courage in forging your own path, the value of mentorship, and the power of creative innovation by recognizing your strengths. They also dive into key financial strategies, including budgeting and investing wisely. Don’t miss this exceptional conversation,
only on Money Making Conversation Masterclass!

#STRAW

#BEST

#SHMS

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hi, I'm Rushion McDonald, the host of the weekly Money Making Conversations Master Class show. This show provides interviews and information for everyone. It’s time to stop reading other people’s success stories and start living your own. Have you ever thought about starting a business? If so, why did – or didn’t – you do it?
Have you ever hired the wrong people and didn’t do a background check? Have you maybe even hired relatives because your family recommended them?
Have you ever hired someone just because they fit into your budget, but they didn’t have the knowledge to do the job correctly? What about starting a business without a budget or going into business with someone you didn’t really know?
Have I hit some nerves here? Maybe I haven’t and some of you think what I’m saying isn’t that big a deal. Well, I’m here to tell you that it is, and no one knows that better than me. How do I know this? Because I had to graduate from the “School of Hard Knocks” to get where I am today, and I almost lost my business in the process.
What I did not know was that Amazon has long known that businesses and organizations were shopping for office supplies and other goods in bulk on its store. To better serve us, the company launched Amazon Business in 2015. It’s your one-stop shop to simplify buying and you can create a free account today. Businesses and organizations of all sizes—local hair salons, schools, nonprofits, hospitals, global corporations, and government agencies—can open an Amazon Business account. The account is free, and there’s no spending minimum. I'm here to tell you that running a business takes up a lot of your time. You have orders to place, expenses to track, and people to manage. Sometimes it feels like there are never enough hours in the day. Basically, All I'm saying, is that we can all use some more hours in a day. That’s where Amazon Business comes in. They are truly a time saver, because they offer smart insights to help you make the most of the limited hours you have in a day. Listen up, Amazon Business Analytics is available with your Amazon Business account. It gives you visibility into your organization’s purchase
history, Amazon Business Analytics helps you identify opportunities to optimize spend and make better purchasing decisions. Improve visibility into spend Identify purchasing trends by tracking purchases made by individuals and groups within your organization. Optimize spending that uses reports to identify opportunities for
optimizing spend such as supplier consolidation, bulk purchasing, and tax-exemptions. It offers Easy reconciliation and the ability to compare order and payment history, invoices received, and payments made with the help of these reconciliation reports. Access to multiple reports can be valuable and you can choose from any one of the available reports such as orders, shipments, returns, refunds, and reconciliation to view and download the information you need. Now that's freeing up some of your time in your day, because Amazon Business handles the heavy lifting, so you can finally focus on growing your business instead of drowning in admin. Listen up from customized recommendations to real-time spend tracking and delivery options tailored to your schedule, they’ve got your back every step of the way. Why not spend less time sweating the small stuff and more time crushing your goals—or maybe even sneaking in some well-earned vacation time with your friends or family? The Amazon Business account is free, and there’s no spending minimum.

#BEST

#STRAW

#SHMS

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mujahid Muhammad.

He is an accomplished insurance professional and a seasoned real estate investor. His expertise in personal finance and real estate has been a significant aspect of his professional journey. During the early years of their marriage, Mujahid and Angele built a real estate portfolio worth over one million dollars. Unfortunately, this substantial asset was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina, a devastating blow that tested their resilience and determination. The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina presented significant challenges, including the need to pay off more than $250,000 in debt, which encompassed their home mortgage and a student loan exceeding $70,000. Through strategic financial planning and unwavering perseverance, Mujahid and Angele successfully rebuilt their financial condition. Mujahid's deep knowledge of real estate and personal finance played a crucial role in their recovery, highlighting his expertise as a subject-matter expert in these fields.

Company Description *
Wealth Coaching Stratosphere we provide expert financial coaching to help you take control of your money and build a strong foundation for your future. Whether you need to break free from debt, create a financial game plan, or develop better money habits, we are here to support your journey.
Talking Points/Questions *
1. Our personal financial philosophy
2. The financial Condition of middle-income America
3. The biggest mistakes made in striving to improve our financial condition
4. Benefits of financial coaching
5. Why financial literacy is important?
6. 3 ways our clients can work with us
7. What is the Infinite Banking Concept?

#STRAW

#BEST

#SHMS

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lavae McClinnahan

He is a seasoned luxury goods ambassador with over 20 years of experience in direct-to-consumer engagement, product activations, and high-profile brand collaborations. Throughout a distinguished career, Lavae has successfully designed and executed strategic partnerships for globally recognized brands, including Honda, Lexus, Activision, The Macallan, LVMH, The Dalmore, Bose Professional, and Riedel Glassware.

In 2012, Lavae pioneered The 5-Course Menu of the Evening, an exclusive luxury dining experience in collaboration with The Macallan. This innovative concept, later embraced by The Dalmore, became a benchmark for premier pairing experiences within the collectible spirits industry.

As the founder of Peninsula Hospitality Concepts, Lavae is redefining the dining landscape by making Affordable Luxury accessible to the everyday consumer. The company’s mission is to bring elevated culinary experiences to the community, ensuring that exceptional hospitality and high-quality cuisine are within reach—without the need to travel far.

In leadership, Lavae serves as President of Peninsula Hospitality Concepts, working alongside a dedicated executive team: Jeremy Findel (Director of Operations), Sapana Grossi (Legal), and Adam Gerstien (Finance). Together, they are committed to executing the company’s vision with excellence, delivering world-class experiences that blend luxury with approachability.

Company Description *
At Montauk, we believe dining is more than just a meal; it's an immersive journey. Experience the perfect blend of East Hampton, NY elegance and the laid-back charm of the Southern California coastline. Indulge in a menu that redefines coastal cuisine, paired with the beauty of Redondo Beach and the effortless allure of east coastal chic.

Created to bring the South Bay an elevated yet approachable atmosphere, we offer a perfect balance of sophistication and affordability. Every detail—from our thoughtfully curated cuisine to the inviting ambiance and exceptional service—has been carefully designed to deliver an unforgettable experience. Join us for a truly unparalleled dining experience.

#BEST

#STRAW

#SHMS

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Teri Williams

President and Chief Operating Officer of OneUnited Bank. She is responsible for implementation of the Bank’s strategic initiatives, as well as the day-to-day operations. Under her leadership, OneUnited Bank has consolidated the local names and product offerings of four (4) banks and launched a digital platform to create a powerful national brand supported by innovative technology, products and services. OneUnited Bank, the nation’s largest Black owned bank and award-winning Community Development Financial Institution, serves as a bridge by offering affordable financial services and promoting financial literacy. She brings 30 years of financial services expertise from premier institutions such as Bank of America and American Express, where she was one of the youngest Vice Presidents. Ms. Williams holds an M.B.A. with honors from Harvard Business School and a B.A. with distinctions from Brown University.

Company Description *
OneUnited Bank, America's leading Community Development Financial Institution, the nation’s largest Black-owned bank, eleven-time recipient of the US Department of Treasury’s Bank Enterprise Award for community development and named Inc. Magazine’s Best in Financial Services 2024.OneUnited is grounded in its decades long mission to strengthen communities of color by offering affordable financial services for all, supporting local communities in Miami, Boston and Los Angeles. The ultimate mission is to make financial literacy a core value in communities of color in order to to close the wealth gap.

Talking Points/Questions *
1. Partnership wtih Esusu to increase homeownership in communities of color
2. Black businesses doing business with each other in war on DEI
3. Making financial literacy a core value of underserved communities

#STRAW

#BEST

#SHMS

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brett Chestnut.

He is the Managing Director of Northwestern Mutual Goodwin, Wright Gwinnett. Brett launched his financial planning practice in 2015, experiencing tremendous success helping clients achieve financial security. As his firm expanded, his passion and natural aptitude for leadership became increasingly evident, underscoring his ability to influence and lead with vision. As the Firm’s first black Managing Director, Brett plays a pivotal role in attracting, equipping, and empowering others to launch their own financial planning practice. He is especially committed to drawing more diverse talent to the industry, engaging proven professionals who might not have previously considered the career. Through his unwavering efforts, Brett is driving a wave of financial empowerment in diverse markets. For the first time, many business owners and individuals are actively planning for their financial futures, fostering financial security and building generational wealth with their communities.

Company Description *
Northwestern Mutual has been helping people and businesses achieve financial security for more than 165 years. Through a comprehensive planning approach, Northwestern Mutual combines the expertise of its financial professionals with a personalized digital experience and industry-leading products to help its clients plan for what's most important. With over $627 billion of total assets1 being managed across the company's institutional portfolio as well as retail investment client portfolios, more than $36 billion in revenues, and $2.3 trillion worth of life insurance protection in force, Northwestern Mutual delivers financial security to more than five million people with life, disability income and long-term care insurance, annuities, and brokerage and advisory services. Northwestern Mutual ranked 110 on the 2024 FORTUNE 500 and was recognized by FORTUNE® as one of the "World's Most Admired" life insurance companies in 2024.

Talking Points/Questions *
Atlanta’s income inequality, the highest in the nation according to U.S. Census Bureau Data, continues to fuel a racial wealth gap where white households in Atlanta hold 46 times more wealth than Black households. This is a disparity driven by factors including income, home ownership, generational wealth transfers, debt, access to banking and capital, and business ownership.

Over the last decade, Northwestern Mutual’s Goodwin Wright office, a key financial services leader in Atlanta, has been intentionally focused on closing the wealth gap. The Goodwin Wright team, honored as Forbes Top Financial Security Professionals, has positioned itself at the intersection of financial empowerment, community and culture by:

Empowering first generation wealth builders with tools and strategies they need to build long-term financial success, including women-focused financial planning

Mentoring African American financial advisors, business owners, and entrepreneurs early in their careers

Investing in the local community through scholarships, a robust internship program, and financial contributions to support community initiatives

Questions for consideration:
In Atlanta, White households hold 46 times more wealth than Black households. Can you discuss the key factors that have contributed to this gap?

Northwestern Mutual’s Goodwin Wright office has been focusing on closing the wealth gap. Can you share more about the specific initiatives and programs you’ve implemented to address this issue?

How does the approach of empowering first-generation wealth builders, including women-focused financial planning, differ from traditional financial planning strategies?

Mentoring is a big part of your strategy, particularly for African American financial advisors, business owners, and entrepreneurs. How do you support these individuals, and why is mentorship such an important part of this effort?

Can you explain how Northwestern Mutual is working to invest in and empower diverse financial advisors and what this means for the future of financial services in Atlanta?

What advice would you give to someone starting their financial journey, particularly if they come from a background where wealth-building resources weren’t readily available?

#BEST

#STRAW

#SHMS

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Ashley Christopher.

She is a multifaceted individual: a dedicated mother to her son, Ryan, a CEO, an attorney licensed in Pennsylvania, and a stroke survivor. She founded the HBCU Week Foundation in 2017 with a mission to promote enrollment in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), provide scholarships, and create pathways for students from undergrad to corporate America.

HBCU Week, a central initiative of her foundation, aims to immerse high school students in the history and legacy of HBCUs, encouraging them to consider these institutions for higher education. The cornerstone of the program is a unique college fair where students can gain immediate acceptance and scholarships based on their eligibility. To date, the event has facilitated over 10,000 on-the-spot acceptances and awarded nearly $100 million in scholarships, partnering with organizations like the NFL and Capital One. Notably, Ashley spearheaded a substantial partnership with the American Chemistry Council, which will provide 1,000 $40,000 scholarships for students pursuing STEM majors at HBCUs.

As a proud alumna of HBCUs, having attended Howard University and the University of the District of Columbia Law School, Ashley is deeply committed to guiding young people toward higher education opportunities. She views her role as crucial in demonstrating that success is attainable from HBCUs. Above all, her favorite role remains that of a mother, guided by her faith and the belief that she can inspire others while advancing her own career.

Company Description *
HBCU Week was founded in 2017 by Ashley Christopher, Esq. and is managed by the HBCU Week Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. HBCU Week consists of multi-day events held throughout the nation each year, designed to encourage high school-aged youth to enroll in HBCUs, provide scholarship dollars for matriculation and sustain a pipeline for employment from undergraduate school to corporate America. A highlight of our events is the College Fair, which offers on-the-spot college acceptance and scholarships to qualified high school seniors. For more information, visit www.HBCUWeek.org.

Talking Points/Questions *
Entrepreneurship & Nonprofit Leadership
Entrepreneurship and nonprofit leadership demand grit and hard work. Despite challenges, a heartfelt commitment makes the journey worthwhile. This content is aimed at companies and organizations eager to learn the essentials of building and managing a business with a small team.

DE&I & Social Impact
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) is a pivotal topic in today's discourse. It's crucial to educate individuals and companies on its real benefits. Diversity should be viewed as essential for upward mobility, not merely as an act of charity. The audience includes organizations dedicated to understanding and expanding diversity initiatives.

Self-Care & Self-Awareness
As a mother, entrepreneur, attorney, and stroke survivor, Ashley recognizes the significance of prioritizing health and listening to our bodies. It’s vital that everyone learns to care for themselves mentally, physically, and emotionally. This message targets individuals aged 16 and older who are passionate about adopting a healthy lifestyle and pursuing personal growth.

#BEST

#STRAW

#SHMS

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.