Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Sonia Balfour-Fears.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

• Educate listeners on financial literacy, wealth building, and investment strategies.
• Address the Black wealth gap and how to close it through education and discipline.
• Encourage people of all ages and income levels to begin their financial journey.
• Highlight Sonia’s unique role as a financial advisor and Global Sports & Entertainment Director at Morgan Stanley.

🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Understanding the Black Wealth Gap

• Closing the gap starts with education, access, and discipline.
• Financial literacy must be taught early and consistently, especially in underserved communities.
• Sonia emphasizes engaging youth and promoting intentional financial planning.

2. Mother-Daughter Wealth Management Team

• Sonia and her daughter formed the first African-American mother-daughter wealth management team at Merrill Lynch.
• Their generational approach showed that both young and older clients seek guidance, though their goals may differ.

3. Starting Small Is Okay

• You don’t need $1 million to begin investing.
• Start with savings, build an emergency fund, then invest.
• Emergency fund rule:
  
  • Single: 6 months of expenses
  • Couple: 3 months of expenses

4. Investment Strategy

• Focus on long-term investing, not chasing “hot stocks.”
• Diversification is key—consider S&P 500 index funds over individual stocks.
• Risk tolerance matters:
  
  • Aggressive = 100% equities
  • Conservative = more fixed income (bonds)

5. Cryptocurrency & Caution

• Morgan Stanley offers Bitcoin only to accredited investors with \$1M+ in assets.
• High risk means it’s not suitable for retirement funds or small investors.

6. It’s Never Too Late to Start

• A caller in her 60s asked if it was too late to invest—Sonia said absolutely not.
• With life expectancy into the 90s, there’s still time to build wealth.

7. Dividends vs. Bonds

• Dividend-paying stocks now often yield more income than traditional bonds.
• They’re a smart option for generating income in today’s market.

🗣️ Notable Quotes

• “Education is the greatest component to increase the Black dollar.”
• “Discipline is key—just like waking up early or exercising daily.”
• “Start where you are. If it’s $100 a month, start there.”
• “It’s never too late. If you’re 60, you still have 30 years to invest.”
• “Don’t chase hot stocks. Invest when the market is down, not at all-time highs.”
• “Risk tolerance is like gambling—are you on the penny slots or betting it all on black?”

👤 About Sonia Balfour-Fears

• Financial Advisor and Global Sports & Entertainment Director at Morgan Stanley.
• One of fewer than 2% of Morgan Stanley advisors with this designation.
• Advocate for financial literacy, especially in Black communities.
• Pioneer of the first African-American mother-daughter wealth management team.

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Sonia Balfour-Fears.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

• Educate listeners on financial literacy, wealth building, and investment strategies.
• Address the Black wealth gap and how to close it through education and discipline.
• Encourage people of all ages and income levels to begin their financial journey.
• Highlight Sonia’s unique role as a financial advisor and Global Sports & Entertainment Director at Morgan Stanley.

🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Understanding the Black Wealth Gap

• Closing the gap starts with education, access, and discipline.
• Financial literacy must be taught early and consistently, especially in underserved communities.
• Sonia emphasizes engaging youth and promoting intentional financial planning.

2. Mother-Daughter Wealth Management Team

• Sonia and her daughter formed the first African-American mother-daughter wealth management team at Merrill Lynch.
• Their generational approach showed that both young and older clients seek guidance, though their goals may differ.

3. Starting Small Is Okay

• You don’t need $1 million to begin investing.
• Start with savings, build an emergency fund, then invest.
• Emergency fund rule:
  
  • Single: 6 months of expenses
  • Couple: 3 months of expenses

4. Investment Strategy

• Focus on long-term investing, not chasing “hot stocks.”
• Diversification is key—consider S&P 500 index funds over individual stocks.
• Risk tolerance matters:
  
  • Aggressive = 100% equities
  • Conservative = more fixed income (bonds)

5. Cryptocurrency & Caution

• Morgan Stanley offers Bitcoin only to accredited investors with \$1M+ in assets.
• High risk means it’s not suitable for retirement funds or small investors.

6. It’s Never Too Late to Start

• A caller in her 60s asked if it was too late to invest—Sonia said absolutely not.
• With life expectancy into the 90s, there’s still time to build wealth.

7. Dividends vs. Bonds

• Dividend-paying stocks now often yield more income than traditional bonds.
• They’re a smart option for generating income in today’s market.

🗣️ Notable Quotes

• “Education is the greatest component to increase the Black dollar.”
• “Discipline is key—just like waking up early or exercising daily.”
• “Start where you are. If it’s $100 a month, start there.”
• “It’s never too late. If you’re 60, you still have 30 years to invest.”
• “Don’t chase hot stocks. Invest when the market is down, not at all-time highs.”
• “Risk tolerance is like gambling—are you on the penny slots or betting it all on black?”

👤 About Sonia Balfour-Fears

• Financial Advisor and Global Sports & Entertainment Director at Morgan Stanley.
• One of fewer than 2% of Morgan Stanley advisors with this designation.
• Advocate for financial literacy, especially in Black communities.
• Pioneer of the first African-American mother-daughter wealth management team.

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Crystal Victoria.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

• Showcase Crystal Victoria’s work in youth entrepreneurship through her nonprofit Target Evolution, Inc.
• Promote the Teen Biz Box, a hands-on business starter kit for kids.
• Inspire parents, educators, and community leaders to support alternative career paths for youth.
• Share Crystal’s personal journey from juvenile detention to becoming an author and entrepreneur.

🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Empowering Youth Through Entrepreneurship

• Target Evolution trains youth ages 8 to 18 to earn money and gain real-world experience.
• Programs include retail and culinary entrepreneurship, with plans to expand nationally starting in Dallas and Houston.

2. Teen Biz Box: A Practical Solution

• A $100 kit that includes everything a child needs to start a small business.
• Three product options: Friendship Bracelets, Craft Notebooks, and Ceramic Coasters.
• Kids can earn up to \$150–\$200 per box by selling customized products.

3. Alternative Pathways Matter

• Not all kids are tech-focused or college-bound.
• Entrepreneurship teaches soft skills like communication, customer service, and resilience.
• Victoria emphasizes the importance of in-person interaction over purely digital business models.

4. Personal Story of Redemption

• Crystal shares her background of being in and out of juvenile detention.
• Entrepreneurship gave her purpose and a way out of street life.
• Her journey is a testament to the power of second chances and vision-driven leadership.

5. Preparing for the Future of Work

• With AI and automation changing job markets, reskilling and adaptability are key.
• Entrepreneurship offers a mindset shift that prepares youth for career transitions every 3–5 years.

🗣️ Notable Quotes

• On youth entrepreneurship:
  “An app will never replace food and eating. We need programs for culinary and hospitality entrepreneurs.”

• On her personal journey:
  “I didn’t have a Teen Biz Box. I had trouble. But I prayed to God: ‘Give me something to do with this story.’”

• On accessibility:
  “Some kids don’t have bootstraps to pull themselves up. Let’s slide down the ladder and help them climb.”

• On the Teen Biz Box:
  “Before you spend $1,000 on your kid’s business idea, give them a box. If they sell everything, maybe they’re serious.”

• On preparing for the future:
  “Long gone are the days of one career for life. Learning, unlearning, and reskilling is the new normal.”

📦 Teen Biz Box Highlights

• Contents: Product inventory, art supplies, business cards, signage, and educational materials
• Website: TeenBizBox.com
• Target Age: 8–18
• Goal: Teach entrepreneurship, communication, and self-reliance

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Karimah McFarlane.  

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To explore Karimah McFarlane’s multifaceted journey—from her corporate leadership roles at Google and Workday to becoming the owner of Buckhead Art & Company—and to inspire others to embrace change, pursue entrepreneurship, and understand the value of art as a tool for wealth-building and cultural empowerment.

🧭 Key Takeaways 1. Corporate Career & Tech Leadership

• Karimah has 20+ years in Human Resources, specializing in mergers and acquisitions.
• At Google, she supported AI and Pixel teams as a People Business Partner, despite initially thinking the recruiter’s call was spam.
• Currently at Workday, she partners with the Chief Revenue Officer to build high-performing sales teams and develop leadership pipelines.

2. Navigating Change & Cultural Shifts

• Transitioned from the East Coast (DMV area) to the Bay Area, facing cultural adjustments (e.g., lack of familiar foods, hair products).
• Found support through Delta Sigma Theta sorority and Black Googlers Network.
• Emphasized the importance of embracing discomfort and new experiences for personal and professional growth.

3. HR as a Strategic Asset

• HR is more than hiring/firing—it’s about scaling businesses, developing talent, and preventing legal issues.
• Small businesses often undervalue HR until a crisis occurs.
• HR should be seen as a strategic partner on leadership teams.

4. Art as Wealth, Culture & Healing

• Karimah owns Buckhead Art & Company, the only art gallery in Buckhead, Atlanta.
• Inspired by her exposure to art investment at Google and her role in selecting art for corporate spaces.
• Advocates for marginalized artists by helping them with branding, IP protection, and business structure.

5. Making Art Accessible

• The gallery focuses on beginner and mid-level collectors, offering education and approachable experiences.
• Offers virtual consultations, art fairs, and community events to demystify art buying.
• Emphasizes the emotional, cultural, and financial value of art.

6. Recognition & Impact

• Buckhead Art & Company was named Best Art Gallery in Georgia (2023 & 2024).
• Uses her platform to educate, empower, and elevate artists and collectors alike.
• Promotes artist development through storytelling, branding, and business mentorship.

💬 Notable Quotes

• “Empowerment is figuring out what you do best and using your talent to help others.”
• “Don’t shy away from opportunities that give you insights and experiences.”
• “HR helps you scale your organization—it’s not just about hiring and firing.”
• “Art has always been at the forefront of royalty, wealth, and education.”
• “We specialize in humans. When you walk into our gallery, you are equal.”
• “You don’t have to win an Oscar to be a great actor. Same with art—you don’t need a traditional path to be successful.”

🔗 Connect with Karimah McFarlane

• Gallery: Buckhead Art & Company
• YouTube: Buckhead Art & Company
• Instagram: @buckheadartandcompany

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Crystal Victoria.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

• Showcase Crystal Victoria’s work in youth entrepreneurship through her nonprofit Target Evolution, Inc.
• Promote the Teen Biz Box, a hands-on business starter kit for kids.
• Inspire parents, educators, and community leaders to support alternative career paths for youth.
• Share Crystal’s personal journey from juvenile detention to becoming an author and entrepreneur.

🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Empowering Youth Through Entrepreneurship

• Target Evolution trains youth ages 8 to 18 to earn money and gain real-world experience.
• Programs include retail and culinary entrepreneurship, with plans to expand nationally starting in Dallas and Houston.

2. Teen Biz Box: A Practical Solution

• A $100 kit that includes everything a child needs to start a small business.
• Three product options: Friendship Bracelets, Craft Notebooks, and Ceramic Coasters.
• Kids can earn up to \$150–\$200 per box by selling customized products.

3. Alternative Pathways Matter

• Not all kids are tech-focused or college-bound.
• Entrepreneurship teaches soft skills like communication, customer service, and resilience.
• Victoria emphasizes the importance of in-person interaction over purely digital business models.

4. Personal Story of Redemption

• Crystal shares her background of being in and out of juvenile detention.
• Entrepreneurship gave her purpose and a way out of street life.
• Her journey is a testament to the power of second chances and vision-driven leadership.

5. Preparing for the Future of Work

• With AI and automation changing job markets, reskilling and adaptability are key.
• Entrepreneurship offers a mindset shift that prepares youth for career transitions every 3–5 years.

🗣️ Notable Quotes

• On youth entrepreneurship:
  “An app will never replace food and eating. We need programs for culinary and hospitality entrepreneurs.”

• On her personal journey:
  “I didn’t have a Teen Biz Box. I had trouble. But I prayed to God: ‘Give me something to do with this story.’”

• On accessibility:
  “Some kids don’t have bootstraps to pull themselves up. Let’s slide down the ladder and help them climb.”

• On the Teen Biz Box:
  “Before you spend $1,000 on your kid’s business idea, give them a box. If they sell everything, maybe they’re serious.”

• On preparing for the future:
  “Long gone are the days of one career for life. Learning, unlearning, and reskilling is the new normal.”

📦 Teen Biz Box Highlights

• Contents: Product inventory, art supplies, business cards, signage, and educational materials
• Website: TeenBizBox.com
• Target Age: 8–18
• Goal: Teach entrepreneurship, communication, and self-reliance

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Karimah McFarlane.  

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To explore Karimah McFarlane’s multifaceted journey—from her corporate leadership roles at Google and Workday to becoming the owner of Buckhead Art & Company—and to inspire others to embrace change, pursue entrepreneurship, and understand the value of art as a tool for wealth-building and cultural empowerment.

🧭 Key Takeaways 1. Corporate Career & Tech Leadership

• Karimah has 20+ years in Human Resources, specializing in mergers and acquisitions.
• At Google, she supported AI and Pixel teams as a People Business Partner, despite initially thinking the recruiter’s call was spam.
• Currently at Workday, she partners with the Chief Revenue Officer to build high-performing sales teams and develop leadership pipelines.

2. Navigating Change & Cultural Shifts

• Transitioned from the East Coast (DMV area) to the Bay Area, facing cultural adjustments (e.g., lack of familiar foods, hair products).
• Found support through Delta Sigma Theta sorority and Black Googlers Network.
• Emphasized the importance of embracing discomfort and new experiences for personal and professional growth.

3. HR as a Strategic Asset

• HR is more than hiring/firing—it’s about scaling businesses, developing talent, and preventing legal issues.
• Small businesses often undervalue HR until a crisis occurs.
• HR should be seen as a strategic partner on leadership teams.

4. Art as Wealth, Culture & Healing

• Karimah owns Buckhead Art & Company, the only art gallery in Buckhead, Atlanta.
• Inspired by her exposure to art investment at Google and her role in selecting art for corporate spaces.
• Advocates for marginalized artists by helping them with branding, IP protection, and business structure.

5. Making Art Accessible

• The gallery focuses on beginner and mid-level collectors, offering education and approachable experiences.
• Offers virtual consultations, art fairs, and community events to demystify art buying.
• Emphasizes the emotional, cultural, and financial value of art.

6. Recognition & Impact

• Buckhead Art & Company was named Best Art Gallery in Georgia (2023 & 2024).
• Uses her platform to educate, empower, and elevate artists and collectors alike.
• Promotes artist development through storytelling, branding, and business mentorship.

💬 Notable Quotes

• “Empowerment is figuring out what you do best and using your talent to help others.”
• “Don’t shy away from opportunities that give you insights and experiences.”
• “HR helps you scale your organization—it’s not just about hiring and firing.”
• “Art has always been at the forefront of royalty, wealth, and education.”
• “We specialize in humans. When you walk into our gallery, you are equal.”
• “You don’t have to win an Oscar to be a great actor. Same with art—you don’t need a traditional path to be successful.”

🔗 Connect with Karimah McFarlane

• Gallery: Buckhead Art & Company
• YouTube: Buckhead Art & Company
• Instagram: @buckheadartandcompany

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Crystal Victoria.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

• Showcase Crystal Victoria’s work in youth entrepreneurship through her nonprofit Target Evolution, Inc.
• Promote the Teen Biz Box, a hands-on business starter kit for kids.
• Inspire parents, educators, and community leaders to support alternative career paths for youth.
• Share Crystal’s personal journey from juvenile detention to becoming an author and entrepreneur.

🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Empowering Youth Through Entrepreneurship

• Target Evolution trains youth ages 8 to 18 to earn money and gain real-world experience.
• Programs include retail and culinary entrepreneurship, with plans to expand nationally starting in Dallas and Houston.

2. Teen Biz Box: A Practical Solution

• A $100 kit that includes everything a child needs to start a small business.
• Three product options: Friendship Bracelets, Craft Notebooks, and Ceramic Coasters.
• Kids can earn up to \$150–\$200 per box by selling customized products.

3. Alternative Pathways Matter

• Not all kids are tech-focused or college-bound.
• Entrepreneurship teaches soft skills like communication, customer service, and resilience.
• Victoria emphasizes the importance of in-person interaction over purely digital business models.

4. Personal Story of Redemption

• Crystal shares her background of being in and out of juvenile detention.
• Entrepreneurship gave her purpose and a way out of street life.
• Her journey is a testament to the power of second chances and vision-driven leadership.

5. Preparing for the Future of Work

• With AI and automation changing job markets, reskilling and adaptability are key.
• Entrepreneurship offers a mindset shift that prepares youth for career transitions every 3–5 years.

🗣️ Notable Quotes

• On youth entrepreneurship:
  “An app will never replace food and eating. We need programs for culinary and hospitality entrepreneurs.”

• On her personal journey:
  “I didn’t have a Teen Biz Box. I had trouble. But I prayed to God: ‘Give me something to do with this story.’”

• On accessibility:
  “Some kids don’t have bootstraps to pull themselves up. Let’s slide down the ladder and help them climb.”

• On the Teen Biz Box:
  “Before you spend $1,000 on your kid’s business idea, give them a box. If they sell everything, maybe they’re serious.”

• On preparing for the future:
  “Long gone are the days of one career for life. Learning, unlearning, and reskilling is the new normal.”

📦 Teen Biz Box Highlights

• Contents: Product inventory, art supplies, business cards, signage, and educational materials
• Website: TeenBizBox.com
• Target Age: 8–18
• Goal: Teach entrepreneurship, communication, and self-reliance

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Karimah McFarlane.  

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To explore Karimah McFarlane’s multifaceted journey—from her corporate leadership roles at Google and Workday to becoming the owner of Buckhead Art & Company—and to inspire others to embrace change, pursue entrepreneurship, and understand the value of art as a tool for wealth-building and cultural empowerment.

🧭 Key Takeaways 1. Corporate Career & Tech Leadership

• Karimah has 20+ years in Human Resources, specializing in mergers and acquisitions.
• At Google, she supported AI and Pixel teams as a People Business Partner, despite initially thinking the recruiter’s call was spam.
• Currently at Workday, she partners with the Chief Revenue Officer to build high-performing sales teams and develop leadership pipelines.

2. Navigating Change & Cultural Shifts

• Transitioned from the East Coast (DMV area) to the Bay Area, facing cultural adjustments (e.g., lack of familiar foods, hair products).
• Found support through Delta Sigma Theta sorority and Black Googlers Network.
• Emphasized the importance of embracing discomfort and new experiences for personal and professional growth.

3. HR as a Strategic Asset

• HR is more than hiring/firing—it’s about scaling businesses, developing talent, and preventing legal issues.
• Small businesses often undervalue HR until a crisis occurs.
• HR should be seen as a strategic partner on leadership teams.

4. Art as Wealth, Culture & Healing

• Karimah owns Buckhead Art & Company, the only art gallery in Buckhead, Atlanta.
• Inspired by her exposure to art investment at Google and her role in selecting art for corporate spaces.
• Advocates for marginalized artists by helping them with branding, IP protection, and business structure.

5. Making Art Accessible

• The gallery focuses on beginner and mid-level collectors, offering education and approachable experiences.
• Offers virtual consultations, art fairs, and community events to demystify art buying.
• Emphasizes the emotional, cultural, and financial value of art.

6. Recognition & Impact

• Buckhead Art & Company was named Best Art Gallery in Georgia (2023 & 2024).
• Uses her platform to educate, empower, and elevate artists and collectors alike.
• Promotes artist development through storytelling, branding, and business mentorship.

💬 Notable Quotes

• “Empowerment is figuring out what you do best and using your talent to help others.”
• “Don’t shy away from opportunities that give you insights and experiences.”
• “HR helps you scale your organization—it’s not just about hiring and firing.”
• “Art has always been at the forefront of royalty, wealth, and education.”
• “We specialize in humans. When you walk into our gallery, you are equal.”
• “You don’t have to win an Oscar to be a great actor. Same with art—you don’t need a traditional path to be successful.”

🔗 Connect with Karimah McFarlane

• Gallery: Buckhead Art & Company
• YouTube: Buckhead Art & Company
• Instagram: @buckheadartandcompany

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.