Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Chef Kevin Bludso.

Here’s a summary of MMCMC Script File 18, an episode of Money Making Conversations Masterclass hosted by Rushion McDonald, featuring special guest Kevin Bledsoe, founder of Bledsoe’s Barbecue and a two-time Hoodie Award winner.

🔥 Key Topics Discussed 1. The Hoodie Awards Legacy

• Kevin credits the Hoodie Awards for launching his national visibility.
• Describes the experience as “life-changing,” giving pride and validation to small business owners.
• Emphasizes how the awards brought community recognition, celebrity exposure, and lasting friendships.

2. Bledsoe’s Barbecue Journey

• Originated in Compton, CA, with family BBQ roots in Corsicana, TX.
• Now an international brand with locations in Los Angeles, San Antonio, and even Melbourne, Australia.
• Known for slow-smoked meats, authentic Southern sides, and consistent quality.

3. Celebrity Support & Customer Experience

• Celebrities frequent Bledsoe’s, but Kevin emphasizes treating everyone with respect.
• Consistency in food and service is key: “Every plate looks immaculate.”
• Rushion shares personal stories of bringing military and corporate guests to the restaurant.

4. Television Career

• Kevin’s TV debut came unexpectedly via a producer who overheard him joking in the kitchen.
• Became a regular on Bar Rescue and now stars on Netflix’s American Barbecue Showdown.
• His authenticity and humor made him a standout personality.

5. Philanthropy & Community Impact

• Bledsoe’s has paid for funerals, provided scholarships, and supported local causes.
• Kevin believes in giving back: “I don’t give to be blessed. I’m blessed, so I give.”
• Emphasizes the importance of teamwork, community, and uplifting others.

6. Entrepreneurship Real Talk

• Warns aspiring entrepreneurs: “Owning a business is the hardest job you’ll ever have.”
• Shares his early grind—working 24-hour days between BBQ and DJ gigs.
• Encourages building a strong team and trusting the process.

7. Civic Engagement

• Passionate about voting rights and Black empowerment.
• Urges listeners to vote in person and stay informed about political and social issues.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• “I don’t give to be blessed. I’m blessed, so I give.”
• “Are you ready to go eight years without a day off?”
• “The Hoodie Awards made us feel like celebrities—like we mattered.”
• “You need fans in the stands. That’s called customers.”
• “If I’m making it and my people aren’t, then I’m not making it.”

#BEST

#STRAW

#SHMS

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

The founder and artistic director of Nia’s Daughters Movement Collective. This episode blends art, activism, education, and cultural preservation through the lens of Black history and dance.

Here are the key highlights:

🎭 About Stacey Allen

• Founder of Nia’s Daughters Movement Collective, a professional dance company focused on art and wellness through the lens of Black women and girls.
• Author of two children’s books, including:
  • A Little Optimism Goes a Long Way (introduces children to Katherine Dunham)
  • D is for Dance and for the Diaspora (A–Z guide to African diaspora dance styles)
• Recipient of the 2024 Children’s Publication Award from the National Association of Multicultural Education.

🩰 Dance as Activism

• Stacy uses dance to tell stories of African American history, identity, and empowerment.
• Her performances are rooted in education, cultural preservation, and social justice.
• She emphasizes that dance is not just performance—it’s a tool for healing, storytelling, and activism.

🌍 Cultural Legacy & Freedom Colonies

• Stacy’s work includes performances like The Fairy Tale Project, which tells the love story of the founders of the Sankofa Freedom Colony in Texas.
• She collaborates with the Texas Freedom Colonies Project, which documents over 500 historically Black settlements in Texas.
• These colonies were founded by formerly enslaved people post-emancipation and are often overlooked in mainstream history.

🌊 Emotional Pilgrimage

• Stacy shares her transformative experience visiting Gorée Island in Senegal, a major slave port, and draws parallels to Galveston, Texas, where Juneteenth originated.
• She reflects on the emotional weight of visiting ancestral lands and how it informs her art and mission.

📚 Educational Mission

• Through her books, performances, and workshops (including in juvenile detention centers), Stacy educates youth and communities about Black history and identity.
• She believes that knowing your history empowers your future.

📣 How to Connect with Stacy

• Website: www.niasdaughters.com
• Instagram: @niasdaughters
• Facebook: Nia’s Daughters Movement Collective

💬 Rushion’s Reflections

• Rushion expresses deep admiration for Stacy’s passion and educational impact.
• He emphasizes the importance of sharing her work widely, especially the history of Texas Freedom Colonies, which he compares to the Underground Railroad in significance.

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Jennifer Barbosa.

CEO and Founder of International Supply Partners (ISP), about breaking into government contracting, navigating a male-dominated industry, and the complexities of supply chain management.

🔑 Key Themes & Highlights

Breaking into Government Contracting

• Barbosa started her business by targeting government contracts, recognizing that the government is the largest buyer of goods and services.
• She explained how RFQs (Request for Quotes) and RFPs (Request for Proposals) allow new suppliers to compete for contracts.

Navigating a Male-Dominated Industry

• She admitted that entering the industrial supply sector was challenging but credited her fearlessness and determination for her success.
• Barbosa emphasized that women entrepreneurs must focus on value and expertise rather than industry stereotypes.

Supply Chain & Procurement Strategies

• ISP specializes in safety, PPE, industrial, janitorial, and construction supplies, ensuring cost-effective procurement solutions.
• Barbosa detailed how understanding supply chain logistics helped her compete with big-box suppliers.

COVID-19 & PPE Pricing Surge

• During the pandemic, PPE prices skyrocketed due to high demand and supply chain disruptions.
• Barbosa explained how manufacturers shifted production to PPE, leading to price gouging and bidding wars.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) in Business

• Barbosa’s company is certified as a minority-owned and women-owned business, but she emphasized that quality and service—not identity—should drive business success.
• She believes that DEI initiatives should not be the sole reason for doing business, but rather a tool for leveraging opportunities.

📘 About Jennifer Barbosa & International Supply Partners
Jennifer Barbosa is a visionary entrepreneur and supply chain specialist, leading International Supply Partners (ISP) in streamlining procurement for businesses and government agencies. ISP is a trusted provider of essential goods, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and competitive pricing.

#BEST

#STRAW

#SHMS

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

A certified functional nutrition counselor and founder of Level Minds CBD Health Club, joins Money Making Conversations Masterclass to discuss how CBD, functional nutrition, and holistic wellness help individuals manage pain, anxiety, and autoimmune disorders. She shares her personal experience overcoming lupus and Crohn’s disease through natural remedies.

🔑 Key Themes & Highlights

1. Understanding CBD & Its Benefits

   • Every mammal has an endocannabinoid system with CB1 and CB2 receptors that regulate neurological and immune functions.
   • CBD products help create balance (homeostasis) in the body, improving heart, kidney, liver, and digestive functions.

2. Top Reasons People Seek CBD

   • Sleep Issues & Anxiety – Many customers struggle with post-pandemic insomnia and high stress.
   • Pain Management – Whether from sports injuries, chronic conditions, or muscle strains, CBD offers natural relief.

3. Autoimmune Disorders & CBD

   • Shiloh personally overcame lupus and Crohn’s disease without steroids or medication.
   • CBD helps calm the immune system, reducing inflammation and preventing the body from attacking itself.
   • Different CBD formats—oils, gummies, and edibles—support various conditions depending on where the inflammation occurs.

4. CBD vs. Common Misconceptions

   • CBD ≠ Weed – While CBD comes from cannabis, THC-free products exist, allowing users to experience benefits without feeling high.
   • Many professionals, including military personnel, firefighters, and police officers, use CBD to manage stress safely.
   • Products available include gummies, chocolates, topicals, and drinks, catering to different needs.

5. Family-Friendly CBD & THC Options

   • Level Minds CBD offers a THC-free “family & professional” line that’s safe for kids and pets.
   • For those seeking a mild calming effect, low-dose THC drinks help relieve stress without alcohol-like side effects.
   • Many customers have quit alcohol entirely, preferring CBD for relaxation and emotional balance.

6. Entrepreneurship & Passion for Wellness

   • Shiloh’s business started as a pain and wellness therapy spa before expanding into CBD.
   • She built her company on word-of-mouth marketing, prioritizing education, personal connections, and community trust.
   • She believes passion drives success, emphasizing that true dedication leads to financial rewards.

📘 Resources & Contact Information
Shiloh Biglis’ products are available through:
🔗 Website: Level Minds CBD
🔗 Phone: (678) 765-2228
🔗 Social Media: @LevelMindsCBD

#STRAW

#BEST

#SHMS

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

Purpose of the Interview

• To showcase Lawrence Phillips’ entrepreneurial journey from engineering to founding Green Book Global, a travel review platform for Black travelers.
• To highlight the significance of Black Ambition, an initiative by Pharrell Williams supporting Black and Brown entrepreneurs.
• To inspire listeners about resilience, innovation, and the importance of culturally inclusive travel resources.

Key Takeaways

1. Background & Career Shift

   • Phillips studied Electrical Engineering at Georgia Tech and worked at Accenture in IT consulting for nearly a decade.
   • Despite career success, he felt unfulfilled and decided to pursue his passion for travel, leading to the creation of Green Book Global.

2. Travel Experience

   • Traveled to 30+ countries across all seven continents, including Antarctica, in less than a year.
   • Realized the need for a platform addressing “traveling while Black” concerns—safety, cultural acceptance, and inclusivity.

3. Green Book Global

   • Inspired by the historical Green Book (1936–1966), which guided Black travelers during segregation.
   • Offers city-level Black-friendly scores, road trip planners, and Black-owned restaurant recommendations.
   • Over 150,000 app downloads in 2025; partnered with Expedia; strong social media presence.

4. Black Ambition Program

   • Phillips applied three times before reaching semifinals, emphasizing persistence.
   • Program provided funding opportunities and a transformative Evoke Wellness experience.
   • His personal “why” statement:
     “I’m a protective and innovative steward of Black restoration and healing.”

5. Impact & Vision

   • Advocates systemic change by partnering with destinations to improve inclusivity.
   • Highlights the economic power of Black travelers (over $140 billion annually).
   • Encourages Black travelers to explore global opportunities beyond U.S. racial constraints.

Notable Quotes

• “You can be successful and still not be happy.” — On leaving a lucrative career for passion.
• “I’m a protective and innovative steward of Black restoration and healing.” — His guiding principle.
• “There’s riches in niches.” — On unapologetically focusing on Black travelers.
• “Just because somebody said no doesn’t mean they said no to you—they said no at that time.” — On persistence in entrepreneurship.

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

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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:

1. Internal/External Ecosystem – influences from family, community, and environment.
2. Financial Genetic Code – inherited financial narratives and behaviors.
3. Financial Healing – reprogramming harmful financial habits.
4. Financial Edification – literacy and inclusion.
5. Financial Well-being – stability and health.
6. Generational Knowledge – estate planning, insurance, long-term care.
7. 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

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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Senita M. Hill.

Purpose of the Interview

• To spotlight Peace on Patuxent Incorporated, a nonprofit founded by Senita M. Hill.
• To discuss the challenges women face when diagnosed with cancer and how the organization provides sanctuaries for peace, clarity, and empowerment.
• To inspire entrepreneurs and individuals to prioritize wellness and community support.

Key Takeaways

1. About Peace on Patuxent

   • Located in Prince George’s County, Maryland.
   • Offers two-day retreats for women diagnosed with life-leveling cancers.
   • Provides limousine pickup, red carpet welcome, prepared meals, and activities focused on stillness.
   • Launching virtual sessions nationwide in January to reach women who cannot attend in person.

2. Life-Leveling Cancer

   • Defined as any cancer diagnosis that disrupts life and forces major changes.
   • Emphasizes the emotional and psychological impact beyond physical illness.

3. Senita’s Personal Journey

   • Inspired by her mother’s battle with lung cancer to create a space for women to pause and regain control.

4. Empowerment Through Pause

   • Women often feel they have choices, but treatment paths are usually predetermined.
   • Peace on Patuxent offers a moment of stillness to reflect and make informed decisions.

5. Community and Cultural Impact

   • Addresses stigma in African American and ethnic communities around illness.
   • Encourages open conversations and sharing of resources.

6. Access and Application

   • Apply via peaceonpatuxent.org.
   • Requirements: Over 18, healthy enough to be independent, ideally within two years post-diagnosis.

Notable Quotes

• “Every woman should allow herself the opportunity to come to peace.”
• “She matters—not just as a patient, but as a mother, daughter, coworker, and friend.”
• “When you hear the word cancer, it changes your life. It’s life-leveling.”
• “We’re not here to tell you how to run your journey. We’re here to allow you to pause your mind.”
• “The only way you’ll know your options is if you come out and have the conversation.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

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

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To highlight Keanna Sanders’ entrepreneurial journey from fashion merchandising to founding Sandbridge Early Learning Center, a network of childcare facilities in Maryland. The interview explores her motivations, challenges, and vision for empowering families and communities through early childhood education.

🧭 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Early Inspiration & Passion for Children

• Keanna’s love for children began at age 13, helping her grandmother care for infants and toddlers.
• Quote:

“I was always around children… babysitting cousins, neighbors, and helping my grandmother with single moms’ kids.”

2. Education & Certifications

• Studied Fashion Merchandising at University of Maryland Eastern Shore and Fashion Institute of Technology.
• Earned childcare certifications (e.g., 45-hour and 90-hour credentials) to qualify as a teacher in Maryland.
• Quote:

“I went and got my certifications in childcare so I could make a little extra money.”

3. Entrepreneurial Drive

• Keanna always knew she wanted to be her own boss, even before understanding what entrepreneurship meant.
• Quote:

“I didn’t want to work a 9 to 5. I wanted to travel and make my own schedule.”

4. Serial Entrepreneurship

• Owned a car dealership called Trendy Motors before launching Sandbridge.
• Used profits from car sales and a bank loan to fund her childcare business.
• Quote:

“I sold my first car and said, ‘I’m going to start a car business.’ That success helped me launch Sandbridge.”

5. Founding Sandbridge Early Learning Center

• The name “Sandbridge” combines her last name (Sanders) with the concept of “bridging the gap” between parents and children.
• Quote:

“Sandbridge means bridging the gap between parents and kids.”

6. Curriculum & Learning Philosophy

• Uses Frog Street Curriculum for infants to age 5.
• Employs certified public school teachers through grants to prepare children for elementary school.
• Quote:

“We want children to be ready for school. We teach through themes, tummy time, reading, and physical activities.”

7. Family Engagement & Community Impact

• Hosts family nights, festivals, and educational field trips.
• Offers financial support, discounts, and free meals to families in need.
• Quote:

“We go above and beyond… sometimes I waive fees or help with scholarship applications.”

8. Franchise Vision & Branding

• Plans to franchise Sandbridge nationally with consistent branding across locations.
• Quote:

“I want every Sandbridge to look the same—like Chick-fil-A or Walgreens.”

9. Overcoming Bias & Embracing Identity

• Initially hid her ownership due to fear of bias but later embraced her identity and impact.
• Quote:

“You didn’t work this hard not to be recognized. People deserve to know who you are.”

10. Faith, Risk-Taking & Advice

• Attributes her success to faith, persistence, and taking risks.
• Quote:

“Out of ten no’s, you’ll get one yes. Be consistent, be persistent, and lean on God.”

📍 Current Status

• Operates six locations in Maryland: three full sites and three before/after care programs.
• Serves nearly 400 children.
• Actively working on franchising the business.

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

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