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

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Purpose of the Interview

• To spotlight Black Ambition, a national initiative founded by Pharrell Williams that funds and mentors Black and Brown entrepreneurs.
• To share insights on entrepreneurship, access to resources, and strategies for scaling businesses.
• To inspire and educate small business owners and innovators on how to leverage opportunities for growth.

---

Key Takeaways

1. About Black Ambition

   • Founded by Pharrell Williams to close the opportunity gap for Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs.
   • Provides capital, mentorship, and masterclasses to help founders scale.
   • Has invested in 131 companies and awarded millions in funding.

2. Competition Structure

   • Annual national competition with 2,500–3,000 applications.
   • Categories include HBCU, National Finalists, Top Prize Winner, People’s Choice.
   • Process: Applications → 250 semifinalists → 3-month cohort → Demo Day for top 20–25 companies.

3. Unique Approach

   • Focus on high-quality mentorship, not “low vibrational” guidance.
   • Includes mental health and wellness support for entrepreneurs.
   • Partnerships with brands like Louis Vuitton for luxury retail insights.

4. Challenges for Entrepreneurs

   • Many fail by rushing applications and skipping info sessions.
   • Success requires clarity, traction, and persistence—sometimes multiple attempts.
   • Black women are the fastest-growing entrepreneurs but often remain solopreneurs; Black Ambition prioritizes team-building.

5. Pharrell’s Motivation

   • Believes in democratizing opportunity: “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.”
   • Inspired by those who believed in him early in his career.

6. Felicia Hatcher’s Journey

   • Former founder of Center for Black Innovation and Black Tech Week.
   • Emphasizes resilience: “I’m a C student and a college dropout, but I never let that define me.”
   • Advocates for creative pathways to success and capital access.

---

Notable Quotes

• “Success leaves clues.” – On learning from past winners.
• “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” – Pharrell’s guiding principle.
• “If it doesn’t work on you in that moment, it works for you in that moment. Either way, it works.” – On persistence.
• “We have to start enjoying the process… be stretched, be cut by the process.” – On entrepreneurial growth.
• “Wealth has a need for speed.” – On urgency in closing the wealth gap.

---

#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 Felicia Hatcher.

---

Purpose of the Interview

• To spotlight Black Ambition, a national initiative founded by Pharrell Williams that funds and mentors Black and Brown entrepreneurs.
• To share insights on entrepreneurship, access to resources, and strategies for scaling businesses.
• To inspire and educate small business owners and innovators on how to leverage opportunities for growth.

---

Key Takeaways

1. About Black Ambition

   • Founded by Pharrell Williams to close the opportunity gap for Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs.
   • Provides capital, mentorship, and masterclasses to help founders scale.
   • Has invested in 131 companies and awarded millions in funding.

2. Competition Structure

   • Annual national competition with 2,500–3,000 applications.
   • Categories include HBCU, National Finalists, Top Prize Winner, People’s Choice.
   • Process: Applications → 250 semifinalists → 3-month cohort → Demo Day for top 20–25 companies.

3. Unique Approach

   • Focus on high-quality mentorship, not “low vibrational” guidance.
   • Includes mental health and wellness support for entrepreneurs.
   • Partnerships with brands like Louis Vuitton for luxury retail insights.

4. Challenges for Entrepreneurs

   • Many fail by rushing applications and skipping info sessions.
   • Success requires clarity, traction, and persistence—sometimes multiple attempts.
   • Black women are the fastest-growing entrepreneurs but often remain solopreneurs; Black Ambition prioritizes team-building.

5. Pharrell’s Motivation

   • Believes in democratizing opportunity: “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.”
   • Inspired by those who believed in him early in his career.

6. Felicia Hatcher’s Journey

   • Former founder of Center for Black Innovation and Black Tech Week.
   • Emphasizes resilience: “I’m a C student and a college dropout, but I never let that define me.”
   • Advocates for creative pathways to success and capital access.

---

Notable Quotes

• “Success leaves clues.” – On learning from past winners.
• “Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” – Pharrell’s guiding principle.
• “If it doesn’t work on you in that moment, it works for you in that moment. Either way, it works.” – On persistence.
• “We have to start enjoying the process… be stretched, be cut by the process.” – On entrepreneurial growth.
• “Wealth has a need for speed.” – On urgency in closing the wealth gap.

---

#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 Michaela Merrick.

 

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🎙️ Interview Summary: Michaela Merrick on Money Making Conversations Masterclass 🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To spotlight Michaela Merrick, founder of Pretty Little Tacos, and her entrepreneurial journey from launching a food truck during the COVID-19 pandemic to building a thriving Creole-Mexican taco brand in Atlanta. The interview aims to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs by showcasing resilience, creativity, and family support.

---

🗝️ Key Takeaways 1. Origin of Pretty Little Tacos

• Inspired by a short-lived cooking show called Pretty Little Cooks.
• Launched in May 2020 during the height of the pandemic.
• Offers unique taco varieties including vegan options and dessert tacos like peach cobbler and strawberry shortcake.

2. Entrepreneurial Spirit

• Michaela did not attend culinary school but learned through experience and family influence.
• Her mother encouraged her to pursue the food truck idea, even waking her up to go buy one.
• Her father and brother are chefs, and her daughter is her biggest fan and motivator.

3. Challenges Faced

• Started with little to no money and reinvested daily.
• Faced licensing and permitting issues due to government shutdowns.
• Was misled by commissary kitchens lacking proper permits, resulting in financial loss.
• Her first food truck was stolen, but she bounced back with a new one.

4. Growth and Expansion

• Operates three locations in Atlanta: Colony Square, Union City (inside a gas station), and Moreland Avenue.
• Plans to expand into more gas stations and possibly mass production while maintaining quality and authenticity.

5. Business Philosophy

• Focuses on customer experience and generous portions.
• Requires all staff to sign NDAs to protect recipes and business integrity.
• Encourages staff to learn and grow, even if they aspire to start their own businesses.

---

💬 Notable Quotes

• “I didn’t really have a choice… it was survival.” – On launching her business during the pandemic.
• “You have to be resilient. You can’t give up.” – On overcoming obstacles.
• “My daughter is my biggest fan… I want her to understand she can do anything.” – On her motivation.
• “I thrive off competition… I level up every time.” – On the competitive food truck industry.
• “Business supersedes relationships… protect yourself always.” – On the importance of NDAs and business integrity.

---

 

#AMI

#STRAW

#BEST

#SHMS

 

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 Michaela Merrick.

 

---

🎙️ Interview Summary: Michaela Merrick on Money Making Conversations Masterclass 🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To spotlight Michaela Merrick, founder of Pretty Little Tacos, and her entrepreneurial journey from launching a food truck during the COVID-19 pandemic to building a thriving Creole-Mexican taco brand in Atlanta. The interview aims to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs by showcasing resilience, creativity, and family support.

---

🗝️ Key Takeaways 1. Origin of Pretty Little Tacos

• Inspired by a short-lived cooking show called Pretty Little Cooks.
• Launched in May 2020 during the height of the pandemic.
• Offers unique taco varieties including vegan options and dessert tacos like peach cobbler and strawberry shortcake.

2. Entrepreneurial Spirit

• Michaela did not attend culinary school but learned through experience and family influence.
• Her mother encouraged her to pursue the food truck idea, even waking her up to go buy one.
• Her father and brother are chefs, and her daughter is her biggest fan and motivator.

3. Challenges Faced

• Started with little to no money and reinvested daily.
• Faced licensing and permitting issues due to government shutdowns.
• Was misled by commissary kitchens lacking proper permits, resulting in financial loss.
• Her first food truck was stolen, but she bounced back with a new one.

4. Growth and Expansion

• Operates three locations in Atlanta: Colony Square, Union City (inside a gas station), and Moreland Avenue.
• Plans to expand into more gas stations and possibly mass production while maintaining quality and authenticity.

5. Business Philosophy

• Focuses on customer experience and generous portions.
• Requires all staff to sign NDAs to protect recipes and business integrity.
• Encourages staff to learn and grow, even if they aspire to start their own businesses.

---

💬 Notable Quotes

• “I didn’t really have a choice… it was survival.” – On launching her business during the pandemic.
• “You have to be resilient. You can’t give up.” – On overcoming obstacles.
• “My daughter is my biggest fan… I want her to understand she can do anything.” – On her motivation.
• “I thrive off competition… I level up every time.” – On the competitive food truck industry.
• “Business supersedes relationships… protect yourself always.” – On the importance of NDAs and business integrity.

---

 

#AMI

#STRAW

#BEST

#SHMS

 

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 Michaela Merrick.

 

---

🎙️ Interview Summary: Michaela Merrick on Money Making Conversations Masterclass 🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To spotlight Michaela Merrick, founder of Pretty Little Tacos, and her entrepreneurial journey from launching a food truck during the COVID-19 pandemic to building a thriving Creole-Mexican taco brand in Atlanta. The interview aims to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs by showcasing resilience, creativity, and family support.

---

🗝️ Key Takeaways 1. Origin of Pretty Little Tacos

• Inspired by a short-lived cooking show called Pretty Little Cooks.
• Launched in May 2020 during the height of the pandemic.
• Offers unique taco varieties including vegan options and dessert tacos like peach cobbler and strawberry shortcake.

2. Entrepreneurial Spirit

• Michaela did not attend culinary school but learned through experience and family influence.
• Her mother encouraged her to pursue the food truck idea, even waking her up to go buy one.
• Her father and brother are chefs, and her daughter is her biggest fan and motivator.

3. Challenges Faced

• Started with little to no money and reinvested daily.
• Faced licensing and permitting issues due to government shutdowns.
• Was misled by commissary kitchens lacking proper permits, resulting in financial loss.
• Her first food truck was stolen, but she bounced back with a new one.

4. Growth and Expansion

• Operates three locations in Atlanta: Colony Square, Union City (inside a gas station), and Moreland Avenue.
• Plans to expand into more gas stations and possibly mass production while maintaining quality and authenticity.

5. Business Philosophy

• Focuses on customer experience and generous portions.
• Requires all staff to sign NDAs to protect recipes and business integrity.
• Encourages staff to learn and grow, even if they aspire to start their own businesses.

---

💬 Notable Quotes

• “I didn’t really have a choice… it was survival.” – On launching her business during the pandemic.
• “You have to be resilient. You can’t give up.” – On overcoming obstacles.
• “My daughter is my biggest fan… I want her to understand she can do anything.” – On her motivation.
• “I thrive off competition… I level up every time.” – On the competitive food truck industry.
• “Business supersedes relationships… protect yourself always.” – On the importance of NDAs and business integrity.

---

 

#AMI

#STRAW

#BEST

#SHMS

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

 

---

🎙️ Interview Summary: Michaela Merrick on Money Making Conversations Masterclass 🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To spotlight Michaela Merrick, founder of Pretty Little Tacos, and her entrepreneurial journey from launching a food truck during the COVID-19 pandemic to building a thriving Creole-Mexican taco brand in Atlanta. The interview aims to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs by showcasing resilience, creativity, and family support.

---

🗝️ Key Takeaways 1. Origin of Pretty Little Tacos

• Inspired by a short-lived cooking show called Pretty Little Cooks.
• Launched in May 2020 during the height of the pandemic.
• Offers unique taco varieties including vegan options and dessert tacos like peach cobbler and strawberry shortcake.

2. Entrepreneurial Spirit

• Michaela did not attend culinary school but learned through experience and family influence.
• Her mother encouraged her to pursue the food truck idea, even waking her up to go buy one.
• Her father and brother are chefs, and her daughter is her biggest fan and motivator.

3. Challenges Faced

• Started with little to no money and reinvested daily.
• Faced licensing and permitting issues due to government shutdowns.
• Was misled by commissary kitchens lacking proper permits, resulting in financial loss.
• Her first food truck was stolen, but she bounced back with a new one.

4. Growth and Expansion

• Operates three locations in Atlanta: Colony Square, Union City (inside a gas station), and Moreland Avenue.
• Plans to expand into more gas stations and possibly mass production while maintaining quality and authenticity.

5. Business Philosophy

• Focuses on customer experience and generous portions.
• Requires all staff to sign NDAs to protect recipes and business integrity.
• Encourages staff to learn and grow, even if they aspire to start their own businesses.

---

💬 Notable Quotes

• “I didn’t really have a choice… it was survival.” – On launching her business during the pandemic.
• “You have to be resilient. You can’t give up.” – On overcoming obstacles.
• “My daughter is my biggest fan… I want her to understand she can do anything.” – On her motivation.
• “I thrive off competition… I level up every time.” – On the competitive food truck industry.
• “Business supersedes relationships… protect yourself always.” – On the importance of NDAs and business integrity.

---

 

#AMI

#STRAW

#BEST

#SHMS

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dexter B. Jenkins.

The uploaded document features an insightful conversation with Dexter B. Jenkins, a real estate entrepreneur, financial strategist, and pastor, on Money Making Conversations Masterclass hosted by Rashawn McDonald. Here’s a breakdown of the key topics and highlights:

Key Themes & Highlights

1. Overcoming Fear in Real Estate

   • Jenkins explains that fear is the biggest obstacle for first-time buyers.
   • He emphasizes education and networking as tools to overcome fear.

2. Faith & Financial Success

   • He discusses the intersection of faith and wealth creation, referencing biblical principles.
   • Jenkins highlights how faith can guide financial decisions and real estate investments.

3. The Real Estate Wealth Creator Blueprint

   • Jenkins shares his personal journey as a second-generation real estate investor.
   • He outlines strategies for building wealth through real estate ownership.

4. The Importance of Partnerships

   • He stresses the value of teaming up with others to invest in real estate.
   • Jenkins explains how clear roles and agreements can prevent conflicts in partnerships.

5. Common Myths About Real Estate Investing

   • He debunks the misconception that large amounts of money are required to invest.
   • Jenkins highlights programs like VA loans and FHA loans that make real estate accessible.

6. Financial Literacy & Generational Wealth

   • He advocates for financial education to ensure wealth is preserved and passed down.
   • Jenkins discusses mentorship and how learning from experienced investors can accelerate success.

About Dexter B. Jenkins

Dexter B. Jenkins is a faith-based financial mentor, pastor, and real estate investor. He is the author of The Real Estate Wealth Creator Blueprint, which provides strategies for overcoming fear, financial limitations, and inexperience in real estate. Through his work, Jenkins helps individuals build generational wealth by combining faith, financial literacy, and strategic investing.

#BEST #STRAW #SHMS

 

 

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 Dexter B. Jenkins.

The uploaded document features an insightful conversation with Dexter B. Jenkins, a real estate entrepreneur, financial strategist, and pastor, on Money Making Conversations Masterclass hosted by Rashawn McDonald. Here’s a breakdown of the key topics and highlights:

Key Themes & Highlights

1. Overcoming Fear in Real Estate

   • Jenkins explains that fear is the biggest obstacle for first-time buyers.
   • He emphasizes education and networking as tools to overcome fear.

2. Faith & Financial Success

   • He discusses the intersection of faith and wealth creation, referencing biblical principles.
   • Jenkins highlights how faith can guide financial decisions and real estate investments.

3. The Real Estate Wealth Creator Blueprint

   • Jenkins shares his personal journey as a second-generation real estate investor.
   • He outlines strategies for building wealth through real estate ownership.

4. The Importance of Partnerships

   • He stresses the value of teaming up with others to invest in real estate.
   • Jenkins explains how clear roles and agreements can prevent conflicts in partnerships.

5. Common Myths About Real Estate Investing

   • He debunks the misconception that large amounts of money are required to invest.
   • Jenkins highlights programs like VA loans and FHA loans that make real estate accessible.

6. Financial Literacy & Generational Wealth

   • He advocates for financial education to ensure wealth is preserved and passed down.
   • Jenkins discusses mentorship and how learning from experienced investors can accelerate success.

About Dexter B. Jenkins

Dexter B. Jenkins is a faith-based financial mentor, pastor, and real estate investor. He is the author of The Real Estate Wealth Creator Blueprint, which provides strategies for overcoming fear, financial limitations, and inexperience in real estate. Through his work, Jenkins helps individuals build generational wealth by combining faith, financial literacy, and strategic investing.

#BEST #STRAW #SHMS

 

 

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 Dexter B. Jenkins.

The uploaded document features an insightful conversation with Dexter B. Jenkins, a real estate entrepreneur, financial strategist, and pastor, on Money Making Conversations Masterclass hosted by Rashawn McDonald. Here’s a breakdown of the key topics and highlights:

Key Themes & Highlights

1. Overcoming Fear in Real Estate

   • Jenkins explains that fear is the biggest obstacle for first-time buyers.
   • He emphasizes education and networking as tools to overcome fear.

2. Faith & Financial Success

   • He discusses the intersection of faith and wealth creation, referencing biblical principles.
   • Jenkins highlights how faith can guide financial decisions and real estate investments.

3. The Real Estate Wealth Creator Blueprint

   • Jenkins shares his personal journey as a second-generation real estate investor.
   • He outlines strategies for building wealth through real estate ownership.

4. The Importance of Partnerships

   • He stresses the value of teaming up with others to invest in real estate.
   • Jenkins explains how clear roles and agreements can prevent conflicts in partnerships.

5. Common Myths About Real Estate Investing

   • He debunks the misconception that large amounts of money are required to invest.
   • Jenkins highlights programs like VA loans and FHA loans that make real estate accessible.

6. Financial Literacy & Generational Wealth

   • He advocates for financial education to ensure wealth is preserved and passed down.
   • Jenkins discusses mentorship and how learning from experienced investors can accelerate success.

About Dexter B. Jenkins

Dexter B. Jenkins is a faith-based financial mentor, pastor, and real estate investor. He is the author of The Real Estate Wealth Creator Blueprint, which provides strategies for overcoming fear, financial limitations, and inexperience in real estate. Through his work, Jenkins helps individuals build generational wealth by combining faith, financial literacy, and strategic investing.

#BEST #STRAW #SHMS

 

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.