Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Taia Rashid and Daphne Carter.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To highlight the entrepreneurial journey of Taia Rashid and Daphne Carter, co-founders of Cassie Beverage, a premium vodka-based drink brand. The interview explores their inspiration, challenges as Black women in a male-dominated liquor industry, and their commitment to quality and authenticity.

🧠 Key Takeaways 1. Founders’ Background & Bond

• Taia and Daphne met as dance moms in Houston, Texas.
• Their friendship grew through shared experiences at dance competitions.
• Their cocktail-making hobby evolved into a business idea.

2. Cassie Beverage Origins

• Inspired by family traditions involving alcohol (moonshine and wine coolers).
• The brand name “Cassie” is a blend of their last names.
• Their products include Daphne Limoncello and Daphne Berrycello.

3. Business Launch & Support

• The idea was sparked during a trip to the Amalfi Coast.
• Their husbands, both entrepreneurs, helped launch the business and provided initial capital.
• They entered a white male-dominated industry with determination and humility, seeking mentorship and doing extensive research.

4. Commitment to Quality

• Their drinks use natural ingredients like fresh lemon juice and cane sugar.
• They resisted pressure to use cheaper alternatives like concentrates or preservatives.
• Their goal: create a premium product they’re proud to consume themselves.

5. Challenges in the Liquor Industry

• High startup costs and tight margins.
• Strategic decisions around packaging, pricing, and market positioning.
• Balancing premium quality with affordability for consumers.

6. Academic & Professional Backgrounds

• Daphne: Advanced degrees in chemistry and mathematics; former charter school executive and state superintendent.
• Taia: Degree in chemical engineering; worked for Frito-Lay and later became a stay-at-home mom.

7. Empowerment & Representation

• They emphasized the importance of supporting women, especially in non-traditional roles like bartending and mixology.
• Encouraged others to pivot careers and pursue passions regardless of societal expectations.
• Advocated for creating space at the table when none is offered.

8. Community Impact

• A caller shared how the interview inspired her to support her daughter’s bartending career.
• The founders responded with encouragement and emphasized redefining success beyond traditional roles.

💬 Notable Quotes

• “We found the perfect cocktail—the cure was liquor. A cup of joy.”
• “We wanted something of quality that we could stand proud of.”
• “If there’s no room at the table, bring a folding chair.”
• “Your degrees give you soft skills—you can pivot and do whatever you want.”
• “We’re winning because we’re doing something we love, even with the struggles.”

#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 Taia Rashid and Daphne Carter.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To highlight the entrepreneurial journey of Taia Rashid and Daphne Carter, co-founders of Cassie Beverage, a premium vodka-based drink brand. The interview explores their inspiration, challenges as Black women in a male-dominated liquor industry, and their commitment to quality and authenticity.

🧠 Key Takeaways 1. Founders’ Background & Bond

• Taia and Daphne met as dance moms in Houston, Texas.
• Their friendship grew through shared experiences at dance competitions.
• Their cocktail-making hobby evolved into a business idea.

2. Cassie Beverage Origins

• Inspired by family traditions involving alcohol (moonshine and wine coolers).
• The brand name “Cassie” is a blend of their last names.
• Their products include Daphne Limoncello and Daphne Berrycello.

3. Business Launch & Support

• The idea was sparked during a trip to the Amalfi Coast.
• Their husbands, both entrepreneurs, helped launch the business and provided initial capital.
• They entered a white male-dominated industry with determination and humility, seeking mentorship and doing extensive research.

4. Commitment to Quality

• Their drinks use natural ingredients like fresh lemon juice and cane sugar.
• They resisted pressure to use cheaper alternatives like concentrates or preservatives.
• Their goal: create a premium product they’re proud to consume themselves.

5. Challenges in the Liquor Industry

• High startup costs and tight margins.
• Strategic decisions around packaging, pricing, and market positioning.
• Balancing premium quality with affordability for consumers.

6. Academic & Professional Backgrounds

• Daphne: Advanced degrees in chemistry and mathematics; former charter school executive and state superintendent.
• Taia: Degree in chemical engineering; worked for Frito-Lay and later became a stay-at-home mom.

7. Empowerment & Representation

• They emphasized the importance of supporting women, especially in non-traditional roles like bartending and mixology.
• Encouraged others to pivot careers and pursue passions regardless of societal expectations.
• Advocated for creating space at the table when none is offered.

8. Community Impact

• A caller shared how the interview inspired her to support her daughter’s bartending career.
• The founders responded with encouragement and emphasized redefining success beyond traditional roles.

💬 Notable Quotes

• “We found the perfect cocktail—the cure was liquor. A cup of joy.”
• “We wanted something of quality that we could stand proud of.”
• “If there’s no room at the table, bring a folding chair.”
• “Your degrees give you soft skills—you can pivot and do whatever you want.”
• “We’re winning because we’re doing something we love, even with the struggles.”

#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 Chef Jernard Wells.

He is affectionately known as "The Chef of Love," is an award-winning TV host, celebrity chef, and bestselling author. Renowned for using food to promote positive family images, Chef Jernard has captivated audiences with his infectious personality and culinary expertise. Wells hosts *New Soul Kitchen* and *New Soul Kitchen Remix* on CLEO TV and will debut a new national travel show on TV One at the top of 2025 named Savor the City. Follow him at @ChefJernard on social media.

Savor the City: Tell us about your new show Savor the City. What type of foods can we expect to see? What cities will you be traveling to? What’s one thing you've learned on your journey with Savor the City? What are you looking for when you're featuring these Black-owned businesses?

Talking Points/Questions *
Southern Inspired CookBook: What inspired your cookbook? What are some of your favorite recipes from the book? How are you able to create 100 Southern-inspired recipes? How do you stay inspired to create new and authentic recipes?

Holiday Questions: What recipes can we find in your cookbook that are perfect for the holidays? The perfect drink to pair with your cranberry and whiskey glazed ribs? Your mom is a baker, will you two collaborate in the kitchen this holiday season? How has she inspired your recipes?

#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 Chef Jernard Wells.

He is affectionately known as "The Chef of Love," is an award-winning TV host, celebrity chef, and bestselling author. Renowned for using food to promote positive family images, Chef Jernard has captivated audiences with his infectious personality and culinary expertise. Wells hosts *New Soul Kitchen* and *New Soul Kitchen Remix* on CLEO TV and will debut a new national travel show on TV One at the top of 2025 named Savor the City. Follow him at @ChefJernard on social media.

Savor the City: Tell us about your new show Savor the City. What type of foods can we expect to see? What cities will you be traveling to? What’s one thing you've learned on your journey with Savor the City? What are you looking for when you're featuring these Black-owned businesses?

Talking Points/Questions *
Southern Inspired CookBook: What inspired your cookbook? What are some of your favorite recipes from the book? How are you able to create 100 Southern-inspired recipes? How do you stay inspired to create new and authentic recipes?

Holiday Questions: What recipes can we find in your cookbook that are perfect for the holidays? The perfect drink to pair with your cranberry and whiskey glazed ribs? Your mom is a baker, will you two collaborate in the kitchen this holiday season? How has she inspired your recipes?

#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 Chef Jernard Wells.

He is affectionately known as "The Chef of Love," is an award-winning TV host, celebrity chef, and bestselling author. Renowned for using food to promote positive family images, Chef Jernard has captivated audiences with his infectious personality and culinary expertise. Wells hosts *New Soul Kitchen* and *New Soul Kitchen Remix* on CLEO TV and will debut a new national travel show on TV One at the top of 2025 named Savor the City. Follow him at @ChefJernard on social media.

Savor the City: Tell us about your new show Savor the City. What type of foods can we expect to see? What cities will you be traveling to? What’s one thing you've learned on your journey with Savor the City? What are you looking for when you're featuring these Black-owned businesses?

Talking Points/Questions *
Southern Inspired CookBook: What inspired your cookbook? What are some of your favorite recipes from the book? How are you able to create 100 Southern-inspired recipes? How do you stay inspired to create new and authentic recipes?

Holiday Questions: What recipes can we find in your cookbook that are perfect for the holidays? The perfect drink to pair with your cranberry and whiskey glazed ribs? Your mom is a baker, will you two collaborate in the kitchen this holiday season? How has she inspired your recipes?

#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 Felecia 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. Felecia 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

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 Stephanie Stuckey.

The chair of Stuckey’s, a historic snack and candy company. She shares her journey of revitalizing the brand, her family’s legacy, and the importance of entrepreneurship and branding.

🔑 Key Themes & Highlights

1. Reviving an American Icon

   • Stephanie took over Stuckey’s in 2019, aiming to restore its legacy.
   • She discusses the challenges of rebuilding a brand that had lost its original assets.

2. The History of Stuckey’s

   • Founded by her grandfather during the Great Depression in 1937.
   • Grew into a nationwide chain with 370 stores across 40 states.

3. The Importance of Branding & Social Media

   • Stephanie leveraged LinkedIn and other platforms to rebuild brand awareness.
   • She emphasizes authenticity and storytelling in marketing.

4. Business Strategy & Growth

   • Transitioned from outsourcing products to owning a manufacturing facility.
   • Expanded retail presence from 200 to 5,000 stores, including Hobby Lobby and Food Lion.

5. Lessons in Entrepreneurship

   • Discusses the importance of adaptability, partnerships, and strategic decision-making.
   • Shares insights on overcoming setbacks and scaling a business.

📘 About Stephanie Stuckey
Stephanie Stuckey is an entrepreneur, author, and advocate for brand revitalization. She is dedicated to restoring Stuckey’s as a leading snack brand while preserving its rich history.

#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 Felecia 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. Felecia 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 Stephanie Stuckey.

The chair of Stuckey’s, a historic snack and candy company. She shares her journey of revitalizing the brand, her family’s legacy, and the importance of entrepreneurship and branding.

🔑 Key Themes & Highlights

1. Reviving an American Icon

   • Stephanie took over Stuckey’s in 2019, aiming to restore its legacy.
   • She discusses the challenges of rebuilding a brand that had lost its original assets.

2. The History of Stuckey’s

   • Founded by her grandfather during the Great Depression in 1937.
   • Grew into a nationwide chain with 370 stores across 40 states.

3. The Importance of Branding & Social Media

   • Stephanie leveraged LinkedIn and other platforms to rebuild brand awareness.
   • She emphasizes authenticity and storytelling in marketing.

4. Business Strategy & Growth

   • Transitioned from outsourcing products to owning a manufacturing facility.
   • Expanded retail presence from 200 to 5,000 stores, including Hobby Lobby and Food Lion.

5. Lessons in Entrepreneurship

   • Discusses the importance of adaptability, partnerships, and strategic decision-making.
   • Shares insights on overcoming setbacks and scaling a business.

📘 About Stephanie Stuckey
Stephanie Stuckey is an entrepreneur, author, and advocate for brand revitalization. She is dedicated to restoring Stuckey’s as a leading snack brand while preserving its rich history.

#STRAW

#BEST

#SHMS

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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.