Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily.  I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur.  Keep winning!

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

Founder of R&R Skincare.  

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

• Highlight Valerie Obaze’s entrepreneurial journey in founding R&R Skincare.
• Challenge stereotypes about Africa’s capabilities and resources.
• Promote African-made beauty products and their global relevance.
• Inspire others, especially women and diaspora Africans, to invest in and build businesses rooted in African heritage.

🧠 Key Takeaways 1. Breaking African Stereotypes

• Valerie and Rushion discuss how Africa is often misrepresented in Western media.
• Valerie emphasizes that ignorance is not always malicious, but it’s time to reframe the narrative through firsthand experience and platforms like social media.

“Ignorance doesn’t always have to be an insult. If you don’t know, you just don’t know better.” – Valerie Obaze

2. The Birth of R&R Skincare

• Inspired by the birth of her daughter, Valerie sought natural skincare solutions.
• She discovered liquid shea oil, which became her first product.
• The brand name “R&R” stands for Rebecca Rose (her daughter’s name) and also Rest & Relaxation.

“I wanted to create a product that makes using these raw materials from the continent enjoyable.” – Valerie Obaze

3. From Garage to Global

• Valerie started in her mother-in-law’s garage, turning it into a compliant mini factory.
• She had no formal business plan, relying on her PR and branding background.
• The brand now has three stores: one in Lagos and two in Accra, including one at the airport.

4. Authenticity and African Pride

• Valerie insists on maintaining the African identity of her brand.
• She uses locally sourced ingredients and ensures cruelty-free testing.
• The brand supports women in the supply chain, creating economic opportunities.

“We don’t intend to hide that in any way. We just wanted to make raw materials sexy.” – Valerie Obaze

5. Expansion to the U.S.

• Valerie is expanding R&R Skincare to the U.S., leveraging social media, activations, and PR expertise.
• Products are manufactured in Africa, but distributed from U.S. warehouses to ensure timely delivery.

“We found our tribe over here… and this was the right time to come back to America.” – Valerie Obaze

🧴 Product Highlights

• Shea Oil – First product, moisturizing and healing.
• Body Butter – Whipped, light, and rich in essential oils.
• Liquid Black Soap – Modern take on traditional African cleansing.
• Hand Cream – Convenient and portable for dry conditions.

🌍 Big Picture Vision

Valerie’s goal is to gr

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily.  I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur.  Keep winning!

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Damon Haley

Co‑founder of Glow and Flow Beauty, discussing his transition from entertainment and sports marketing into the beauty-supply industry, his mission to elevate service for Black and Brown communities, and the franchising model he is rolling out nationwide. Hosted by Rushion McDonald on Money Making Conversations Masterclass, the conversation highlights Haley’s business philosophy, community-driven approach, and long-term vision to create ownership opportunities through franchising.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

1. Highlight Damon Haley’s entrepreneurial journey

How he moved from high-level event production and marketing (Nike, Pepsi, Coke) into beauty retail.

2. Explain why the beauty-supply industry needs Black ownership

Haley outlines the disconnect between Black consumer spending and the lack of Black-owned beauty-supply stores.

3. Promote Glow and Flow Beauty’s mission

A service-first retail model designed to uplift, educate, and serve Black and Brown consumers with dignity.

4. Introduce Glow and Flow’s franchising opportunity

Haley frames franchising as a path for individuals to enter business ownership with support and a proven model.

5. Inspire listeners to embrace change and pursue entrepreneurship

He shares personal experiences overcoming naysayers and trusting his instincts.

📌 Key Takeaways from the Interview 1. The Beauty Industry Is a Huge, Under-Owned Space for Black Entrepreneurs

• Black consumers spend heavily on beauty, but historically have not owned the supply-chain or retail footprint.
• Haley wants to change that by bringing ownership and pride back to local communities. 

2. Glow and Flow Beauty Focuses on Service, Experience, and Community

• The stores celebrate culture (Breast Cancer Month, Black History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month).
• Customer care is central—Haley emphasizes smiles, water for coughing customers, and creating “fabulousness.” 

3. Franchising Eliminates the “Start From Zero” Problem

• Haley believes franchising is more accessible than starting independently because:
  • You get a proven model.
  • You get supply-chain support.
  • You avoid costly mistakes. 

4. Hair Is the Cornerstone of the Business

• Glow and Flow launched its own synthetic hair brand, SLAY (with 3 Ys).
• Synthetic hair dominates due to affordability.
• Human hair is sourced from Asia, Africa, and Southeast Asia. 

5. Inventory & Capital Are Major Barriers to Entry

• Beauty supply requires heavy up‑front inventory investment.
• Glow and Flow stays heavily stocked to maintain customer trust.

6. Data + Marketing Experience = Competitive Advantage

• Haley leverages his corporate marketing background (Nike, Foot Locker) to optimize retail presentation, customer experience, and product mix. 

7. His Long-Term Vision: 40 Stores Nationwide

• His exit strategy is to build 40 Glow and Flow stores (McDonald jokes he’d smile at 100). 

8. E-commerce and Community Outreach Expand Their Reach

• GlowAndFlowBeauty.com sells products and SLAY hair online, with shipping an

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily.  I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur.  Keep winning!

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

📝 Summary of the Interview

Yasmine Cheyenne, an Air Force veteran, mental wellness advocate, and author, joined Rushion McDonald to discuss her journey from a disadvantaged upbringing to becoming a published author and wellness coach. She shared insights from her books—The Sugar Jar and her latest, Wisdom of the Path—which focus on boundaries, healing, and self-empowerment. The conversation explored her military experience, personal transformation, and how she helps others confront fear and reclaim their lives.

🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Overcoming Fear and Taking Risks

• Fear of failure and disappointment keeps many people stuck.
• Yasmine encourages people to confront fear and take action anyway.
• Her own decision to join the Air Force was a leap of faith that changed her life.

2. Military Discipline and Life Lessons

• The Air Force taught her discipline, consistency, and resilience.
• She applies these lessons to her personal and professional life.
• Quote: “Do you want to bet on yourself? Be willing to believe in yourself.”

3. Writing as Empowerment

• Her first book, The Sugar Jar, focuses on boundaries and self-care.
• Her second book, Wisdom of the Path, is about using past experiences as wisdom, not shame.
• Writing helped her transform her life and inspire others from similar backgrounds.

4. Boundaries and Self-Prioritization

• Without boundaries, people become overwhelmed and resentful.
• Saying “no” and advocating for yourself is essential to mental wellness.
• Quote: “We have to get comfortable letting people be disappointed with us.”

5. Redefining “Selfish”

• Being selfish is often misunderstood.
• Prioritizing yourself is necessary for success and well-being.
• Quote: “Every successful person has had to be selfish at some point.”

6. Wisdom of the Path

• The book encourages readers to trust their instincts and take the next step.
• It’s not a checklist—it’s a collection of relatable stories and reflections.
• Quote: “Use those experiences that you’re judging yourself for as wisdom to help you move forward.”

7. Mental Wellness Practice

• Yasmine helps people through coaching, writing, and speaking.
• She emphasizes healing through storytelling and shared experiences.

8. Accessibility

• Her books are available in print, digital, and audio formats.
• She personally narrates the audiobook version of Wisdom of the Path.

💬 Notable Quotes

• “Even if things fail, you have what it takes to get yourself to where you want to be.”
• “Take the meat and leave the bone.”
• “You already know what the next step is. What would happen if you just took it?”
• “We’ve been an enemy toward ourselves for years and don’t even realize it.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, fin

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily.  I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur.  Keep winning!

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

Founder of R&R Skincare.  

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

• Highlight Valerie Obaze’s entrepreneurial journey in founding R&R Skincare.
• Challenge stereotypes about Africa’s capabilities and resources.
• Promote African-made beauty products and their global relevance.
• Inspire others, especially women and diaspora Africans, to invest in and build businesses rooted in African heritage.

🧠 Key Takeaways 1. Breaking African Stereotypes

• Valerie and Rushion discuss how Africa is often misrepresented in Western media.
• Valerie emphasizes that ignorance is not always malicious, but it’s time to reframe the narrative through firsthand experience and platforms like social media.

“Ignorance doesn’t always have to be an insult. If you don’t know, you just don’t know better.” – Valerie Obaze

2. The Birth of R&R Skincare

• Inspired by the birth of her daughter, Valerie sought natural skincare solutions.
• She discovered liquid shea oil, which became her first product.
• The brand name “R&R” stands for Rebecca Rose (her daughter’s name) and also Rest & Relaxation.

“I wanted to create a product that makes using these raw materials from the continent enjoyable.” – Valerie Obaze

3. From Garage to Global

• Valerie started in her mother-in-law’s garage, turning it into a compliant mini factory.
• She had no formal business plan, relying on her PR and branding background.
• The brand now has three stores: one in Lagos and two in Accra, including one at the airport.

4. Authenticity and African Pride

• Valerie insists on maintaining the African identity of her brand.
• She uses locally sourced ingredients and ensures cruelty-free testing.
• The brand supports women in the supply chain, creating economic opportunities.

“We don’t intend to hide that in any way. We just wanted to make raw materials sexy.” – Valerie Obaze

5. Expansion to the U.S.

• Valerie is expanding R&R Skincare to the U.S., leveraging social media, activations, and PR expertise.
• Products are manufactured in Africa, but distributed from U.S. warehouses to ensure timely delivery.

“We found our tribe over here… and this was the right time to come back to America.” – Valerie Obaze

🧴 Product Highlights

• Shea Oil – First product, moisturizing and healing.
• Body Butter – Whipped, light, and rich in essential oils.
• Liquid Black Soap – Modern take on traditional African cleansing.
• Hand Cream – Convenient and portable for dry conditions.

🌍 Big Picture Vision

Valerie’s goal is to gr

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily.  I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur.  Keep winning!

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Damon Haley

Co‑founder of Glow and Flow Beauty, discussing his transition from entertainment and sports marketing into the beauty-supply industry, his mission to elevate service for Black and Brown communities, and the franchising model he is rolling out nationwide. Hosted by Rushion McDonald on Money Making Conversations Masterclass, the conversation highlights Haley’s business philosophy, community-driven approach, and long-term vision to create ownership opportunities through franchising.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

1. Highlight Damon Haley’s entrepreneurial journey

How he moved from high-level event production and marketing (Nike, Pepsi, Coke) into beauty retail.

2. Explain why the beauty-supply industry needs Black ownership

Haley outlines the disconnect between Black consumer spending and the lack of Black-owned beauty-supply stores.

3. Promote Glow and Flow Beauty’s mission

A service-first retail model designed to uplift, educate, and serve Black and Brown consumers with dignity.

4. Introduce Glow and Flow’s franchising opportunity

Haley frames franchising as a path for individuals to enter business ownership with support and a proven model.

5. Inspire listeners to embrace change and pursue entrepreneurship

He shares personal experiences overcoming naysayers and trusting his instincts.

📌 Key Takeaways from the Interview 1. The Beauty Industry Is a Huge, Under-Owned Space for Black Entrepreneurs

• Black consumers spend heavily on beauty, but historically have not owned the supply-chain or retail footprint.
• Haley wants to change that by bringing ownership and pride back to local communities. 

2. Glow and Flow Beauty Focuses on Service, Experience, and Community

• The stores celebrate culture (Breast Cancer Month, Black History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month).
• Customer care is central—Haley emphasizes smiles, water for coughing customers, and creating “fabulousness.” 

3. Franchising Eliminates the “Start From Zero” Problem

• Haley believes franchising is more accessible than starting independently because:
  • You get a proven model.
  • You get supply-chain support.
  • You avoid costly mistakes. 

4. Hair Is the Cornerstone of the Business

• Glow and Flow launched its own synthetic hair brand, SLAY (with 3 Ys).
• Synthetic hair dominates due to affordability.
• Human hair is sourced from Asia, Africa, and Southeast Asia. 

5. Inventory & Capital Are Major Barriers to Entry

• Beauty supply requires heavy up‑front inventory investment.
• Glow and Flow stays heavily stocked to maintain customer trust.

6. Data + Marketing Experience = Competitive Advantage

• Haley leverages his corporate marketing background (Nike, Foot Locker) to optimize retail presentation, customer experience, and product mix. 

7. His Long-Term Vision: 40 Stores Nationwide

• His exit strategy is to build 40 Glow and Flow stores (McDonald jokes he’d smile at 100). 

8. E-commerce and Community Outreach Expand Their Reach

• GlowAndFlowBeauty.com sells products and SLAY hair online, with shipping an

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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.