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

• Founder of a private therapy practice focused on culturally sensitive therapy for Black and Brown communities.
• Main Topics:
  • Cultural differences in therapy
  • Challenges in modern relationships and marriage
  • The impact of technology on human connection
  • The role of therapy in addressing generational trauma and stress
  • The future of therapy in the age of AI

💡 Key Insights 1. Culturally Sensitive Therapy

• April emphasizes the importance of therapists understanding the lived experiences of marginalized communities.
• Black and Brown clients often face unique challenges that require a nuanced, empathetic approach.

2. Modern Relationship Struggles

• Top issues in marriage therapy: finances, infidelity, and communication.
• Communication is often overlooked but is foundational to resolving other issues.

3. Technology & Disconnection

• The rise of remote living and digital communication is reducing opportunities for organic human interaction.
• Couples are increasingly using text messages—even within the same home—to communicate, which can erode intimacy.

4. Therapy as a Preventative Tool

• Therapy shouldn't be reserved for crises; it can be a proactive tool for personal and relational growth.
• Pre-marriage counseling is often skipped or done too late, missing key conversations about values, finances, and intimacy.

5. AI in Therapy

• April sees potential in AI as a supplementary tool but stresses it cannot replace the human connection essential to effective therapy.

🧠 Final Message

April encourages people to seek therapy not out of crisis, but as a way to grow and connect more deeply—with themselves and others. She remains hopeful that with intention and effort, society can rebuild meaningful human connections.

#SHMS #STRAW

#BEST

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

President of the Atlanta Chapter of the National Association of Black Women in Construction (NABWIC). Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways:

🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Breaking Barriers in Construction

• Monique Strong is a trailblazer in a traditionally male-dominated and white-dominated industry.
• She leads NABWIC’s Atlanta chapter, advocating for leadership, equity, and professional development for Black women in construction.

2. What “Construction” Really Means

• Construction isn’t just hard hats and manual labor—it includes:
  • General contracting
  • Project management
  • Estimating
  • Safety coordination
  • Architecture and engineering
  • Business ownership and development

3. Legacy and Inspiration

• Monique’s passion for construction was inspired by her grandfathers and her grandmother, who helped build the home she grew up in.
• Her journey includes a degree in engineering from Clark Atlanta University and further training in construction management.

4. Challenges and Triumphs

• Faced skepticism from family and industry peers.
• Overcame stereotypes and isolation as a young Black woman in construction.
• Emphasizes the importance of knowing who you are and embracing your identity as a woman in the field.

5. The Power of Mentorship and Community

• NABWIC provides a supportive network for women at all stages of their construction careers.
• Weekly calls, mentorship, and shared resources help members grow and succeed.

6. Why Diversity in Construction Matters

• Diversity reflects the makeup of the country and brings innovation and detail-oriented excellence to the field.
• Inclusion in leadership and contracting opportunities is essential for equity and community development.

💬 Notable Quotes

• “You don’t have to be hard. You just have to be hungry.”
• “We are the unicorns people are looking for.”
• “I like to take something that’s nothing and make it something.”

🎯 Advice for Women in Construction

• Get involved with a community like NABWIC that supports your growth.
• Seek mentorship from women at all stages—beginning, middle, and end of their careers.
• Embrace your uniqueness and use it to lead and innovate.

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMI

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

Thanks! The transcript from this episode of Money Making Conversations Masterclass features an inspiring and high-energy interview with CPA and financial educator Carter Cofield, co-founder of Melanin Money. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and takeaways:

🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Melanin Money: A Mission-Driven Firm

• Co-founded by Carter Cofield and a financial advisor friend to serve the Black community.
• Focuses on helping business owners save on taxes and invest wisely.
• Aims to close the wealth gap and promote financial independence.

2. Authenticity as a Brand

• Carter left corporate America after being told to hide his success and identity (e.g., facial hair, tattoos, car).
• Built his brand by being unapologetically himself—fun, energetic, and passionate about financial literacy.
• His authenticity has helped him connect with a wide audience and become a standout in a traditionally “boring” industry.

3. Personal Tragedy & Financial Awakening

• Lost both parents by age 16.
• Used grief as motivation to excel academically and professionally.
• Learned the importance of financial literacy after receiving only $5,000 from a $25,000 life insurance policy following his father’s death.

4. Financial Literacy & Health

• Believes “health is wealth and wealth is health.”
• Poor financial decisions often lead to poor health decisions (e.g., fast food due to affordability).
• Financial stress can directly impact physical and mental well-being.

5. Melanin Money Awards

• Annual event in Atlanta (July 18–20) celebrating Black wealth and financial milestones.
• Awards given for reaching net worth goals ($100K, $500K, $1M, $10M).
• Designed to make wealth-building visible and celebrated in the Black community.

6. Generational Wealth: Redefined

• Not just about leaving money to your kids.
• True generational wealth means your money lasts for multiple generations.
• Involves setting up trusts, investments, and financial education for future heirs.

7. Free Weekly Financial Classes

• Carter hosts free money classes every Wednesday at 7 PM ET.
• Accessible via his Instagram: @cofield_advisors

💬 Notable Quotes

• “Fear is Finally Exiting Average Reality.”
• “It’s okay to sleep in late when your money woke up early.”
• “The scariest thing is getting to the end of your life and realizing you never truly lived.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

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