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

Summary of the Interview

On Money Making Conversations Masterclass, Rushion McDonald interviews Brian Custer—Emmy Award–winning sportscaster, ESPN anchor, play-by-play commentator, cancer survivor, fashion enthusiast, and HBCU graduate of Hampton University. The discussion moves through Custer’s early life in Columbus, Ohio; the influence of Black media figures on his career; his journey from a childhood dreamer sitting beside his grandmother watching Walter Cronkite to becoming a nationally recognized sports broadcaster; and his path into fraternity life as a member of Kappa Alpha Psi.

Custer describes how he discovered broadcasting at an early age, secured internships in high school, and worked grueling night shifts in radio before transitioning into television. But the most powerful portion of the interview is his emotional recounting of his battle with aggressive prostate cancer at age 42—a diagnosis he initially wanted to hide. He shares the moment his doctor insisted he use his platform to educate men of color about prostate cancer, a mission he now treats as a calling.

The interview ends with sports talk—including commentary on the Gervonta “Tank” Davis vs. Ryan Garcia fight—and a heartfelt exchange about mentorship, legacy, and the importance of Black excellence and representation in media.

Purpose of the Interview

1. To spotlight Brian Custer’s broadcasting journey

He shares how childhood influences, mentors, and early opportunities shaped his journalism career.

2. To promote awareness about prostate cancer in men of color

Custer uses his personal story to break stigmas surrounding screenings, early detection, and open discussion.

3. To inspire listeners to pursue their dreams despite obstacles

He emphasizes resilience—from working overnight radio shifts to confronting a life-threatening diagnosis.

4. To highlight the impact of HBCUs and Black fraternities

He explains how Hampton University and Kappa Alpha Psi shaped his identity and leadership.

5. To celebrate representation in sports media

Custer honors trailblazers like Irv Cross, James Brown, and Carol Simpson, showing how visibility opened doors.

Key Takeaways

1. Early exposure builds dreams

Watching Walter Cronkite, Friday Night Videos, and Ted Koppel developed his passion for broadcasting.
His grandmother’s nightly viewing rituals deeply influenced him.

2. Representation matters

Seeing Irv Cross, James Brown, and Carol Simpson on television affirmed his ambition and provided powerful role models.

3. Hard work—not shortcuts—built his career

Custer’s first job was midnight–8 a.m. radio, reading hourly newscasts.
He later interned and volunteered long after programs ended to gain experience.

4. Prostate cancer is a silent but deadly threat

His routine physical revealed a suspicious PSA level (5.4), leading to a biopsy and an aggressive cancer diagnosis.
He initially refused repeat screenings due to stigma but credits his doctor’s persistence with saving his life.

5. Using his platform for good became a mandate

His surgeon urged him to become an advocate for prostate cancer awareness—particularly for Black men, who are disproportionately affected.

6. Vulnerability creates connection

Custer’s openness about fear, masculinity, and mortality mirrors Rushion’s own thyroid cancer journey, creating an intimate, healing conversation.

7. Career longevity requires authenticity and relationship-building

Custer praises mentors like James Brown and the brotherhood of Black media professionals.
He underscores the importance of connections—not shortcuts—in building a respected brand.

Notable Quotes

(All directly from the transcript.) [Brian Custer | Txt]

On childhood dreams & representation

• “I knew what I wanted to do when I was five.”
• “Ted Koppel… the way he interviewed people… I was enthralled.”
• “Irv Cross was the guy… then it became James Brown

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

Summary of the Interview

On Money Making Conversations Masterclass, Rushion McDonald interviews Brian Custer—Emmy Award–winning sportscaster, ESPN anchor, play-by-play commentator, cancer survivor, fashion enthusiast, and HBCU graduate of Hampton University. The discussion moves through Custer’s early life in Columbus, Ohio; the influence of Black media figures on his career; his journey from a childhood dreamer sitting beside his grandmother watching Walter Cronkite to becoming a nationally recognized sports broadcaster; and his path into fraternity life as a member of Kappa Alpha Psi.

Custer describes how he discovered broadcasting at an early age, secured internships in high school, and worked grueling night shifts in radio before transitioning into television. But the most powerful portion of the interview is his emotional recounting of his battle with aggressive prostate cancer at age 42—a diagnosis he initially wanted to hide. He shares the moment his doctor insisted he use his platform to educate men of color about prostate cancer, a mission he now treats as a calling.

The interview ends with sports talk—including commentary on the Gervonta “Tank” Davis vs. Ryan Garcia fight—and a heartfelt exchange about mentorship, legacy, and the importance of Black excellence and representation in media.

Purpose of the Interview

1. To spotlight Brian Custer’s broadcasting journey

He shares how childhood influences, mentors, and early opportunities shaped his journalism career.

2. To promote awareness about prostate cancer in men of color

Custer uses his personal story to break stigmas surrounding screenings, early detection, and open discussion.

3. To inspire listeners to pursue their dreams despite obstacles

He emphasizes resilience—from working overnight radio shifts to confronting a life-threatening diagnosis.

4. To highlight the impact of HBCUs and Black fraternities

He explains how Hampton University and Kappa Alpha Psi shaped his identity and leadership.

5. To celebrate representation in sports media

Custer honors trailblazers like Irv Cross, James Brown, and Carol Simpson, showing how visibility opened doors.

Key Takeaways

1. Early exposure builds dreams

Watching Walter Cronkite, Friday Night Videos, and Ted Koppel developed his passion for broadcasting.
His grandmother’s nightly viewing rituals deeply influenced him.

2. Representation matters

Seeing Irv Cross, James Brown, and Carol Simpson on television affirmed his ambition and provided powerful role models.

3. Hard work—not shortcuts—built his career

Custer’s first job was midnight–8 a.m. radio, reading hourly newscasts.
He later interned and volunteered long after programs ended to gain experience.

4. Prostate cancer is a silent but deadly threat

His routine physical revealed a suspicious PSA level (5.4), leading to a biopsy and an aggressive cancer diagnosis.
He initially refused repeat screenings due to stigma but credits his doctor’s persistence with saving his life.

5. Using his platform for good became a mandate

His surgeon urged him to become an advocate for prostate cancer awareness—particularly for Black men, who are disproportionately affected.

6. Vulnerability creates connection

Custer’s openness about fear, masculinity, and mortality mirrors Rushion’s own thyroid cancer journey, creating an intimate, healing conversation.

7. Career longevity requires authenticity and relationship-building

Custer praises mentors like James Brown and the brotherhood of Black media professionals.
He underscores the importance of connections—not shortcuts—in building a respected brand.

Notable Quotes

(All directly from the transcript.) [Brian Custer | Txt]

On childhood dreams & representation

• “I knew what I wanted to do when I was five.”
• “Ted Koppel… the way he interviewed people… I was enthralled.”
• “Irv Cross was the guy… then it became James Brown

Hi, I'm Rushion McDonald, the host of the weekly Money Making Conversations Master Class show. This show provides interviews and information for everyone. It’s time to stop reading other people’s success stories and start living your own.  Have you ever thought about starting a business? If so, why did – or didn’t – you do it?

I am sharing valuable insights on how to be a successful business owner and the role Amazon Business can play in streamlining operations.

Keys to Business Success

Hiring Wisely: Avoid hiring based on familiarity or budget alone—background checks and qualifications matter.
Budgeting & Planning: Many businesses fail because they lack a financial plan before launching.
Time Management: Running a business requires dedication—McDonald wakes up at 4:30 AM daily to stay ahead.
Consistency & Trust: Businesses must be reliable—whether it’s keeping inventory stocked or ensuring parking availability for customers.
Learning from Mistakes: McDonald shared his early struggles, including hiring unqualified staff and failing to pay taxes properly.

How Amazon Business Helps

Bulk Purchasing: Saves time and money by allowing businesses to buy supplies in bulk.
Smart Insights: Amazon Business Analytics helps track spending and optimize purchases.
Efficiency & Convenience: Offers free accounts with no spending minimum, making it accessible for small businesses and large organizations alike.
Flexible Payment Options: Businesses can choose multiple payment methods for streamlined transactions.

McDonald emphasized that Amazon Business can help entrepreneurs focus on growth rather than administrative burdens. His advice encourages strategic decision-making and leveraging technology for success. The Amazon Business account is free, and there’s no spending minimum.

#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 Jocelyn Pearson.

Purpose of the Interview

The interview on Money Making Conversations Masterclass with Rushion McDonald and Jocelyn Pearson aimed to:

• Share Jocelyn’s journey of graduating debt-free by securing $126,350 in scholarships.
• Educate families on how to avoid student loan debt through her proven system, The Scholarship System.
• Dispel myths about scholarships and provide actionable steps for parents and students.

Key Takeaways

1. Scholarship System Approach

   • Jocelyn developed a six-step process to simplify scholarship applications and avoid overwhelm.
   • Focus on breaking the process into small, manageable steps rather than a vague “go get money” directive.

2. Common Myths Debunked

   • Too early or too late to apply: Start by junior year; it’s never too late—even college seniors can apply.
   • Only perfect students or low-income families qualify: Many scholarships don’t require high GPA or athletic ability.
   • All good scholarships are gone: Smaller, local scholarships ($500–$5,000) add up over time.
   • It takes too much time: With a system and reusable materials, effort decreases each year.

3. Avoiding Scholarship Scams

   • Beware of “easy,” “enter to win,” or sweepstakes-style scholarships—they often sell personal data.
   • Real scholarships require effort and personalization.

4. Role of Parents

   • Parents should help with planning and identifying legitimate scholarships but not complete applications for students.
   • Committees can detect when parents write essays.

5. AI in Scholarship Applications

   • Jocelyn warns against copy-pasting AI-generated essays.
   • Her platform introduced TESS, an AI assistant for ethical guidance and support.

6. Financial Aid Basics

   • Submit FAFSA even if you think you won’t qualify; some colleges and states require it.
   • Combine all sources—government aid, institutional aid, and private scholarships.

7. For Current College Students

   • Check with financial aid offices, academic departments, and organizations for scholarships available after freshman year.

8. Entrepreneurial Journey

   • Jocelyn turned her passion into a business by starting with a book, building an email list, and launching webinars.
   • She emphasizes persistence and ignoring naysayers.

Notable Quotes

• “I had to accumulate my way to getting college paid for—the mere mortals’ way to going to college without tons of debt.”
• “Most families want scholarships, but they get stuck in the overwhelm.”
• “There’s no big red easy button—but with clear steps, it feels less daunting.”
• “We’re saying no to the broken system… It takes, on average, 21 years to pay off student loans.”
• “With great power comes great responsibility—AI can help, but only if used ethically.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

Support the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hi, I'm Rushion McDonald, the host of the weekly Money Making Conversations Master Class show. This show provides interviews and information for everyone. It’s time to stop reading other people’s success stories and start living your own.  Have you ever thought about starting a business? If so, why did – or didn’t – you do it?

I am sharing valuable insights on how to be a successful business owner and the role Amazon Business can play in streamlining operations.

Keys to Business Success

Hiring Wisely: Avoid hiring based on familiarity or budget alone—background checks and qualifications matter.
Budgeting & Planning: Many businesses fail because they lack a financial plan before launching.
Time Management: Running a business requires dedication—McDonald wakes up at 4:30 AM daily to stay ahead.
Consistency & Trust: Businesses must be reliable—whether it’s keeping inventory stocked or ensuring parking availability for customers.
Learning from Mistakes: McDonald shared his early struggles, including hiring unqualified staff and failing to pay taxes properly.

How Amazon Business Helps

Bulk Purchasing: Saves time and money by allowing businesses to buy supplies in bulk.
Smart Insights: Amazon Business Analytics helps track spending and optimize purchases.
Efficiency & Convenience: Offers free accounts with no spending minimum, making it accessible for small businesses and large organizations alike.
Flexible Payment Options: Businesses can choose multiple payment methods for streamlined transactions.

McDonald emphasized that Amazon Business can help entrepreneurs focus on growth rather than administrative burdens. His advice encourages strategic decision-making and leveraging technology for success. The Amazon Business account is free, and there’s no spending minimum.

#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 Jocelyn Pearson.

Purpose of the Interview

The interview on Money Making Conversations Masterclass with Rushion McDonald and Jocelyn Pearson aimed to:

• Share Jocelyn’s journey of graduating debt-free by securing $126,350 in scholarships.
• Educate families on how to avoid student loan debt through her proven system, The Scholarship System.
• Dispel myths about scholarships and provide actionable steps for parents and students.

Key Takeaways

1. Scholarship System Approach

   • Jocelyn developed a six-step process to simplify scholarship applications and avoid overwhelm.
   • Focus on breaking the process into small, manageable steps rather than a vague “go get money” directive.

2. Common Myths Debunked

   • Too early or too late to apply: Start by junior year; it’s never too late—even college seniors can apply.
   • Only perfect students or low-income families qualify: Many scholarships don’t require high GPA or athletic ability.
   • All good scholarships are gone: Smaller, local scholarships ($500–$5,000) add up over time.
   • It takes too much time: With a system and reusable materials, effort decreases each year.

3. Avoiding Scholarship Scams

   • Beware of “easy,” “enter to win,” or sweepstakes-style scholarships—they often sell personal data.
   • Real scholarships require effort and personalization.

4. Role of Parents

   • Parents should help with planning and identifying legitimate scholarships but not complete applications for students.
   • Committees can detect when parents write essays.

5. AI in Scholarship Applications

   • Jocelyn warns against copy-pasting AI-generated essays.
   • Her platform introduced TESS, an AI assistant for ethical guidance and support.

6. Financial Aid Basics

   • Submit FAFSA even if you think you won’t qualify; some colleges and states require it.
   • Combine all sources—government aid, institutional aid, and private scholarships.

7. For Current College Students

   • Check with financial aid offices, academic departments, and organizations for scholarships available after freshman year.

8. Entrepreneurial Journey

   • Jocelyn turned her passion into a business by starting with a book, building an email list, and launching webinars.
   • She emphasizes persistence and ignoring naysayers.

Notable Quotes

• “I had to accumulate my way to getting college paid for—the mere mortals’ way to going to college without tons of debt.”
• “Most families want scholarships, but they get stuck in the overwhelm.”
• “There’s no big red easy button—but with clear steps, it feels less daunting.”
• “We’re saying no to the broken system… It takes, on average, 21 years to pay off student loans.”
• “With great power comes great responsibility—AI can help, but only if used ethically.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hi, I'm Rushion McDonald, the host of the weekly Money Making Conversations Master Class show. This show provides interviews and information for everyone. It’s time to stop reading other people’s success stories and start living your own.  Have you ever thought about starting a business? If so, why did – or didn’t – you do it?

I am sharing valuable insights on how to be a successful business owner and the role Amazon Business can play in streamlining operations.

Keys to Business Success

Hiring Wisely: Avoid hiring based on familiarity or budget alone—background checks and qualifications matter.
Budgeting & Planning: Many businesses fail because they lack a financial plan before launching.
Time Management: Running a business requires dedication—McDonald wakes up at 4:30 AM daily to stay ahead.
Consistency & Trust: Businesses must be reliable—whether it’s keeping inventory stocked or ensuring parking availability for customers.
Learning from Mistakes: McDonald shared his early struggles, including hiring unqualified staff and failing to pay taxes properly.

How Amazon Business Helps

Bulk Purchasing: Saves time and money by allowing businesses to buy supplies in bulk.
Smart Insights: Amazon Business Analytics helps track spending and optimize purchases.
Efficiency & Convenience: Offers free accounts with no spending minimum, making it accessible for small businesses and large organizations alike.
Flexible Payment Options: Businesses can choose multiple payment methods for streamlined transactions.

McDonald emphasized that Amazon Business can help entrepreneurs focus on growth rather than administrative burdens. His advice encourages strategic decision-making and leveraging technology for success. The Amazon Business account is free, and there’s no spending minimum.

#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 Jocelyn Pearson.

Purpose of the Interview

The interview on Money Making Conversations Masterclass with Rushion McDonald and Jocelyn Pearson aimed to:

• Share Jocelyn’s journey of graduating debt-free by securing $126,350 in scholarships.
• Educate families on how to avoid student loan debt through her proven system, The Scholarship System.
• Dispel myths about scholarships and provide actionable steps for parents and students.

Key Takeaways

1. Scholarship System Approach

   • Jocelyn developed a six-step process to simplify scholarship applications and avoid overwhelm.
   • Focus on breaking the process into small, manageable steps rather than a vague “go get money” directive.

2. Common Myths Debunked

   • Too early or too late to apply: Start by junior year; it’s never too late—even college seniors can apply.
   • Only perfect students or low-income families qualify: Many scholarships don’t require high GPA or athletic ability.
   • All good scholarships are gone: Smaller, local scholarships ($500–$5,000) add up over time.
   • It takes too much time: With a system and reusable materials, effort decreases each year.

3. Avoiding Scholarship Scams

   • Beware of “easy,” “enter to win,” or sweepstakes-style scholarships—they often sell personal data.
   • Real scholarships require effort and personalization.

4. Role of Parents

   • Parents should help with planning and identifying legitimate scholarships but not complete applications for students.
   • Committees can detect when parents write essays.

5. AI in Scholarship Applications

   • Jocelyn warns against copy-pasting AI-generated essays.
   • Her platform introduced TESS, an AI assistant for ethical guidance and support.

6. Financial Aid Basics

   • Submit FAFSA even if you think you won’t qualify; some colleges and states require it.
   • Combine all sources—government aid, institutional aid, and private scholarships.

7. For Current College Students

   • Check with financial aid offices, academic departments, and organizations for scholarships available after freshman year.

8. Entrepreneurial Journey

   • Jocelyn turned her passion into a business by starting with a book, building an email list, and launching webinars.
   • She emphasizes persistence and ignoring naysayers.

Notable Quotes

• “I had to accumulate my way to getting college paid for—the mere mortals’ way to going to college without tons of debt.”
• “Most families want scholarships, but they get stuck in the overwhelm.”
• “There’s no big red easy button—but with clear steps, it feels less daunting.”
• “We’re saying no to the broken system… It takes, on average, 21 years to pay off student loans.”
• “With great power comes great responsibility—AI can help, but only if used ethically.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.