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

Senior Director of Public Education and Advocacy at Experian.

---

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To educate listeners on fraud prevention, identity theft, credit management, and financial literacy. The conversation aims to empower individuals—especially those in underserved communities—to take control of their financial health using tools and resources provided by Experian.

---

🗝️ Key Takeaways 1. Fraud & Identity Theft Awareness

• Identity theft is increasingly sophisticated, often driven by AI.
• Quote: “The currency of today isn’t necessarily cash—it’s information.”

2. Experian’s Role

• Experian is one of the three major credit bureaus.
• Offers tools for fraud detection, identity verification, and credit monitoring.
• Quote: “We help protect people from fraud and identity theft… and help them improve their financial lives.”

3. Understanding Credit Scores

• Credit scores range from 300 to 850, with categories from “Poor” to “Excellent.”
• Key factors: payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, types of credit, and recent activity.
• Quote: “Banks like people who are boring. Just pay the bills on time and keep balances low.”

4. Free Resources

• Free credit reports available weekly via AnnualCreditReport.com.
• Experian offers free monitoring, alerts, and FICO scores.
• Quote: “There’s no real reason to pay for a credit report today.”

5. Establishing & Rebuilding Credit

• Tools like Experian Go and Experian Boost help users build or rebuild credit using non-traditional data (e.g., rent, utilities, streaming services).
• Quote: “You can go from no credit history to having a report and score in the 630 range—in minutes.”

6. Financial Savviness

• Being financially savvy means controlling your money, not letting it control you.
• Use credit cards strategically for rewards and pay balances in full.
• Budgeting and goal-setting are essential.
• Quote: “Start from a goal perspective… What do you want to do in life?”

7. Insurance Savings

• Experian’s auto insurance marketplace helps users compare and save.
• Average savings: ~$800/year.
• Quote: “We’ll monitor for you… and tell you if we find a better rate.”

8. Practical Tips

• Audit monthly bills for hidden charges.
• Use loyalty programs and coupons to save on groceries and gas.
• Quote: “I shop so much I get free food… $6, $8, $9 savings add up.”

---

🧠 Final Message

Rod Griffin emphasizes that financial literacy is about empowerment. By understanding your credit, using available tools, and setting clear goals, you can take control of your financial future.

---

#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 Rod Griffin.

Senior Director of Public Education and Advocacy at Experian.

---

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

To educate listeners on fraud prevention, identity theft, credit management, and financial literacy. The conversation aims to empower individuals—especially those in underserved communities—to take control of their financial health using tools and resources provided by Experian.

---

🗝️ Key Takeaways 1. Fraud & Identity Theft Awareness

• Identity theft is increasingly sophisticated, often driven by AI.
• Quote: “The currency of today isn’t necessarily cash—it’s information.”

2. Experian’s Role

• Experian is one of the three major credit bureaus.
• Offers tools for fraud detection, identity verification, and credit monitoring.
• Quote: “We help protect people from fraud and identity theft… and help them improve their financial lives.”

3. Understanding Credit Scores

• Credit scores range from 300 to 850, with categories from “Poor” to “Excellent.”
• Key factors: payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, types of credit, and recent activity.
• Quote: “Banks like people who are boring. Just pay the bills on time and keep balances low.”

4. Free Resources

• Free credit reports available weekly via AnnualCreditReport.com.
• Experian offers free monitoring, alerts, and FICO scores.
• Quote: “There’s no real reason to pay for a credit report today.”

5. Establishing & Rebuilding Credit

• Tools like Experian Go and Experian Boost help users build or rebuild credit using non-traditional data (e.g., rent, utilities, streaming services).
• Quote: “You can go from no credit history to having a report and score in the 630 range—in minutes.”

6. Financial Savviness

• Being financially savvy means controlling your money, not letting it control you.
• Use credit cards strategically for rewards and pay balances in full.
• Budgeting and goal-setting are essential.
• Quote: “Start from a goal perspective… What do you want to do in life?”

7. Insurance Savings

• Experian’s auto insurance marketplace helps users compare and save.
• Average savings: ~$800/year.
• Quote: “We’ll monitor for you… and tell you if we find a better rate.”

8. Practical Tips

• Audit monthly bills for hidden charges.
• Use loyalty programs and coupons to save on groceries and gas.
• Quote: “I shop so much I get free food… $6, $8, $9 savings add up.”

---

🧠 Final Message

Rod Griffin emphasizes that financial literacy is about empowerment. By understanding your credit, using available tools, and setting clear goals, you can take control of your financial future.

---

#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 Dr. Justin Lee, Sr.   

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

Highlight Justin Lee’s journey from a young real estate agent to a multifaceted entrepreneur.
Inspire listeners—especially from underserved communities—to pursue financial literacy, real estate ownership, and entrepreneurship.
Share actionable insights on building wealth through real estate, construction, and strategic partnerships.

🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Overcoming Age Barriers in Real Estate

Justin entered real estate at 24 and embraced being the youngest in the room.
He used his youth and tech-savviness (e.g., TikTok, Instagram) to bring value to veteran professionals.

“I started to network more in rooms that had more experienced people… let me break some of this new millennial technology into your business.”

2. Education and Credentials

In three years, Justin became a licensed broker and earned a doctorate.
He emphasizes continuous learning and certifications as keys to growth.

“I also finished my doctorate degree, so I'm now Doctor Justin Lee.”

3. Social Media as a Business Tool

He leveraged platforms like TikTok (90K followers) to market real estate and educate clients.
He stresses that online presence must reflect professionalism.

“Some people look better online than in person for a reason… make your business look the same way online.”

4. Addressing Homeownership Gaps in Communities of Color

Justin discusses systemic barriers like lack of financial literacy and credit education.
He offers free resources like Motivational Mondays and a podcast to educate aspiring homeowners.

“Most of the time, our parents… would say, ‘Don’t use no credit card.’ Great advice, but kind of bad advice at the same time.”

5. Real Estate Syndication & Group Investing

He formed a private investment fund with fraternity brothers and family to buy properties collectively.
Focused on affordable markets like New Orleans East for high ROI.

“Let’s develop a fund… Now we own over 150 apartment complexes and units.”

6. Amazon DSP Partnership

Justin owns an Amazon Delivery Service Partner business with 42 trucks and 200+ employees.
He recommends minorities apply for the program, which offers a \$10K grant.

“They want someone who is willing to commit… not someone who has all this business experience.”

7. Construction Ventures

Inspired by his mother’s post-Katrina property acquisitions, Justin entered construction.
He now leads major commercial projects including schools, restaurants, and celebrity studios.

“We ended up building out a restaurant… 10,000 square foot… I love this. This is my passion.”

8. Family Legacy & Early Exposure

Raised in New Orleans by a single mother and grandparents, Justin learned property management as a child.
His mother’s real estate investments post-Katrina laid the foundation for his career.

“I knew how to write a lease at ten… file eviction at 12… manage property before high school.”

🗣️ Notable Quotes

“If you don’t plan, you plan to fail.”
“Let’s teach you to do it right. Let’s do it together.”
“Knowledge was power… the one thing nobody can take.”
“You learn a skill, you’ll eat forever.”

 

#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 Dr. Justin Lee, Sr.   

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

Highlight Justin Lee’s journey from a young real estate agent to a multifaceted entrepreneur.
Inspire listeners—especially from underserved communities—to pursue financial literacy, real estate ownership, and entrepreneurship.
Share actionable insights on building wealth through real estate, construction, and strategic partnerships.

🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Overcoming Age Barriers in Real Estate

Justin entered real estate at 24 and embraced being the youngest in the room.
He used his youth and tech-savviness (e.g., TikTok, Instagram) to bring value to veteran professionals.

“I started to network more in rooms that had more experienced people… let me break some of this new millennial technology into your business.”

2. Education and Credentials

In three years, Justin became a licensed broker and earned a doctorate.
He emphasizes continuous learning and certifications as keys to growth.

“I also finished my doctorate degree, so I'm now Doctor Justin Lee.”

3. Social Media as a Business Tool

He leveraged platforms like TikTok (90K followers) to market real estate and educate clients.
He stresses that online presence must reflect professionalism.

“Some people look better online than in person for a reason… make your business look the same way online.”

4. Addressing Homeownership Gaps in Communities of Color

Justin discusses systemic barriers like lack of financial literacy and credit education.
He offers free resources like Motivational Mondays and a podcast to educate aspiring homeowners.

“Most of the time, our parents… would say, ‘Don’t use no credit card.’ Great advice, but kind of bad advice at the same time.”

5. Real Estate Syndication & Group Investing

He formed a private investment fund with fraternity brothers and family to buy properties collectively.
Focused on affordable markets like New Orleans East for high ROI.

“Let’s develop a fund… Now we own over 150 apartment complexes and units.”

6. Amazon DSP Partnership

Justin owns an Amazon Delivery Service Partner business with 42 trucks and 200+ employees.
He recommends minorities apply for the program, which offers a \$10K grant.

“They want someone who is willing to commit… not someone who has all this business experience.”

7. Construction Ventures

Inspired by his mother’s post-Katrina property acquisitions, Justin entered construction.
He now leads major commercial projects including schools, restaurants, and celebrity studios.

“We ended up building out a restaurant… 10,000 square foot… I love this. This is my passion.”

8. Family Legacy & Early Exposure

Raised in New Orleans by a single mother and grandparents, Justin learned property management as a child.
His mother’s real estate investments post-Katrina laid the foundation for his career.

“I knew how to write a lease at ten… file eviction at 12… manage property before high school.”

🗣️ Notable Quotes

“If you don’t plan, you plan to fail.”
“Let’s teach you to do it right. Let’s do it together.”
“Knowledge was power… the one thing nobody can take.”
“You learn a skill, you’ll eat forever.”

 

#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 Dr. Justin Lee, Sr.   

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

Highlight Justin Lee’s journey from a young real estate agent to a multifaceted entrepreneur.
Inspire listeners—especially from underserved communities—to pursue financial literacy, real estate ownership, and entrepreneurship.
Share actionable insights on building wealth through real estate, construction, and strategic partnerships.

🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Overcoming Age Barriers in Real Estate

Justin entered real estate at 24 and embraced being the youngest in the room.
He used his youth and tech-savviness (e.g., TikTok, Instagram) to bring value to veteran professionals.

“I started to network more in rooms that had more experienced people… let me break some of this new millennial technology into your business.”

2. Education and Credentials

In three years, Justin became a licensed broker and earned a doctorate.
He emphasizes continuous learning and certifications as keys to growth.

“I also finished my doctorate degree, so I'm now Doctor Justin Lee.”

3. Social Media as a Business Tool

He leveraged platforms like TikTok (90K followers) to market real estate and educate clients.
He stresses that online presence must reflect professionalism.

“Some people look better online than in person for a reason… make your business look the same way online.”

4. Addressing Homeownership Gaps in Communities of Color

Justin discusses systemic barriers like lack of financial literacy and credit education.
He offers free resources like Motivational Mondays and a podcast to educate aspiring homeowners.

“Most of the time, our parents… would say, ‘Don’t use no credit card.’ Great advice, but kind of bad advice at the same time.”

5. Real Estate Syndication & Group Investing

He formed a private investment fund with fraternity brothers and family to buy properties collectively.
Focused on affordable markets like New Orleans East for high ROI.

“Let’s develop a fund… Now we own over 150 apartment complexes and units.”

6. Amazon DSP Partnership

Justin owns an Amazon Delivery Service Partner business with 42 trucks and 200+ employees.
He recommends minorities apply for the program, which offers a \$10K grant.

“They want someone who is willing to commit… not someone who has all this business experience.”

7. Construction Ventures

Inspired by his mother’s post-Katrina property acquisitions, Justin entered construction.
He now leads major commercial projects including schools, restaurants, and celebrity studios.

“We ended up building out a restaurant… 10,000 square foot… I love this. This is my passion.”

8. Family Legacy & Early Exposure

Raised in New Orleans by a single mother and grandparents, Justin learned property management as a child.
His mother’s real estate investments post-Katrina laid the foundation for his career.

“I knew how to write a lease at ten… file eviction at 12… manage property before high school.”

🗣️ Notable Quotes

“If you don’t plan, you plan to fail.”
“Let’s teach you to do it right. Let’s do it together.”
“Knowledge was power… the one thing nobody can take.”
“You learn a skill, you’ll eat forever.”

 

#BEST #STRAW #SHMS

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

Founder of The Blerd Academy (Black Nerds), a wealth-building and scholarship program for high-achieving Black youth. The conversation explores Fort’s personal journey, the mission of his organization, and the broader impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

🔑 Key Topics & Highlights

1. The Blerd Academy Mission

• Founded to support academically gifted Black students in securing scholarships to HBCUs.
• Has helped students earn over $8 million in scholarships since 2016.
• Focuses on debt-free education, wealth-building, and long-term financial planning.

1. Douglass Fort’s Personal Journey

• Grew up in East Palo Alto, California, during the crack epidemic.
• Survived being shot twice and turned his life around through education.
• Attended Jackson State University, where he became an honors graduate and started his first nonprofit.
• Credits his transformation to mentorship, faith, and the supportive environment of an HBCU.

1. Empowering Black Youth

• Fort emphasizes outcomes over talk—showing success stories to inspire belief.
• Encourages students to pursue entrepreneurship and homeownership early.
• Advocates for using HBCUs as a strategic path to success, especially for students who qualify for elite schools but may face high debt.

1. Scholarship Criteria Example (Jackson State)

• 3.25 GPA + 1130 SAT or 23 ACT = Full tuition.
• Higher scores can lead to full ride including room, board, and books.

1. Economic & Social Impact of HBCUs

• HBCUs produce a significant percentage of Black professionals:
• 70% of Black doctors and dentists
• 50% of Black lawyers
• 60% of Black teachers
• Fort and McDonald stress the undervalued role of HBCUs in shaping Black excellence.

1. Support & Funding

• The Blerd Academy is self-funded through merchandise sales at ProudBlackNerds.com.
• Fort encourages others to support by purchasing merch and spreading awareness.

💬 Quotes & Reflections

• “We exist to build a healthy community that is Black, educated, resourceful, and determined.”
• “Create a small business to fund your dream business.”
• “Let’s use our money efficiently to make long-term economic gains.”

#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 Douglass Fort.

Founder of The Blerd Academy (Black Nerds), a wealth-building and scholarship program for high-achieving Black youth. The conversation explores Fort’s personal journey, the mission of his organization, and the broader impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

🔑 Key Topics & Highlights

1. The Blerd Academy Mission

• Founded to support academically gifted Black students in securing scholarships to HBCUs.
• Has helped students earn over $8 million in scholarships since 2016.
• Focuses on debt-free education, wealth-building, and long-term financial planning.

1. Douglass Fort’s Personal Journey

• Grew up in East Palo Alto, California, during the crack epidemic.
• Survived being shot twice and turned his life around through education.
• Attended Jackson State University, where he became an honors graduate and started his first nonprofit.
• Credits his transformation to mentorship, faith, and the supportive environment of an HBCU.

1. Empowering Black Youth

• Fort emphasizes outcomes over talk—showing success stories to inspire belief.
• Encourages students to pursue entrepreneurship and homeownership early.
• Advocates for using HBCUs as a strategic path to success, especially for students who qualify for elite schools but may face high debt.

1. Scholarship Criteria Example (Jackson State)

• 3.25 GPA + 1130 SAT or 23 ACT = Full tuition.
• Higher scores can lead to full ride including room, board, and books.

1. Economic & Social Impact of HBCUs

• HBCUs produce a significant percentage of Black professionals:
• 70% of Black doctors and dentists
• 50% of Black lawyers
• 60% of Black teachers
• Fort and McDonald stress the undervalued role of HBCUs in shaping Black excellence.

1. Support & Funding

• The Blerd Academy is self-funded through merchandise sales at ProudBlackNerds.com.
• Fort encourages others to support by purchasing merch and spreading awareness.

💬 Quotes & Reflections

• “We exist to build a healthy community that is Black, educated, resourceful, and determined.”
• “Create a small business to fund your dream business.”
• “Let’s use our money efficiently to make long-term economic gains.”

#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 Douglass Fort.

Founder of The Blerd Academy (Black Nerds), a wealth-building and scholarship program for high-achieving Black youth. The conversation explores Fort’s personal journey, the mission of his organization, and the broader impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

🔑 Key Topics & Highlights

1. The Blerd Academy Mission

• Founded to support academically gifted Black students in securing scholarships to HBCUs.
• Has helped students earn over $8 million in scholarships since 2016.
• Focuses on debt-free education, wealth-building, and long-term financial planning.

1. Douglass Fort’s Personal Journey

• Grew up in East Palo Alto, California, during the crack epidemic.
• Survived being shot twice and turned his life around through education.
• Attended Jackson State University, where he became an honors graduate and started his first nonprofit.
• Credits his transformation to mentorship, faith, and the supportive environment of an HBCU.

1. Empowering Black Youth

• Fort emphasizes outcomes over talk—showing success stories to inspire belief.
• Encourages students to pursue entrepreneurship and homeownership early.
• Advocates for using HBCUs as a strategic path to success, especially for students who qualify for elite schools but may face high debt.

1. Scholarship Criteria Example (Jackson State)

• 3.25 GPA + 1130 SAT or 23 ACT = Full tuition.
• Higher scores can lead to full ride including room, board, and books.

1. Economic & Social Impact of HBCUs

• HBCUs produce a significant percentage of Black professionals:
• 70% of Black doctors and dentists
• 50% of Black lawyers
• 60% of Black teachers
• Fort and McDonald stress the undervalued role of HBCUs in shaping Black excellence.

1. Support & Funding

• The Blerd Academy is self-funded through merchandise sales at ProudBlackNerds.com.
• Fort encourages others to support by purchasing merch and spreading awareness.

💬 Quotes & Reflections

• “We exist to build a healthy community that is Black, educated, resourceful, and determined.”
• “Create a small business to fund your dream business.”
• “Let’s use our money efficiently to make long-term economic gains.”

#STRAW

#BEST

#SHMS

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

KevOnStage (Kevin Fredricks) sits down with entertainers, athletes, entrepreneurs and comedians to explore their "Not My Best Moment." The low points in life or career that unexpectedly led to growth, blessings or major wins.

Listen here and subscribe to Not My Best Moment with KevOnStage on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts!

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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.