Brand Building: Delivers a candid and insightful masterclass on how to be a successful business owner

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald. Drawing from his own experiences—including the rise and fall of his Houston-based comedy club—he shares hard-earned lessons about budgeting, hiring, planning, and the realities of entrepreneurship. The episode is both motivational and practical, offering real-world advice for aspiring and current business owners. 🧭 Key Points 🔑 Common Mistakes in Business Hiring friends, family, or underqualified people out of convenience or emotional ties. Starting a business without a budget or clear plan. Entering partnerships without knowing the other person’s work ethic or values. Ignoring logistics like parking, taxes, and insurance. 📉 Lessons from Failure Rushion’s comedy club was popular but unprofitable due to poor planning and lack of financial oversight. He learned that profitability requires structure, not just popularity or passion. 🧠 Mindset & Commitment Success requires time, discipline, and consistency. Entrepreneurs must be willing to sacrifice, show up early, and stay late. You can’t run a business on dreams alone—you need a plan. 🧰 Practical Advice Use resources like the Small Business Administration (SBA) and SCORE for free guidance and mentorship. Set clear expectations with employees from day one. Don’t compromise your business by ignoring red flags during hiring. 💬 Notable Quotes “You can’t open a business and then try to set the budget. Now you’re playing catch-up.” “Don’t hire people just because they’re close to you. Hire people because they’re qualified.” “You can’t run a business on dreams. You need a plan.” “Do not hire inexperienced employees because they are cheaper.” “If you don’t have time for your business, your business won’t have time for you.” “I was making money, but I never saw any of it because I didn’t have a budget.” “Only you can look in the mirror and make a decision that benefits your future.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.