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Brand Building: Monique highlights the importance of communication as a leadership and business skill.
Brand Building: Monique highlights the importance of communication as a leadership and business skill.
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-NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Montee Monique Russell.
Founder and CEO of Clear Communication Solutions, joins Rushion McDonald to discuss the power of communication, cultural awareness, leadership, and personal identity. Drawing from her experiences as a Bahamian-Nigerian-American communications strategist, Russell explains how effective communication creates opportunity, builds trust, and helps individuals navigate both professional and personal relationships.
The conversation also explores the impact of cultural background on communication styles, workplace success, entrepreneurship, leadership development, and preparing young professionals for careers after college.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview was designed to:
- Highlight the importance of communication as a leadership and business skill.
- Explore how cultural experiences shape the way people communicate.
- Discuss barriers that prevent talented people from advancing professionally.
- Share Monique Russell's entrepreneurial journey and the founding of Clear Communication Solutions.
- Provide insights on leadership, workplace success, and professional development.
- Discuss communication challenges facing students, professionals, and organizations.
Key Takeaways 1. Communication Is the Bridge Between Talent and Opportunity
One of Russell's central messages is that talent alone is not enough.
People may be intelligent, skilled, and highly capable, but if they cannot clearly communicate their value, ideas, or expertise, opportunities can be missed.
Key Insight:
Potential creates possibilities, but communication turns potential into results.
2. Communication Must Be Centered on Understanding the Audience
Russell emphasized that communication is not simply about speaking or delivering a message.
The real question is:
"Is your message being received the way you intended?"
Effective communicators adjust their approach based on:
- Audience
- Environment
- Culture
- Context
- Expectations
Key Insight:
Communication succeeds when the other person understands and connects with the message.
3. Cultural Awareness Strengthens Leadership
As a Bahamian-Nigerian-American professional, Russell explained that her multicultural background taught her to see the world through different lenses.
This perspective allows her to:
- Understand diverse viewpoints
- Build stronger relationships
- Navigate different business environments
- Work effectively across cultures
Key Insight:
Great leaders develop curiosity about how other people experience the world.
4. Identity Should Not Be Sacrificed for Acceptance
A major theme in the interview was balancing authenticity with adaptability.
Russell argued that professionals should not change who they are to fit into an environment. Instead, they should learn how to present themselves effectively while remaining true to themselves.
Key Insight:
Adapt your communication style without abandoning your identity.
5. Perception Influences Success
The discussion explored how accents, language, presentation style, and first impressions affect how people are perceived.
Russell shared examples of helping professionals improve communication effectiveness by:
- Slowing down speech
- Clarifying messaging
- Increasing audience understanding
The goal is not changing who people are but helping others better receive their message.
Key Insight:
Financial Advice: Paul discusses building a tiny home to generate additional revenue on your property.
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 Paul Dashevsky.
A serial entrepreneur, real estate investor, and founder of Maxable. The discussion centers on the growing popularity of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), commonly known as tiny homes, granny flats, or backyard homes.
What begins as a conversation about Amazon selling tiny homes for under $50,000 develops into a broader discussion about housing affordability, rental income opportunities, caring for aging parents, property value enhancement, and the importance of properly planning and permitting ADU projects.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
- Educate homeowners about ADUs and their benefits.
- Explain the realities behind purchasing and building tiny homes.
- Highlight how ADUs can generate income and increase property value.
- Provide guidance on avoiding costly mistakes when building an ADU.
- Explore the role ADUs may play in addressing housing shortages and affordability challenges.
Key Takeaways 1. ADUs Are Not Necessarily Tiny
Dashevsky explains that ADUs can range from very small structures around 150 square feet to homes as large as 1,200 square feet.
Many modern ADUs are between 600 and 800 square feet, making them practical living spaces for singles, couples, retirees, and small families.
2. Housing Costs Are Driving Demand
One of the main reasons ADUs are becoming popular is the rising cost of traditional housing.
Many cities and states have updated regulations to allow homeowners to build secondary housing units on their property as a way to increase affordable housing options.
3. ADUs Offer Multiple Uses
Dashevsky emphasizes the flexibility of ADUs, which can serve as:
- Rental properties
- Housing for aging parents
- Caregiver or nanny quarters
- Home offices
- Music studios
- Yoga studios
- Guest houses
- Retirement living spaces
4. ADUs Can Produce Rental Income
Many homeowners build ADUs specifically to generate revenue.
By renting out a backyard unit, owners can:
- Offset mortgage payments
- Create passive income
- Build long-term wealth through real estate
5. Buying an Amazon Tiny Home Is Not as Simple as It Seems
One of the biggest misconceptions discussed in the interview is that a tiny home purchased online is move-in ready.
Dashevsky points out that homeowners still need:
- Site preparation
- Foundations
- Utility connections
- Building permits
- Contractor assistance
- Inspections
The advertised purchase price often excludes many of these costs.
6. Contractor Selection Is Critical
After renovating and building more than 350 homes, Dashevsky warns listeners that hiring the wrong contractor can be financially devastating.
He stresses the importance of:
- Researching contractors
- Checking references
- Verifying licenses
- Avoiding high-pressure sales tactics
- Getting multiple bids
7. Permits Matter
Dashevsky strongly advises homeowners not to build ADUs without proper approvals.
Legal construction provides:
- Better resale value
- Occupancy certification
- Rental eligibility
- Safety compliance
- Protection from future legal issues
8. ADUs Can Increase Property Value
According to Dashevsky, adding a second rentable dwelling generally increases a property's value because it creates an additional income-producing asset.
For many homeowners, an ADU becomes
Family Legacy: Cheryl runs the oldest minority woman-owned professional design and construction firm in the U.S.
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 Cheryl McKissack Daniel.
Topic: Legacy, resilience, and entrepreneurship of the McKissack family, as detailed in the book The Black Family Who Built America.
Cheryl shares the powerful story of her family's 230-year legacy in architecture and construction, making McKissack & McKissack the oldest minority woman-owned professional design and construction firm in the U.S. The conversation explores themes of generational resilience, Black excellence, business strategy, and personal growth.
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
- Highlight the McKissack family’s historical and cultural impact on American infrastructure and Black entrepreneurship.
- Promote the book The Black Family Who Built America as a record of legacy and inspiration.
- Inspire small business owners and entrepreneurs with lessons on perseverance, succession planning, and self-identity.
- Address the importance of preserving Black history in the face of cultural erasure.
🔑 Key Takeaways 🏗️ Legacy & Impact
- McKissack & McKissack has contributed to major U.S. infrastructure projects like:
- Barclays Center
- JFK Terminal One
- LaGuardia Airport
- Penn Station
- Lincoln Financial Field
“We are the fifth generation. Right. And we're Black in America.”
📚 Historical Significance
- The family legacy began with Moses McKissack, who was enslaved and later became a builder.
- Cheryl’s ancestors were the first licensed Black architects in America (licenses 117 and 118 in Tennessee).
“They became the first Black licensed architects in America… and helped get licensed in 22 other states.”
💼 Business Wisdom
- Cheryl emphasizes the importance of:
- Succession planning
- Understanding both technical and political buyers
- Building relationships before you need them
“You better have that relationship before you need it.”
🧠 The 5 Ps of Family Resilience
- Perseverance
- Persistence
- Preparedness
- Purpose
- Prayer
“Sometimes you do get up in the morning and you say it's not for me… You have to come back and meditate on the fact that you're a winner.”
🧘♀️ Personal Growth & Mental Health
- Cheryl discusses overcoming stress, rediscovering herself after a difficult marriage, and the importance of meditation.
“Being yourself is what we're talking about… I recognize that I am currently feeling stressed out. So what do I need to do?”
👩👧👧 Women in Leadership
- Cheryl’s mother took over the business after her father’s stroke, despite societal barriers.
“She only knew the telephone number to the office at that time… but she knew deep inside that she wanted to hold on for the fifth generation.”
🎥 Representation & Media
- The book and Cheryl’s story aim to counteract negative portrayals of Black people in media and history.
“You may not have known about Black excellence. Y
Brand Building: Montee's conversation focuses on entrepreneurship, fashion, branding, licensing, mentorship, and business growth.
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-NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Montee Tayion Holland.
Founder, president, and CEO of The Tayion Collection, a luxury menswear brand. Holland shares his journey from growing up in Detroit, serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, and working in pharmaceutical sales to building a nationally recognized fashion brand carried by major retailers.
The conversation focuses on entrepreneurship, fashion, branding, licensing, mentorship, business growth, and creating a legacy through both business success and community impact.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
- Share Montee Tayion Holland's entrepreneurial journey.
- Educate listeners on how to build a successful fashion brand.
- Explain the business side of the fashion industry, including licensing and retail partnerships.
- Inspire aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their passions and monetize their talents.
- Highlight the importance of mentorship, networking, and community involvement.
- Discuss the success and significance of apparel collections inspired by historically Black fraternities and sororities.
Key Takeaways 1. Passion Often Starts Early
Holland's interest in fashion began while growing up in Detroit, where he admired the way coaches and professional role models dressed.
Their polished appearance inspired him to pursue a future connected to fashion, even before he understood how to enter the industry.
2. Detroit Influenced His Style Philosophy
Detroit's rich culture of fashion, confidence, and self-expression helped shape Holland's view that clothing should reflect an individual's personality.
He believes style is about more than appearance. It is a statement of identity and confidence.
3. Military Service Became His Fashion Classroom
While serving in the Marine Corps overseas, Holland spent time in tailoring shops creating custom shirts, jackets, and suits.
Those experiences taught him about fabrics, fit, construction, and design, laying the foundation for his future brand.
4. The Tayion Collection Bridges Luxury and Accessibility
Holland designed The Tayion Collection to offer many of the details and craftsmanship found in custom clothing while remaining accessible through ready-to-wear garments.
His goal was to deliver luxury quality at a more attainable price point.
5. A Great Product Alone Is Not Enough
One of Holland's strongest lessons is that entrepreneurs must understand the business behind their products.
Success requires knowledge of:
- Manufacturing
- Cost structure
- Inventory management
- Supply chains
- Distribution
- Cash flow
- Retail relationships
He stresses that many businesses fail not because of poor products but because of weak business operations.
6. Relationships Can Transform a Career
A key turning point came when Holland met apparel executive Ronnie Waksburger, who helped introduce him to larger opportunities within the fashion industry.
The interview demonstrates how networking, reputation, and relationship-building can accelerate business growth.
7. Licensing Is a Powerful Growth Strategy
Holland explains that licensing allows entrepreneurs to expand their brands without personally funding massive production runs.
Through licensing partnerships, businesses gain access to:
- Manufacturing capabilities
- Capital resources
- Industry expertise
- Distribution channels
- Retail partnerships
This model allows brands to scale faster while reducing operational challenges.
8. The Divine Nine Collection
Financial Advice: Paul discusses building a tiny home to generate additional revenue on your property.
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 Paul Dashevsky.
A serial entrepreneur, real estate investor, and founder of Maxable. The discussion centers on the growing popularity of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), commonly known as tiny homes, granny flats, or backyard homes.
What begins as a conversation about Amazon selling tiny homes for under $50,000 develops into a broader discussion about housing affordability, rental income opportunities, caring for aging parents, property value enhancement, and the importance of properly planning and permitting ADU projects.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
- Educate homeowners about ADUs and their benefits.
- Explain the realities behind purchasing and building tiny homes.
- Highlight how ADUs can generate income and increase property value.
- Provide guidance on avoiding costly mistakes when building an ADU.
- Explore the role ADUs may play in addressing housing shortages and affordability challenges.
Key Takeaways 1. ADUs Are Not Necessarily Tiny
Dashevsky explains that ADUs can range from very small structures around 150 square feet to homes as large as 1,200 square feet.
Many modern ADUs are between 600 and 800 square feet, making them practical living spaces for singles, couples, retirees, and small families.
2. Housing Costs Are Driving Demand
One of the main reasons ADUs are becoming popular is the rising cost of traditional housing.
Many cities and states have updated regulations to allow homeowners to build secondary housing units on their property as a way to increase affordable housing options.
3. ADUs Offer Multiple Uses
Dashevsky emphasizes the flexibility of ADUs, which can serve as:
- Rental properties
- Housing for aging parents
- Caregiver or nanny quarters
- Home offices
- Music studios
- Yoga studios
- Guest houses
- Retirement living spaces
4. ADUs Can Produce Rental Income
Many homeowners build ADUs specifically to generate revenue.
By renting out a backyard unit, owners can:
- Offset mortgage payments
- Create passive income
- Build long-term wealth through real estate
5. Buying an Amazon Tiny Home Is Not as Simple as It Seems
One of the biggest misconceptions discussed in the interview is that a tiny home purchased online is move-in ready.
Dashevsky points out that homeowners still need:
- Site preparation
- Foundations
- Utility connections
- Building permits
- Contractor assistance
- Inspections
The advertised purchase price often excludes many of these costs.
6. Contractor Selection Is Critical
After renovating and building more than 350 homes, Dashevsky warns listeners that hiring the wrong contractor can be financially devastating.
He stresses the importance of:
- Researching contractors
- Checking references
- Verifying licenses
- Avoiding high-pressure sales tactics
- Getting multiple bids
7. Permits Matter
Dashevsky strongly advises homeowners not to build ADUs without proper approvals.
Legal construction provides:
- Better resale value
- Occupancy certification
- Rental eligibility
- Safety compliance
- Protection from future legal issues
8. ADUs Can Increase Property Value
According to Dashevsky, adding a second rentable dwelling generally increases a property's value because it creates an additional income-producing asset.
For many homeowners, an ADU becomes
Family Legacy: Cheryl runs the oldest minority woman-owned professional design and construction firm in the U.S.
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 Cheryl McKissack Daniel.
Topic: Legacy, resilience, and entrepreneurship of the McKissack family, as detailed in the book The Black Family Who Built America.
Cheryl shares the powerful story of her family's 230-year legacy in architecture and construction, making McKissack & McKissack the oldest minority woman-owned professional design and construction firm in the U.S. The conversation explores themes of generational resilience, Black excellence, business strategy, and personal growth.
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
- Highlight the McKissack family’s historical and cultural impact on American infrastructure and Black entrepreneurship.
- Promote the book The Black Family Who Built America as a record of legacy and inspiration.
- Inspire small business owners and entrepreneurs with lessons on perseverance, succession planning, and self-identity.
- Address the importance of preserving Black history in the face of cultural erasure.
🔑 Key Takeaways 🏗️ Legacy & Impact
- McKissack & McKissack has contributed to major U.S. infrastructure projects like:
- Barclays Center
- JFK Terminal One
- LaGuardia Airport
- Penn Station
- Lincoln Financial Field
“We are the fifth generation. Right. And we're Black in America.”
📚 Historical Significance
- The family legacy began with Moses McKissack, who was enslaved and later became a builder.
- Cheryl’s ancestors were the first licensed Black architects in America (licenses 117 and 118 in Tennessee).
“They became the first Black licensed architects in America… and helped get licensed in 22 other states.”
💼 Business Wisdom
- Cheryl emphasizes the importance of:
- Succession planning
- Understanding both technical and political buyers
- Building relationships before you need them
“You better have that relationship before you need it.”
🧠 The 5 Ps of Family Resilience
- Perseverance
- Persistence
- Preparedness
- Purpose
- Prayer
“Sometimes you do get up in the morning and you say it's not for me… You have to come back and meditate on the fact that you're a winner.”
🧘♀️ Personal Growth & Mental Health
- Cheryl discusses overcoming stress, rediscovering herself after a difficult marriage, and the importance of meditation.
“Being yourself is what we're talking about… I recognize that I am currently feeling stressed out. So what do I need to do?”
👩👧👧 Women in Leadership
- Cheryl’s mother took over the business after her father’s stroke, despite societal barriers.
“She only knew the telephone number to the office at that time… but she knew deep inside that she wanted to hold on for the fifth generation.”
🎥 Representation & Media
- The book and Cheryl’s story aim to counteract negative portrayals of Black people in media and history.
“You may not have known about Black excellence. Y
Brand Building: Montee's conversation focuses on entrepreneurship, fashion, branding, licensing, mentorship, and business growth.
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-NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Montee Tayion Holland.
Founder, president, and CEO of The Tayion Collection, a luxury menswear brand. Holland shares his journey from growing up in Detroit, serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, and working in pharmaceutical sales to building a nationally recognized fashion brand carried by major retailers.
The conversation focuses on entrepreneurship, fashion, branding, licensing, mentorship, business growth, and creating a legacy through both business success and community impact.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
- Share Montee Tayion Holland's entrepreneurial journey.
- Educate listeners on how to build a successful fashion brand.
- Explain the business side of the fashion industry, including licensing and retail partnerships.
- Inspire aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their passions and monetize their talents.
- Highlight the importance of mentorship, networking, and community involvement.
- Discuss the success and significance of apparel collections inspired by historically Black fraternities and sororities.
Key Takeaways 1. Passion Often Starts Early
Holland's interest in fashion began while growing up in Detroit, where he admired the way coaches and professional role models dressed.
Their polished appearance inspired him to pursue a future connected to fashion, even before he understood how to enter the industry.
2. Detroit Influenced His Style Philosophy
Detroit's rich culture of fashion, confidence, and self-expression helped shape Holland's view that clothing should reflect an individual's personality.
He believes style is about more than appearance. It is a statement of identity and confidence.
3. Military Service Became His Fashion Classroom
While serving in the Marine Corps overseas, Holland spent time in tailoring shops creating custom shirts, jackets, and suits.
Those experiences taught him about fabrics, fit, construction, and design, laying the foundation for his future brand.
4. The Tayion Collection Bridges Luxury and Accessibility
Holland designed The Tayion Collection to offer many of the details and craftsmanship found in custom clothing while remaining accessible through ready-to-wear garments.
His goal was to deliver luxury quality at a more attainable price point.
5. A Great Product Alone Is Not Enough
One of Holland's strongest lessons is that entrepreneurs must understand the business behind their products.
Success requires knowledge of:
- Manufacturing
- Cost structure
- Inventory management
- Supply chains
- Distribution
- Cash flow
- Retail relationships
He stresses that many businesses fail not because of poor products but because of weak business operations.
6. Relationships Can Transform a Career
A key turning point came when Holland met apparel executive Ronnie Waksburger, who helped introduce him to larger opportunities within the fashion industry.
The interview demonstrates how networking, reputation, and relationship-building can accelerate business growth.
7. Licensing Is a Powerful Growth Strategy
Holland explains that licensing allows entrepreneurs to expand their brands without personally funding massive production runs.
Through licensing partnerships, businesses gain access to:
- Manufacturing capabilities
- Capital resources
- Industry expertise
- Distribution channels
- Retail partnerships
This model allows brands to scale faster while reducing operational challenges.
8. The Divine Nine Collection
Financial Advice: Paul discusses building a tiny home to generate additional revenue on your property.
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 Paul Dashevsky.
A serial entrepreneur, real estate investor, and founder of Maxable. The discussion centers on the growing popularity of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), commonly known as tiny homes, granny flats, or backyard homes.
What begins as a conversation about Amazon selling tiny homes for under $50,000 develops into a broader discussion about housing affordability, rental income opportunities, caring for aging parents, property value enhancement, and the importance of properly planning and permitting ADU projects.
Purpose of the Interview
The interview aims to:
- Educate homeowners about ADUs and their benefits.
- Explain the realities behind purchasing and building tiny homes.
- Highlight how ADUs can generate income and increase property value.
- Provide guidance on avoiding costly mistakes when building an ADU.
- Explore the role ADUs may play in addressing housing shortages and affordability challenges.
Key Takeaways 1. ADUs Are Not Necessarily Tiny
Dashevsky explains that ADUs can range from very small structures around 150 square feet to homes as large as 1,200 square feet.
Many modern ADUs are between 600 and 800 square feet, making them practical living spaces for singles, couples, retirees, and small families.
2. Housing Costs Are Driving Demand
One of the main reasons ADUs are becoming popular is the rising cost of traditional housing.
Many cities and states have updated regulations to allow homeowners to build secondary housing units on their property as a way to increase affordable housing options.
3. ADUs Offer Multiple Uses
Dashevsky emphasizes the flexibility of ADUs, which can serve as:
- Rental properties
- Housing for aging parents
- Caregiver or nanny quarters
- Home offices
- Music studios
- Yoga studios
- Guest houses
- Retirement living spaces
4. ADUs Can Produce Rental Income
Many homeowners build ADUs specifically to generate revenue.
By renting out a backyard unit, owners can:
- Offset mortgage payments
- Create passive income
- Build long-term wealth through real estate
5. Buying an Amazon Tiny Home Is Not as Simple as It Seems
One of the biggest misconceptions discussed in the interview is that a tiny home purchased online is move-in ready.
Dashevsky points out that homeowners still need:
- Site preparation
- Foundations
- Utility connections
- Building permits
- Contractor assistance
- Inspections
The advertised purchase price often excludes many of these costs.
6. Contractor Selection Is Critical
After renovating and building more than 350 homes, Dashevsky warns listeners that hiring the wrong contractor can be financially devastating.
He stresses the importance of:
- Researching contractors
- Checking references
- Verifying licenses
- Avoiding high-pressure sales tactics
- Getting multiple bids
7. Permits Matter
Dashevsky strongly advises homeowners not to build ADUs without proper approvals.
Legal construction provides:
- Better resale value
- Occupancy certification
- Rental eligibility
- Safety compliance
- Protection from future legal issues
8. ADUs Can Increase Property Value
According to Dashevsky, adding a second rentable dwelling generally increases a property's value because it creates an additional income-producing asset.
For many homeowners, an ADU becomes
Family Legacy: Cheryl runs the oldest minority woman-owned professional design and construction firm in the U.S.
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 Cheryl McKissack Daniel.
Topic: Legacy, resilience, and entrepreneurship of the McKissack family, as detailed in the book The Black Family Who Built America.
Cheryl shares the powerful story of her family's 230-year legacy in architecture and construction, making McKissack & McKissack the oldest minority woman-owned professional design and construction firm in the U.S. The conversation explores themes of generational resilience, Black excellence, business strategy, and personal growth.
🎯 Purpose of the Interview
- Highlight the McKissack family’s historical and cultural impact on American infrastructure and Black entrepreneurship.
- Promote the book The Black Family Who Built America as a record of legacy and inspiration.
- Inspire small business owners and entrepreneurs with lessons on perseverance, succession planning, and self-identity.
- Address the importance of preserving Black history in the face of cultural erasure.
🔑 Key Takeaways 🏗️ Legacy & Impact
- McKissack & McKissack has contributed to major U.S. infrastructure projects like:
- Barclays Center
- JFK Terminal One
- LaGuardia Airport
- Penn Station
- Lincoln Financial Field
“We are the fifth generation. Right. And we're Black in America.”
📚 Historical Significance
- The family legacy began with Moses McKissack, who was enslaved and later became a builder.
- Cheryl’s ancestors were the first licensed Black architects in America (licenses 117 and 118 in Tennessee).
“They became the first Black licensed architects in America… and helped get licensed in 22 other states.”
💼 Business Wisdom
- Cheryl emphasizes the importance of:
- Succession planning
- Understanding both technical and political buyers
- Building relationships before you need them
“You better have that relationship before you need it.”
🧠 The 5 Ps of Family Resilience
- Perseverance
- Persistence
- Preparedness
- Purpose
- Prayer
“Sometimes you do get up in the morning and you say it's not for me… You have to come back and meditate on the fact that you're a winner.”
🧘♀️ Personal Growth & Mental Health
- Cheryl discusses overcoming stress, rediscovering herself after a difficult marriage, and the importance of meditation.
“Being yourself is what we're talking about… I recognize that I am currently feeling stressed out. So what do I need to do?”
👩👧👧 Women in Leadership
- Cheryl’s mother took over the business after her father’s stroke, despite societal barriers.
“She only knew the telephone number to the office at that time… but she knew deep inside that she wanted to hold on for the fifth generation.”
🎥 Representation & Media
- The book and Cheryl’s story aim to counteract negative portrayals of Black people in media and history.
“You may not have known about Black excellence. Y