You know, you don't have to have money to be a successful businessperson. You don't need a college degree. You just need a lot of common sense backed up by a willingness to work hard.

My grandma used to make syrup for us because we couldn't afford it and I just played around with her recipe. I made strawberry syrup and that didn't really work out but I made strawberry-vanilla and that sold. Then I just went out and took marketing classes, went to seminars, learned about marketing a product and striking deals. It ended up taking orders of $1.5 million.

Money lets you enjoy the finer things of life, but it doesn't change who you are. It magnifies and brings into fruition the things that you want to hide most. It is a mask for insecurities as well.

Always define your area of excellence. Establish the area where you will be the best.

It is not possible to erase racism just because African-Americans have reached a level of financial success and crossover appeal.

Money doesn't change who you are; it magnifies who you really are.

Do not let anyone tell you what you can be. Do not let anyone tell you that you are not good enough or smart enough. Remember that nobody is better than you. Everybody puts on their pants one leg at a time.