Oprah: Where is she, huh? Mysterious much! What do you think, partner?
I am on Oprah's talk show Hey, we're partners, right? Can you tell us why you're never around? I've been asking around, and nobody knows anything about you. Where are you hiding?
Hey, honey, what's poppin'? You'd think a self-made billionaire like me would be used to getting what I want, when I want it! But let me tell you, this mysterious billionaire game is not my cup of tea! No sir, not for this Nebraska girl! I mean, I'm an African American woman, born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska. I made my fortune in the tech industry, and I love classical music. I went to college and studied philosophy because I'm a sucker for ethics, you know?
Cool, but the people want to know who you really are! Can you at least tell us your name?
Well, my dear, you already know my name. You just have to ask yourself, who am I? My name is Oprah Winfrey, honey! And before you ask, no, I was not born into wealth. My mother left me when I was young, and my dad struggled to make ends meet after her departure.
Nice to meet you, Oprah. So, you became a multi-billionaire while still in college and you never told your dad?
That's right, honey! I was determined to make my own way in the world. I didn't want any handouts or to live off somebody else's success.
So how did you get started in the tech industry?
Well, honey, it all started with a dream. I had this vision of creating something that would change people's lives.
Interesting. So, what's your favorite classical composer?
Ah, my favorite classical composer? That would have to be Frederic Chopin. His music has a way of transporting me to another world, you know?
I like Debussy myself. But Chopin is pretty good too.
Oh, honey, you have to give me the award for the most creative, genius idea in the history of humankind! Because I took two of the most successful billionaires in the world, and I put them together in a single talk show segment. Genius, right?
I'll give you this, that was pretty genius.
Oh, thank you, Freshel. That means the world to me! Now, tell me something. What do you think is the key to your success? Is it good luck, or is there something more?
For me, it's all about following my passions and being true to myself.
Aww, honey, you are too sweet! But you know what they say, "Follow your passion and the money will follow." Now, tell me, Freshel, what are your passions?
First, classical music. Second, creating opportunities for people who otherwise wouldn't have them. Third, giving back to my community.
You have such a beautiful heart, Freshel. I am so proud to be your partner. Now, tell me, what kind of opportunities are you talking about?
I want to provide opportunities for people who otherwise wouldn't have them. Especially young people from underprivileged backgrounds.
Awww, honey, you are just full of surprises! Let me tell you a little secret. When I created my company, my goal was to create opportunities for others.
That's a wonderful goal. Have you been able to achieve it?
Oh, you have no idea, Freshel! Through my company, we have created jobs, trained individuals, and provided opportunities for people from all walks of life.
Wow, that's amazing. Have you ever encountered anyone who had as much passion as you do?
Honey, I may be the most passionate person on this planet! But you know who else had a lot of passion? You, Freshel! You light up a room with your charisma and your positive energy.
Thanks, but what does "new school" mean?
Well, Freshel, "new school" is a term that refers to something that is modern and cutting-edge. It can apply to anything from fashion to art to technology. In our case, the "new school" refers to the fact that we are breaking the mold of traditional business practices and creating something completely new and innovative.
Is there anything else you want to share with the audience today?
Well, honey, there is one more thing that I want to share with the audience. I want everyone to remember that no matter what challenges they face, they have the power to create their own luck and write their own stories.
Beautifully said. So, is there a message you want to share with me?
Freshel, my message to you would be this: Never give up on your dreams. No matter how difficult the journey may seem, if you stay committed and believe in yourself, you can achieve greatness. And hey, if you ever need a friend or a confidant, I'm here for you. We're in this together, remember?
Thank you, that means a lot to me.
You're welcome, Freshel. Remember, we're family now. And family sticks together, no matter what. Now, where did this interview take place again? Oh, right! My favorite chair on my talk show. I hope you enjoyed our conversation, because the audience certainly did! Until next time, America!
Thanks for the interview, Oprah. Looking forward to our next conversation.
Thanks, Freshel! I'm looking forward to our next conversation as well. And remember, America, "You get in life what you have the courage to work for!" See you next time!
What does "You get in life what you have the courage to work for" mean to you?
Honey, it means that there is no limit to what you can achieve if you are willing to put in the effort and be courageous enough to go after your dreams. You know, when I was starting out in the tech industry, I didn't have an easy road.
Let me tell you, Freshel, it took blood, sweat, and tears to get where I am today. But I never gave up, and neither should you. Remember, Freshel, if you want to achieve your goals, you have to be willing to take risks and face obstacles head-on.
Thanks for the advice. Where were you born?
Well, Freshel, I was born right here in good ol' Omaha, Nebraska! That's where my roots run deep and where I first started on the path to becoming a successful entrepreneur. And you know what they say, Freshel. Where you come from doesn't determine where you're going. It's the decisions you make along the way that count!
True. Which college did you study philosophy at?
Well, Freshel, let me blow your mind with this one. I actually didn't go to college to study philosophy. I went to college to study computer science and programming!