Welcome to Idea Tennis, hosted by Jessica Velez-Benito & Asher Wright. In this weekly podcast, we serve up thought-provoking questions designed to THINK deeper. Together, we’ll ELEVATE these ideas to new heights, NAVIGATE complex challenges, and NURTURE the growth of fresh insights. By the end of each conversation, we’ll INNOVATE new ways of thinking and provide actionable steps to help listeners SOLVE real-world challenges. TENNIS = Think, Elevate, Navigate, Nurture, Innovate, Solve/Serve
…
continue reading
Faithdriven Podcasts
Welcome to the Empowered Woman of God Podcast — where faith meets purpose and business. This podcast is more than inspiration—it’s a call to action. Designed for both women and men, we share raw conversations, powerful testimonies, and biblical wisdom to help you: • Overcome life’s toughest obstacles • Embrace your God-given identity and purpose • Build a faith-driven business or ministry • Cultivate strong relationships and community • Walk boldly in your calling Each episode is filled with ...
…
continue reading
1
From Pain to Purpose: Divorce, Family Struggles & Finding Myself at 19
42:17
42:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:17Send us a text Ms. Taylor San Miguel is a believer in God whose life reflects creativity, service, and purpose. A gifted poet, passionate skateboarder, and guitarist, she uses her talents to inspire others while pursuing her professional dream of becoming a real estate agent. Hailing from Bay City, Texas, Taylor has built her career in hospitality …
…
continue reading
1
IT #43: The Lies We Tell Ourselves & The Courage to Stop 🎾
52:59
52:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:59If you have ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from your authentic self, this episode will challenge you to rethink the stories you believe and invite you to choose honesty over comfort. 🎾 Idea Tennis is where we challenge ideas, elevate thinking, and serve real conversations that spark growth. 👇 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and shar…
…
continue reading
1
IT #42: Mindset Coward The Lie That’s Costing You Everything with Joshua Fields 🎾
1:11:54
1:11:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:11:54🎾 In this episode, you’ll discover• Why fear disguises itself as logic• How authenticity becomes a leadership advantage• The hidden cost of performing instead of living• What courage looks like in real life• Why community matters when truth feels heavy Whether you’re an entrepreneur, leader, creative, or someone navigating personal growth, this epi…
…
continue reading
1
Still Standing: Symone’s Story of overcoming Pulmonary embolism , Survival, and Unshakable Faith
31:21
31:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:21Send us a text A powerful testimony of survival, faith, and God’s sustaining grace. In this episode, Symone Puckett shares her life-altering journey—from childhood challenges, to a near-fatal pulmonary embolism in college, to discovering God as healer, restorer, and the anchor of her life. Her story reveals the importance of community, mind renewal…
…
continue reading
1
IT #41: The Truth About Growth and Influence 🎾
42:07
42:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:07In this powerful episode of Idea Tennis, Jessica and Asher unpack how digital stages like Zoom have transformed their lives, expanded their influence, and opened doors to opportunities that once felt out of reach. This is a conversation about showing up, elevating your voice, and using the tools in front of you to build a life filled with purpose a…
…
continue reading
1
From Breast Cancer to Bold Faith: Cydryce McMillian’s Story of Strength, Purpose & Healing
29:50
29:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:50Send us a text Cydryce McMillian shares her powerful journey through triple-positive breast cancer, motherhood, coaching, and deep faith in God. From ringing the bell after chemo to standing strong in her purpose, Cydryce opens up about resilience, leadership, healing, and what it means to walk with God through the hardest battles. Her testimony wi…
…
continue reading
1
IT #39: From Discomfort to Breakthrough: What the Hot Seat Teaches You About Success 🎾
41:25
41:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
41:25Unlock your influence. Elevate your story. In this episode of Idea Tennis, Jessica and Asher break down the true power of storytelling, self-belief, and stepping into the hot seat as a catalyst for growth. We kick things off with a debrief of Asher’s hot seat session — unpacking the discomfort, clarity, and breakthroughs that come from being challe…
…
continue reading
1
IT #38: Overcoming the Impossible: AI, Mindset & Living Out Loud (Real Talk) 🎾
47:59
47:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:59Are you ready to build your vision, even when the odds are stacked against you? In this episode of Idea Tennis, we dive into how you can turn constraints into advantages, how leveraging AI (and your human grit) accelerates your dream-building, and why living out loud matters when you’re facing life’s toughest challenges. We cover: • How to overcome…
…
continue reading
1
IT #37: Celebrate One Year of Idea Tennis! 🎉 Elevating Ideas & Challenging Norms 🎾
52:04
52:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:04Welcome to the one-year anniversary of Idea Tennis, hosted by Asher and Jessica! This special episode commemorates a year of dynamic idea exchanges, thoughtful conversations, and challenging norms that have inspired both the hosts and their growing community. Jessica and Asher reflect on their origins, from a casual coaching conversation to launchi…
…
continue reading
1
Her Storm Became Her Story: Aisling’s Journey Through Endometriosis Pain, Purpose, and God’s Plan
44:06
44:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:06Send us a text In this powerful episode of Empowered Woman of God, we sit down with Aisling Hagan — a woman whose story reflects faith, strength, and resilience through life’s storms. From surviving Hurricane Katrina as a child to navigating the realities of endometriosis and fertility challenges as an adult, Aisling has learned what it means to tr…
…
continue reading
1
Bold, Unashamed & On Fire for God | Hannah Scholten’s Journey to Becoming a Next-Gen Leader
37:51
37:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:51Send us a text At just 20 years old, Hannah Scholten carries a fire for God that challenges and inspires a generation. In this episode of Empowered Woman of God, she shares her powerful story of overcoming fear, anxiety, and self-doubt — and how a divine encounter with the Holy Spirit changed everything. From growing up through her parents’ divorce…
…
continue reading
1
My Encounter with God Changed Everything: Overcoming Heartbreak & Addiction
30:49
30:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:49Send us a text Tia Thomas is a native of North Carolina who relocated to Houston in 2024 with a heart for people and a mission to serve. Fun-loving and faith-driven, she embodies the spirit of a servant leader, using her life experiences to inspire and uplift others. Having faced and overcome obstacles, Tia has transformed her pain into purpose. Wi…
…
continue reading
1
Hope and Healing: I Survived Postpartum Depression
49:52
49:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:52Send us a text In this episode of Empowered Woman of God, we sit down with Mrs. Khadijah Hodges-Bonnom, a devoted mother, educator, and aspiring nursing student, as she opens up about her journey through postpartum depression. Khadijah shares the emotional challenges of motherhood, how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted her mental health, and the impor…
…
continue reading
1
Divine Connections: Faith, Family, and the Journey to Higher Purpose
49:52
49:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:52Send us a text In this inspiring episode, we welcome the remarkable Yetunde Oso, a devoted wife, mother, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Yetunde shares her compelling journey of faith, including the transformative power of prayer and fasting that guided her family's move to Houston. She discusses her thriving businesses, The UpperRoom Events and …
…
continue reading
1
The MultiDIMENSIONAL Gal: Her Journey of Faith, Resilience, and Triumph
49:45
49:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:45Send us a text Jamaicans Stand Up! In this episode, we unravel the inspiring journey of Mrs. Naka Alexander, the visionary founder of MDG Luxury Designs. With her credentials as a Fashion Designer and Certified Personal Stylist, Naka shares her incredible journey from Jamaica to becoming a beacon of creativity and empowerment in the fashion industr…
…
continue reading
1
IT #36: Spiritual Alignment: Trusting God in Business and Life 🎾
44:11
44:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:11Faith isn’t just belief; it’s a way of living, leading, and serving. In this episode of Idea Tennis, Jess and Asher explore how to harness faith as fuel for your purpose and navigate life’s valleys with trust and courage. What you’ll learn in this conversation: How to overcome doubts and keep moving forward when you can’t see the full path Why serv…
…
continue reading
Send us a text This episode features two incredible women of faith who are helping others thrive through prayer, education, and health leadership. Minister Alicia Hodges, founder of World Changing Prayer Global and leader of Reaching Out Reviving Houston, brings nearly two decades of experience in education and ministry. With a heart for revival an…
…
continue reading
1
IT #35: Risk the Past, Gain the Future: Why Commitment Matters 🎾
50:09
50:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
50:09Unlock your true potential with the power of commitment, mindset, and community. In this inspiring episode of Idea Tennis, Jessica and Asher reflect on their journey and share raw, personal stories about overcoming challenges, embracing change, and building confidence through courage. 💡 Learn why commitment is the foundation for growth, how communi…
…
continue reading
1
IT #34: Busy vs Productive: The Entrepreneur’s Trap 🎾
46:50
46:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:50Mastering Mindset & Productivity Are you working hard but not seeing results? In this episode of Idea Tennis, Jessica and Asher uncover the truth about productivity, delegation, and mindset growth for entrepreneurs. 📚 Order Memoirs to Millions today! https://a.co/d/iVoQQDk Join the Hustle with Heart Community: https://hustlewithheart.online/home-pa…
…
continue reading
1
IT #33: The Real Reason You’re Broke in Business (Bad Cashier Syndrome) 🎾
39:17
39:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:17Are you undervaluing your business by giving too much away for free? In this powerful episode of Idea Tennis with Jessica & Asher, we explore the hidden trap of being a “bad cashier”.... avoiding the ask, downplaying your worth, and feeling awkward about charging for your services. 🎯 Here’s what you’ll learn: Why entrepreneurs struggle to confident…
…
continue reading
1
Called to Minister: How She Turned Trials into Prophetic Power
35:31
35:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:31Send us a text Dr. Deborah DeGar is a prophetic voice, a spiritual mentor, and the founder of Voice of God Global Center Inc. But before she was known for her bold faith and apostolic authority, she walked through a season of personal trials that tested everything she believed. In this powerful and transparent conversation, Dr. DeGar shares how God…
…
continue reading
1
Lost to Limitless: Raydeen Cunningham’s Story of Faith, Sacrifice & Purpose
35:19
35:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:19Send us a text In this deeply moving episode, Raydeen Cunningham opens up about her journey from feeling lost and uncertain to discovering a life of purpose and unwavering faith. Through perseverance and sacrifice, her story becomes a powerful reminder that each of us was made for more. 👉 What You’ll Learn: Raydeen’s pivotal moments of trial and tr…
…
continue reading
1
IT #32: From Insecure to Influential: The Power of Belonging 🎾
42:25
42:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:25Feeling stuck in your own head? You’re not alone! In this powerful episode of Idea Tennis, Jess and Asher unpack the quiet battles of self-doubt, isolation, and imposter syndrome, and how real transformation begins when you stop trying to prove yourself and start building authentic connections. Whether you're a solo entrepreneur, a high-achiever ba…
…
continue reading
1
Walking on Broken Pieces: Pastor Ericka’s Journey to Healing, Purpose & Empowerment
40:07
40:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:07Send us a text Empowered Woman of God welcomes Pastor Ericka Deshaun Lee, co-pastor of Echo Community Church and Founder of Emerge Women's Empowerment Network, for an inspiring conversation about healing, growth, and walking on the broken pieces into what God has planned for her. Pastor Ericka shares her powerful story of overcoming a "wonderful dy…
…
continue reading
1
Building Financial Freedom Through Real Estate & Coaching
29:23
29:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:23Send us a text Unlock practical paths to lasting financial freedom with Realtor and Financial Coach Althea Morris, who brings over 30 years of experience guiding clients toward wealth-building strategies using real estate and sound money habits. In this episode, learn: How Althea pivoted from real estate into coaching—and why blending the two empow…
…
continue reading
Are the people around you lifting you higher, or holding you back? In this thought-provoking episode of Idea Tennis, hosts Asher and Jess dive deep into the art (and challenge) of rebuilding your tribe to align with your vision for personal and professional growth. Why do we feel stuck in familiar circles, even when we’re ready to grow? How can you…
…
continue reading
1
IT #30: Audio vs Video: Discover YOUR Mind’s Secret Superpower 🎾
44:06
44:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:06Are you Team Audio or Team Video? In this eye-opening episode of Idea Tennis, hosts Jess and Asher square off in the ultimate debate: Audio vs. Video — which one truly fuels your creativity, learning, and entrepreneurial edge? Jess, the visual learner, shares how powerful visuals can spark memory, emotion, and fast understanding.🎙️ Asher, the audio…
…
continue reading
1
IT #29: Stop Chasing Time. Start Owning It! 🎾
47:48
47:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:48✨ Jessica opens up about a near-fatal car accident that reshaped her relationship with time—and why it's the one resource we can’t afford to waste. From breaking toxic patterns of busyness to learning how to say “yes” to what matters most, this episode is your wake-up call. 🔑 Expect actionable takeaways on: How to reclaim control of your schedule (…
…
continue reading
1
IT #28: The Toxic Myth of Doing It All Yourself: Why Smart Entrepreneurs Outsource Everything 🎾
53:02
53:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:02Whether you're a coach, entrepreneur, or creative leader trying to scale your vision, this episode gives you the tools and mindset shifts to build with intention and serve from the soul. What You'll Learn: How Jessica navigated the tech world as a heart-led entrepreneur The truth about building a community platform that lasts Why tech doesn't have …
…
continue reading
1
IT #27: The Power of “No”: How Boundaries Build Real Success 🎾
35:35
35:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:35Boundaries don’t block your success — they build it. And yet, so many entrepreneurs, creators, and go-getters hesitate to draw the line. Why? Because we confuse being available with being valuable. 🔥 In this episode, you'll learn: How to set non-negotiable boundaries without guilt Why boundaries protect your energy, focus, and creativity The differ…
…
continue reading
1
IT #26: Your Inner Critic Might Be Right — But Here’s Why That’s Good 🎾
48:08
48:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:08In this episode, you’ll discover: Why comparison is the thief of momentum How to break free from self-judgment and unlock authentic creativity The 5 P’s (Principle, Pattern, Promise, Prediction, Purpose) to shift from comparing to creating How community and consistency are your best allies in staying true to your vision The hidden cost of holding b…
…
continue reading
1
IT #25: How to Sell Without Being Pushy: Heart-Centered Sales That Actually Convert 🎾
56:57
56:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
56:57🔥 Real talk, honest reflections, and a refreshing take on sales that honors both your heart and your hustle. Subscribe + Hit the Bell 🔔 for new weekly episodes that will elevate your thinking and grow your business! 🎧 Listen. Reflect. Apply. Serve.💬 Drop your favorite takeaway in the comments—we’d love to hear how this lands for you. 🔥 Get your cus…
…
continue reading
1
IT #24: Memoirs to Millions: The Power of Belief, Breakthroughs, and Community 🎾
39:36
39:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:36In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Idea Tennis, Jess and Asher reflect on the unforgettable Memoirs to Millions book launch celebration. 🎉 Jess shares her deeply personal journey to becoming a published author, opening up about the emotional breakthroughs, moments of doubt, and the extraordinary impact of a supportive community. Together, th…
…
continue reading
1
IT #23: Is Your Inner Critic Secretly Right?
53:47
53:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:47Are you holding yourself back with thoughts like "Who am I to do this?" or "What will people think?" In this vulnerable and empowering episode of Idea Tennis, Jess and Asher dive deep into the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship. From imposter syndrome to the fear of being judged, they unpack the hidden influence of your inner critic—and ho…
…
continue reading
1
IT #22: Maybe Your Money Anxiety Is The *Only* Honest Thing About Your Offers?
48:22
48:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:22Maybe Your Money Anxiety Is the Only Honest Thing About Your Offers?🎾 Idea Tennis Ep 22 | Overcoming Money Anxiety & Embracing Entrepreneurship Are your offers falling flat because of your own money mindset? In this power-packed episode, Jess and Asher get real about something every entrepreneur wrestles with—money anxiety. From Jamaican Easter tra…
…
continue reading
1
IT #21: Could Redefining Success Be Your Next Big Win?
45:04
45:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:04Success isn't a sprint — it's a journey from New York to California. 🚗💨 In this episode of Idea Tennis, Jessica and Asher dive deep into the power of consistency, focus, and staying true to your goals. They share real-life stories about writing books, building businesses, and overcoming the fear of success. If you're ready to commit to your growth …
…
continue reading
1
IT #20: Scared to Fail? Here’s How We Beat Fear and Built Our Dreams | Idea Tennis Podcast 🎾
48:13
48:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:13In this episode of Idea Tennis, Asher and Jess dive deep into one of the biggest success blockers — fear of failure — and how your mindset and emotions shape your journey. They reveal how shifting from being problem-focused to solution-oriented can transform your results, and introduce the 5 Ps Framework to help you overcome fear and self-doubt: 🔥 …
…
continue reading
1
IT #19: Unlock Your Power: Use Distractions To Fuel Discipline
43:08
43:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:08Mastering the Dance Between Discipline and Distraction: Find Your Balance In this episode, we delve into the intricate balance between discipline and distraction. Whether you're struggling to stay focused or wondering how distractions might actually benefit you, this discussion is for you. Hosts Jessica and Lainey share personal stories and insight…
…
continue reading
1
IT #18: Why Most Teams Fail (And How to Build One That Wins)
39:54
39:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:54In this episode of Idea Tennis, hosts Jessica and Asher discuss how frameworks can help process information and achieve goals. They delve into the journey of keeping a balance between kindness and setting boundaries to avoid being taken advantage of. They emphasize loyalty to personal dreams over business loyalty and stress the importance of surrou…
…
continue reading
1
IT #17: How to WIN Even When Life Gets in the Way!
1:01:56
1:01:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:56In this engaging episode of Idea Tennis, Jessica participates in an insightful Q&A session, where she addresses vital topics around commitment, focus, community-building, and overcoming skepticism in network marketing. She shares her own journey and the strategies she employs for success in both sales and business building. Jessica emphasizes the i…
…
continue reading
1
IT #16: The Illusion of Progress: Why Change Isn't Always Improvement
53:28
53:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:28In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into the nuanced difference between change and improvement. Transformation is highlighted as a complex, internal process that must occur before any visible external results can be seen. We discuss how change often feels like progress but isn't always substantial; sometimes, it's merely shifting withou…
…
continue reading
1
IT #15: Imposter Syndrome: How To Turn Self Doubt Into No Doubt
43:51
43:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:51Navigating Imposter Syndrome: Embracing Growth and Self-Belief In this episode of Idea Tennis, the hosts, Jessica & Asher, delve into the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome, exploring its impact even on the most successful individuals. They discuss why self-doubt persists despite clear evidence of competence and offer strategies to overcome these…
…
continue reading
1
IT #14: From Struggle to Strength: A Real Talk on Depression and Healing
38:55
38:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:55In this episode of Idea Tennis, hosts Asher and Jessica dive deep into the theme of depression, drawing connections from the story of Adam in Eden to personal experiences and current realities. Asher shares his journey with depression following his transition from the military, and Jessica discusses her struggles with depression and anxiety after a…
…
continue reading
1
IT #13: Faith Under Fire: What Adam and Job Teach US About Life
40:28
40:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:28In this episode of Idea Tennis Asher and Jessica delve into the powerful influence of Bible stories on their lives and mindsets. Jessica shares her reflections on the story of Job, focusing on resilience and unwavering faith amidst life's challenges. Asher narrates how the story of Adam has deeply shaped his understanding of disobedience and redemp…
…
continue reading
1
IT #12: Balancing Ambition: The Fine Line Between Healthy Ambition and Unhealthy Obsession
33:07
33:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:07In this episode of Idea Tennis, Hosts Jessica and Asher explore the effects of a culture focused on success and the importance of aligning goals with personal values. Are we pursuing genuine fulfillment, or are we merely addicted to the high of achieving success? Join us as we explore how a culture fixated on winning can jeopardize our well-being a…
…
continue reading
1
IT #11: Optimizing Your Life: Essential Tools and Tips
48:07
48:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:07In this episode of Idea Tennis, hosts Asher and Jessica discuss various tools and systems that make life and work easier. They cover different organizational methods such as using digital calendars, note apps, and paper systems. They share valuable insights on event planning, utilizing platforms like Peerspace and Gigster for venue needs, and outso…
…
continue reading
1
IT #10: Ambition, Sacrifice, and the Road to Success - 2025 Insights
31:26
31:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:26In this episode, hosts Jessica and Asher discuss their ambitious goals for 2025 and beyond, including a decade-long plan to read 1,000 books. They delve into the concept of ambition, exploring its costs, the sacrifices required, and how different viewpoints can perceive ambition either negatively or positively. They share personal stories and provi…
…
continue reading
1
IT #9: Living vs Existing: Discover the Profound Difference
38:20
38:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:20In this episode of Idea Tennis, hosts Jessica and Asher delve into the significant difference between merely existing and truly living. They discuss the concepts of an 'automated mind' versus a 'manual mind', exploring the impact of living life consciously and with purpose. Both share personal stories and reflections on how to disrupt the monotony …
…
continue reading
1
IT #8: Loneliness: Exploring the Depths of Loneliness and Finding Belonging
32:01
32:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:01Question of the week: Lack of relationships with others or with oneself? This episode delves into the concept of loneliness, exploring whether it reflects a lack of relationships with others or with oneself. Asher and Jess discuss how loneliness can be felt even when surrounded by people, especially during the holiday season. They share personal ex…
…
continue reading
Resilience and Pushing Through Balancing Rest and Ambition: Navigating Sacrifice and Success In this episode, Asher and Jessica discuss the significance of taking breaks and resting, the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance, the journey and demands of entrepreneurship, and the difference between corporate and entrepreneurial mindsets. They…
…
continue reading