Coinology, The Podcast — Season 5, Episode 12: “No New Friends” - Tressa Azarel Smallwood
Wed Jan 14 2026
In this powerful and perspective-shifting episode, Coinology, The Podcast welcomes visionary filmmaker and media mogul Tressa Azarel Smallwood for an unfiltered conversation about growth, loyalty, and building success from the inside out. Tressa sits down with host Ebony Porter-Ike, The Certified Deal Closer, to trace her remarkable journey from classroom teacher to one of the most sought-after independent filmmakers and production leaders in the country. She breaks down the strategic moves, mindset shifts, and practical decisions that fueled her rapid rise—without sacrificing her values. “No New Friends” challenges the popular belief that success requires constantly expanding your circle. Instead, Tressa offers a refreshing counter-narrative on the power of continuity, trust, and developing talent within your existing community. She shares actionable insights on building and maintaining a strong, aligned team, including how she’s successfully worked with family and close connections while avoiding common pitfalls. The conversation also dives deep into the role of family support, shared vision, and intentional collaboration as foundations for long-term success and generational wealth. For anyone who has struggled with hiring family, partnering with friends, or balancing relationships with business growth, this episode provides real-world guidance on how to grow together—without compromising excellence or boundaries. If you’re rethinking your circle, your team, or your legacy, this episode is a must-listen.
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In this powerful and perspective-shifting episode, Coinology, The Podcast welcomes visionary filmmaker and media mogul Tressa Azarel Smallwood for an unfiltered conversation about growth, loyalty, and building success from the inside out. Tressa sits down with host Ebony Porter-Ike, The Certified Deal Closer, to trace her remarkable journey from classroom teacher to one of the most sought-after independent filmmakers and production leaders in the country. She breaks down the strategic moves, mindset shifts, and practical decisions that fueled her rapid rise—without sacrificing her values. “No New Friends” challenges the popular belief that success requires constantly expanding your circle. Instead, Tressa offers a refreshing counter-narrative on the power of continuity, trust, and developing talent within your existing community. She shares actionable insights on building and maintaining a strong, aligned team, including how she’s successfully worked with family and close connections while avoiding common pitfalls. The conversation also dives deep into the role of family support, shared vision, and intentional collaboration as foundations for long-term success and generational wealth. For anyone who has struggled with hiring family, partnering with friends, or balancing relationships with business growth, this episode provides real-world guidance on how to grow together—without compromising excellence or boundaries. If you’re rethinking your circle, your team, or your legacy, this episode is a must-listen.