Coinology, The Podcast

Ebony Porter-Ike

Coinology is the rebirthing of the concept of the Talented Tenth coined in 1903 by black educator and author W.E.B. Du Bois, emphasizing the necessity for higher education to develop the leadership capacity among the most able 10 percent of black Americans. Coinology is forgetting the higher education component and focusing on the skills and techniques among the most able 10 percent of 21st century black Americans. Ebony Porter-Ike, the Certified Deal Closer, created Coinology: The Podcast, to redefine the definition of the Talented Tenth, and invites her peers and audience to join her on an impactful and educational journey of navigating entrepreneurship. Follow Coinology: The Podcast (@coinology) Follow Ebony Porter-Ike @epimediagroup

  1. Coinology, The Podcast — Season 5, Episode 12: “No New Friends” - Tressa Azarel Smallwood

    Jan 14

    Coinology, The Podcast — Season 5, Episode 12: “No New Friends” - Tressa Azarel Smallwood

    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.

    46 min
  2. Coinology, The Podcast — Season 5, Episode 10 Episode Title: “A Classic Man”

    12/17/2025

    Coinology, The Podcast — Season 5, Episode 10 Episode Title: “A Classic Man”

    Coinology, The Podcast — Season 5, Episode 10 Episode Title: “A Classic Man” In this powerful and intimate episode of Coinology, The Podcast, host Ebony Porter-Ike, The Certified Deal Closer, sits down with Steve Sanders—former football standout, Married to Medicine reality television star, and accomplished business leader—for a raw and thought-provoking conversation about success, pressure, and purpose. Steve opens up about his upbringing and the unique challenges of growing up in an urban environment while being thrust into elite levels of achievement at a young age. From becoming a star football player in college to navigating life in the public eye, he and Ebony unpack the intense scrutiny African American celebrity athletes face—and question whether that scrutiny is fair or humane. The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Steve speaks candidly about his mental health journey, the silent battles many men endure, and the struggle to be both seen and heard in a world that often shows little grace. Through honesty and reflection, he sheds light on the importance of vulnerability, support, and redefining strength beyond athletic performance. This episode offers an up-close look at a thoughtful, multifaceted man—a father, husband, athlete, and entrepreneur—who is using his voice to create space for meaningful dialogue and healing. Season 5, Episode 10, “A Classic Man,” is an unmissable conversation that challenges narratives and humanizes the men behind the spotlight.

    1 hr

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Coinology is the rebirthing of the concept of the Talented Tenth coined in 1903 by black educator and author W.E.B. Du Bois, emphasizing the necessity for higher education to develop the leadership capacity among the most able 10 percent of black Americans. Coinology is forgetting the higher education component and focusing on the skills and techniques among the most able 10 percent of 21st century black Americans. Ebony Porter-Ike, the Certified Deal Closer, created Coinology: The Podcast, to redefine the definition of the Talented Tenth, and invites her peers and audience to join her on an impactful and educational journey of navigating entrepreneurship. Follow Coinology: The Podcast (@coinology) Follow Ebony Porter-Ike @epimediagroup