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  • The Woman Behind the Title: Lashunda Scales on Faith, Family, and Leadership | EP146

    The Woman Behind the Title: Lashunda Scales on Faith, Family, and Leadership | EP146
    2026/03/12
    She grew up on Section 8, dropped out of college at 19, and almost lost her life. Today she makes the laws. Commissioner LaShunda Scales' story has never been told like this. EPISODE DESCRIPTION Jefferson County Commissioner LaShunda Scales — known in her district as 'Mama Scales' — sits down with host Jessica S. Smith for the most personal conversation of her career. She opens up about growing up in West End Birmingham, being raised by a single mother across multiple schools, dropping out of college, a near-death experience at 19, and the moment she surrendered her life to God.
    From marrying young and going back to school in her 30s with kids in tow, to earning her way into Harvard Kennedy School and building a PR firm that counted TD Jakes, Magic Johnson, and Burger King as clients — this is the story behind the fight.
    She also breaks down her #SheWorks mantra, why she invests heavily in workforce development for women, and what it really means to be a woman of God in a male-dominated political arena.
    If you've ever been told you started too late, came from the wrong place, or don't fit the mold — this episode is yours. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE
    • Growing up in West End Birmingham on Section 8 and food stamps
    • A near-death experience at 19 and a life-changing encounter with God
    • Going back to school as a mom in her 30s — and how a storm led to a scholarship
    • From Jeff State to Harvard Kennedy School: the non-traditional path to excellence
    • Building a PR firm from $500 with TD Jakes as her first client
    • Why she's known as 'Mama Scales' — and what she does when cameras aren't watching
    • The #SheWorks movement and her message to women entrepreneurs
    ABOUT THE GUEST LaShunda Scales is a Jefferson County Commissioner representing District 6 in Birmingham, Alabama. A minister, entrepreneur, and lifelong West Side Birmingham native, she is known for her faith-driven advocacy for children, women, and underserved communities. She holds certifications from Harvard Kennedy School of Government and is the founder of a PR firm whose clients have included TD Jakes, Magic Johnson, and the Burger King Corporation.
    Connect with Commissioner Scales: Instagram / Facebook: @lashundascales (search Jefferson County Commissioner LaShunda Scales)

    ABOUT JESS ASK THE PODCAST Jess Ask The Podcast is where influencers, entrepreneurs, and creatives come to decompress, get real, and just ask the questions that matter. Host Jessica S. Smith creates space for honest conversations about faith, purpose, personal growth, and the real journey behind success. Produced by BGTV Studios.

    🔔 Subscribe for new episodes every week.

    JOIN THE SAFE SPACE — PATREON COMMUNITY The Safe Space is a Patreon-only community for creators who feel unseen, misunderstood, or ready to give up. Biblical wisdom. Real accountability. People who get it.
    ➡️ Join here: patreon.com/JessAsk

    SUPPORT THE PODCAST ✔ Sow a love seed via Cash App: $jessaskthepodcast ✔ Share this episode with someone who needs it ✔ Subscribe, like & comment — it helps us reach more people

    PODCAST CREDITS
    Host: Jessica S. Smith | jessicassmith.com | @thejessicassmith
    Producer: Desiree Danielle | desireedanielle.com | @desireedanie11e
    Music: King Chosen | @kingchosen46 Network: BGTV Studios | bgtvstudios.com

    HASHTAGS #JessAsk #SheWorks #LaShundaScales #FaithAndPurpose #WomenInPolitics

    Jess Ask the Podcast is a safe space for honest conversations around faith, purpose, and personal growth. Hosted by Jessica S. Smith, this podcast creates room for reflection, encouragement, and real-life dialogue.

    Follow, rate, and share this episode with someone who needs it.

    Stay connected:
    YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook
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    57 分
  • Boundaries vs. Walls: How to Protect Yourself Without Shutting Down | EP145

    Boundaries vs. Walls: How to Protect Yourself Without Shutting Down | EP145
    2026/03/05
    Description:Jessica and Desiree get honest about boundaries—why they’re necessary, why they can feel like bondage, and how pain can push us into building walls instead of healthy guardrails. Jessica opens up about repeated relationship patterns, what therapy has revealed, and the struggle of protecting your heart without shutting people out. Together, they break down what boundaries actually are, how to be proactive instead of reactive, and how discernment helps you show up as yourself without giving everyone full access. If you’ve ever asked, “Why does this keep happening to me?” this conversation is for you.🎙️ Need a place to be reminded you're not alone? The Safe Space is for creators who feel unseen, misunderstood, or ready to give up. Inside this Patreon-only community, you’ll find accountability, biblical wisdom, and encouragement to keep going when it gets hard. This isn’t just content—it’s connection. A reminder that your voice matters, your gifts have purpose, and God is still writing your story.❤️If you're looking for a space to grow in faith and creativity with others who get it, this is it.✨ Join us in The Safe Space: ➡️patreon.com/JessAskSupport the Podcast:If you love what you hear on Jess Ask The Podcast and want to help us continue bringing you inspiring and insightful content, consider supporting us! Your contributions help us cover production costs, bring in amazing guests, and keep the podcast running smoothly.Ways to Support:Donate: You can sow a love seed by donating to our podcast. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant difference. Donate via Cash App: $jessaskthepodcastShare: Spread the word! Share our episodes with friends, family, and on your social media. Your support enables us to reach a broader audience.Engage: Follow us on social media, leave comments, and rate our podcast on your favorite platforms. Your engagement keeps our community vibrant and growing.Thank you for your support and for being part of the Jess Ask community!Podcast Network:BGTV Studios💥BGTV is a podcast studio of united voices coming together to spread the message of Jesus Christ💥Connect: BGTV LinkConnect With Us:Show Host:Jessica S. SmithWebsite: https://www.jessicassmith.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejessicassmithFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hellojessicassmithShow Producer:Desiree DanielleCreated 2 Create BookYou were created to create. Explore Desiree’s new book on faith, creativity, and partnering with the Holy Spirit.Order here:Purchase Your Copy!Website: https://www.desireedanielle.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/desireedanie11e/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/desireedanie11eMusic Producer:@kingchosen46 on IG & YouTubeTGFAD by King Chosen streaming on:YouTubeApple MusicSpotifyJess Ask the Podcast is a safe space for honest conversations around faith, purpose, and personal growth. Hosted by Jessica S. Smith, this podcast creates room for reflection, encouragement, and real-life dialogue.Follow, rate, and share this episode with someone who needs it.Stay connected:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook
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    54 分
  • Joseph’s Destination Wasn’t the Palace… It Was the Famine | FT Joy Pittman | EP144

    Joseph’s Destination Wasn’t the Palace… It Was the Famine | FT Joy Pittman | EP144
    2026/02/26
    Jess sits down with Joy Pittman to unpack Joseph in a way that shifts everything.What if the destination was never the palace… but the famine? What if elevation wasn’t about validation, but positioning?This episode challenges labels, reframes calling, and reminds you to occupy your seat wherever you’re placed. If you’ve been shrinking or questioning your assignment, this conversation will give you language — and the prayer at the end will seal it.Share it. Review it. And let’s keep building.Connect With Our Guest:Joy PittmanIG: @thejouyouneed🎙️ Need a place to be reminded you're not alone?The Safe Space is for creators who feel unseen, misunderstood, or ready to give up. Inside this Patreon-only community, you’ll find accountability, biblical wisdom, and encouragement to keep going when it gets hard. This isn’t just content—it’s connection. A reminder that your voice matters, your gifts have purpose, and God is still writing your story.❤️If you're looking for a space to grow in faith and creativity with others who get it, this is it.✨ Join us in The Safe Space:➡️ patreon.com/JessAskSupport the Podcast: If you love what you hear on Jess Ask The Podcast and want to help us continue bringing you inspiring and insightful content, consider supporting us! Your contributions help us cover production costs, bring in amazing guests, and keep the podcast running smoothly.Ways to Support:Donate: You can sow a love seed by donating to our podcast. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant difference. Donate via Cash App: $jessaskthepodcastShare: Spread the word! Share our episodes with friends, family, and on your social media. Your support enables us to reach a broader audience.Engage: Follow us on social media, leave comments, and rate our podcast on your favorite platforms. Your engagement keeps our community vibrant and growing.Thank you for your support and for being part of the Jess Ask community!Podcast Network:BGTV Studios💥BGTV is a podcast studio of united voices coming together to spread the message of Jesus Christ💥Connect: BGTV LinkConnect With Us:Show Host:Jessica S. SmithWebsite: https://www.jessicassmith.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejessicassmithFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hellojessicassmithShow Producer:Desiree DanielleWebsite: https://www.desireedanielle.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/desireedanie11e/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/desireedanie11eMusic Producer:@kingchosen46 on IG & YouTubeTGFAD by King Chosen streaming on:YouTubeApple MusicSpotifyJess Ask the Podcast is a safe space for honest conversations around faith, purpose, and personal growth. Hosted by Jessica S. Smith, this podcast creates room for reflection, encouragement, and real-life dialogue.Follow, rate, and share this episode with someone who needs it.Stay connected:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook
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    1 時間 19 分
  • When Creating Feels Like Warfare: Desiree Danielle’s Story + New Book | EP143

    When Creating Feels Like Warfare: Desiree Danielle’s Story + New Book | EP143
    2026/02/19
    Description:Jess and Desiree Danielle have an honest conversation about what it means to be “created to create” — and why your obedience still counts even when the response is quiet. Desiree shares how her new book was birthed through prayer, the fear of opinions, and the vulnerable shift from producing others to releasing her own voice. Together, they talk excellence vs. perfection, using what’s in your hands, and why God can trust you with more when you’re faithful with what you already have.Connect With Our Guest:Desiree Danielle is a multi-faceted creative—photographer, writer, podcast producer, licensed cosmetologist, and worship dancer—whose life and work flow at the intersection of faith and creativity. Through her words, images, and ministry, she empowers others to see their gifts as sacred assignments rather than just talents. Desiree is passionate about helping people embrace their God-given identity with boldness and obedience, reminding them that creativity is not extra—it’s embedded in their design.Website: www.desireedanielle.comIG: @desireedanie11eGet your copy of the book: https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084?params=6RlKYHsxMb7HZqB1r6CRYiX49SkPTKE3lVy8zF2hs67🎙️ Need a place to be reminded you're not alone?The Safe Space is for creators who feel unseen, misunderstood, or ready to give up. Inside this Patreon-only community, you’ll find accountability, biblical wisdom, and encouragement to keep going when it gets hard. This isn’t just content—it’s connection. A reminder that your voice matters, your gifts have purpose, and God is still writing your story.❤️If you're looking for a space to grow in faith and creativity with others who get it, this is it.✨ Join us in The Safe Space:➡️ patreon.com/JessAskSupport the Podcast: If you love what you hear on Jess Ask The Podcast and want to help us continue bringing you inspiring and insightful content, consider supporting us! Your contributions help us cover production costs, bring in amazing guests, and keep the podcast running smoothly.Ways to Support:Donate: You can sow a love seed by donating to our podcast. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant difference. Donate via Cash App: $jessaskthepodcastShare: Spread the word! Share our episodes with friends, family, and on your social media. Your support enables us to reach a broader audience.Engage: Follow us on social media, leave comments, and rate our podcast on your favorite platforms. Your engagement keeps our community vibrant and growing.Thank you for your support and for being part of the Jess Ask community!Podcast Network:BGTV Studios💥BGTV is a podcast studio of united voices coming together to spread the message of Jesus Christ💥Connect: BGTV LinkConnect With Us:Show Host:Jessica S. SmithWebsite: https://www.jessicassmith.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejessicassmithFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hellojessicassmithShow Producer:Desiree DanielleWebsite: https://www.desireedanielle.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/desireedanie11e/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/desireedanie11eMusic Producer:@kingchosen46 on IG & YouTubeTGFAD by King Chosen streaming on:YouTubeApple MusicSpotifyJess Ask the Podcast is a safe space for honest conversations around faith, purpose, and personal growth. Hosted by Jessica S. Smith, this podcast creates room for reflection, encouragement, and real-life dialogue.Follow, rate, and share this episode with someone who needs it.Stay connected:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook
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    49 分
  • Why I Stopped Having Sex (And What God Showed Me) | EP142

    Why I Stopped Having Sex (And What God Showed Me) | EP142
    2026/02/12
    Description:This episode is about intimacy — the real kind. Jessica and Desiree discuss abstinence, shame, dating God, and learning self-intimacy in singleness. If you’ve struggled silently in this area, this conversation is for you.🎙️ Need a place to be reminded you're not alone? The Safe Space is for creators who feel unseen, misunderstood, or ready to give up. Inside this Patreon-only community, you’ll find accountability, biblical wisdom, and encouragement to keep going when it gets hard. This isn’t just content—it’s connection. A reminder that your voice matters, your gifts have purpose, and God is still writing your story.❤️If you're looking for a space to grow in faith and creativity with others who get it, this is it.✨ Join us in The Safe Space:➡️patreon.com/JessAskSupport the Podcast: If you love what you hear on Jess Ask The Podcast and want to help us continue bringing you inspiring and insightful content, consider supporting us! Your contributions help us cover production costs, bring in amazing guests, and keep the podcast running smoothly.Ways to Support:Donate: You can sow a love seed by donating to our podcast. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant difference. Donate via Cash App: $jessaskthepodcastShare: Spread the word! Share our episodes with friends, family, and on your social media. Your support enables us to reach a broader audience.Engage: Follow us on social media, leave comments, and rate our podcast on your favorite platforms. Your engagement keeps our community vibrant and growing.Thank you for your support and for being part of the Jess Ask community!Podcast Network:BGTV Studios💥BGTV is a podcast studio of united voices coming together to spread the message of Jesus Christ💥Connect: BGTV LinkConnect With Us:Show Host:Jessica S. SmithWebsite: https://www.jessicassmith.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejessicassmithFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hellojessicassmithShow Producer:Desiree DanielleCreated 2 Create Book: You were created to create. Explore Desiree’s new book on faith, creativity, and partnering with the Holy Spirit. Order here: Purchase Your Copy!Website: https://www.desireedanielle.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/desireedanie11e/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/desireedanie11eMusic Producer:@kingchosen46 on IG & YouTubeTGFAD by King Chosen streaming on:YouTubeApple MusicSpotifyJess Ask the Podcast is a safe space for honest conversations around faith, purpose, and personal growth. Hosted by Jessica S. Smith, this podcast creates room for reflection, encouragement, and real-life dialogue.Follow, rate, and share this episode with someone who needs it.Stay connected:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook
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    45 分
  • “When You’re Out of Season, It Costs More” — Janice Coleman Breaks It Down | EP141

    “When You’re Out of Season, It Costs More” — Janice Coleman Breaks It Down | EP141
    2026/02/05
    Description:Warning: this episode might get slippery—because the oil showed up. Jess and Desiree sit down with Janice Coleman for a wisdom-packed conversation on seasons (dispensations), purpose-driven obedience, leadership transitions, and building structure without burning out. If you’ve been trying to figure out what God is doing in your life—or you’ve been frustrated while building—this episode will give you language, direction, and confirmation.Connect With Our Guest:Janice has over 30 years of stilettos-on-the-ground experience in the marketplace, helping leaders and organizations maintain relevance in this dynamic, unpredictable, and ever-changing environment to continue leading and building high-performing teams.http://janicecoleman.comwww.linkedin.com/in/janicecoleman🎙️ Need a place to be reminded you're not alone? The Safe Space is for creators who feel unseen, misunderstood, or ready to give up. Inside this Patreon-only community, you’ll find accountability, biblical wisdom, and encouragement to keep going when it gets hard. This isn’t just content—it’s connection. A reminder that your voice matters, your gifts have purpose, and God is still writing your story.❤️If you're looking for a space to grow in faith and creativity with others who get it, this is it.✨ Join us in The Safe Space:➡️patreon.com/JessAskSupport the Podcast: If you love what you hear on Jess Ask The Podcast and want to help us continue bringing you inspiring and insightful content, consider supporting us! Your contributions help us cover production costs, bring in amazing guests, and keep the podcast running smoothly.Ways to Support:Donate: You can sow a love seed by donating to our podcast. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant difference. Donate via Cash App: $jessaskthepodcastShare: Spread the word! Share our episodes with friends, family, and on your social media. Your support enables us to reach a broader audience.Engage: Follow us on social media, leave comments, and rate our podcast on your favorite platforms. Your engagement keeps our community vibrant and growing.Thank you for your support and for being part of the Jess Ask community!Podcast Network:BGTV Studios💥BGTV is a podcast studio of united voices coming together to spread the message of Jesus Christ💥Connect: BGTV LinkConnect With Us:Show Host:Jessica S. SmithWebsite: https://www.jessicassmith.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejessicassmithFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hellojessicassmithShow Producer:Desiree DanielleCreated 2 Create BookYou were created to create. Explore Desiree’s new book on faith, creativity, and partnering with the Holy Spirit. Order here: Purchase Your Copy!Website: https://www.desireedanielle.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/desireedanie11e/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/desireedanie11eMusic Producer:@kingchosen46 on IG & YouTubeTGFAD by King Chosen streaming on:YouTubeApple MusicSpotifyJess Ask the Podcast is a safe space for honest conversations around faith, purpose, and personal growth. Hosted by Jessica S. Smith, this podcast creates room for reflection, encouragement, and real-life dialogue.Follow, rate, and share this episode with someone who needs it.Stay connected:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook
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    1 時間 4 分
  • Stop Treating Your Assignment Like a Sneaky Link (5 Builder Mistakes) | EP140

    Stop Treating Your Assignment Like a Sneaky Link (5 Builder Mistakes) | EP140
    2026/01/29
    Description: Jess and Desiree break down 5 mistakes builders make starting out—from treating your assignment like a “sneaky link” to waiting on the “right time” and dishonoring what’s already in your hand. This episode is a push from idea mode to execution, with real examples of partnership, stewardship, and what it looks like to be fully persuaded about what God told you to build.🎙️ Need a place to be reminded you're not alone? The Safe Space is for creators who feel unseen, misunderstood, or ready to give up. Inside this Patreon-only community, you’ll find accountability, biblical wisdom, and encouragement to keep going when it gets hard. This isn’t just content—it’s connection. A reminder that your voice matters, your gifts have purpose, and God is still writing your story.❤️If you're looking for a space to grow in faith and creativity with others who get it, this is it.✨ Join us in The Safe Space:➡️patreon.com/JessAskSupport the Podcast:If you love what you hear on Jess Ask The Podcast and want to help us continue bringing you inspiring and insightful content, consider supporting us! Your contributions help us cover production costs, bring in amazing guests, and keep the podcast running smoothly.Ways to Support:Donate: You can sow a love seed by donating to our podcast. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant difference. Donate via Cash App: $jessaskthepodcastShare: Spread the word! Share our episodes with friends, family, and on your social media. Your support enables us to reach a broader audience.Engage: Follow us on social media, leave comments, and rate our podcast on your favorite platforms. Your engagement keeps our community vibrant and growing.Thank you for your support and for being part of the Jess Ask community!Podcast Network:BGTV Studios💥BGTV is a podcast studio of united voices coming together to spread the message of Jesus Christ💥Connect: BGTV LinkConnect With Us:Show Host:Jessica S. SmithWebsite: https://www.jessicassmith.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejessicassmithFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hellojessicassmithShow Producer:Desiree DanielleCreated 2 Create BookYou were created to create. Explore Desiree’s new book on faith, creativity, and partnering with the Holy Spirit.Order here: Purchase Your Copy!Website: https://www.desireedanielle.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/desireedanie11e/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/desireedanie11eMusic Producer:@kingchosen46 on IG & YouTubeTGFAD by King Chosen streaming on:YouTubeApple MusicSpotifyJess Ask the Podcast is a safe space for honest conversations around faith, purpose, and personal growth. Hosted by Jessica S. Smith, this podcast creates room for reflection, encouragement, and real-life dialogue.Follow, rate, and share this episode with someone who needs it.Stay connected:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook
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    1 時間 2 分
  • Building with a Partner Without Getting Offended | with Desiree Danielle | EP139

    Building with a Partner Without Getting Offended | with Desiree Danielle | EP139
    2026/01/22
    Description:Building with a partner is beautiful… and frustrating. Jessica and Desiree talk about real partnership: different personalities, different communication styles, and how offense can derail the assignment if you don’t know the heart of who you’re building with. They break down “iron sharpens iron,” healing through the process, and how to stay focused on the purpose instead of the irritation.🎙️ Need a place to be reminded you're not alone?The Safe Space is for creators who feel unseen, misunderstood, or ready to give up. Inside this Patreon-only community, you’ll find accountability, biblical wisdom, and encouragement to keep going when it gets hard. This isn’t just content—it’s connection. A reminder that your voice matters, your gifts have purpose, and God is still writing your story.❤️If you're looking for a space to grow in faith and creativity with others who get it, this is it.✨ Join us in The Safe Space:➡️patreon.com/JessAskSupport the Podcast:If you love what you hear on Jess Ask The Podcast and want to help us continue bringing you inspiring and insightful content, consider supporting us! Your contributions help us cover production costs, bring in amazing guests, and keep the podcast running smoothly.Ways to Support:Donate: You can sow a love seed by donating to our podcast. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant difference. Donate via Cash App: $jessaskthepodcastShare: Spread the word! Share our episodes with friends, family, and on your social media. Your support enables us to reach a broader audience.Engage: Follow us on social media, leave comments, and rate our podcast on your favorite platforms. Your engagement keeps our community vibrant and growing.Thank you for your support and for being part of the Jess Ask community!Podcast Network:BGTV Studios💥BGTV is a podcast studio of united voices coming together to spread the message of Jesus Christ💥Connect: BGTV LinkConnect With Us:Show Host:Jessica S. SmithWebsite: https://www.jessicassmith.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejessicassmithFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hellojessicassmithShow Producer:Desiree DanielleCreated 2 Create Book You were created to create. Explore Desiree’s new book on faith, creativity, and partnering with the Holy Spirit.Order here:Purchase Your Copy!Website: https://www.desireedanielle.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/desireedanie11e/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/desireedanie11eMusic Producer:@kingchosen46 on IG & YouTubeTGFAD by King Chosen streaming on:YouTubeApple MusicSpotifyJess Ask the Podcast is a safe space for honest conversations around faith, purpose, and personal growth. Hosted by Jessica S. Smith, this podcast creates room for reflection, encouragement, and real-life dialogue.Follow, rate, and share this episode with someone who needs it.Stay connected:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook
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    48 分