Podcast appearances and mentions of Alexandra Stevenson

Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdiere in their podcast, "Serving Aces" - discuss the first and second rounds of the French Open.  Fritz loses.  Raducanu is sick.  Osaka clips her nails and loses. Navarro loses in the first round.  Alexandra and Ougi give their winning choices - and their dark horses to win the French Open.  They talk about Rafael Nadal.  Alexandra gives a shout out to the Knicks for their dramatic comeback in the NBA playoffs.

In "Serving Aces" Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdiere talk Italian Open.  They discuss the women getting to the quarterfinals and the men reaching the round of 16.  They discuss Carlos Alcaraz and his new documentary - and Bianca Andreescu's new surge to become a better tennis player. Pope Leo has a tennis court and it seems every player is lining up to give him a hit as he says he's a pretty good "amateur tennis player".  His red clay court is on the grounds of Vatican City and during the tennis boom of the 70s, there were tournaments played.  The question is - will Pope Leo play on his court and who will play with him?

Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdiere in "Serving Aces" talk about Sinner returning after drug ban.  Gauff wins and beats Swiatek.  Jack Draper reached Madrid finals.  Sabalenka wins third Madrid title.  Djokovic pulls out of Rome.  In Newsy notes, Alexandra looking for Met Gala - first Monday in May.

In "Serving Aces", Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière discuss Carlos Alcaraz winning Monte Carlo Masters.  Alcaraz says it's been a difficult time for him to play tennis lately.  Alexandra and Ougi talk about what might be bothering Alcaraz.  The BJK Cup was a success for the Americans as they reached the final 8 for Shenzhen Sept 16-21.  Alexandra and Ougi talk bout the clay tournaments coming up.  They include the Masters and Rory Mcilroy's amazing career Grand Slam win on Sunday.  They talk about the WNBA draft and Paige Bueckers on the Dallas Wings.  Bueckers has 2.3 million followers - already.  Alexandra discusses an event situation in Ben Shelton's doubles match at Monte Carlo.  Ougi is taking a road trip from Canada to Las Vegas to pick up his daughter, Amelia.  "Serving Aces" will resume the week after Easter.

In "Serving Aces" Alexandra Stevenson and co host Hugues Laverdière discuss the clay season.  Alexandra makes her picks including Alexandra Eala, Coco Gauff, Mirra Andreeva, and perhaps, Jessica Pegula.  Her men are Fonseca, Cerundolo, Tsitsipas.  Ougi picks Mensik, Fonseca, Alcaraz, and perhaps Fritz.  His women are Sabalenka, Andreeva, and Swiatek.  Ougi discusses how to teach juniors to be patient on clay and not to "give in" to the clay.  Alexandra talks men's NCAA Championship basketball and Ougi adds in the women.  The quote of the podcast goes to Kelvin Sampson, the head coach of the Houston Cougars.

In "Serving Aces" Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière discuss the rise of Emma Raducanu and the new young talent who made themselves known during the Miami Open.  Eala, Fonseca, and Mensik. Alexandra and Ougi talk about Sabalenka winning, the doubles, and Djokovic in the finals - though he lost to Mensik, it was a good tournament for him according to Alexandra.  He paced himself - and really used Andy Murray for coaching advice.  Alexandra explains the PTPA lawsuit as the classic antitrust that is going against the WTA and the ATP - as well as the 4 Grand Slams.  Alexandra discusses March Madness and her "chalk" choices in Duke, Auburn, Florida, and Houston.  Alexandra and Ougi pick Duke to win it all.  For the women, she notes that South Carolina beat Duke and UCLA pulled it out against LSU.  Two more tomorrow.  Alexandra is pulling for UCLA. Ougi is going for South Carolina.

"Serving Aces" with Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière discuss the Miami Open, the players, the surface, and the reason why some players can handle the "swampy" conditions and others can't - clearly by the top ten players that went out on both sides.  Alexandra says Swiatek plays without joy.  She mentions Andreeva having some looks of Martina Hingis - but she says no one has ever been able to match Hingis' hands.  Alexandra says the budding superstar of tennis is Fonseca of Brazil.  She says with 400,000 Brazilians living in Miami the match against de Minaur became Davis Cup raucous energy with the crowd erupting as they thought their player Fonseca could win.  de Minaur from Australia kept his cool and managed to pull the win out in three sets.  Ben Shelton hard launched his girl friend, Trinity Rodman, the soccer player.

In "Serving Aces" - Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière discuss the games of Draper and Andreeva.  Draper's defense and his forehand proved too much for Rune.  Andreeva beat back the number one Sabalenka in three sets.  Andreeva showed her improved game from coach Conchita Martinez with her slice backhand and her serve spots.  Andreeva hit a 126 mph serve.  Alexandra's highest was 128 - and Alexandra said finally we have a server in 2025.  Sabalenka says that if she had the coaching team of Andreeva at 17 - she would have won sooner and had less trouble.  Alexandra talks Paris fashion week.  Ougi talks about the beginning of Indian Wells and the trajectory of the various players.  He takes apart the serve in Ougi's court.  Ougi says Andreeva has the best backhand on Tour, at this moment.

Alexandra Stevenson joins the podcast for a great discussion about her career as a tennis player, and how she discovered a passion for tennis that still endures this day. Stevenson looks back at her early memories of tennis, and the path she took that led to a Wimbledon semifinal run at the age of 18. The former pro discusses the joys of that run in London, the scrutiny that followed, and why she is still very much involved in the sport as a teacher in the current day. And Stevenson shares her thoughts on the current trends on the WTA, areas where the current crop of female players have improved, and what is lacking in the modern pro game as well. And then Kenny Ducey stops by to recap last week's tournaments, where Stefanos Tsitsipas found his form and a new racket en route to a title in Dubai. Ducey examines what propelled Tsitsipas to the winner's circle, and how Tomas Machac was able to claim his first career title in Acapulco. The betting analyst also shares his thoughts on Felix Auger-Aliassime & Alexander Davidovich-Fokina's strong showings, Jessica Pegula and Emma Navarro elevating their games, and which players he expects to perform well at Indian Wells, which begins this week. Hosted by Mitch Michals.

"Serving Aces" with Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière discuss Andreeva winning Dubai and Rublev winning Qatar.  Alexandra and Ougi discuss the upcoming Indian Wells and their favorites for the tournament.  Newsy notes include Canada beating USA in hockey in exciting match at Four Nations Face Off.  Alexandra talks about the SAGs and explains to Ougi what the SAG awards are in relation to actors and Hollywood.  Quote of podcast:  "I can't wait to get out of bed to play pickle ball." Andre Agassi.

"Serving Aces" with Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière talk Janice Sinner, his ban from WADA and the outburst of replies from both Tours.  Tim Henman feels it's not a fair ruling.  Sinner will only be out until the French.  The Ban working for him to play a Grand Slam. Alexandra and Ougi discuss the controversy with the balls - always different at tournaments because of money and sponsorship.  Players are being vocal about the feel of the ball and are calling for one ball to be used at each surface.  Alexandra talks about Agassi and Graf winning the Pickle Ball Challenge in Las Vegas and one million dollars.

In "Serving Aces" Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière discuss the Super Bowl, Serena Williams' Crip dance, and Dennis Shapovalov win in Dallas against Casper Rudd.  Alexandra and Ougi give the podcast quote to Coach Prime on "foolery."  Alexandra discusses the history of the Crip dance walk and Serena's long history with growing up knowing how to do the "Crip."  The dance was five seconds and shorter than Super Bowl commercials, but Alexandra says Serena won the Super Bowl.  Serena used a moment in time to showcase cultural black history and in the meantime, crossed over into American pop culture.  Alexandra talks about Stephen A's comments and Howard Stern's comments about the Crip dance and Serena's long ago dalliance with Drake. Oh yeah - and by the way, it ws Kendrick Lamar's halftime show - perhaps one of the greatest hip hop artist of his generation.  Lamar and Williams grew up in Compton, where the dance was formed in the 1970s.

Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière in "Serving Aces" talk about Emma Raducanu and her latest attempt at getting her game together to get into the top ten.  At 56 in the world, Raducanu is bringing her game back to tournaments.  Tim Henman says that she can be a top player because she's that good - but he says she has to choose between, technical, physical, and mental.  What is she going to do to gain consistency?  Henman says physical would be the choice to get stronger to compete to the end of a tournament.  Alexandra and Ougi add in strategy to the three areas.  Plus in Ougi's court, Ougi discusses why the serve is so difficult for juniors, college, and professional players.  Alexandra and Ougi break down the motion.  Raducanu they say has biomechanics flaws in her serve.  In newsy notes Alexandra says that Las Vegas only gives Travis Kelce 11 percent to propose to Taylor Swift after the Super Bowl.

In "Serving Aces" Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière talk tennis and football.  Sabalenka loses to Madison Keys and Alexandra brings up why - Keys switched her racquet in the off season.  Alexandra interviewed Roman Prokes, her long-time racquet guru and he gave her the inside look at the new Keys racquet.  Roman said it gave her two feet more in the court - allowing her not to hit so hard, with more control. Alexandra and Ougi discuss Sinner winning and his upcoming Court of Arbitration hearing that will decide if there is a Sinner ban for using the drug cream, Clostebal.  Darren Cahill, Sinner's coach, is retiring and announced it this week.  Alexandra thinks there may be reasons - which only Darren, a future Hall of Fame coach knows. The Chiefs and the Eagles move on to the Super Bowl.  Alexandra has newsy notes and an update on her trauma with the LA fires.  The podcast quote goes to Michelle Obama, a no-show at the Trump inauguration.

In "Serving Aces" Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière talk about the fires in LA, Alexandra's evacuation and her return home.  The second week of the Australian Open is full of strong players moving forward.

In "Serving Aces" Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière discuss the LA fires and the first week of the Australian Open.  Alexandra was on Pam Shriver's court in Brentwood, teaching her student when a huge plume of smoke rose in the distance from the court.  Alerts came in and a mother called her to tell her she couldn't make the lesson because they had to evacuate Pacific Palisades and their house.  Alexandra and her student packed up and got back to their houses to find that they had to evacuate.  Eventually, all of the Palisades went up in flames.  Alexandra's grocery, dentist, pharmacy, bank.  Beautiful iconic places turned to rubble in the beginning of Malibu.  Alexandra and Ougi reach into the first week of the Australian Open and discuss the players who are winning and the players who are losing.  The quote of the podcast is from Snoop Dog.  LA Strong.

In "Serving Aces" Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière talk junior tennis, pickle ball, and summer tennis in Australia.  Alexandra traveled as a coach to San Antonio for the Girls 12s Winter Nationals.  Ougi talks about getting to the quarterfinals in a national pickle ball tournament in Canada.  Kareena Cross, number one junior in Southern California, comes on as a guest to tell Alexandra and Ougi what she felt about the Girls 12s Nationals.  Pre tournaments in Australia are winding up with injuries and retirements - and the USA won the United Cup with Coco Gauff leading the charge.  Alexandra shouts out her favorite dresses at the Golden Globes and ends with a Captain America quote that fits for junior tennis and professional tennis.  "I don't like bullies."

"Serving Aces" with Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière talk on an expanded variety of topics including tennis, football, and Taylor Swift.  Alexandra and Ougi discuss Novak bringing in Andy Murray and the proposed look at their coaching experiment.  They talk about the NFL and the 16th week.  In a rare piece of information, Alexandra gives former Cowboys coach and Fox host Jimmy Johnson's take on Fox television host and former NFL QB Michael Vick going to college coaching.  Jimmy gives Michael three big tips to take with him.  Alexandra lays them out for Ougi.

In "Serving Aces" Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière discuss the latest news on Iga Swiatek and her one month drug ban. Alexandra wonders why the drug organizations can't get better rules so that players and the public aren't left shaking their heads at the results?  Alexandra and Ougi celebrate Deion Sanders and the Buffaloes football team for making the Alamo bowl game and just missing the Big 12 championship run. Alexandra drops that Bill Belichick is in talks with the University of North Carolina.  College coach would be interesting, Alexandra thinks.  They talk Taylor and Travis and a possible Broadway show and the end of the Eras Tour.  Alexandra maps out Australia and the pre tournaments to the Grand Slam that begins Jan. 6 in Melbourne.

Serving Aces with Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdiere talk about Andy Murray agreeing to coach Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open - and in this off season.  Alexandra agrees with Ougi that it is a made for the movies moment in their lives.  Ougi talks about Andy's style of game and how he can help Novak.  Alexandra thinks Novak will get 25 - and pass Margaret Court.  They talk newsy notes and the opening of "Wicked" the movie to the tune of 165 million dollars globally.

Alexandra Stevenson in "Serving Aces" and co-host Hugues Laverdiere discuss Jannik Sinner and his amazing play in Turin during the ATP Tour Finals, which he won.  He will start the year in 2025 as number one.  Alexandra and Ougi talk WTA Finals, BJK Cup, Davis Cup, college football and the NFL. Alexandra and Ougi chime in with their opinions on off court coaching, a rule that is becoming firm in 2025.

"Serving Aces" with Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdiere break down the Coco Gauff win at the WTA Championships in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.  They talk about her grip and her high percentage of returns.  And the 4.8 million dollar prize for winning.  They discuss the comments Jon Wertheim made on a hot mic about Barbara Krejcikova.  He has been suspended for the comments.  Alexandra says its time for white males to quit judging female athletes in a negative way.  They talk ATP Finals in Turin Italy with the top 8 singles and 8 doubles in a round robin format going on this week.  Alexandra has newsy notes on Taylor Swift and Deion Sanders.

Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdiere discuss a myriad of newsy notes at the top of the podcast including World Series, college football, NFL, Junior tennis players preparing for college scholarships, and professional tennis players branding and marketing themselves to huge dollars.  Alexandra talks about Roger Federer, Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal, the Williams' sisters leading the marketing bonanza with several hundred million for each player.  Alexandra breaks down ideas for junior tennis players and their parents to prepare players for college tennis.  Ougi having done it with his eldest daughter, Amelia, describes his journey.

"Serving Aces" with Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière discuss Rafael Nada;, his retirement, his game, and what he meant to tennis.  Alexandra and Ougi reminisce about his game, his nuances on the tennis court, and his pleasing personality that seemed made for tennis.  Newsy notes brought in Cher in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the World Series with the Yankees and the Dodgers.  68

Alexandra Stevenson and Hughes Laverdiere talk changes on the women's tour on "Serving Aces" - where Swiatek, Gauff and Rybakina all dump their coaches.  Swiatek is looking for a foreign coach, she says.  Rybakina doesn't know and Gauff added a grip coach, a relative unknown former college tennis player from Notre Dame in the early 2000s.  Ougi talks about the emotional rules a coach needs with both a junior and a professional player in the Ball is In Ougi's Court.  Newsy Notes talks fashion, Kamala Harris, Taylor and Travis.  The quote of the podcast is from Abraham Lincoln in honor of the American election in 29 days.

"Serving Aces" with Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière discuss WADA going after Jannik Sinner for a possible one to two year ban for using the drug Clostebol - a anabolic steroid spray used by his Physio during treatment.  Sinner failed two tests.  He was allowed to keep playing and cleared of wrong doing by an independent counsel.  He lost money and points from Indian Wells.  Now the anti doping body - WADA - is saying hold on - he may be banned for one to two years for using the drug.  WADA is saying that the independent counsel didn't follow their applicable rules.  Alexandra and Ougi discuss what would happen if Sinner is banned.  Who will step up in men's tennis?  They talk China and tennis - ATP and WTA are mostly in China.  They talk Travis and Taylor - and Billie Jean King getting a Congressional Gold Medal.

"Serving Aces" with Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière discuss the Laver Cup - Team Europe won - new Captains in Andre Agassi and Yannick Noah - and the end of the year championships on both men and women. Coco Gauff parted ways with Brad Gilbert.  Alexandra thinks Brad will end up back on the men's side - perhaps with Tsitsipas. Ougi and Alexandra discuss how Coco fell off in the quality of her play during the summer months.  Childhood coach importance is discussed.  Newsy notes highlight Travis Kelce not playing well on the field of play - and Taylor Swift didn't show up to the game - when Kansas City played in Atlanta - a hop, skip, and jump from NYC where Taylor was spotted.

"Serving Aces" with Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière discuss coaching.  They talk about the professional side and the junior side.  Alexandra takes Ougi back through their coaching days. What is the diagram of a coach? What does it take to be a coach? The levels of coaching.  Alexandra gives a shout out to Andy Reid and Bill Belichick - and the second performance from new broadcaster, Tom Brady.  Alexandra notes Taylor Swift is the winningest VMA winner - and she gave a nod to her boy friend, Travis Kelce, on live television.  Swift was also at the KC Chiefs game for her boyfriend on Sunday.      

"Serving Aces" with Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière discuss the winners of the US Open titles - Jannick Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka.  The Sinner-Fritz match was straight forward because Fritz didn't use his legs or the whole court to force Sinner out of position.  Sinner just kept coming - even in the third when it appeared Fritz was going to give the crowd more energy and win the set at 5-4, serving.  Some errors and mishits gave the game to Sinner - and that was really the match.  Sinner wins 7-5. Pegula-Sabalenka was two sets.  It was the Sabalenka power and serve that took over the match, though Pegula had chances in the match.  Pegula has shown that her climb up the ladder has been steady - Sabalenka was just better.  Alexandra talks about the Nick Kyrigos controversy over his former girl friend, Kalinskaya, and now girl friend to Sinner.  The funny triangle gives tennis a soap opera tone that it desperately needs to keep social media happy. Many celebrities including Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, Patrick Mahomes, Matthew McConaughey, Seal, Anna Wintour, Katy Ladecky, Laverne Cox, Simone Biles.

"Serving Aces" with Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière talk Round of 16 and quarterfinals at the US Open 2024.  Alexandra talks about the serve and how the person who manages their serve the most will win the US Open.  Ougi and Alexandra talk about the fun rise of Frances Tiafoe.  Ougi talks about the four Grand Slams and why they overshadow any other tennis event during the year.  Newsy notes brings football back.  Alexandra talks about the 23 weeks of football and the Kelce brothers selling their podcast for 100 million dollars to Wondery.  And that Taylor Swift may show up for the Kansas City Chiefs game against the Baltimore Ravens on September 5.

Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière discuss the first round of the US Open.  They talk about the easy matches, and Jannick Sinner's WADA slap of the hand after Indian Wells. Alexandra introduces fun fashion looks to watch for at the US Open.  Nakashima and Ben Shelton get nods from Alexandra and Ougi.

"Serving Aces" with Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière talk US Open qualifying and hot prospects for the coming weeks.  Alexandra and Ougi discuss Carlos Alcaraz' meltdown with the banging of his racket in Cincinnati.  Alexandra says Djokovic is the smartest player to get the Gold Medal and then not play in any US Open summer events during the Series.  Saving himself for the Flushing Meadows courts.They talk Frances Tiafoe live as he brings back the match against Rune.  Sabalenka and Pegula - and their run to the Finals at Cincy.  The fast courts at Cincy.  Alexandra gives the quote of podcast to Kamala Harris - with the Democratic convention beginning tomorrow. "You think you just fell out of a coconut tree?"

Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière discuss summer tennis and the amazing conclusion of the 2024 Olympics.  Alexandra talks about her trips to junior national tennis events - and the onset of cheating as a normal occurrence among the junior girl players.  The duo talk about the incredible Djokovic getting Gold - and the star of the Olympics, the swimmer, Marchand.  Alexandra discusses what can be done to improve junior tennis - and she cautions that the present type of play will hurt future players.  Alexandra and Ougi discuss summer tennis tournaments for WTA and ATP with the US Open looming.

In "Serving Aces" Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière talk Paris Olympics, athletes, controversy - and most importantly, the plight of Coco Gauff and her perceptions about line calls against her.  Alexandra discusses both sides of the controversial call by the chair referee.  Alexandra and Ougi say it's the third time - and the long argument and tears affected Coco's second set.  Alexandra and Ougi felt Coco made the questionable call about race - and they didn't feel race should have been brought into the conversation - this time.  Coco told the supervisor, Claire Wood, that it's about her being cheated - and she said the same thing happened to Serena.  Was Coco correct that the refs are going against her in major events?  Alexandra and Ougi don't think so.  But, they agree there should be electronic line calling at all events - and video replay like the big sports.

Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière take on the movie star and the tennis star.  They discuss how tennis can cross over in a big way globally to bring about a huge tennis star.  They agree that the men including Alcaraz, Sinner, Shelton, Tiafoe, Paul - have chances to become tennis' cultural phenomenon - but they say that the women are totally lacking in any one person to have a movie star career.  Alexandra says it may be a generational thing - unlike the 1980s and 1990s when big girl power tennis could make a huge star.  Ougi and Alexandra discuss the tragic look of the Girls' 12s' serve technique.  Alexandra went to the national tournament in Greensboro, North Carolina - and said she was appalled by the lack of serve prowess amongst the girls.  Newsy notes has Eminem overtaking Taylor Swift for number one album today.  Alexandra gives the podcast quote to Kamala Harris, the potential Democratic candidate for President..."I'm the luckiest person on earth."

"Serving Aces", Conversations with Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière discuss the second week of Wimbledon with the play of men and women.  Ougi discusses the slice and the slow grass while Alexandra laments the lack of excitement in the women's game.  Alexandra cites the men for entertaining play including Alcaraz, Sinner, Fritz, Paul, Djokovic.  Ougi picks Sinner and Rybakina as champions.  Alexandra picks Fritz and Rybakina and Paolini.  She thinks Lulu Sun can surprise everyone - and match Alexandra's 25 year record of qualifying to the semifinals at Wimbledon 1999.  And possibly, break it with her fascinating game.

Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière discuss Wimbledon, champions, ESPYS, Princess Catherine, Slow grass, Paolini, Djokovic, Alcaraz and Krejcikova. It was a Wimbledon recap - and a look at Serena hosting the ESPYs with 8 outfit changes during the broadcast.

Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière discuss first round at Wimbledon - the ambience, the play - and the special look at Wimbledon Village.  Alexandra gives her four picks to the semifinals and Hugues comes up with his in both men's and women's draw.  They talk about the Euro Cup and England tying the match with a flip kick that was amazing at the 95th minute.  Ougi brings up Caitlin Clark and the bullying that is going on in the WNBA.  Alexandra gives the quote of the podcast to the England Captain for the spectacular tie.

"Serving Aces" with Alexandra Stevenson and co host Hugues Laverdière discuss pre Wimbledon results with Halle, Queens, Berlin.  Tommy Paul gains number one knocking out Taylor Fritz and is number one American.  Jess Pegula is back from injury.  Alexandra talks fashion at Vogue World.  Ougi discusses his lessons on grass and what a player needs to remember on the grass surface.  He chooses his favorites in the men and the women to make a run at Wimbledon.  Alexandra joins in with her picks -and reminds Ougi that Wimbledon Village is heating up with parties and pubs - all part of the Wimbledon experience. As usual, Alexandra gives a Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce update.  This time the update is at Wembley Stadium, where Prince William danced and brought his children, George and Charlotte.  The family did a selfie with Taylor and of course, Travis Kelce.

Conversations with Alexandra Stevenson on "Serving Aces" with co-host Hugues Laverdière talk about Roger Federer and his commencement speech at Dartmouth University, commanding the graduate audience with his timely discussion of life being bigger than a tennis court.  He is now Dr. Roger Federer, with a Doctorate in Humane Letters. Alexandra brings in the Tony Awards to the conversation, discussing the big musical winner, "The Outsiders." Fascinating moments from Alicia Keyes, Jay Z and Hillary Clinton. Ougi discusses the US Open Golf tournament. Alexandra gives Ougi a tutorial on what makes up a grass court - and indeed, takes him back 50 years to Robert Twynam, the venerable Wimbledon groundskeeper.  Grass today is 100 percent rye, something that Alexandra says is noticeably different from her days of playing on fast grass.

In "Serving Aces", Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière talk French Open winners and losers - and why Iga Swiatek and Carlos Alcaraz are so far ahead of their peers.  Carlos Alcaraz is the youngest male player to win Grand Slams on three surfaces hard, clay, and grass. Alcaraz commanded the fourth and fifth sets - against Zverev. Alexandra talks about Swiatek moving through easily after her tough match against Naomi Osaka.  They discuss the difficulty of red clay and calling lines - and Coco Gauff's run-in - again - with the chair on her match against Swiatek. Alexandra stands up for Gauff - and her upset with the point call. She gives examples of her playing days when calls were incorrect - because there was no on court video replay.  Gauff is calling for the tennis world to move into the 21st century and get video replay for players on court. Alexandra talks about Caitlin Clark getting pummeled in her game against the Chicago Sky - and brings in metaphors of Taylor Swift songs because of revenge and grudges that are used in female competition.  Ougi calls the Boston Celtics to move into a 4-0 win cycle for the NBA Championship.  Boston is up 2-0.  They mention the US Open golf next week - and Alexandra remembers a police pullover that happened to her - commiserating with Scotty Scheffler and his pullover in Kentucky.  Alexandra's happened when she was playing in the Charleston WTA tennis tournament in South Carolina. The quote of the podcast goes to Coco Gauff and her "this sucks" comment on the bad call and the lack of video replay.

In Serving Aces, Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière talk everything French Open.  Iga Swiatek crying in the gym after beating Naomi Osaka.  Novak Djokovic playing the longest match ever at the French Open.  Emma Navarro making it to the fourth round and beating Madison Keys in the third round.  They discuss European coaches, tactics and footwork.  Alexandra rates the best food and nicest ambience at the four Grand Slams.  The quote of the podcast went to Bill Walton, who passed away last week.  He was a huge Deadhead fan and close friend of the band.  Alexandra shared her personal story with Bill and his sons - when she trained with his boys - and when Bill stood by her side in a fatherly way - to give her wisdom on beginning her professional career.

Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière discuss the first week of the French Open 2024 in "Serving Aces."  Ougi takes off 'in the ball is in Ougi's Court" with how to play on clay courts.  Alexandra and Ougi break down the top five men and the top five women and talk about their clay ranking points for the season.  Alexandra throws out the popcorn match with Nadal-Zverev on Monday morning.  They make their picks for the French Open.  Alexandra notes that Borg has the quote for any player - especially on the red clay: "My greatest point is my persistence. I never give up in a match.  However down I am - I fight until the last ball."

Serving Aces, Conversations with Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière talk Rome, French Open Qualifying, and in Ougi's "The Ball is in Ougi's Court," the duo invite Amelia Laverdière, Ougi's daughter onto the podcast.  Amelia talks about her recent college graduation and her college tennis career.  She graduated with an international business degree with honors in the Professional Tennis Management program. Only 8 schools in the United States have this program. Her school was Ferris State University in Michigan. Aside from discussing qualifying at the French - Ougi and Alexandra pick a Beatles group in tennis - Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Andre Agassi, and John McEnroe.  Alexandra told Ougi those four would totally be the Beatles in tennis. Newsy notes looks at the Cannes Film Festival, J Lo, Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift. They remind everyone that they will have the French Open rundown next Sunday.  

Serving Aces, Conversations with Alexandra Stevenson and Hugues Laverdière.  Alexandra and Ougi talk about young Ben Shelton and his clay court preparation in Rome.  They discuss Novak Djokovic and his hit on the head by a metal water bottle.  He most likely suffered a concussion and lost his match.  Nadal's exit and the Rock Star audience of 15,000 people serenading him as he left Rome.  Below the famous bridge.  Like the Beatles.  Strange times on the tennis tour with Camila Giorgi on the run allegedly from tax authorities.  She's quietly retired. Tsitispas and Badosa break up.  Truest Love story with Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift. Taylor in Paris.  New outfits. Versace.  And, Including Kansas City Chiefs red outfit.  Kelce watched her concert.  Yannik Noah day at the French Open.  The quote of the day: "I have always considered tennis as a combat in an arena between two gladiators - who have their racquets and their courage as their weapons."  Yannik Noah

 In Serving Aces, Alexandra Stevenson and co-host Hugues Laverdière talk tennis,golf, and newsy notes in pop culture.Alexandra says there are parallels in golf and tennis. She talks about Scottie Scheffler Masters win and the ability to bring in new people to his team, something she sees in tennis.Ougi talks about the Masters, including technique and what he saw.  Alexandra and Ougi complimented England beating France in the BJK Cup and other Qualifying team. They talk Djokovic, his rough season, and questioning Nadal playing in Barcelona - and beyond.Alexandra's newsy notes include Zendaya and her high fashion in promoting her Movie, “Challengers.”  She talks Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce at Coachella, the music festival.  Alexandra ends with a Tiger Woods quote. “The greatest thing about tomorrow is I will be better than I am today.”  Alexandra said in regard to tennis - the tennis court is your sanctuary.

In this profoundly impactful episode of the Grief 2 Growth podcast, I sit down with Alexandra Stevenson, a beacon of hope and resilience in the dark world of human trafficking. Alexandra's journey from a childhood advocate to surviving the depths of being trafficked herself is nothing short of remarkable. Her candid storytelling and academic insights offer a unique perspective on the complexities of human trafficking, gender socialization, and the power of resilience.I want to hear from you! After listening to Alexandra's story and insights:What was your biggest takeaway? Please sound off in our community here: https://grief2growth.circle.so/c/podcast-chat/the-laughing-survivor-alexandra-stevensonSupportIf you or someone you know is in need of support, please reach out to the National Human Trafficking Hotline. For more resources and information on how to get involved in the fight against human trafficking, visit https://thelaughingsurvivor.comAbout Alexandra Stevenson:Alexandra Stevenson is the co-founder of Uprising in Wyoming and the creative force behind the Laughing Survivor. Her work spans advocacy, public speaking, and community empowerment, all aimed at combating human trafficking and supporting survivors. Discover a unique online space dedicated to individuals navigating the complexities of grief. Our community offers a peaceful, supportive environment free from the distractions and negativity often found on places like Facebook. Connect with others who understand your journey and find solace in shared experiences.https://grief2growth.com/community If you'd like to support me financially, it's now super-easy. Visit https://www.grief2growth.com/subscribe You can pledge as little as $3/month. Of course, you can commit more.Premium subscribers will get access to periodic bonus episodes and the regular episodes you've come to expect from me.Thanks to all for listening. Thanks to you who share the podcast. And thanks to the financial contributors. I've been studying Near Death Experiences for many years now. I am 100% convinced they are real. In this short, free ebook, I not only explain why I believe NDEs are real, I share some of the universal secrets brought back by people who have had them.https://www.grief2growth.com/ndelessons Support the show

In this powerful episode of the True Grit and Grace podcast, host Amberly Lago sits down with Alexandra Stevenson, a courageous advocate who transformed from a trafficking survivor to an inspiring activist. Alexandra unveils her remarkable journey of resilience, navigating through the harrowing experiences of childhood sexual abuse, grappling with drug addiction, and falling victim to exploitation by a trafficking boyfriend. This candid discussion dives into the crucial need to lift the veil of shame surrounding challenging topics, as Alexandra sheds light on her own experiences to facilitate open communication. The conversation explores the multifaceted aspects of human trafficking, unraveling the grooming process that often precedes such exploitation. Alexandra shares her personal path towards healing and empowerment, emphasizing the urgency of shifting the narrative from scrutinizing why individuals stay in abusive situations to empowering them to recognize and respond to unhealthy relationships. Listeners are invited to tune in to gain profound insights into trafficking awareness and discover ways to support survivors on their healing journey. Key moments in the episode: - Unveiling the connection between childhood trauma and trafficking (05:28). - Exploring the emotional isolation experienced within trafficking (09:30). - Confronting the impact of childhood sexual abuse and self-hatred (26:06). - Navigating through mixed emotions and fear in the face of exploitation (32:25). - Recognizing signs of being triggered and addressing them (40:12). - Empowering parents and caregivers to "trafficking-proof" their kids (44:35). Join us for this inspiring episode as we contribute to the awareness of trafficking and empower individuals to become advocates for change in support of survivors on their journey to healing. Links mentioned in this episode: Uprising Follow Alexandra: Website LinkedIn Instagram If you are ready to leave your mark by discovering your message and sharing it with the world, you've come to the right place!! Let's work together to build your influence, your impact, and your income! Join the tribe you have been waiting for to activate your highest potential and live the life you deserve! Join the "Unstoppable Life Mastermind!" and let us know you are ready for greatness! Read the "True Grit and Grace" book here and learn how you can turn tragedy into triumph!  Thank you for joining us on the True, Grit, & Grace Podcast! If you find value in today's episode, don't forget to share the show with your friends and tap that subscribe button so you don't miss an episode! You can also head over to amberlylago.com to join my newsletter and access free downloadable resources that can help you elevate your life, business, and relationships! Want to see the behind-the-scenes and keep the conversation going? Head over to Instagram @amberlylagomotivation! Audible @True-Grit-and-Grace-Audiobook  Website @amberlylago.com Instagram @amberlylagomotivation Facebook @AmberlyLagoSpeaker Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What is human trafficking? You might be surprised to learn that there is so much more to it than what you see portrayed in the movies and media. Also, it isn't only happening in the seedy underbelly of society. It's happening in our communities much more often than you might think. Alexandra Stevenson joins me to share her own experience as a human trafficking victim and why she is now working to educate people everywhere about the realities of human trafficking and sexual assault. She also co-founded Uprising in Wyoming, The Laughing Survivor, and is in the process of writing her first book. Alexandra and I spoke about some pretty heavy subjects for this episode. Everything from her personal story of being groomed and sexually assaulted to then finding herself in the middle of being trafficked. Her story is incredibly powerful and I'm so happy she joined me to share it. We also talk about how we can talk to our children about consent, what consent really looks like, what trafficking is, and so much more. No matter what age or stage your children are in, Alexandra truly provides some invaluable insights and how to keep them as safe as you possibly can. In this episode, we discuss:  When sexual empowerment is really sexual exploitation What human trafficking really is and who are real players Why consent is so important and ways to move from a “no means no” culture to “yes means yes”  Practical tips and advice for introducing cell phones to your children and how keep them safe Resources:  Uprising The Laughing Survivor Discount Codes from Our Sponsors:  Navy Hair Care Shampoo + Conditioner: use code LYNZY for 30% off Navy Hair Care Charcoal Mask: use code LYNZY for 30% off AG1 Nutrition Supplement: www.drinkag1.com/lynzy to get your free 1 year supply of Vitamin D3+K2 and 5 free travel packs Questions: When Sexual Empowerment is Really Sexual Exploitation Rebranded: Explaining the truth behind the nuances of consent What is Trafficking and Why Do I Need to Care About It?: What domestic human trafficking looks like and how it happened to Alexandra Help, My Kid Wants Their First Cell Phone!: How do we introduce technology safely? How do we keep kids safe online? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stephen A. Smith, Ryan Clark and Chris "Mad Dog" Russo debate which NFL team will have the biggest decline as we head into the 2023 regular season. Mad Dog tells us what he's glad about, ESPN college football analyst Desmond Howard joins to talk Alabama's quarterback situation and ESPN tennis analyst Alexandra Stevenson joins to talk the US Open. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices