The Polished Lens: Recent Episodes
Bukola Ogunfayo
We make decisions based on how we see. When the lens we view through is appropriate and polished, we make even better decisions because we now see better. Join me, the Perception Shaper, fortnightly as I share learnings from life experiences, studies and conversations with people as we look at life impacting topics through polished lens and become more of what we were made to be.
It's the last episode in the 1st of The Transition Stories. A Series to showcase the journeys and discoveries of individuals like you who have navigated a significant change or series of change.
On this final episode in the series (Transition Stories 1.0), we have Maria Margarita Castro, a Company Country Head in South America, share her story. She titled it - “Evolving”.
You need to watch/ listen to understand why this was so, especially if you’re considering changing industries or markets yet again. For those Mums also thinking about their children and career, you're not alone, she touches on the decisions she took at that crossroad too.
We're Back On The Polished Lens Podcast With Season 2 & The Transition Stories.
A Series to showcase the journeys and discoveries of individuals like you who have navigated a significant change or series of change.
On this episode with Tope Ogunfayo (a Senior Director with a multinational), he shares his journey on moving and changing leadership scope across borders. Anyone in leadership or aspiring to be will find his discoveries worth archiving. Don't miss this episode.
We're Back On The Polished Lens Podcast With Transition Stories. A Series to showcase the journeys and discoveries of individuals like you who have navigated a signitificant change or series of change.
On the episode with Chioma Ezeanka, Founder, Saladville, we look into her transition around purpose and business. If you're sensing a press into or shift in purpose this will resonate with you. If you're a business minded person too, you shouldn't miss this.
Final Episode In Season & Series - “Begin With The End In Mind”.
How have new beginnings looked for you? Have you been intentional to make the best of each one by ensuring certain steps? On this episode, I bring it home on how to make sure you maximize the start of new seasons and begin with the end in mind.
P.S - I share a special announcement too. Can you guess?
Have you saved any episode you want to come back to on the season yet? We touched on Career/Business, Relationships, Life/Purpose, Faith, Wellness/Fitness & Finance/Wealth.
Now Day6 in the series - “Begin With The End In Mind”.
Money Money Money! That’s a word that could be touchy to talk about. However, if it is required for living, then it’s something we should know how to acquire, manage and increase. But how has that area been for you? Are you planning to be more intentional about it soon?
Then join Bukki Agbeniga and Adeolu Akinyemi (Personal Finance/Wealth Management Coaches) on this episode, as they share their stories on how to intentionally create new beginnings with finance and wealth.
Which other area will you be looking out for in this series? Career/Business, Relationships, Life/Purpose, Faith or Wellness/Fitness?
It's Day5 in the series - Begin With The End In Mind.
It's not often you hear Ministers share their salvation story or what has helped them grow in the faith and ministry. Today we have Pastors Renuka George (Pastor, KingdomCity Dubai) and Debo Omotunde (Global Ministry Director & Resident Pastor, Elevation Church Lekki), speak on new beginnings in faith and even ministry.
If you want to be more intentional about your growth in the faith, this will help.
Which other area will you be looking out for in this series?
Career/Business, Relationships, Life/Purpose, Finance/Wealth or Wellness/Fitness?
Podcast Series - Begin With The End In Mind, Day 4
Any boost you need in your relationships? Then join Bridget and Bunmi on this episode, as they both share on making the best of relationships in a new season - dating, marriage and family. They are both experts and authors with years of experience in this field.
Which other area will you be looking out for in this series? Faith, Career/Business, Life/Purpose, Finance/Wealth or Wellness/Fitness?
It's Day3 in the series!
It's one thing to achieve fitness results, it's another whole ball game helping thousands of others do the same. On this episode, April Laugh shares her stories and tips on making the best of a new start with Fitness and Wellbeing. Are you doing something new soon in this space? Here's a place to start.
Which other area will you be looking out for in this series?
Day2 of Podcast Series - Begin With The End In Mind.
We have Tope Ogunfayo, a Faculty Member & Corporate Executive share on Life & Purpose. Are you doing something new soon? Here's a place to start.
Which other area will you be looking out for in this series? Faith, Relationships, Business/Career, Finance/Wealth or Wellness/Fitness?
Day 1 of The Podcast Series - Begin With The End In Mind
NewBeginnings in Career & Business
Today we have Oluyemisi Wole-Ojomo (C-Suite HR Executive) & Victor Ariyibi-Oke (CEO, Metropolitan School of Business Management, UK) join us to share tips and ideas on navigating this terrain.
Are you considering something new this year in career or business? I’m sure you’ll get something fresh to run with on this.
And the countdown to the end of 2023 is on!. In less than 2 weeks, we'll be stepping into a new month, quarter and year.
If you've been looking back to the past weeks and moments in 2023, and still trying to appreciate it right, this episode is for you. Don't miss this one on what you've got to bounce back, again & again.
Congratulations & Well done for coming this far and this well.
Candidly, it is easier to choose to take the back seat, fold arms, or point fingers when things aren't going quite as we want yet, or when they totally get out of hand. However, the outcomes we want don't also come to us in those situations, at least, until we make a shift.
If you can't stand the status quo or wait any longer for your change, this is for you. Tope Ogunfayo, on this episode, helps us see how this really plays out and urges that more empowering shift.
As we gradually start th countdown to year end, it's likely you could be trying to appreciate the year so far, and the milestones you've crossed. So, on this episode, we look into how to fully enjoy the magic that comes with milestones and how to become more intentional about creating them.
The incredible thing about going through a major turning point is that if we embrace the lessons well, transformation happens, in fact the game changes.
That’s what projected our guest, Tolu on her journey to more. Today she is a money behaviour strategist, who has created tools, supporting individuals on financial intelligence. On this episode, she shares her story and reinforces tips we often challenge on, that can help anyone position for more.
So, we'll probably mostly agree that we all desire more at one point or another. But have you realized yet that we consistently want more, and that this is natural?
On this episode we look into why many of us are yet to truly enjoy the more we desire or deserve.
So how is your attempt at pacing life going so far?
Don't worry Tope Ogunfayo, on this episode, takes on a few more steps to experiencing pace in our lives. And yes when you achieve this, you come into better results and more of what you'd really prefer. If you want these, Pace is the way to go!
Did you know that how you leave others with has an impact on what you eventually attract, steward and enjoy?
On this episode we look into what it takes to position with this ability we could all leverage on for good, and for more.
It's not often some of us remember the life gifts we have, making sure we enjoy them. If you've been a bit concerned about maximizing the moments you've had, this episode will give you a headsup on 3 peculiar gifts you have that you shouldn't miss enjoying.
It's a given that the world and its advancement are moving at a speed way faster than generations ago. The interesting thing is this, most of us are trying to live just as fast to catch up.
However, we are paying some price for this. Tope Ogunfayo, on this episode shares on what we should watch out for and how we can make the best of living whilst adding on a pursuit of PACE!
If you've closely followed anyone whose suceess story intrigues you, or perhaps you've achieved success at some point in time, you'll agree at least one of these 'success-secrets' was involved.
On this episode I touch on how to know each one showing up on your journey. However, the question to ponder on is this - how will you embrace each or all on your new paths towards success?
Mojisola Olutorimi is a Global Career Coach and Talent Consultant, based in Lagos. On this episode, hosted by Toyin Aderemi, she shares her story to thriving so far in life and career, with a spacial focus on support opporutnities that aided her growth and achievements so far.
If you want to ace that transition, this is for you.
You see, change will happen. It is why transitions matter. So how will you make the best of it all, both the ones you plan and those that just happen?
On this episode, we look into the foundation, the do-re-mi of transitions. With these blocks you can build around every transition you go through.
Eagles are birds with fascinating and unique traits. Like many other things in nature, there's so much to learn from them, especially if one seeks to be outstanding and soar like they do,
On this episode, Tope Ogunfayo, a Corporate Executive takes us through a few but incredible insights that one can start to plug into.
Opportunities seem to be that which we all seek. But what really are they? How do we spot them? How do we make the best of them when they come or even before they show up?
On this episode, I share my learnings so far on these. Here's the thing, understanding how opportunities really are, positions you differently.
It's not often we get a one-time politican sit with us. And as we celebrate women and mothers specially this month, we are delighted to share this session with Dr. J. Olatomi with you.
On this episode, she shares her thriving stories in politics and going back to school in her 60's.
One thing that defintiely set you up to win is clarity. But then how intentional have you been about this?
On this episode of clarity we look into what you need to have clarity on, situations that require clarity and how you can get to sharpen modify as you go on. Here's the thing with clarity, it's a confidence booster.
On this Val's Special, we have Tope Ogunfayo share some tips on loving and having great relationships. While feelings, emotions and even gifts are nice to have's, there's more...
Certain things in life are given. As you'd find an effect with every cause, so is harvest the aftermath of seeds sown or not sown.
On this first episode of 2023, we look into how you can create change as you become more mindful of this.
The 100 is a 4-Day Podcast series celebrating a 100 count and more of focus, consistency and creativity.
I must say it's been quite some ride!! So, on this final episode of the series, I share my story on starting this journey, through crossroads and reaching this 100th milestone.
The 100 is a 4-Day Podcast series celebrating a 100 count and more of focus, consistency and creativity.
On this 3rd episode, Enitan Oshewa (CEO & Founder, Enibraids) highlights factors that helped her make the first step and then consistent steps through many milestones to become sought after in natural hair (micro-locs) industry.
The 100 is a 4-Day Podcast series celebrating a 100 count and more of focus, consistency and creativity.
On this 2nd episode, Kunmi Ariyo, CEO Mirus Events shares his story on reaching and crossing milestones in the events management space.
The 100 is a 4-Day Podcast series celebrating a 100 count and more of focus, consistency and creativity.
On this 1st episode, Sola Balogun, Creative Director Outspok'n shares his story on reaching and crossing milestones in the fashion space.
What words top your mind when you think of December? For many, the reality of coming into a ‘final lap’ stirs some reflection moments on how the other parts of the year were like.
On this episode, I share some ideas on how to maximize those reflection opportunities, by moving to connecting the dots. If you want to position just a bit differently in 2023, you’ll like this one.
On the episode of Thriving Stories, Toyin Aderemi, a Learning & Development Specialist (Data Analyst) shares her own story to thriving focusing on a key resource that she has leveraged on.
If want to know more on how mentoring or coaching can change the game for you, as it has for many of us, this is one not to miss. You'll also get ideas on what to watch out for as you identify the right mentors for you.
As you target C- Suite roles in the Corporate or Business space, don't forget the future and value actually lie in you.
On this episode, we look into the 4 areas you must maximize as C.You.O of your life.
How would you rate yourself on the journey to financial freedom? Or do we start here, are you yet fully clear what it means to be financially free and what have you been doing to achieve this?
Listen to this episode as Tope Ogunfayo, a Corporate Executive, sheds some light on simple and practical steps required on this journey to financial freedom.
Thinking of making a change or modification in any area of your life? Then it's likely you're already facing point #1 on your track to change.
Listen to this episode to know what points you'll still have to navigate as you move or work towards that change for more or better or even new.
What childhood memories do you have about money or wealth? What did your parents / adults in your life pass on to you concerning money? Apart from trying to make more today, have you been intentional to leave a better legacy on wealth for those coming after you?
On this CEDAR Table, 3 guests shared their thoughts on these, in addition to how this affects people of faith and their experience from last year's MasterMind Group - The Science of Getting Rich. You will enjoy this.
On this session, we had the pleasure of having Fisayo Fadeyi, a Trade Finance Specialist based in the UK share his stories with us.
With great humour, he shared his own story on relocating and dropped a number of gems that can help anyone doing the same today. If you're currently relocating to another city or country, this is one episode to listen to.
If like me, you had the opportunity of taking some time off work over the summer to take a break or just spend more time with family, you'd have had to intentionally transition back to work of your regular routine.
So on this episode, I share 3 ideas that can help you do this with some ease and questions that would be very helpful too. It's another lap after a break and just as critical to stay on track & ace it too.
Do you know anyone who needs to get over the stress of debt? Do you have financial freedom top of mind for you, but still holding back because of pending debts? Then this would be valuable for you.
On this session, Ololade Olayanju, Author of The Debt Code, shares her stories on dealing with debts some years back. She also touches on tips to staying free of bad debt.
What's you favourite time of the year? Could it be summer or mid-year? And what do you look forward to most at this time?
Well, we think this might be that time a good number of families take time off to be together. So on this episode, Moyo, my daughter joins me as we delve a bit into those things that are top considerations for making that Summer Family Vacation or any other one in the year worth lov'n.
As we come into another 'season' in the year, the question now isn't if you want more or better, instead it's if you're prepared for what you might be hoping for or maybe even expectant for.
On this episode, I share ideas around key things to be mindful of that will help prepare for more. If you want what you're expecting to be welcomed when it arrives, this is for you.
Being a practicing Architect & Chef at the same isn't quite a popular find, and being a female one at that makes it even more remarkable.
Listen in to this episode, a chat with Azumme Oboro, based in Port Harcourt, Nigeria; as she shares her stories on her journey to thriving. If you're in a space with a low female ratio, this is one person you'll connect with.
They say 'Ideas Rule The World', and we all get the privilege of ideas coming to us time after time, which means there's some authority that we could assert in this regard. However, are we actually making the most of those ideas as they come?
Listen to this episode on what can be done to make the most of our ideas, bridging the gap between the thoughts and the reality.
Are you passionate about education especially for the younger generation? Or perhaps intentional about a healthy lifestyle? Abimbola is one to look out for...
On this episode of Thriving Stories, Abimbola Bodude, Founder of See-The-Future Initiative, joined us as our special guest. She shared her story to thriving especially on crossroads and transitions she's been through.
Today, we look into 3 C's that can help you confidently upgrade to your desired next level. Interestingly, if you look back, you'll agree this to be true for previous upgrades in your life. So the questions to ask....
Are you due for an upgrade?
How do you score on the 3 C's?
Listen to this episode for what exactly to look out for.
Did you know it's possible to go through life without actually embracing everything we can be or do? Have you sometimes had this question... is this all?
Then this episode is for you. Tope Ogunfayo, a Corporate Executive and Personal Productivity Expert, shares on keys to factor in as you try to discover & step into all you still can be.
Now, it’s likely you’ve heard some bit about seasons, in fact almost wondering why there’s much ado about it. I totally get you.
So on this episode, I try to help point out how the understanding & awareness of your seasons, when well applied, will actually help you thrive.
On this episode of Thriving Stories, Yetty Williams, Founder of LagosMums, joined us as our special guest. She shared ideas she picked, growing up watching her parents, in life and also in her college days. In addition, she gave us her interesting perspective on who a thriving child or parent is.
Are you a parent intentional about raising your kids into outstanding and remarkable adults? Are you one with a growth mindset and open to tweaking or spicing up on some of your approaches, then you really want to listen to this episode to the end.
If you're starting something new that'll lead to a remarkable change in any area of life, well done! Making the decision step out / do this is indeed commendable. But what have you considered so far so that you're consistent on that journey?
On this episode I share 3 simple ideas you could embrace or implement so you can maintain, retain or sustain the change you truly desire.
it's not often we hear stories on love, dating and wedding preps from guys. And we also had to break the jinx of having only female guests, when we asked Olanrewaju Olokunde, a Tech Consultant and newbie in the marriage space to join us.
He got to share his own interesting story growing up and learning about love, deciding to step into the next level of relationships, to finally say "I Do and Forever Will". He also shared a few tips that would be helpful to that single guy or lady who's open to a great love experience.
It’s the love month still and a good to be reminded of how critical our hearts are with loving and relationships.
On this episode, we look into important things we must be intentional about to support our hearts, so we can thrive, enjoy love experiences and relationships?
So what team are you on goals? Yea, Nay or Can’t be bothered?
On this episode, the replay of a CEDAR Table session, 3 guests join us to share from their experiences on why they go about goals the way they do and what they think could help you too.
I'm not sure about you, but if like me the year started off a bit slow for you or it didn't quite feel as new, then you'll definitely want your groove back.
I've also realized that this is something that could happen time & time again, when we come into a new season or space. So on this episode, I shared steps you can take to achieve this, and I can tell you, they aren't just valuable, they are simple too.
One thing I know most of us would be thinking of at this time of the year, apart from how much better next year could be, is appreciating all that year 2021 was like for us. Even organizations would be having sessions on this too.
But then, how deeply do we get to appreciate a past season or period in our lives? On this episode, I share some ideas you might want to consider as you reflect on the past weeks you’ve had this year. That way you can intentionally position to repeat or avoid some events/outcomes.
On this episode of Thriving Stories, we had Jumoke Oladijo, CEO OvyHats as our special guest. She shared her thoughts on thriving, especially her own journey from Vet. Medicine to becoming an expert in Millinery.
If you've hovered a bit around a decision point for longer than you imagined, you want to listen to this session. As Jumoke also gave us clues on how she navigated that point in her own life.
It's likely you'll know we've all been naturally gifted with some or all of the 5 senses to enjoy the best of planet earth. And most times, you use them unconsciously, even at incredible levels of mastery. But did you know there are some other senses that help us not just survive but thrive excellently as well?
On this episode, I mention a number of them but actually go a little deeper into just a few. For sure, maximizing any of them in life will help you come to the best version of yourself, especially if you engage them intentionally.
Tests, Storms and Challenges are a given, they come with this terrain. As long as we are breathing and actively moving towards goals or dreams, we will at some point in one way or another, face them or perhaps know someone else who will.
Now here's the thing, you have what it take to go through them all. We're wired that way. It's like the way a wound dries off and starts to heal. But how quick do you want to bounce back? How really well? Listen to this episode to get 5 tips to keep in mind on how to bounce back in good time.
Enitan Oshewa, CEO & Founder of Enibraids (A uniquely modelled hair business), joined us last week to share her thriving story with us.
If you have had to relocate, adjust to a new environment and set up a venture this is that episode you don't want to miss. Or if you're someone who's quick to come up with ideas per time, and struggle a bit with the way forward, this is also for you. You want to listen all through for the clues beneath the clues to thriving on this one.
Have you tried to reaching out for something and not quite understood why it always just seems out of reach? An increase, a change or transformation? We’ve all being there, and sometimes some of us get to finally reach.
On this episode, we look into how the Law of Lid (a leadership focused concept) could be used to explain what might just be the reason why, and the need to lift that lid or capping, so we can thrive more.
I look back at some decisions I’ve taken so far in life and can say they were mostly driven by a desire for change, you know, for something different, more or better. I’m sure you would agree this would have probably been the case for you too.
However, I've discovered that somethings must give to fully enjoy any desired change. Like an exchange of some sort. And on this episode we’ll be looking into 3 key things we need to work on to get that change we want, if we don’t want to leave it as a wish.
Would certain names come to mind for you when think of words like fashion & style, holidays & travels, wealth creation, relationships…? Ok, have you ever considered being known for anything in particular, being perceived as the go-to or preferred in an area?
On this episode, I share 5 tips that you may want to start to use to help you position as an authority / expert. These are tips that many we respect today have also used in one way or another, and over time that makes some even appear like overnight success.
Have you ever got to that point where you knew you desired nothing but a change for more or better? Did you know that emotions play a major part with how we approach critical changes in our lives and ultimately affect the eventual outcomes we experience?
Listen to the full episode of “A Pinch of Hate, A Cup of Love”, to get an insight into how you can work the path of change you may want in any area of life.
I’m sure you would agree it’s a wonderful feeling when we’re happy and able to share this with others around us. Yes! You can actually be the reason someone else enjoys happiness, but being happy yourself first is key.
On this 'Thriving Stories' episode with Dr. Kikelomo Abayowa Mbada, a Lecturer at the Obafemi Awolowo University, she shares a bit on why she prioritizes happiness amongst others tips she’s used to thrive so far.
One thing we enjoy doing as a family on my end is hanging out & eating together, especially those times we get to go out to celebrate a birthday or something. So what dining experience has been your most memorable so far? And if you had to choose between buffet or à la carte, which would it be?
It’s interesting that we can apply this approach to other things we take in too other than food right. So on this episode I touch on tips you may want to consider if you’ve been struggling with connecting with certain solutions, that you require for transformation, to grow or to build, from particular people or channels.
The M1,440 is one resource that we’d probably all agree is actually a treasure. As long as we’re on planet earth, we get access to this treasure.
But, as with all treasures or resources, understanding it’s value is one thing; but learning how to maximize and enjoy it is another. How have you really leveraged this till now? On this episode I share tips on re-valuing and truly intentionally enjoying it.
Have you had to transition across major continents in the world and needed to practically start afresh? Have there been times when you were on a path and despite all seeming to work well, you felt yet unfulfilled?
On this Thriving Stories episode, Jumoke Odepe, a Canada based Lawyer & Writer shares a bit of her transition to a whole new culture and how she eventually stepped into a more rewarding path.
It's almost certain that some point or another we have all nursed one dream or life goal. Most times these targets when met come with amazing results, for us and for many. However, that path to accomplishing isn’t quite a stroll in the park, so many of us shelve till later ‘perfect time’ and sometimes completely let go.
On this 60th episode, I share 4 major reasons why your dreams mean so much, and why staying on track to accomplish them is the way to go.
I’m sure you’ve had those moments when you’ve felt a restlessness on your inside for more. You could tell there was more you could be, more you could do, more you could have. How have you handled such moments?
On this episode, I share how I’ve dealt with those moments at milestone moments in life, with a particular focus on ‘Becoming’, a critical step to truly enjoying more.
If you were to count the number of transitions you've been through in life, what would that be? Well, while you think about it, here's one person who joined us last Thursday to share her stories around a few transitions she's had so far. We also got some insightful clues from her journey so far.
Tolu Afonja is a life, relationship & marriage coach, who started her career in the sciences but now focusing on helping people evolve to thrive. In May, she would be supporting all those who sign up on her program to step up on their confidence level.
I used to feel very discouraged in the past when trying to push towards goals and not getting the results I wanted. In fact I think for some people it gets really frustrating, especially when you also factor in the element of time, you know, that life is moving on and you’re not getting younger.
I’ve discovered some reasons why this happens to most of us and on this episode I touch on 3 frequently occurring ones. And usually when we can point to a root cause it’s easier to address the issue. Which root cause do you identify with and what will you do differently?
Moyo (a teenager) joined me on this episode to share one of the specials from her collection. She gives us a peek preview of what facing crossroads could look like through the lens of a teenager, with a tip on how we can support this age group.
If you have a teen in your life - child, cousin, niece, nephew or friend, particularly going through a similar crossroad, this one is for you.
On this episode, Founder of Mumpreneur NG, Mofolusade Sonaike shares her story to thriving in certain areas of life. She reveals some clues within the clues from her very first job to when she resigned to pursue a "Why" which still helps her make critical decisions today.
She also talks about her new project, an online course - "Launch Your Brand" which she just launched to support those who are ready to put out and showcase their brand by maximizing available opportunities in the online space.
Have you ever worked really hard towards a goal or a dream before and gone through a tough path to finally say 'done' or not particularly satisfied with the end result?
Have you seen many come to opportunities, yet not able to fully maximize them?
Have you ever heard the saying 'it's more about the journey than the destination' and still trying to figure how that applies to you?
On this episode, I share my understanding of what really happens as we achieve our dreams and why some might not be able to maintain the results that got to them 'by chance'.
You'll rarely find anyone who doesn't want to make progress in life. Everybody wants things in their life to get better, we all want to enjoy better, we all want to enjoy more. However, not everyone is ready for the change that usually comes with achieving this progress in life. In fact many end up resisting the required change.
The truth is things cannot remain the same if you really want progress. And on the episode with Tope Ogunfayo (a Corporate Executive of over 17 years experience with a multinational) , he shares options you should make adjustments on to actually make progress.
Have you ever experienced a block when trying to create a new thing or even modify something? Do you know that there are various creative catalysts that can help you deal with this?
On “Getting Into Your Creative Zone", I shed some light on a number of catalysts that can help you get those creative juices flowing time and time again, with a special focus on 2 critical ones that most of us really need to leverage on.
Here's a fact - things in our lives will either stay the same or get worse till something changes. Quite frankly most of us, at a time like this, really want change, especially for the better. However, here's a question to ponder on - How badly do you want that change or how serious are you to keep those things doing great at the moment?
Here's a truth though, you can create that change, you have what it takes to maintain those great things. There are many approaches to creating the positive changes we desire in our lives and on this episode I share 3 top ideas that have been key to remarkable growth and positive change on my end.
On this 50th episode, which is also the last one for the Year 2020, I look into 2 main concepts or should I say keys, that helped me this year. We all know how memorable the year will be for all of us, with all that it opened us to, it's why these keys amongst others made the year unique.
One is the Promise I held on to differently from previous years. The second is the realization and appreciation of the timing of the opportunities I've had. If you're already wondering how Year 2021 would look, especially with how differently you need to approach it, this is one episode to listen to.
On this edition of Thriving Stories, Oluwatoyin Arowolo shared with us her story to being intentional to thrive in a particular area of life which is her health and well being. After surviving a stroke years ago, Toyin hasn't only come to identify some resources she's now maximizing in her life, she also launched and runs "UnplugwithToyin". This is an online platform on which she supports many who need to be deliberate to enjoy great health, by embracing the concept of unplugging.
Earlier in the year, right at the early stages of the global lockdown, we hosted Dr. Gbenga Adebayo, a Health Communication Specialist. He got to share with us key tips to dealing with stress in crisis situations, from his professional background and experience in the field.
Today, it seems this is a much needed conversation again. You might be facing some crisis on your end or know someone who is. This episode is one that will help you be better equipped to stay in a good place despite all the tough times going on around the world.
Success leaves clues... but I always say this, sometimes, there are clues within the clues. And most times, only one who is aware, conscious and able to replicate these clues can pass it on. On this episode, one of my mentors, Paul Martinelli, shares some of those deep clues that have helped position him at a vantage point.
Paul who is also an international speaker, mentor, mindset and business coach has a story lined with remarkable results, considering his humble beginnings. Helping people come to their full potential is one he is passionate about and he left us with that challenge & inspiration.
On this CrossRoads Live session, Adeolu Akinyemi (Business & Financial Intelligence Coach) joined us to share critical things about Money Mindset. This definitely is where to start if you want to come into a new level financially - your mindset. You see this is what really separates the rich from the 'not rich'. And there is no better time than now, as we come to the last weeks in Year 2020 to be intentional and position for more, well if you do have dreams of what you could do with more. He didn't leave us without sharing a personal story of how he tested and proved a mindset based concept years ago.
One thing we may not often remember is the power of our feelings, and the critical part they play in our lives. They could also be so strong sometimes, that hiding them behind our expressions, facial or vocal, becomes really hard to do.
However, understanding how they work changes a lot of things. On this episode I share 3 important things to note about feelings. If you want to live more intentionally, you need to be mindful of these and leverage them appropriately.
On this episode of Thriving Stories, we had the opportunity of hearing another 'before and after' story. Opeyemi Jones-Aremu, a Finance Specialist joined us to share some jewels she maximized to thriving in a transition, at home and in life.
This is one person that went from seasons of ‘ease and smoothness’, to a season she described as stormy, with floods. She reminds us that our breakthroughs are inspirations for others. And it's great to see her at a point now where she’s intentional to pass on the baton of hope and courage to others, as she continues to thrive.
Confidence, I have discovered, is a trait that tends to differentiate people on many levels. It's what that makes one visible for opportunities, what helps us step into the new even when we feel unprepared, but also that one thing that we need to boost time and time again.
On this episode, I recount my story on how I felt a dip in morale at some point, and eventually connected it to the need to boost confidence. I also share 3 key things that you could consider to give that confidence level a boost whenever you need it.
Everyone has as story. Everyone who is in an inspiring place has a before and after, centered around a pivot point. A pivot at which they picked some jewels, which they are willing to share with anyone ready to hear. Thriving Stories is a collection of such stories, featuring individuals intentional to thrive in their spaces and already seeing amazing results.
On this episode, the first in the series, our guest was Ayodeji Lawrence, Creator of the Balanced ME Toolbox - a life organization solution available as an app on Google Store. She shared some fine jewels with us, like how she moved from a place of being 'scattered' to providing support for others to organize their lives better & get clarity.
If you could wish for a super power, which would it be and why? If you knew a super hero who had an ability to make a significant change and wasn't using it, what would you do? So technically, according to super hero stories and series, the hero uses that special ability to help others and to keep himself/herself safe...
So, what would you do differently today if you discovered, you had an ability that could bring a remarkable change for you and even help others? On this episode, I share a new learning I'm still mastering, on maximizing our power of choice to decide how we respond or react to some life situations.
On this CrossRoads Live session, Oluyemisi Wole-Ojomo (HR Consultant & Career Coach) joined us to share ideas to jumpstarting one's career to the next level and to maintain an outstanding one. There is no better time than now to make sure one is continually positioned for a thriving career and leveraging on all opportunities to stay visible and relevant. If you're looking for the next level or considering moving back to the work place from being home-based, this one is one to listen to.
There are 3 major levels one could be on with respect to money. There's not enough, just enough and then more than enough. We all usually desire more, to move to the next level and enjoy more. The question however is this - are we doing what must be done to bring that change? Are we even aware of what must be done? Bukki Agbeniga, a certified finance coach joined us on this session to share ideas that can equip one to move beyond the no-cool zone, where broke is the norm and not enough is endured, to that path that leads to financial freedom.
Positive parenting is definitely one at the top of our minds as we raise our children. Now it's one thing to desire to do it right and another thing to actually do the right things. Parenting without shouting / yelling is one that Remi Makanjuola, Founder of Grace to Parent highly recommends as an outstanding approach. On this episode, she shares her own CrossRoads Journey, as a recovering shouter, to choosing this route as well as noteworthy tips to help us embrace and implement this concept.
As critical as foundations are to a building, so are roots to a tree. The deeper and stronger these are, the higher the buildings & trees can go, the stronger they are withstanding storms. But, how strong are your foundations? How deep? Or probably we should start here, how aware are you of the roots you need to grow to carry the dreams that you're holding on to?
Keep this in mind though, getting this all right, sets you up to win. On 'First Comes The Roots' I try to share highlights of the 4 day workshop we had in May - Rooting To Thrive; where we focused on foundational blocks to thriving - Power of Awareness, The E-Influence, Power of MasterMind and The Thriving Formula. Here's an episode you can come back to, even after 05.06.2020 when the free replay of the videos expires.
Steep curves slide! The steeper a curve the more slippery, and that has been the experience for many in this season - trying to learn new things or master some skills within a shorter time span than before. In this episode, I share some tips on how to stay climbing on every learning curve one gets on, without sliding off. I have jumped on a number myself and can say these tips work, starting with the understanding that you can learn and you can grow!
What you focus on grows! When the word CEDAR came to my heart, as I looked for how to consolidate my work with home-based individuals and those in one life transition or another, I knew there was more to it than being just a 5 letter word. First I discovered 3 amazing things that makes the Cedar Tree/Wood so special. Then within the name I identified 10 words that have surfaced over the years in my conversations and the work I've done - Clarity, Consistency, Expression of Gifts, Excellence, DISCover & Develop, Authenticity, Accountability, Relevance & Reward.
So, it was with so much joy that I announced on my birthday this new initiative by The Polished Lens company, representing its online community and coaching program. On this episode I share how the uniqueness of Cedar will shape how I believe we will support people going forward, to Thrive Like CEDAR.
Featuring Damilola Adedeji, Ayodeji Lawrence and Dr Olaoluwatomi Lamikanra. This is the 4th and last episode of the hope series put together to help us win despite the pandemic. It offers ideas & tips on how to realign mindset, habit or strategy in order to adjust sails so we can reach desired destinations. On this episode, we focus on the how this pandemic & lockdown can impact health and how to deal with it.
Featuring Flutterwave Co-Founder, Adeleke Adekoya, Adeolu Akinyemi (MD, A2W), Atinuke Babatunde (Founder, Brand Fusion), Padebi Ojomo (Founder, Elite Business School) and Tobi Awoyemi (Excel Woman). This is the 3rd episode of the hope series put together to help us win despite the pandemic. It offers ideas & tips on how to realign mindset, habit or strategy in order to adjust sails so we can reach desired destinations. This episode is focused on the impact of the pandemic & lock down on business, entrepreneurs and wealth creation perspectives.
Featuring Folasade Olashore, Lovely Kumar, Sola Oyegbade, Mofoluwaso Ilevbare and Yemisi Wole-Ojomo. This is the 2nd episode of the hope series put together to help us win despite the pandemic. It offers ideas & tips on how to realign mindset, habit or strategy in order to adjust sails so we can reach desired destinations. This episode is focused on the impact of the pandemic & lock down on career and the workplace.
Featuring Dr Les Parrott (SYMBIS), Praise Fowowe, Tope Ogunfayo (Fortified Together), OL & Sway Buckley (MarriedpreneurLife), Bolanle Enang, Remi Makanjuola (Grace to Parent) & Elizabeth Ajetunmobi. This is the 1st episode of the hope series put together to help us win despite the pandemic. It offers ideas & tips on how to realign mindset, habit or strategy in order to adjust sails so we can reach desired destinations. This episode is focused on family, particularly marriages and parenting.
A dark cloud is always easy to notice by the 'dense' shadow it casts. Covid19, it's spread and effects have been so drastic, a pandemic had to be declared. Like a cloud no one has been able to fully escape from, particularly with the uncertainty that surrounds it. However we know this of dark clouds, the presence of a silver lining. And on this episode I share certain points on the silver lining from where I see it.
How spicy are you? I bet you wouldn't have thought of the word spicy if you had to describe yourself in just one word. In this episode - Salt, Spice and Everything Nice; I share lessons on what makes us similar with these gifts to our cuisine world including adding flavour and stirring a need for more of what is good and satisfying.
Imagine a life without mirrors. First we would be at the mercy of someone else to look as dashing or proper as we need to when getting dressed. Even cars would be confined to moving in only one direction, or the driver would always need help to maneuver… how limiting. But thank God for mirrors! Did you know that the mirror is not the only tool that gives you a reflection of your true self? Would you be interested in being aware of mirrors, that can help you be more intentional to really become stunning right from the inside? Then this episode is for you.
If you are not clear on how to go about reaching those mind blowing goals you had your eyes on at the start of the year, they would only stay as a list. On The Bull’s Eye, I share 5 keys that I have learnt and used that make all the difference. My favourite would probably be getting the right mindset. Sometimes you may want something really bad, yet your mindset is all wrong. And this alone can keep you where you are. So if you’re still scratching the surface of those goals, this episode is for you.
Childhood dreams are something many of us had growing up. Ofcourse the situations we found ourselves in determined what kind of dream we had. But you see, dreaming isn't only for children. If you have stopped dreaming about a certain future you could have then you need to realize some work needs to be done. We all deserve to have dreams, it's the birthplace of all life's achievements. I start this episode with one of my husband's childhood dreams and nuggets on dreaming right.
Here's another toast to a new year and new decade, with so much expectations for greater and better experiences, outcomes and rewards. It is easy, however, to forget that tests come with the terrain. These aren't what we are ever excited about, but they serve key roles in actually making the new or the terrain worth our while. On this first episode of the year, I share the major types of tests we could be faced with and key things to help us make the best of it all. Bonne année.
There is a reason why precious stones and other life valuables aren't easily accessible. In fact, if you have an idea how to get any, you'll probably be paying a premium to acquire it in its finest form or you will be doing much work to mine / excavate and refine / process. Truly, all that is of value lies within the deep, requiring focus, attention and consistent effort to obtain. And this also applies to whatever you want the best from in life. But are you ready to dig? Will you continue to dig till you reach the core in the depths where the true treasure lies?
What unique things are you incorporating into your leadership style to enable you get the best from your team? How are you trying to be intentional to sustain that key relationship of yours? In "Thank You, I Noticed", I, amongst other examples, shared a story I read recently in John Maxwell's Book - The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth, of how a leader started a special practice as he grew in his role. I also highlight other key points you should factor in, as you consider this practice, which will help boost your team engagements and keep your relationships even stronger.
Have you ever wondered why you have been pushing for certain changes in your life and yet not getting the desired outcome? Have you often struggled with making the right choices in difficult situations like major life cross roads? The answers to these lie with an underlying factor which I call The Value Code. This code has not only been key to shaping who you are today, it is one of the critical things you need to review and modify to create the different life you desire. On this episode, I shed some light on what this code is really about and I also share 3 simple steps to recoding.
If you've been struggling a bit with clarity, then “Journey to Clarity” is a timely episode just for you. On this episode, I share my own story on my journey to clarity, while I worked on specific personal goals and dreams. I also share critical ideas I have gleaned from additional studies that I believe will wipe that blur for anyone who implements them. I plan to do even more to fine tune my clarity level, because I know clarity is what differentiates the one who aims and hits and the one who's not even ready to aim because he can't see his target.
If you've moved houses or offices a few times you'd have learnt that the hardest part may not boxing your stuff or lifting them to the truck and off, though of course this has its strains. It is actually having to decide what must come along with you and what shouldn't any longer. And for some of us this could be really hard! Life transitions work like that too, and if you're not careful not to handle this bit well, you'll pile up loads of unnecessary things, mindsets and even relationships; which eventually could be harmful in your new place. On "Stop Justifying It", I share some questions and ideas on how you can handle this better.
Do you get moved, even if only a bit, when you see so many others (probably younger, maybe even seemingly unqualified) doing exceptional things and being recognized? Well it's one thing to make sure you maximize your time (and space) and start early, but it's another thing to realize that wouldn't be enough. There's only how far an early break can work for you, because there is more. On Episode 19, I lay emphasis on something you should work on parallel to your start, and the top 3 things that can help you achieve it.
There are a number of important questions that you must answer when heading somewhere. However, there is one in particular you have to answer correctly. Why? Because the one who is going to lose with a wrong answer is you. On this episode, in the light of 2020 just around the corner, I share on how to really get this question answered so that you can empower yourself. In addition you will be able to strategize appropriately for achievable results.
CrossRoads Live was successfully launched last week with "Thrive At Home" and it was an amazing start to more of such to come. Now, I perceive that many often feel very much the same despite their developmental plans and programs. So on this episode I share one of the juicy highlights from the session how you can make sure growth and change follow every learning experience or encounter you have - by linking the strategy to the use of an everyday device.
During one of my recent reflective moments, I realized that, in the pursuit of our goals and dreams, Highways and Crossroads are critical phases we come to. You can tell the highway stage by how fast or seemingly smooth things are going while the Crossroads are your critical decision points. A sense of awareness of these points is definitely a requirement to succeeding with each one, because you are clear on how to handle all that comes with it. And to support you with this, on this episode, I am glad to announce a new value-point channel by The Polished Lens Company.
Most times when we have our minds set on a cause or a goal, our plans consist primarily of all those things we must do to reach the goal. We rarely remember, and sometimes not intentional, to incorporate in our strategy one thing that is vital, to doing really well and finishing strong. In this episode I shed light on taking advantage of and deliberately planning this one thing because you truly deserve it.
At some point in our lives, we want more - to be more, to do more and to have more. And for the most part, we want to let that more get to others, by leaving an impact or influencing them. If you've been struggling with this, what you need is an overflow and this episode is for you. On this episode, I share 3 simple keys to experience an overflow in any area of life.
David Archuleta blessed our world indeed with the song "GLORIOUS". And the One Voice Children's Choir rendered it so beautifully, I couldn't help but listen to it countless times and glean out lessons from it. On this episode I focus on just my top 3... to charge us to become deliberate to play our parts in life's symphonies and become conscious of the melodies we all create together. And yes you need to go listen to and get the song today.
If you’re interested in knowing one of the top secrets to success in life, you should listen to this episode. It’s a very simple principle, but probably not particularly easy, otherwise more people would have worked with it to reach their dreams. If you study the lives of successful people in every endeavour, you will see this thread running through their stories. The thread of “Staying With” that thing till you get to your desired level. Sometimes even up to 10,000 hours as shared by Malcolm Gladwell in “Outliers”. The challenge however is that we do not catch them “staying” as much as the results that show them off afterwards. I’ve chosen to weave that thread into my own life's story, and already seeing results, would you?
There are some things in life that if we had our way we would prefer never to experience. Pain is one. This, sometimes tear worthy experience, can happen in different areas of life as well - physical, emotional even financial. But you see, if we are intentional to pass those painful moments through a prism lens, we might just see it on the other side with its many colours. Listen to this full episode to discover some hues.
What are the chances you will find something you've not seen before? A good probability is there though, if you perhaps have a description. Some of us are in hot pursuit of something in life... and truth is we won't know even if we found it because we never had the right picture or description. So generally , the picture you should have has certain unique attributes, I share just 3 on this episode to drive intentionality and focus to your pursuit.
Giving thanks regularly for what you have is an amazing & highly productive habit. It usually fills your heart with happiness despite whatever challenges you may be going through. It helps by shifting your attention to more positive areas of your life as against the not so great. However, I have learnt that being able to identify and count these blessings in your life is one level, but there is another level - of being deliberate to be a channel that extends that blessing, in one way or the other, to someone else in order to complete the cycle. In this episode, I share some ideas worth considering.
I have learnt that only an evaluated experience truly teaches us wisdom. This is why Shaped by Seasons is a special one to mark my birthday in a few days. On this episode I share major life lessons that have helped shape my perception about living wisely. Behind each lesson is a story, an experience from each decade / season that have gifted me with growth, to live more intentionally and be better prepared for opportunities.
If like me, you've been at that point where you wanted to get clarity on what life was all about for you - hitting the bull's eye to fulfill purpose, then this episode is just for you. Discovering and fulfilling life's purpose is critical to living well but there are some vital things you must remain mindful of as you pursue purpose.
In most traditional leadership settings, critical decisions are not taken in isolation by the sole head. It always involves input from a circle of leaders. In this episode, I challenge us to look into the benefits of properly incorporating this set up in our lives. The set up of a "Circle of Counsel". The counsel you surround yourself with will determine the quality of decisions you take and on the long term how far you go. Who makes up your circle?
I actually got my lens polished with an experience recently. I became more aware that to every response or reaction we have to a situation or person, there is a driver that we cannot see at work. That driver is also the reason behind how we handle the idea / concept of failure. I'll be sharing how I handled the situation when it occurred and why it is important to see failure correctly.
Indeed, your network is strongly tied to your net-worth. But who makes up your network? Have you been deliberate to diversify those in this circle so you can enjoy variety and extras to your own experiences and knowledge? On this episode I share an experience that reinforced this concept.
On this Episode I conclude on the 2nd part to sharing my lessons around goal setting. Last episode focused on Asking "Why" to every line on your goals and having a list that covers plans that can span 3-5 years. Here are the other tips to help you do more around the annual exercise and run well with those goals.
More on the website - www.thepolishedlens.com
Yes, there's more to putting down your year's goals. On this Episode I start on a Part 1 of 2, sharing my lessons around goal setting. Don't worry this isn't about your goals being SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable / Action Oriented, Realistic / Relevant & Time-Bound), that I'm sure most have learnt. Though I'll be glad to help those who haven't yet. Instead these are tips to help you do more around the annual exercise and run well with those goals.
More on the website - www.thepolishedlens.com
After so many years of sharing life lessons and content on different platforms, this long overdue channel is now live. From FOOTSTEPS (www.folafayo.blogspot.com) to Text Broadcast to Audio Broadcast...and now "The Polished Lens".
Welcome to that show that leaves you with a refined perspective of a life lesson by seeing through the Polished Lens of the Perception Shaper, FolaFayo (www.folafayo.com). On this very first episode, I share how we got here and what you won't miss as you subscribe / download and share. Thank you.