The Swinging Palm Trees Podcast: Recent Episodes

Hosted by Akin

We all have a favourite affirmation and how it's influenced or shaped our lives, bolstered our faith and given us that much needed confidence. This is a podcast about the power of said words and mental fortitude. Hi, I'm Akin and thanks for stopping by. All the guests on the show have their own unique, personal journeys & stories and how they've overcome their trials in life with the help of a quote or two. My hope is that you can be enriched from their stories and their tips for living life and enjoying it. But, at The Swinging Palm Trees core, we always gravitate towards the quotes and sayings that have had an impact on their lives. On another note, I have an unhealthy obsession with comics and bass guitars, so that may come up in a few of the episodes! Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

In today's episode I'm in conversation with Filmmaker Lucas Pelizaro. Lucas discusses how his love for cinema began his passion for filmmaking at a young age. We also delve into the deeper meaning to why he describes himself as a 'self-proclaimed film guy', and what filmmaking has taught him so far in his career and life. We also get to play our own version of his '20 Questions' game format. Lucas also talks about his heritage, his inspirations, and of course the quote that continually inspires him.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I'm in conversation with culinary anthropologist & food explorer and fellow Nigerian Ozoz Sokoh, to talk about her new recipe book 'Chop Chop: Cooking the Food of Nigeria'. Ozoz shares her food journey with me , celebrating the cuisines of Nigeria, her heritage, what cultural hospitality means to her, and why it was important for her to create her new book.

We also talk about the extraordinary journey of the humble 'Àkàrà (bean fritter) to other parts of the world, the real pronunciation of the word 'Salad' according to Nigerians; another interpretation to Chinua Achebe's 'Things Fall Apart', and of course, Ozoz shares the quote that continually inspires him.

'Chop Chop: Cooking the Food of Nigeria' by Ozoz Sokoh can be bought at all good bookstores including online purchases. You can also find out more about Ozoz on her website, Kitchen Butterfly:

https://www.kitchenbutterfly.com/about-2/

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I'm in conversation with Dauda Jammeh, Head of Finance Operations at a specialised insurance company. We talk about aspects of money including generational wealth, financial injustice, the importance of real financial education, and theories as to whether the system is rigged to the benefit of a few at the expense of many. Dauda is also a great advocate about diversity, equality and inclusion, mentoring and we also discuss his faith and heritage, the inevitable discussion about Jollof rice and of course, he shares the quote and saying that continually inspires him.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I'm in conversation with Criminal judge and author, Nicola Wililams. Nicola talks about how her love for debating set her on a path of law. We chat about her legal career including being a barrister in private practice specialising in criminal law and police misconduct; her time as a Service Complaints Ombudsman for the UK Armed Forces; her role at the then IPCC (known now as the Independent Office of Police Conduct). Nicola shares the challenges and prejudices she has faced as Black woman within her chosen profession, and addressing issues of bias. We also discuss her career as an author and talk about her novels including her latest work, 'Killer Instinct'.

'Killer Instinct', published by Penguin Books, is now out.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I'm in conversation with former wrestler, entertainer, geek and creator of 'Lucha Britannia', Garry Vanderhorne. Garry shares how he was influenced by wrestling during his youth, including being introduced to Lucha Libre wrestling from Mexico, and how this encounter has shaped his life. Gary also talks about the power of storytelling in the ring in Lucha Libre, why masks are important to a Luchadore & Luchadora (male and female wrestlers), and the legends within the sport.

We also talk about his other project 'Lucha Britannia', a comedy cabaret wrestling show set in an Orwellian near future called the RetroFutureVerse. We geek out over John Carpenter movies, WWF & WWE legends, and of course, Garry shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Garry Vanderhorne has been instrumental in making lucha libre more of an understood art form in the UK, both as the creator and head coach of the internationally renowned London School of Lucha Libre, and through his long running successful hybrid of comedy, cabaret, British & Mexican wrestling show, Lucha Britannia, has helped change the perception of professional wrestling across the world. Now celebrating 18 years of outrageous, high-flying, irreverent Lucha Libre wrestling madness, the show continues to defy expectations. Most recently, Lucha Britannia performed to its largest-ever audience — 10,000 people — at the legendary Download Festival at Castle Donington... The rest of the RetroFutureVerse is yet to be written.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I'm in conversation with Dr. Clare Anyiam-Osigwe, a skincare scientist, holistic wellness advocate and filmmaker. Clare talks about her new book 'Clarity' and shares stories of the successes of her life including her businesses as a successful entrepreneur in skincare, but also the challenges in life that have included Bell’s Palsy and mental burnout. We also chat about the film 'Ìrèké', which she co-produced, her Nigerian heritage and upbringing in Islington, how her faith is important to her and of course, Clare shares the quote that continually inspires her.

Clare Anyiam-Osigwe is a multi-award-winning wellness expert, allergy specialist, and master educator, whose pioneering work spans over two decades of transformative care, clinical research, and curriculum development. She is internationally renowned for her visionary approach to whole-person health, combining scientific rigour with soulful healing.

'Ìrèké' hits UK and Nigerian cinemas from Fri 25 July, and her book 'Clarity' can be bought via her website.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

In today's episode I chat with award-winning chef Kanthi Thamma. Kanthi shares how his passion for cooking started and how it has taken him around the world. We talk about South Indian cuisines and Kanthi gives a breakdown and the historical origins of where certain ingredients originated from various countries and how they have influenced Indian cooking.

Kanthi also talks about his other cooking ventures, his love for his rich Telegu heritage, why music is very important to him and of course he shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Kanthi Thamma is an Indian chef based in Brighton, UK. His previous ventures have included Curry Leaf Cafe, Easy Tiger, Palmito, and currently The Spice Circuit Kitchen. Kanthi also runs bespoke chef-led tours to countries including India and Sri Lanka.

For more information, please check his website: https://www.chefkanthi.com/

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

In today's episode, I'm in conversation with broadcaster journalist & radio presenter Jim Davis. Jim shares how he started his journey in the industry and why he is passionate about radio. We talk about how the Global pandemic and lockdown transformed his life and career; what he believes it takes to retain and engage listenership and audience in a competitive digital world, and the art behind a great conversation. I also ask Jim about memorable guests he has spoken with, and his immense love for musical theatres. And of course, Jim shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Jim Davis is currently a presenter with Magic Radio with a range of shows including Magic at The Musicals’ 4-7pm weekdays. He is also a freelance presenter with BBC Radio London.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode, I'm in conversation with Husband and wife duo Anthony & Teanne Andrews, founders of We Are Parable. We talk about the powerful importance of storytelling from a Black perspective & using various platforms of reaching wider audiences across the globe. Teanna and Anthony share why it was important to them to name the company 'We Are Parable', and how it came into existence out of a shared love of cinema, and how it has evolved over the years to also include supporting filmmakers and new voices. We also discuss culture and heritage, take a dive into Black Cinema and television, geek out over their favourite films, and also have time to discuss most things Mr Spike Lee. And of course, Teanne and Anthony share their quotes that continually inspire them.

To know more about We Are Parable and upcoming events, please go to https://www.weareparable.com.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

In this episode, it's all about (mostly) Black films and I'm in conversation with professional film critic & film producer Shawn Edwards about The Black Experience within film, including the importance of a good distribution network to showcase Black cinema to the wider global audience. Shawn discusses what Black cinema and content making means to him; his honest views about the OSCARS; how the role of the film critic has evolved within the age of Social Media & influencers. Shawn and I geek out over 'Star Wars' and have an in depth chat about one of our most favourite films recently released, 'Sinners'. I also ask Shawn about his upcoming book 'Little Black Sambo's Revenge', what led to the creation of the African American Film Critics Association, and 'Celebration of Black Cinema and Television' with the Critics Choice Association. And of course, Shawn shares the quotes that are continually shaping his life and career.

Shawn Edwards is a journalist, TV and film producer and marketing and event consultant. As a nationally recognized film critic for Fox 4 News in Kansas City, Missouri for the past 25 years he has won numerous national awards including Best TV Film Critic twice by the LA Press Club's National Entertainment Journalism Awards.

Edwards co-founded the African American Film Critics Association in 2003. He is also currently serving his second term on the Board of the Critics Choice Association. Edwards created and executive produces 'Celebration of Black Cinema and Television' in conjunction with the Critics Choice Association which premiered in 2014 in Los Angeles at the House of Blues Sunset. The annual awards show airs nationally each February.

Edwards began his producing career producing numerous TV shows and documentaries for FGW Productions and BlackTree TV, both based in Los Angeles in 2008. Edwards worked for Hidden Empire Film Group (“Traffik,” “Black and Blue,” “The Intruder” and “Fatale”), based in Los Angeles, as a Senior Marketing Specialist from 2016 to 2021. Edwards is overseeing plans to build a Black Movie Hall of Fame which will be based in the Historic 18th and Vine Jazz District in Kansas City, Missouri. The Hall of Fame, an idea Edwards created, will open in 2026 in the Boone Theater with Edwards functioning as its executive director.

Edwards is a life-long lover of movies who began making his own films in the 7th grade. His passion for cinema, particularly the history of black film, is extraordinary. And his cinematic journey continues…

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I chat with Julie Talbot, property investor and travelling nomad. Julie shares how she and her husband were expats working in The Middle East and how they decided to explore the world with their daughters through travel. Julie talks about what she defines as financial freedom, the challenges of being a property owner, nomadic investing, what life and travel have taught her so far, and of course, she shares the quotes that continually inspire her.

Julie is a UK business owner and worldschooling mum, running her business remotely while travelling full-time with her family. She’s passionate about ethical property investing, time & location freedom and is dedicated to addressing homelessness through her work.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I'm in conversation with former Sky Sports News Producer Tejas Kotecha. Tejas shares how he started in the media at the age of 23 as a Sky News graduate trainee and worked in a variety of roles in the newsroom and out ‘on the road’. We also talk about his time at Sky Sports, his role as a producer and his career highlights. We discuss the evolution and devolution of news in today's ever-changing media landscape, fake news, and with his passion for politics how the media hold governments accountable.

Tejas also chaired the Ethnicity and Inclusion Network at Sky Sports and he talks about his upbringing in Bolton, his heritage and how he fell into becoming a wedding Toastmaster.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I chat with filmmaker and actor Ashley Tabatabai. We talk about his Oscar® qualified short film 'Hamdardi' and why it was important for him to make, and the technical challenges he and his team had to navigate during production. We chat about issues of Identity, heritage, storytelling and how political policies have far reaching consequences.

Ashley and I geek out over Superman, Batman, The Teenage Mutant Turtles, and discuss our shared interests in the Filipino Martial Art of Kali, and of course, Ashley shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Writer/co-director and producer Ashley Tabatabai is an award-winning international actor and filmmaker from a culturally diverse background. He has appeared in various series and independent films, including AVENUE 5 (HBO) and BANK OF DAVE 2: THE LOAN RANGER (Netflix). He produced, wrote and starred in the award-winning short film FALSIFIED which was long-listed for the 2018 Oscars®, this was also his first project under his production company Taba Productions.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

In today's episode, I'm in conversation with British Sign Language (BSL) Interpreter Deborah McLeod. Deborah talks about how she started off as an interpreter and why it has now become her calling in life. We discuss various aspects within her career including her role as a medium between medical professionals and patients by interpreting complex medical terminology and procedures during appointments, surgeries, and consultations to interpreting events and concerts.

Deborah also shares what language means to her, and the different variations of Sign Language. She also talks about the importance of her faith, the traits she believes a person should have to be an interpreter, her with The Crown Boyes Mentoring programme and of course, she shares the quote that continually inspires her.

For more information about The Crown Boys:

https://www.crownboymentors.org/

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I chat with Charlie Lamdin, an entrepreneur, pilot and founder of BestAgent. We chat in-depth about the property market including new builds and house prices, the right time to invest, and what he believes is one, among many, of the great legal scams in the housing market. Charlie is also an advocate for ending homelessness, and shares what he believes the government and charities ought to be focusing on to remedy the issue.

Charlie talks about life, his heritage, what his passions are including his love for aviation, home-parenting, and of course, he shares with us the quote that continually inspires him.

Charlie Lamdin's career mission is to help fix the housing market, end homelessness while raising his 3 home-schooled kids and indulging his passion for flying, especially seaplanes, and film making.

He's the host of the most-viewed housing market podcast, Moving Home with Charlie, and the founder of BestAgent, the home-movers site.

Moving Home with Charlie: https://mhwc.co.uk/

Best Agent: https://bestagent.co.uk/

Short film: https://vimeo.com/750760327/6c885e6120

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode, I'm in conversation with Professor Mia Mask and talk about her book 'Black Rodeo: A History of the African American Western', and why she wrote this book. We discuss the film genre of the Westerns and look at issues of whitewashing and changing narratives including revisionist Westerns and critiques. We also chat about the portrayal of masculinity in film, the female cowboy, Pam Grier, and of course, the quote that continually inspires her.

Mia Mask is a Professor of Film at Vassar College. She is the author of Divas on Screens; Black Women in American Film. She edited the anthology Contemporary Black American Cinema. And, she published the jointly edited collection, Poitier Revisited: Reconsidering a Black Icon in the Obama Age. Her commentary has been featured on National Public Radio, the Criterion Channel and CNN’s The Movies. In 2023, she published Black Rodeo: A History of the African American Western.

Black Rodeo: A History of the African American Westerntakes place at BFI Southbank from 1 February – 18 March, including Mario Van Peebles in conversation on 9 February and the illustrated discussion Introduction to Black Rodeo on 10 February. For tickets visit whatson.bfi.org.uk

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode, director and actor Mario Van Peebles takes some time out to come on the podcast to chat about his career and life. We talk about the great influence his father, Melvin Van Peebles, has had in his career; his passion for the Western genre and why he made the film 'Posse', and 'Outlaw Posse'. We discuss the importance of telling the right story, legacy, heritage and representation, issues of whitewashing and other issues. We also chat about his classic film 'Swing Jack City', and of course, Mr. Van Peebles shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Actor, writer, filmmaker and activist Mario Van Peebles will be in Conversation on Sunday 9th of February 2025 at the BFI's 'Black Rodeo: A History of the Black American Western, to talk about his career to date, including his contribution to the western genre. Whether it be as an actor in Clint Eastwood’s Heartbreak Ridge and his father Melvin Van Peebles’ Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song or directing New Jack City, Baadasssss!, Posse and Panther, he has proved to be one of the US’s leading filmmakers and has the ability to write, act, produce and direct strong, independent work simultaneously.

In conversation: https://whatson.bfi.org.uk/Online/default.asp?BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::permalink=mario-van-peebles-in-conversation&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::context_id=

Outlaw Posse preview: https://whatson.bfi.org.uk/Online/default.asp?BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::permalink=outlaw-posse-preview&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::context_id=

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I'm in conversation with Allison Shadock, an advocate for Glioblastoma (GBM) awareness and research. Recently her husband John sadly passed away from this malignant brain tumour. With Ali's consent, we made this episode to celebrate John's life and talk about how they both met, their lives together and how they both fought this cancer.

Allison Shadock is the widow to John, a Glioblastoma (GBM) warrior for over 5 1/2 years. John, a very healthy and active person, was given a terminal diagnosis with only six months to a year to live in 2019 at the young age of 35. As the couple navigated the brain cancer world, they found ways to enjoy a low key life and still find the positives in the situation. A diagnosis that can tear people apart, they realized they were a tight couple and became even closer!

There is no cure for this cancer, with less than 2% of total cancer research funding going towards brain cancer combined with the unfortunate low life expectancy, Ali told John early on, we don’t need a cure today. We just have to get to the next step. Time after time and set back after setback, they kept finding ways to continue the fight, staying “Strong All Along” on their journey! Although no time will ever be enough, they cherished every extra day together and knew their love and positivity helped them immensely along the way!

From having no clue to what GBM was and turning their lives completely upside down in every way imaginable and having limited people that could relate to them, they knew they didn’t want that for others on this journey. Ali and John wanted to share their experiences and hopefully shed light on GBM so they could support others going through the unimaginable and unknown so they started the Instagram page “Strong All Along” Thus, Ali and John began to document their battle with GBM as a way to share their day to day as a cancer patient and spouse and bring awareness to others. Through this, they began to connect with others having gone through or currently going through a similar battle. Hoping to help them stay “Strong All Along” on their journey as well.

This episode is dedicated to the memory of my friend, Claire Echavarry, who sadly passed away from GBM. I miss you, boss.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I'm in conversation with wife and husband medical practitioners Sarah and Ata Anane-Adusei. Sarah shares her career as a radiologist and why she chose this career path. She also stresses the importance for women and men to have regular breast screening checks. Ata talks about his career as a psychiatrist, why mental health and well-being is vital, and he gives his reasons why he believes certain communities do not subscribe to the idea of mental health checks.

The couple discuss their experiences of racism in their careers, the importance of representation within their respective career fields and encouraging an interest in STEM to young students. Sarah and Ata also talk about ongoing projects for communities, raising a family, their Ghanaian heritage and of course, they share the quote and saying that continually inspires them.

Dr Sarah Anane-Adusei's (FRCR, MBBS, MPharm) journey into medicine was far from conventional. From an early age, she was passionate about science, which initially led her to pursue pharmacy. However, her aspirations evolved, and she later embarked on a graduate-entry medical program, successfully gaining admission in Wales. During her early years as a junior doctor, she discovered a strong interest in Radiology, a field that uses imaging to diagnose and treat diseases. She is now proud to be a Breast Radiologist, a role that allows her to combine her technical expertise with compassionate patient care. Throughout this journey, she has been fortunate to have the support of family and friends. However, she recognises that many aspiring individuals may not have access to similar support systems. Together with her husband, she has co-founded MedAspire, a company dedicated to guiding and mentoring individuals pursuing careers in medicine and dentistry.

Dr. Ata Anane-Adusei (MRCPsych, MBBS, PGCert, LLM, BSc) specializes in Forensic Psychiatry. He has thoroughly enjoyed his training journey and the opportunities it has provided. Ata earned his medical degree at St. George’s, University of London, where he received world-class training in a diverse environment. He spent his early years as a junior doctor in Northampton and Somerset, gaining invaluable experience across various medical and surgical specialties.

Before his medical career, he taught Chemistry in South London, helping talented students secure places at prestigious universities. He also holds an LL.M in Medical Law and Ethics from the University of Kent, as well as a BSc (Hons) in Biochemistry from the University of Manchester.

He aspires to work as a consultant in Forensic Psychiatry with a focus on Neurodiversity, particularly within black and ethnic minority communities.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

With the upcoming release of Season 2 of 'Squid Game', on today's episode I chat with BAFTA Award winning Executive Producer Stephen Yemoh. We talk about his work on the Squid Game: The Challenge TV series, how he started off his career within the entertainment industry and also the importance of representation. We also talk about his heritage, his love for music, Liverpool F.C and of course, Stephen shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Stephen began his career working at Sky Sports on Soccer AM before moving on to work on a range of shows at Endemol including Fame Academy, The Match and Soccer Aid.

As a freelance producer he’s worked on many reality and entertainment shows including Comic Relief, Love Island, Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway, I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here and two series of The Circle, and now currently works at Studio Lambert.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I'm in conversation with director, screenwriter and producer Miguel Faus and talk about his debut feature film "Calladita" ('The Quiet Maid'), the first European film that was funded via an NFT crowdfund that Miguel started. Naturally, Miguel and I talk about NFTs and the community, talk about the challenges he faced with funding and how Film Director Steven Soderbergh got involved. Miguel also discusses the film directors who have influenced him and of course, he shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Miguel Faus is a screenwriter, director, and producer from Barcelona. "Calladita" is based on a short film of the same title that Miguel made in 2020, which premiered at Palm Springs Shortfest and Malaga Film Festival, and was acquired by HBO Max. During development, the project was selected at DAMA Aid and at Jim Cummings' Short to Feature Lab.

His previous short film, "The Death of Don Quixote" (2018), won the Melies d'Argent for Best European Short Film at the Sitges Film Festival, and screened at many other festivals around the world.

In 2021, Variety named Faus as one of ten "Spanish filmmakers to watch."

He graduated with distinction from the MA Filmmaking at the London Film School, and before that, he was a Film Critic in Spain, specializing in interviewing directors such as Pawel Pawlikowski, Olivier Assayas, Ulrich Seidl, Francois Ozon, Terence Davies, Whit Stillman, Isaki Lacuesta, Pedro Costa and Albert Serra.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I'm in conversation with actress and creator Zai Sylla. Zai shares how she started on her career path as a content creator, her immense interest in Black stories and lived experiences via the medium of books, film and TV, and the importance of reaching a wider audience in sharing these stories. During the course of our chat, We also go in-depth about why the film 'Wicked' has had such a profound effect on her, and what being a strong independent Black woman means to Zai. We talk also about reclaiming one's power, issues of mental health not only as a creator but also within Black communities; African Pantheons and Gods; her unique heritage, who makes the better Jollof rice, and of course, she shares the quote that continually inspires her.

Zai is an actress and creator who splits her time between London, New York, and occasionally LA. With a large audience of almost half a million people across Instagram, TikTok, and Threads, Zai is known for her standout recommendations on Black led stories across books, tv shows and movies, creating content that inspires and connects. She’s partnered with brands like P&G at the NAACP Image Awards and obtained a UK-wide TikTok billboard campaign spotlighting Black authors. Her recent film credits include The Kitchen, produced by Daniel Kaluuya.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I have the honour of chatting to the talented animator, director and screenwriter Neeraja Raj. We geek out over all things animation including Studio Ghibli, 'Wallace & Gromit', Stop-motion animation legend Ray Harryhausen, and anime.

Amongst other things, Neeraja shares which animation inspired her on her career path, her Malayali heritage and how other other cultures have had a profound influence on her. We talk about why she believes the importance of telling the right story, creating strong female roles, mental health within the industry, imposter syndrome, and the challenges she encounters

Neeraja also discusses the projects that she has worked on including 'The Girl Who Built a Rocket', commissioned by WaterAid; 'She Creates Change'- a Nonprofit film series for gender equality. We also talk about her time working at Aardman Productions, a series development with Disney, and her personal projects like 'Meow or Never', which is a personal favourite of mine.

Neeraja Raj is a director, screenwriter & animator based in London. She has featured on Variety’s 'Top 10 Animators to Watch, 2022' list and is a 'Forbes 30 Under 30 - Entertainment' honoree of 2023. With over 7 years of diverse artistic experience, she excels in creatively directing projects with a focus on exceptional craftsmanship and execution.

For more about Neeraja and her work, please check her website:

https://www.neerajaraj.com/

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

In today's episode I have the pleasure of talking to the hosts of The HIV podcast, Jess and Sarah. The ladies talk about their individual careers before embarking on their current path working together at a HIV support organization for 16 years and continue to do so. They share how The HIV Podcast came into fruition and why it is important to continually educate people about HIV. In the course of our conversation, we talk about the difference between HIV and Aids; stigmas and misconceptions, peoples' reactions to having a HIV diagnosis and the importance of dispelling myths. We also talk about what 'undetectable = untransmittable' means, the difference between 'PrEP and PEP', what an 'undetectable viral load' and 'Elite Controller' means. Sarah and Jess also talk about HIV within communities, what the Government should do about funding and awareness, and we also go off on a slight tangent and talk about other health issues. And of course, the ladies share the quotes that continually inspire them.

The HIV Podcast is a multi award nominated, weekly podcast listened to in 179 countries. It is a podcast where talking about HIV is done in the same way we talk about weekend plans. You will laugh, smile and feel good and learn something. Ironically what makes The HIV Podcast so radical, is just how ‘normal’ it is. Normalising HIV is the only way we are going to reduce HIV stigma.

You can find the HIV podcast on all major podcast platforms and you can follow them on Tiktok and Instagram @TheHIVPodcast

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

In today's episode I'm in conversation with Structural Engineer Zainab Adigun. Zainab shares how her early love for buildings put her on her career path, talks about the mindset of an engineer, her passion for calculations, problem solving and redoing modules, the importance of Net Zero and sustainability, and the excitement her role gives her. She discusses the challenges she faces as a Black woman from the naysayers, how she deals with imposter syndrome, the importance of educating the youth and her advocacy for STEM. Zainab also talks about her faith, what being Yorùbá means to her, and of course, she shares the quote that continually inspires her.

Zainab Adigun, a Senior Structural Engineer at Carbon Clean, is making a significant impact in the construction and engineering industries. With a passion for sustainability and a dedication to innovation, Zainab plays a crucial role in a company that is mitigating the impact of climate change through innovative modular carbon capture solutions.

Zainab volunteers as a board member for the Association for Black and Ethnic Minority Engineers (AFBE) where she is the team leader for the Making Engineering Hot which works with young people from black and other ethnic minority groups to expose them to careers in engineering. Recently, Zainab was listed as one of 100 Finalists for the Top Women in Engineering 2022 Awards as recognition of her contribution in encouraging females to consider a career in engineering. She won the CN & NCE Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering awards in 2022. Zainab has also recently won the Institution of Engineering and Technology( IET) Women’s Engineering Society (WES) Prize Award in 2023. She is also a member of the IET, and the prize is awarded to an inspiring engineer working in the UK, who is able to engage and encourage young people’s involvement in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

Zainab loves structures around the world and explores different structures as a structural engineering presenter and contributor and has been featured on BBC News, National Geographic Channel and the Science Channel . From pyramids in Cairo, Egypt and enormous German Bunkers in Calais, France to large residential development projects in the UK. Zainab wants to know all about it and take you on the journey of exploring them with her.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

In today's episode I'm in conversation with Social Media Strategist Kadisha Kaur-Singh. Kadisha draws on her expertise and advises on how to grow one's platform, why being able to hit certain metrics is important, and the relevance of being part of an online community.

Kadisha also answers a few of my questions including whether everything is a numbers game; the many pressures content creators face to maintain followers, the dangers of short attention spans, the evolving of social language, and mental health .

Kadisha also shares stories about her unique mixed heritage and identity, music and of course, the quote that continually inspires her.

Kadisha is an experienced Social media manager and copywriter, with roles including being the Head of Content & Strategy for an App company and also a Social Media Manager at a well known Social Media Platform.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

Music Producer Coryell Hyatt is the latest guest on the podcast. Coryell talks about how he started off within the music industry and his journey ever since. We discuss what his creative process is like, popular music today and why artists and musicians are adapting for certain target audiences, especially with today's social media. The conversation also puts a spotlight on copyright & IP, the educating and development of a new generation of artists, the many challenges within the industry, and the ulterior motives of digital platforms.

Coryell also talks about his musical collaboration with Grammy Award winner Julian Marley, how important his faith is to him, his heritage and family and of course, Coryell shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Coryell 'Footsteps' Hyatt is an international multi-genre Music producer(and Artist) from London and Co-Founder of F and F Music Studios. Coryell collaborates with various music artists and musicians, and has also worked with media brands such as BBC, JD SPORTS, SBTV, CREP PROTECT. He is also a studio engineer and a Voiceover Artist for KISS FM.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and in today's episode I have a chat with Tonye-Faloughi-Ekezie, author and founder of Simone's Oasis Foundation. Tonye shares with us the story of her daughter, Simone, who has Down's Syndrome, and the journey it has taken her and the family on. Tonye talks about why it was important for her to create an educational and creative platform for black and African children to bring an awareness of Special Needs, representation, inclusivity and empowerment.

Tonye also discusses the many challenges that she has had to face including issues of cultural stigmas within the community, colonised mindset, and rejections. Despite all this, she reveals how important her faith is to her, why motherhood is the best role she has, and of course, she shares the quote that continually inspires her.

Tonye Faloughi-Ekezie is a wife, a mother, an entrepreneur, and a passionate
advocate based in Lagos, Nigeria. She and her husband are proud parents to
two children, Ugo and Simone. Her advocacy journey took flight when her
daughter, Simone, was diagnosed late with Down syndrome, resulting in heart
complications during infancy. Simone’s recovery became a catalyst for Tonye's
unwavering commitment to special needs advocacy.
Drawing from her successful career as a TV and film producer, Tonye
recognized a significant lack of representation for black and African children,
particularly those with special needs. This realization spurred her to create
"Ugo and Sim Sim," the world’s first picture book series featuring a black main
character with Down syndrome. She is also the author of Nigeria's pioneering
baby board book, "Ugo and Sim Sim: Fruits and Vegetables."
Fueled by her fervour, Tonye founded the Simone’s Oasis Foundation, an
organization that merges creativity with advocacy to reshape societal views on
special needs and neurodiversity. The foundation uses storytelling and artistic
expression to challenge norms and showcase the potential of every child,
regardless of their abilities. Their advocacy spans books, music, music videos,
animation, podcasts, and documentaries.
Tonye is a founding member of the Association of Children’s Authors and
Illustrators of Nigeria and actively contributes to the Creative Industries
Development Bill committee under the office of the Presidency. Her dedication
has made her a sought-after panelist, consultant, facilitator, and speaker on
creative arts and education, animation, parenting, early intervention, and
special needs advocacy.
In addition, Tonye co-produced and co-hosted two podcasts: "Special Mums
Africa: Real Talk on Special Needs Parenting" and the award-nominated
"Represented – Storybooks and More for African Kids," co-hosted with her
son, Ugo.
Currently, Tonye is developing several new children's books with Ouida
Publishing.
Her leadership and impact have been recognized globally, with her selection
for the American Express Leadership Academy, which highlights outstanding
non-profit leaders. This acknowledgment fortifies her dedication to nurturing
purposeful leadership, resilience, and innovation within the non-profit sector.

Connect with Simone’s Oasis on all social media platforms, including
YouTube, @simonesoasis.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I chat with Sangeetha Kowsik , founder and creator of Ihsanishan Design. Sangeetha talks about her role as the serving Hindu Chaplain at NYU/Columbia, the importance of her faith and why she is affectionately called 'The Puja Queen'; and furthering interfaith dialogue.

We talk about her career as a designer, including her role as the previous Head Designer for the Metropolitan Museum of Art, being a trained Arab/Islamic calligrapher and the influences that inspire her work.

Sangeetha and I also discuss the importance of representation and normalisation, dismantling stigmas and stereotypes, why she is a proud Tamil American and South Asian Indian, cultural inheritance, music, and of course, she shares a quote that continually inspires her.

You can learn more about Sangeetha and her work at Ihsanishan.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I have a chat with Film and TV Editor Radek Sienski. Radek shares how he started his career within the industry and what he's learnt thus far. He talks about the importance of a good edit, what attributes are needed to be an effective editor and the importance of a good working relationship with the director on the project. Radek also talks about other projects he's worked on including 'First Dates', 'The Write-Offs', 'Man vs Bee', and 'Save Our Squad with David Beckham'.

We also discuss his favourite genre to work on, fanboy over Jackie Chan films; what James Bond film he would like to re-edit; and of course, Radek shares a couple of quotes that continually inspires him.

Radek Sienski is a BAFTA-nominated editor whose work includes 'Save our Squad with David Beckham', and Apple TV's 'Slow Horses'.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode, Rishma Dhaliwal has a sit-down with me to nerd out over most things Hip-Hop related. Rishma shares her immense love for the music, why its cultural importance and influence is of continual importance and significance in society, and what, in her opinion, is insightful Hip-Hop. From the Old Guard to the up and coming talent of Hip-Hop, we chat about it all including whom she would like to interview for her magazine, and what one of her pet peeves is within the music industry. Rishma also talks about her experience working within the media industry as a PR specialist, the importance of inclusion and diversity, and tips for those wanting to succeed within the competitive industry of music. Rishma also reveals whom she would like in her line-up for a Block Party, and of course, she talks about the quote that continually inspires her.

Rishma Dhaliwal is the founder of 'I am Hip-Hop' magazine, and is also a PR and marketing specialist with over 15 years of experience working in media and PR.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I talk with writer and film director Nick Rizzini. Nick talks about how he started his career and why he believes directing is his true calling rather than acting. We also discuss in depth of our shared passion for NFTs, and talk about his new documentary, "Deep Down The Rabbit Hole"- a documentary about NFTs, community, hope and despair. Nick also discusses the importance of good branding, his favourite director, and shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Nick is a writer/director based in the UK. He founded The Queen Mab Company, an independent film and video production company in 2017. After studying classical acting at LAMDA, he wrote and directed his first short movie “Shhh” that has been screened both nationally and internationally, through international distributors. His most recent work is “Framed”, a micro-budget feature film he self produced.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode, I chat with actor Enva Lewis. Enva chats about her film acting debut in 'How to Have Sex', and why the film is important in exploring issues of consent and relationships. Enva also shares how her heritage has shaped her identity, the importance of being grounded and being true to oneself, and her pride for being a Birmingham native. Enva and I also talk about her upcoming projects, and we also geek out over the works of John Hughes including her personal favourite. Enva recounts on which film-set she worked on that also happened to be the set of her favourite film director. And of course, she shares the quote that continually inspires her.

Enva Lewis starred in the much-lauded & critically acclaimed 'How to have Sex'. She will next be seen in Amazon Prime's 'My Fault: London', a film based on the novel by Mercedes Ron. She will also be appearing in Lena Dunham’s upcoming Netflix series 'TOO MUCH'.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I chat with Film director, producer and writer Zarrar Kahn. Zarrar shares with us how he started his career including his passion for theatre. We also talk about his debut feature film, 'In Flames', which was Pakistan's official submission for Best International Film at the 96th Academy Awards in 2024, and also premiered at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival. We chat about the topic of identity and cultural heritage, the themes of relationships, issues of trauma, society and the male gaze. Zarrar also shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I chat with Radio Producer, Photographer and Filmmaker Anthony Cheng. Anthony shares his story about his musical education as a classically trained pianist, how he started within the industry, and also talks about his podcast, FORTE, where he has conversations with musicians, artists and musicians about their lives and philosophies. We also discuss his upcoming independently-made feature length documentary called 'Hidden Music', which explores the life and works of renowned art-song composer Ian Venables.

Anthony and I also have an in-depth conversation about heritage and cultural Identity, and of course, Anthony shares with us the quote that continually inspires him.

Anthony Cheng started out his visual exploration in digital photography for over a decade before venturing into filmmaking at the start of 2022. Both his extensive experience in classical music (studied under a piano scholarship at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama) and in radio production have informed his passion for storytelling. It is this privilege to understand the nature of being human and how we operate in this world that makes a career in journalism, in the most general sense, exhilarating. When not filmmaking, he is producing political and cultural programmes with John Pienaar and Alexis Conran at Times Radio, a national broadcasting arm of the Times and Sunday Times newspaper in London, UK.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

Trigger warning*: contains descriptions of domestic violence.

In today's episode, I talk with entrepreneur and Revenue Consultant Jeya Sivans. Jeya talks about her career and what it takes to sustain a business in today's climate. We chat about what she encounters as a woman working within the Tech industry, and how she strives for equality within a male dominated industry. She also chats about her other projects including owning a catering enterprise as a restaurateur, and what it takes to make a good chicken curry. Jeya also shares her experiences as a survivor of domestic abuse and violence, and why it is important to bring awareness of such issues to communities within the diaspora. Jeya discusses what it means to be a proud Tamil woman, her love for saris, and of course, she shares the quotes that continually inspire her.

You can contact Jeya via her website: https://perpus.co/

If you or anyone you know is going through domestic abuse, be it mental or physical, please reach out to the following:

https://southallblacksisters.org.uk/
https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/
https://refuge.org.uk/

Alternatively, please reach out to organisations in your region for help.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode, I chat with Farmer, educator and musician Krishna Mckenzie. Krishna shares with us his journey from childhood in England including his time at The Jiddu Krishnamurti School, to The Auroville Farms and setting up Solitude Farm in Tamil Nadu, South India. Krishna talks about the importance of Permaculture, understanding local foods including the importance of food, culture and music. We discuss issues of urbanisation, the impact of industralisation, carbon footprints, GM Foods, and the ecological & economical costs. Krishna also shares with us his philosophy, his music with his band 'Emergence' and their latest studio album sessions, and of course, he shares the quotes and sayings that continually inspire him.

For the last 30 years at Solitude Farm, Auroville (India) Krishna McKenzie has been reconnecting with the local food and relationship to food through community, education, celebration. Krishna Mckenzie is also an actor and musician with his group “Emergence” formed here in India. As an educator and public speaker Krishna has been part of many TEDX and University events.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode, documentary filmmaker Valérie Osouf talks about her role as co-curator for 'Tigritudes'- a Pan-African cycle of 128 films from 42 countries produced between 1956 and 2023. Valérie discusses the relevance of Tigritudes, the lack of respect and knowledge towards Pan-African cinema. We discuss issues surrounding heritage, the legacy of colonialism, including France's colonial history, language, and also the challenges that African filmmakers face when sharing their stories to a wider audience. Valérie also talks about her career, topics that fascinate her, and also shares the quote that continually inspires her.

Valérie Osouf is a French visual artist / documentary filmmaker / curator / activist.
Currently, she’s preparing the shoot of her third feature length documentary, Towards the Night, set in Kigali and starting in two weeks.
She’s also working on an installation through The School of Mutants collective, about Jonas Mekas and Ousmane Sembene and on another one with Congolese artists Cromix Onana and Bryan Batupe, Kinshasa capital of the whole-world.

Since 2020, with filmmaker Dyana Gaye, she co-curates Tigritudes, a Pan-African cycle of 128 films from 42 countries produced between 1956 and 2023.
Exhibitions now in CCA Glasgow and Merana Kunst
https://www.cca-glasgow.com/programme/you-have-not-yet-been-defeated
https://www.mutualart.com/Artist/The-School-of-Mutants/EA99F7FF9CE7E616/Exhibitions

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

Trigger warning: Due to the nature of Christiana's job as a lawyer, sensitive issues come up in the conversation that some listeners may find disturbing.

In today's episode, I talk with lawyer and entrepreneur Christiana Ajilore. Christiana discusses why she took up the profession of law and the field she specialises in. She shares the challenges and rewards that come from her career and the importance of mental health and well-being. We discuss issues surrounding unconscious bias, the interpretation of the law and other topics. Christiana also talks about her passion for event management, and for the supperclub that she runs and her love for music and food. We chat about her Yorùbá heritage, British identity and we try to unravel what it means to 'have tea'. And of course, Christiana shares the quote and saying that continually inspires her.

Christiana Ajilore is a Child Protection & Education Lawyer by day. On the side she runs 'Eats & Beats', a supperclub which launched in 2017 to deliver on three key fronts: (I) to celebrate the diversity of London with refreshing food fusions over a 3 course meal, (II) provide entertainment, and (III) raise money for local charities.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode, I chat with Consumer Rights champion Helen Dewdney, otherwise known as 'The Complaining Cow'. Helen talks about the importance of understanding your rights as a consumer especially within the UK, topical consumer issues and the importance of investing in customer services from companies. Helen discusses how local council budget cuts can have a lasting impact on trading standards and the issues that have arisen due to this . Helen also shares tips on how to make an effective and valid legal complaint and other points.

Helen is a Best-selling author, blogger, consultant, consumer champion, journalist, speaker and presenter. You can check her website for more information.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

In today's episode, I'm in conversation with The Sunday Times bestselling author Sathnam Sanghera. We discuss his new book 'Empireworld', and his other books including 'Empireland' and 'Stolen History'. We discuss the British Empire, it's history and the painful legacy of colonialism. The topics of racism, language, patriotism, identity & heritage are also discussed and we talk about why there are new insights & points of view into established historical narratives in relation to the empire from the colonised perspective. Sathnam also talks about his Punjabi heritage, our shared distaste for a particular song, mental health and of course, the quote that continually inspires him.

Sathnam Sanghera was born to Punjabi parents in the West Midlands in 1976. He entered the education system unable to speak English but, after attending Wolverhampton Grammar School, graduated from Christ’s College, Cambridge with a first class degree in English Language and Literature. He has been shortlisted for the Costa Book Awards twice, for his memoir The Boy With The Topknot and his novel Marriage Material, the former being adapted by BBC Drama in 2017 and named Mind Book of the Year in 2009. His third book, Empireland: How Imperialism Has Been Shaped Modern Britain became an instant Sunday Times bestseller on release in 2021, was named a Book of the Year at the 2022 British Books Awards, and resulted in Empire State of Mind, the acclaimed two-part documentary for Channel 4 for which he earned a Best Presenter shortlisting at the 2022 Grierson Awards.

The book also inspired a sequel, Empireworld: How British Imperialism Has Shaped the Globe, which became an instant Sunday Times bestseller on release in 2024, and Stolen History: The Truth about the British Empire and How it Shaped Us, which went to No 1 on several children’s books charts when it was released in 2023 and was shortlisted for a British Book Award and Children’s Book of the Year by Foyles. His work has been recognised with the awarding of numerous honorary doctorates and journalism prizes, including Young Journalist of the Year at the British Press Awards in 2002, Media Commentator of the year in the 2015 Comment Awards and the Edgar Wallace Trophy for Writing of the Highest Quality at the 2017 London Press Club Awards. He was elected a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in 2016, and elected a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society in recognition of his contribution to historical scholarship in 2023.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

"There was something about the instrument that always spoke to me (being a shy person) because it was like the most important instrument on stage, but not the instrument that anybody noticed. You weren't as visible as the drummer. You weren't as flashy as the guitar player. And yet everything you do on the bass affects everything else. And you're kind of steering the ship, so to speak. So I loved the power that the bass had over the music. I loved how it combined elements of harmony like a piano player and the elements of rhythm like a drummer; I loved how the bass is always playing. Usually the bassist doesn't stop playing and those low sounds always appealed to me."

On today's episode we are talking all things music with bassist and music educator Paul Thompson. Paul talks about how he started his musical journey and why the Double Bass is instrument of choice. We both delve into our passion for jazz, with an emphasis on how listening to all genres is important to a great musical education . Paul also shares how he lives with Multiple Sclerosis and the challenges that it brings, mental wellbeing and of course, he talks about the quote that continually inspires him.

Paul Thompson has been playing bass professionally for over 30 years, including recording and touring stints with trumpeter Maynard Ferguson and saxophonist Stanley Turrentine. Performance credits include Hubert Laws, Geri Allen, Michael Feinstein, Bob James, John Pizzarelli, Phil Woods, Bob Reynolds, Dan Wilson, Sean Jones, and Billy Porter, among others. Currently, he can be seen playing around the Pittsburgh area with the THOTH Trio, the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra, in pit orchestras of Pittsburgh Musical Theatre, Front Porch Theatricals, PCLO, and Pittsburgh Public Theatre, or performing with some of Pittsburgh's rich Jazz community.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

My guest on today's episode is Kate Verity Wilson, an ex-film producer who runs the anti-discrimination and workplace culture app 'Call It!'. Kate talks about the challenges and limited options for many creatives within the film industry, including the lack of diversity and inclusivity and harassment of genders. We also chat about her experiences of her time working in Hollywood which led her to write her first fictional novel 'Prospects', which is about California, wellness and illness, success and failure and the experiences of women in Hollywood. Kate also shares her ongoing fight with the BRCA gene, what life has taught her so far, her love for independent film, her favourite film of all time and of course, the quote and saying that continually inspires her.

Kate Verity Wilson is a Writer, Consultant and Co-Founder at Call It! creating safer and fairer productions.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

"I grew up seeing people on TV and being like, wow, that's amazing, I would love to do that! And it was also the excitement of seeing a black person on TV. I literally heard my mum be like 'Oh, I need to call my sisters. I need to make sure they're watching. There's a black person on TV, 6pm tonight!' And it's like...it was such an amazing feeling to feel represented whenever we did see someone. I actually feel like that buzz has actually gone a bit now because we actually expect not to see black people on TV...back then, it was just like, we're just proud. And as a young person growing up, I saw Oprah. My mom watched The Oprah Winfrey Show on Channel 4. We saw Trevor McDonald. We saw Moira Stewart doing the news and it was like, you know, my Guyanese nanny used to be like 'Moira's on telly tonight!' And it's like, yes, I love seeing that celebration of talent. So I knew growing up that I wanted to tap into that world of being on screen."

On today's episode, I chat with Broadcaster & Live Host Remel London. She shares how her enthusiasm for all things media related spurred her into a career in broadcasting. Remel talks about the challenges she has encountered within the industry, the importance of representation within the media, being true to one's self, and how having a strong work ethic can make all the difference. Remel and I also discuss her mixed heritage and what identity means to her, mental wellbeing and what keeps her anchored and of course, she shares the quote that continually inspires her.

Passionate, driven and at the very forefront of innovation within entertainment, Remel London is one of the most exciting breakout names in British broadcasting. Already the face of Sky One’s What’s Up TV and host of her own radio show on Capital Xtra, Remel is also the founder of much celebrated creative platform The Mainstream which provides key networking opportunities, live events, workshops/seminars and podcasts to support exceptional diverse talent in developing their career in the mainstream media space.

A defining voice within the culture, she’s played key roles in the development of the iconic music platform Link Up TV, working as lead presenter and producer to win partnerships with Footasylum and Boiler Room TV as well as being weekly host of London’s top live music event ILUVLIVE.

Her extensive knowledge of music and entertainment led to her joining the MOBO Awards panel before going on to host the MOBOs official Red Carpet. A passionate advocate for young creatives, she has hosted the Music For Youth Proms at the Royal Albert Hall a record seven times and is resident host of the Rocking Ur Teens Girls Conference.

As a former semi-pro athlete, Remel is also a Nike Ambassador with several branded partnerships including Puma, Spotify, Wagamamas and Apprentice Nation. She is also Notting Hill Carnival’s official annual host.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

"I can speak from a marketing perspective, and one of the things that's really helpful for us is that the author wants to be front and centre of the campaign. It's really helpful if the author is prepared to come out and meet the audience, whether it's through Q&A's or panels, doing little video snippets for social media. Those little things are really amazing and helpful. Also, I think it's important for authors to be really clear with their publishers, that it's important for them to reach a diverse audience because sometimes publishers rest on their laurels and will just do exactly the same thing."

On today's episode I have a conversation with Micallar Walker, founder at Dark Matter. Micallar talks about how she moved from a career in film marketing to starting a collaborative marketing agency, catering in particular for Black audiences. We chat about some of the campaigns that she has worked on, the importance of telling and sharing Black stories to wider audiences through the mediums of books and cinema. We also discuss issues of cultural identities, mental health and wellbeing, what, in her opinion, is a genre Black readers crave when it comes to reading, the importance of collaborations, the importance of literary work and why book publishing will continue to thrive.

Micallar also shares what her film passions are, and of course, the quotes that continually inspire her.

Micallar (Mi-kay-la) is a marketer, event producer and audience development consultant with expertise delivering impactful campaigns in the UK, Middle East and North Africa. Formerly Head of Marketing for Front Row Filmed Entertainment, and Head of Events for Picturehouse Cinemas prior to that, she brings over 20 years of marketing experience to inform strategies and shape authentic campaigns.

In 2020, Micallar founded inclusive marketing agency Dark Matter to connect culture with Black audiences. Highlights for Micallar and the agency include being nominated for a Screen International award for Diversity and Inclusion and presenting a case study of her work at Faber's Independent Alliance Conference.

In 2021 and 2022, Dark Matter contributed to three winning campaigns at the Book Marketing Society Awards and produced events for two books nominated in the Best Marketing Campaign category at the 2023 British Book Awards.

Micallar's consultancy work includes working with Fane Productions, as well as Picturehouse Cinemas where she provides ongoing support to reach and develop Black audiences.

Micallar divides her time between her hometown of London and Dubai, where she currently lives with her husband and two children.

Instagram: @darkmattermktg @micallarwalker
www.darkmatteragency.co.uk

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

"And what ZSL and other senior NGOs do is we do conservation by consent. So the indigenous people, the local communities, it's their country, it's their forest, they have those rights. So we do it by consent and actually it's a really mature way to talk about it because there's a huge amount of old knowledge within that community about how it's been managed over the years and how we can learn. So, yes, we bring our science, we bring our ideas, we sit down, we talk them through what we propose doing, but we get the community to sign up to that because without their buy-in, without their commitment to it, you're wasting your time."

On today's episode I chat with Grant Miller MBE, Counter trafficking and law enforcement advisor with the Zoological Society of London (ZSL). Grant talks about his passion for the environment, including his career experiences and encounters during his travels across the globe within his current role within the ZSL, how he and his team approach cultural sensitivity within communities; issues surrounding trauma and mental health within the line of duty; the vital work that the local rangers conduct including the challenges of dealing with poachers and the illegal activity of trafficking; what's on the endangered species list, and other topics. Grant also talks about his time in the military and law enforcement, his Scottish heritage, and of course, he shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Grant has over 30 years’ experience working within UK Law enforcement structures. He rose from the uniformed ranks to a senior leadership role within the UK Border Force. His final ten years of service saw him lead the UK CITES enforcement controls at the UK Border. This entailed providing the strategic leadership to the Internationally recognised UK Border force Cites enforcement team.

In 2017 Grant was elected Chair of the INTERPOL wildlife crime working group, the first non police officer to hold this position. He was a co-founder of the globally recognised IWT enforcement operations under the “Thunder” brand. He has provided training for the World Customs organisation, Interpol, UNoDC, CITES Secretariat, EU life, The Durrell Institute and WWF. In 2019 Grant was appointed a member of the British Empire for services to the international protection of wildlife and wider border security. In 2016 Grant was awarded a World Customs Organisation
commendation from the Secretary general for his lead in the enforcement of the CITES Convention.

In 2014 Grant and his team won the WWF wildlife crime operation of the year, for the detection, investigation and subsequent successful prosecution of two offenders involved in the smuggling of San Salvador rock Iguanas from the Bahamas through the UK. Grant has trained on IWT Issues in over 20 countries globally.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode, I chat with Kunle Falodun, Vice President Distribution & Networks, Africa at Sony Pictures Television. Kunle shares stories about his upbringing in Nigeria including his NYSC stint and how he started his career in media. We talk about the content creation within the visual sphere, the reality behind distribution to wider markets and investing in particular regions. We also delve into his passion for the
growth of the African media industry. Kunle also talks about his faith, what interests him, and of course, he shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Kunle Falodun is currently the Vice President Distribution & Networks, Africa at
Sony Pictures Television. He is currently responsible for the distribution of Sony’s
Television Series, Feature films as well as Scripted and Unscripted formats in Sub-
Sahara Africa.

Kunle joined Sony Pictures in 2017 from Econet Media where he was the Group
Head of Business Development for Kwese Free to Air TV. At Econet Media, he
helped to set up or acquire Free TV Channels in more than 8 African countries as
well as a network of affiliate broadcasters in more than 30 African countries.
He previously spent more than 10 years at Optima Sports Management Int’l (OSMI)
where he rose to the post of Managing Director before co-founding Africa Sports
Content Syndicate in the UK. At OSMI, Kunle had the opportunity of distributing
premium sports content to broadcasters in more than 33 countries in Sub-Sahara
Africa consistently for many years.

Kunle has an MBA from The Bradford School of Management and serves on the
Board of Trustee of three (3) Charity organisations.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

"I really wanted to create a magical world that would again bring these beings to attention and bring some respect to the fact because I think like, whatever religion they have, they can appreciate the sophistication of that system, you know what I mean? Most Italians are Christian, right? But they don't denounce their old gods. They would respect them. Whereas for us, we're taught to kind of hate what our ancestors believed in. We're taught that there's no sophistication in it, that there's no knowledge in it, that there's no sense in it. And that's really, really sad."

On today's episode, I chat with children's author and adventure fantasy writer, Maria Motúnráyo Adébísí, and she talks about her new novel 'Kòkú Àkànbí and the Heart of Midnight', part of the Jujuland series. Maria shares with me why her love of her Yorùbá heritage, fantasy and celebration of Black joy were a few of the reasons behind writing this book. We discuss themes of belonging and identity, the hypermasculinity of young black boys, tradition and cultural nuances, creating an awareness about Sickle Cell anemia. We also chat about the power behind names, Oríkì (Yorùbá) praise poetry, Mythology from West Africa, and readdressing history from Nigeria.

Maria also shares with us her time at college in Oxford, her love for Japanese animation, which old fable character she would like to re-imagine, and of course, she also discusses the quote that continually inspires her.

Maria Motúnráyo Adébísí graduated from the University of Oxford with a degree in English Literature. Writing her middle grade fantasy Jujuland: Kòkú Ákánbí and the Heart of Midnight helped Maria Motunrayo on her journey to fully embracing identity as a British Nigerian. Maria Motúnráyo’s critically acclaimed novel Kòkú Ákánbí and the Heart of Midnight has been described as “sharp, witty and thrilling” by the Guardian. It was longlisted for the Spark Book Awards 2024 and is currently up for the Jhalak Prize which recognises outstanding literary talent from writers of colour. The sequel, Kòkú Ákánbí and the King of Lost Souls is available for pre-order, and will be out in August this year.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

Content/Trigger Warning: This episode contains issues relating to knife crime & violence.

"It's really important (for young people to be intentional with what they plan to do with themselves). A digital project I'm working on now is really geared towards doing that and empowering young people through their phones to, as you said, kind of find that purpose and sense of pride. Because I think it's important. There's loads of theory around hope and the fact that hope enables you to be less susceptible to, you know, health challenges and criminality and all of these things and kind of push through and be more resilient. So, I think it is super important."

In this episode, I talk to award-winning youth coach, speaker and filmmaker Amani Simpson. Amani kindly shares chapters about his life including how a violent, traumatic encounter changed his life and gave him purpose and a new direction in serving others. Amani talks about the importance of his faith, stewardship, mindset & work ethic, and working with the youth in communities via social enterprises. We discuss the importance of intention, mentorship and also look at social & health issues including youth crime, poverty and mental wellbeing. I also chat with Amani about film career as a director, writer and producer. We also talk about music, The Hunger Games franchise, and of course, Amani shares the quote that continually inspires him.

AMANI SIMPSON is a gifted youth coach, filmmaker and campaigner with a calling to empower current and future generations. He uses his inspirational story of transformation, creativity, and expertise in youth engagement to challenge, uplift and enrich. Most notably he is the producer and protagonist of the acclaimed short film 'AMANI' starring Hollywood actor, Joivan Wade, which has now been watched over 4 million times. Amani is also founder and CEO of social enterprise, AVIARD Inspires which has produced impactful youth initiatives alongside The Mayor of London, Goldman Sachs and former 2x Heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

"Western chefs use Indian spices from different regions and they'll call it a British cuisine with these spices , but they're the clever ones but we can't be clever because we just know how to make curry? And so, that's not true. Why can't we do this with drinks? Why can't that stereotype change? And no, it's not a curry in a bottle; it's depth and flavour. And again, a lot of these spices are used in other gins. Just because we've called it a British Indian gin, people automatically go to that assumption. So it is very cool for us to try to change a narrative, even though it's a big task. But we thought: 'Do you know what? Someone's gotta start it'."

On today's episode, I chat with the owners and distillers of Crazy Gin, Bruce and Paramjit Nagra. They recount how a Friday night- in with a bad takeaway birthed the idea of Crazy Gin, how they went about creating the flavours that also celebrates and respects their Indian heritage, including their proud Punjabi roots and also being British. We discuss ingredients, recipes, and experimenting with ideas of various flavours of the gin, and why it was vital to get the branding right for their product.

The couple also share not only the challenges they faced in setting up the business including the racism and the lack of women distillers within the hospitality industry, but also their triumphs. We also discuss food and music and of course, Paramjit and Bruce share the quotes that continually inspire them.

What drives someone to pursue a dream that others label as 'crazy'? For Paramjit and Bruce Nagra, it meant having the boldness to sell their home, quit their secure jobs, and leave London to transform their vision into reality. In 2016, they ventured into the drinks industry with Crazy Gin, a testament to their determination to infuse their British Indian heritage into pioneering, flavour-packed spirits. They unveiled the world’s first Clear Lassi Gin and Punjabi Chai Gin, each a celebration of their rebellion against the mundane, skillfully blending vibrant flavours and untold stories into the fabric of the drinks landscape.

Their journey represents more than just the creation of unique spirits; it's a powerful advocacy for diversity and inclusion within the drinks sector. By challenging established norms and fostering representation and empowerment, they’ve not only broken barriers but have also emerged as pathfinders for South Asian entrepreneurs in the drinks industry. From dreaming big to becoming innovators in their field, their story is a vivid illustration of the impact of heritage, innovation, and unwavering belief.

You can buy Crazy Gin on their website, at Harvey Nichols and other retail outlets.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode, my guest is broadcaster and journalist Ellen E. Jones. Ellen talks about her new book 'Screen Deep: How film and TV can solve racism and save the world', and we delve into issues including how racial identity is constructed through the visual mediums of film and tv, issues surrounding representation, narratives and identity. Ellen also talks about her mixed heritage and her perspective on various issues.

We also discuss certain chapters from the book, including the Western, Horror and Superhero genres, and what she has learned while she wrote the book, and she shares the quote that continually inspires her.

Ellen E Jones is a film and TV journalist and the co-host of the BBC flagship film and TV programme, Screenshot (BBC Radio 4, Fridays at 7.15pm and on BBC Sounds). She writes regularly for The Guardian, The Observer, Empire magazine and others. Her book ’Screen Deep: How film and TV can solve racism and save the world’ is out now, published by Faber.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

"...so we just came together ( with Tolu Olowofoyeku & Olufikayo 'Ziki' Adeola). The goals were close enough where we all wanted really good African storytelling, so that's the main umbrella (for forming 'Kugali'). But in terms of going into the nuance of it from my point of view, I really wanted the quality to be absolutely good, because Africa has amazing stories. If you look around the world, people will talk about diversity and all that. And I'm like, you can have as much of it as syou want: if the story is crap, nobody is going to watch it. So, it has to be really, really good quality for people to be able to understand it and take it in. So that's why I came in. That's what Kugali means to me. It's creating high quality visual stories that's going to inspire the next generation.On today's episode, I geek out about animation, visual storytelling and culture with Kugali's Chief Executive Officer, Hamid Ibrahim. Hamid discusses his career, how Kugali Media came into existence from a collaboration from like-minded peers, and why he is a strong advocate for showcasing rich storytelling from all parts of Africa.

Hamid talks about Kugali's collaboration with Disney with their upcoming original animated series called 'Iwájú', set in a futuristic Lagos, Nigeria. Hamid also shares what genre of films he loves, comes up with a pretty convincing short story with no script, and of course, he shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Hamid Ibrahim is Co-Founder/CEO of Kugali Media. He has worked as a production designer with Walt Disney Animation Studios, and also worked at MPC.

Viewers will be able to stream the first episode of 'Iwájú' on Disney+ on the 28th of February 2024.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

" 'I SEE HER' is my first film, and it was a response to seeing the spike of cases of women and girls post-pandemic. During the pandemic, the cases of abuse in women and girls rose to 25%-33% higher. It was so bad that they coined the pandemic 'The Shadow Pandemic'. Post-pandemic cases rose by 8%. There was another pandemic going on that people were not even acknowledging which was in those confined spaces that became pressure cookers for abuse."In today's episode I chat with activist, writer & director SUKKI. SUKKI shares stories about her upbringing and her mixed heritage. We talk about the importance of mental health & wellbeing & body positivity, why she prefers the power of sound rather than language & why music is important to her. SUKKI also talks about her activism, including her work with The Sharan Project, Enough Campaign & Children of Venus. She also talks about her directorial debut for the short film 'I See Her', bringing awareness to domestic abuse.

During the conversation, SUKKI and I geek out over the music of John Williams, Star Wars, Battlestar Galactica, and SUKKI shares the phrase that continually inspires her.

For futher information about the projects that were discussed & mentioned in this episode, here are the links:

The Sharan Project: https://sharan.org.uk/
Enough Campaign: https://enough.campaign.gov.uk/

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

"There's tons of reasons why people lose hair, there's a lot. There's hormonal changes, medication, illness, diet, environment, but the overall reason is genetics. Here's how the genetic factor works: when your body breaks down the male hormone testosterone, it creates a by-product called 'DHT'. Now, these DHTs are generally excreted through your body, but when it passes by your follicle it gets stuck in a little DHT receptor site..."

On today's episode, I chat with Mahryah Shain, CEO of More Hair Naturally. Mahyrah shares why he is an advocate for natural ingredients in their products, what causes hair thinning; his perspective on hair & mental wellbeing. Mahyrah also shares with us his love for the State of California, what his favourite past-time is, and of course, shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Mahryah Shain is the CEO of the California based company, More Hair Naturally, the world leader in all-natural topical stem cell treatments for thinning hair.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

'It was a hard journey because for those five years I was earning nothing from writing, and it also feels quite a grandiose thing to suggest to your friends that "I'm going to be a writer, I want to be an author of published books!", so kept I kept it fairly on the down-low; like it wasn't a secret, but I wasn't out there publicing the fact that i had this big dream now to becoming published. So I used to fit my writing around my work and it just meant setting my alarm to 5am, being really dedicated...It also meant saying 'no' to things that I just didn't have time to do if I wanted to commit fully to trying to write.'

On today's episode, I chat with author Lucy Clarke. Lucy shares why she wanted to write, and how her love for the outdoors including travel always inspires her creativity. She talks about the challenges she faced before she had her first novel published, and her reaction to receiving her first printed copy of her work. Lucy also talks about her body of work, including tv adaptations of her novels that include 'The Castaways', and we also chat about her latest novel, 'The Hike'. And of course, Lucy shares a principle that she and her family try to live by.

Sunday Times bestseller Lucy Clarke is the author of eight destination thrillers. They include Waterstones Thriller of the Month, The Castaways, Richard and Judy Book Club pick, One of the Girls, and most recently, The Hike. Lucy's novels have sold over a million copies and are published in more than 25 territories worldwide.

Lucy's thriller, No Escape (also published as The Blue) has been released as a major international show for Paramount+. Set in the Philippines, the seven-part series is directed by Hans Herbot (The Serpent) and stars Abigail Lawrie and Rhianne Barreto as best friends Lana and Kitty.

The Castaways has also been adapted for screen and was The Guardian Pick of the Week. BAFTA award-winner Sheridan Smith stars as Lori, and Celine Buckens plays her sister, Erin. The five-part thriller is available to stream on Paramount+.

When Lucy isn't away on research trips (the real reason she loves being an author!), she can be found writing from a beach hut on the south coast of England. She lives with her husband and their two children.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

"People (economists)have put together a number of lost earnings, looking at the interest value of money, and it comes into the trillions; we're talking of a profound amount. And so....it's not like anyone is expecting a country to transfer a Trillion pounds next week, but that shouldn't put you off reparations but it's getting the conversation started....imagine a Trillion pounds worth of value taken away from you: how would that affect you?"
On today's episode I chat with entrepreneur and co-founder of The Cornrow, Kemi Lawson. Kemi shares why she set up The Cornrow with her sister, her interest in history and Black stories. We both discuss narratives about Africa, contemporary Black Design, Afro-Futurism and Afrocentrism. As Kemi has a deep love for interior design within homes, it was natural that we talked about her mixed heritage and ancestry, what it means to her being Black British and how it has shaped her style. We also chat about 'The Black Home', the negative connotations surrounding mud houses, biohacking, cultural appropriation. And of course, Kemi shares with us the quote that continually inspires her.

Kemi Lawson is creative director of The Cornrow, an online home and lifestyle store which curates décor which celebrates the modern Afrocentric aesthetic, www.thecornrow.com. Kemi is passionate about Africa and African diaspora stories and how they relate to our homes. She blogs on @cottagenoir on Instagram. She also has written for numerous publications including Harper’s Bazaar and Living etc and has curated for the Museum of the Home in London Her own home has been featured in a number of interior books and magazines and is designed with an aesthetic she terms “Afro Aristo meets Caribbean nan chic”!

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

"I think in terms of expectations, we (T A P E Collective) are just very, very honest. What we have found...is that there really is a disconnect between a filmmaker's idea and it reaching audiences. I think people really don't understand how distribution, exhibition and production work...and that is something that I think we're quite good at trying to demystify."

In this episode I chat with Isra Al Kassi and Angela Moneke, co-founders of T A P E. The ladies share how they met and how their love for film brought about the creation of the Collective. We talk about why they believe in supporting grassroots projects, the importance of championing under-served films and reaching a wider audience. We discuss the challenges the Collective faces including erasure, tokenism, microaggressions and being othered, but also their successes as T A P E Collective. Isra and Angela also chat about their heritage, what makes them tick, and of course, they share the quotes and sayings that continually inspire them.

T A P E - co-founded by Isra Al Kassi and Angela Moneke - is a South London-based curatorial film collective working across film production, distribution and exhibition, challenging traditional ways of filmmaking and looking to demystify the industry for marginalised voices. Founded in 2015 as a response to the lack of representation on screen and wanting to platform and champion under-served films, they curate screening events and distribute underrepresented films (both past and contemporary) and titles which have had limited to no theatrical release in the UK, mixed with cross-arts engagement. T A P E aims to provide greater exposure for these films and to offer the public a more diverse and enriched range of cinematic work.

Over the years T A P E has curated a number of well-rounded screenings bringing together film, art, music, talks and more into one space and events with a focus on representation, identity and heritage, often with a focus on women of colour behind and in front of the camera.

T A P E has since expanded to include: commissioning content writing; Q&A and panel hosting; consultation on equity, diversity and inclusion; festival guest curation; production; distribution; venue dressing; developing and producing workshops; and running online streaming platform Good Wickedry. Recent programmes include “But Where Are You Really From?”, “Found in Translation” and “Free to Forage”.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

Content Warning: This episode contains issues relating to substance abuse, knife crime, violence & trauma.

"...I had to just walk away...It was probably one of the best decisions I've ever made because it was the only time that Carl actually had to go out and get it out of his system and work on himself, for himself."In today's episode I chat with couple Carl & Karla, founders of Project Youth Official. Carl shares details about his tough upbringing, which included his battles with substance addiction, being a gang member, childhood abuse & domestic violence, how he lost his best friend to a knife stabbing and how he decided to change his life around. Karla talks about her relationship with Carl and why they both decided to use their experiences to create 'Project Youth Official', a social enterprise which includes awareness of knife crimes, offering Youth support to communities, and working with the local police constabulary. We discuss issues including stigma, peer pressure, budget cuts, lived experiences, and what the future holds. Carl and Karla also share why they call themselves 'Two's a Duo', and the quotes that continually inspire them.

@twosaduo have fought the stigma from a turbulent lifestyle to now making a big difference to their local community and beating the odds against them, hitting the media starring in tv shows to co-founding their own youth project.

For more information about Project Youth Official, you can contact them here:

https://projectyouth.co.uk/
https://www.tiktok.com/@twosaduoofficial

For further information or help about issues discussed in this episode, the following websites can be of assistance:

https://benkinsella.org.uk/
https://www.livesnotknives.org/

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

In today's episode I chat with CTO | Technical & Creative Leader Kish Hirani. Kish talks about how he's love for Mathematics and how that led to his start in his career within the games industry. We delve into his time while he worked at Sony Playstation, and what that experience has taught him. Kish talks about his advocacy for underrepresented ethnicities, hence the creation of BiG. He also stresses the importance of nurturing talent and sharing knowledge. We talk about issues surrounding mental health, generative AI within the industry. Kish also shares what his favourite computer games are, his hobbies and of course, the quote that continually inspires him.

Kish Hirani brings with him 25 years experience in the games industry. He started as a software engineer, swiftly attaining technical director or equivalent roles at development studios and publishing houses like Acclaim, THQ, BBC Multimedia to name a few. Thereafter he moved to platform holders starting with Microsoft then settling at Sony PlayStation for 8 years as their Head of Developer Services, developing and managing resources for all developers facing technical activities. Currently, he is the CTO at Kiss Publishing as well as sits on multiple advisory boards. He is the founding-Chair of the advocacy group BiG, BAME in Games (Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic), promoting diversity in the industry.

He has been recently listed as the 'Top 100 IT/Tech leaders in the UK, 2023' by Computing magazine; He was listed as one of 'The Top 100 most influential BAME leaders in UK Tech' 2019 in the Financial Times; awarded the ‘Diversity Star Award’ at the Develop:Star Awards 2019 and listed as ‘The Top 100 Asian Stars in UK Tech’ by Diversity UK in 2018.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode, I chat with Antonello Mirone, a Stonemason, Fresco painter and Historian. He shares his love of the craft and why he got into the business.

Antonello also talks about the differences in stones and what his preferred material to work with is; why the stonemasonry is a dying industry, especially in Italy and why council cuts are leaving a lingering impact on Canterbury Cathedral and other heritage sites in the UK. Antonello also chats about his proud Neopolitan heritage, his love for History and Philosophy, and what part of the human anatomy he finds challenging to draw as an artist. And of course, we talk about the quote that continually inspires him.

Antonello is a person actively seeking beauty as an intellectual and a craftsman. Trained since a young age in humanities, he is now part of a handful group of artists fluent in the ancient art of Affresco (Fresco) and Stonemasonry. You can read more about Antonello via his Medium page here, and also see some of his artwork on the Saatchi Art Gallery online.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

In today's episode, I talk to filmmaker and story teller Warda Mohamed about her debut narrative short film 'Muna'. Warda also talks about her Somali heritage, language & identity and what it means to be British Somali. We also discuss classic films from the 1980s and focus on a particular film that she would love to adapt for the stage, and whom she would cast. And of course, Warda shares with us the quote that continually inspires her.

Warda is a BIFA nominated filmmaker, she began her film career assisting Faye Ward & the Fable Pictures team on ROCKS, where she consulted on the elements of Somali representation within the film. Since then she has worked with Nira Park & the Complete Fiction team, as the assistant to Roger Michell on THE DUKE, and in the AD team on Edgar Wright's latest - LAST NIGHT IN SOHO.

Her first experimental short SORRY MY SOMALI IS NOT VERY GOOD premiered on BFI Player in June 2021 and has been screened at BFI Southbank and at Aesthetica Film Festival. Warda was also involved in the writers room for the second season of Nida Manzoor WE ARE LADY PARTS for Channel 4 & Peacock.

Expanding her talents into the theatre, Warda co-directed DUGSI DAYZ, a comedic riff on The Breakfast Club that won the 2023 Untapped Award and performed a month-long run at Edinburgh Fringe across summer 2023, ultimately winning the BBC Popcorn Award for New Writing. She is part of the 2023 cohort of BFI Network @ LFF talent development programme.

BBC FILM-backed MUNA, Warda’s debut narrative short, is currently on the festival circuit - where it has played at Raindance, Aesthetica, London Film Festival among others - winner of Best Short Film at the British Short Film Awards.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I chat with filmmaker & writer, Comfort Emmanuel. Comfort shares why her passion for writing and filmmaking got her into the industry, and the challenges in getting her vision to a wider audience. We discuss how her corporate background has given her a grounded reality, and balancing realities and expectations when it comes to making films. Speaking of films, Comfort talks about her 2023 short film, 'The Inside Joke', and we look at issues surrounding mental conflict, body shaming, imposter syndrome and trauma.

Comfort and I talk about why she enjoys stories from the diaspora, what writing means to her and of course, she shares the quote that continually inspires her.

Comfort Emmanuel is a writer/director based in London, UK. She was born in Sweden to Nigerian parents and moved to London at a very young age. This mix of cultures has gone on to massively inform her writing. She is inspired by diverse stories with unexpected heroes, particularly those from minority backgrounds.

Though Comfort has a background in finance, her overwhelming interest in story-telling led her to quit her job in banking in 2019 to pursue that dream. She has since gone on to complete a six-month independent filmmaking course at Central Film School London. Comfort has written a number of short films as well as a TV pilot.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I have an interesting conversation about all things cocktails with mixologist and entrepreneur Eron Mibo. Eron shares with us how her interest in the hospitality industry led her to start a career with beverages. We talk about ingredients, thriving businesses in her neighbourhood, the lack of women of the Global Majority within this side of the industry. Eron also discusses what she believes makes a good cocktail, what her favourite mix is, and the one she doesn't care much for. We also talk about her pride for her community, its mixture of different cultures and how it has shaped her. And of course, Eron shares the quote that continually inspires her.

Eron Mibo describes herself as a cocktailpreneur and founder of Tales & Tails UK, a beverage content management and events company. Her journey began blogging cocktail recipes to now working with beverage brands on a range of creative projects such as content creation, recipe development, events and more. Eron was born and raised in Broadwater Farm Estate Tottenham, and is proud of her North London heritage.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

Today's episode is a very short thank you to all the listeners of The Swinging Palm Trees podcast, and a special thank you to all my guests who have taken the time to have a chat with me and share their lived experiences and quotes that inspire them.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

In this episode, I talk with David Martinez Flores about his love for film and heritage. David shares the positive influence his family has had on him for his appreciation for film, especially from his mother. We talk about his pride of being Mexican, and the importance of heritage and storytelling. David also talks about his advocacy for representation, diversity and LGBTQ and their portrayal in film. He also shares how, while reading his favourite book at a work canteen, changed the course of his life by a serendipitous meeting. David also reveals his favourite childhood film, his kind of music, and of course, the saying that continually inspires him.

David Martinez is the Executive Director of London's Raindance Film Festival, the largest independent film festival in the UK, with over 10 years of experience in events and film promotion. His previous experience includes working as a film programmer for Glastonbury Festival and events coordinator at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. He has a Master in Film as Mass Communications at the University of Leicester, David advocates for diversity and representation in film. He specialises in the promotion of Latin American and queer cinemas. His academic and professional experience in Mexico, US and UK ranges from advertising and marketing to film studies, focusing on film promotion at festivals.

David is also a member of the British Academy of Film and Television Awards and a Trustee on the Board for CASA Latin American Arts Festival in the UK.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I chat with Jerry Mannikarote. He shares with us his lived experiences over the years that includes being a physician and sleep technologist. As sleep is an area that fascinates me, Jerry breaks down the importance of understanding sleep, and discusses sleep disorders including insomnia, Restless Leg Syndrome & Obstructive Sleep apnea. Jerry also stresses the importance of having a good night's sleep, and provides tips for bedtime routines.

Jerry also talks about his enthusiasm for Martial Arts and the application of its tenants in other areas of his life; his heritage, and his love for music; that one actor he would love to meet and have a chat with, and of course, Jerry shares with us the quote that continually inspires him.

Dr Gerald George Mannikarote (Jerry) is a sales and marketing professional based in the United States. However, he doesn't let his professional work define him. Over the years, Jerry has worked as a physician, sleep technologist, DJ, musician, personal trainer, and martial artist. His current mission is to spread the message of wellness. He is based in Houston, Texas, USA, is married and has twin college aged young men. Jerry also co-hosts 'The Sleep Talk' podcast, which looks into all things within the field of sleep technology.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode, I chat with sisters Donna and Abigail Otchere, a Mechanical Engineer and Biomedical Scientist respectively. We talk about their interest in the sciences and why they created SiSTEM, a non-profit organisation connecting women and Sciences. The sisters talk about what science means to them, the importance of encouraging children towards science; they challenges they've had within their respective fields of expertise, and their thoughts as to why women are generally unrecognised for their achievements. They also share the importance of confidence, mental health and how their faith supports them. It also goes without saying that the topic of Jollof rice comes up in conversation, and of course, the quote that continually inspires them.

Dr Abigail and Donna are sisters and co-founders of SiSTEM. SiSTEM is an initiative which connects women in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). Abigail is a PhD graduate of biomedical science and works in medical communications. Donna is a mechanical engineering graduate working as a program officer. Birthed from their own experiences, SiSTEM is a network to support women and improve retention and the uptake of women by inspiring from early years to working professionals. Both sisters are passionate about seeing more young girls in STEM especially black girls and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode, I have the pleasure of talking with Psychologist, university lecturer and author, Dr Anna Scarnà. Anna talks about her career and her passion for words and language, including bilingualism and language acquisition.

We talk about her co-authored book with Robert Ingersoll entitled 'Primatology, Ethics and Trauma: The Oklahoma Chimpanzee Studies', and we talk about language and trauma amongst chimpanzees. We also look at Anna's award-winning research on dopamine in the brain and psychological disorders, and her work on personality, autism and non-drug treatments for mood disorders like Bipolar disorder.

Anna also talks about her rich Italian heritage, which career path she would have taken if not within the field of academia, neurons, and of course, the quote that continually inspires her.

Dr Anna Scarna is a Psychologist at the University of Oxford. Her co-authored book with Robert Ingersoll entitled 'Primatology, Ethics and Trauma: The Oklahoma Chimpanzee Studies' (published by Routledge), can be purchased here.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I talk with songwriter and singer Gloria Stanley. Ms Stanley shares her joy for singing, her compositions and how she discovered herself. She discusses her love for all things music, and also her passion for the city of Macon, Georgia. We also talk about the importance of her faith & belief, why she describes her charity work as 'philanthropy with flair', and she shares the quote that continually inspires her.

Gloria Stanley is the Founder of Macon Make Music Day Worldwide Celebration in Macon, Georgia. She is also the host of the 'Happy Talk Radio' Podcast.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!

On today's episode I chat with the Scottish Green Party Councillor Holly Bruce. We look at why she sees herself as an activist first, and why she got into politics from a career in law. Holly discusses her role as an councillor within the community; her role in passing a motion at Glasgow City Council, making Glasgow 'UK's first feminist city' making women integral to “all aspects of planning, public realm design, policy development and budgets”. We also have a dialogue about sustainability, Indyref2, the impact of Brexit, the effects of budget cuts to the community, Holyrood and Westminster.

Holly also talks about her Scottish heritage; how she manages her mental health; whom she would invite out for Karaoke, and of course, she shares the quote that continually inspires her.

Holly Bruce is the Scottish Green Party Councillor for Langside Ward, Glasgow.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, I chat with creative duo Adwoa & Solomon of Adeche.atelier. They discuss how they use their collective talent in art to explore African mythology & the resurgence of knowing one's culture & identity. We look at some of the folktales from Africa and other parts of the world, the recent recasting of 'The Little Mermaid', storytelling & the author Neil Gaiman. We chat about the pantheon of gods from the Yoruba, Ashanti & Greek cultures, and the lasting effects of colonialism and missionaries. Adwoa & Solomon also talk about their podcast, and their exhibition 'African Odyssey: Exploring Cultures, Myths and Stories. We also address the most important of questions as to who makes the better jollof rice, and of course, they share the quote that continually inspires them.

To see more of Adwoa & Solomon's work, please visit their website:https://adeche.com/. To hear more about what they have to say about African mythology, gods and stories, check their podcast 'Afro Mythos Podcast'.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, I chat all things Teddy bears with Penelope Carrington, a self-described 'Chief Bear Alchemist', and editor of 'One Good Road Buddy'. Penelope shares how she had her first Teddy bear, Albert, and how she has been making teddy bears since she was 13. She also talks about the importance and relevance of teddybears, and the psychology of holding and cuddling a teddy bear. We discuss childhood memories, the importance of therapy, mental health and well being. Penelope also demonstrates why you're never too old to have a cuddly toy. We also talk about other famous teddy bears within popular culture, an experience in Costa Rica with Albert, and of course, Penelope shares the quote that continually inspires her.

Penelope is the editor of 'One Good Road Buddy', and also hosts 'Goodbye, Zombie Bear' Podcast. Penelope is also an award-winning writer and editor, and is also a multimedia producer. Her work has been published by The New York Times, Smithsonian Magazine, Time, CNN, NBC News, The Richmond Times-Dispatch, U.S. Airways, and Vogue Italia’s PhotoVogue, among others. Penelope's work is also part of the permanent collections at the Virginia Treatment Center for Children and Family Lifeline.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, I chat with Masterchef Quarter Finalist 2022 & Commercial Property lawyer, Ally Middleton. He shares with us how he got into law and why he chose to go into Commercial Property law. He also talks about his immense love for cooking, his early memories of the first dish that he was taught to cook, the people that have inspired him and why he finds food fascinating. Ally chats about his time on the BBC Hit series Masterchef, his signature dish, the lessons he learned and the friendships made. Ally reveals the one sauce he couldn't live without, whom he would love to cook for at a feast, and of course, the quote that continually inspires him.

Ally is a self-taught classical chef from Edinburgh, who reached the Quarter Finals of MasterChef UK 2022 and has since launched a private dining business offering fine dining experiences at home and supper clubs across the UK. Outside of the kitchen, Ally is a qualified property solicitor.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode I chat with actor Vinay Rai. Vinay talks about his passion for rugby, his time playing for Bangalore Rugby football club (B.R.F.C), the injuries he sustained during his playing days and whom he idolises within the sport. Vinay discusses how he started within the film industry in India, the importance of having a strong work ethic, how his language skills have kept him in good stead working within the diverse Indian filmmaking communities. We look at Vinay's filmography so far, his encounters with fans & critics, his thoughts about the Writers' strike in Hollywood, and what he loves most while on a film set. Vinay also talks about his proud Tulu heritage, shares what his favourite beverage is, anecdotes, and of course, the quote that continually inspires him.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, I chat with husband and wife team Simon & Louisa Georgiou about their product, 'Louisa's Honey'. They share how the business started with a road trip to Italy with their neighbour and now business partner, Peter, and also discuss their passion behind the business and why it is important to them. We chat about sustainability, apiculture and the environment. They also talk about the flavours, what their favourites are, including one that is an 'acquired taste', but is also their bestseller, and also which they would serve to Winnie the Pooh.

Simon and Louisa also talk about their shared cultural heritage and experiences, their love and passion for food, life and of course, they share with us the quotes that continually inspire them both.

'Louisa's Honey' had a commendation at the Quality Foods Awards 2022. It has also been showcased at The BBC Good Food Show Winter 2022 & Summer 2023. The product has also been highly recommended by renowned Gennaro Contaldo, and also by past participants of 'Masterchef'.

For more information about Louisa's Honey, please visit: https://louisas-honey.com/

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, I have a chat with actor & Comic Connoisseur Michael Ajih. He shares the deep and positive impact that comics have had on his life, especially with the challenges that he has had with dyslexia & learning difficulties. Michael also shares with me the first comic superhero that piqued his interest, his favourite comic book character, how many comics he currently has in his collection, and a personal story behind a copy of 'Amazing Fantasy #15' (the first appearance of Spiderman).

Michael and I also discuss the importance of storytelling, representation, identity & diversity in comics & popular culture. We also talk about cosplay, and whom he would want to cosplay as, and also what his line-up would consist of in his version of 'The Sinister Six'. And of course, Michael shares with me the quote that continually inspires him.

In Michael's own words: 'I’m an actor, a content creator, cosplayer, presenter and most importantly a Comic Connoisseur. I discuss everything comic book related. I’m a huge comic book enthusiast.'

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelajih
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelajih/?hl=en

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, I chat with award winning musician & educator Joey Stuckey. Joey talks about his life in music, his career in the industry, and his love & passion for The Blues, and why music has always been a source of solace to him. Apart from all things musical, Joey shares with us the health challenges he encounters, what his superpower could be, and of course, a quote that continually inspires him.

Joey Stuckey is the Official Music Ambassador of his hometown of Macon, Georgia. Joey spends every moment living life to the fullest and sharing his story and inspirational spirit through his musical performances and speaking engagements. As a toddler, Joey was diagnosed with a brain tumor and underwent surgery with little hope of survival. Though the tumor left Joey blind and with other health challenges, today, he continues to live a successful life of intention in his chosen field of music. Joey is professor of music technology at Mercer University, the music technology consultant for Middle Georgia State University, and an official music mentor for the Recording, Radio and Film Connection in Los Angeles as well as an active voting member of the Grammys. He is the owner and senior engineer at Shadow Sound Studio which is a destination recording facility with state-of-the-art analog and digital technology. He has spoken and performed all over the world including at the University College of London, the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, and the Audio Engineering Society in New York City, just to name a few. In his roles as producer, engineer, recording artist and journalist, he has worked with many musical legends including Trisha Yearwood, Clarence Carter, James Brown, Alan Parsons, Gene Simmons (KISS), Al Chez (Tower of Power), Jimmy Hall (Wet Willie), Danny Seraphin (Chicago), Kevin Kenney (Drivin’ and Cryin’), and many, many more.

For more information visit www.joeystuckey.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/joeystuckey
Twitter: @jstuckeymusic
Instagram: @jstuckeymusic

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, I chat with Erick, a Script editor & Story Consultant. He shares with us his story and how he got into the industry, the ongoing challenges he faced and still faces, why representation is vital and the importance of heritage & cultural storytelling and providing platforms for the unheard stories. Erick breaks down what a Script editor does and what makes a good script. On a lighter note, we also address the ongoing debate on which jollof rice is better, and of course, Erick shares with us the saying that continually inspires him.

Erick Kwashie is a London-based British Ghanaian Script Editor and Story Consultant with experience in drama and comedy among other genres. Erick studied Film Production and Screenwriting at the University of the Arts, London. He is particularly passionate about working with writers from traditionally underrepresented groups and developing their unique and as yet untold stories.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, I chat with journalist, film critic & nerd, Marshall Julius. We talk about his new book, 'Masters of Make-Up Effects: A Century of Practical Magic' which he co-authored with legendary effects wizard Howard Berger. We delve into a few of the stories from the book including conversations with Tom Savini, Greg Nicotero, James McAvoy, John Landis, Bruce Campbell and many more. Marshall and I geek out over films including 'The Exorcist', 'The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe', and we take a deep dive into John Carpenter's cult classic 'The Thing' and why it still stands the test of time.

Marshall also shares with me why he believes that there is a curse with his full name; what being an obtainer of rare antiquities' actually means to him; his love for 'Star Wars'; his role as quizmaster for The London Action Festival; and of course, he shares with us the quote that continually inspires him.

'Masters of Make-Up Effects: A Century of Practical Magic' can be found at all good bookstores.

The London Action Festival 2023 takes place between the 21st-25th of June across various locations in London.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

None

On today's episode, it's a laid back chat with my good friend, Tinu, and you can tell from the first 10 seconds of conversation! We talk about her upbringing, life vignettes, what it means to be Yoruba, its traditions and culture. We also discuss life issues including generational trauma & mental health within communities, EDI (Equality, diversity and inclusion), discrimination, parenting, the importance of legacy, codeswitching & language use. And of course, Tinu shares with us a saying that continually inspires her.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode I talk to Biomedical Scientist (BMS) and Founder of Harvey's Gang, Malcolm Robinson. Harvey's Gang are lab tours for young patients and their families to give them the chance to talk to the various medical staff who work in hospital labs and analyse their samples to help diagnose and manage their illnesses. Malcolm shares the story of Harvey Buster Baldwin, whom the charity is named after. Harvey was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia. His inquisitiveness to know what happened to his blood & other questions led to Malcolm to start the charity. Malcolm talks about the importance of compassion within the medical profession, phobia for needles, how vital it is for different departments to collaborate more effectively, the empowerment that the children have while given the tours, and how the creation of Harvey's Gang has changed working practices. Malcolm also discusses why the charity has teamed up with The Institute of Biomedical Science. We also talk about Malcolm's career spanning forty years, retirement, and look at the quote that continually inspires him.

Malcolm Robinson is a former Chief BMS at Western Sussex & former Chair of London and Southeast Transfusion TADG, Biomedical Scientist of the Year 2018, and winner of the NHS70 “Thank You” Award for Children’s Healthcare.

More information about Harvey's Gang can be found here.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

In this episode, I talk with Digital illustrator and Visual Artist Vince Fraser. Vince shares how he started within the industry and we take a look at how his craft is continually evolving. We discuss Afro-Futurism & Afro-surrealism through a Black lens, the importance of culture, telling the right stories and mentoring the younger generations. We also chat about NFTs, debate the use of A.I in art, and the tools of the trade. And of course, we talk about the quote that continually inspires Vince.

Having worked in the creative industry as a professional digital illustrator for over twenty years, the progression to Visual Arts was a natural one. Vince’s work has continued to evolve and sees himself as a New Breed of Artist in the Digital Age, combining a variety of skills including Film and Motion. With a keen eye for detail he is always experimenting in a playful way whilst pushing the boundaries from a visual aspect. Bridging the gap between Fantasy and Reality, Vince’s mission is to inspire, educate and empower positive images of the African diaspora. Previous clients include Nike , Adobe and MTV just to name a few, whilst gaining the attention of various musicians including Erykah Badu , Black Coffee and Outkast.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

In this episode, I chat with Visual storyteller Adesua Okosun. Adesua talks about her interest in film-making, her documentary project called 'The Other Side' that includes stories about the LGBTQ communities in The Republic of Côte d'Ivoire, and female wrestlers in Senegal. We also discuss the importance of truthful storytelling, her desire to see more women in technical roles within the film industry and her upcoming projects within Nigeria. Adesua also talks about legacy, family stories, geeking out over animation especially about 'The Simpsons', her vocal impression of a famous director, and of course, she shares a quote that continually inspires her.

Adesua Okosun is the director and content developer of Blackverse Studios. Her work has been showcased at film festivals including The Berlinale Film Festival. Her short film 'Contact' about a team of disabled basketball players in Nigeria is streaming on the NBA platform.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

Trigger Warning: this episode addresses issues involving sex trafficking and trauma.
In this episode, I chat with Evon Benson-Idahosa, a leading expert and thought leader on the subjects of modern day slavery and gender based violence in sub-Saharan Africa. Evon talks about why she started the NGO and her campaign to stamp out sex trafficking not only in Nigeria, but also globally. We also talk about religion and hypocrisy in Nigeria, certain traditional practices that need to end the importance of education and dialogue in ending slavery and gender based violence. Evon also shares how important her faith is to her, being mindful of self-care, her parents, and of course, she shares the saying that continually inspires her.

R. Evon Benson-Idahosa is a Nigerian native, a thought leader and leading expert on the intersection of the economic empowerment of African women and gender based violence in sub-Saharan Africa. She is also a trained English Barrister and American lawyer who lends her expertise as a strategist and advisor/consultant to organizations as well as state, national and international governments.

In her role as an innovative facilitator/trainer, she has organized multiple high level stakeholders’ national and international conferences/roundtables, including Nigeria’s first ever Gap Analysis on human trafficking and unsafe migration, trains Parliamentarians and serves as a legislative drafter. Via her non-profit, Pathfinders Justice Initiative, her work has culminated in the production of Nigeria's first national Guidelines for rehabilitation service providers and law enforcement officers,
judges and prosecutors on human trafficking, www.hersafrica.com, the continent’s first one stop online hub of resources for survivors and Edo State’s Coordinated Care Mechanism (CCM), the state’s first referral mechanism for local service providers.

Under her leadership, Pathfinders has provided holistic PATH (Personalized Action to Healing) Plans for over 2,700 survivors, maintains a thriving shelter, has conducted ground-breaking research on recruiters of sex trafficking in Nigeria and engages in outreaches that reach millions of people daily.

As an activist, published writer, researcher and speaker, Ms. Benson-Idahosa’s work has been featured on multiple national and international radio and television news outlets and she has been named one of New York’s New Abolitionists. She is also the recipient of multiple fellowships/awards and has been nationally and internationally recognized for her efforts in creating access to economic empowerment for African women and for seeking an end to gender based violence.

For more information, please visit www.pathfindersji.org or email
reidahosa@pathfindersji.org.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

Pax vobiscum! This is The Swinging Palm Trees podcast, where I talk to my guests about their lives and they share the quotes and sayings that continually inspire them. My name is Akin, creator and host of the podcast and thanks for stopping by.

For regular & new listeners alike, you may be wondering why there's a different look to the normal line-up format. That's because today I'm featuring a special episode of Jimi Famurewa's new podcast, "Where’s Home Really?" on the feed. Jimi is a journalist and food critic, and as for his podcast, he talks to his guests from various backgrounds to reveal a person, phrase, a place and a place that best represents what home means to them. It's similar to The Swinging Palm Trees, so I'm sure you'll enjoy his chats just like I have.

In this episode, Jimi talks with British comedian Stephen K. Amos who shares stories about his career, being a second generation Nigerian in London, and what bottled peanuts and the ITV News at 10 bong mean to Stephen.

Enjoy the conversation, and may you be inspired.

Pax Vobiscum!

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode I chat with author and graphic novel creator Ram V about his career. Ram shares how he started within the industry, his first self published graphic novel and his work with DC comics and Marvel. Ram talks about his creative process, his work on Batman, Swamp Thing, and Justice League Dark and his upcoming project 'The Vigils'. I also geek out with him over one of my personal favourite graphic novels 'These Savage Shores' and talk about imperialism, Indian mythology and vampirism. I also find out what the 'V' stands for, and of course, Ram shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Ram V is an Eisner-nominated, award-winning author and creator of comics & graphic novels such as GRAFITY’S WALL, THESE SAVAGE SHORES, THE MANY DEATHS OF LAILA STARR & the Eisner-winning BLUE IN GREEN. Since publishing his first book in 2016, Ram’s work has gone on to garner critical and popular success, winning multiple awards. Apart from creating original work, Ram has also written for iconic characters & titles such as Detective Comics, Swamp Thing, Justice League Dark, Catwoman, Venom and Carnage at DC Comics and Marvel.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode I chat with actor, writer and cinematographer in the making, Ronkẹ Adékoluẹjo. She shares with us how she got into theatre, her time at RADA, her first acting gig and her career on stage and on screen so far. Ronkẹ also discusses her Yorùbá heritage and lineage, the meaning and correct pronunciation of her name, and what she defines as her identity. We touch on issues of classism and social injustice, and we talk about her character in the new HBO series 'Rain Dogs', which will also be airing on The BBC. And of course, Ronkẹ chats about the saying that continually inspires her.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

My guest today is film critic and broadcaster Rhianna Dhillon. She shares with me her love for films and how she started off within the industry. We discuss what it means to her being a critic, and her opinions. Rhianna also talks about her role as a moderator at industry events, the tips she has learned and the guests who have left a lasting impression on her. We chat about the challenges of a freelance life and mental wellbeing. Rhianna also shares her heritage, what her favourite film genre is, and what she would use as a weapon if the zombie apocalypse were to ever happen. And of course, we talk about the quote that continually inspires her.

Rhianna Dhillon has been a film critic for 12 years, beginning her career at BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra as their in-house film critic. Now a film and TV critic on BBC 6Music’s Breakfast Show with Lauren Laverne, Rhianna is also the BBC 5Live film reviewer and hosts the PodPod podcast. Rhianna moderates events and Q&As for BAFTA, Disney, the BFI and others and is currently a Visiting Lecturer at City University of London.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, my guest is restaurateur & entrepreneur Aji Akokomi. On the menu today we talk about what Pan-West African fine dining is all about, and the importance of the experience reaching a wider and diverse clientele. Aji discusses the importance of customer service, recipes & experimentations, sourcing condiments and mental health and well-being in a pressurised kitchen and industry as a whole. Aji also shares what it was like growing up in Nigeria and the importance of his Yorùbá culture, his favourite dishes, and of course, he talks about the quote that continually inspires him.

Aji Akokomi is the founder of Akoko Restaurant, situated in Central London. Before he embarked on a culinary career, he worked as an IT consultant before pivoting into the world of restauranteering.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, artist MURUGIAH shares his story about his career and how he started out. We talk about his formal education in Architecture and he has repurposed these skills to his advantage as an artist. We talk about what's currently in his sketchbook and his first piece of work as a child. Murugiah discusses his unique style and personality in relation to his artwork, including mental health and wellbeing. We talk about identity, his Tamil heritage, his favourite colour and thoughts on AI art. And of course, we talk about the quote that continually inspires him.

MURUGIAH is an award-winning artist based in London, U.K. Born in England & raised in Wales with Sri Lankan heritage, Murugiah trained as an architect in London before choosing his current creative path, specialising in fine art, illustration, art direction, typography and design. Today, he makes psychedelic work infused with the dichotomy of his Sri Lankan heritage and western upbringing around themes of mental health, the impending doom of our planet, and climate change amongst other things. All made in a surreal, joyful, loud and unapologetic style using bright bold colours and detailed graphical compositions. His selected collaborators and commissioners include New Balance, Apple, Disney, Marvel, Facebook, Penguin, Vans, Wired, Los Angeles Times, and Mondo. And he has been featured by BBC, Creative Boom, Creative Lives in Progress, Digital Arts, and SixtySix Magazine.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, my guest is Certified Wellness coach and author David Greenwalt. David talks about his interest in exercise started at a young age; his time as a State Trooper in the State of Illinois and how he took up powerlifting and bodybuilding. We talk about how he pivoted into the fitness industry and how he founded the Leanness Lifestyle University. David and I delve into calories, weight management and nutrition. We also look at the subject of healthy eating and the issue of ultra processed food. Mindset, self compassion and self-talk also comes up during our conversation, and of course, David shares the quote that continually inspires him.

David is a Certified Health Coach, fitness expert, author, husband, father, former police officer, and former competitive state-level bodybuilder and powerlifter. After weight cycling between bodybuilding and powerlifting for 15 years, in 1997, at age 32, David lost 50 of his own excess pounds one more time, for the last time. Since 1999, through his company Leanness Lifestyle University, David has been helping clients from every walk of life lose the excess fat, keep the muscle, and manage this crazy life.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

My guest on today's episode is Healthcare Practitioner Nkem Ndefo. Nkem shares with me how she began her career within this field, including how she trained as a midwife to her current role as founder of Lumos Transforms and creator of The Resilience Toolkit and how she helps people build a sense of resilience. We chat about issues surrounding healthy boundaries, marginalised identity, appeasement, survival, socio-economic matters, race and code switching. We delve into issues concerning mental health, the impact of day to day traumas, but also as people how we have the capacity and potential to transform through healing and development.

Nkem shares her heritage with me, how she unwinds, hidden medical conditions, the many lessons she has learned and shaped her through her life, and of course, she shares the quote that continually inspires her.

Nkem Ndefo, MSN, CNM, RN, is the founder of Lumos Transforms and creator of The Resilience Toolkit. She is a skilled practitioner, dynamic speaker, and valued strategist. She is known for her unique ability to connect with people of all types by holding powerful healing spaces, weaving complex concepts into accessible narratives, and creating synergistic and collaborative learning communities that nourish people’s innate capacity for healing, wellness, and connection.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

My guest on today's episode is film curator and author Nadia Denton. We discuss Nigeria film making and why she coined the term 'Beyond Nollywood. We talk about the Nigeria film space, her visits to Nigeria, content coming out from the region, storytelling from Africa and the challenges of bringing said stories to streaming platforms for a wider audience. We also delve into what she would describe as a genre unique to Nigeria film making. Nadia talks about her role as a curator of films, and the importance of cultural curation. We examine conversations surrounding diversity in the industry and women within the industry. And of course, Nadia shares with us the quote that continually inspires her.

Nadia Denton has worked in the UK film industry for over a decade as an Impact Producer, Curator and Author. She specialises in Nigerian Cinema and coined the term BEYOND NOLLYWOOD. She has worked with the Berlinale EFM, British Film Institute, British Council, Doc Society, London Film School, SUNDANCE Film Festival, Tribeca Film Festival and Comic Relief. Her books include The Nigerian Filmmaker’s Guide to Success: Beyond Nollywood and The Black British Filmmaker’s Guide to Success: Finance, Market and Distribute Your Film.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, my guest is former British Army commando, author and entrepreneur Mark Llewhellin. Mark gives an insight to why he joined the army and specifically his reasons for wanting to become a commando and earning his 'Green lid'. Mark also talks about his time in the army, from reading personal development books, his entrepreneurial spirit and his transition to civilian life. We talk about mental health within the armed forces, and a common trait shared by members of the Special Forces community that he has spoken with. We chat about mindset, psychology and the NHS. Mark also shares why he became an author and what his next projects are, his love for ultrasports and most things American, and of course, we talk about the quote that continually inspires him.

Mark is a former commando with 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery. He is a best-selling author whose books include 'The Underdog', 'Happy: Finding Happiness In A Crazy Ass World', and 'Delusions of Grandeur: How to Become More Than You Ever Dreamed Possible.'

Trigger warning: This episode contains issues regarding depression and self harm .

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On this episode, my guest is veteran broadcaster and journalist Kadaria Ahmed. Kadaria shares how she started her journey into journalism, from growing up listening to The BBC in Nigeria to ending up working for the corporation, and why she decided to leave and move back home to establish her career. Kadaria talks about her deep passion for Current Affairs and News, and the challenges of working within the broadcasting industry within Nigeria. We discuss accountability, misinformation and disinformation, mental health and well being and its importance to her. We also chat about her role as a Town Hall moderator in the run-up to the upcoming presidential elections in Nigeria. Kadaria also talks about her other interests in this episode and of course, she shares with us the quote that continually inspires her.

Kadaria Ahmed is a leading Nigerian journalist and media entrepreneur. She sits on the Nigerian board of trustees of the International Press Institute and has been recognized as one of the 5 most influential people in Nigeria’s media landscape. Kadaria is a recipient of grants in support of her work in accountability journalism from leading donor agencies including the Ford Foundation, OSIWA, PLAC and MacArthur Foundation. She is the Executive Director of Daria Media, a company whose focus is public service journalism, and also the MD of Radio Now 95.3 FM. Kadaria has written extensively and has been published in national and international newspapers including the Daily Trust, The Guardian, Premium Times, and the Financial Times of London. She is a member of the Nigerian Guild of Editors and the Nigerian Institute of Directors.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, my guest is Ayo Norman-Williams, a games designer and Computer Scientist. Ayo shares his love for computer games, including the very first title that placed him on his current career path. We geek out and argue over a few titles, his dream of wanting to work at a famous animation studio at age seven, the games he has created so far and how he was nominated for the BAFTA Young designer of the Year Award. Ayo also talks through the process of being a designer, his area of speciality and who has influenced him in his career. We chat about the importance of communicating ideas and telling the right story, and which of his created games he would like to see adapted for the big screen. We discuss how Black people, contrary to popular belief, are heavily into various global pop cultures and anime. And of course, Ayo shares with us in the episode the quote that continually inspires him.

You can check more of Ayo's work here:

https://www.artstation.com/ayomakesart/albums/all

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, it's all about the joys of good food & cooking as I chat with Aida Khan, the co-founder and Creative Director of Shola- Karachi Kitchen. I describe her as a 'culinary ambassador for Pakistani cuisine', which is evident from her deep love and passion for cooking. She shares with me how she started her career and her first dish she made as a child. We talk about Pakistani recipes, in particular Haleem; what ingredients she cannot live without and the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur and chef. We talk about family influences and hospitality, cultural flavours and her work ethic. And of course, Aida shares her favourite quotes and how they continually inspire her.

Shola - Karachi Kitchen is Aida Khan’s food venture, winning hearts (and bellies!) in London and Islamabad alike. A passionate chef and food lover, Aida’s expertise with Pakistani cuisine goes back a long way. Coming from a family of foodies, the former banker scripted and presented a travel food show on Pakistani television called “For The Love of Food.” When Aida moved to London in 2012, she noticed a lack of options for the kind of wholesome home-cooked Pakistani food she grew up on. She therefore developed and adapted recipes taken from her family, so she could share the food of her childhood with her own children. She then completed training at Leith’s School of Food and Wine, learning to apply modern techniques to traditional recipes. With her new repertoire, she hosted a series of ‘Gourmet Karachi Supper Clubs’ across London. Shola in White City Place has been a labour of love for Aida, where she has introduced diners to the distinctive flavours of Pakistani cuisine, as well as providing a nostalgic taste of authentic home-cooking to South Asians in London. The emphasis throughout is on fresh ingredients, fragrant spices that are freshly roasted and ground in their own kitchen, and above all on the deep and powerful flavours of Pakistan Aida has also been featured on The Lorraine Show on ITV sharing her Pakistani recipes. From February 2022 Shola has hosted a pop up every Thursday night at White City Studios. This July Shola also took over the Shack at White City Poolside serving Pakistani street food. Shola Blurb Shola (‘spark’ in Urdu) is our new Pakistani restaurant in London. We bring to the table Chef Aida Khan’s passion for authentic flavours and traditional recipes from Karachi, Pakistan’s most cosmopolitan city.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

My guest on the latest episode is Eva Chukwunelo, a poet, writer and digital marketer. Eva chats about her interests in the arts, in particular creative writing and dancing. We actually created a short story during our conversation! Eva discusses why she left the teaching world for a career within the digital sphere. We also touch upon why she goes by the moniker 'Beaucyborg'; She shares her personal story and challenges with Osteomyelitis, prosthetics, disability awareness and inclusion within Nigeria. She shares with us the quote that continually inspires her.

For more about Eva's journey, please check her blog page here.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

My guest on today's episode is filmmaker Clarence Peters. We talk about his new TV series called 'Inside Life', which is his own small take about life in Lagos, Nigeria, that no one really talks about. We discuss various mediums of storytelling and the need for making content for a core Nigerian audience, which in turn triggers much needed conversations within Nigeria. We look at Clarence's other series 'Hex' and spirituality. We look at certain issues surrounding 'Nollywood' and film making in Nigeria. We also do a deep dive into how Clarence started his career within the industry and the challenges he encounters. And of course, as we are both Nigerians, it goes without sayings that we come back to proverbs and sayings that continually inspire him.

Clarence is a music video director and filmmaker. He is the founder and CEO of production company Capital Dream Pictures. He has worked on numerous musical projects including collaborations with Tiwa Savage, Davido, Burna Boy and Wizkid. Clarence has also worked on a series of documentaries and TV features.

Clarence's latest endeavour is the TV series, 'Inside Life'.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode my guest is music producer and Technopreneur Charles Bosco. He shares with us how his musical journey started from going to Tamil School, to producing music and collaborating with musicians from all over the world. We chat about his musical influences, the intricacies of Copyright and music rights and ownership. Charles also talks about why he started to create his 'refixes' to classic tunes, and also whom he would like to work with as part of his dream team on tour. We also talk about all things NFTs, and of course, we look at the quotes and sayings that have inspired him.

Charles Bosco is an award-winning Music Producer and you can find some of his works here:

https://www.instagram.com/charlesbosco/?hl=en
https://open.spotify.com/artist/2aZMJZvvSb072ZPDKRmep1

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode my guest is Tara Akindele, founder of Flo Haven, a non-profit organisation that aims at eradicating period poverty and also providing menstrual health to underprivileged women in Nigeria. Tara shares with me what led her to start Flo Haven during the 2020 global pandemic, how it initially started off as an initiative, and how it has developed in its outreach. We chat about the challenges she and her team face including the stigma surrounding menstruation, the lack of government involvement, access to quality health products and changing mindsets. We also discuss period poverty in Western countries including The UK, how policies should be addressed and mental wellbeing. Tara also shares with us her background in Biomedical Sciences and her interest in dermatology. And of course, we look at the quotes and sayings that have inspired her.

For more information about Flo Haven, you can go to the following site:
https://flohaven.org/

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, my guest is Christopher M. Anthony of kayfabefilms. We chat about film and his love for all things animatronics, building rigs and special effects. We chart how he started his career, including interning at The Jim Henson Company, to working at Industrial Light and Magic (ILM). Chris delves behind the scenes of the technical side of film making including his part in the award winning 'The Jungle Book', and we geek out over classic movies such as 'Jurassic Park', 'Metropolis', 'Nosferatu' and 'The Red Shoes'. Our conversation also involves discussing the challenges of film distribution and other areas within the industry. We talk about his passion for the martial arts of BJJ and his work as a stuntman and also his uncredited directorial work in certain mainstream films . We also delve into his heritage and why he is a proud Nigerian-Lebanese.

Christopher has worked in film for over two decades. From the Harry Potter movies to Marvel productions, he was a part of the development of the visual effects industry, working between VFX, SFX, stunts and camera. He is now entering the next chapter of his career, with his debut feature, ‘Heavyweight,’ set to film early 2023.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Be well & Pax Vobiscum!

On today's episode, I chat with florist, Jen. We talk about how she transitioned from a career in the corporate world to that of flora. We discuss how genius is in each of us, going against the grain, work ethic, and how her new work life has brought out the real her. Jen also shares the challenges and rewards to being a florist; how her shop is her creative sanctuary; sustainability, and of course, a line that continually inspires her life.

From Business Analyst to plant Mum and Florist, Jen loves floral design and making wonderful Bespoke Floral arrangements for her lovely customers.

For more information about Jen and more of her work, you can visit her website:

https://jensplantsandflorist.com/

On today's episode, I chat with writer, producer, director and medical physician Roshan Sethi.

We talk about his creative and medical sides and how he started out. Roshan discusses why writing is important to him, who inspired him to write, how he managed his time at Harvard while studying, how he got fired from one of his early writing gigs, and how the TV series, 'The Resident' came about. We also talk about his directorial debut with '7 Days' that was shot during the covid pandemic. We also discuss the movie 'Call Jane', and the over-ruling of Roe v. Wade.

Roshan also honestly shares his struggles when he Came out, and of course, tells us the quote that continually inspires him.

On today's episode I chat with the editor-in-chief of Total Film, Jane Crowther.

We geek out over the films that inspired her to get into the industry; we discuss what the medium of film means to her, and what her favourite genre is. Jane also walks us through what a 'normal' working day in the office is like; the challenges of being an editor in publishing; the misogyny within the industry; producing content during covid; the importance of film critiquing and the rise of social media and influencers. Jane also discusses her thoughts on the films she has on repeat, particular film directors, film villains, and her love for a particular 'King'. And of course, Jane shares a line that continually inspires her

Jane Crowther is the editor-in-chief of Total Film, head of Film at Future publishing, Vice Chair of the Critics' Circle film section and a member of BAFTA. She writes, edits and broadcasts across print and digital and is the host of the Inside Total Film Podcast and Total Film's Last Picture Show Podcast.

On today's episode, I chat with music composer Alessandro about his career. We explore how he started in the industry, and what alternative career he would have taken. had it not been music. We discuss the people who influenced him, the decisions he made to enhance his career, and his musical instrument of choice. We talk about his film scores, compositions, the challenges within the industry, and why it is important to let musical notes breath, and not to get hung up on the theory of music. We also look at the importance of understanding the clients and the musical vision for their projects; musical signatures and certain music composers including Hans Zimmer, Alan Silvestri and Gustavo Santaolalla, and why certain soundtracks are sacred and should not be re-imagined. And of course, we talk about the quotes that continually inspire Alessandro and his musical journey.

Alessandro Giovanetto is a musician and composer for Film, TV, Theatre and Web Media. He is also a touring musician and part of the The Collective Remembrance. For more information on Alessandro, you can check his website out:

https://www.alessandro-giovanetto.com/index.php

On today's episode, I chat with Pirashanna about his musical career as a percussionist.

We talk about his formal training at the Bhavan Centre in London and the gurus that taught him how to play the Carnatic (South Indian) instruments such as the Mridangam, Kanjira, Ghatam, and also the Jew's Harp.

Pirashanna shares memories of his Arangetram (‘official’ debut performance of a musician after undertaking years of training in the Carnatic system) in Chennai, India, that was also attended by musical greats including M. Balamuralikrishna. Pirashanna talks about how he came to the attention of Pandit Ravi Shankar and began touring with him, and how eventually began to tour with the legendary maestro's daughter, Anoushka Shankar.

Pirashanna and I discuss the art of collaborating, rhythm and timing, South Indian Konnakol, what's in his musical tour bag, a particular band he would like to work with, and of course, the quote that continually inspires him.

For more information about Pirshanna and upcoming tours, please visit his website:

http://www.tpirashanna.com/about/

On today's episode, I chat with Brianna about celebrating the joy of Blackness and how she came about creating 'The Black Project'. We discuss issues of identity, Race, discrimination, and the distinction between diversity and representation.

We delve into her heritage of being Irish and Nigerian, and the challenges of growing up Black in a White family, and yet her pride in being Irish; we look at the perception of Blackness and identity. We also discuss about what she would change within the education curriculum. Brianna also shares with us the hidden medical conditions that she has to manage, but how a trait she possesses sees her through the tough times. We also discuss poetry, novels, her fascination with mythology, and of course, we look a the quote that continually inspires her.

Oh, there's a bonus clip right at the outro of this episode, so wait until the very end. :-)

Brianna O’Reilly is the founder of media platform The Black Project, a platform that focuses on celebrating and amplifying Black Life, Arts, Culture and Knowledge. She also works with The Black Fund, is studying Liberal Arts and works as a photographer in her spare time.

On today's episode, I chat with film director, writer, producer, and all round nice person Madhumita about her career.

She shares how she began her creative path with a short film she wrote and directed in College in Singapore which led to an award, and her time in within the film industry in Los Angeles while she studied her Masters. Madhumita also talks about her film directorial debut in Chennai at the age of 22 with 'Vallamai Tharayo'. We discuss the challenges of film making within the Indian film industry, including the successes and failures. We also chat about her other film projects including 'KD (a) Karuppudurai'; her short 'Mouname Paarvayaai', from the Amazon Prime anthology 'Putham Pudhu Kaalai Vidiyaadhaa'; her adaption in Hindi of 'Angamaly Diaries'. Madhumita also reveals the directors and films that have influenced her, and of course, she shares a line that continually inspires her

Madhumita is a filmmaker born in Chennai, bred in Indonesia, educated in Singapore and baked in Los Angeles. Currently based out of Mumbai, she has directed 6 feature films and 2 non scripted shows. Her most recent works are KD (a) Karuppudurai on Netflix and Amazon and Putham Pudhu Kaalai Vidiyadha (Ep - 3 Mouname Paarvayaai) on Amazon Prime. Madhumita is currently in the post production of her first Hindi film and the prep of her next Tamil film. She aspires to be genre agnostic with one unifying theme across all her films, the emotion in human relationships.

On today's episode, I chat with Katherine Dibona about her life and hidden health conditions.

She shares how she was medically misdiagnosed since the age of 17 up until recent years when she found out has non radiographic axial spondyloarthritis. She also goes into detail the medical challenges she has had to face with Medical pracitioners and experts, being medically gaslit, gender bias, medical insurance in America, in particuar In-Network Insurance.

Yet, despite all the struggles Katherine has faced, we also celebrate her successes in life, her passion for Ballet and what she teaches her students, the importance of mindset and conditioning, and why the actor Alan Alda is special to her. And of course, we talk about the quotes and adages that continually inspire her.

Katherine DiBona had a happy, healthy childhood growing up outside of Boston,
Massachusetts, USA. An involved student and ballerina, she had dreams of
entering the medical profession. Everything was on track…until it wasn’t. A week
after her 17th birthday she became sick with an unknown viral infection and
never fully recovered. What ensued was almost 20 years of pain, fatigue, and
dismissals by healthcare providers while searching for answers. It wasn’t until
age 34 that she received a diagnosis of Non-Radiographic Axial
Spondyloarthritis: an auto-inflammatory condition that affects joints, eyes,
hormones, the GI tract, etc. and can severely impact quality of life.
Katherine learned the hard way that the U.S. healthcare system isn’t all that it’s
cracked up to be. Instead of a career in medicine, she became a full-time patient,
struggling through college and beyond until finally seeing some improvement in
her mid-30s. Katherine shares the lessons she’s learned along the way in her
journey toward a new version of a happy, healthy life with a chronic invisible
illness.

Please be aware that due to technical issues during recording, some of the interview has electrical interferences which could not be resolved, so please lower the volume while listening. My sincere apologies and I hope you still enjoy the episode.

On the latest episode of the podcast, I chat with Akin, the creator of Ibilecoin, a decentralized financial payment network within cryptocurrency that rebuilds the traditional payment stack on the blockchain. Akin discusses why he decided on creating an indigenous token and why it was built on the Cardano blockchain. We delve into the historical and cultural importance of the Benin Ivory mask, the visual inspiration behind the 'Ibile' face.

We talk about the importance of financial decentralisation, recreating value within blockchain. We also talk about Charles Hoskinson, Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin, and the devaluation of Fiat currencies. Akin is also on a mission in educating people, especially within Africa to adopt crypto.

With a background in Political Science & diplomacy History, Akin shares his passion when it comes to educating people of the tragic cost of post and neo-colonialism, but also the relevance of Pan-Africanism. We also bring up certain socio-economic issues affecting Nigeria, and of course, he shares with us a quote that continually inspires him.

In his own words, Akin is a Pan- African at heart and in deeds.

For information about the ibilecoin, please click the link here.

On today's episode, I have a chat with Nick about geekdom, reviews and Ancestral roots. Nick shares how he got into the entertainment industry, and how he started Kidzcoolit and its ethos, and why it's important to appreciate childrens' opinions. We also take a deep-dive into certain films, and Nick recounts certain encounters with Ridley Scott, Johnny Rotten, Ron Perlman and Paul Rudd. Nick also shares how he managed to wrangle a voice over gig on a particular classic TV show from the 70s. And, of course, we talk about the quote that has continually inspired him.

Nick also chats about his involvement with 'Frightfest', and we come up with our own horror idea for a future length film.

Nick also shares which is the best Guinness out there (spoiler: it's not the Irish variety)!

Nick Gibbs-McNeil has worked in the Publishing and Entertainment industry for nearly twenty five years and describes himself as a 'Jack of all Trades and Master of Nothing', but apparently good at what I do. .

In recent years he has focused his career on the running and publishing of websites Kidzcoolit and Youth #Gottit as well as having a role with the horror festival FrightFest, DC Thomson's 110% Gaming Magazine and The Outdoor Toy Awards. "I've had a very blessed career and done some incredible things. I don't know how I got so lucky!!!"

One day he dreams of being an 'old skool village postman' where everyone knows his name!!!

"The culture (Japanese) really fascinated me. I've been to quite a lot of countries. I've been to all the continents except for South America. I'm used to African culture and the Western culture, and some Asian countries as well. But with Japan, it was kind of like the mix of the West, with technology and such, but then you've got the traditions which I found I connected with, similar to some African traditions."

On today's 52nd episode, I play catch up with Mr '52 Weeks Later' Dennis Mensa. He shares on the podcast his time in Japan and how he is in the process of writing his book about his experiences spending 52 weeks there. He talks about his fascination for Japanese culture, travelling through the Prefectures, experiencing his first earthquake, what the Japanese word 'gaikokujin' actually entails and being a black person travelling through Japan. Also, it wouldn't come to anyone's surprise to know which African he met in a village in Japan playing the music of a famous African!

Dennis and I also talk about his passion for skipping and running, the inevitable debate on which is the better Jollof rice between Ghana and Nigeria, and of course, Dennis shares the quote that continually inspires him.

Dennis aka '52 Weeks Later' is a connoisseur of cool life experiences, through the medium of travel, food, dancing, skipping, running, being a husband and being a dad! Adding writer to that list, he is currently in the process of writing his travel memoirs regarding his adventure around mainly Japan for 52 Weeks.

"What organisations sometimes fail to get right is recognising that they are responsible for creating the conditions in which those people (employees) stay well and resilient. And so, if you are asking people to do more, with less resources, or achieve more with less budget...then you are not creating the conditions for people to remain well and stay resilient because they are under excessive stress."

On today's episode, Dr Aarti Anhal brings my attention to the world of organisational resilience. We talk about how she began her career including a stint within Risk management and Security, and her journey thus far. We discuss world issues including the question of whether the world will ever have peace. Aarti shares on the podcast her deep interest in Tibetan issues, including when she got to meet and spend time with His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Gyalwa Rinpoche.

Aarti also explains what a resilience coach is, the difference between fixed and growth mindset and why wellbeing is essential. We also talk languages, gin, marmite and dishwashing! And of course, we examine the quote that continually inspires her.

Dr Aarti Anhal is founder of before nine, a consultancy that integrates positive psychology and behavioural techniques with organisational resilience and transformation strategies to bring out the best in people, optimise their ways of working and enable organisations to sustain success, whatever the world throws at them.

"Nowadays, to be an Actuary, you need to be more rounded as an individual; we're trying to break the stereotype of people who tend to be stuck behind their desk, not really looking up or talking to anyone, or just writing reports, or pencil-pushers, essentially. We're trying to change the public perception of the Actuary profession."

On today's episode, I chat with Actuarial scientist and Mathematics geek Gayathiri Pathmabaskaran about all things numbers and Actuary. Gaya shares how her love for numbers has brought her to this profession. She breaks down for newbies such as myself the difference between an Actuarial scientist and Actuary, the fundamentals of Pure Math and the application of Life Math; correlating information & figures during global events and explains what a 'Black Swan ' event is. Gaya also discusses 'Realistic Disaster Scenarios' and Reinsurance brokerage, and why Actuaries have to predict downside risks. We also talk about her family in medicine, her love for Hercule Poirot, and her deep love for Indian actor Shah Rukh Khan. And of course, we talk about the quote that always inspires her.

"My official kind of tagline, if you like, is to help women get more out of their lives, whatever that means to them, and I think that the last bit is the most important part because a lot of coaches could help my clients, but it's that 'whatever that means to them' because I have come to learn that it's not what I think or my agenda what that 'more is' to my clients...I am here to listen."

On today's episode, I get into deep conversations with Life & Mindset coach Catrin Atkins. We delve into how & why she got into life coaching, and why she wants to get her clientele to get the most out of life. We discuss the issues of Imposter Syndrome, and why there is still somewhat of a stigma of shame & embarrassment attached to coaching within some quarters. We look at the importance of mindset and listening, and coaching in the Welsh Language.

Catrin also shares with me her adaptability to situations as a person with spina bifida, and why this disability has not and will not stop her having a zest for life. We also geek out over all things 'X-Files' and Hitchcock related. And of course, we look at the saying that continually inspires her.

If you'd like to chat with Catrin, you can contact her: https://geekygirlcoaching.com/.

On today's episode I chat with producer, writer and director Tobi Kyeremateng. She shares on the podcast how she started her career, what she has learnt working within theatre, becoming a producer, and working on various projects within the industry. She also shares why she started 'The Black Ticket Project'.

We also chat about her writing, including essays that have been published in The Guardian, The Independent & Gal-Dem. We talk about issues of Race, and the discrimination and misogyny towards women.

We chat about her Nigerian/Ghanaian heritage, influences and her directorial debut, Ówàmbè, (roughly translated from the Yorùbá language as 'It's happening there') about the Uniqueness of African parties, in particular Nigerian Hall parties and celebrations. Tobi also shares on the podcast what one of her favourite sayings is.

Tobi Kyeremateng is a multi-award-winning producer and writer from South London.

As a producer working across film, liveness and audio, Tobi has curated an impressive portfolio of work for organisations including BBC, British Vogue, Horniman Museum, Institute of Contemporary Arts, National Theatre, No Signal, Priority at O2, Roundhouse, Royal Court Theatre, Tate Modern, PUMA, Sony Music and more, and has had her work platformed on BBC Three, BBC Four, Complex, FACT Magazine and NOWNESS to name a few. As a writer, Tobi has written for media outlets including Black Ballad, Blavity, gal-dem, Howlround, The Guardian, The Independent and LOVE Magazine, and has had essays published in Black Joy (Penguin, 2021) and Making Hip Hop Theatre (Bloomsbury, 2021). In 2021, she released her debut audio-documentary, RAVE RITUALS, on BBC Sounds and BBC Radio 6.

Tobi has won several awards including: 'Creative Award' (Industry Minds UK 2021), 'Special Award: Producer' (Off West-End Theatre Awards 2020), ‘Arts & Culture’ Award (Women Of The Future Awards 2019), ‘Best Producer’ (inaugural Black British Theatre Awards 2019), and ‘Inspiration of the Year’ (Stylist Magazine’s inaugural Remarkable Women Awards 2019). Tobi has led workshops, guest lectures and panel talks for a number of institutions including Oxford University and Goldsmiths University, and has hosted in-conversations with the likes of Diane Abbott and Malorie Blackman.

Tobi is a Senior Artistic Associate at the Bush Theatre, Board Trustee for Peckham Platform, Diversity School Initiative and National Youth Theatre, and mentor for Sour Lemons and I LIKE NETWORKING. In 2020 she was invited to become a Fellow of the Royal Society of the Arts and was nominated by BBC presenter Clara Amfo in the Duke and Duchess' inaugural Black History Month Next Generation Trailblazers, as well as being included in ELLE Magazine's '10 Trailblazing Women Changing The Future You Need To Know' alongside Koffee, Holly Fischer, Celeste and Margaret Busby. In 2020, she featured on the cover of gal-dem as part of their Community Issue. Tobi's directorial debut docu-fiction film, OWAMBE, is showing on Netflix as one of 10 recipients of the inaugural Netflix Documentary Talent Fund, and she is writing her debut non-fiction book, THEATRE SH*T (Jacaranda Books), celebrating contemporary Black British Theatre.

"I think people forget that journalism is a craft and you learn and you hone your craft, and there are people who write their opinions and their views and they don't actually have anything to back it up with, and a lot of it got replaced by salacious gossip rather than the craft of the music."On today's episode, I have a good, overdue chat with Music Journalist Angharad Williams. We talk about her journey into this profession, artists that she has met within her career, the changing landscape of the industry, and she shares some pearls of wisdom to any aspiring musicians and journalists. We also talk about all things Hip-Hop, Irish, and naturally Welsh, and in particular, certain pronunciations. And of course, we discuss the quote and saying that continually inspires and influences her.

Angharad Williams is a half Welsh / half Irish journalist. She grew up in a small village in boryh Wales, then spent the first few years of her career working as a music journalist in London. Angharad now lives and work in Dublin and has worked for titles including the Metro Herald, The Sunday Times, The Sunday Independent, The Irish Sun and Welsh language publications. Angharad is a fluent Welsh speaker and is a regular contributor to the Welsh language radio station BBC Radio Cymru.

'I am one of those people who likes to try and explore; like it's never just enough, and, is there more that there is available to me; and that question prompted a thought, and that thought was 'Masterchef', and I'm thinking ...before my brain scares me out I act on a thought! So before my brain gets a chance to say "woah, woah, we can't go there!", I immediately got my ipad, googled 'MasterChef', saw that they were still taking applications and went for it.'

On today's episode, I talk about food, cooking, Yoruba dishes and 'MasterChef' with the semi-finalist on the show, Olayemi Adelekan. We chat about her upbringing in Nigeria to living in St.Kitts & Nevis and settling in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. We discuss her culinary influences, and why she decided to compete on the competitive cooking show MasterChef. And naturally, we discuss the saying that continually inspires and influences her.

You can watch Yemi and her culinary progress on BBC One or on BBC Iplayer.

On today's episode, I chat with South Korean expat Juwon and her life in Dakar, Senegal. We talk about all things Korean, including her beloved city of Busan ("Shout out to 'Train to Busan"), the Korean language and its musicality, nuances and it's alphabet. She tells me how she met her husband, her move to Dakar and how she has adapted. We also touch on the O.G of Jollof rice made by the Wolof, and what her signature dishes are. We also discuss the cultural similarities between Africans and Koreans, addressing stereotypes, and of course, we talk about the saying that continually inspires her.

To know more about Juwon's life in Dakar, you can check her blog out.

"We're looking into things that were not even imagined before, like with The James Webb (telescope)that was just launched, you're going to be able to peer further into the galaxy than we were before, and now who knows what that's going to open up. I feel like, at the dawn of the space age, we were just looking at earth and how to get to the moon; I feel like now is a perfect time because you're coming into the industry and we're talking about lunar gateways, colonizing the moon, putting boots on Mars. I mean, this is such an exciting time to be part of that."

On today's episode, I get chatting with Principal Space Systems Engineer Nimal about all things space. We discuss how his interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) started out; how a former Physics teacher influenced his passion for engineering & astronomy. We chat about all things space payloads, satellite technology, and Mars Simulation. Naturally, this podcast would be amiss if we didn't chat about Science Fiction shows like 'Battlestar Galactica', 'The Expanse', and 'Star Trek', and which of these shows have the potential for realism.

Nimal also talks about his pride of being a Tamilian, and of course, we talk about the saying that continually inspires him.

'Obviously, kids in care are there because they've had something that's gone on in their lives, either from birth or if they're five or six, or even in their teens. That's not to make excuses for them but they are normal kids and you can't let them get away with things that other children wouldn't get away with. All the time, though, you're trying to explain (to them) why you're doing something, so it's not a "because I said so", it's "this is why you can't do this; it's because, etc", and set it out like that.'On today's episode, I chat with my special guest Vanessa about being a foster parent. She shares some of her experiences with me including the challenges, emotions and the rewards fostering brings. We discuss about LGBTQ & fostering, what 'Respite Fostering' is, and what she has learnt so far with her partner in their parenting journey. Vanessa also chats about how she picked up Eastern European languages, trips to the former Soviet Union. Ness also shares her musical tastes, what her first Rock concert was and why she plays the viola. And of course, we talk about the quote that continually inspires her.

Vanessa Townsend graduated from Sheffield University with a degree in Modern East European Studies and joined a charity as a researcher into religious and human rights abuse in the then Soviet Union and Eastern Europe. She then joined Jane’s Defence Weekly
as a reporter/sub-editor. Having worked on numerous business magazines, including freelancing for a book publisher, business and commercial publications and newspapers, she has been production editor on Recruiter/recruiter.co.uk since 2007, and two other
magazines. In her spare time, she plays viola for the Bromley Symphony Orchestra and other musical groups in the local area, enjoys walking with her partner and two mischievous Cavapoo dogs, Misty and Millie – and goes to the gym, where she tries not to
injure herself.

Vanessa and her partner have been respite fostercarers for the past 5 years, looking after children from 5-18 any time from overnight to a couple of months. They also fostered a 16-
year-old girl over lockdown until she turned 18, and they continue to help her outside fostering now that she’s in supported accommodation.

For further information about fostering, please visit https://www.gov.uk/becoming-foster-parent

"To photograph is to frame, and to frame is to exclude".

On today's episdode, I chat with Zimbabwean Fine Art photographer & Sony World Photography (Open World Photographer Category 2021) winner Tamary Kudita. We chat about what influenced her to enter this creative field, the challenges and the inspiration behind many of her series. We talk about the legacy of colonialism, & how her art rewrites the visual narratives which have been. We chat about a few of her exhibitions including 'Maintaining Memories' and 'African Victorian', why she wanted women models in this particular shoot. Tamary also shares with me the history about her dual ancestry. We also look at her photography, in particular the shot that won her the Sony World Photography competition. We discuss how she would like to re-visualise Zimbabwe from the current image that is portrayed by certain media, and counter the narrative. We discuss the visual artists that inspire her, and of course, the quote that continually motivates her.

This podcast episode is part of celebrating women and their achievements, as part of the International Women's Month.

You can see more of Tamary's work here.

"The thing about it, my journey to date, is that I always like to tell the story to encourage others in the sense that, achieving success, or, (let me) take it back: fulfilling your dream, your vision, it comes with a lot of obstacles, with trials, with stumbling blocks. You have to make up your mind, see where you are going...not that I'm saying that it's easy, or there won't be some points that you won't feel weak, but you just keep going. You can't afford to give up. Along the way I have seen the impact of my experience, being able to tell it, I've been able to encourage others."Continuing to celebrate International Womens' Month, I chat with Chief Biomedical Scientist and Virologist Bamidele Farinre about her career within the field of sciences so far. Bami talks about how, against all the odds, she broke into her profession. We chat about the vital role of biomedical sciences and discuss how being a BAME scientist encourages young women to consider the sciences, and why she is also a big advocate of STEM and The WISE Campaign. We banter in Yorùbá, and compare our educational notes growing up in Nigeria. Bami also demystifies the labs you see on TV to what the reality is. We also talk about whose blood she would very much like to analyse. And of course, we talk about the quote that continually inspires her.

Bamidele is the Chief Biomedical Scientist for (DHSE -UKHSA Covid-19 Mobile Processing Units (MPUs) at the London Medical Lab (LML). Responsible for training and development of biomedical scientists, associate practitioners, and medical lab assistants to perform and manage the analysis of COVID-19 swab samples using RT-LAMP technology. Bamidele has worked across different organisations in the healthcare sector; Hammersmith Hospital, Clinical Biochemistry dept, St .Georges Hosp Tooting, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children (GOSH), Public Health England (PHE) now known as UK Health Security Agency, and Viapath Analytics LLP in the position of Operations Lead as part of the National Testing Programme requirements to implement local COVID-19 laboratories. She has been instrumental in leading, designing and implementing the June Almeida Lab based in the Franklin Wilkins Building, Waterloo London. This was a collaborative project between Kings College London and Viapath Analytics LLP. Using her knowledge and skills in molecular virology she has ensured that good laboratory processes and training were implemented throughout this project. Bamidele is a member of the IBMS Virology Advisory Panel group. This panel play an important role in the work of the IBMS including the setting of the Congress Scientific programmes and updating the IBMS qualifications including the HSD. Bamidele is a WISE campaign role model for ‘My Skills My Life’, inspiring the Future STEM ambassador, Mentor, Freedom to Speak Up ambassador, British Science Association (BSA) Crest award assessor, IBMS CPD officer and a Freedom to Speak-Up Ambassador. She’s featured on many platforms and her commitment to her profession has been acknowledged. Some of her accomplishments included; Nominated for COVID Unsung Heroes Awards, 2 categories (WISE New Educator and WISE Responsive Hero Award, and Winner, Champion of Biomedical Science Award 2019 for the IBMS London Region. Finalist in The Pathologist’s 2019 “Trailblazers” Power List, Finalist Women in IT Excellence Awards category: Role Model of the year 2019, Finalist for The Academy for Healthcare Science award for Inspiring the healthcare science workforce of the future 2019. Nominated for a STEM Inspiration Award in the category; Outstanding New STEM Ambassador 2018. She’s authored several articles for the IBMS, the Pathologist Magazine and InspiringtheFuture. Some of her work was featured in the Tara Binns case studies project with The WISE Campaign.

"Endometriosis cannot be cured and it cannot be prevented. It's not your fault & don't let anyone make you think otherwise."In the month of March we celebrate International Women's Day, and on today's episode, I chat with Nicole Flanagan, who is using her platform to engage with people about her experiences dealing with the debilitating & chronic condition, Endometriosis, to coincide with Endometriosis Awareness Month.

Trigger Warning: there are in depth discussions about issues of mental health.

Nicole & I talk about how endometriosis has affected her life mental and physically; what chocolate cysts are; the difference between endometriosis and adenomyosis; painful periods and infertility. Nicole also shares her experiences with medical practitioners & her numerous surgeries to alleviate her pain. We also discuss her plans to create more of an awareness about endo amoung youngsters and teenagers. Nicole and I also celebrate her victories during these trying times. She also shares with me her deep love for all things Harry Potter, writing, lipstick and villains. And of course, Nicole talks about the quote that continually inspires her.

If you would like to chat to Nicole, you can dm her via instagram. You can also check her tumblr page here.

Endometriosis is a condition that affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age within the UK.

For more information, please check the following links:

Endometriosis support groups (Global)

Endometriosis Support groups (UK)

Supporting People with Endometriosis in the workplace.

"I'm not really here to have a conversation about cancel culture, but I do think that we have to be as gracious and merciful as possible when possible, and sometimes that's missing from the conversation, and I hope to introduce that, while also still being clear that "no, no: this is bad; this is wrong", but introducing as well a certain sense of healing. And I tie that to the gospel of Jesus Christ in my life. That's where I kinda root that idea and commitment ."On today's episode, we go across the pond and commemorate American Black History Month with anti-racism activist and history buff Garrison Hayes. We discuss topics ranging from the lasting ramifications of the Trans-atlantic slave trade, religion, and inter-generational trauma. We examine The Southern Strategy and Emancipation proclamation. We look at the importance of key historical dates, including the importance of 1663 in African-American history. Garrison also explains to me what he means when he says that 'America loves Martin Luther King as an Idea'. We talk about Black History Month and the importance of its relevence now more than ever; Black Trauma, Black Lives Matter, the discourse on black identity and the issues of tokenism. We also chat about ancestry, his profound love for Atlanta, and of course, the quotes that inspire him.

Garrison is a husband, content creator and DEI facilitator whose work exists at the intersection of antiracism, faith and storytelling. He is an Atlanta, GA native and enjoys cheering on his Atlanta Hawks, listening to a great podcast and spending time exploring new places with his lovely wife, Simone.

'...So when you ask me "why are some governments against crypto?", is because, it's a new space, it's a strange space and everyone fears change, and of course, at least they think that their status quo is threatened;...the idea that anyone can spawn up their own version of a currency, I think governments cannot wrap their heads around the fact that they cannot have control over such a fundamental thing...'

In today's episode, I take a deep dive with Mechanical Engineering tech-head & Crypto enthusiast @MawaMaverick. Mawa talks about cryptocurrencies, what terms such as 'defi', 'Byzantine Algorithm', 'white papers', 'ecosystems' and NFTs actually mean, and the relevance of the metaverse. We also discuss how certain countries are taking the lead in adopting digital currency, while other countries and financial institutions are resisting changes, and also discuss the enormous possibilities that cryptocurrencies would open up in Africa, and why we've only scratched the surface regarding this digital frontier. Mawa also talks about one of his favourite blockchain and how it allows users to create autonomous software agents that automate task. We also vent about 'gas fees', and of course, we look at the quote that continually inspires him

Mawa has a background in Mechanical Engineering and Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence. He is also a Content Creator on Youtube, Twitter and other social channels. He is a keen advocate for Cryptocurrency and believes that, although he only started out in 2017, he is only getting started. One of Mawa's favourite sayings is: "Don't get de-structed and stay alert!"

"It's not just a scientific problem, it's also that there are huge socio-economic factors that play into the reason that trauma happens."On today's episode I chat with Veena Naganathar about her career as a medical practitioner, how her parents and being born during the civil war in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, shaped career path, and why she is passionate about the field of trauma sciences. We talk doctoral thesis, how certain medical terms and English pronunciations can be a tongue twister, being Tamil, family trees, and her love for Superstar Rajinikanth. We also discuss going up against the status quo, and why she decided to play a particular song at her bridal entrance during her Hindu wedding ceremony. We talk about music playlists, supperclubs, people within the medical profession that she respects and admires, and of course, we chat about a particular saying that she loves to use.

Veena Naganathar is a Tamil anaesthetic doctor, born in Sri Lanka and then moved to England, where she did her schooling. Inspired by her parents, she went into medicine. Following medical school she completed her PhD in trauma sciences looking at the effect of serious injuries on the heart. Outside medicine her interests span from entertaining, food and music. She ran a supperclub with her sister Suhanya and broadcaster Ashanti Omkar and currently runs music nights with her husband.

"I always consider myself to be more of a people person maybe, so the photography almost comes second hand; I try to understand the people & what their reservations are for being in front of the camera or what they enjoy about it & I try to build on those qualities that they show."On today's episode, I chat with one of London's nicest & most published photographers, Pål Hansen. He has photographed a list of mostly who's who within many industries, including entertainment and food. We chat about how he started out in the photography industry, internships, Hasselblads, working with clients and briefs. Pål also shares a few stories from some of his photoshoots that include Jackie Chan, Tilda Swinton, Niles Rodgers and Forest Whitaker. He also discusses with me how he was able to photograph Queen Margrethe II of Denmark smoking during an interview.

Pal also shared with me his personal projects including "Windrush - Leave to Remain", and 'Rear View Mirror', which was shot during the Covid-19 Pandemic lockdown. We also talk about chefs he has photographed for the Observer Food Monthly, and whom he would like to have sit for his dream photoshoot. And of course, we look at the quote that continually inspires him.

Pål Hansen is a London based photographer. His pictures are seen in many British and international publications on a weekly basis and his work is often seen on the shortlists of the worlds biggest competitions.

Pål is mostly recognised for his portrait work but he has also excelled in reportage. He works closely with his sitters to expose the true character behind the face. The nature of editorial and portrait photography puts the photographer in very difficult locations and with little time to take a portrait. Pål prides himself on creating interesting, dynamic and aesthetically beautiful images no matter what the circumstances are. His pictures show sensitivity and a great understanding of his subjects as well as incorporating humour where possible.

Some of Pål's highlights have been photographing: the Queen of Denmark (smoking a cigarette), Nicole Kidman, Kanye West, Ringo Starr, Forest Whitaker, Javier Bardem and Penelope Cruz and many more. He has also enjoyed producing covers for TIME Magazine, Sotheby's, Observer Magazine, Guardian Weekend, Sunday Times Magazine, Patek Phillipe Magazine and Emmy Magazine.

Commercially he has worked for AUDI, Virgin Radio, Vodafone, BA, Tesco, EBAY, The National Theatre, Glenlivet, PETA, Schwartz, MENG, Billington's, SHH, Goddard and Littlefair and more.

He has also enjoys great success with his personal bodies of work, such as "Teenage Parents", "Christiania", "24 Hours in Brooklyn", "Under the Arches" and "Windrush - Leave to Remain".

Pål has regularly been a selected as exhibitor for the National Portrait Gallery's Taylor-Wessing Award. He has had several of honourable mentions and nominations from Colour Awards, and shortlisted by Sony World Photography Awards and many other international awards. Pål was also selected to be part of the prestigious World Press Masterclass in 2004 and had his images used as the main promotional image for The National Portrait Gallery's Portrait Award exhibition in 2005.

"It's hard, it just is. There's no easy way to do it. Even when you do understand what you want to do and how you want to get there, there are lots of 'no's', there are a lot of 'who you know ' settings and scenarios..."

On today's episode, I chat with film aficionado and events producer Toyin about her career in the film industry thus far. We talk about the business and challenges she's encountered, and what these instances have taught her. We discuss where her love of film all began( it's an interesting origin story!), and how it has led her to her current role as an Events producer at Directors UK.
We discuss our shared Nigerian heritage, food, and geek out over popular culture tv and film including Buffy the Vampire slayer. I also get to see how much she loves Viola Davis, and of course, her fixation for all things based on 'The Matrix'. We also re-enact a scene from the film, 'Inception', and of course, we look at the quotes that continually inspire her.

A born and raised Londoner and very much South, Toyin started her career into film through her journalism degree which she put to use when writing for Studio Film Magazine, internships at Vertigo Films and Birds Eye View Film Festival, and watching as many films as possible! From memorising Morpheus' monologue in The Matrix Reloaded to having The Mummy on repeat or singing with full force the entire catalogue of Aladdin, Toyin has fully immersed herself with stories.

Toyin has worked as a freelance Events Producer for clients including; BAFTA, BFI, European Cultural Foundation, Into Film, The London Film Festival and the BBC, and has also garnered on-set experience on feature films including; Mission Impossible: Fallout and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.

Toyin now produces engaging events at Directors UK for their members which includes director-to-director In Conversation Q&As. Guests have included; Steve McQueen, George Clooney, Regina King and Chloe Zhao.

"You really need to push yourself; pressure can be validated positively and negatively, but it's up to you on how you take it. Nobody's going to spoon-feed you in this world, so it's very important on how you get through, but with determination and motivation, You can get to your goal."On today's episode, I chat with one of the youngest General Managers of a restaurant in London, Rizwan Khan. We talk about how he got into the hospitality industry, working at top-tier restaurants in Central London; his work ethic, mentors, his passion for meeting a variety of clients, foods & tastes, and what it actually means to be 'Front of House'. We also geek out over his love for Japanese manga and popular culture, and which chef he would love to have around for a home-made meal. And of course, we discuss the sayings and affirmations that continually inspire him.

Riz is General Manager at Junsei Marylebone. Prior to this appointment, he worked within the same capacity at kanishka restaurant and at various positions at Cinnamon Club. Riz is also a Semifinalist of the Gold Scholarship Service 2022.

"But one of the fundamentals of designing any home, be it a single family home dwelling, or an apartment block, is fire safety. It's literally the way firefighters get in and fight fires, and the way people get out; it's one of the fundamental pieces of the puzzle that you have to solve, especially in Housing blocks."On today's episode, I chat with architect and my Jollof rice nemesis, Kwame, about buildings, designs & architectural projects, the challenges of architecture, the housing deficit issue in the UK, the green belt and sustainability. We also talk about how he got into architecture, and his career so far. He also gives a crash course behind the meaning of names according to the Akan tribes, and we also compare Nigerian and Ghananian mannerisms and try our very best to avoid a full out conflict when it comes to Jollof rice.

We also take a look at Kwame's creative side, including poetry and photography, and of course, we delve into a couple of quotes that inspire him.

"Architect, photography enthusiast & Jollof aficionado. If it's art, I'll lap it up!" -Kwame

"There are some people, in the South Asian community, that will hold lighter skin above everything else. But there are some people in the world who truly, & I think it's an individual thing, that sees beauty through the heart, rather than your appearance."

On today's episode, I chat with mathematician, fashion designer, singer and new mother Thakshayini about equations, designs, and motherhood. We also talk about colourism and its negative impact on mental health, and how it's not just only an issue within the South Asian community, and how her outlook to having darker skin has changed positively over the years. We discuss being in blindian relationships and the challenges that come with the union.

We also talk about Thakshayini's musical career, her favourite raga, and who her biggest musical influence is. And of course, we examine her favourite affirmation.

A lover of the Arts with a degree in Mathematics, Thakshayini has always followed her heart . Originally living in London, she has moved with her family to the USA to venture into new and exciting opportunities.

"Identity is something that is needed to help ground people."

On today's episode, I chat with my 'brah', Josh, who describes himself, in his own words, as "South African, Jewish, flaming homosexual, ex-military, ex-banking, financier; confused from the get-go till I go to sleep!"

I talk to Josh about his upbringing in South Africa, to his time with the Special Forces in the IDF, and the injuries that came with the job. We also talk about his love for boxing and judo, his proud Jewish heritage, his sexuality, body aesthetics and the male gaze. We also chat challahs, brisket and who would come to his dinner party of people he has never met. We touch on why I call him 'Mr Happy', and whether he is obsessed with unicorns or not.

Josh also shares on the podcast his quote and why he refers back to it always.

"The way the industry is changing, you are learning on the job!"

On today's episode, I talk with producer and podcaster Ada about her career in the media. We delve into soundtracks and tv shows, the female gaze, and one of her favourite movies: 'Rocks'. We chat about life and cultural heritage, and it goes without saying that Jollof rice comes into the equation, and how Ada feels strongly about Beyonce and Nigerian pepper soup.

We also talk about the tragic story behind the Grenfell Tower meme of Debora Ann Eden; racism, microaggressions within Britain, & black trauma. Ada also discusses her affirmation and how it continually inspires her.

Ada is a 27 year old Mancunian that is also senior producer at BuzzFeed UK, where she also leads a Black British brand called Seasoned. With her focus being mainly Black content, she is also one half on the Black focussed podcast Seasoned Sessions.

On today's episode, I chat with the lovely and soft-spoken Glen (or 'MrGlen', as he is popularly known) shares his wisdom from his career as an art director, and those who have influenced his work. We also chat about typefaces & fonts, magazine designs, photo-shoots, and what the difference is between an art director and designer. MrGlen also candidly talks about depression and anxiety, and how he uses art illustration as a therapeutic outlet. And of course, we look at the quotes that continually encourage him.

MrGlen is a multi-disciplinary designer and art director, as well as an illustrator, painter, photographer and new media artist. He studied at the London College of Printing in the mid-to-late 80s and has been working since in magazines and books and more recently digital solutions - web, apps and AR applications. MrGlen likes to look forward and in the past for inspiration and is constantly trying to find new directions, new ideas, new tools.

On today's episode, I chat with playwright and actress Rani Moorthy about her one-woman show performances and plays that are drawn from her lived migrant experience: born in Malaysia but due to the race riots of 1969, eventually getting to Singapore where she began her career before emigrating to the UK. We discuss the local influences and cultures that inspired her plays; her Tamil ancestry; diversity, the Migrant Experience as a brown woman, colonialism, and puja rituals.
We also discuss curries and whether she would actually cook in a sari, and of course, her approach to living life and a few of the philosophies and quotes that continually encourage her.

Rani Moorthy is artistic director of Rasa and has written 12 critically acclaimed and award nominated plays which have toured nationally and internationally. She wrote two BBC Radio 4 dramas and for television, BBC1's Doctors and 3 short films, one feature on ITV.

On today's episode, I chat with musical storyteller & composer Rosabella Gregory about songwriting, composition, collaborations with Soumik Datta & Bernhard Schimpelsberger, Anoushka Shankar, Indian classical music, and being mentored by the legend, Bob James.

We also talk about her albums, her creative process, her current projects including writing the music for Broadway Records' 'My Marcello' with her twin, Dina, writing the lyrics, based on the book written by Tony award winner Corey Brunish; her heritage; mental health, alien facehuggers and daddy longlegs, and of course, her approach to living life and a few of the quotes and affirmations that continually encourage her.

Rosabella Gregory is an award winning songwriter and composer. She has
released three solo albums and performed her work throughout the UK and
internationally, at venues such as The Royal Festival Hall, Live at Zédel and in
support of the legendary Jools Holland on his Country House tour. Her
musicianship has led to collaborations with such luminaries as Bob James and
Árstíðir. Rosabella composes for theatre, television and opera, and her work has
been performed at such venues as Hoxton Hall, The Arcola and 59E59 NYC.
Collaborating with her twin Dina has given Rosabella her most rewarding
writing experiences, from writing a rock opera for the ENO Lillian Bayliss
programme at 16, to winning the Vivian Ellis prize at 21, right up to the present
day and their collaboration on a new adaptation of The Wind in the Willows for
Audible starring Jennifer Saunders and Harriet Walter. More recently Broadway
Records released a World Premiere Recording of their musical “My Marcello”
with an all-star cast including Santino Fontana, Laura Osnes and Terrence
Mann.

On today's episode, my guest is the multi-talented Akinola Davies Jr. We chat about his career in filmmaking, music and collaborations with other creatives. We talk about certain perspectives of the Black Experience, discussing projects that have included BBC's 'Black to Life' about the oft overlooked, and mostly forgotten stories of black British figures.
We also go in length about filming projects in Nigeria, namely his award winning Short Film, Lizard, and how the film came into existence; his shooting of the Durbar Festival in Nigeria; the 'Unity is Strength' project in collaboration with fellow artist Ruth Ossai in conjunction with Kenzo. We also talk about his approach of telling a different visual perspective of Fela Kuti in 'One Day go be One Day', via the stories of the people who knew the musical legend.

Akin and I discuss our cultural heritage of being Yoruba and Nigerian, and the influences it has on him as a visual storyteller; a particular historial figure he would invite for dinner; life anecdotes and it's ups and downs, but importantly, his approach to living life and a few of the quotes and affirmations that continually encourage him.

Akinola Davies is a BAFTA nominated and Sundance award-winning Filmmaker, Visual Artist, and Music Curator, whose work spans nations to explore themes of community, race, spirituality, identity and gender, telling stories that bridge the gap between traditional and millennial communities. His first narrative short film ‘Lizard’ premiered at the 2020 BFI London Film Festival and was selected for the Raindance Film Festival. As an individual Akinola was selected for the Berlinale Talents 2020 Collective and was named one of Screen Daily’s ‘Stars of Tomorrow’ alongside Emma Louis Corrin, Paul Mescal and more. Most recently, Akin won the Sundance Grand Jury Prize in Short Film for ‘Lizard’ and the short is now nominated for a BAFTA. The film has since picked up the Best Narrative prize at Philadelphia’s prestigious Blackstar film festival. As part of Akinolas visual practice has had 2 solo art shows; his first at the 1.1 Gallery in Basel and at the Dupont underground in Washington D.C. Equally he participated in numerous group shows nameley Les Urbannes in Lausanne and Kunsthal Rotterdam. Akinola has become a go to creative in the fashion industry working with brands such as Gucci, Acne Studios, COS, Kenzo, Louis Vuitton and the like on multiple creative projects, in front of and behind the camera. Alongside his work in narrative film and fashion, Akin has directed music videos for the likes of Dev Hynes and Neneh Cherry.

On today's episode, I chat with Nathalie about her career in photography, and what her initial career choice was going to be. We go old school about manual cameras, F-stops and aperture speeds, and the joys of working in a dark room.
We also talk about mentoring, representation within the field; her quest to win the Taylor Wessing Award; accents and lips (not in that order); more photography, that time she bumped into LL Cool J, and of course, her approach to living life and a few of the quotes and affirmations that continually encourage her.
Born and raised in London, British photographer Nathalie Gordon shoots with an unusual but fantastic hyper realistic style. Her work is packed with high sheen and edge, yet she is able to maintain a realistic and believable representation of her subjects. Her use of high flash and big gloss keeps you on the edge & they keeps you wanting more: be it a flashy advertising campaign or a social realism vignette. Nathalie’s personalised combination of beautiful snapshots, suggestions of human feelings and emotion explodes through a photorealistic slant.
Some of Nathalie's collection called 'Lost in Nostalgia', will be exhibited at The Other Art Fair, presented by Saatchi Art, (@theotherartfair, @saatchiart) at the Barker Hanger, Santa Monica.

On today's episode, I chat with Podcast and Radio Producer Amy Elizabeth about her career within the field of broadcasting. We talk about how she took on various odd jobs, and various freelance media gigs before her break at the BBC. We discuss music, breakfast radio, dancing, work ethic, family, and of course: cake! With refreshing honesty Amy talks multi-tasking, grafting & the wise words that have kept her focused and resilient!

Award winning Broadcaster, Radio and Podcast Producer Amy Elizabeth works across the most successful Radio and Television programmes globally. Producing for four national BBC radio stations: Radio 1, Radio 2, 1Xtra and Asian Network, Amy is no stranger to 4am starts, leading a team under pressure & entertaining millions of listeners daily.
Head hunted to produce podcasts for BBC & ITV's prime time entertainment shows, Amy is equally as comfortable in front of the camera, having presented over one thousand hours of live television! A former news anchor Amy reported globally & launched a podcast for BBC news from her bedroom during the pandemic.

In today's episode, I chat with my 'geek sis', Michelle, about her love for all things popular culture including The Green Lantern Corp, Comic-con conventions, Isaac Asimov and Alan Moore, and growing up in the 80s, and why she has the nickname 'Kermit Mash'.

We also talk about her love for music that includes being the manager in a blues and rock band; being a radio presenter in Deal; attending raves; George Michael and of course, her deep love for all things Prince. We chat about certain episodic moments in her life, and of course, her approach to living life and a few of the quotes and affirmations that continually encourage her.

Michelle Duncan is a presenter at Deal Radio and presents her show 'Duncan Disorderly'. She is also a lamp maker and you can find more about her bespoke creations here.

In today's episode, I had the opportunity to chat with exciting British-Nigerian film director Tomisin Adepeju. We talk about his journey from Nigeria to London at a young age; how finding and shaping his identity led him to film making: from his first short film at college to his catalogue of high profile short films thus far. We delve into his passion for film and talk about the works of Ousmane Sembène, Satyajit Ray, Yasujiro Ozu, Andrew Dosunmu, Abbas Kiarostami, Andrei Tarkovsky, Herbert Ogunde and much more. We also chat about our Yoruba cultural heritage, Tomisin's faith and and most importantly, his approach to living life and a few of the quotes and affirmations that continually encourage him.

**In case you're wondering, the outro of this episode is of Tomisin's short film, The Good son (Omo daada).

Tomisin Adepeju is a Nigerian-British filmmaker based in London, England. His multi award-winning shorts have been selected at over 150 international film festivals; including multiple Oscar-Qualifying festivals. His award-winning short, The Right Choice, had its World Premiere at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival and also screened as part of Sundance London. The film has screened at over 50 international film festivals, including various Oscar and BAFTA-qualifying ones such as the Pan African Film Festival, Cleveland International Film Festival & HollyShorts Film Festival.

His most recent short, Appreciation, had it's North American Premiere at the Oscar- Qualifying Aspen Shortsfest and screened at BFI London Film Festival 2019. He is currently developing his debut feature. He is represented by United Agents in the UK and Creative Artists Agency (CAA) in America.

On today's episode, I chat with Melanie about her fascinating career working in the field of photography, including commissioning photographers, art directing, the importance of following the brief to the letter, challenging editorial and advertising shoots, setting up a photography agency, the business of photography, being diplomatic with clients, editors and journalists and the minefield of copyright and imagery in the digital age. We share anecdotes from our careers as picture editors and what the future holds for the role. Whether you're trying to break into the industry as a photographer or already established, you'll pick up a lot of information from this episode.

I also discuss with Mel her position as a Luxury Editor, photoshoots and exquisite works of art, and what her favourite pieces of jewellery. We talk about her book which is about jewellery and art; mentoring, and most importantly, her approach to living life and a few of the quotes and affirmations that continually encourage her.

Melanie Grant has been a journalist for over 20 years having worked at The Times, The Financial Times, The Independent, The Guardian, The BBC and now The Economist where she is the Luxury Editor of 1843 Magazine, their lifestyle sister publication. Her first book on the jewel as art entitled Coveted: Art and Innovation in High Jewelry was published by Phaidon in Oct 2020 and in her spare time she gives talks at institutions such as The Science Museum, The V&A, The Gemological Institute of America, The Association of Art & Antique Dealers, Phillips, Christies and The Goldsmiths' Company on jewellery and luxury. She also writes for Vogue, Vanity Fair and Tatler and is a guest lecturer at Central Saint Martins as well as a guest crit leader at the Royal College of Art.

For more information about Mel and how to contact her, you can reach her via DM on Instagram. But make sure your message is brief and concise, as she has thousands of messages sent to her daily.

In this episode, I chat with Abby V about music, more music and everything music. We even got to jam a bit. We talk about how his musical journey started in Carnatic, Hindustani and Western classical music; his musical influences including the biggest of them all: his dad, Mr Venkat. We chat about his time in Chennai and the music season, competing in musical contests, food, ' 73 raagas with Abby V', including his favourites; and of course, AR Rahman. And naturally, we look at the quotes and sayings that continually shape his life.

Based in Toronto, Ontario, Abby V is a professional vocalist and an award-winning singer, songwriter, and music composer. He is also a producer and audio engineer. In 2015 he was the winner of Worldwide TV Music Reality Show, 'Astro International Superstar'. He has collaborated with many world-renowned musicians, and you can see more of his work on his Youtube channel or listen to his music on Spotify.

On today's episode, I caught up with the multi-talented Charlie Blokhuis. We chat about pediatrics and why she got into this field of medicine & what it means to her. We geek out on 'Fear the Walking Dead', 'Galavant' and 'Once Upon a Time'. We also chat about music, art, and most importantly, her approach to living life and a few of the quotes and affirmations that encourage her.

Charlotte Blokhuis is a pediatric resident and entrepreneur living in the Netherlands. Her interest in medicine began at a very young age, and converged with her passion for working with children on the pediatric ward. Being a part of this rapidly evolving field of health care also sparked an interest in research, which led her to obtain a PhD in pediatric infectious diseases, focusing on the neurological effects of being born with HIV.

The time that Charlotte doesn't spend in a white coat is typically infused with creativity, and her curiosity for learning new things gives it a wide range — including singing, playing several instruments, graphic design, illustration, and photography. She has over a decade of experience as a worship leader and band member. She recently lauched "feather + moon", housing her design and illustration work and a webshop, and her art can also be seen at @artunderthefeather

On today's episode, Rapper Rama Kazi talks about being a musician, science, his African-American and Indian heritage, and the meaning behind his name.

We also chat about his album, Delusions of Grandeur, and his immense love for AR Rahman, Lupe Fiasco and the city of Atlanta.

Rama Kazi is an American rapper, songwriter, record producer and entrepreneur. He is of African American and South Indian origin. Rama first began to take an interest in music through his childhood piano lessons and eventually his knack for poetry turned into a love for Hip Hop lyricism. Rama Kazi released his debut album, Delusions Of Grandeur, in January where it received praise by fans and industry vets alike for its cohesiveness, lyrical profundity and creativity. He has since been working on several projects that aim to introduce his background further and raise awareness on a variety of subjects. As a side project he publishes a blog called 'Decyphering Dope' which looks at Hip Hop through the lens of a neuroscientist, as Rama holds a bachelors degree in Neuroscience from Vanderbilt University and a Masters in Biomedical Science. He is set to release his follow up EP in the fall.

On today's episode, Jonah and I chat about relationships, in particular 'blindian' relationships, and how he started the #BlindianProject, a media platform and global community at the intersection of Black and Brown culture.

We also talk about identity, heritage and why Black is seen by many as 'other' within these Indian Subcontinent communities. We also talk about the very real challenges of being in a blindian relationship and the toil it can have on a couple's mental health and wellbeing.

We also chat about Jonah's kids and their love for Rasam (South Indian soup), travel, Jay-Z and haggling!

Jonah Batambuze is a Ugandan-American, multidisciplinary creative, and founder of a community for Black and South Asian people called the Blindian Project. https://www.blindian-project.com/ , which started back in 2017 that was inspired from an incident of African students being attacked by street mobs in New Dehli. The #BlindianProject aims to normalize Black x South Asian relationships while dismantling anti-Blackness and believes in removing negative stereotypes by creating experiences that unite our communities and inspire solidarity.

The #BlindianProject is the "meeting place for Black x South Asian communities". Started as a passion project in 2017, the project drew its inspiration from an incident in which street mobs attacked African students in Noida, New Delhi. Restarted at the beginning of 2020, the events of this year have seen the community grow enormously.

'The #BlindianProject aims to normalize Black x South Asian relationships while dismantling anti-Blackness and believes in removing negative stereotypes by creating experiences that unite our communities and inspire solidarity.'

The project have published a new book 'When We See Ourselves', which can be bought at all good book retailers including Amazon.

#blindian

When We See Ourselves: Black x Brown Love

Today's episode takes a slightly different detour from the normal format. I invited my bass teacher, David Gyamfi, to chat about music, his faith and education, while also teaching me chord progressions and jamming during the episode. We also talk about how growing up with a gospel church background continually builds his strong musical foundation.

This episode is mostly about music and us geeking out about bass greats that continually inspire us including Sharay Reed, Marcus Miller, and of course, Jaco Pastorius.

We also talk about his career as a scientist & Chemistry teacher, and naturally, which jollof rice he prefers.

David Gyamfi is a musician, producer and educator. If you're interested in bass lessons/ booking/tracking /production enquiries, you can contact him at dgbass@gemfystudios.co.uk

On today's episode, Anu Hasan talks about her career including acting in films and TV, how she negotiated with her famous uncle, her work ethic, and why she always tries to keep her sunny side up! We also chat about how she cannot bring herself in uttering the F-word and how she deals with trolls.

Anu Hasan is an actor, author, TV personality, entrepreneur, cook, and a proponent for mental health and well-being. She made her film debut in the critically acclaimed Indian film 'Indira' (1995), directed by her cousin, Suhasini Maniratnam. Anu also acted alongside her uncle, Kamal Hasan in the film 'Aalavandhan' (2001), and she also starred in the Tamil hit movie, 'Run' (2002).

Apart from films, Anu has acted in a number of popular tv shows in South India, including hosting the talk show 'Koffee with Anu' on South Indian TV station, Vijay TV. She has
starred in a number of British TV shows including 'Eastenders', 'Emmerdale' and 'Cucumber' .

Anu is a contributing columnist for Just for Women (India) magazine, a leading multi-platform content brand focussing on entertainment and lifestyle for South Indian women. She is also an author, with one of her books, 'Sunny Side Up', being a collection of her experiences and observations, and where she learns to put a sunny disposition on a situation.

For more about Anu including her 'Rainforest Report', tips on Positivity and Well-being, 'Note to Self' notes, check out her socials including Facebook and instagram page.

anuhasan # kamalhasan # sunnysideup #suhasini #justforwomen # actor # koffeewithanu #thegoodstuff #author #rainforestreport #

On today's episode, I chat with uber-talented musician Olugbenga (the first 'g' is silent) about his career in music as a producer, dj and bassist, his heritage, collaborations with family and friends, chatting with producer Brian Eno while on a bus in Bamako, and how Pounded Yam with okra stew pounds Mashed potato & pie.

Born in Lagos to a Kenyan mother and Nigerian father, OLUGBENGA now resides by the sea in Brighton. His childhood was split between Nigeria and the Netherlands, before moving to the UK where he finished school in South London and then studied at King's College, Cambridge. These cultures and experiences are a never-ending inspiration for OLUGBENGA and feed his unique ‘epic & blues’ sound.

He has travelled the world working as a bass player and vocalist, lending his talents to groups such as Damon Albarn’s Africa Express, Paloma Faith and La Roux. He is best known for his long-standing association with Metronomy, but OLUGBENGA has also lent his talents as a remixer to the likes of Laura Marling, Janelle Monae, Mew, Alt-J, Depeche Mode and the Scissor Sisters.

September 2016 saw the release of Solange Knowles’ A Seat At The Table, an album OLUGBENGA had been flown out to New Orleans to write music for. His track Don’t You Wait (co-produced by Sampha, Kwes and Adam Bainbridge) garnered positive comments from fans and reviewers alike and the album flew to #1 on the Billboard Hot 200 off the back of 36 million streams in a single week.

OLUGBENGA’s DJ skills have taken him to events and festivals across the UK and worldwide, performing in the USA, Australia, Japan, Russia, Italy, Norway and more. His undoubted ability to work a crowd also caught the attention of the Red Bull Music Academy, who recorded a live session with him at the Rockness Festival in Scotland. He has also scored a much-coveted Boiler Room session and had DJ mixes featured on such prestigious sites as Dummy, i-D, Okayafrica, Clashmusic, XLR8R and many more.

On today's episode, Ram talks about his Tamil immigrant story: from growing up in Western Nigeria to arriving on the shores of Canada. We also chat about his activism within Human Rights issues, being a proud Canadian Tamil and how he believes good policy can make a difference in people's lives. We also discuss music, anecdotes about his time in Nigeria, family heirlooms, why he gives his telephone number out to people and who wins whenever he has a discussion with his kids.

Ram Selvarajah was born in Sri Lanka, raised in Nigeria and lives in Canada. He works as a Senior Systems Analyst with the Government of Ontario, in Canada and is a Labour Activist. He serves as the First Vice President of the Peel Regional Labour Council in addition to several other roles in the Union Movement. He is a Free Mason and a life-long learner.

On today's episode, Nigerian linguist, writer and cultural activist Kọ́lá Túbọ̀sún talks most things Yorùbá and why he is on a mission to keep the language in written form, including his campaign in bringing the language to a wider audience.

We also talk about how he became a linguist and his love for languages;
how he was invited to meet Nobel laureate Professor Wo̩lé S̩óyíinká and his
favourite work by said legend. Kọ́lá also discusses poetry and why you may
never, ever get to read his earlier stuff. You'll even be surprised to hear what his favourite quote is!

Kọ́lá Túbọ̀sún is renowned for his work in linguistics and language advocacy. His work within the field is so extensive, he has an in-depth wikipedia page. Kọ́lá is the recipient of the 2016 Premio Ostana "Special Prize" for Writings in the Mother Tongue. He is the founder of Yorùbá Names Project, amongst many other projects.

On today's episode, I consult with the 'Oracle' Amrita,
about all things books, Tolkien & Tolstoy, her time in New York & her unique career path.

We also talk about dinner guests, podcasts and how to pronounce 'Khandaan'.

If you love books and like a good recommendation, then head over
to Amrita's Youtube page, 'Amrita by the Book'. She also co-hosts
Khandaan-A Bollywood Podcast.

On today's episode, entrepreneur Mark discusses yoga and it's benefits.
We also talk about his enthusiasm for cycling, business ventures,
cinema and what music to listen to while making a cup of coffee.

We also touch upon the controversial topic that every Ghanaian &
Nigerian argue over: who makes the better jollof rice!

Mark Sarfo-Kantanka is a director at Cellar Door Group. He is also co-founder of Coffee Shotter, and a founder of Nexus Creative HQ. He's also a Yoga instructer and teaches on the 'Akwaabayoga' platform.

In today's episode, Childbirth Educator, Birth Doula &
Somatic Psychotherapist Sangheetha has a chat with me
about her career change from the corporate world
to the birthing world. We discuss mental health &
mindsets, midwivery, dismantling the patriarchy,
and empowerment. We also talk about her love for music,
including her favourite raagas, and much more.

Sangheetha Parthasarathy is a Harvard Med School and MIT entrepreneurship graduate who runs worldoula.com, a birth and trauma focused platform. She has been recognized as one of the “Top 100 Global Healthcare Leaders” at the International Forum for Advancements in Healthcare (IFAH) in 2019. She is also a UPenn social strategy fellow, and co-founded a not-for-profit “Chennai Birth Network” focussed on pregnancy and birth choices.

After a very successful tech and strategy consulting career in the US and UK at Oracle, Accenture, and Adobe, Sangheetha found her life’s calling through the births of her own daughters, one of which was a homebirth. A passionate feminist, she trained under the world renowned Dr. Michel Odent to become a birth doula, a childbirth educator. She then studied to become a Somatic Experiencing practitioner and has advanced training in attachment, complex trauma, eating disorders, sexual issues and more.

All of Sangheetha’s work sits at the intersection of systemic issues - race, caste, gender,privilege individual. She facilitates the healing of women’s bodies in the realms of relationships, sex, pregnancy and postpartum, careers, and weight loss.

On today's episode, creative entrepreneur and consultant
Bhavna Malkani talks football, including 'She's Got Skills',
a platform dedicated to women in football, and her
undying loyalty to Tottenham Hotspurs F.C.

Bhavna also delves into her Indian heitage,
and why Busta Rhymes would always have a seat at
her dinner parties.

Bhavna is co-founder of 'She's Got Skills'-a global female football platform,
and also co-founder of Meebox Nails.
If she's not at a Tottenham Hotspurs match, then you can probably
find her at a hip-hop concert!

On today's episode, Ade talks about mental health,
self-study & well being, plus his time in Greece
and growing up in Nigeria.

Ade is an author, entrepreneur, and a mean cook!

Thespian. Owner of Museum Heritage Interpretation company.
Foodie. Traveller. Experiential Interpretation specialist.
Storyteller. Lover of life. Life coach! Janine is doing it all.

Janine talks about the many facets of her life,
including her stint working with Benedict Cumberbatch,
the ups and downs of auditioning,
and how to make the perfect cup of tea!

Janine Marsh (@marshjanine) is also the host of The Little Nun's Room.

On today's episode, I have a chat with Elibinayi, who, in
her own words, is ' a young millennial trying her
hand at adulting'.

Eli talks about her favourite poem, and the verse
that continually inspires her. She also talks about
her heritage and uniqueness of her name, and why
she loves action movies.

On today's episode, Dj Akinso talks about his musical tastes,
friendships, mental health,
and also abouta particular Yorùbá proverb his mother would say
to put him in his place.

Akinso is a music dj, and you can find some of his
mixes at Soundcloud.

On today's episode, Asim talks about the
one person who shaped his life growing up: Amitabh Bachchan!

We explore Mr Bachchan's filmography,
in particular films from the 1970s and 80s,
and how the 1978 film 'Muqaddar Ka Sikandar'
has had a profound impact on Asim.

Asim is a podcaster and
hosts Khandaan-A Bollywood Podcast.
He's also a mean cook and Hip-Hop connoisseur.

Read more at Upodcast.

On today's episode, Mike talks about his love for film and holy reverence to cinema screening rooms, and his fixation for Paul Thomas Anderson's 1999 film 'Magnolia', and why a particular line from said film has always stayed with him.

Mike McCahill is a Film and television critic for The Guardian, The Telegraph, Little White Lies and Reader's Digest.

Read more at https://uk.linkedin.com/in/mike-mccahill-570a2943

Ashanti Omkar debuts the podcast and discusses a couple of quotes that continually inspire her, including one uttered by legendary actor, Superstar Rajinikanth. Ashanti also talks about her career journey and judo- flips the interview on its head with podcast host Akin.

Ashanti Omkar (@ashantiomkar) is a Film Critic, Digital Creator and Broadcaster, who is a longtime collaborator with the London Indian Film Festival.

Read more at https://linktr.ee/ashantiomkar