Selema Masekela joins One54 Africa for a conversation about identity, family, culture, sports, music, and the legacy of his father, Hugh Masekela. The Emmy-nominated host, journalist, broadcaster, musician, filmmaker, and longtime X Games personality discusses his unique upbringing as the son of a South African father, Haitian mother, and Puerto Rican stepfather.

Selema opens up about discovering that his father, Hugh Masekela, was a legendary South African jazz musician and anti-apartheid activist. He reflects on Hugh's international success, including "Grazing in the Grass," his exile from South Africa, and his relationships with musicians and artists across the African diaspora.

He also shares stories about growing up in Staten Island alongside Method Man, his childhood relationship with his father, and how Hugh's complicated experiences with apartheid, exile, grief, and addiction affected their family.

The conversation then moves into Selema's career in action sports and media, including his work with ESPN, the X Games, surfing, snowboarding, and his unexpected journey into television. He explains how becoming the host of American Ninja Warrior gave him another major opportunity in entertainment after leaving ESPN and turning away from traditional television.

Selema recounts returning to South Africa for the 2010 FIFA World Cup with Hugh Masekela and explains how John Skipper and ESPN brought them together to create programming that highlighted South Africa's culture, people, history, and diversity.

He reflects on Hugh's life in exile, his activism against apartheid, his time in Nigeria with Fela Kuti, and his involvement in the music surrounding the Rumble in the Jungle and Soul Power. Selema also discusses the importance of cultural curiosity and how his father's experiences shaped the way he views Africa and the world.

Later, Selema explores the history of Black people and surfing, explaining the longstanding relationship between Africans and the ocean and how slavery and racism disrupted that connection. He discusses African surfing traditions in places like Ghana and Senegal and the importance of reclaiming that history. Touching on Selema's multicultural identity, his public relationship with Lupita Nyong'o, and the cultural connections between South Africa, Haiti, Kenya, America, and the broader African diaspora.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Selema Masekela joins One54 Africa for a conversation about identity, family, culture, sports, music, and the legacy of his father, Hugh Masekela. The Emmy-nominated host, journalist, broadcaster, musician, filmmaker, and longtime X Games personality discusses his unique upbringing as the son of a South African father, Haitian mother, and Puerto Rican stepfather.

Selema opens up about discovering that his father, Hugh Masekela, was a legendary South African jazz musician and anti-apartheid activist. He reflects on Hugh's international success, including "Grazing in the Grass," his exile from South Africa, and his relationships with musicians and artists across the African diaspora.

He also shares stories about growing up in Staten Island alongside Method Man, his childhood relationship with his father, and how Hugh's complicated experiences with apartheid, exile, grief, and addiction affected their family.

The conversation then moves into Selema's career in action sports and media, including his work with ESPN, the X Games, surfing, snowboarding, and his unexpected journey into television. He explains how becoming the host of American Ninja Warrior gave him another major opportunity in entertainment after leaving ESPN and turning away from traditional television.

Selema recounts returning to South Africa for the 2010 FIFA World Cup with Hugh Masekela and explains how John Skipper and ESPN brought them together to create programming that highlighted South Africa's culture, people, history, and diversity.

He reflects on Hugh's life in exile, his activism against apartheid, his time in Nigeria with Fela Kuti, and his involvement in the music surrounding the Rumble in the Jungle and Soul Power. Selema also discusses the importance of cultural curiosity and how his father's experiences shaped the way he views Africa and the world.

Later, Selema explores the history of Black people and surfing, explaining the longstanding relationship between Africans and the ocean and how slavery and racism disrupted that connection. He discusses African surfing traditions in places like Ghana and Senegal and the importance of reclaiming that history. Touching on Selema's multicultural identity, his public relationship with Lupita Nyong'o, and the cultural connections between South Africa, Haiti, Kenya, America, and the broader African diaspora.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeremiah Brown, a Nigerian American model, content creator, Love Island USA star, and rising streamer, joins the One54 Africa podcast for a conversation about his journey from modeling and filmmaking to reality TV, live streaming, mental health, and embracing his identity. Jeremiah shares how he discovered his passion for modeling, transitioned from working behind the camera to being in front of it, and built a career through major brand partnerships with Adidas, Coca-Cola, Spotify, Amazon Kindle, Ulta Beauty, Papa John’s, and Smoothie King.

The discussion turns to Jeremiah’s experience on Love Island USA, including the casting process, life in Fiji, the pressure of reality television, relationships, dating, and staying true to his morals while competing for the $50,000 prize. Jeremiah also talks about his time at Streamer University, streaming 120 hours in five days, and his connection with Kai Cenat. He explains how Twitch, IRL streaming, clip farming, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts have transformed the creator economy and why even celebrities like Kyrie Irving can have to build a new audience when entering the streaming world.

Jeremiah opens up about the pressure of modeling and being perceived for his appearance, his comparison to Shemar Moore, and how live streaming helped him become more comfortable showing his authentic self. The conversation then becomes more personal as Jeremiah discusses mental health, losing his best friend AJ in high school, recognizing signs of depression, loneliness among young men, therapy, and how books helped him change his mindset and relationships. He explains why promoting reading, self-mastery, and men’s mental health has become an important part of his platform.

The episode closes with Jeremiah trying Nigerian food for the first time and playing a “Date, Marry, Friend Zone”. Jeremiah also discusses his book club, the importance of getting young men to read, and how his goal is to use his platform to encourage people to invest in their mental health and personal growth.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeremiah Brown, a Nigerian American model, content creator, Love Island USA star, and rising streamer, joins the One54 Africa podcast for a conversation about his journey from modeling and filmmaking to reality TV, live streaming, mental health, and embracing his identity. Jeremiah shares how he discovered his passion for modeling, transitioned from working behind the camera to being in front of it, and built a career through major brand partnerships with Adidas, Coca-Cola, Spotify, Amazon Kindle, Ulta Beauty, Papa John’s, and Smoothie King.

The discussion turns to Jeremiah’s experience on Love Island USA, including the casting process, life in Fiji, the pressure of reality television, relationships, dating, and staying true to his morals while competing for the $50,000 prize. Jeremiah also talks about his time at Streamer University, streaming 120 hours in five days, and his connection with Kai Cenat. He explains how Twitch, IRL streaming, clip farming, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts have transformed the creator economy and why even celebrities like Kyrie Irving can have to build a new audience when entering the streaming world.

Jeremiah opens up about the pressure of modeling and being perceived for his appearance, his comparison to Shemar Moore, and how live streaming helped him become more comfortable showing his authentic self. The conversation then becomes more personal as Jeremiah discusses mental health, losing his best friend AJ in high school, recognizing signs of depression, loneliness among young men, therapy, and how books helped him change his mindset and relationships. He explains why promoting reading, self-mastery, and men’s mental health has become an important part of his platform.

The episode closes with Jeremiah trying Nigerian food for the first time and playing a “Date, Marry, Friend Zone”. Jeremiah also discusses his book club, the importance of getting young men to read, and how his goal is to use his platform to encourage people to invest in their mental health and personal growth.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Van Lathan, an award-winning journalist, Oscar-winning executive producer, author, and former TMZ personality, joins the One54 Africa podcast for a discussion about identity, culture, history, and the future of the Black diaspora. Van shares stories about growing up in Louisiana, Southern community traditions, and experiencing Nigerian culture for the first time through palm wine, chin chin, and conversations about his ancestry.

The discussion quickly turns to Van Lathan's discovery that he is Nigerian through AncestryDNA and how learning from his Nigerian friend deepened his appreciation for African culture. Van explains the distinction he makes between "Black American" and "American Black," emphasizing the importance of honoring the unique history of Black Americans while also recognizing their African origins. Godfrey and the hosts respond by sharing their experiences growing up between Nigerian and American cultures, leading to an honest conversation about identity, the "tether" debate, diaspora tensions, and why unity should matter more than division.

They explore the lasting effects of slavery, colonialism, Jim Crow, and anti-Blackness around the world. They discuss how misinformation about Africa shaped generations of Black Americans, why many Africans and Black Americans misunderstand each other, and how education can bridge those gaps. The conversation also examines cultural ownership, the meaning behind terms like "akata," the importance of respecting every Black culture, and why Black Americans and Africans should celebrate each other's histories instead of competing over them.

Later, Van reflects on his past criticism of Emmanuel Acho, admitting he regrets how he communicated his views even though he still believes in the issues he raised. He explains why respectful dialogue creates more progress than public attacks, while also discussing race, systemic inequality, police brutality, Tulsa, economic opportunity, and the ongoing impact of history on modern America.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Van Lathan, an award-winning journalist, Oscar-winning executive producer, author, and former TMZ personality, joins the One54 Africa podcast for a discussion about identity, culture, history, and the future of the Black diaspora. Van shares stories about growing up in Louisiana, Southern community traditions, and experiencing Nigerian culture for the first time through palm wine, chin chin, and conversations about his ancestry.

The discussion quickly turns to Van Lathan's discovery that he is Nigerian through AncestryDNA and how learning from his Nigerian friend deepened his appreciation for African culture. Van explains the distinction he makes between "Black American" and "American Black," emphasizing the importance of honoring the unique history of Black Americans while also recognizing their African origins. Godfrey and the hosts respond by sharing their experiences growing up between Nigerian and American cultures, leading to an honest conversation about identity, the "tether" debate, diaspora tensions, and why unity should matter more than division.

They explore the lasting effects of slavery, colonialism, Jim Crow, and anti-Blackness around the world. They discuss how misinformation about Africa shaped generations of Black Americans, why many Africans and Black Americans misunderstand each other, and how education can bridge those gaps. The conversation also examines cultural ownership, the meaning behind terms like "akata," the importance of respecting every Black culture, and why Black Americans and Africans should celebrate each other's histories instead of competing over them.

Later, Van reflects on his past criticism of Emmanuel Acho, admitting he regrets how he communicated his views even though he still believes in the issues he raised. He explains why respectful dialogue creates more progress than public attacks, while also discussing race, systemic inequality, police brutality, Tulsa, economic opportunity, and the ongoing impact of history on modern America.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wyclef Jean joins the One54 podcast for a conversation about music, identity, Haiti, Africa, and the power of unity. The three-time Grammy Award winner and Fugees co-founder opens the episode by sharing his excitement over discovering through DNA testing that he is more than 50% Nigerian, sparking a discussion about the African diaspora, Haitian heritage, and the deep cultural connections between Haiti and West Africa through food, music, and tradition.

Wyclef Jean reflects on his legendary career, from helping create The Fugees' iconic album The Score to collaborating with global superstars including Beyoncé, Whitney Houston, Shakira, and Lauryn Hill. He also shares the story behind his name, his father's journey from Haiti to America as a minister, and the importance of embracing his Haitian identity.

The conversation then dives into Haitian history, with Wyclef breaking down the legacy of Toussaint Louverture, Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the Haitian Revolution, and Haiti becoming the world's first Black republic. He explains how Haiti's victory over France influenced the Louisiana Purchase, discusses misconceptions surrounding Vodou, and examines the lasting economic effects of French reparations, foreign intervention, corruption, and the country's untapped natural resources.

Wyclef also opens up about his childhood in Haiti, recalling growing up in extreme poverty, eating mud pies to survive, immigrating to Brooklyn at eight years old, and the culture shock of arriving in America. He shares how those experiences shaped his resilience, fueled his determination, and ultimately inspired his music.

He reflects on life in Brooklyn's projects, choosing music over street life, writing socially conscious records with The Fugees, and why storytelling, community, and perseverance remain at the heart of his legacy. Throughout the conversation, Wyclef Jean delivers unforgettable insights on leadership, history, politics, faith, and the future of Haiti while celebrating the shared bonds connecting Africa and its global diaspora.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wyclef Jean joins the One54 podcast for a conversation about music, identity, Haiti, Africa, and the power of unity. The three-time Grammy Award winner and Fugees co-founder opens the episode by sharing his excitement over discovering through DNA testing that he is more than 50% Nigerian, sparking a discussion about the African diaspora, Haitian heritage, and the deep cultural connections between Haiti and West Africa through food, music, and tradition.

Wyclef Jean reflects on his legendary career, from helping create The Fugees' iconic album The Score to collaborating with global superstars including Beyoncé, Whitney Houston, Shakira, and Lauryn Hill. He also shares the story behind his name, his father's journey from Haiti to America as a minister, and the importance of embracing his Haitian identity.

The conversation then dives into Haitian history, with Wyclef breaking down the legacy of Toussaint Louverture, Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the Haitian Revolution, and Haiti becoming the world's first Black republic. He explains how Haiti's victory over France influenced the Louisiana Purchase, discusses misconceptions surrounding Vodou, and examines the lasting economic effects of French reparations, foreign intervention, corruption, and the country's untapped natural resources.

Wyclef also opens up about his childhood in Haiti, recalling growing up in extreme poverty, eating mud pies to survive, immigrating to Brooklyn at eight years old, and the culture shock of arriving in America. He shares how those experiences shaped his resilience, fueled his determination, and ultimately inspired his music.

He reflects on life in Brooklyn's projects, choosing music over street life, writing socially conscious records with The Fugees, and why storytelling, community, and perseverance remain at the heart of his legacy. Throughout the conversation, Wyclef Jean delivers unforgettable insights on leadership, history, politics, faith, and the future of Haiti while celebrating the shared bonds connecting Africa and its global diaspora.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chinedu Unaka joins One54 for a hilarious and heartfelt conversation about growing up as the child of Nigerian immigrants, embracing his Igbo identity, and building a successful career in comedy and Hollywood. Known for his roles on Abbott Elementary and Insecure, Chinedu shares how his Nigerian upbringing shaped his perspective, from family traditions and learning the meaning behind Igbo names to the struggles of having teachers, baristas, and comedy hosts constantly mispronounce his name.

Chinedu reflects on navigating life between Nigerian and American cultures, dealing with stereotypes, performing for Nigerian audiences, and the unique pressures placed on first-generation children. The trio swaps unforgettable stories about school roll calls, Starbucks aliases, Nigerian weddings, immigrant parents, language barriers, and the realities of chasing comedy while balancing family expectations of becoming a doctor or lawyer.

The conversation dives into childhood memories of growing up in Los Angeles, the sacrifices their parents made after immigrating to America, and how those experiences influenced Chinedu's career. He opens up about starting stand-up comedy on a dare during college, earning his parents' support over time, and developing his style through Nigerian community events before breaking into television.

They debate classic Nigerian dishes while comparing traditional home cooking to growing up without much fast food. They also discuss Nigerian pride, preserving culture, speaking Igbo and Yoruba, and why Nigerian names and identity have become more widely recognized through sports, entertainment, and pop culture.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chinedu Unaka joins One54 for a hilarious and heartfelt conversation about growing up as the child of Nigerian immigrants, embracing his Igbo identity, and building a successful career in comedy and Hollywood. Known for his roles on Abbott Elementary and Insecure, Chinedu shares how his Nigerian upbringing shaped his perspective, from family traditions and learning the meaning behind Igbo names to the struggles of having teachers, baristas, and comedy hosts constantly mispronounce his name.

Chinedu reflects on navigating life between Nigerian and American cultures, dealing with stereotypes, performing for Nigerian audiences, and the unique pressures placed on first-generation children. The trio swaps unforgettable stories about school roll calls, Starbucks aliases, Nigerian weddings, immigrant parents, language barriers, and the realities of chasing comedy while balancing family expectations of becoming a doctor or lawyer.

The conversation dives into childhood memories of growing up in Los Angeles, the sacrifices their parents made after immigrating to America, and how those experiences influenced Chinedu's career. He opens up about starting stand-up comedy on a dare during college, earning his parents' support over time, and developing his style through Nigerian community events before breaking into television.

They debate classic Nigerian dishes while comparing traditional home cooking to growing up without much fast food. They also discuss Nigerian pride, preserving culture, speaking Igbo and Yoruba, and why Nigerian names and identity have become more widely recognized through sports, entertainment, and pop culture.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.