In this conversation, I sit down with Chris Abeso to explore his journey from lived experience of gang involvement, violence and crime to creating positive change within communities.

Chris shares his story, the lessons he has learned, and the work he now does supporting young people, schools, prisons and community organisations, helping to bridge the gap between disadvantage, education and opportunity.

This is not just a conversation about the streets. It’s about identity, choices, resilience, responsibility and the possibility of change.

A powerful discussion around what happens when people are given the opportunity, support and belief to choose a different path.

Join us on WeAreLoveMondays as we sit down with Sonja Leeson, a best-selling author, award-winning entrepreneur, and founder of Love Mondays. From experiencing homelessness to becoming a global tech magnet and helping six- to seven-figure businesses scale, Sonja's journey is a masterclass in resilience, vision, and purpose.

In this episode, we dive into:

✨ How Sanye overcame adversity and turned struggle into opportunity

✨ Her path to becoming a best-selling author (yes, she once knocked Elon Musk off the

charts!)

✨ The strategies she uses to help businesses thrive while staying true to values

✨ Lessons on leadership, identity, and creating a life you love

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, dreamer, or someone looking for inspiration, Sonja's story will challenge what you think is possible and show you how to embrace your journey fully.

In this powerful episode I speak with Maisha Sumah, an international multi award winning speaker, mental health expert and youth mentor, Listed 50 most inspiring black woman in the UK and the youngest mental health representative. She is also the founder of "She walks in value" and chair of VAWG Forum.

Maisha shares her remarkable journey of survival after a near death domestic violence experience, and how she transformed that trauma into a global mission to advocate for and empower.

In this soulful collab, I reconnect with Tania Sarah, transformational coach and founder of Timeless Lady. We dive into the heart of our latest projects, what we’re building, why we’re building it, and the deeper mission behind it all. From Thawadar to Timeless Lady, it’s about more than brands, it’s about reclaiming identity, shifting narratives, and standing in purpose. A grounded, powerful convo for women creating with intention.

In this episode I’m joined by Felicia Lee, an artist, international speaker, teacher, coach and the co-founder of the Awaecian academy, a space dedicated to unlocking potential through emotional intelligence, leadership, and deep self-awareness.

Felicia doesn’t just talk about education, she lives and breathes transformation. Her work goes beyond academic success. It’s about identity, resilience, and helping people break through generational patterns to build something meaningful.

We talk about:

• Her journey and the why behind Awaecian Academy
• What real leadership and emotional intelligence look like in action
• How young people (and adults) can reclaim their power through purpose
• Shifting from surviving to thriving—personally and professionally

This conversation is a reminder that true education is about more than qualifications, it’s about confidence, clarity, and community.

🔊 Tune in, reflect, and share if it speaks to you. #ShadesOfRealityPodcast | #AwaecianAcademy | #PurposeDrivenEducation | #LeadershipMatters

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, we sit down with Marie Ferguson — a multifaceted creative, embodiment coach, global platform speaker, photographer, breathwork facilitator, and co-founder of Awaecnian Academy.

Marie shares her incredible journey of transformation, from expressing truth through the lens of a camera to guiding others through the healing power of breathwork and embodiment. Her work is deeply rooted in creativity, ancestral wisdom, and the belief that true empowerment begins with reconnection to self.

We explore identity, healing, the role of creative expression in personal evolution, and the founding vision behind Awaecnian Academy — a space dedicated to awakening, empowerment, and conscious living.

This episode is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and witness the strength in vulnerability and the art of becoming.

In this episode, we sit down with Hue the Artist, an Australian mixed-media artist renowned for her emotive photography and vibrant artworks. Through her unique fusion of photography, paint, and texture, Hue crafts pieces that delve into themes of self-discovery and personal journeys.

Join us as we discuss her creative process, the inspiration behind her 'Unravel' collection, and how she uses art to connect with and inspire others. Whether you're an art enthusiast or someone seeking a deeper understanding of the emotional power of visual storytelling, this conversation offers valuable insights.

Listen now to discover how Hue the Artist transforms emotions into visual masterpieces.

Richard Eckley is the founder of Eckley Global Community School, he is also a No.1 best selling author, life coach, podcaster and teacher. He joins me to speak about his phenomenal journey from hardship to success and how perseverance, self believe and consistency play a huge role in creating a happier life.

As the saying goes “Change your mindset and it will change your life”.

Scott Kirby is the co - founder of raised, an organisation with a mission to level up the investment playing field for start ups, small business owners and entrepreneurs.

Meet Dr. Claire Handby❤️🎙️

Dr. Claire Handby is an accomplished leader with over 20 years of experience in business growth, infrastructure and transformation. Originally from Oldham, Greater Manchester Dr. Claire has built a career defined by integrity, authenticity and a passion for lifelong learning. As an executive director, business growth coach, non-executive director (NED) and trustee, Dr. Claire brings deep sector expertise from her work with three of the Big 4 accounting firms.

In addition to mentoring individuals and driving transformational change within organizations, Dr. Claire has dedicated herself to promoting diversity, inclusion and social mobility. She’s been recognized with numerous awards, including the Deloitte Impact & Purpose Award and nominations for EY’s Northern Power Women awards. 🌟

Stay tuned – this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration you won’t want to miss!