Stories That Shape Us

Join us in this inspiring episode as we dive deep into the world of Shilpi Roy, Vice President in Technology at JP Morgan, an Indian classical dancer, and a mom to a toddler. Shilpi opens up about combating imposter syndrome and navigating through her multifaceted life and career. From her upbringing in a diverse Indian household to her challenges and triumphs in the tech industry, Shilpi’s story serves as a beacon of hope and motivation for anyone struggling to find their voice and place in this world. Whether you’re a young girl from a small town in India, a tech enthusiast, or someone facing personal hurdles, Shilpi’s journey will inspire you to take bold steps for your growth. Tune in for valuable insights on embracing empathy, seeking mentorship, and breaking societal norms to achieve greater success.00:00 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome00:59 - Introducing Shilpi Roy03:18 - Shilpi's Early Life and Family08:04 - Cultural Diversity and Childhood Memories12:25 - Journey into Technology13:50 - Transition to the UK15:30 - Lessons from a Tech Career20:06 - Balancing Multiple Roles21:05 - Reflecting on Personal Achievements22:31 - Advocating for Diversity in Tech24:37 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome28:03 - Motherhood and Aspirations36:01 - Closing Thoughts and Advice

I Almost Didn’t Come Back – Life Updates & A New Direction

It’s been 8 months… and I almost didn’t return to this microphone.

A lot has changed. The biggest change? We had a baby. In this episode, I share how fatherhood has completely reshaped my life, my struggles with perfectionism and procrastination, and why I’ve been hesitant to relaunch this podcast.

But here’s the thing—perfectionism has held me back for too long. This year, I’m choosing to embrace growth over perfection, authenticity over overthinking, and the journey over the destination.

I also want to hear from you:
➡️ How has life changed for you recently?
➡️ What’s a lesson you’ve learned?
➡️ How do you handle procrastination and perfectionism?

Drop a comment, send a message, or share your thoughts—I want this to be a conversation, not just me talking into a mic.

Let’s grow together. New episodes every two weeks.

🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@storiesthatshapeuspod

In this update, Samuel announces a temporary break to allow the team to recharge, refocus, and plan new content. During this break, please connect with us on social media, revisit our past episodes, and leave reviews on various platforms to help the podcast reach more people. We are grateful for your support!

Social Media Handles:

LinkedIn | X | Instagram | Tiktok

The podcast episode, hosted by Blessing, features the inspiring stories of three individuals: Susie Mitchell, a singer who conquered her nerves to excel in her music career; Enoch, who battled isolation and intimidation to build a successful career in finance; and Ken, who, along with his wife Mary, built a financial empowerment platform despite initial uncertainties. Susie talks about preparing rigorously to overcome impostor syndrome, Enoch shares his perseverance in the face of challenges in the finance industry, and Ken and Mary discuss launching 'The Humble Penny' to share their journey towards financial independence. Each story underscores the importance of tenacity, hard work, and facing fears to realize one’s dreams.

All three guests have featured on the podcast in the past. You can listen to their episodes here:

Enoch Adeyemi - https://open.spotify.com/episode/1aGr0c1vBnWO0DtjiSgYmB?si=45fa31c657f745c0

Dr Susie Mitchell - https://open.spotify.com/episode/1IX8X5WQrBmNTLtOGXX8is?si=4f16122afb784cd7

Ken Okoroafor - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6g2Rc6OwUaLSQGEIrRlCky?si=de90b6f9124a49dc

00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Overcoming Fear and Doubt

00:29 Susie Michelle's Journey: From Nervous Backup Singer to Star

01:59 Enoch's Uphill Battle in the Finance World

06:25 Ken and Mary's Dream: Building The Humble Penny

13:54 The Power of Persistence: Enoch's Continued Journey

19:40 Concluding Thoughts: The Importance of Trying and Giving Back

In this candid episode, host Samuel reflects on the first year of his podcast "Stories That Shape Us" and the emotional rollercoaster of pursuing a passion project alongside a full-time job and family commitments. He shares his struggles with slow growth, self-doubt, and feeling overwhelmed, but also the encouragement he receives from listeners that keeps him motivated.

Key Topics:

Quotes:

"Fear not failure, but learn from it, start afresh, be smart."

"We'll run this podcast, right, committed, not swayed. By disappointments that ruffle this vision to fade, it is one that we believe in, our efforts will tell."

Call to Action:

In this episode of 'Stories that Shape Us', Samuel dives into an in-depth conversation with Peju Abuchi, an educator and poet passionate about using her work to empower marginalized communities and heal through poetry. Peju shares insights into her upbringing filled with love, laughter, and encouragement, emphasizing the profound impact of parental support and instilling confidence from a young age. She reflects on a pivotal childhood accident that brought empathy and resilience into her life, shaping her commitment to advocacy and empowerment. Peju discusses her journey from Nigeria to the UK, the challenges and joys of parenthood, and the creation of her book 'A Poetic Odyssey of Proclamations', aiming to project positivity and hope through words. Closing with a poignant poem, Peju underscores the theme of decluttering the mind for genuine freedom and self-discovery. This episode not only highlights Peju's personal and professional milestones but also explores broader themes of legacy, vulnerability, and the transformative power of storytelling and poetry.

Peju's book - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Poetic-Odyssey-Proclamations-ways-goodness/dp/1739807219

Connect with Peju - https://www.linkedin.com/in/peju-the-spark-abuchi-iamb-22a6b254/

00:00 The Power of Positive Upbringing

02:06 Welcome to 'Stories That Shape Us' Podcast

03:13 Peju's Journey: From Healing Through Poetry to Finding Her Voice

05:28 Rapid-Fire Questions: Peju's Favorites and Influences

08:43 Unpacking Scars: Peju's Story of Healing and Empowerment

16:36 Reflecting on Childhood and the Impact of Scars

18:25 Life's Pivotal Moments: From Nigeria to the UK

24:25 Building Community and Longing for Home

27:15 Fostering Connections: Creating Community Away from Home

28:22 Empowerment and the Journey of Giving Back

29:03 The Influence of Parental Love and Values

29:18 Finding Purpose Beyond Career Paths

29:41 Building Community and Empowerment Among Parents

32:14 The Power of Positive Affirmation from Parents

34:43 Parenting Insights and Challenges

39:48 The Impact of Personal Trauma on Empathy and Giving

45:24 Vulnerability and Connection Through Shared Experiences

49:42 The Creative Process and Inspiration Behind Writing

52:15 Reflective Insights and Legacy

53:58 Closing Poem: Clearing the Clutter

In this episode, Kevin shares his life philosophy of relentless optimism, which some find irritating, and his growth mindset. His journey from being adopted, navigating an adoption identity with positivity, through to achieving career success in technology is shared with openness. Kevin delves into the personal and professional strategies that propelled him forward, including the power of networking and the importance of focusing on what truly matters like relationships and family. Additionally, he explores the value of sports, particularly running, in maintaining mental health and discipline. Key takeaways include insights on empathetic leadership, adopting a growth mindset, and the life-shaping influence of formative relationships and open communication.

Bio

Kevin Cameron is a seasoned professional with an impressive 20-year career in technology, which has had no shortage of challenges. He has an unquenchable passion for learning and is always looking for ways to apply technology to his everyday life, health & fitness.

Beyond the realms of technology, Kevin finds solace and joy in exploring the great outdoors alongside his wife, daughter, and son. A fervent enthusiast of ultramarathons, Kevin has conquered distances ranging from 27 to an astounding 96 miles. These challenging trails not only fuel the passion for physical endurance but also serve as a crucible for critical thinking.

Connect with Kevin Cameron - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/kevinmarkcameron

00:00 The Power of Positivity: Embracing an Optimistic Outlook

01:07 A Journey of Self-Discovery: From Adoption to Ultra Marathons

01:53 Welcome to 'Stories That Shape Us': A Mentorship Tale

04:34 Navigating Career and Challenges in Technology

07:31 Family Ties and the Impact of Adoption

17:31 Marriage, Parenthood, and the Lessons Learned

22:15 Empathetic Leadership: Building Trust and Connection

30:26 Career Progression Insights: The Importance of Networking

31:44 Navigating Career Progression: Strategies and Insights

33:46 The Power of Networking: Making Genuine Connections

36:13 From Sports Enthusiast to Ultra Marathon Runner: A Personal Journey

41:50 The Impact of Physical Activity on Professional Success and Well-being

44:03 Reflecting on Life's Journey: Gratitude, Advice, and Future Aspirations

47:51 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights into Personal Preferences and Influences

56:01 The Essence of Mentorship: A Closing Reflection

The Power of Kindness in the Workplace: Lessons from the Isle of Arran

In this episode, the speaker shares a personal journey from recently graduating from Glasgow Uni to taking up a temporary job as a Kitchen Porter on the Isle of Arran before starting their career. Initially, the job seemed appealing due to decent pay, free accommodation, and the beautiful location. However, the task proved to be more challenging than anticipated. The real turning point came when a fellow kitchen porter showed kindness, shared valuable tips, and helped time pass more enjoyably. This experience led the speaker to realize the significant impact that kind, considerate colleagues can have on job satisfaction, regardless of the role's nature. The episode emphasizes the importance of being a supportive and kind colleague, which doesn't compromise the quality of work but enhances the workplace environment by embracing humanity and mutual care.

00:00 Embarking on a New Adventure: The Isle of Arran

00:38 The Reality of Kitchen Porter Work

01:03 Lessons Learned from a Tasking Job

01:52 The Power of Kindness in the Workplace

02:16 Conclusion: Embracing Humanity and Care

In this episode, John Hill shares a deeply personal journey reflecting on the importance of self-care, resilience, and embracing life's unpredictability. From his early life in Glasgow, experiences of familial change, to his career pivots from civil engineering to empowering unemployed individuals and nurturing entrepreneurial potential, John reveals the themes of nurturing human potential and the pivotal moments that shaped his perspective on life and career. He discusses significant personal challenges, from fertility struggles to family health crises, underscoring the power of resilience and the impact of caring relationships. John also reflects on generational changes, parenting, and the importance of being true to oneself, offering insights on making a difference and caring for oneself to effectively support others.

00:00 The Importance of Self-Care and Empathy

00:57 A Personal Story of Loss and Influence

02:30 Introducing John Hill: A Journey of Growth and Development

03:18 From Glasgow to Global: John Hill's Early Life and Career Shifts

07:28 Empowering the Unemployed: A Mission in Castlemilk

08:31 The Ripple Effect of Empowerment and Success

21:02 Navigating Life's Challenges and Embracing Personal Growth

24:43 Understanding Grief and the Personal Journey Through It

25:41 The Impact of Grief and Remembering Loved Ones

26:02 The Influence of a Cherished Uncle

29:22 Confronting Infertility and Embracing Parenthood

32:26 Navigating Life's Unpredictability and Challenges

40:29 Reflections on Vulnerability and Personal Growth

41:25 Rapid-Fire Questions: Insights and Favorites

46:07 Final Thoughts: The Importance of Caring for Yourself and Others

In this episode, Professor Emeritus Sir Geoff Palmer, the first Black Professor in Scotland and Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, shares two pivotal experiences from his life that helped shape his future. Arriving in the UK in 1955 as part of the Windrush generation, he recounts how he was initially deemed uneducable but was later accepted by a secondary school headmaster, Mr. Bullen, which set him on a path to higher education. This experience led him to excel in cricket and further his education, eventually attending Leicester University. After facing employment challenges despite his degree, Palmer describes a transformative interview with Professor Anna MacLeod at Heriot-Watt University, which led to his PhD and a distinguished career in academia. MacLeod's decision to ignore traditional indicators of 'keenness' and focus on Palmer's genuine character and qualifications demonstrated an early recognition of the need for wider access in higher education, a principle that would guide both of their careers.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode

00:12 Influential Figures in Geoff Palmer's Life

00:24 Early Life and Challenges in London

01:49 The Turning Point: Education and Cricket

03:15 Overcoming Racial Prejudice and Pursuing Higher Education

06:01 The Impact of Professor Anna MacLeod

08:49 Reflections on Wider Access and Diversity

09:36 Gratitude and Acknowledgments

10:22 Closing Remarks and Call to Action