Quote: "Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow." - Melody Beattie

Description: In this episode, I unveil the face behind the voice in a special video edition, a fitting finale for a season filled with rich narratives. Join me in a journey of gratitude as I express thanks for the support and warmth that has made this podcast a success. 2023 brought its share of challenges and triumphs, mirroring the varied tales shared by our incredible guests.

As we navigate the break before season two, I confess to having just one guest lined up for 2024—a friend. Now, the challenge lies in embracing the unknown, reaching out to new faces, and navigating the delicate dance of interviews with acquaintances turned big names.

So, as we pause for the season's break, I extend my warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I can't wait to embark on another chapter of storytelling, learning, and growth with you in 2024. Until then, stay curious, stay inspired, and I'll see you on the other side of this delightful podcast journey.

Quote: "Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions." - Dalai Lama

Description:

Join us in this episode as we explore a rich tapestry of experiences and insights shared by a voracious consumer of media. From maintaining a visual diary of thoughts and interesting experiences to dissecting the Beckham documentary, our guest, Saze Ibraheem, offers a unique perspective. The discussion spans the challenges of being a night owl in a world that values early risers, unexpected career turns from economics to tech to media, and the power of community in crafting a life of joy. Tune in for an enriching conversation that touches on everything from career serendipity to the simple joys of life.

Guest Bio:

Saze Ibraheem, a seasoned marketing communications leader boasting over a decade of industry expertise, has consistently demonstrated her prowess in shaping marketing strategy, fostering collaborations with diverse stakeholders, and leveraging the marketing toolkit to future-proof businesses.

Her journey through prominent roles at Facebook, JUMIA, DStv, ART X, and as the founder of 4Twenty3 Agency Marketing Agency has equipped her with high emotional intelligence, growth-oriented skills, brand-building acumen, and a penchant for pragmatic decision-making. Notably, her contributions have yielded remarkable outcomes, including a staggering 545% increase in revenue, the acquisition of 2 million new users, and the establishment of key partnerships with finance, tech, and lifestyle brands. Beyond this, her efforts have garnered over $1 million in media exposure, marking just a few highlights of her impactful career.

Saze's achievements have not gone unnoticed, with her work finding a spotlight on major global platforms such as CNN, the FT, BBC, and Conde Nast Traveller. Her ability to drive revenue growth, forge strategic partnerships, and orchestrate successful PR and digital engagements has solidified her reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Saze Ibraheem has actively contributed to the tech landscape as one of Nigeria's inaugural TechWomen representatives and served as a TEDx Ambassador for Africa. Her commitment to fostering dialogue and innovation led her to produce the first TEDxIkoyi conference in Lagos. A proud alumna of The University of Manchester and New York University, Saze is a staunch advocate for the transformative power of technology in Africa's development, with a particular passion for exploring the intersection of tech, media, and society.

In her downtime, Saze finds solace on the beach, embarks on off-the-beaten-path travels, indulges in culinary delights, and unapologetically immerses herself in a plethora of media, spanning podcasts, books, movies, TV shows, and magazines – a true enthusiast of the information age.

Quote:

"Marriage is not a noun; it's a verb. It isn't something you get. It's something you do. It's the way you love your partner every day." - Barbara De Angelis

Description:

In this episode, join my guest, Demilade Roberts, and I, as we embark on a journey through the highs and lows of marriage, life, and the lessons learned along the way.  A storyteller and media enthusiast, our guest shares the raw, unfiltered realities of his own marriage. In this podcast, you'll delve into the intricacies of relationships, the challenges faced during a global pandemic, the power of communication, and the ways in which deep spirituality intersects with everyday life. The discussion extends to the realm of content creation and business, as Demilade reflects on the birth of Black Canvas, sharing captivating stories through the lens of his camera.

Guest Bio:

Demilade Roberts, co-founder of Rafters Properties Ltd and Black Canvas. Coming from a family of six, three siblings and two medical professional parents, Dad - Neurology and Mom - Professor of Public Health, I grew up in a wholesome environment and a great community in Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria. Although I am a Psychology graduate from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, I am predominantly a photographer who has worked in the fashion, beauty, entertainment and corporate industries for over a decade. I started my photography career while in university, even though I can boast of using disposable and analog film cameras in secondary school for personal year books. I started my DSLR journey in December 2009. 

With a vast portfolio in the above industries, I have grown capacity from photographer, to director of photography, acting and now on to film production with high end projects in the works as an Executive Producer. Making major investments in drone technology, I ventured into Real Estate for the sole purpose of bridging the gap between investors, developers and buyers by generating valuable information with innovative data gathering abiding to processes like aerial surveys, asset cataloging, construction progress reports, construction project monitoring etc. 

I love God and I am currently the youth ambassador for the Young Professionals Fellowship, Eko Atlantic chapter. I am big on art with pieces done by myself and curated projects in major facilities across Lagos, Abuja, London, and Australia. I love productivity, collaboration and sharing. 

My name is Demilade Roberts and this is my story.

Socials:

https://www.instagram.com/demilader/

https://www.instagram.com/blackcanvasng/

https://www.instagram.com/raftersproperties/

Quote:

“Life is like music; it must be composed by ear, feeling, and instinct, not by rule.” - Samuel Butler

Description:

In this episode, my guest, Ayodele Adepoju and I dive into the dynamic world of music PR where we unravel his journey as an unconventional PR entrepreneur. From investment banking to shaping the narratives of renowned artists, this podcast delves into the power of passion and persistence through challenges. 

Ayodele shares inspiring tales of triumph over challenges, passion that fuels success, and the unbreakable link between music and faith. Tune in and discover the untold stories behind chart-toppers, where every note is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the music world.

Guest Bio:

Ayo Adepoju is the founder of WPGM PR (We Plug Good Music), a UK-based PR and publicity company that believes in the power of good music. We help artists promote, raise awareness and garner visibility for their music by getting their work featured and their stories told and amplified in the biggest music and culture publications, magazines and media outlets, some of which include Billboard, The FADER, Complex, i-D Magazine, MTV and Wonderland Magazine, among others. With over 8 years PR experience, we've provided successful press and publicity campaigns for the likes of Island Records, Warner Music, First Access, emPawa, Platoon, OneRPM, Marathon Artists and EMPIRE.

Quote: "The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud." - Coco Chanel

Description:

In this candid podcast, my guest, Lauretta Ovadje and I, continue the last podcast’s conversation as we journey through societal expectations, independence, and self-discovery. In a world that often defines women by their marital status and motherhood, we unravel the complexities of these societal norms. 

Lauretta shares honest anecdotes, revealing the strength gained from navigating life's uncertainties. From the pressures of marriage to the liberating choice of living on her own terms, she dismantles stereotypes with grace and wit. These stories, sprinkled with humor and wisdom, remind us that every woman's path is uniquely her own.

”Embrace uncertainty. Some of the most beautiful chapters in our lives won’t have a title until much later.” — Bob Goff

"Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we're supposed to be and embracing who we are." — Brené Brown

In this episode, Ayomide steps out of the interviewer's chair and into the hot seat. She invited friends and acquaintances, to send in a wide range of questions. The result? An episode filled with candid, open, and transparent responses that dive deep into her world.

She’s aided by her longtime friend, Fuad, as she answers questions about love, family, travel, career choices, and much more. You'll get to know Ayomide in a whole new light. It's a conversation where vulnerability meets authenticity, and where she shares

"Don’t look for a partner who is eye candy. Look for a partner who is soul food." Karen Salmansohn

In this episode, my guest Chioma Okafor and I embark on a candid conversation about the joys, challenges, and lessons that come with seeking love in the modern age. We delve into the challenges of online dating, how she maintains her long-distance relationship and much more. Whether you're in a cross-cultural relationship, a long-distance romance, or simply curious about the dynamics of love in diverse contexts, you won't want to miss this inspiring and heartwarming conversation.

“The body is the vehicle, the mind is the driver, and the spirit is the passenger.” – Deepak Chopra

In this episode, my guest Olayi Oyekanmi, shares how an assessment put him onto the path of his purpose and he has never looked back. Through his journey as a Doctor of Physical Therapy we discuss the importance of mentorship, how to deal with personal challenges, how to deal with difficult patients, the most gruesome injury he has seen, and self care.

Quotes: “It's not that diamonds are a girl's best friend, but it's your best friends who are your diamonds. It's your best friends who are supremely resilient, made under pressure and of astonishing value. They're everlasting; they can cut glass if they need to”. - Gina Barreca

This episode is like listening in on a very private conversation as I talk to my two female best friends, Debby Nnokam and Funmi Johnson, about our friendships. This one is personal and intimate, as we discuss how we became friends, what difficulties we have experienced in our friendships, how our views of friendships have changed over time and so much more. My friends also share some hard truths about me. This episode should have you thinking about your own friendships and encourage you to foster them.