Best Chidi Best Podcasts (2025)

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S6E9- "Raised Between Lines: Nigerian, African American and Fully Black" w/ Ollachi Holman. 1:30:13

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6d ago1:30:13

1:30:13

In this episode of My Black is Transnational, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts sits down with Ms. Hollman, a transnational Nigerian American with both African American and Nigerian roots. In a relaxed and engaging gist, they explore her unique life journey—from growing up in Indiana, to relocating to Nigeria, and eventually returning to the United States. The conv…

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How Autonomous AI is Solving the Enterprise Modernization Challenge with Brian Elliot of Blitzy 39:34

15d ago39:34

39:34

Most enterprises have roadmaps stretching 3-5 years out. What if you could compress that to 1-2 years? Brian Elliot is the Co-Founder and CEO of Blitzy, an enterprise-focused autonomous software development platform tackling one of technology's toughest problems: how do you modernize 20-100 million lines of legacy code when the developers who wrote…

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S6E8- Blood of a Warrior: Discussing the Battle against Sickle Cell w/ Golda Houndoh 1:02:22

2M ago1:02:22

1:02:22

On this episode, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts speaks with Golda Houndoh, a 1.5-generation Togolese woman whose story embodies resilience, purpose, and transnational identity. Golda opens up about living with sickle cell, navigating life across cultures, and how her personal experiences have fueled her passion for community health and maternal and child wellnes…

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How AI is Expanding the CIO Role with Chetna Mahajan of Webflow 31:30

2M ago31:30

31:30

In this episode, Chetna explains how new automation strategies are evolving not only productivity, but the role of the CIO. Chetna emphasizes the importance of data quality and security when scaling a fast-growing company, as well as transparency and partnership in vendor relationships. About the Guest: Chetna is an award winning CIO, board member,…

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Running IT Like a Growth Engine with Chidi Alams of Just Born, Inc. 31:13

3M ago31:13

31:13

This episode features Chidi Alams, CIO of Just Born — the company behind candy classics like Peeps, Mike and Ike, and Hot Tamales. Chidi shares how his team is using AI, automation, and smarter data systems to modernize operations, strengthen supply chain resilience, and double the business impact of technology. It’s a conversation about what it re…

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What Manufacturing Can Teach You About Scaling Enterprise AI 38:29

3M ago38:29

38:29

CIO Classified is back! More CIO secrets. More battle-tested IT wisdom. Straight from leading CIOs across a wide range of industries. In this episode, host Ian Faison and co-host Yousuf Khan dive into the deep end of technology leadership in manufacturing. Ben Davis, Executive Vice President of IT at Cambria, joins the show to talk about his sweepi…

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S6E7- "Black vs BLACK Black": Discussing Authentication in Black and Belonging w/ Ms. Shubira Bocko 59:12

4M ago59:12

59:12

In this exciting episode, we are thrilled to welcome Shubira (Shubi) Bocko, a remarkable 1.5-generation Tanzanian American! Shubi graciously shares her heartfelt experiences growing up on the vibrant South Side of Chicago and her inspiring journey of identity formation. Together, we delve into her navigation of the Black community, tackling themes …

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S6E6- Naija Reimagined: Chidi Udengwu and the Rise of a New Cultural Movement 45:20

5M ago45:20

45:20

In this episode of My Black is Transnational, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts sits down with Chidi Udengwu, one of the founders of Naijanation—a rapidly growing platform redefining what it means to be young, Nigerian, and connected. Naijanation is more than just a community—it's the new-age hometown association, a space where 1.5 and 2nd gen Nigerians are taking …

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S6E5- "NRG Transcends!": The One with Nosike 1:20:06

7M ago1:20:06

1:20:06

On this episode, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts sits down with DJ & Artist Ashley Nosike (known as Nosike NRG). A rising star as a female DJ and artist, she discusses her transnational upbringing as a Nigerian, while going against the grain and against her parents' wishes to pursue entertainment rather than medicine. The journey and the growth are one of resilie…

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Why the Smartest CIOs Are Becoming Business Strategists with Eric Johnson of PagerDuty 42:18

8M ago42:18

42:18

Eric Johnson, CIO at PagerDuty, shares why today’s most impactful CIOs are evolving into strategic business leaders. He explains how AI is driving a fundamental shift in how IT organizations operate—moving from reactive support functions to proactive, value-creating business enablers. About the Guest: Eric Johnson is the Chief Information Officer a…

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S6E4- "Roots are Skin Deep" featuring Dr. Oyetewa Asempa 1:06:17

8M ago1:06:17

1:06:17

On this episode, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts is joined b y Dr. Oyetewa Asempa, a dermatologist and poet, to talk about her transnational background as a Nigerian American, her upbringing, her education at Howard University and how it all fueled her to be the mentor, scholar and practictioner that she is. They also discuss her work and passion for hair and hai…

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CIO Leadership in AI Security and Innovation with Siroui Mushegian of Barracuda 37:01

9M ago37:01

37:01

Siroui Mushegian, CIO at Barracuda, shares how she’s building a smart, secure foundation for AI—-from setting up an AI council, to governing agents, and creating employee guidelines that protect innovation. She also shares how AI is transforming IT operations and unlocking new levels of productivity across the enterprise. About the Guest: Siroui Mu…

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AI-Driven Workplace Transformation with Saket Srivastava of Asana 31:25

9M ago31:25

31:25

Saket Srivastava is the Chief Information Officer at work management platform Asana. Saket oversees Asana's IT organization, including optimizing technology systems and processes, connecting technology strategy to overarching business strategy, and ensuring that technology infrastructure supports organizational goals. Previously, Saket held executi…

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How to Be an Independent Musician with Yeohee Kim / machìna (E32) 1:06:07

9M ago1:06:07

1:06:07

This episode features Yeohee Kim—known artistically as machìna—a Korean artist based in Tokyo and Berlin. We cover her journey from K-pop to independent artistry, the creative mindset needed to sustain a career in music, the role of solitude in creativity, her approach to music-making, the financial realities of the industry and what it takes to be…

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S6E3- Gist and Growth: Catching up with Crystal Amoah of Ghana2Go 1:33:46

9M ago1:33:46

1:33:46

In this laid-back and heartfelt episode, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts sits down with his longtime friend Crystal Amoah, owner of Ghana2Go, for a relaxed gist session. They reminisce about their transnational upbringings, sharing how those experiences shaped their perspectives, resilience, and sense of identity. From childhood memories to navigating life betwee…

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S6E2- AfroBallers & Beyond: The Transnational Rise of African Athletes w/ Stephen Ojo 1:09:38

10M ago1:09:38

1:09:38

On this episode, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts chats with Stephen Ojo of AfroBallers, one of the largest African-centric sports platforms on social media. They dive into the growing impact of African athletes on global sports and pop culture, exploring how this influence is putting a greater spotlight on Africa. From the rise of African talent in major leagues …

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Brand Identity, Design Craft and Growing a Studio with Perniclas Bedow (E31) 1:03:56

11M ago1:03:56

1:03:56

This episode features Perniclas Bedow, the founder and creative director behind Bedow, a Stockholm-based design and branding studio. We cover topics such as Bedow’s approach to crafting visual identities, their studio culture and growth, work routines and organization of the studio, career advice for young creatives, lessons that Perniclas got from…

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S6E1- The Transnational Effect on Elections 47:52

11M ago47:52

47:52

Season 6 kicks off with a powerful episode exploring the transnational influence of Black immigrants on the 2024 presidential election and other elections to come. Dr. Ibe-Lamberts breaks down how Black immigrants bring their own political views from their home countries and negotiate how much they maintain or adapt those views in their new environ…

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How to Be a Better Creative, Best of E14–E29 58:51

12M ago58:51

58:51

This special insight-packed 30th episode is dedicated to episodes 14 to 29 highlights, featuring the best strategic, tactical and inspirational advice all 16 of the most recent guests gave at the end of their interviews. You can think of it as a perennial creative career advice resource that you can easily return to whenever you feel stuck, lack mo…

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The CIO Roadmap to Executive Leadership with Rich Horwath of Strategic Thinking Institute 52:21

1y ago52:21

52:21

Rich Horwath, CEO of Strategic Thinking Institute and best-selling author, shares strategies that help CIOs to elevate their strategic thinking—providing a roadmap for transitioning from technical leaders to visionary business executives. Drawing from his advisory work with top-tier technology leaders, Horwoth breaks down the critical skills needed…

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Best Proactive Cybersecurity Strategies for CIOs with Carl Froggett of Deep Instinct 49:18

1y ago49:18

49:18

Carl Froggett, CIO at Deep Instinct, breaks down the AI-driven disruptions reshaping the cybersecurity landscape. From navigating complex security architectures to busting big data myths, Carl offers strategic advice for CIOs and CISOs on staying one step ahead in a rapidly evolving tech world. About the Guest: Carl Froggett, CIO of Deep Instinct, …

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Engineering Leadership for Scale, Agility, and Momentum with Jason LaFollette of Yext 35:26

1y ago35:26

35:26

Jason LaFollette, CTO at Yext, shares his product-driven approach to leading agile teams, maintaining tech debt, and using a “top-down, bottom-up” style to keep productivity and momentum high. About the Guest: Jason LaFollette is Yext's Chief of Technology. Jason joined the company in 2014 and built out the enterprise consulting side of the busines…

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AI Business Strategy for CIOs with Naveen Zutshi of Databricks 36:23

1y ago36:23

36:23

Naveen Zutshi, CIO at Databricks, shares his strategies for successful AI implementation. This must-listen episode is perfect for tech leaders wanting to learn how to craft an effective AI strategy, bridge gaps in tech teams, and drive innovation in your organization. About the Guest: Naveen Zutshi is the CIO at Databricks, previously CIO at Palo A…

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(Special Episode) Cultural Alchemy: On Being Black Transnational feat. Dr. Kelechi Ibe-Lamberts on the More Sybil Podcast 1:11:32

1+ y ago1:11:32

1:11:32

Our very own Dr. Kelechi Ibe-Lamberts was the featured guest on The More Sibyl Podcast, where he shared his personal story about his life's journey so far. Learn a bit more about the host and mind behind "My Black is Trasnational Podcast" and learn about how he found himself as a pioneering the idea of transnationalism in Health among immigrants. A…

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Business-First IT in the AI Era with Cisco Sanchez of Qualcomm 39:19

1+ y ago39:19

39:19

Cisco Sanchez, SVP and CIO at Qualcomm, shares his business-first philosophy to technology cultivated over 25 years of IT experience. Sanchez emphasizes the importance of IT professionals loving both technology and the business, creating roadmaps that align with business goals, and utilizing frameworks like Charlie Feld's approach. About the Guest:…

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Empowering Citizen Developers and Reshaping Business with AI with Carter Busse of Workato 40:05

1+ y ago40:05

40:05

Carter Busse, CIO at Workato, explores how AI is reshaping business decisions and empowering citizen developers. With over 20 years of IT leadership experience, Carter shares real-world automation examples and advice on navigating point solution vendors, and also discusses orchestrating data across systems, democratizing automation, and future tren…

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Modernizing Legacy Systems with AI with Shelia Anderson of Aflac 36:44

1+ y ago36:44

36:44

In this episode, Sheila Anderson, CIO at Aflac, discusses how the company is using AI to modernize while handling legacy systems. Sheila highlights key initiatives such as digital claims processing, establishing an AI center of excellence, and transforming internal operations. About the Guest: Shelia Anderson is an information technology executive …

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S5E18 (Season Finale)- "Where do we go from here??" 22:37

1+ y ago22:37

22:37

This is the season finale episode. Short and sweet. Dr. Ibe-Lamberts reflects on the season, shares his thoughts on the state of Black transnationalism along with his vision and hopes for the next season. Thanks to all our guest and listeners for your support this season. Can't wait until the next. Visit us at www.blacktransnational.com…

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S5E17- "Pressed for Success": Healthy Haven's Journey w/ Stacy Appiah & Patricia Bonsu 1:05:36

1+ y ago1:05:36

1:05:36

On this penultimate episode of Season 5, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts is joined by Stacey Appiah and Patricia Bonsu, the dynamic duo behind Healthy Haven. Dive into a refreshing conversation as we explore their transnational connections to Ghana and how it influences the creation of their cold-pressed juices. We discuss the story behind Healthy Haven, a Ghanai…

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S5E16- "Staples of Identity": Navigating Blackness and Transnationalism with Justin Staples 1:24:14

2y ago1:24:14

1:24:14

On this episode, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts is joined by Mr. Justin Staples, former NFL Player and current president of the Chicago chapter of the NFL Players Association. Dive into an insightful conversation as they explore Justin's experiences, cultural identity, and how his time in the locker room has shaped his perception of Blackness and transnational c…

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S5E15- "Culture & Masculinity: Faith, Fatherhood & Feelings" w/ Claude King 1:22:43

2y ago1:22:43

1:22:43

Dive into a thought-provoking conversation on the latest episode of "My Black is Transnational" as Dr. Ibe-Lamberts explores the intricate dynamics of culture and masculinity with psychotherapist and mental health advocate, Claude King. Claude shares insights into his upbringing and background, shedding light on the interplay between intra-racial c…

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S5E14- "Threads of Ambition" with Marilyn Adibu 1:08:56

2y ago1:08:56

1:08:56

On this episode, embark on a captivating journey into entrepreneurship with Ms. Marilyn Adibu as she engages in a rich, insightful conversation with host, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts. Marilyn, a healthcare consultant turned creator of the M.Y.A.A Bridal Party Collection, shares the intricate threads of her Ghanaian-American background that have woven into her…

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S5E13- "Sculpted by Culture: Weight Loss with African Eats!" w/ Bryanne Hackman 53:23

2y ago53:23

53:23

On this episode, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts chats with Ms. Bryanne Hackman, founder of Best Body Africa. Born in Ghana and now in the UK, Bryanne shares her journey of discovering the health benefits of African traditional foods. Explore the fusion of taste and wellness, as we unveil the secrets behind incorporating these culinary treasures into modern dieta…

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S5E12- "Love, Life and..Genital Cutting?" with Dr. Jessica Puri 1:00:44

2y ago1:00:44

1:00:44

In this episode, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts meets with Dr. Jessica Puri. She shares her unique story, navigating the intersection of cultures in her marriage to an African American partner. But the narrative doesn't stop there – they delve into her compelling research on the profound impact of female genital cutting among African immigrant women, shedding li…

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S5E11- "Transcending Borders" w/ Molly Jansen 53:25

2y ago53:25

53:25

In this episode, we are thrilled to have Molly Jansen, the CEO of Afripods, a groundbreaking pan-African podcast hosting platform, on board. Molly shares her captivating transnational journey, recounting her move from the United States to the vibrant city of Nairobi, Kenya. Join us as we delve into Molly's story, exploring the inspiration behind Af…

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S5E10 - Running the Race Together: African Americans and the Diaspora in Sports w/ Tony Gill 1:05:07

2y ago1:05:07

1:05:07

Join us in this episode as Dr. Ibe-Lamberts is joined by Tony Gill, Producer at NBC Sports Chicago and The Ringer, as they take a deep dive into a conversation about culture, identity, family and sports. Tony discuss his personal identity as a son, husband and father to be. They also discuss Black athletes, from the African continent to the United …

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S5E9- "Harmonizing Roots and Rhythms" w/Boyillinois 1:09:54

2y ago1:09:54

1:09:54

The Second Half of Season 5 begins!! In this latest episode, we dive deep into the fascinating transnational connections with artist William Dalton, also known as Boyillinois.He shares his journey, from forming lasting friendships in college that span the globe, to the profound reconnection with his Haitian heritage. Discover his unique perspective…

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Season 5: First Half Wrap-up 3:34

2+ y ago3:34

3:34

We're splitting Season 5 into two halves. We will continue with the second half of the season in the Fall. See you then and thanks for your support!

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S5E8- "Concrete Pastures are Transnational!" Featuring Nancy Mulemwa Siisii of Concrete Pastures Podcast 1:31:15

2+ y ago1:31:15

1:31:15

It’s another crossover episode!! We’re joined by Nancy Mulemwa Siisii, host of the Concrete Pastures Podcast. Both hosts of the shows interview each other and share their immigrant experiences and how if inspired the creation of their platforms. Nancy shares about leaving Zambia and how she’s maintained her connection to Zambia after resettling. Sh…

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Special Episode- African D.A.D: Celebrating African Immigrant Fathers Abroad (In Collaboration with Pansa Pansa Podcast, More Sibyl Podcast, and Concrete Pastures Podcast) 2:04:56

2+ y ago2:04:56

2:04:56

Join us for a special episode in collaboration with the Pansa Pansa Podcast, More Sibyl Podcast, and Concrete Pastures Podcast, as we honor African immigrant fathers living abroad. Experience an extraordinary evening of insightful discussions, captivating storytelling, and meaningful connections as we delve into the joys and challenges of fatherhoo…

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S5E7- "Little Island, Big Expectations" with Dr. Shanna Stephen 1:08:38

2+ y ago1:08:38

1:08:38

On this episode, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts sits down with Dr. Shanna Stephen, a second-gen St. Lucian pediatrician based in South Florida. She shares her cultural journey, the influence of being the oldest daughter, her passion for patient advocacy, and her love for travel with her partner. Discover how her heritage and experiences have shaped her both pers…

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S5E6- "Faith, Finance & Fiction": Catching up with Michael Omole 1:10:16

2+ y ago1:10:16

1:10:16

On this episode, we're joined by Michael Omole, a Nigerian-American author of the Children's book "David and Amani Learn About Money", to discuss his transnational upbringing and how his cultural experiences influenced his desire to write this book. He also shares his thoughts on money management, sports and more! Click here to learn more about Mic…

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S5E5- The Influence of Culture on Emotional Expression: A Special Episode w/Pansa Pansa Podcast 1:42:29

3y ago1:42:29

1:42:29

On this special episode, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts serves as a guest along with Dr. Abi Fapohunda, a professor of Africana Studies at the University of Pittsburgh, on the Pansa Pansa Podcast with Ms. Kemi Seriki. They discuss African culture in the context of expressing emotions. They also discuss how it affects interactions with friends and loved ones, wit…

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S5E4- "Bounded by the Ancestral Bridges" with Peres Owino 1:19:00

3y ago1:19:00

1:19:00

On this episode Peres Owino—the award-winning writer and director of several tv shows and docuserieses such (i.e., Bound: African vs African American , African Queens: Njinga)—joins the show to talk about her transnational experiences and inspirations for storytelling. She talks about the relationship between African and African Americans and why g…

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S5E3- "That 2% Difference is a big difference" featuring Rolake Balogun 1:15:17

3y ago1:15:17

1:15:17

On this episode Rolake Balogun, a 2nd-generation Transnational Nigerian immigrant (and a newly minted Google employee) joins the show to talk with Dr. Ibe-Lamberts about her experience growing up. They also cover a range of topics: From African vs African Americans to Beyoncé not touring Africa to Black Panthers impact and even...ANIME!!! Check it …

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S5E2- "The Trauma of Money" w/ Jette Stubbs 1:07:47

3y ago1:07:47

1:07:47

On this second episode of the podcast Dr. Ibe-Lamberts is joined by Jette Stubbs, a Bahamian born career/business coach and host of the Happy Career Formula Podcast. She discusses her immigration experience living in Canada and the challenges of racism that she faced in the business industry as a Black immigrant woman. They also discuss the trauma …

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S5E1- Reintroducing & Reimagining Blackness: The Transnational 20s are a real thing!! 40:01

3y ago40:01

40:01

We're BACK!! Season 5 of the podcast kicks off with a recap of Season 4 and some life updates from our host, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts. Then, he discusses his observations on the rise of transnational activities and massive pilgrimages back to Africa, specifically West Africa. The "Transnational 20's", as he predicted in 2020, is off to a fast start (even f…

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Season 4 Recap 3:35

3y ago3:35

3:35

As we prepare to launch Season 5, here's a quick recap of some of the discussions from Season 4

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On Passion, Patience & Photography with Myesha Evon Gardner (E29) 1:31:44

3y ago1:31:44

1:31:44

In this episode, I talk to Myesha Evon Gardner, a New York-based photographer and art director originally from Cleveland, Ohio. We cover topics such as Myesha’s approach to photography, including influences, gear, experimentation, shooting analog and working in the darkroom, her mindsets about growth and finances, lessons she learned from her fathe…

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How to Be an Interior Stylist with Colin King (E28) 1:30:22

3y ago1:30:22

1:30:22

In this episode, I talk to Colin King, an interior stylist, product designer and creative director. We cover topics such as his work/life balance, the source of his motivation, how he approaches interior styling, his work routines, his thoughts on professional growth and relevancy, the power of asking for help and of helping others, his challenges …