Common Sense with Mike Omoniyi

Everyone wants the Dubai photo. Almost nobody wants the years of unglamorous work that are supposed to come first.Austin Okolo started in football, moved into fashion, then fell into building the Gen Z Club, partly by accident and partly by luck. These days he runs a recruitment agency focused on upskilling young, diverse talent, having walked away from the fast, "sexy" business models for something slower, more predictable, and actually built to last.We get into why so many young people feel pushed into entrepreneurship rather than choosing it, why the "Gen Z is lazy" line falls apart the second you meet the people doing the work, and why the course-seller industry keeps selling an easy version of a hard thing. Austin is honest about losing money to a pyramid scheme at eighteen, about being miserable despite the success, and about the danger of high conviction when nobody around you is willing to say no.This one is for anyone who is tired of the highlight reel and wants the real version.

Kelechi Okafor joins Mike Omoniyi on The Common Sense Podcast for an honest conversation about doubt, identity and why she refuses to be worshipped.We get into her path from high-achieving air cadet to writer and podcaster, the "beautifully chaotic" childhood that shaped her, faith without certainty, the case against the monarchy, the adultification of Black children in schools, regional inequality across Liverpool and Manchester, and why she would rather buy a kid a school uniform than run for Mayor of London.A conversation about holding two truths at once in a culture that rewards picking a side.

We're told that if we just get the thing, the followers, the money, the recognition, we'll finally feel settled. Nelson got all of it by 23 and found the opposite waiting for him. In this conversation, he's honest about the year he streamed to nobody, the success that felt like a trap, and what actually started to fill the gap. Worth a listen if you've ever hit a goal and felt strangely flat on the other side.

You asked, I answered. From who'll lead Britain after Starmer to whether the two-party system is finished, this Q&A goes through the questions you've been sending in. Reform's rise, Burnham vs Streeting, the death of identity politics, faith in public life, and what the next Prime Minister should actually say on day one.No talking points. No press lines. Just honest answers to the questions you actually want asked.

In this Q&A episode, Mike takes on some of the biggest questions shaping UK politics right now.We get into the rise of figures like Zohran Mamdani and Peter Mandelson, unpack what’s really happening ahead of the May elections, and ask whether the growth of Reform UK and the Green Party signals a deeper shift in British political identity.Is this just another political cycle, or are we watching something more fundamental unfold?This episode is part analysis, part reflection, and part reality check. If you’re trying to make sense of where the UK is heading, this is one to watch.Let me know your thoughts in the comments. Where do you think British politics is going?Subscribe for more conversations that cut through the noise.

He got replaced at church… and it changed his life.From that moment to witnessing Stanley Clarke live, Jon Onabowu's journey into jazz was built on pressure, passion, and purpose.Now with a debut album on the way, he’s redefining jazz—not as something old, but something alive, evolving, and deeply human.This isn’t just music… it’s an invitation.Turn your notification bells on so you are first to know when new episodes come out. 💌: Click here to join our community for free - https://csnetwork.substack.com/📹: All our videos are recorded at Common Sense Studios: studio.tcsnetwork.co.ukWHO ARE WEThe Common Sense Network is an Independent bi-partisan news outlet. We were founded by 500 ordinary people who saw a problem with the mainstream media and did something about it. We are on a mission to make democracy healthier by bringing people who disagree together. 👉🏽 CONNECT with Common Sense Network Website: http://bit.ly/TCSNetworkHomeYoutube: http://bit.ly/TCSNetworkYoutubeFacebook: http://bit.ly/TCSNetworkFacebookTwitter: https://twitter.com/TCSNetworkInstagram: http://bit.ly/TCSNetworkInstagramNewsletter: https://www.tcsnetwork.co.uk/join

In this episode, I sat down to answer your questions, and nothing was off limits.From Trump and Farage to the state of politics today, I share my honest thoughts on the issues people are often too careful to speak about openly. We also get into my personal life, how I think about leadership, pressure, and what it actually looks like to navigate public conversations without losing yourself.

In this episode of the Common Sense Podcast, Mike sits down with an artist who made a decision most people only talk about. She walked away from a stable career in finance and chose the uncertain path of building a life in the arts. What began as a creative outlet eventually became a calling she could not ignore, forcing her to confront one of the hardest questions many professionals face. What happens when the safe path no longer feels like the right one?The conversation explores the psychology behind leaving prestigious careers, the fear that comes with stepping away from stability, and the practical reality of turning creativity into a sustainable profession. She reflects on the moment she realised that success on paper did not necessarily translate into fulfilment, and how she navigated the difficult transition from structured corporate life to the unpredictable world of art.

In this episode, Mike sits down with actor Tobi Bakare for a raw and thoughtful conversation about masculinity, identity, and the quiet pressures Black men navigate in British society. From expectations around strength and success to the realities of code switching, the conversation explores the experiences that often go unspoken.Tobi also shares insights from his role in the powerful theatre production “Black Boys Who Consider Suicide When the Hue Gets Too Heavy”, and why stories like this matter more than ever.This is an honest conversation about culture, masculinity, and what it means to grow, lead, and stay grounded in a complicated world.Subscribe for more conversations that challenge assumptions and explore the issues shaping our lives.

In this episode of The Common Sense Podcast, Mike sits down with financial expert Rotimi Merriman-Johnson to unpack one of the most uncomfortable questions in modern Britain. From the wealth gap and home ownership to culture, migration patterns and financial literacy, this conversation goes beyond surface level explanations.We explore whether the issue is structural, cultural, behavioural, political, or a mix of all four. What role does history play? How much does mindset matter? Are we having the wrong conversations about money in Black Britain?Rotimi brings data, lived experience and sharp analysis to a discussion that too often gets reduced to slogans. This is not about blame. It is about understanding.If you care about economic mobility, generational wealth, or the future of Black Britain, this episode is essential listening.Subscribe for more thoughtful conversations where different perspectives meet to build understanding, trust and change

Mike is joined by Orthodox Rabbi Pesach Wolicki as they discuss the American right, Israel, and the future of MAGA after Trump. In this episode, they explore Israel in the news and an ongoing PR problem Israel may have. Turn your notification bells on so you are first to know when new episodes come out.

Small changes can transform your financial life. In this episode of Editor’s Desk, Mike sits down with Ken Okoroafor from The Humble Penny to explore how ordinary people build wealth through better habits, smarter planning, and practical money decisions. They discuss investing, entrepreneurship, financial independence, and the mindset shifts that make long-term wealth possible.Watch, learn, and share with someone building their financial future.

In this episode, we sit down with a former Special Forces operator to unpack why so much of our public conversation around Islamist radicalisation misses the mark. Drawing on real-world experience rather than theory or headlines, he explains how radicalisation actually happens, where Western policy and media narratives go wrong, and what we keep overlooking. It is a sober, nuanced conversation about security, ideology, and the uncomfortable truths we rarely slow down enough to confront.

In this episode, poet and storyteller Sophia Thakur joins us for a powerful conversation about what it really means to reinvent yourself and find purpose in a world that often feels chaotic.We talk about the messy process of change, the pressure to always “have it together,” and the deeper questions around meaning that many of us avoid. Sophia shares her own journey of reinvention, the lessons she’s learned about identity, and why chasing purpose isn’t about grand gestures but about the small, honest steps we take every day.If you’ve ever felt stuck, lost, or unsure of your direction, this episode is for you.

In this episode, I sit down with David Elikwu — writer, strategist, and author of the new book Sovereign. We talk about what it really means to take control of your time, build systems that last, and stop falling into the trap of “being busy” without making progress.David breaks down the biggest productivity myths, shares the tools and routines that actually work, and unpacks why sovereignty over your own life is the ultimate goal. If you’ve ever felt stuck, scattered, or like your goals are slipping away, this conversation will give you clarity and momentum.

But that’s just one of the big questions in this audience-led Q&A episode. You sent in the topics, we tackled them all:Is Starmer politically “done”?Could Kemi Badenoch or Nigel Farage actually become Prime Minister?What’s really going on inside Labour after the Rayner and Mandelson scandals?Should Trump’s second UK state visit matter to us?Has Israel gone too far in Gaza?Plus: What Charlie Kirk’s assassination means for US politics.It’s a wide-ranging Q&A, fuelled by your questions, unpacking the political chaos in the UK and beyond.

What could a multimillionaire entrepreneur possibly learn from a book written thousands of years ago? In this episode, I sit down with Mark Gerson to find out.Mark has built companies, made millions, and invested in some of the most innovative ventures of our time. Yet the deepest lessons he draws on for life, business, and relationships come from the oldest book in the world.We talk about the surprising wisdom that shapes how he thinks about success, generosity, resilience, and meaning. Whether you’re curious about wealth, faith, or simply how to live better in a chaotic world, this conversation will give you a perspective you won’t expect.Turn your notification bells on so you are first to know when new episodes come out.

What does it really cost to live your life online?In this episode, we sit down with Josiah Hyacinth — digital storyteller, creator, and social media native — to uncover the untold realities of hyper-visibility. From the pressure of always being “on” to the toll it takes on mental health, Josiah opens up about his journey through the highs and lows of social media, and how he’s learning to rebuild after difficult seasons in the spotlight.If you’ve ever wondered what really happens behind the curated feeds and polished posts, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of The Common Sense Podcast, journalist and political analyst Catherine Perez-Shakdam shares her extraordinary story of gaining access inside Iran’s regime, where she moved through some of the highest circles of power. She unpacks what she saw and learned, offering rare insights into the realities of extremism, propaganda, and political maneuvering in the Middle East.The conversation doesn’t stop at her story. Catherine also breaks down the current landscape of conflict across the region from Israel and Palestine to Iran and beyond, helping listeners make sense of headlines that often feel overwhelming. This is a must-listen for anyone curious about how power really works in one of the most volatile parts of the world.

In this episode, we sit down with Suli Breaks, the poet and storyteller whose words have reached millions and shaped conversations on education, identity, and creativity. From his viral video “Why I Hate School but Love Education” to delivering keynotes for Google and The Times, Suli has become a sought-after voice across stages and screens worldwide.We go beyond the headlines and the viral moments, exploring the stories, struggles, and pivotal experiences that shaped his journey. Suli shares the behind-the-scenes of how he found his voice, built a global audience, and stayed true to his craft while navigating success, pressure, and purpose.Let us know what you think in the comment section.

In this special Q&A episode, Mike Omoniyi answers your questions — unfiltered and unscripted. From leadership to politics, philosophy to personal growth, nothing’s off-limits.This is the first of our monthly audience Q&As — raw, honest, and full of gems.💬 Got a question for next time? Drop it in the comments.

Andre Coggins isn’t your typical influencer.From personal lows to becoming one of the UK’s most influential running coaches, this is a story of grit, discipline, and purpose. If you’ve ever struggled to stay consistent with anything, watch this.🏃‍♂️ Topics We Cover:- How running transformed Andre’s life- Discipline, coaching, and community- Mental health and movement- Building a platform through purpose

This one’s personal.Dr. China joins us for a vulnerable conversation about grief, trauma, and the complicated relationship Christians often have with therapy. If you’ve ever wondered “can I trust God AND go to therapy?” — this one is for you.What We Get Into:- Grief and the pressure to “be strong”- Why Christians fear therapy- Breaking free from shame and silence- Where God meets us in our pain

Will there ever be peace in the Middle East? Chama Mechtaly is a trailblazing force working at the intersections of policy, culture and activismBorn into a Muslim-Jewish family in Morocco, Chama is deeply rooted in the values of faith-based dialogue, reconciliation, and positive transformation between Muslims and Jews, as well as Eastern and Western values.In this podcast, Mike and Chama discuss Israel, Palestine and the broader context and framing of conflicts in the Middle East.

You’ve been lied to about money.In this no-fluff conversation with Mr Money Jar, we break down EXACTLY how to escape debt, build real wealth, and achieve financial freedom – no matter your income. This is the episode you’ll wish you watched 5 years ago.What We Cover:- The REAL reason you’re still broke- How to get out of debt faster than you think- Simple steps to start investing today- Building wealth without sacrificing your life

What is Christian Zionism, and why does it matter in today’s world? In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Bishop Robert Stearns, founder of Eagles’ Wings and a global leader in Christian-Jewish relations, to explore this complex and often misunderstood topic. With over 30 years of experience and more than 100 visits to Israel, Bishop Stearns brings unmatched insight to the discussion. Together, we unpack the biblical, historical, and political dimensions of Christian Zionism, addressing questions and critiques from across the spectrum. Whether you’re curious about the intersection of faith and politics or simply want a deeper understanding of this important topic, this episode offers a balanced and enlightening conversation you won’t want to miss.

Making Sense of UK Taxes with Benedicta Egbeme Navigating the UK tax system can feel like a maze, but in this episode, we’re breaking it all down with Benedicta Egbeme, an experienced accountant who’s here to make tax talk simple and practical. Whether you’re a freelancer, a business owner, or just someone who wants to keep more of what they earn, Benedicta shares her top tips and insider knowledge on how to make the tax system work for you. We cover everything from understanding the basics to uncovering the lesser-known allowances and strategies that can legally reduce your tax bill. Benedicta also offers some valuable advice on staying compliant while making the most of your deductions—helping you avoid costly mistakes that so many people make. If you’re looking to get a grip on your taxes and feel empowered when it comes to your finances, this episode is for you. Grab a coffee, hit play, and get ready to learn from one of the best.

In this powerful and deeply emotional episode, we sit down with a man whose family was taken hostage by Hamas during the horrific events of October 7th, 2023. He shares the harrowing details of that day, the uncertainty, the fear, and the unimaginable moments his loved ones endured. We explore the impact of the conflict on families like his, the broader implications of the Israel-Palestine conflict, and the resilience it takes to continue in the face of such trauma. This is a story of survival, courage, and the human spirit in the midst of crisis.

E98: How To Stop Being A People Pleaser In this Episode, M.T. is joined by Amani Simpson, an award-winning youth coach, speaker and filmmaker. In this wholesome conversation they discuss how he moved from being stabbed to now working to save and inspire young people, his acclaimed short film 'AMANI' starring Joivan Wade, which has now been watched nearly 4 million times and how he thinks about his journey now. Time Stamps 01:06 Did you choose your work or did your work choose you? 02:13 You were glad you got stabbed? 05:15 Getting bullied in school 12:00 Creating the short film AMANI with Jovian Wade 21:15 The hardest thing I've ever done 32:19 I've changed the narrative in my family 37:30 Advice for people who feel they aren't growing 52:51 Your new film Save Me

In this Episode, M.T. answers questions from our community on the crisis currently engulfing the Middle East. Many of us don't know what to think and swimming through all the media narratives can be difficult. This is a good guide for anyone trying to make sense of some of the moving parts of the conflict.

Rory Sutherland is one of the world's leading consumer behaviour experts, the Vice Chairman of Ogilvy Advertising and an author. In this, his second appearance on Common Sense Pod, we tackle a range of issues from AI to politics to big tech. 01:11 Tik Tok Algorithms 11:01 Changes to remote working 26:36 Elon Musk and Twitter 38:44 How can we harness AI 40:55 Im 10% Ghanaian 43:50 What is Conservatism 56:32 The problem with the Intellectual left 1:19:25 The right is correct about this 1:33:32 Dominic Cummings Do let us know what you think

Timi Merriman-Johnson is an award-winning financial content creator, podcaster, author and founder of Mr MoneyJar, a UK-based financial education company. 02:20: How would you describe the work you do? 10.53: Rich dad poor dad 10:00: Why do you subject yourself to all this pain 15:27: What we think about people changes what we think about them 24:46: Growing in confidence 31:32: Organising your finances

Success is often defined as failing forward and not losing motivation. In this episode, we explore what it looks like to develop a resilient mindset Alex Haydock-Wilson is a British track and field athlete. In 2023, he became British 400 metres champion. He was chosen to represent Great Britain at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest in August 2023 and came back with a bronze medal. 00:43: How are you feeling 03.20: My identity isn't built on winning 10:00: Why do you subject yourself to all this pain 26:08: Letting go of old identities 43:33: Why does the World Championship medal mean to you 47:42: The power of narratives

Kenny Imafidon is an entrepreneur, author, and social commentator When he was arrested for a crime he didn't commit Kenny faced a minimum of thirty years behind bars – longer than the life he had lived. In this podcast, we talk about his transformative time in prison, and the people and conversations that took him from being on trial for murder into the company of some of the most successful people in the world. That Peckham Boy (His new book) is a real-life manifesto calling for positive change for those on the fringes of society.

According to Oxford, trust in the news has fallen across Europe and the proportion of people who say they avoid news has increased sharply across countries. Why don't we trust the news and what can we do about it? Jodie is the founder of the News Literacy Lab, author of “You Are What You Read: why changing your media diet can change the world” and of children’s book, “Little Ruffle and The World Beyond“. Over the past decade, Jodie has researched the damaging impact of the negativity bias in the news on our individual and collective mental health, as well as promoting the impact of solutions-focused journalism. 01:46 Who are you 02.49: Why does everyone hate the news 07:55: I stopped watching the news at 20 13:19: What is the news 21:56: The UK media system 40:35: Is society getting worse or better 46:33: How I slowly became right wing

The average person will spend 90,000 hours at work over a lifetime. How can you make all those hours count? One of the world’s leading business thinkers, Dr. David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders build their best team ever. He is the bestselling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked multiple times as one of the world’s top business thought leaders.

It's never been more critical to have control of your money. Many people live paycheck to paycheck and are one bad month away from financial ruin This week I'm joined by Personal Finance Creator and Public Speaker, Kia Commodore to talk all things money! We delve into her personal journey, saving and making money. She even takes on Chat-GPT by answering some personal finance questions. Time stamps 00:00 IntrO 01:13 Leaving London 07:06 What makes you want to talk about money online 12:27 People need to hear how to manage money right noT 13:56 Why isn't financial literacy taught in schools 23:54 What would you say to someone who pretty much spends what they make 28:31 Is making money harder than saving money 35:38 Comparison is stealing our money 44:57 What are some of the best side hustles you know Turn your notification bells on so you are first to know when new episodes come out. 💌: Click here to join our community for free - https://csnetwork.substack.com/ 📹: All our videos are recorded at Common Sense Studios: studio.tcsnetwork.co.uk

Could you imagine running 17 marathons? Think about how it would change you and who you would become. In this episode, M.T. is joined by Emmanuel Ovola, Physiotherapist and Nike Running Coach. Through his work with Nike, he has helped thousands of people as a running coach through the Nike Run Club App. Emmanuel also creates content on social media aimed at helping runners reach their full potential. 00:37 How we first met 02:30 Life as a running coach 04:27 My experience debating at the Oxford Union 09:12 I've run 17 Marathons 11:30 Running makes us feel anything is possible 23:47 Should everyone run a marathon? 26:30 Marathons take you to some dark places 32:30 Dealing with Failure Turn your notification bells on so you are first to know when new episodes come out. 💌: Click here to join our community for free - https://csnetwork.substack.com/ 📹: All our videos are recorded at Common Sense Studios: studio.tcsnetwork.co.uk

In this short episode, M.T. explains what you can expect from this new season! ___ Like what you watched? Click here to join our community for free - https://csnetwork.substack.com/

Calvin Robinson is a British conservative political commentator, writer, and broadcaster.    Calvin is known for speaking out on social issues and is a host on GB NEWS In this episode we talk about Gay Marriage, His ministry and misconceptions people have about him Time stamps 00:00 Intro 02:42 There seems to be an anti-truth movement and we need people to stand up for the truth 04:27 My experience debating at the Oxford Union 08:28 Church of England Bishops are leading people astray 14:30 Some people say you're just mean 18:40 The Guardian vs GB News 27:24 What are some misconceptions people have about you Like what you watched? Click here to join our community for free  - https://csnetwork.substack.com/ 

Courtney Daniella Boateng is a content creator, digital entrepreneur, and community builder. She is the co-founder of To My Sisters, one of the fastest-growing women's development communities, and is the Founder of CDB London, an e-commerce brand focusing on making hair and beauty 'easy' for everyday women. Courtney is known for her transparency and vulnerability. She is unafraid to look beyond the surface and dive deep into the topics which affect our well-being, self-growth and interpersonal relationships." In this episode we delve into life trauma, building a successful business and using social media for your good. Time Stamps:  00:00 Intro 03:39 When did you know the internet was your thing 15:03 I've always been a performer 25:46 You owe it to yourself to explore 42:39 Do you think you overshare online 46:40 Balancing your private and public life 51:43 Trading New York stories

In the next 3 years, these three major countries will ask the people the same important question, who do you want your next leader to be? The answer to these questions will change the look and feel of these countries for years to come.  In this podcast, Mike breaks down the US and UK Elections Time stamps  00:00 Intro 02:37 Thank you 04:19 The United Kingdom 10:51 What's happening in the USA  14:37 The Nigerian Elections Thank you for watching or listening to our podcast

Stephanie practised as a private wealth lawyer in the City for a decade before launching the Good Ancestor Movement. She spent a decade advising millionaires and billionaires on how to avoid taxes and then in a dramatic turn, she is one of the leaders in a movement helping them give away money. Time stamps 00:00 Intro 02:16 How did you get into what you do 05:18 Its the same people that own everything 08:31 How did everything change 15:52 I had an awakening 19:22 The party that changed everything 26:44 What kind of rich people want to give away all their money? 30:52 are rich people evil? 34:22 These billionaires are hypocrites 38:37 Its so hard to build wealth in the UK 46:47 Are there people that want you to fail 53:36 How is it navigating these circles for a black woman 01:03:05 What do you think about Liz Truss' plans for more tax cuts

Rory Sutherland the Vice Chairman of Ogilvy, a senior advertising executive, and a man that knows how ideas win. He’s a columnist, an innovator and a trailblazer in the world of marketing and advertising.   In this podcast, we tackle ideas and how they shape us Time stamps 00:00 Intro 02:30 How would you describe the work you do 04:34 Uber did something genius with the map 08:56 How do you know all this stuff? 11:41 Career advice for young people 15:08 Polymathy is a lost art form 17:46 You shouldn't pay tax on the first 100k you earn 22:20 We need to stop forcing people to go to university 28:51 Local government vs central government 30:39 Liz Truss' ideas weren't totally bad 45:47 Advice for young people trying to get on the property ladder 58:25 Has marketing ruined the world? 01:03:16 People are too negative 01:11:27 I think you should always be 20% cynical

Renee Kapuku graduated first from Oxford, then Harvard and has now been building one of the fastest-growing women’s development communities in the UK. She is a creative entrepreneur, speaker and content creator. In this podcast we tackle personal growth, building a business with a friend how to ensure you can thrive for longer. Time stamps 03:38 What's it been like building to my sisters? 06:37 Why do you focus on helping women? 09:19 What's it like doing business with your best friend? 14:03 Things got very intense 18:40 The time I lost £40,000 to a "friend" 29:51 Black men have a Privilege black women don't have 37:46 Do you take time to take stock of everything you have achieved? 45:47 We can't keep working till exhaustion 47:51 Making decisions under time constraints ___ #tomysisters #tomysisterhood

Everyone has an opinion on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle however how much of it is based on the media and much is based on the truth? In this episode, I'm joined by Omid Scobie, the London-based journalist, author, and royal executive editor Omid Scobie. His New York Times bestselling biography on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Finding Freedom, is one of the best-selling royal books of all time and has seen Scobie become the most talked about royal correspondent of this generation. In this episode, we take on the media portrayal of Harry and Megan. Is Megan really to blame for all of this? Did Prince Harry cross the line? Will the Royal family even survive? Time stamps 00:45 How is writing your book going? 02:27 What do you think about the Netflix documentary 03:39 The history of colonialism and racism that sits at the heart of the royal family 06:35 Are you too close to Harry and Meghan? 07:31 A lot of royal correspondents are fake 09:16 They have ruined the royal family 10:34 Has Meghan cast a spell on Harry 18:04 Meghan was doomed 25:05 Imagine being Harry and Meghan 28:28 The Royal family don't need the media 30:46 Should Harry and Meghan go to the coronation of King Charles ----- #meghanmarkle #princeharry #omidscobie #spare #princeharrybook 

Are you looking for a way to catch up on some of the biggest political developments in 2022? Look no further! Our end-of-2022 review podcast is the perfect way to catch up on all the political news you may have missed. In this podcast, Mike and Yeni will break down the biggest stories and events of the year, offering in-depth analysis and some insight. From the latest developments in national politics to international relations and policy debates, we cover it all. Join us as we review the key moments of 2022 and look ahead to what the future may hold. Whether you're a politics junkie or just want to stay informed, our end-of-2022 review podcast has something for everyone.

Sickle cell disease is the fastest growing genetic disorder in the UK - mostly affecting people of Black heritage – and we urgently need more blood donors from Black communities to come forward as they are more likely to have the blood type vital to treat this disorder. I caught up with Bukky Bolarinwa who is the founder of Haima Health, their slogan is simple. Give blood give life. in this episode, we talk about her battle with the disease and how that informs her work. 00:00 Intro 01:44 Who are you 02:41 Did you choose the work or did the work choose you? 04:19 When did you first discover that you were different 04:52 How I found out I had Sickle cell 09:18 What is Sickle cell? 11:33 Can Sickle cell be cured or do you simply have to manage it? 12:34 For most people there is no cure for Sickle cell 14:46 Do you feel it's unfair because it's inherited 16:56 Should people who have the SS gene type get into relationships? 19:05 People in the UK don't know they carry the gene 26:26 People don't give blood 29:58 People like me need blood to stay alive ______ #nhs #givingblood #sicklecell #nigeria #donateblood #newpodcast givingblood #livingwithsicklecell #donate #givingbloodinnigeria

For the last five years’ core homelessness has been rising year on year in England, reaching a peak just before the pandemic when the number of homeless households jumped from 207,600 to 227,000. Why is this and how can we address it?  Billy chip is an alternative currency for the homeless which allows the public to directly donate to rough sleepers without the fear of their donation being miss used for drugs or alcohol.  In this episode, I sit down with Jack Gascoigne, communications director at Billy Chip to find out more about their journey and find into the homeless epidemic   00:00 Intro  02:44 What is the True valley 03:32 What were some of your fondest memories growing up 07:56 Who was Billy? 08:42 How did Billy die? 13:04 Starting a safe and secure currency to donate to homeless people 19:20 What's the reaction to Billy Chip been so far?  25:45 How does actually work in practice? 31:46 Why does the UK have a homelessness problem? 32:09 How many people in the UK are homeless? 33:36 We focus on rough sleeping 34:28 Do you think it's possible to end homelessness 35:04 You can't have extreme wealth without extreme poverty 35:38 What about people who say homeless people just need to work harder? 36:20 Homeless people are not drug addicts 37:42 You are closer to homelessness than you think 41:35 How Generous is the UK Public ______ #homelessness #epidemic #homeowenership #billychip #donating #charitysector #roughsleeping #roughsleeper

What does it take to build a successful startup? To bring ideas into reality, to raise money, and bring people along? Ayotunde is the founder of JENDAYA a luxury fashion marketplace where consumers living across the globe with a deep appreciation for the richness of our African culture could enjoy a curated shopping experience. In this podcast, we talk about the Diaspora, the world's interest in Africa, and what it takes to bring an idea to reality. ______ 00:00 Intro 02:47 Do founders have to sacrifice their friendship? 03:41 Attaching your well-being to your work 06:15 Is Saudi Arabia like Dubai 08:14 What kind of founder is Ayo and Mike? 08:45 I've always been interested in fashion 11:34 How hard is it to quit your job and follow your passion? 12:46: You have to hustle 14:04 Have we had sleepless nights as founders 17:06 What is Jendaya 17:06  How do I get  Balenciagas from Africa 22:20 Is all the new focus in Africa exploitative 24:22 Kelly Rowland and Ayra Starr 32:03 Raising millions for your business 40:08 When did you know you were on to something? 48:28 Ayo gives Mike style advice