PODCAST · society
RayPresents
by Ray
RayPresents is a conversation series hosted by Ray Leroy, featuring thoughtful and honest discussions with inspiring voices across culture, business, media, sports, and public life.Each episode explores the journeys behind success, the risks taken, the lessons learned, and the values that guide leaders, creators, and changemakers from Canada and around the world. The tone is relaxed, authentic, and reflective, creating space for real stories and meaningful insight.RayPresents is about perspective, purpose, and the people shaping our world, one conversation at a time.
Episodes
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The Florida Highwaymen: The story the world needs to know
26 artists, hundreds of thousands of paintings. One extraordinary chapter of American history.The Florida Highwaymen created far more than iconic landscapes. Their story is one of art, history, determination, entrepreneurship, race and legacy.On this episode, I sit down with Tony Hayton, Director...
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What nobody tells you about being a professional singer | Nicole Thalìa
Nicole Thalìa knows what the stage looks like at the highest level. The singer, Creative Director and entrepreneur has performed around the world, from singing at the Royal Wedding with The Kingdom Choir to touring with Italian superstar Marco Mengoni and performing as part of Black Coffee’s...
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City Fidelia: The truth about being an independent artist in Ottawa
What does it really take to build as an independent artist in a city where the talent is there, but the support doesn’t always follow?I sat down with Ottawa rapper and entrepreneur City Fidelia at Exit Lounge, the restaurant he owns with his partners, for an honest conversation about music,...
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The Jobfather’s guide to landing your dream job | Jermaine Murray
What does it take to stand out in today’s job market, especially as a Black professional?In Episode 68, I sit down with Jermaine Murray, better known as The Jobfather. As the founder of JupiterHR, Jermaine has helped thousands of black professionals break into tech, advance their careers, and...
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Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe on the cost of youth sports, the World Cup & Ottawa’s Future
The cost of youth sports is rising, and more families are asking the same question:Can every child still afford to play?In this episode, Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe returns for a wide-ranging conversation about youth sports, affordability, Canada’s historic FIFA World Cup 2026 run, Ottawa’s…
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Actor, writer, producer Michael Xavier on Fatherhood, Success and leaving a legacy
Live from his California home, actor, writer, and producer Michael Xavier joins me for RayPresents Episode 66.Michael was one of the early guests on the show and has been a great supporter over the years. It was a pleasure to welcome him back for a second conversation and hear how life has…
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Cabbie Richards: Mastering the Craft of the Sports Interview
One of the most recognizable personalities in Canadian sports media joins RayPresents.Fresh off the Winter Olympics, Cabbie Richards sits down for a conversation about the craft behind great interviews, authenticity in media, and the moments that shape a career.Cabbie built a reputation for...
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Episode 64 - Actor Michael Mando (Better Call Saul) | Raw, Unfiltered, Real
Live from Miami, I had the chance to reconnect with my friend, actor Michael Mando. We first met in high school, and it’s been inspiring to watch his journey from those early days to the international stage. Fluent in English, French, Spanish, and Arabic, and having lived in many cities across…
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Épisode 63 - Jean Chesnel Jean et Ayitika, du cacao haïtien au chocolat d’exception
Je reçois Jean Chesnel Jean, agronome et fondateur de Ayitika, une marque haïtienne engagée qui fait du cacao un levier de qualité, de durabilité et de transformation sociale.Au cœur de cette conversation, une philosophie claire “De la racine à la tablette”. Une histoire de qualité, de durabilité...
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Amber Kanwar on Pressure, Risk, and Betting on Yourself | Episode 62
What does it really take to build in high-pressure environments? Amber Kanwar, one of Canada’s most respected business journalists, opens up about pressure, risk, and betting on yourself.In Episode 62, Amber Kanwar joins me on RayPresents for a powerful and honest conversation about navigating...
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Episode 61 - Building hope across borders: Jimmy Sebulime’s journey from Uganda to Canada
On RayPresents Episode 61, I sit down with Jimmy Sebulime, a community builder whose quiet strength is transforming lives in both Uganda and Canada.Through the Agnes Zabali Boys and Girls Club, Jimmy is creating opportunities for young people to learn, grow, and lead, proving that real leadership...
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Episode 60 - Amira Elghawaby on Islamophobia, Resilience & Belonging
I sit down with Amira Elghawaby, Canada’s Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia.Amira opens up about what it was like growing up and celebrating difference, the challenges of stereotypes that still persist, and the urgent need to build a Canada where everyone belongs.This is a…
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Épisode 59 - BanFest : Samuel Bernadin met la culture haïtienne à l’honneur à Ottawa
Dans cet épisode, je discute avec Samuel Bernadin, alias Samy Blanco, président fondateur de BanFest, le premier banquet-festival annuel qui met la culture haïtienne à l’honneur à travers sa gastronomie à Ottawa.https://www.banfest.com
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Episode 58 - A conversation with Canada’s Human Rights Chief: Charlotte-Anne Malischewski
In Episode 58, I sit down with Charlotte-Anne Malischewski, Interim Chief Commissioner of the Canadian Human Rights Commission.We talk about what it means to lead during times of change, how to rebuild public trust, and why human rights still matter in Canada today.
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Episode 57 - Solange Tuyishime Keita from survivor to global voice
In this powerful episode, I sit down with Solange Tuyishime Keita, a woman whose journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From surviving war as a child to Miss Canada International, a UNICEF Canada ambassador, and CEO of Elevate International, Solange has never stopped shining.We talk about...
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Episode 56 - Afrocentric AI & bold visions with Renata Whedbee
I sat down with Renata Whedbee, an AI filmmaker whose work deeply intertwines Afrocentric themes, blending technology with rich cultural narratives. Her creative journey began in 2016 when she adapted to partial eyesight, leading her to explore storytelling through heightened senses and vivid...
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Episode 55 - Beats, healing, and hustle: The Double Life of DJ La Madeleine
By day, DJ La Madeleine is an osteopath helping people heal. By night, she’s behind the turntables, blending beats from Paris to the world.In this episode, we get into how she balances science and art, what music means to her, and the freedom that comes from living without limits.Get ready for a...
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Episode 54 - Chef Lindsay Brun: Serving legacy, one recipe at a time
In Episode 54, I sit down with the talented Chef Lindsay Brun, entrepreneur, pastry chef, and winner of Wall of Chefs (Food Network Canada, 2020).In this quick but meaningful chat, we talk about her Caribbean roots, her passion for cooking and baking, and what it meant to win a nationally…
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Episode 53 - Komi Olaf on Afrofuturism, Art & Redefining Black Identity
In this episode, I sit down with the visionary Komi Olaf, a multidisciplinary artist whose work fuses architecture, poetry, and visual art to tell powerful stories of identity, culture, and the future.Komi’s art boldly blends traditional African themes with futuristic concepts, reshaping the way...
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Episode 52 - Nicole Thalìa on singing at the Royal Wedding, R&B Gospel Life, and Breaking Barriers
In Episode 52, live from London, I sit down with the incredible Italian R&B Gospel singer and international performer, Nicole Thalìa. We explore her inspiring journey of mastering her vocal artistry, her unforgettable experience performing with The Kingdom Choir at the Royal Wedding, and the…
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Episode 51: If we’re not at the table, we’re on the menu: AI, Education & Diversity w/ Hosni Zaouali
Join me live from Toronto for an electrifying virtual conversation with Hosni Zaouali, a visionary leader at the intersection of technology and education. Hosni emphasizes a powerful truth: “If we’re not at the table, we’ll be on the menu.”In this episode, we delve into:• AI’s Transformative...
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Episode 50 - Advancing Inclusion and Racial Justice - Fondation Michaëlle Jean Foundation
In this special 50th episode of RayPresents, I am honored to host The Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, 27th Governor General of Canada, and Edward Matwawana, Executive Director of the Michaëlle Jean Foundation. They share their insights on leadership, legacy, and the Foundation’s efforts in...
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Épisode 49 - Sophie Fouron : Au-delà des frontières, au cœur des cultures
J’ai eu le plaisir de m’entretenir avec Sophie Fouron, une animatrice, journaliste et conceptrice canadienne reconnue pour son travail dans le domaine des communications depuis plus de 20 ans. Titulaire d’un baccalauréat en sciences politiques (1991) et d’une maîtrise en sciences de la...
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Episode 48 - Leading While Black - An Exclusive Conversation with Former Police Chief Peter Sloly
In this rare, exclusive sit-down, former Ottawa Police Chief Peter Sloly opens up about the journey of “Leading While Black” and the unique challenges he’s faced breaking barriers in high-stakes roles. With a background as a professional Football (soccer) player, corporate leader, public servant,...
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Episode 47 - Breaking Barriers with Laughter and Resilience – A Conversation with Joze Piranian
Live from Toronto, I had a conversation with Joze Piranian. Joze is a stand-up comedian, motivational speaker, and TEDx speaker who has used his unique perspective to inspire. We talked about his journey of overcoming adversity, how he turned his biggest challenge, stuttering, into a source of...
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Episode 46 - From Ottawa to the Olympics – Marial Shayok’s Rise to International Basketball Fame
In this episode, I sit down with Ottawa’s very own Marial Shayok, a rising star in the world of basketball. Marial’s journey has taken him from the courts of St. Pat’s High School in Ottawa to representing South Sudan in their historic first-ever Olympic appearance. Marial talks about his…
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Episode 45 - How Joelle Legg Balances Humor, Health, and Hustle | Secrets to Success!
Discover how Joelle Legg, co-founder of MIJO, is redefining wellness with a personal touch. Live from New Zealand, I virtually sat down with this powerhouse of fitness, wellness, and positivity. Together with her husband Mike, Joelle has spent over a decade helping people reclaim their health and...
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Episode 44 - EEI’s Kristine Esposo Telford on Leadership & Diversity - Energizing Change
Live from the US, I recently reconnected with Kristine Esposo Telford, Executive Director of External Affairs at the Edison Electric Institute (EEI). We first met years ago during a trip to Spain, where our shared experiences and discussions left a lasting impression. Kristine leads EEI’s…
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Episode 43 - Mastering the Keys - John Kofi Dapaah’s Inspiring Musical Odyssey
Join me in an inspiring conversation with John Kofi Dapaah live from Ottawa, Canada. John is a remarkable pianist whose musical journey spans continents and cultures. Born in Ghana, John’s love for music blossomed when he moved to Japan at the age of six. There, a piano teacher from his family’s...
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Episode 42 - Engineering Health with Dr. Nick - The Fittest Doc’s Key Secrets to a Healthy Lifestyle
In this live episode from the US, I was thrilled to have a conversation with Dr. Nick, also known as “the Fittest Doc.” Dr. Nick isn’t just a family medicine specialist; he’s a powerhouse of knowledge with a background in mechanical engineering. In this episode, he brought his unique perspective…
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Episode 41 - Full Court Press: An In-Depth Conversation with Dr. Frederick on Sports and Society
Join me in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Frederick (US), a distinguished figure in both higher education and the sports industry and the Director of Sport Industry Management at Georgetown Unviversity. With a rich background that includes roles at The Ohio State University, NBA Orlando...
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Episode 40 - Rising Star: Tayler Kelly’s Journey as WBC Muay Thai Canadian Amateur Champion
Join me live from Ottawa for this exclusive chat with Tayler Kelly, the reigning WBC Muay Thai Canadian amateur champion. Dive deep as I uncover the secrets behind her remarkable success in the ring. Muay Thai, also known as Thai boxing, is a combat sport from Thailand that uses stand-up striking...
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Episode 39 - Empowering Indigenous Voices: Dominga Robinson on Law and Heritage
Join me in this enlightening conversation with Dominga Robinson, a Juris Doctor candidate for 2024 at the University of Saskatchewan and the President of the Indigenous Law Students’ Association. In this episode, Dominga shares her unique perspective as a member of the Pheasant Rump Nakota First...
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Episode 38 - Empowering Change: Cassandra Auguste-René & the Impact of Ottawa’s Black Business Expo
Live from Ottawa, I spoke to Cassandra Auguste-René, a distinguished entrepreneur and visionary. She explores the profound significance of the Black Business Expo in Ottawa. In this exclusive interview, we uncover how this event serves as a pivotal platform for black entrepreneurs, fostering...
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Episode 37 - Dantes Rameau: Orchestrating Change with the Atlanta Music Project
Live from Atlanta, i had a conversation with my brother Dantes Rameau, an high school friend who has risen as the Co-Founder and CEO of the Atlanta Music Project (AMP). His story is a testament to what good training, opportunity, and unwavering perseverance can lead to. Celebrated as one of...
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Épisode 36 - Léonie Tchatat : Pionnière de La Passerelle-I.D.É.
Dans cet épisode, j’ai eu l’honneur de m’entretenir avec Léonie Tchatat, une pionnière de la diversité et de l’inclusion au Canada. Fondatrice et présidente de La Passerelle-I.D.É., Léonie, d’origine camerounaise et fière Franco-Ontarienne, a partagé avec moi sa passion indéfectible pour la...
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Episode 35 - Educator and Writer Matthew R. Morris
In this episode, I engage in a conversation with Matthew R. Morris, an educator, author, and Toronto native, whose life and work are a testament to the transformative power of education and cultural expression. With a Master of Arts from the University of Toronto, Matthew’s writings delve deeply...
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Episode 34 - Dr. Helen Ofosu - Resilience, Leadership and Elevating Black Voices in Psychology
For this episode, I speak to Dr. Helen Ofosu, an esteemed Industrial/Organizational Psychologist, Executive Coach, and HR Consultant. Dr. Ofosu brings a wealth of experience from both the public and private sectors, having founded I/O Advisory Services in Ottawa. She specializes in building...
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Episode 33 - Ann Marie Vanneste - 2023 Recipient of the Prime Minister’s Teaching Excellence Award
In this episode, I dive into the heart of educational excellence with Ann Marie Vanneste, recipient of the prestigious 2023 Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence. Ann Marie, a beacon of inspiration at All Saints High School (Ottawa), shares her journey, insights, and the innovative...
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Episode 32 - Rawlson King, Ottawa’s first black City Councillor
I have a conversation with Rawlson King, Ottawa’s first black City Councillor, covering a range of important topics. From the significance of serving the common good to the importance of action over mere discussion, we delve into finding commonality of purpose in municipal politics and the...
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Episode 31 - Afro-Indigenous artist Jah’kota
I speak to my friend Jah’kota, an Afro-Indigenous artist, entrepreneur, and wealth coach. His father is from Kingston Jamaica and his mother is Nakota, Assiniboine from Ocean Man First Nation, part of the the Treaty 4 territory. He was born and raised in Winnipeg and now lives full time in the...
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Episode 30 - Andrea Menard - Anti-Colonial Scholar
Andrea Menard LL.B, LL.M, is a Métis from the abolished Red River Settlement and is the Lead Educational Developer, Indigenizing Curricula and Pedagogies, Office of the Provost and VP Academic & the Centre for Teaching and Learning at the University of Alberta.She has over twenty years of...
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Episode 29 - Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe
Live from Ottawa, I spoke to Mayor Mark Sutcliffe. We talk about his background, and his views on diversity.Mayor Sutcliffe was born in Ottawa. He is an award-winning journalist, entrepreneur, and community activist. He co-founded the Ottawa Business Journal, and several other small businesses.…
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Episode 28 - Karim Malouche, Head of Physical Performance for Jordan’s National Team
Step into a virtual journey to Jordan as I connect with my friend the amazing Karim Malouche, Head of Physical Performance for Jordan’s National Team and a FIFA technical expert. Despite the distance, our candid conversation explores his insights on diversity, shaped by his interactions with...
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Ep 27 - Alex Ihama - Executive Director-Canadian Congress on Inclusive Diversity & Workplace Equity
I had the pleasure to speak to Alex Ihama a prominent Nigerian global strategist, author, professional speaker, executive coach, and the President/CEO of the International School of Greatness. He is also the Executive Director of the Canadian Congress on Inclusive Diversity & Workplace Equity.…
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Épisode 26 - Le maître de cérémonie international Regis Isheja
En direct de Kigali, je m’entretiens avec Regis Isheja, Maître de Cérémonie International. Explorez son parcours vers le succès, les défis qu’il a surmontés, et profitez de ses conseils avisés pour la jeune génération. Une conversation incontournable pour celles et ceux en quête d’excellence.
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Épisode 25 - L’humoriste et créateur de contenu Cashboy Reg
J’ai une conversation avec l’humoriste, créateur de contenu Cashboy Reg.
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Episode 24 - Canadian Filmmaker Marilyn Cooke
Live from Montreal, I had a conversation with the incredible Montreal-based Filmmaker Marilyn Cooke.Director and screenwriter, Marilyn brings complex female characters and dreamlike universes to the screen. Since completing her degree in film studies, she has written and directed three short…
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Episode 23 - Rev. Dr. Anthony Bailey
Live from Ottawa, I have a conversation with Rev. Dr. Anthony Bailey, Lead Minister at Parkdale United Church, Ottawa. Originally from Barbados, Anthony Bailey has lived and served in various parts of Canada, in Kenya and Jamaica. A teacher at heart, Bailey taught at the McGill University joint...
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Episode 22 - Mohammed Hashim, Executive Director of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF)
Mohammed Hashim, Executive Director of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF)
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
RayPresents is a conversation series hosted by Ray Leroy, featuring thoughtful and honest discussions with inspiring voices across culture, business, media, sports, and public life.Each episode explores the journeys behind success, the risks taken, the lessons learned, and the values that guide leaders, creators, and changemakers from Canada and around the world. The tone is relaxed, authentic, and reflective, creating space for real stories and meaningful insight.RayPresents is about perspective, purpose, and the people shaping our world, one conversation at a time.
HOSTED BY
Ray
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does RayPresents have?
RayPresents currently has 71 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is RayPresents about?
RayPresents is a conversation series hosted by Ray Leroy, featuring thoughtful and honest discussions with inspiring voices across culture, business, media, sports, and public life.Each episode explores the journeys behind success, the risks taken, the lessons learned, and the values that guide...
How often does RayPresents release new episodes?
RayPresents has 71 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to RayPresents?
You can listen to RayPresents on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts RayPresents?
RayPresents is created and hosted by Ray.
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