PODCAST · society
Stories That Shape Us
by Samuel Agbede
Stories That Shape Us is a podcast which celebrates the power of personal stories to inspire and connect us. Everyone has a story worth telling and our aim is to curate life-defining lessons, experiences and stories of people around the world and democratise these to people who need them in their journeys. From tales of personal growth to tales of resilience, we explore how these stories have shaped the lives of our guests and how they can inspire us to live our own lives more fully and empathetically. Join us as we uncover the stories that shape us all.
Episodes
-
How She’s Travelled to 40 Countries — While Working a 9-to-5 | Ritika Thakkar
What if you could see the world — without quitting your job? 🌍✈️In this episode of Stories That Shape Us, Ritika Thakkar shares how she’s travelled to over 40 countries while working a full-time 9-to-5. From finding £30 flight deals on Skyscanner to learning confidence through solo travel,...
-
How to Overcome Perfectionism and Finally Put Yourself Out There
Are you struggling with perfectionism, imposter syndrome, or feeling invisible in your career? In this inspiring conversation, singer-songwriter and podcaster Unoma Okudo shares her journey of evolving beyond boxes, finding courage to share her story, and creating an authentic personal brand…
more -
Why Curiosity Might Be the Missing Key In Your Career | José Enrique Calderón
🎙️ From Curious Kid to Fortune 500 Tech Leader | Career Reinvention & Joy in TechIn this episode, we sit down with Jose, a senior software engineer at a Fortune 500 financial institution, whose technology career journey started in a cyber café in Venezuela. With no formal training at first, Jose...
-
From Working-Class Roots to Leading at JP Morgan: Mark Napier's Remarkable Story
"Think more about how you do things—not just what you do.” — Mark NapierJoin us on this rich, reflective, and fun conversation with Mark, the Chief Technology Officer at JP Morgan’s International Private Bank and site lead of their Glasgow technology hub. We talked about growing up in…
more -
Why I’ll Never Rely on One Income Again (Rebuilding After Redundancy)
In this episode, Andrew Arere shares his remarkable journey from selling hand-made art at 16 to managing global tech and telecom projects, and how being made redundant in the UK was a transformative moment in his life. Through personal stories of challenges and triumphs, Andrew discusses how...
-
The Only Thing You Can’t Get Back: A Story About Time, Loss, and Living Fully
🎧 Join us on this fun and deeply reflective conversation with Alex, a creative technologist whose journey spans five jobs, three countries, and one seismic shift in perspective.We talked about what it means to truly live when death becomes real. Alex shares how losing her father redefined her…
more -
The Hardest Years in Business—And What It Takes to Survive Them | The Buck's Bar Story
In this episode of 'Stories that Shape Us,' Michael Bergson shares his journey from the financial struggles of running his first restaurant, Soho, during the 2008 credit crunch, to the successful establishment of his food business, Bucks Bar. Michael discusses his initial challenges, including...
-
When the Life You Planned Falls Apart: Dr. Clara Doran on an MS Diagnosis, Identity & the Quiet Strength of Starting Again
Dr. Clara Doran spent years helping others as a GP — until a life-altering diagnosis flipped her world from healer to patient. In this powerful conversation, she opens up about living with MS, how invisible illness reshaped her identity, and the hope she found on the other side of fear.We talk...
-
How Fighter Pilots Stay Calm in Life-or-Death Moments – Dave Tait (ex-RAF Pilot)
In this episode, we delve into the extraordinary life and career of Dave Tate, a former Wing Commander of the UK's Royal Air Force and an esteemed fighter pilot with over 2,000 flying hours. Dave recounts the harrowing close call where two ravens almost took his life, his experiences in Iraq and...
-
How I Built Two Billion-Dollar Companies Without Being a Tech Expert or an MBA | Iyinoluwa Aboyeji
In this episode, we sit down with Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, co-founder of Andela, Flutterwave, and Future Africa. From narrowly missing a tragic plane crash to building some of Africa’s most impactful tech companies, Iyin shares his remarkable journey, driven by faith, service, and an unrelenting desire...
-
Breaking Free from Impostor Syndrome & Owning Your Space - Shilpi Roy
Join us in this inspiring episode as we dive deep into the world of Shilpi Roy, Vice President in Technology at JP Morgan, an Indian classical dancer, and a mom to a toddler. Shilpi opens up about combating imposter syndrome and navigating through her multifaceted life and career. From her...
-
Back After 8 Months: Life Updates, Growth & Embracing Imperfection
I Almost Didn’t Come Back – Life Updates & A New Direction It’s been 8 months… and I almost didn’t return to this microphone. A lot has changed. The biggest change? We had a baby. In this episode, I share how fatherhood has completely reshaped my life, my struggles with perfectionism and...
-
Announcement: Temporary Break and Updates
In this update, Samuel announces a temporary break to allow the team to recharge, refocus, and plan new content. During this break, please connect with us on social media, revisit our past episodes, and leave reviews on various platforms to help the podcast reach more people. We are grateful for...
-
The Courage to Face Your Dreams featuring Dr Susie Mitchell, Enoch Adeyemi and Ken Okoroafor
The podcast episode, hosted by Blessing, features the inspiring stories of three individuals: Susie Mitchell, a singer who conquered her nerves to excel in her music career; Enoch, who battled isolation and intimidation to build a successful career in finance; and Ken, who, along with his wife...
-
The Emotional Rollercoaster of Passion Projects: Reflections on Podcasting
In this candid episode, host Samuel reflects on the first year of his podcast "Stories That Shape Us" and the emotional rollercoaster of pursuing a passion project alongside a full-time job and family commitments. He shares his struggles with slow growth, self-doubt, and feeling overwhelmed, but...
-
Scars to Superpowers: Embracing Life's Challenges with Peju Abuchi
In this episode of 'Stories that Shape Us', Samuel dives into an in-depth conversation with Peju Abuchi, an educator and poet passionate about using her work to empower marginalized communities and heal through poetry. Peju shares insights into her upbringing filled with love, laughter, and...
-
Irritatingly Optimistic: Kevin Cameron's Journey Through Positivity, Empathy, and Personal Growth
In this episode, Kevin shares his life philosophy of relentless optimism, which some find irritating, and his growth mindset. His journey from being adopted, navigating an adoption identity with positivity, through to achieving career success in technology is shared with openness. Kevin delves…
more -
Kindness In The Workplace: Stories from the Isle of Arran
The Power of Kindness in the Workplace: Lessons from the Isle of Arran In this episode, the speaker shares a personal journey from recently graduating from Glasgow Uni to taking up a temporary job as a Kitchen Porter on the Isle of Arran before starting their career. Initially, the job seemed...
-
Learn To Love Yourself: John Hill On Losing Loved Ones, Entrepreneurship, Family and Life Lessons
In this episode, John Hill shares a deeply personal journey reflecting on the importance of self-care, resilience, and embracing life's unpredictability. From his early life in Glasgow, experiences of familial change, to his career pivots from civil engineering to empowering unemployed…
more -
The Scientist Once Dismissed as "Educationally Subnormal": Sir Geoff Palmer's Inspirational Journey (episode recap)
In this episode, Professor Emeritus Sir Geoff Palmer, the first Black Professor in Scotland and Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, shares two pivotal experiences from his life that helped shape his future. Arriving in the UK in 1955 as part of the Windrush generation, he recounts how he was...
-
Unstoppable Confidence: Aisha Janki's Story
Super-Confidence and the Journey of Aisha Janki This episode of 'Stories That Shape Us' features a vibrant conversation with Aisha Janki, who discusses the power of unapologetic super confidence in the modern world. Aisha shares her upbringing in Sokoto State, Nigeria, her path to authenticity…
more -
"My Mother Laughed When I Wanted to Be a Musician" - Unoma Okudo's Path in Music, Podcasting, and Mental Health
In this episode of 'Stories That Shape Us,' host Samuel and co-host Blessing are joined by Unoma Okudo, a multifaceted individual who has made significant strides as a soulful singer-songwriter, a psychiatrist, and a podcaster based in Glasgow. Unoma shares her journey of evolving and putting...
-
The Path Less Travelled: Helen Denny's Story
This episode features a rich and engaging conversation with Helen Denny, the CEO of the Melting Pot in Edinburgh, who shares her journey from youth work to entrepreneurship and the lessons she's learned along the way. Helen discusses the importance of connecting with people, the influence of...
-
Ruth Howat's Memoirs (Part 2): Embracing Life's Challenges with Wisdom, Faith and Humor
Reflections and Wisdom: Ruth's Journey Through Faith and Recovery This episode delves into Ruth's personal journey, highlighting her battle with illness and how her faith played a crucial role in her recovery. Ruth shares intimate advice she would give her younger self, emphasizing the importance...
-
A Lifetime's Worth: Ruth Howat's Memoirs and Lessons Learned by 72
Wisdom Through The Ages: Ruth's Life Stories This episode features an enlightening conversation with Ruth, a charming woman whose life experiences span over seven decades. Ruth discusses her upbringing and the prominence of values instilled by her parents, particularly punctuality, honesty, and...
-
Lessons The Military Taught Me - Jimmy Samuel (episode recap)
Jimmy Samuel reflects on the profound impact that his military service had on his character, values, and life. He recollects joining the military in the early 90s, drawn by the challenge not found in civilian life. He underscores military values including selfless commitment, respect for others,...
-
Model Strangers: Discovering Humanity Through Photography
Model Strangers with Christopher Ward: Unveiling Stories That Shape Us In this episode, our host Sam has a riveting conversation with Christopher Ward, founder of Model Strangers as he shares his experiences and insights as a street photographer. Introduction: - Learn about Chris' background and...
-
Navigating Dark Seasons with Grace: Tolulope Oke's Story
Tolulope Oke, DEI multi-award winner and leader shares her personal journey through a dark and emotionally draining period, marked by the death of their father and feelings of resentment. She discussed the psychological metaphor of being stuck 'on a hamster wheel,' unable to escape their…
more -
2024 Updates: The Intro Episode (with Blessing)
Stories That Shape Us: Meet the Team, New Year Updates & Plans In this podcast, host Samuel and co-host Blessing welcome listeners to the new year for 'Stories That Shape Us'. They announce the expansion of their team, including Jerry, who is responsible for video content, and Joy, who will…
more -
We are taking a break and would be back on Wednesday the 7th of February 2024!
After an exciting, long, busy 2023, we are taking a break to recharge, re-organise and start stronger in 2024! Samuel, our host also shares some exciting updates about what to expect from the podcast this year.
-
The Christmas Story in 5 minutes (by David Forrest)
Amidst all the Christmas celebrations, gifts, parties, have you ever wondered what the actual Christmas Story really is? Why do we celebrate it? Who do we Celebrate? Why is this story significant? Join David Forrest as he explains the Christmas Story and ends with a piece he wrote titled...
-
New Beginnings, Brave Choices - Niyi Oludipe's Story
In this episode of 'Stories That Shape Us', our host Samuel Agbede sits down with Niyi Oludipe, Director of Shepha Properties. The conversation ranges from Niyi's journey of moving from Nigeria to the UK, overcoming numerous challenges to establish himself in a new country and his eventual…
more -
David Forrest's Life Lessons And Stories On Self-Worth, Love And Integrity
Join us on this interesting conversation with David Forrest, a writer, software engineering tech lead, and a PhD holder in Experimental Particle Physics as he shares his experiences, life lessons, and perspectives. We delved into a variety of topics, circling the themes of self-worth, heart...
-
Creating a Life of Financial Freedom and Joy: The Humble Penny's Story
Join us on this insightful conversation with Ken Nwokoroafor, a leading voice in the personal finance space, and the author of the book ‘Financial Joy: Banish Debt, Grow Your Money and Unlock Financial Freedom in 10 Weeks’. In this episode, we dive deep into the personal stories that have shaped...
-
Life Lessons From 26 Years in the British Army: Jimmy Samuel's Story
In this episode, our host, Samuel interviews Jimmy, a military veteran with 26 years of service. Jimmy shares valuable insights, life lessons, and stories from his time in the military, highlighting the values of discipline, courage, respect, and the misconceptions surrounding the military. He...
-
I Was Here: Tabitha Nyariki's Philosophy For Impactful Living
Imagine sitting down with an amazing lady who's experienced life in several countries, founded an NGO and is a passionate advocate for child literacy and racial equality. That's us! We had the joy of having a conversation with Tabitha Nyariki, a Kenyan native who shares her life journey and the...
-
Small Girl, Big God: Tolulope Oke's Remarkable Story and Life Lessons
Join us on this deep conversation with Tolulope Oke, Global Head of Diversity At Diageo and Multi-Award Winning Diversity Champion where we discuss everything from the people who have had an impact on her life’s story to pivotal moments in her career to lessons she’s learnt from growing up as a...
-
The Courage to Create Change: Dr. Nike Folayan's Journey Of Advocacy for Diversity in Engineering
In this episode, our host, Sam interviews Dr. Nike Folayan, a Chartered Engineer and the co-founder of the Association for Black and Minority Engineers (AFBE). As part of the Black History Month theme of celebrating sisters, they discuss Dr. Nike's journey and her work in advocating for diversity...
-
"Do It Afraid": Peace Itimi's Philosophy For Facing Goals And Life
In this episode, we sit down with Peace Itimi, the founder of FoundersConnect, a platform that documents the African tech startup landscape and stories of founders on the continent. Peace shares impactful anecdotes from her life and the key takeaways that have helped her grow. She emphasises the...
-
"He Kept Trying To Find Himself": Award Winning Diversity Champion Ollie Folayan MBE's Story
Welcome to another episode of our podcast, where we bring you inspiring stories that shape us. In this episode, we have an amazing guest, Ollie Folayan, a chartered process engineering consultant, visiting professor at the University of Dundee, and an award-winning diversity champion. Ollie…
more -
The Power of A Hundred: Bayile Adeoti's Story of Social Entrepreneurship, Growth and Giving Back
Join us on this fun and insightful conversation with Bayile Adeoti, a social entrepreneur and founder of Dechomai, an organization that helps individuals and communities overcome barriers to entrepreneurial success. In this episode, Bayile shares her personal journey to social entrepreneurship…
more -
Pursuit of Mastery: How Wuraola Oyewusi Transitioned Careers from Pharmacy to Data Science
Rough estimates put Yoruba (a popular language in Western Nigeria) at having roughly 50 million speakers and our guest today is one of those pathfinding teaching Artificial Intelligence concepts in this language (her mother tongue). She transitioned from being a full-time Pharmacist into becoming...
-
Harnessing Authenticity: Ebuka Mordi's Path in Creative Photography
Ebuka Mordi is a creative fashion and commercial photographer based in Nigeria. His work has featured in Vogue Italia and he currently advises Adobe on their Lightroom suite. Ebuka's remarkable journey started several years ago when he picked up his iPod and started to shoot photos with it.…
more -
[Part 3] Education Works: Q and A session with Sir Geoff Palmer
Sir Geoff Palmer is Scotland’s first Black Professor and is Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University. He was knighted by the Queen in 2014. His groundbreaking work, the barley abrasion process has revolutionised the world of brewing and has earned him the American Society of Brewing Chemists Award…
more -
[Part 2] Sir Geoff Palmer's Award-Winning Innovation And Dealing with Racism
Sir Geoff Palmer is Scotland’s first Black Professor and is Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University. He was knighted by the Queen in 2014. His groundbreaking work, the barley abrasion process has revolutionised the world of brewing and has earned him the American Society of Brewing Chemists Award…
more -
[Part 1] The Remarkable Story of Sir Geoff Palmer: From Pioneering Science to Activism
Sir Geoff Palmer is Scotland’s first Black Professor and is Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University. He was knighted by the Queen in 2014. His groundbreaking work, the barley abrasion process has revolutionised the world of brewing and has earned him the American Society of Brewing Chemists Award of...
-
Henry Anumudu - An Embodiment of His Mother's Legacy
Henry is an educator and storyteller committed to making quality education accessible to all, especially children and young people in low-income communities. His career journey started in Nigeria's media start-up scene, where he worked on press relations and created content to shape conversations...
-
Adora Nwodo: Grit - Pushing Beyond Limits
Adora Nwodo is a multi-award-winning Software Engineer. She currently works at Microsoft where she builds Mixed Reality on the Cloud. She is passionate about the Cloud and Emerging Technologies. She is also the Vice President of the Nigerian chapter for VRAR Association. Her work there involves...
-
Self-discovery and Inspiring Change In The Public Education Sector: Odinaka's Story
With a background in International Education Development and Economics, Odinaka Chukwu is an experienced professional with a passion for leveraging education as a tool for social and economic development. She brings a dynamic set of experiences in international education, non-profit leadership…
more -
Ripple Effect: Sofiat's Inspiring Path in Changing Lives through Coding
Growing up with hardworking parents who instilled the value of diligence, our remarkable guest - Sofiat has dedicated her life to making a difference in the world. This has shown in her founding Computer Science Academy Africa (CSAAfrica) - an initiative aiming to provide young Africans in STEM...
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
Stories That Shape Us is a podcast which celebrates the power of personal stories to inspire and connect us. Everyone has a story worth telling and our aim is to curate life-defining lessons, experiences and stories of people around the world and democratise these to people who need them in their journeys. From tales of personal growth to tales of resilience, we explore how these stories have shaped the lives of our guests and how they can inspire us to live our own lives more fully and empathetically. Join us as we uncover the stories that shape us all.
HOSTED BY
Samuel Agbede
Loading similar podcasts...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Stories That Shape Us have?
Stories That Shape Us currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Stories That Shape Us about?
Stories That Shape Us is a podcast which celebrates the power of personal stories to inspire and connect us. Everyone has a story worth telling and our aim is to curate life-defining lessons, experiences and stories of people around the world and democratise these to people who need them in their...
How often does Stories That Shape Us release new episodes?
Stories That Shape Us has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Stories That Shape Us?
You can listen to Stories That Shape Us 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 Stories That Shape Us?
Stories That Shape Us is created and hosted by Samuel Agbede.
URL copied to clipboard!