The Star Network Podcast

Scaling an E-Commerce Business with Tobi Akinkunmi, Co-Founder & CEO, Lickquor (@lickquor.ng) and Host of The Star Network Podcast- Zephia Ovia-IkemIn this episode we discuss building an e-commerce business and how to stand out through 3 main metrics - convenience, reliability and authenticityKey areas we cover:📌 Building an E-Commerce Business (solving for convenience & reliability)📌 Why quality of service matters in a competitive landscape 📌 Passion over expectations —-----Tobi Akinkunmi is a marketing and communications executive with nearly a decade of experience building culturally relevant brands across Africa and the diaspora. He has led and contributed to campaigns for global brands including Moët Hennessy, Bacardi, BBC, and Guaranty Trust Bank.He previously served as Marketing Lead, Nigeria at NBA Africa, where he shaped the league’s local brand strategy and strengthened its cultural footprint among young audiences. He also held marketing roles at Universal Music Group, executing campaigns for leading artists across digital and partnership platforms.In 2022, Tobi co-founded @lickquor.ng, a technology-enabled alcohol distribution company modernising how consumers discover and purchase wines and spirits. As CEO, he is building a scalable, tech-forward platform that combines logistics, digital convenience, and premium service.Video available on Youtube If you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe & share. Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest: @lickquor.ng

A Day in A Life with Polly Alakija - Creative Director, Muralist, and Artist, Polly Alakija Studios and Host of The Star Network Podcast - Zephia Ovia-IkemIn this episode, I spent the day with Polly Alakija, learning about her work and drive using art for advocacy and social impact through some of Lagos’ most iconic public art. Between storytelling and a session live drawing, she shares how she’s using creativity to spark change, from classrooms to city councils. 🌍Key areas we cover: 📌 Using art as a tool for advocacy, education & social impact📌 Championing women & children through arts-driven learning📌 Building structure around your purpose and turning passion into long-term impact—Polly Alakija is a renowned artist, muralist, cultural leader, and social development advocate with over 35 years of experience in arts, education, and philanthropy. Polly is British-Nigerian. She has exhibited internationally and played a pivotal role in fostering cross-cultural collaborations between Africa, the UK, and beyond. Her reinvention of the Falomo under-bridge, “Oluwarantimi”, commissioned by Lagos State as a part of the Lagos@50 (@lagos_50) celebrations was a defining project for Polly, since then Polly is often referred to as “the woman who paints bridges”. Polly is the Co-Founder of the Five Cowries Arts Education Initiative (@fivecowries). Five Cowries has reached over 250,000 children. Using arts for advocacy has led Polly to working at State and Federal level and with global city leaders to shape policies that put communities first.Full episode available on YouTubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe & share. Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest: @pollyalakija @thestudio_parkview

The World of Odio Mimonet with Odio Oseni (aka Mrs.O), Founder and Creative Director Odio Mimonet and Host of The Star Network Podcast - Zephia Ovia-IkemIn this episode we discuss building a legacy Fashion Business and preservation of African Fashion Key areas we cover: 📌Sustaining a 30-year legacy brand through creativity & purpose 📌Preserving African heritage and culture through design authenticity📌The power of archiving — protecting creative ownership & legacy📌 Redefining power dressing through the modern agbada for women——Odio Oseni is the creative director and visionary behind Odio Mimonet, a fashion label celebrated for its timeless elegance, bold artistry, and ability to empower women through style. A graduate of Yaba College of Technology and the London College of Fashion, she is renowned for her inventive use of Ankara and for pioneering the modern female agbada, a design that redefined power dressing in Nigeria. Her innovative approach has earned her multiple accolades, including the AMFW Innovative Designer of the Year Award (2012), and cemented her place as one of the leading voices in contemporary African fashion. Through her work, Odio continues to champion African heritage, celebrate femininity, and inspire women to express confidence and individuality.Watch the Full episode on YouTube If you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe & share. Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest: @odiomimonet

Building Africa’s Talent Ecosystem with Asa Asika, Co-Founder & Principal Partner, Plug Entertainment (@theplugglobalagency) and Host of The Star Network Podcast- Zephia Ovia-IkemKey areas we cover:The evolution of talent management in Nigeria and across AfricaDavido’s 5ive album: global sound, personal growth, African narrativeProtecting African artists in global record and brand dealsFriendships & Business Why structure, strategy, & strong teams drive creative success.——--Asa Asika  is a Co-Founder & Principal Partner of Plug Entertainment Lagos, Nigeria. He has been involved in various facets of the Entertainment Industry since childhood and spent a decade working in PR and marketing for Storm Records which produced various top talents.In 2013, Asa established Stargaze, a management company whose focus was on the youth and upcoming artists. Stargaze handled many top accounts where he focused on creating beneficial relationships. Asa also manages Afrobeat forerunner Davido (@davido) and has played a critical role in his success story. With this deep vision and passion for all things entertainment in Africa, Plug Entertainment was founded in 2016 alongside Abiodun “Bizzle” Osikoya (@bizzleosikoya). Asa oversees Plug’s strategic relationships in hopes to foster and garner an impactful relationship between music in Africa and the rest of the world. Since inception Plug has now added sports to its portfolio. Plug also provides services like talent management, music distribution, label services and co-produces one of the biggest events in Nigeria called The Mainland block party.Listen to the full episode now. Full video also available on YoutubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe & share. Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest: @theplugglobalagency @asaasika

Positioning for Global Opportunities & Redefining Real Estate with Wunmi Williams, Founder & CEO, Wunmi Williams Global (w.wglobal) and Host of The Star Network Podcast- Zephia Ovia-IkemIn this episode we discuss Wunmi's personal journey of Entrepreneurship - from selling accessories from her home, to diving into Real Estate and expanding business opportunities to the UAE. This is a personal story of grit despite loss and the power of being resilientKey learnings:The Nakenohs Boulevard story as a platform for Nigerian retail brandsSteps to expand globally and build trusted international partnershipsWhat African entrepreneurs should know about UAE investments——Wunmi builds businesses, platforms, and opportunities that help others thrive. With over 20 years in retail and real estate, she’s helped shape Nigeria’s commercial landscape and empowered local brands to thrive both locally and globally.With a Retail Management degree from the University of Surrey and early training at Nordstrom, Wunmi returned to Nigeria with a clear mission: to transform retail. That vision became Nakenohs Boulevard, a boutique mall in Lagos now home to over 26 brands. Through her company WW Global, she’s since expanded to the UK, US, and UAE — launching pop-ups, acquiring prime real estate, and setting new industry standards.Listen to the episode now. Full video also available on YouTubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe & share. Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest: @wunmiwilliamsceo @w.wglobalDate recorded: 4/6/26

Building & Scaling A Luxury Fashion Group featuring Yinka Ash, Founder & CEO Ashcorp Group  and Host of the Star Network Podcast: ZephiaOvia-Ikem (Zeph)In this episode we discuss starting a Luxury Fashion Business, embracing a leadership mindset and the importance of incorporating our culture into Fashion as a way of story telling Key learnings :📌 The journey building Ashcorp group ( AshLux and AshLuxury)📌 Fashion expressed through art and owning our narrative📌Finding purpose in your talents📌 Staying relevant in Business————Yinka Ash is the Founder and CEO of Ashcorp Group, he’s re-defining luxury for a new generation and is one of the most influential voices in fashion and culture today. In 2017, he launched @Ashluxury, a concept store that revolutionized high-end retail in Nigeria, creating access to global luxury brands for African consumers. By 2019, he introduced @Ashluxe—a bold streetwear brand rooted in Afrobeats, Nigerian street culture, and global fashion. Today, Ashluxe is worn by creatives, tastemakers, and celebrities across major fashion capitals.Yinka’s vision has built a multi-million-dollar empire that bridges global luxury with African markets, earning him a place on the prestigious BoF 500 list. Through his mentorship platform YAART (@yaart_program), he’s now investing in the next generation of African leaders and creators.Listen to the episode now. Full video also available on YouTubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe & share. Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest: @theashcorpgroup @ashluxe @ashluxury 

Learnings on Real Estate and Hospitality featuring Adesuwa Belo-Osagie, Co-Founder & Director 7 Fifteen Capital Limited (@7-Fiffteen) and CEO Husk Collection and Host of the Star Network Podcast: Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)In this episode we discuss starting a Real Estate business, why due diligence is important when it comes to land verification, joint ventures vs direct property ownership, trends in the hospitality space and so much more. Key learnings :Property ownership for generation wealthVerification processes to owning/ building propertyKey things to know when securing JVsHospitality space & preservation of culture--------------Adesuwa Belo-Osagie is a distinguished lawyer and entrepreneur, reshaping Africa’s luxury real estate and hospitality sectors. As Co-Founder and Deputy CEO of 7-Fifteen Capital, she leads the development of high-end, purpose-driven properties in Abuja and Lagos. A Harvard graduate qualified to practice law in Nigeria, England, and Wales, she honed her expertise at Clifford Chance LLP. Beyond business, she serves on influential boards, mentors young entrepreneurs, and champions social impact through the 7-Fifteen Philanthropic Foundation. Her leadership blends innovation, excellence, and a deep commitment to community advancementListen to the episode now. Full video also available on YouTubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe & share. Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest: @7-Fifftee @adesuwa_7.15 @huskcollection_ng

Understanding VC Trends featuring Lexi Novitske, General Partner at Norrsken 22 (@norrsken_22) & Host of The Star Network Podcast:  Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)In this episode, Lexi shares on VC trends and the trickle down effect into the African continent. Given her expertise and passion for investing in African tech businesses that are solving real problems and are scalable, she breaks down what makes a startup attractive for funding, what the fundamentals are to starting a VC and challenging cultural biases when making investment decisions into African economies.  In this episode we discuss :VC TrendsThe trickle down effect into African economiesHow to attract funding as a StartupFundamentals to starting a VCOpportunities within African counties and the interest from VCs—--Lexi Novitske is the General Partner at Norrsken22, a growth-stage tech investment fund operating across Africa. Based in Lagos, she brings deep local insight and global experience to support African tech startups.Originally from the U.S., Lexi moved to Nigeria in 2012, drawn by its untapped potential. She founded Singularity Investments in 2014 and later launched Acuity Venture Partners, backing leading startups like Paystack, Flutterwave, Mono, and Sabi. Her investment focus spans fintech, enterprise software, and platforms enhancing financial access and trade across Africa.Lexi has also worked with Verod Capital Management, SEAF, and Sandler O’Neill. She serves on multiple tech boards, mentors startups, and is both a CFA Charterholder and Kauffman Fellow.Listen to the episode now. Full video also available on YouTubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe & share. Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest: @lexinovitske @norrsken_22 @norrskenfoundation

Career Pivot to Bestselling Author featuring Foluso Agbaje, Author: The Parlour Wife (@foagbaje) & Host of The Star Network Podcast:  Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)In this episode, Foluso shares how her 12-year long career in corporate prepared her to be a debut author. She shares how being resilient shapes her to keep going. From getting a lot of “No’s” to a "Yes" from one of the Big 5 English language Publishers- Harper Collins. Foluso is now the Bestselling Author of her first novel (The Parlour Wife)In this episode we discuss :📌 Leaving a 12-year career to become an Author📌 Resilience in being told "No"📌 Exploring intersectional feminism in WWII 📌 The structure and balance needed to be a writer—After graduating from the Faber Academy (@faber_academy ) in 2022, Foluso completed her debut novel, The Parlour Wife. She has a Master’s degree in Management and Human Resources from the London School of Economics and a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Loughborough University. A storyteller at heart, Foluso is always drawn to narratives that explore identity, culture, and resilience. She continues to write, inspired by the complexities of the human experience. She loves London but calls Lagos home, and her stories are shaped by these two cities that have captured her heart. When not curled up with her Kindle, you’ll find her in a bookshop, museum, or restaurant. She is a big fan of period dramas and has watched every episode of Downton Abbey more times than she’s willing to admit.Listen to the episode now. Full video also available on YouTubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe & share. Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest: @foagbaje

How To Scale Your Business featuring Tomi Adeola, CEO Hairitage Hub (@hairitagehub) & Host of The Star Network Podcast:  Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)In this episode we discuss embodying an entrepreneurial spirit, finding opportunities within your market and appreciating your career development to get you to the next level. Tomi shares on her journey - building HairitageHub, the 7 years of experience within the beauty industry and how she has managed to ensure customer retention. Last year, 2 new brands were launched by her to cater to the demands of haircare within our market (Activate Relaxer and Vive Haircare) Key areas we cover:Finding the right business partnershipsDeep researchCustomer loyalty for retentionUnderstanding your business capacity  Listen to the episode now. Full video also available on YouTubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don’t forget to give us a rating, subscribe & shareFollow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest: @hairitagehub @activate_relaxer @vivehaircare

XO Boutique Bakery: Day In A Life Series featuring Chef Alex Oke (Chef Owner XO Boutique Bakery ) and Host of The Star Network Podcast Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)In this episode we spend the day at XO Boutique Bakery with Chef Alex unpacking the journey from being a pastry chef to owning a restaurant. Alex shares with us his career transitions, being a graduate of International Business to embracing his love for Culinary Arts and becoming a Pastry Chef/Restaurant OwnerKey highlights:Embracing your inner gifts (transitioning from a corporate 9-5 to entrepreneurship in culinary arts)Owning a Restaurant Business in complex business environmentsGaps in the food production value chain in NigeriaChef Alex is a bi-national Nigerian/Russian Chef based in Lagos Nigeria. Alex is passionate about bread, pastry and confections and trained in both culinary and pastry arts at the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts (PICA) in Vancouver, Canada. Prior to culinary arts, Alex earned an undergraduate  honours degree in Management in the U.S  and a graduate degree with distinction in International Marketing Management in the UK.  His professional work experience cuts across FMCG marketing and branding. While at Pacific Institute for Culinary Arts, he staged at the Fairmont Vancouver, Beta 5 and Thomas Haas and also worked for a period at Lear Faye in East Vancouver before returning to Nigeria as pastry chef at Tarragon Restaurant, and chef instructor at the Culinary Academy in Ikoyi, Lagos.As the Chef owner at XO Boutique Bakery, the restaurant features traditional French and new world breads, viennoiserie and pastries with a modern flair. Alex has delivered masterclass demos at prominent food festivals in Lagos, including the GTBank Food & Drink Fair, Fiesta of Flavours and Fitfam FestListen to the episode now. Full video also available on YouTube  If you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe & share. Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest: @xobakery

Continuity of Family Businesses featuring Ama Peters (Managing Director) and Toksy Peters (Executive Director) of Visions Opticals and Host of The Star Network Podcast:  Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)Visions Opticals is a family-owned business which started in 1989 by the late Dr. Bose Peter, a renowned Ophthalmologist. The company’s mission is to provide high quality and luxury eye care service to families and professionals across Nigeria  In this episode we discuss succession in Family Businesses  Key highlights: ·       Joining a Family Business (navigating different stakeholders and finding your place)·       Partnering with Global Brands·       The need for continuous learning - transitioning into new business ventures Ama Peters holds a BA in Philosophy & Politics from Trinity College Dublin and an MPhil in Ethnic and Racial Studies. After over five years in Asset Management at Goldman Sachs, she joined VisionsOpticals in 2010 and now serves as Managing Director, leveraging her industry expertise and asset management background to drive the growth of the 35-year-old family business.A Fellow of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, Member of the General Optical Council UK  as well as Nigerian-American Chamber of commerce etc. Ama is passionate about lens technology and helping clients find their prefect visual aids. She also volunteers at the Enterprise Development Centre and serves as Executive Director of the Kidney Foundation for Africa.---Toksy Peters holds a BSc in French and Economics with International Business from the University of Surrey. She spent over eight years at Vetiva Capital Management Limited, serving in roles including Head of Sales and Portfolio Manager. She has completed various financial industry trainings, including Financial Planning (Florida State University), Financial Analysis (IBFC Agusto), and Portfolio Management (Euromoney).Joining Visions Opticals in 2015, Tokunbo leads the Sales and Marketing drive at Visions, leveraging her extensive experience to grow the client base and drive sales. A qualified Dispensing Optician, Member of the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce etc; she also serves as an Executive Director of the Kidney Foundation for Africa and mentors younger women in her spare time.Listen to the episode now. Full video also available on YouTube  If you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe & share. Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest: @visionsopticals

Bridging The Gap For Medical Emergency Response with Dr Yewande Alebiosu, Co-Founder/COO Help Station (@helpstation.ng) and Host of The Star Network Podcast: Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph) Dr Yewande is a medical doctor with over 7 years experience in emergency medicine. She has worked in the emergency department of Lagos University Teaching Hospital and other private hospitals in Lagos state.She also served as the pioneer Chief Operating Officer and Product Lead of a leading telemedicine company, BetaCare, with over 200,000 active subscribers. She now serves as the non-executive director of the company. Currently, she is the Co-Founder and COO of HelpStation. A health tech company focused on leveraging technology to provide access to emergency services, by building the largest network of ambulances, first responders and emergency ready hospitals across Nigeria, and ensuring seamless interconnectivity between these stakeholders, to promote direct access to individuals when it matters most. Key areas we cover:What to do when there’s an emergencyChallenges in pre-hospital care. Helpstation solving emergency response waiting timeBuilding a culture fit product for everyone to use during an emergencyListen to the full episode now. Full video also available on Youtube If you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & share.Follow: @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us : [email protected] our guest: @helpstation.ng

Upskilling Professionals with Talstack - Seni Sulyman, CEO & Co-Founder Talstack (@talstackafrica) and Host of The Star Network Podcast: Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)From Hosting Mark Zuckerberg during his time at Andela as VP of Global Operations to building Talstack. Seni Sulyman  provides more context on the role corporate institutions could play to enhance talent productivity without over reliance on fresh recruits. Talstack curates first-hand leadership experiences from Africa’s leading entrepreneurs into a seamless learning program for entry level employees to managers.In this episode, we discuss:📌Building Talstack📌Hosting Mark Zuckerberg at Andela 🤯📣🚀 📌Learnings from diverse work experiences📌Being good at business & cultivating a leadership mindsetSeni is the Founder of Talstack, a venture-backed startup that provides a corporate learning and talent management platform that enables African businesses to better manage employees and their performance. He is also founder at Black Ops, a private network for African operators.  Seni’s prior career cuts across roles and industries including Chief Operating Officer at Bellhop, a US-based venture backed startup, VP of Global Operations at Andela, a global venture-backed unicorn,  establishing a great company culture that placed Andela as #1 Best Place to Work, Bristow Group, where he built and operated a new business jet airline in Nigeria, HP and Bain & Company. Seni holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Northwestern UniversityListen to the full episode now. Full video also available on YoutubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & shareFollow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] our guest: @talstackafrica @blackopsafrica

Generation Unlimited 9JA: About Us (Series 1) with Celine Lafoucriere, UNICEF Chief Field Office, Head Private Sector Partnership , Lead Generation Unlimited Nigeria (GenU9JA) and Host of The Star Network Podcast: Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)In this episode, we discuss UNICEF Nigeria Generation Unlimited's (GENU9JA) mandate to connect 20m young people with skills and job opportunities by 20230. Through 3 target pillars  - Digital Learning, Workplace Readiness & Youth Engagement; GenU9JA has started the work in collaboration with key stakeholders within the private and public sector such as Microsoft, UNILEVER, The World Bank etc Celine provides a breakdown on the growth of GenU9JA, challenges and what we should look forward to. In this episode we discuss:📌 About Generation Unlimited📌 Harnessing a world for more Public-Private-Youth partnerships📌 GenU supporting youth workplace readiness 📌 YOMAWatch the full episode now. Audio available on YoutubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & shareFollow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] our guest: @unicef_nigeria @generationunlimitednigeria @generationunlimited

HoaQ- An Investors Community with Joe Kinvi, Co-Founder & General Manager HoaQ and Host of The Star Network Podcast: Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)In this episode, we discuss:📌All you need to know about HoaQ 📌 Creating real estate investment opportunities for Africans in the Diaspora  📌 National identity cross-border investments between African countries  📌 Practical steps to investing fundamentalsJoe Kinvi (CA) is the founder of PLTFM, a multi-asset investment platform for Africa and Africans in the Diaspora, and also leads HoaQ, one of the largest investment communities focused on educating investors and helping mobilise capital for founders across Africa and its Diaspora. With over 700 investors across 37 countries and 100 investments across 10 countries, the HoaQ team has supported organisations such as Google (Black Founders Fund program in Africa) and Morgan Stanley (Inclusive Venture Lab). The team reviews over 1,000 startups a year.Listen to the full episode now.  Watch the full episode on YouTube. If you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & shareFollow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] our guest: @hoaqclub @joekinvi

ÌTÀN- A Culinary Journey with Michael Elégbèdé , Founder & Chef ÌTÀN Test and Host of The Star Network Podcast: Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)*Disclaimer: This episode is our first virtual (not in person) interview. Audio sound may be different/ have pause gaps due to internet connectivity* In this episode, we discuss:📌 The journey to building ìTÀN📌 The importance of storytelling through food and cultural identity & unity.📌 Chef  Elégbèdé's travel experiences of sourcing natural ingredients across West Africa Michael Elégbèdé, is a third-generation Nigerian-American Chef who is revolutionizing West African gastronomy by celebrating indigenous food traditions and ingredients. Michael is an award-winning Chef and graduate of a global top culinary institution (The Culinary Institute of America)  and has worked with some of the world's best restaurants and chefs in America.ÌTÀN T.K, located in Ikoyi, Lagos, has been ranked amongst the world's best restaurant spaces by La Listé for two years. ÌTÀN reimagines Nigerian ingredients and cooking traditions, supporting Chef Elégbèdé’s mission to change perceptions of West African dishes and bridge West African culture with its global derivatives.Listen to the full episode now. Full video also available on Youtube If you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & shareFollow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] our guest: @itan_tk @michae_elegbede

Building Expertise In Your Career with Rolake Rosiji, Africa Regional Director for Seedstars and Host of The Star Network Podcast: Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)In this episode, we discuss Rolake’s new journey with Seedstars and helpful tips for career transitioning. Seedstars is an Entrepreneurial ecosystem merging incubator and accelerator programs with trainings and impact investingKey areas we cover: Transitioning to a new career field Building connections for job opportunities  Doing things regardless of fear Listen to the full episode now. Full video available on YoutubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & shareFollow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] our guest on LinkedIn: Rolake Rosiji

The Andrea Iyamah journey with Andrea Iyamah, Founder and CEO (@andreaiyamah) and Host of The Star Network Podcast, Zephia Ovia-Ikem  (Zeph)In this episode, we discuss how to operationalise your business especially within the creative space. How a Fashion house such as the Andrea Iyamah brand has remained consistent and continues to scale globally. For over a decade, the brand has gained repeated recognition for it’s work, with features in Forbes, Vogue, InStyle, HuffPost and more Key highlights in our discussion:-The Andrea Iyamah journey (what makes the brand consistent)-Operationalising creative businesses  (the need to create systems to run a business)-Thinking and positioning globally -Getting your team to buy into the vision Listen to the full episode now. Full video also available on YoutubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don’t forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & share Follow us @thestarnetworkpod For partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest @andreaiyamah

Passion to Entrepreneurship  with Onyekachi Iroha, CEO & Founder Beauty Atelier  (@beautyatelierintl) and Host of The Star Network Podcast: Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)Beauty Atelier is a Permanent makeup beauty salon specialising in a range of services from microblading, lashes, ombre brows, piercings etc. The brand has welcomed over 5,000 clients from all over the world with a mission to be an oasis for self-love and healing through artistic expression and personal growth. Onyekachi’s work experience spans across 15 years of Pure and applied chemistry, Human resource management and Permanent makeup artistry In this episode, we discuss the growth of the Beauty Atelier brand and building a community for every woman's beauty needs:Key areas we cover:   📌 How Beauty Atelier has maintained client retention 📌 Prioritising family time even as a business owner 📌 Employee wellbeing  📌 Establishing operational policies for your businessListen to the full episode now  Full video available on Youtube If you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & share Follow us @thestarnetworkpod For partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest @beautyatelierintl

Building Herconomy and Expanding your Network  with Ifedayo Durosinmi-Etti, CEO & Founder Herconomy (@Herconomy) and Host of The Star Network Podcast: Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)Herconomy is a financial technology platform that helps women securely grow their wealth by offering high-yield savings accounts, community, financial education and discounts on women – centric products and services with a mission to be the most reliable financial services platform for women in Africa.In this episode, we discuss the role of Herconomy financial products to empower women through savings and low risk investmentsKey areas we cover: 📌 How to expand your network and get opportunities 📌Achieving Financial freedom for women and the domino effect  📌 Building a trust early for your children to ensure generational wealth Listen to the full episode now to find out how to access opportunities and begin your savings journeyVideo available on YoutubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & share Follow us @thestarnetworkpod For partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest @herconomy 

Public Relations in Africa : Transcending borders  with Ijeoma Balogun CEO & Founder Redrick Public Relations and Host of The Star Network Podcast: Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)If you’re in tech, entertainment, fashion, consultancy etc and you’re curious about expanding your brand positioning, this one is for you Key areas we cover: 📌Public Relations- brand positioning , growing demand & working with international brands  📌How to get things done by building legacy processes in the workplace 📌 Building a work culture that empowers employees  Listen to the full episode now and find out on how Public Relations could support your brand  Video available on Youtube If you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & share Follow  us @thestarnetworkpod For partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest @redrickpr

Conservationism: Going Green with Nela Duke Ekpenyong, CEO Obudu Conservation Centre & Founder LEGA.C Capital and Host of The Star Network Podcast: Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph) In this episode, we discuss the role of  Conservationism on job creation and empowerment for local communities. We also touched on the role of Family Offices and the importance of Legacy for preserving family wealth LEGA.C is a  multi-family office which supports the wealth and growth of innovators, entrepreneurs, executives, and High-Net-Worth families. The firm aims to foster a spirit of stewardship within these families and generations to come. LEGA.C is impact-driven and is launching Africa's first biomimicry accelerator under their product offerings (which will be incubated by consonance) Key highlights in our discussion:  📌Obudu Conservation Centre -education and growing awareness of wildlife preservation📌 Enhancing local tourism across States 📌The role of Family offices for wealth preservation and transfer on the African continent  Listen to the full episode now and find out on wildlife preservation in Cross Rivers State, the potential of tourism in Africa and the role of Family offices  Video available on Youtube If you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & share Follow  us @thestarnetworkpod For partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest @obuduconservationcentre **Disclaimer**This episode was recorded in Dec 2023. The reference to COP28 is of 2023Obudu Conservation Centre is founded by Nela's family. Obudu Resort is a separate entity owned by the Cross Rivers State Government 

Data For Risk Management with Folake Edun, CEO & Co - Founder, Towntalk  and Host of The Star Network Podcast: Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)Towntalk Solutions is a data intelligence company that provides risk management solutions to businesses across security, logistics and agriculture. In our 6th episode, we discuss, how Towntalk provides data to various supply chain businesses to improve their operational processes. Key highlights in our discussion:Transitioning from Investor to CEOMotherhood & building a business   Not being afraid to speak up for ownership when you’ve worked for it  Listen to the full episode now and find out how you could use data to make improved business decisions Video available on YoutubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don't forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & shareFollow  us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] our guest @towntalksolutions#TheStarNetworkPodcast #SNP #starnetworkpodcast #SNPCommunity #Towntalk #TowntalkSolutions #Techstars

Building From The Ground Up with Shola Akinlade, Co- Founder & CEO Paystack and Founder, Sporting Lagos & Host of The Star Network Podcast: Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)In our 5th episode we discuss all things payments, investing in sports and how to get things done. Shola delves into finding top talent to scale your business, navigating uncertainty and the joy of owning a football clubShola Akinlade is CEO & Co-Founder of Paystack, a technology company powering payments and growth for businesses in Africa. Listen to the full episode now, and learn more on the Paystack journey and lessons in leadershipVideo available on YoutubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don’t forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & share Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest @paystackhq @sportinglagos#SNP #TheStarNetworkPodcast #starnetworkpodcast #TheStarNetworkPodcast #SNP #starnetworkpodcast #SNPCommunity

Akoma Health – Progressing Teletherapy for Mental Health with Niyi Michael-Adenuga, Co-Founder and COO  (@Akomahealth) and Host of Star Network Podcast: (Zeph) Zephia Ovia-IkemIn our 4th episode, we discuss mental health and the growing narrative of therapy on the African continentWe discuss the progress of therapy today in the cultural context of Nigeria.How organizations could adopt therapy to support the mental health of their employees.Niyi shares how Akoma has positioned to solve the gaps in the tele-therapy space Listen to the full episode now, and find out how you could play a part to advocate for mental health awareness and also benefit from tele-therapy Video available on YoutubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don’t forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & share Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest @akomahealth

SunFi- Advancing Finance for Solar Energy with guest speaker Rotimi Thomas, CEO & Co-Founder SunFi (@sunfihq) and Host of Star Network Podcast, Zephia Ovia-Ikem (Zeph)In our third episode, we delve into the world of Solar, financial access to payment plans and the growing narrative within the Nigerian market. We touch on the benefits of renewable energy, the effects on our environment and policies that support rural communities get access to solarEver been curious about solar and how you could contribute to advocate for a greener environment? This episode is for you Video available on YoutubeIf you find our episodes impactful, don’t forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & share Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest @sunfihq#SNP #TheStarNetworkPodcast #starnetworkpodcast 

The 16by16 Journey - A Family Business with guest speaker Tushar  Hathiramani Founder & Creative Director of 16by16 & Thai Thai and Host of Star Network Podcast: (“Zeph”) Zephia Ovia-Ikem In our 2nd episode we discuss the 16by16 journey. This hidden gem in the heart of Lagos Nigeria, the framework for running a family business,  space management for art and  staying relevant in an ever evolving creative industry Video available on YouTube Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships: email us at [email protected]

Leveraging Data for Economic Prosperity with guest speaker Michael Famoroti of Stears Business (@stearsinsights ) and Host of Star Network Podcast Zephia Ovia-Ikem (“Zeph”) In our first episode, we dissect why data is essential for decision making and economic growth. Historically, accessing data in Africa’s largest market (Nigeria) has been challenging. Today, insight companies such as Stears are building frameworks to solve this problem. We touched on other areas, where data can be leveraged  beyond government policies such as land usage Video available on YouTube If you find our episodes impactful, don’t forget to give us a rating, subscribe, like & share Follow us @thestarnetworkpodFor partnerships, email us: [email protected] Follow our guest @stearsinsights#SNP #TheStarNetworkPodcast #starnetworkpodcast 

The Star Network Podcast with Zeph🎙️🌟#Trailer Episode 1: Leveraging Data for Economic prosperity with Michael Famoroti of Stears Business (@stearsinsights )We discuss all things data and the benefits towards decision making and policy formulation Tune in on YouTube for video recording Follow us on instagram for updates @thestarnetworkpodEmail us for partnerships at: [email protected] Episode drops: Wednesday, 16th August 📍#SNP #TheStarNetworkPodcast #starnetworkpodcast