The More Sibyl Podcast

간호사이자 암 환자 |The One with Vivian Nwogu: On Thriving with Breast Cancer | Episode 27 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 

In this heartwarming episode, we’re joined by the incredible Vivian Nwogu, known endearingly as Vee. Her story of resilience, courage, and grace will leave you inspired. Imagine working while undergoing cancer treatments! This alone takes a huge amount of tenacity. From her early days in Nigeria to becoming a licensed nurse across four countries, Vee’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. But what truly sets her apart is her battle with breast cancer. Vee opens up about her emotional and physical journey, sharing how her cancer diagnosis sparked a fire to empower others and advocate for women’s health. Her strength, even in the face of unimaginable challenges, is a powerful reminder that we can rise above life’s toughest moments.

Thie stories from Vee’s childhood struggles to her unyielding drive to become a nurse and cancer survivor left me in awe of her strength. As she continues to inspire women worldwide, Vee proves that our struggles don’t define us; our response to them does. Don’t miss this uplifting conversation—subscribe to the podcast, leave a comment sharing where you’re tuning in from, and join us in supporting Vivian’s journey. Tune in now and follow our platform for more empowering stories! You can also show your support by donating towards her cancer treatments, her GoFundMe is linked below. Follow Vivian’s story on her IG @vee.manifest.

🅻🅸🅽🅺🆂: 
Read the blog here: 
Vivian’s GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/2815c2ec

 

쌍둥이의 비밀스러운 삶| The One with The Adedipe and Popoola Twins: On Exploring Twin Dynamics | Episode 26 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:

What’s it really like to grow up with a built-in best friend—or partner in crime? In this lively and heartfelt episode, we explore the fascinating world of twins with two incredible sets: The Popoola Twins and the Adedipe Twins. Kenny Popoola, Kenny Adedipe, and Taiwo "T-Dawg" Adedipe—my husband and a twin himself—share stories ranging from childhood mischief to the unique bonds and challenges of twinhood. This episode unpacks myths, cultural traditions (hello, Yoruba tribe), and the individuality that makes twins so extraordinary. From the Popoola twins’ calm childhood to the Adedipe twins’ knack for stirring trouble, we explore how shared birthdays don’t always mean shared destinies. Plus, we uncover why even twins with telepathic legends don’t always pick up the phone to call each other every day—looking at you, T-Dawg!

And the twin tales don’t stop here! Coming soon, we’ll bring in the wives to spill the tea on what it’s like being married to twins. Is it double the joy or double the competition? You won’t want to miss their take on navigating life and love with these dynamic duos. Whether you’re fascinated by twins, curious about cultural traditions, or just looking for a heartwarming listen, this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and surprising revelations. Tune in now, and stay tuned for more twin-themed magic!

 

🅻🅸🅽🅺🆂: 

• Read the blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/exploring-twin-dynamics-d80df1d5af89 
• You can watch the live show here: https://www.youtube.com/live/jV4wXoaV3Q8?si=1FY0F_Yvp3s0fFRV

가족의 이야기|The One with Mrs. Morenike Afolabi - On Balancing Work, Family, and Health: Episode 25 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:

This week's episode features the inspiring Mrs. Morenike Afolabi, a woman whose influence has deeply impacted someone very dear to this podcast: my former assistant's remarkable mother. She’s an administrator, professional chef, wife, mother, and business co-owner. She graciously shared her multifaceted journey, offering a wealth of wisdom on topics like growing up in a harmonious polygamous family, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship in Nigeria, and modern parenting. Mrs. Afolabi candidly spoke about the hurdles of pricing and publicity in Nigeria’s catering industry and how she’s adapting to the evolving technological landscape to sustain her businesses.

We also talked about parenting in today’s world, where Mrs. Afolabi shared her balanced approach to fostering discipline and friendship with her children. She emphasized the importance of intentionality in building strong parent-child relationships, especially in a generation that values open communication. The episode also took a poignant turn as we discussed the impact of prostate cancer on her family, with her father’s journey highlighting the importance of early detection and proactive health management. This conversation is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice on entrepreneurship, parenting, and prioritizing health—don’t miss it!

 

Read blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/balancing-work-family-and-health-bffe955537fb

위기 속 강한 인내| The One with Shawn Daniel, JD - From Chicago's South Side to Tech Leadership: Episode 24 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Shawn Daniel, JD, whose journey from the rough streets of Englewood, Chicago, to military service, law school, and founding a tech company is nothing short of inspiring. Shawn shares how his life's challenges—shaped by the harsh realities of gang violence, a father's absence, and the trauma of 9/11—helped forge his unshakeable resilience and drive. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the wisdom he's gained from overcoming adversity, and how his faith has been his guiding light through some of the darkest moments of his life. This episode is packed with valuable insights on leadership, growth, and the power of community support.

In addition to his personal story, Shawn dives into the creation of Triune Alert, an innovative app designed to bridge critical communication gaps during emergencies, including encounters with law enforcement. Triune Alert was inspired by life-altering experiences, such as his mother’s health crisis while he was stationed in Iraq and a similar situation with his grandmother. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by Black individuals, especially during high-pressure situations with police, Triune Alert provides a much-needed tool for keeping families connected and safe. By quickly notifying loved ones and legal contacts, the app ensures that individuals have immediate support, particularly in sensitive or potentially dangerous interactions.

Shawn's journey exemplifies how adversity can fuel purpose and drive. His story is a powerful reminder of the impact of resilience, mentorship, and giving back to the community. Don’t miss the chance to hear Shawn’s incredible journey and learn from his experiences.

Read blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/from-chicagos-south-side-to-tech-leadership-037884d76ca1 

사랑하는 이의 자살 후의 삶|The One with Debra Blaylock - Beyond the Shadow: Life After the Suicide of a Loved One: Episode 22 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:

TW: This episode discusses suicide and grief.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with my dear friend, Debra Blaylock, who courageously shares her journey of grief and resilience following her husband's suicide, which took place just before the COVID-19 lockdown. The timing added layers of isolation and loneliness to her already immense sorrow, complicating the healing process. This episode aims to explore the immediate and prolonged aftermath of such a tragic loss and to share, in Debra’s words, how “the pain never leaves; it’s transferred down to the family.” Debra talks about the invisible nature of pain—how it can quietly consume loved ones and leave a permanent impact on those left behind. She reflects, “You have to realize you are not a person; you are just involved,” encapsulating how grief reshapes one’s identity. Debra stresses the importance of recognizing the signs of distress, having open conversations about mental health, and seeking support when needed. Her story is a poignant reminder that although the pain may be overwhelming, there is always hope, and no one is ever truly alone. She leaves listeners with the crucial message: “There is always hope, and you are never truly alone.” This conversation sheds light on the silent struggles many face and offers hope and guidance for anyone navigating a similar path. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. Together, we can break the silence around mental health and be a source of light and support for one another.

 

Read the blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/life-after-the-suicide-of-a-loved-one-76b9dac957

중독과 정신의학|The One with Dr. Olawale Ojo - On Addiction & Psychiatry: Episode 20 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:

In this episode, Dr. Wale Ojo, Associate Program Director of Indiana University's Addiction Psychiatry Program, discusses the complexities of mental health and addiction. Starting with his education at Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria, Dr. Ojo discusses his transition to the U.S. and contrasts cultural perceptions of mental health in both countries.

The conversation explores the cultural perceptions of mental health in Nigeria, the influence of religion, and the stigma around seeking psychiatric help. Dr. Ojo reflects on the increase in drug addiction among Nigerian youth, attributing it to globalization and societal changes. He emphasizes the role of family dynamics, support systems, and cultural values in mental health and addiction recovery. Additionally, he discusses the complexities of perinatal addiction and the challenges faced by women balancing societal expectations. Dr. Ojo calls for decriminalizing cannabis to better study its effects and advocates for integrated mental health and addiction care. Through anecdotes of patient success stories, he underlines the importance of internal motivation and a supportive environment in recovery. Overall, the episode offers a thoughtful exploration of mental health, addiction, and the importance of patient-centered care across diverse cultural settings.

If you're ready for real talk on mental health, recovery, and resilience, you must check out this episode. Trust me, you won't regret it!

Read the blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/addiction-psychiatry-aa0ff469ce67

정체성의 다리|The One with Dr. Kelechi Ibe-Lamberts - Cultural Alchemy: On Being Black Transnational: Episode 18 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:

Dr. Kelechi Ibe-Lamberts has such an extraordinary personality and rich experience. I had the most incredible chat with him. He’s not just a clinical associate professor at the University of Illinois Chicago School of Public Health—he’s the powerhouse behind the My Black is Transnational podcast. Talk about impressive credentials!

Born in Lagos and sent on a plane to the U.S. at just 8 years old, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts was raised in Chicago, embodying the essence of juggling multiple identities. Imagine a home filled with Christian, Muslim, and Ghanaian influences! As a 1.5-generation Nigerian-American, he gracefully balances these vibrant cultures with humor and poise. His journey is nothing short of inspirational, and we shared laughs and deep insights, leaving me with a fresh perspective on navigating cultural identities. What’s even more fascinating is his personal life—he’s married to an African American woman, and together they have three children. Their family is a beautiful testament to cultural blending, and Dr. Ibe-Lamberts’ reflections on raising a bicultural family are both heartwarming and insightful.

From mastering grocery shopping as a young immigrant to his current work fighting health disparities for refugees and immigrant communities, his story radiates resilience and passion. One of the most touching moments was hearing him describe being "Kelly" in Chicago while reclaiming his true name, Kelechi. It’s raw, personal, and deeply moving.

Let’s not forget his incredible family journey—how his second mother and distant father shaped his life. His shift from aspiring MD to embracing public health with a focus on transnational issues? Absolutely fascinating! This episode isn’t just about cultural integration; it’s about how love, respect, and persistence create something extraordinary. Don’t miss out—hit play and join us on this remarkable journey!

Read blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/cultural-alchemy-on-being-black-transnational-6d3b3cbbc30c 

역경 리더십|The One with Dr. Otito Iwuchukwu - Navigating Academia and Workplace Challenges as Women of Color: Episode 17 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:

Imagine a conversation where wisdom meets sheer dynamism—precisely what I experienced recently with the remarkable Dr. Otito Iwuchukwu. This isn’t just any chat; it’s an exploration into the brilliance of a woman who redefines what it means to be a powerhouse!

Dr. Otito and I go way back—six years of friendship and mentorship, and she’s been a rock in my academic journey. Our chat was nothing short of exhilarating. Her journey from Nigeria to the U.S. is like something out of a movie, filled with grit and determination. When she arrived at Temple University to discover that her degree program would no longer be offered, most would’ve panicked, but not Dr. Otito! She reinvented her academic path and made it work. Talk about resilience!

Another jaw-dropping moment was when she tackled a difficult committee member during her Ph.D. journey. Instead of giving in, she trusted her intuition and prayed—yes, that committee member left! Divine intervention, anyone?

Dr. Otito also shared her insights on navigating subtle exclusion in professional settings, the art of knowing when to leave an unsupportive workplace, and the power of documenting interactions to protect yourself. Her advice on dealing with unconscious bias and creating safe spaces for communication was pure gold. Let’s not forget her wisdom on work-life balance. She emphasized that joy in work is crucial and that finding fulfillment should be the goal, not endless grinding.

This conversation was packed with powerful insights and those “aha!” moments we crave. So, if you want to be inspired and empowered, don’t miss out! Tune in now and soak up Dr. Otito’s incredible wisdom. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

 

Read blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/navigating-academia-and-workplace-challenges-as-women-of-color-c81700035838

인도의 성별 기반 폭력|The One with Anjali Chakkissary - Stories from India: The Complexities of Gender-Based Violence: Episode 16 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:

Today’s episode explores the complexities of gender-based violence, featuring a heartfelt conversation with Anjali Chakkissary, an international student from India. Anjali's journey from Gujarat to the U.S. has been filled with challenges and triumphs, and her insights into gender inequality are both powerful and poignant.

Our discussion illuminated the stark realities women in India face, including the harrowing impact of patriarchal norms and recent tragedies like the assault and murder of a young resident doctor in Kolkata. Anjali’s reflections reveal the harsh truth about systemic failures, legal inefficiencies, and the victim-blaming that permeates society.

Yet, amid the sobering details, Anjali’s stories also bring a glimmer of hope. She passionately advocates for women’s safety and empowerment, emphasizing the need for early education on consent and respectful relationships. Her vivid descriptions of her home state, Kerala, and its cultural richness contrast sharply with the grim realities she describes, making her message even more impactful.

This episode isn’t just a conversation; it’s a call to action. Join us as we amplify voices like Anjali’s and work together to create a world where women everywhere can live free from fear and full of hope. Listen now, and let’s keep the conversation going!

 

Read the blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/stories-from-india-the-complexities-of-gender-based-violence-08cf3568db68

 

A big thank you to everyone who sent in questions for this episode! Your input made the discussion even more impactful. 🙏

이민과 남성성 예술|The One with Mayowa Nwadike - The Artistic Journey: Embracing Vulnerability and Self-Expression: Episode 15 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:

Today, I'm excited to introduce you to Mayowa Nwadike, a super-talented mixed-media artist from Nigeria who is now making waves in the United States. Mayowa’s art is special—it touches on topics like toxic masculinity and the immigrant experience, all through the magic of acrylic and charcoal.

Mayowa’s work is like a mirror held up to society, reflecting how our norms and expectations can sometimes fuel toxic masculinity. But here’s the cool part—he’s not just pointing out the problem; he’s flipping the script and pushing for a more inclusive take on gender roles. We had a great chat about this, and he opened up about his childhood in a religious household, growing up with three siblings, and how family favoritism shaped his emotional world and, ultimately, his art. It’s all about those subtle, often unspoken feelings that he captures so brilliantly.

But wait, there’s more! Mayowa also took us through his artistic evolution—from his early pencil sketches to the abstract pieces he started experimenting with during the 2020 lockdown. His art is a visual diary, filled with the raw emotions of migration, identity struggles, and the complexities of manhood. We touched on some pretty important stuff, like mental health, breaking those old-school gender stereotypes, and why it’s so crucial for men to embrace their vulnerability and express their emotions.

Trust me, you don’t want to miss this conversation!

Read the blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/art-vulnerability-and-redefining-masculinity-9d12dd18bc8a